Custom Jewelry Design Process & What to Expect
Working with Clients to design custom jewelry is a highlight for me personally. I enjoy bringing a thoughtful & intuitive vision to meet each unique project. While there is a general process for design work, each creation comes to life at it’s own unique pace. Below is a framework of the process, allowing you insight into what you can expect when we work together. Although I like to keep a steady pace when working with a Client, there is always space to pause & reassess. Creativity blooms with a bit of freedom & fluidity. Once we begin working together, your project will have my full attention & will take priority on my bench.
Let’s begin
I’ll first ask that you fill out the DESIGN FORM in as much detail as possible. This helps me to get a good sense of what I’ll be creating. This is also a great indicator whether or not the project is something I’ll be able to successfully create.
Design consultation
We will dive into the heart of the design together during our design consultation. I ask that you come prepared for this 30 minute meeting~ consider any important details you may like to add & materials that you’d like to incorporate. Please have a budget in mind, as this will help me navigate within realistic parameters. At the end of this consult we should have a clear idea of where to start for the initial design concept, along with a few preliminary sketches.
Sketches & Design Concepts
During this phase, I’ll begin exploring design concepts deeper through detailed sketches.* The first sketches serve as a navigational tool, to better understand what bits and pieces inspire you. We will narrow in on the design & make revisions as needed. If we haven’t come to a conclusion after 3 hours of design time, I can be hired at a rate of $50/ hour to continue exploring additional design concepts.
*A $150 design deposit is required at this point.
Production
Once we have landed on a design, you’ll receive an estimate for the project & materials will be purchased. Production bench work will begin immediately & an estimated completion date will be given. You’ll receive photos & updates on the progress of your design as it comes to life.
*50% deposit is required to begin production work (minus your $150 design fee).
Shipping
Once your custom design is complete, you can pay the remaining balance & we’ll coordinate shipping/ pickup. Your design can either be picked up in person at my studio, or shipped via UPS Ground. Shipping with insurance will be calculated separately.