Ojala Designs

12/15/2025

Sometimes I hear people speak of the work of artisans and crafters as being expensive and perhaps even overpriced.

This pair. Where to begin with the time and work and most importantly, heart and determination to make these? Using teeny tweezers to position each copper bit, and rearrange to get the design just so, then a torch blast, then another copper bit placed, and more flame. The balancing act because of the contoured copper. Somehow, some way, each maneuver, despite unsteady hands (espresso induced) and nervous energy, ended with a "Hell yeah!" when I decided they were perfectly imperfect with those little flaws that have my quirky imprint. These! Made this from scrap and scratch.

My friend and fellow jewelry artist knew. And she chose them for herself. And there's no higher honor than to have another creative love your work❤️

So, if ever there was a time to spend a little more for something that can't be bought in all the usual places for the bargain they would have you believe they are, now is the time to shop a local holiday market. And look closely at the things people make by hand. The intricacies and nuances are priceless. It's not just about the money. Be curious about how they do what they do. You'll most surely be changed by the connection ❤️

12/14/2025

So. I'm dipping my toes, once again, in the social media sphere. Mostly to give a boisterous and bold shout out to my community and to for reigniting this passion I have for making things with reclaimed silver and copper and enamel and little found beach stones and other whatnots I find as I bumble along as a human in a very upside down world.

And these markets and my jewelry brought so much connection. Each piece that I made and that you found, with short stories about a girlfriend who loves purple or two daughters that will be gifted a pair of earrings or you, who told me my work is gallery worthy... I'm humbled and so grateful.

Thank you to all who made the market happen to all who believe in supporting locally made art and craft❤️

02/27/2025

Many in the are engaging in what I would characterize as mostly civil, respectful dialogue over whether or not to gather in protest over the VEEP and his family’s ski vacation to and their stay in Warren, VT.

Some take a stance like this : “I understand many feel that the President is not concerned with our best interests, but lowering ourselves to be rude and unwelcoming will not change anything.”

Others point out: “Silence is compliance. When the rule of law is no longer in effect it is exactly now to begin to say something. We should all know well what happens when good people stay silent.”

And others, like the owner of in Waitsfield, VT, extend support in real ways to real people in our community who will suffer because of the sick and cruel cabal that has taken control of this nation.

As I witness this drama unfold on the eve of this man’s arrival in the Mad River Valley, I plan to stand up, speak up and be very clear that I reject and will resist the abject degradation and destruction these people are unleashing.

12/23/2024

From the book I’m finally spending time with ~ The Creative Act: A Way of Being by Rick Rubin

The natural world is unfathomably more rich, interwoven, and complicated than we are taught, and so much more mysterious and beautiful.

Deepening our connection to nature will serve our spirit, and what serves our spirit invariably serves our artistic output.

And the closer we can get to the natural world, the sooner we start to realize we are not separate. And that when we create, we are not just expressing our unique individuality, but our seamless connection to an infinite oneness.

These images were taken just outside our little home on Tucker Hill.

12/17/2024

What a show of support this weekend Makers Market❤️ Thanks to Mark and the Lawsons team for putting this together, for showcasing local talent, for the incredible mulled wine🍷and for bringing community and visitors together in grand holiday fashion🎄❤️💫

With what remains of my work, I’ve delivered the earrings pictured along with an assortment of my studio escapades to and for anyone looking for last minute gifts.

Thank you to all who have shared supportive words and deeds for my little jewelry obsession! Wishing you a beautiful Solstice, strength

12/13/2024

More fire fun in the studio with appeals to the skies to send the rain on its way and IT WORKED!! Just the way it oughta be in December - hot torches and crisp temps outside.

Still, me and all my bouncing around with silver and copper and beads and a big mess of a studio has me blowing my torch to see what happens with enamels and some texture in there, well, I’m likin the results.

This next small batch will be at this Saturday 12/14 for one, FINE collection of makers and craft brews and Mad River Valley vibes. It just doesn’t get any better than this. So come. If you’re around. And if you’re not and you like what I post, reach out. I’d love to connect.

12/11/2024

Well, if you happen to be in Vermont at the moment, and you’re looking out your window, there’s a whole lotta grey tones and the snow is putting up a good fight despite the rain.

So, no better day for posting vibrantly colored jewelry, right. Painting with fire cuts through the dreary scene out there. And, these will be this Saturday.

Temps are gonna take a bone chilling dive this weekend. Grab yourself a beer, wander the fine local vendors at the market, buy something cool for someone you love and warm up by the fire🎄🔥❤️

I’ll see you all there!

12/10/2024

This little retro number seems to be a hit so I made a few more. If you’re likin what I’m posting, you can always message me and if you’re lookin for a gift that’s unlike any other, stop by this Saturday, 12/14 for another outstanding Makers Market. Meet the artists who have poured their hearts into creating works that are just that more meaningful❤️

11/30/2024

Hello Vermonters!!! Market’s open and buzzin’ - with a little help from those beer taps.

Stop by and check out all the handmade goods and culinary delights!

And, if you’re far, far away, I can always package something up and send it your way🪽

11/27/2024

Fire is mesmerizing. The flame is both agile & delicate and also holds the power to transform copper & silver into a magic landscape.

We call it stick season in Vermont, this inbetween fall and winter time. The colors are muted, soft to the eye, just as with copper when fused with silver and finished with a patina.

You can find my work along with the work of so many talented Vermont artists and this Saturday, .

11/26/2024

11/24/2024

Ever wonder what happens when creatives go into a bit of a tailspin when the world feels like it’s unraveling?!?

Stay tuned for a little glimpse into Amy’s subconscious mind and what happens when she fires up the torches🔥🔥🔥

The shows go on and the season is upon us. You can see this design and those yet to be unveiled at on Saturday, November 30th and December 14th. Swipe for more details.

I’ll be one among several of Vermont’s brilliant makers and creators. If ever there was a time to fill your pint glass and show some love to local artists, NOW is the time❤️

Thank you for the endless support you extend to our community!