Featured Artist – Blue Buddha Boutique

A graduate from the Medill School of Journalism at Northwestern University, Rebeca worked in media relations and nonprofit development for seven years. She managed several of the most successful PR campaigns ever for various businesses and nonprofits. Though her successes made her happy, in the back of her head was a nagging feeling that she wanted to do “something with her hands.” So she quit her job, spent a summer working at Interlochen Arts Camp, and then backpacked through a dozen European countries. After six months of travel and working odd jobs for room and board, she settled down and lived for a year as an au pair in Germany.

While at a Renaissance Faire in Germany, Rebeca saw several people wearing chainmaille belts. She couldn’t find any place to buy them, so she decided to make one herself, thus awakening her passion. Today she knows 70 weaves (100+ if you include variations) and has a diverse portfolio of both upscale and accessible jewelry.

By using colored rings and combining classic weaves in new ways, she erases preconceived notions of this ancient craft. Her designs span from fun and funky to high-end and sophisticated, from earrings and necklaces to curtains and pull-chains for light fixtures. Rebeca constantly strives to take this medium to a new level; her mini-sculptures and colorful juggling cubes are definitely not typical maille fare! In a very short time, Rebeca also emerged as the pre-eminent chainmaille instructor in the Midwest. Students travel from several neighboring states, including Wisconsin, Indiana and Missouri, to attend her classes.

Blue Buddha Boutique, a diverse line of chainmaille supplies and finished jewelry, was launched by Rebeca in 2003. First operated out of her spare bedroom as a one-woman business, Blue Buddha has grown to a staff of six full- and part-time employees, with interns and guest contributors helping the company thrive. Originally handling only local orders, the company now has customers in all 50 states and 20+ countries. Blue Buddha prides itself on outstanding customer service, fast turnaround and of course, amazing chainmaille designs.

Check out Blue Buddha Boutique.
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