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Alliston-based artisan takes hands-on approach to create custom jewelry

March 19, 2026   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

A local artisan has taken jewelry design to a new level, using wire, gemstones, and glass to create one-of-a-kind pieces she designs herself.  

Deb Benninger of Alliston started creating jewelry when she moved to the area and realized she needed something to keep her busy.

“I was injured on the job at 18 years old,” Benninger explained. “I had to find something to do at home. I tried various things over the years. When I moved up here, I needed to try something I could do in a limited space.”

Benninger has always been creative. Over the years, she has taken an interest in crocheting, knitting, scrapbooking, sculpting, and running a miniature dollhouse business.

She discovered wire weaving and began working with different techniques to make jewelry.

Benninger created a studio in her home and began making jewelry under the name I.D. Jewelry and Design.

“I use pliers and wire cutters,” Benninger explained. “But you don’t really need a lot of tools, you mostly use your hands.”

Her hands-on technique creates stunning pieces with intricate, highly detailed work. The term ‘wire weaving’ doesn’t really accurately describe what happens when Benninger creates her jewelry.

The very thin copper and silver wire is wound tightly, creating its own weave that creates a flowing shape that holds gemstones and other materials in place as the centre piece of the design.

Benninger creates pendants, brooches, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets that are not only beautiful but also unique. No two pieces are the same.

Her work ranges from traditional to modern, with a touch of ‘alternative’ in some of her work.

She uses glass and gemstones sourced from Europe for the centres of some pieces.

Deb also collaborates with her friend Mary Ann Helmond, an artist who works with glass, on some work, and they have done shows together.

She sells her work online and at artisan markets across the province.

“During the warm weather, I travel all over Ontario from May to November to various artisan markets,” Deb explained.

Her work is well-received by those who appreciate the true craftsmanship that goes into her jewelry.

Deb’s work is beautiful, unique, and has a special quality that appeals to those who really appreciate finely crafted jewelry.

You can view some of her work and contact Deb at her website at www.idjewelryanddesign.com.

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