Beadaciously Yours

Antique Brass Owl Trio Pendant Green Czech Glass Necklace - $27.00

2012-02-11T08:29:00.001-07:00

Time to look towards spring! This cute owl trio is sitting on a branch on this pendant just waiting to make you smile. I created this necklace using green Czech glass leaf beads, soft green with Czech glass faceted roundells with a Picasso finish, and tiny faceted Czech glass crystals with shades of pink and yellow. These beads and crystals are handwrapped with antique brass wire to antique brass chain. Enjoy wearing this necklace this spring ...

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Wordless Wednesdays ~ Winter Wonder in the Window

2011-12-28T17:12:00.000-07:00

Five Post Holiday Goals Otherwise Known as New Year's Resolutions

2011-12-26T11:56:00.000-07:00

Post holiday goals sounds so much better to me than New Year's resolutions at this point in my life. In years past I would sit and dreamily come up with a huge list of resolutions on New Year's day. I would feel so inspired and so motivated. For most of those resolutions, writing them down was the end of it.

So I decided to try a new approach. It's the day after Christmas. I am excited to think about my business and to develop better and more effective approaches. But wait, I constantly read about growing a handcrafted business. I constantly look at what others are doing. I can come up with multitudes of ideas for growing my little business!

Hm, not a good idea. So I thought why not take just five of the most important goals, put them in writing here, and then track and monitor how well I do? I work a day job that involves monitoring compliance, so why not do the same for my own handmade jewelry and lanyards business? So here are my top five goals for the next year.

Post on this blog 3+ times per week. If you have been following this blog, you know that I am sporadic in my approach. It's time for me to be reliable and faithful to my blog.
Expand my outreach on Facebook. This will require a lot of diligence from me, because I don't quite get the best way to use it. Education will be required. But in an shameless plug, please Like my facebook page. That will help expand my outreach right away. Thanks!
Develop a website to market my handmade lanyards. This is a niche I developed on Etsy, and I would love to grow that part of my business. Hm, should I try Wordpress for that?
Sell 12+ lanyards a month. That is about double of what I have done in the last six months. Yikes, .................................... S T R E T C H.........................!
Last but definitely not the least important - DELIVER MORE THAN I PROMISE! Great customer service is the most important thing.

Time wise - be early not late
Quality wise - pay attention to details
Value - provide an exceptional product for the price
Extras - provide extra service, specials, things that tickle the fancy

What are your plans to grow your business or whatever endeavors you wish to improve?

Blessed Christmas Giving

2011-12-11T08:44:00.000-07:00

Every year my adult children and I discuss what each other would like for Christmas. Each year it becomes increasingly difficult. Why is that? We are so totally blessed, that we all have or can buy what we need and a great deal of what we want. So this year, my son proposed that we spend the money we normally spend on each other to provide for someone else's need. We agreed this was a great idea.

So my son, my daughter and her husband, my husband and I pooled our resources to give to a homeless shelter. My daughter's church is sponsoring a homeless group for a week in December, and they are putting together packages that include a hat, a pair of gloves, and a pair of socks. Living in Northern Colorado, warmth is a key factor when purchasing these items.

So yesterday my daughter, her husband, my grand-daughter, my husband and I went shopping. We decided to descend on Jax, a store that carries clothing for farmers, ranchers, and sportsmen. We piled up a shopping cart with warm wool/acrylic hiking socks that wick away moisture to keep the feet dry, and gloves with thermal properties and closure at the wrists to keep wind out. We found some medium, some large and some extra-large. What fun it was to load up a shopping cart with these items.

We cleared a whole section of gloves and socks out of the store's inventory. After we checked out, my daughter asked the checker to place everything in one big bag. She is taking that bag to the church today. She was excited. She said she feels like Santa Claus with this giant bag of stuff.

Already I feel the magic of Christmas, and I praise God that we can do this. I won't miss the presents that I would have received from my children. The experience brings us closer and makes us value each other and all our material blessings.

Of course, I am still giving presents to the grandkids!

How to Get People to Visit Your Blog or Website

2011-12-04T10:51:00.001-07:00

I found some very helpful information on Google about what they are looking for when they rank your pages and websites. All of us who write blogs or publish content on the web want it found in the searches as close to the top of page one as possible. The mystery to many of us, particularly those of us who are solo entrepreuners focused on our artistic creations, is how does this happen?

I have read a lot on this regarding Search Engine Optimization (SEO), social media, etc. Today I found this Guidance to Building High Quality Sites with the help of a site called Social Media Today. It is written by Sharon Tisdale-Reis. She talks about Panda, one of the newer releases by Google. While SEO is important, many other things have gained in importance. Does your site inspire trust, likeability, a concern for quality and fresh approches to topics shared?

If you write a blog or publish a website, I would love to know what your thoughts are. Do you have any hints to share with us regarding getting your site seen by others?

Oh, and I just had to share this delightful photo two pandas in the snow! Aren't they totally cute?

Poudre Valley Hospital Craft Show

2011-11-08T21:50:00.000-07:00

It's the time of year for holiday craft shows. I decided to do one show this year, and that is the one sponsored by the Foundation at Poudre Valley Health System. On November 18, they are sponsoring a craft show that will display the talents of the employees. We will have our wares for sale there for that one day.

I participated in the craft show last year and thoroughly enjoyed it. Many people I work with at PVHS visited my booth. In addition many others stopped by as well. The show is open to the public, and has developed a reputation over the years as a good place to find affordable quality gifts.

Here is my display from last year's show.

