Bla Bla Blog

Making Bead Soup!

2012-01-24T17:59:00.000-05:00

So I was one of the lucky 200 that gets to be a part of the Bead Soup Blog Party put on by Lori Anderson. She had way more people sign up than spots available and we were chosen randomly and paired with another artist to exchange a package of "bead soup". I am paired with Mandi Ainsworth who does beautiful seed bead work. While I have done some seed bead work in the past, and I have a rather large stash of them, I only use them to make stuff for me. Those tiny little suckers can make an old lady go blind!

I spent today in my studio making glass beads, some of which will be mailed to Mandi in the next few days along with some other surprises. I can't wait to see what she puts together, and to see what she is sending me.

I have also been researching PMC3 and may add that to my growing list of crafty persuits. I admit to being fascinated with making some of my own charms and dangles for my jewelry. I was happy to see bronze clay and copper clay, but I'd need another kiln for that...Thanks to my friend Lisa Twombly I know where to get a small one at a great price Metal Clay Supply.

I'll be going to the IGBS with my friend Jody on Sunday. As usual, I will spend more than I thought I would and find some new treasures that I wasn't looking for. Looking forward to spending the day with her.

New Year/ New Shop

2012-01-06T23:21:00.001-05:00

Whew! I am cross eyed! I have been spending the last week setting up 2 new shops on line, and will slowly fill them up with my current inventory. You can find my designs at Handmade Artist Shops Designs by Lynnea and Payvment which is on my Facebook Page just click the shop now tab on the right. I picked these venues for several reasons....

Payvment offers me a way to allow my current Facebook friends and followers to shop without having to log into an external site. And it is free! No fees other that Paypal are involved.

I selected Handmade Artist Shops after getting to know the owner/developer Andrew Kitchen. He started the Handmade Artists Forum and then went on to create the Handmade Artists Shops. As I've chatted with him in various online forums, I have come to see his vision of a small boutique site that doesn't strive to compete with the big names, but wants to offer both the consumer and the artist a truly hand made experience. I kind of got tired of getting lost in the mix on the bigger sites and the fees on top of fees that cut into the small profit I am trying to make. He also works hard to promote our items as we list them and feature us as much as possible. It is because of all the information he has given me that I now have a Twitter account @DesignsbyLynnea. It has been an experience linking everything together in a giant circle! But I hope by using all of his knowledge to continue on my artistic path this year. Thanks Andrew!

I also want to give a shout out to Susan Adams. She invited me to a group on Facebook called (originally) Artfire Link and also moderates It's Better Handmade. She has been so open with all the knowledge she has to everyone in the group. She changed the name to just Link group as some of us jumped off of Artfire to explore other options and didn't want to leave the group of people we have come to look to for feedback and support. Most days my mind is spinning just trying to keep up with it all.

Top that off with going thru all my online photo albums and deleting really old work (much of it sold) because I want to focus on what my current aesthetic is. Reworking my Facebook page/profiles was another thing since we now have timeline. And somehow I squeezed in a class in kiln formed glass..uh oh... And don't forget my new obsession Pinterest which strangely enough ties it all together too.!

So 2012 is going to be an interesting year, I actually will just do like I always do...be true to myself, make what I love and just keep swimming!

Here I come 2012

2011-12-31T21:40:00.000-05:00

So, I never dreamed I'd say this, but I closed my Artfire store. I did quite a bit of evaluation of costs vs sales and decided to try out another venue. It was difficult to let it go, I've had it for a long time (I was a beta tester). But, I looked at the overall picture and most of my sales are now either in person or from Face Book. That being said I will be opening a new store in the next day. I've found another site that specifically promotes handmade artisans and the owner does lots to promote the individual artists. I am excited to clean out the old stock and begin my store anew! I've added new features to my Face Book Page, such as a store that you can purchase from right on the site as well as links to my web page.

There have been a lot of changes in my personal and my professional life and I am looking forward to what is going to be happening artistically for me in 2012. I have gained a wonderful online community of artists and some local supporters that are helping me look at my artwork and business in a whole new way.

So Here I Go With Another Blog

2011-11-14T09:38:00.001-05:00

Yes, I have 3 blogs already, but it seems that ArtFire suggests that I maintain one here too. Today I am going to talk about some questions I was asked by a group of non-crafty friends.

My friend Maureen is intrigued by the fact that I managed to mix the side of my brain that is all business with the side that is the artist. I really don't know how that works! It just always does. I know many people who are all one or the other. I constantly try to look at my art as my passion and make things that I love, but I also have to keep an eye on the business of craft.

