My name is Liz. This shop reflects my journey toward self acceptance as a late-diagnosed Autistic woman. Like many disabled adults I’ve talked with, I was shamed for stimming. Teachers told me I was disgusting for my oral motor needs, and relatives persuaded me to sit on my hands at church. With this background, I still feel ashamed for publicly stimming. I believe that all stimming should be celebrated as part of Autistic (or other Disabled) culture and communication, and everyone everywhere should be allowed to stim. I’m just not there yet. That’s why I offer discrete stimming options. I know that many autistic people have to mask at school or work for their own safety. This is my solution.

The Neurodiversity-themed items that I offer have a more concrete background. A few years ago, I noticed that a longtime classmate of mine was wearing a puzzle piece necklace. I inquired, and she explained that although she was neurotypical, she wore the symbol to support autistic kids. I discussed Neurodiversity with her, and suggested she wear a rainbow infinity symbol, but she did not understand and as far as I know, she’s still walking around somewhere in the world with that necklace on. I still today feel guilty for not successfully explaining Autistic rights to her.

I later realized that there are not always options for people who want rainbow infinity jewelry. So, I decided to make some myself so that autistic people and individuals who truly appreciate autistic people could express their pride.

I started working with wire as a teenager, but I didn’t create jewelry—I built fishing lures. An effective wire bait features components that spin as the lure travels through the water. Shine and reflection help, too. Lures are built with strong stainless steel wire, which is much more difficult to manipulate than the copper wire I use now!

I used to sell fishing-themed items via a different Etsy shop. I opened this store as I began moving toward jewelry, which requires fewer supplies and less space. Although I opened the shop while in high school, I took a long break while I was in college. Massive handmade item operations and dorm rooms just don’t mix.

Liz’s Treasure Chest is a hobby shop. I make a very small profit from the pieces I sell, and all the revenue goes into supplies so that I can create more wire pieces. I understand that many disabled adults have little disposable income but NEED a stimming option, and I try to feature items with a variety of prices.

I do receive hate every once in a while. Apparently, autistic people supporting each other really fires some people up. I’m sorry if you see hate, lies, or threats as you browse my shop. Still, I get quite a few private messages from customers who love their items, and that keeps me going.