Must-Haves Jewelry

Wire Work Questions-Smooth Ear wires?

2012-01-27T08:38:00.000-08:00

I am re-posting this information because the question came up again. And if you make handcrafted earrings, smooth wire ends are so important.
I use a cup bur with my Dremel. All I do is put the end of the ear wire into the cup and the bur files the wire to a nice smooth end. If you do not have a Dremel or Flex shaft, there is a nifty little hand tool that also works pictured below. A fine file will work, but is time consuming.

I make my ear wires with 20 gauge wire. That is the perfect size for most piercings. Choose a bur cup that is slightly larger than your wire. The best bur cup for that gauge wire is a 1.0mm. It is just large enough to get the wire into it nicely. If you use 18 gauge wires for your earrings, then use a 1.3mm bur cup. Note: make sure you get the ID measurement (inside dia) and not the OD (outside dia) or your cup will be too small.

What to charge for Artisan Jewelry?

2012-01-11T08:37:00.000-08:00

As everyone knows the price of silver has raised a lot.Checking this morning a Troy ounce of silver is about $30.55. A Troy ounce has31.10 grams, but finished metals cost more. I usually use fine silver which is at about $37.00 currently. So I pulled out my Pocket-Tech gram scale and weighed the silver Iwas using in my bracelet on my work table. My scale lets me chose between grams or ounces.

Because I cannot get the long wire on the scale, I use a Styrofoamcup to hold the silver and subtract the weight of the cup from the total. The cup is .06 gram. In the pictures below I have my scale set on ounces. The four love knot beads and the clasp are a little over 1/2 ounce-$18.50. The last picture shows the total silver that I used is one and a quarter ounce. That would be about $46.00.

So the next question is; how do you price the finished piece?
cost of silver $46.00
cost of crystals
labor/time - creating the piece,oxidizing and polishing the piece, taking pictures and writing the discription of the piece.
Etsy and PayPal fee's.

I will continue this post after I finish the bracelet.

Looking at my older jewelry designs

2011-12-18T08:16:00.000-08:00

Looking through my past designs.....

I was going down memory lane this morning. I found an old file of my jewelry designs. It was fun looking back at what I had made over the years. These pieces were made before silver got so expensive, so I used lots of it. My bracelets were big, bold and very weighty. Now as I try to keep the prices down, I am trying to use my silver wisely, making each detail stand out.

Thinking About Christmas Jewelry Pieces?

2011-11-08T12:53:00.000-08:00

Here are some new Christmas pieces that I will list tonight on Etsy. One is truly Christmas, but the other two bracelets could be worn anytime you would like a splash of red for an outfit.

Jewelry making with Resin is so Easy!

2011-10-01T12:25:00.000-07:00

I finally got around to trying the resin that I picked up at Rings and Things. If you have not tried resin yet, don’t hesitate. It is so easy and truly fun! Here are a couple of tips I discovered to make it easier.

Make sure you seal your art in the frame well. I used Mod Podge to seal the image and I think a couple of coats work the best. Make sure it is completely dry before adding resin. Any moisture will distort the image and will produce a disappointing result.

Apply the resin in very small amounts slowly. You do not want to over flow your piece. The first piece that I poured flowed over the frame and I had a mess to clean up. I did not make that mistake again.

I did not have a problem with bubbles, because I had read about a tip to use my micro torch. I just ran the heat over the resin and the bubbles disappeared.

I finished the pieces off by spraying them with clear gloss spray pictured above. This product is ideal for fixing small boo boo's in your cured resin creations.

Here are a few pairs of earrings that I made. These cute little frames I picked up at Rings and Things.

Next Bead Soup Blog Hop

2011-09-26T07:12:00.000-07:00

Don't miss the next Bead Soup Blog Hop. It will be limited to 200 artists next time, chosen by a lottery system. When registration closes, a random number generator will pick the group of people that will participate. Don't miss the fun!

Please go to Lori Anderson's Blog for more information.

Bead Soup Party Blog Hop

2011-09-17T01:00:00.000-07:00

This is the list of blogs and participants for the
September 17th Bead Soup Blog Party.

As you can see by the list, this is a big group. My partner was Pam Brisse. Please check out her web site The Blue Between to see what she created. As I wrote in a prior post,I had surgery on my hand and can not make anything until my hand heals. But this is the pretty focal Pam sent and it has already been requested for a pendant,from a good friend. She asked me to make it in thes tyle of the piturees below wirh lots of tiny gemstones clustered on top on bottom.
Have fun seeing all the creativity of this group. The complete list of blogs is at the end of this post.

And this is the style I will wrap it. As soon as I get the use of both hands back.I will use lots of tiny gemstones clustered on the top and botton.

1. Lori Anderson, Pretty Things
2. Barbe Saint John, Barbe Saint John
3. Rebecca Watkins, Artybecca
4. Doris Stumpf, Glaszwerg
5. Terry Carter, Tapping Flamingo
6. Nancy Peterson, Beading From the Heart
7. Ingrid McCue, Wrapped in Silver
8. Tari Sasser, Creative Impressions in Clay
9. Amber Dawn, Inventive Soul
10. Julie Nordine, Julie Nordine | Credit River Art Glass
11. Carol Tannahill, Fire In Ice
12. Lisa Boucher, Lisa's Clay Happenings
13. Jean Yates, Snap Out of It Jean, There's Beading to be Done!
14. Emanda Johnson, Artemesia's Studio
15. Stephanie Haussler, Pixybug Designs
16. Sandra Richardson, Sandy's Coloring Box
17. Kitty Durmaj, Perles and Life
18. Amy Severino, Amy Beads
19. Debbie Price, Green Shoot Jewellery Designs
20. Kim Ballor, Vitamin C ... A Daily Dose of Creativity

21. Jen Judd Velasquez, Jen Judd Rocks
22. Courtney Breul, Beads by Breul
23. Lynne Bowland, Island Girl Insights
24. Mary McGraw, MK's Creative Musings
25. Shay Williams, Shaiha's Ramblings
26. Shea Zukowski, gr8findings
27. Laurel Steven, Rue's Daftique
28. Heather Goldsmith, As I Bead It
29. Nicole Keller, Nicki's Reef
30. Stefanie Teufel, Stefanie's Sammelsurium

31. Johanna Rhodes, Fire Phoenix Creations
32. Niky Sayers, Silver Nik Nats
33. Valerie Norton, Hot Fused Glass
34. Lyn Foley, Lyn Foley Jewelry Blog
35. Jayne Capps, Mama's Got To Doodle
36. Tari Kahrs, Pearl and Pebble
37. Elisabeth Auld, Beads For Busy Gals
38. Judy Glende, Judith B. Designs
39. Mary Ellen Parker, Bee Tree By Me
40. Jennifer Cameron, Glass Addictions

41. Shirley Moore, Beads and Bread
42. Susan Kennedy, Sue Beads
43. Melissa Meman, Art, Life, Love
44. Lois Moon, Que Onda Q'town?
45. Sally Russick, Wire Worked
46. Hope Smitherman, Crafty Hope
47. Nan Emmett, Spirit Rattles
48. Kate Gardenghi, Tropical Blonde
49. Mallory Hoffman, For the Love of Beads
50. Deci Worland, Gem Trails

51. Sandi Lee James, Do Be Do Bead Do
52. Diana Ptaszynski, Suburban Girl Studio
53. Erin Prais-Hintz, Treasures Found
54. Lisa Liddy, Metal Me This
55. Tracy Bell, Copper, Glass, and Recycled Trash
56. Rebecca Anderson, Song Beads
57. Cathie Carroll, Cathie Carroll's Studio
58. Norma Turvey, Moonlit Fantaseas
59. Marianna Boylan, Star Girl Jewelry
60. Jackie Ryan, Keep Your Dreams Original!