Come join the fun! The show will open at 7:00 am for you early birds, and will close at 5:00 pm.

Poudre Valley Hospital is located at 1024 South Lemay in Fort Collins, CO.

Note Cards to Send Across the Miles

2011-11-06T08:12:00.000-07:00

As the holidays approach many of us begin to think more about family and friends who live far from us. I find that I think of experiences I had in the past with these treasured people, and wonder how they are doing. Of course, I can hop on Facebook or Twitter and see if I can find one quick glimpse into their lives. Technology has changed how we communicate.

But with the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays, I get nostalgic. I think of dinners together, cozy fires in the fireplace, playing games around a table. Technology seems at odds with that. One of our honored traditions is to reach out across the miles with a note card.

I found some delightful note cards recently sold by a delightful seller on Etsy. The shop is Firegems 2010. Heidi Erb is the creator of these wonderful note cards. Heidi is a single mom who takes lovely photos and makes them into note cards. She also raises Golden Retrievers. Look at this cutie.

Heidi enjoys nature photography as stated in her own words at her Etsy shop:

"Take your time while you are strolling through my photographs. Imagine yourself watching a beautiful sunset, or hearing the waves come to shore, the leaves crunching under your feet or the sounds of nature all around. Gaze upon the beauty of a flower or see the details on a building and so much more. "

Here is one of her more spectacular nature photos. This is her Fire in the Sky Landscape Print. Heidi also sells her prints. This one is an 8x10. You can also get this photo as note cards.

Of course, as I was saying earlier, the holidays remind us to reach out to our family and friends across the miles. Heidi has a number of choices with a holiday theme. These penquins are cute.

Check out all of Heidi's goodies at her Etsy shop, Firegems 2010. Then get to know her a little better by visiting her on Facebook at Firegems 2010 Creative Escape.

Wordless Wednesday - Memories of Halloween

2011-11-02T22:23:00.001-06:00

I am new to the trend of Wordless Wednesday. Here is my first WW post. Enjoy.

Fall Fun at Harvest Farm Festival

2011-10-23T08:32:00.001-06:00

The family took advantage of the spectacular Northern Colorado weather yesterday and drove up the road to Harvest Farm. This is a farm right outside of the town of Wellington, Colorado. Harvest Farm is a unique place that serves men with drug and alcohol addiction. It is a rehabilitation center that serves 72 residents. It provides them with the opportunity to work in a rural environment and receive counseling and help to transition back to society. It is sponsored by the Denver Rescue Mission.

Every year they sponsor a Fall Festival that includes a big corn maze, a toddler corn maze, and various other small mazes. There is a barrel train ride, pig races, a petting zoo, pumpkins,and other entertainment. Food is available also.

We took Maggie, our two year old grand-daughter to this event. She had such fun.

They said no throwing of the corn ~ But it's so much fun!

Fun on the Barrel Train

You back up, not me

Sittin' on Top of the World

Flores del Sur, Your Virtual Little Bazaar

2011-09-12T19:17:00.000-06:00

This week I am featuring a very special Etsy shop named Flores del Sur. This delightful shop is the creation of Marisa Kraiselburd from Uruguay. Her shop is bright, lively, and beautiful. She designs and creates lovely handmade hair pins, hair clips, pins and brooches.

Marisa has developed a line of poppy pins that mix lovely colors together for a gorgeous design. My favorite of these is the Plum and Violet Poppy Pin.

She also uses brightly colored felt to make Felt Bouquet Pins, perfect for a coat or sweater.

You could get lost in the spiral swirls of color in Marisa's Ribbon Rolled Hair Pins.

You can read about Marisa on her blog, Facebook,and Twitter.

Marisa is a member of BESTeam, a group of creative artists who sell their work through shops on Etsy. If you sell on Etsy and have a blog, consider joining this group.

The Sparkle of Gemstones ~ The Luster of Fine Pearls - BESTeam Featured Artist

2011-08-17T20:30:00.000-06:00

Jewelry by Jaynemarie is an elegant Etsy boutique that offers fine jewelry. Jaynemarie has dedicated herself to becoming a jeweler who can create beautiful jewelry for every occasion.

Here are some of my favorite items from her shop.

Green is one of my favorite colors. The Handmade Prehnite and Peridot Filigree Necklace
is fabulous.

For everyday elegance consider these Handmade Sterling Silver Swirly Earrings. Dress them up or down, they are just right for many different occasions.

For a bit of subtle drama, wear these Handmade Sterling Silver Bridal Pearl Chandelier Earrings. They make a statement. They can be worn for events other than weddings, and Jaynemarie will create these in other types of pearls if you would like her to do so.

Look for Jaynemarie on:

Facebook

Twitter

Blog

Jaynemarie is a member of BESTeam on Etsy. She and many of us have Etsy shops, and we have joined together to promote artists on Etsy and to learn more about marketing our art online. If you have an Etsy shop and write a blog, please consider joining us.

CK Silver - Timeless and Elegant, Extraordinary Customer Service - BESTeam Featured Artist

2011-08-10T21:48:00.000-06:00

I am so delighted to feature CK Silver a BESTeam member shop on Etsy. Cindy and Marilyn, a mother daughter team, create classic pieces of jewelry that you will be proud to wear anytime, anywhere. They use nature for inspiration and enjoy creating from what God has already created. Their pride of workmanship carries over to their customer service. They are always willing to work with you.

Enjoy the colors in this Southwest Autumn Necklace. The beautiful turquoise stands out against the brown jasper and red garnet, a very pleasing combination. CK Silver also has matching earrings and bracelet for sale to go with the necklace.

