Wood Burned Jewelry

A few years ago I began playing around with my wood burning tool and, through my 'playtime', I ended up designing some unique woodburned necklace pendants. While it took some time to get my style worked out, things began to come together for me last Christmas after my sister bought a few of these pendants from me to give to her co-workers as holiday gifts. I was a bit nervous to hear what everyone thought, but--THANKFULLY--they were very warmly received by her friends so I took this as a sign that I should forge ahead with more designs.

I made a few wood burned pendants and pins with a springtime theme and took them with me to a few art shows that I attended. Lots of positive feedback and compliments were shared by my customers so I was pleased by the response.

But lately I've been infatuated with the Chevron print pattern. I'm sure you've seen it in fashion, home decor and everywhere. If you aren't familiar here's a sample of the design that I found online:

My infatuation began when I had a customer order a name sign with this pattern. I blogged about designing this name sign on my Creative Name Signs Blog. In a nutshell, I was very nervous to create a design with this pattern. I never thought I'd be able to do it. But after some thought and planning it worked out. I was so happy with the outcome I began figuring out other items I could create with this pattern. Of course creating wood burned jewelry came to mind and I'm happy to report I've gotten a few pendant orders featuring this design! Yay! Here are a few photos:

So I'm happy that my infatuation with this design is paying off for me. And with the holiday shopping season just around the corner more sales are coming my way!

Okay...it's time to run...lots to do on this busy morning! More fun topics to share soon...until then,

The Ribbon Retreat Blog

I recently discovered a fun and whimsical crafting blog and as I scrolled through their many projects I got very excited and immediately thought that I have to share this site with my readers. Over at The Ribbon Retreat Blog they offer tons of tutorials which include detailed instructions on how to make a variety of items using ribbons, fabrics and many other crafting supplies and tools.

I was simply delighted by many of the project ideas they share and the fact that they list step-by-step written instructions along with photos instantly enraptured my crafty soul. Most of the tutorials are, as I just described, shown with photos and written instructions. But they also have video tutorials as well one of which features a card making kit . What a clever idea! And the tutorial narrator was so happy and her happiness was contagious!
 
They share in a few simple steps how to make some really fun items like ribbon flip flops, hair bows for little girls and babies, car seat belt covers, aprons and so much more! They even had a tutorial on how to make a ribbon organizer. Here's my ribbon stash:

Do you think maybe--just maybe--I should make one for myself??? I'm thinking "Yes!"

Okay, I'm rambling here...let me get back to these awesome crafting tutorials!

One thing I thought I'd better warn you about is that some of the projects include the use of a sewing machine. Now to some of you that's not a big deal, but to someone like me it is. Sure, I can sew on a button, patches and maybe try to hem some pants. But using a sewing machine is another story. I have--or should say 'had'--a sewing machine a few years ago. I tried to use it and just couldn't figure it out. Darn!! Then I lent it to my niece to use for a school project. Then she gave it to my mom and eventually it ended up at my sister's house. I can't tell you how many times over the years I've considered learning to sew, but time never seems to be on my side. Maybe someday.

Thankfully The Ribbon Retreat Blog has many tutorials that do not require the use of a sewing machine so I can still give many of the projects a try. If you are a crafty person and you like to try your hand at fun and whimsical craft projects then this is exactly the place to go!

More fun to come...until then,

Only Positive Thinking...

I tried something new this morning...I got the idea from this blog:

http://www.alteredpages.blogspot.com

It looked like fun so I thought I'd give it a try...

A few years ago I bought a really old falling apart geography book at a flea market. This old book has been sitting in my garage and for some reason I finally decided to pull it out last week. It's been sitting in my work area waiting for me to use it for something. Then this morning I found this blog, saw what they were doing and thought I'd give it a whirl...

The story behind this altered page...

