Susan Jaisle

Meet the Designer-Artist

Who me? Well, my name is Susan Jaisle. I live in Miamisburg, Ohio. A small town with a big heart! My first experience with beading was at our annual spring fling here in town. I came across a jewelry table filled with juicy, glamorous beads and silver. I couldn't stop touching and holding these cool shapes in my hands. And with my eyes, I was in awe with the jewelry before me! I purchased several pieces that day.

I just knew if I put my mind to it I could put jewelry together like that. Maybe even more colorful and statement-like. So I took a trip to my local bead shop. There, I bought a book and some beads that I could afford. (I then found out just how pricey it is to make beautiful jewelry). I was in heaven. For the first time in my life I felt like I had finally found something I was actually good at. It came very natural to me. I took several classes at the bead shop close by. I learned techniques in bead weaving and Kumihimo. I love making Kumihimo braids for all of my pendants! (I also dabble in polymer clay too).

To make a long story short, I fell in love with beading several years ago. Since then, I have started my own business. Suzie's Treasure is my ETSY shop. There I sell finished pieces and antique jewelry. I also have an online bead shop Suzie's Treasure Too. And I am in the beginning of opening my own store front here in Miamisburg!

I would have to say my style is somewhere between eclectic, vintage and steampunk. And anything that makes a statement. I put a lot of time and effort into every piece I create. I start with my sketch book and then move to production. Many times needing to start over and over and over again. (I tend to learn the hard way).

The name of the piece is "Lucy in the Sky." I chose this name because of the sparkle-diamond effects this bracelet has. Using crystals is just natural for me and my jewelry. I can't get enough of them. They are put into every one of my designs. I was completely inspired by the flower shape of the crystals I chose. I try to find different ways to use the crystals. I love the variety of shapes and colors. It was very hard to choose colors for this project. In the end, I feel I chose an incredible mix of pastel color and just the right amount of sparkle.

I discovered Fire Mountain Gems and Beads searching online for one place that had everything I needed. Ordering from several places for one project is very frustrating. With Fire Mountain Gems, I get everything I need all in one order. Love it!

Right now I intend to continue making jewelry design my life. It is not just a job, it's a creative outlet and wonderful therapy to me. I have arthritis and beading actually keeps my hands in great condition. So, my doctor says, "keep it up." And I advise anyone who suffers from arthritis to give it a try. You will be addicted from the first bead.

Right now I am working on a marketing package and "branding" myself and my company. I see Fire Mountain Gems being my "go to" place to stock my shelves.

I have also donated many pieces to the Dayton Philharmonic Orchestra. They have a fundraiser every year and I was chosen to participate this year. It was a huge honor to me. I think the arts are a huge part of my life and also education.

Developing the right side of your brain is just as, if not more important that developing the left side. Many studies have shown children who have not used the right side of the brain early on struggle academically.

Thank you so very much for this amazing opportunity. I can't tell you how excited and thrilled it has made me and my family.