We were lucky to catch up with Caitlan McMullen recently and have shared our conversation below.

Caitlan, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. How did you learn to do what you do? Knowing what you know now, what could you have done to speed up your learning process? What skills do you think were most essential? What obstacles stood in the way of learning more?

I began my journey into jewelry making about 3 years ago with no prior experience. I stumbled upon clay jewelry on social media and I was so intrigued and thought “I want to try that”, so I did! I bought some basic supplies and gave it a go. I was so proud of my first few pairs of earrings. Creating them and seeing my vision come to life brought me so much joy. I began watching how-to videos and reading books on jewelry making, and just really dove in headfirst in an attempt to expand my very limited skills. It was definitely frustrating at times when I would have this idea for a piece of jewelry, and it wouldn’t come together how I envisioned. But I used every mishap as a learning experience and continued with such determination. I have always been this person that if I am not instantly good at something I have absolutely no interest in pursuing it. For some reason jewelry making was different. I couldn’t get enough even after countless failures and mishaps I just wanted more and more. My most essential skill has really been my determination and passion for this craft.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers

I first got into jewelry making when I was 32 years old. At the time I was working for a Kombucha company, and I never would have thought that a person could discover their passion at age 32. I spent my entire adult life thinking maybe not everyone finds their passion and maybe for some people working a regular, uneventful job was the way it was. I have always been a big jewelry girl and loved wearing all kinds of different jewelry and It honestly never even crossed my mind that I would enjoy making jewelry. Until one day I just decided to try it, and I immediately knew I wanted to pursue it. I have been a high-anxiety, high-stress person for most of my adult life, and nothing calms my mind like grabbing some pliers and making jewelry.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative in your experience?

The most rewarding aspect of making jewelry is having an idea and seeing it come to fruition. It starts as just an idea, then I get it down on paper, and the feeling when I finally get to see the end result come to lie is just unmatched.

Are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?

I wish I knew how welcoming the community of jewelry makers was. During this journey, I have made some awesome jewelry-maker friends who are so kind and willing to share their knowledge and expertise. I remember when I first began I was so afraid to ask more experienced makers questions or look for guidance. Looking back I wish I wasn’t so afraid because there truly is a community of jewelry makers and so many wonderful people who are willing to share their knowledge and experience.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://shopflowerandflame.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shopflowerandflame/