Bella Dio Designs

Proper Courtship circa 1882

2008-04-25T09:30:00.010-05:00

I came across this while surfing. At first I chuckled to myself and then I thought about it for awhile. Would it really be so bad? A young lady acting like a young lady? And a suitor coming to visit with flowers in hand trying to win you over? I know that I am a hopeless romantic, but maybe , just maybe we could learn a few lessons from our ancestors.

I hope that you take a moment to read this little excerpt from the handy guide: Our Deportment: The Manners, Conduct and Dress of the Most Refined Society, published in 1882.

Suitors (always a man back in those days) and ladies were to observe strict etiquette if they were to be perceived as properly bred and suitable.

For the ladies:

No mixed messages

“A young lady who is not engaged may receive calls and attention from such unmarried gentlemen as she desires, and may accept invitation to ride, to concerts, to theatres, etc. She should use due discretion, however, as to whom she favors by the acceptance of such invitations. A young lady should not allow special attention from anyone to whom she is not specially attracted, because, first, she may do injury to the gentleman in seeming to give his suit encouragement; and, secondly, she may keep away from her those whom she likes better, but will not approach her under the mistaken idea that her feelings are already interested.”

Play hard to get, sort of

“No well bred lady will too eagerly receive the attentions of a gentlemen, no matter how much she admires him; nor, on the other hand, will she be so reserved as to altogether discourage him.”

No flirting!

“It is only the contemptible flirt that keeps an honorable man in suspense for the purpose of glorifying herself by his attentions in the eyes of friends. Nor would any but a frivolous or vicious girl boast of the offer she has received and rejected.”

For the Gentlemen:

Play fair

“Gentlemen are at liberty to accept invitations and give them ad libitum. As soon, however, as a young gentleman neglects all others, to devote himself to a single lady, he gives that lady reason to suppose that he is particularly attracted to her, and may give her cause to believe she is to become engaged to him, without telling her so. A gentleman who does not contemplate matrimony should not pay too exclusive attention to any one lady.”

Slow down!

“It is very injudicious, not to say presumptuous, for a gentleman to make a proposal to a young lady on too brief acquaintance. A lady who would accept a gentleman at first sight can hardly possess the discretion needed to make a good wife.”

This picture was made available to me by Victorians. Thank You!

Celebrate Earth Month 2008

2008-04-22T20:43:00.006-05:00

EARTH MONTH 2008

Organic Lavender MattersAveda partners with farmers to support their conversion from conventional to organic farming and create a sustainable supply
Organic farming reduced agricultural water pollution up to 75 percent
90% of our essential oils and 89% of our raw herbal ingredients are certified organic
We are one of the largest purchasers of organic ingredients in the beauty industry.

Help celebrate this campaign by visiting an Aveda salon in your area. Each year, during the month of April, Aveda employees and guests work together to raise funds for a grassroots organization that benefits environmental issues around the world. Salons and institutes use their resources and creativity to encourage participation. Either by donating a percentage of sales for the entire month, offering a "Day of Beauty" and contributing all of their sales for that day, silent auctions, online auctions or fashion shows.

For me, I have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction and mixer at Salon Orange Moon in Indianapolis, Indiana. I have designed a pendant that is in the shape of a raindrop. The focal bead is made of polymer clay. I added thin layers of a cane that I designed to mimic ripples in water caused by rain hitting the water. I added wirework around the edge. This pendant will be auctioned off in a silent auction. I will also have many other pieces on site for purchase with a percentage of the sales being donated to Aveda's Every Drop Matters campaign.

A Lesson That I Have Learned

2008-04-11T11:29:00.007-05:00

I just finished a custom order and have learned a few things along the way. I love it and I hate it. Let me explain a bit.

First, let me say that I am proud of my custom piece. It is exactly what she wanted and I was thrilled to be able to do it for her. A custom order that is an original idea that has come from a conversation with the buyer about their likes, dislikes, what they want and don't want can be an inspiring challenge. Through your conversation with this person, the two of us can come up with a wonderfully collaborative idea. But, when someone wants you to re-create something that you have already made, but in a different color...well, this is when my perfectionist monster takes over. I have realized that the first piece, in my mind, was perfect. So, trying to recreate that certain look, that feeling, and overall sense of "Wow!" is quite hard to do. The feeling that you get when you have created something that is so great and gives you such a sense of fulfillment, that feeling doesn't come around that often. I had to do some soul searching and ask myself some very important questions. Seriously, can you imagine Michelangelo finishing the Sistine Chapel, stepping back to admire his masterpiece when Pope Julius II says, "Hey, you know, it looks great. I love what you did over there with Adam. Do you think that you could do it again, but this time, a little smaller and in black and white?" I mean really. Okay, so maybe that is a bit of an exaggeration, but you get my point. So, I have decided a few things. One, because I am a people pleaser, I will continue to take custom orders. And, two, I will not tie myself down to the notion that I am merely trying to copy something, but rather I am just expanding on an originally good idea.

