Embossed Metal and Leather

Embossed metal and leather ---- interesting combination, eh??  I've been taking some jewelry making classes over the summer.  So now, of course, I'm experimenting with new techniques.  The idea of embossing metal isn't new, I'm sure, but the "how" of it is a blast!

Believe it or not, you use an embossing machine that is designed for scrapbookers!  Go figure.  Once the metal has been run through the machine, you have a lovely pattern that is "painted" with alcohol ink.  I put that in quotes, because there is an illusion that you have some control over where the ink goes...... I've discovered that you just have to let it happen!

Then the real magic comes as you start to sand away the paint.  During this process, the lovely pattern is revealed.  And because it is embossed, the reveal is different on both sides.  Finally you hand rub the piece with wax to protect it. 

And then you can go on to create lovely necklaces, earrings, or bracelets with your new pieces.  Here's an example of a necklace pendant that I recently created.

 Notice the mirror image of the pattern.  Doesn't that make for an interesting charm??  If you want to see this particular charm in my shop, follow this link.

These are great when they are strung on a leather thong.  I've done one in gold and purple that you can find at this link. 

I think that this is a pretty darned good example of why making and wearing jewelry DOESN'T have to be boring (thank goodness)!

Next time?  I'll show ya what I've been experimenting with from another class.  Here's a hint --- wire wrapped jewelry!

Cheers!

Yee Haw!!! We Have a Winner!

Denise McFarland is the lucky winner of these beautiful copper chainmaille earrings.

Denise, they went in to the mail to you on Friday.  I hope that you enjoy wearing them as much as I enjoyed making them.  Post a comment and let us know what you think.

This giveaway/sweepstakes all came about because of fellow blogger and Etsian, SammyJayne.  So a HUGE thanks goes out to her!

SammyJayne has started featuring local Etsians in her blog.  When you have a moment, go take a look at her blog.... you can find it here.  And I'm sure that you'll find more sweepstakes/giveaways in the future!

I decided that I wanted to return the favor and feature SammyJayne in this blog.  So here is what I've learned about my new friend......

"My name is Samantha, and I am a stay-at-home mom to 3 adorable little boys, ages 1, 2 1/2 and almost 4. Yes, you read that right. They are very close in age. They keep me very busy, but I wouldn't have it any other way. Once upon a time I taught preschool special education, but after having my own babies, I couldn't stand to be anywhere else.

 

I started my etsy shop a couple of years ago when I had some scarves that I made for fun. I decided I might as well do something with them, so I opened a shop and put them online. After that I didn't really do anything with it for about a year. After staying home for about a year I decided that I wanted to actually put some time into my shop and try to sell some of my creations.

 

I have crocheted since I was in high school, and have been sewing for almost 2 years. Crafting is my me time. It's how I relax and unwind after chasing the kids all day! I could spend all day in the fabric store staring at all the colors and patterns, imagining what they could become. I love to come up with new ideas and make new things. My shop always has baby/kid items, but you can expect to see other items as well. That is why my shop's tag line is "This and That" You'll find a little bit of this, and a little bit of that!

 

I hope you enjoy browsing my shop! If you see something you like, but you want it in a different size, or color, don't hesitate to request a custom order, or to contact me! I'd love to make something special, just for you!"

 

With 3 little ones, this is one crazy, busy lady!  And yet she still has time to create some lovely things for the little ones in your life.  Make sure to check out her Etsy shop!  Here are a couple of the darling things I ran across there......

 

How adorable are these?!?!?!

 

 

And thank you so much, Samantha, for featuring your fellow bloggers and artists!  I really appreciate it!

 

Cheers!

 

Dr J

Free Jewelry!!!

Dang.  I feel like a star!  Okay, maybe a minor starlet.  Okay, okay, maybe more like a person getting their 15 minutes of fame (or less)!  <grin>

Can you tell I'm a bit excited?  Well, one of my fellow bloggers is featuring Dr J Designs in her blog today!  It is so awesome.  You can check out her post here.  SammyJaynes Blog.  

Now the good part?  She is holding a sweepstakes to give away a pair of my chainmaille earrings.  Make sure you enter!  These are the earrings that you could win.


 So go read about it.  Go ahead, I'll wait.  But make sure to come back.  There's more!















 Welcome back!

I also wanted you to know that I made a lovely chainmaill bracelet to go with this earrings.  You can find the listing in my shop.  But here is a sneak peek. 

Cheers!

Bead Show Haul!!

This is part of my haul today from a traveling bead show.  I just LOVE it when they come to town as they always have some awesome new beads that I just have to try out. 

These folks are actually from Tucson  -- their shop is called A Bead Carnival. 

If they ever come to your town, be sure to make some time to browse their selections.

Now my biggest quandry becomes...... what to make next??!!

Watch the shop over the next couple of weeks for new items that feature these lovely beads.

You can find it here:

http://www.drjdesigns.etsy.com/

Life Motto

I ran across this saying the other day.  Seems like a pretty darned good life motto to me.

Live simply.
Speak kindly.
Care deeply.
Love generously.

'Nuff said.