Menagerie Studio

New Beads

2012-02-06T13:51:00.000-08:00

I finished several sets of Marbled Beads over the weekend. Here they are in a little collage. Leave a comment if you would like one or more of the sets. I will create a reserved listing in my Etsy Shop for you. First come, first serve.

I will start listing these Wednesday.

Each set include the number of beads in each photo. The beads are $1.50 ea. There are new colors, such as: Marbled Chocolate and Strawberry, Marbled Rust, and Marbled Ruby.

I have so much going on this week that I'm not sure that I will be able to spend much time creating in my studio. But, at some point this week, I will be starting a new batch of charms.

Have a great week!

Valentine Necklace

2012-01-31T15:17:00.000-08:00

Today, I'm working on marbled beads and photographing charms to list in my Etsy Shop. But, I wanted to take a second to show you this awesome Valentine Necklace by Kristy Abner of Kristy's Kreations.

Kristy Abner

www.kristyskreations.com

www.kristyskreations.etsy.com

This necklace is perfect to wear in appreciation of all the love in you life.

New charms

2012-01-27T09:26:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it is hard to know what to do or what is the best way to handle something, especially in business.

Many of my customers have requested to be able to see all of my available charms at one time, instead waiting for me to list them one by one in my Etsy Shop. I've debated whether this is a good idea or not. Due to the nature of what I sell, I've decided that it is a good thing to do, and would help my customers.

So, after trying several things, I have decide this is the best way for me to do this:

Once I complete a batch of charms, I will photograph them all together, I will number each charm in the photograph and post the photos on this blog.
My customers can then decide which charms they want, leave me a comment on this blog post, and I will create a reserved Etsy listing.
This will be on a first come, first serve basis, so you might want to check previous comments to make sure the charm(s) you want is available.
I will also update my Facebook and Twitter, when I post my available charms.
Also, I will let you know how long you have to shop, before I start listing the individual charms in my Etsy Shop.

Whew!!!

Of course, I am going to throw a kink in all of this, because that's just who I am. I will hold a few charms back to list in my Etsy Shop, you know, for marketing, good business, to reach those who don't read my blog, and all that stuff.

So, on to the good stuff! These are all of the charms that I have available at this time. I will be working on beads for the next few days, then I will start another batch of charms. I will start listing these charms next Tuesday, January 31, or the ones that are left anyway.

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Individual Charms - ranging from $7 for the birds to $12 for the large cross.

Tiny charm pairs - ranging from $9 to $11 a pair:

And finally, Valentine Heart Charms. I did not get these made as early as I wanted to, so I only made a few. These measure 1 1/2 x 1 3/4, and are $9 each.

You may notice that the shape of these heart charms are a little different than my normal full heart charms. I am sad to report that the cutter, I have used for years to cut out my heart shapes in clay, met with a tragic and unfortunate end. It involves a clumsy foot and a door. The details are too graphic. But, good can come out of anything. This will be the new shape of my full hearts, which I actually like better, and they will come in 3 sizes. This is the middle size.

If you have not purchased from me before and have questions about my charms, you can find a lot of information in my Etsy Shop, such as size, price and you can see that the backs of my charms are finished in way that are almost as pretty as the front of the charms. I am also happy to answer any of your questions. You can email me at eason.martha@gmail.com.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Lovely New Designs

2012-01-26T07:39:00.000-08:00

I'm so grateful for all of the talented Jewelry Artist, who design with my charms. I am so proud to show case them here, as often as I can.

You might want to get yourself a cup of coffee or tea, or you favorite beverage, whatever it may be. Hey, that rhymed! Once you start following the links for the artists who have created the designs below, you might be here for awhile.

Enjoy!

Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp

www.skyejewels.etsy.com
www.skyejewels.com

www.skyejewels.blogspot.com

Cherrie Fick

www.enlalumiere.etsy.com

www.designsinthelight.com

Karen Vincent

www.swallowtailjewellery.etsy.com

Jewelry Designs by Kristi Harrison

Keepsakes by Kristi

New Designs

2012-01-12T07:28:00.000-08:00

Lately, not only am I trying to rebuild my inventory, but I am also cleaning out and reorganizing my studio.

Over the Thanksgiving break, we moved rooms around in our house, and my studio is now in what used to be the living room. I have a lot more space, so I'm loving that. But it is in a more open area, so I'm trying to make it a bit more appealing.

While I've been doing all of this, some of my customers have gotten busy and created lovely new jewelry designs with my charms.

Here they are. Enjoy the inspiration and shopping!!!

Jewelry Designs by Traci Zeller

Getta Gift

www.gettagift.etsy.com

Jewelry Designs by Karen Vincent

www.swallowtailjewellery.etsy.com

Jewelry Design by Cherrie Fick

www.enlalumiere.etsy.com

www.designsinthelight.com

Jewelry Design by Maria Leftherioti

www.ericosmicgirl.etsy.com

New, new and new.

2012-01-02T15:11:00.000-08:00

Happy 2012!!!

For me, it's been two weeks of holidays, family togetherness, food, sweets, and downtime.

Now I'm ready for normal work days, alone time, salad and long hours in the studio.

The last few days have been especially hard, because I have something new to share. I promised myself that I would take some time off and enjoy my family, but my mind would betray me and I would start thinking about Menagerie Studio and all of the new things I have in store for 2012.

Of course, I have new charms, some are finished, some are still in process:

But, what I am really excited about is something totally new for me.

I spent part of the last two weeks making these:

Beads!!! I've had request for beads that match my charms, so I have several sets of these that will be available in my Etsy Shop. I'm calling them Cracked Beads. But, I also made these richly colored beads that I am calling Marbled Beads. Each set will have descriptive names like Marbled Sunset, Marbled Patina, and Marbled Desert.

I'm getting ready to list some bead sets and charms tonight, and more all week long.

...and the winner is

2011-12-09T15:44:00.001-08:00

Karen Vincent

Karen said, " Congratulations Martha on 1000 sales!! We have admired your work for a long time and recently ordered some gorgeous flower pendants from you. We will definately be ordering more soon! Family - no matter how near or how far they are forever in our hearts :)

Thank you for your inspiration!"

Congratulations Karen!!! I will mail your Jewelry Elements Set to you first thing Monday Morning. I'm really excited to see what you will create with it.

2011-12-07T18:01:00.001-08:00

I am overwhelmed with the response to my giveaway. All of your wonderful and encouraging comments have made my week. I have enjoyed all of your positive words. I can't wait to find out who the winner is….

In the meantime, here are some more photos that I will be adding to my customer gallery.

The first group are 3 Fleur de lis Necklaces from Niina Puhakka (www.korutjakommervenkit.blogspot.com). They are so pretty and feminine. I love the ribbon tied above the charm.

The next two charms were made by Melani of Crafty Like Mom on Etsy. This is the premier of Melani's necklaces on my blog. I am completely in love with the Heartsong Necklace (http://www.etsy.com/listing/87485548/heartsong-necklace), and I love the simplicity of the Pearls and Lace Necklace (http://www.etsy.com/listing/87486407/pearls-and-lace-heart-pendant).

It has been a great year in my personal and business life. I'm looking forward to another great year, hopefully, with a lot of the same and some new experiences, as well.

Oh, about the beads from my giveaway. Yes, I did make these and yes, I plan on making more and selling them in my Etsy Shop, either in sets of 4 or 6 and as part of my Jewelry Elements Sets. Actually, I'm thinking of getting my daughter in on the action and showing her how to make the beads.

I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday season!

Celebrating a Milestone!

2011-12-05T07:52:00.003-08:00

On August 6, 2007, I opened my Etsy Shop. I had heard about this really cool place, online, where creatives, makers, crafters, and artist could set up shop and sell their creations. After going back and forth on the issue, talking myself into it, out of it, and back into it again, I took the first step and set up my Etsy shop. Then, I listed my first item, my second item and so on. It took a while, but I finally got my first sale, then another. Sales were slow for a long time, then they picked up and picked up even more. There have been many ups and downs and some changes, but for the most part it has been a very positive experience. I am so thankful I took that first step.

Last Tuesday, November 29, 2011, I made my 1000th sale!!! I was so excited. I knew right away that I wanted to celebrate by doing something special for everyone who has supported me and been such great customers. So, I've been working for the last several days on creating pieces for a giveaway.

Something that I will be working on and listing in my Etsy Shop this next year, are Jewelry Element Sets. I thought this would be the perfect giveaway.

Here is what I'm giving away:

All of these elements will be included

13 elements, Handmade by me

A Full Heart Charm - 1 1/2" X 1 1/2"

2 Tiny Heart Charm - 3/4" X 3/4" ea.

10 ivory round beads, around 1 cm. and 4 light teal beads, around 1 1/2 cm.

... and 4 yards of ribbon - 2 yards light teal and 2 yards ivory, cream and brown mingled

I love this ribbon. I use it all the time. I'm not sure what it is, though. I buy it at a yarn shop in big unmarked spools. But, it is very pretty and easy to work with.

You can make a variety of jewelry with these pieces. A Necklace and a pair of earrings, a Necklace and a bracelet, your imagination is the limit.

To enter the giveaway:

Leave a comment on this blog post or my Menagerie Studio Facebook page under the post about this blog.
Here is the kicker! You can only enter this giveaway if you have made a purchase from my Etsy Shop, anytime up to the publishing of this post. If you are reading this post and have not bought from me before, you may not enter this giveaway. (Fear not, I will be having more giveaways in the future that will be open to everyone!)
In the comment include a positive word that has special meaning to you. It could be about someone special, the great day you are having, or the world in general, just something positive.
Please also include your first and last name in the comment.

I will put all names in a bowl, along with your positive word, and my daughter will draw the winner at the end of this week, on Friday, Dec. 9. I will announce the winner sometime that evening.

Good Luck!!!

Pretties

2011-12-01T16:56:00.001-08:00

This really lovely, new necklace is by Karen and Emma Vincent of Swallow Tail Jewelry. This is the first time I get to feature one of their designs on my blog.

I love the neutral colors and the fact that is would go with so many of the clothes in my closet.

This is another beautiful necklace design by Maria Leftherioti of Ericosmicgirl on Etsy.

I love the Mediterranean feel to this Parisian necklace, and check out all of that creative beadwork.

I am also very happy to show you Cherrie Fick's, of En La Lumiere on Etsy, latest necklace, featured in the December issue of Bead Trends Magazine.

This is another beautifully neutral necklace. Love that ribbon, and the photography! Really, Cherrie's Etsy Shop is pure eye candy - gorgeous jewelry combined with great photography.

These are all three great options to keep in mind for Holiday Shopping! You might just want to gift one of these beautiful necklaces to yourself.

Cyber Monday Sale

2011-11-27T13:37:00.001-08:00

I needed to get out of the house this afternoon, and decided that a trip to Starbucks, for a Peppermint Mocha Frappuccino, was in order. On the way home, I was inspired to have a sale in my Etsy Shop for Cyber Monday. I always find Peppermint Mocha Frappuccinos to be very inspiring.

So, in honor of the delicious drink that I enjoy much too often, the coupon code for my sale is: peppermint. 10% off everything in my shop, including sale items, for Monday only. The coupon code will be active for the rest of the day today, through tomorrow.

Enjoy Shopping!

Preview!

2011-11-21T14:10:00.001-08:00

I'm drinking my afternoon cup of coffee and watching General Hospital, while contemplating what do about the many request that I've had, from people getting ready for Christmas, to see all of my available charms.

I decided to take photos of all the charms together and let everyone have a chance to choose what they want before I list them.

The first photograph is all of the charms I had planned on listing this week. The second photograph is everything I have left until I make another batch. If you see something you want, leave a comment listing the number (s) that are next to the charm. I will create a reserved listing for you in my Etsy Shop. This is 1st come, 1st serve. I'll start listing the remaining charms next week.

Have a great Thanksgiving everyone!!!

- ,-

2011-11-09T17:24:00.000-08:00

Lovely new designs:

An absolutely beautiful necklace by, who else but, Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp of Skye Jewels

This gorgeous necklace is by Niina Puhakka.

This pretty and feminine bracelet is by Traci Zeller of Getta Gift.

These two lovely and creative necklaces are by Kristi Harrison of Keepsakes by Kristi.

And last, but certainly not least, this stunning necklace is by my friend Leslie Todd of No Stone Unstrung.

I would like to send lots of love and gratitude to all of the very talented jewelry artists who buy my charms and make such lovely and wonderful creations with them.

November Bead Trends

2011-11-03T19:39:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to learn that Kristy Abner of Kristy's Kreations is the featured artist for the November issue of Bead Trends Magazine and that one of her necklaces, featuring a Menagerie Studio Stretched Heart Charm would be included.

I love this necklace. The ribbon adds such a special touch and it looks so soft. I would enjoy wearing this.

Kristy has some beautiful pieces in this issue of Bead Trends. Pick up a copy and check it out for yourself.

challenge

2011-10-30T15:48:00.000-07:00

Ella from Calico Collage is having this really great Design Challenge.

I decided to enter this necklace and would love it if you would take a second to pop over and vote. My necklace is #13, but there are 14 other beautiful designs to choose from.

Here is the link: http://calicocollage.blogspot.com/2011/10/calico-collages-designer-challenge.html

I used 2 of Ella's images in this necklace: a clock face behind the filigree and a floral image that was part of a bigger image, behind the vintage chandelier crystal. I hand sculpted the rose, and added other polymer clay elements to the crystal and filigree. I made the coral beads from polymer clay and my daughter made the large ivory beads.

Spotlight

2011-10-25T17:39:00.000-07:00

I have new designs to show you!

The first 3 are from Cherrie Fick of En La Lumie're on Etsy. I have to say, as much as I love the the other 2 the house necklace is my favorite!

Next is this very pretty Christmas Angel Necklace by Maria of Ericosmicgirl.etsy.com.

The last necklace I have to show you is this lovely bohemian style necklace from YaYJewelry on Etsy.

So many pretty designs! Today is October 25th. Christmas is only 2 months away. I'm just sayin'.

Back?

2011-10-18T06:54:00.000-07:00

I'm back - somewhat. My Etsy shop is open again and I have lots of new charms to list. But, I'm taking it slow and giving myself time to breath.

I get so crazed and obsessed the week before a show, that it takes awhile after the show to calm down. I find it hard to be still and do nothing. Even when watching a movie with my family, I feel that I should have something in my hands to work on.

All in all, the show went well. I was in a hallway, so it was hard to get good pictures, but it was a good location, so I'm not complaining.

I received lots of compliments on my display. I love the giant frames. This is the first time I've used these, and they worked out great. Very eye catching!

People were starting to come in, so I was rushed when taking pictures. I wish I had gotten better pictures of my little bracelet displays. You can see a couple of them in this photo - the hand, little person and part of the crown.

I laid a frame on the table to display my other bracelets, which received a lot of attention, as well. I Love to use ornate frames and mirrors to display my necklaces. I sold the rose necklace on the right, which was one of my favorites. :}

My patchwork silhouettes received a lot of positive attention. I haven't really posted much about these. I've been working on them for several months. They are polymer clay and mixed media on canvas. I've had so much fun making these. It is really hard to capture them in a picture. They look so much better in person. Yes, some are crooked. I need to work on the display, a bit.

I had to post this picture with my daughter giving me the dirty look in the background. She did not want her picture taken. ;}

I sold these three:

It is hard to tell in this picture, but the hot air balloon is large compared to my other ones (11X18). It was my favorite. I had decided that if it didn't sell, I would keep it for myself. It was the last thing I sold for the day, but I'm happy that it went to someone, who loves it as much as I do.

I've taken individual pictures of all of my Patchwork Silhouettes. I will try to post them at some point this week. I'm not sure what I'm going to do with these. Should I open an Etsy shop for them, or just sell them at shows, like I do my jewelry?

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My husband and I had a great time on our little mini-break to San Antonio. We stayed on the river walk, so we were able to walk to most of the places we wanted to go, which was great. After five and half hours on the road, we were not anxious to get back in the the car for a while. It was great to have a couple of days to get away and spend time together, eat great food, play, drink margaritas, and relax. By the way, if you go to San Antonio and do not eat at The Cove, don't bother going to San Antonio - best lamb burger ever! And, Bella on the River had the most amazing toasted bruschetta I've ever had - mushrooms, in a cream sauce and some gorgonzola cheese thrown in there somewhere. It was so good, I felt like I should go to confession after eating it, and I'm not even Catholic.

Have a great week everyone. The weather is supposed to be gorgeous in North Texas this week, finally. I plan on spending some time outside!

:}

2011-10-04T13:33:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to show you these new pieces from Maria of Ericosmicgirl.etsy.com. This is the first time I get to showcase Maria's jewelry. Maria, who lives in Greece, (How cool is that?) makes fun and lovely jewelry. I love the "Twinkle Twinkle" Necklace. Maria was inspired to make this necklace by Kristy Abner's house and key necklace. If you scroll down a bit you will see Kristy's necklace on my sidebar.

I love the way she used the ribbon and beads in her "Queen for a Day" Necklace! This is great -you can wear a crown and not mess up your hair.

These are precious!!!! Wouldn't these be so much fun to wear?

Seriously, take a few moments to check out Maria's shop. Especially the Coffee Addict earrings. How fun are those?

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Now I get the pleasure of, once again, showing you beautiful designs by Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp of Skyejewels.etsy.com. Not only did she make 2 incredibly beautiful necklaces, she also took amazing photos of them. Love the fall leaves!!!

Besides these two necklaces, Marie has been adding some really beautiful pieces to her Etsy shop. I have several of Marie's pieces, which I wear often. They always get lots of notice and people often comment on how pretty they are.

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Reminders, announcements, this and that:

You may notice the smiley face in the title section. I hate coming up with titles for my posts. I hate coming up with titles for anything. It always stresses me out. I'm stressed enough for today, so you get a smiley face.

Remember, I will put my Etsy shop on vacation around noon, this Thursday, Oct. 6th. I'll reopen it, Tuesday, Oct. 18th.

I will be taking the charms listed in my Etsy shop to my show on Oct. 15th. So, if one has caught your eye, you might want to get it before Thursday.

I have no more Christmas charms to list, and I'm not sure if I will be making anymore.

This is all I have for now. :}

Hi!

2011-09-28T10:38:00.000-07:00

------ Just a quick little announcement ------

I will be putting my Etsy Shop on vacation mode, starting Thursday, Oct. 6th, around noon. I will reopen on Tuesday, Oct. 18th.

My husband and I are taking a mini break, for our anniversary, then I have a show the next weekend.

I have a few more charms that I will list this week and the first part of next week, then that's it, until mid October.

I will be taking charms from my Etsy shop to the show (excluding reserved items). So, if you see something you want, you might get it now.

Necklace by Cherrie

2011-09-20T06:27:00.000-07:00

Cherrie Fick of En La Lumie're made this lovely "I Love Paris Shabby Chic Necklace" using one of my Paris Heart Charms.

I love the colors she used to compliment the charm!!! Cherrie's designs have been published in jewelry magazines, including Bead Trends. You can read about Cherrie and see more of her jewelry designs on her blog, Designs in the Light.

.....

2011-09-11T04:47:00.000-07:00

I have been waiting for months to share these pictures with you, but I couldn't, which meant exercising patience - not an easy thing for me.

Anyways, Kristy Abner of Keepsakes by Kristy created these beautiful and fun designs a few months ago. Oooh, how I wanted to show you this lovely necklace and these darling earrings.

But I couldn't, you see, because they were scheduled to be published in the Fall issue of Creative Jewelry Magazine.

But, Creative Jewelry is available now in stores, so I can finally share this with you. Whew!!

I found my copy at Barnes and Noble. In my opinion, pages 36 and 94 are the best pages in the magazine.

I wish everyone a creative and productive week!

New Charms!

2011-09-08T13:22:00.000-07:00

I finished a fresh batch of charms yesterday. Now all I have to do is decide which ones I'm going to keep, to use in jewelry for my Fall Shows, and which ones I'm going to list in my Etsy Shop.

I made lots of tiny charm pairs. These make great earrings!

I made several Christmas Charms.

...And, of course, many of my other charms.

I tried something a little different with my Chunky Fleur de lis Charms.

And, this is a new shape - crowns, because every woman is the queen of something.

I have already picked out the new charms I will list tonight. 2 Christmas charms for sure.

New Designs

2011-08-31T07:52:00.000-07:00

I'm busy, working away in my studio. I hope to have new charms to show you next week.

In the meantime, here are some beautiful, new jewelry designs for your viewing pleasure:

Darling Butterfly earrings by Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp of Skye Jewels - so precious and great for fall!

A beautiful Butterfly Necklace from Niina Puhakka. This necklace is so pretty and feminine.

Great earrings by Donna Martin Bradley of Stranded Beads. I love the neutral colors. One could wear these with so many outfits.

I love this very pretty and feminine bracelet that Emily Reder created for her Mom. Such pretty beads, and she made them herself.

Happy Wednesday!!!

hole

2011-08-23T12:32:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday!!!

I thought I would share a picture of the heart shaped hole in my sidewalk with y'all.

It causes me to smile every time I walk by it. But, never on it!

I have some really lovely charms ready to list this week, and more that I'm working on in my studio.

I'm wishing everyone a very wonderful and creative week!

Pinterest Obsession

2011-08-12T16:06:00.000-07:00

I now spend at least as much time on Pinterest as I do on Facebook, maybe more.

I've become obsessed, but I'm okay with it, because it has taken the place of all of the magazines I used to buy.

It is a fun website with great eye candy, at no cost, that doesn't take up any space in my house. You can create and name your own pin boards, then pin images to them that you find anywhere on the web, or you can re-pin images from other people's boards. The pins link back to the websites the images came from. It is a great way to keep up with recipes you find on the internet. You should see all of the recipes I have pinned to my Food Pin Board.

Here are just a few images I've pinned to my boards recently:

If you would like to become a Pinterest addict too, just let me know. I will be happy to enable you by sending you an invitation. I will also be happy to be one of your eye candy suppliers, if you would like to follow me. :} I'm pretty sure you can find me under Martha Eason or Menagerie Studio. I can't send you a link to my boards, because it is private, unless you are a Pinterest Member.

Happy Weekend!!!

announcement :}

2011-08-09T12:19:00.000-07:00

Happy Tuesday!!!

I just wanted to take a minute and post this little annoucement:

Due to my heavy show season and other factors, I will not be taking custom orders through the end of the year (2011). Custom orders take extra time, and I have to step away from what I am already working on in my studio, which I am happy to say is a lot.

I will continue to list regularly in my Etsy Shop, and I hope you find charms in my shop that you love.

I am considering some changes to my custom order policies. After the first of the year, I will apprise you of any changes that I make, and let you know when I will be able to receive custom orders again.

I hope the rest of your week is wonderful and full of many happy moments.

New Necklaces by Niina and Summer Ramblings

2011-08-07T06:49:00.000-07:00

I'm going to tell you a little secret. When I am busy in my studio and feeling really motivated to create, I have a tendency to ignore my blog. I have lots to post about, but my head is so focused on creating, I forget about everything else. Does anyone else have this problem?

Anyway, it is the weekend. Temps are in the 105 to 110 range here in NE Texas. School is about to start in a couple of weeks. My baby boy is home from college for 2 weeks. Right now, I'm just taking it easy, staying out of the heat and going with the flow. I'm trying to spend extra time with my family, since we are all here, together. And, I'm taking advantage of this huge urge to create and spending a lot of time in my studio.

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For all that, here is the best part and the real purpose of this post: to show you pictures of 2 new Necklaces by Niina. They are absolutley lovely!

I am always excited when Ninna orders charms from me, because I know she is going to make something beautiful with them. I am so impressed with Niinas designs and the way she photographs them. You can check out more of Niina's designs on her blog, and on my More Beautiful Designs Page at the top of this blog.

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By the way, did you know that YouTube has some great tutorials on just about anything you can think of? I've known this in the back of my mind for a long time, but just recently checked it out. I've learned how to make homemade alcohol inks and homemade glimmer mists. I also found a couple of great tutorials on wire wrapping. Just thought I would pass along my new obsession.........

New Charms

2011-07-25T07:26:00.000-07:00

I'm not in a writing mood today. I have too many things to do. The only thing my mind can seem to focus on, right now, is the amount of dust that has collected underneath the bookshelves in my dinning room.

I have pictures of new charms to show, so I will upload the pictures and leave it at that, today. I'll be listing all of these in my Etsy Shop, at some point. If you see one or some that you would like, before I list them, let me know.

New house charms:

New Heart Charms:

New Bird Charms, these are a new shape. Let me know what you think.

....and new Christmas Charms. I'm working on more of these.

Have a great week!

New Necklaces by Marie!

2011-07-22T12:12:00.000-07:00

I am so in love with this pretty pink Necklace by Marie of Skye Jewels. I really don't wear a lot of pink myself, not because I don't like the color. I like pink, a lot. Actually, I'm not sure why I don't wear pink. But anyway, this would look great with a neutral outfit, just to add a splash of color. Or, jeans and a white top. Or, grey! This would look awesome with grey. I could go on ....

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Blue is one of my favorite colors! This is such a sweet necklace, and it can be worn with so many things, dressy or casual. I know that brass and copper are really popular right now, in jewelry, but I am partial to silver. I always have been. So, I really love this one too!

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I have a small tray full of new charms that are waiting to be photographed. I can't wait to show them to you. I even have a couple of Christmas charms. :}

I know I said yesterday's post would be the last one this week, but I really mean it this time. This is the last post this week. Have a great weekend!!! Until next week.............

Spotlight

2011-07-21T14:02:00.000-07:00

I've said this before. I'm not much of a jewelry artist. I'm learning a few things here and there, but I can only put together simple pieces of jewelry, using very simple techniques.

That's why I am so grateful for all of the talented jewelry artist that I showcase on this blog. They take my little charms and turn them into beautiful pieces of jewelry.

These next two pieces by Donna Bradley of Stranded Beads are great examples:

She has many lovely pieces in her shop, including some beautiful necklaces, using ephemera wood tiles by Marie of More Skye Jewels on Etsy.

This is probably my last post for the week. I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Winner!

2011-07-20T15:07:00.000-07:00

I decided to use the Random App on my ipod to choose the winner of the giveaway.

Number 11 it is: Niina.

Niina said...

These all are so beutiful, but if I had to choose, its number 3.

Congradulations, Niina! I'll get these in the mail to you.

I would have done this earlier, today, but I had to do a bunch of updates on my computer. Since I live in the land of unbelievably slow internet with no other options, it took forever to do the updates.

Oh well, less computer time means more studio time.

Cindy's Necklace

2011-07-18T06:34:00.000-07:00

I love this necklace, designed by Cindy Edwards of Zimaj on Etsy.

It features one of my bird charms. I almost kept this little charm for myself, but I am so glad I did not. She has designed such a pretty necklace for it.

I love making my mixed media charms, but I'm not much of a jewelry designer. If I had kept it, it would have gotten a jump ring through it and put in my jewelry box. I have a sterling silver chain, two or three different colors of leather necklaces, and a Vintaj chain, that I wear and trade out charms to coordinate with what I'm wearing. I much prefer to see my little charms designed into lovely pieces of jewelry, like the ones I feature on this blog.

Take a moment and check out Cindy's Etsy Shop, Zimaj. She has lots of lovely designs to choose from.

Oh, and don't forget about my giveaway! It ends Wednesday!

