Betsy Baker
I discovered my passion for jewelry design by accident. I happened upon a mineral store in the Yucatan and was mesmerized by the colors, shapes and textures of natural stones. The name Stonehouse Studio comes from the word ‘xcanatún’, Maya for ‘tall stone house’. It is my way of honoring the place where I found my calling.
After a few years of working with stones, I began a quest for a medium that would allow me to create from scratch, yet still maintain the organic and tactile quality of natural materials. Oddly enough, I found it in polymer clay, a type of plastic in clay form. A vibrant, colorful and versatile medium, polymer was my artistic epiphany. I soon left my corporate career to be a full time studio artist.
My latest work incorporates precious metals with polymer. I use a variety of polymer techniques, including mica shift, mokume gane, alcohol ink veneers and my very own 'illustrated transfer' technique where I transfer found images onto polymer, then alter them with colored pencils.
I would describe my style as chic and elegant: hand forged metal complements organic polymer designs in desaturated colors. My one of a kind and limited edition pieces are approachable, understated and very wearable.