From Maker to Jewelrypreneur
When you start out as a maker, all you want to do is make. That was me, too. My hands couldn’t stop once I discovered metal clay. But turning your passion into a sustainable business takes more than creativity it requires learning a whole new set of skills.
In this post, I’m sharing real-life lessons and practical tips I’ve picked up while growing my own jewelry business, so you can begin building yours with more confidence and clarity.
The Turning Point
When I first began working with metal clay, I was all about textures, designs, and the joy of transformation. It was a hobby at first but as the cost of materials added up, I realized I needed this to pay for itself.
That meant running it like a business.
What I didn’t expect? The shift from artist to entrepreneur would be one of the hardest parts of the journey. I had to learn how to value my work, set goals, get organized, and speak to my customers all while still creating.
It wasn’t easy, but it is possible.
What Helped Me Build a Stronger Business
✅ Find a Supportive Creative Community
One of the first things I did was surround myself with others who were also learning how to turn their passion into a business. In those groups, I started to see my value and stopped underpricing my work.
Your skills, time, and vision are worth something.
✅ Get Clear on Your Goals
I began asking myself important questions:
– What do I want to create this year?
– How many collections do I want to launch?
– What are my financial goals?
Having a plan helped me stay focused and feel more in control.
✅ Build Your Brand Story
Your brand is more than a logo, it’s how people connect with you. What makes your jewelry different? Maybe it’s your technique, the meaning behind each piece, or something deeply personal like using handwritten signatures.
Be consistent with your message across your website, packaging, and social media.
✅ Use Social Media Intentionally
You don’t have to be everywhere. Choose platforms where your ideal customers hang out, on Instagram, Facebook, or even Pinterest.
Share behind-the-scenes content. Let people see your process. Build relationships.
Also: start building an email list. A simple VIP list with updates and special offers goes a long way.
✅ Track Your Finances & Price Properly
You must know your numbers. Track expenses. Budget wisely. And price your work based on more than just materials. It includes time, overhead, and the value of your artistry.
(This topic is so important I even wrote a full article on pricing in another issue!)
✅ Master Your Time
Time management is the very first thing I teach new designers. Why? Because without it, everything feels chaotic.
I use digital calendars with time blocking, project tools like Asana, a physical planner for lists and yes, even a kitchen timer. Start simple and build a system that works for you.
✅ Keep Learning
Metal clay keeps evolving, so stay inspired. Take workshops, learn new techniques, and surround yourself with people you can grow with and bounce ideas off of.
Final Thoughts
Balancing creativity and business takes effort, but it's worth it. The moment you start thinking like both an artist and an entrepreneur, everything begins to shift. You don’t have to give up your creative joy you just have to learn how to support it.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re on this journey too, don’t do it alone. Join a community, find mentorship, and keep learning.
Want help building systems that support your creativity? I’d love to connect—because you can build a thriving jewelry business without burning out.
Want help staying on track as you build your jewelry business?
Inside The Accountability Collective, we meet regularly to plan, organize, and take intentional action with time-saving tools, real conversations, and support from a community that gets it.
If you're ready to stop spinning your wheels and start moving forward with clarity, click here to learn more and join us.