The business of craft is what pays the bills and lets me keep buying supplies and learning new techniques, so it is at times the most important part of what we do. How much to charge? What to create? To do shows or just sell on line? These are questions a successful business has to ask all the time.

But the artist hates this, we just wanna make what we make how we make it and be paid for it.

I have probably made stuff for my entire life. Many gifts were made before I decided that I might be good enough to sell my jewelry designs. I started out selling to my clients at the hair salon I worked at, which evolved into putting a display in the salon I then owned. At that time lots of sparkly crystal stuff was popular and I often mixed my designs with purchases items to sell.

When I had to close the salon I had to concentrate on supporting my family, and I made some things, but didn't try to make that a big part of my income. A few years in I started to do a few small shows and got a tote to bring things into work to show off. I can honestly say my friend Paula pushed me into doing more shows. And to her credit (and retail experience) I did pretty good that year. I was so lucky to have her to drag to shows to sell stuff with me. She could sell ice to Eskimos!

Business was doing pretty good and my style had begun to evolve when I had several life crisis at one time. My husband lost his job and about 3 months later I was in a horrible car accident. I am lucky to be here, but my creative mojo wasn't happening for about 4 months. I pretty much took a year off to recover and then one day I wanted to make stuff again and it wasn't a struggle.

Once again I have to thank Paula for encouraging me thru out this whole process. She gave me a commission order for a necklace that she needed for a friend. Here is what I made for her...

Her friend had just lost a foot to a rapidly growing cancer and she wanted to give her a symbol to remind her of her strength.

I can't tell you how many resin coated pendants I have made since then! But I have a brain that won't stop so I evolved my work yet again with torch fired enamels. I came across Painting with Fire by Barbara Lewis. I decided to spend the money for the starter kit and fell in love with the method. Here are a few things I have made with my enameled pieces

And then....this evolved to fold forming! Since I had a torch I could easily heat the metal up and create things from them

In the necklace above, I used enamel, fold forming and yet another thing...Patina! So do you all see where this is going? Yup, I took a lampwork class after I had a fantastic show (I took 3rd place in fine art) and even though I never anticipated I would, now I have a kiln, oxygen concentrator, 2 (yes 2) torches and a supply of glass. Here is a necklace with my beads on it...

So as you can see, it is a journey.

Maureen bought this necklace the other day

She asked me how did I come up with this design and I had to tell her that it just kind of comes to me. Another friend said "so you don't do a sketch ahead of time?" And I had to say no, sometimes the pieces just speak to me. They come together on my workspace and I have an a HA moment. And sometimes it is an oh no moment when you try to put things together and you shake your head and say nope that doesn't work.

So that is the art side of what we do. The business side has to say "what should I charge for this"? I have a mentor who constantly tells me I undercharge, and I probably do. But, in this economy I try to make sure I make a profit and make my jewelry accessible to a wide group of clients. I almost always have some earrings in the $10 range at a show and a few show pieces that are over my magic $50 number. The big deal pieces will draw them in, but most of the time people buy multiple of the lower priced pieces and end up spending the same amount, but feeling satisfied because they got more for the $$ they spent

I keep track of what shows were successful, and which ones I would never do again (even if the booth space were free). I also look at the potential to grow my customer base, like the dance convention I did. This year was ok, but next year the ladies will be waiting for me to be there and ready to buy.

I am also evolving my displays and set up this year. I want to have a more cohesive set up which may involve using my sewing skills to make skirts and table covers. I am also haunting flea markets and antique markets for fabulous finds to repurpose as displays (or use in my designs)

I look to expand the number of shows I do next year as well as introduce a display at my current salon location and also to continue to evolve my skills and designs style. No matter how long you have been making "stuff:", you are never done learning and going down new avenues of creativity!

Sari Ribbon Party Blog Hop

2011-10-14T01:00:00.000-04:00

So in my previous post I showed off some of my pieces using sari ribbon, but I saved the best for the blog hop. I was excited to put this piece together and made many of the components myself. The name of my piece is Autumn Garden Bracelet. My inspiration came from Barbara Lewis and her wonderful book, Painting With Fire- Torch Fired Enamel Jewelry. She has a piece in it titled Harem that I borrowed the idea from...and then as usual I expanded on it in the way only I can.

First I made the lamp work "flower" bead for the center of the bracelet and enameled head pins and beads to add to it:

Then I picked out my sari ribbon, which I purchased from Barbara Lewis . She sells everything you need to get started with torch fired enameling and some beautiful sari ribbon too!

