You have inspired me to take my stash and redo them into something new. My husband died more than 20 years ago. I still miss him .He was always there to help me no matter what I was working on, even sewing. I was always shocked about what he could do. If I needed a stool, all I had to do was ask, and I had it. He supported me always. I never worried about anything as long as he was alive. As always, cherish your husband and partner.😊❤
Your husband sounds as wonderful as mine. I am deeply sorry for your loss. I waited 21 years to meet Mark. Meaning, I was single for 21 years until we met. Enjoy diving into your jewelry stash and having fun with it!
I graduated from UNT with a BFA in interior design. By 2010, it was IMPOSSIBLE to find a job in the interior design industry, even in the Dallas/Ft Worth area. I got laid off from my job and I spent two years unemployed. I never went back into the interior design industry. I think it’s wonderful how you reinvented your business. I have dabbled in making jewelry through the years. Two years ago I nose dived into it. I do it as a hobby, but it’s a wonderful and relaxing way to get my artistic energy flowing. I love your channel and thank you for all your content and sharing your story. ❤
Thank you for sharing your story. I know it’s sad when we can’t achieve our goals. For many years when I looked back at our stores, I would say “ I wish I knew what it could’ve been had the economy not crashed.” The sad reality is, the economy crashes every decade or so. As it is, like you, we had to move on and find other creative endeavors. I’m happy to hear you enjoy making jewelry. Thank you!
I wanted to thank you for this video.... I love your creations, and how you take something , take it apart and revamp it into a beautiful piece ❤ i love collecting shells, my son and DIL live in St. Petersburg Fl, on a sailing vessel. She collects shells for me too,, I am new to this jewelry making , and i am excited to watch your videos on making them into something special she can wear , and me too! I am not doing it for profit, its for fun 😊 I am a quilter, and i paint (oils ) , I like to consider myself an Artist... in all areas of creation of things wonderful and beautiful.... i take all my stuff and i look at it as , Blessing Others....... just to watch the recipient , look in wonder and thankfulness. Then i am Blessed more than I deserve.... thank you again, for your videos , Be blessed above anything you could ever imagine ....❤ Jane from Jacksonville, Alabama.... 😊
Thank you so much for your kind words and support! My grandmother made shell crafts when I was young. She also made jewelry and my very first necklace was a shell necklace made from Coquina shells. Made with the help of my grandmother. Thank you for sharing your story and as you already know, creators must create. That’s what we love and that’s what we do. Thank you kindly!
Your channel is what got me interested in making jewelry. I always look forward to seeing your beautiful work and I am inspired by you. Please don’t let the negative responses change this channel. Happy jewelry making and have a blessed day.
Happy New Year and please keep the videos coming. Your enthusiasm is contagious! Thank you especially for the tip about big hole beads - that is genius!
We are having so much fun with you! Delete the annoying and unhappy people. You are highly educated and you deserve respect. Your husband too is highly educated and a lovely person. If I get to meet you I’ll give you a hug too.🥰
You do beautiful work- keep up the good work. I am 81 and have been doing beads as long as I can remember- I wish I could be more enthusiastic. Love your work - never stop.❤
That's so kind of you to say! It's fun to share our work with others. I imagine I’ll still be making jewelry in my 80s too. As far as enthusiasm, I’ve always enjoyed this saying, “Action proceeds motivation.”
Well done you two! It’s an honour and a pleasure to meet you. Welcome aboard as we go together on the adventure called 2025! With love and great respect, Wendy in 🇨🇦
Wow, love your storytelling! I have some vintage jewelry I want to up cycle. Can’t wait to see all of your creative ideas! Mark is vey creative and talented too!
Really enjoyed hearing about the history of your journey through jewelry making. I am retired from dental hygiene basically because of hand arthritis like your husband. I feel his pain! I love to thrift and have been doing upcycling jewelry for fun. My Mom and I had a jewelry passion and I miss sharing the things I make with her. Sometimes I sell things in the hospital gift store where I volunteer and just love when I can make someone smile if they look at my jewelry. I Love watching your videos. They are so well done and always give me a little push to make something. Don't let any of those negative comments stop you from doing what you love. Everyone is not nice and maybe they have some real problems in their lives that make them negative. But it does hurt to see words in black and white without any voice inflection. I usually do not comment much but I was moved by your video as it hit home with my life. Take care. Enjoy what you do and remember that there are so many more positive vibes than negative ones. You are very fortunate to have a husband who supports and loves you. Loved when he gave you a kiss!!!
Thank you so much for all of your kind words and encouragement! I understand when you say you miss sharing the things you make with your mom. My mom was an avid fan of our handcrafted jewelry. Thank you so much and have fun!
Hi Vickie and Mark. I’m here because I missed both of you from your other channel Avante Avenue. Happy to see you are both well. Thank you for sharing. Canton was considered the big city by my Grandparents whom lived in the Ohio River valley. I totally understand the reinvention of life. My husband ended his business that was timing out due to changes in technology. I quit my job. This was in 2001. We both started working together and did that for 16 years until we retired. We had a good friend that did chainmail. In Canada. He sold at numerous farmers markets around the area in which he lives in Northern Ontario on a rural island. He retired from this and has gone on to other ventures. I hear you about travel expenses. Many of our friends have stopped selling at farmers markets and either opened up small at home businesses or sell online. One of our artist friends actually went to the small town in which she lives and got town officials to let her set side a time every Friday during the tourist season to shut down Main Street and sell goods in the center of the street. The woman from surrounding communities take turns baking goods and selling them in the community center basement along with coffee and tea. This will be the third year and each season is becoming more successful. I’m not a crafty person. My talents lie in baking, photography and writing. Those talents have come in handy for selling on eBay.
Thank you for sharing your story and about your Canadian friend! We do have a farmer's market but prefer to spend our days out sourcing to resell instead. There's also lot of jewelry there already. I'm working on videos for Avante Avenue. I'll be back soon. Thanks!
Thank you for sharing a bit of your life with us. I enjoy your channel and you have inspired me to look further into upcycling jewelry. You are definitely not destroying pretty jewelry but enhancing those pieces. I look forward to more of your adventures.💗
Hello Vickie and Mark! I'm new to your channel. It's very nice to meet you both and hear your story. My husband and I also have a business together. We do a few local shows and festivals and then also sell online. The shows are definitely a lot of work. I had a stroke a couple of months ago so I've had to take a break from creating. Thankfully I'm recovering and gaining strength back in my hands. But at this point I'm stil not sure what the future looks like for our business. When you go through something like this it definitely makes you take a step back and really think about things and what is truly important. At the moment i just want to get back to creating and have fun with it without the pressure and stress. I'm happy to have found your channel and I can't wait to check out your videos! Thanks for sharing your studio tour! It's always fun to see where people create and all of the magic happens. ❤
We have a lot of things on our plate for the next month, but as soon as Mark can get some of his jewelry on eBay, I’ll share some of it in my videos. Thank you!
Vicki, I have been watching your UA-cam videos since mid December 2024. I'm a retired art teacher who substitute teaches in the Ferguson Florissant School District in St. Louis County, Mo. I have been making jewelry in my free time for over 20 years. I have sold some. I give lots away. I am always eager to learn and try new techniques . I think in some ways we are kindred spirits in the way we approach design. I love the freedom you inspire in your painstaking work of making videos that reveal the decision making process artists engage in as they create lovely pieces of jewelry. I don't understand how anyone could not love and enjoy what you are doing. Take care. Keep up the good work. Sincerely, Bev Bramstedt
I appreciate your kind words and I’m glad you enjoy the videos. I have to agree about the kindred spirits. Anyone who creates, knows that we often rethink and change things along the way. I also appreciate that you acknowledged the painstaking work that goes into making videos. It does take considerable time, but I do enjoy the editing process. I wish I had more time to make an edit videos. Thank you so much!
I nice to meet Mark. I would love the see his jewelry. I am so glad that you’re gonna be staying with us. I’m making jewelry. I have learned so much from you. Thank you so much.
I love your videos, you have inspired me, I am 73 and never too old to learn more, you think out of the box, and I look at my own vintage jewelry in a new way, my husband, daughter and I have started a small business making jewelry and other accessories for cell phones, tumblers, purses, it’s jewelry for those items. Thank you so much for sharing your story.
