Veronica: Muse at Play

Duetica Woodwynds Pendant

2012-01-15T19:13:00.000-08:00

Sketching jewelry designs sure doesn't provide the beauty of the finished product! This turned out so much better than I could have imagined. I LOVE personalizing jewelry and find most people love it as well.

Duetica Lettering Arts Studio has these AWESOME fonts! If you don't know about them, you really should check them out. Here I used the beautiful Woodwynds font. The little swirls and dots just add so much charm and beauty to the letters.

Here the piece is shown on a white velvet background.

A close up of the side of the pendant shows the delicate metal trim that has been stained with alcohol ink. This also shows the metal piece that is mounted on top of the fragment.

Other materials used:

Duetica Lettering Arts Studio (http://duetica.com/)
In-Design computer software

Seven Gypsies metal embellishment
Keepsake Card Craft silver trim
Plaid Mod Podge: Dimensional Magic
Swarovski Meridian 16ss crystal
Tim Holtz Fragment piece
Pieces of leather with silver eyelets

Designer Blog: http://lifesnippets07.blogspot.com/

Duetica Website: http://www.duetica.com/

Duetica Blog: http://duetica.com/blog/

Duetica Lettering Arts Studio: http://www.duetica.com/boutique/index.php?_a=viewProd&productId=2

Duetica DT Woodwynds Font: http://www.duetica.com/boutique/index.php?_a=viewProd&productId=18

Letters, Journaling, Expressions

2012-01-08T18:31:00.000-08:00

Journaling consists of letters. Letters form words that express wide ranges of emotions. A few of these emotions are: anger, happiness, fear, satisfaction, loneliness, contentment and so on. With letters in mind I took a different spin on the journaling aspect.

I love playing with letters, thus my love of the game "Words with Friends". I am challenged constantly by some really die hard friends who equally love the game. For these special friends who love the daily challenge of forming words, old & new, I created these earrings. The earrings form their first & last initials. Each initial is a wooden tile, hole drilled at the top & bottom, painted with glossy yellow paint, dangle attached, and earring findings finishing the piece
.

My hope is that these earrings will show these women, win or lose, that every game with them is special, exciting and so much fun. Each game produces words never before seen, much less heard of, so it's a constant learning process. The earrings are my little way of saying THANK YOU for challenging me through the process of word play.

Monday, these will go out in the mail to provide a Happy Mail day for these special ladies although if they read this posting, it won't be a surprise!

Now, for a traditional view of journaling!

This journal consist snippets of my family. The cover is a picture of me as a child, one of my favorites. As with most journals, they are always a work in progress. I'm always adding bits of fabrics, ribbons, beads, jewelry pieces, etc. to enhance the pages. This book is a small paper bag book, perfect with pocket pages to hide recipes or family secrets or simply MORE pictures!

Rubber stamp images have been used to add interest as well. On the page below is a picture of my dad in our locksmith business. Here I've used some Sizzix dies and grunge board. Torn pages out of a book lightly tinted with inks makes for a nice background.

My mother is an endless source of beauty for many of my projects. This picture screamed out for the use of antique lace so here ya go! I still need to do some seriously journaling on these pages, but you have to start somewhere! Wonder just what my mother was thinking when this picture was made? Ah, and I know just the person to ask! HER! I will record her answer on this page or in the small pocket just behind this picture.

These small journals are so easy to create & so easy to fill up without being overwhelmed with a large blank page to begin with. Creativity seems to just flow after you BEGIN.

Now, you ready to begin journaling?

Slide Pendants

2011-12-22T20:59:00.001-08:00

Feeling creative after a noon time nap (my work was really nice to close up at noon today) so my creative muse came out to play tonight. How could it not with some slide images I purchased from Deborah Lockhart. Displayed here are two different sets of images, Floral Dreams and Postal; cut apart & ready to use. Along with the images, you'll need the microscope slides and the bezel to hold the pieces.

Using my Westcott Titanium Bonded Scissors, cutting these out was a breeze!

What I ended up with is just above! The fronts of the two outside pendants are the Floral Dreams prints. The backs are using the Postal images. I used Adirondack® Acrylic Paint Dabber (Snow Cap) to slightly distress the images. Words were printed on the computer, cut out, and lightly tinted to blend into the image somewhat.

Postal front & back was used for the center pendant. From a photo of my parents shortly after they were married, I transferred that image onto a transparency sheet. I also used this photo on several pieces of artwork on their 50th wedding anniversary several years ago. The small transparency piece was put on a blank area on the slide image. I love how the transparency worked on this piece. On this slide, I added two green/yellow Swarvoski crystals, one crystal covers a small hole that attached the transparency to another piece of artwork.
Recycling never gets old!

On the right & left slides you can see the faint streaks of the acrylic paint aging the pieces. No paint was used on the center pendant.

Tomorrow I'll finish these up. After all, a girl has to be able to wear them!
I'll be adding a few beads & dangles. So more pictures to come!

Ole Christmas Tree, Ole Christmas Tree

2011-12-18T19:50:00.000-08:00

Every year, the office girls at McCowat Mercer Packaging Company, get a new pair of Christmas earrings! One year I made snowman earrings with cracked crystal beads, complete with a black top hat. Last year I digressed & gave them earrings I had made up earlier that year, no holiday theme. Well this year, after being sickly for a couple of weeks, I had to play catch up!

A sweetheart of a friend, Glenda Logsdon, knows I create jewelry & love getting bits & pieces of antique jewelry. While in New York last year as she was cleaning out an apartment with a friend, they happened upon a box with an array of strung beads, loose beads, etc. mixed in with some dirt to add to the "antique" value of the find. Well now, being the dear sweet lovable friend that she is, she compiled a goody bag & presented it to me at a Scrapbook retreat last February in KY. I was THRILLED looking through all the beads, dirt & all. When I got home, I took the beads apart, cleaned them with a mild soap & water solution, let all the pieces dry then organized them in a compartment box. There they sat until just the right moment when they would be "needed". Of course, Glenda has a pair of these little trees coming her way...... hopefully just in time for Christmas (I did say I was sickly--ok, it's a pitiful excuse but one I'm running with ......alas, causing me to be so late in creating them). Now, on with the project!!

While looking around Hobby Lobby, I found a new line called "Timeline" beads. The one that caught my eye were the little acrylic flowers in blues & greens. While I'm not a fan of acrylic beads, I saw a future in store for these. They resembled some little vintage green glass flower beads that was in the bag Glenda brought to me from New York. I have an assortment of wooden beads (who doesn't?) of course have lots of Swarvoski crystals in stock.

Now.......assembling required.

Beginning with a head pin: square wooden bead (base of tree), a light green acrylic flower (turned upside down to make the tree); a darker green acrylic flower; a vintage green glass flower followed by a light green/dark green acrylic flower......then for the tree topper, a very small 3mm Swarvoski crystal. Attach to ear wire, you're good to go.

I simply LOVE how vintage glass flower is "peakin" out from it's acrylic sisters. Using the glass flower gives the earrings a really nice feel. Hope the ladies like them as much as I had fun creating them!

The presentation card is black cardstock, run through a Sizzix Big Shot using a texture plate which is then aged by distressing the edges. Ranger Snow Cap dapper was used to add the white area to further age the card. Dollar Tree had the tree tinsel of all places! I had been looking so hard for this evergreen tinsel.....and there it was! Cut into 4 inch pieces, round & twist into a wreath; tie red ribbon into little bows, glue to card using Beacon's Quick Grip glue. Punch two holes for the earrings.......and wha la........there ya go!

Wearable Christmas trees!

Tiny Office Christmas Tree

2011-12-13T14:03:00.000-08:00

Well, during lunch I decided to bite the bullet & buy a tiny Christmas tree for my office. After all, can't have me looking like Ms. Grinch now could I? Of course I had to show the little thing off with a picture! Why must my glasses always look 'crooked'? I'll fix that after the first of the year! New glasses!

Here is the little festive tree with two snowmen in a tub all warm & cozy like. Now, if anyone wants to add little "gifts" under my tree.....I won't protest. :-)

In my office I have a plant I rec'd after my beautiful sister-in-law, Pat Goff, died. The lily is about to bloom in time for Christmas. It's her way of wishing me a very Merry Christmas. I will always remember her love of the Christmas season, her house decorated inside & out with all kinds of lovely trimmings. And to hear her laugh at silly jokes; well, once she "got" them.... haha Oh how I cherish those memories. I love you still so much Pat. Thank you for thinking of me at this time of year.

Java Man

2011-12-11T19:27:00.000-08:00

December Mondays bring on inspirations!

I love coffee & coffee ornaments. In fact my little coffee buddies hang around in my kitchen year round but they tend to jump on the Christmas tree when the tree comes out. How could I make a snowman with a coffee theme? Why make a couple of extra snow squares to get the word JAVA displayed of course!

I used 1-inch square wooden blocks that I painted with white acrylic paint, glittered; set aside to dry. Tiny eye screws & jump rings attached the squares together. Using my Cricket, I cut the JAVA letters out of brown cardstock. Wire for arms. Coffee cup & cinnamon rolls created out of polymer clay. Wire & tiny pom poms used for ear muffs. Seed beads and a red brad make up Java's face. White ribbon laced through the top eye screw and you've got a cute little Java ornament of your very own.

To see more inspirations for Christmas & the upcoming New Year, click on the blue Designer Craft Blog Connection located to the right......you won't be dissapointed!!

Master Jamie Goff-Cantrell

2011-12-11T07:47:00.000-08:00

Jamie & her dad, Van Goff

Van & I can't be more proud! Jamie began her college education at Jackson State Community College (where I'm currently employed)! I remember her graduating from JSCC & I was able to stand beside Dr. Blanding on stage & hand Jamie her diploma. This was only the beginning. Jamie has since attended Memphis State University to obtain her Bachelors degree and now through Bethel college, her Masters degree! Due to a teacher's ability to see the potential in Jamie as a senior in high school, and took her under her wing to guide......Jamie has never forgotten the teacher who cared enough to make a difference in her life. With every major educational milestone, Jamie sends this teacher (who has since retired from teaching), a dozen roses with the saying: You made a difference. Love Jamie Goff-Cantrell No doubt this teacher will be receiving a dozen roses sometime this week.

Jackson State Community College was also a beginning for Jeff Cantrell who studied & got his Associates in Business. He & Jamie opened up JC Audio 10 years ago in Jackson, TN. Jeff now runs the business as Jamie has gone into teaching the young minds of tomorrow. She is thinking of obtaining her Docorate but we'll see. That's FOUR more years of school! As for right this second, she's happy with her Masters & looking forward to Christmas break! No homework, at least for her; not the same for her students......and just to take a mental break.

Van & I are so proud of her accomplishments!

The Birth of Minni Mia

2011-12-05T07:00:00.000-08:00

Minni Mia

To get out of my creative box, I eagerly accepted a sock monkey challenge from When Creativity Knocks. Well, now, everybody who knows me KNOWS I can’t sew on a sewing machine worth a lick…..but I was determined to take this journey and create my very OWN little sock monkey. After all, surely I can make something out of a pair of socks sent to us by FoxRiver. Come to think of it, I can’t believe I’ve ever seen this kind of sock, NOT in a monkey form that is. These socks from The Original Rockford Red Heel® company, come in other colors such as blue and pink just in case one wanted to make baby girl or boy monkeys. Be calm my beating heart, I gotta make the first one!

To begin with I opened the WCK VideoBook: Sock Monkey Goes BanAnas. My husband had the misfortune to be up in the wee hours of the morning when I wanted to view the DVD so he joined in by putting the DVD in the player and sat down to watch it right along with me. Any artist knows that’s not the way it always works…….Haha

I’m not one to use a sewing machine but after I viewed the VideoBook DVD, I thought to myself, YES, I CAN DO IT. Yes, we can even fool ourselves at times. J

Two days later after getting the Sock Monkey assembled (yes, she bit me and yes, I bled), I was feeling mighty proud of myself. I used the sewing machine, often having to stop and take out the crooked stitches and re-stitch, but I knew they were crooked and I couldn’t have crooked stitches forming my little Mia. After sewing, I carefully cut out all her body parts. Rolled batting for the arms and legs, stuffed the body, snout and head, she began to take form. As I sewed on the arms, ears, snout, and tail…..you could TELL what she was! But the “she” wasn’t official yet. Next the details: I stitched her smile, a little nose and gave her some eyes with the prettiest eyelashes. I must be part Italian because I don’t know how many times I put my hand to my cheek and said, MAMA MIA! Thus, Minni Mia was born!

While working on my sock monkey……my husband commented: “you know Ana put hers together in just 30 minutes”……　Yes, I wanted to really HURT him at that moment. But I digressed and let him have his fun. After all, this was my first EVER sock monkey and it had to be right. Yes, I am somewhat a perfectionist when it comes to my designs, so I’ll take some ribbing if need be.

Later while at supper with my son, brother, and yes the husband had to be there……I suddenly SLAPPED him. “What do you mean 30 minutes? Did you not notice Ana had the monkeys completed in stages? It took her a lot longer than 30 minutes!”

He looked at me and laughed……”so it’s just now hitting you heh?”
Hey, a girl has to have time to think ya know. J

Yes, I slapped him again.

Now after using that dang sewing machine again with making the dress (can’t have a nekkid monkey) he has the audacity to say I kind of got the dress short—put it in his words, a mini monkey dress……..　No slap that time…..gotta admit it, it is kind of short. Ah, it looks fine for her very first dress. White medium rick rack trim, totally not flowing with the colors in the dress. Out of my stash of RIT Dyes, came the Sunshine Orange. Perfect! Following the directions on the package, the white rick rack became the loveliest shade of orange. Matched the colors in Minni Mia’s dress perfectly!

Hair, yes, hair! Since it’s my creation, she can have hair. Of course to keep her hair in shape, she needed a scarf to keep her hair from getting wind blown. Never know when she’ll go for a ride on my motorcycle. J

Minni Mia wasn’t through yet. She needed accessories! Judikins sent the cutest ever SOCK MONKEY rubber stamp! My mind went suddenly into jewelry mode. But now how to incorporate this cute rubber stamp into jewelry? Why with shrink art, of course! Stamp the shrink art sheet with Stazon permanent ink, color it with colored pencils, cut out, bake to shrink…..then I designed a bracelet with matching earrings for little Minni Mia with the little Sock Monkey pieces! The beginning of her own line jewelry line? But of course!

I must admit, Minni Mia has made me a little on the SLAP happy side!

No Sock Monkey post is complete without a CONTEST! Enter to win a sock monkey prize valued at over $40.00 from When Creativity Knocks. Giveaway ends December 19, 2011.

1. Go to When Creativity Knocks http://www.whencreativityknocks.com/
2. While in the Member Log inbox, click on “Create An Account”
3. Make sure to enter the code: Sock Monkey

NOTE: There is also a discount coupon to purchase the WCK VideoBook: Sock Monkey Goes BanAnas

Share your MONKEY comments below, I'd love to hear them.
Make sure to visit the rest of the blogs by clicking on the Designer Craft Connections Blog Hop link in the side column of this blog.

Visit the sponsor! Click on the icon to the right sidebar: When Creativity Knocks!

Designer Craft Connection Blog Hop=BUTTONS

2011-11-07T04:54:00.000-08:00

While sipping on Pumpkin Spice coffee with the outside temperature staying at 50 degree or below, it's easy to tell that fall is in the air with winter following close behind. This brings on the November Designer Craft Connection Blog Hop! Check out Julie McGuffee's site to find out the details on a terrific giveaway -- Two sets of Sizzlets alphabet dies complete with the Sizzix Sidekick machine! November 15th is the day to find out who will be the lucky owner of the giveaway! Don't delay! While you're looking over Julie's website, you'll find the Flip-Pal Challenge coming up on November 15th! Fantastic little portable scanner that selected Designers will show different ways they have used the scanner.

