OREGON – Most area residents know her as the master bread maker and owner of Jen’s Artisan Bread, but Jen Koertner is a lady full of talent and her second passion is jewelry making.
“I made jewelry before I made bread,” Koertner said. “I love the cool feel of the metals and the gorgeous colors of the stones. I like taking something that may have otherwise been thrown away – such as an old key – and making it into something wearable and interesting.”
Two jewelry classes by Koertner will be offered at The Shed during April. A fun Girls Night Out will be held on April 7 starting at 6 p.m. Cost of the class includes wine, hors d’oeuvres and all the supplies needed to leave with a gorgeous piece of jewelry.

A Saturday morning class is also being offered on April 8 at 9 a.m. Cost of the morning class includes Mimosas, hors d’oeuvres and all the supplies needed to leave with a gorgeous piece of jewelry. The classes cost $60 and all proceeds go to Serenity Hospice and Home.
Koertner began making jewelry years ago as a creative outlet and has taught classes in various venues and even in homes. Her jewelry has been sold in local boutiques and she often makes pieces by request.
One project she was involved in was turning broken pieces of porcelain, which had been a client’s grandmother’s china, into jewelry. A china cup had been broken and the client had saved the pieces. Koertner then took the larger pieces and made some necklaces out of them for the client and her daughters.
“I am really excited to be able to teach a jewelry making class at The Shed that will benefit Serenity Hospice,” Koertner said. “The Shed is a wonderful facility and it is such a unique place. I am happy to be able to be involved with The Shed and to give back to my community.”
Koertner is always on the lookout for unique things such as medallions or crystals or chandeliers. She has many trays of these items along with displays of regular beads and different types of wires. Guests to the jewelry making class will be able to choose from these unique items to make their own piece of jewelry. They may also bring in a special item that they would like to incorporate into their wearable art piece. She will be on hand to make sure everyone’s piece of jewelry is top quality.
Class size is limited so call to reserve your spot today. Call Serenity Hospice at 815-732-2499 for more information or to register.