These Spring Tulip earrings feature lovely soft colored beads with sparkly crystals handwrapped with sterling silver wire to the earrings. They are lightweight and very pretty. CK Jewelry has a number of other earrings in different colors made in a similar style.

A different elegant style is featured in these Agate Sparkle earrings. Notice the wonderful circular swirl of sterling silver at the bottom of the earrings. Beautifully crafted, and there is a matching bracelet available for sale as well.

This next bracelet is dear to my heart. It is a Fruit of the Spirit bracelet. Each crystal represents one of the Fruits of the Spirit from Galations 5:22. The sterling silver dove represents the Spirit of God.

Please make a visit to CK Silver at the Etsy shop or visit with them on their blog.

Are you a handmade artist who also blogs and has an Etsy shop? If so, please consider joining BESTeam. We promote each other shops and share marketing tips.

Creativity Bugs - BESTeam Featured Artists

2011-08-02T19:37:00.000-06:00

Hi Everyone - This week I am featuring the shop of two sisters, Sandy and Sue, who enjoy creating paper crafts & gifts, handmade cards, paper craft kits and supplies, holiday gifts, doll clothing and accessories, plus a whole lot more. The shop is Creativity Bugs. Creativity Bugs opened its doors in January 2011. Since then they have provided sweet, cute cards and other items for various occasions.

Whenever I need to write a thank you note, I am always looking for an appealing design on a card. Look at the following two cards and the detail put into their design and creation.

Another sweet card is for your true love.

If you need a favor for a party or shower, consider a pretty Tea Light Flower.

Creativity Bugs is a member of the BESTeam on Etsy. This team is a community of artists who support one another's business on Etsy, and teach one another about being an artist who sells online. If you are an Etsy artist, and if you have a blog, please consider joining us.

You can find out more about Creativity Bugs at their blog.

Ardent Reverie - BESTeam Featured Artist

2011-07-26T20:30:00.000-06:00

"Two crazy sisters", Melanie and Meghan Mina, have put their "two crazy styles" together to create exciting handmade designs that grab your attention, and tempt you to buy. Their Etsy store Ardent Reverie has lots of great items in a variety of mediums. Being a jewelry fanatic, I was immediately drawn to their garden mosaic necklaces and their solid perfume necklaces.

The necklace above features flowers, pearl, Czech glass and amethyst artfully arranged on a square pendant. This is one of the garden mosaic necklaces available from Ardent Reverie.

Another spellbinder, is this Solid Perfume Necklace.

This item is totally different from the jewelry and so beautiful. This Crane Hairclip is an origami design in printed fabric designed to wear in the hair.

Wear this elegant sophisticated Holly Shawl to a party or an afternoon tea. The crochet work in this is exquisite and the large buttons are a fabulous design element.

Melanie and Meghan also have a website, Ardent Reverie. You can find out much more about these two sisters and their creations there. They belong to BESTeam, an Etsy group dedicated to promoting one another's shops and helping each other learn more about marketing on the internet. If you have a blog and an Etsy shop, please think about joining us.

Jewelry with an Oriental Flair - BESTeam Featured Artist

2011-07-19T21:06:00.000-06:00

My featured artist introduces her shop on Etsy as "a modern version of East meets West". Her shop Blue & White Wear is truly a meeting of the orient and modern USA.

One of the things I find truly delightful about this shop is the unique descriptions of each piece of jewelry that tells the story of the piece. This Tibetan Mandela Necklace is an example. Look at this piece in her shop and learn of the significance of the brass mandela. This one was purchased by the artist on her recent trip to Tibet. Fascinating and beautiful!

Fans are frequently decorated and used in oriental art. The fan in this Oriental Fan Necklace has Chinese characters on it, but is soft and subdued and goes well with the smoky quartz and bronze color chain. I see this as an east meets west piece. Casual but very unique.

If you make jewelry representative of the orient, then you will surely include pieces made with jade. The artist did just that with this colorful jade necklace, Burmese Beauty Jade Necklace. The soft green jade elephant pendant is wonderful, and notice how the artist continued with the soft green for the beads at the front on the beads that are close to the pendant, and then changed colors as she moved up the sides, then back to the green to provide balance. The artist explains that jade has a balancing and harmonious effect. This necklace certainly elicits such a response.

Finally, I would be remiss if I didn't share one of this shop's blue and white pieces of jewelry with you. This gorgeous necklace combines blue and white porcelain beads with white freshwater pearls. Click on the link to this Pearls and Porcelain Necklace and learn about the porcelain beads, how they are made, their history, and their meaning. I think you will be glad you did.

There are many more treasures to capture your heart at Blue and White Wear. Shop for something special there today.

You can find Blue and White Wear at the following locations.

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Blue and White Wear is also a member of BESTeam on Etsy. This team promotes and supports the Etsy sellers who belong to the team. If you are an Etsy shop owner and also have an active blog, we would be happy to talk to you about joining our team. We are a friendly group, but we are also serious about developing our Etsy business and promoting it to people everywhere.

Queen of Redeem! BESTeam Featured Etsy Shop

2011-07-12T21:25:00.000-06:00

Connie Haskell refers to herself as the "Queen of Redeem" in her profile of her Etsy shop, Redemption Art. Connie specializes in recycling, upcycling and redeeming especially items with a Hawaiian theme or history. Connie is located in Hawaii, and much of what she does reflects the Hawaiian spirit and culture.

Enjoy this cookbook which provides Hawaaian recipes gathered together. It was published as a band booster for Kalani High School and includes many Hawaiian dishes.