Vintage Indie's: Dream of Spring Vintage Swap; Part 2

2008-04-10T17:20:00.007-05:00

It arrived. I was absolutely thrilled. There on my doorstep was a package. The package alone was cutely wrapped with brown paper that had been decorated with drawings by the sender. I quickly gathered it up and ran to the kitchen. I admired the box for a moment, wondering what would be inside. I couldn't stand it anymore, with the enthusiasm of a child on Christmas morn, I ripped open the package. Inside I found a treasure of vintage items. My secret "Vintage Indie's: Dream of Spring Vintage Swap" partner sent me a wonderful assortment of vintage and handmade items. She started with a collection of wonderful, Easter postcards. Then, a set of handmade tags adorned with images of roses, rabbits and poems. They are beautiful. To top it all off, the creme de la creme, a purple transferware plate. An item that I am always on the search for and have a difficult time finding. She surprised me with all of this. She is an absolute jewel to have found these amazing items. It's like she has known me for years.

My absolutely, fabulous swap partner was Rhonda. You can check out her Etsy shop at Rhondamum. Her store is filled with handmade, vintage-inspired, altered art items, such as tags and notecards. Along with vintage playing cards, French flash cards and sheet music. It is a wonderful collection of items that show off her love of nature and all things French. After visiting her shop, if you would like to know what else she is working on, check out her blog at http://rhondamum.blogspot.com/.

This swap was such a thrilling experience, that I am hoping to do it again soon.

Wow! Where Has The Time Gone?

2008-04-02T19:21:00.002-05:00

I can't believe it. I knew that it had been awhile since I had posted anything, but, almost a month?!? If I were you, I would think that I had fallen off the face of the earth, given up on this blog, thrown out my jewelry designs and taken a vow to put out the creative fire that burns in me. But, no! That is not it at all. Quite the contrary. My business ventures have taken off. Let me explain.

I had posted awhile back that I would be involved in a Huntington's Disease Awareness/Fundraiser. This was going to be my first time out showing my jewelry, standing there proudly as the designer/owner of my little ole' business. It was quite a night. We raised over $1200.00 in the raffle alone. Not bad for such a small scale event. For my part, the evening was glorious. People were buying left and right. Other business owners approached me about collaborating with them on other products. And, finally, I knew that I had made it when I had three husbands standing at my display, talking to me about my jewelry out of honest-to-goodness interest. Let me tell you, I felt like the Bell of the Ball. So, much of my time has been focused on finishing custom orders that I received that evening, working on the collaborative projects and trying to build up my inventory again. I am sure that you are wondering if I would like some cheese with that wine, but I am really not whining or complaining. I am just assuring you that I have not forgotten about this blog.

So, this is my pledge to you, that I will continue to post here and I will not let a month go by before I do it again.

I Sold My First Broken China Pendant

2008-03-05T15:40:00.003-06:00

I wanted to share with all of you my excitement. I sold my first broken china piece. I was in the tea room, working on my display and a customer asked "So, what's the story behind these broken china pieces?" So, I slipped on my saleswoman hat, and started explaining them to her. When she realized that I was the one who had made them, she couldn't believe it and paid me a wonderful compliment. She explained to me that the lady that she would be purchasing it for would be so thrilled with the story behind the piece and that she had met me. What an absolutely overwhelming feeling. I went into the backroom, did my happy dance and told my mother-in-law that I had just sold one of my pieces. I sold "My Heart Belongs to You" pendant.

So, in the spirit of happiness. I will be offering a sale in my Etsy shop until Friday, March 7th at midnight. If you buy an item from my shop, mention "blog" in the note to seller section of the checkout. I will take 20% off your purchase. I will send you an adjusted invoice. Remember, to add "blog" and this ends on Friday, March 7th at midnight.