61. Heather Pyle, My Muse, Aquariat
62. Joanna Matuszczyk, Bizuteria z filuc
63. Kathy Welsh, Girly Girl Art
64. Marcie Abney, La Bella Joya
65. Cassie Donlen, The Glass Beadle
66. Serena Trent, All Things Made Jewelry
67. Loretta Carstensen, Loretta's Boutique
68. Deana Hager, Just Deez' Art & Life
69. Stacey Curry, Star Hitched Wagon
70. Christine Brandel, A Hot Piece of Glass

71. Kristina Johansson, Wild Roses and Blackberries
72. Jennifer Pride, Jewelry by J. P.
73. Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria
74. Cindy Wimmer, Sweet Bead Studio
75. Karen Williams, Baublicious
76. Kristi Bowman, Kristi Bowman Design
77. Sue Hodgkinson, Hello Gorgeous
78. Natalie Monkivitch, Beadmonki Lampwork
79. Marge Beebe, Rock Creek Creations
80. Lupe Meter, Gem's PC Corner

81. Genea Crivello-Knable, Genea Beads
82. Anna Lear, The Laughing Raven
83. Cat Pruitt, Boo Beads
84. Hilary Frye, FryeStyle
85. Karyn Bonfiglio, Plus Size Bangles
86. K. Hutchinson, Jumbled Hutch
87. Moira McEvoy, The Musings of Mystic Pesto
88. Janet McDonald, Singing Woods
89. Carrie Tahquechi, Carrie T
90. Ambra Gostoli, Chic and Frog

91. Birgitta Lejonklou, Create With Spirit
92. Kim Stevens, Picking Poppies
93. Becky Fairclough, Chameleon Designs
94. Jenni Connolly, Jenni Bead
95. Wendy Chamberlain, Bears, Beads and Beautiful Thing
96. Cory Celaya, Art With Moxie
97. Gretchen Nation, Art Food Lodging
98. Davinia Algeri, Polymer Clay Beads Baubles and Buttons
99. Michaela Pabeschitz, La Mar de Bonita
100. Karin von Hoeren, Creative Ideen

101. Tracey Weiser, Summer Smack
102. Lorelei Eurto, Lorelei's Blog
103. Malin de Koning, Beading by Malin
104. Regina Santerre, Regina's Writings
105. Ana Krepel-Novak, Cat's Pajamas, Dog's Tuxedos
106. Lesley Watt, The Gossiping Goddess
107. Eleanor Snare, EBS Jewellery
108. Gillian Lehman, The Adventures of GillyBean and Friends
109. Lisa Hamilton, Simply Irresistible Jewelry
110. Barbara Bechtel, Second Surf

111. Stacie Stamper, Park Avenue
112. Beth & Evie, EB Bead and Metal Works
113. Mylene Hillam, Mill Lane Studio
114. Claire Maunsell, The Next Bend
115. Jill Harris, Gypsy Brocante
116. Therese Frank, Therese's Treasures
117. Patty Gasparino, My Life Under the Bus
118. Christine Hendrickson, The Clay Chick
119. Melissa Mesara, One-Eared Pig Beads
120. Poranna, Poranna Reczni Zrobila

121. Laura Twiford, Souvenirs From Life
122. Holly Westfall, Silver Rose Designs
123. Noemi Baena, Fuego, Metal y Color
124. Natalie McKenna, Grubbi...
125. Karin Slaton, Backstory Beads
126. Cindy Gimbrone, Lampwork Diva aka Cindy Gimbrone
127. Sandi Volpe, Sandi Volpe
128. Kristi Harrison, It's a New Day
129. Stephanie LaRosa, Confessions of a Bead Hoarder
130. Michelle Mach, Beads and Books

131. Michelle Hardy, Firefly Visions
132. Stephanie Dixon, The Dixon Chick
133. Janice Everett, JLynn Jewels
134. Kay Thomerson, Kayz Kreationz
135. Cindy Cima Edwards, Live to Design
136. Norma Agron, Norma's Clay
137. Cece Cormier, The Beading Yogini
138. Kim Hora, Kimmykats
139. Margot Potter, I Color Outside the Lines
140. Melinda Orr, Peace Creek Blog
141. Marina Dobrynina, Savon Feutre
142. Cilla Watkins, Tell Your Girlfriends
143. Tammy Powley, The Crafty Princess Diaries
144. Vicky Taylor, Treasure Island Crafts
145. Erin Grant, Erin's Jewelry Creations
146. Nicole Rennell, Nicole Rennell Designs
147. Christine Altmiller, One Kiss Creations Beaded Jewelry
148. Sandra Wollberg, Stories from the City of Brass
149. B.R. Kuhlman, Mixed Mayhem Studios
150. Kelly Ramstack, Adventures with Kelly

151. Heidi Post, Ex Post Facto Jewelry
152. Julianna Cannon, Julsbeads
153. Karen Zanco, Everyday Gypsy
154. Laura Zeiner, Stick Lizard Designs
155. Linda Djokic, Lutka and Co.
156. Kathleen Lange Klik, Modern Nature: My Creative World
157. Molly Alexander, Beautifully Broken Me
158. Lori Dorrington, Lori's Adventures in Etsy Land
159. Bobbie Rafferty, Beadsong Jewelry
160. Amy Freeland, Copper Diem
161. Sarah Elder, My So Called Junky Life
162. Anitra Gordy, LeeLu Creations
163. Kristy Abner, Kristy's Kreations
164. DaviniaDesign, Davinia Design
165. Judy Riley, Three Red Beads
166. Pam Ferrari, Wait Just One More Bead
167. Lori Bergmann, Ashlyn Design
168. Diane Cook, Rosa - Josies
169. Charlotte Pevny, The Infrequent Beader
170. JJ Jacobs, Coming Abstractions

171. Diane Hawkey, Diane Hawkey
172. Jelveh Jaferian, Jelveh Designs
173. Deanna Chase, Deanna Chase
174. Jennifer VanBenschoten, Jewelry, Art and Life
175. Barbara Lewis, Painting with Fire
176. Natasha Lutes, N's Whims
177. Lisa Lodge, Pine Ridge Treasures
178. Cris Peacock, Cris' Page
179. Alice Craddick, Alice's Bead and Baubles
180. Riki Schumacher, Riki Jewelry

181. Cryss Thain, Here Bead Dragons
182. Cynthia Abner, Created Treasures
183. Erin Siegel, Erin Siegel Jewelry
184. Raida Disbrow, Havana Beads
185. Andrea Turini, Andrea Turini Jewelry
186. Cherrie Fick, En La Lumie're
187. Melissa Clarke, Pieces of Me
188. Lori Greenberg, Lori Greenberg Glass Beads
189. Allison Scott, Oh Allison Beading & Designs
190. Cynthia Tucker, Sea of Glass

191. Lara Kinney, Something Unique by Lara
192. Jennifer Justman, Soul's Fire Designs
193. Patty Evins, Patsy Evins Studio
194. Jenny Vidberg, Shyme Design
195. Wendy Blum, Sand & Sea Designs
196. Bryna Lumb, Bryna's Bead Box
197. Saskia Kaffenberger, Perlendistel
198. Kerry Bogert, KAB's Creative Concepts
199. Fiona Christie, Christal's Creations
200. Dot Lewallen, Speedie Beadie

201. Ann Rishell, My Critical Eye
202. Eva Sherman, Eva Sherman Designs
203. Pat Haight, The Wigglebutt Blog
204. Lori Bowring Michaud, Artfully Ornamental
205. Amanda Davie, Articulations
206. Sharon Palac, Sharon's Jewelry Garden
207. Tammy Jones, Jewelry Making Daily
208. Shannon Chomanczuk, For My Sweet Daughter
209. Susie Hibdon, Vintage Susie & Wings
210. Barbara Blaszczyk, Laboratorium Flory

211. Jess Italia Lincoln, Vintaj Blog
212. Christine Damm, Stories They Tell
213. Staci Smith, Staci Louise Originals
214. Cristi Clothier, 2 If By Sea
215. Missy Rappaport, Melissa Rappaport
216. Sally Anderson, Wild Sally Road
217. Karen Firnberg, Weaveabead's Blog
218. Tara Plote, The Newbie Beader's Blog
219. Terry Matuszyk, Pink Chapeau Vintage Jewelry
220. Melissa Pynn, Behind the Smile