This beautiful red Hawaaian hula newborn outfit is enchanting. The rich red contrasts with the white flowers for a beautiful set.

Another lovely vintage piece is this Hula Apples Product Label. It brings back an earlier era.

Hawaaian Apples

Connie and others join together for fun and to promote one another's Etsy shop through the BESTeam, and Etsy team of sellers and bloggers. If you like to blog, sell and create, please join us at BESTeam on Etsy

You can read more about Connie and other crafter at her blog.

Creative Grandma Dreams of Retirement - BESTeam Feature

2011-07-05T20:14:00.000-06:00

Her name is Agnes, and this lady is a busy person who crafts, spends time with her six grandchildren, works a full time job, and is doing a countdown for the time in a few years when she can retire and do the HAPPY DANCE!

This week I want to take you to Beader Bubbe's creative world. Her shop on Etsy reflects her style and love of crafts. She makes jewelry, and she finds that much of her jewelry goes to family and friends before she has an opportunity to post it on her Etsy site. Here are some of her pieces that made it to the Etsy shop.

The first one caught my eye right away. I like hearts .... a lot! When I used to do decorative painting, I found myself painting hearts into many of my designs. This Hearts of Glass pendant is simple and elegant. It features red hearts on a pink background encased in smooth glass. Beautiful!

This Unakite Accent Beaded Bracelet will accent your wardrobe any season of the year. The oval unakite beads are rich with both greens and oranges. So nice! Sometimes unakite semiprecious stones are mostly green and don't offer the contrast that this bracelet has in it.

Beader Bubbe is also featuring the work of SuzieQ. SuzieQ has hand painted this tote bag with Dora, and the bag is loaded with goodies for the sweet little girl you buy it for.

Agnes of Beader Bubbe also has a blog and a facebook page. Visit her there.

Blog Facebook

Join Agnes and others as a member of the BESTeam (Boosting Etsy Shops Team) on Etsy if you have an Etsy shop and a blog. We are a nice group of people who take seriously promoting one another's creative endeavors through our blogs and other social media. Stop by our BESTeam blog for a preview of our work.

Oh, and by the way, I am also one of the wannabe retirees on the countdown. I could create jewelry and write blogs all day long if I had the opportunity. Happy arts and crafting!

LeAllyson

Featured on ArtFire Daily Collection

2011-07-04T20:25:00.000-06:00

I am so excited. My Aqua Necklace was featured prominently today on the Artfire Daily Collection. This is an email collection that is sent to subscribers each day. I feel very honored.

Have you ever been featured when you did not know it was going to happen? How did you feel? Did it help your business?

I welcome your comments.

LeAllyson

A Welcoming Place - Our Home to Yours ~A BESTeam Feature

2011-06-29T19:37:00.001-06:00

Our Home to Yours is a welcoming and inviting Etsy shop run by the mother/daughter team of Debbi and Amanda. Each of these ladies bring special talents to their arts and crafts. They both like to try different crafts, and hence have sold different types of items. All of their crafts are one of a kind designs.

I enjoyed looking through the things for sale at this shop, and also looking at the things that have been sold in the past. They are happy to recreate something that they sold in the past, if possible, should you like one of those items. I noticed that they made some lovely crocheted items that they sold, but now they are focusing on jewelry. So please look at both the sold and for sale items in their shop to get the full picture of their talents.

A number of the pieces of jewelry stood out to me. Debbi created this lovely Orange and Pewter necklace. It is so appealing with its cool pewter pendant and the warm orange beads. There is something so engaging about placing cool colors with warm colors like Debbi did here.

Have some fun with these Funky Fuzzy Lime Green Fun Fur Flip Flops. Very affordable! Kick up your heels with these!

It's wedding season, and we all enjoy watching the child who is the ring bearer coming down the aisle. The pillow on which the ring is laid will have even more significance if it is a hand crafted Crocheted Ring Bearer Pillow.

If you explore Debbi and Amanda's sites further, you will find on their blog page, All About Us, that their faith and relationship with God is extremely important to them. One of their creations that expresses that is this Beautiful Blue and Gold Cross Necklace. This lovely large blue cross features gold detail on a blue background. The beads in the rest of the necklace are a perfect match to the blue and gold in the cross.

Amanda and Debbi are members of the BESTeam (Boosting Etsy Shops Team ) on Etsy. This is a team that mentors one another and promotes one another to help us be successful with our Etsy shops. If you have an Etsy shop, please drop by and see our team on Etsy.

You may also catch up with Amanda and Debbi at their following websites.

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Sparkly Bedazzling Crystals

2011-06-27T19:18:00.001-06:00

For many years I have been designing jewelry, and often include a bit of sparkle in the design because I think it perks up the jewelry and adds a bit of drama. Do you ever use Chinese crystals when you make jewelry? For most of my pieces of jewelry, I used Swarovski crystals. However, recently I have seen a vast improvement in the quality of Chinese crystals.

Swarovski crystals are known to be just about the finest crystal to use in jewelry. The crystals are leaded glass that are precision cut. The facets of these crystals catch the light and sparkle with a gorgeous fire.

I continue to use Swarovski crystals in my fine quality jewelry usually in conjunction with sterling silver and other fine gemstones and pearls. This necklace features Swarovski crystals.

But what about Chinese crystals? Are they inferior and unacceptable to use in our beaded creations. I say resoundingly that they are wonderful to use in our jewelry. Due to the improvement in quality and the affordable price, I use them frequently, and the sparkle is bedazzling.

The green and yellow Chinese crystals in this strand add lovely sparkle. The blue Chinese crystals are a little softer, not so much sparkle.

Fabulous rich red Chinese crystals add beauty to this Dragonfly Necklace.

There are many lovely strands of Chinese crystals available for purchase on Etsy. I created a treasury with some of those crystals on it. Please leave your comments below. Do you prefer to use Swarovski crystals or Chinese crystals?

Majesty of the Mountains - Inspiration for Creativity

2011-06-25T18:29:00.000-06:00

Have you ever heard of the San Juan Skyway in Colorado? It is one of America's scenic byways. I had the pleasure of driving the San Juan Skyway on Sunday and Monday last week. It is breathtaking and beautiful. If you ever have a chance to do this, please take the opportunity.

This drive through the San Juan mountains refreshes the soul and allows us to put the world into perspective. The loop winds through towns that are quaint and historic. We drove through Durango, Colorado, a thriving western town, at the south end of the loop. As we headed north out of Durango on Hwy. 550 we went through Silverton, an historic Victorian mining town, and then up the "Million Dollar Highway" to Ouray, a quaint town called the Switzerland of America.

I posted some of the pictures we took. However, I have no pictures of the "Million Dollar Highway". That's because I was driving the car on a two lane road with lots of switchbacks. Driving north I was fortunate to have the mountain side to my right, which was rock cliffs going straight up. I know not how high because I dared not remove my eyes from the road. The traffic heading south had the excitement of hugging the edge of the road with no shoulder and no guardrails and a drop down into a canyon of I do not know how many feet. This 23 mile drive was through a beautiful rock canyon. But no pictures! Nowhere to stop to take them.

Enjoy the beauty of these mountains in my pictures below.

San Juan Skyway Heading North on Rte. 550

Molas Pass

Heading North Again on Rte. 550

We're Almost in the Clouds - Rt 550 headed north

Oh Gee! We're Driving in the Clouds!

MAJESTY!!!

Oh Lord, Oh Lord, How Majestic Is Your Name in All the Earth!

Indigo Objects - A Fabulous Marketplace - A BESTeam Feature

2011-06-23T14:42:00.003-06:00

The owner, collector and creative mind of Indigo Objects has created her own marketplace on Etsy. This artist's favorite color is ultraviolet indigo, hence the name of her shop. Indigo Objects, Fine Art Jewelry and Metaphysical Objects has many interests that are reflected in her items displayed at her shop. She creates handmade gemstone jewelry and also carries antiques and vintage clothing.

As I spent time perusing Indigo Objects offerings, I found an amazing variety. Let me share some of those that really caught my attention.

I always appreciate beautiful colors, and this anklet has a wealth of colorful beads. It is five luscious strands of bold, wild, colorful semi-precious stones to wear around your ankle this summer. Enjoy!

Another bold colored item from Indigo Objects is the red windchime. Beautiful red cinnabar disk beads are combined with carved wood beads, mother of pearl, and jingle bells to create this windchime that will delight your senses as it blows in the breeze.

Of course, as a person who likes jewelry, I am drawn back to the handmade jewelry in Indigo Objects shop, and find that this purple flower jasper pendant is quite lovely. This would be a fabulous addition to a warm sweater in the winter, or a soft peasant blouse in the summer.

Finally, I have to share with you the most magnificent antique. I admire antique pie safes, and this one is a beauty. It dates pre 1850 and has 12 Gothic Punched Tins in Church Cross Caduceus design. My knowledge of these is not great enough to explain this design, but it is beautiful, and obviously of great value after all these years. Take a look at this, and read all the information that Indigo Objects shares about this unique piece.

I have shared some of my favorites from Indigo Objects, but please take time to visit her shop and wander through her offerings. You will surely find something there of interest to you. Indigo Objects is online in a number of places. Please visit those sites also.

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Indigo Objects is a member of BESTeam on Etsy. We are bloggers who have shops on Etsy. Please take a look at our team on Etsy if you also blog and have a shop on Etsy. We promote one another and educate each other on online marketing. Stop by the BESTeam on the ProBoards Forum or our Team Page on Etsy. We look forward to meeting you!

2011-06-15T19:43:00.000-06:00

Elizabeth M. Duquette has a broad range of interests and she shows it in her jewelry designs in her Elizabeth MD Etsy shop. Elizabeth is a member of the Etsy team, BESTeam, plus a number of other Etsy teams.

One of my favorite pieces of jewelry that is in Elizabeth's shop is her Silver Butterfly Heart Earrings. $2.00 from the sale of these earrings will be donated to Japan Earthquake Animal Rescue and Support..

In addition to the earrings, Elizabeth has a matching necklace.

Have fun wearing this red pinky ring. Lots of color, yet casual and fun!

Look for ElizabethMD on her blog,

Fascinating Ms Formaldehyde - a BESTeam Feature

2011-06-07T19:39:00.002-06:00

Ms Formaldehyde says "I can make anything you want just ask". She lives up to her word. Take a look at her bright colorful shop full of flowers, feathers, tikis, skulls and so many other things. Kelly Formaldehyde is the artist behind all of this, and she is a member of the BESTeam on Etsy. The BESTeam is all about Boosting Etsy Shops.

When you enter Kelly's shop you will notice lots of beautiful colors, many of them used in hair accessories. Look at this fabulous fascinator made with gold feathers, rustic orange feathers, hand dyed rooster feathers and a pretty white flower with rhinestones. This is a Wedding Fascinator and offers lots of drama.

Another favorite design for me is the Orange Zinni Flower Barrette. It has beautiful colors in it, perfect for summer.

