doobeadoo designs

I started making jewelry in 2001 as a creative outlet. As I made more pieces, I
realized that I wanted my work to include as many hand made parts as possible.
That led me to begin taking classes in lamp work bead making, wire work, and metal clays.  I started learning these skills at the Bead and Button show in Milwaukee but have also taken many other classes over the years from some of the art wolrd's most well known artists.

Lamp Work Beads and Wire Work

My first lampwork bead class was with Kim Hickox. I have also taken glass
classes from Robert Jennick and Dustin Tabor. Passing the Flame, by Corrina
Tettinger has been an invaluable book to advance my bead making skills.

My first wire work class was with Lisa Niven Kelly. Other wire teachers have
been Kris Silva, Lisa Claxton, Marilyn Moore, and Mary Hettmansperger. Self
studies have included tutorials and books from Connie Fox and Enie Oken.

Metal Clays

One of my favorite mediums is silver art clay.  This is clay made of fine silver
particles and a binder that burns off when fired.  Silver art clay has opened the
door to a whole new world of jewelry design because I can create silver pieces
without casting or metal smithing.  I received my Level 1 Certification in silver art
clay in June 2008.

In March 2011, I completed a 5 day intensive workshop with Hadar Jacobson and expanded my skills to working with copper, bronze, and steel clays.