We were lucky to catch up with Ashlyn Johnson recently and have shared our conversation below.

Alright, Ashlyn thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

1. How did you learn to do what you do?

As a creative, I’ve always enjoyed working with different mediums. When I discovered polymer clay, I was immediately drawn to its versatility and potential for creating unique and beautiful designs. I learned the basics of polymer clay through online tutorials and experimentation, and I continue to develop my skills through trial and error and exploring new techniques.

2. Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process?

Looking back, I realize that investing in more structured learning opportunities could have helped me develop my skills more quickly and effectively. I could have sought out online classes or workshops that fit my schedule, or connected with online groups to share knowledge and ideas.

3. What skills do you think are most essential?

As an artist, I believe that creativity, patience, and attention to detail are essential skills for making polymer clay jewelry. Creativity allows me to explore new designs and techniques, while patience helps me to take the time to work carefully and precisely with the materials. Attention to detail is crucial for achieving my desired results, and it’s something I’ve learned to harness through working with polymer clay.

4. What obstacles have stood in the way of learning more?

As a mother, I face the challenge of balancing my creative work with other responsibilities and obligations. I don’t always achieve a perfect work-life balance but it’s something I’m always striving for as a small business owner.

Ashlyn, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

Hello! My name is Ashlyn Johnson, and I am a polymer clay artist, mother of 3, wife and small business owner. I started experimenting with polymer clay a couple years ago when I wanted to gift my sister something unique for her birthday. That’s when I made my first pair of earrings.

Most of my creations are inspired by nature, textures, colors and shapes. I’m a lover of thrifting and vintage items. That’s why I also incorporate vintage beads into some of my designs. I really enjoy taking something old and giving it new life.

What sets me apart from other small businesses is that I donate a portion of my profits to nonprofits that are close to my heart. It all started when I dedicated a collection to my grandmother who passed away while battling dementia. I decided I would give back to a nonprofit that assists in dementia and Alzheimer’s. Now each time I release a new collection I pick a different nonprofit that will receive a donation. I believe in giving back to the community, those less fortunate and making a positive impact on the world.

I am most proud of the community I’ve built online with other small business owners and clients that I would sincerely call friends. Even though I haven’t met most of them face to face there is a strong bong that’s developed through encouragement, support, sharing feedback and having a common goal. We show up day after day for each other cheering one another on and consoling when we have bad days. Being an artist is a very vulnerable job and can feel lonely. I create more confidently knowing I have people that will be encouraging me once I put my work out there to be judged. I contribute a large amount of my success to them.

In a world full of instant gratification and fast fashion I am committed to slow fashion and slow-made. What this means is I don’t want to create something that will be thrown away or donated within a short period of time. I use high quality metals like gold filled and sterling silver so with proper care the pieces will last a lifetime. I believe in carefully taking time on each piece to ensure quality. I’m also a one woman show, which means I do it all solo. This forces me to remember to give myself grace and patience. I strive to create designs that are both beautiful and sustainable. As a small business owner and mother, I understand the importance of balancing work and family, and I am grateful for the opportunity to do what I love.

What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?

For me as an artist the most rewarding aspects of my work is the ability to express myself and communicate my ideas and emotions through my hands. Art is truly a form of therapy for me. I’ve struggled with anxiety for most of my life and working with clay has somewhat grounded me. It’s very therapeutic and fulfilling because it’s something that’s just mine. Being a mother and wife you’re constantly giving yourself to others but with clay I can escape for a bit and quiet my mind. The process of bringing my inner world to life in a tangible form is incredibly satisfying.

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is driven by a desire to create work that reflects my personal experiences and passions while also making a positive impact. I’m focused on building a business that allows me to continue creating and sharing my work with others. And as a mother, I’m motivated by a desire to set a positive example for my children and to create a better future for them.

Contact Info:

• Website: thehoneyopal.com
• Instagram: @thehoneyopal
• Facebook: The Honey Opal