221. Rhea Freitag, Starrgazer Creates
222. Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp, Skye Jewels
223. Marci Brooks, That Nothing Be Wasted
224. Erin Fickert-Rowland, Elysian Studios
225. Marcy Lamberson, Studio Marcy
226. Linda Landig, Linda's Bead Blog & Meanderings
227. Niki Meiners, Inspiration the Whole Year Through
228. Michelle Buettner, MiShel Designs
229. Dorcas Midkiff, Wondrous Strange
230. Kelly Morgan, Silver Parrot

231. Beth Emery, Stories by Indigo Heart
232. Debbie Goering, Prairie Emporium
233. Geneva Collins, Torque Story
234. Jenny Davies-Reazor, Jenny Davies-Reazor
235. Dana Johnson Jones, Dana's Jewelry & Etc.
236. Suzette Bentley, Ellie's Bijoux
237. Rose Binoya, Ahtee's Blog
238. Tania Spivey, Moobie Grace Designs
239. Aimee Wheaton, creativeFlutter
240. Andrea Trank, Heaven Lane Creations

241. Cynthia Deis, Shiny Little Things
242. CJ Baushka, 4His Glory Creations
243. Astrid Boyce, Cooking Glass
244. Sandra McGriff, Creative Chaos
245. Theresa Fosdick, Thoughtful-Notions
246. Polly Barker, Future Family Relics
247. Jane Haag, Did You Make Something Today?
248. Laura Blanck, Laura Blanck
249. Penny Neville, Copper Penny Designs
250. Gaea Cannaday, Gaea Handmade

251. Carol Bradley, Carol Bradley Designs
252. Charlene Jacka, Clay Space
253. Christine Miles, Wings N Scales
254. Heather Marley, Creaky Cogs
255. Lola Surwillo, Bead Lola Bead
256. Gail Zwang, Angelmoose Enterprises
257. Liz DeLuca, Creative Arty Facts
258. Rebecca Sirevaag, Becca's Place
259. Jana Tarhala, Stories of the Secret Garden
260. Mags Saari, Mags - koruja

261. Manuela Wutschke, GlassArt - Manuela Wutschke
262. Sabrina Staub, Sabrina's Glasswork
263. Tracy Stillman, TS Designs
264. Kristi Kyle, Kristi Kyle
265. Kym Hunter, Creatively Kym
266. Kate Richbourg, We Can Make That at Home
267. Cheryl Roe, BeadRoe
268. Collette Collins, Firefly Myst Artisan Jewelry
269. Charlene Sevier, The Bead Dreamer
270. Karen Sinkowski, Krisdaka's Kreations

271. Pepita Bos, Urracaa
272. Janna Harttgen, Palima Lim
273. Terri Gauthier, Blooming Ideas
274. Mandy Williamson, Mimi's Beading
275. Vonna Maslanka, Just Vonna
276. Laurel Bielec, Bielec's Baubles
277. Mary Eilliott, Starry Dreams Jewellery Designs
278. Monica Johnson, Vintage in Disguise
279. Sweet Freedom Designs, Sweet Freedom Designs
280. Alison Sachs, Beads by Earthtones
281. Suzanne Tate, Catching Up
282. Keri Lee Sereika, Pink Lemonade
283. Jennifer Heynen, Jennifer Jangles
284. Tamara Soper, Handcrafted Baubles by Tamara
285. Laura Sanger, Hg - Elemental Mercury
286. Andrea Morici, Strung Out
287. Maggie Towne, Maggie's Bead Towne
288. Ann Sherwood, Ann's Blog

289. Pam Brisse, The Blue Between
290. Julie Bean, Strung Out (#2)

291. Linda Inhelder, Must-Haves Jewelry You are here
292. Amanda Cargill Austin, Sea Shore Glass
293. Karen Tremblay, Creative Alloy
294. Helena Fritz, Beadwork by H's Blog
295. Maria Grimes, Garden Path Beads
296. Tiffany Long, Glory Hound Designs
297. Cathy Khoury, Touch Jewelry
298. Barbara York, Quilting in the Panhandle
299. Sharon Gardner, Preciousness
300. Barrie Edwards, Barrie's Jewelry World
301. Rochelle Brisson, A Creative Chelle
302. Melissa Muir, Kelsi's Closet Jewelbox
303. Linda Murphy, Bonita Bead
304. Elizabeth Woodford, Elizabeth Creates
305. Dana James, Dana's Jewelry Designs
306. Mary Hicks, Falling Into the Sky
307. Christie Murrow, Charis Designs Jewelry
308. Patty Miller, Cabari Beads
309. Anna Sabina, Total Escape Clay Studio
310. Kathy Engstrom, Catherine's Dreams

311. Shay Stone, On My Path
312. Lara Lutrick, Lampwork Beads and Jewelry by Lara Lutrick
313. Bella Borgouise, Wirelicious Jewellery
314. JuLee Wolfe, The Polymer Penguin
315. Kathleen Robinson Young, Ugly Duckling Beads
316. Kari Carrigan, Kids, Glass, Life
317. Nadezhda Parfyonova, Nally's Creation
318. Eszter Czibulyas, Bigyo Gyar
319. Maria Horvath, Horimarka Beads
320. Doris Radlicki, Doralila Beads
321. Geanina Grigore, Janina Grigore
322. Charlene Gary, Gray Girl Studios
323. Miri Agassi, Bead Work by Miri Agassi
324. Julianna Kis, Juli Bizsu
325. Line Labrecque, Play Sculpt Live
326. Kimberly Roberts, Bahama Dawn
327. Maria Clark, Sweet Willow Designs
328. Kathy Alderfer, Artful Accents
329. Michelle Heim, Life in the Bead Lane
330. Elizabeth Owens Dwy, Clarity of Purple Sage

331. Shiraz Biggie, Secret Song Designs
332. Dee Wingrove-Smith, Beady Musings
333. Tracey Nanstad, A Beadiful Mess
334. Sara Hardin, Soft Flex Girl
335. Angela May, Canterbury Cottage
336. Terri Wlaschin, Starseed Jewelry + Beads
337. Marsha Neal, Marsha Neal Studio
338. Christine Stonefield, Sweet Girl Designs
339. Christine Hansen, Intuitive Sparks
340. Maria Rosa Sharrow, Willow Street Shops

341. Joyce Becker, The Joyful Gem
342. Marianne Baxter, Simply Seablime Jewelry
343. Marian Hertzog, M's Place
344. Joanne Tinley, Daisychain Jewellery
345. Salla Small, Blog by Salla
346. Tracy Martin, Nutkitten's Jewelry
347. Nancy Boylan, Snazzy Doodle Designs
348. Penny Ilagan, A Crafty World
349. Christa Murphy, Adventures of One Beady Woman
350. Pamela Petry, Seeing is Believing

351. Kelley Fogle, My Life... One Bead at a Time
352. Heather DeSimone, The Beadin' Blog
353. Candice McGinnis, Craziness, The Theme of My Life
354. Chris White, Dzeyner Studio
355. Jill MacKay, Jill MacKay
356. Julie Jones, Juliery Jones
357. Laurie Hanna, Laurie's Jewel Box
358. Beth Bricker, Vintage Sweets
359. Barbara Judy, Beads of Spirit
360. Lesley Weir, Djinn Rummy

361. Jennifer Geldard, Torch Songs
362. Teri Baskett, Born to Be Worn

More DESTASH Lampwork sale

2011-09-13T16:15:00.000-07:00

It is not too earily to think about your Christmas creations. I just listed lots of destash sets in my Etsy shop.

Destash of beads all week

2011-09-06T16:26:00.000-07:00

Since I can not make anything lately, because of my had, I have decided to part with some of my favorite beads. I will be listing artisan lampwork all week with some truly great low prices. You can find them here in my Etsy store.

A peek at My Bead Soup Package

2011-08-19T10:14:00.000-07:00

I had my hand surgery on Wednesday, so I am typing this with one hand. What would I do without spellcheck! You don’t realize how much you use both hands throughout the day. Even just getting dressed is a challenge.

One the last post I explained that I have to drop out of the Bead Soup Challenge. But my wonderful partner sent me a package anyway. Look at this gorgeous focal bead that Pam sent! Please check out her Etsy shop for more of these. I will not be able to make anything until I get my cast off, but I already have an idea for this bead. I will give a hint. It will be a focal on a large bangle.

