Timothy Adam Designs

A hammer rings out, lights flash and sparks fly and dance. No I'm not describing a battle between old Norse Gods, it just the sounds and sights that accompany a typical day at Timothy Adam Designs studio. This Etsy seller and artisan uses American steel and other metals to hand craft some truly amazing pieces. He makes and designs furniture, but you'll also find his line of cutting-edge jewelry and much more in his Etsy shop. From earrings and stands to display them on, to keychains, pendants and cardholders you can be sure to find a varied selection in his shop. Read the interview provided for a better understanding on what got Timothy started working in metal and what keeps him driven now.

1. How long have you been doing what you do?.

3 years.

2. Being self taught in your field, how did you get started, did you have a background working with metal?

my sister in-law is a furniture designer. she needed some help with a few projects that were all steel. i decided to get certified in mig welding before we started so at least one of us new what was going on. after finishing her projects i just kept welding and creating.

3. Are there any other places people can see your work? Website, blog, myspace etc.

I am in a few galleries in grand rapids Michigan, Boston and North Carolina.

blog: http://timothyadamdesigns.blogspot.com/

4. You've been very successful selling on Etsy, do you have any advice or tips on how to run a prosperous Etsy shop?

To be successful here on etsy you must be unique. you must also be willing to expand into different areas. before etsy (10 months ago) i only made furniture. i had to expand into jewelry to offer a more marketable product. you must also promote your shop, heart people and use etsy as a community.

5. Where do you find inspiration?

I find my inspiration from other artists. believe me i don't copy artists work, but i expand, change and make ideas that i find better.

6.Whats your favorite Etsy shop?

gemmafactrix!!!!!!!!!!!

7. One last question. What, if any, is your favorite metal band? Sorry, i had to ask.

Well heavy metal is really not my style...but a fun little fact: i was the lead singer for a band in school. we opened up for Everclear once.

Be sure to visit his blog, he produced a fantastic YouTube video of the making of a steel entertainment center. Its cleverly titled "A little more spark" and he links to the video from his most recent blog post. It really is astonishing to see the work progress alone its stages toward completion, you have to do yourself a favor and check it out.

In two days we'll have another fantastic interview ready so be on the look out for that, oh and remember BUY HANDMADE!