We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Laura Laing a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Laura, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today Can you talk to us about how you learned to do what you do?

I always knew that I wanted to work in a creative field. I didn’t really know specifically what I wanted to do so I opted for a major in Applied Design from SDSU because it allowed me to explore various 3-dimensional mediums. Once I fell into Metalsmithing and Jewelry Design, it became clear that was what I was meant to do. It just so happens that SDSU has one of the top metals programs in the country so I was able to learn basic and advanced techniques from Sondra Sherman and Helen Shirk, two very accomplished artists and professors. After I graduated, I apprenticed with another alum who had her own fashion jewelry collection. After about 4 years, I became the Jewelry Designer for THATCH Jewelry where I taught myself how to run business. While I appreciate my time and learning the craft at SDSU, I wish I would have taken business courses. I always said, “I don’t need math and business courses to be an art major” and while I was correct that it was not necessary for my art degree, it is absolutely necessary if you wish to turn your craft into a business. In the end, I would say that my experience from running a business is equally as valuable as my metalsmithing and design skills.

Laura, 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?

I grew up with a talented artistic father who went to Art Center College in Pasadena and worked as a Creative Director for a large advertising agency in Santa Monica. He didn’t necessarily teach me how to draw, paint, or create, but I studied him. I studied his methods and his meticulous attention to detail. As a child, he would take me to his office and I would get a rush from being in a creative environment. I remember one day in particular, while he worked I grabbed his scotch tape dispenser and started to play with pieces of tape. Before I knew it, I had made a diamond ring made entirely out of scotch tape. I guess you could say this foreshadowed my career as a jewelry designer. At THATCH Jewelry, we create fashion jewelry with a luxe sensibility at a more accessible price. Our collection spans to the delicate everyday and the statement pieces with meaning and intention. I have also partnered with THATCH with custom fine design service with Laura Laing Jewelry Designs. I help people who want to design their own engagement, wedding, or heirloom pieces. Whether you want to start from scratch for the perfect proposal piece, or redesign your grandmother’s ring I am here to help my clients get exactly what they are looking for and give them a unique and fun experience.

For you, what’s the most rewarding aspect of being a creative?

For me, my greatest reward is seeing the reaction from people who covet my designs. I spend so much time designing each piece and to see people light up when they put something on that they feel connected to, it is a surreal experience. That feedback keeps me going.

How can we best help foster a strong, supportive environment for artists and creatives?

Supporting artists and creatives is so important. The world is changing rapidly and the skills of the handmade goods are dwindling. I’m afraid that our modern world of fast fashion and consumer driven business where everyone is looking for deal. I think if we shift our perspective to buying quality handmade goods, we can support small business and consume less. Another easy and free way to show support is to promote with a like, comment, or share on social media.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.shopthatch.com
• Instagram: @thatch.jewelry
• Other: @lauralaingjewelrydesigns