Designer Carrie Schafer stumbled into a bead store years ago, and that was the beginning of her road less traveled. On her web site, she explains her experience as follows:

We all have a little voice in our head that urges us to diverge off-course, try something new. Many times, we choose to ignore it in favor of the path that is comfortable, the path that is all-knowing and well worn.

But it is these little diversions that take us--if we let them--to the most unexpected, wonderful places.

That little voice spoke to me a few years back, urging me to make my way into a local bead store. I didn't have time, but the store lured me with its floor-to-ceiling inventory of colorful baubles and beads.

I left with an armful of supplies and spent a wintry afternoon making necklaces and bracelets for friends. It didn't take long before I was hooked. It didn't take long before this addiction became my passion, then a part time business and then a full time one!

And so the journey began, and Original Hardware was born.

While many of her piece use materials that may not be that common, some how she still manages to come up with a different feeling to her designs. For example, the green pearl bracelet pictured left from her Casual Chic collection - This three-strand bracelet features a unique clasp that slides and locks into place for security and beauty.

These earrings are from her "Bold & Contemporary" collection - Citrine stones glimmer like little pieces of sunshine in this pair of hand-forged earrings. The citrine are wire-wrapped inside a hand-made trio of sterling silver links that have been hammered and gently oxidized for a little personality.


And, finally, here's a necklace from her "Hand Forged" collection - This fine silver necklace pays homage to the wanderlust in each of us. A beautiful handmade fine silver pendant with a geometric pattern dangles from olive green leather cord.


She has a 15% off deal going on right now too, but it's only good through Dec. 21.