This week's Creative Genius.....

Tracy from Cinnamon Jewellery!
Tracy creates striking wirework jewellery pieces which combine delicate swirls and flourishes with gorgeous beads and stones. Here Tracy tells us about the joys working with wire and where her creative inspiration comes from.

So Tracy, Tell us abit more about yourself and your craft?
I'm a self-taught jewellery designer making mostly wirework jewellery featuring Sterling Silver and copper wire, semi-precious,lampwork and glass beads, pearls and Swarovksi crystal beads.I've always enjoyed making things and from the moment I had my ears pierced I've had a thing about earrings!I started making jewellery 5 years ago after seeing lots of handmade stuff on eBay and thinking "I could do that!" So I bought the tools and supplies and with the help of the internet and books taught myself the basics and discovered the fabulous world of jewellery findings and beautiful beads!I became hooked on wirework after being given the book Bead On A Wire by Sharilyn Miller. I love her style.I make jewellery in my spare time and I've recently gone from full-time to part-time working (bliss!) so have more time to indulge myself!


What is your favourite item you have ever made? I don't have a particular favourite but I was pleased with a Copper and Agate
bracelet I made recently. The greeny-blue of the agate beads goes really well with the oxidised copper. It sold very quickly too! http://www.folksy.com/items/253641--Pacific-Frosted-Agate-Copper-Wirework-Bracelet-FREE-UK-POSTAGE-?shop=yes

What do you enjoy most about your craft?
I find making jewellery very therapeutic. I forget about everything else and become totally engrossed. I love the way working with wire allows you to create almost any shape. You are only limited by your imagination.

Where does your inspiration come from?
Sometimes it comes from the beads, the colour or shape. I've always liked spirals and squiggles and swirls so working with wire means I can indulge myself! I've always got ideas floating around in my head so I keep a notebook handy to jot things down and make sketches, otherwise I forget them.

Other than craft, what else do you enjoy?
I like to do a bit of gardening, horse riding and baking. I also enjoy reading crime novels and spending (too much!) time on the computer.

What are your views on the handmade community?
There is a wealth of talent out there in all fields. Joining Folksy and Etsy has opened my eyes to all the artists and designers who like me spend hours creating. I ve found the Folksy forum is a great place to connect with fellow designers and crafters and share experiences.


Apart from yourself, who is your favourite handmade artisan? Why?
I love the work of Sharilyn Miller. She's an American wirework jewellery maker and has had several books and DVDs published. I love the style of her designs. Her work always provides me with inspiration.Find out more about Sharilyn Miller at www.sharilynmiller.com

If you would like to find out more about Tracy and Cinnamon Jewellery click the links below:
Folksy shop - http://www.folksy.com/shops/cinnamonjewellery
Etsy shop - http://www.etsy.com/shop/cinnamonjewellery
Blog -http://cinnamonjewellery.blogspot.com