Are you ready to have some fun and start some great conversations? Get these Purple Tiki Earrings and wear them. Someone is sure to comment, and you can have some fun with it. These are nicely detailed.

For many more choices, go to MsFormaldehyde's shop. Also see her at her blog and her Facebook page.

Fanciful Bugs

2011-06-02T17:32:00.000-06:00

This treasury is aptly named "Are you bugged by this? Once again one of my pieces of jewelry is featured in an Etsy treasury. It's getting to be a habit. I had decided to post everytime I am in a treasury, but it is getting to be a lot. Maybe I should create a new page just for treasuries and collections. Anyhow, here is this one for today. Enjoy. My red dragonfly necklace is included.

DDVintage pulled this treasury together. Very creative!

little pink pearl Treasury at Etsy

2011-05-31T18:27:00.000-06:00

This soft and lovely treasury was created by Etsy seller, Yann Pendaries. Yann is a photographer from Paris, France. He has such a good eye for color and the play of light on objects. His own photography is most often soft but detailed. He has chosen similar pieces for this treasury.

My Soft Pink Flower Bobby Pins are included in his treasury. I feel honored to have one of my items selected. Enjoy this treasury.

Vintage Inspired Lanyard

2011-05-31T07:00:00.002-06:00

Yippee! My new Vintage Inspired Lanyard is featured on an Artfire collection! I am so thrilled with this new lanyard I made over the weekend. I have taken the vintage inspired theme that I so like, and created a functional beaded lanyard with antiqued brass, a lucite flower, and lots of yummy crystals, freshwater pearls and even some Epidot, a sweet little gemstone.

This collection is fabulous. It has so many gorgeous pieces displayed that are for sale by many talented artisans. Enjoy!

Just Peachy

Curated By: luvncrafts

ArtFire.com

Handmade Gifts

The Mystic Wynd Blew - BESTeam Feature

2011-05-30T12:38:00.001-06:00

It is such a pleasure to feature Mystic Wynd today. Mystic Wynd is the Etsy shop owned by Karen who spends many hours organizing and leading our BESTeam, which stands for Boosting Etsy Shops Team. This group supports one another and assists each other to promote the shops of the team. If you have an Etsy shop and can commit to some time each week to promote others, please check us out and see if you would like to join us.

Karen lives in Arizona and designs lovely artisan jewelry and accessories. She enjoys creating a variety of styles of jewelry and appeals to a large range of women, from students, to career women, to stay at home moms and to grand-moms. Here are some of my favorites from her shop.

This romantic Cloisonne Heart Brass bookmark is perfect for your favorite romance novel. While you sit back in the comfy chair with your cup of tea or maybe hot chocolate, you know you will need this bookmark close to you. At some point you will need to rouse from your relaxing read, and how nice to have a lovely bookmark to save your place in the book.

My heart always beats just a little faster when I come upon a lovely vintage inspired treasure like this next necklace. Karen has aptly named it Rosalyn. It is a beauty. So romantic and Victorian!

For a different take on vintage, look at this Green Acrylic Retro Modern necklace. The green just breathes life, and the style is so 60s or 70s. What fun to wear this!

Karen is a creative writer and has a blog also called Mystic Wynd. She features part of her poem Mystic Wynd on the Home page of her blog. This poem is just a small sample of her talent with words. Read her blog posts or any of her wonderful pages and get totally immersed in what she is saying. You can follow Karen on Twitter, Facebook and Flickr.

Lavish Blooms in My Front Yard * Iris

2011-05-29T08:08:00.001-06:00

Look at the beauty in my front yard. Spring has finally come to Northern Colorado. It has been a cold May, but we are starting to see warmer temperatures and some sunshine. Irises are blooming in abundance. The man who lived in my home before we purchased it last year planted lots of perennials. These are some of my favorites. Enjoy! Let me know which you like best in your comments. Hope your Memorial Day weekend is fabulous!

Besteam Feature: Wayfaring Magnolia

2011-05-26T20:30:00.001-06:00

Fashion has gone through so many changes over the past 50 years. Skirts hem lines go up; skirt hem lines go down. Collars are big and pointy; collars are petite and round. Add a bow to the neckline; oh, but no, let's add a plunging neckline with lots of cleavage showing. There are so many possibilities, and one person who is very knowledgeable about the changes over all these years is Amanda Esch from Wayfaring Magnolia on Etsy. She is a member of the Besteam on Etsy, and she truly does her best to provide us with excellent vintage clothing from the past.

Amanda studied history at Michigan State University, and finding the history behind beautiful vintage fashions is something that she loves. Her shop is full of a variety of vintage fashions. Here are some that I especially like.

Let's start with a fashion I never had an opportunity to wear because I was a child in the 1950s. However, I have fond memories of ladies wearing similar clothing to this Vintage Light Pink Suit. I imagine the lady who wore this also wore a small hat to go with it, and maybe some short pink gloves. Isn't the flounce below the waist fabulous? I love the way it curves from short in the front to long in the back. Oh to be slender enough to wear something like this!

Now take a look at something dear to my heart, the 1960s. I was young, and loved fashion. I sewed most of my clothes. Hem lines went way high in the late sixties and I was about 18 years old. I loved plaids and bright colors. So I think this one is just fab! Just look at the detail: gathered cap sleeves, plaid on the bias, pleated front to the dress, lace up front, a cute string bow at the neckline, and clever plaid on the bias pockets on the jumper. What fun! This is for sale in Amanda's shop. It is called 1960s Red Tartan Plaid Mod Dress.