This past week or so I've been helping my 15 year old daughter cope with anxiety. I hate to say it but she's inherited this awful curse from me. My sister has the same issue as did my mom. So here we are...now it's my daughter's turn. My heart breaks for her...she's only 15! I didn't have my first anxiety/panic attack until I was well into my 20's. But it's such a different world now. So we've been spending lots of time talking and the one thing I stress more than anything is the power of positive thinking.

Well, this subject must have been sitting in the front of my subconscious mind because as soon as I started looking for words that resonated within me I chose all positive words...

...the image is hard to read, so here's a list of what I circled:

rich
valuable
thrive
pearls
great
excellent
high rank
important
ranks high

...hence the name of my page...Only Positive Thinking!

This was a fun exercise and I recommend that you try it! It's relaxing and a good way to start your day. :D

More fun on the way...

Creative Artworks

As many of my readers know I've been selling my artwork online since 2001. Over the years I've met many artists and business owners that also create and sell their artwork online. But one of my favorite online friends and cohorts is Linda Lewis of Creative Artworks.

At Creative Artworks Linda not only sells her own creations, but she lists the work of many other artists as well.

Linda has so many beautiful items displayed on her site! If you simply click the link you'll see photos displaying a very minute sampling of the variety of artwork for sale.

In an instant you'll discover a plethora of handmade gorgeousness such as ACEO's, cards, doilies, quilts, hand painted gourds, mailboxes, plaques, glassware...honestly! I could go on and on, but it's so much easier and more enjoyable if you just go to her site to see for yourself!

Along with all the artwork for sale there's a monthly contest that's super easy to enter. Simply provide Linda with your name, mailing address and home phone number--via email--and you're entered!

Or, hey! Maybe you're an artist who might be interested in selling your artwork online. If that idea grabs your attention simply send Linda an email and she'll give you all the information you need to get started.

And to top it all off Linda has a blog where she features a variety of different products, artists, specials, behind-the-scenes 'goodies,' plus notices of special sales only to blog readers!

Goodness! The fun never ends!

Well, I better get back to work since it's getting late in the morning and I haven't started any painting yet. Just make sure to visit Creative Artworks to see all of the fabulous work Linda has for sale...I know you won't be disappointed!

I'll be back with more fun soon...until then,

Correction on my last post!!

Okay....I don't know where my head was or what the heck was going on with me that day...perhaps I was reading too fast due to excitement??? Hmmmm...maybe! BUT...

In my last post titled Enter to win a beautiful bangle bracelet!! I had a few things wrong...the drawing is for ANY piece of jewelry in her shop not just her bangles. AND the piece you win will be made especially for you. Simply look through her listings and tell her which piece is your favorite and she'll make another like it or similar to it in your favorite color.

So to clarify EVERYTHING I'll list the details for the drawing again along with the necessary corrections:

Sign up to follow Zasra's blog.
Leave a comment as to your favorite color, any favorite "catch phrase" or inspirational words.
Then tell her your favorite piece of jewelry from her Etsy shop, Zasra.
Then you'll be entered into the drawing with the chance to win a piece of her jewelry made especially for you.
And if you share the contest with a friend and they sign up she'll enter you again.

WHEW!! Hope I got it right this time!

Geez...I know I'm getting old, but goodness...I'm not that old! I'll just blame my confusion on my overwhelmingly busy life! (Yeah, right! LOL!)

I'm sure I'll have more good stuff to share soon...until then,

Enter to win a beautiful bangle bracelet!!

I recently stumbled upon a sweet little Etsy shop a few weeks back and I loved her work so much I featured some of her items on my blog.

A few weeks ago Zasra started her own new blog and today she announced a drawing to win one of her beautiful bangle bracelets!

Here's a photo of one...so pretty!



It's very simple to enter:

Sign up to follow her blog.
Leave a comment as to your favorite color, any favorite "catch phrase" or inspirational words.
Then tell her your favorite piece of jewelry from her Etsy shop.

That's it...you're entered!!

Oh and one more thing...if you tell a friend just let her know. If they sign up she'll enter your name again!

