Today we're chatting with jewelry designer Debra Blazer, who has been creating beautiful custom jewelry since 1999. Her style is heavily influenced by her background in art history and any of her handcrafted pieces would be the perfect addition to the modern woman's wardrobe.

Tell us a little about yourself and your work. My name is Deb Blazer and I began Blazer Arts in 2006 when I found out that I was pregnant with my little boy. I had been working in the jewelry industry as a bench jeweler for nearly ten years, but couldn't bear sending my child to daycare. My husband is getting his PhD and therefore gone most of the day. So the success of the business is not an option -- it is a necessity. This is the driving force behind Blazer Arts. At the beginning I had no idea just how happy I would be doing this. My son was the catalyst, but the inspiration and desire was always present.



How did you get started as a designer? I have a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in metalworking and sculpture with a minor in Art History. The funny thing is, that since I was twelve I had wanted to be an architect. It was only when I began looking into prospective colleges that I discovered art was a very viable degree and where I found myself most comfortable. I also have had the privilege of apprenticing under some remarkable people such as Tom McGovern and Sharon Teaman.

What inspires your work? I focus on ingenuity while bringing contemporary flair to historical concepts. I draw a lot from the Art Nouveau period. My art history minor focused on Asian art, which was a muse for the Art Nouveau movement. I love nature and flowers, but translate them into a graphic, structured form. So I guess I would say that Art Deco influences play a role in my pieces as well.

Who are your favorite designers? I actually don't follow current designers. Unfortunately raising a two year old and running a business takes up all my time and then some. As for influential figures in my life, I would have to say Louis Comfort Tiffany and Frank Lloyd Wright have been more than an inspiration.

What are your top fashion & beauty must-haves? This is another tough one. Being a work at home mom doesn't leave much room for beauty and fashion. But when I do leave the house, I would have to say mascara is a must ... and hair dye to cover the grays! Oh, and I am in love with my Dooney & Burke bag!

Any advice you would give to aspiring designers? Never be afraid to take that first step. Try to take it wisely, but keep in mind that your day job will always be there. So give your dreams a chance. And don't get discouraged. Success takes time and if one thing doesn't work, try another approach.

Where can people find your work? I have a website www.blazerarts.com and also participate in art festivals all over Florida. I will be featured in the 2009 edition of Designer Jewelry Showcase that comes out in February and you can find my work on their website at www.designerjewelryshowcase.com. Along with that, my jewelry can be seen on Etsy at www.blazerarts.etsy.com. I also have a wedding line on Etsy at www.debblazer.etsy.com. And I just launched a metal sculpture and home décor shop at www.blazerstudios.etsy.com. Etsy has been a godsend. It's a wonderful venue for artists and buyers to find one another.

Anything else? Remember that when you buy something handmade you may pay a little more, but the quality is infinitely better and the customer service is beyond compare. We all treasure our clients. Without you, we wouldn't be able to do what we love for a living. You have given us the greatest gift.


We love all of the amazing independent designers out there and we wanted to find out more about what makes these creative types tick. If you do too, check out more of our Indie Designer Interviews.