I always like to make something that has a uplifting or soothing effect when seen and having a B.A in English, I appreciate the meaning of certain words, objects, colors, numbers, stones and symbols and use them when I can so a piece of jewelry can become more important to its wearer.
Suzanna McMahan
Random Facts About You?In college, I wanted to be the next Emily Dickinson.
I won a trip to Paris, London and Edinburgh in 1999 and also visited Exeter and Ottery St. Mary. Never do something like this in the time frame I had (only bloody 10 days)!!!
My wonderful beach-filled life on the Mississippi Gulf Coast ended in 2005 when Katrina hit.
I have rescued around 8 dogs including the ones I've adopted.
What got you started crafting?
In 2001, I started making fashionable versions of the medical bracelet because I have a condition that requires me to wear one (I have NO pituitary gland and if you know biology you know what the symptoms of that are!!!)
What is your source of inspiration?
American Victoriana and Edwardian fashion, history, symbolism, nature, certain colors that speak to me, my mother, and my customers.
What have you made recently?
I just finished a two strand necklace with black glass beads, smoky quartz, faux vintage glass pearls, and silver ball beads. The beads are in an alternating pattern of black, white and grey. This is the centerpiece of the necklace. On both sides of the necklace are two large silver and black vintage chain links that hold the centerpiece of the necklace. The necklace was then finished with two thin black ribbons and a sterling lobster clasp.
I enjoy developing new designs while blending the old with the new. Family is important here in the South (which is why I'm repeatedly asked to fix or "upcycle" family heirlooms that have been passed on). But because it also helps the environment. I know that Vintage has been "in" for a while, but what I don't get is that Michael's (though I shop there) decided to sell vintage-style supplies when vintage items anyone can use are in abundance at your local secondhand store! Every major company needs to think about how we can stop producing so much stuff and start to recycle what we already have.
Where do you sell your crafts presently?
Local markets (I'm at the Farmer's Market almost every Saturday now that the local craft market merged with it), Etsy (after trying tons of other places first), and occasionally Craigslist, where I got 2 online sales with the help of Bixbe within 24 hours!
Why are handmade crafts important to you?
Let's see....
1) A relationship with the artist/manufacturer/baker/candlestick maker, etc.
2) Not MASS produced and more likely to be one of a kind.
3) If it breaks, no customer service and phone menu hassles.
4) Not made by machines (I love reading about the history of the Arts & Crafts Movement which started in Victorian Britain).
5) Helps the environment (Want another Katrina coming soon near you? Didn't think so...)
Find Me
LocationJackson, Mississippi
Email Address
Suzanna McMahan
Personal Website
http://suzannamcmahan.com
Store Website
http://etsy.com/shop/suzannaleslie
@suzannamcmahan
http://www.facebook.com/SuzannaLeslieMcMahan