The deadline is June 7th so hurry over there, check out her bangle bracelets and make your choice!

Good luck!!

More goodies on the way...until then,

How sweet! I've been featured!!

I'm happy to share with my readers that some of the artwork for sale in my Etsy shop has been featured on the blog of a fellow Etsian and HAFTeam member, Snips & Snails by helenpuck!

Take a look at her blog post from this morning...

Snips and Snails Blog Feature

And also make sure to read the rest of her blog and check out her Etsy shop as well.

I know from personal experience how sweet Robin's work is! This past holiday season I bought a set of magnets from her as a holiday gift for my beloved, late sister-in-law, Jean who was an avid Disney fan.

And I also bought a couple scrabble tile pendants for my teenage daughter. The gifts were very warmly received and it was heartwarming for me to give thoughtful gifts to my loved ones!

Thank you, Robin, for sharing your talent and for the feature on your blog!!

More fun stuff on the way...until then,

Proud to be a member...

...of this fabamundo group...The Handmade Artists Forum!

Check out this feature over at the Beading Gem:

http://www.beadinggem.com/2010/04/handmade-artists-forum-and-shop.html

What a nice feature! I am so proud to be a member of this fine group from the very beginning!

More goodies on the way...until then,

Jewelry by Nala

Time to share the inspiration of another fellow artist and blogger from the Handmade Artist's Forum.

This week's featured blogger/artist from the Handmade Artist's Forum Blog Ring is:

Jewelry by Nala
http://jewelrybynala.blogspot.com/

On her blog Nancy says, "The creative side of my brain is definitely dominant, and my math skills back me up on that! I'm just a natural born crafter. Jewelry making is not my first venture into the world of crafting, but it is definitely my favorite."

Once you take a peek at her beautiful creations it's obvious that she loves what she does! Here are some of my favorites:

Bloom Where You Are Planted Pendant Necklace



Winter Whispers Swarovski and Silver Bracelet



Crystal Ice Swarovski Elements Earrings



So beautiful!! I LOVE the Crystal Ice Earrings the most!

These items are all for sale at her Etsy shop, Jewelrybynala. Take a stroll over there to see more of her unique, handmade jewelry! Her creations feature a variety of sterling silver, Czech glass, Crystallized Swarovski Elements, semiprecious stones, freshwater pearls and other fine jewelry materials.

If you see something you like let her know. She's also known to "tweak" existing pieces in her collection into custom ordered designs. Simply ask and she'll work to come up with a special creation just for you!

And please don't forget to stop by her blog, too!

I'll be sharing more good stuff soon...until then,

HAF Etsy Team Challenge 'Frozen Moments!'

The Handmade Artists' Forum Etsy Street Team (HAFteam) has started a challenge that will last for the next two weeks. The theme of the challenge is Frozen Moments...very fitting for this time of year!

To see the incredible creations handmade by our talented artists click this link:

Frozen Moments.

To take part in this challenge it's very simple...

Choose your favorite HAF Etsy team members’ work and then cast your vote. The winning HAF Etsy Team member will receive two weeks of free advertising on the Handmade Artists’ Forum and the HAF Blog.

But wait!!! There's something in it for you, too! Once you cast your vote make sure to leave a comment saying that you voted. Leaving a comment automatically enters you to win this beautiful handmade bead by Rachel Elliott Glassworks.



The bead is a clear, hollow borosilicate bead with deep engraving by eye using a diamond lathe. It measures 5cm long x 2cm at its widest diameter and has about a 3mm hole in each end. Rachel does such beautiful work, you can also find her lovely creations at her Etsy Shop!

The names of all those who comment will be put in a basket once the voting is completed. A name will be pulled and the winner will be contacted via email to figure out the shipping details. It's so simple you'd be crazy to pass it up!

Good luck and remember you can only vote once so make a good choice!

More good stuff on the way...until then,

Lynwood Jewellery

Time to share the inspiration of another fellow artist and blogger from the Handmade Artist's Forum.