I then used a 7 inch piece of cotton rope and covered it in a coordinating fabric and began wrapping it in all the beads and fibers. Here are the pictures of the end result....

I hope you enjoyed seeing my piece...stop at the other blogs and enjoy and be inspired by all the creations!

Sari Ribbon Party Blog Hop

Vickie Wills
http://www.jewelrybyvee.blogspot.com/

Susan Kennedy
http://www.suebeads.blogspot.com

Michelle Mach
http://www.michellemach.com/blog/

Michelle Lee Hardy
http://fireflyvisions.blogspot.com/

Ruth Crawford
http://www.home-with-ruth.blogspot.com

Hilary Frye, FryeStyle
http://fryestyle.blogspot.com/

Diana P.
http://www.suburbangirlstudio.com

Brenda Sue Lansdowne, B'sue Boutiques
http://www.bsueboutiques.typepad.com/

Elizabeth Owens-Dwy
http://www.clarityofpurplesage.blogspot.com

Connie Rios-Relyea
http://www.JewelsDesignsCreativeCorner.wordpress.com/

Jennifer Justman
http://soulsfiredesigns.blogspot.com/

Deb Davis
http://www.naturaltreasuresbydeb.blogspot.com

Beanzie
http://www.thevintageheartcharmbracelets.com/the-vintage-heart-charm-b/

Cathie Carroll
http://www.cathiecarroll.com/

Rosemary Cowit
http://www.gemrosedesigns.blogspot.com/

Georgene Lockwood
http://sylvanavintagedesigns.wordpress.com/

Cathy Buckley
http://cathybuckleycatsmeow.blogspot.com

Harry Wood
http://www.oscarcrow.blogspot.com

Sonya Stille
http://dreaminofbeads.blogspot.com

Mary Deis
http://mdeis.blogspot.com/

Heather Goldsmith
http://asibeadit.blogspot.com/

Susan Rouleau
http://mountainshadowstudio.blogspot.com

Terry Matusyk
http://pinkchapeau.wordpress.com

Pam Chesbro
http://afortunatesoul.blogspot.com/

Mary Shannon Hicks
http://uptwnsh-fallingintothesky.blogspot.com/

Janice Everett
http://JLynnJewels.blogspot.com

Davinia
http://www.daviniadesign.com

Kristina Johansson, Maneki
http://wildrosesandblackberries.blogspot.com

Kris Binsfeld
http://www.cherishdesigns.wordpress.com

Alice Craddick
http://Alice'sBeadsandbaubles@blogspot.com

Mandy
http://www.beadsforbrains.blogspot.com

Charlene
http://thebeaddreamer.com/blog/

Catherine Jeltes
http://www.galleryzooart.com

Jackie
http://kydojewellery.blogspot.com/

Sharon Palac
http://www.sharonsjewelrygarden.blogspot.com

Deb Beechy
http://beetique56.blogspot.com/

Jean Yates
http://prettykittydogmoonjewelry.blogspot.com/

Patrice Pfeiffer
http://treeseatreasures.blogspot.com/

Dorcas Midkiff
http://wondrousstrangedesigns.blogspot.com/

Lynn Perry Bennett
http://designsbylynnea.blogspot.com

Linzi Alford
http://www.magpieintheskyspoilheaptales.blogspot.com

Deb
http://greenshoot.blogspot.com/

Cynthia Wainscott
http://www.exoticperujewelry.blogspot.com
Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp
http://skyejewels.blogspot.com
B'sue Boutiques Creative Group
http://www.flickr.com/groups/bsueboutiques/
If you couldn't play this time, no worries.   Please come on over on Friday and cruise the blogs and see all the pretty jewelry!

2011-10-07T20:13:00.000-04:00

So I decided to join a blog hop! B'sue Boutique wanted all of us to show off our Sari ribbon creations. I just recently started to use Sari ribbon in my work, but have always combined various ribbons and fabrics in my pieces. I love the color variations in the Sari ribbon, and like that I am using something that is re-purposed instead of just thrown away. Here are some pictures of my most recent creation, a bracelet I made using antiqued copper chain, Sari ribbon, lampwork beads (I just made), and some purchased blue beads. I love the way it looks.

Here are two necklaces I made with Sari ribbon too...

Decisions Decisions

2011-09-18T20:46:00.000-04:00

Sooooo, after the success of Art In The Park I decided to treat myself to a lamp work class. I had visited Brazee Street Studios in Oakley the day before and as luck had it they had a two day beginner class starting on Monday. Signing up was easy and I did it online on Sunday. What was nice was that I got two emails confirming my registration and letting me know what to wear for safety.

I arrived ready to learn and excited. The instructor is Sandy Gross, director, owner, etc etc etc...There were five of us there and we were eager to learn. Because of my enamel work I wasn't afraid of the torch, it just took a bit to have the mandrel in my left hand and the glass rod in my right hand. We did some practice beads to try to get the hang of it...they are kind of pitiful looking. Then we jumped in and tried some dots on beads. I felt like I was getting the hang of it. The concentration in that room was thick. We also learned to pull our own stringers (really skinny glass sticks you use to decorate beads with) and how to get the bead in the kiln before it got too cold.

Here are some pictures of us:

I came home exhausted and excited. Day two was even better. I felt more in control of the glass. I made fewer beads, but felt more confident in what I accomplished. The reveal was the next day after all the annealing was done and here are my beads.

I'm pretty proud of what I accomplished in two days. And I want to do more!!!! I can see how the beads would compliment the enamel work I have been doing and how the enamel work will compliment the beads. So I have begun the process of buying lampwork tools and equipment. The options are mind boggling! I ordered a Chili Pepper Kiln and it should be here this week. I can use my current small torch to get started, but have already got it narrowed down to two options for a bigger set up. Terry also has an idea for an area in the basement for my studio and I am going to work on it a bit at a time. The creative opportunities are endless.

Art In The Park

2011-09-11T20:02:00.000-04:00

So yesterday was my first experience at Art In The Park in Bellevue Kentucky. This was the tenth year for the show and there were 73 artists there. Thanks to Jodi Robinson for her encouragement to enter. There were a lot of jewelry booths. Some were great and some were ok. Apparently I was one of the great ones....because I won third place in the fine art division.

I was the woman with the enameled jewelry that the judges kept talking about. I was consistently the busiest booth in the entire show and at times there were people waiting to get into my booth. And...people were not only telling my how much they liked my jewelry they were taking it home! I gained a whole new group of fans.

Here are some pictures of my booth

I love selling at these shows when someone picks up a piece and says "I have to have this!" And I heard that a lot yesterday. Here are some pictures of the things I had at the show.

Much of this did not make the trip back to my house! I want to thank Barbara Lewis of Painting with Fire for inspiring me to make the enameled and fold formed pieces. Now to get ready for my next show in October ...Art off Pike! Can't wait to see how that goes.....

All Fired UP!

2011-08-08T19:08:00.000-04:00

So as you know from my last post I have jumped off the cliff and decided to add to my tools and techniques. I got my Painting with Fire kit and my patina kit from Miss Fickle Media. I set up my hot shop and started to attempt to create enameled pieces. I burned up a bead completely! And pennies melt if they are made after 1982. I also discovered a great group of artists on the Painting with Fire Ning. They also have weekly chats and everyone will help you to learn this technique.

So in my search for tutorials I also came across some for fold forming metal. What the heck is that you say...well it is a technique where you heat metal and fold it to form various designs and shapes. You'll see what I've come up with in a minute or so.

So here I am at mid life with 2 torches, metal, enamels and various tools learning a new (to me) art form. I started small by using the items Barbara sent in my kit for some practice.

Now this is the successful one...like I said I burned some stuff up. Oh and when you got to Tractor Supply in a sundress and strappy sandals they look at you funny. But they have 18 gauge copper wire and welding supplies and mapp gas...and they are like 2 minutes from my house.

Some things bombed, but enough came out pretty good that I started to use them in jewelry. Here are pictures of what I've been creating.

My first fold formed leaf on and enamel and patina drop


I combined the enameled washer with my fold formed leaf and an enameled head pin


This was a gift for my stepdaughter. The rings are patinaed and stamped with her kids names


Abstract flowers and another patinaed and enameled piece


fold formed lily with enameled stamens

Enamel and Patina on hand forged flowers

another fold formed lily

hearts!

enameled bracelet


Love this bead cap


Fold formed leaf, patina enameled stamen

Now in the middle of this I am also doing resin work and creating other pieces too. So I am busy busy busy.

What's UP!!!!!

2011-07-13T22:38:00.000-04:00

So I've been furiously creating jewelry for my upcoming shows. It has been fun perfecting my resin pendant techniques and also doing some metal work with all my new tools. I was on Amazon the other day and a book popped into my recommendations. It was called Torch Fired Enamel Jewelry It is a new technique for enameled beads. I explored the inside and was hooked...I wanted to learn how to do this! The pieces were so so beautiful. I wanted to see more about how to do this and what I'd need when I got the book.

