Jazz up Your Jewelry

Answer:

Oh my goodness, Trisha believe it or not, I know exactly how you feel!

When you're tired after spending days working on both your pieces and your display, one negative comment can really throw off your mindset.

Because I haven't seen your work, I can only offer some general suggestions. Try standing in front of your display and look at your work from a customer's point of view:

Are most of your pieces made with natural stones in earth tones?
Consider adding a touch of sparkle with a tiny crystal bead, or incorporate a brightly colored bead in a complementary color.

Tip: Sometimes what we were taught as kids isn't true purple and green do look great together!

Do your pieces all look very similar, like they were made with a cookie cutter?
Try adding a drop or chain to a frame, or change the way you embellish the top of a pendant using your remaining frame wires. You can even cut off a few of those wires to create variety.

If you haven't signed up for our Free Email Patterns, do it!
There are some fantastic designs and ideas there to refresh your creativity.

What about earrings?
Simple headpin charm earrings sell well just about anywhere. They can also draw attention to a pendant if displayed together using similar stone beads and a few crystals.

Now let's talk about your display. Are you sure it's your work and not your presentation?

Are your items grouped by color?
If you have too many earth-tone pieces grouped together, the display can look dull. Break it up with pops of bright color or sparkle.

What are you using for display props?
Sometimes a whimsical object can add interest or trigger a customer's memory or sense of humor. Try placing a few silk leaves under common stone pieces to add visual depth.

What kind of tablecloth are you using?
One student of mine used a lace tablecloth that distracted from her jewelry it was too visually "busy." Keep your background simple so your work stands out.

Yes, The Definitive Guide has excellent tips for display, design, and sales worth checking out!

And know this: nearly all of us have been shaken by a customer's comment at some point.

I remember early in my career, two well-dressed women glanced at my booth and said, "Oh look. Big, gaudy jewelry. Ugh." Then they walked away.

That night, I went home and decided to make only small and medium-sized pieces.
Wrong move.
Those tiny items sat around for the next four years!

Above all, make what brings you joy. Step outside your comfort zone now and then, but always stay true to your instincts.

Take criticism as creative feedback not as a reason to doubt your talent.

Answer contributed by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong