ammjewelry

Secret Snowflake Challenge Blog Hop!

2012-01-15T07:30:00.000-06:00

After I got my kit...

the beads sat there

while the holidays and life carried me away,

but these jewels did draw me in

for a moment,

then a few more visits to push

these beauties around and ponder...

FINALLY, these lovelies pulled me in

long enough to hatch a plan!

(The stage is set.)

I decided to make a necklace and a bracelet, with the addition of a handmade silver snowflake etched disc for the focal of the bracelet. The problem, I had never tried etching silver before, but I jumped in with both feet, like I do sometimes...optimistic and ready to go! Not thinking this could be a disaster...

(It REALLY is a slow process to etch silver

...one hour later, with only a slight

indication that etching activity was happening...

I twiddle my thumbs waiting!)

Snowflakes make me feel warm

and fuzzy inside, they always have!

And blue is my favorite color, so it's been

a joy to work with this kit!

(Pretty good for my first silver etching!)

Snowflake Bracelet

Even after all these years of designing jewelry, I still find it fascinating that my designs evolve and they never end up the way I initially plan! After finishing the silver disc snowflake I started toying with the leather cording and thinking how I might attach it to the ceramic discs. When I wire wrapped some of the kit's beads to the leather cord it reminded me of early morning frost which made a fun embellishment to the design. The silver hammered toggle clasp blends well with the snowflake patterns too.

Snowflake Necklace

I assembled my necklace using a similar layout as my bracelet. I used a snowflake etched silver disc to make a bail for the pendent. As I write this we are getting our first snow for 2012...what perfect timing!

I think I will keep these pieces for myself to remind me of the "first official blog hop" I participated in and the first time to etch silver. (I will post more about how to etch silver another time because that's what Millie does here at "ammjewelry"! I hope you will return.)

I'm looking forward to
seeing the other participants creations!
And I urge you to hop over to
the their blogs as well.
Blog list below:

If there is no blog link listed next to a person's name, check Michelle's Beads & Books. Participants without blogs will be posting their photos on her blog.

Alice (Alice Dreaming)
Chris (beadjewelry.net)
Christa (Adventures of One Beady Woman)
Crystal (Here Bead Dragons)
Cynthia (Cynth's Blog)
Dawn (Morning Glory Beading)
Donetta (Simply Gorgeous)
Erin A.
Jennifer (JenniferJW)
Jennifer (Jewelry, Art and Life)
Kari W.
Kate (We Can Make That at Home)
Kay (Palm Coast Art)
Linda (Lindy's Designs)
Lisa C. (A Bead a Day)
Lisa (Inspired Adornments)
Mary (MLH Designs)
Michelle (Beads & Books)
Michelle B.
Millie (AMM Jewelry)
Norma (Moonlit Fantasies)
Pam (The Crazier Sister)
Rebecca J.
Renetha (Lamplight Crafts)
Rosemarie (Gem Rose Designs)
Shannon (Falling into the Sky)
Susan (Bead Inspired)
Therese (Therese's Treasures)
Therese (DG Enterprises)

Thank you for dropping by!

And a special thank you to

Michelle Mach for finding time to
organize the "Secret Snowflake Challenge"!

It's been fun and educational!

Happy Creating!

Improving Jewelry Photos!

2012-01-05T06:57:00.022-06:00

While writing this blog, I've gotten helpful tips from friendly jewelry artists regarding taking photos of my jewelry. I appreciate the openness of these blogging buddies, thank you all! One of my goals for 2012 is to improve my photography techniques. Below are the top 8 suggestions I've found that will remind us how to improve our photos. By the way, the photos on this post are my favorite photos I have taken of my past designs.

1) Jewelry is very difficult to photograph because it’s shiny highly polished surface reflects, in many cases, up to 99% of the light it receives. If you use flash photography, you’ll usually end up with glares and hot spots. The key is to use continuous natural light which has the ability to evenly and accurately reproduce all the spectacular colors found in the different elements of jewelry.

2) A key element of successful product photography is white balance. You need to be able to program the white balance setting on your camera. Although many cameras will come with pre-program options, you need at least one custom white balance option. This means that the camera can "read" and self-adjust itself to be able to take pictures under many light conditions.

3) Setting the Depth-of-field in your camera is an important element in photographing jewelry. The first thing we need to do is to take advantage of the maximum depth-of-field that any camera has to offer. The camera should be set to manual mode so that the smallest aperture (For commercial consumer cameras use F8.0, for professional camera use F16.0 ) setting can be selected. This will allow us to focus the entire piece of jewelry, rather than only parts of it. The second thing we need to do is to focus the lens to get an image as clear as possible. Most digital cameras have an auto-focus option which can be used, please select this.

4) Cameras need to control the amount of light so that an image is not too bright (over exposed) or too dark (under exposed). Similar to our eyes, light enters through the lens and strikes the inside of the camera. Digital camera uses a charged coupling device (CCD) to capture the light of an image. Think of a CCD as 'film' in a conventional camera. Therefore, term exposure generally refers to a combination of aperture and shutter speed control to obtain the correct amount of light.

5) When photographing jewelry, we recommend you to mount your camera to a stable surface (either a Tripod or a lighting systems' "L" bracket) in order to get the sharpest photographs possible. If you hold the camera with your hands, it is very likely that you will slightly move the camera while photographing (even if you don't notice - because we as humans can't perfectly hold it still) , and your photos will come out blurry.

Note: The above (1-5) tips were taken from MK Digital Direct, where I found an article for "photographing jewelry", here.

6) Jewelry Arrangement and Prep: Spend time arranging jewelry. Clean the jewelry if needed. Polish and remove finger prints. Lay it nicely. For chains, spend time to even out all links and to lay it in a perfect circle. For fashion or artisian jewelry this may be a little tricky simply because it's made of various materials and it just doesn't like to sit perfectly on its own. Use blue-tac to fix it where you want it.

7) Taking photograph: Take enough photographs for each peace. Use camera built-in display as a guide only. Colors and brightness will look slightly different on the computer screen. You can adjust some of it afterwards, but try to take a perfect shot in the first place.

8) Post-Processing: Restrain yourself from using too many features of the photo editing software. All you need to do is manually adjust Brightness and Contrast, and perhaps use 'Sharpen' feature. Don't apply any automatic adjustments, as these will get confused with too much white in the photo, or too much black.

Crop to the area you want to keep, save in internet-friendly format (eg 400x300) and you've got a near-professional photograph. Reuse the same photograph for 'zoom-in' crops. You won't be making images larger, instead you'll be cropping from your original, adjusting and saving.

Digital camera with 6 mega pixels or more will preserve enough of the detail for zoom-in's. If not happy, re-take photos of the detail.

Note: The above tips (6-8), were taken from a "Call of the Wild Photo" article, here.

Other random photo tips from the blogosphere:

* Etsy has fantastic resource articles for photographing your merchandise.

* Sometimes you can purchase an old macro lens in good working order from a local photography club’s equipment swapmeet.

* Create a mood and atmosphere. Backdrops to use are: old vintage books, music note sheets, hat boxes crystal knobs, vintage mirrors, roses, vintage furniture, cream colored mugs and even plates. Try not to clutter the setup or it will detract from your creation!

* Always try to think which background goes best with the materials used in your jewelry. They can be from nature like sand, grass, rock, wood or just a simple nice textured paper or fabric. Neutral backgrounds, or backgrounds with some light texture but that let the item be the star.

Practice, practice, practice!
What is your favorite photography tip?

Happy Creating!

Christmas Vacation in HHI!

2012-01-02T06:37:00.003-06:00

Steve and I jumped on the idea of celebrating Christmas week on Hilton Head Island this year. 2011 was a difficult year for us and the stress was starting to get us down,so why not pamper ourselves with room service, delicious food, and entertainment at an upscale resort and spa? Our time on the island was heavenly! Walks on the beach, Steve played golf, I had the best massage ever (80 minutes), fresh seafood every day, bead shopping (see today's earlier post) and sight seeing...we had a fabulous time!

My photo journal follows...

Renewed...

and I'm ready to finish up my blog hop entry.

Michelle Mach's Secret Snowflake Challenge

is slowly sneaking up on us (here)...

January 15, 2012!

Happy Creating!

High Tide Beads!

2012-01-02T06:00:00.005-06:00

We were on our way to Charleston, SC, when we

found this terrific bead shop called "High Tide Beads".

At HTB they have oodles of Czech beads, lots of findings in

a wide range of metals, natural beads (wood and bone),

sea glass, crystals, semi-precious stones, tools

and on this day a lovely trunk show of lampwork beads.

All 10% and 20% OFF for my visit!

I love these jasper beads...look at

the amazing pattern! It reminds me of "bubbles"!

Hilton Head Island is unbelievable!

A thick forest of pine trees surround the city,

then there are the beaches and the ocean...

everywhere I looked,

nature gave inspiration!

If you are lucky enough to visit Hilton Head Island, SC,

you've got to spend some time at High Tide Beads.

Either pick out beads to take home or

spend some time in their studio to create that

perfect piece of jewelry as your vacation souvenir.

Visit the High Tide Beads website here.

Hey, checkout their classes too...

DAILY classes for the month of January!

(Lucky locals!)

I know I will be back...

Happy Creating!

2012!

2012-01-01T09:19:00.000-06:00

Happy New Year to all my blogging beady friends!

I salute you,

and our jewelry making adventures for 2012,

cheers!

Millie's Mimosa's

2 oz. fresh orange juice

1/2 oz. Cointreau

4 oz chilled champagne of your choice

Amaretto

In a cocktail shaker pour in the above liquids,

stir, then pour into a champagne glass, next add

a splash of a good quality amaretto on top.

(My hubby doesn't like Mimosa's,

so this recipe is for one, but you

can easily make more.. This is a great way to use up

the leftover champagne from last night

...a party for one or a yummy hangover cure!)

Enjoy!

I'm looking forward to the new year!

I'm ready to learn,

to try new techniques and

be creative.

2012 means a fresh NEW beginning...

What does the new year mean to you?

Happy Creating!

Take a break from the Holiday Crazies!

2011-12-15T14:03:00.001-06:00

My gift to you this holiday season

is this crazy bear video...

Merry Christmas

and a

Happy New Year!

My beady life!

2011-11-21T07:31:00.002-06:00

Is it possible to go "bead-blind"?

It only seems like it...This is what my eye looked like when I first learned I had a Subconjunctival hemorrhage in my right eye. Soon my eye was dark red like it is under the iris. Freaky! Thank goodness it got better before the holidays! My doctor says this is a common ailment and it gets worse before it gets better. My eye was uncomfortable for the first 36 hours. Now it looks almost normal, just a little bloodshot!

Last week, I saw a lot of beads and bought some too.

First my Bead Show Collection

This photo shows
only a few of the bead strands I picked up
at the Bead Renaissance Show!
I found some metal components,
tiny crystal beads,
and
a little this, a lot of that
to take home!

Next, I took a road trip
with my sister, to visit 4 giant

bead stores in two days (OK City and the Dallas area).

Oklahoma Collection

Elements Beadery
Bethany, OK

The Spiral Beadery
Oklahoma City

Texas Collection

The Rock Barrell

Wildbeads
Arlington, TX
By themselves, they don't look all that special,
but I have some fun ideas for these beads

It was a great week bead shopping!

I can't believe,
it's almost Thanksgiving...
I'll be taking a little break from blogging during the holiday.

Our second grandchild arrived yesterday,
so our holiday will be spent getting to know
"Kinley Jo" (sweet baby girl)
and being with our family!

To all,
Happy Thanksgiving!

Secret Snowflake Challenge, anyone?

2011-11-16T06:40:00.000-06:00

When I saw these gorgeous ceramic snow discs (by Melissa at Chinook Jewelry) I knew this challenge was for me! If you want to join in the fun visit Michelle Mach blog (here) for details and info on where to purchase one of these kits. January 15th, 2012 is the date for this challenge blog hop! Excitement! Who will be part of the hop? Me for sure, how about you?!

I can't wait to get my hands on these babies!

Sister and I are leaving for our

48 hour "bead hunt road trip" this morning.

Maybe I'll get some inspiration for the

Secret Snowflake Challenge,

but for sure,
I know I will have fun with Sis!

Happy Creating!

Stuffed Jalapenos

2011-11-15T07:43:00.006-06:00

What's up with people who won't share recipes?

Asking for a recipe is the highest form

of flattery that a cook can get!

(Homegrown jalapenos by the Perkins.)

We worked for a company who's home office is in Dallas and at each function that my husband and I went to, they served stuffed jalapenos. In 13 years I never was able to talk them out of the recipe. The whole office kept the secret! I finally learned who originated the stuffed jalapenos, but I never got him to respond to my emails requesting his secret recipe. (If he had been in our office, I would have stocked him till he spilled his guts! I have NO shame!) He served these yummy bites uncooked and used a special blend of cream cheese (pinkish in color) that had a Tex-Mex flavor. Fed up with Tom, I finally decided, I would make my own version after all these years...

Party Peppers or Who needs ya, Tom!
4 oz. cream cheese, softened (room temp.)
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/4 tsp ground cumin
1/2 tsp chili powder
1/4 tsp garlic salt
1/4 tsp smoked paprika
dash of Tabasco (optional), to your taste
10 jalapeno peppers

1) In a small bowl, combine the first seven ingredients. Cut a lengthwise slit down each pepper, leaving the stem intact; remove the membranes and seeds. (This spread keeps great for several days and time brings out the flavor of the spices.) Fill each pepper with 1 Tbsp cheese mixture.

2) Prepare grill for indirect heat. Place peppers in a disposable foil pan. Grill, covered, over indirect medium heat for 8-10 minutes or until peppers are tender and the cheese is melted. Serve warm.

Cook in the oven if you aren't going to grill other food: Preheat the oven to 375°. Mix ingredients (#1). Arrange the peppers on a foil-lined baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and lightly browned, and the peppers are cooked. Allow to cool for 5 minutes before serving. Or don't cook them and serve them at room temperature for a fresh taste like Tom does!

It's been 5 years since I had Tom's stuffed peppers, but I still remember them and I remember the frustration trying to pry the recipe out of him! Should I email him my recipe? Ha! I laugh at him...

(Our Bermuda lawn is telling us summer is over!)

Anyway, my Party Peppers are delicious,

if I do say so myself!

And I'm "sharing" them with the WORLD...

pop a pepper today,

but don't tell Tom where ya got'em!

Happy Creating!

Part II - Button Bracelet Designs!

2011-11-14T11:17:00.000-06:00

Button, buttons, who's got the buttons?

I do and I'm having a learning experience
making bracelets with them!

This bracelet (above) is made of carved wood buttons that has been painted a rich eggplant color and two "laser look" natural wood buttons. Embellishing the buttons with eggplant glass seed beads was a simple act by wire wrapping them on to the bead with Vintaj art wire. I used paper cord, also in eggplant, to connect the buttons and knotting the cords in between. Then I added a metal Vintaj clasp (I like the security of lobster claws on bracelets!).

Eggplant Magic Disc Bracelet (my favorite!)

Autumn Flowers Bracelet

Again carved wood buttons caught my eye, but this time in gold and brown. I got these to go with the silk fabric buttons I bought at Jo Ann's Fabrics. At the Renaissance Bead Show, I found small bronze flower buttons (aren't they cute?) to add to this crazy button selection. The buttons were connected with thin leather cord (brown). I weaved bronze colored glass seed beads around the buttons and leather adding that wonderful accent of beads. Then to secure this bracelet, I made a button closure with one of the smaller wood buttons and a leather cord loop. It took me awhile to bring this one together, and I'm still not happy with the outcome...I'm a bit frustrated, so more then likely I will be reworking it.

Chain of Hearts Bracelet

Above I used simple shell buttons, in pink, that are connected with oval jump rings (silver). This bracelet is light as a feather!

I'm scratching my head

contemplating what I will work on next...

Hmmm...

torch enameling?
metal?

beaded beads?

It's a mystery...

one thing I do know,

it will be a GOOD time in my studio...

Happy Creating!

A Day to Show Our Thanks!

2011-11-11T07:49:00.001-06:00

My grandfather,

two Uncles,

and my father,

all served in our military.

I'm proud of them for

protecting our freedom

and for serving our Nation proudly

as Marines,

in the Navy,

Air Force,

and Army!

Thanks to all the men and women that serve

and to their families!

We should show our appreciate

for what they do everyday,

not just on Veteran's Day!

Make the day special!

2011-11-10T08:37:00.000-06:00

This morning I'm

surfing the Internet, catching up on current blog posts

and drinking my hot creamy cup of coffee.

Our first dusting of frost covers our yard...burrr!

I feel the need to share these gorgeous ways to use buttons in jewelry.

Both are currently on Etsy.

You can find their shops by going to

their blogs, listed below.

Rose of ahteesblog.blogspot.com made this fun

(by fun I mean, I really want it!)

and pretty bracelet, using a ceramic button as a closure.

It didn't cross my mind to wire wrap

buttons...I love this necklace! Lorrelei has

a wonderful eye for detail and color.

Her blog is lorelei1141.blogspot.com.

I found this wonderful tutorial

on "making jump rings" at

Beads of Clay (here).

I think it's going to be a great day!

A few things to look forward to -

tonight we get to watch a new episode of

Project Accessory,

Friday, Saturday and Sunday the Renaissance Bead show is in Tulsa

and I'm looking forward to a bead shopping

road trip with my sister!

Guess I'll have another cup of this sweet creamy stuff,

that way,
I will have enough energy to go to the gym this morning.

Make the day special!

Part I - Bonkers over button bracelets!

2011-11-09T08:56:00.000-06:00

I wonder into the notion department of a fabric store every now and then. Each time I'm awe struck by the unique buttons. The colors, textures and shapes are amazing. So many beauties to pick from. I sometimes think, if I'm not careful, a clerk might kick me out for drooling on the buttons!

en.paperblog.com

I've been surfing around on the Internet to see what designers are doing with buttons and it intrigues me. I must admit I'm going bonkers over buttons and I can't get enough. In this post, I'm going to share some of the information I've found and link you to it.

kittycatsandairplanes.blogspot.com

One of my favorite and a well known websites to check out for information is Beading Gem (aptly named, it is a GEM)! To see these three posts from the Beading Gem Journal go here, here and here!

One of my favorite button bracelets is above. Obstinate Pursuit created this lovely shank Button and Bead tutorial. It is perfection!

Above you see a popular way of combining buttons and beads to make a bracelet. Also, this is a good example of making a closure with beads. If you hit here, you will be linked to "All Free Beaded Jewelry" for a tutorial of this bracelet.

boogaboohandmade (here)

A simple way to make a button bracelet is to glue buttons to a base bracelet. I found this tutorial at "A Button Lady" for you, here.

Some beads have a rugged look that would be great to use in embellishing an elastic or leather cuff. For a tutorial of the above bracelet, hit here, it's from dyinetwork.com.

I will leave you with the above video of how to make a button bracelet with elastic thread.

Here are few photos to inspire you too!

ecommerce-braceletes.blogspot

theFoundary.com

kat-jewels.com/bracelets

What have you made with buttons?
Do you have any tips to share?
Please comment below...

Part II, I'll have

my button bracelet designs

to show you, so come on back!

Happy Creating!

Sunset Bracelet and Earthquakes!

2011-11-07T09:01:00.001-06:00

Little over a week ago I found myself in Jo Ann's Fabric Store, while out with the family, that's when I noticed the the eye catching "buttons". I thought I could make a few bracelets with my finds.

I began with this gorgeous fabric button, then going through my stash to see what might work with it. This button reminds me of the beautiful embroidered silk fabrics that kimonos are made of...I love Asian inspired fashions! Unfortunately my endeavors didn't go well...I tried using giant jump rings to connect the buttons to my other components. When that just didn't look right, I tried bead weaving everything together...it didn't lay right. I'm kicking myself that I didn't take any pictures to use on my blog!

I'm going to blame not having photos on the earthquakes. We had record setting earthquakes over the weekend. I remember when I was a kid sometimes my bed would have a slight tremor, so I grew up knowing we had mini earthquakes, but our earthquakes have never been like the ones this weekend or if they had been, maybe I was out of state.

(News reports said we had road damage, one person reported their fireplace collapsed,

brick falling off homes, and crooked pictures on walls and broken dishes across the state...crazy!

Knock on wood, we didn't have any obvious problems!)

At 2 am, Saturday morning, I was finishing a spellbinding book when the house started shaking...I thought we were having another updraft, it just didn't accrue to me that it was an earthquake. Then that night we had a stronger shake that seem to last one minute. I had been sitting on the floor listening to the TV and working with my beads when the shaking began! At least that time, my husband was awake and he felt it too. (Yay, he was having too much fun teasing me about my story.) Our last one was a 5.6 earthquake, which is our record quake here in Oklahoma!

Back to my beading: after hours of working with my button and beads, I wanted to have something to show for my time. My combination of beads were inspired by the button and reminds me of sunsets and flowers in Maui. Oh, I wish I were there NOW! Maui is heaven on earth!

I plan to continue working with buttons...

honestly, I guess I have to

since I ordered some from Etsy! (ha)

Check "Orit Dotan", an Etsy store, if you love buttons (here).

Anyway, I'm determined to figure it out!

If you have any tips, please leave a comment,

I need any advice you can offer!

Happy Creating!

Fun with Project Accessory

2011-11-05T10:47:00.000-05:00

Did you watch "Project Accessory"?

In many ways it is a typical reality TV show, but it is interesting and addictive to watch these creative personalities as they work and I love viewing the end results of their creations.

On the negative side of watching Project Accessories, I find I can do without the Diva's, the chicks crying and the snarky comments. Oh, and the commercials! ( I will definitely use the DVR so I can use my favorite feature...FAST FORWARD!) But that's TV...right?

Winner - Nina

Episode 1

I agree that Nina's collective design was the best!

Hopefully, each season in the first episode

they will have the contestants pick

from random items to see what these designers are made of!

I loved it...

Winner - James

Episode 2

James specializes in making shoes, so no one

was quite in his league for this challenge.

However, my favorite shoe was Nicolina's,

below.

Over all, in my opinion,

James' total look was the winner,

but what was he thinking with that

Wonder Woman headband?

Wouldn't it be grand to spend a day in that studio,

to see their supplies up close and

use the amazing tools at their disposal?

Please Project Accessories,

less commercials

and more designer time?!!

Happy Creating!

PS You can watch Project Accessories (here) on LifeTime, Thursday nights, check your listings. You can watch the past episodes online.

Project Accessory on Lifetime

2011-11-03T08:48:00.003-05:00

Tonight on Lifetime you can catch the first episode of Project Accessory, which I missed the first airing last week (10/27/11). And episode 2 will play too...I'm excited to see a reality show that really interests me. Okay there was "Dancing with the Stars" but, for me, that petered out pretty quick (sorry)!

I love this bold necklace by

BRIAN BURKHARDT!

Episode 1 Season 1 - The designers must transform a classic American look — t-shirt and jeans — with three accessories: necklace, belt and designer's choice.

Episode 2 Season 1 - The designers visit the Swarovski Store; some of the designers are unhappy about the challenge.

Tonight I will DVR these shows to see if this show will be as amazing as I'm hoping it will be! Maybe it will be worth blogging about each week, that might be fun... Leave me a comment if you are watching, okay? Oh, here is a link to Lifetime, if you are interested in knowing more about this show.

Enjoy your day,

Millie

Happy Creating!

Nov. Show and Tell!

2011-11-01T07:48:00.001-05:00

Yes,

I'm keeping my eye on YOU,

and the beading-blogosphere!

My November "Show and Tell" has all good finds,

NO TURKEYS!

First, I want to tell you about a jewelry artist that I'm crazy about! I obviously don't spend as much time as I should on Beader's Showcase or otherwise, how did I miss "Lilian Chen"? Her work is so delicate and beautiful! I want you to take a look (here). I recently saw her work on other blogs, but I have not found that she has a blog, herself. If you go to Beader's Showcase, scroll down to the slide show of her work! You will be amazed! I would love to take one of her classes. (More info about Lilian here at Artbeads.com.)

Lilian Chen

Read and learn, or join the fun on these sites:

(1) Bead Table Wednesday - (here) designers share what's happening at their studio table. The link is to flickr so you can join in the fun and at the bottom of this flickr page you can read about this group. Then you blog about whats on your table each Wednesday.

Here is an example of Bead Table Wednesday,

from Humblebeads!

(2) A Weekly Bracelet self challenge - (here) and Mortira has so much inspiration to share! I love bracelets so this is a great blog find! If you are looking for free tutorials, they can be found here, too.

(3) Studio Saturday at Art Beads Scene (here): Each week one of the contributors gives you a sneak peek into their studio, creative process or inspirations. ABS asks a related question of the readers and hope you'll leave a comment! As an incentive they offer a free prize each week to bribe you to use that keyboard. The following week they choose a random winner.

If you are looking for blog hop challenges:
(1) Seasonal blog hop challenge with kits from "michellemach.com" is an interesting hop to follow! I love to see what artists do with the same supplies. The next challenge is the winter challenge in January 2012 with an all new theme and materials. The kits won't be ready for a few weeks, but to see what I'm talking about look here for details on the last challenge, then start following this blog.

Fall 2010 Kit (Sold Out)

Beading sites and blogs to share:
(1) I found a great new to me blog (here). "Operation Tackle That Bead Stash"! This is October's link to inspire (November not available at the time I wrote my post and I will try to update asap.). This team of bloggers encourage you to use some of the beads in your stash. Free tutorials are available too!

(2) Another blog site to keep an eye on is Beadinstinctive (here)! Generally a UK source for beaders, but lots of good beading for the rest of us too!

(3) Nicola at Smitten Kitten shares her gorgeous creations, blogs, tutorials, and everything for the beady and crafty (here) ...a great find to share!

Something new...

A Virtual Craft Show!

Lori Anderson, at "Pretty Things" (here), has been brainstorming again.

The show has been closed to participants, but visit her blog starting

November 26 through December 3

for giveaways and special deals.

This is a first!

If you have a beading event or know of

something you would like to share for
next month's "show and tell", please leave a comment,

so I can check it out and share it

with the beading blogosphere.

(If it is time sensitive, please state so.)

Thank you!

Happy Creating
this November!

My Trip to Jo Ann's Fabrics

2011-10-31T13:19:00.000-05:00

I usually don't have much luck at our Jo Ann's,

but look at what I found there today!

These painted carved wood buttons,

the vivid colors of this crystal beads,

Lucite flower beads, gorgeous fabric buttons

and look at this neat chain!

First I'm going to check out my stash

to see what I might already have

and let these beauties speak to me,

but I do have a general idea

how I want to go with these fabulous finds!

Can't wait to get started...

Happy Creating!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T12:24:00.002-05:00

We had a great weekend visit with our daughter Kendell,

her husband Chris and our amazing grandson Ledger!

During our first trip to Manards (for supplies to

do some projects around the house), I found a

hip Frankie-Stein that does the Cha-Cha Slide ...

My Hubby had to drag me out of the store

before I had all of the monsters dancing!

He knows me too well...

Our kids are dressing up in a Star Wars theme

and taking little Luke Skywalker trick or treating tonight.
Above they are testing the fan for this authentic mask.

Below Chris and Ledger are joining in the fun with
Chris' 4th grade class...I never had a teacher this cool!

Hopefully we will get a picture of the whole family
after tonight...hint?

The guys got a package ready

for our first errand, the post office.

Taking pictures wasn't on my mind while I had fun playing with Ledger raking leaves and making caramel apples with Kendell and Ledger. (I'm looking forward to seeing the photos Kendell took.) All in all, we were productive, had quality time with our loved ones and made memories...a perfect weekend!

Happy Halloween to you all!

7 Reasons I Love Fridays!

2011-10-28T09:48:00.002-05:00

I've always loved Fridays! Today's challenge is to name 7 reasons why you love Fridays. Here goes mine...

#1 Date night with my husband! (Movie, dinner, dancing or Friday night football ...time for us!)
#2 I get to sleep later on Saturday mornings and that makes me happy!
#3 If the week was bad, I get a do over in 2 more days!
#4

#5 Family time. After work on Friday evenings we sometimes leave to visit our daughters and their families!
#6 DVR records Blue Bloods on TV tonight! Hunkie Tom Selleck...still got it!
#7 Tomorrow is Saturday and we love to go to Panera Bread Co. for coffee and bagels! I usually catch up on my blogs, starting with Art Bead Scene: Studio Saturdays (here)!

I did it!

Join the fun.

List 7 reasons why you love Fridays and blog about it or

comment your #1 reason below,

I would love to read it.

Enjoy your day!

Happy Creating!

Impression Jasper Bracelet

2011-10-26T07:23:00.000-05:00

The color palette's of impressionist painters intrigue me and their style of painting mystify me. Maybe that's why, when I first saw impression jasper I knew it was perfectly named. This stone's soft colors makes me wonder how it was created. For most of my life, I thought my favorite stones were agates, but these days my favorite stones are in the jasper family. Jasper comes in a wide variety of colors and patterns... they are amazing stones!

For this bracelet, I used impression jasper beads that I purchased last weekend from "The Bead Shop" in Overland Park, Kansas. I also purchased filigree antique brass beads (two sizes) which look great with the tan patterns in these jasper beads and these plain round brass beads play off the smooth aqua color in the jasper. I found aqua Czech glass in my stash that match the shade of aqua in the jasper. I weaved seed beads around and through, like an impressionist painter applies his brush strokes, which blends nicely with the jasper and brass beads of the main strand. A brass heart clasp finishes this bracelet.

Impression Jasper was previously known as Variscite which is a hydrated aluminium phosphate mineral. Colors are light bluish green, medium and dark greens. It has a waxy luster and takes a fine polish. Variscite is found in the United States (Utah, Nevada). Impression Jasper has become the accepted trade name. Metaphysical properties: Helps with remembrance of past lives. Balances central nervous system and eases depression, fear, worry, anxiety and impatience.

Jasper ROCKS!

PS...I've brought back my "rock and mineral of the month" and "rock hunt information" widgets to my right side column in mid October. Natrolite and Trilobites are currently being hi-lited! Some of my childhood favorite stones I looked for at rock shows...memories. Check it out rock hounds!

Happy Creating!

Autumn's Apple Pie!

2011-10-24T09:16:00.000-05:00

Not too sweet

and not too tart,

with the right amount of spice, butter and flaky...

makes this pie perfectly yummy!

One of my fondest memories is going to Arkansas' Appletowne to get a bushel of Johnathan Apples in October with the ladies in my family and my best friend. All our girl talk and giggles would occupy the time it took to drive to our destination. And once home, I would bake a pie, make caramel apples, snack on fresh apples and share these jewels with friends. I loved those crisp, juicy and slightly tart apples! But these days, I just don't seem to have time to go to Appletowne and I miss sharing these treats. So I decided to bake an apple pie and take it to our kids for our visit, last weekend. With no Johnathans around our home, I had to hunt for the perfect apple. Honey Crisps are my NEW favorite!

Autumn's Apple Pie

3/4 cup light brown sugar

1/4 cup all-purpose flour

3/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

7 medium apples, peeled, cored and thinly

sliced (1/4 inch) - Honey Crisp

1 lemon, zest (1 tsp.) and juiced

2 crust pie dough, store bought

3 tablespoons butter, thinly sliced

melted butter for brushing on crust

Sugar and cinnamon for sprinkling

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F.

Mix together the brown sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a small bowl. In a large bowl, sprinkle sliced apples with the juice of 1 lemon and zest and toss. Stir in the sugar mixture to evenly coat the apples.

Fit one of the pie doughs into a pie pan. Mound the apple and sugar mixture into the pie pan lined with dough. Dot with the sliced butter.

Lay the other pie dough over the mound of apples. Brush the top of the pie with melted butter and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. Trim the overhanging dough and crimp edges with a fork. With a knife, poke a few holes in the top of the pie to vent. While baking if the top of the pie begins to brown too quickly, lay a sheet of foil over the top to protect it from burning.

Bake pie for 40 to 45 minutes, until golden brown. Let rest 20 minutes before slicing.

I'm pleased with the way it turned out!
Everyone said it was good, so this is a
great recipe to share with you.

We had a great visit with our kids in Kansas City. Our daughter Emily is pregnant with their first child (due Nov. 23). Don't you love this tee-shirt, she got it to wear for Halloween? So cute!

We helped with a few jobs around the new house,
and watched Coach Josh's football team
slaughter their opponents.
We enjoyed our visit!
Hubby and I went in separate cars this time
because the court released a distribution
from my uncles estate.
(I had a SUV full of quilting items to
give to a friend of the family who lives in KC.)
I'm excited to get one step closer to wrapping things up
as his executrix!
(Probably another year before I can close
...don't get me started on that subject!)

I did hit my two favorite KC bead shops on Friday.
These beads are impression jasper...

they remind me of a walk on the beach!
Aren't they gorgeous!

“A BRIGHT, SUNNY DAY”
by Tom Brown
You can find impression jasper at Lima Beads (here)
and read a little bit about this gorgeous mysterious stone.
Apparently it's gaining popularity. I know
I hadn't noticed it before...
are you swooning over it too?
Happy Creating!

Penguin Sweaters - Knitters Unite for a cause!

2011-10-20T09:52:00.001-05:00

Baby, it's cold outside...

If you are a knitter, I bet you are grabbing

your needles!

The New Zealand oil spill has left cute, little penguins in need of warmth and protection (here). A call has been put out for knitters to make penguin sweaters, once again (here).

Yes, PENGUIN SWEATERS. Undoubtedly, the most adorable thing you'll hear all week. According to Grist, a yarn store has even posted patterns for how to knit "penguin jumpers" , and they've included where the finished products can be sent. (My personal favorite PDF, here and here, which includes a pattern and has the address for the Penguin Foundation - here.)

The request (which is really really real), isn't the first of its kind, and Grist notes that "the woolens keep oil-soaked birds warm until they're well enough to be cleaned, and prevent them from nibbling oil off their feathers."

And now, do you want to read more about

penguin sweaters? (here)

Bet we beaders could add

a little "bling" to these cuties!

Hold it, ....grab those necked runners

and sweater them up!

Me thinks,

this is a great way to learn to knit

and fight the TV munchies tonight!

Happy Creating!

Three Reasons to go for a walk!

2011-10-18T07:44:00.000-05:00

(1) When you have a creative block.

"If you are seeking creative ideas, go out walking.

Angels whisper to a man

when he goes for a walk." ~Raymond Inmon

(2) When you need motivation.

"Me thinks that the moment my legs begin to move,

my thoughts begin to flow." ~Henry David Thoreau

(3) And When you have trouble working

out a design dilemma.

"Thoughts come clearly while one walks."

~Thomas Mann

It makes sense to start our day with a walk!

If not for our work,

we should do it for our health

and our family...

I'm going to start walking five days a week,

beginning today!

Are you with me?

Happy Creating!

Voting Begins!

2011-10-17T06:00:00.021-05:00

Remember to vote for your favorite creation

in the "Fairy Tale" contest at Stringing magazine,

linked here...

"Heart and Toads" necklace

My related posts are

here and here!

Happy Creating!

Handcrafted Jewelry

2011-10-10T09:15:00.000-05:00

Crazy, I was, to think

the new issue of

"Handcrafted jewelry"

from the editors of Beadwork,

would only be available digital.

(You can get a copy here.)

While in Kansas City this weekend,

I found a hard copy of this special issue

at the Heartland Bead Market in Lenexa, KS.

Like the past issues, it's loaded with inspiration,

interesting projects

(I love the "Shangri-la cuff" by Christine Damm

and the "preserving nature ring" by Mary Jane Dodd which

uses "mica" as a cover for her design),

and I want ALL the fun finds!

We were in KC with family for our

daughter's baby shower.. .and once again I didn't take

any photos! Someone kick start me!

I'm not looking forward to the busy week ahead.

Hopefully, I'll find some time to

play in the studio or plan an artistic project this week!

My sister gave me a membership to one of our local gyms

(thanks again Janie!).

I'm hoping getting back on a regular exercise program

will increase my energy level

so I will have the time to create and do my thing!

What gets you motivated?

Happy Creating!

Progression of a Banana Stupor!

2011-10-07T08:56:00.000-05:00

Katie is sometimes camera shy,

but give her a catnip banana...

and before you know it,

a Banana Stupor!

She is pawing at things

this human can't see.

It all ends in denial...

just say NO to catnip Katie!

(That's not easy when there is

a pusher in the house...Am I bad?)

Enjoy the weekend and

Happy Creating!

PWF Virtual Book Tour!

2011-10-06T08:51:00.004-05:00

Have you heard the news?

Barbara Lewis is having a "Virtual Book Tour" blog-hop!

Link announcing here.

Today is the first day of the 16 day tour

and the first stop is at Maire Dodd's blog (here),

WOWZER, you got to see what she made!

And join the fun,

you might win something!

Happy Creating!

PS I'm wondering how many stops Blogger will

actually let me comment on?

STUPID Blogger! Gerr...

NEVER MIND, I fixed my "comment" problem by -

Click to open Internet Explorer.
Click the Tools button, and then click Internet Options.
Click the Privacy tab, and then move the slider to a position between the top and bottom so you are not blocking or allowing all cookies.
Click Sites.
In the Address of website box, type a website address (I used "blogger.com"), and then click Block or Allow.
As you type, a list of webpages that you have already visited will be displayed. You can click an item in the list and it will be displayed in the Address of website box.
Repeat step 5 for each website you want to block or allow. When you are finished, click OK.
Move the slider back to the position it was originally in, and then click OK.

This works, I successfully commented on 3 blogs
that wouldn't let me comment previously!

Woo Hoo!

Haunting Vintage Necklace Revealed!

2011-10-03T09:51:00.000-05:00

My husband calls it dark and Gothic

or is it "haunting vintage"?

I designed this for a challenge I mentioned

in my Sunday post (here).

To see the current entries

for the "Haunting Vintage Jewelry Challenge", go here ...

My creative thoughts grew like a word game -

haunting - full moon with clouds floating by -

Dracula - vampires - TWILIGHT!

The supplies came naturally once I pulled out the jet cross and black and white jasper oval beads that have a pattern which looks like storm clouds. Vintaj findings, beads and wire, faceted black and smokey glass beads seemed perfect additions for my design. I love the aged finish of the Vintaj line!

"Phantom Necklace"

You have time if you want to

join in the spooky fun!

(Closes on October 23, 2011

at midnight U.S. west coast time.)

My design will be added to the challenge website

this evening when I have more time...

the day is getting away from me,

...see ya!

Happy Creating!

Everyone loves a Blog Hop!

2011-10-03T07:59:00.001-05:00

After surfing the net, looking for challenges, contests and events (or just fun stuff) for my next monthly post "Show and Tell" (current post here), I ran across the Fall Challenge Blog Hop that begins tomorrow, Oct. 4th, 2011. I love the "Hops" and this one looks quite interesting! Mainly because everyone purchases the same kit (some random variation) and creates from the same supplies while following the same guidelines...what a learning experience this Hop will be!

This is the link that announced the Fall Challenge Blog Hop

and pertinent information (here)

And this link lists the participants (here)

This is put on by Michelle Mach

on her amazing blog "Beads and Books" (here).

I believe Michelle organizes her challenges seasonally

and the next one will be a winter challenge in January 2012,

so keep an eye on her blog and

subscribe to her newsletter!

I'm excited to see ALL the designs!

Happy Creating!

Monthly Show and Tell!

2011-10-02T12:58:00.004-05:00

It's time to share...

Recently my blogging buddy Tish McDermott of

"JustaTish Designs" (here) shared a few links, one for Rena Klingenberg's website "Making Jewelry Now" and another for her current creative challenge (which is not a contest) with the theme "haunting vintage" (here). The challenge runs through October 23, 2011. I don't remember seeing this website before but I will be researching it's plethora of information!

The above components are the possible supplies I'll use to join in the fun. I will reveal my "haunting vintage" creation on my blog and then enter it in the challenge, hope to see you there!

Events in the Blogosphere

(names are linked to the blogs)

The "5th Bead Soup Blog Party" has been announced by Lori Anderson ...how she organizes this humongous blog hop amazes me! Artist all over the world want to join the fun. A lottery will determine the lucky 200 jewelry artists that will participate.

Contests?

Start planning your entry pieces:

9th International The Ugly Necklace Contest, Deadline is Thursday, 3/15/2012 (here).

No fees and prizes:

FIRST PRIZE: a $992.93 shopping spree on the Land of Odds website www.landofodds.com)
RUNNER-UP PRIZE: a $399.07 shopping spree on the website. Got to be FUN!

Making plans for the

2012 Tucson Gem Show?

Well, check here for visitor's guide!

... daydreaming...

No doubt,
I've missed an announcement of an event
or someone who is challenging or inspiring us.

Please leave a comment if you want to share a favorite!

FYI ...under my header is a page called "Challenges"
and another for "Inspiration", both are worth a look.

Happy Creating!

Be Inspired by your inner child!

2011-09-26T09:32:00.003-05:00

Looking at my grandson, I realize, you can still have

fun even if you aren't ready to peddle yet!

Or maybe you just choose not to peddle...

One of my drafting professors complained to me

that I didn't like to follow the rules.

I probably looked at him funny because I remember thinking,

well if I'm getting the job done right,

what's the difference?!

Maybe that's why I like art,

NO rules apply!

(Okay, I do try to be safe when mixing chemicals or painting with fire...)

Read and think about these quotes:

One of the virtues of being very young is that you don't let the facts get in the way of your imagination. ~Sam Levenson

My childhood may be over, but that doesn't mean playtime is. ~Ron Olson

A man is getting old when he walks around a puddle instead of through it. ~R.C. Ferguson

In my soul, I am still that small child who did not care about anything else but the beautiful colors of a rainbow. ~Papiha Ghosh

These quotes make me think about using
my child's eye and spirit more,

really look and observe my environment,

see what is close and on the horizon!

And try new things or old techniques in NEW ways,

and mix it up!

My husband can tell you I always like jumping in puddles

and I've splashed my girls a few times too!

What about COLOR...
think about this quote...

Maybe we should develop a Crayola bomb as our next secret weapon. A happiness weapon. A beauty bomb. And every time a crisis developed, we would launch one. It would explode high in the air - explode softly - and send thousands, millions, of little parachutes into the air. Floating down to earth - boxes of Crayolas. And we wouldn't go cheap, either - not little boxes of eight. Boxes of sixty-four, with the sharpener built right in. With silver and gold and copper, magenta and peach and lime, amber and umber and all the rest. And people would smile and get a little funny look on their faces and cover the world with imagination.
~Robert Fulghum

...now that is using color in a NEW way!

I'm ending this post with another favorite Fulgham quote...

Think what a better world it would be if we all - the whole world - had cookies and milk about three o’clock every afternoon and then lay down with our blankies for a nap.
~Robert Fulghum, All I Really Need to Know I Learned in Kindergarten

Naps,

refresh you,

solves problems

and calms you...

yeah, I like that idea!

TODAY be inspired by your inner child!

Happy Creating!

Did you hear the snapping?

2011-09-23T07:12:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I almost snapped...

I'm not proud of it,

but I finally finished the beaded bead project

that I mentioned in my post dated

September 19, 2011, (here).

This is how it began...

that was easy enough!

Next you have to add another round (or row) of #6 beads.

I quickly saw I was in trouble

by the fact it started looking like a lopsided black-berry

AND that I couldn't distinguish my rounds.

I chucked it in the TRASH...

Tubular peyote stitch is confusing to THIS beginner.

FINALLY, I had a light bulb moment!

Use two colors, one row black, the next turquoise

and so on ...

wallah...

Eventually, in doing this stitch correctly,

you will notice a tube shape does form...

see!

This is the core of

the beaded bead I'm making.

Next you start adding the tassels.

I wasn't able to find #15 size beads that matched.

I thought #11 would be small enough...

WRONG!

My tassels are too long and they don't lay right.

I didn't listen to the urge to stop and
I kept going.
This is the finished product...

It looks like a sea urchin to me!

If you try this pattern,

"Turquoise Elegance" by Janie Warmick, pg. 47,

my advice is to use the recommended list of supplies,
practice the peyote stitch
and the tubular peyote stitch,
especially if you are new to bead weaving!

The original photo and
my beaded bead are below...

I would guess to say, the photo in the book is

nearly the actual size of the original beaded bead.

The original beaded bead is amazing.

I still love it!

But mine not so much.

Today, I'm thrilled I finished it,

and happy I didn't chuck it out the back door...LOL!

(beaded black-berry)

My beaded sea urchin is

my reminder to persevere...

YOU can do it my beading friends,

don't give up on those seemingly impossible projects!

Happy Creating!

Blogger Problems?

2011-09-21T09:54:00.001-05:00

I love spending time catching up on what my blogging buddies are doing!

Blogger is still having a problem with the "comment" portion of Blogspot which is a pain in the rear. Some blogs work like they did in the past, then sometimes I can work around the problem and other times I can't get my comments to be accepted. The later is killing me! Some of which are my blogging buddies that had been frequent commenter's on my blog and me on theirs... I wish I could communicate with them like before... If I could do something about this craziness, I would! We just got to wait it out I guess ...POOP!

I need help Blogger!
"someone needs to hold my hand, paw or flipper"

This problem is a real bummer while blog hopping Lori Anderson's Bead Soup Party 2011! So many interesting things to see and I can't always comment... Ugh! (Go take a look it's great fun, despite Blogger's problems!)

Hopefully, Blogger will fix this problem... if you have had difficulty leaving comments on my blog I'm so sorry! If you have had this problem and found a "fix' or just want to sound off, leave me a comment...please? :(

Enjoy your day!

Beaded Bead A Gaga!

2011-09-19T06:41:00.000-05:00

I found a copy of Jean Campbell's book, "Beadwork Creates Beaded Beads" in a used book store (can you believe it?) and snatched it up after going gaga over one of the bead patterns.

Find your copy here.

I got home and read the pattern instructions at least a half a dozen times, and I still don't understand all the instructions...man I wish there were diagrams for this particular beaded bead, though, I'm determined to give it a try. The patterns in this book are from various jewelry designers and the patterns are written by them.

I went shopping for the supplies...

Who knew finding size 3mm cubed seed beads would be nearly impossible in a city the size of Tulsa Oklahoma! As you can see my selection doesn't look a lot like the beads that were used to make the bead I'm planning to make from this book...

"Turquoise Elegance" by Janie Warmick, pg. 47
(My gaga bead...breath taking!)

... but they are pretty, nevertheless, don't you think?

The shop help offered to help me if I get stuck (or should I say when I get stuck!) and they tried making suggestions in the selection, like alternatives to the supply list and gave me encouragement. All a little intimidating, but I think new projects with new techniques usually are, right? Because I want to try to do this myself I was stubborn on picking out at least the same size and shape of beads as in the pattern...I want the out come to be as close to the original as possible!

(The evil eye of Bogey,who is
a bead-bopping thread chasing Jedi knight...
and now band from my studio for a timeout!)

Keep an eye on my blog,

I plan to post this project, so come back soon...

Happy Creating!

Pray for the Rabbit Muse!

2011-09-13T12:54:00.001-05:00

One of my blogging buddies is experiencing a difficult time. She lives and works in New York where they have had major flooding. Her name is Nancy Schindler and her blog is "The Rabbit Muse" (here), please read her latest post.

I've been watching the artist community offering to help her in her time of need. One artist, Lorelei Eurto had a great idea to make an irresistible offer -

"For the rest of the week (9/12-9/18), I (Lorelei) will be donating 20% of my sales in my Etsy store to Nancy's Flood relief efforts. To up the ante, if you buy any piece with a Round Rabbit porcelain component, I will donate 40% of the proceeds to the efforts."

You must check out Lorelei's post, here!

I took her up on this offer...

(Sorry, this is as good a photo as I have right now.

What a team these artists make!)

Please be in prayer for Nancy Schindler

to keep her spirits up

(I know that will be hard

but God can do it!)

and for her peace of mind,

may the damage not be bad,

and that she receives the help

she will need to recover from this!

Don't forget the bunnies,

may they be safe!

I also hope others will help

in a similar way...

Try to enjoy your day!

Easy Beaded Beads!

2011-09-12T06:45:00.000-05:00

Never say never

or you might find yourself doing it ...

While needing a break from the craziness of life,

I decided to try making a beaded bead which is

an easy way to try bead weaving without

the stress or time commitment of completing a large project.

I found a beginner's pattern online at

jewelrylessons.com (linked)

which had a small fee

however, it was exactly what I wanted to get me started

and I love the pattern so much I will use it again, I'm sure!

To find a similar pattern (with the right choice of beads, that is)

and free, I suggest you try

crafteroo.co.uk (linked).

For my pattern,

I picked out 6mm faceted "party" jasper beads

and matched some seed beads

in a green with a copper finish and

a matte terracotta color.

I bought some beading needles

and FireLine beading thread in "smoke".

Tips about this thread - first, run the thread

between your fingers or a tissue to remove

some of the dark color; second, compress the end

of the thread with pliers to flatten it

so it is easier to thread the needle; and third,

use sharp scissors to cut the thread otherwise

the thread end is frayed.

First row,

before the ends are finished,

one end finished,

and now a barrel bead is finished!

I actually wanted to make a round bead so I dropped

a row of the 6mm beads
and a row of seed beads
then finished the ends...

sooo easy and actually quick to make!

Isn't it funny how we get the wrong idea about things...

making these are addictive...

maybe I will do a larger bead weaving project someday,

what's to stop me?

After all I've got my feet wet now!

Here's some additional info -

Beaded bead books available at amazon.com:

the following two books edited by Jean Campbell

"The Art of Beaded Beads: Exploring Design,

Color &Technique"

and

"Beadwork Creates Beaded Beads"

Diane Fitzgerald's "Shaped Beadwork:

Dimensional Jewelry with Peyote Stitch"

Here is a video on making a pretty and

simple crystal beaded bead,
so you can see how easy it really is.

I hope you find something helpful and inspiring here!

It's been awhile since I've

completed an item and

can mark it off my "Must try" list!

"Fantasy Jasper Weave Bracelet"

Happy Creating!

9/11 - Beaders in Memorial!

2011-09-11T07:27:00.000-05:00

"These acts of mass murder were intended to

frighten our nation into chaos and retreat.
But they have failed; our country is strong."

President George W. Bush
September 14, 2001

My husband and I have talked about where we

were 10 years ago on this day. I'm sure we all

remember not only where we were but the shock of it all...

do you remember the controversy regarding what type

of memorial should be built in New York?

I do.

I'm looking forward to seeing more of the

new memorial today.

What I have seen by watching

some of the TV specials this past week, I think they did

a magnificent job... the world will be awe struck!

Below is a video showing what some beaders did as a

memorial to those we lost on Sept. 11, 2001.

May God bless the survivors, first responders,

families of those we lost, our military and our country!

We will never forget!

20% off sale at PWF!

2011-09-09T10:13:00.000-05:00

I'm excited about my new arrival!

You guessed it, a book I've been looking forward to -

"torch-fired enamel jewelry"

by Barbara Lewis

was found on my doorstep yesterday!

Last night I dreamed about the fun I will have

reading this beautiful book packed with

things to learn and make!

You can get your copy at amazon.com

or better yet,

shop the 20% off sale through Sept. 11, 2011

at paintingwithfireartwear.com

and pick up a copy there!

I'll share more about this jewel of a book later...

but one last thing,

if you haven't been involved with learning

the "torch fired enamel method"

you might not know about how

hands on Barbara Lewis is with her students,

even the ones like me,

that use her tutorial at home alone...

she has been extremely helpful and

accessible to answer my questions!

Just saying, this is a "good thing"!

Happy Creating!

Once Upon a Time...

2011-09-07T08:09:00.001-05:00

What images do "Fairy Tales" conjure up?

Maybe fairies with their
magic and enchantment comes to mind.

Contemplating which path to take for the Stringing magazine Spring 2012 contest, I knew I wanted to make something I would wear. And with the theme of "Fairy Tales" I was stumped. I know I'm not the "fairy" type of person...I'm not exactly petite and would feel silly and uncomfortable wearing frilly fairy finery! A lot of women can pull that off, but not me...

So I decided to go with the happy ending aspect!

I began by antiquing a clasp that I made.

Then I sorted through my bead stash and found

these newly purchased beads with toads on them...

and that's when the magic began!

What colors did I see?

Mardi gras colors!

Green, purple, gold,

and black...

perfect for Spring!

And magically

I found beads in my stash that blended well

with the toad beads!

Adding aged copper jump rings to help weave
colorful seed beads around the larger beads
and a puff heart,

I made my necklace, below.

Take a closer look at the resin pendent I made...

I've always smiled at this saying

and think it deserves to be preserved.
Hope it brings a smile to your face
and even a chuckle or two...

Voting begins on Oct. 17.

You can follow this link for more information
to enter the contest or vote.

I kissed a few toadish types before finding my prince,

and I like to think we are living happily ever after!

So does that make my life a fairy tale?

I think not, but I DO love my prince

and our family!

Happy Creating!

Findings are easy to make!

2011-08-29T08:05:00.000-05:00

Handcrafted Wire Findings,

by Denise Peck and Jane Dickerson
(to get a copy, here)

Wire wrapping is addictive for me! Once I form that first loop, I could spend hours making clasps,

ear wires and connecting beads with wire! I think I will be making findings in the evenings, which will give me some unique findings to have on hand when I'm making jewely! Maybe that will curb my snack attacks while watching TV, I'd like that...

This book is an amazinging new addition to my library! Above is one of the hook and eyes that I made by following one of the book's projects. (20 gauge copper wire makes this clasp.) The instructions are easy to follow and the findings turn out perfect! I recommend having this book whether you are a beginner or even a professional, it will inspire you to create your own findings!

Think about using handcrafted findings as your signature
when making your jewelry designs,...
it's easy with this book!

You'll find ear wires, toggles, links and connectors, and much more in this book!

For beginners, a section on basic information

about wire, the necessary
tools and resources has been included.

Check it out!

Silverware Bracelet Adjustment

2011-08-22T14:28:00.002-05:00

Two posts in one day, not bad! I'm pretty proud I didn't damage my daughter's silverware bracelet... you never know how much the artist worked the silver before hand and what will happen in the studio. I was afraid it might be brittle so I was very careful when I worked it to make it smaller.

BEFORE

AFTER

I annealed the ends to soften the silver,

then I quenched it,

fitted it on my mandrel,

and hammered the ends with a rawhide mallet.

(Above, the lines indicate the original size!)

I tried it on, had a shake test, tah-dah!

Next I cleaned the silver up a bit,

used some liver of sulfur to oxidize the silver.

This helped give the pattern depth.

Then I polished it!

See the pattern? Gorgeous!

And if Emily doesn't like that look, she can easily

polish it with tarnish remover for a fresh polished look!

I hope you like it Emily and it fits you better!

If it's a little tight, I think you can pull the ends

to widen the bracelet up a bit...

I'll get it in the mail to you tomorrow!

Enjoy your day,

Millie

Another weekend comes and goes...

2011-08-22T09:25:00.004-05:00

My family loves my mom's

Coconut Dream Pie!

I don't have much experience in making homemade cream pies from scratch, so I'm proud of the way this one turned out! Well, despite finding out mother's secret recipe really doesn't use vanilla extract! Didn't find that out until after I made the pie...RATS!

Ellen's Coconut Dream Pie,

minus the "butternut extract",

still a success!

Coconut Dream Pie

3/4 C sugar
3 Tbsp cornstarch
1/4 tsp salt
2 C whole milk
3 slightly beaten egg yolks
2 Tbsp butter
1 tsp vanilla butter and nut extract (or plain vanilla, if you don't know better!)
1-9 inch pastry shell (bake at 350' for 12-15 minutes or until golden)
1 C flaked coconut
1/3 C flaked toasted coconut for top of pie (turn on broiler; spread coconut on cookie sheet and put under broiler; watch closely; when starting to turn golden turn coconut over with spatula; remove when it reaches your desired golden color)

In saucepan, combine sugar, corn starch, and salt, then gradually stir in milk, over a medium heat. Cook and stir till bubbly. Cook and stir for 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

Stir small amount of hot mixture into slightly beaten yolks; immediately return to hot mixture; cook 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat. Add butter and extract, stir in coconut. Pour into cooled baked pastry shell. Sprinkle toasted coconut on top of pie and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Update 9/6/11: The proper extract to use is McCormick's Imitation Vanilla Butter and Nut flavor, however, I can't seem to locate this locally anymore. To remedy this I used 1/2 tsp. vanilla and 1/2 tsp butter flavored extracts. Taste test shows little to no difference. I did purchase some from a third party on Amazon.com, for me this was an important find since I use the VBN extract in other things too! Anyway, I recommend the 1/2 and 1/2 substitution too!

And there you have it!

But there is more to our weekend -

we visited our daughter, Emily

and son-in-law, Josh.

(Emily loved pickles before she became 6 mo. pregnent,

especially fried pickles, but anyway,

I had to take this classic shot!

I can't believe this was the only picture I took of our visit.)

In summary we delivered the changing table

that "mommy to be" bought on craigslist,

brought Emily a birthday pie

(Happy Birthday this Wednesday!),

got to watch Coach Josh's team scrimmage (Go Falcons!),

and had a great time tailgating with Josh's family

before a Royal baseball game (what a game that was!).

And before we left town we went by

my favorite KC bead store to find these new pliers!

Emily asked me to adjust her bracelet so it won't fall off.

Hopefully, I won't get it too tight!

Yeah, I'm kinda nervious about this project...

(The bride purchased it from

thecottagepath.etsy.com - so pretty!)

Emily is suppose to be wearing it in a wedding

and I hope I don't screw it up

...wish me luck!

Happy Creating!

Fairy Tales!

2011-08-17T12:07:00.001-05:00

Stringing magazine's next open challenge is

for Spring 2012

and the theme is

"Fairy Tales!"

Entries are due to stringing@interweave.com

(link provided at link below)

no later than October 5, 2011.

Voting will be held between October 17th

and November 7th.

For Challenge rules,

visit stringing@magazine.com (here).

Our Snow White (Kendell above),

in her high school production of

"Into the Woods"!

Couldn't resist showing this...

love you KJ!

Usually I learn of these challenges a day late (lol)

but we have over 30 days to plan this project!

You can bet I will be thinking about it...

not committing just yet though...

but don't let me stop you!

Oh don't forget, VOTE for your favorite by

hitting the link above...

voting is still open for the "Winter 2011 Challenge" !

Happy Creating!

What will the day bring?

2011-07-27T09:18:00.002-05:00

Saturday I woke up thinking that we would do one thing and we ended up doing something totally different! Every day seems to be like this, these days...

"Life is not about waiting for the storm to pass,

its about learning how to dance in the rain."

At 7:45 am I got a call that the AC at my late uncle's house, had finally stopped. Instead of dressing for our local coffee house, I dressed in my yard clothes...oh so pretty I looked...NOT! We grabbed QT coffee and drove for an hour to see for ourselves. Sure enough the AC was out. A couple of the neighbors were able to suggest a repair guy which helped me out a bunch, as the guy I had out the previous week couldn't find a problem. After two weeks of lubing the fan motor myself and 6 visits later, the blasted AC was fixed yesterday!

Around 10 am and only an hour away from Oklahoma City where a Bead Show was going on, my sweet husband drove me another hour to cheer me up! I love that man! Yeah, we went despite the fact we looked like "sweaty yard help"! (Remember to dance in the rain...)
I found a few beads...

Small Czech beads for wire wrapping

and lampwork beads.

JACK POT... Metal work supplies...so much to see at the "Fishlips3" (here) table! Great prices, friendly and informative! I tried to talk him into coming to our Renaissance Show in November...keeping my fingers crossed!

Love their name!

It was hard to pick which pattern to pick!

(Machined pressed metal-

copper and brass)

Can't wait to try these copper rivets

and can't wait to try making tube rivets

from these mini brass pipes!

He had a 1 inch disc cutter too!

The demo sold me,

cuts like butter!

I forgot all about my problems!

What did my husband do while I shopped? Lets just say there was plenty to keep him entertained at the OKC Fairgrounds - Gun Show, Computer Show and Boat Show! We had a late lunch at the Brewery in Bricktown....I know, I looked like "s**t", but I was happy and stress free by that time, so who really cares but me, what I look like? I'll probably never see these people again! (Anyway, my husband loves sweaty girls or so he keeps telling me!)

More photos to share...

Still no rain, but we did get a break in the temps.

During the 20 hours of getting a new roof...

this is where Katie was,

under the bed.

To me this face says,

"if I hide and close my eyes really tight,

they can't find me!"

"stop the noise!"

And our cat Bogey was watching them from the window...

whats up with that?

You never know what the day will bring!

...so keep dancing in the rain...

Enjoy your day!

Book Review - Explore, Create, Resinate!

2011-07-14T10:03:00.001-05:00

Explore, Create, Resinate

-Mixed Media Techniques using ICE Resin

by Jen Cushman

dedication to Susan Lenart Kazmer

(click the photo to puchase)

This book has been listed as my "Fav Find" for weeks now maybe months. An awesome new addition to my library, it is! The photos on the cover are intriguing to my artistic eye so there was no hesitation to pick this book up and thumb through it. Immediately, I knew I wanted to take a copy home with me! All the photo examples of works from the Cushman/Kazmer team and the contributing artists - Kecia Deveney, Deryn Mentock, Kristen Robinson, Jane Salley and Barbe Saint John - are fabulous, amazing and "all that"! Just for the inspiration, this book is worth the price!

Susan Lenart Kazmer

It is also a must have for the thorough instructions on mixing and pouring ice resin, embedding and inclusions, and using photos and sealing images. Along with working with open backed bezels, adding color and making resin paper this book offers everything you need to know! The casting or mold making chapter was a surprise and a great addition in my world...making molds is definitely on my to try list! Then they added what I call a troubleshooting chapter called "clean up, over spills and mistakes"...what a bonus! It is filled with tips throughout this book! Originally when I first gave ice resin a try I researched many sources to get tips but this book brings everything together in a wonderfully concise book. Yes, I am thrilled to have it in my library for future projects and inspiration!

Butterfly pendent is one of the projects -

Jen Cushman

Hows this for a great tip from the book -

"You can add surface treatments to your colored bezels after they dry, like stamping images onto the surface. (page 63)" Using Stazon (solvent based ink) with a stamp, then seal the design with a thin coat of resin to keep the stamped image from rubbing off over time. Didn't know THAT!

"Forever In Love"

a class by Jen Cushman and Kristen Robinson

The only disappointment I had was that this book didn't give instructions for making the paper, wire and resin dangles found in the photo below...

Earrings by Deryn Mentock

(not in this book, see her blog here)

Mentock has used this technique of paper, wire and ice resin (above) many times and I swoon over it every time I see it used! (Maybe it's because she used it first, I don't know.) I think I know how it is done, but I would have liked to see this included in the chapter, Making Resin Paper, because it is a personal favorite technique of mine. Otherwise, in my opinion this book is a comprehensive reference book on using Ice Resin. I recommend it for anyone wanting to try ice resin and for all artist libraries!

I can't wait to get my ice resin

and supplies out

for a party of one!

Eventually, I'll have time for that...

Happy Creating!

Blogger is Bonkers!

2011-07-13T09:35:00.000-05:00

Are you having problems commenting on blogs like I am? Blogger says they are working on the problem...yeah, right, you would think their team of programmers could fix this problem.

I discovered a temporary fix - When having this problem check the "Select Profile" pull down menu for "Name/URL" instead of the "Google Account" and type in the required info and enter. This worked for both commenting on my own blog (which I like to do sometimes when someone leaves a comment or question) and on other blogs too! Yea me!

Hope this helps others having this problem!!
Enjoy your day!

Ramdom Reminders to Myself...

2011-07-08T09:40:00.001-05:00

Summer is the perfect time for me to escape into a novel! Even as busy as I've been with what life has thrown at me (but don't get me started on that), reading has been a blessing to me. For me books are sort of a safe sleeping sedative, but still addictive, just the same! Last weekend I found a local used bookstore that will be a great way to save on my required sleeping aid (my normal used bookstore recently closed...boo hoo). But before diving into my newly purchased novels, I have been trying to catch up on reading my jewelry making magazines, where I've found lots of things I want to try, buy and remember! Here are just a few things to share and reminders to me...

Cool Tools

Crafted Finding Riveting System

Two step tube riveting system priced around $90 at the creator's website here (generally same price at other sites I looked at, however Rings & Things offered it at roughly $8 cheaper if you purchase wholesale). Also you can find accessories for this system changing the size of hole and rivet press at the above link. A little pricey, in my opinion, but if you make rivets on a regular basis, this will speed the process up and prevent any hammer damage, often a problem. Cool tool for sure!

Cold Connection Starter Kit

What a cool way to get started with cold connections but with a starter kit from microfasteners.com (here)? This kit is priced just under $36 which ain't bad!

Earring Card Punch Kits

I've always been drawn to earrings, especially artisan earrings. I really appreciate when they are displayed on handcrafted earring cards...they certainly catch my eyes! At Easy Earring Cards (here) you'll find an easy way to produce hand crafted card to display and promote your business. This kit is priced around $58 and contains punches and card stock. Definitely a fun find!

eMag

In the past, I have looked forward to the annual Handcrafted Jewelry magazine and hope to see one hit the newsstand sometime soon. (Keeping my fingers crossed they haven't dropped this paper version!) Now, they do offer an "eMag" format of my beloved magazine at Interweave's website (here) for both Mac and PC...I need to give a look see at this version, when I give the time to really appreciate it! It is priced at $9.97 which sounds reasonable considering all the new techniques I've learned from the paper version. (I'm of that age that prefers the traditional magazine...does that age me? Hey, I also like the hard bound novels over the paper! At today's prices, ya gotta give a little...)

Inspiration

"In large measure becoming an artist consists of learning to accept yourself, which makes your work personal, and in following your own voice, which makes your work distinctive."

"Fallingwaters" favorite Wright design!

"at age ninety Frank Lloyd Wright was still designing, Imogen Cunningham still photographing, Stravinsky still composing, Picasso still painting." ( Right on...at 57, this is a great reminder that my time to create isn't over, despite the depressing thoughts that tell me I will never get back to making jewelry regularly...I need to be patient! The time WILL come! Remember old "Rose" from the Titanic movie - I love the scene where she is in her studio at the potter's wheel!)

I loved the image of Old Rose in her studio!

"Fears about artmaking fall into two families: fears about yourself, and fears about your reception by others. In general way, fears about yourself prevent you from doing your best work, while fears about your reception by others prevent you from doing your own work."

Just a few "random reminders"!

Maybe tonight I can checkout my blogging buddies...

one blog at a time!

Hope you find something memorable here...

Happy Creating!

Light Up the Night!

2011-05-31T11:18:00.000-05:00

"One of Hawaii’s most dramatic annual celebrations began at sunset on Memorial Day, when more than 3,000 candle-lighted lanterns were floated on the water, illuminating the ocean off Magic Island at Honolulu’s Ala Moana Beach Park. The ceremony, which draws more than 40,000 people annually, honors the dead, with the lanterns bearing individual and community remembrances and prayers."

What a lovely way to remember those we've lost! Maybe someday hubby and I will venture there for our Memorial Day rememberance...

Speaking of Hawaii, I recently made our favorite burgers from Maui!

Grilled fresh pineapple and hamburger patty with

melted swiss cheese and

sweet onions sauted in teriyaki sauce...

all on a kaiser roll...

it's a killer!

A Maui treat for your mouth!

Not a lot of jewelry making going on around here, however, we stayed busy during our Memorial Day weekend... put flowers out at the cemetary (covered four cities in two days), ate at AQ Chicken House in Springdale, AR (day trip), furniture shopped, worked in the garden until we were exhausted (still more to do but I feel good about getting so much done) and we did a little relaxing (muchly needed to get a fresh start for the week)!

I'm still trying to fix my Blogger problems

and trying to stay calm while getting control of my life

...not always easy!

Hope you all had a great three day weekend

with family, friends and recharging!

Happy Creating!

Secretariat Bracelet!

2011-05-23T10:33:00.008-05:00

This woman is not a huge fan of horses. Actually, I was traumatized at a family event involving horses when I was four or five. I've tried to overcome some my fears despite being bucked off and getting back on regardless of the pain I felt - sometimes I even bail out (jump), when they start that crap! I can't seem to stop giving off signals that horses immediately know I am fearful of their kind...once a horse turned and bit my ankle while I was on his back...NOT a good history of horse encounters, do I have! But I do love to watch them frolic in meadows and run at the track. Yesterday I finally rented the movie, "Secretariat". Great movie! Besides the footage of this horse running (he could fly,literally I believe), I loved the amazing bond between him and his owner!

The Secretariat Bracelet.

After the movie, I was inspired to make this bracelet using fabric, copper wire warping, with beads of semi precious stones and glass, all strung on memory wire. Next time I have an afternoon to myself, I want to experiment with using fabric beads again! So many ideas...so little time! And a mental note - don't use oval memory bracelet wire if you have small wrests!

Close up of my roadrunner charms.

Update at ammjewelry: A family member asked if I missed blogging, it's been over a month sense my last post. My answer was honest at the time. Only because my stress level has been so high, did I answer that question the way I did. But since then, I've thought about how I should have answered. I should have said, I'm looking forward to having my life back! I dream of having my life back... I miss blogging and spending my spare time making jewelry, but these days, spare time is rare and I need to use what time I have recharging my batteries and that is usually being a couch potato! (Sad.) The stress is somewhat less, now; emotionally I feel more myself, and I'm sleeping better, so that is a good sign! Right?

A quote that means a lot to me during this crazy time...

"We must remember to play after every storm”.

- Mattie J. T. Stepanek

Speaking of storms,

please keep the recent tornado victims in your prayers!

The Salvation Army
is supporting relief efforts in Joplin, Missouri,
which was hit by a deadly tornado Sunday.
A Salvation Army emergency disaster services team based out Pittsburg, Kansas has been deployed to Joplin to help carry out mass feeding for residents and first responders through a mobile feeding kitchen capable of serving thousands of meals a day.
Teams from Kirksville and Springfield, Missouri are also enroute. Meanwhile, in hard-hit Reading, Kansas, which was nearly demolished by a tornado late Saturday night, two Salvation Army mobile feeding kitchens, one stationary and one roaming, served meals, snacks and cold drinks to more than 250 people Saturday.
Financial donations to The Salvation Army
disaster relief efforts
may be made by texting the word ARMY to 90999
for an automatic $10 donation.
To make a credit card donation, call 1-800-SAL-ARMY or go to SalvationArmy.us. Checks may be mailed to The Salvation Army, 3637 Broadway Ave., Kansas City, MO 64111.
Please remember the American Red Cross (here) too!

Until next time...

Happy Creating!

Hiatus Not Good-bye!

2011-04-18T09:01:00.000-05:00

I'm taking a hiatus from blogging. Life is getting complicated and I need to simplify my life as much as possible for awhile. People tell me you have to take care of yourself during these stressful times. But it's hard when your personality is such that you automatically pick up the pieces, the worries and work of those you love, then add that load to your own burdens. Eventually you find yourself being pulled in all sorts of directions, wondering how you got here, then you realize you are burning out and having impromptu meltdowns... we all know that's not pretty! :) What's a woman to do? lol

I know most of you come to my blog to see the jewelry, so I won't bore you with crazy rants about my life and the people in it, or the things I'm having to do. (I will say that this hiatus isn't because I'm fighting a terrible illness ...thank you Lord! That's where my mind usually goes when I read a post like this.) My fight is to take better care of myself, learn to say no and prioritize. I need to do, what I need to do, to get through this period of my life. And I know I will, it's just not a fun time!

My plan is to return to jewelry making with a renewed passion for creating, learning and sharing. I will peek in occasionally to see what's going on in the jewelry making world. This blog has been a great passion and I will miss my daily connection to you all! But I will be back...

Happy Creating!

Fabric Beads

2011-04-08T09:19:00.002-05:00

I'm toying with ideas, but I haven't actually started making fabric beads for my Ayala Bar inspired bracelet yet (see my last post April 4th 2011). My body can't seem to kick this bronchitis. I'm dragging... Hubby and I keep passing this "cold" back and forth. We are such fun to be around...NOT! When I feel like doing something fun, I end up wading thru paperwork or doing housework or trying to figure out what to cook for dinner. Why am I so responsible? At night, I just want to crash on the couch! And my yard work is screaming at me (just don't think my lungs can tackle that today - maybe hubby will help this weekend?)! Soon, I will be back to doing " my stuff", I keep telling myself...have patience... I'm starting to feel stressed!

Enough about my problems,
I wanted to post something today,

I'm missing my blogging world...

I thought if you are toying with making fabric beads too,

you might be interested on what I've found on the Internet...

books from amazon.com (here)...

Fabulous Fabric Beads: Create Custom Beads and Art Jewelry

by Kristal Wick

Fabric Jewelry Wrapped, Braided and Sewn

by Heidi Pridemore

and Nancy Zieman (who provides a DVD with this book)

Felt, Fabric, and Fiber Jewelry: 20 Beautiful

Projects to Bead, Stitch, Knot, and Braid

by Sherri Haab

A video interview with Kristal Wick...

and tutorials on blogs!

FIRST - Visit "Beading Gem Journal's" blog which gives wonderful links in her post named "How To Make Fabric Jewelry Tutorial Links" (here).

AND for the animal lover - felting jewelry from "Beading Gem Journal", (here). Post title "Felt Inspirations - From Jewelry to Sculpture". So cute! (Felting is fiber so that counts as a fabric. Go see these animals!}

Beading Gem Journal has a gazillion posts,

so much to see there...interesting stuff!

I'm exhausted now...whew...

I got to get ready for my day!

Happy Creating!

Mad About Ayala Bar Bracelets!

2011-04-04T12:35:00.000-05:00

I finally got over to J Spencer's

and bought myself an Ayala Bar bracelet!

Made with fabric, metal and beads!

She blends these elements

to create a rich mosaic

and intricate detailed bracelet!

This line fascinates me greatly...

it's my inspiration for a bracelet I'm currently designing

and I'll be posting soon...

What is inspiring you these days?

Happy Creating!

April Book of the Month!

2011-04-01T10:40:00.001-05:00

Gemstones of the World

by Walter Schumann

(here)

Amazon.com product descriptions states: This is the standard reference for over twenty years, now completely revised and updated with many new illustrations. "Gemstones of the World" is the most comprehensive and informative colour manual of the world's gemstones and includes more than 1,400 examples. Opposite each illustration the text provides an exact description of the particular stone, including details of the properties and chemical composition which makes the stone unique. Information on location of major deposits, alternative names, stones most easily identified incorrectly, and diagrams of their crystal habits are also given. The tables on gemstones' properties and constants provide a basic system of elimination for all unidentified stones. There are also eleven tables listing commercial and mineral names, refractive indices, dispersion, pleochroism, fluorescence, absorption spectra and specific gravities of gems. From the historical to the scientific, this extraordinary reference source is filled with fascinating facts about gemstones, both precious and semi-precious. It's also a worldwide scientific survey, with stunning colour photographs of each gem and its varieties.

What I like about this book is that it is small and I can toss it in my purse, lots of interesting information for the rock hound, lapidarist or the curious beader and the photos are great! You can usually find this in a bead store for sale but if not I linked to amazon.com, above. Great book to have on your workbench!

No fool'n!

More later on this book,

gotta go get my hair corrected...

had a bad haircut a couple weeks ago,

wish me luck!

Happy Creating!

Tackling Tuesday!

2011-03-29T10:34:00.000-05:00

After a restless night,

I'm slowly tackling my "Tuesday To Do List"...

I got my son-in-law's necklace

ready to fit and add the clasp.

Next I got my daughter's necklace

ready to fit and add the clasp.

I'm ready for our next visit!

Then "squirrel baby"

stole some of the leather cord I had out

and dragged it over to where I was, to play...

Bogey loves shoelaces, cords, and string...

I teased him with it

until he assumed the position

that gave him his nickname...

"squirrel baby"!!

Get it Boge!

On with my day...

Happy Creating!

It's been a heck of a week!

2011-03-27T19:12:00.041-05:00

Has it been two weeks since my last post?
No, actually it's only been one week,
seems longer for some reason.

It's become an annual event in Spring, the past three years, to break one of my little toes...man, this year it was a doozy too! I won't forget the snap, crack and pop when my toe hit the door frame...must be the worse breakage yet!

I also seem to get bronchitis in the Spring,

so right now, with all my coughing, sneezing and waddling around,

I might be mistaken for the "Aflac Duck"...

... ya just got to laugh at yourself, sometimes!

Despite all that,
I'm enjoying the beginnings of Spring!

I have two things to share...

First,

My beloved rock tumbler broke or

should I say the belt broke...

I learned my tumbler is now obsolete,

but if you do have one like mine
(Chicago - No. 46376)

you can replace the belt with

a belt from Harbor Freight for $6.00.

Side by side the belts don't look a like,
but the replacement works perfect
in my older model!
Harbor Freight sells the new tumbler model
for just under $50,

in case you are interested.
That's really a good deal!

Second,

I finally got around to using a couple

of the enameled double headpins

that I made recently.

I love the way these turned out!

The enamel perfectly matched

these round faceted cut Czech beads!

When I test drove these earrings today,

I didn't feel like the "Aflec Duck" any longer!

Even though, I sound and walk like him...

Happy Creating!

Beady Weekend!

2011-03-21T09:03:00.001-05:00

I'm ashamed to say I've never been to our

local (5th Annual)

Bead Blast...

sometimes, I'm so slow to pickup on things!

It's put on by the Oklahoma Bead Society

and their website is linked here .

Put it on your calendar - April 16th!

The Bead Market was in Tulsa this past weekend

and I managed to hit it twice.

A few of my favorite vendors weren't at this show this year

...one in particular was missing,

I call him "Mr. Seed Bead"

...dang,

oh well, I did find a few things to add to my stash anyway!

Saturday's finds

and Sunday's finds!

As always my "to do" list is long this week,

so I better get going...

Happy Creating!

Part 2 - Enameling Headpins Mystery

2011-03-17T15:30:00.144-05:00

Before I begin, I'd like to say

Happy St. Patrick's Day to all!

Some Irish don't care for

the "kiss me, I'm Irish" saying,

but, the lips above remind me

of Mick Jagger's pouty mouth when he sings...lol!

It turned out to be a great day to finish my enameled headpins. Part 1 of making enameled headpins was posted on March 6 (here), in case you missed it. Theoretically, the process of enamelling headpins would not be split into two days, but sometimes you gotta do, what you gotta do, to get the job done. Ideally you would torch your wire and form a ball on the end, next dip the wire into a soapy solution (helps to clean the tip of any residue), then into clear water, and then back into the flame, heat, dip into the enamel, and then place into the heated vermiculite to cool. (Or at least that was what I read.) Enameled headpin completed...heres how I did it.

At my workbench, I switched on the radio and "Mick" was singing "Satisfaction", so I took that as a good sign and I got busy... Part 2, begins with a copper wire that already has a ball formed on the end. Next I torched the copper ball until it was a glowing orange color, dipped it into the clear medium fusing enamel (flux), and back into the flame until it glowed orange again then I dipped it again in the flux and back into the flame it went.

Next, I used the opaque "nut" colored enamel (tan), and repeated the process of heating and dipping it into the colored enamel giving an addition two coats to the ball. (At this point I had two clear, and two opaque nut colored enamel layers.) Ending with two coats of the transparent turquoise enamel. Making a total of 6 coats of powdered enamel. After the last coat is fired I moved the ball of enamel into the hot part of the flame making it glow orange and removed it from the flame. With another pair of pliers I positioned the wire so I could repeat the process on the other end. Once completed, I let the wire cool slightly and put it in the small crockpot of vermeculite to completely cool.

I practiced this process a few more times and decided to take a break. Curiousity got the better of me, so I removed the first headpin and noticed a chip on one end. Looked at another...chipped! I took a close look of the last two headpins I worked on...NO CHIPS...so I balanced them on an empty tin to finish cooling. 20 minutes later, still no chips....YAY!

And a closer look...

Out of 12 enamel ends, 4 are chipped - they were the ends in the vermeculite!? I deduce that air drying gave better results - no chipping. I'll need to do a few more enamelings to see how it goes to be sure and I'll report back at a later date. It's a mystery I want to solve!

I'm working on some ideas on how

to use my new enameled headpins,

and plan to post my creations soon...

Satisfaction!

Happy Creating!

Wild Beads, I think I love you...

2011-03-12T17:10:00.001-06:00

Sometimes you just got to jump on an

unexpected opportunity!

Last Thursday, my husband needed to go to Dallas, so I decided to be the good wife that I am and drive him (he is still suffering from a herniated disc in his neck). While he was in his meeting, I discovered the "BEST little bead shop in Texas"!

Actually it is HUGE! I love this shop!

Located at 2833 Galleria Dr.,

which is one block north of Six Flags Mall, in Arlington, TX.

I'll tell you a bit about my new addition to my favorite bead shop list! The ladies working the day that I visited Wild Beads, were friendly and helpful! Beads are everywhere! You could go blind admiring their huge selection of semi-precious stones, seed beads (delicas, bugles, triangle, cube, etc.), pearls, crystals and metal beads and findings, ...and OMG, their stock of Czech beads blew my mind! They have tools, tools and more tools! I found supplies for lampworking, kits to fuse glass, precious metal clay and supplies, and my favorite, lots of wire for wrapping. Against one wall is a huge area set aside for classes, and another area to sit and make your jewelry while at the shop. The prices all seemed reasonable and I saw some deals I couldn't refuse! I wish I had the finances to go wild but times are tough. Wild Beads is the perfect shop for my needs and I will be BACK! If you are in the Dallas area for some reason, you must go to Arlington and check this place out!!

Wild Beads has a website, here.

I heart Wild Beads!

Happy Creating!

Part 1 - Preparing to Enamel Headpins

2011-03-06T18:26:00.109-06:00

As a member of "paintingwithfire.ning.com", I have access to the tutorial for headpins. This tutorial is more like a chat diary made up of members discussing their experiences making enameled headpins. Anyways, it's been very helpful and I studied what has been reported, and used it as my guide to make headpins.

To get ready, I precut 20 gauge copper wire, into 6 inch long pieces. Then I gathered together my supplies: a torch, a jar of clear water and a jar of soapy water (made with "automatic dishwasher" soap mixed with water), vermiculite and a pair of pliers to hold the wire while torching one of the ends.

This video found on YouTube shows how to make a ball on the end of a silver wire:

Getting silver wire to ball up is much easier and quicker then trying it with copper wire. Sometimes the ball of copper can fall off, so expect to practice before getting the hang of this technique. Be aware that this might happen, so take the safety precausions necessary and work over a surface that is fire safe.

Holding your wire with pliers, heat up the last inch of your wire to an orange color and then put the tip of the wire in hottest part (point) of the flame. Move the wire back and forth to keep the last inch of the wire heated. At this point a ball should form at the end of your wire. When the ball forms, remove the wire from the flame and dip it in the soapy water and then into the water.

You can see some of the residue from the wire in the soapy suds. You can repeat this process of balling the wire on the other end of the wire, if you like. Rinse off the wires in the water and wipe dry, making them ready to enamel.

Next post, I will enamel these babies!

Happy Creating!

Artbeads.com Product Reviewer

2011-03-03T09:05:00.002-06:00

I made a quick reality check, after receiving an email from Artbeads.com (here). I must admit that I know I wasn't singled out for any other reason then to help their sells. But I did get a rush of excitement when I read that they wanted me to be a Artbeads.com product reviewer! (I'm nerdy!) After 5 product reviews you earn a badge for your profile...and these days I'm all about the "badges"! (Check my sidebar for my current badges...ha!)

I even dug out this necklace, to show how I used a particular product (beading chain) for my product review. Actually, all the components besides the heart clasp was purchased from Artbeads.com. Check out their review program yourself and earn a BADGE, like ME!

I love this chain...

look how flexible it is

and it is strong!

It's been a good week for me. I've been extremely productive OUTSIDE the studio, plus I was kidnapped (always fun) yesterday when I took papers up to my husband's office for him to sign. Off to visit the farm we went...

Bazarro Bogey (iPhone - photo)

Airing out our REAL Bogey and Katie.

They love getting fresh air this time of year!

Just a few things left to wrap up,

pack, and off we go to

visit our family.

Next week, I do our taxes,

and I hope to tackle enameling headpins

...unless I'm kidnapped again!

What will you be doing?

Enjoy your weekends!

Happy Creating!

Waking up to Spring!

2011-03-01T10:02:00.000-06:00

Happy March 1st to you all!

Come see what's happening in our garden...

Bert the bunny,

enjoying fresh parsley that was

leftover from making tabouli salad

last week.

With all the snow we had,

I was afraid my daffodils wouldn't survive!

To my surprise...

things are alive in my garden!

Joy!

Bert has been nibbling on the

Blue Bells as they peek out.

I'll use blood-meal to discourage Bert

from snacking on these tender leaves again!

Maybe in a month the azaleas will bloom...

I'm hoping!

Things are waking up in our gardens,

have you looked close to see

what's happening?

I better get busy,

so I can find time to do what I truly love,

make jewelry...soon...

Happy Creating!

March Book of the Month

2011-02-28T08:52:00.000-06:00

Beadwork Inspired by Art:

Impressionist Jewelry and Accessories

By Jean Campbell and Judith Durant (here)

If you have been reading my blog, you may recall my attempts to design from the inspiration of Monet (post) and Matisse (post), links provided. On my own, I learned so much about the artist's work and had great fun interpreting their work my way! My March Book of the Month offers examples of jewelry inspired by some of the best known Impressionists. The authors also have another book out that gives examples of jewelry inspired by "Art Nouveau"...I hope they eventually cover other styles of art! Campbell and Durant do have an eye for detail, they seem to effortlessly design a piece of jewelry that nails the look and feel of their chosen painting! As I turned each page, I tried to soak in the colors, shapes and textures, that they used to represent these great paintings. I wish I had found this book before I took on my projects! So much to learn, so little time...

(My Matisse Bracelet)

You must take a look at this book

and see the works of "jewelry" art!

The cover photo just teases you...

Happy Creating!

Patiently waiting...

2011-02-21T09:12:00.001-06:00

I'm patiently waiting

for a few supplies to arrive,

so I can finish some jewelry projects.

Waiting isn't boring around here,
because there is always something

going on in our lives,

keeping us busy...

Like the hay barn, at our farm,

had part of the roof collapse
from the weight of the snow...

At least it didn't all come tumbling down!

And my little friend was still standing guard...

Dan the donkey,

who is a natural cow protector

and farm greeter!

Here, I'm tickling his hairy head

and whispering sweet nothings,

while Dan is giving me the fish-eye!

(Hoofed creatures do put the scare in me!
Here, I'm thinking,

"Don't kick me Danny-boy!"
I wanted to hug this big puppy
by the time we left...)

While I wait for those packages to arrive,

I'll be catching up on ALL my paperwork...

destress by fixing that mess!
And taking care of
some of my many duties...
I'll be back with some pretties next week!

Happy Creating!

Jewelry Making Challenges Help You Grow!

2011-02-21T06:20:00.001-06:00

This is my preview post for a pull down menu (soon to be above - see Challenges!), showing links to contests and challenges, even links to submit your designs to some of my favorite magazines. After all we like challenges, don't we? (If you want to suggest another challenge, contest or submission link, or even a correction, please leave a comment. Thanks for checking this out!)

Current or upcoming contests at Fire Mountain Gems (link here):

1) Seed Beads, Glass or Acrylic Jewelry-Making Contest (Currently Open - Closes March 7, 2011)

2) Gemstone Jewelry Making Contest (Opens March 8, 2011 - Closes May 9, 2011)

3) Pearls, Organic Beads or Molding Clay Contest (Opens May 10, 2011 - Closes July 11, 2011)

Bead Star 2011 - Enter the contest to be published in this annual magazine (linked here)!

Bead Dreams Competition and Exhibit 2011 (linked here) Each year, Bead&Button magazine sponsors Bead Dreams, a juried competition of exceptional bead artistry from around the world.

Stringing Magazine Challenges are linked here. Challenge yourself by creating a piece using stringing or simple wirework techniques based on a title provided by the editors of Stringing. All entries will be posted on the website, and readers will have a chance to vote on their favorites.

BeadStyle Magazine Challenges can be found on their website (linked here). then look for the Magazine pull down menu at top, "challenges" will be listed, tap on it. You should now find the current or up coming challenge. You can vote on the current finalist, too!

Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artists magazine offers contests with links on their website (linked here). They offer the "Jewelry Art Award" and "The Gemmys".

On going Monthly Contests:

Art Bead Scene Challenge (linked here to homepage, hit "ABS Monthly Challenge" link). This monthly challenge is inspired by a work of art and must include at least one art bead. Deadline: end of each month.

Monthly Challenge Vintaj (link here) - Create jewelry, handmade ornaments, cards, home decor, and accessories using Vintaj products. Deadline varies; check website for details.

If you are interested in contributing to the various jewelry making magazines, give these links a try (magazine name linked below either to submission page or their home page):

Step by Step Wire Jewelry

Bead Trends - Bead Trends is an international magazine.

Bead and Button Magazine

Bead Style Magazine

Stringing Magazine

On your mark,

get set,

go...

Happy Creating!

New beads, wire and more!

2011-02-16T09:49:00.003-06:00

While visiting in Kansas City this weekend, I ran by Heartland Bead Market which is nearby in Lenexa. It's one of my favorite bead stores to visit when we're in Kansas...

I brought home these neutral but unique Czech beads,

natural copper and non-tarnishing silver

Artistic Wire,

and a few metal beads and various metal spacers for my stash!
They also had the, 2011 Spring Wirework issue, so I grabbed a copy to take home!

I love these special issues.

Good news about Heartland Bead Market: they now have a sister store in Olathe named "the Bead Shop" which doesn't stock the same merchandise. I must visit them next time! They are now open on Sundays - Noon to 4:00 PM!

Bad news is: I was quite disappointed that they had displays of Czech beads in the backroom of Heartland that were not for sell (a holding place until they decide to display in the storefront). I saw lots of new beads that couldn't come home with me! Then I learned my frequent buyer card was not good any longer... I was sad I never remembered my cards to cash them in! But they do have a new point system setup to share between both stores and I got my name enrolled!

Does anyone know of a good

wholesale website for

Czech beads?

Oh, well, such is life...

I'm still looking forward to

hitting both shops next time!

Happy Creating!

OMG! Mushroom Whatnots!

2011-02-15T08:43:00.001-06:00

Valentine from our grandson, Ledger!

(Almost 2 years old - 2011)

We had a lowkey Valentine's Day dinner at home in our PJs. (My hubby is dealing with a herniated disc in his neck so when he got home from work and was feeling bad, we decided to relax in our PJs.) I planned to make one of our favorite treats - Mushroom Whatnots! This recipe is definitely worth sharing with you!! Whatnots are served at the Spudder's Steakhouse in Tulsa OK. Every ten years or so, our local newspaper publishes this recipe (I've made these several times and have made notes). These decadent treats, rich with all the bad for you ingredients like cream cheese, sour cream, butter, cheddar cheese even bacon, are to die for - I'm not exagerating!

(Before popping in the oven.)

Mushroom Whatnots

20-25 medium mushrooms

Small pieces of sliced American Cheese for each mushroom

Filling:
8 oz. Cream cheese (low fat works!)
½ C. sour cream (lite works!)
½ C. mayonnaise (can use lite mayo but NEVER use miracle whip, Roger!)
1 scallion, finely chopped (minced)
1/4 C. bacon bits
1 tsp. Lawry’s seasoned salt
1 tsp. Worcestershire sauce
Juice of 1 lemon = 3 Tblsp of lemon juice

In a mixer, beat cream cheese, sour cream and mayonnaise until smooth. Add remaining ingredients and continue mixing until cream.

Gently wash mushrooms and remove steams. Fill hole in cap with cream cheese mixture. Top each mushroom with piece of cheese.

Butter topping:
2 sticks of butter at room temperature
½ tsp. Garlic powder
1/4 tsp. Black pepper
1 tsp. Parsley flakes
½ small yellow onion, peeled and finely diced (minced)

Whip butter until smooth. Add remaining ingredients and mix until smooth.

Place a dab of seasoned butter on top of cheese. Place mushrooms in shallow baking pan and cook at 350 degrees for about 15 minutes. Makes appetizer servings for 8-10. Heavenly with wine and artisan bread to sop up the buttery goodness!

I was so excited to eat them I almost forgot to take a picture! Last night I used large mushroom caps and we have enough for another night. (Also, I used half the recipe and will freeze the other half of the filling and half the topping and thaw it for another time using fresh mushrooms.)

Next, we had surf and turf, broccoli and cheese with a brown and wild rice dish for our menu.

Hubby felt better after half a percocet

and half a glass of wine!

What the heck...

Our big night out will be later

this month - dinner and a James Taylor concert!

Happy Creating!

Happy St. Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T09:49:00.002-06:00

52% of men propose on Valentine’s Day

10% Of Americans get engaged on

Valentines Day

Wearing a wedding ring on the fourth finger of the left hand dates back to ancient Egypt, where it was believed that the vein of love ran from this finger directly to the heart.

Consumers will spend about

$3.5 billion on jewelry this Valentine's Day,

along with $1.7 billion on flowers,

$1.5 billion on candy

and $1.1 billion on greeting cards.

My gift to you are reliable ways to care and clean those precious new and old jewelry gifts from your sweetheart:

* Soak plain gold jewelry and pieces with diamonds, rubies, sapphires, emeralds, amethyst, or amber in mild dishwashing liquid and warm water. (Use a bowl, not a sink.) Clean dirt from settings with a soft toothbrush. Dry with a soft chamois cloth.

* Buff pearls, mother-of-pearl, opals, or turquoise with a soft, dry chamois. Never use water (or chemicals), which can damage them. Clean settings around opals or turquoise with a soft, dry toothbrush. Apply any hair spray, makeup, or perfume before putting on pearls, whose color can be changed by those products.

* Clean silver with silver polish or a little non-gel toothpaste. Apply it gently with a damp sponge, rinse, then buff with a soft cloth.

Sometime ago I read how to clean copper jewelry on Tish McDermott's blog JustaTish (here) by using lemon and salt. According to ehow.com, lemon juice will also clean brass (here).

Another tip is to save the little packets of drying agents that drug companies place in both boxes and bottles of medicines. These packets are also found in new purses and new shoes. If you just throw them in your jewelry box, or store them in a plastic bag along with your metal sheets and wire, they prevent tarnish too.

Valentine's Day is a special day for us all! My sweetie and I will be having a special romantic dinner at home. What makes it "special" (besides being with my lover man and best friend) are the "whatnots" (yum!) that I'm going to make for my lover man! I'll share the recipe and photos in my next post! We are going to see Sweet Baby James (James Taylor...squeal!!) later this month for our Valentines gift to each other!

Enjoy your day

Blogging Buddies!

Hammered Copper Heart Earrings!

2011-02-10T11:31:00.000-06:00

Get ready, it's almost

St. Valentine's Day!

It will be here before you know it...are you ready? We are! Lucky for us we bought tickets for James Taylor when they opened the ticket office online. (So what if the actual concert isn't on the 14th!) Who knew we would have this kind of weather preventing me from running around town, so I'm doubly glad we got those tickets early. We're still knee deep in snow around here!

Anyway, I found time to play with some copper wire and made the heart charms above. A little twisting, filing and hammering, then in the rock tumbler to polish and work harden they went.

I made the ear hooks, added a Czech bead and wrapped an enameled headpin made by SueBeads.com (the enamel is actually a dirty orange color that works well with the copper and bead - not YELLOW like the photo suggests - darn it!).

And here is a photo showing how they hang...I couldn't get outside to take my photos, so I'm not happy with my posted pictures today...oh well, the snow is suppose to melt this weekend....yay!!

Everybody have a

Happy Valentine's Day!

Happy Creating!

You gotta read this!

2011-02-08T07:40:00.000-06:00

I just read a post by Pam at "The Blue Between" that I really needed to read at this time, so I wanted to steer my readers to here so you can check it out. I think a lot of us are feeling like Pam, I know I do!

Enjoy your day!