Today we’d like to introduce you to Emily Stahly.
Hi Emily, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I have been hooked on making jewelry since my first visit to a local bead store when I was a kid. I looked with awe at the tiny dishes of beads, and strands of sparking stones, and knew that I had discovered a magical world of possibilities that I could never get tired of. As the years have gone by, jewelry making has been my constant creative outlet, and up until very recently, it was only a hobby. I took one jewelry and metals course during college, and fell in love with metalsmithing, but the idea of investing in my own equipment felt too daunting for many years.
In 2020 I began my exploration into wire wrapping and fell head over heels. Although I love wire wrapping, I knew there was still was something missing, there were designs I wanted to create that would require a torch. In 2023 I took a class by a local silversmith and knew instantly there was no going back. 3 months later, I took the leap and purchased my own basic metalsmithing equipment. I dove right in, taking a handful of in-person classes, watching online tutorials, and learning through trial and error. In 2024 I took an even bigger leap and finally turned this little dream of mine into a business. It has been an incredible journey so far, and I can’t wait to see where it goes!
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest struggle hands down was combatting my own fears about the impossible what-ifs that prevented me from jumping into this journey for years. One day, I decided that the fear of never trying and regretting it outweighed the fear of trying and possibly failing. What I found since taking the leap has been incredible. I am in awe of the other creatives that I have met over the past year, and I am blown away by the support and kindness from my local small business community. If I had known it would be this much fun, I might have decided to jump into this wild ride a lot sooner!
Since starting my business, I would say it has been a mostly smooth road but with some small potholes. The most difficult thing for me to navigate was time. Finding time to not only create but also figure out all of the administrative details led to a year without much sleep.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I am a self-taught metalsmith, creating handcrafted jewelry inspired by the beauty of both geometric and organic shapes, working mainly in brass and silver. I tend to gravitate towards simple designs with clean lines but also enjoy adding one of a kind wire wrapped elements into some pieces. I am continuously striving to learn new techniques and improve my skills so that I can make loved pieces that will last. I believe wholeheartedly in the power of laughter and love, and I hope the pieces I make carry these on and spark joy.
What are your plans for the future?
During the next few years, I hope to be able to take more in-person classes and try new techniques. One of the most exciting things to me about jewelry making is that the learning opportunities are endless. There are certain skills that take years and years to master, so I know I’m in for a future filled with possibilities!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://efrancesjewelry.com
- Instagram: https://instagram.com/e.frances_jewelry
