What makes Jessica Blissett with Ignite Jewelry Studios a good neighbor?

Nestled in the heart of downtown Asheville sits a phoenix that has risen from the ashes—or in this case, the floodwaters. Ignite Jewelry Studios, under the passionate leadership of owner Jessica Blissett, has reopened its doors after facing devastating destruction from the historic flooding that ravaged Western North Carolina in 2023. This remarkable story of resilience showcases not just a business reopening, but the rebirth of a creative community hub that's changing how people think about jewelry making.

Ignite Jewelry Studios operates as a three-pronged approach to jewelry arts: first as a retail gallery showcasing local and regional artisans; second as a communal studio space where residents can access professional tools and equipment (think of it as a "gym membership" for jewelers); and third as an educational center offering workshops for everyone from complete beginners to advanced metalsmiths. This innovative business model fills a gap that Jessica herself experienced when starting her jewelry journey—the lack of accessible spaces to learn, create, and sell handmade jewelry outside of traditional academic pathways.

What makes Ignite truly special is its accessibility and inclusivity. While many people perceive jewelry making—especially metalsmithing—as an intimidating craft requiring years of training, Jessica has structured her workshops to welcome complete beginners. Participants as young as 13 can safely learn to use torches under supervision, while stamping classes accommodate children as young as six. The age range of her studio residents is equally impressive, with former members in their 70s who discovered metalsmithing late in life and developed their own businesses. This democratization of craft arts represents a refreshing departure from the sometimes exclusive world of fine jewelry.

The challenges Jessica has overcome demonstrate remarkable entrepreneurial grit. Opening Ignite in 2019, she immediately faced the pandemic, all while starting a family with her then-new partner. Just as things were stabilizing, the catastrophic flooding hit Asheville's River Arts District, where her second-floor studio took on a foot of water despite being 25 feet above ground level. The building, constructed in the 1800s, remains uninhabitable with no definite timeline for repairs. Rather than shutter her business, Jessica spent just eight weeks securing a new location in downtown Asheville and completely rebuilding her operation from scratch.

For visitors to Asheville or locals seeking a unique creative experience, Ignite offers something truly distinct—the opportunity to make something beautiful and lasting with your own hands. As Jessica explains, the process of overcoming small challenges in jewelry making creates a profound sense of accomplishment. Even reluctant participants (often dragged along by enthusiastic partners) typically become engaged once they see the impressive array of tools and get hands-on with the creative process. In a world increasingly dominated by digital experiences, Ignite provides a tangible, physical creative outlet that leaves participants with both new skills and a wearable souvenir of their time in Asheville.

To learn more about  Ignite Jewelry Studios go to:

https://www.ignitejewelrystudios.com/

Ignite Jewelry Studios

(775) 338-3880