Moose Spotlight: Making Vintage-Modern American southwest-inspired Jewelry
"...
There’s so much more connection and meaning in a handmade ring and you’ll get way more life out of it. Plus it feels good knowing you’re supporting a small local artist."
- Heather Jarrell
MEET THE ARTIST
@sacredfolksilver on Instagram
Meet Heather Jarrell, a Texas-based jewelry artist who has been creating jewelry for less than a year. Her creations can be found on Instagram with the handle @sacredfolksilver.
THE JOURNEY TO CREATING JEWELRY
"Several years ago, I made my first roadtrip to Santa Fe and found myself completely enamored with the craft after striking up a conversation with a native maker about the meanings behind each tiny detail in her pieces and the stories she tells with her hands," Heather started when we asked what inspired her to start creating jewelry.
From then on, she has never stopped thinking about that experience and she shared that she still has and cherishes the necklace she brought home.
Heather said she's the type of person that always needs a creative outlet so this year, she bit the bullet and purchased her tools. "And it’s been quite the love story ever since," she said.
As Heather has gotten started this year with jewelry-making, she said she's still learning something new with each and every project she has. She elaborated that smithing has taught her a great deal about patience and intention.
The biggest lesson she's learned through it all has been to slow down and take her time, and remembering it’s okay to ask questions. Heather also added that the metalsmith community is filled with wonderful teachers.
Take a look at some of Heather's beautiful creations!
Handmade Turquoise Rings by Heather Jarrell of @sacredfolksilver on Instagram
ARTIST’S DESIGN STYLE
We asked if Heather already had an AHA moment with jewelry-making. She said she's typically a learn by doing type of person but her first big AHA moment was when she decided to read and study about the basics of soldering and found a technique that worked for her rather than just following the technique she saw everyone doing on YouTube.
Take a look at some behind-the-scenes photos when Heather creates a piece!
Handmade Jewelry by Heather Jarrell of @sacredfolksilver on Instagram
THE DESIGN PROCESS
"My design technique is pretty organic," Heather said. She draws inspiration from shapes and textures out in the real world and try to write down her ideas in the moment so she doesn’t forget.
She describes her design style as a blend of vintage and modern American southwest.
JEWELRY DESIGN TIPS, TRICKS, AND HANDY TECHNIQUES
What's one design tip you one to share with your fellow artists?
"Go slow and don’t cut corners."
Any words of encouragement or tips to those who are starting out in the world of jewelry-making?
"Don’t be scared to ask questions from other makers."
Lastly, Heather's message to the universe:
Follow Heather on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sacredfolksilver/