Beatiful story. The word “upcycle” is how I found you one day. I am 70 with rheumatoid arthritis so… not crafting small items. I knit but long bouts of resting hand’s sometimes. Anyhow, your efforts of video professionalism does not go unnoticed. Your content is so much fun and I am always interested in watching. Anyway, your live sharing with inspired me to comment.
Thank you for your kind words. I'm glad you enjoy the videos and appreciate you taking the time to comment. Sorry your crafting is sometimes hampered by your arthritis.
I love how you up scale your jewery. You are a real blessing. I'm a beaded Too! I enjoy designing. I weaved mostly. Thank you for sharing God Bless you and your your husband, take care nancy
You are a very lovely person and I could listen to you for hours. Your voice is so soothing. Don't let bad comments bother you. Just block them! Love you ❤️
I've been watching Avante Avenue since a couple of my fragile items got broken in the mail. After learning so much from you, not even the callous tossing of many fragile items by the local USPS guy had a single broken piece. I found this channel when I came looking for some new Avante Avenue videos and admire your ambition to juggle so many ventures. Thank you for sharing with the rest of us.
Hi there and thank you for watching and commenting! I have Avante Avenue videos in the works and I will be back within a couple weeks. Thank you so much!
I just started watching your channel a few weeks ago. You have inspired me to return to making jewelry again. Thank you for sharing your journey and know that there are many many many of us who appreciate all that you're doing and truly appreciate how you upcycle vintage pieces, giving them renewed life. ♥️ I am encouraged and I thank you for that. And you have a wonderful partner and support in your husband. ❤
That's so wonderful to hear! I'm so glad you're making jewelry again and I'm glad you like my videos. Yes, Mark is a great husband, and it took us a long time find each other. Thank you!
I enjoy watching you up-cycle jewelry, I found you by accident and so glad I did. The two of you and your life story together is so touching, reminds me of my husband and myself. You have done a great job at making this video, please keep making them. It’s so nice to listen to real people, thank you.
Your story sounds almost identical to mine! Spent 20 years (70-90s) in the craft business and did WELL!! My best day at a 12-day show in the North GA mountains was a few dollars shy of $20k - in 1984!!
I love watching your videos. You are the reason I go to our local thrift store looking for necklaces that I can refurbish. My back story is lengthy. I'll try to keep it short. My brother used to work for a binary and they let him keep prototypes of magazines. A stack of them were my Christmas gift one year. Among them were jewelry making magazines. My interest was peeked, but I wasn't very good at it so I put everything away. My brother passed away in 2021. He was the youngest. 57 yrs old. My heart was broken, but I kept hearing his voice in my ear that I had talent and he believed in me. I found my jewelry supplies. I started watching UA-cam videos on wire wrapping and various others. Then I cane across you and your videos. I love to up cycle and make something old new again. I do sell a few pieces locally. I enjoy seeing someone wearing something I made. Thank you for all you do. ❤
So sorry to hear about the loss of your brother. His life was cut way too short. Thank you for sharing your story. We never know where inspiration will come from. I too look back at those I’ve loved and realize how they contributed to my love of creating and jewelry making. Yes, it feels wonderful to see others wearing our handcrafted jewelry. Thank you!
I’m so happy to have found your videos and love watching for inspiration. I also enjoy up cycling and redesigning jewelry for my customers. Thank you so much for sharing with all of us❣️
Omg I absolutely love the chainmaillle ! I also love love vintage! Just ignore the ones who don’t like the mix, they can just skip forward or skip those videos they don’t like. I think you will find most will love both. 😊❤
Yes, everyone has the freedom to watch or skip. As Mark said in the video, though, he decided to not pursue making chain mail for various reasons. Thank you!
You inspire me ...I started making your little angels and then I saw some online that had legs and I made every color combination. I also made your little white tree and donated it to a local nursing home I have pictures of it but I don't know how to send them to you. Anyways you and Marc are a lovely couple. I also watch Heather Boyd Wire she very good too. She is up in Montreal Canada. I bet you would enjoy her channel
You have quite a story together and it shows a lot of positive values and life lessons that are relatable for many of us, even apart from an interest in making jewelry. Being open to trying something a little different when the original idea doesn't work out - that is a biggie. Growing and evolving. Have I heard you mention Abingdon in a past video? I'm thinking I did and if so, I have a funny coincidence to mention. If not, well nevermind.
That's so kind of you to say. I've don’t think I’ve mentioned Abingdon before on this channel. But, whats the funny coincidence? I would love to hear it!
I have to say, when you put your glasses on towards the end, you gave strong Meryl Streep vibes. Thanks for sharing your life story. I also enjoyed seeing your workspace, it inspired me to get organized. Looking forward to more great content 2025. TFS!
Thank you for your kind words. I’m glad my work space inspired you! As to Meryl Streep resemblance, I haven’t heard that since I was in my early 40s and not wearing glasses. Thank you!
Ok this video inspired me to try making chainmail!! Not the actual rings but just the linking part.😊 In one of my bulk purchases I received a little box of heavy duty gold colored split rings in 3 large sizes, too big for 'normal' jewelry and I was about to just toss them in with my other gold findings when I remembered this video and figured - why not try making chainmail??? So I did!!! My creation ended up pretty simple and amateur but it IS chainmail!!😂 Thanks for yet another inspirational push to get me to try other jewelry making techniques!!!❤
I am happy that you shared your story. You inspire me. What good is beautiful jewelry if it's kept in a drawer and not worn. I wholly agree with redesigning the components to something new and exciting to wear. I watch your channel for inspiration. It fires my imagination and I make something. Like the previous comment said, Block the negative comments. Thank you again for your channel.
I hope you up-cycle to your heart's desire! It keeps beads, etc out of landfills! So..have fun! I am learning so much from you! I had to take a break from my bead table yesterday because it didn't feel fun. And I agree with you that it should be fun. Enjoyable! Time is precious and we can't get it back. Thank you!
Thank you for your kind words! As to taking a break. I was working on jewelry for my next video. I finished it, but wasn’t completely happy with it. I took a little over 24 hours and came back to it and tweaked it. Now, I just need to finish editing the video. Lol. Sometimes, it’s good to just to walk away for a while. Thank you so much!
@avantejewelry you deserve only kind words. I have been watching your videos this morning and I am so inspired right now. I am a newbie on this jewelry making journey. So, I am like a sponge, soaking in the knowledge. I am thankful for people like you who are willing to take their own precious time, to teach others. When I started in October of '24, I didn't know what a jump ring was, or an eye pin or headpin. I would still be in the dark if it weren't for people like you who are willing to share their knowledge. And the joy that comes with making jewelry, wow! I gifted some earrings this past Christmas and I love seeing them wear them and get compliments! It makes me all warm and fuzzy inside. So big kudos to you and your husband, who is behind the scenes helping out.
Thank you again! We were all beginners at one time. I still remember the very first pair of earrings I made. My sister wanted to go to a local bead shop to make some earrings. I found some beads and they showed me how to put them on the headpin, but for the life of me, I could not bend the headpin to make the loop to attach to the ear wire. I needed their help. This was all before I discovered UA-cam videos years later. At that time, I had no idea that not only would I go on to make thousands of pieces of jewelry and sell it in person, but that someday I would be making UA-cam videos to help inspire others.
Thank you for sharing your story. You are an inspiration to me. Keep up the good work. I enjoy making jewelry, too! Nice to meet you and your husband. Thanks for the hug!
I am a new viewer/subscriber. I am not yet a jewelry maker, but I have been wanting to learn. I have watched some other channels/videos that are helpful with their step-by-step instructions and specific materials lists, since I don't know what I'm doing yet. However, I did not subscribe to those channels. I subscribed to yours because you do what I aspire to do - create. You let us in on the creative process. You talk us through your thoughts and ideas. You show us the trials and changes and tell us why. I also love your upcycles. The first time I saw you upcycle, a lightbulb went on! I, too, love jewelry. I have so much! However, some of them are pieces that I have because I like certain components, but maybe not the whole piece or maybe not together. You have inspired me to take them apart and create pieces that I will love as a whole! Once I have finished with some major home projects, I plan to focus on learning jewelry making and I know your videos will be a great help! Until then, I will keep watching and letting the wheels turn in my head. Thank you for putting yourself out there for us! ❤
If I were to ask someone to write an article about what I do on Avante jewelry, I would want you to write it! You nailed it. “You let us in on the creative process.” I too watch many jewelry making UA-cam channels. Not only before I started the channel, but I continue to do so. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you shared in your comment! I see jewelry making in your near future!
