KLG Designs is owned and operated by Kara Guidinger.
My passion for jewelry making began in 2004. I began looking for a fun hobby! I am a very "hands on" person and I soon realized how much I truly enjoyed experimenting with glass and different metals. Being a self taught artist has made my work even more rewarding.....and frustrating, at times! I wondered if I could make a career out of making jewelry. I started by gifting many of my pieces, then progressed to selling pieces to family and friends. With some pursuation from family and friends, I decided to begin my own business and set up a website. I love learning and trying new techniques! My favorite past time is reading and learning about silversmithing. I have a small studio in my garage where I cut, assemble and fire glass jewelry pieces and do my metal jewelry work. We have two beautiful daughters (Jadyn (7) and Kya(5)) who think everything I make is "beautiful!" They both enjoy making their own jewelry with beads while I work on my creations!
I currently sell work at my house (call if you would like to stop by!),
craft shows, private home shows, to individuals who
contact me directly or at the following stores:
Urban Girl, 208 East Broadway Ave, Bismarck, ND 701. 323.9222
- Artist Statement
The most powerful source of inspiration for my work is my love of nature. I have always enjoyed the outdoors and using my hands to create things. Growing up on my family’s farm has taught me how to work hard and how to use my inspiration to accomplish anything I believe I can.
Currently, the metals that I most often use are sterling and fine silver, copper, brass and bronze. I am a self taught artist and I enjoy experimenting with many different tools. I use a variety of hammers to create interesting textures and shapes, as well as using heat to bring out brilliant colors in the metals. I particularly enjoy personalizing my art through custom stamping and design. Techniques used to make my creations include, but are not limited to; sawing, filing, forming, hammering, stamping, oxidizing, riveting, lashing and soldering.
Glass fusing is another medium that I have enjoyed experimenting with. I cut, layer, fuse and polish the glass. I thoroughly enjoy incorporating dichroic glass, because the coating adds amazing depth and texture to my pieces.
Most components of my jewelry are handcrafted exclusively by me in my studio. Because of this standard, every piece of my work, even within my production work, will have slight differences that make it truly unique. My most enjoyable moments come from seeing a simple sheet of metal turn into a beautiful creation with depth and personality.
I honestly feel that I am at the beginning of my journey as an artist. I am constantly seeking to learn new techniques and continue to experiment with new metals, glass and stones. My work has only just begun to find its voice and will continue to evolve with its maker.
Kara L. Guidinger
KLG Designs