Another talented vendor at our upcoming May Day Craft Festival is Paul Melanson of Notions Jewelry.
“I have been interested in jewelry my whole life. Approximately seven years ago, I took a wiring course at Munroe Arts Association in Lexington, MA and I was hooked. For the next six months, a group of folks interested in jewelry would get together and have evenings where we critiqued each other, shared interesting gems and ideas. This supportive environment proved invaluable in promoting confidence and mutual support among the group members.
“I make a wide variety of necklaces, bracelets and earrings. i tend to use semi-precious gemstones such as malachite, lapis, agates, jaspers and a large variety of unusual glass pieces of different shapes and colors. I am also interested in ethnic jewelry and enjoy making pieces that are influenced by African beads, Asian pendants, Native American finding, etc. These pieces are often in combination with many of the stones I collect at local gem shows as well as at the annual Gem Show in Tuscon, Arizona that I attend. Here there are 4,000 dealers from all over the world and I find I always get unique things that my customers enjoy.
“I also have my work on consignment in approximately seven boutiques and galleries in the Boston and north Shore area and have had good feedback from the owners and customers alike.
“I really enjoy this hobby and find I am always eager to try new and different pieces!”
Meet Paul and other artisan crafters at the May Day Craft Festival on May 5th, 2012 in Taunton, MA.