Barbara Lewis of Painting with Fire is the author and they had a link to her website. So click click click off I went. On her website she shares how she started and some info on where she teaches and she sells kits to get you started. There is also a ning so I can ask questions and see other peoples work.. She also has a blog and a Facebook page. So last week I started chatting with the girls and messaging back and forth with Barbara.

I did some research and decided her start up kit with the torch was a great price (along with a tutorial and the online help) So I ordered it. After the chatting I've done, I know the perfect spot to set up what I am calling my hot studio. It is in my lower level family room (a basement with a walkout). I have a wall of windows along the back and so I can get ventilation but unlike my garage I won't freeze in the winter. Also because it isn't used a lot, I have the ability to work and leave stuff kind set up and messy (yup...I am truly an artist in that way...like to see all my stuff) I also ordered a patina kit/tutorial from another source and I will need to allow that time to work and I can use my torch etc on the patinas. So having a specific spot set up will be great and do double duty.

The fun thing I learned is that Barbara was in Cincinnati at the Thompson Enamel Co. Now lucky for me, this is only 20 minutes from my house and one exit from where I work. I called them and they said ..come on down and see us. They also have a museum and classes, so it is definitely on my to do list. And next time Barbara is in town we have to get together.

On the Painting with Fire blog, a contest is listed and so since I want to win I am following the rules and posting about it so y'all can read about it too.

Great Giveaway!
Laura Twiford from Souvenirs from Life is giving away these awesome double flush cutters by Swanstrom. I know they cost a pretty penny, but you get what you pay for ... or what Laura pays for! because she's giving a pair away next Wednesday to some lucky winner. Just post this giveaway to your blog, leave her a comment, and pray!

Pretty awesome flush cutters! I just hope I win!

My new cabinet has been great at helping me be creative every day and I made quite a few sales in the last week. Thanks to my fans old and new! Here are some pics of my new creations....

yes, I 've been very busy and having so much fun. I haven't listed these in my stores because I am stocking up for my show in August and a week later in September, but as always, everything is for sale! Just contact me via e mail @ Lynneathecraftyone@gmail.com.

What I've been up to!

2011-07-04T11:41:00.000-04:00

I just had a great jewelry show at Field of Vue and will be back in December for all your gift shopping. This is a creative and funky space in the middle of the city. I liken it to a secret garden. If you are ever in Bellevue for First Friday you should stop in and see Lemual Ferguson who is a great artist himself and general know it all about plants. He usually has some good music, wine and an artist of the month. August will feature my friend Jennifer Fields-Summer and her beautiful photography.

Here are some of my recent creations

Seahorse

sold

bathing beauties

sold

time flies


sold

sold

Add caption

sold

And there is even more! Some of these are sold, some are still available. You can contact me at Lynneathecraftyone@gmail.com if you are interested in any of these.

My next stop is in August for the Swingin' Dance Party. An annual event here in Northern KY by Sophy Kdep and Jason Miklic. It is a 4 day event at the Drawbridge in with dancing and workshops and lots of fun.

My Original Scrapbox Workbox

2011-07-04T10:41:00.001-04:00

Yes, it has been almost a month since my last post! I have been very busy both at my "real" job and my crafty job. We also had the end of the school year, so we are getting adjusted to our new schedule. The bad thing is about the time we get adjusted, it will be time to go back!

The first thing I'm going to brag about is my new workspace. I wrote about wanting a cabinet from The Original Scrapbox in a previous post. After doing a ton of research I thought their Workbox could be the solution for my jewelry making/crafting mess. Yes it is for scrapbooking, but with all the organization I could just see me making jewelry there. I just didn't know how to pay for it!

They have a Facebook page, so I joined it and followed the daily postings from satisfied customers and from the company. One day I saw a post that they had a Minibox with a scratch on it at a reduced price, but I knew that it wouldn't be big enough, so I jokingly said..."Scratch up some of the Workboxes so I can afford one!" Imagine my surprise when the responded that they had some scratch and dents available and I should call Ashleigh at the office.

I couldn't get to the phone fast enough! She told me that the main problem was that some of the predrilled holes didn't line up. I can tell you from my research, even on the "perfect" ones that was something that happened. I also figured if it had a major scratch I'd just paint it. The cost was just under $1000 and shipping was only $50! A major discount! I ordered the white beadboard one and then anxiously awaited the call from Fed X for the delivery. Ashleigh told me it would be 2 weeks, but 10 days later my cabinet was delivered....