Bead Soup Party update

2011-08-13T09:47:00.000-07:00

I am disappointed to write that I have to drop out of the Bead soup Party. I had an accident when I was out walking the dog last week and broke one of my fingers. My dog was on a leash, but we had a run in with two loose dogs. And I got caught in the middle. This is on top of my having to wear a compression sleeve for my lymphedema from my cancer surgery. Now I have both hands out of commission. Needless to say, I won’t be able to make anything for a while. This has not been a good year! I will put some new listings in my shop though. I picked up some pieces that I had in the summer celebration show and will list them in my Etsy shop.

Bead Soup Partner..The fun begins

2011-08-10T08:30:00.000-07:00

I signed up for the Bead Soup Party organized by Lori Anderson. And it is amazing that I am included among over 300 artists that are participating. I can't even imagine the work that Lori put in to this! With this many artists it was a huge project. Please go to her blog for the details. This is the second bead soup party that I have participated in. And I am sure this one will be just as fun! The finished jewelry will be posted September 17th.

The beads Soup partners were announced this week and I was lucky enough to get Pam Brisse as my partner. She makes beautiful lampwork beads! Take a peek at her shop The Blue Between on Etsy. Here is an example of one of her beads:

I can't show you what I sent Pam because it would ruin the surprise. So here is a picture of how it will arrive:

Income From Jewelry Making Tutorials

2011-07-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

I received my royalty statement from Interweave Press today. I have only written one tutorial but I’m still getting a check from it every year. I wrote this for the winter 2008 issue of Wire Jewelry magazine and it seems that there is still an interest in this wire coiling technique. The coiled bracelet pictured above is the one I made for the magazine. Below is the issue that it was published in.

So I am passing along this tip to all you jewelry designers; if you have a unique idea, submit it for publishing. Just make a finished piece, showing each step of the process with nice clear pictures. Then write easy to follow instruction to go with your pictures. Here is an example of my tutorial on sale at Interweave Press. While you are there, take a look at all the other tutorials available.

FYI Bead Soup Sign-ups Coming Soon

2011-07-18T13:50:00.000-07:00

If you missed the bead soup party last time, here is your chance to participate. Just go to Lori's blog to read about all the details. I signed up for the last party and plan to sign up this time too. It is a fun way to challenge your designing skills. You get to work with components that you would not usually work with. This is also a good place to meet other jewelry designers and view their work.

Must-Haves will be At MIVAL 50th Anniversary Art Show at the CCMV

2011-06-22T15:33:00.000-07:00

MIVAL 50th Anniversary Art Show at the CCMV

Must-Haves Jewelry will be at the Community Center at Mercer View June 26^th thru August 5^th. Our theme is “Keeping Art Alive on Mercer Island”. If you are in the area please stop by and visit the show. Over eighty very talented artists will be represented, with painting,photograghy,pottery,glass,jewelry and sculpture.

Cleaning my Studio

2011-06-03T16:06:00.000-07:00

I think it is time to clean my studio. I have not done much work during the last half year because of my cancer treatment. I could only focus on getting better, so my creativity took a back seat. Now the next few days will be for cleaning! It is always better to work in an organized environment.
Here are a couple of new pieces in my Etsy store

Experimenting with new materials.....

2011-05-09T08:34:00.000-07:00

Here are some of the goodies that I purchased at Rings and Things.

Because of the high price of silver, I decided to play around with some other types of components. I have always used mainly silver in my designs, so this will be an experiment. I picked up some gunmetal chain, some fun matching odds and ends, trade beads from Ghana, crystals, turquoise and some large holed mixed beads. The trade beads are for some beautiful leather that I have been holding on to.

I also got some epoxy resin. I have wanted to try this for a long time. I have the idea of making some of my own drawings to use. I picked up some cute tiny frames for this that will make wonderful earrings. Now I just need to find the uninterrupted time to play around and start creating. To be continued….

Last Stop of Trip and Shopping At Rings and Things

2011-05-07T06:51:00.000-07:00

This has been quite a year for me so far. It started out with a diagnosis for breast cancer. I think this is every women's worst fear. It was a wild ride of emotions and physical discomfort. I started with surgery, then chemotherapy and then radiation, but I made it through. Now fast forward, eight months later, and I am finished with my treatment. So my husband and I decided to take a road trip. We started planning while I was still in treatment, so I had something to look forward to. We visited some of your nation’s national parks. Seeing God’s artwork was a great way to get my creative side back. If you have never been to Bryce canyon in Utah, you need to go!

On the way home we stopped at Rings and Things in Spokane .

Where to start?

I was like a kid in a candy store. In fact I went back two days in a row. When I get unpacked I will show you what I purchased. To be continued…

Update on the Gobal Genes Project Blog Hop

2011-04-15T06:19:00.000-07:00

Here is the finished bracelet that I created for the Global Genes Project. I included a card with my favorite message of hope: Jeremiah 29:11

“For I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you a hope and a future.”

The bracelets will be sent to The Global Genes Project, an advocacy group who launched "7000 Bracelets for Hope", a children's rare disease campaign. The bracelets are given to one of 7000 families having children with rare diseases to show them love and support. Go to Lori Andersons blog for the complete list of other artists that have created a denim blue bracelet for one of the families. There are an amazing 112 artist's on the list!! Have fun checking out some other fun blue bracelets. And a big Thanks to Lori for organizing this.

Look What I won!

2011-04-13T16:31:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago, Lorelei Eurto had a contest on her blog to win some books. All you had to do was leave a comment on her blog. And to my surprise, I won the glass bead making book. Since I love gorgeous lampwork , I was thrilled! I have been a collector for years and I also use lampwork in some of my designs. Here is some of my collection that I can’t part with.

The book arrived today and it is full one beautiful eye candy. The title is “Creating glass beads” by Jeri Warhaftig. It is fun to look at because I have purchased beads from some of the contributors for this
book.

Along with lots of pretty lampwork, there are some nice jewelry designs pictured.

7000 Bracelets For Hope~~Blog Hop

2011-04-04T09:18:00.000-07:00

Lori Anderson has started another blog hop and this one is for a heartwarming cause. So I jumped on, and signed up to participate in the “7000 Bracelets of Hope” blog hop. I am creating a denim blue bracelet that I will post here before I send it out. The reveal date is the 16th.

Here is a sneek peek of what I am making. I wanted to use a tiny sterling silver cross to represent Hope.

"Find rest, O my soul, in God alone; my hope comes from Him. Psalm 62:5

Does this sound like something you would like to participate in?

To join the hop, you need to make ONE bracelet in an adult size in a denim/blue jeans-inspired theme. The bracelets will be sent to The Global Genes Project, an advocacy group who launched "7000 Bracelets for Hope", a children's rare disease campaign. The bracelets are given to one of 7000 families having children with rare diseases to show them love and support. Go to Lori's blog for the complete scoop.

Tumbled Silver Jewelry

2011-03-25T17:05:00.000-07:00

I could not live without my Lortone tumbler! In fact I have two of them. I tumble my jewelry to harden the silver and to give it a beautiful shine. Just remember that all stones cannot go in to the tumbler. Never put in pearls or soft stones. Lampwork and crystals are fine in the tumbler.

This is all you have to do to get a beautiful shine to your jewelry:

Place 1 pound of mixed stainless steel shot into your barrel. Put jewelry into the barrel and fill to just above the steel shot with water. Then add a couple of small squirts of blue Dawn dish soap and a few drops of burnishing compound. I have found that this combination works the best.

Update on Scrap Silver

2011-03-23T08:19:00.000-07:00

I received my Rio Grande credit for my scrap silver yesterday. This little bag of silver was $114.00 and it took less then a week to get my cash! So I used it for more fine silver wire. It pays to keep all your scrap!! Scroll down to my post on "turning scrap silver in to cash".

MIVAL Gallery Pictures

2011-03-21T06:56:00.000-07:00

I had to work at the MIVAL Gallery this weekend , so I took some pictures. The top one is my display case surrounded by some beautiful art work!

Chance to win some Copper beads From Rings and Things!

2011-03-19T08:49:00.000-07:00

Dave just put up a brushed copper beads Design Challenge on Rings & Things' blog.

All you have to do is
Comment to enter!