Vicki and Mark...don't pay any attention to negative comments. Don't those people know they are able to just click off if it's not the right youtube for them. You guys make me smile, and I really enjoy watching you. I too am in your age group and you inspire me with every video. I clicked into the Jewelry just recently and it has peaked my interest. Being a novice I would like if you would talk about the different beads - how you know what they are made of and how you know which beads would make a good up-cycle. How do you know if something is plastic or a real pearl for instance. ALSO...when will Avante Avenue be back??? - Ebay finds are truly my fun. Thanks for all the great info you share on both channels!
I do talk about the beads in many of my videos. Sometimes, however, I just put on the screen in “text” the type of bead that I’m working with, perhaps you’ve missed that. But I will incorporate more information when I can. I am working on Avante Avenue videos. I’m lining some up and will start releasing again within a couple of weeks. This was a much needed break from the channel and the first long break I’ve ever taken in over four years. Thank you so much!
You are my absolute FAVE UA-cam people of all time! I make jewelry as well and I am always inspired when I watch your videos. You all seem like such genuinely nice & fun people. Keep up the great work and videos! Much success & blessings in this new year!
This was such a lovely video! Your two are a great couple. It was so nice to meet Mark and get to know each of you better. Thank you for all of the valuable information you provided about your business experiences. I first started watching this channel because you like to upcycle jewelry which I also enjoy. I have found you do a fabulous job! It would be so fun to see Mark's jewelry. From what you put in this video, he has made some amazing pieces! Thank you for your channel!!!
Hi. I just found your channel. I love making jewelry. I mostly make pieces as gifts. Loved hearing your stories and how you’ve had to pivot from time to time. I’m glad you’re having fun. Keep having fun. Thank you for the inspiration. Rachel S.
It’s a wonder we never ran into each other at some of the places you were showing in Ohio. I’m originally from Portage Lakes, south of Akron. My husband and learned how to wire wrap jewelry from Barbara Massey at V-Rock in N Canton. As we got better at it we decided that we would do shows. We had a great time at it. We moved here to Missouri the last part of 2021 . He passed away Jan. 24, 2023. I just started making and selling Jewelry again under the name TdBinks. I just recently started watching your UA-cam videos. You do a great job. Glad I found your channel. God bless you from a former Buckeye.
So sorry about your husband. That must be devastating. As to V-Rock, we lived very close to it and we’ve been in the store, but we’ve never taken them classes there. We probably did run into each other at some point but didn’t know it! Lol. Thank you!
@ I was there last summer to see Barbara again and tell here what happened with my husband. They don’t have classes anymore. They were upstairs. They use that area for shipping.
I just discovered your channel & am enthralled. This was an excellent introduction. I love a good backstory! I am brand new to beads & I find your videos informative, inspirational, & relaxing. Thank you for all your effort. 💜
Thanks for sharing! I love your videos I have went back and watched them all! You and Mark remind me of me and my hubby. I do eBay and I drag him all over the country. I still work full time too. You are very brave, I could never do you tube. I get upset every time I get a bad word in my eBay store. Keep up the good work.
Thank you so much for going back and watching all my videos! That helps a lot. As to comparing UA-cam to Ebay, at least on UA-cam we can remove their comment. The old saying that we learned as children, “if you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all,” has gone by the wayside. Thank you so much!
Thank you for sharing and for all your inspiration. I have been home on a leave of absence. When I am better, I am going to try your techniques. They have been so helpful. I normally do anything to avoid wiring, creating or connecting with loops. I think I can do this now and will be going into my supplies of beads, caps, spacers, wires, head pins, charms, Crystal's, and so much jewelry I am going to finally tear apart! Yay. They have been hiding and I have amazing stuff. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Thank you both for this very informative vlog. Absolutely great. Nice to see Mark. Hope you both have a healthy, happy prosperous New Year. Loved learning more about you both personally.
So nice to really get to know you. Oh boy, do I know about doing those shows. 😆 I'm 80 and done, except I have tons of crafting items. I guess my kids have to take care of everything after I'm gone.😊 my younger son told me that he would throw everything behind me in the grave, and on the gravestone, he would write, "Here lays the underground crafter" 😅
While your story made us chuckle, what we did to make it easier for whoever has to handle our estate is we researched estate sale companies, by going to several of them, and lined up the best one. We put a copy of the business card with our will. Thank you so much!
I loved this video about how you got started and it was so fun to get to know you both! I enjoy your videos and you have encouraged me to just have fun making jewelry! Keep up the great work!
Love your videos! Keep up the good work and please show Mark's jewelry from time to time. We all change as life goes on, so your name says it all! Take care!
Dear, in 2019, I started looking at videos about wire wrapping with Cooper. Took me one year to start to find the proper places to buy wire, stones, etc ...etc...etc... Do I sell it ? No! I do it for the trill to learn. I love your channel! Why? You are calm, take risks, and pleasant in the way you talk about your jewelry. I'm 68 years old and always learn something new. I wish you and your husband a great 2025 and many new years to come. God is Good!
So, you understand what Mark went through when learning to make chain mail. I absolutely love learning new things. Whether it’s about jewelry making or life in general. Thank you so much!
Terrific video!! Thanks for sharing!! I did a show ONCE and it was SO MUCH WORK!! Had to rent a giant uhaul, unload, set-up p, tear down and load everything myself ugh so I understand a smidgen of the effort you've gone through!!! I wanted to let you know that you've inspired me to try working with vintage jewelry. I have bought several thrift store pieces but also discovered the online goodwill site that sells lots, as in 'collections' of jewelery as well as many other things. I'm awaiting delivery of 2 big lots of vintage jewelry but I already received an 8.8lb lot of brand new still carded/ packaged beads and findings. HOLY COW did I get a massive bargain!! Might be something you'd be interested in looking into:) Oh and your memory bracelet video inspired me to try that, never worked with memory wire before. I made my first piece today using mainly items i received in my goodwill craft lot!! Turned out pretty good:) Thanks for all he great ideas!!
That’s fantastic that you were able to score such a great deal on all that vintage jewelry! Love that you’re getting into vintage jewelry and thanks for sharing your tip. I am curious, was it their Goodwill store on eBay or goodwill.org? Thank you!
Hi Vickie! Love love this video ♥️♥️ I miss your reselling videos, so I am getting my Vickie and Mark fix here. Thank you for sharing your life stories that led you to where you are today. You are both so friendly that I feel we are friends 😊 I have never made jewelry, but can appreciate the skill required to make it, especially Mark’s amazing pieces 🤩. Wishing you both a very happy and fun 2025. 😘
Thank you for your kind words! I’ve been working on a video for Avante Avenue. I’m glad you found us here though. In the meantime and enjoyed the video.
Happy New Year to you and Mark. I have enjoyed all of the jewelry videos you have been putting out and I truly can appreciate the hard work it takes. I too did craft and booth shows selling my own version of upscaled jewelry. I took vintage jewelry and changed and updated them to my own version of repurposed necklaces, earring and bracelets. I know and understand all the work that it takes to do shows. Thanks so much for sharing your story. Best wishes! Lynn
Hollo Beautiful and amazing LADY! I am so very happy, and great full for finding you in this fascinating cyber world, and virtual technology... thank you for shearing your lovely ideas with so many of Us; my dear Lady you commented that some individuals respond to you Unkindly; well please do not fill offended, they are not talking about YOU; they are just introducing them selves, for that is the only way that they how! Keep up the good work... I love every minute of it! Thank you; GOD Bless you, your husband, and the Avante Jewelry Happy New Year!!!
I live in Livonia, Michigan. So sorry to hear you experienced theft while here! I enjoy your videos, and it was especially nice to learn more about you both! I love the idea of upcycling, and chain mail is fascinating. Happy New Year!
