CINDY ERICKSON
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Hi, my name is Cindy Erickson. I live with my husband Ken and our cat Polly in what we affectionately call the “Enchanted Forest” on the beautiful Northern Oregon Coast. Together we enjoy hiking, biking, mushroom hunting, travel, and spending time with family and friends.
My creative journey started when I was about six years old and I learned to use a sewing machine. Since then I have acquired an interest in many different mediums, especially ones that include the use of any type of machine or power tool. I have also always had a passion for leaving this planet a better place for future generations, and many of the materials that I choose in my work reflect that desire. In my sewing studio I create leather handbags from up-cycled leather jackets and other up-cycled materials like skirts and tops. My most recent and challenging pursuit is Lampworking. Lampworking is a process in which a torch is used to melt rods of glass to a molten state where it is wrapped around a wire called a Mandrel, then shaped using gravity and a variety of tools into a bead. The bead is then decorated using techniques that I am constantly exploring. After completing a bead it is put directly into a kiln to cool slowly overnight for strength and durability. I have studied this art form with some of the best teachers in the country and am constantly exploring new techniques. In keeping with my desire to re-use things that ordinarily would be cast out, I also love creating beads using bottles or glassware that I break with a hammer and melt on my torch. I use my Lampwork glass beads in my jewelry line as well as to adorn beautiful desk accessories, stainless steel serve-ware and leather handbags. My work has been selected and exhibited in several juried art shows and markets and my beads have appeared in The Flow, the Soda Lime Times and Rock and Gem Magazines. Please enjoy your visit here and feel free to contact me with any questions. I look forward to providing you with something completely unique and beautiful! 
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