Yes & Yes Designs is a one-woman operation based out of Oakland, California. Designer and founder Laura Bruland laser cuts and etches each piece of jewelry herself. Made from recycled book covers, and inspired by vintage style, each piece is hand-crafted with love.
Besides making jewelry, Laura also enjoys hoarding books (there are so many that are too beautiful to cut), roller skating, ballet, reading, and coming up with surprises for her long-time boyfriend, Julien. She also plays roller derby with the B.ay A.rea D.erby Girls under the name, Chiquita Bonanza.
How is the jewelry made?
Each piece is laser cut and etched with care. As every book is slightly different, and reacts differently to the laser, the jewelry that comes from each book is often one of a kind. Even two books that have the same color cover may have different colored layers just beneath the surface of the book, only to be discovered by etching away the very topmost layer of the book cover.
Some pieces require etching to create the design. You can feel the slight difference in depth where the colors change.
Other pieces, like the ladies, reveal illustrations or text from the original book’s cover as a pattern on the dress.
How do I care for the jewelry?
Each piece should be handled with care, especially when in the hands of anyone below the age of 10.
If your piece becomes dirty, feel free to wipe it off with a damp sponge. Make sure that as much water as possible has been squeezed out before applying it to the item in question. The jewelry is water resistant, but not waterproof!
Where do the books come from?
They are scavenged at thrift stores, garage sales, and library sales. I always try to use books that are unwanted, irrelevant, or falling apart.
