About Shelia

Welcome to Designs By Shelia, where every piece is a labor of love and a celebration of hand-crafted artistry. Explore the passion and dedication behind each unique creation.

My Creative Journey

After two decades in a career defined by data and forms, I found myself craving a different kind of structure—one that I could shape with my own hands. My creative journey began with a single strand of wire and a handful of beads. I discovered that the same focus and attention to detail I used in the professional world allowed me to 'weave' stories into my art. What started as a personal escape grew into a passion for creating symbols of strength and peace. Whether I am twisting the roots of a Tree of Life or weaving the web of a dreamcatcher, I am inspired by the idea of 'planting roots' and capturing beauty in the small details of life.

The Craftsmanship Behind Each Piece

For my Trees of Life, once the wire structure is set, the process shifts from technical to intuitive. I don't follow a pattern for the beadwork, instead selecting beads based on the "mood" of the piece—earthy tones for grounded strength, or vibrant, translucent crystals for energy and light. Watching the tree "grow" as I hand-place each bead is where the magic happens. When I create a dreamcatcher, I focus on the "web" as a symbol of interconnectedness, taking time with the tension and spacing to ensure a clean and purposeful weave. I often incorporate natural elements or specific bead patterns representing peace and protection. For my clip-on accessories, I create designs that can transition from a simple curtain tie clip to enhancing boots, shoes, scarves, hats, or a favorite handbag in seconds.

Bringing Meaning Home

When someone chooses a piece from Designs By Shelia, my hope is that they feel an immediate sense of connection and groundedness, a feeling of strength, growth, and deep roots. For a new homeowner receiving a Tree of Life, I want the message to be: "You are planting your roots here." I hope that every time they see the sunlight catch the beads on those wire branches, they feel a sense of peace and a reminder that they are building a beautiful life in their new space. With my dreamcatchers, the goal is always serenity. I hope bringing one into that special quiet corner of the home creates a "sacred space" where the mind can rest, with a message of protection and filtered light. The versatility of my accessory clips also aims to spark your own creativity and empowerment.