Crowds browse at a Comic Con. Photo courtesy Devon Monk.

Are you intimidated by trying to break into the same shows, the same online marketplaces that every other craft jewelry maker is trying to get into?

Without a doubt, there’s a lot of noise out there to cut through. But with a little creative thinking, you might find a venue open to craft jewelry makers that you could make your own. This is where knowing your story and knowing why people choose your work can be invaluable.

What do you love besides making jewelry? Can you tie that love to your jewelry? Do you love vintage clothing or Civil War reenactment? Are you passionate about wild animals, cats, dogs, horses, gerbils, chamelons? Are you a science fiction fan, a steam punk buff, devotee of the Zombie Apocalypse? Do you spend your non-jewelry-making time haunting knitting or quilting stores?

Darth Vader maneuvers though the Seattle traffic at the Emerald City Comic Con. Who knew he was Scottish? Photo courtesy Devon Monk.

Almost all special interest groups have their own websites, conferences, conventions, shows—and lots and lots of fans. Many of them would be open to you setting up a link or booth to share your work. You already know what makes these fans tick (you are one yourself). You speak the language, understand the concerns, and are familiar with the special niches within these groups. You know what colors, shapes, textures, images are popular among fellow fans.

How can you connect to your fellow fans through your jewelry? What can you give them that will allow them to show their enthusiasm for the interest you share?

If you can marry your jewelry making skills to another special interest of yours, you may never need to look at a mainstream art or craft show. Just one caveat: this is not something you can fake. Your audience will know. (Wouldn’t you?) It has to come from your heart.