I took a jewelry class my junior year in high school.

Two weeks into a simple metalsmithing class, I was ready to give up. The project that was due was just not working out. No matter what I did, I just couldn't get the single band to solder together. In tears, I asked the teacher if I could transfer out into a different class. Praise the Lord, She was not about to let me give up. I came in later during her planning period to try one last time. We did everything right. We went through all the steps, careful to skip nothing. And still, the solder would not flow.

I sat and stared at the ring for a couple of minutes. Praying was not new to me, so I asked for help. I started up the torch, set about doing all the right things, and at just the moment I was about to give up because I didn't want to melt the ring, suddenly, I understood. I understood how it all worked. I put the ring in water to cool off, and praised the Lord. Yes, in the art studio, in high school, I said, "praise the Lord". It was quiet, but it was heart felt.

From that moment on, I have thanked God for any success in the jewelry industry. because it was only when he gave me the understanding, that I was able to create.

Now, I know this is very much so not the case for metalsmiths across the globe, but for me, It's the reason I create. He gives me the understanding and ability. I give Him the Glory.

Since high school, I have studied many different forms of jewelry making. From Silversmithing to chainmail to polymer clay. I look forward to expanding my skill set. And as I learn, I want to teach to others. I hope in the future to open a studio that will enable people locally to come and create as well.

Moving forward. Giving praise to God. Creating. Learning. And connecting with new people.

God bless,
J. Francy