Wearin' O' the Green Basket O' Fun

2008-03-05T06:02:00.005-06:00

The INcrowd is having a scavenger hunt!

It is the yearly Wearin' o' the Green Basket o' Fun and will run from March 1 through March 15, 2008.

The prize will be a gift basket full of items generously donated by INcrowd members:

bagsandmorebypam

belladio (My broken china charm is shown above)

cadecrescentwench

erinlee

gnomeclothes

happylake

humantouchdesigns

keepsakecouture

kreatedbykelly

mimisjewels

nilochlainn

passionandpatience

redelephant

schwa

thepeachmartini

The rules are simple:

1. You must have an Etsy account, or sign up for one at http://etsy.com/ (easy and free).

2. Find all potentially participating shops by searching for "incrowd" in the search window at the top of the Etsy screen. Find every shamrock you can (they will be in with the pictures of one item on page one or two of a secret number of INcrowd stores). Convo Carolynn (http://nilochlainn.etsy.com/) with the total you've found and the names of the shops in which you found each shamrock.

3. The entrant with the most shamrocks collected will be our winner. In the likely event of a tie, the winner will be chosen at random from all the correct entries.

4. The contest will run for 15 days, from March 1 through March 15.

The winner will be notified via convo on March 17, and his or her name will be published on the blog and on the Etsy forums on the same day.

Happy McHunting!!

New Items Listed

2008-03-04T19:47:00.006-06:00

I have just finished listing many new items to my Etsy shop. I am really excited, because part of the new offerings are new Broken China Jewelry. Here are my new pieces and each picture is a link to them on Etsy.

Leave me a comment and let me know what you think.

All That Shimmers and Shines

2008-03-04T09:20:00.006-06:00

A self-proclaimed sparkle freak, Elektra Jewelry, is a shining shop on Etsy. Things that shimmer and shine have always attracted her. As a child, she would glitter anything she could get her hands on and always left a trail of glitter behind. Her love of all things that sparkled only intensified as she started wearing jewelry. At the age of 15, she traveled to Greece and this trip impacted her. Along with her Greek heritage and expossure to Greek artisan jewelers, you can see these influences in her love of working with 18k and 24k gold and gold vermeil.

She chose the name Elektra for her shop because it means bright and shining. She sets out to make one of a kind jewelry pieces that can accommodate many different styles and fashion trends. Her time and energy is devoted to creating pieces that can be worn and enjoyed for years to come.

If you would like to see more of Elektra Jewelry, you can check out her

Shop or her blog.

I Was Featured on the INcrowd Blog

2008-03-04T08:27:00.032-06:00

I just wanted to share the feature posting on the INcrowd Etsy Street Team Blog. I was excited to be featured, but I was even more thrilled with the comments left for me. To have such wonderful things said, well, it sent me straight to Cloud 9.

Here is the posting:

*Where you are from in Indiana?
I am from Fishers, Indiana. I have lived here for 10 years, with 4 years in Anderson and 1 in Muncie.
*What is your craft?
I make jewelry. Right now, my passion is wirewrapped jewelry. I do make some of my own beads out of polymer clay. I have been working on a new line of broken china jewelry. And, I have dabbled in resin.
*Tell us a little bit about how you got started in your craft.
I am a Jill of many trades, not a master in any of them. I started beading about 7 years ago. A friend and I thought it would be a fun hobby to do when we met up for play dates. I eventually decided that I needed to expand my horizons and started playing with polymer clay. Teaching myself from books and tuts on the internet. I took one workshop on PMC and loved it. Unfortunately, it was to big of an investment at the time, so I went back to pc. But I have not ruled this out as a future endeavor. I became interested in wire work techniques on day when I came across Eni Oken's website. I was blown away with her work and new that I had to try this out. I am a long way from being in her class, but I am having a lot of fun trying. As far as broken china jewelry, this something that pulls at my heart strings. My Nana loved china and had a beautiful teapot and teacup collection. Since her passing, I can't look at a set of china and not think of her. So, to me, when I work on these pieces I have a bit of her with me. I know that sounds a bit mushy, but, hey, I am a hopeless romantic and a grandma's girl.

*Show us some of your featured items in your shop:
Waves of the Ocean Earrings:

Handpainted heart and wire bail necklace:

Pink and White Cherry Blossom Pendant:

Wired Flower:

Kaleidoscope Pendant:

*Is there anything else you'd like us to know?
I am truly looking forward to meeting and befriending fellow Indiana artisans. I find that when I surround myself with people who have similar interests it not only calms my spirit and gets my creative juices flowing. You can find my pieces in The Ruby Pear tearoom in Noblesville and Arts A Poppin' down on Mass Avenue in Indy.

Posted by ThePeachMartini at 8:33 PM 3 comments Links to this post

A Rose By Name

2008-03-02T08:13:00.006-06:00

A rose by any other name would smell as sweet. We are all familiar with this phrase and understand the beauty of it's meaning. What truly matters is what something or someone is, not what they are called. With this in mind, at first glance, you would see the beauty of a rose. It has long been the symbol of beauty. But, don't let that fool you. A rose has also been a long-standing symbol for strength and courage. With it's sharp thorns, it has been used as hedges around homes to deter unwanted visitors and protects those inside.

You may be wondering what all of this has to do with A Rose By Name's Etsy shop and spectacularly beaded pieces. Well, to look at her jewelry designs, you may only see the delicate details and beautiful composition. But, like a rose, this Ohio designer is as strong and courageous as a rose. When I first began looking at her shop and profile in order to write my next posting in the 90 day challenge series, I was taken back by her designs. I have always admired anyone who has the gift of beadwork. During my researching, I came across her other blog, A Rose By Any Other Name. I thought that it would be another blog that featured her jewelry. I was wrong. I was fooled by the name. It is a completely different blog than I had expected. It solely salutes our men and women who are serving this country. The first thing that I saw was a picture of a young man, Navy SEAL Michael E. Koch. As I read on, I realized that this brave man had died in Iraq. As I scrolled down, I saw the faces of many other soldiers. She writes a weekly Wednesday's Hero Blogroll. And, I honestly was moved to tears. I realized how much I took for granted. That I would wake-up every morning and send my boys off to the private, Christian school that we had chosen. That I had the freedom to look at and say anything that I wanted on this world wide web. That these were my rights and that there are so many men and women that I will never have the honor of meeting and thanking. They have put their lives on hold, in order to protect what I take for granted.

So, this posting may have started out as a focus on a fellow Etsy artist, but, for me, has become much more. So, I would like to quote her, because I believe that I could not say it any better. "These brave men and women sacrifice so much in their lives so that others may enjoy the freedoms we get to enjoy everyday. For that, I am proud to call them Hero.We Should Not Only Mourn These Men And Women Who Died, We Should Also Thank God That Such People Lived."

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

If you would like to see more, check out:

A Rose By Name's Etsy shop

A Rose By Name blog

Or,

A Rose By Any Other Name's Wednesday Heroes Blog

Vintage Indie's: "I Dream of Spring Vintage SWAP"

2008-02-25T15:37:00.005-06:00

It is time to get excited about spring. For me, when the crabapple tree in our front yard blooms, it is spring. Looking out the window and seeing only half melted snow, slush and the overcast skies, well, let's just say that I am ready for spring. So, to share the excitement of the season, participants have to answer 5 questions on their blogs and then they will be given the name of another participant. I will have to gather 2 gifts for her and send them to her. Not only will I get to spread some of the cheer for spring, but I will also get a gift. What fun.

So, here are my answers to each of the 5 questions.

a. What's your favorite part of spring? The crabapple tree blooming. Going on a family easter egg hunt and spending Easter Sunday with my family. And, traveling to Florida for spring break. Also, decorating my house with vintage easter decor (I love bunnies, Easter postcards, anything pastel)

b. What are your favorite flowers? Tulips and roses

c. What types of hobbies/crafts do you enjoy? making jewelry. Right now, I am working on a line of broken china jewlery.

d. What types of vintage do you collect or look for? jewelry, postcards, glassware, transferware (purple, if I can find it), handbags and hats
e. Any allergies or things that you absolutely can't stand?Mostly seasonal allergies, no food. Anything gothic. I do not like clowns, either. Or, country (I think they are called primitive) things.

If you would like to be involved, check out the link:

http://vintageindie.typepad.com/vintage_indie/2008/02/vintage-indies.html

In the World of Bella Dio

2008-02-25T08:57:00.007-06:00

I have been writing about other Etsians in the 90 day challenge and thought that I should update everyone as to what I have been doing. I seem to have many plates in the air right now.

