Thanks for checking out my site! My name is Caite and I am the designer/ owner of Ursula’s Forest Designs. Though I grew up in suburban St. Louis, I am a proud resident of southern Illinois, where I live with my dashing husband of five years and our bubbly, sweet toddler boy. My master’s degree is in Speech Pathology but I have not been practicing since the covid19 pandemic started, in favor of staying home with my son. I was inspired to start learning a new hobby- the art of jewelry making. Better yet, I discovered the joys of experimenting and exploring a vast world of creativity with metal clay!

“What’s metal clay,” you ask? Metal clay is exactly that- precious metals such as silver, copper, and bronze- in clay form, with the binding agent and water burnt out during the firing process. The primary factor that spoke to me about metal clay was its personability, allowing each artist to mold it to their own aesthetic.

My inspiration is taken from family values, the nature around my home, a love of animals, ancient cultures, and vintage styles. My favorite type of piece is one that evokes feelings of a different time or place, perhaps a relic from an archaeological site. When I made a cross pendant for my mother in law, my sister in law commented that it looked like it was found in Baalbek, a city in Lebanon known for its ruins. That was quite a compliment!

In my spare time I enjoy reading, tiki drinks, and taking little adventures with my loved ones. We are all Disney aficionados- my son thinks Elsa is his girlfriend and he took his first trip to the parks in January of this year. At the end of the day, I know that I am so lucky to live in my state and country and with the family I am blessed to call my own.

Where did the name Ursula’s Forest Designs come from? Ursula is my four year old American Alsatian dog. She is immensely fluffy and lovable. We have lots of acreage at my home and Ursula thinks she owns it all! Her favorite pastimes are barking at deer, chasing deer, and waiting for deer to walk in sight of her window. She thinks she owns the woods and is often seen prancing along the treeline. Hence, the name Ursula’s Forest arose to represent myself and my jewelry.

I hope the designs from Ursula’s Forest bring you the inspiration that you are looking for…whether that’s adding some fun to your favorite outfit or feeling a particular emotion. Please feel free to contact me for any special requests or custom designs that you may have in mind.