Happy Monday! I hope everyone has a great week!

Giveaway

2011-07-13T14:54:00.000-07:00

Well, I said something about a giveaway, yesterday. So, here we go.

I just finished making these adorable pairs of little flower charms.

I decided to introduce my new little flower charms with a giveaway, but which pair should I give away? I couldn't decide, so here's what I'm gonna do:

Leave a comment, on this blog post, telling me which pair is your favorite. This is the pair you will win, if your name is chosen. I have numbered them for your convenience.

The giveaway starts today and will end next Wednesday on July 20.

I will then write each person's name on a slip of paper, place all the slips in a bowl, shuffle them about, and draw a name. I'm keeping it simple this time - no bird or animal involvement of any kind.

Oh, I almost forgot, these little charms each measure around 3/4" X 3/4". They make great earrings!. After the drawing, I will start listing the other little flowers in my Etsy Shop.

Happy Middle of the Week! I hope the rest of your week is full of fun and creativity!

Bracelet by Traci

2011-07-12T12:18:00.000-07:00

I have a giveaway planned for tomorrow, but I wanted to take a moment today to share this adorable bracelet by Traci Zeller of Getta Gift! Jewelry on Etsy.

I love this design and the the way the beads bring out the colors in the charm.

Show and Tell

2011-07-05T07:33:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful and fun 4th of July! I'm feeling very lazy today, and I'm having a hard time motivating myself to do all of the things I need to do today.

So, I thought I would stay at my computer a few minutes longer and share two designs with you.

This first piece is a bracelet by Amanda Cargill Austin of Sea Shore Glass on Etsy.

This pretty bracelet has already sold, but Amanda has many other amazing designs for you to choose from. Amanda is a very talented jewelry and bead artist. I love her designs and use of color.

Second is this lovely necklace by Andria Payne-Mckee of Bead Muse 1 on Etsy.

This necklace as well as many other beautiful pieces are available in her Etsy Shop. Andria's Etsy Shop is less than a year old, but full of beautiful jewelry pieces. I'm excited to watch her business grow, as I know it will.

Well, I could procrastinate a bit more and continue on with this post by complaining about the unbearable heat in Texas, and how I have to give myself a little pep talk every time I walk out the front door. But, I won't, because no one really wants to read about that. Instead, I will publish this post so y'all can see these beautiful pieces of jewelry, and then I will get to work. Or, maybe I will read a book. Or, sit and stare out the window, because I think it is about to rain!!!!!!!

This and That

2011-06-30T10:19:00.000-07:00

1. After much soul searching, I have made a decision. I am going to drastically decrease the number of magazines that I buy!

These will be reduced to clippings and put in a scrapbook and files. I have a few magazines that I will keep intact, such as Artful Blogging and Where Women Create.

They will be placed in these great magazine boxes from Ikea:

I've been agonizing over what to do with all of these magazines for months. I put them in tidy magazine holders and placed them on a shelf. But, my collection continued to grow, and I ran out of room on the shelf. I'm trying really hard to get rid of the clutter where ever I can. Finally, I came to the difficult decision to clip my favorite parts of each magazine and toss the rest.

My decision to not buy anymore magazines is also my little way of protesting, until my favorite magazines are available for digital subscription.

2. I hate whip cream!

3. ..... and ricotta cheese

4. I'm getting ready for fall shows, and I just finished working on this:

5. I am totally addicted to George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series. I am anxiously awaiting book 5!!!!!

6. The wiener dog - just because:

7. I am totally addicted to Pinterest!!!!! Let me know if you need an invite, but I'm warning you, it is very, very addictive.

8. It is Thursday, so I will be listing a bunch of new charms tonight. And, that will be it until next week.

9. I hope everyone has a great 4th of July weekend. Stay safe and cool!!!

Bling for the One you Love to the Moon and Back!

2011-06-29T14:46:00.000-07:00

This is such a great Treasury from sarahsquiltsncrafts:

'Bling for the One you Love to the Moon and Back!' by sarahsquiltsncrafts

Gorgeous pieces of celestial bling!

Blue Celestial Necl... Caitieb9 $33.00	Starry Night Batik ... RitaVanTassel $12.00	Moon and Stars Char... MenagerieStudi... $18.00	Blue Moon Artisan M... PrincipessaJew... $75.99
Native American Bea... jstinson $40.00	HUBBLE TELESCOPE Pe... CapturedStarli... $17.00	STAR Man Anklet CEL... BudgetLuxuries $9.00	Blue Polymer Clay C... TheStrandedBea... $15.00
DAZZLED (Cool Elect... CraftedByMei $22.00	Blue Fender Guitar ... maukDesigns $7.99	Funky Moon Dragonfl... sscatstudio $6.50	Celestial Thing Lam... MercuryGlass $31.00
Metal Pendant - Pav... HardWearChicag... $48.00	Celestial Mountain ... ForQuiltsSake $35.00	Celestial - sterlin... ArcticSilver $45.00	the astronomer'... handmadebyblue... $23.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Did you notice my moon and stars charm set on the first row?

Bracelet by Kristy

2011-06-28T07:24:00.000-07:00

I LOVE! this super cute bracelet by Kristy Abner of Kristy's Kreations:

I used to never wear bracelets. Honestly, they got on my nerves and made my wrist itch. But, I've been wearing them more and more lately; sometimes, more than one at a time. This adorable and fun bracelet would look great with about half of the clothes in my closet. Hmmm. :}

Happy Tuesday!!!!

A Necklace by Leslie

2011-06-23T08:59:00.000-07:00

My friend, Leslie Todd, of No Stone Unstrung designed this very lovely necklace, using one of my cottage charms:

Love the matching earrings!

Check out her blog to see all of her beautiful designs.

Wednesday

2011-06-22T07:15:00.000-07:00

One of my charms made it into another lovely treasury.

'Flutter' by MRSMKM

Spread your wings. Take flight. Fly free. In style.

Steampunk Mechanica... NobleStudiosLt... $52.00	Blackbird, Fly - Fi... kittyrogers $30.00	Shabby Nouveau Peti... MenagerieStudi... $7.00	Slate Birds on a Br... UneikCreations $18.00
Woodland Dragonfly ... ranaway $30.99	Free Shipping-Wings... wm98102 $40.00	Steampunk Bracelet ... edmdesigns $165.00	On Sale- 'Wings... onor $49.00
Bird Bag - Tabacco ... retrofied $68.00	The Collection Numb... gildinglilies $20.00	Silk Serene White P... RiverOfRomansk $57.80	Hearts in Flight So... thecharmingfro... $10.00
Print - Queen Bee lauradaub $20.00	Florida seagull col... staceycbrown $120.00	Golden Snitch Ball ... xPiebaldx $17.00	Wall Cage to butter... Debeauxsouveni... $86.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

There are so many beautiful items in this treasury!

I've got several projects going on in my studio, right now. I hope to update y'all soon.

Have a happy Wednesday!!!!

Treasury

2011-06-17T16:44:00.000-07:00

My little butterfly charms are in this beautiful treasury.

'sugared expectations' by nestcreatives

robin's nest TheShabbyChicC... $10.00	Art Deco Style, Rob... KristinsSilver... $25.00	2 Shabby Nouveau Ti... MenagerieStudi... $11.00	Five Ceramic Nestin... whitneysmith $210.00
Felted acorns, set ... HouseOfMoss $9.00	Personalized Custom... CropCircleClay $44.00	Robin's Nest 1 ... lightbrownhare $24.50	Robin's Egg Dro... coalescencedes... $22.00
Run, Pig, Run - Pri... ArtPaperGarden $15.00	Robin Egg Blue Bowl SimplyDaisy $18.00	Upcycled Robin'... CrownWillow $21.00	Robin Egg Soap Apot... TheBowerStudio $25.00
robin's egg blu... crasiedoure $10.00	5 Tiny Robin Egg M... JenniferArndt $12.00	12-24months Darling... ToileTales $25.00	Hanging Posy Handpr... mudluscious01 $15.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Have a great Weekend!!!!!!

Beautiful new Jewelry!

2011-06-09T07:51:00.000-07:00

I'm waiting for the second to the last coat of sealer to dry on a group of custom order charms. So, I thought I would take this time to show y'all a couple of new pieces of lovely jewelry, using my charms.

This first piece is from Kathy Nomura of Jewels by Kat on Etsy. I really love this bracelet! So sweet and I think it would be a lot of fun to wear.

Next are these precious earrings by Marie of Skye Jewels. Yes, she has done it again. These earrings are so cute and would go with so many different outfits. Love them!

Have a very happy Thursday and a wonderful weekend!!!!

Bread Trends Two

2011-06-02T04:56:00.000-07:00

I am so excited to show you this beautiful necklace created by Cherrie Fick of En La Lumie're. Cherrie used one of my charms as the focal point in the necklace. But, what is really exciting is that this beautiful necklace, called Woodland Heart has been featured in the June issue of Bead Trends Magazine.

Congradulations Cherrie!!! Your designs are always so stunning.

.....lately

2011-05-31T16:34:00.000-07:00

This is where I have been for the last few days. At my dinning room table, taking lots and lots of photos of lots and lots of new charms.

See these trays? They are full of new charms that need to be photographed. I've been at for 4 days now, and I'm not even half way through them. I feel like I will be at it forever!