And yes, the crate was as big as my car! The next thing to do was to get my husband to put the thing together. I pulled the instructions and a how to put it together DVD out and left them for him to study. If you know my husband, he will count every nut, bolt and screw and lay out how it will be done prior to opening the crate. (unlike me..I tend to just open the thing and start putting it together)

So, my husband built my cabinet over Father's Day weekend. He worked on it about 90 minutes at a time, and it took about 3 days. He had some help from me..hold this, hand me that, help me pick this up...NO..not that thing - THAT thing! But we got it put together without any violence or a divorce. Here is how it looked when we first got finished.

Here is the closed cabinet...we still need to put the knobs on and the latches at the top, but it is awesome!

Here the cabinet is open and being inspected by my cat. I still have to put ALL the dividers in for the shelves. That took another 2 days! Yes there are that many!

Here I am mostly done with the shelves, now for all the bins! And yes, they include all the bins with the cabinet. It is great because I customized my cabinet for my needs and can make the spaces as tall as I wanted. There is a second leg to the table, but I was under there putting in shelves just before I took this picture.

Here is is all filled up!

I had no idea I had this many seed beads

I bought these at WalMart and they fit this spot perfectly. I keep all my findings in here and each drawer has a different color in it.

That box of ribbons will be in a new container soon.

fabrics and fibers and tools oh my!

I had this large cutting mat and it fits here perfectly


My first project in my new space

Now, I am keeping my cabinet in my great room right in front of the front door. Everyone asks how can I do this...well, my friends come thru the garage into the mud room, and this spot has great natural light/overhead light and I get to be with my family even while crafting. (and I like it like that)

Yes, I do still need one plastic cart, but that is for the different fibers I use in my work and some miscellaneous items that I haven't sorted yet. I can easily close this up and roll it to one side when company comes and it just looks like a beautiful piece of furniture.

I have told everyone I know about this company and will probably buy another cabinet from them in the future for my sewing machines. And because of my big mouth I got to be fan of the week and won this nifty ribbon box

So now I can organize all those ribbons.

The Extraordinary Gift of Being Average

2011-06-10T10:22:00.001-04:00

A friend of mine posted this on facebook and after reading it, I felt that all adults should read this and think about the kids all around them who are just kids...not the smartest, most talented, gifted, best at (insert thing here), prettiest, etc etc etc. Sometimes our kids are just that ....kids. We need to tell them that their best is good enough and that all the awards and accolades in the world won't make them a better, smarter person. Who they are is just who they are meant to be. The world is a much better place with them in it and how they treat others and what is in their heart is more important than anything.

The Extraordinary Gift of Being Average

Another show on my list

2011-06-07T15:32:00.002-04:00

Just a quick note to let anyone coming to Jason and Sophy's Swinging Dance Party that I will be selling jewelry there.

http://www.jasonandsophy.com/SwinginDanceParty.aspx

Fabulous Flops not Flip Flops

2011-06-07T11:39:00.001-04:00

I admit it...I am a flip flopaholic. The minute it gets warm my toes scream for release from the shoes I've worn all winter. I have sparkly ones, flat ones, colorful ones, jeweled ones, expensive ones and cheap ones. Todays blog is all about the cheap ones. Last year I bought 2 pairs at Walmart a grey pair and a purple/pink pair. I wanted something to wear to the pool and to throw on to walk the dog. The grey ones are boring, but well worn as I slip them on all the time and have even caught myself out in public in them. The other pair were still tied together with that plastic thingy (you know the one you hate because you can't tell if they fit).

Today as I was browsing Pinterest my new obsession on the internet I came across a picture of a really fun pair of flip flops with fabric straps. I clicked on the link and found a fabulous tutorial by The Mother Huddle. Her instructions are great so there is no need for me to write my own. I happened to have some pre-cut fabric strips I picked up at Hancock Fabric. They are usually used for quilt binding. The nice this is that they have co-ordinating fabrics in a stack together...takes all the guesswork out of it. They are about 2 1/2 inches wide, but they worked perfectly. I picked two that went together and cut them to about 22 inches each. I followed the rest of the instructions and here is what I got....

My boring flip flops before

my feet are so happy with my new Fabulous Flops!

Here they are feet free

the raw materials...old flip flops and fabric

my fabric choices

my beautiful new flip flops


this is an example of what the precut strips look like

More Miss Cellaneous Craftiness

2011-05-30T11:26:00.000-04:00

My husband says that my sweatshop is in full speed mode. I guess it is, but I have to say I am so happy that the creative ideas are flying around in this head of mine. The internet is a gold mine of ideas and inspiration and I appreciate that we all share what we make and how we did it. The fun part is each person takes those inspirations and ideas and then creates something with their own little twist or perspective and makes it unique to that artist.

