Meet Doug Heifetz, an artist whose unique creations celebrate surprising transformations and the art of upcycling! As the founder of Lost and Forged, Doug’s small studio operation offers a diverse range of handcrafted jewelry, accessories, Judaica items, and decor pieces made from antique silverware and reclaimed metal objects.

With a passion for creativity and entrepreneurship, Doug shares his journey on the Handmade CEO Podcast, from a hobbyist to a successful artist and the story behind his innovative mobile boutique. We dive deeper into Doug’s artistic process, his experiences at prestigious events like the Golden Globe gift bags, and his exciting upcoming projects.

Embracing Artistic Transformation

Doug’s artistic journey began in 2015 when he discovered a newfound love for creating things with his hands. Late at night, while the rest of his family slept, Doug started bending silverware, drawing inspiration from a college roommate who had turned stainless steel cafeteria forks into bracelets.

Although his early attempts were rough and scratchy, Doug’s fascination with the art form grew as he explored different techniques and sought advice from online communities. The more he experimented, the more ideas flooded his mind, and he soon found himself immersed in the world of metalsmithing. In parallel, Doug was drawn to the idea of entrepreneurship, desiring a business that would fully embrace his creativity.

The Birth of Lost and Forged

As a full-time rabbi, Doug initially pursued his artistic passion on the side. He shared his creations on his personal Facebook page and was surprised when friends expressed interest in purchasing them. Intrigued by the potential to turn his hobby into a profitable venture, Doug decided to invest in materials and tools, gradually transforming Lost and Forged into his main occupation.

Alongside his artistic pursuits, Doug explored other business ideas, but it was clear that Lost and Forged had the most potential for success. With the support of his customer base and the profitability of art shows, Doug made the decision to dedicate himself fully to his artistic endeavors.

The Mobile Boutique: A Unique Solution

Doug’s entrepreneurial spirit led him to develop a mobile boutique, a portable cabin mounted on a trailer that allows him to showcase his creations at art fairs and festivals. Designed for both indoor and outdoor events, the boutique provides a convenient and visually appealing display space.

With the ability to level the cabin and keep jewelry pieces securely in place, Doug eliminated the frustrations associated with setting up traditional booths. The ease and efficiency of the mobile boutique have become a game-changer for Doug, allowing him to focus on his art and providing customers with an enjoyable browsing experience.

The Golden Globe Opportunity

In 2017, Doug’s spoon rings caught the attention of the GBK Celebrity Gifting Lounge, a prestigious event held in honor of the Golden Globe Awards. Through his involvement with The Artisan Group, a platform that facilitates product placement and gifting opportunities for artisans, Doug had the opportunity to showcase his creations in the gift bags for celebrities. This exposure not only brought some sales but also created a buzz among his existing customer base. The experience provided valuable content for marketing purposes, reinforcing the appeal and quality of his work.

Ongoing Creative Projects

Doug’s passion for transformation continues to drive his artistic projects. His latest venture, the Golden Bronze Collection, showcases jewelry made from unique bronze silverware, offering a bold and distinctive look. Embracing the idea of living a life of bold decisions, Doug celebrates individuality and the power of stepping outside the conventional mold. Additionally, Doug recently renovated his mobile boutique, transforming its exterior with cedar and revitalizing its appearance. These ongoing projects reflect Doug’s commitment to evolving as an artist and building a successful handmade jewelry business.

To take 20% off any spoon ring on Doug’s website, www.lostandforged.com, use code HANDMADECEO20 at checkout.