Daily Inspiration: Meet Karin Mueller

Today we’d like to introduce you to Karin Mueller. 

Hi Karin, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
18 years ago, I was working as a teacher’s aide and the teacher I worked with had a catalog on her desk. I picked it up and it was full of gemstone beads and tons of jewelry findings. It was like the world opened up!!! I was in heaven!!! Of course, I ordered some things and started to make jewelry. The teacher, who was also a great friend, and I got a group together and we would sit and create!!! We all picked our alter ego bead names and I was Lulu!!! I was so happy creating beautiful pieces!!! About 3 years ago I took a metalsmithing class and that was it!!! I had found my calling!!! I love to play with the torch and create things out of metal!!! After 17 years I had to quit my teacher’s aide job due to some medical issues and am currently working (or playing) at trying to make a living selling my jewelry!!! 

Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way? Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
I have to say the road has been pretty smooth!!! One challenge was our move to Myrtle Beach. I had to pack up my studio, which was my dining room table in Massachusetts, for 3 months. I was going crazy not being able to create while we were packing. Another challenge is the amount of tools you need to metalsmith. It seems like there’s always another tool for the job and having the right tools elevates my pieces. It is challenging to build an audience on social media to sell my pieces. I would rather be making something than doing social media!!!! 

Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I still do bead stringing, but I am most proud of my sterling pieces. My style sets me apart from others. I think most metalsmith artists have their own style, but it comes with time. In the beginning, you are learning the basics and how the metal acts. Then your designs start showing your own style after you are comfortable. 

In terms of your work and the industry, what are some of the changes you are expecting to see over the next five to ten years?
The trends are always changing, and you do have to be aware of them in your designs. I don’t know about the industry, but I know I’ll still be metalsmithing in 10 years!!! 

Contact Info:

• Email: lulusobsessionjewelry@gmail.com
• Website: www.lulusObsession.com
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/beadinglulu