Jewellery Maker Interview – Dalia Vainorius
How and why did you start making jewellery?
By accident really. I went to a Knitting and Stitching show at the NEC Birmingham many years ago and saw some bead kits for amulet purses. I bought a few and made one on the train home. Was hooked ever since. I started making my own jewellery when I wanted something different that I knew no one else would have. My friends liked my work so I made pieces for them, and so it went on!
What would you say keeps you inspired and motivated?
Lots of things inspire me and I have no problem staying motivated. My work evolves as I bead. I have a basic idea (with sketches sometimes) but once I start things can change. If I’m not happy with anything I’ll unpick and start again until I get the look and desired finish I want.
What are some of your favourite materials to work and create with?
I like to create with natural stones, especially pearls. In fact I like anything natural, I’ve just kept the shell of a lobster I’d eaten. The colours are so beautiful it was too lovely to throw away, and as it happens, I’m just completing a commissioned piece which includes a (dried and cleaned!) lobster claw and a prosthetic eye. If my client will allow, I’ll put a photo on my website when it’s finished.
Who’s your favourite designer?
I don’t have a favourite but there many I admire and not just from the beading world.
If you could sum up your look and aesthetic in three words, what would they be and why?
Unique, quirky and stunning. Many of my pieces will never to be repeated. Quirky? Because of the materials I use, and stunning, because others have kindly said so.
What’s your studio or workspace like and do you have a certain way of working in your studio?
I work in a corner of my conservatory. Everything I need is to hand kept in boxes with drawers so I can find things (reasonably) easily. I have at times stretched out to the dining table but I do try and keep everything contained as if I spread out too much I’ll forget what I have.
What can’t you live without when making jewellery?
The radio and music……and a very sharp pair of scissors.
There are lots of jewellery designers trying to make that next step and sell their jewellery, what advice would you give them and how did you make that step?
It’s all about confidence and a belief in what you are doing. I was so nervous about my own work even when selling to friends and family, they are usually kind enough to buy just to help you out. It’s when a complete stranger buys something and then comes back for more that makes you feel great. It’s difficult to advise new designers as there is so much jewellery/beadwork out there. I would say be extremely critical about your own work, check out the competition and do a great deal of quality control.
What would you say makes you smile the most when making jewellery?
Seeing a delighted client after they have entrusted me to make a commissioned piece without any prior knowledge of what they are getting.
Finally, what type of jewellery and style do your customers love the most?
My regular customers are always looking for whatever I’m creating that is different from what they’ve had before. I can come up with some strange designs and it really excites me to hear comments whatever they might be.
and anything you would like to add?
I would like my work to cause a stir and be talked about. I am working on new designs, which I consider to be innovative pieces of work and I hope they will be ready to display on my web site later on in the year.
Comments are closed here.