A friend and I have been working on a fundraiser for Huntington's disease. A good friend was diagnosed with this and we wanted to do something for her. Our little fundraiser/awareness event will have many vendors who will be donating a percentage of their proceeds to Huntington's disease research. For my part, I designed a t-shirt for the vendors to purchase and wear at the event. We are making the tees available for other's to purchase. These tee's are available through my Believe In A Cure shop at Cafepress.

My other current project has to do with another love of mine, china. Well, broken china, that is. I have always loved my Nana's collection of china teacups. Upon her passing, they were given to me. A couple of years ago, while reading an issue of Southern Lady magazine, I saw a bracelet, made out of broken china pieces, featured. I fell in love with this idea. What a wonderful way to keep a piece of my Nana's memory with me, long after the teacup was no longer useable. At the time, I could not figure out how to make broken china charms and had little time to try and figure it out. So, the idea was put on the back burner. Well, recently, a good friend offered to help me figure it out. Armed with a stockpile of china pieces that my in-laws had been saving for me from their tearoom, a soldering iron and a good friend, I started playing around. And, voila, my first broken china piece was born. I am so thrilled with this piece. I am currently working on others to put in my Etsy shop and the tearoom that my family owns.

I hope that you will keep checking back to see what else I have been up to.

Sewing Your Dreams Into Reality

2008-02-25T07:53:00.006-06:00

This next stop in the 90 day challenge is taking me into unknown territory. As a little girl, I remember watching Cinderella. With mice stringing beads, blue birds draping ribbons and Cinderella singing, a beautiful dress was made. In my fantasy world this is how it would be if I were setting out to sew a dress. Unfortunately, in the real world it is more like this. I am squinting to feed the thread through the eye of the needle, one of my boys is being chased by the dog around my sewing machine and me, accidentally, knocking the bowl of pins on the floor. With this in mind, I am glad that there are ladies like, SoandSewCrafty in this world. To say that I am a bit sewing challenge is an understatement. As, I am sure that my 7th grade home ec teacher is still having nightmares over her time spent with me, trying to no avail, to teach me how to sew letter pillows.

I can only imagine the scene as this southern belle from Alabama sets out to create her wonderfully made items. In my mind, it would be similar to that scene in Cinderella. Sitting in a room filled with beautiful fabrics of many colors and designs, sunlight streaming through the window, soft music playing and, maybe a squirrel and a bunny sitting on the window sill watching as she works. Okay, so scrap the furry fans, that's a little out there. But, you get the picture. Anyways, in my little fantasy world, this is how it would have to be in order to come up with some of the great pieces that SoandSewCrafty has come up with.

This pink and green retro bag was made for the "flower child" in all of us. With it's bright colors and wonderful design, this bag just screams fun and carefree. If you want a trendy way to carry your stuff, this is your bag. If it is a little to "wild" for you, just contact SoandSewCrafty and she'll help you design one that is perfect for you.

Now, for the Princess who has everything, a Little Princess burp pad set. As most of us know, even a littlest diva has to burp now and again. One pad has a crown and the words "Little Princess" machine embroidered on it along with a band of beautiful lavender paisley flannel and trimmed with lavender gross grain ribbon. The other pad has a matching panel of the soft lavender paisley flannel sewn down the center. This would make a wonderful baby shower gift. Not expecting a princess? No worries, she has a set for the Little Prince.

I hope that you have enjoyed this walk through my dream world. If you would like to see more of what SoandSewCrafty, check her out at:

http://soandsewcrafty.etsy.com

http://www.soandsewcrafty.blogspot.com/

http://www.myspace.com/soandsewcrafty

http://www.flickr.com/photos/soandsewcrafty

That's Headley

2008-02-22T19:00:00.005-06:00

This next stop in my 90 day challenge has brought me to a shop, called That's Headley. This San Antonio based jewelry designer has been beading since junior high. But, over the last couple of years has included wire wrapping in her pieces and has added silversmithing to her list of talents. I especially like this shop, because being a wire wrapping newbie, I always enjoy seeing other artist's work and techniques. I become inspired by her.

This first piece is absolutely beautiful. This one tugged at my heart. Its intricate wire wrapping and the addition of the garnets is captivatingly gorgeous. It is made of sterling silver wire and garnet lentils, with a Thai Hill Tribe silver bead in the center.