Here are some pictures of my recent creations:

As you can see, I have been quite busy making things with a variety of materials and techniques. Can't wait to see how customers react to them at my show on June 4th.

New Stuff

2011-05-19T11:05:00.002-04:00

I had to show off a piece I just finished....It is called I've Got My Eye On You! It is a cuff bracelet with a recycled image of an eye bead and seed beads embedded in resin. It is for sale for $35...one size fits most it is adjustable. You can contact me at lynneathecraftyone@gmail.com for purchasing information

Here are two more of my recent creations

This one is called Heart Works. A resin pendant created with recycled magazine images and watch parts. I then used aluminum wire to make the center piece and wrapped it with fiber, wire and beads.

No, your eyes are not deceiving you...this is made from hex nuts. I ran across a tutorial on how to make this. I used satin cord and nuts from the hardware store. I call it Ahh Nuts!

These are both for sale, contact me for purchasing information.

I am always on the lookout for bead storage. My biggest problem is that while I could have the basement family room all to myself, could kick my family out of the home office, the space I really like to work in is in the great room of my house. Lots of great natural light and I like to be in the room with my family as much as possible. We all run in different directions all the time and it is nice to spend whatever time we have together. Up until now I take over half of the dining table with my stuff when I am getting ready for a show and have various, carts, containers, bins etc everywhere.

So the other night I am surfing the web and come across this site The Original Scrap Box.

Now I am not a scrap book person, all my photos are digital these days. But for BEADS!!!! this would be the most fantastic cabinet ever. All that storage for all my stuff. Right now I take over half of the dining table and have bins and containers and plastic carts all over the place. When company is coming I have to find a place to hide it all. With this, all I would do is put things in their bins and close the doors.

Now, it isn't inexpensive. It runs a $1295 to $1495. I found it on Amazon with free shipping which is a great savings as it is shipped freight. We have to put part of it together and from the reviews I am reading it takes about 4 hours (they include a how to DVD). My wonderful husband says just order it, but to me it is a major purchase so I have to meditate on it and save some money up for it.

When ....yes I said when....I get it I'll let you all know how much I love it and show you the full and finished cabinet.

Happy Crafting!

Getting Ready for My June 4th Show

2011-05-17T13:10:00.000-04:00

As usual, when I know I have a show coming up I go into all out designing mode. Not enough time in a day to make all the things I have in mind. Since I had some requests for earrings, I made and already sold these two pairs.

Both were made using recycled images from cards and magazines and covered in resin. I am loving that they are light weight and unique.

I also made the following items. Some are not yet listed in any of my shops. You can contact me for purchasing information at lynneathecraftyone@gmail.com

Dragonfly Bangle $15

Believe Necklace $30

Livin the Tweet Life $30

The closest I'll get to the Hope Diamond!

Hope Necklace $30

I also found some new display items for my upcoming show. Garden Ridge is a dangerous place to go! They also have a folding shelf unit I think I have to go back for.

So this will be an earring display and I bought a stand that rotates for it to sit on. Can't light the candle, but it was too pretty not to buy.

Paula taught me to go taller in my displays..this can hold bracelets and necklaces.


You can see the size of the foam board I covered.

So, this is foam core board and an easel I got from Garden Ridge. The board is from Hobby Lobby


I covered it with batting and fabric. I got clear push pins to attach jewelry to this. I think I will add some ribbon too.

I also have a new obsession with Pinterest. I stumbled on it when I was looking for some DIY jewelry project tutorials. After asking to join I had to wait to be accepted. I guess it goes faster if you know someone else on the site and they invite you. I have pinned things all night long. I guess what I like about it is to see what other people like and to be able to save my favorite bookmarked items all in one place. I seem to always see something and then can't remember where it was. Now I click on the picture I like and "pin" it to my board and it is saved. Other people can like or repin things I post too. Check it out and if you want an invite leave me a comment and I'll do it.

Here are some vendors on Etsy that I either have purchased from or will purchase from soon.

Miss Fickle Media
Marsha Neal Studio
Brigete - she makes beautiful felted flowers

I have many more to list, but not enough time to list them.

Bursting with Creativity!

2011-05-13T16:51:00.000-04:00

It's Five O'Clock Somewhere Bracelet $35

Busy Busy Busy...and beads are everywhere! Thanks to my friend Paula Provenzano, my work is taking a brand new direction. I still love my old designs, but I am working on a new line under the title of Miss Cellaneous Craftyness. I decided that because what I am creating still uses a collage of materials, but has an emphasis on using some recycled or re-purposed items, that I wanted to create a division all its' own.

