Sunday, March 13, 2011

My Symmetry is Asymmetrical

There is so much going on around here that I'm not sure where to start.

First off I would like to offer my hope and prayers that those who have family in Japan, find their loved ones and no further damage will come to that country from the aftershocks and tsunami's. We've had the TV on more these past couple of days than we normally do and it is really just so sad to see all the devastation.

I haven't had Internet much this past week as our office is undergoing a complete remodel but that has been good for me as it forced me to get in the craft room and start getting jewelry ready for upcoming shows. I have one the first week of April where 30% of the proceeds will go to benefit the Westgate Orthopedic Society which raises funds for Mary Bridge Children's Hospital. This will be my focus this year along with finding my niche in jewelry.

For months I've been playing with art charms, ATC's, mixed media projects and all kinds of hobbies but not my business so now it's time to focus. That's not to say I won't be doing those projects but they will be fit in and not the focus.

I've come to realize after years of making jewelry that I personally do not like symmetry in my jewelry so most of my newer items look like a mis-mash of beads and chain. It does take a different kind of person to feel comfortable with this style but I think it looks so good.

In this next group of photos you will see two of my newest multi strand necklaces, the start of a round robin chain with art charm dangles and a few of my Winged Jewels art charms.


The Turquoise, Apatite, Coral and Sterling silver came about as I found 3 Turquoise and mixed bead necklace that hadn't sold. I took them all apart and then grabbed some additional beads and created this one. I love it and it feels good on, not too heavy.

The black and white necklace is actually Black Spinel, Freshwater Pearls, Black Onyx, Crystal Quartz, Fine Silver links and Sterling silver chain. This is one of my preferred styles to make as I love fine silver chain and the layered look, so why not combine it into one necklace.

The large link chain is fine silver links that I made and combined with some leftover sterling silver chain. This will be a round robin necklace with the additional links for my team mates to add their charms. I can't wait to see how they interpret my start on this "Found Objects" piece.

Last but not least are the little charms that look like butterflies. These are for an art charm swap titled Winged Jewels. I've combined iridescent leaves with crystals on a black wire base. They are kind of fun.

Along with all the jewelry and charm making, the dogs did get a bath yesterday. Here is Buddy not looking too happy.

Friday, March 04, 2011

What the Heck

Just about the time I think I'm getting all caught up with projects, more just seem to slip in unnoticed. Okay, so maybe I did know about them but until I really start thinking about all the things I have to do, I have the time or at least I think I have the time. I'm going to have to start keeping track of all the things I have to do and their due dates. I won't bore you with all the things I have on my plate right now but I will share one that I am especially looking forward to.

I belong to the Westgate Guild of the Tacoma Orthopedic Association which supports Mary Bridge Children's Hospital. Every year we have an auction/dinner in October and every year we try to come up with new ways to make money and make it fun. This year we decided to put some higher end gadgets on a ubber cool silent auction table. We already have one person signed up for a Kindle (I may have to bid on that one myself) but we have lots on our list and no money. So, here is where I decided to do a little bit more. I offered to do a jewelry home party with 30% of the proceeds (cash) going to our Guild to help purchase some of those items. Not only does this benefit me but our guild members will get something in return for their money vs. just giving the guild money. I also offered to do other home shows with this same option for any of our members. My first party will be at our next meeting in April. So, now I'm going through stock, making a few new pieces and trying to get organized. I had kind of forgotten how much work it is to get ready for a home show...actually any show. The past couple of years the only shows I've done is with my gem trees and books and that's easy to put together.

So, do you want to have a home show between now and the end of September? If you do, one of your options is to donate the 30% of sales to the Westgate Orthopedic Guild. There are other hostess options.

Want to see some of the items that will be at the home show?

Black Onyx and sterling earrings on handmade sterling silver ear wires. 

 Sterling silver chain necklace with Freshwater Pearls, Smokey Topaz, Champagne Quartz and Jasper.

 Fine Silver hand fused links with Mother of Pearl, Black Onyx, Snowflake Obsidian and Labradorite.

Would you like to see more. Check out my ArtFire Studio.

Now for something coming up this weekend. On Sunday, I'm teaching my Tree of Life & Hope at Shipwreck Beads, 1-4 pm. I know there are spots still open so if you are available come join me. Here is the link. http://www.shipwreckbeads.com/catalog/Classes/Wire-Working-Classes/Tree-of-Life-and-Hope/

This is what we will be making. These are so much fun.

Don't forget I'll be drawing a winner of my Bead Soup giveaway tomorrow so if you haven't entered yet, you have until 5 pm PST, on Saturday, March 5th.

Have a great weekend.

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