How Do I Say, “I made it myself”, Without Seeming Arrogant?

by Colleen.

You’re a jewelry artist. You don’t robotic-ly assemble “make your very own jewelry” kits–you have an artistic vision and use practiced skill to bring it to life. You create what has never before been created.

Someone sees you wearing one of your latest creations, and compliments you on it. If they don’t know you’re an artist, they most likely think you bought it.

How do you gratefully accept their compliment AND let them know that you were the artist AND not say the overused “I made it myself”?

Maybe it’s just me, but when I hear “I made it myself”, I imagine someone without an artistic vision who buys a jewelry kit and faithfully assembles it, bead by bead, to manufacture something identical to the picture on the front of the box. They then proclaim, “I made it myself!” in awe and disbelief.

Does it sound too arrogant to thank them, and then comment on your inspiration and/or materials as if it’s OBVIOUS you made it yourself?

Does it sound too pushy to thank them, and then immediately had them a business card because they OBVIOUSLY weren’t just trying to make polite conversation?

What do you say in these situations?

Colleen
Starlit Sorceress Jewelry