MaeBellDesigns

I've been exploring jewelry for as long as I can remember. As a young girl I bought a tackle box and filled it with beads, ribbons, and wire. As an adult, I enjoyed jewelry as a fun thing I did just for myself. This was a breath of fresh air to me when I had three young children at home. Even though I adore taking care of them and am so honored to be their mother, I believed that it was important to keep learning and growing personally as well. I think women often don't take enough time for ourselves to do the things that make us come alive inside.

Several years ago a friend of mine was given a silver cuff handmade by a skilled silversmith in Colombia, South America. As she and I were admiring it she said to me, "You should totally do this!" Something in that moment hit deep in my soul and I knew that this was worth my pursuit. Metalsmithing has become a creative outlet for my soul. I adore women and am so honored to be able to create things that bring them joy and help them remember their own beauty.

I started out by watching tutorials online and getting my hands on as many used tools as I could afford. Eventually, I found an older silversmith in North Carolina who taught me and then took classes in Arlington, Texas and at the New Approach
School for Jewelers. I’m always exploring new facets and techniques along this beautiful path.