Oh yes, but it happens everywhere. Luckily, we didn’t have any theft at the shows that we did. There was always security there and we kept an eye on everything. We have a lot on our plate for the next month or so, but as soon as Mark can get some of his chain mail, jewelry listed on eBay, I’ll share some of it. Thank you!
Hi 👋 Vickie and Mark!! Happy New Year to you both!! What a wonderful video, so enjoyed your telling of both your journeys in jewelry making and experiences in selling! You two so complement each other beautifully together ❤!! (Loved the office/jewelry tour! This channel is excellent, you are such a natural teacher!! 👏👍🥰
I love your channel, and you have become an inspiration to me and my jewelry business. I am learning from you. I enjoyed this video with you, and Mark, yous two are adorable, and I loved it and I am looking forward to your next video. Thank you for sharing. I enjoyed it.
What a great video 😊expressing the down to earth and your beautiful way of life,thank you 💙and may be more videos too enjoy and to learn,so thankful I have learn so much,BLESS you both.
It was a privilege to hear you share your story . I love searching for jewellery to repurpose and trying to make it into something a little bit unique. I would really like to see Mark's work too. Waiting in anticipation for your next video .
i really enjoyed this video. i too make chainmaille and dabble with beading. im a magpie i guess. id like to watch marks maille projects and i get inspired by your bead creation video. the christmas video series was great. im a nurse and canadian haha chainmaille is a side gig happy new year! dont change a thing!
Thank you so much! I too enjoy watching other types of jewelry making. It can be the simplest thing that sparks an idea in my head. I hope you’re staying warm in Canada. We have a lot of snow today for Northeast Tennessee. Thank you!
I love the jewelry making videos-I couldn’t make anything due to my arthritis but I find it very relaxing in watching you and you create beautiful things-but I hope you don’t leave the eBay channel 😊. Keep having fun! Marks a cutie
We also watch a lot of channels for things that we don’t actually do. Like photography and travel. UA-cam is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy what we are not able to do for one reason or another. Thank you!
Thank you for your videos. I enjoy watching them. What I don't understand about selling on eBay, is how there are sellers who sell their handcrafted earrings for like $4- $5. How are they making any profit at all like that? Even if they pay $0.50 to make each pair there is still time put into making them that is not being accounted for. I just don't get it.
It is very hard to get traffic to an independent website. Ebay fees are nothing to be worried about. Simply a cost of doing business and a write off. In the big picture, the fees are nothing compared to owning a brick and mortar store. eBay does require attention every day or several days a week. Listing or end and sell similar to refresh listings. You can’t just list it and forget it.
Vickie, I have contemplated starting a channel on UA-cam. I have an issue with “giving up” my privacy. My channels subject matter would not be related to eBay. The subject matter would be something that is very popular with a certain demographic of the population. This population is not always the nicest. There are a lot of viewpoints that I do not and would never accept. I know I would spend the majority of my day deleting comments and blocking people. I spend a lot of time on UA-cam watching a wide variety of subjects. You are correct about the negative comments. One would think after all this time the shocking negativity would not sting, even though it’s not directed towards me. It still does because I was raised to not say anything that was not nice. I’m the same way in person as I am online. I think that way because I grew up prior to the internet. I hope that today’s parents are spending the time teaching their children to be kind online. I’m actually thankful that I raised my children prior to the internet. I believe the invention of the internet has made parenting even more difficult.
I think I know what type of channel you refer too. It seems any one of "age" no matter the age, LOL, is starting a channel to share their life story, experiences, opinions, etc. I actually came very close to starting one a few months ago. It seems like a very easy type of channel to start and they appear to be doing fairly well. Why didn't I? I decided that my "personal" life and experiences is the only thing I have left. And, once shared can never be taken back. Oh, and yes, the critiques would soon follow. I too was brought up with, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." Those days are long gone with social media. Everyone has an opinion and they sure feel emboldened to share it. Critiques can be anything from opinions to completely schooling the content creator on how "they would have done it and/or how wrong the way they did it was..." My favorite reply these days is, "Why don't you start your own UA-cam channel?" Depending upon their answer (or none at all), I determine if I want to let them use my platform (or not). Most, I believe, are first-time viewers. When their first, or several comments in a row, are all negative in some respect, I see the writing on the wall. Thanks for sharing your story and your thoughts. Yes, people drove from all over to shop "Canton, OH." Much appreciated!
@ My husband and I have learned a variety of new ways of doing things and or repairing things from UA-cam. However, with our life experience we do come across some content creators that do things differently them we would. We would never make a negative comment because #1 they might do said thing differently, does not mean in the long run the results won’t be the same or #2 each of us has our own way of doing things. Who are we to criticize. I wish more people would understand this concept.
You have inspired me to take my stash and redo them into something new. My husband died more than 20 years ago. I still miss him .He was always there to help me no matter what I was working on, even sewing. I was always shocked about what he could do. If I needed a stool, all I had to do was ask, and I had it. He supported me always. I never worried about anything as long as he was alive. As always, cherish your husband and partner.😊❤
Your husband sounds as wonderful as mine. I am deeply sorry for your loss. I waited 21 years to meet Mark. Meaning, I was single for 21 years until we met. Enjoy diving into your jewelry stash and having fun with it!
Block the negative people.
I do when necessary. It’s actually sad to me that it’s necessary at times. Thank you!
@avantejewelry yes it is sad. This world is so different than it used to be.
I graduated from UNT with a BFA in interior design. By 2010, it was IMPOSSIBLE to find a job in the interior design industry, even in the Dallas/Ft Worth area. I got laid off from my job and I spent two years unemployed. I never went back into the interior design industry.
I think it’s wonderful how you reinvented your business. I have dabbled in making jewelry through the years. Two years ago I nose dived into it. I do it as a hobby, but it’s a wonderful and relaxing way to get my artistic energy flowing.
I love your channel and thank you for all your content and sharing your story. ❤
Thank you for sharing your story. I know it’s sad when we can’t achieve our goals. For many years when I looked back at our stores, I would say “ I wish I knew what it could’ve been had the economy not crashed.”
The sad reality is, the economy crashes every decade or so. As it is, like you, we had to move on and find other creative endeavors. I’m happy to hear you enjoy making jewelry. Thank you!
Thank you Vickie and Mark for sharing your talents! I enjoy watching and learning.🌻🌻🌻
Thank you so much!
I wanted to thank you for this video.... I love your creations, and how you take something , take it apart and revamp it into a beautiful piece ❤ i love collecting shells, my son and DIL live in St. Petersburg Fl, on a sailing vessel. She collects shells for me too,, I am new to this jewelry making , and i am excited to watch your videos on making them into something special she can wear , and me too! I am not doing it for profit, its for fun 😊 I am a quilter, and i paint (oils ) , I like to consider myself an Artist... in all areas of creation of things wonderful and beautiful.... i take all my stuff and i look at it as , Blessing Others....... just to watch the recipient , look in wonder and thankfulness. Then i am Blessed more than I deserve.... thank you again, for your videos , Be blessed above anything you could ever imagine ....❤ Jane from Jacksonville, Alabama.... 😊
Thank you so much for your kind words and support! My grandmother made shell crafts when I was young. She also made jewelry and my very first necklace was a shell necklace made from Coquina shells. Made with the help of my grandmother.
Thank you for sharing your story and as you already know, creators must create. That’s what we love and that’s what we do. Thank you kindly!
Your channel is what got me interested in making jewelry. I always look forward to seeing your beautiful work and I am inspired by you. Please don’t let the negative responses change this channel. Happy jewelry making and have a blessed day.
That’s so kind of you to say! Thank you!
Happy New Year and please keep the videos coming. Your enthusiasm is contagious! Thank you especially for the tip about big hole beads - that is genius!
Thank you!
We are having so much fun with you! Delete the annoying and unhappy people. You are highly educated and you deserve respect. Your husband too is highly educated and a lovely person. If I get to meet you I’ll give you a hug too.🥰
Thank you so much!