The greatest invention for modern fashions was POLYESTER! It came along in the 70s. At the time I thought it was great. For the first time in my life I could wear something, wash it, hang it up and have it look perfect for wearing again. Everyone wore polyester. Here is a cute Bright Red Polka Dot summertime skirt.

Fast forward to the 1980s. Puffed sleeves, princess lines, bows. See this gorgeous Purple Lace 1980s Formal.

Come visit Amy's shop Wayfaring Magnolia to see these fashions, men's clothing, jewelry, ties and other wonderful vintage items. Amy also pens a blog also called Wayfaring Magnolia. You can catch up with her on Facebook and on Twitter.

Contemporary and Lightweight Jewelry for Your Ears

2011-05-20T20:13:00.001-06:00

Look what I discovered! Sleek, modern, contemporary and very lightweight earrings that I can easily change to any color or bead design that appeals. If you look closely at the picture below, you will see that the bead sits between the two curved pieces of silver plated metal. There are small pins that come out from the bottom of the earring. The bead fits on each pin on either side and the pressure of the earring holds the bead. If you want a different color bead, you can pop out the one that is there and replace it with a different one.

The earrings in the picture above are shorter than the ones below. Both earrings are made the same way, but the ones below are longer and slimmer, so they have a different feel to them. Notice how I used oval crystals in these. These sparkle and shimmer in the light, and swing as you move.

You can use rondelles with these type of earrings also. Here are some deep purple/blue crystals in the long slender earrings.

Each of these modern earrings simply attach to the earwires by using a needlenose pliers and gently opening the ring at the bottom of the earwires and attaching the earrings. Then a gentle nudge to close the opened ring on the earwires completes the process.

I purchased my earring supplies from Bead Supplies in Hong Kong. They are very dependable, but it does take about two weeks for those in the US to get supplies from them. They communicate so well, and almost always send along a little coupon to use on your next order. Here are the earwires I like for this.

Here are the slender long earrings before they are put together with beads and earwires.

If you don't want to try your hand at making these, consider purchasing a pair. I have a variety available in my Etsy shop.

BESTeam Feature: You Are My Sunshine

2011-05-11T19:09:00.000-06:00

When I first open the page for the Etsy shop, You are My Sunshine, my eyes fall on the gorgeous banner welcoming me to the shop. Brightly colored flowers with sparkles emanating from them lay on a soft old-fashioned taupe and white background. I 'm hooked already and need to feast my eyes on all the lovely jewelry available at this shop. Nina is the creator of this Besteam shop and the items for sale in it.

This "slightly shabby" necklace will make a statement when you wear it. You are unique and trendy, yet appreciate a vintage inspired theme.

Shabby Fabric Flower Necklace in Ivory and Gold

If you enjoy feminine flowery things, then this necklace is sure to please. I really like the etched ribbon stamping that forms the basis for this necklace. The bright blue and green makes me smile.

Necklace Ribbon in the Sky

What a delightful ring! Many of us make rings with lucite or resin flower cabochons, but Nina had the creative inspiration to place a flower on a sunshine ring. This ring is accented by a sunburst of silver.

Magenta Mum Ring with Sunburst

If you enjoy reading blogs and feasting your eyes on eye candy, then visit Nina at her blog, Nina in Florida. This blog is so refreshing. She uses light bright colors and features various artists and Etsy treasuries. It's fun to kick back, relax, and read her blog.

Nina also has a second Etsy shop called My Sunshine Vintage. She has a Twitter page as well. Check out Nina's artistry, and comment here on what you see.

BESTeam Feature: Your Daily Jewels

2011-05-02T19:36:00.003-06:00

Live Life in Color is the tag line for Your Daily Jewels banner above her shop! I don't think she could describe the feel of her jewelry better. This shop is owned by Norah, and she is a member of BESTeam on Etsy.

Blue can deliver lots of punch! Look at this beautiful Bright Robin's Egg Blue pendant on this necklace. You will see some round gold rings at the top of the pendant. Norah refers to these as a halo. This pendant necklace can be worn with or without the gold rings. Very versatile!

Add some pizzaz to that little black dress. Wear these black onyx earrings topped with lovely vintage Swarovski crystals. Accented with vermeil gold rings, you will glow when wearing these.

Norah is a physical therapist by profession, and she also takes care of children with disabilities. The month of April was Autism Awareness month, and 10% of the sale of this gorgeous red bracelet will go to the Autism Society of America.

Norah also blogs about her jewelry and special causes. Not only does she promote organizations dedicated to helping children with various disease, she also educates us about these diseases. Visit her blog to find out more about Norah. Connect with Norah on Facebook too.

BESTeam Feature: On Behalf Of

2011-04-26T20:25:00.000-06:00

This week I am featuring one of our BESTeam members who dedicates her artistic talent and creative voice to helping others who are often not seen by us and are in great need. Kate expresses her desire to help others eloquently on her Etsy profile. She tells us "I love seeing the world with my own eyes, and I'd rather live for others than live for myself....But my heart and the aim of my life is to do what I can in fighting this injustice, and helping those in my society to see that. Now that I have seen, I am responsible. I believe in possibility. I believe in God's providence. He knows my heart because He made it that way. And He's done so much already. I'm a small girl, but I am pretty determined that not everything about me will be small".

Kate's Etsy shop is aptly named On Behalf Of. Kate donates 90% of the profit from her sales on her shop to help others in need. She tells for each product where the donation will be sent. Visit with me as I walk you through some of Kate's thoughtful art for a cause.

