Meet Sierra Balsley | Jeweler & Resin Artist

We had the good fortune of connecting with Sierra Balsley and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Sierra, let’s start by talking about what inspires you?
Lately, I have found myself inspired by other local artists. Anytime I do Craft Fairs or Pop-Up Markets I always make sure to check out the other vendors. I love speaking with them and learning how they got into this and about all the items they make. It’s always so fascinating to learn about someone else’s creations and their passion for it.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I work with UV and Epoxy Resin to create unique pieces. I make earrings, necklaces, rings, keychains, trinket trays, stickers, and more. My inventory includes variety but also some very niche items. I think what sets me apart is that I do a lot of unique custom orders. I haven’t yet had a request that I could not fulfill. This can range from jewelry or trays with real, pressed flowers to pendants with human ashes to breast milk jewelry. More recently, I have been using insects in my art. I am really excited to explore that realm.

I actually started my business when I was working at a Surgery Center, as a hobby for myself. I started wearing earrings to work and within a month I was getting regular orders from coworkers. I started out specializing in holiday themed jewelry and it took off in other directions as well. With my work there is always something to learn. Resin is a science of equal parts and an ideal environment for curing. Ive been working with Epoxy and UV Resin since 2019 and there is always something to be learned.

In the last year my business has really excelled. I had the opportunity to do several Markets and Fairs and network with so many great artists. I have received a lot of custom orders and ETSY orders alike. I feel like 2022 was my most successful year yet and I think I really made a name for myself in crafting community here. I am so looking forward to what this year has to bring and the upcoming Craft Fairs I have.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Where to start. There are so many neat places in Knoxville! Marble City Market is a cool place that offers a variety of unique cuisine and drinks. I have done many Pop Up Markets there and always look forward to it. Think of it like a mall food court with a full bar, coffee corner, and weekly events. Old City Market is another great place. Starting in April they have Sunday Markets and the vendors that attend are so great and unique. It is always fun to look at all the booths. So many cool finds! Ive also done a few markets with them and the area is surrounded by restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. I have also become a huge fan of a local brewery called Xul Beer Company. They have some very unique options and are magicians of flavor.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
The Knoxville community of vendors and buyers have been nothing short of amazing to me. This past year, and since my last interview with The Voyager Magazine, I have met and networked with such beautiful people. The support of other local vendors and friends I have made during this time are so valuable to me. I have become a regular vendor at some local spots and have a following of great people on Instagram who come out to my events when they happen. I really couldn’t do this without this community.

Website: resinbyreese.etsy.com

Instagram: Resin By Reese

Facebook: Resin By Reese

Image Credits
Melissa Hood