You do beautiful work- keep up the good work. I am 81 and have been doing beads as long as I can remember- I wish I could be more enthusiastic. Love your work - never stop.❤
That's so kind of you to say! It's fun to share our work with others. I imagine I’ll still be making jewelry in my 80s too. As far as enthusiasm, I’ve always enjoyed this saying, “Action proceeds motivation.”
Well done you two! It’s an honour and a pleasure to meet you. Welcome aboard as we go together on the adventure called 2025!
With love and great respect,
Wendy in 🇨🇦
Life is most certainly an adventure! Thank you and keep warm in Canada! We have snow today!
Wow, love your storytelling! I have some vintage jewelry I want to up cycle. Can’t wait to see all of your creative ideas! Mark is vey creative and talented too!
Love that! I hope you enjoy upcycling those vintage pieces. Thank you!
Really enjoyed hearing about the history of your journey through jewelry making. I am retired from dental hygiene basically because of hand arthritis like your husband. I feel his pain!
I love to thrift and have been doing upcycling jewelry for fun. My Mom and I had a jewelry passion and I miss sharing the things I make with her. Sometimes I sell things in the hospital gift store where I volunteer and just love when I can make someone smile if they look at my jewelry.
I Love watching your videos. They are so well done and always give me a little push to make something. Don't let any of those negative comments stop you from doing what you love. Everyone is not nice and maybe they have some real problems in their lives that make them negative. But it does hurt to see words in black and white without any voice inflection.
I usually do not comment much but I was moved by your video as it hit home with my life.
Take care. Enjoy what you do and remember that there are so many more positive vibes than negative ones. You are very fortunate to have a husband who supports and loves you. Loved when he gave you a kiss!!!
Thank you so much for all of your kind words and encouragement! I understand when you say you miss sharing the things you make with your mom. My mom was an avid fan of our handcrafted jewelry. Thank you so much and have fun!
Hi Vickie and Mark.
I’m here because I missed both of you from your other channel Avante Avenue. Happy to see you are both well.
Thank you for sharing.
Canton was considered the big city by my Grandparents whom lived in the Ohio River valley.
I totally understand the reinvention of life. My husband ended his business that was timing out due to changes in technology. I quit my job.
This was in 2001.
We both started working together and did that for 16 years until we retired.
We had a good friend that did chainmail. In Canada. He sold at numerous farmers markets around the area in which he lives in Northern Ontario on a rural island. He retired from this and has gone on to other ventures.
I hear you about travel expenses.
Many of our friends have stopped selling at farmers markets and either opened up small at home businesses or sell online.
One of our artist friends actually went to the small town in which she lives and got town officials to let her set side a time every Friday during the tourist season to shut down Main Street and sell goods in the center of the street. The woman from surrounding communities take turns baking goods and selling them in the community center basement along with coffee and tea.
This will be the third year and each season is becoming more successful.
I’m not a crafty person. My talents lie in baking, photography and writing. Those talents have come in handy for selling on eBay.
Thank you for sharing your story and about your Canadian friend! We do have a farmer's market but prefer to spend our days out sourcing to resell instead. There's also lot of jewelry there already. I'm working on videos for Avante Avenue. I'll be back soon. Thanks!
Thank you for sharing a bit of your life with us. I enjoy your channel and you have inspired me to look further into upcycling jewelry. You are definitely not destroying pretty jewelry but enhancing those pieces. I look forward to more of your adventures.💗
I appreciate that, because that’s how I feel! Enhancing. I like that word. I’m happy to hear you are inspired to upcycle more jewelry!
Hello Vickie and Mark! I'm new to your channel. It's very nice to meet you both and hear your story. My husband and I also have a business together. We do a few local shows and festivals and then also sell online. The shows are definitely a lot of work. I had a stroke a couple of months ago so I've had to take a break from creating. Thankfully I'm recovering and gaining strength back in my hands. But at this point I'm stil not sure what the future looks like for our business. When you go through something like this it definitely makes you take a step back and really think about things and what is truly important. At the moment i just want to get back to creating and have fun with it without the pressure and stress. I'm happy to have found your channel and I can't wait to check out your videos! Thanks for sharing your studio tour! It's always fun to see where people create and all of the magic happens. ❤
I would LOVE one of your chainmail bracelets!!!!!
We have a lot of things on our plate for the next month, but as soon as Mark can get some of his jewelry on eBay, I’ll share some of it in my videos. Thank you!
Yes, me too.
Vicki, I have been watching your UA-cam videos since mid December 2024. I'm a retired art teacher who substitute teaches in the Ferguson Florissant School District in St. Louis County, Mo. I have been making jewelry in my free time for over 20 years. I have sold some. I give lots away. I am always eager to learn and try new techniques . I think in some ways we are kindred spirits in the way we approach design. I love the freedom you inspire in your painstaking work of making videos that reveal the decision making process artists engage in as they create lovely pieces of jewelry. I don't understand how anyone could not love and enjoy what you are doing. Take care. Keep up the good work. Sincerely, Bev Bramstedt
I appreciate your kind words and I’m glad you enjoy the videos. I have to agree about the kindred spirits. Anyone who creates, knows that we often rethink and change things along the way. I also appreciate that you acknowledged the painstaking work that goes into making videos. It does take considerable time, but I do enjoy the editing process. I wish I had more time to make an edit videos. Thank you so much!
I nice to meet Mark. I would love the see his jewelry. I am so glad that you’re gonna be staying with us. I’m making jewelry. I have learned so much from you. Thank you so much.
Thank you for your kind words and yes, I will be sharing some of Mark’s jewelry soon.
I love your videos, you have inspired me, I am 73 and never too old to learn more, you think out of the box, and I look at my own vintage jewelry in a new way, my husband, daughter and I have started a small business making jewelry and other accessories for cell phones, tumblers, purses, it’s jewelry for those items. Thank you so much for sharing your story.
I love that you and your family create together! You are right…. we are never too old to learn and think outside of the box! Thank you!
Nice to meet you! I love your up cycles. Mark has some really nice pieces also. Thanks for sharing your story
I'm glad you enjoyed learning more about us and our story! Thank you!
Beatiful story. The word “upcycle” is how I found you one day. I am 70 with rheumatoid arthritis so… not crafting small items. I knit but long bouts of resting hand’s sometimes. Anyhow, your efforts of video professionalism does not go unnoticed. Your content is so much fun and I am always interested in watching. Anyway, your live sharing with inspired me to comment.
Thank you for your kind words. I'm glad you enjoy the videos and appreciate you taking the time to comment. Sorry your crafting is sometimes hampered by your arthritis.
I love how you up scale your jewery. You are a real blessing. I'm a beaded Too! I enjoy designing. I weaved mostly. Thank you for sharing God Bless you and your your husband, take care nancy
Thank you for your kind words! We appreciate your support.
You are a very lovely person and I could listen to you for hours. Your voice is so soothing.
Don't let bad comments bother you. Just block them! Love you ❤️
Thank you so much! Yes, it is one tool that is necessary at times.
I've been watching Avante Avenue since a couple of my fragile items got broken in the mail. After learning so much from you, not even the callous tossing of many fragile items by the local USPS guy had a single broken piece. I found this channel when I came looking for some new Avante Avenue videos and admire your ambition to juggle so many ventures. Thank you for sharing with the rest of us.
Hi there and thank you for watching and commenting! I have Avante Avenue videos in the works and I will be back within a couple weeks. Thank you so much!
I just started watching your channel a few weeks ago. You have inspired me to return to making jewelry again. Thank you for sharing your journey and know that there are many many many of us who appreciate all that you're doing and truly appreciate how you upcycle vintage pieces, giving them renewed life. ♥️ I am encouraged and I thank you for that. And you have a wonderful partner and support in your husband. ❤
That's so wonderful to hear! I'm so glad you're making jewelry again and I'm glad you like my videos. Yes, Mark is a great husband, and it took us a long time find each other. Thank you!
I enjoy watching you up-cycle jewelry, I found you by accident and so glad I did. The two of you and your life story together is so touching, reminds me of my husband and myself. You have done a great job at making this video, please keep making them. It’s so nice to listen to real people, thank you.
Thank you so much for your kind words! We have been together, supporting each, in pretty much everything, ever since we met.
