Divella Delights

My husband began making scrollsaw pieces to pass the time while I am busy at my table beading like a madwoman and asked me to put some on the website. He was surprised at the time and effort it took to do all that, something I just take for granted after 6+ years doing this.

There is so much that goes into each piece that happens behind the scenes it really is no wonder that the only way to truly be reimbursed for ones efforts is mass production if your goal is purely to make a living. I love what I do although I have regretfully had to return to the workforce to pay the bills.

Before and after a piece of jewelry, hat or any other handmade good is created is where the real "work" for me is.

It all begins with the design process, which can come quite naturally or can be a struggle to get just what is in my head onto paper. Once my design is complete I research materials to find the best beads, gems, fibers etc… that will give me the finished look I desire and extend the best possible price to my customer. The materials are ordered or purchased locally as with the pearls, gems and such so I can see them, feel them and examine the quality. So much of the "cheap" stuff you see online is just that…cheap. My goal is to make jewelry that will outlast you.

After the design is created and materials arrive the most fun for me begins, actually creating the piece. This is my meditation, my relaxation, and my therapy in a world that is otherwise rushed and chaotic.

After the piece is created there are many photos taken to try and capture the true essence of the piece and get the colors as true as I can and this my friends can be a struggle! All of my work online is true to color on my computer. After the photos are uploaded I have the piece here at my writing table to compare. Now, I cannot make sure they match what your computer shows but with the technological advances of late there really is not all that much variance in monitors.

Now that I am happy with the photos it is time to try and convey to you an accurate description…this is the hardest part for me. I can give you all the technical data in the world but I have a hard time with the feeling aspect.

I have considered revisiting my college days and taking a refresher writing class but I have left it up to you to capture the feeling of the piece when you see it.

So now we have completed the design, the piece and the photos. Done, right? No.

Now I have to upload all the info onto my website, Facebook, and Twitter at the very least. Oh yes, the website! There is a cost I did not consider.

Although the administrators I found are awesome, they still charge me to have my online presence.

The website comes with a blog of course, which I try hard to maintain but now that I am back at work in the real world that is a challenge. I try to keep up.

Now I have the piece on the website for the world to see and I am finished.

Not so fast!

If I am fortunate enough to have one of you fall so much in love with one of my creations that you purchase it there is the packaging and shipping to be done…goodness, am I out of jewelry boxes again? No, here are some, and the ribbon, yes I have that. You paid with Paypal so they take their fee. After that I can pay for and print the shipping online…love that part! Attach the shipping label to the envelope or box and out it goes.

Now, I am finished.