This week's featured bloggers/artists from the Handmade Artist's Forum Blog Ring is:

Lynwood Jewellery

On her blog Susan shares a mix of hints and tips and problems and resolutions that she and Bev experience on their journey through the Bejewelled and Beguiled world of jewellery making.

Then over in their Etsy shop - Lynwood Jewellery - Susie and Bev handcraft necklaces, bracelets and earrings in sterling silver, PMC, semi-precious stones and beads. Their jewellery is eye catching and unique and perfect for women who appreciate individuality.

Here are photos of a few of their gorgeous pieces:

Bright Blue Pearl Shell Beads on Sterling Silver Bracelet



Arabian Style Bracelet Made From Sterling Silver with Swarovski Beads



Chunky Green Bracelet with Fresh Water Pearls and Green Beads



Oh my goodness! Aren't they so, so pretty!! As you can tell from my choices I love color and I love bracelets!!

Please make a point to visit the Lynwood Jewellery blog and join in the conversation by commenting on the posts. And don't forget to click on over to their Etsy shop, too! You won't be disappointed!

I'll be sharing more good stuff soon...until then,

Fiber Artist Too

Time to share the inspiration of another fellow artist and blogger from the Handmade Artist's Forum.

This week's featured blogger/artist from the Handmade Artist's Forum Blog Ring is:

Fiber Artist Too
http://www.fiberartisttoo.blogspot.com/

On her blog Libby White shares her artwork, experiences with fiber and felting as well as stories about her dogs, friends and family.

During the day Libby works as a microbiologist at the Center for Disease Control and has been in this line of work for 25 years. Feeling very burned out from her day job she is looking forward to retirement which is only 5 years away. Meanwhile, Libby enjoys spending time dabbling in a variety of art mediums and has found felting and dyeing roving to be the most fun.

Take a look at this pretty and colorful bag she made:


Multicolor and Fiber Crocheted Bag



Meanwhile over at her Etsy shop, Raven 333, Libby has a variety of her creations for sale and, believe me, it is filled with wonderful treasures! Take a look at these photos and see for yourself...are they wonderful or what?!?!


Antique Wooden Shoe Form Decorated




Beaded Bracelet FreeForm Peyote



Libby has been practicing her art for 20 years and gets inspiration from dreams. As well as being a serious fiber artist she incorporates elements of collage, rubber-stamping and found object art. Plus she also designs art dolls which are absolutely incredible!

So if you like to see more of her work please visit her Etsy shop. And don't forget to click on over to her blog for even more inspiration and fun!

I'll be sharing more good stuff soon...until then,

Heather's Haven

Time to share the inspiration of another fellow artist and blogger from the Handmade Artist's Forum.

This week's second featured blogger/artist from the Handmade Artist's Forum Blog Ring is:

Heather's Haven
On her Blog Heather shares stories and photos about her family life which I 'so' appreciate. I can relate to just about every story. Just like at our house it seems there's never a dull moment!

Heather also has a variety of photos displaying her beautiful artwork pieces in various stages of creation...the art dolls are unbelievable! She also has some really good quotes on her blog which, as many of my regular readers can attest, I LOVE! And on top of all this she showcases a variety of talented artists and crafters.

After you check out her Blog take a quick stroll over to Heather's Etsy shop to see her incredible beaded artwork. I look at her creations and I can't imagine how she does it...here's my absolute favorite item in her shop:

Girl, Put Your Records On - Beaded Art Doll



OMG!! Talk about super kewl!! That has got to be the funkiest doll I've ever seen!! I absolutely love it! Every time I look at it I just want to get up and start dancing!

Heather has so many more gorgeous items for sale in her Etsy shop. Please take the time to click on over there and check her things out...you'll will be completely amazed at her talent. I'm telling you...the detail is incredible!

Okay...I have to calm down now! It's time to focus on work and get back to painting. I'll be sharing more good stuff soon...until then,

Speranza Jewelry

Time to share the inspiration of another fellow artist and blogger from the Handmade Artist's Forum.

