Getting Started

I don't know what to think about getting started on a blog. I'm very excited--yet, a little apprehensive-- about the opportunity to share with the world about the things I love.

I'm Summer, a jewelry artist. I haven't always worked with jewelry. In high school, I sketched fantasy images of dragons and dolphins on the divider pages of my class notebooks. When I took an illustration class at Kansas State University, my instructor talked with me about pursuing a career in illustration or graphic design. I probably should have paid more attention to her recommendations than I did. I continued on with the degree I originally signed up for and graduated with a B.S. of Interior Design. That was over 10 years ago and I haven't put that degree to any financial use. Instead, I've held mostly office jobs. Not the most rewarding career path for someone that leans toward that more creative side, I suppose. I did work with a home party plan for home and garden decor, hoping that would spark some creativity. It was a miserable flop. I'm just not a salesperson. I became a mom and after a while, we decided that things would work best for us if I stayed home. We were blessed that we had that option then and are even more blessed that I can continue to stay at home with my children now.

My sister and my aunt both started creating beautiful pieces of beaded jewelry. After trying my hand at knitting and crochet, I decided to follow their lead. I tried several different techniques of making bracelets and found that I enjoyed all of them immensely!

Here, in this blog, I want to share with you some of my design concepts, works-in-progress, and finally, the completed piece. I'd love to hear comments and ideas on my projects along the way.