Conversations with Kristin DiSanto

Today we’d like to introduce you to Kristin DiSanto

Hi Kristin, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
At a very early age I’ve loved crafting – something my Mom instilled in me being a crafty lady herself. I’ve always been the type to look at a project and say “I can make that”.

I’ve dabbled in many different crafts; from candle making, to wood signs, to hand decorated cookies…it was only a matter of time before I stumbled upon polymer clay. Here’s the funny thing – I was messing around with clay before it became popular.

I’m early 2012 I stumbled upon clay at a popular craft store and used my hard-earned money from my part-time job to buy a kit that included several colors of clay and some tools. My very first creation was a loaf of bread – you read that right. I then started making other fun shapes like cupcakes, spiders, frogs, even a little yeti. It was such a fun outlet for me.

Life began to move very quickly and I wound up getting a full-time job and started my career in HR (shortly after meeting my now husband). I then tucked away the clay in a bin never to be seen again; or so I thought…

During the pandemic we began working from home full-time, and it led to some boredom. I had been surfing Instagram looking for some kind of inspiration and saw a popular clay jewelry person selling a pair of earrings for $65. It was insane to me!! In typical Kristin fashion I said to myself, I can make that! That sparked the adventure of my husband digging out the bin of clay that was hiding in the guest room closet.

Through trial and error I began to learn new techniques, and eventually started recording videos for fun. From there it spiraled, and today, I have a website & attend local events selling my jewelry! I’m still very new to the market, and building my customer base, but I truly enjoy what I do more than anything I’ve done before.

I’m sure it wasn’t obstacle-free, but would you say the journey has been fairly smooth so far?
The road hasn’t always been so shiny and smooth; along the way I often grappled with self-doubt and imposter syndrome, feeling uncertain about my abilities and questioning whether I truly belonged or deserved my to be a part of the clay community. This inner struggle hindered my confidence and progress, but I fought incredibly hard to overcome it by acknowledging my achievements and focusing on continuous growth and learning to hone in on my skills.

I found myself comparing my journey to clay jewelry artists who seemed more successful. This habit led to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, however, I’ve learned to use those comparisons as motivation to improve my craft and find my unique voice in the jewelry-making community.

After being diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis at the beginning of 2024, my progress as a jewelry artist was significantly delayed as I had to adapt how I used my hands in a way that didn’t exacerbate pain. This challenge forced me to relearn techniques and adjust my approach to clay, emphasizing patience and resilience in overcoming physical limitations to continue pursuing my passion.

Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
I’ve dedicated myself to crafting polymer clay jewelry. I’m continually captivated by its endless possibilities and charm. From whimsical designs to vibrant colors, to tiny handmade flowers, each piece I create tells a story reflecting my creativity and passion. For me, it’s not just about making jewelry; it’s about spreading joy through tiny, wearable works of art that bring smiles to those who wear them.

I’ve poured countless hours into perfecting my craft of making flowers, each petal a testament to my trials and errors. From awkward beginnings to moments of frustration, I persevered, determined to master this intricate art form. Now, seeing my skill blossom fills me with pride and joy, knowing that my hard work has turned into beautiful creations that bring happiness to others.

My brand stands out because I embrace and celebrate diversity in every aspect, starting with my own appearance that challenges conventional beauty standards. As a plus size individual, I rarely see people in the jewelry community that look like me, and at times it can make it hard to fit in (no pun intended). I’m continually looking for ways to offer inclusive sizing, ensuring that everyone feels comfortable and confident wearing my creations. By prioritizing diversity and inclusivity, I not only set my business apart but also create a welcoming space where uniqueness is celebrated and everyone can find something that resonates with them.

What do you like best about our city? What do you like least?
I love Pittsboro NC for its quaint charm and community spirit. Pittsboro offers a blend of small-town hospitality and artistic finesse. From the bustling farmer’s markets filled with locally grown produce, to the new up and coming restaurants, each of them reflect the town’s commitment to sustainability and creativity. They exude a vibrant energy dedicated to growth (not to mention, it’s so peaceful/quiet!!)

If I could highlight what I dislike about the city, it’s simple; we’re missing out on the joy of delicious chicken sandwiches and waffle fries! Pittsboro has charm, they’ve got local eats, but what they REALLY need is a Chik-fil-A to complete the lineup. Let’s bring some crispy, pickle-topped happiness to our little slice of North Carolina.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sunnycreekclay.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sunnycreekclay?igsh=NGN6cm1rNGE3MGR6&utm_source=qr
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100095088920642&mibextid=JRoKGi