Interview: Lily of Bits and Bobs and Things Inbetween
Can you describe how you look at movements and gears and see jewelry?
Some pieces take longer than others. I’ve had watch plates sitting out in my work area for weeks until something just clicks. Often it’s simply a matter of setting another piece next it and something sparks. Other pieces immediately hint at possibilities. There can be a certain shape or curve or perhaps time has left a colorful patina. With older watch parts many time there is some kind of decorative etching or even inscriptions by the maker that beg to be highlighted.
What do you consider the benefits of working with so many found materials?
While I don’t believe old watches are ever destined for a landfill, I have salvaged old auto parts that were. For example, these were built around stock hose clamps from a classic Camaro. The original clamps aren’t as good as aftermarket and both my husband and father in law would discard them. I get a kick out of taking what is essentially trash, cleaning it up, and making it desirable again. It just goes to show it’s all in how you look at something.
Your collaborations with TotusMel, especially the Widow’s Weeds brooch, are very unique. How did they come about?
Thank you! I am never content to stick with what works. I will always make certain pieces that are well received but I will always balance that with something new. Some things do well and some things don’t. That particular piece came out of wanting to create something softer. Gears and watch bits are hard and sharp. I wanted to give them an almost heirloom feel, like something you found in Grandma’s hope chest. We had so much fun with that concept, TotusMel opened up the idea to the rest of our group as a contest.
You have a “for him” section in your shop. Do you think masculine accessories are often overlooked?
Oh definitely. Jewelry for men is fairly limited to begin with so while I’m hunting for new beads and such I keep an eye out for semi-precious stones with a masculine feel. Anything to provide some variety. Probably about a third of my customers are men and I enjoy the challenge of creating new pieces for that section.
You mention that you are a homeschooling mother. Any tips for those who think they don’t have time to craft?
You have to decide what’s important to you. For example, I don’t watch television. To relax I make something. Currently I’m learning to needle felt. I think when you take a great deal of satisfaction in something you’ll find time for it. I also include my daughters, they’re 14 and 16, whenever I can. My youngest is actually my business partner for a new Etsy shop.
Where do you see your work going in the next six months or year?
Everywhere! OK, seriously I see myself learning new techniques all the time. After I get this needle felting thing down, metalworking is next. Card and print making will work themselves in there somewhere as my youngest wants to do Gocco printing. So basically whatever I did last month isn’t going to be what I do next month. One thing I do want to do more of is cross-genre work, ie. steam/dieselpunk and more Weird West and Victoriental. I think London-centric steampunk and Victoriana is very well represented and I want to branch out some.
Lily can be found on Etsy.