This week's featured blogger/artist from the Handmade Artist's Forum Blog Ring is:

Speranza Jewelry
On her Blog Speranza invites you to join her on the journey as an Etsy seller. She also shares reflections on art, entrepreneurship, the handmade movement.

Speranza loves to spend time immersed in color and form in her home based 'jewelry studio'. She explains that her studio is a refuge from the hullabaloo of her day job in the Washington political scene.

She shares a wonderful quote by Picasso...

“The purpose of art is washing the dust of daily life off our souls.”

I must say that her jewelry studio...her place of refuge...certainly works it's magic with her imagination and creativity. Take a look at this pretty necklace...my favorite item in her shop:

Keishi Pearl and Bali Gold Vermeil Necklace



So pretty and the colors are wonderful!

As an avid online entrepreneur, artist, quote collector and fellow Etsy seller I'm excited to see how things progress for her. Meanwhile, you must make a point to visit her Etsy shop to see her work...you won't be disappointed!

I'll be sharing more good stuff soon...until then,

Seedlings: Jewelry Because

In my HAFTeam Spreading the LOVE post from yesterday I talked about how the members of the Handmade Artist's Forum work together to promote each other.

Recently we started a blog ring where every week one member's blog will be featured on each others' blogs. This is just another fun and creative way to promote and support each other's work.

This week our featured blogger/artist is:

Seedlings: Jewelry Because - handmade jewelry by Sharon Paradiso.

If you visit Sharon's Etsy Shop - http://seedlingsjewelry.etsy.com - you'll find gorgeous hand-crafted jewelry and accessories inspired and created from natural materials.

Here's a photo of one of my favorite items in her shop:

Thoughtful Seeds



I love the name she chose for them! Don't they look gorgeous?!? Very unique and a lovely color combination!

Sharon also has a blog where she generously offers lots of advice sharing her knowledge in many ways. Recently she's posted a variety of tips on SEO...something I'm always interested in. You can bet I'll be doing some serious reading!

http://seedlingsjewelry.blogspot.com/

Then on top off all of this Sharon also donates 20% of her profits to Heifer International and the Prostate Cancer Foundation.

Geez...I don't think you can get any kinder or more thoughtful than that!

I'll be back next week with another blog feature. Until then make sure to visit Seedlings Etsy Shop and her blog...you won't be disappointed!

I'll be sharing more good stuff soon,

Sunday morning sharing...

It's Sunday morning...pretty much the only time during the week where I can 'fill myself back up'. You know what I mean...I spend all week 'pouring' myself out...taking care of my family, working like a fiend, running errands, taking the kids from one place to another and so on...

Since we usually don't have any early morning running on Sundays this is my chance to *FILL* back up.

I was checking emails and twittering and came across a few things that seriously filled me back up again...honestly...I could feel my spirits shifting upwards!

First of all you MUST read this FABULOUS blog post by Seth Godin:

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/seths_blog/2009/11/fabulous.html
It really is FABULOUS!!

Then I also found this poem by Rudyard Kipling:

"If"

If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you;
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or, being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or, being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise;

If you can dream - and not make dreams your master;
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with triumph and disaster
And treat those two imposters just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn out tools;

If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breath a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on";

If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch;
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you;
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run -
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man my son!

I hope you enjoy them as much as I did! Now I'm going to try to 'FILL' myself up some more. If I find more goodies I'll be sure to share them...until then,

A few good quotes...

Found this blog today...enjoyable reading and quotes galore!

I'll share a few here...

“If opportunity doesn’t knock, build a door.” ~Milton Berle

“If you want to make your dreams come true, the first thing you have to do is wake up.” ~J.M. Power

“Life is always walking up to us and saying, “Come on in, the living’s fine,” and what do we do? Back off and take its picture.” ~Russell Baker

Lots more...check out JackBergstrom dot com...it's definitely worth your time!

More to come...until then,