We love all of the amazing independent designers out there. In order to find out more about just what makes all of these creative types tick, we present to you an ongoing segment called Indie Designer Interviews.

Today's interview is with jewelry designer Karen Leslie. Karen creates unique handcrafted jewelry, including many one of a kind and limited edition pieces.

Tell us a little about yourself and your work. I am a stay at home working mom. I have a daughter who is a soccer player for her high school and also plays on a traveling team -- which keeps me very busy.

I have been designing/selling my jewelry for about four years. My designs are all handcrafted and either one of a kind or limited edition. I use the highest quality sterling, Bali and Thai silver, precious and semi precious gemstones. I also like to incorporate freshwater pearls, Czech glass, Swarvorski crystals and dichroic glass pendants into my designs.

How did you get started as a designer? A relative had given me a large bag of stones and said, "Why don't you see what you can do with them?" At that time, it was difficult to get instruction in my area. When I finally found someone to give me a "crash course" in basic jewelry making, I got hooked!

Six months later, I was in a store and the store manager noticed a bracelet I was wearing. She liked it so much she asked if I could make the same bracelet for a friend's birthday. From that point on, what started out as hobby eventually became a full time business.

What inspires you? I seem to gravitate more towards the colors of nature and everyday life. There are so many different things during a day that can inspire you. For example, looking in magazines can inspire you. When I am searching for stones to incorporate into my designs, I find it inspiring. I choose my pieces because I love the stones, color, texture or the shape. I love to play around with my stones and try to balance all the components to compliment one another.

I also spend many hours searching, planning and designing for each "collection" piece. To find these pieces, I search for them from all corners of the world. I am always searching for that "special piece" to incorporate into my designs. To me, all of the above play an important part in designing a piece.

What are your top fashion & beauty must-haves? Jeans are a staple for me! I also feel having a "one of a kind" or "signature" piece of jewelry, should be a must have in your wardrobe. I think it puts the finishing touch to your outfit.

Any advice you would give to aspiring designers? The handcrafted jewelry business is extremely competitive. It takes a lot of time for people to discover you. In order to do that, it requires long hours. I do get to set my own hours which is really nice, but if you want to succeed, you have to be persistent. It takes a lot of work, time and determination. The creative aspect is only one side. Other areas that require a lot of your time and should not be overlooked are marketing, accounting and inventory control. And, one more important piece, you must really "Love" what you are doing!

Where can people find your work?
You can find us on the web at: www.thecollectionbykarenleslie.com
You can contact "The Collection" at: thecollectionbykarenleslie@yahoo.com

Anything else? I would like to thank Styledash for taking the time to interview The Collection by Karen Leslie.