Turn Scrap Silver Into Cash!!!

2011-03-16T07:35:00.000-07:00

Did you know that you can get cash for your scrap silver?
I keep a bowl on my work bench for scrap pieces. When the bowl gets full I sent it to Rio Grande.
They accept silver, gold, gold-filled, palladium, platinum and fired PMC® items. Payment amounts are based on market value current on the day they settle your scrap return. Pack up your scrap and enclose the scrap packing list sheet and send it in. That is all you have to do...so easy!

This little bag of silver is over 134 grams! So do not throw away any scrap silver...turn it into cash.

Package from Rings and Things!

2011-03-15T08:13:00.000-07:00

I received some goodies from Rings and Things. Dave had a blog contest a while back and I won! In the package are several glass bezels of different shapes, bails in different metals, a magazine from the UK and some great hand lotion called gloves in a bottle. Next time you place an order with them add the lotion to your order..you will love it!
He included a listing for the Bead tour and they will be in my area the first week of April. It is a good thing, because with all these bezels I need to pick up some resin to work with them. I have never used resin, but I am always up for a challenge.

Have You Tried Tool Magic?

2011-03-13T07:46:00.000-07:00

I use mostly fine silver in my designs. And as you know, fine silver is very soft, so I always have my pliers coated in Tool Magic™. This is a useful anti-scratch rubber that you can apply to the tips of your pliers. Just dip metal plier tips to coat them with. It air dries in 2 to 3 hours, won't chip or crack, and is easy to peel off. A jar of Tool Magic will last about a year. You can order Tool Magic at Rings and Things.

So my pliers are freshly coated today and I am set to create I just wish silver was back at the old prices.....

Health update and Earrings

2011-03-11T07:26:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a day of celebration around here. As many of you know, I have been in treatment for breast cancer for the last seven months. Yesterday was my last radiation treatment! I have felt like I have been running a race with no end. But here I am and I made it through!

So what does that have to do with earrings?

My hair is finely growing back since finishing chemo treatments. This is a hudge deal after being bald for months! My hair is about a quarter of an inch long now. Still very short ( like a boy with a very short buzz cut), so I have been focusing on large earrings. My personal favorite is the large hoop in the last picture. I have these listed in my Etsy shop in three different sizes.
I love the large hoop. It is so nice and light weight I forget that I have them on. These hoops can be custom made in any size.

Jewelry Files..What size?

2011-03-08T05:40:00.000-08:00

If you were only going to buy a couple of files, what size would you buy?

I have a larger flat file in a #0 that I start with, to cut away any sharp edges. Then I move up to finer files to smooth the piece out. I find that I use my #2 (medium) and #4 (very fine) the most. They are sized by number; the higher the number of the file, the finer the cut it will make. Therefore, #0 files are large-tooth files that will rapidly smooth your metal in the least amount of time. If you can only buy one file, buy a #2 file. This size is a good all-purpose file. For finer work, move up to smaller-tooth #4 and #6 files.

Don't go back and forth when filing. You will only shorten the life of your file by going against the grain. File only in a forward direction and remember to always to use Bur life on your files. I use the stick
Bur life. It not only makes your files perform better, it also makes them last longer. As you can see from the picture, my files are well used!
You can find a good selection of files and Bur Life at Rio Grande and Rings and Things.

Jewelry Picture Challenge

2011-02-28T12:47:00.000-08:00

Wow, what a weekend. I visited lots of wonderful blogs that were participating in the Bead Soup challenge; 210 blogs in total. I still have not finished visiting all of them, but I will. If you missed the fun this time, there will be another chance in August to sign-up here.

I wanted to list just one bracelet today, but I just could not get a good picture. Has that ever happened to you? That is when you just have to walk away and come back later and try again. And that is what I did.

I used the same set-up and lighting the second time, but changed the angles slightly. The first picture was perfect. Sometimes it is not that easy. Every piece of jewelry seems to be a tad different to set-up for the best angle.

And here is the result of my second try at getting a clear picture. This is a fun bracelet with a lot of coiled detail. I wanted the pictures to show that. This bracelet is in my Etsy shop.

Bead Soup Blog Party..CREATIONS REVEALED!

2011-02-26T06:09:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the 3rd Bead Soup Blog Party!

What is a Bead Soup Blog Party?

Each beader was paired up with another jewelry designer and tasked with sending the following:

~ A focal
~ A special clasp (not just a lobster claw)
~ Some coordinating spacers or beads
My partner was Lisa Liddy of Joolz by Lisa. She sent me a wonderful focal to start with.

Here is what I started with .

Using the focal and the clasp was mandatory, but we could use anything from our own stash to round out the rest, and choose to use the coordinating beads or not.

Here's what I made! I Love this focal.

Here is what I made with the veggie beads

Take a look at the other blogs to see what everyone else made made!

