I remember when I was a young girl and I would spend weekends in Stillwater, MN with Grandpa and Grandma Schmoeckel.  We would work on various craft projects like working on my doll house, making Christmas ornaments, a beaded Christmas tree, sewing bibs and more.  It was the beginning of my creative journey in becoming an artist.

I’ve been designing and making jewelry pieces over 15 years.  I started by using basic seed beads, along with beads that I could purchase locally.  My vision was totally transformed when I found out about making handmade lampwork beads, which I started making in 2005.

Making handmade lampwork beads consists of heating, melting and twirling thin rods of colored glass around a coated steel rod with a propane and oxygen torch.  The combinations of colors are endless.  You’d think that working with a flame would make a person anxious.  Well it does the exact opposite for me.  It is calming while giving me satisfaction of designing colorful and unique bead masterpieces.

Now that I have the skills to work with precious metals and gemstones, I will be combining them with glass.  The design styles that I enjoy making have a simple and whimsical look to them, but I’m always trying to push myself to create new and innovative pieces.

I’m excited for the future and how my designs, beads and jewelry pieces evolve.  It is a great day for me when I get to spend the whole day in my studio, working with my hands to create each piece.  I am truly blessed to be able to do what I LOVE and offer them to you.  May each custom made piece be loved by you, as much as it was loved by me.

I have an amazing supportive husband and two teenage daughters.  Oh and 3 Maltese, who can forget the dogs!  

So my journey continues!

Blessings,
 Deb