Linda Jones is one of the UK’s foremost wire jewellery artists, with five books published on the subject. She also runs classes, writes articles and sells her finished work by commission.
Jewellery beginnings
Initially specialising in creating and designing enamelled and silver pieces, following a traditional 2-year jewellery training at the Metropolitan University in London, Linda
has now become well known and respected for her wirework.
She began her career by producing a range of photo-etched mixed metal jewellery which she sold in galleries and shops, mainly in London and through an agent. However, following her marriage breakdown 12 year’s ago, she had to rethink how to support herself and her two sons (then 4 and 6 years old). So she began to sell her work at craft fairs, made one-off jewellery commissions (specialising in weddings) as well as setting up jewellery making workshops for children’s parties. This later evolved into setting up Creative Wire & Bead Jewellery classes at her local adult education centre. Currently, she runs day and weekend courses from her studio in Kent, along with demonstrating and teaching at various craft events.
Books
The author of five bead and wire jewellery books, plus an instructional DVD for complete beginners. Linda has produced a huge range of projects for both the beginner and more experienced wireworker. Her work reflects different styles and tastes.
Inspiration for her work
When asked about her inspiration Linda says: ‘Initially my inspiration came from my childhood years spent in East & West Africa and travels in the Far East. These formative years definitely fuelled my inner creativity with colourful cultures, their artefacts and handicrafts. However, if I’m ever at a loss for an idea, or need instant inspiration, I usually look to Nature: the colour, shapes, textures in plants, insects, fish and birds, etc. I’ve learnt how to extract the essence or quality from something I’m drawn to, so that I can use it in a 2-dimensional, abstract form.’
Advice to others
Her advice to anyone who is just starting out beading or making jewellery is simple -begin by buying a reasonable set of pliers and cutters. She says ‘cheap hobby pliers will never produce good quality jewellery. The analogy is in cooking and using a cheap, kitchen knife to cut vegetables! It is also important to learn some very basic techniques (such as threading beads with wire, making jump rings and spirals) before you attempt anything too complicated. This will get you used to your tools and help you understand the possibilities and limitations of wire as a material. Once you’ve mastered the basic techniques and are proficient with your tools, you’ll be amazed how easy everything else seems!.
For more information on Linda’s workshops, books, DVD and general advice on wirework and how to get started, see:
