With handpicked beads, crystals and vintage accessories, WISN-TV Channel 12 news anchor Toya Washington hand strings and handcrafts many of the necklaces, earrings and bracelets she wears on the air.
Washington has been creating her own jewelry for nearly 12 years, an endeavor she says is challenging and relaxing at the same time.
A self-described “beader,” Washington began making jewelry to save money while building her broadcast career. She also found a stress reliever in the art.
“It just felt like there were multiple levels of benefit to myself with being creative and finding an outlet to relax,” she said.
While Washington used to work with a couple of area vendors and boutiques to sell her pieces on consignment, she now primarily focuses on making jewelry for herself, friends and family members. She also takes on custom commission projects for bridal parties, typically three or four a year.
Washington said she usually wears her own pieces in front of the cameras two to three times a week. But as a full-time mom and a part-time anchor, it’s not always easy to set aside time to fashion new accessories.
“I’ve got plenty of stuff to work with,” Washington said. “Just finding the time to sit down and do it is a little harder these days.”