These are my new backgrounds. I decided I wanted a more cohesive look to my Etsy shop. So, I made new backgrounds and drastically limited the number I use. I really love the way my charms stand out against these.

I don't think I can take another day with the camera in my hand, so tomorrow I will take a break and spend the day in my studio, doing something new and fun.

New Necklaces by Marie!!!

2011-05-27T10:12:00.000-07:00

I love sharing Marie's designs with you! She is so talented!!! Enjoy!

Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp

www.skyejewels.etsy.com

www.skyejewels.com

www.skyejewels.blogspot.com

I'm not sure which is my favorite, but I am really loving the butterfly!

Have a great weekend everyone!!!

Artist Pages

2011-05-13T19:16:00.000-07:00

Have you had a chance to check out all of the different pages of my blog? Did you notice that I have other pages on my blog?

I'm using them to showcase the talented artists who use my charms in their beautiful jewelry designs.

...And Many More Beautiful Designs by Very Talented Artists

There is so much inspiration on these pages. And, if you follow the links to the artists' Etsy Shops and Websites, you will have an afternoon full of fun shopping. Although, I am partial to their designs, using my charms, all of their pieces are very beautiful.

By the way, I downloaded a new app to my computer for making collages, called Collage Creator. I used it to make all of the collages above. It was so much fun. I need to make more time to play with this app. There are so many other things I can do with it.

I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

Artist's New Designs

2011-04-30T11:17:00.000-07:00

Marie did it again!!!

I am loving her new designs using my charms! I can imagine both of these necklaces looking great with a variety of outfits, both dressy and casual.

The Blue Cross

Vive La France

Marie approached me a few months ago about collaborating on BFF (Best Friends Forever) jewelry, and I am so glad she did. I provided the charms and she used them to put together these lovely necklace designs.

Pink Shabby Chic BFF Necklace Pair

Purple Shabby Chic BFF Necklace Pair

I'm not sure which is my favorite. Check out Marie's Blog Post about the new BFF Necklaces, sold exclusively through Skye Jewels.

Have a great weekend!

Finished!!!

2011-04-21T14:19:00.000-07:00

I have completed my huge batch of charms!!! Well, a little more than half of them, anyway.

These are done:

These are left:

I'm giving myself 3 weeks to get the rest done. Think I can do it? I don't know, but I do know that I am taking the next 3 days off. Well, from making charms, anyway.

I'll be listing new charms, in my Etsy Shop, next week, starting Tuesday!

Have a very happy Easter!

SALE!!!!

2011-04-17T16:17:00.000-07:00

I'm getting new items ready for my Etys Shop, so it is time to clear out the old, to make way for the new.

I'm offering a 25% off sale on the few items that are left in my shop.

This sale will last through Thursday 4/22. Use Coupon Code spring2011 to get the 25% discount.

Drawing!!!!

2011-04-11T11:12:00.000-07:00

I enlisted my husband to help me with the bird and the drawing today.

We put millet spray in the bottom of the bowl, which is like candy to Daisy May

Then, we place the numbered strips in the bowl and mixed it all up.

Then, we placed the bird on the table. She just looked at us. She wanted nothing to do with the bowl, the strips of paper, or the millet spray.

So, she flew away, and landed on our giant clock. Bill had to get a chair to get her down.

We put her back on the table,

and she hopped in the bowl.

Then, she kicked a couple of the strips of paper out, but we couldn't tell which one flew out first.

So, we started over, but she wasn't having it....

So, I asked my husband to draw a number

He drew # 6.....

That makes Latasha the winner:

Latasha said...

OH gosh, there are a few on my list, wire wrapping and lampwork glass beads are top of my list. I just found out there is a bead studio close by, if you call a 20 minute drive close... I may get to learn wire wrapping finally. :)

Latasha, contact me at eason.martha@gmail.com, so I can get your charm to you.

6 Steps down, 6 Steps to go.....

2011-04-06T13:43:00.000-07:00

Whew!!! I finally finished all of the clay work on the new charms.

It is kinda hard see the amount of charms, but this is a big, deep basket, and it holds a lot.

It is all about the paint brush now: painting, faux finishing, sealing..., and all of this will done with a paint brush, while the charm is placed on a toothpick. It will stay on the toothpick until it is finished.

I've taken over the dinning room table, because it is the only table, in the house, big enough to hold all of the "boards" full of charms. Fortunately, we don't use the table that often.

I have 9, foam-core "boards" with holes punched in the top, to hold the toothpicks w/ the charms. I will not be able to fit all of the charms on these 9 "boards", so I will have to paint the charms in stages.

Better get started. Lots of painting to do!!! Must go paint now............

Give-a-Way

2011-03-30T11:50:00.000-07:00

As I have mentioned, I am in the middle of creating a super huge, ginormous amount of charms. I am beginning to wonder if I will ever finish it. I'm in the middle of step 6 of 12, which is the most time consuming and tedious part of the whole process. It is so tedious, that I have to get up every 30 minutes, take a short break, breath and walk around or I start messing up, and uttering a lot of words that I am not proud of.

Anyway, It could be another 2 to 3 weeks before I have items ready to list in my Etsy shop. So, I thought that in the meantime, I would hold a give-a-way, right here on this blog.

I made this little bird charm about a month ago. I can say, without hesitation, that other than the one that I might make for myself, this is the only charm like this that I will ever make. It was quite the pain in the rear, and even though it is very pretty, it is very delicate.

2" X 2" (from beak to tail and wing tip to wing tip)

When I thought about selling this little bird, I couldn't imagine that anyone would be willing to pay the price I would need to charge, to justify the amount of time, energy and patience I had put into making it. So, I thought a give-a-way would be a wonderful and fun idea for this charm.

If you would like a chance to win this pretty little bird charm, leave me a comment answering this question:

If you had the luxury of lots of dedicated time (lets say 3 months) to learn and perfect a new art form or craft technique, what would it be?

I will draw a name on the 11th of April. I will try to get my bird (Daisy May) to draw for me and get a picture of it. I'm not sure if she will be inclined to do this. She is getting ready to lay eggs, and she is always cantankerous when she is laying eggs.

Happy Wednesday, every one! I hope the rest of your week is just what you want it to be.

Charms .....

2011-03-20T20:25:00.000-07:00

I've spent the last week cutting out and texturing charms that filled 5 baking sheets and I'm still going - enough to fill 5 more. This is the biggest batch of charms I've ever made. Pictured are the charms I've completed so far, through step 3 and after their first baking. The first 4 steps are the most time consuming.

I have no idea how long it will take me to complete all of these charms. I was hoping it would take 3 weeks from start to finish, but I think that is a little ambitious.

I'm really excited about this batch of charms - lots of new shapes and backgrounds.

When all of these are completed, I think I will take at least a month long break from making charms, and work on other things. I might even do a little house work.

My Heart Charm, Bead Trends and Molly Alexander

2011-03-11T07:44:00.000-08:00

In September of 2010, Molly Alexander bought this Shabby Nouveau Heart Charm from my Etsy shop.

Then, at some point she created a very beautiful necklace, using this charm. She decided to submit this necklace to Bead Trends Magazine. And, guess what? The magazine published the necklace in this Month's issue.

I've never had an item, that I've made, appear in a magazine before. I'm really excited! When I started creating my jewelry charms, I thought people would buy them and simply put them on a silver chain or a ribbon and that would be that. I never thought that such talented and creative jewelry artist would buy my charms and make such beautiful and uniqued jewelry. Just take a look at all of the different designs from all of the different artist on the pages of this blog and the side bar.

Molly Alexander is a very talented jewelry artist, living in Arizona. Get to know her on her blog: Beautifully Broken Me, and see her beautiful jewelry designs on her website: MissMollysDesigns. She also has an Etsy Shop with many lovely pieces of jewelry for sale.

New Designs

2011-03-01T13:46:00.000-08:00

I'm having a difficult time getting my thoughts together enough to write a post, so instead I'll just show you pictures of some of my new designs.

Let me know what you think:

Tiny Hearts and Butterflies

New Fleur de lys

Diamonds and Tear Drop

Moon and Star

Copper Penny Designs

2011-02-22T19:07:00.000-08:00

One of my favorite parts of the day is when I receive an email from a jewelry artist who has used one of my charms in a jewelry design. I'm always so excited to see the pictures of their beautiful designs.

I especially love it when I can see myself wearing the jewelry. So, you can imagine how excited I was when I saw these lovely necklaces by Penny of Copper Penny Designs:

Penny really has knack for combining colors, just look at this bracelet in her Etsy Shop.

Penny also has a really great blog. Her most current post is about another of her beautiful necklace creations, using one my heart charms.

Take a moment to check out Penny's Etsy Shop and Blog. I promise you'll find something you love.

New Charms

2011-02-15T15:38:00.000-08:00

I have been buried in my studio for the last couple of weeks, trying to finish a big batch of charms, reorganizing and de-cluttering.

I finally finished the charms, yesterday. Yay!!!

I didn't think I would ever get this batch done. I tried something new on some these charms. If you can figure out what it is, let me know what you think.

In this batch there are Crosses and Fleur de lys:

Hearts:

Including quite a few of the really tiny hearts:

Flowers, Houses, and Stars:

And Birds and Butterflies:

These little birds are new. I'm really liking these!