This next piece is anything but a simple bracelet. It is an updated version of a Southwestern classic. The thin swirl of hammered, square sterling silver heavy wire has been paired with luscious nuggets of Southwestern American turquoise. This beauty would wrap around your wrist and grab attention everywhere that it was worn.

Last, but not least, this next beauty encourages you to show your true colors. The large, focal stone is a coil-wrapped olive jade pendant. Jade represents serenity, longevity, and self-realization. The next stone is peacock blue apatite and apatite promotes creativity and discern the truth within. The last stone is citrine and it also promotes creativity. And finally, acting as a mirror in which to see our true selves are sterling silver beads. This necklace alone intrigued me. I am a sucker for anything that has a story behind it and so I love this one.

If you would like to see more of the designs of this gifted designer, you can check out her shop at:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=25865

Or, check out her blog for the most up-to-date creations:

http://thatsheadley.blogspot.com/

I hope that you get the chance to stop by.

Recycling With A Funky Twist

2008-02-20T15:15:00.004-06:00

The moment this shop pops up on your screen, you know your gonna have fun. If you are looking for unique, funky and fresh accessories to add to your collection you have stumbled into your mecca. This one-time corporate gal decided that "normal" was not the life for her and Yaslani was born. Following her creative spirit, she got to work. Her projects consists of bamboo pendants and mixed-media paintings. And, takes inspiration from pop culture, color, music, animals, fashion, movies, magazines and many, many different artists. Being environmentally conscience, she uses recycled items and other materials that are gentle on the environment.

One thing that I noticed was that nothing is off limits. I could find a gift for my friend that is a huge Marilyn Monroe fan. I could buy the sushi bracelet for my sister-in-law. Or, there is a ballerina pendant for my niece. You could find something for everyone.

I hope that you will take some time and stop by this shop. You will be happy that you did.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=63187

Or, if you would like to see what is going on in the world of Yaslani, check out her blog at:

http://yaslanisgroovespot.blogspot.com/

A Tender Moment Leads To A Great Idea

2008-02-19T15:29:00.005-06:00

Many of us have been there, rocking back and forth while watching our sweet little bundle of joy nurse. Then, in one swift move, our sweet little baby grabs ahold of our hair and holds on with the stregnth of a million men. Ouch! Well, no fear, moms. SparklyStrandz has come up with a brilliant idea...the Nursing Necklace. These really pretty and very functionably necklaces provide your baby with something “Sparkly” to play with, tug on, or even occasionally drool on while they finish the task at hand. But, you don't have to be a breastfeeding momma to enjoy this little bit of bling. It’s very beneficial with bottle fed babies as well. The pendants are made in a continuous loop and wired securely closed to prevent beads from coming off. All I can say is "Brilliant!"

This Texas mommy is full of talent and ideas. She began crocheting at the tender age of 5, when her grandmother taught her how. As an adult, she combined her love for crochet and beads and began Sparkly Strandz. This busy lady spends her time making jewelry or crocheting baby onesies.

If you would like to see more from this great shop, click here:
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5059734
Or her blog, here:
http://sparklystrandz.blogspot.com/

Elements By Dawn

2008-02-18T15:43:00.004-06:00

This self-diagnosed coffee and cheese addict is the brains and braun behind Elements by Dawn. When you think of elements, you would think of the many components that would make a whole. The artist, Dawn Brandt, believes that an elements refers to the shape, line, texture, pattern, and color of a design. With this in mind, she uses these different factors to communicate emotion and energy. With simplistic lines and shapes, she is able to draw out a sense of calm. Or, with bold colors, lines and textures, she is able to stir up passion.

I was browsing through her shop and found a pair of Flower Motif earrings. I particullarly liked these for their unassuming design. They are not very big, just a half an inch in size. But, they pack a punch. To look closely at the details, you see embossed flowers on domed sterling silver circles. I could easily imagine wearing these with jeans and a t-shirt. Or, a simple black dress for an evening out.

I, also, came across a piece that I completely admire. It is a chain maille bracelet. It is comprised of 315 handmade Argentium sterling silver and 14-k gold filled links. They are painstakingly woven together in an elegant Japanese chainmaille pattern. I am truly taken back by this design. I am the first to admit that I am not a patient person. So, I can only imagine the time, energy and love that goes into it and I am in awe. My highest admiration goes to anyone who can do something so meticulous and still takes joy in it.

