Today we’d like to introduce you to Joshua Diliberto.
Hi Joshua, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I started making chainmaille after watching the movie “Braveheart” when I was 17 years old. I was so inspired by the chainmaille armor in that movie that I knew immediately this was what I wanted to do in life. I studied how to make chainmaille by looking in books at my local library. I built a jig in my parents garage to coil wire. Back then, I cut the rings with a jeweler’s hand saw. Now, I have very expensive machines that cut the rings for me. Along my chainmaille art journey, I had to quit three times; I wasn’t making enough money to live off of. I kept coming back to it; finally made enough money to support myself. Selling supplies and teaching materials has really helped me to be able to support myself. I am so thankful each day that I get to continue doing what I love. I don’t take it for granted and I work hard to keep the dream alive.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
I had to quit doing my artwork many times throughout my life to work jobs to support myself. I joined the Army in 2000 simply because I was in debt and I couldn’t pay my bills. My original dream was to make cool chainmaille and sell it, but that proved difficult because I wasn’t great at selling to the public. I’m not hugely social and I’m not comfortable pressuring people into buying.
Personal life can also lead to issues. I divorced from my first wife in 2004 and it through my routine into chaos. Persistence has been my key to always bouncing back. My drive to create is so strong, I literally can’t stop. Luckily there is opportunity everywhere and in all circumstances.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I think my forte is in pattern recognition related to chainmaille weaves. I’ve discovered over 120 original weaves out of the 1600 or so that exist. I also enjoy making big bold jewelry for alternative communities. I mainly work in stainless steel and titanium. My photography is commonly in black and white.
Where we are in life is often partly because of others. Who/what else deserves credit for how your story turned out?
My ex-wife Brooke helped be a lot financially when I was first becoming a professional. Family has also contributed many dollars to my endeavors. A network of friends and family is crucial. No one is creative in a vacuum. No one is successful without others.
Pricing:
- Bracelets/Necklaces: $50 – $10k
- Armor: $40k – $1m
- Pendants: $50 – $2k
- Tutorials: $9 – $15
- Kits: $10 – $200
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.joshuadiliberto.com/JD_newWebPages/index.php
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/joshua.diliberto.3/