I've got more charms in the works, as well as some new shapes.

I am working on so many different things right now, that I wish I had several large tables to spread out on, and of course, many more hours in the day.

Have a great week!!!

Traci's Designs

2011-01-27T14:15:00.000-08:00

Have you had a chance to see Traci Getta's Etsy shop?

Well, you really should have a look. Let me tell you why. In her shop, you will find some really beautiful pieces of jewelry, some of which include my charms. Traci's Etsy shop is very new, just opened this year. She needs lots of hearts. But, if you wanted to be her first sale, your too late, because I just bought these great earrings:

But, don't be too bummed. I think there is still one pair left.

Oh, and here are Traci's design's using my charms:

I have to say, It's really hard to choose a favorite, but I'm loving the owl bracelet.

Take a moment to browse Gettagift (such a clever name). I'm sure you'll find something you love.

New Charms

2011-01-25T14:13:00.000-08:00

I finished a small batch of charms today, which is a really good thing, because I was getting low. I have more in process and hope to have them finished next week.

You will notice several pairs of Tiny Hearts in the group. These are new, and I will be selling them in singles and pairs. These would make great earrings!

I have also brought back two bird shapes, that I have not made in awhile. I needed to work out some kinks. But, now they are back and better than ever.

This sweet little flower charm, that I call Blossom, is also new. I really love this little flower charm. I have more in the works.

This is not a new shape, but I have used something new on this charm. I incorporated a little digital collage square in the center of the heart. I like the way it turned out, but I'm not sure if this is something I will keep doing. It was just an experiment, and I have more experimenting to do with these little collage squares.

You will not find this little star charm in the group above. This little charm makes me sad.

It makes me sad, because I broke it and will not be able to sell it. I always hate breaking a charm, but I really hate it, when it is one of my favorites.

Since I can't sell it, I'm going to try to repair it with glue and make a necklace for myself. At least some good will come of it, but I shouldn't reward myself for being so careless. ;}

I will start listing some of these tonight. I hope you see something you like!!!

Another Artist Feature

2011-01-20T04:53:00.000-08:00

A few months ago, I received an order from Holland. I thought this was so cool! I had never mailed anything to Holland before. Since that time, I have had the opportunity to converse with Danielle of Lei Designs, who placed this order all the way from Holland. She is another example of what I love so much about the Handmade community - sweet, friendly and talented.

A couple of weeks ago, she sent me a picture of one of her beautiful necklaces, using one of my charms. I knew I had to show it to you.

Then I checked out her Etsy Shop, Lei Design, and saw several other amazing pieces she had created, using my charms.

Like these:

Although, I am partial to her designs using my charms, her shop contains other really beautiful and detailed pieces. This one is my favorite.

Do yourself a favor and visit Danielle's Etsy Shop and Website. I just know you will find something you love!

2011-01-19T07:25:00.000-08:00

When my husband and I actually get a chance to relax in the evening, one of our favorite snacks is frozen fruit. I know it's a little weird, but it's really good, and it usually takes care of my craving for sweets. Anyway, our little wiener dog likes frozen fruit, as well. He also has major entitlement issues, and not just with fruit.

In this picture, my husband is eating a bowl of frozen fruit and the wiener dog is in his Jedi, "I'm willing you to give me a piece of fruit," pose. He can stay like this forever, unblinking and determined. But, he is such a good dog, because he does not whine or beg. He just stares and does not move. I'm actually very impressed with his level of concentration.

So, does he ever get a piece of fruit? Of course, at least one, usually 3 or 4. And, I would just like to say, for the record, that Oscar only does this to my husband, because my husband spoils the dog and gives him anything he wants. I, on the other hand, never spoil the wiener dog. If he gets food from me, it is only because I have dropped it on the floor while cooking. ;}

****************************************************************

Keep and eye out on my Etsy Shop. I will be listing new charms sometime this evening. I'm also working on a new batch of charms this week, that I hope to start listing sometime next week. I have some new shapes - can't wait to get them finished.

Happy Wednesday!!!

Marie's Necklaces

2011-01-12T14:03:00.000-08:00

Here are a few new pieces from Marie of Skye Jewels, using my Shabby Nouveau Charms. She makes absolutely beautiful Jewelry and is one of the nicest people I have met on the internet.

Take some time to browse her blog, website, Jewelry Shop, and her Supply Shop. She sells beautiful ephemera pendants and charms in her supply shop.

2011-01-06T17:43:00.000-08:00

I feel very fortunate that some really talented jewelry artist are making some incredibly gorgeous jewelry, using my charms.

An excellent example is this amazing necklace by Cherrie Fick of En La Lumie're.

I think this necklace would be perfect with a pair of jeans or a nice dress. Take a moment to check out her Etsy Shop. I bet you'll find something you love.

Monday, Jan 3, 2011

2011-01-03T13:55:00.001-08:00

Day 3 into the new year, and things are finally getting back to normal. Thank goodness!!! I've missed my studio, I've missed my computer, my blog and my Etsy Shop. I've even missed my camera and light tent.

On the very rare occasions that I have managed to get into my studio the last two weeks, I made a few Valentine Charms. Not many, because I should have already had these made and listed. Anyway, I decided to list them all at once, and you can find each one listed in my Etsy Shop.

Some of these charms are very obviously for the Valentine's Season, other ones are more romantic and can easily be worn all year long. I will not be making anymore Valentine Hearts for this Valentine's Day, but I will definitely be making more of the romantic hearts all year long. Let me know which of these hearts are your favorite(s).

Have a great 2011!!!!!

2010-12-21T08:50:00.000-08:00

I've been taking some down time this past week, but I just wanted to take a minute to say:

I have some new things planned for 2011!!!

Until next year.......

2010-12-01T11:48:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Gerry! You won the give-a-way on Marie's blog, for the Fleur de lis necklace.

I hope you enjoy wearing it!!!

Cherrie's Necklace

2010-11-26T05:17:00.000-08:00

Take a look at this really beautiful necklace?

It was created by Cherrie Fick of En La Lumie're. I'm very proud to point out that she used one of my home charms in this incredible necklace design. And, to add icing on the cake, this necklace, that Cherrie has titled "The Wandering Journey Home Necklace," was chosen as Editors Pick for the Vintaj Brass Challenge, this month. You can read all about Cherrie's inspiration for this necklace on her Blog: Designs in the Light.

Cherrie designs beautiful jewelry. If you are looking for beautiful, unique gifts for Christmas this year, you should definitely check out Cherrie's Etsy Shop.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving Holiday. My little family of 4 had a lot of fun, just spending time together. We drove to the movie theater and saw the new Harry Potter movie. After we came home, I cooked an Italian dinner, we stuffed ourselves with Gorgonzola Chicken and garlic bread, then spent entire evening playing Pictionary on the WII. Our Thanksgiving was not very traditional, but it was what we wanted to do.

I hope everyone has a wonderful and safe weekend.

Something New and a Give-a-Way

2010-11-15T10:45:00.000-08:00

Introducing my new Fleur de lis Charm:

As a fun and exciting way to introduce this new charm, my friend, Marie, from Skye Jewels is hosting a give-a-way on her blog. Marie created a beautiful necklace, featuring one of my new Fleur de lis charms.

Go to Marie's Blog: www.skyejewels.blogspot.com to read her very kind blog post and see the details on the give-a-way. It is so easy to enter.

I'll my listing at least one of new Fleur de lis charms in my Etsy Shop tonight.

Show Prep

2010-11-10T07:04:00.000-08:00

I have a show this weekend - the only show I am doing this year - and I have let it sneak up on me. I'm not prepared, to say the least.

I am a very stubborn sort of person. I must go through a lot of inconvenience, pain, and frustration before I learn from my mistakes, and sometimes several times over.

I wanted to take some patchwork clay designs and keepsake boxes to this show, but I just don't have enough made, so I will be doing this show with charms and jewelry only.

I'm very happy with the amount of charms I have made. Today, I am working on making more necklaces, tomorrow I will be organizing and working on my display, and Friday, I will be packing and then setting up Friday evening.

The show is this Saturday, at the High School in Howe, TX, from 9am to 4pm. Please stop by, if you are near.

Until next week ......

2010-11-04T15:23:00.000-07:00

WoW!!! I really had a productive day!

This is what I worked on today:

I got the idea to do a patchwork design with paper, on the sides of the box, from this Kelly Rae Roberts' blog post. Of course, her "box" is much bigger and I added my own little twist with the patchwork clay tiles at the top and the polymer clay roses as the drawer handles.

Up next is a little Patchwork Clay house. This is on canvas board, so I will need to frame it.

And lastly, my little fat Patchwork Clay Bird. This one is my favorite. If I don't sell it at the show, I just might keep it.

It has been so long since I've made anything other than charms, that I got a little carried away. But who cares, I had so much fun!

I worked on charms also. I'm just trying to get enough made up for my show next weekend.

It has been a year since I've set up at a show. I haven't unpacked my boxes since my last show. I've got so much to do!!! But, I had much rather be busy than bored.

Random

2010-10-28T15:54:00.000-07:00

My life would be much easier if I was not, unintentionally, determined to be stubborn. -Just thought I would throw that out there.