1. Lori Anderson, Pretty Things

2. Kitty Durmaj, Perles and Life

3. Michelle Heim, Life In the Bead Lane

4. Lisa Petrillo, Lucid Moon Studio

5. Anitra Gordy, Leelu Creations

6. Paige Maxim, Paige Maxim Designs

7. Marianna Boylan, Pretty Shiny Things

8. Cheryl Roe, BeadRoe

9. Heidi Post, Ex Post Facto

10. Cindy Wimmer, Sweet Bead Studio

11. Terri Gauthier, Blooming Ideas

12. Rachel Walsh, Balanced Crafts

13. Marian Hertzog, M's Place

14. Mary McGraw, MK's Musings

15. Sarabeth Burke, Chronicles of Sarita

16. Deci Worland, Gem Trails

17. Erin Prais-Hintz, Treasures Found

18. Laura Zeiner, Stick Lizard Designs

19. Kristin Latimer, MJM Jewelry Designs

20. Cathryn Brooks-Williams, Chile Cats

21. Holly Westfall, Silver Rose Designs

22. Janna Harttgen, Palima-Lim

23. Libby Leuchtman, Libby Leu

24. Rebecca Anderson, Songbeads

25. Deb Hunter, Living On Air

26. Diana Ptaszynski, Suburban Girl Studio

27. Jennifer VanBenschoten, VanBeads

28. Margot Potter, The Impatient Crafter

29. Cyndi Lavin, Beading Arts

30. Courtney Breul, Beads by Breul

31. Stefanie Teufel, Stefanie's Sammelsurium

32. Patricia Gasparino, My Life Under the Bus

33. Tari Khars, Pearl and Pebble

34. Kristi Bowman-Gruel, Kristi Bowman Design

35. Jayne Capps, Mama's Got to Doodle

36. Becky Fairclough, Chameleons Designs

37. Evie and Beth McCord, EB Bead & Metal Works

38. Lynne Bowland, Islandgirl's Insights

39. Barbara Lewis, Painting With Fire

40. Lorelei Eurto, Inside the Studio

41. Stacy Hartis, Sissy & Jack's

42. Jennifer Cameron, Glass Addictions

43. Marcie Abney, La Bella Joya

44. Johanna Rhodes, Fire Phoenix Creations

45. Nan Emmett, Spirit Rattles

46. Melissa Mesara, One Eared Pig

47. Amanda Davie, Articulations

48. Cherin Poovey, Lanyard Lady

49. Virginia Joste, ViviBijoux

50. Andrew Thornton, The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
51. Lori Dorrington, Lori's Glassworks

52. Melanie Brooks, Earthenwood Studio Chronicles

53. Kate Gardenghi, Tropical Blonde

54. Serena Trent, PinkIce Jewel's Blog

55. Malin de Koning, Beading by Malin de Koning

56. Shai Williams, Shaiha's Ramblings

57. Francy Inman, 8 Second Studio

58. Amy Freeland, Copper Diem

59. Lisa Liddy, Joolz By Lisa

60. Sandi Lee James, Do Be Do Bead Do

61. Mary Harding, Mary Harding Bead Blog

62. Stacey Curry, Star Hitched Wagon

63. Leslie Gidden, Mad Maggie Designs

64. Elisabeth Auld, Beads For Busy Gals

65. Niky Sayers, Silver Nik Nats

66. Linda Djokic, Lutka and Co.

67. Tracy Bell, Copper, Glass, and Recycled Trash

68. Laurel Steven, Rue's Daftique

69. Ingrid McCue, Wrapped In Silver

70. Birgitta Lejonklou, Create With Spirit

71. Diana Hawkey, Diana Hawkey

72. Norma Turvey, Moonlit Fantaseas

73. Jeanette Ryan, Jeanette Blix

74. Jackie Ryan, Silver Lodge Gems

75. Jean Yates, Snap Out of it Jean, There's Beading to Be Done!

76. Debbie Goering, Prairie Emporium

77. Valerie Norton, Hot Art

78. Jana Trupovniece, Stories of the Secret Garden

79. Amy Severino, Amy Beads

80. Emma Thomas, Fred Beans Nook

81. Karen Zanco, Everyday Gypsy

82. Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria

83. Janet McDonald, Singing Woods

84. Dana James, Dana's Jewelry Designs

85. Kristina Johansson, Wild Roses and Blackberries

86. CJ Bauschka, CJ Bauschka

87. Angela Barribea, Re: Angela Rae

88. Marcy Lamberson, Studio Marcy

89. Tanya Floyd, Glass Migrations

90. Lisa Kavanaugh, Beading Bliss

91. Sue Hodgkinson, Hello Gorgeous

92. Jenni Connolly, Jenni's Bead

93. Nally Parfyonova, Nally's Creations

94. Karyn White, Releases By Rufydoof

95. Emanda Johnson, Artemisia Studio

96. Sandy Richardson, Sandy's Coloring Box

97. Cindy Dolezal, Cindy Dolezal Designs

98. Stacie Stamper, Park Avenue

99. Mallory Hoffman, For the Love of Beads

100. Linda Landig, Linda's Bead Blog and Meanderings

101. Nicole Valentine-Rimmer, N. Valentine Studio

102. Jacinta Meyers, Jamberrysong's Creations

103. Charlene Gary, Gray Girl Studios

104. Rubiee Hayes, Glitter and Keys Galore

105. Marge Beebe, Rock Creek Creations

106. Elizabeth Freeman, Turquoise Sky

107. Shelby Foxwell, Sundown Bead Designs Rhetoric

108. Lynda Moseley, Diva Designs

109. Grace Danel, Grace Beading

110. Lois Moon, Que Onda Quitman

111. Agnes Shapiro, Beader Bubbe

112. Terry Carter, Tapping Flamingo

113. Judy Glende, Judith B. Designs

114. Mary Ellen Parker, Bee Tree By Me

115. Barbara Bechtel, Second Surf

116. Charlene Sevier, The Bead Dreamer

117. Alice Craddick, Alice's Beads and Baubles

118. Cory Celaya, Art With Moxie

119. Ronda Adams, The Ravished Heart

120. Sandi Volpe, Sandi Volpe Designs

121. Anna Lear, The Laughing Raven

122. Susie Hibdon, Vintagesusie & Wings

123. Amanda Austin, Sea Shore Glass

124. Jennifer Velasquez, Jen Judd Rocks

125. Hazel Ward, All Those Things

126. Brenda Salzano, Salzanos

127. Dee Gordon, Runako Designs by Dee

128. Anna Denisova, Anita-M

129. Margaret Saari, Mags-Jewelry

130. Genea Crivello-Knable, Genea Beads

131. Penny Neville, Copper Penny

132. Angela Blasingame, Hopemore

133. Helena Fritz, Beadwork by H's Blog

134. Stephanie LaRose, Confessions of a Bead Hoarder

135. Stephanie Haussler, PixyBug Designs

136. Diane Cook, Rosa & Josies

137. Maryse Thillens, Glass Bead Art

138. Jennifer Pride, Jewelry by J.P.

139. Shannon Chomanczuk, For My Sweet Daughter

140. Lisa Godfrey, Bead Happy

141. Heather Pyle, Welcome to My Muse

142. Regina Santerre, Regina's Writings

143. Liz DeLuca, Creative Arty Facts

144. Sig Wynne-Evans, Beaded Bear's Nonsense

145. Loretta Carstensen, Loretta's Boutique

146. Raida Disbrow, Havana Beads

147. Amber Dawn, Inventive Soul

148. Shelly Graves, Stars Dance With Me

149. Jess Italia Lincoln, Vintaj Blog

150. JJ Jacobs, Coming Abstractions

151. Carrie Tahquechi, Carrie T

152. Staci Smith, Staci Louise Originals

153. Katarzyna Kwiatkowska, Quiet Area

154. Ema Kilroy, Ema K Designs

155. Magdalena Sikora, Poranna Gazeta

156. Nicole Keller, Nicki's Reef

157. Ann Rishell, My Critical Eye

158. Noemi Baena, Fire, Metal, and Color

159. Christa Murphy, Adventures of One Beady Woman

160. Barbara Blaszczyk, Labotorium Flory

161. Collette Collins, Firefly Myst

162. Carola Greiser, Polymer Clay Shed

163. Joanna Kopijczuk, Bizuteria z Filcu

164. LeAnn Weih, Summers Studio

165. Cassandra Watsham, Design by Cassandra

166. Anna Motz, Stunning

167. Shea Zukowski, Gr8findings

168. Susan Kennedy, Sue Beads

169. Lisa Boucher, Lisa's Clay Happenings

170. Hope Smitherman, Crafty Hope

171. Alison Crenshaw, Beads by Earth Tones

172. Dorcas Midkiff, Wondrous Strange Designs

173. Melissa Rediger, Sea of Glass

174. Marina Dobrynina, Savon Feutre

175. Julie Nordine, Julie Nordine | Credit River Art Glass

176. Menka Gupta, Menka's Blog

177. Patsy Evins, Patsy Evins Studio

178. Cherrie Fick, En La Lumie're

179. Suzette Bentley, Ellie's Bijoux

180. Molly Alexander, Beautifully Broken Me

181. Lyn Foley, Lyn Foley Wearable Art

182. Tara Plote, The Newbie Beader's Blog

183. Natalie Schuetz, Natalie S Perlen

184. Kim Hutchinson, Running on Ink

185. Haley Frank, Wide Eyed Smilin

186. Grace Caputo, Suddenly Last Summer

187. Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp, Skye Jewels

188. Erin Siegel, Erin Siegel Jewelry

189. Janea McDonald, Organized Chaos

190. Kristi Evenson, Colie Bug & Co.

191. Linda Inhelder, Must Haves Jewelry You are Here

192. Hilary Frye, FryeStyle

193. Whitney Lassini, Whitney Lassini

194. Nancy Schindler, The Rabbit Muse

195. Pam Brisse, The Blue Between

196. Beth Bricker, Vintage Sweets

197. Ruthie Stickney, Rose Works Jewelry and Gifts

198. Rose Noble, Lady Noble Designs

199. Karen Williams, Baublicious

200. Claire Maunsell, The Next Bend

201. Christine Damm, Stories They Tell

202. Kerry Bogert, Kab's Creative Concepts

203. Wendy Blum, Sand & Sea Designs

204. Juli Cannon, Julsbeads

205. Jenny Robledo, La Dona Boutique

206. Krista French, French Elegant Jewelry

207. Pam Krinski, Ewa Beads

208. Melissa Meman, Melissa Meman, Art, Life, Love

209. Dana Jones, Dana's Jewelry

210. Shirley Moore, Homeschooling Life

The next party's sign ups begin August 1-3, 2011. Don't miss it!
Watch this blog for information:

http://www.prettythingsblog.com/

New Bracelet and earring set

2011-02-23T09:45:00.000-08:00

I usually do not sell a bracelet and earrings together as a set, but these just need to go together. I just put this set on Etsy.

Today I am working on my last piece for the Bead Soup Challenge. I have already made two great necklaces. Please check back on Saturday to see what I made. I will also post a blog list of everyone that is participating. It will be fun to check out every one's creations!!!

A Peek Inside my Studio

2011-02-19T06:48:00.000-08:00

As you can see, I am not as organized as some of the studio's that I have seen, but this works for me. I have four areas set up: one area for taking pictures, one area for metal work, one for metal clay and my computer area. I would prefer to create all day, but selling online requires a lot of computer time. I have several items ready to be listed. I just need to take the time to take pictures, edit the pictures and write the descriptions. Sometimes those tasks take more time than making the piece of jewelry. Can you relate?