I hope that you will take get a chance to check out her shop. She is a gifted artist, who is continually learning new techniques and working on perfecting what she already knows. So, I know that I will continue to check out her shop to see where her spirit takes her.
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=69819
http://elementsbydawn.blogspot.com/

Magical World of Studio Marcy

2008-02-14T16:00:00.006-06:00

From a sunroom porch turned studio, glass artist, Marcy Lamberson gets to work. With a torch in one hand, glass in the other, she starts to create. With her backyard, a wildlife wonderland, as her inspiration, she begins to bring her idea to life. She may decide that a black cat needs a blue hat or that the world needs a blue, ballet dancing penquin. All of her glass beads capture a sense of whimsy and will bring a smile to the face of anyone. She has been melting glass for 8 years and as she says, "loving every minute of it."

She shares her love with others through teaching in her studio. She enjoys making others smile through her glass beads and sculptures.

I hope that you will take this opportunity to check out her shop and blog.

http://studiomarcy.blogspot.com/

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=34983

Beading as an Artform

2008-02-13T10:37:00.004-06:00

For this third day, I decided to check out Silver Dragon Creations. I wasn't sure what I would find when I clicked on the link, but, let's just say that this isn't just another beaded jewelry shop. I was blown away by her artwork. The intricate designs and the amount of time that goes into these pieces is incredible. With every bead that is perfectly positioned in it's place, only someone who loves what they are doing can accomplish this.

In her profile, shop owner, Patricia C. Vener, was first inspired as a child during a field trip to a museum. While there, she found an exhibit of Native American textiles and beadwork and was mesmerized by it. As an adult, she is an accomplished artist in both the fine and performing arts.

She is quoted as saying, "Human beings, I think, are happiest when they are allowed to create. I know that this is true for me." I am so happy that you feel that way and I can't wait to see what else makes you happy.

I hope that you will check out her shop:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=77921

And, her blog:

http://vener-art.com/beadblog/

Lucky Girl Trading Company

2008-02-12T00:01:00.000-06:00

Each day is a new day and Lucky Girl Trading Company is a testiment to that. "Make everyday your lucky day" is it,s motto. The dichroic glass designs captures the fun and thrill of a new day. Her love of life and her craft is apparent in every piece. She has said that "I truly am a Lucky Girl! Every day I gather pretty, sparkly things and send them to people. I imagine a person opening their mail and taking out their new pendant or chain or pouch. It's perfect--they have a huge smile on their face--and so do I." I know that I would love to open one of these little packages. I love surprises (hint, hint).

Along with working with glass, she has learned two ancient arts: Kumihimo and Temari.

Also, for the girl who has everything, but Lucky Girl pendants. You could get her a Pendant of the Month subscription for 3 months, 6 months or a year. What a fantastic idea. Lucky Girl offers this in pendants, earrings, or a combination of the two. Imagine being a member of the Lucky Girl of the Month club and receiving a surprise in the mail that isn't an unexpected bill! So guys, don't get her flowers of the month or fruit of the month, they'll disappear. Jewelry lasts forever.

You can check Lucky Girl Trading Company out at:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5252096

http://luckygirltrading.blogspot.com/

90 Features in 90 Days Challenge-Day One

2008-02-11T08:05:00.000-06:00

I love getting to know other sellers on Etsy. I am constantly amazed at what others can come up with. So, when I came across this 90 in 90 challenge, I became inspired to take the leap and do it. The challenge is simple, really. The sellers/bloggers who are involved will write about one of the other 90 Etsians each day for 90 days. You could essentially have have your shop written about each day for 90 days.

I decided to start my challenge with the spirit behind this idea, Giftbearer. Pippit Carlington began making her mark on the artworld at the age of 2. By 5, she was composing music and by the time she was in junior high, she was selling various pieces of artwork. Over the years, she has received formal art training and enjoys working with several mediums; including acrylics, watercolor, drawing, clay sculpture, and jewelry. Her work reflects her diverse heritage and is influenced by nature, political and social issues, and uses her art to educate the public.

She truly has a heart for people and has used her talents as an artist to help out others. She is moved to volunteer in many organizations that reach out and help those who have been effected by natural disasters and illnesses.

When you look at her creations, you can tell that she puts as much heart into them as she does the world around her. One of the first pieces that I saw was her Early Budding Vine Bracelet with Chrysoprase. This represents 2 weeks of 8 hour-a-day labor for her. The bangle bracelet is made of .999 silver and set with 7 apple green Chrysoprase cabs. It is exquisite. I, for one, am looking forward to others in this series.