Your story sounds almost identical to mine! Spent 20 years (70-90s) in the craft business and did WELL!! My best day at a 12-day show in the North GA mountains was a few dollars shy of $20k - in 1984!!
That is incredible! I’m so glad to hear we had similar experiences! Thank you!
I love watching your videos. You are the reason I go to our local thrift store looking for necklaces that I can refurbish. My back story is lengthy. I'll try to keep it short. My brother used to work for a binary and they let him keep prototypes of magazines. A stack of them were my Christmas gift one year. Among them were jewelry making magazines. My interest was peeked, but I wasn't very good at it so I put everything away. My brother passed away in 2021. He was the youngest. 57 yrs old.
My heart was broken, but I kept hearing his voice in my ear that I had talent and he believed in me. I found my jewelry supplies. I started watching UA-cam videos on wire wrapping and various others. Then I cane across you and your videos. I love to up cycle and make something old new again. I do sell a few pieces locally. I enjoy seeing someone wearing something I made. Thank you for all you do. ❤
So sorry to hear about the loss of your brother. His life was cut way too short. Thank you for sharing your story. We never know where inspiration will come from. I too look back at those I’ve loved and realize how they contributed to my love of creating and jewelry making.
Yes, it feels wonderful to see others wearing our handcrafted jewelry. Thank you!
Im 100% with you. Love you both. And consider you youtube friends.
Thank you and love you too!
I’m so happy to have found your videos and love watching for inspiration. I also enjoy up cycling and redesigning jewelry for my customers. Thank you so much for sharing with all of us❣️
You are so very welcome! I hope you continue to find inspiration in my videos.
Omg I absolutely love the chainmaillle ! I also love love vintage! Just ignore the ones who don’t like the mix, they can just skip forward or skip those videos they don’t like. I think you will find most will love both. 😊❤
Yes, everyone has the freedom to watch or skip. As Mark said in the video, though, he decided to not pursue making chain mail for various reasons. Thank you!
You inspire me ...I started making your little angels and then I saw some online that had legs and I made every color combination. I also made your little white tree and donated it to a local nursing home I have pictures of it but I don't know how to send them to you. Anyways you and Marc are a lovely couple. I also watch Heather Boyd Wire she very good too. She is up in Montreal Canada. I bet you would enjoy her channel
Happy to hear that you were inspired to go on to make more and cute ones at that! Thank you for your kind words!
You have quite a story together and it shows a lot of positive values and life lessons that are relatable for many of us, even apart from an interest in making jewelry. Being open to trying something a little different when the original idea doesn't work out - that is a biggie. Growing and evolving. Have I heard you mention Abingdon in a past video? I'm thinking I did and if so, I have a funny coincidence to mention. If not, well nevermind.
That's so kind of you to say. I've don’t think I’ve mentioned Abingdon before on this channel. But, whats the funny coincidence? I would love to hear it!
I have to say, when you put your glasses on towards the end, you gave strong Meryl Streep vibes. Thanks for sharing your life story. I also enjoyed seeing your workspace, it inspired me to get organized. Looking forward to more great content 2025. TFS!
Thank you for your kind words. I’m glad my work space inspired you! As to Meryl Streep resemblance, I haven’t heard that since I was in my early 40s and not wearing glasses. Thank you!
I had boxes and boxes of extra jewelry and down sized it by making christmas tree art. Fun fun fun.❤
Sounds like fun!
Ok this video inspired me to try making chainmail!! Not the actual rings but just the linking part.😊 In one of my bulk purchases I received a little box of heavy duty gold colored split rings in 3 large sizes, too big for 'normal' jewelry and I was about to just toss them in with my other gold findings when I remembered this video and figured - why not try making chainmail??? So I did!!! My creation ended up pretty simple and amateur but it IS chainmail!!😂 Thanks for yet another inspirational push to get me to try other jewelry making techniques!!!❤
I’m so glad this video inspired you to try chainmail! Have fun and thank you!
I am happy that you shared your story. You inspire me. What good is beautiful jewelry if it's kept in a drawer and not worn. I wholly agree with redesigning the components to something new and exciting to wear. I watch your channel for inspiration. It fires my imagination and I make something. Like the previous comment said, Block the negative comments. Thank you again for your channel.
Thank you so much! I’m so glad you feel inspired
I hope you up-cycle to your heart's desire! It keeps beads, etc out of landfills! So..have fun! I am learning so much from you! I had to take a break from my bead table yesterday because it didn't feel fun. And I agree with you that it should be fun. Enjoyable! Time is precious and we can't get it back. Thank you!
Thank you for your kind words! As to taking a break. I was working on jewelry for my next video. I finished it, but wasn’t completely happy with it. I took a little over 24 hours and came back to it and tweaked it. Now, I just need to finish editing the video. Lol. Sometimes, it’s good to just to walk away for a while. Thank you so much!
@avantejewelry you deserve only kind words. I have been watching your videos this morning and I am so inspired right now. I am a newbie on this jewelry making journey. So, I am like a sponge, soaking in the knowledge. I am thankful for people like you who are willing to take their own precious time, to teach others. When I started in October of '24, I didn't know what a jump ring was, or an eye pin or headpin. I would still be in the dark if it weren't for people like you who are willing to share their knowledge. And the joy that comes with making jewelry, wow! I gifted some earrings this past Christmas and I love seeing them wear them and get compliments! It makes me all warm and fuzzy inside. So big kudos to you and your husband, who is behind the scenes helping out.
Thank you again! We were all beginners at one time. I still remember the very first pair of earrings I made. My sister wanted to go to a local bead shop to make some earrings. I found some beads and they showed me how to put them on the headpin, but for the life of me, I could not bend the headpin to make the loop to attach to the ear wire. I needed their help.
This was all before I discovered UA-cam videos years later. At that time, I had no idea that not only would I go on to make thousands of pieces of jewelry and sell it in person, but that someday I would be making UA-cam videos to help inspire others.
Thank you for sharing your story. You are an inspiration to me. Keep up the good work. I enjoy making jewelry, too! Nice to meet you and your husband. Thanks for the hug!
Love hearing that! Thank you so much!
I am a new viewer/subscriber. I am not yet a jewelry maker, but I have been wanting to learn. I have watched some other channels/videos that are helpful with their step-by-step instructions and specific materials lists, since I don't know what I'm doing yet. However, I did not subscribe to those channels. I subscribed to yours because you do what I aspire to do - create. You let us in on the creative process. You talk us through your thoughts and ideas. You show us the trials and changes and tell us why. I also love your upcycles. The first time I saw you upcycle, a lightbulb went on! I, too, love jewelry. I have so much! However, some of them are pieces that I have because I like certain components, but maybe not the whole piece or maybe not together. You have inspired me to take them apart and create pieces that I will love as a whole! Once I have finished with some major home projects, I plan to focus on learning jewelry making and I know your videos will be a great help! Until then, I will keep watching and letting the wheels turn in my head. Thank you for putting yourself out there for us! ❤
If I were to ask someone to write an article about what I do on Avante jewelry, I would want you to write it! You nailed it. “You let us in on the creative process.”
I too watch many jewelry making UA-cam channels. Not only before I started the channel, but I continue to do so.
Thank you from the bottom of my heart for what you shared in your comment! I see jewelry making in your near future!
Vicki and Mark...don't pay any attention to negative comments. Don't those people know they are able to just click off if it's not the right youtube for them. You guys make me smile, and I really enjoy watching you. I too am in your age group and you inspire me with every video. I clicked into the Jewelry just recently and it has peaked my interest. Being a novice I would like if you would talk about the different beads - how you know what they are made of and how you know which beads would make a good up-cycle. How do you know if something is plastic or a real pearl for instance. ALSO...when will Avante Avenue be back??? - Ebay finds are truly my fun. Thanks for all the great info you share on both channels!
I do talk about the beads in many of my videos. Sometimes, however, I just put on the screen in “text” the type of bead that I’m working with, perhaps you’ve missed that.
But I will incorporate more information when I can.
I am working on Avante Avenue videos. I’m lining some up and will start releasing again within a couple of weeks. This was a much needed break from the channel and the first long break I’ve ever taken in over four years. Thank you so much!
