I joined the Fusion team in the summer of 2011 and couldn’t be happier here! My first lesson in jewelry-making was at Grandpa Burt’s basement workbench. From him I learned how to swing a hammer and my geologist father taught me to appreciate all things stone and sparkly. As a result, I enjoy pearl knotting and stringing gemstones, like in the Peace Jade and Temptress Necklace, and combining leafy textures with the smooth luster of pearls, like in the Leaf it to Me Bracelet. I’ve also learned how to incorporate one of my favorite things into jewelry, owls, like in the Give a Hoot Earrings! As a native of St. Louis, MO, I do miss having four distinct seasons in a year but have fallen in love with the misty shores of the Pacific Northwest. And since moving here in 2002 to attend University of Puget Sound I’ve learned the value of perfectly brewed coffee and waterproof boots. I have a strong creative drive. When I’m not making jewelry, I’m usually hard at work sewing, knitting, or otherwise making a crafty mess. I also work as an independent costumer and particularly enjoy working with Seattle aerialists to make fanciful circus creatures.