With getting items ready for our Family Community Education (FCE) Christmas Cottage, I thought I'd share an altered project. Easy to complete with sometimes dramatic results. I LOVE collecting buttons, new & old alike. With my love of jewelry, I'm always on the lookout for "different" ways to create with found objects & the like. While buttons aren't exactly "found" objects (depends on how hard you have to look for them if you didn't put them BACK in their rightful spot) they are the perfect medium to create earrings! Buttons come in ALL sizes, colors, and shapes; their uses are endless.

The shanks were cut off to make the button flush to mount on a stud earring finding. The button was adhered with Beacon Adhevises Quick-Grip glue. Wha La, that's it! Well, other than presenting them to sell at our FCE Christmas Cottage! The mother-of-pearl earrings are elegant enouth be worn with an evening dress while the other shown can easily be worn with blue jeans! Buttons aren't just for your clothes any longer!

Our Designer Crafts Connections Blog Hop has a Facebook page! If you're the type that loves getting the "inside" scoop on upcoming events, be sure to LIKE us. Don't forget to share the "scoop" with your family & friends!

Fall Splendor

2011-11-01T03:27:00.000-07:00

I LOVE this Sizzix Caddy die created by Eileen Hull! There are soooooooo many possibilities for this die but I wanted to use it in a totally different way than what it was intended for. While looking for a fall wreath to put on my door, my mind began churning. I didn't have one yet sooooo the "Fall Splendor" wreath became reality. And what a LOVELY accent for my front door!

Each of the little caddies are spilling over with little pine cones, bits & pieces of fall flowers and little berries. I bought a bundle of fall flowers and a grapevine wreath and wha la, the Fall Splendor wreath was created.

To see what the other fantastic designers came up with using this little caddy, click on the little button on the sidebar to the right "Sizzix's Fresh Vintage". By clicking on this button it will let you "hop" forward. The inspiration alone is well worth the look!

OH YES, visit Oh My Crafts to leave a comment for a chance to WIN the Flower Layers #9 die. Just takes a minute so don't delay.......the die is one to have in your die inventory to create wonderful works of art!

Materials:

Grapevine wreath
Small bundle fall flowers
Duetica, Mandolyn font

Beacon Quick Grip adhesive

Sizzix Big Shot
Sizzix Caddy die

Sizzix Little Sizzles Mat Board (5)

Blumenthal Lansing Buttons

Krylon flat black spray paint

Krylon webbing paint
Ranger Distressed Inks (fall colors with application sponges)

Directions:

cut 5 caddies from Sizzles mat board with the Big Shot
spray caddy parts with Krylon flat black paint; let dry
spray webbing on caddy parts; let dry
sponge webbing with Ranger Distressed Inks
assemble caddies
fill caddies with brown craft crinkle paper
add tiny pine cones & fall flower pieces
pick flower/leaf parts off wire stems
use Beacon's Quick Grip adhesive to adhere flowers to grapevine
adhere caddies to wreath
adhere Blumenthal Lansing buttons on caddies
using the Mandolyn font by Duetica, type title

Now display your wreath with honor!

2011-10-18T05:58:00.000-07:00

The Birds

It's my TURN!
What does 60 Designers and Sizzix Fresh Vintage Dies have in common? A BLOG HOP of course! Each Tuesday & Thursday (during a 6-week period) a new Sizzix Fresh Vintage die will be presented by different designers. Talk about INSPIRATION!! It's simply amazing how one die can be used in so many different ways. To hop from one blog to another, just click on the Fresh Vintage button to the right.

Eileen Hull is the creator of these dies and I'm honored to be in her blog hop! Check out all her dies. You'll be ordering these when you see what all can be done with them!

Today is the BIRD die. There are so many ways to use this little gem but I settled on one to highlight Breast Cancer Awareness month.

Materials

Sizzix ScoreBoards Die - Bird
Sizzix Big Shot Machine
Westcott Scissors
Beacon Adhesives Quick Grip
Lisa Pavelka Magic-Glos™
Blumenthal Lansing buttons
Krylon Satin White indoor/outdoor spray paint
Pink Duck Tape^® brand Duct Tape
3.5 inch dark pink ribbon (wire removed)
.5 inch light pink ribbon
Clay pot
Tissue paper
ColorBox chalk (Rouge)
Cake wires
Styro Foam cone cut to size needed

Instructions

cut 3.5 inch ribbon into 6 inch lengths
on a plastic trash bag, coat the ribbon with the Magic Glos using your finger to smooth
set outside in the sun to cure
when dry; cut out 3 birds, 6 wings
fold pink duct tape together; cut 6 beaks
assemble birds; glue wings on each side, pearl eyes, duct tape beaks, punch hole to hang
insert .5 light pink ribbon through holes in birds, tie in bow
Spray clay pot with Krylon white spray paint
when dry, adhere buttons with Quick Grip
wrap light pink ribbon around the button adorned clay pot; tie in a bow
insert styro foam into clay pot
insert cake wires into styro foam
layer surface with tissue paper; tint with ColorBox ink

Display your newly created statement in your home or office!

Victory!

2011-10-03T18:12:00.000-07:00

What does WESTCOTT BRAND® Cutting Tools, The Duct Brand® Decorator Tape Rolls, Velcro USA® Sticky Back Hook and Loop Fasteners, and Breast Cancer Awearness Month have

in common? Why, a CHALLENGE of course!

Victory!

I had the best time coming up with a design for this challenge. The products were so much FUN to work with! Today, there's not many people in this world who hasn't been affected by cancer in some form. With me, it is my Dad who had this dreaded diease visit, not once but twice. Today I must say, he is a survivor. When coming up with my design for this challenge, I could only think of one word that most cancer patients & survivors always want to hear: VICTORY!

Westcott Brand has a fabulous giveaway for DCC blog hoppers, A Deluxe Assortment of Westcott Cutting Tools (assortment may vary). All you have to do to be eligible to enter is comment on the DCC Blog Hop Post prior to November 1st. You can also visit Westcott Brand on Facebook.

WESTCOTT BRAND® Cutting Tools is sponsoring the October Designer Craft Connection blog hop! This month we were challenged to create something using Westcott Brand® Cutting Tools, The Duct Brand® Decorator Tape Rolls, and Velcro USA® Sticky Back Hook and Loop Fasteners. I must add, this was so much FUN!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awearness Month, Westcott sent all the participating designers a terrirfic assortment of PINK cutting tools! The Duck Brand® also sent us a fun assortment of pink and gold tapes/adhesive sheets, and Velcro Brand® Fasteners sent fasteners for our one of a kind creations!

US ADDRESS ONLY

More about Westcott Brand® products:

· Westcott Brand® Scissors are the WORLD’S FAVORITE SCISSORS™ meaning Westcott sells more scissors than any other manufacturer in the world!

· Westcott Brand® Titanium Bonded Non Stick Scissors are the BEST Non Stick Scissors on the market that never get stuck and can easily cut through Sticky Back VELCRO®, Duck Tape and multiple layers of fabric and other materials!

· Titanium bonded blades are 3 times harder than stainless steel and never need sharpening!

· Westcott Brand® Cutting Tools have the best performance! The 3” scissors can even cut through 5 layers of fabric!

· Westcott Brand® Cutting Tools are ergonomic and come in several different color options!

Westcott is also offering an amazing giveaway of Deluxe Assortment of Westcott Cutting Tools for a reader! To learn more visit http://www.facebook.com/WestcottBrand or http://westcottbrand.blogspot.com/ to find out how YOU could win! Random giveaway winner to be announced by Westcott on November 1st! Prize must be shipped to US address.

Please take a few minutes to view all the wonderful artwork up for chariety auction associated with the Westcott Hop.

2011-09-30T13:27:00.000-07:00

How cool is this? Sizzix's "Fresh Vintage" (by Designer Eileen Hull no less) has got a very unique blog hop going on right now! Tuesdays & Thursdays are THE days to watch out for! Designers have hooked up to create fresh ways to use these dies. I'll be working with the Bird and Caddy Bag dies and I couldn't be more thrilled! I've finally narrowed down what I'm going to be doing, now to get busy designing. Use the Fresh Vintage Blog Hop button located on the right side bar just under the Designer Blog button. Below are instructions for "hopping" for those who have never "hopped" before. Be sure to check with Eileen on her blog to see ALL the lovely creations. When you need eye candy to get motivated, be sure to hop around as the designers have created some really cool things to help you move forward, get those dies out, and begin creating! Be sure to leave a few words telling what you liked most about their creations, they would love to hear from you!

FAQ about the Fresh Vintage Blog Hop:

How do I hop around to see ideas using the current featured die?
Every Tuesday and Thursday between September 27-November 3, 2011 there will be a new Sizzix Fresh Vintage die featured on 6-10 of the 75 participating designers' blogs. The navigation buttons for "Hop Back" and "Hop Forward" will allow you to easily hop around and see projects featuring whatever the current die is, since those buttons are programmed to navigate only to the blogs that are participating for that die. On the next Tuesday/Thursday, the buttons will automatically reprogram themselves to navigate to the blogs that are signed up for the next featured die.

What if I start at a designer's blog that isn't one of the 6-10 signed up for that die?
No problem! Simply hit either the "Hop Forward" or "Hop Back" button on the Fresh Vintage navigation widget from any blog's sidebar and you'll automatically advance to one of the participating blogs.

Can I go back and view the ideas for a previously featured die?

Of course! Go to the "Blog Hops" link at the top of the page. It will bring up all of the blog posts where you'll find direct links to each participating blog along with a thumbnail image of the project.

Where can I buy the Sizzix Fresh Vintage dies, by Eileen Hull?

You can visit Sizzix.com to find a local and online retailers for Sizzix products. Also be sure to visit Oh My Crafts, one of this blog hop's sponsors, (between the dates of September 27-November 3, 2011) and enter for a chance to win a Flower Layers #9 die!

The Blog Hop has ended and the navigation widget is no longer in the sidebar.
How can I see the ideas?

Go to the "Blog Hops" link at the top of the page. It will bring up blog posts where you'll find direct links to each participating blog along with a thumbnail image of the project.

Weddings Invitations

2011-09-05T12:26:00.000-07:00

Pink & Black Wedding Invitation

for

Joyce Smith & Brandon Tice

This month on the Designer Blog Hop (look for the blue Designer Blog Hop Button on the right side of my blog & click on it to jump to other Designer's blogs) was a CELEBRATION of some sort.

Well now.....
Weddings! They are taking place all the time so when I was asked to create a wedding invitation for one of only three cousins.....I was DELIGHTED. She had a design in mine after chatting awhile, a proto-type was created. She loved it at first sight thus the assembly line began! It sure is NICE to have friends you can call on to help you create about 150 of these beauties. I made three calls to dear friends: Pat, Brenda & Marsha, they showed up with time on their hands to help me out.

As you can tell from the picture above, lots of work went into layering these invitations. White linen text was used to transfer the damask image onto since I couldn't find a pure white damask scrapbook paper. Most of the damask had the silver in the white areas causing it to look dull -- believe me, I tried!

Then with the help of a Crop-a-dile long reach.....I was able to punch the holes where I needed them.
The hard work paid off & I just received this wedding invitation this past week. You know I'll be there! I'm also in the process of creating the bridesmaids jewelry sets. Will post them as soon as I finish all three sets!

Visit the other blogs to see different CELEBRATION designs!
Until we meet again......

Byzantine Beaded Bracelet

2011-08-04T06:06:00.000-07:00

A bracelet in the making.

All the pieces spread out on my beading tray.

And when all is said & done........this is what I ended up with last night.

A byzantine chain maille with Autumn Jasper beads nestled in between the chain lengths.

Turned out really pretty.......this will be submitted to the Willow Jaynes Memorial ride on Saturday.

Chateau: mix of beads & metals

2011-08-03T11:20:00.000-07:00

I completed this set early this morning (I get up around 4:30ish) so I have plenty of time to tinker around until I head out for work. I love the way this turned out. The ceramic beads have browns throughout them as well as capped on both ends in a dark brown. The metal used is an antique brass.....adding yet another warmth to the set. I may end up pouring resin in the center with a little dusting of brown glitter to add that extra "sparkle" we chicks seem to want.

On a side note, since I've been working a lot with wire lately, I can't help but EYE the wire pieces, wrapped in colorful rubber, while electricians are re-wiring the building! I'll have to strip the wire to unearth the actual wire & then the gauge. An artists' mind is never silent!

Flip-Pal & a Layered Cutie

2011-08-01T05:10:00.001-07:00

Layering with Style
One of my favorite techniques

Designer Blog Hop Entry
Read on for a chance to win some punches!

Canvas scanned (Flip-Pal)

I know, it's right smack in the middle of the summer but I just had to post this little cutie. Besides, October isn't that far off now! So here's a little Halloween cutie to make you look forward to the fall months ahead.

Using a Flip-Pal, scan over the image. A Flip-Pal scanner is mobile & so HANDY to have in your tool caddy! Scanning your image seems to bring out the details more than a photograph. Here you can see all the different layering that's been done.

Painted an 8x8 canvas first....lifted areas of paint in spots. Now comes the FUN part! Have I ever told you that I love recycling! Most of the paper here to create the background is from old books meant for the trash heap. I used ColorBox to color the pages & then using punches, cut out all the leaves for the tree. The little cutie holding the pumpkin & black cat is a vintage piece cut out & layered on the canvas. For further layering effect, I stamped swirls over the sides & front & added a trim at the bottom. The little cutie's hat has a crystal at the tip top to add some shine....for every girl needs some bling in her life!

Remember by following the Designers Craft Connection Blog Hop (large button to click on to the right of my blog) you can enter in this months give away which is the punches pictured below and donated by Julie McGuffee!

Byzantine Earrings

2011-07-31T04:51:00.000-07:00

After completing my first bracelet, I just had to make some earrings! Attending the Intergalactic Bead Show in TN didn't hurt matters much either. After careful searching, I located a lovely light orange string of beads and then of course the flattened black beads to go along with it. Of course, bead caps were in order, so off for another search. Finally found some although I wasn't happy with the price of those puppies, they just had to go with these lovely orange beads. While watching TV last night (hands always busy while I watch) I created the byzantine pieces to go along with the bead selection. This is what I came up with!

Here are the orange & black bead combo.

These are the new bead caps minus the black beads.

Cheepers!

2011-07-29T13:28:00.000-07:00

Swallows build their nests in the most awkward places......and I just had to show these little baby swallows not yet ready to leave the nest. BUT as you can tell they sure kept an eye out on me! Using my zoom lens I focused right up on those puppies......uh, birdies.

After looking at the pictures, I knew I had to scrapbook a page with them.
So using my trusty Duetica font design studio, I found the Floot font suited the occasion just great. A few tosses of scrap burlap, bling, flowers, buttons, twine, and swirls and the scrapbook page did the baby swallows justice!

Supplies to create this page!

Imagination
Camera with ZOOM lens

Duetica Font Studio: Floot

Scrap pieces: burlap, textured paper, torn scrapbook paper

Acrylic bling

Flowers

Directions:

Pull out a scrapbook page, throw some scraps around, add a little story with the Duetica Floot font.......and before you know it...... you'll have your own little CHEEPERS looking at you!

My first try at Chain Maille

2011-07-28T06:11:00.000-07:00

My first try at chain maille: the Byzantine Bracelet

I bought a Chain Maille kit at Hobby Lobby years ago (I know NONE of the rest of you find lost hidden treasures like I do) and thought, "Now just how hard can this be?". Well after countless hours of just trying to figure out the ins & outs of these little jump rings.....I was bound & determined to DO it!

After having problems with my car yesterday, I thought, why not further frustrate myself! So out these little jump rings came, along with jewelry pliers, the T-pin that came with the kit (what the heck?---I soon found out that little T-pin was a life saver), jeweler's mat.......and I was READY to begin.

After starting over countless times, I finally found the pattern emerging from my hands. I must say my first try turned out beautifully. I did change the clasp that was in the kit to a lobster claw and shorten the length to fit my wrist (proto-types are always mine). Here's how it turned out!

After the first couple of tries on this bracelet being a total disaster, I feel confident to try again and perhaps again! The feel of the bracelet is lovely. Nice weighed feel. Perhaps in funky colors!

How our ancient ancestors (back in the Knightly days) thought of using this method to keep knives from piercing their skin with a outer covering of this is beyond me. And the TIME it must have taken to make a whole shirt. I can only imagine!

Ava the Sleeping Beauty

2011-07-15T08:15:00.000-07:00

Although professional photos are so nice neat & clean & posed, it's the daily life you should really try to capture. Those shots are natural, not so perfect and candid to say the least. Below, Ava's mama saw her little girl sleeping and grabbed the camera. When I saw this picture, I just knew I had to do something with it. Thus Sleeping Beauty came about.

Sleeping Beauty & Ava are in the Mandolyn font created by Duetica. When in their Design Studio you have the power to change EACH letter to suit your taste. Other than being an easy system to work in, your lettering will be pretty much a one of a kind since each letter selection is yours to make.

In photoshop, I selected the colors from around Ava with a color picker so the whole piece just blended perfectly. I wanted Ava's name to stand along (isn't it just the prettiest name?) and is in the Mandolyn font. The quote was written by an unknown so I can't give credit to that person. Small adhesive rhinestones glitz up the page......What Sleeping Beauty doesn't have bling?
Thanks to technology Duetica is making history in the font industry. Just love them!

Here is the completed piece, framed & ready to give Ava's mama! Since I don't have grandchildren of my own......I get to "borrow" my friends little ones! Sweet!

Cap Celebration

2011-07-01T05:41:00.000-07:00

ILovetoCreate provided a terrific challenge! With their Tulip Beads in a Bottle paint in hand and the Fourth of July right around the corner.....I combine the two! Here's a cap ready for wear on the fourth of July & any other patriotic holiday!

If you've not gotten your hands on these little bottled gems......what are you waiting for?
Above the cap is decorated for a festive Fourth of July outing! When the paint beads are painted onto the cap, they form a round bead for that extra dimensional POP. I can't wait to create more with these paints! Soon to be display on my blog.

Be sure to check out the ILovetoCreate contest! Some lucky person will win the items below!!

What do embossed metal & Duetica Fonts have in common?

2011-06-28T11:19:00.001-07:00

Flowers & Butterflies!
That's what!!

After attending a CHA show I fell in love with metal embossing on a new level. Sure I had tried it several times....only to have the thin metal sheets tear. Magdalena Muldoon of MercArt used a tin coated pewter that performs magically under the embossing tools. Tearing isn't an issue now like it used to be. While looking through Ms. Muldoon's book, Metal Embossing Workshop, I found the loveliest butterflies. While the outside is full of butterflies, I just had to bring their beauty inside as well.

The butterflies patterns were copied out of the book and traced onto the pewter.
The metal embossing begins. Using a wide arrange of metal embossing tools, leather, and an acrylic mat, the butterflies came to life.

Here they are all trimmed (except for the antenna of one) and ready for color. The butterfly on the far right has inlaid blue shell, a product from New Zealand. As it's rather expensive, I decided to go another route for the color.

Mmmm, should I paint? Nah, would hide details. Then I thought of the alcohol inks by Jacquard! Perfect for this project. Intense color but had transparency I was looking for. Colors used: Sunbright yellow, Sangria, Passion Purple. The metal shines through the alcohol inks beautifully.

Now for the saying! Duetica fonts makes the customizing easy with their unique fonts! Here I've used the Floot font, making the letters wispy & carefree like the butterflies fluttering near them. If you've not yet experienced the new way of lettering with Duetica, you're missing out! Any project you're going to spend anytime at all creating deserves the best and Duetica sure fits that bill. As the butterflies dance around the happy phrase, beautiful paper flowers add punch to the whole project.

And thus the end result. A shadow box containing the precious metal embossed butterflies with the phrase: Flowers & Butterflies drift in color illuminating spring. While we're in the dead of summer, these creatures are still fluttering around. Quick Grip by Beacon Adhesives sure planted everything to the black velvet backing and is my number one all time favorite adhesive!

Let me know what you think of this project.......by the way, have you had a chance to experience the new way of lettering? Check it out through Duetica!

Bridal Presentations made easy with Duetica Fonts!

2011-05-15T17:35:00.000-07:00

I was asked to create some bridesmaids jewelry for six young women. The wedding colors are ivory & navy blue. The bracelets & earrings were made of Swarovski ivory pearls/clear crystals on a stretch cording. After the jewelry was created, I wanted to help the bride out by having the jewelry ready to hand out to her bridesmaids.

I've been working with Duetica Fonts alot lately & came up with the most perfect presentation format.

The names were provided by the Bride......and when printed on ivory linen cardstock, the Mandolyn font added such a classy/elegant look.

Each bracelet & earring set was secured by Beacon Adhesives Quick Grip glue to prevent loss of the jewelry. Again the Mandolyn font was so much fun to use. Each letter was selected especially for the occasion....making it a one of a kind lettering.

To make something truly one of a kind.......Duetica allows you to do this very thing!

Materials

Duetica Fonts (Mandolyn set) http://duetica.com/

Sizzix ScorebBoard http://www.sizzix.com/product/2009

Sizzix ScoreBoard XL Die-Memo Holder by Eileen Hull http://www.sizzix.com/product/1800

Sizzix Big Shot Machine http://www.sizzix.com/product/907

Stampin Up punches: Boho Blossoms & Scalloped Edge
Marvy Uchida Clever Lever Giga Punch: Flower
3 sheets Navy Blue 12x12 Scrap book cardstock
1 sheet Ivory Linen 12x12 cardsock
6 half ivory pearls stick ons
Ivory ribbon
Beacon Adhesives Zip Dry: http://www.beaconadhesives.com/cgzip.html

Quick Grip: http://www.beaconadhesives.com/cggrip.html
Krylon Paper Finishes Spray Adhesive: http://www.krylon.com/products/paper_finishes_spray_adhesive/

Velcro (90076) http://www.velcro.com/index.php?page=consumer-products-adhesive-backed-sticky-back

______________________________________________________________

Instructions

• Cut Navy blue cardstock in half; Spray Krylon adhesive to ScoreBoard panels; adhere blue cardstock
• Run ScoreBoards through Sizzix machine using the Memo Holder die

• Ivory Cardstock: Use Duetica on-line lettering studio to select the font style you desire; print; cut out
• From ivory cardstock, cut 6 pieces to 2” x 31/2”; scallop one edge; adhere ivory panel as shown in project pictures with Zip Dry Adhesive
• Punch: 6 Marvy Uchida flowers (ivory only); 6 Stampin Up Boho Blossoms (ivory & navy blue)

• Adhere punched items as shown in picture; add half pearl in center
• Ribbon: cut 6 strips each to 10”; Thread ribbon through holes in top of Memo Holder; tie in knot inside flap
• Using the Mandolyn font by Duetica, follow the directions on the site; print on ivory cardstock; cut out; adhere to bottom of Memo Holder
• Bag bracelet & earrings in clear self adhesive bags; use a drop of Quick Grip to secure
• Cut 1” strip of sticky backed Velcro; adhere under Memo Holder flap

Check out the Designers below for more inspiration!

Becky Conley

Candice Windham

Christy Monge

Eileen Hull Kathy Peterson

Springtime in Tennessee

2011-04-13T23:31:00.000-07:00

I can't begin to tell you how much FUN I had creating this special Easter basket. No, it's not your traditional Easter goodies, but a basket filled with delightful spring goodies just the same! The original labels were removed and new labels created. A very unique font company, Duetica, gave me the inspiration for this Springtime project. Using the Mandolyn font package, each label was created to reflect the item seen in the crate. The wooden crate was sprayed with Krylon's premium "Silver Foil Metallic" spray paint. I was looking for a dramatic shine and Krylon provided more than I could have asked for!

FTC Fine Print: I received the selected fonts free of charge from Duetica in exchange for my honest opinion on the product. I did not receive any additional compensation other than the product listed.

Spring Begining Necklace & Earrings

2011-03-27T06:08:00.001-07:00

Spring Beginning

I love working with Amate Studios TM jewelry pieces. Their hand-made findings are the best findings I've ever had the pleasure of using. Here I selected handmade the Heart Dangle (SO-DE-018), silver plated Base Elements by Amate Studios TM. The Large Square Pendant is handmade pewter (PE60600120) was a perfect mate for the earrings.

I created this set the other night to show samples of what I was teaching Saturday. All the pieces turned out good, even my "defective" pieces embellished with Swarovski crystals which made them perfect! 10-11 showed up for this pendant class & everyone of them left with a fully cured resin pendant. Overhead several of them already making plans for Christmas gifts with their attempts! That if the ultimate compliment to any teacher!

The resin makes it hard to get the close up I really want but here is my feeble attempt.

You can see if you look close enough, the veining on the substrate within the pendant. Only those who have worked with this substrate will know what the material within is. For now, it's mine & my students special little secret! One of my students, Sally Carloss, a beautiful young lady who attends my church (CrossRoads Assembly of God) got to attend the class. We ended up spending most the day together.....time really flies when you're having fun! This technique will be taught at my church as well....I'm thinking this necklace/earring set would make the PERFECT Mother's Day gift for the ladies in my church to create themselves! Oh yes, they're ready for a challenge!! AND, Sally will be my helper!

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

2011-03-17T07:08:00.000-07:00

Just had to share two projects I finished up in the wee hours of the morning......

Doesn't look like much, but this card took hours to complete!

When I think of Ireland & the friends I've made who are living there, this phrase sums up my feelings about them pretty well: Loyalty, Love, Friendship. Below is a true Irish Shamrock plant. A dear friend of mine mailed the seeds from Ireland a few years back. Bet he thought I'd never grow them! :-) Little does he know that I have a black thumb......but these little darlings just keep growing & growing.....about time to give them a haircut though & thin them out.

Here is a closer view. This card is full of sparkle! You can't beat the shine when you use Stickles glitter from Ranger Products. After stamping the image, I used Peerless color water paper palette to fill the image in using a water brush. The original stamp had part of the forearm but you will notice here I have cut the forearms off.....why? Well, while I was filling in the color, I didn't realize that I had blue on my thumb......well needless to say, the forearms looked bruised so I cut the bruised arms off......it was either that or toss the whole thing.....and that wasn't happening after all the work I put into this card!

Still in the spirit of St. Patrick's Day......I saw these acrylic beads and they just had that WOW factor! Rarely do I ever buy acrylic beads. But combine those acrylic beads with Swarvoski and you've got a knock down gorgeous necklace! Talk about the shine factor! When I saw the acrylic beads, I knew I had to use them for St. Patrick's Day. Inspired by the weathery mix Ireland goes through ....... The Weather of Ireland came to life. The blues for all the rains, clear Swarvoski crystals for all the ice/snow, greens for the weather produces lush plant growth, yellow for the delightful sunny days........thus the name "The Weather of Ireland".

Another shot (just in case you didn't see it the first time...snicker) of the amazing colors in this necklace!

For all my friends here & there...... Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Wedding Favor YOU can make!

2011-03-13T03:04:00.001-07:00

Wedding? Someone say WEDDING? I'm sure you heard right! The upcoming months will be filled with weddings & ideas will be needed to create just the right favors for the wedding you're likely to be involved in. For full details on this wedding favor, jump to the Designer Craft Connection tab on my blog. Make sure you use the Designer Craft Connection logo....select HOP FORWARD to view dozens of wedding ideas to make YOUR wedding event special!

Vintage Beads Finds New Home!

2011-03-07T23:29:00.000-08:00

At the Trace Creek Crop this past weekend, my dear friend brought a bag full of costume jewelry she found while cleaning out a house in NYC. While at the crop, I carefully cut apart the very old strings that held the beads together and putting all the beads into a sack to be washed & separated when I got home. When separating the beads from their original state, I could see the beauty beneath the layer of dirt. These were found in a basement I believe.

BEFORE BATH

AFTER BATH

Here you can see the true beauty of each bead. All the beads ended up being glass which is amazing in itself. Usually you find a lot of acrylic beads in the mix, but not here. The red & blue beads are splashed with colors and the blue leaves are a delicate etched glass with rhinestones down the centers. If you look closely you'll see two sizes of lentil beads both in green & yellow. There is a carved bone looking bead in the mix above. I didn't take apart necklace that included these beads......not sure where the one above came from as the necklace isn't broken. However, I will take that necklace apart & clean those beads. They were laced on a leather cording. Now the beads will be sorted & put into my stash for stringing!

Thanks to my dear friend Glenda Logsdon, I have some new beads to play with.......and she will end up with the first set of earrings I make out of them!

Anytime you're clearing out old jewelry, please think of me.....I'd love to have first dibs at them!

Beads just make me do a HAPPY DANCE!

Designer Blog Connections: NOW LIVE

2011-03-03T07:41:00.000-08:00

Today officially begins the Designer Blog Connection! An amazing group of designers will entertain & inspire you each month with projects in a variety of mediums and a wide range of topics. On each blog you will see this logo above. Note the "hop back" and the "forward" options. Click on either one & it should automatically take you to the next blog.......be patient with us as we're still working out a few technical kinks. The logo above is for explanation purposes. The actual logo to go back & forth is located to the right.......................................................>

You won't want to miss out on blog hopping......there's a Cricut Expression to be given away and the winner will be announced on March 14th. In order to compete for this GRAND prize donated by Julie McGuffee, read on!

Enter to win: You will see this logo below on 9 blogs. But in order to find the Cricut logo, you must visit each blog to search for it! As you find the little logo, note the name of the blogs and list the blog names in the comments section on Julie McGuffee's blog Life in the Craft Lane. The winner will be announced on her blog on March 14th. Due to shipping charges and customs regulations, the Cricut Expressions can only be shipped to a US address.

Now, get to searching!! The little Cricut logo awaits as you search! LOOK, it's teasing you!

Wedding Favor

2011-03-02T22:35:00.000-08:00

The upcoming months are very popular for weddings! I'm asked often of what I can make in the way of wedding favors. This one is my favorite! Armed with 2 Sizzix dies, handmade paper, gold vellum paper, a few words......this favor is a snap to create! The handmade paper gives this favor quite a bit of depth and the little layered flowers makes for a nice dainty touch. And of course, to go with the wedding theme: Together now forever, says it all. Nestled within the frame is a little bag of rice to be thrown at the bride & groom as they leave the church.

Check out all the details under the Designer Blog Hop tab!

Thundershirt

2011-02-24T09:35:00.000-08:00

Well, it's going to storm pretty bad around here & Sammy's new Thundershirt hasn't arrived in the mail yet. He's terrified of storms and this would've been the true test of this shirt. Hopefully it's in the mail when I get home......for Sammy's sake!

Will report on the effectiveness of the Thundershirt when it's been put to the test. Sammy's also a barker, so this will help (praying) him in so many ways. It's a good thing he's soooo loved!!

Alexa's Jewelry Designs!

2011-02-18T16:35:00.001-08:00

Tonight I have the pleasure of having my niece's little/big girl for a night full of creating.

Alexa is 8.5 years old but already she is a NATURAL at designing her jewelry. After I picked her up at school, we headed to Hobby Lobby. There I had her pick out 2 sets of beads she'd like to make into earrings. The decision was tough as the sparkly beads all hung there as if candy ripe for the taking. After careful thought, Alexa picked out the two she loved best.

Green Panda glass lampwork beads were an immediate selection......
After showing her how to load a headpin (YES, she knows the difference between a headpin & an eyepin now) she laid out her beads on a beading mat. After moving the beads around she found a design that pleased her. Headpins were loaded.....all I did was cut & form the loop so she could string on her necklace chain/cord. What are earrings without having a necklace to match?

The second design was a tad harder. She had to pay attention to the glass bead formations to make sure each were the same & would match when she put them on.

We also worked on a bracelet but the Glossy Accent by Ranger hasn't hardened yet so it will be tomorrow before it's picture is taken. Alexa chose a beachy theme for that one....

Alexa is a natural at jewelry designing! I see a future in it for her. Tonight after supper, we'll work on a flower bottle cap complete with magnet so she can wear it with a necklace I presented to her earlier this past year.

It is super FUN creating with Alexa!! She can't wait to show her designs off to her mama in the morning!

Legacy Road "The Dreams Lives On"

2011-02-12T03:55:00.000-08:00

Yesterday while at the WestStar Working Woman's Conference in Martin, TN I had the great pleasure to listen to Dr. Danny Nicholson. What a powerful & life altering guest speaker! I for one am on a journey to make my life mean something long after I'm gone. I currently volunteer items for those in need: WRAP, RIFA, AIM, Dolly Parton's Imagination Library and the list goes on. Will the recipients remember me? No, of course not. But the donations made will have helped someone eat another meal, be able to dress with dignity after being raped, read books every month until the age of five, have a Christmas complete with a dinner & Christmas tree.......etc. Most importantly, I am a STARS teacher in which I teach young girls the ways of God. Leading little souls to the Lord I must confess is my greatest joy in life. People around me think I burn the candle on both ends way too often.......YES, I do. Life is TOO short not too. My aim in life is to make my life mean something to someone else, no matter how large or small an impact. Dr. Danny Nicholson made me realize that what I am doing really does MEAN something to those it helps. Sometimes we go through the motions without really thinking about it.....it becomes second nature. I thank you Dr. Nicholson the reaffirmation. The following message comes from Dr. Nicholson & his family. Please visit his website to learn more on what YOU can do to fill your life to the fullest!

Legacy Road "The Dream Lives On"

What will you be remembered for? What do you love, value, and stand for? Will your life make the world a better and more peaceful place to live?

The choice is yours... the road never ends. It's a road that we can choose to follow in life that is made up of our faith, family, and friends. The true meaning of each moment on this road can be captured when we listen to our hearts and reach to our children, to our friends in need, to a stranger on the street. Legacy Road invites each human being to live a life that answers these questions with a sense of conviction and courage.

"Believing in Angels and yet seeing none, borrows their wings and sets off down that road of adventure to meet his fate that lies at the end of that road."

Stupendous Steampunk Heart

2011-02-07T19:47:00.001-08:00

Just in time for Valentines Day!

While at the CHA show in LA, I took a class taught by Christi Friesen. Having worked with polymer clay quite a bit, I couldn't resist creating this steampunk heart! In this class we used Premo clays, Sculpey tools, Darice pliers, and Jacquard's PearlEx mica powders. Every student had an entirely different looking steampunk heart. Wished now I had taken a picture of them as they came out of the oven. The small metal pieces you see on the heart are tiny clock parts.

Just finished polymer samples tonight for a class I'll be teaching March 26. Of course all my students will be sporting a brand new polymer clay pendant made by THEM! Just a teaser for ya!

From CA to TN in 3.5 hours!

2011-02-04T08:43:00.000-08:00

WOW.....what a trip!

Left Memphis last Thursday to arrive this Wednesday.....70 degree weather in LA.... 23 degrees when we landed in Memphis...... WELCOME TO TENNESSEE!

The winter 2011 CHA show was awesome as always. Enough new things there to throw anyone into a tailspin! Met so many new people and learned so many new techniques. Can't wait to get started on a few of them!

A few highlights!

Figueroa: Our hotel was the best stay ever. It was an artist's palette. Will post pics of it.

Starbucks: Less than a block from our hotel, a simple walk to get all hyped for the walk to the convention center. Tim Holtz, being the gentleman he is, held the door open for Barbara & I one morning.

CHA: Big show, overload on eye candy! Booth after Booth of eye candy!

Classes/New Techniques: will post tidbits on them as the days go by.

New Friends! Lots to post there!

The Pantry: Oh the stories there!

Wolfgang Puck: Wonderful stories to tell here!

Now to finish unpacking & putting away new goodies!

Be watching in the next few days for stories/pictures of our CHA trip!

Week 7: Treat Bag Toppers

2010-12-16T04:39:00.000-08:00

Big Bag of Nuts!

Week 7 completes a wonderful journey with three talented Designers who created all the dies I've created with for the past 7 weeks. Treat Bag Toppers is a MUST have Sizzix scoreboard die. The possiblities are endless when giving those special gifts and only the best is needed for the presentation. Eileen Hull out did herself with this die.

Here the small treat bag topper was used on this small bag of pecans.

A larger bag of nuts require a larger bag topper!

A SUPER big THANKS to all the fabulous Designers who provided HOURS of eye candy while using these wonderful dies! There are more than several I can't live without now...... :-)

Week 6: Hanging Name Plaque

2010-12-09T04:13:00.000-08:00

Most people love to see their sir names displayed in their homes in one way or another. When I design, I try my best to create something I can enjoy all year round, whether it's just for me or for a dear friend. Brenda Pinnick designed a really cool Sizzix Bigz XL Die: Albums/Brackets. I fell in love with these album pages & used them as a neat background for this hanging name plaque.

Using Beacon's Zip Dry, adhere old dictionary paper to album panels. ColorBox chalk ink the pages to age & darken the edges.

The letters were cut out by my Cricket on brown linen cardstock. With the help of Beacon, I used their Quick Grip to glue the panels to the brown ribbon and embellished it with 4mm Sun Swarovski crystals.

Now I have a lovely way to display our last name in our living room!

Pirate Princess Pop Up!

2010-12-02T08:34:00.000-08:00

Here is the pop up card closed......already the front says A LOT! :-)

Here it is semi opened. The inside top flap has Subria's title then the actual pop up has her picture, of course she wearing a CROWN! And you thought?

Here the card is fully opened & lying almost flat. I'm lovin the black barouqe trim around the card.....just adds a regal touch, don't cha think?

Now, those of you who know me even just a little bit, knows I love working with my fur babies pictures......this die by Designer Karen Burniston. It's a gift card holder pop up die! I used the pop up as a little bill board to OF COURSE to brag on my little girl! I think she's already the Queen of the family but she does lend me the title from time to time. This die is just AWESOME! I love working with it to create this wonderful pop up card!

Enjoy! Please leave comments if you wish! Also, don't forget to click on the Sizzix's Triple Play button on my blog to enjoy the other Designers rendition of the same die! Thanks to Karen for an awesome die!!

The main materials needed for this project:

Sizzix's 3-D For You Pop Up Die

Sizzix's Big Shot Pro Machine

For You Pop Up Instructions

Beacon Adhesvies Zip Dry

Triple-Play Blog Hop Week 4 Frame/Frame back

2010-11-25T14:34:00.000-08:00

WOW, what a die this is! I simply LOVE hanging shots of my family all over my house and this really fits that need! Eileen Hull has done it again with creating the 3-D Pro Scoreboard Die: Frame/Frame Back! It even has the cutest little flowers to accent the frames. What more could I ever ask for? Nothing! Eileen took care of everything! Use with Sizzix® 12x12" mat board and the Sizzix® Big Shot Pro die cutting machine and you have yourself a heap of fun ahead of you! Be sure to check out the Sizzix Blog for 60+ designers using the same dies!

From this one die I created 2 very different pieces. I didn't use the easel, using instead wire to hand my pieces on the wall. The first one is Hawaii. We spent two wonderful DREAMY weeks running around on three Islands. This shot is one from the Polynesian Cultural Center that put on quite a show.

Hawaii

This first frame is using COLORS I'm not used to using. Good to get out of the box. Hawaii brought up all kinds of cool colors.......it's FULL of the pretties colored flowers/plants ever grown on this earth. Blumenthal Lansing sure gave me a choice of colors to choose from! Each button is threaded with black waxed linen thread. A 7mm Swarovski crystal adorns the flower in the lower right hand corner & on the ribbon/flower pull.

Here the picture is pulled to reveal the location if you hadn't "guessed" it already! There is a clear acetate cover to protect the pictures to be inserted. I didn't want to permanently attach the picture, choosing to later add another pull complete with picture. Got tooooooo many from Hawaii to just display ONE!

Directional

Anyone who really KNOWS me, knows that if asked where NORTH is.....I honestly can't tell them! I am direction challenged! Now you know me just a little better! This piece is actually made with two frames. Each inked up separately then nested together. I found an old antique postcard I purchased for pennies at a house sale and used it for the picture. I could just imagine this fella trying to tell this lady how to get from here to there........ I may have admitted I'm directionally challenged here but I know you didn't think I was going to put MY picture in the center! haha The beaded fringe hanging from the frame doesn't show up too well but it sure does when its on the wall.

A Crop-a-dile was used to attach the eyelets
Beacon Adhesives: Quick Grip was used for all gluing purposes
ColorBox chalk inks
Blumenthal Lansing Buttons

Time Will Tell

2010-11-18T07:02:00.000-08:00

Time Will Tell

It’s amazing when a deadline starts to close in, a designer will come up with some of their best ideas! That’s what happened with this week’s project. Faced with Brenda Pinnick’s Beauty Bloom petals, I knew I had to somehow create a necklace out of them but yet keep the beauty of Brenda’s fabric designs intact. I feel I succeeded with this pendant. My love of jewelry and books came together with this piece. Now who doesn’t like wearable books? This wearable fabric book is what I created from Brenda’s Beauty Bloom die cut.

Materials

Non stick mat
Glossy Accents (Ranger)
Beauty Bloom, Originals Die #655455 by Brenda Pinnick
Big Shot Pro die cutting machine Sizzix®
Fabric – Couluer Vie by Brenda Pinnick for Henry Glass & Co
Felt – National Non-Wovens
Stazon black ink
Time related stamps
Brass: rectangle jump, ball chain, and cuckoo clock, small 6mm jump ring
Three 4mm SUN Swarovski crystals
Chestnut Roan (ColorBox)
1/8 hole punch

Instructions

• Coat front & back of each petal with Glossy Accents by Ranger (let dry)
• Decide on which pieces you will use for your pendant, making slight changes with scissors if
needed
• Stack pieces: I used the felt pieces for the front & back with the thinner fabric as the pages
• Stamp each piece with the time theme stamps
• Edge each petal with the Chestnut Roan ink to age for a classic look
• On the cover of my book, I glued one of the inner pages over part of the felt to add depth;
trim
• Mark the first petal with pen and punch. Use this first piece as your template; punch
remaining petals (pages)
• Back felt page, punch 1/8 hole in the center petal tip
• Insert 6mm brass jump ring & attach cuckoo clock
• Open rectangle jump & the back cover, each page, then the front cover, close jump
• Finishing touches: detailed with black pen around flower petal on cover, add three 4mm SUN
Swarovski crystals with Glossy Accents, and brass ball chain

Pet Photo Cubes!

2010-11-11T05:21:00.000-08:00

Pet Photo Cubes

With Christmas just around the corner, I created these Pet Cube Christmas ornaments to celebrate the pets in my life. After all, pets are a huge part of our lives! Since the cubes were black, I went with a black & white theme. Of course, a bone hanging down to tease the little furkids! This Christmas, will feature several more of these cubes with all the pets I’ve had the pleasure of loving through the years. You can just bet they will be getting doggie/kitty stockings full of wonderful treats this year! With all the hub-bub of the gift giving season, the spirit of Christmas is forgotten. Make sure you spend TIME with those you love and give them YOU, the most precious gift of all.

Karen Burniston designed this collapsible cube that is so versatile that you’ll be creating all kinds of things! You will see other designers use this cube in such clever ways….make sure you visit every single one of them! Click on the Sizzix Triple-Blog Hop master list & begin your journey.

Twist Cube, 3D Pop-up, Bigz XL Die by Karen Burniston, Sizzix®Twist Cube Die

Items used to create the Pet cubes: Beacon Adhesives: Zip Dry, Ranger’s Stickles: Star Dust, bones recycled from earrings, white lacy ribbon to match the Stickles Star Dust, black & white photo copied pictures sized for cube panels, and of course the Twist Cube Die.

Photo Pet Stars: Subria, Sammy, Dolly, Bullet, Hannah, Katie, and our cat, Gremlin who passed away several months ago.

Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop - Week 1 Rose Cottage

2010-11-04T06:35:00.000-07:00

FINALLY, we got to the first week of the Sizzix Triple Play Blog Hop!

Every Thursday, a new die from designers: Eileen Hull, Brenda Pinnick and Karen Burniston will be featured in very different ways by 62 designers! Click on the Sizzix button at the top right to jump from one design for a peek at some wonderful eye candy!

The first Sizzix design is from Eileen Hull, the 3-D House Die. Cut on a Sizzix machine using mat board, it is a very study form and so much fun to put together & decorate.

Here is my finished design using Eileen Hull's 3D House: Rose Cottage

When I first saw this die, I had fairy tale visions running throughout my head, thus Rose Cottage was created. Decorated with fabric roses, silver foil and scrapbook paper, this little cottage is waiting for a future queen to arrive.

A close up shot at the foiled entrance.

Late at night you can even see the soft glow of the lights from inside Rose Cottage, further beckoning tired wanderers in for a much needed rest.

To create this fairy tale cottage for your own little ones (or big ones):

Materials

Sizzix Big Shot Pro Die Cutting Machine
Sizzix 12 x 12 white matboard
#656836 Sizzix Scoreboard Pro Die: 3D House by designer Eileen Hull
Quick Grip Adhesive by Beacon Adhesives
Zip Dry by Beacon Adhesives
Fabric roses, pink & white
Yellow scraps of yellow vellum
Pink ribbon
Ornate silver foil frame (cut apart)
Silver foil crown
Silver brads
Battery operated candle tea light
Tim Holtz: Vintage Shabby Pink scrapbook paper
Clearsnap ColorBox Pink dye: Razzberry

Directions:

Cut house out, instructions on house assembly provided.
Apply Zip Dry to house, cover with Shabby Pink paper
Cut out areas for door & windows
Color all aread to be seen with pink dye: door frame, window frames, roof edges
Apply roses to roof with Quick Grip adhesive
Adhere yellow vellum scraps to inside windows
On small roof top, adhere ribbon & trim edges with small roses
Silver foil on entranceway & Crown on house exterior
Insert battery operated tealight & mount main roof

Enjoy!

If the Crown Fits!

2010-10-25T00:57:00.000-07:00

I've had the honor of becoming friends with Tiffany Windsor and her sister Heidi Borcher & getting to know a TERRIFIC new product they've just come out with: Cool2Cast. This is a quick setting fiber plaster like material that is specifically used for creating jewelry & home dec accents. After pouring a whole package of the material into molds of all kinds, I finally got around to actually CREATING a piece of jewelry from it! Here's a video on Cool2Cast coloring.

Mix Coo2Cast as directed
Pour into molds
Allow to dry, pop out, allow to dry further
Sand back edges with sanding block
Stain with alcohol ink & stamp with images (using StazOn permanent ink)
Spray with polyurethane to seal
Using Smooch metallics: Sugarberry, Gold Lame, and Sassy Pink, accent crown
Use Beacon Adhesives, Quick Grip to adhere bail & felt to back
Braided cord through bail, attach closure findings
WEAR & ENJOY!

While at an all day ART event in Memphis, one of the vendors there was Artistic Outpost! It was nice getting to see Robyn & Shelly again and of course I just HAD to buy several rubber stamp plates! As I looked over all the stamp plates they had, it was hard choosing 3 at least! As I look at any stamps these days, a lot of "thought" goes into it. I have to justified in my mind at least 3-5 ways in which to make these stamps WORK for ME after they are bought. The plates I ended up with were: The Oz Collage, The Wonderland Collage, and The Neverland.

Can you see a story building here? At least three I'll say! These images are awesome and the uses are plentiful. Here is the first use of a phrase used in Alice in Wonderland.....from Artistic Outposts' "The Wonderland" die plate.

Burlap Tattered Flowers

2010-10-23T20:54:00.000-07:00

I was blessed with about $150.00 worth of burlap last week and was determined to make something out of them & quick. Okay, so I only used a tee tiny portion of the burlap I was given but hey, it's just THE beginning!

So the story unfolds:

About 1:30 am I awoke with this great idea to make burlap flower pins! like I did with the denim. But you know how messy & stringy burlap can be! As not to lose the thought, I immediately went outside with the dogs to the trunk of my car where the burlap was still hiden safely from a husband who thinks I have way too much stuff already, where I cut about a 1/2 yard from each color.

Inside I go, dogs in tow. I cut each piece of burlap into 6" x 8" sections, neatly stacking the pieces. It's getting close to 2 am now but the great idea is still there. I get a square plastic bowl & pour some Aleenes Tacky Glue diluted with water. Each burlap 6x8 in piece gets a soak in the mixture. Ball up & wring out excess glue/water mixture. Each wet burlap piece is then placed on parchment paper to prevent sticking. After an hour, the pieces are put in front of a fan (ok, so I was impatient....after all it IS the wee hours of the morning) to finish drying.

The pieces dried fairly quickly but I made SURE the burlap pieces were good & dry. When dry, the burlap is stiff & workable for the project I'm using it for. Using the Tattered Florals from Sizzix, each piece is cut into flower sections. Here's all the flowers I created from the pieces of stiffen burlap.

Then the layering begins. I alternated between the dark brown & tan tattered florals.

Using a Crop-a-Dile, cut a center hole in each flower. Insert a brad or add a pretty button.

And here you have it! My very first burlap Tattered Florals! Ready to wear to church tomorrow!

Recycled Denim

2010-10-22T23:57:00.000-07:00

What do you do with those old blue jeans that are a little too snug? Yeah, I know the story cause I have the same one...... that dang dryer SHRUNK them! Sometimes when Goodwill is having their first Saturday of the month HALF off sale, I usually hit them to buy a few nice textures to make "Tattered" flower lapel pins out of.

Using the Tattered Flowers die cut by Sizzix's designer, Tim Holtz, cut out two sets of flowers from scrap denim. To get the two different colors of denim, turn every other layer over to the wrong side when stacking. For added interest, stamp wrong side (light side) of denim with a script or stamp of your choosing with StazOn permanent ink. Top it off with a crystal, button, or piece of recycled jewelry. Add your pin back & wha la.....you've got a new fashionable accessory to wear to wow your friends once again!

I'm fixing to attempt this same feat with burlap. I know I'll have to treat the burlap first to keep it from fuzzing off on the person wearing it......plus get it to cut in my Sizzix die cut (Tattered Flowers) out by Tim Holtz without getting stuck in all the wrong places. I became the proud owner of about 150 yards of burlap (dark brown & the usual tan) and I'm dying to see what all I can make out of it! The flower will be my first creation with the burlap. You WILL see lots more designs from burlap, I can assure you!

Hello Punkin

2010-10-22T00:24:00.000-07:00

Well, Fall is here & I see pumpkins are all around me! Thus this piece was created.

While in Electica for a club meeting, a class on scratch board was taught. Of course, I didn't leave the store without a little package of the scratch boards in all different sizes. Artistic Outpost images were used on this piece. Here's how this pendant was created.

Stamp images with StazOn black ink.
Using a Q-tip, color images with StazOn colors, yellow, orange & green, making sure you don't rub hard, DAB your colors on to keep from smearing the black.
Using a needle awl or carving tool, scratch your highlights into your scratch board.
Go back & fill in some areas if desired with inks (ie. the background here)
Add some black trim
Drill a small hole for a jump ring (I used a Dremel Drill Press)
Lightly spray with sealer
Add jump ring & ball chain
ENJOY

Wearable Journal

2010-10-21T02:07:00.000-07:00

Roxi Phillips & Candice Windham taught this class at the "Time for Art" event in Memphis and it turned out awesome, as if we expected anything less! This project demonstrated basic metal working skills as well as introduced the class to Ice Resin treated papers. What we ended up with was a beautifully handcrafted wearable journal! This picture doesn't come close to showing you the beauty of this pendant but it's the best I could do.

Candice & Roxi had pre-resined the papers for us to stamp & cut to size. One inch square brass plates were hammered & stamped. Papers cut & stacked to fit neatly inside the brass plates, holes drilled with a Dremel/Dremel Drill Press, jump rings inserted. I used a braided black leather cord, coiled with brass wire, and embellished with small brass sayings/keys. The ends were finished off with end caps & jewelry fasteners.

This necklace is a head turner & show stopper when wearing! I wore it to church & was stopped again & again with people wanting to see what I was wearing!

Thanks Roxi & Candice for teaching this class!!! Loved every minute of it!

It's All About the Numbers

2010-10-20T02:00:00.000-07:00

It's all about the NUMBERS!

I've always loved creating with numbers & time elements so you can imagine the fun I had with this piece.

If you know me well, you know how I love creating my jewelry pieces symetrical so this necklace kept me challenged to work asymetrical! I love the overall look of this necklace. The pieces for this necklace were collected from all around me. I cut up an ordinary wooden ruler, aging it with Ranger Distress Inks.

Here is a watch face I gutted to make lighter for wearing but glued the numbered faceplate in place. Misc beads were used, heck what's a necklace without beads? The metal numbers were drilled top & bottom to add jumps to string. Vintage silver & antique chains were added for interest.
Here I used small game pieces that I drilled a hole through in order to string. On the ruler is a paper ruler adhered to the wooden ruler section. Using a Crop-a-Dile, I punched my holes & set my eyelets in the ruler for a finished look.

From the ruler section hangs a Vintaq brass plate with vintage bingo game marker glued to it using Beacon Adhesives, Quick Grip. Again, I really like the way this piece turned out. This piece was inspired from a necklace I saw while flipping through a bead magazine & my love for numbers.

Card Keeper Envelope Book

2010-10-19T03:08:00.000-07:00

At the recent "Taste for Art" the fabulous Barbara Rankin taught this class.

Everyone needs an envelope book to store their cards in before sending out to special friends who need that little lift on those cloudy days.

Notice the tabs on the left side? Each one is labeled so you know where to store those cards for every occasion. The front of the book is stamped using a masking technique to make the woman appear to be out in front of the rulers (stamped upside down on purpose..lol). Each page is inked up using Ranger's Distressed inks & Adirondacks inks which took lots of elbow grease. As of right now only the front side is stamped. I'll get to the other envelopes when I find a spot of time. Just thinking of WHAT I want to stamp on them will take the most time!

Leave a comment on my blog to be entered into a drawing that will take place Tuesday, Oct. 26 to win one of the art pieces being displayed during this week!

Altered Spoon Plaque

2010-10-18T01:41:00.000-07:00

I'm always looking for new ways in which to recycle things & this suits the bill very nicely.
This class was taught by Margarite Hardy from River City Stampers.

This beautiful "Fall 2010" plaque was created this past Saturday at the "Taste 4 Art" event held in Memphis, Tennessee. Although the pictures don't do this piece the justice it deserves, I've done my best at it. Now, to tell you how to do it!

Materials:

Beacon Adhesives Quick Grip
black baroque trim
thin piece of wood for the background (or board canvas will do nicely)

black & white acrylic paint

old spoon from thrift store

misc. beads

26 gauge wire to string beads
piece of fabric

clear kitchen/bathroom caulk
piece of muslin

black/brown StazOn permanent ink pad

rubber stamp with favorite saying

piece of scrap wood or foam board

sanding block

hammer & lead piece (letters & numbers optional)

dried leaves

2-3 alcohol inks, colors of your choice

sponges

Directions:

paint edges of wood black or brown

paint front of scrap wood cut to saying size with white paint

spread a thin layer of clear caulk on one side of your board with an old gift card

center fabric on board, cut edges flush to board

if you're using a scrap piece of wood, sand edges with sanding block

paint the front side with white acrylic paint (let dry)

stamp muslin with black StazOn ink with favorite saying
using clear caulk, spread very thin layer over scrap piece just covered with white paint & center stamped muslin, lightly press down

when dried, paint edges black or brown

lightly tint the word saying with Ranger's Distress Inks; I used Wild Honey & Vintage Photo
working with spoon, hammer flat or leave curved

drop small amounts of alcohol randomly on spoon, dabbing with sponge if too much drops

wrap spoon with beads on wire

using small piece of excess fabric, wrap around spoon, tie & trim ends

arrange dried leaves in place
trim edges with black baroque trim

When you've decided if your piece is going to hang landscape or portrait, hammer in the hanger on the back of your wood.

Now you're ready to arrange all your pieces & adhere to the fabric background!
Use Beacon Adhesives Quick Grip to adhere all the elements.

Every Fall I go for a nature walk where I pick up the most beautiful leaves to dry! Press them between book pages & leave to dry for several weeks. Store flat in tubs & you'll always have dried flowers/leaves to add to your artwork.

Drinking Straw Jewelry

2010-10-17T16:05:00.000-07:00

Well, I just HAD to try it!

I collected the drinking straws from every cup, washed them, dried them & then cut them up. In a glass jar they went. You have to collect a few to play with and I wanted some different colors to choose from.

At the "Taste for Art" event yesterday, I demo'ed the Drinking Straw Jewelry technique and everyone just couldn't get over what can be done with them.

Another thing I do is collect vintage jewelry from family, friends & of course yard sales. They are then taken apart so the pieces can be used in all kinds of artwork.

The technique I used is as follows:

Cut the straws into 2.5 inch pieces.

Using 2 non-stick craft sheets, arrange about 4-5 straw section in the colors you choose.

Cover with another non-stick craft sheet (sandwiching the straws in the middle).

With an iron on the hotest setting, slowly lower iron on the top of the straws being very careful not to let the straws drift apart leaving gaps.

You will feel the straw beginning to melt.

Once you feel the iron has pretty much flatten the straws (this will only take a few seconds), lift the iron

Immediately put something heavy on top of the melted straws to prevent curling

After a few minutes, remove & peel the non-stick craft sheets away

Cut the straw arrangement into any shape you wish

Embellish with wire, beads, and/or vintage jewelry

Hook onto a ball chain & fish hook ear wires & you're set to WOW some people!

If you have any questions about this technique, just let me know & I'll be happy to answer you!

Enjoy your newly made jewelry!!!

TRIPLE PLAY Blog Hop coming soon!

2010-10-14T07:39:00.000-07:00

Get ready to have your creative socks blown off! There are 62 designers who are currently very busy creating with new Sizzix die cuts designed by: Eileen Hull, Karen Burniston and Brenda Pinnick! This is a STELLAR event and not to be missed. Click on the Sizzix blinkie & see the days listed in which we ALL will be posting the same die created in many different ways.

Get ready for some FUN!!!!

Be PROUD Ceasar Millan!

2010-09-10T06:34:00.000-07:00

Here's a perfect scene of HARMONY!

That's Sammy (my boy) and my brother's cat, Ivan enjoying the darkness turning into light from the pet perch in front of the window.

In order to get the wooden blinds open, Ivan started picking on the right hand side, thus the slight gap being pulled apart.....he's insistant little bugger. HAHA Note the color of the two? Don't they LOOK like family members? Ivan was spending the week with us while his parental units were tripping to VA. Here Ivan is sitting on the top rung of the little pet staircase Van made for them. Subria & Ivan use the stairs, Sammy gets a running start from the floor to the couch then to the window. sigh Some critters are just plain HARD headed!

A picture of perfect unity among species. Don't cha just wish humans behaved this well?

Frame IT!

2010-08-31T12:34:00.000-07:00

I buy frames with nice wide borders whenever I come across them. The wider the better! Here's one I created during my twilight hours of NO sleep. Hey, I do make the MOST outta any situation.... :-)

Coat the back, front & sides of the frame with a dark brown acrylic paint.

Mod Podge was brushed on the front to adhere the scrapbook paper down.
Smooth paper over frame with fingers to remove any air bubbles.

Lay frame face down on cutting mat & cut paper from frame using an exacto knife.

Using a sanding block, lightly sand all edges.

Lightly use paint left in sponge (left over from painting frame) & lightly touch up all edges.

Fabric lace ribbon was tinted with distress "Antique Photo" ink by Ranger, Inc.

A selection of old buttons arranged across the ribbon.

Tan wax linen thread was used to tie knots in the buttons.

Beacon's Quick Grip was used to adhere the buttons on top of the frame across the ribbon.

Insert your favorite TRAVEL picture & you're set to display with style!

Scrapbook paper: Rusty Pickle
Adhesives: Mod Podge Mat finish and Beacon's Quick Grip

Wedding Jewelry

2010-08-07T09:31:00.000-07:00

I was asked to work up 6 bracelets & 5 pairs of earring for Jay & Lindsay Freyer's wedding which is tonight! A business card was handed to me with the 2 color samples of the bridesmaid dresses. Besides LOVING the colors, it was somewhat of a challenge to find just the right beads.
I found some coral looking glass beads & surrounded them with Swarvoski crystals to add that sparkle every woman loves. I'm not used to working with elastic cording but not knowing the wrist sizes of the young women involved, I couldn't take the chance any other way.

Now, the jewelry was all made. Gotta have a nice presentation for the soon to be BRIDE to present her bridesmaids with the jewelry. Taking coral cardstock, I cut it to the right dimension to fit inside the box which is coming up next. Pierced holes for the earrings, punched holes for the bracelet with my crop-a-dile. Using silver elastic cord, I fastened the bracelet to the cardstock. A silver glittered embellishment was added for the sparkle.

Now for the final touch. Mat board was sprayed with Elmers Adhesive spray and the Turquoise scrapbook paper was added. Using Eileen Hull's "Box with Flap" scoreboard Sizzix diecut, the shape was then cut & scored by running it through my Big Shot machine. Tim Holtz's Tattered Flowers Sizzix die was used to cut the the flowers out. Large coral flower layered with the turquoise then dotted with a small Swarvoski crystal using my favorite glue, Quip Grip by Beacon Adhesives. The name was added on this sample with photoshop.....but I typed out each woman's name using coral ink on beige cardstock. The name was then punched out with Stamp'in Up's slotted punch. 2 silver brads were added after running the Quip Grip down along the insides of the box.

The fox flap closure are a brand new Velcro dot adhesive. I do product testing for Velcro & this was the perfect thing to try it on. Worked perfectly!! Now to fill out my report for Velcro.

All 6 little boxes were packaged up & transported along with 4 boxes of wedding programs to the Pledge Plantation. It was around 10 pm when we made it over to location....and was AMAZED to see where the wedding is to take place tonight. I'll have to take pictures because I can't describe the beautiful handiwork of my pastor & some of our friends..... simply breath taking.

Until then.....
Veronica

Fun with Blumenthal Lansing Buttons!

2010-07-23T21:00:00.000-07:00

Just couldn't help play with my stash of Blumenthal Lansing buttons. These bracelets were created out of everyday plastic water bottles. Getting into the groove of recycling after watching Eco-Artist Heidi Borchers on Cool 2 Craft. How can you not be inspired by turning trash into treasures, unique one of a kind gifts?

Unless you tell someone how you made these bracelets, they'd never guess!

Check out Cool 2 Craft every Monday, 11 am central time, for an hour of the most brilliant artists willing to teach you the newest & latest in crafting today.

Mint Containment

2010-05-27T09:14:00.000-07:00

Alas, this is the last of the blog hops for awhile....I'm sure Eileen needs to REST! But this has been one of the most enjoyable experiences to have had the honor of participating in. I've met the most AWESOME designers ever!!

I though long & hard about this Bow Die project. Every designer faced with this challenge wants to design the BEST from the product, of course! I'm no different. While I pictured everything from bows to oranaments, I wanted to come up with something totally unlike what the orginal product was to look like. This is what I came up with.

Note: Beacon's Quick Grip glue was used for all adhearing purposes in this design except for
gluing handmade paper, a glue stick was used.

Gluing handmade paper on mat board, I used the Sizzix bow die to cut my pieces out. I didn't use the shortest lengths, just the middle & longest pieces to create my vase cover.

Each piece was scored & bent outwards for the bottom.

Using a plastic water bottle with the smooth middle center cut out, I glued my 2 size lengths, alternating them around the plastic. Twine was used to wrap around the pieces until the glue set.

Remove twine wraps. Wrap a fresh piece of twine around the bottom, gluing into place with Beacon's Quick Grip.

Light blue & light pink pearls adorn the holes.

Posh metallic paints highlight all the edges, top & bottom.

Wrap a seashell trim along the top.

Another wrap with twine over the brown trim, adding that textural feel.

With a baby food jar or other small vase fill partially with water, add your flowers and you're set to decorate any table with STYLE!

Remember to vote on your favorite Design! Go to Eileen Hull's blog & leave a comment. Your comment could win YOU a free die!!

Ann Butler
Bonnie Bruns
Craftside
Debra Quartermain
Einat Kessler
Jenn Goode
Julie McGuffee
LollyChops
Michelle Cummings
Marisa Pawelko
Roxi Phillips
Sparkle Studio
Candice Windham
Eileen Hull

How Old This Year?

2010-05-12T06:22:00.000-07:00

Week 4 of the Sizzix Scoreboard Dies Blog Hop has arrived! What a sweet taste this new CAKE DIE designed by Eileen Hull left us with. Make sure you check out all the other wonderful cake inspirations below by other very talented designers then leave a comment here or at Eileen Hull's blog to be put in a drawing to WIN a free scoreboard die!

Ok, be truthful for a minute. How MANY of you back up your birthdays? Sometimes to a point you can't remember your OWN age? Well, this is what inspired this theme for the CAKE die! There are enough numbers on this little cake to make up any AGE you wish! Just pick a number! Any number!

The first cake I "made" was with the scoreboard.....then I thought, lets take it a step further! With some scrap metal plates that were used on a printing press, I cut several sheets & run them them the Big Shot machine using the CAKE die, thus cutting out my pieces. I then used the Cuttle Bug to emboss with the numbers plate. Alcohol inks, winter green, violet, and stone wash blue, were sponged on in a random pattern to create a mottled look. A sanding block was used to sand the ink off the numbers. The side pieces of the cake were taped together with Red Liner tape. Beacon's Quick Grip were used to adhered the top & bottom of the cake. Ranger's Glossy Accents was used to glue the pearls & flowers to the top of the cake. The question mark was printed off my Cricket using the Base Camp cartridge. Heavy clear plastic film suspends the question mark off the cake as if floating.

Here is a closeup of the side of the cake. You can see the mottled look of the inks and the effects of the numbers sanded.

Top of the cake with the little purple flowers & pearls adorning it.

I was very pleased at how this little cake turned out!
This Cake die can be used as a gift box or simply as a cake gift for just about any occasion!
Be sure to check out the other CAKE designs below & don't forget to leave a comment here or on Eileen Hull's blog! Your comment just may leave you a winner of a Sizzix Scoreboard die!

Stay tuned for the Sizzix BOW die to appear in the next few weeks!

Creatively,
Veronica (Ronnie) Goff

Ann Butler

Candice Windham

Craftside-A behind-the-scenes peek at a crafty world

Debra Quartermain
Eileen Hull
Einat Kessler
Jen Goode - JGoode Designs
Just a Thought or Two
Karen Burniston
Laura Bray
Life in the Craft Lane
Lisa Rojas, Stampin' Queen Creations
Modern Surrealist Marisa Pawelko
Niki Meiners
Roann Mathias Calligraphy
Sandy Laipply
Bonnie Bruns

Box Blog Hop!

2010-04-28T06:07:00.001-07:00

The past 2 weeks Designers were to use their creative muse to dress up the Rectangular Box. It never amazes me at how one little box can stir up such creativity, but just check out the blogs below for the eye candy that awaits you! This little box can be used for party favors, little hide-a-ways, or simply slip a couple of pieces of chocolate in it & give to a friend for a little "lift". Always works for me!! The measurements are approx. 3.75" wide by 1.75" high by 1.875" deep.

For this project, I used a paper design from one of our very own designers: Jen Goode. I wrapped the entire box, folded sides in & glued. 3 black brads holds the top section on from the backside. Black baroque trim (RockCandy Studios) was added along the front lid & around the bottom of the box. Wood feet gives this little box some BIG box height! Those who know me well, know I am a CPL Locksmith in the state of TN so my use of keys is wide spread. So don't cha just know I had to use the new Tim Holtz die cut key & key hole (out of grunge board) along with his Tattered Flowers die. A few little antique jewel case keys to top it off.

If you enjoyed looking at all the eye candy from all the designers, leave a comment here or on Eileen's Blog so you are eligible for a random drawing for a Scoreboards die!

Be sure to check back May 12 when we will be creating little 3 D cakes! Sure to leave you hankering for something sweet!

This is Sammy during my creative spurts at 4:30 a.m. He's none too happy with me as you can plainly see. I was in the living room working on 2 projects (other locations have other projects in stages of completion) when I picked up the camera & shot this of Sammy this morning. As you have noticed......he KNOWS how to use a pillow correctly! haha

Until later,
Veronica

Ann Butler
Candice Windham
Carla Schauer
Cindi Bisson
Eileen Hull
Julie McGuffee
Veronica Goff
Laura Bray
Lorine Mason
Melony Bradley
Modern Surrealist
Sparkle's Studio
Roxie Phillips
Madeline Arendt
Lisa Rojas
Jen Goode
Einat Kessler
Niki Meiners
Karen Burniston

Coffee Cup Roses

2010-04-23T16:22:00.000-07:00

FINALLY, I'm through with this collage! So many have wanted to see what I've been up to, so here it is! I can't take credit with coming up with this technique......a wonderful designer, an Eco Artist by the name of Heidi Borcher did! If you are interested in trying your own coffee cup roses, click on Heidi's name & it'll take you to her blog where she has a YouTube tutorial.

The coffee cups came from Starbucks, minus the coffee as we drank every drop before turning it into a work of art. Painted with red acrylic paint & then added a touch of red glitter for a touch of sparkle that the picture doesn't show well. The stems are simply skewers painted green. The leaves were drawn on the coffee cup sleeves, cut out & painted green. Beacon's Quick Grip was used where ever needed for a strong hold that can't be beat anywhere, believe me I KNOW!

The canvas came from a yard sale with a whopping .75 cents marked on it! Acrylic paints provide the background. The edges of the canvas are trimmed with sections of coffee cup lids graciously provided by Mifflin General with the only stipulation was to see the collage when it was done. The vase was drawn on the lid of a Pizza Hut pizza box and cut out. I stripped a layer of cardboard off to reveal the cardboard spines for added texture. Painted the vase with black Krylon and then used white webbing spray to cause the spidery lines.

Usually on Friday nights, we go to Books a Million where I get coffee, thus the Joe Muggs napkins. Using gel medium, I collaged the napkins on layer by layer to create a table like for the vase to sit on. Of course, when having coffee, I like to doctor it up. Gotta use the stirrers to stir my brew!

If you get the urge to create your own coffee cup roses, please share a picture of them with me!

Hope you enjoy!

Friendship Tea

2010-04-13T17:09:00.000-07:00

Friendship Tea

This week is FRIENDSHIP TEA time!

Eileen's tea cup scoreboard die cut makes the perfect presentation to any special event! Here I used the 3D tea cup as a vase. Buttons whipped into flowers & tucked within the tea cup. The saucer is trimmed with lace and tinted an orange to fit the color scheme that Brenda Pinnick of Color U challenged us with. Since Brenda is all about COLOR, I used plenty of it for this project making it very festive. Here are the two samples we were to choose from:

I chose color scheme #1, working closely with the violet, orange and off yellow.
Taking those three colors in acrylic, pooled so sides were touching, I pounced the colors randomly until I got the look I wanted with all pieces separate. When good & dried, red liner tape was applied to the edges to keep a firm hold when assembled. After assembly, I decided the cup & saucer needed a sheen so out came the polyurethane spray! I later added the white ruffle lace to the saucer, stippled it with orange StazOn to keep within the color palette. Swavorski crystals add jut the right amount of BLING every girlfriend needs to be noticed! Painted the little tag and added friendship saying, strung it with wire & hung off the cup. Green pipe cleaners were stems for my button flowers. Put all this together & you've got a wonderful little party favor or a little centerpiece that would delight just about anyone!

Enjoy!

If you like what I've done with my project, please take a moment to Vote for Me!
To vote, visit Eileen Hull's blog and leave a comment saying you like my project.
I appreciate your support!

Check out all the other blogs for additional inspiration on this ONE die!

Eileen Hull
Blog Hop: Sparkle's Tea Cup
Bonnie Bruns
Just a Thought or Two
Make your own pretty scented tea cup flower bouquet by JGoode Designs
Modern Surrealist 2 in 1 Bohemian Tea Cup Magnet for the Sizzix Blog Hop!!!
Sandy Laipply
ScoreBoard Tea Cup
Sizzix ScoreBoard Blog Hop Tea Cup
Tea Cup Party Favors
Tea Cup Pin Cushion
Tea Cup Vase
Tea for Two in Blue
Tea for Two, Two for Tea...
The Perfect Blend
Lisa Rojas http://www.stampinqueencreations.blogspot.com/

2010-04-08T14:49:00.000-07:00

If you like what I've done with my project, please take a moment to Vote for Me!

To vote, visit Eileen Hull's blog and leave a comment saying you like my project.

I appreciate your support!

Testing Logo

Little Lady's Big Purse

2010-03-30T18:46:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to be participating in my first Blog Hop! Designer Eileen Hull has been hard at work with Sizzix and what you will be seeing on different blogs, are soon to be released Scoreboard Dies. Instead of regular cardstock most dies cut, these new dies cut & score mat board to create a dimensional works of art. Artists will be posting a new scoreboard treat every other Wednesday and everyone of them will be soooooo different! There will be inspiration enough to go around the block several times!

A special treat: Vote for your favorite project on Eileen's blog and leave a comment on any participating designer's blog and YOU COULD BE A WINNER! The ScoreBoard die used in the project will be given to the designer whose project gets the most votes, and one viewer who leaves a comment will receive a ScoreBoard die from the first Sizzix ScordBoard collection. To qualify to win, you must write a comment on any of the participating designers' sites.

Voting ends the Monday following the Wednesday hop at 6 PM.

This is the first sample to begin the Blog Hop off right.

To throw a challenge in the mix, Eileen had us include some kind of office supply item into our design. To keep you from seaching too hard, the item I used were 2 fastner circles with fastners. When I looked at the blank scoreboard before me, I saw a little girls purse with some of her momma's make up in it. Of course she threw in her pony tail holder as well as her necklace.

Covering the scoreboard with Peppermint Rain Drops textured paper (The Paper Company) with Zip Dry adhesive by Beacon......the little purse began to take shape. Using RockCandy Studios copper Dresden Foil, I trimmed the entire purse, including the scalloped areas to highlight them. Decorative pink beaded trim was added because EVERY little girl deserves BLING. Since copper was my main metal used, I coiled some copper 18 gauge wire and fastened it down with Making Memories flowers. Copper jump rings & chain complete the purse!

Remember to VOTE on your favorite project & you could be a WINNER! Go to Eileen Hull's website & look over the other designers projects & cast your vote!

Cindi Bisson - Fat Cat Creations

Just a Thought or Two

Karen Burniston

Veronica Goff - Life Snippets

Mel Designs - Trendy Thank You Gifts

Niki Meiners

Sparkle's Studio

Pink Lemonade

Stampin' Queen Creations Lisa Rojas

FTC: Material Disclosure: I have a material connection to Sizzix and Eileen Hull. I received samples of the product above to use for this blog post.

Metal ATC's

2010-03-12T17:18:00.001-08:00

The River City Stampers came up with a challenge to make an ATC (Artist Trading Card) with any material EXCEPT paper. Since I'm big into recycling, here's what I made with some metal printing press plates due to be thrown away.

Here's how I created these:

Materials

Scrap metal printing press plates

Adirondack Alcohol inks: Butterscotch, Stream, and Rust

Adirondack Acrylic Paint Dabber: Espresso

Sponge for each alcohol ink color

Swirl from Stampin' Up! Stitched Exotics

Sanding Block

Ruler

Pen

Cuttlebug with Numbers envelope

Directions

• Measure & draw two ATC's at a time. Each ATC dimension will be 3.5 x 2.5
Do not cut apart until the following has been completed.

• Ink up sponge with Butterscotch & pounce at random over the metal piece.

• Repeat with colors; Stream and Rust

• Dry by blowing, it will dry very quickly.

• Ink up swirl stamp with Espresso dabber and stamp at random over metal

• Let dry

• Open Numbers envelope, place metal piece inside (just the right fit for 2 ATC's "uncut".

• Run through Cuttlebug to emboss numbers on metal piece.

• Remove from Cuttlebug envelope

• With sanding block, sand off all ink & acrylic paint off raised numbers.

• With a tissue, wipe excess metal grit off the metal

• Cut where you have marked to make 2 metal ATCs!

Note: If the plates have print on them, LEAVE ON. Perform the actions above and the print will show through to add depth to your piece!

Hope you enjoyed this technique as much I have enjoyed playing with the inks today.

Tutorial was created by Veronica Goff.

I'm in LOVE with Bamboo!

2010-03-02T08:41:00.000-08:00

Bamboo glass beads that is! I just got the order in yesterday from Artbeads and these begged to be put together! Upon ordering them, I knew what I was going to do so all my supplies were out & waiting on the mail carrier. I chose to design with the glass bamboo beads due to the uniqueness and the textural feel I got just from looking at them. Having just finishing the bracelet this morning, it's causing quite a stir at work! The colors are so rich! Look close at the bamboo bead, there is a coppery string of glass wrapped around the middle! In this bracelet the colors are Cranberry, Amber and Avocado. The bamboo beads exceeded my expectations! When coupled with little antique copper flowers with a little dragonfly tagging along, this bracelet just makes you smile. I most certainly be ordering more of these little jewels!

I just wanted to inform everyone that the Artbeads 10^th Anniversary Sweepstakes for the $1,000 Shopping Spree will be ending at Thursday, March 4, 2010 at 11:59pm (PST).The contest is open to United States and Canadian residents (excluding Quebec ) over the age of 18.

FTC Fine Print: I received the following products free of charge from Artbeads in exchange for my honest opinion on the product. I did not receive any additional compensation other than the product listed: Glass Bamboo Beads.

the Art of Metal Embossing

2010-02-14T12:59:00.001-08:00

The Art of Metal Embossing

[ Metal Embossing is an art form that has been around for centuries. Metal embossing imparts luster, radiance, intriguing dimension, and texture to metal. A variety of easy-to-use tools are used to push flat metal sheeting from the back, creating raised designs. Other equally easy-to-use tools are used on the front of the metal to refine & define the edges of the raised areas. This is the process of embossing, known as repujado in Spanish and repoussage or repousse in French. A patina or antiquing medium can be applied to embossed designs to duplicate the look of age, giving the pieces an old world look. ] Metal Embossing Workshop ISBN: 978-1-4027-2444-2 I HIGHLY suggest this book for anyone getting started! It's fantastic!!

While at the 2010 Craft & Hobby Association this past January, I met Magdalena Muldoon who is a fantastic metal embosser! She had frames, chests, you name it she had it displayed & the metals she used looked so real and VERY expensive when embossed! I stood there transfixed when I looked down & there sat Cheryl (River City Stampers) fixing to do a make & take. I immediately sat down and Magdalena began teaching us her mini class. The tools had wonderful names like: stylus, refiner, dry points, wooden thumb, points narrow/wide wheels, dot wheel, star wheel, ball & cap, diagonal/horizontal wheels, dots, herring bone, and I could go on for a LONG while just on the embossing tools! I'm ALL about tools.....so I was hooked immediately!

She showed us different metals. The family consists of: Pewter, Copper, Aluminum, Silver, and Brass. My favorite & the one we used was pewter that was covered on both sides by tin. Because the pewter is coated with tin, the lead in the pewter does not come in contact with your hands. The feel is heavier than the regular embossing metal you find in most hobby stores. I'm now wishing I had bought several rolls of it while there. I had bought some metal embossing tools in the past from RockCandy Studios and played with them.....but now with a little more knowledge about this art form, I added more tools to my metal embossing kit!

While I'm still very much a beginner I couldn't help but try a rather difficult pattern.

