is anyone familiar with blender? or does anyone use it or another 3d modelling package?

my old school teacher is doing a jewellery design project using it and is looking at getting things printed on shapeways.

i just wondered if anyone uses it because i spent the day back in high school yesterday learning to use it and its so hard!
plus i dont like just making "random" shapes to try out the jewellery but i cant think where to start designing. i need some inspiration. its bad times. i hate uninspired moods! what're some good jewellery designers or people i could look at?