Over the countless hours I’ve spent making handmade jewelry, I’ve learned a lot about what makes a piece truly stand out. Creating something beautiful isn’t just about skill—it’s also about avoiding certain mistakes in quality, aesthetics, and design. Here are four key things I always keep in mind when sitting at my beading table.

1. High-Quality Materials Matter

As I mentioned in a previous blog post, I’ve had nearly 20 years to explore the incredible variety of beads available. It’s been an exciting journey, and even after all this time, I still find myself in awe of new colors, shapes, and how beads interact with each other. Through experience, I’ve learned which beads work beautifully together and which ones—despite their stunning appearance—have coatings that wear off too quickly.

This knowledge is constantly evolving as new beads and finishes hit the market, but one thing remains the same: no matter how intricate or timeless a design is, using low-quality materials can diminish its value over time. That’s why I no longer use nickel-based components, as they can cause allergic reactions for many people. Instead, I’ve switched to stainless steel findings, which retain their shine, don’t tarnish, and are safe for sensitive skin.

2. Color Harmony is Everything

One of the biggest pitfalls in jewelry making is underestimating the power of color harmony. The wrong color combinations can lead to a chaotic, overwhelming piece that fails to highlight the beauty of the beads—or the person wearing them. On the other hand, the right colors can elevate a design, making it truly shine.

I constantly refine my sense of color and form, studying fashion trends even though I don’t strictly follow them. While my jewelry isn’t trend-driven, I do try to stay in touch with the world of fashion to ensure my designs remain fresh and relevant.

3. Custom Orders Require Intuition and Communication

Over the years, I’ve developed a strong ability to tune into my customers’ needs. When someone requests a custom piece, I can usually get a good sense of what they’re envisioning after just a short conversation. I work closely with them, sharing photos of color options before I start, and even progress shots to ensure we’re on the same page. If adjustments need to be made along the way, I’m always happy to tweak things to create a piece they’ll truly love.

4. Wearability Comes First

Sometimes, my creativity runs wild, and I end up designing bold, avant-garde pieces that feel more suited to a fashion runway than everyday life. While these artistic moments are exciting, I always take a step back and ask myself: is this something someone would actually wear to work or to dinner with friends?

I don’t design for one-time catwalk appearances—I design for real people who want to wear something special in their daily lives. Every piece I create is carefully refined until it feels both unique and wearable, something that can be a natural part of someone’s personal style.