Mandrels for jewelry artisans

2011-02-13T05:32:00.000-08:00

I couldn’t live without this 25 piece set of long steel mandrels. They are sized in millimeters. The size ranges from 1 to 13 mm in ½ mm increments. The mandrels are nice and long for making long coiling or a larger batch of jump rings.

The second favorite in the picture is a round steel bracelet mandrel and it is ideal for shaping and forming . Being steel, I can hammer the metal on it.

The last is a steel ring, stepped mandrel, for forming, shaping, straightening, enlarging or gauging your wide-shanked rings. I also use this when I want to make larger jump rings. Here are a couple more sites to find great tools:

Rings and Things

Rio Grange

ArtBeads

Otto Frei

Hammers for Jewelry Artisans

2011-02-11T07:49:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am an admitted tool junky. I just love great tools. Having good tools to work with just makes the job easier. Before I purchased my first Fretz hammer I was a tad sceptical. Was a $45.00 hammer that much better then a $20.00 hammer? After I started using it, I knew the answer. Now I would like to get the complete set! You can’t beat them for precision and being able to add fabulous texture to metal. And did I mention the smooth handles.

1. Riveting hammer~ This is a must-have for adding rivets to your jewelry designs. The stainless steel head on this hammer has a flat side and chiseled end for forming and riveting.

2. Fretz embossing hammer~What can I say… These are the best! for precise texturing of your designs. This hammer has a beautiful feel and makes a wonderful dotted texture.

3. Fretz narrow raising hammer! This one has a narrow head and makes nice textured lines.

4. Chasing hammer~Has one round flat side for planishing metal and one side for preening and riviting metals.

5. Rawhide mallet~This is great for forming, bending and flatting without marring the metal. I have found this is also handy to use with precious metal clay.

6. Brass head mallet~I use this one for stamping and texture.

7. Plastic head hammer~I use this one to flatten metals without marking them.

8. Ball peen hammer~A great hammer for forming, shaping and flattening metal.

To flatten or harden metal use a steel bench block. I also use a leather sandbag to use as my work surface. Here are some good sites to purchase tools: Rings and Things and Rio Grande

New look for Must-Haves Web Site

2011-02-10T07:56:00.000-08:00

I spent yesterday changing the look of my Must-Haves web site. Take a peek if you get a chance.

This is the weekend for PINK. Here are some in my Etsy store.

Bead Soup Challange Update

2011-02-02T07:52:00.000-08:00

One of the rules of the Bead soup Blog Challenge is to use the focal and the toggle in the design that we create. Below are the focal and toggle that I will incorporate in my design. The focal will be a challenge for me. It is a large piece measuring two inches wide. The other challenge is that the piece has three holes along the top and bottom. I have already decided to make a bold necklace. Please check back and see the finished pendant that I make out of this piece.
Must-Haves web site

Bead Soup Challenge Update

2011-01-30T06:46:00.000-08:00

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

2011-01-28T10:56:00.000-08:00

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

2011-01-27T08:51:00.000-08:00

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!

2011-01-20T08:28:00.000-08:00

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

2011-01-13T09:20:00.001-08:00

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.

New earrings on Etsy

2010-12-08T13:46:00.000-08:00

I spent the morning

listing new

earrings on Etsy.

Please take a

peek if

you get

a chance.

Must-Haves web site

MIVAL Gallery December Show

2010-12-05T08:21:00.000-08:00

This will be the last gallery show of 2010! We have some new artists joining us this month. If you are in the area, please come and enjoy some wonderful art.

My web site Must-Haves

New Gold and Silver Jewelry for the Holidays

2010-11-26T10:09:00.000-08:00

I have been working with gold and silver for the Holiday's. I love the versatility of this mix and you can't beat the great sparkle! The set pictured is available in my Etsy shop. Take a peek if you get a chance.
I will also have some of these bracelets and earrings available at the MIVAL Gallery on Mercer Island next week.

My Must-Haves Web Site.

Lots of charms in my Etsy shop

2010-11-16T15:52:00.000-08:00

MIVAL Gallery is Having a SALE!!

2010-11-13T07:52:00.000-08:00

MIVAL Gallery Thursday Opening

2010-10-17T08:02:00.000-07:00

Come see all the new fabulous art Thursday Oct. 21st. at the MIVAL Art Gallery.
Mercer Island Washington

My web site Must-Haves.com

Awesome Picture

2010-10-13T07:56:00.000-07:00

As I was making my morning coffee, I looked out the window and this is what I saw.

New Item's at the MIVAL Gallery

2010-10-07T10:14:00.000-07:00

Breast Cancer Awareness earrings

2010-09-20T14:24:00.000-07:00

Please visit my web site Must-Haves Jewelry.

Here are a couple of new silver, awareness, earrings for my Etsy shop. Please do not copy this original awareness oval hoop design.

Cancer awareness is so important. Not all breast cancer will show up on a mammogram. Please make sure that you always do a self exam every month. If you notice something different get it checked out. It could save your life!

Rensissance Wax to Protect your Jewelry Creations.

2010-07-13T17:56:00.000-07:00

As a jewelry designer, I spend a lot of time on creating the perfect finish for my pieces. Silver and copper oxidizes over time and the finish changes. I discovered Renaissance Wax to keep the finish from changing on the metals. Just put of bit of the wax on a clean cloth. Use sparingly, a little goes a long way. Coat your jewelry piece and then let the wax dry. Buff with a cloth to a shiny finish. I have found that two or three coats works the best. The only negative with this wax , is the smell. It is very strong, which was a big turn off for me at first. But don't worry the smell does go away and it works.
You can find Renaissance wax at Rings and Things.

Pendants to use in your jewelry creations

2010-07-13T11:47:00.000-07:00

Did you know that I have lots of pendants for sale in my Etsy jewelry supply shop? Just add your own gems or crystals to create fun necklaces.

Top Creations Of the Week

2010-07-12T11:05:00.000-07:00

I had a nice suprise this morning, one of my bracelets made it to "Top Creations Of The Week". Each week Julie at Creations With heart picks some wonderful items from Etsy or Artfire to show off.
The bracelet shown is one of my pieces that I have listed on Etsy. It is a great look for Fall, if you are thinking ahead. Please take a peek at the other creations that are show cased this week.

I am a Blog partner with Rings and Things

2010-07-08T16:32:00.000-07:00

I just got an e-mail asking if I would be a blog partner with Rings and Things. I was thrilled, because I never miss one of their traveling bead shows, that comes up to the Seattle area. The beads shows are scheduled all over the country. If you get a chance, check one of the shows out. You will be in bead heaven! When you walk in the first thing you see are rows upon rows of tables. The tables are loaded with beads; trade beads, gemstones, carved, pearl,glass and metal beads. You will also find a good selection of tools and findings. Allow yourself plenty of time to browse. I usually have to walk through twice, because you never know what you might miss the first time through.

I purchased these great sterling silver barrow beads at the last show. I added some of my fused silver wrapped links to make this fun bracelet.

MIVAL Gallery Summer Celebration

2010-06-08T07:36:00.000-07:00

Must-Haves will be at the MIVAL summer Celebration which starts June 17th. Please stop by if you are in the Seattle area.

MIVAL Gallery New Exhibit-Third Thursday

2010-03-12T20:19:00.000-08:00

The Mercer Island Visual Arts league announces a new exhibit each month on the third thursday. Please come join us for an exhibit of new fresh art each month. The MIVAL gallery supports your local artists and creative community. The artists reception for March is on the 18th.

New Spring Earrings

2010-03-09T06:46:00.000-08:00

Here is what I have been working on. I have been making a new collection of fun earrings.

Contrasting Oxidized and Shiny Silver

2010-01-10T07:34:00.000-08:00

I have been having fun with mixing very dark oxidized silver with very shiny polished silver. I love the contrast between the light and dark in my designs. The process takes a little longer, because I oxidize the components before I put the piece together. So I have to plan ahead on what pieces I will make dark and what pieces I will keep shiny and bright. After I am done, I machine polish the completed piece to a shiny finish. Both the light and dark silver shine. You can find more contrast pieces in my 1000Markets store and my Etsy shop.

