JET Interview - Trace Designs

Trace Designs: Simple Design, Bold Color

Trace Designs  was born from a single, simple earring class at a local bead shop. That one class was enough to create a full fledged addiction to making pretty things.

Aquamarine Blue and Antiqued Silver Necklace and Earring Set

Aqua Blue Teardrop Earrings on Sterling Silver earwire

At first, I was creating for myself, creating jewelry that I couldn’t find in stores, but rather the things I imagined in my head; things that suited my personal style.





I then started making too many of these things… started giving them away as gifts; and  stockpiling for Christmas in March. My (very large) jewelry box was simply overflowing. I noticed that people liked my handmade jewelry and began asking if I sold my pieces. Then, I discovered Etsy.com....

Golden Freshwater Pearl and Quartz Necklace

Bright Orange Rose Earrings

The designs themselves are simple. There is nothing complex or overly embellished, rather, my designs allow for the colors and beads to show their true beauty. I love to let bold colors sing or a truly amazing bead tell its own story.


If its one thing I don’t fear, its color! This is where my shop, I think, really pops. I love combining colors that enliven each other to create something truly unique.

Lime Green and Regatta Blue Limestone Necklace

At other times I love to let simply gorgeous tones stand alone with sterling silver as a backdrop or with antiqued sterling silver to evoke a more vintage feel.

I’m always learning new techniques so the pieces in my shop are constantly evolving. I’ve recently begun creating hammered sterling silver earrings with free form organic shapes. Please visit my shop  to get a glimpse of new adventures over the next few months!