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Q1 Pease tell us your brief profile and working career. Why did you become a designer?
I am a late bloomer. In my early twenties I worked lots of different jobs in offices, restaurants and retail. I went back to college in my late twenties and completed my degree in art history when I was 31. I had been making jewelry as a hobby for years while at the same time dreaming of starting my own business. |
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When I finished college I decided to take a chance and try to sell my jewelry designs. I think I have always been a designer. My grandmother taught me to sew when I was 9. As a teenager I made a lot of my clothing from my own designs. I did not discover jewelry design until my early twenties but once I did, I never looked back!
Q2 What is your greatest inspiration?
Most old things inspire me. I am inspired by the old jewelry that I recycle. I love taking it apart and learning about old methods of jewelry fabrication. I like seeing recurring themes in design. I love the worn quality of the materials.
Q3 Currently which stores carry your brand in the world? Price range?
My jewelry is currently sold in several indie boutiques across the United States. The prices range from $16 to $100 per piece. I would love to sell my jewelry in other countries as well!
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Q7 What do you think the fashion/jewelry industry in Japan right now?
I really admire the street fashion that I see in magazines and on the internet. It is so fresh. I love the creativity those kids show with their clothing. I admire the originality of creating a temporary wearable work of art. It reminds me of how I dressed when I was a teenager. It is my dream to visit Japan someday and see the street fashion in person! |
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Q8 Do you usually wear jewelry? What kind of style do you like?
I have to remind myself to wear jewelry. That is such a bad thing for me to admit but I often find myself telling someone that I design jewelry and then realizing that I am not wearing any. However, when I do remember to wear jewelry I go for simple styles and I don’t take it off for a long time. I will wear the same earrings or necklace for a month! I get stuck on what I like. Currently my favorite necklace is a long gold chain with a vintage filigree locket. Other times I will wear a simple sterling silver charm necklace. My favorite pair of earrings are a pair that I made a long time ago, little porcelain beads with sterling silver bead caps.
Q9 What is your favorite food? Any good restaurants?
Sushi is my favorite food. Here in Austin, Texas we have this great sushi restaurant called Musashino. Once a month my husband and I treat ourselves to a yummy sushi meal. Our favorite fish are mackerel, eel, salmon and escolar. |
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Ornamental Things was formed in April 2004 by owner and designer, Natalie Tischler, and operates in Austin, Texas. We offer one-of-a-kind and limited edition necklaces, bracelets, earrings and rings made using recycled and vintage jewelry. All pieces are handcrafted in studio and are guaranteed to be of the highest quality by a one year replacement and repair warranty. Our jewelry is sold in indie boutiques around the U.S., online at www.OrnamentalThings.com and at local shopping events like Stitch Austin and Blue Genie Art Bazaar. Ornamental Things is committed to using green business practices and contributes regularly to charity organizations and silent auctions. Ornamental Things has been featured in Neet, Tribeza, Daily Candy and on numerous fashion blogs. |
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Q4 Would you tell us about the brand? What is the concept behind it?
With Ornamental Things I strive to create a brand of jewelry that is high quality, well designed and fashion forward. I like to design jewelry on trend but not so much that it can't be worn for years. I try to balance between the trend and the classic. It makes me happy when I hear that a customer is still wearing jewelry I made years ago.I don't know if there is any fancy concept behind it. I just like pretty things. When I was in college I was always making the joke that I would start the "art is pretty" movement because sometimes you don't really have to analyze something, you just love it. I have a very practical nature so I find it really cool and challenging that there are things in the world that are just there to be ornamental.
Q5 Who is your dream collaborator?
Unfortunately, I don't work well with people because I don't like to negotiate my vision! I think that is why I enjoy having my own business and being the boss lady. |
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Q6 What kind of jewelry style is the trend for this season?
The trend seems to be long chain necklaces with lovely charms and big cocktail rings. My recycled vintage rings are a big hit. My customers are definitely loving the vintage jewelry right now. They find pieces within my collection that have special meaning to them. |
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Q10 Would you tell us about your next collection? Any future plans?
Recently I created some collage pendants with vintage jewelry and paper set in resin. I would love to explore that a little further. I have taken classes in metal work and I always imagine that someday I will develop a line of organic sterling silver designs. I am interested to learn more about older ways of building jewelry with rivets. I would love to explore enameling. I have too many ideas! I have to draw them in a little book so I won't forget.
Q11 Do you have any advice for the young people?
Once you figure out what you want to do, be willing to work hard to make it happen. I feel strongly that hard work and persistence play a big role in success. Also, always be ready to learn. Learning opportunities present themselves daily and we have to pay attention and ask questions in order to grow as people. |
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Q12 Where do you go for shop?
Department stores like Nordstrom or Dillard's are my guilty pleasure. I love a large store with tons of selection and a sale rack. I can spot a sale rack from a mile away! I also have fun shopping at thrift stores and garage sales for older clothing. It's exciting to find a unique piece that is exactly your size!
Q13 Any last word?
Thanks so much for inviting me to be on your fabulous website! |
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