You are my absolute FAVE UA-cam people of all time! I make jewelry as well and I am always inspired when I watch your videos. You all seem like such genuinely nice & fun people. Keep up the great work and videos! Much success & blessings in this new year!
That’s so kind of you to say! We're so glad you enjoy our videos. Thank you!
Thank you for inspiring me to use vintage jewelry I never even thought to do this. I love watching your channel and getting many ideas from you. ❤
I’m happy to hear you’re inspired, thank you for watching! Many more videos coming this year. Thank you!
This was such a lovely video! Your two are a great couple. It was so nice to meet Mark and get to know each of you better. Thank you for all of the valuable information you provided about your business experiences. I first started watching this channel because you like to upcycle jewelry which I also enjoy. I have found you do a fabulous job! It would be so fun to see Mark's jewelry. From what you put in this video, he has made some amazing pieces!
Thank you for your channel!!!
I am so glad you enjoyed the video and that you're enjoying the channel!
Hi. I just found your channel. I love making jewelry. I mostly make pieces as gifts. Loved hearing your stories and how you’ve had to pivot from time to time. I’m glad you’re having fun. Keep having fun. Thank you for the inspiration. Rachel S.
Thank you so much for watching and for the kind words!
It’s a wonder we never ran into each other at some of the places you were showing in Ohio. I’m originally from Portage Lakes, south of Akron. My husband and learned how to wire wrap jewelry from Barbara Massey at V-Rock in N Canton. As we got better at it we decided that we would do shows. We had a great time at it. We moved here to Missouri the last part of 2021 . He passed away Jan. 24, 2023. I just started making and selling Jewelry again under the name TdBinks. I just recently started watching your UA-cam videos. You do a great job. Glad I found your channel. God bless you from a former Buckeye.
So sorry about your husband. That must be devastating. As to V-Rock, we lived very close to it and we’ve been in the store, but we’ve never taken them classes there. We probably did run into each other at some point but didn’t know it! Lol. Thank you!
@ I was there last summer to see Barbara again and tell here what happened with my husband. They don’t have classes anymore. They were upstairs. They use that area for shipping.
I just discovered your channel & am enthralled. This was an excellent introduction. I love a good backstory! I am brand new to beads & I find your videos informative, inspirational, & relaxing. Thank you for all your effort. 💜
I am so glad you discovered the channel! I hope you will enjoy the future videos. Thank you so much for your kind words!
Thanks for sharing! I love your videos I have went back and watched them all! You and Mark remind me of me and my hubby. I do eBay and I drag him all over the country. I still work full time too. You are very brave, I could never do you tube. I get upset every time I get a bad word in my eBay store. Keep up the good work.
Thank you so much for going back and watching all my videos! That helps a lot. As to comparing UA-cam to Ebay, at least on UA-cam we can remove their comment.
The old saying that we learned as children, “if you don’t have something nice to say, don’t say anything at all,” has gone by the wayside. Thank you so much!
Happy New Year - and your enthusiasm is contagious. Keep the videos coming - and the tip for using big hole beads is priceless!
We are so glad you found the information helpful! Thank you!
Thank you for sharing and for all your inspiration. I have been home on a leave of absence. When I am better, I am going to try your techniques. They have been so helpful. I normally do anything to avoid wiring, creating or connecting with loops. I think I can do this now and will be going into my supplies of beads, caps, spacers, wires, head pins, charms, Crystal's, and so much jewelry I am going to finally tear apart! Yay. They have been hiding and I have amazing stuff. Thank you, thank you, thank you!
Lots of fun ahead after your recovery. We wish you well. Thank you!
Thank you both for this very informative vlog. Absolutely great. Nice to see Mark. Hope you both have a healthy, happy prosperous New Year. Loved learning more about you both personally.
Thank you so much! We’re so glad you enjoyed it.
I really enjoy your videos! Thanks for what you do!
We really appreciate it! Thank you!
So nice to really get to know you. Oh boy, do I know about doing those shows. 😆 I'm 80 and done, except I have tons of crafting items. I guess my kids have to take care of everything after I'm gone.😊 my younger son told me that he would throw everything behind me in the grave, and on the gravestone, he would write, "Here lays the underground crafter" 😅
While your story made us chuckle, what we did to make it easier for whoever has to handle our estate is we researched estate sale companies, by going to several of them, and lined up the best one. We put a copy of the business card with our will. Thank you so much!
Missing new Avante Avenue videos but loving this channel!! You do beautiful work!!
~Tammy
Thank you so much! I am working on more videos for Avante Avenue too!
@ yay!! You know you’re my favorite!! lol have a wonderful weekend!!
Hats off to anyone who can do chainmaile. I can only imagine how glad you are not to be doing set up & breakdown & traveling. Thanks for the update
Yes! Thank you!
Hello Vickie & Mark. Happy New Year! Hope you both have a fabulous fun filled 2025. Enjoy every day.
Happy New Year to you too! We are hoping for a fun-filled 2025 too! Thank you!
@@avantejewelry Thank you.
I loved this video about how you got started and it was so fun to get to know you both! I enjoy your videos and you have encouraged me to just have fun making jewelry! Keep up the great work!
We're so glad you enjoyed it, thank you!
Love your videos! Keep up the good work and please show Mark's jewelry from time to time. We all change as life goes on, so your name says it all! Take care!
Thank you so much! I will definitely keep that in mind.
Dear, in 2019, I started looking at videos about wire wrapping with Cooper.
Took me one year to start to find the proper places to buy wire, stones, etc ...etc...etc...
Do I sell it ? No! I do it for the trill to learn.
I love your channel!
Why?
You are calm, take risks, and pleasant in the way you talk about your jewelry.
I'm 68 years old and always learn something new.
I wish you and your husband a great 2025 and many new years to come.
God is Good!
So, you understand what Mark went through when learning to make chain mail. I absolutely love learning new things. Whether it’s about jewelry making or life in general. Thank you so much!
@avantejewelry love always!
Thank you for making these videos.
I’m so glad you enjoy them! Thank you!
Terrific video!! Thanks for sharing!! I did a show ONCE and it was SO MUCH WORK!! Had to rent a giant uhaul, unload, set-up p, tear down and load everything myself ugh so I understand a smidgen of the effort you've gone through!!!
I wanted to let you know that you've inspired me to try working with vintage jewelry. I have bought several thrift store pieces but also discovered the online goodwill site that sells lots, as in 'collections' of jewelery as well as many other things. I'm awaiting delivery of 2 big lots of vintage jewelry but I already received an 8.8lb lot of brand new still carded/ packaged beads and findings. HOLY COW did I get a massive bargain!! Might be something you'd be interested in looking into:) Oh and your memory bracelet video inspired me to try that, never worked with memory wire before. I made my first piece today using mainly items i received in my goodwill craft lot!! Turned out pretty good:) Thanks for all he great ideas!!
That’s fantastic that you were able to score such a great deal on all that vintage jewelry! Love that you’re getting into vintage jewelry and thanks for sharing your tip.
I am curious, was it their Goodwill store on eBay or goodwill.org? Thank you!
Thank you for sharing knowledge!
You are so welcome! I love sharing! Thank you!
Thank you so much for sharing ❤️
You are so welcome! Thank you!
Hi Vickie! Love love this video ♥️♥️ I miss your reselling videos, so I am getting my Vickie and Mark fix here. Thank you for sharing your life stories that led you to where you are today. You are both so friendly that I feel we are friends 😊 I have never made jewelry, but can appreciate the skill required to make it, especially Mark’s amazing pieces 🤩. Wishing you both a very happy and fun 2025. 😘
Thank you for your kind words! I’ve been working on a video for Avante Avenue. I’m glad you found us here though. In the meantime and enjoyed the video.
Happy New Year to you and Mark. I have enjoyed all of the jewelry videos you have been putting out and I truly can appreciate the hard work it takes. I too did craft and booth shows selling my own version of upscaled jewelry. I took vintage jewelry and changed and updated them to my own version of repurposed necklaces, earring and bracelets. I know and understand all the work that it takes to do shows. Thanks so much for sharing your story. Best wishes! Lynn
Thank you so much! We both understand the hard work!
