I select my materials based on locality, quality, and responsibility.
I avoid plastic at all costs unless it's very, very intentional in its use, like in upcycling, or in multimedia pieces that call for plastic specifically. I will always choose ceramic, stone, semi-precious stones, upcycled stones, or anything I know comes from the earth or is reasonably biodegradable aside from my metals.
I choose recycled or recyclable metal, preferring stainless steel above all else. I will note any known origin for every part of any piece I assemble. I have used gold plating in the past, with my own electroplating machine, but for the most part I am leaning toward only stainless steel. If I use silver, found metals, or if I know the origin of the metal I srouce, I will name it.
In Seattle, I use the following local supply shops:
Seattle Recreative
Beadworld
I occasionally source at Michael's if I really need other new items, and I often find secondhand pieces at Good Will. Otherwise, for bulk purchases I have used Etsy, and in the past I have used KBeads for unique pendants. I still have some bulk stock left from Joann, and I occasionally shop at Michael's.
I am Jill Abruzzio and my artist project / brand name is Rose Malocchio. I am just a quarter southern Italian, and a quarter English, but they were the only real cultures I knew as mine growing up as distinguished from others. The rose is my English side and the malocchio is my Italian side. I am currenly in my early 40's and married to my wonderful husband, Max, who occasionally helps me at vending events and is my biggest supporter. I run a small petcare business as my other professional endeavor at the moment, but I have a Master's in Education and I usually teach English learners. You can find out more about me and my history at chronicjillness.com.