Inspired Beader: Una Tia Especial!

Elaine Silveira is an exceptional jewelry designer, working with some of the most beautiful materials in the world of beading. Her combinations of crystals, glass, wire and chain are gorgeous examples of what handmade can be. A proud aunt, her Etsy shop Una Tia Especial was named in honor of her nieces and nephew, who call her “Tia” - Spanish for aunt. One look at her designs is all it takes to see what makes them special.

Inspirational Beading: How did you first discover the art of jewelry making?

Elaine: I was sent a rear view mirror charm for my birthday last year. It looked easy enough to make, so I thought I’d give it a shot. I wanted to make meaningful Christmas presents, so I went to Joann Fabrics and bought my first jewelry starter kit. The art of jewelry making really became evident to me when I found out that there were actual BEAD stores. Stores dedicated solely to beading! I couldn’t believe it. And then to find out they offered jewelry classes?!? I was hooked.

Inspirational Beading: Where do you find the most inspiration?

Elaine: I find the most inspiration just by looking at the beads or crystals that I’m using. I see a particular color or bead and I imagine a design surrounding it.

Inspirational Beading: Do you have a favorite material or technique?

Elaine: Swarovski crystals are my favorite material to work with. They sparkle like nothing else. It is just amazing how a little piece of crystal can totally change how a piece looks. I’m obsessed with beadweaving lately. I took a class and that was it. A simple spiral weave is my absolute favorite to weave because it’s so easy. The Cellini spiral is my all time favorite. I just wish it was easier to weave. I usually have to start over at least twice and I’ve pulled beads out because of a mistake I noticed after I weaved several rows! But, the finished product is just marvelous!

Inspirational Beading: Of all the amazing Swarovski colors available, which one do you like most?

Elaine: Crystal Copper and Padparadscha are my go to colors lately.

Inspirational Beading: Who do you hope to inspire with your work?

Elaine: I never gave much thought to inspiring others. But then again, I never thought I was crafty. Jewelry making has opened my eyes to a whole new way of seeing color and design. If the fact that I turned a thought on a whim to a full blown business inspires others to give their whims a try, then I will say it was a good day.

Elaine Silveira works as an attorney, representing a public safety union on Ohio. When she’s not helping to improve the working conditions and lives of her members, she’s creating! You can check in with her on her blog, Una Tia Especial, and on Facebook.

Copyright 2009 Inspirational Beading - Elaine Silveira