Hollo Beautiful and amazing LADY! I am so very happy, and great full for finding you in this fascinating cyber world, and virtual technology... thank you for shearing your lovely ideas with so many of Us; my dear Lady you commented that some individuals respond to you Unkindly; well please do not fill offended, they are not talking about YOU; they are just introducing them selves, for that is the only way that they how! Keep up the good work... I love every minute of it! Thank you; GOD Bless you, your husband, and the Avante Jewelry Happy New Year!!!
Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement!
I live in Livonia, Michigan. So sorry to hear you experienced theft while here! I enjoy your videos, and it was especially nice to learn more about you both! I love the idea of upcycling, and chain mail is fascinating. Happy New Year!
Oh yes, but it happens everywhere. Luckily, we didn’t have any theft at the shows that we did. There was always security there and we kept an eye on everything. We have a lot on our plate for the next month or so, but as soon as Mark can get some of his chain mail, jewelry listed on eBay, I’ll share some of it. Thank you!
Hi 👋 Vickie and Mark!! Happy New Year to you both!! What a wonderful video, so enjoyed your telling of both your journeys in jewelry making and experiences in selling! You two so complement each other beautifully together ❤!! (Loved the office/jewelry tour! This channel is excellent, you are such a natural teacher!! 👏👍🥰
Thank you so much! It is so nice to hear you enjoyed the video. We truly appreciate your kind words!
Happy New Year!
I recently stumbled across your channel and I’m really enjoying watching you upcycling the vintage pieces.
Awesome! Thank you!
Ty for sharing. You two have a beautiful story. I love your videos. Thanks again for the inspiration & entertainment.
Thank you so much! I'm so glad you enjoyed it.
You two are so cute! Loved seeing the little smooch on the cheek Mark! So sweet.
Thank you! He surprised me with that!
I think you are both wonderful people. Loved this video learning about both of you. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you so much!
I love your channel, and you have become an inspiration to me and my jewelry business. I am learning from you. I enjoyed this video with you, and Mark, yous two are adorable, and I loved it and I am looking forward to your next video. Thank you for sharing. I enjoyed it.
That is so kind of you to say, I'm so glad you enjoy our videos!
Love you guys, you have inspired me so much, love your jewelry so much keep the videos going and happy new year to you both, from an Irish lady x
Love that! Thank you so much!
What a great video 😊expressing the down to earth and your beautiful way of life,thank you 💙and may be more videos too enjoy and to learn,so thankful I have learn so much,BLESS you both.
Thank you so much!
Yall are so cute together and Mark I can see why you sold so much your jewelry is awesome and I love watching your Chanel
Thank you so much! We appreciate it!
Yay! I love watching y'all, glad to meet you both and i cant wait for more😊
More to come! Thank you so much!
It was a privilege to hear you share your story . I love searching for jewellery to repurpose and trying to make it into something a little bit unique. I would really like to see Mark's work too. Waiting in anticipation for your next video .
Thank you so much! I have a few other videos lined up, but I will show his work and get some listed on eBay.
i really enjoyed this video. i too make chainmaille and dabble with beading. im a magpie i guess. id like to watch marks maille projects and i get inspired by your bead creation video. the christmas video series was great. im a nurse and canadian haha chainmaille is a side gig happy new year! dont change a thing!
Thank you so much! I too enjoy watching other types of jewelry making. It can be the simplest thing that sparks an idea in my head. I hope you’re staying warm in Canada. We have a lot of snow today for Northeast Tennessee. Thank you!
Thank you for sharing!
You’re so welcome! Thank you!
Nice to meet Mark and Happy NewYear. Enjoy your videos
Thank you so much!
You both do beautiful work!!
YES continue to make your videos for us! They are much appreciated!!
Thank you so much!
I appreciate hearing that! Thank you!
I have joint issues with my fingers and thumbs so I feel for you Mark.
Yes, that can be difficult to deal with. Thank you!
Enjoying getting to know you both
Thank you so much!
You're both so adorable!
You are so kind. Thank you!
I do enjoy your videos.
Thank you so much!
I love the jewelry making videos-I couldn’t make anything due to my arthritis but I find it very relaxing in watching you and you create beautiful things-but I hope you don’t leave the eBay channel 😊. Keep having fun! Marks a cutie
I do have a nosey personal question -it’s fine if you don’t want to answer it-do either of you have children. 😊
I don’t. Mark has an single, adult son who lives in another state quite some distance away.
We also watch a lot of channels for things that we don’t actually do. Like photography and travel. UA-cam is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy what we are not able to do for one reason or another. Thank you!
I would love to see your husband's chainmail jewelry. I love chainmail.❤❤
I will have to show that off sometime! Thank you!
I love watching your videos ❤
Thank you!
Just found your channel subscribed. Enjoyed video 🤩🤩🧡💜💛🩵💚
Thank you so much! I’m so glad you joined us!
Thank you for your videos. I enjoy watching them.
What I don't understand about selling on eBay, is how there are sellers who sell their handcrafted earrings for like $4- $5. How are they making any profit at all like that? Even if they pay $0.50 to make each pair there is still time put into making them that is not being accounted for. I just don't get it.
They’re probably going for volume sales (lower profit but more sales) and they can make the earrings in a few minutes. Thank you!
I’ve thought of trying eBay as my website isn’t getting any sales. I’ve been nervous about the fees.
It is very hard to get traffic to an independent website. Ebay fees are nothing to be worried about. Simply a cost of doing business and a write off. In the big picture, the fees are nothing compared to owning a brick and mortar store. eBay does require attention every day or several days a week. Listing or end and sell similar to refresh listings. You can’t just list it and forget it.
Vickie, I have contemplated starting a channel on UA-cam.
I have an issue with “giving up” my privacy.
My channels subject matter would not be related to eBay.
The subject matter would be something that is very popular with a certain demographic of the population.
This population is not always the nicest. There are a lot of viewpoints that I do not and would never accept.
I know I would spend the majority of my day deleting comments and blocking people.
I spend a lot of time on UA-cam watching a wide variety of subjects.
You are correct about the negative comments.
One would think after all this time the shocking negativity would not sting, even though it’s not directed towards me.
It still does because I was raised to not say anything that was not nice. I’m the same way in person as I am online.
I think that way because I grew up prior to the internet.
I hope that today’s parents are spending the time teaching their children to be kind online.
I’m actually thankful that I raised my children prior to the internet.
I believe the invention of the internet has made parenting even more difficult.
I think I know what type of channel you refer too. It seems any one of "age" no matter the age, LOL, is starting a channel to share their life story, experiences, opinions, etc.
I actually came very close to starting one a few months ago. It seems like a very easy type of channel to start and they appear to be doing fairly well.
Why didn't I? I decided that my "personal" life and experiences is the only thing I have left. And, once shared can never be taken back. Oh, and yes, the critiques would soon follow.
I too was brought up with, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all." Those days are long gone with social media. Everyone has an opinion and they sure feel emboldened to share it. Critiques can be anything from opinions to completely schooling the content creator on how "they would have done it and/or how wrong the way they did it was..." My favorite reply these days is, "Why don't you start your own UA-cam channel?" Depending upon their answer (or none at all), I determine if I want to let them use my platform (or not). Most, I believe, are first-time viewers. When their first, or several comments in a row, are all negative in some respect, I see the writing on the wall.
Thanks for sharing your story and your thoughts. Yes, people drove from all over to shop "Canton, OH." Much appreciated!
@ My husband and I have learned a variety of new ways of doing things and or repairing things from UA-cam.
However, with our life experience we do come across some content creators that do things differently them we would.
We would never make a negative comment because #1 they might do said thing differently, does not mean in the long run the results won’t be the same or #2 each of us has our own way of doing things.
Who are we to criticize.
I wish more people would understand this concept.
You’re absolutely right, and there are multiple ways to do the same thing and end up with the same or similar end result.
I’m in Canada too
We have many fond memories of our time in Canada!
You definitely inspired me
Thank you!
I started an inspirational channel a few months ago.
Huga
Thank you!
Your videos have helped me recover after the loss of my dadda last March 🙏🏼💜🇦🇺🦘🐨
So sorry about the loss of your dad. I was very close to my dad too. Thank you.