I thought I would show y'all a new patchwork clay design that I finished the other day. Actually, I finished it awhile back, but I redid it and finished it again this week. I made this one on 8 X 8 canvas board, so I need to frame it.

I have another one on my table now. I'm just waiting for the gel medium to dry, so I can photograph it. I hope to make 5 more before my show.

I had jury duty this week. Both Monday and Wednesday was nothing but jury selection, but I managed to not have to serve on the jury. I discovered that the attorneys do not want you to serve if you talk a lot when answering the questions and if you have a lot of opinions about the justice system ;} . I'll be working all weekend and some late nights to make up for the two days this week that I did not get to work.

Just so you know, I will be listing new charms tonight and tomorrow.

I'm off to make lamb meatballs and some kind of vegetable dish that my daughter will refuse to eat.

Have a great evening!!!

Something New

2010-10-26T13:06:00.000-07:00

I've been working on a new heart shape, recently: The Stretched Heart

It comes in two sizes: 3/4" X 2 1/2" and 1" X 3 1/4".

I am so excited about this new shape. Not only will it look great as a necklace, but would also be beautiful worked into a bracelet design. I'm listing the first one in my Etsy Shop, this afternoon.

In other news: I had jury duty yesterday and I have jury duty again tomorrow. Since the only show I am doing all year is less than 3 weeks away, this couldn't have come at a worse time. I will need to make up the time somewhere, so that probably means lots of late nights and less time online - blogging, facebook, other social networks, and so on... I will try to list items in my Etsy shop on a semi-regular basis.

GtKY Thursday

2010-10-14T14:08:00.001-07:00

I was so busy in my studio today that I almost forgot about "Get to Know you Thursday."

I've also been doing laundry. Which is how I came up with this week's question.

Creative Time vs. Chore Time

We all have chores around the house that have to get done. Some of us take on most of the responsibilities of the house and/or yard work and others of us share these responsibilities with other members of the family. Regardless, we each have the ever dreaded chores that need to be done. Do you schedule your daily/weekly chores around your creative time, or schedule your creative time around your daily/weekly chores? Or, are you a multi-tasker and put on a load of laundry while your paint dries, load the dishwasher while your clay is baking, dust while your glue dries, or vacuum as your project is curing?

My answer: I definitely schedule my chores around my creative time. But, I do the multi-tasking thing also, especially with the laundry, which is never ending. When I'm really inspired, I let all the house work go. I still have a package of toilet paper beside the commode in our bathroom. I should put the toilet paper in the cabinet and throw the package away, but why? It is very convenient where it is at, especially since I'm the only one who seems to know how to replace the empty roll. My floors need to be swept, so I tell my family to wear fuzzy socks, and I dust my furniture with my shirt as I walk by it. Seriously, if I'm working in my studio, I'm wearing old clothes anyway, because I'm very messy when I'm creating.

I try to use the times that I cannot find any inspiration to clean the house, unless, of course, I can find something better to do. ;}

Patchwork

2010-10-12T10:49:00.000-07:00

I have something new to show. I'll be getting to that shortly.

Many people have asked me how it was that I started making my Patchwork Clay Crosses. And my answer is always, "Out of necessity."

A few years ago, some friends of ours had let us (us, being me and my family) use their mountain cabin in Colorado one week for vacation. We had such a wonderful and relaxing time while there, that I wanted to give them a thank-you gift. We didn't have much money for me to go out and buy something nice, so I decided to do what every creative person does when they need a gift for someone - make them one.

I had noticed the cross wall in their cabin, with so many beautiful crosses hanging on it. So I thought, that's it, I will make them a cross. But, inspiration was evading me. Finally, after looking through my stash, I found a wood cross and I thought mosaic. But, I didn't have all of the supplies and that can be expensive. I was going for inexpensive here, remember. My experience from my family's ceramic shop was dancing around in my mind and the thought occurred to me to make my own tiles. But, from what? I didn't have any clay, or did I. Then I remembered a box of polymer clay I had bought to make dishes and such for my daughter's doll house. That's it!!! I'll make my own tiles from polymer clay and glue them to the wooden cross. An idea was born and after several tries, I created a very pretty little cross for them to hang on their cross wall in Colorado.

I wish I had a picture of this first cross to show you how that little cross evolved into what I eventually started making and selling. I don't have a picture of that first cross, but here are some pictures of the Patchwork Clay Crosses that I made and sold for several years at Art and Craft shows, and when I first started out on Etsy.

Sorry about the quality of the photos. I didn't have my light tent back then.

This is just a small sample. Each cross was unique and I never made two exactly alike. Anyway, I no longer make or sell my patchwork clay crosses. To put it simply: I got burned out on making them. I made a lot of them, seriously - well over 1000.

So, that is the story of my Patchwork Clay Crosses.

I said that I have something new to show you, and I'm getting to it, I promise. I was playing around the other day, trying to come up with something new for my next show, when I started revisiting the idea of patchwork clay. I knew I didn't want to make anymore patchwork clay crosses, at least not on a wooden cross base.

I am so in love with the idea of mixed media and working on canvas. I used to paint, but I haven't painted in so long, getting back on the horse is kinda scary. But, I got to thinking of the idea of putting patchwork clay designs on canvas, with mixed media techniques (something other than crosses, although I may do a few of those too).

I played with the idea all day in my studio, yesterday, and this is the result:

I had so much fun making this. I'm working on a fat little bird next.

Breakfast

2010-10-08T05:42:00.001-07:00

I made Vindaloo Curry for dinner last night:

It was soooo good. It was absolute torture being in this house while it was cooking. The aroma was incredible.

I made quite a bit, and it's just me and my husband, because my daughter hates it. So, there is a lot left over. I think I'll eat some for breakfast. :}

Have a good weekend everyone.

GtKY Thursday

2010-10-07T11:49:00.000-07:00

I've been able to spend a lot of time in my studio lately and it has been wonderful.

Today I cut and textured clay for some new patchwork clay designs that I am working on.

It seems like all I have been doing for the longest is making charms. I really had a lot fun working on this. I start painting the tiles and canvas next, which is the most fun part, for me.

I've really enjoyed my time in my studio that last couple of weeks. Life outside of the studio has been going well, so that makes my time in the studio much more enjoyable. I have a hard time creating when my life is not in balance.

Get to Know you Thursday Question:

When things are not going well in your life, for whatever reason, is your studio a haven for you, a place to help you get through the rough times? Or, is it a place that you avoid. Do you find your self distracted and unable to create when life is throwing you for a loop?

My answer: Like I said above, I find it very hard to create when my life is not in balance. When I'm worried, stressed, or not feeling well, I have a very hard time feeling comfortable in my studio. When my life is in chaos, I usually reach for a book. This is my way of coping and dealing with difficulties. By the time I finish the book, I can put things in perspective and get back to work.

Happy Thursday!!! The weekend is almost here!

Get to know you Thursday

2010-09-29T07:20:00.000-07:00

One of my favorite ways to relax in the evenings is reading blogs. I have about 250 subscriptions thru Google Reader. There are so many clever, creative and wonderfully written blogs full of great ideas. One of these great ideas that I have seen on several blogs is a "get to know my readers day." I love this idea, because I would love to know more about those who read my blog. So, I've decided to start "Get to Know You Thursday" on this blog.

This is how it works: Every Thursday, I will ask a question or guestions. I will be brave and answer it first. Then, I will sit back and anxiously wait for you to leave your responses in the comment section. Doesn't this sound like fun?

I think I will start with something simple.

As creatives, it is very hard to pin us down on a favorite color. Most of us work with color everyday and enjoy the possibilities in each and every color available, whether it be in our favorite marker, art pencil or crayon. Yet, even though we may not have a favorite color, we do tend to be drawn to certain colors. So, dear readers, if you were to walk into a room full of your favorite art or craft supplies, such as fabric, paper, paint, beads, glass, and so on, what color(s) are you drawn to first? and why?

My answer: cool pastels - blues, greens, purples, teals. I find these colors comforting and relaxing. I have to force myself to buy paints, fabrics, and papers in warm colors, such as reds, yellows and oranges. I love all colors and I especially like to mix warm colors with cool colors, but I have to plan it carefully. If I just start picking colors at random, without thinking, I always grab the cool colors.

So, here goes ....... I'm clicking on Publish Post .............. and waiting for your responses ............

New Charms

2010-09-27T15:17:00.000-07:00

Happy Monday!!!

I have a whole group of new charms:

I will start listing them in my Etsy Shop later tonight. I only have 4 photographed, because I didn't plan my day well, and my camera batteries need to charge. I'm not sure what tomorrow will hold. Book club is at my house tomorrow night. I MUST CLEAN!!!!!!! But, I will definitely have more ready to list Wednesday night.

By the way, I have 4 little secrets buried underneath this pile of charms. :=}

Charms

2010-09-23T14:12:00.000-07:00

I am in the middle of making a huge batch of charms. There are 13 time intensive steps involved in making my charms. When I get to the 6th step, I usually divide my charms in smaller groups (20 to 30 charms per group). Then I continue on with steps 6 thru 13 with the first group, when it is completed I go onto the second group and so on... I do this, because otherwise it could take up to 2 months for me to complete the entire batch of charms from beginning to end, and I would run out of charms to list in my Etsy Shop.

