Getting to know Carolyn Ford of Silverbird Designs

Carolyn’s work is gorgeous!  All of it! We were able to catch up with her and find some more information about both the business and her as a person!

When did you start crafting & what do you make? 

I’ve had a passion for arts and crafts for as long as I can remember and from an early age could always be found drawing, painting or model making.

My interest in art and design continued throughout my school years and into college life where I completed a degree in Illustration and Graphic Design. I worked as a Graphic Designer for 10 years and loved my work, but decided to find a career that would better fit our young family’s life, yet still give me a creative outlet.  

What inspires you?

I find inspiration everywhere but most often from nature and its glorious array of flora and fauna – the wonderful colours, shapes and textures – they’re hard to ignore. I also enjoy finding new and interesting ways to reveal the beauty in things that are often overlooked or taken for granted – a piece of antique lace, a dried leaf or flower – the possibilities are endless … so many ideas and so little time!

Is this your full time occupation or do you have a “day” job too!

I’m so happy to be able to say it’s my full time occupation.

Have you diversified since you started out?

 As a jewellery maker I’m constantly learning new skills and experimenting with new designs and mediums  – I feel it’s so important to ‘refresh and grow’ (as I like to put it) so I can continue to enjoy and feel passionate about what I do and can offer exciting new designs to my lovely customers. My sketchbook is always bursting with ideas! When I first started selling my jewellery I predominantly used sterling silver – now I particularly enjoy mixing the silver with copper or accents of gold. There are lots of new designs coming soon and I can’t wait to share them with you on TBCH’s website!

Whats your favourite kind of cake?

 It has to be Carrot Cake!

What inspired the name of your business?

 The name ’Silverbird Designs’ was inspired by an early jewellery piece named ’Silverbird’, a pendant I first created back in 2009. It seemed fitting that it became my business logo, given my love for nature and passion for silversmithing.

Thank you! It’s been great getting to know you a little better!

Check out Carolyn’s shop for much gorgeousness!