Tell me what inspired you into making bangles?

I have never liked to wear a watch, but I really like to wear bangles on my left arm. I think I like the way they respond with your activity, dancing wildly with big hand gestures, resting while you work at the computer, the odd ‘clank’ to remind you they are there.

How easy or hard is the process?

The process of making things in resin isn’t hard, it is just a bit fiddly. There are safety precautions to be taken, and measurements of the two parts of the resin needs to be accurate and then you have to wait while the piece dries (which is a hard part when you are starting out). I found bangles were a great item to make while my kids were young and sleeping – you could pour while they had their afternoon nap and then demould when they went to sleep at night. The *worst* part is the finishing – sanding away bits that were overpoured in the mould and then buffing the finished piece with nine grades of sandpaper! I am self-taught in all of this, so I haven’t yet looked into machine-based finishing (fingers crossed!).

Are there any secrets about your processes that you wish to share?

Secrets? hmmmmm I don’t think there are any great secrets in what I do. I am always looking for something new to put in a bangle, and to date have used spice powders (paprika, turmeric and chilli) to colour bangles. And I really want to work out the way to embed coffee beans (perhaps with the title “In case of emergency, suck bangle”?)

Is this your only job, or do you have something else that gets in the way of your passion!?!!

Yes, by day ecologist for the Government, by night mother and bangle designer!

find whizzbangle at in.cube8r fortitude valley.

Tell us a history of how you came to work with buttons……

I had been making jewellery for a few years when I came across a small packet of brightly colour buttons that I had in my sewing box. Inspiration hit and I created my very first button necklace. I was working in a café at the time and received so many lovely comments whenever I wore that necklace, so I knew that I was on to something and began making many more.

Have you always been into making stuff?

I have a background in Fine Art, having studied at Queensland College of Art, Griffith University. I majored in printmaking and also worked with sculpture, instillation and silver smithing. Although I loved and enjoyed these genres, I found that my real passion lies with jewellery and wearable art. Throughout my work I use a lot of buttons, having developed a love for the found object. It makes me happy to create something beautiful and unusual from something often so overlooked.

All of my jewellery pieces are one off designs, although I can create similar pieces by using the same colours. I endeavour to constantly create new and exciting work and seem to be forever buying buttons. I feel that there is something really special about a handmade item, in the world of the consumer, where fashion is disposable, a unique and one off piece is treasured and valued.

What are your future plans for your label?

I would love making jewellery to become my full time job. I have many ideas for more jewellery creations and will continue to work with the humble button. I have also recently introduced canvas artworks to my range which are available either at the Brisstyle Indie Designers Markets or via my facebook fanpage. The sky is the limit for my plans, I would love to have my own store with a small café attached and would also love to be selling my jewellery internationally.
http://www.brisstyle.blogspot.com

http://www.facebook.com/pages/Kellie-Christie/92736937571?ref=ts

Any advice for others wanting to follow a creative career?

Do what you love! Commitment is the key!

come in and see the most eclectic mix of handmade skincare, purses, pictures, lamps, cushions, jewelery and so much more – remember mum this special mother’s day by giving her something locally made.

in.cube8r takes no commission on sales :: 100% of what you spend goes back to the maker!!

in.cube8r welcomes in some new goodies… and there’s lots for the little ones…
there’s lots for everyone!!

in the quest to find balance and represent all things handmade,
we have closed off to almost all jewellery over the last 6 months… come and see!!
… and remember us for christmas,

we have over 4,000 handmade items covering all the glory ‘handmade’
has to offer!!