Anyway, I am on my favorite step with my first group of charms, out of my new batch - Step 11, antiquing. I love this step because it is when I finally get see what each charm will look like.

At Step 11 my charms go from this:

To this:

I'm hoping to be finished with this group tomorrow, I will photograph them over the weekend and start listing them next week. I have some really pretty ones in this batch. I'm so excited!!!

Problem, The Saga of the Studio, A Woman Who Can Never Make Up Her Mind, or Emotional Crisis - You Choose

2010-09-21T07:27:00.000-07:00

Besides being a little flakey and changing my mind quite often, I tend to have an obsessive personality, at times. Not in a weird or dangerous way, but when a problem comes to my attention, I can not rest until I have solved the problem. I actually have lost sleep over the smallest of problems.

So, this brings us to the continuing saga of the ever changing studio. I had shown pictures of my clay table. Then, I had informed you that I removed the clay table from my studio. There were several reasons behind this decision, but the reasons are not important. Now, because of this, I once again have a clay table in my studio:

This is where I sit and work on my computer, list items in my Etsy Shop, put together orders, and take care of other business stuff. I bought this desk about two weeks ago, because my other desk was entirely too small. It took my wonderful husband nine! hours to put this desk together. He is such a sweetheart to give up his very limited and precious time to do this for me. It is so great to have all of the extra desk space. I love it!!!!, and I love my Macbook that is sitting on top of my desk. I love my Macbook more than my desk, but I my love husband the mostest.

So, what does this have to do with my clay table? Well, since I no longer needed it, I gave my other very pretty, but very small desk to my daughter. She was thrilled, because she had been using my mamma's sewing table as a desk. I do not sew, and will probably never sew, because I lack the skill. My mother was an incredible seamstress and my sister and can sew very well, also. It has just never been one of my talents, so I've never needed a sewing table. But, I somehow ended up with my mamma's sewing table and I've treasured it, because I have many wonderful memories involving it. Anyway, to make a very long and boring story short, I let my daughter use the table. She decided to use it as a desk, but now that she has my old desk and a small room, she no longer needs my mamma's sewing table.

So, now I have it back.

Yes, it's a little yellowed and beat up, but I don't care. Maybe I will refinish it one day. What is important is finding a way to use this table. I couldn't just let it sit out in the garage unused or give it away, or sell it in garage sell. I'm really not one to get emotionally attached to objects, but this one is special. When I look at it, I can still see my mom sitting at it, sewing away.

So, guess what? It has become my new clay table. I decided to move a few things around in my studio and make room for it. I was de-cluttering my studio for my emotional, creative and spiritual well being. This table is just as important to all three, as having the extra floor space in my studio.

But, this leaves me with a big problem. This table is routered on the edges and I can't find a way to clamp my clay (pasta) machine the the table.

When I try to clamp the machine to my table it tilts, because of the slanted edge. The lip only comes out so far. I have to move the clay machine all the way to the slanted edge for the clamp to reach.

This just will not do. I need my clay machine to be useable by tomorrow. I have charms that need texture, and a custom order to start on. Whatever will I do?

I have a couple of ideas to try this afternoon. I know the simplest solution would be to find another table or go back to what I was doing before. But I am emotionally tied to this table, and I honestly have no where else in my home to put it. So, you see, it is very important that I make this work.

Monday, September 13, 2010

2010-09-12T06:36:00.000-07:00

I spend a lot of time in my studio. I enjoy the time I spend in there. This is when I connect to my spirit and my spirit connects to God. I don't talk a lot of God or spirituality on this blog, but both are a big part of who I am. When I am alone in my studio, creating, this is the time that my mind is most quiet and a peacefulness settles over me. It is during this time of quiet and peace that I find the connection.

Here lately it has been hard to find the quiet and peace, even in my studio. I've let it get to a point of unmanagble clutter, and this clutter is blocking my creative and spiritual flow. As a matter of fact, I have been feeling this overwhelming need to de-clutter the whole house. So, I have been busy the last two weeks tackling the clutter. I started in my closet. I have 2 contractor bags full of clothes ready to go to Goodwill. I've worked in my kitchen and dining room also. I need to tackle the utility room and bedroom next. For some reason I'm dreading those two rooms the most.

I have spent most of the time in my studio. I've cleaned out shelves and emptied boxes. I've thrown away, given away and repurposed. Now, when I go in there to create, I don't feel blocked by all of the clutter.

Work table view: Those are cheap floor mats, found at the dollar store, protecting the top of my table. They are working out great. I put a little double sided tape on each corner of each mat to keep them from sliding around.

I'm working on a new batch of charms. I'm on step 4 of 9 steps. I'm working on new projects as well, but I can't seem to get going on them. I'm constantly needing to stop and work on making more charms to keep up with my sales. That is a good thing though, so I'm not complaining. I just need to make better use of my time and get in the studio more often.

Here is a shot of the upper part of the north wall: I found the two hanging organizers with all of the little compartments at Michaels on sale. :}

The shelves on the west wall: Huge improvement. I hated to even look at them, much less try to find something I had stored in them.

Do you see the empty shelves on the left? Those hold my trays of charms during different stages of completion. This gives me more room on my worktable.

And, of course, the lower part of the north wall. This is where the wiener dog spends a good part of his day. He is a hound dog, so he sleeps a lot, but he wakes up every now and then, walks over to my chair, licks my ankle, looks out the window, goes back to his bed, and then goes back to sleep. It's really hard work being a dog.

Some of the cubbies held magazines, but I moved all of the magazines out of my studio and bought more of the fabric boxes. I love all of the different colors, and the fabric boxes can hold a lot of supplies. I put ugly supplies in these to keep them out of sight, like spray paint, hand tools, packaging material and so on. I also keep fabric, sewings supplies, clay molds, and foam stamps in my fabric boxes. I'm still in the process of labeling each one, and some are still empty. Yay, more room for new art supplies! It's not clutter if I can't see it.

I got rid of the clay table. It was a good idea, but my studio is too small. Instead, I have three carts, but that is another post.

I know some people who work better in clutter. What about you? Are you a, "Don't touch my piles. I know where everything is." kind of person, or are you a "Everything in it's place and a place for everything." kind of person?

Pens, Pens and More pens. Oh, and Some Pencils too.

2010-09-07T07:43:00.000-07:00

I've been cleaning, organizing, and purging around my house the last two weeks. In doing so, I realized something. I have a serious pen and pencil addiction.

I'll start small and build up from there.

This is a little tin of pens and pencils I keep on my desk for easy access:

This is the drawer right under it:

Then we move to the living room: (Sorry for the blurry picture, it's all the dog's fault.) These pens and pencil just sit there and are hardly ever used, even though they are in easy reach.

And, this is the drawer of my end table, located under the organizer, holding the pens and pencil above:

So now we can move on to the bedroom. I don't know why I have pens and pencils in my bedroom. I never work, sketch, write, or create in there. But, here it is - another box of pens and pencils:

So now, we can finally move into my studio, where, guess what, I found another box of pens and pencils:

And, none of the boxes and containers, pictured above, include my art pens and pencils:

Seriously, what is wrong with me. And, after finding all of these pens and pencils in my home, I still get excited when I go into an office supply store. I head straight for the isle with the pens and pencils. The really funny thing is: when I'm at home and I need to write something I always reach for the same pen (Pentel R.S.V.P) and the same pencil (Ticonderoga).

There are still rooms in my home that I have not attacked yet, and I am certain that I will find more boxes containing more pens and pencils. What should I do with them all? Should I keep them and never buy another pen or pencil again? Because, I am certain that I have enough pens to last for the rest of my life. I may have to buy more pencils, when I'm 60 or so. Should I give them away to friends? If I do decided to keep them, should I collect them all in one place or leave them scattered throughout the house?

You may not see this as a big deal. But, you see, the thought of all of these pens and pencils invaded my dreams last night. In my dreams, the fate of the world, or my world at least, depended upon the fate of the pens and pencils, I found in my home. So, I feel that I will never be able to sleep well until I resolve this matter. Obsession is a funny thing.

If you think this is bad, you should see my magazine collection.

August, 21, 2010

2010-08-21T09:14:00.001-07:00

We moved my baby boy to college yesterday. I just can't believe he is old enough to move out on his own. How will he ever make without me?

I have to say that I am one part excited for him, one part worried about him and one part jealous of him. His apartment is really nice and big, for a college apartment. He and his roommate have their own kitchen, with a stove, refrigerator, dishwasher, and even a garbage disposal. Look at all of the cabinet space. It was so hard for me to leave and not put everything away for him. But, this is his and his roommate's kitchen, and they must decide where everything goes.

They have their own furnished living room, complete with couch, chair and two tables. I won't bore you with pictures of the bedrooms and surprisingly large bathroom. I just can't believe his first place is so nice, especially being a college apartment. My first apartment was not this nice. It had green shag carpet. :/

Can you believe it? The kid even gets his own balcony. I didn't have a balcony in my first apartment.
Driving away yesterday, and leaving him there was one of the hardest things I've ever had to do. Since leaving him yesterday, I've called him once and texting him, like a zillion times. There are so many things to worry about when your child moves away. But, I'm trying really hard to back off and give him his space. I hope he enjoys his college experience and squeezes every ounce of fun and learning out of his time there.

Everyone is back in school next week and I get the house back. I'm so excited!!!