MIVAL ART GALLERY Opening Night

2009-12-18T11:04:00.000-08:00

The official grand opening of the new MIVAL art gallery on Mercer Island was last night. We had a fabulous turn out for the event. The evening included an official ribbon cutting, music, speeches and great food. This gallery has been in the works for some time and is a wonderful addition to the down town area. This opening was made possible by the Mercer Island visual arts league and is staffed by its members. Currently there are twenty eight artists showing their works, including paintings, fiber art, jewelry, glass and ceramics. Must-Haves Jewelry is proud to be part of this talented group. The gallery is located next to the QFC.

MIVAL Art Gallery

Avenilo Building

2836 78th AVE SE

Mercer Island

MIVAL Art Gallery Opened on Thursday

2009-11-20T20:01:00.000-08:00

The MIVAL Art Gallery had its grand opening on Thursday.
(MIVAL stand for Mercer Island Visual Arts League) The gallery looks great! If you are in the area , please check it out.

It is located in the Avellino Building at 2836 78th Ave. SE
Mercer Island ,Washington

MIVAL Gallery hours
During the Holiday Season/Nov.19th-Dec.2

Thur. 12pm – 7pm

Fri. 12pm – 5pm

Sat. 12pm – 6pm

Sneak Peek at the new MIVAL Art Gallery

2009-11-17T08:11:00.000-08:00

The Mercer Island Visual Arts League is getting ready to open a gallery on Thursday November 19th. It is located in the Avellino Building at 2836 78th Ave. SE. The cooperative style gallery will be managed and staffed by MIVAL artists. There will be 28 fabulous artists represented at this venue. I made a trip over there yesterday to drop off some jewelry and took some pictures. They are hoping to be set up by the end of the week. There is lots of work yet to be done. Paintings are lined up ready to be hung and display cases need to be built. The walls are freshly painted and the gallery looks beautiful. There will be lots of unique art to shop, including pottery, jewelry, glass and of course wonderful paintings. I will post more pictures next week after all the work is finished.

MIVAL Gallery hours:

During the Holiday Season/Nov.19th-Dec.24th:

Thur. 12pm – 7pm

Fri. 12pm – 5pm

Sat. 12pm – 6pm

New Earrings

2009-11-04T06:29:00.000-08:00

Playing around with some new earrings designs. Can a girl ever have too many earrings? You can find these at my store on 1000markets

MIVAL Hoilday Show

2009-10-26T09:28:00.000-07:00

The Mercer Island Visual Arts Counsel show started last week. I tried to take pictures of my display, but the lighting was wrong. But I gave it a try anyway. The show runs until December 19th. There are 52 local artists represented, so the variety of art is fabulous!

Try Handmade Market at 1000Markets

2009-10-23T12:53:00.000-07:00

I love buying handmade for gift giving. There is nothing better than receiving a gift that was carefully handcrafted and made with love for the art. So consider buying handmade this holiday season instead of mass produced.

I also appreciate the uniqueness of handcrafted items. This is why I am honored to be a part of the
Try Handmade market at 1000markets. Erika Jurney is the founder of Try Handmade and has a wonderful blog about the fabulous talent of handmade artisans and their products. This is a great place to get holiday shopping ideas. Each day she features a great product that she has discovered.

Holiday Gifts

2009-10-18T20:25:00.000-07:00

I found some great key chains that I had forgotten about, in my stash. These are the best and I can't seen to find this style anymore. They open nice and easy and still are very secure. I like a key chain that I can take keys on and off with out fighting with it. I just had a few of these left , so I decided to add some pretty lampwork and crystals. They make great gifts! These are for sale in my 1000markets store . I have a new collection featuring gift items for the Holidays.

MIVAL Hoilday Show

2009-10-13T14:05:00.000-07:00

I just was sent a copy of the advertising poster for the Mercer Island visual arts counsel holiday show. My bracelet is the second picture down on the right. The show starts October 17th and runs until December 19th at the Mercer view community center.

Sports Jewelry for a Personalized gift

2009-10-11T08:31:00.000-07:00

I have lots of sterling silver sports charms listed in my Etsy shop, but the female runner charms are my favorite. These female runner charms are very special to me. Years ago when I was making sports jewelry, I could not find a runner charm that I liked. I was an avid runner at the time and wanted a charm that showed good form. So I had a mold made and designed after a picture of a distance runner. This female runner charm shows not only wonderful form, but a love of the sport. You will not find this sterling silver charm anywhere else. This is exclusive to Must-Haves Jewelry. So if you need a gift for a cross-county runner, someone training for a big race or a friend that just loves to get out there and run, this is the perfect gift.

This is what Lyn of Lyn Spired Jewelry made with the charms

Its the Season For Garnet Jewelry

2009-10-08T15:35:00.000-07:00

I have the most gorgeous tree just outside my studio window. And on a sunny fall day like today the colors are spectacular! It made me think that it time to dig out my stash of garnets. Dark burgundy garnets are wonderful this time of year. Some are so deep in color that I wear them as a neutral. And they are perfect for holiday parties when you don’t want to wear a flashy bright red. Garnets are the January birthstone. Most people usually think of garnets as only a deep rich red. But Garnets come in just about every color family. Recent discoveries in Africa have even found a rare blue-green garnet. Garnets are available in greens, fiery yellows, deep orange and all the way to the traditional reds. They have long been a favorite of the jewelry world because of their durability, rich color and brilliance.

The bracelet in the picture has big beautiful garnets that I have saved from last year. They have a deep rich color and are polished nicely. The bracelet is available at my 1000Markets store

Earrings Today

2009-10-01T09:53:00.000-07:00

Can a girl ever have too many pairs of earrings? If you would only to wear one piece of jewelry, I think it would be earrings. I like earrings that are light weight, have an unusual design and are just plain fun to wear! So I am spending the day making earrings for my 1000Markets shop.

I always make the earring wires with 20 gauge fine silver. I think that a heavier gauge is just too thick for many women. Twenty gauge is an average post size. I like fine silver .99, because it does not tarnish like sterling silver .95. I also make sure that the wire ends have been made smooth. There is nothing worse than a sharp ear wire.

If you love earrings, like I do, check out the Perfect Pair market on 1000markets for a great selection of unique earrings.

Friends of the Mercer Island library -Silent Auction

2009-09-27T13:38:00.000-07:00

I have been getting ready for the Friends of the Mercer Island Library – Silent Auction. I only had a foot square size of area to display the six jewelry items that I am sending to the auction. The auction items are supplied by the members of the Mercer Island Visual arts league. There will be paintings, pottery, glass and jewelry up for bid. The library will also have some special books available to purchase. Here is a picture of the display that I came up with.
The bidding starts on Tuesday Sept 29th and will run until mid Oct.

2009-09-21T07:47:00.000-07:00

1000Markets is made up of a group of theme based markets. Must-Haves Is a proud member of these unique marketplaces. Each market has it's own theme and feel.
Abead Devine Jewelry
Metal Entanglements
A Perfect pair
Handcrafted In Seattle
Handmade Haven
Jewelry Artisan's Marketplace
Metalcraft
Pacific Northwest Market

Is it too soon to think about the Holiday's???

2009-09-20T07:45:00.000-07:00

Is it too early to think about Christmas? Getting ready for the Holiday’s starts very early for artisans. We have to make our stock months ahead of time to be ready for upcoming shows. It is difficult to think of Christmas when the temperatures outside are in the 90’s. But if we want to be ready, with enough stock on hand, we start creating in the summer. There is always the question of how much stock to have on hand. For those of us that additionally sell our art online, we need to keep both venues stocked. It is a balancing act that comes up every year. A successful online store needs to have a beautiful presentation of unique holiday items. And we need enough merchandise at the shows that we do not loose sales. Since these are seasonal items, I do not want to have much left over, if any. Last year I did not make enough and was receiving requests for jewelry pieces in December, after I had sold out. So, I have been trying to decide, how much to make this year? The economy is different. But I can’t help but think that a pretty pair of festive earrings or bracelet might be just the item for a bit of holiday cheer!Take a peek at the fun Holiday item's at 1000Markets