The butterfly was etched on the metal through a paper pattern with a stylus. Different metal embossing tools were used to etch & emboss the butterfly until I was happy with the look. I couldn't help but buy a 2.5x5 inch piece of Mother of Pearl accent. This was rather expensive so I just bought the one sheet, but the other colors were so elegant! You have to be exact with matching the mother of pearl accent, thus I slipped up on this a little but after cutting out the same piece wrong 2 times.....I quit & used what I had. :-) I plan on using this butterfly with a floral embossed piece (not done yet) and frame it. The back of the butterfly is filled with backing paste in case anyone tries to "feel" it hard. The whole piece won't be destroyed.

If you haven't tried this & always wanted to....I highly suggest it. It's very soothing to work on while watching TV (but try to trace the pattern first or you'll lose your place or the paper will slip!)......metal therapy!!

Big Shot - Blog Hop

2010-02-11T09:18:00.001-08:00

Yep, I ordered & just found out I am the proud owner of a "Big Shot" die cut machine. I'm getting ready to be in Eileen Hull's next Sizzix ScoreBoard Blog Hop in which a group of Designers are rounded up in order to create wonderful pieces of art from Eileens new die cuts by Sizzix!

I can't wait for it to begin!!

But in the meantime, it's time to order some of Eileens die cuts I know I already have fallen in love with!

CHA Consumer Show: The Kids Zone!

2010-02-09T06:47:00.000-08:00

Kathie Stull, of KS Productions, hired about 14-16 Designers to work the Kids Zone during the CHA Consumer Show. I got to meet other Designers who I've chatted with online but never met face to face. New friendships were made to boot! What a wonderful success this turned out to be!

The Kids Zone was located in the back of consumer show Friday & Saturday. Table after table was sectioned into different craft stations. There were beaded necklaces, a creepy spider (the boys LOVED this section), polymer clay octopus, wooden critters, wooden spool necklaces, button rings & pencil decorations, picture ribbon boards, silly spoons, sand art......and that is just some of what the kids got to create with! All the items were donated by the companies just for the kids!!

Thursday the Kid Zone was steady but not really all that busy. Busy enough though that going & eating a meal was out of the question! We all had water, crackers, apples, oranges stuffed in our purses to sneak a bite when our station slacked up a bit. Friday proved to be a challenge to sneak anything to drink or eat! The kids were ready to CREATE! I learned from this show that most kids belonging to parents who scrapbook or create art, have artistic kids. It was fun learning from the kids of areas in their room set up for THEM to create just like their moms! How fun!

Here's little Pearl....how sweet is this? She's wearing a crown & necklace she made at another station. Very creative little girl and what a camera ham!! At my station, we were making Silly Spoons! After she made the silly spoon, she handed me a gift: a little notebook & dried flower pencil! Mom said in their culture when you are taught something it is a gift. For learning this "gift", they in return give a gift. Learning in their culture was considered a gift. What a different outlook people here in the USA have on learning.

Working with the kids was very enduring, exciting, and an absolute gift! Anytime Kathie needs help working with the kids, I'll be there!

Art of Possiblity Studios

2010-02-04T12:24:00.000-08:00

While at the Craft & Hobby Association held in Anaheim, CA last week, I met a simply AMAZING lady who's showcase was close to mine. Her name is Ketra Oberlander. Founded by award-winning blind painter Ketra Oberlander, the Art of Possibility® aspires to encourage and inspire you to transcend expectation and be your best.

Art of Possibility® Studios exclusively represents physically disabled artists via license to manufacturers interested in connecting with consumers on a meaningful level and with cause oriented programs at retail.

I found in talking to Ketra a pure pleasure. Her determination is astounding to say the least. She's an entrepreneur , a hero, a friend, an amazing artist, but one thing she's not, is a victim! I got tickled when talking to her. One thing I remember most is something she said: If you live long enough, I'll get YOU! You couldn't help but laugh along with her as her sense of humor was contagious!

To all my artist friends, if you can find a way to use the material on the Art of Possibility®, I urge you to do so. When you make a purchase you are helping an artist make a living doing what they do best!

Look over Ketra's website & you'll be amazed at the bright & bold colors & the talent these artists have!

And to you Ketra, thank you for being a friend and teaching me that I must be determined & fight to obtain my dream of being a full time artist.

Nature Book

2010-01-30T14:23:00.001-08:00

Here is the Nature book several of you have asked to see. This is the class I helped Candice teach this past Tuesday morning at CHA. Candice had the class kits & instructions so well prepared that she really didn't need us! The class was sponsored by PaperDreamsFactory and E.R. Scraps. Donors who supplied materials for the class are: Beacon Adhesives, Clearsnap Products, Graphic 45 Papers, RockCandy Studios, and Zutter Bind-it-All. Full of nostalgic scrap diecuts and Golden Dresdent Ornaments & Trims make this Nature journal so pretty. Enjoy!

Ciao,

Ronnie

CHA Global Display

2010-01-30T07:01:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of my Global Display behind glass in the Global Lounge at the 2010 Winter CHA show in Anaheim, CA.

I contacted Dove of the East in Hong Kong for a few samples of Jade for the display. To my delight, Doveen (owner of Dove of the East) sent via Global FedEx, a box full of goodies. Doveen sent everything in the display you see here. The pieces of Jade were made into a necklace, bracelet, and earrings with more Jade left over! She also sent metal pieces, one of which you see in the picture, that added such a wonderful Asian feel to the whole project.

While walking the Trade show floor, I found Dove of the East's booth. Doveen was busy talking to someone so I turned slightly away from her so she couldn't see my name printed on my badge. The customer left and Doveen turned to me. I introduced myself to her & she gave me a BIG hug! We had lots to talk about in between customers. She hadn't see the Global Display yet so after we talked Van & I toured the Trade show floor. I returned a day later to see Doveen & she came up to me & we hugged. She said tearing up that the display was beautiful & she loved what I did with her jade products as well as displaying the beautiful chest & Buddha.

After the trade show was over and the display case dismantled, I was able to retreive the Jade jewelry. Van & I walked to the Dove of the East booth and saw Doveen for the final time. I presented her all the jewelry pieces for her to take home to Hong Kong. She was so overcome with joy she began crying. Heck, she almost had me in tears! Doveen handed me two packs of papers created by her. With these papers, I'll be creating a book using the papers, take photos of them and send Doveen the pictures to show her customers her papers can be used in so many ways other than just scrapbooking!

Thank you Doveen for donating the jade & making the Global Display a major success!!

Visit Doveen at: Dove of the East and look at all the special little embellishments & simply stunning scrapbook paper she's got to offer!!

CPSC

2010-01-30T01:20:00.000-08:00

This is from a CPSC Newsletter I felt was worth passing along for all those who have granddaughters & girls who might own this item. Thanks to Carol for passing this along to me!

NEWS from CPSC :U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Information and Public Affairs Washington, DC 20207

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 29, 2010
Release # 10-127
Firm's Recall Hotline: (800) 949-3311CPSC
Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772CPSC
Media Contact: (301) 504-7908

FAF Inc. Recalls Children's Necklaces Sold Exclusively at Walmart Stores Due to High Levels of Cadmium

WASHINGTON, D.C. - The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced a voluntary recall of the following consumer product. Consumers should stop using recalled products immediately unless otherwise instructed.

Name of Product: Children's Metal NecklacesUnits: About 55,000

Importer: FAF Inc., of Greenville, R.I. Hazard: The recalled necklaces contain high levels of cadmium. Cadmium is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effects.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.Description: The recalled jewelry is shaped as a metal crown or frog pendant on a metal link chain necklace in a crown hinged box. The packaging has the words "The Princess and the Frog" on it and contains the following model numbers and UPC codes:

Crown Model # 4616-4187 UPC # 72783367144
Frog Model # 4616-4190 UPC # 72783367147

Sold exclusively at: Walmart retail stores nationwide from November 2009 through January 2010 for $5.

Manufactured in: ChinaRemedy: Consumers should immediately take this recalled jewelry away from children. Consumers should return the recalled jewelry to any Walmart store for a full refund or a free replacement product.

Consumer Contact: For additional information, contact F.A.F. Inc. at (800) 949-3311 between 8 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit the firm's Web site at http://www.faf.com/.

To see this recall on CPSC's web site, including pictures of the recalled products, please go to:http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml10/10127.html.

Commissioned Order

2009-12-27T18:27:00.001-08:00

I was asked to create 2 necklace/earring sets for 2 lovely daughters. Their mom had bought a lovely sweater at Macys in the colors of light gray/heather gray & a goldenrod hue. While attending a Bead Show in Memphis several months ago, I remembered buying some small dark gray stones and some lighter stones with swirls of gray swishing through. PERFECT for this sweater but nowhere did I have on hand the goldenrod beads. After some searching in town, I found the goldenrod beads. The design board came out & the arrangement began. Each necklace is different as each daughter was to have their one of a kind set! Here's what I came up with.

This is the first set. The goldenrod beads are arranged in different ways. The beauty of the stones aren't seen well here....they are simply stunning in real life.

Here is the second set.

Here are some earrings to match the necklaces.

My customer loved the sets......saying she'd never would have found anything to match the sweater as good as what I had done....... Warm fuzzie!

Artbeads - Venice: on common ground

2009-12-20T13:19:00.000-08:00

The year 2002 provided me a great opportunity to visit Italy. One of the many places I visited was the Murano Glass Factory in Venice. Being a jewelry designer, this was an awesome trip!!

Imagine my delight when looking through the Artbeads online catalog, I came across some beautiful handmade Venetian glass coins! The coin is a 30 mm ruby coin. The center of the coin is splashed with metallic colors adding depth the to piece.

The true color shows up in the 1st picture.....the 2nd picture shows the ruby color to be much darker than it shows.....the piece in person is SO much better than these photos.

Not wanting to take away from the beautiful Hill Tribe silver beads, I used a black nylon chain. Two Hill Tribe brushed round beads with tiny diamond shapes cut out are suspended on the black nylon chain.

The pendant dangle shows off yet another Hill Tribe 10x19 mm stamped silver cone. From inside the cone dangling from graduated chain lengths, are tiny cube beads, each side delicately stamped with a tiny flower. The overall effect is stunning! The black nylon chains make the silver beads and the Venetian coin pop!

The final piece!

I can't thank Artbeads enough for their invitation and generosity. They carry unique beads and findings that I've never seen anywhere else. Check out their blog, Blog for Beaders, for more information and inspiration! Enjoy!

FTC Fine Print: I received the following products free of charge from Artbeads in exchange for my honest opinion on the product. I did not receive any additional compensation other than the product listed: Hill tribe silver cones/beads and the Venetian La Crima Ca'd'Oro Coin.

Work Ahead!

2009-12-18T12:54:00.000-08:00

I'm beside my these days just knowing what all I have to accomplish over the Christmas break from work! The fact I've been plagued with a few minor health issues; Left arm; Tennis elbow and Right Hand: de quervain's tenosynovitis. Both limbs have either a splint or cuff on them making me look pretty pitiful.......BUT this will not STOP me, only SLOW me down! Healing will take place 4-6 weeks IF I wear both cuff/split 24 hours a day. It helps to take a break from the restraints from time to time. Things to do:

Photo shoot for items made from Artbeads materials! Since visiting the Murano glass factory in Venice I've been fascinated with the glass pieces. I bought several pieces while there. Since going back right now is pretty much out of the question, Artbeads has some wonderful pieces of Murano glass imported from Venice. I like to know if I'm getting the real deal!! Will take photos of it this weekend & post the pictures on my blog.
Doveen of Doves of the East from Hong Kong is sending me some pieces of Jade to use in the Global display at the 2010 Winter CHA show in Anaheim, CA the later part of January. I'm sketching on paper what I'm going to design for this event.
Creating a backdrop for the display that will be transport friendly since we'll be flying to CA. YES, Van is coming with me..room booked & flight reserved! CHA 2010 here we come!!
Designer Showcase items!!! Got several items sketched out, now the time off to get them created & finished!
Reservations for Sammy to be boarded the week we are gone. I don't know WHO it'll be harder on....me or him!!! He's going to Countryview Kennels here in Jackson. A good friend at work told me she trusted her baby there......Subria will be staying at Grandma's house where she's taken care of like I would! Gremlin will be staying at the house with my brother looking in on him & patting a head every day......please Danny!! haha
Jewelry to make to post to Artfire.com......my online store! Making the pieces is so much fun.....but it's WORK to edit them in photoshop & do the write-ups and is very time consuming......Not complaining (ok, not much!)....I love seeing my work out there for others to purchase if they wish.

Most of my time will be spent on preparing for CHA but also plenty of time will be spent going to church and fellow shipping with family.

Merry Christmas!!

CHA Hong Kong Display

2009-11-20T15:31:00.000-08:00

Well CHA time is nearing once again......and again I find myself busier than an artist should be. Just the price one pays for the love of creating!

CHA displays this year will be Global! 30+ Designers have chosen countries to represent. I have chosen Hong Kong. Our displays will be areas: 1 foot deep; 1.5' wide and 3' high. We are to briefly tell about the culture and how art fits in. After contacting a vendor from Hong Kong, I have a pretty strong idea of what I'll be doing. I'm excited about the whole aspect & pray my display will do Hong Kong proud! The vendor is "Dove of the East" which has the prettiest papers I've seen in a long time......their embellishments are amazing. I'll also be using Artbeads to make jewelry from Hong Kong's jade amulets, etc. This is going to be a blast! When the goodies come in from Hong Kong......I'll take a picture of it......then AFTER the show, I'll take a picture of the projects made with the goodies.

On top of this, I'll be setting up a Designer's Showcase so the work has already begun! The winter CHA show is towards the end of January so I'm calling it a delayed birthday present!

Just pulled off 2 jewelry shows back to back........and am ready to get down to creating!

Supper at Los Portales, then bedtime......getting up early to head to Memphis, TN for a morning of creating. Then back to Jackson to finish working the Christmas Cottage and help tear down the displays, etc.

Until then....
Create ON!

Jill McKay Designs

2009-10-28T09:14:00.001-07:00

I was lucky enough to find some earring findings that Jill McKay designed! After adding black faceted bicones, square black beads & corrugated rounds, I came up with Black Rush! I've had so many compliments on these Jill! Thanks for the opportunity to share your work with so many others. What drew me to this particular ones (these are mine & not for sell) is that they look like the letter G which can stand for Goff!

ARTBEAD Sparkles!!

2009-10-27T14:37:00.000-07:00

I'm in love with Swarovski crystals! After being introduced to these small crystals in the shape of rhinestones a couple of years ago, Artbeads gave me a chance to really shine with their lovely Swarovski crystal beads. I wanted to use unusual shapes and the Graphic Indicolite bead was JUST what I wanted to play with! Before the order came in I had sketched several designs using the Graphic beads and finally had to choose just one for this project. For a full listing of their crystals & tools, give them a peek at http://www.artbeads.com/ and show me what you come up with!

My pictures don't even come close to showing the true beauty of the Swarovski crystals sparkle factor, but I've done my best! To find the pendant Graphic I used, a simple click will take you there! http://www.artbeads.com/swarovski-crystal-pendants.html
There are sooo many lovely colors but my favorite is the Indicolite!

Enjoy, I've got another project to create out of the order from Artbeads!

ARTFIRE Shop now opened!

2009-10-27T14:31:00.000-07:00

Well after MONTHS of deciding on whether to do this or not, I've bitten the bullet & here it is! I must say this adventure is exciting! Please look around & let me know your comments, good or bad.....all can just help me at this point! http://www.artfire.com/users/VG-Designs

Enjoy......there are tons more stuff that will be going up for sale soon! I'm currently getting ready for 2 shows in which to display my jewelry & mixed media items thus slowing me down just a little......but not for long!

The Missing Crystals

2009-10-02T14:11:00.000-07:00

Once upon a time, I sat in front of the computer making out an order for precious gems from Artbeads. Yes, my eyes were glazed over, but I managed to pick out enough gems to create 3-4 jewelry pieces. Oh boy, the order was placed! Now the waiting begins. Artbeads rec'd my order & had it shipped Sept. 14th. Well now, I waited & waited......waited & waited some more. Finally I contacted Artbeads to let them know I hadn't rec'd my package from them (wonder how many times they've heard that story?). The communication was outstanding. Artbeads resent my order.

