Bead Soup Challenge Update

I received a fun package of goodies from Joolz by Lisa for the Bead Soup Blog Challenge yesterday. Take a look at what I get to play with. This is going to be fun! I have lots of ideas and can’t wait to start. Lisa sent me some wonderful lampwork along with coordinating beads, a fabulous focal and a big chunky toggle clasp. There is enough here to make a few pieces. I also took a picture of her post card that was included in the package. It has a good layout and clear pictures of her designs. It is a fabulous advertising tool.


On February 26th we all will reveal the designs that were made from the exchange. To see the other bead packages, check out this flickr group.

One of My Favorite Tool Sets

Pictured are a set of files that I got from Rings and Things. As you can see from the picture, they have become my favorite and are well used. Smaller than most files they are a must have for working with PMC. Because of their petite size, they are wonderful for getting into tight spaces. They are only four inches long and the smallest round file is only 2mm at the widest part. I had them at a PMC class and everyone wanted to borrow them.


The set is by Eurotool® and features a fine grit diamond electroplated onto high-grade stainless steel. The set includes round, half-round, flat, three-square, square, warding, slitting, oval, knife and barrette. You can order them here.

Bead Soup Party Update

Here is a quick update on the Bead Soup Party.  My partner is Joolz By Lisa.  If you would like to see the packages of beads that are being shipped for the challenge, check out this Flicker group.  On Feb 26^th the creations that we all have designed will be unveiled.  It will be fun to take a peek at everyone’s creations!  I will post pictures of the beads that I receive here on this blog also.

New in my Etsy shop...lots of new pendants!

Have you SEEN the Silver Prices!

Has anyone noticed the price of silver lately?  It is hovering at about $30.00 an ounce.  The last time I ordered it was around $17.00 an ounce.  

As an example the four sterling silver beads in the picture were purchased for $17.50 and at the current silver price they would be about $31.00.  My bracelets have always been very weighty with silver work.  I will have to re-think my designs.
What changes are you making in your designs?

The bracelets that I have left listed in my Etsy shop are still at the old silver price. Here are a couple that I love!

Bead Soup Party

Lori Anderson is having another Bead Soup Party.  You can read about it here on Lori's Blog.  I got my name in just in time to participate.  I will post pictures of the beads and clasp I receive and the design that I create.  This should be fun.  Please check out the blogs of the other participants in this bead party.