I love the combination of copper and silver, and hammered textures in Ellen McClellan's jewelry. Here, she answers The Jewelry Report's featured artist questionaire...

What are your favorite materials to work with? 

I work primarily with Sterling Silver, fine silver and copper.  But I find that copper really has a beauty to it.  The different colors that Copper becomes from forging it is fascinating.  Semi precious stones accent most of my necklaces and bracelets.

What is your favorite design, and is this your best seller? 

I do only one of a kind pieces, but the most popular look would be combined Forged Copper and Silver.   These are also the most fun to create, the designs are limitless.  To date, and probably do to the economy I sell more earrings than anything else.  It's a less expensive way for someone to own original creative jewelry pieces.

How did you first get into jewelry art in general? 

My husband is kind of a rock-hound and I had always thought: “Wouldn't it be fun to make some jewelry out of some of the stones he finds?”   After they are tumbled some are quite lovely.  Anyway one thing lead to another and I was hooked.   Working with metals to create wearable art pieces fast became a passion.  So from hobby,  to hobby business, and now a growing business.

What do you have planned for future collections?

I am always working on new techniques which lead to new avenues of design.   Inspiration just happens.  You see something while on a walk or driving down the street.  Even sometimes sitting in a meeting you come up with a new idea.   So you never quite know what the future brings.   Of course I would definitely like to grow my collection,   There is still so much to learn....   after all isn't that the beauty of life "we get to learn something new everyday".

Do you get more excited about the design or technical aspects of jewelry art?

I think that coming up new ideas for designs is really exciting.  But I would have to say my excitement for design and technical is equal.   Sometimes designs just create themselves when you are developing a new technique.

Do you find the process of experimentation frustrating or inspiring?

Both, but mostly inspiring.   Sometimes out of the frustrating trails of trying to master a technique you come up with something that is totally new and wonderful.

Do you prefer doing retail or trade events?

Being rather new in the community this still has yet to be decided.   However, I really like participating in trade events.  Being at shows allows you to be part of the community of artisans, to share ideas, and experiences.  Of course it is also great to find a niche to present your designs retail. 

If you could have any jewelry super-power to help you  with your jewelry what would it be?

For me to have the ability to make more hours in a day or more days in a week.  At this point my creative juices are always flowing however, the actual creation has to wait until after five or until weekends,  as I still have my day job. 

You can find ElleyBird Handcrafted Jewelry at  www.elleybird-handcrafted-jewelry.com