Image credit: Charliemadison Originals
The second creative crafter is a jewellery maker with meaning, Charliemadison Originals makes gemstone bracelets.
Tell me more about your craft? What is it? When did you find out you were good at it?
I make jewellery – mostly gemstone bracelets – and each one has a special meaning behind it. Our bracelets help you stay anchored to what’s most important in your life and serve as your everyday reminder of what you cherish most.
I started making jewellery around 2008. I’ve been crafty my whole life and have done scrapbooking, painting, crocheting, cross stitch – and so much more. I really liked the wire wrapped jewellery when I started – lots of earrings and briolette necklaces.
Why did you decide to turn into a business?
I actually joined a direct sales company that was offering in-home jewellery-making parties at the time. They have since changed their direction, but I was hooked on making and selling the few designs I came up with myself. So I decided to create an Etsy store and listed my first pieces for sale in 2010.
Tell us more about the process, the step by step process of your craft- From the concept to the final product.
When I’m ready to create new designs, I either start with a colour idea or a name idea. I like to lay out lots of different stones and see which colours compliment each other. I test out different gemstone combos until I find one that I love.
Sometimes I start with a name idea or a customer asks me to create a special design. For those pieces, I’ll find all the stones in the preferred colour combination and work with the gems to find a design the customer loves.
Image credit: Charliemadison Originals Bracelet Stack: Charliemadison Originals
Where do you sell your product?
I sell in our online shop at www.CharliemadisonOriginals.com, as well as in a few small boutiques around the country. In addition, I design exclusive military branch and military-inspired pieces that are sold through R.Riveter.
Have you noticed a rise in crafters and people buying creations?
I think there are a lot of people who love buying handmade pieces and supporting small businesses. There’s a lot to be said about buying from small businesses, as you get a more personal shopping experience.
I know my customers love that I include a hand-written thank-you note with every order. It’s the little extra special touches that make customers feel appreciated and come back to shop in the future.
What is the crafting industry like?
The crafting industry includes so many amazing artists, makers, and creators and I’ve met so many lovely ladies through social media. They have been so supportive, kind, and uplifting and that made me feel supported when I was just starting my business.
That’s what’s so great about this industry – the willingness to share and support others in the same space. It’s really all about community over competition.
Image Credit: Charliemadison Originals Bag Set
Do you recommend people starting up their own crafting creations and turning it into a business?
There is so much talent out there and every single one of us has something different that we can offer to the world. Yes, there is a lot of competition and saturation in some markets, but you have to believe in your product and be willing to share it if you really love what you do.
There are so many easy and low-cost avenues to get started in business and entrepreneurship.
My best advice is to just get started, keep learning and trying new things every day, and if something isn’t working, then be willing to try again. Perseverance is the key to success.
You can find Charliemadison Originals on their Online shop, Instagram and Facebook or you can email them info@charliemadisonoriginals.com.
If you are a creative crafter feel free to get in touch with me.
Gemma's Journey 