Paula originally requested a custom piece for her friend, and as I looked for some design ideas I was inspired to go in a more vintage, steampunk, found items direction. Also I am utilizing metals, fabric, and resin pendants that I am creating. It is a whole new look for me.

Here are some of my recent items:

Your Time is a Gift $30

Recycled suede cuff - $15

Mama Bird Necklace $30

Recycled T shirt Necklace with pearls and agate - $30

This and That Necklace $30

Recycled t shirt necklace with handmade bail and stone pendant $15

Lovely Lavender Necklace $25

SOLD

I am also going to do 3 shows (so far) this year.

June 4th - Art on the Avenue in Dayton KY.

July 1st - I will be a featured artist at Field of Vue in Bellevue, KY during the first Friday sale.

Sept 10th - Art In the Park - Bellevue, KY

So you will have some places to see my work in person. I am also going to do a few open houses at On The Bend Salon

I will update my where will I be status as more shows and opportunities arise.

Thanks to all my friends and family for their support over the years.

Happy Mothers Day!

2011-05-08T12:01:00.000-04:00

So, here's to all the Mom's out there! I loved this video the minute I saw it!

I am a Senior Citizen at Goodwill

2011-05-07T08:31:00.001-04:00

Yes, apparently 50 is old enough to be a senior citizen at Goodwill....shocking I know. I mean I knew it was coming sooner or later, guess I was hoping for later. I had a break and decided to go to the one nearest my place of work just up the road in Bellevue, KY. I needed some more stuff for my creations. Since this is a new obsession for me, I didn't know that Friday was 50% off clothing day. I really had gone to see about getting a tie or two and making a cuff out of them. I hit up the racks and got about 6 t shirts, another suede jacket and 2 ties...and got out of there under $20 once she took off the additional 10% senior discount. She also gave me a calendar for the month and I found out Sundays are 50% off if you are over 50! Guess I know what I will be doing on Sundays.

My son and I went out for a dinner date Friday and he loves books so we went book shopping. I came across two by Megan Nicolay. I ended up buying one for some of the tops and a pair of yoga pants I have to make. I am going back to Goodwill to buy some t shirts on Sunday to experiment on. At 50% off they only cost about $1.60 so if I screw up...who cares!

Here are some pictures of recent creations I made. I also have a ton of pendants in the works so I will have lots of pictures to post in the coming week.


Love this one...may have to make one for me!

Sold to my friend Jennifer

Pendants in the process of being created

It's Gotta Be the Rain!

2011-05-02T18:35:00.000-04:00

I really have no idea what has spurred my burst of craftiness and creativity...but I like it. My wallet doesn't like it right now, but as long as I sell some stuff, it will be fine. In the last two days I was on a buying supplies binge..Hobby Lobby, Michaels, and Jo-Ann Fabric all got some of my cash.

I went to Jo-Ann to buy some fabric for a dress and skirt I already had patterns for, both of them from Burda. One I purchased in store and one was a free download from their web site Burda Style. I have the skirt cut out and pined, and will sew it tomorrow. I got lucky and found the perfect sandals to wear with it a JC Penny when I went in to pay my bill (isn't that how it always goes?) I really need a dress form and need to decide what kind I want. It is just too hard to show off my work without one and when I make my restyled t-shirts I often just kind of pin things on and step back and take a look to see how it goes.

Hobby Lobby had all the metal bits and pieces on sale this week for 50% off, so I loaded up on them and a few scrap book items I am using to make pendants. Michaels had coupons in the paper so I got beads (they were 40% off) with an extra 15% and another 10% off everything else. I got so much I bought 3 more bead organizing boxes and immediately filled them up.

So here are some of my most recent creations:

Rutilated Quartz and Gunmetal Charm Earrings - SOLD

T-shirt necklace featuring pearls, charms and a funky pendant $25

Quartz and a handmade aluminum bale on suede - $15

Silk Petals and Crystals $20

Custom Order Pendants I created

Here is the finished piece....the customer loved it!

here is the back of one of my resin pendants

Another custom order just completed


Black and White Delight $20

fun metal chain on a t-shirt necklace

Copper and Blue Beauty $25


I made this resin pendant too!

So if I didn't mark it sold, it is for sale and you can contact me for buying instructions. I also make special requests if you want them to say something special. I haven't listed some of these in my store yet as I give my blog readers and Facebook friends first dibs.