Now, the REST of the story!

Last night (Oct. 1) I sat on the front lawn with my two dogs while watching planes fly overhead, crickets chirp, cars passing by, neighbors going in & out of their houses.

One neighbor, a nurse who works night shift & sleeps all day was one of those people going to get something out of her van. She sees me in the yard playing with the dogs & shouts, "I have something for you, does ARTBEADS sound familiar?" I stood there looking completely stunned. She then said she'd bring them right over as she headed to work. Needless to say, I WAITED for her.

She drove up with a package from Artbeads (alas, the MISSING package). Seems the mail carrier left the package in her mailbox instead of mine. I looked at her in disbelief that she would hold onto my package so long. I told her that I had been waiting for the package since it was mailed out on 9-14. Told her I had contacted Artbeads about the lost order & that they were sending out another one. She apologized profusely, then headed to work. Okay, shake it off Ronnie....the little white padded envelope brought me back to reality & I got all excited (I know, it doesn't take much!).

The dogs & I went into the house with the package from Artbeads safely in my hands. The grass went flying off my heels as I darted across the yard & into the house. Ooooppppsss, forgot to keep the door open enough for the dogs! Sammy & Subria safely inside.

I opened up the outer package to find a beautifully wrapped gift. A sticker with the name of Artbeads sealing the gift tight. Opening the package carefully, a business card was exposed, then the beads and lastly a free subscription to a beading magazine. How wonderful! Every bead was packaged so carefully in little crates to keep them from rubbing while being transported. BOY o' BOY! I've got WORK to do!!!!

Getting my sketches out (I designed with these particular beads in mind), I began to work. Earrings done. Pendant drop finished.....working on the chain to hold the pendant. It's turning out beautifully. The crystals are making the piece pop! Oh the shine from Swavorski crystals is spectacular!

Today is FRIDAY. My motorcycle class for this weekend was canceled so I've got all weekend to work on building my jewelry inventory back up after last weeks shows! I'll also be working on some mixed media necklaces and whipping up some Swavorski dreams!

Ciao

Jewelry Show Learning Curves

2009-09-26T15:28:00.001-07:00

I've had jewelry shows 2 days in a row. With each one I put on, I learn how to do the next one better!

Pondering:

Is my display cluttered looking? (displaying is not my strong point)
Just how much do I dare put out for display at any given time?
Listening to what customers like as they view jewelry.
Have clear bags ready to put jewelry in when being purchased.
How much table space is too much?
Pricing..............
How long should a jewelry party last?
Come & go parties......
Make sure I have plenty of inventory for sale.
Aim my designs at all generations.

Oh the pondering continue!

Until we meet again......

Beaded Crocheted Necklaces

2009-09-06T23:13:00.000-07:00

Crocheting with WIRE & BEADS! What a wonderful combination! I can thank my friend Glenda Logsdon for getting me started with knitting & crocheting with WIRE!

After working with 28 gauge wire, this is what I've come up with. Hope you enjoy.

Assorted hues of blue make up Ocean Waves. This was my first attempt at this new technique. Wasn't pleased with the clasp I used but have changed it on my next pieces.

Festival is a beautiful piece created with 28 gauge gold plated wire that really sets off the beads used. These colors are truly stunning crocheted with the gold colored wire. After the Festival, a siesta isn't' that far behind.

Harbor was created with some mixed beads I had on hand. Mix matched & tossed in a container with similar sizes. When I used the beads crocheted on silver colored wire, the colors made me think a peaceful harbor with seagulls flying in for a visit.

Party Time is just that...a celebration of color, no rhyme or reason for the selection.

I have fallen in love creating these beautiful necklaces!

Love to hear your comments!

Artbeads

2009-09-04T08:20:00.000-07:00

I have great news and thought I would pass this along to everybody. Today, Artbeads is launching its biggest sale ever! This is the largest discount I have ever seen on their entire inventory of beautiful and amazing products. You can even save 20% off by signing up for their newsletter. Wow!

Make sure to take advantage of this sale and pick up something special for yourself, that special gift you’ve been planning for Christmas or just stock up on essentials. Please feel free to share this wonderful news with your friends as well.

To sign up for Artbeads.com newsletter: http://artbeads.ed4.net/profile/signup.cfm

Keep Creating,
Veronica

Shellz

2009-09-01T03:30:00.000-07:00

Sample of recycling!

This set was made with black polymer clay that was molded into the bezels. Two dear friends gave me some natural colored egg shells to play with.....of course I turned mine into jewelry! Breaking the egg shells in tiny pieces I used tweezers to place the shells where I wanted them. This actually was time consuming. When I was pleased with the placement of the tiny shell pieces, I heated my toaster oven to 275 & baked the clay in the bezels for approx. 15 minutes. After the pieces cooled down, I poured some glossy accents on the top to protect the clay & the shells and add a really wonderful shine.

The necklace & earrings were bought at a thrift store. I removed the plastic pieces from the bezels to provide a nice place to create the Shellz jewelry shown here.

Enjoy...........

2009-08-26T04:38:00.000-07:00

Fancy fibers all the way on this one. Green & yellow tones for this rope.

October's Flame was created with 4 strands of fancy orange fiber and black yarn.

Silver leaf is made with 4 strands of black yarn & 4 strands of metallic silver yarn.

My next two will feature beads added to the strands to add some nice weight.

Enjoy!

Kumihimo: an Ancient Art Form

2009-08-26T04:22:00.000-07:00

Deciding I need a new twist on my jewelry design, I've discovered an ancient art form that will work very nicely in enhancing my jewelry.

In the early 8th century, when the Buddhist religion spread in Japan, people began to use colorful decorative braids in ceremonies. The making of these beautiful, usually silk, braids became an art, and later, people used colorful braids to decorate their clothing, hang ritual banners, lace samurai armor together, harness their horses, tie robes, and decorate their weapons or sword hilts.

Braids can be found in many cultures, but the Japanese developed the highest order of braiding techniques and complexity....elevating braiding to an elegant art that continues today.

In the past 2 weeks, I've been practicing the art of Kumihimo. The braids can be done with 8 or 16 strands of beautiful fibers & yarns. Thus far, I've only completed the 8 strand technique. Here are several Kumihimo cords I've done in different colors that I plan to hang my pendants on.

See what you think!

Tuesdays Creations

2009-08-12T03:16:00.000-07:00

Somedays my muse is so active that it's hard to keep up with her! Such as the case Monday & Tuesday! Today my muse is already been active and it's just now 5:30am! I'm on vacation this week so it's nice that my muse is so active.

I've got several other things on the drawing board for today. Even though I'm off work, I'm going in from 6-7:30am. I'm designing wedding Bridal & Wedding rehersal invitations to finish for a friend at work; pay any bills that may be in......etc. I don't mind, I love my job!

My brother, Danny & his wife Donna, bought a house yesterday here in town!! I'll be helping Van rekey the house & lubricate the locks. Van & I are Tennessee Licensed Locksmiths so we help out family & friends all the time!

Okay, dress for work, get some things done........then head home & let my MUSE go! :-)
It's gonna be a GREAT day!!

Loved creating this necklace, bracelet & earring set! The stones are simply stunning together. Necklace is 20" long; bracelet 7.5".

Same set but on a different background. I must get a handle on photographing jewelry! These are some of the stones/gems I bought at the Intergalactic Bead Show in Memphis.

This set is so much prettier in person. If you like PINK, this is for you! Made with metallic pink clear beads and clear pink swirl beads. Spaced with Bali beads. This necklace has a really nice weight. This set has a necklace 30", bracelet 7.5" and earrings. Can be sold separately if needed.

What a beauty this set is! River shells discs are used along with asst. sizes of jump rings. For that added sparkle......Ironite bicone Swavaroski crystals on the pendant & the earring.

Vinta

2009-07-29T05:30:00.000-07:00

This piece is a collection of vintage beads & sparkle stones. I've added several pieces of Swavaroski crystals for that extra SHINE & glimmer. From top to bottom of this piece is about 4.5 inches. The necklace itself is 20" so Vinta hangs nicely so it can be seen from any angle of the room! Beautiful pinks!

Envious

2009-07-27T11:27:00.000-07:00

This set is beautiful! Light & refreshing to wear. 20" long with the center down 2.75". This set was inspired by a wonderful friend who bought her necklace in Hawaii. I loved the loops & created this one. Swavorski crystals adorn the earrings & center dangle. The earrings hang just shy of 1.5 inches.

Let me know what you think of this set. Thanks!

Citrus Whip

2009-07-25T17:14:00.000-07:00

Here's a fun bright happy piece called Citrus Whip!

This set can be dressed up or dressed down......wear with that fun black dress or simply your favorite blue jeans!

Mini Furkids Scrapbook

2009-07-19T16:30:00.000-07:00

While in Atlanta attending a scrapbook convention as an assistant to RockCandy Studios, I was able to sneak in a class......and of course it referred to critters! Anyone who scrapbooks loves to take their time....but in a class, it has to be FAST paced to get everything done in 2 hours. Soooo with all that being said, these book pages (MINUS pictures & comments) were completed in 2 hours on the DOT. As many of you (and YOU do know who I'm talking to) know, class projects, if not completed fully in class, don't ever get completed! Well, I'm happy to say that after a YEAR, I ran across this little jewel of a book & finished it just a few minutes ago!

Using 4 paper bags, this paper bag album was created. In class, we had all the elements to decorate our pages with LOTS left over! There are 4 pockets in which I plan on adding more mini albums that will TUCK into this one. No room will be wasted!

For those thinking I'm NOT done, I beg to differ! I'm DONE with the album now........it's just I can't leave a space untouched!

Now for the pictures!

Italia Tri Shutter Card

2009-07-19T05:48:00.000-07:00

Shelly Hickox taught a wonderful card project at Eclectica in Memphis yesterday. I VOWED to finish mine & I did this morning! I wanted to use actual photos of Van & I while we were in Italy back in 2002 and they turned out great. To keep in with the vintage look, the pics are in black & white on cream cardstock. When closed the card is neatly folded to fit in an envelope. Of course this one is going NO WHERE but here! :-) Thanks Shelly!!

Caramel Dream Necklace & Bracelet

2009-07-14T13:48:00.000-07:00

This necklace/bracelet combo reminds me of caramel; caramel apples in fact. So warm you can almost taste caramel in the air!

Sweet Caramel

Both sets are in gold tone finishes are I can quite honestly

say these pictures don't do them justice.

The lamp work beads are in shades of caramel, cream &
just a hint of white. Brass tubular spacer beads are capped
at each end with warm metallic filled brown E beads. The chain
& toggle are gold plated as well as the eye pins.

Bracelet is $10.00 and the necklace is $20.00.
If anyone is interested, just email me or leave a comment.

Ciao!

Harley meets Sammy

2009-07-03T11:46:00.000-07:00

Okay, there is a first for everything!

This morning, Harley met Sammy or should I say, Sammy met Harley!

Harley is a miniature pot bellied pig that lives next door to my Aunt Judy.

Her neighbor brought Harley over for us to meet him.......

He's not a soft cuddly critter but he sure is lovable!

Take a gander at those LONG eyelashes!!

My Papaw

2009-07-01T07:34:00.001-07:00

Meet Jay Smith, my Papaw (mom's dad).....he's the one on the left with a mischievous grin. He's standing next to his brother Denver. Take a look at the cars in the background! The brothers, wearing overalls, are dressed for the hard country life they lead back in those days. Papaw's been gone now for some years but the memories of him are forever with me. I plan on making a canvas piece from this picture.....will post it when I get around to it!

Until we meet again.......
Ronnie

Past Memories

2009-06-30T02:47:00.000-07:00

While looking over the pictures I made into a CD for mom & dad's 50th Wedding Anniversary, I couldn't help but share a few!

Here's a picture of my mom while living in CA. What a bathing beauty she is!

This is one of my favorite pictures. Dad was the forever photographer, so we are rich in early photos of our lives. While in Africa, dad really got into taking pictures of us. He was never at a loss of subjects! We were playing in the floor when dad snapped this shot. From left to right, David, mom, me and Patti. Note the clothes Patti & I are wearing. Mom made almost ALL out clothes! Among her other talents, she was a great seamstress!

My daddy & me! We must have been fixing to go somewhere fancy cause we're all dressed up!

ATC Shrine

2009-06-28T18:54:00.000-07:00

At the Jackson Artiscape, RockCandy Designs taught a TERRIFIC class!

On the top shelf is a rolled up scroll with a nip; second shelf has some wooden beads mounted on it; the picture is from RockCandy's new CD; below the picture is a itty bitty glass bottle with gold shreds & blk twisted beads; torn German bill; polished stone, triple stacked beads; the bottom shelf has assorted foriegn coins; trimmed on the edges are RockCandy's new copper foil trim.

Needless to say, I bought just about every wood laser kit they had plus about 4 more of the ATC Shrines I plan on making my family members for Christmas.

Here's my ATC Shrine I created. All materials available through RockCandy!

I have another one started that I plan on using my dad sitting on a piano stool...it's a classic shot! I'll post it when I'm done.

Check out the WONDERFUL work created with their products on their blog at:

http://rockcandystudios.typepad.com/rockcandy_studios/2009/06/friends-pendant-by-dianne-adams.html#comments

Digitizing Travel Slides

2009-06-27T21:04:00.000-07:00

Long ago, while living in Africa & Spain, photos were taken of our day trips around the countryside. These pictures were pretty much kept hidden since they were in the form of slides. Dad took so many pictures that it was cheaper to store the negatives in the form of slides. We used to have a projector years ago.......but that was just the problem.......it was years ago! Some of the pictures were taken from the car window as Dad had to travel from place to place. American military personnel were not ALLOWED to stop on certain routes thus the picture taking from the car window; running out of gas was NOT an option. I will post from time to time the places/events with a peek of a photo. Americans were frowned upon in Africa while we were there..... 1960's.

Recently we bought a film slide digital converter so we could digitize the photos and bring the long ago taken photos back to life. While this takes hours to do (many slides!) it's amazing seeing me & my siblings in the mist of beautiful scenery. It's a labor of pure joy.

I plan on cleaning the slide images (some were scratched during their years of storage), naming the places as indicated on the slide fronts (thanks to mom's beautiful writing), and storing them on a CD(s) as a Christmas present for mom & dad. Of course us kids will want a CD as well. :-)

Thanks to mom & dad for having this chance to relive long lost memories!

Secret Artwork before CHA

2009-05-18T11:50:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! Time when many artists are gearing up to attend the Summer CHA show in July. That means LOTS of time spent in their studios creating artwork that will hopefully catch the attention of manufacturers, publishers / edititors and the press (they are the only ones allowed in the showcase area to view table after table of wonderful creations. Each Designer who enters in the Designer Showcase will have a 6' x 2' table that is draped. We are to use this space in which to display our MONTHS of hard work. We usually come up with a color scheme that will enhance our works. While looking around at Tuesday Mornings, I found two items that I'm going to use to display my jewelry. I have to work on a proper back display to draw the eye into my area without being distracted by others tables. The rest of the table will display other medias in which I work. A place is used for others to place their business cards for future contacts.

It's at this time Designers, who are busy with creating, can't post their artwork. Weather it's on a blog, flicker, etc....once an art piece has been published, most publishers will refuse to use the piece for their publications. So, while we are still very much alive, we are busy creating! Our studios are usually torn apart as well, not to be put in order until after the CHA show. So forgive us for not posting much.

I will have surgery on my right hand Friday. That will put me down for alittle while, but HEY I do have a left hand in which I will be manipulating. I'll have surgery on my left hand when the CHA show is over. That surgery will set me back longer than my right hand. AM I working too hard? :-)

While working on items for the CHA show....... the Jackson Artiscape VI is in a few weeks! Projects galore are planned for those who will be attending! A few surprises too!

Ciao for now!