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The same way campers tell spooky stories around the campfire, metalsmiths and beaders share eerie tales whenever we get together. Tales of the tool that came to hand right when you needed it, or a torch that got too close to your ponytail. Some jewelry studio stories are coincidences that give you the shivers, while others are reminders to practice studio safety. Either way, here are a few studio scares for your fright night.
Above image: Ghost with Candy Corn by Chelsea Stone for Eye Candy Jewelry.
How many tools does it take to be truly frightened? A drawer full of round-nose pliers? Nah. It could be argued that each one has their purpose. The real horror is drawer upon drawer of tools that haven’t been used in a while. So, I guess it’s time to carve out some time to put those tools to use. And maybe pass a few along to the Toolbox Initiative. —Katie Hacker, Content Manager, Beading & Jewelry
Surprise Visitor
I am working in a temporary location during some home renovations and my set up is unfamiliar. Plus, leaving things accessible to my crazy cats always worries me. One day this week, I came down the hall to find this furry surprise! My kitty, Jinx . . . laying in a tray of beads! I did scream! —Deb Floros, Owner of Deb Luvs Jewelry Designs
Spooky Serendipity
I needed 12 kits for a Halloween beading party on short notice. My customer wanted “Halloween, but not too Halloween” and she loves purple. By some sort of magic, I had exactly enough purple pearls to make these sample earrings—plus 12 kits! —Danielle Wickes, Owner of Danielle Wickes Jewelry, Creative Director of John Bead
Ghost Injury
A few years ago, I was drilling into a piece of metal, used too much pressure, and the drill bit suddenly broke/ skipped into my finger. The small puncture on my finger started to bleed, and I inspected the drill bit to find, indeed, it had broken halfway up the bit and lodged in my “moneymakers” (as my partner calls my hands.) I nearly fainted in the car on the way to the hospital—I can’t stand the sight of my own blood.
I was sure the drill bit was lodged deeply, and surgery would be required, along with stitches, perhaps a cast, and time out of work. Then the X-ray came back clear. There seemed to be nothing in the wound. What? The drill bit must have flown into the abyss of my studio and the blunt end nicked me just enough to draw some blood and give me a scare. The doctor said it would be just fine with a good cleaning and a bandage.
My nerves and imagination had run away with me. My partner shook his head and tried not to laugh. I got back in the car and received a bill for $1,500 for my surface scratch. Talk about a fright. But more to my ego than my finger. —Chelsea Stone, Owner of Eye Candy Jewelry
Related Reading
Have a spooky beading or jewelry studio story to share? Email your tale to [email protected].