The Great Spirit Milestone Necklace is another example of her breath-taking work. Dramatic and bold, this arrowhead-shaped mosaic style necklace combines wire-woven fine silver, Argentium sterling silver, and a network of gemstone beads including Carnelian, Nephrite Jade, Sugilite, Purple Jade, Variscite, Malachite, Serpentine, Aventurine, Citrine, Gray Moonstone, White Quartz, Rhubellite, Freshwater Pearls, Purple Chalcedony, Charoite, Unakite, Moukeite, and it has a carbed Amethyst flower at the top of the pendant just below the bail.

I know that I have said this before, but it never hurts to have this said again. Beauty is all around us. It is in the people that we meet everyday. The gesture of a good-hearted person or the kind words of a stranger. You can see it in the first signs of spring and in the spirit and artwork of people like Pippit Carlington.

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=3855
http://artlifenewsblog.blogspot.com/

I Finally Got One

2008-02-05T13:20:00.000-06:00

I am so excited. I finally snagged my first Etsy Treasury. I named it after an inside joke with my husband. So, I felt that staying true to the obvious theme and the one that only my hubby and I know about, this treasury has a bit of fun to it.

Most of these items were things that I have been hearting along the way. So, I am glad that I finally get the chance to share them with everyone who has not seen them yet. I did hear from one of the featured Etsians, that she had sold 2 copies of the cards today. So, I hope that this treasury will bring some more sales for all of you.

Have a fantastic day.

My New Jewelry Venture

2008-02-04T15:19:00.000-06:00

During one of my weekly trecks to Hobby Lobby, I stumbled upon Sherri Haab's newest book, "The Art of Resin Jewelry". I picked it up and started flipping through it. "Ah, I did not know you could do that", I thought to myself, "And that! Oh, and that! I never knew. Where have I been?" I quickly gathered up the supplies that I would need to help me create greatness. I scurried home and couldn't wait to get started. As I ran through the house, clutching my bag, I tried to cut off any verbal questions and requests by my children that were about to ensue. I held my hand up to each of them and explained "Please, no questions. I have so many ideas and so little time to get this done. Please, please, understand that I love you. But, tonight, you are going to have to order a pizza, for I can not be disturbed." Into my workshop/bedroom I descended. I started opening each package and setting each item carefully on the table. I started measuring and mixing. Adding this and then adding that. Pouring the resin from one cup to another. I had flashbacks to my highshool chemistry days. Oh, if those teachers could see me now. I am sure that they would be so proud to see how well they had equipped me for my adult life. At one point, I am sure that I heard a knock on the door. "Honey, whatcha doing? You okay? What's that smell?" I did not care, I was on a roll. I was going to make the greatest resin jewelry anyone had ever seen. "Oh," I thought, "I'll have to send Sherri pictures of my creations." I called her Sherri, because if my things were going to be that fabulous, we would definately be on a first name basis. Anyways, back to my creations. I poured them into the molds and waited.....and waited.....and waited some more. It was time. I was going to see my creations. I started to twist and push on the back of the mold. I heard multiple clunks as they hit the table.

This was it, the moment of truth. I looked with anticipation. I leaned in to get a better look at my marvelous interpretations of resin beauty. Could it be? "Oh, crap!" I exclaimed to myself. "The colors ran together. Why you can't even see the pictures that I embedded. And, that one, that doesn't look like any gem that I've ever seen." So, I decided that I will try it again. But, in the mean time. I have added pictures of what I have done so far.

I learned my lesson. You can buy the book, you can buy the supplies, you can harness all of your inspirations, but, alas, you still have to take the time to actually read the whole book. Not, just read the captions under the pictures that look like they might matter.

I hope that today, you have the time to create. Whether it is with a medium that you are very familiar with or a brand new one.

What Kind of Wine Are You?

2008-01-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

You Are Chardonnay

Fresh, spirited, and classic - you have many facets to your personality.

You can be sweet and light. Or deep and complex.

You have a little bit of something to offer everyone... no wonder you're so popular.

Approachable and never smug, you are easy to get to know (and love!).

Deep down you are: Dependable and modest

Your partying style: Understated and polite

Your company is enjoyed best with: Cold or wild meat

What Kind of Wine Are You?