Mini Monday featuring Melissa Meman Designs

From the profile in her Etsy shop that is dedicated to help you find inspiration for your mind, body and spirit this jewelry and rosary designer introduces herself-

My "handmade" journey began many years ago in a small southern town. I am the youngest of five children and we grew up with our mother making most of our clothes (and many other things) by hand. Our father was a house-painter, but also a farmer and we lived off the land as much as possible. My sisters and I have always been involved in some craft or project for as long as I remember...I think my first endeavor was crocheting which I still love! Currently, I live in Maryland with my husband and son.

My mission is to create jewelry designs with a unique, eclectic flair. I mostly work with "one-of-a-kind" designs, but am working on a few "limited edition" pieces, and love custom work.

I am always trying to incorporate new techniques into my designs. I utilize a mix of materials - gemstones, artisan-made glass beads (lampwork), precious metal findings and wire (sterling, Balinese, Thai Hill Tribe and Indian silver; bronze; gold-filled; and gold-vermeil), freshwater pearls, coral and other organics, Austrian crystals, Czech and German glass...the list goes on!

Most of my designs are created with a "wrapped" link technique, usually utilizing sterling silver, gold-filled or bronze wire. I absolutely love this style, not only for its beauty and versatility, but also for its strength and durability. I occasionally utilize a strung method with beading wire and sterling or gold-filled crimps.


I have been making rosaries for about 3-4 years now and strive to the same high standards as with my jewelry pieces. It is my hope that they will become your cherished heirlooms. My rosaries incorporate wrapped links with sterling or bronze wire, and as such, are much more durable than traditional single-loop rosaries.

To learn even more about this artist you can read her Pink Zinnias blog. You will find a fun mix of family, recipes and new work done by this talented artist. I subscribed to the feed to keep track of what is going on in her world. Won't you?