This vibrant print is titled Hope Makes One Live. It is created with watercolors, acrylics, tissue paper and upcycled magazine pieces. Give hope with a purchase of this print. 100% of the sale will go to support World Vision's relief efforts in Haiti.

This photo grabs my heart. The red dress on a child helps bring me an awareness of the vulnerability of the children in this community. Kate took this photo while in a church meeting in Morogora, Tanzania. This church is struggling to provide aid to those in their community who are infected with HIV or AIDS and those affected by it. 90& of the sale of this photo will go to Lahash International, to combat HIV/AIDS in Sub Saharan Africa.

So many children have lost one or both parents. Many lose parents to AIDs; some lose parents to conflicts. No matter the reason children are orphaned they need our love and compassion, and they need us to give from our bounty. Help support orphans by purchasing The Morning Will Be On the Other Side.

Every person in this world is entitled to clean water. This print, The Ocean Tells Me a Thousand Stories, is a beautiful reminder of pure clean water. 90% of the proceeds of the sale of this print will go to Blood:Water Mission.

You can keep up with Kate at her blog, Art on Behalf Of, her facebook page.

BESTeam Feature: Sandyvern

2011-04-18T19:45:00.002-06:00

Sandy Vern is a multi-talented woman with a diverse range of interests. Her Etsy shop Sandyvern features her handmade soaps, jewelry, and knitted items. Meanwhile, Sandy runs a small pet sitting/barn sitting service. As she says in her own words on her lovely blog, The Adventures of Sandy Vern, "I am owned by a variety of animals; 1 border collie x australian shepherd (Brandon), 2 cats (Ms. Spencer & Oreo), 1 ferret (Sammy), 2 parrotlets (Rory & Logan) and 3 bearded dragons (Harry Potter, Weasly & Hermione)".

Sandy's handmade soaps intrigue me. I am very partial to lavendar. Look at this bar of lavendar soap. Don't you just want to sink down in a big tub of hot water and smell the lavendar? Sandy makes this soap using an old fashioned cold process combining oils, butters and lye in just the right amounts to create this luxurious soap. Why not get a different scent for everyday? She has vanilla, blueberry crunch, oats and honey, and more.

After you use the soap, indulge yourself in her fabulous shea butter . You could go with lavendar or another scent. Look at how soft and creamy this pink grapefruit shea butter is.

Now you would want to dress up for going out so enjoy these lighthearted Pink Cocktail earrings.

And if you prefer to stay in after your cozy bath and facial, then pick up your knitting. Use your favorite stitch markers to keep track of what you are doing. Choose from one of these or several others.

Springtime Bug Stitch Markers

Patriotic Peace Stitch Markers

Sandy is a member of BoostingEtsyShopsTeam on Etsy.

BESTeam Feature: Off the Wall Expressions

2011-04-11T19:55:00.000-06:00

Tina and Mick are a husband and wife team who create marvelous high quality vinyl graphics available at Off the Wall Expressions on Etsy. They are also members of BESTeam on Etsy. I never thought about using vinyl graphics for such a variety of things in my home. These are truly beautiful.

Vinyl is such an easy but stylish way to decorate many surfaces. These decorations will stick to a large variety of surfaces such as walls, floors, windows, refrigerators, bathtubs, and many more. The vinyl decorations will inspire your imagination, and you will find the perfect place for one of these.

Here are some of my favorites from Off the Wall Expressions.

This cherry blossom branch makes a graceful design on the wall. No need for a large sofa picture.

Why mess up your wall with pencil markings recording a child's height? Use this handy-dandy vinyl graphic and measure away!

Words of wisdom! Be inspired and guided to live well and with grace.

The first time I saw this statement, it stopped me in my tracks. This is one of my all time favorite sayings, and it is beautifully displayed on this vinyl graphic. I really like the use of different fonts to emphasize the most important words.

Off the Wall Expressions blog is another delightful place to visit. You can just relax and read Tina's posts and comments. Visit Tina on Twitter also.

Featured Artist - Turquoise Angels

2011-04-04T19:13:00.001-06:00

It is difficult to know what to look at first when you visit our featured artists' Etsy shop, Turquoise Angels. The artists who create all the wonderful designs at Turquoise Angels are a mother daughter team. They are members of the BESTeam-Boosting Etsy Shop Team on Etsy, a group of Etsians who promote one another, encourage one another, and teach one another.

Take a look at some of Turquoise Angels' creative work. They specialize in handmade clothing and accessories for girls, mommies and babies. Plus, they even make a few things for your favorite pet!

My favorite item this pair of ladies create are the tutus for little girls. I guess they remind me of how much fun I had playing dress up when I was a little girl. Perfect for any girl who wants to be a princess! Here is one of my favorite tutus. It is called the Watermelon Slice Tutu, and has luscious pinks, greens and blue in the skirt.

There are many other fun items to select at Turquoise Angels. It's that time of year to start wearing your flip flops again, so why not buy a pair from this Etsy Shop? How about these? They will make them in many sizes.

You can also purchase a variety of bows and headbands in every color of the rainbow.
How about this Soft Lavendar Headband?

And of course, don't forget your pet! They make "Doggie Diva" tutus - what fun!

Now down to the business side of things. Turquoise Angels is running a terrific sale right now of 20% off. This is their One Year Anniversary !!!! Hurry right over to their shop Turquoise Angels to take advantage of this sale.

Then pop on by their blog and spend time refreshing yourself by reading their articles. Pay special attention to the pages for their new guest bloggers, Southern Philly Dish and Simply Mommy Talk.

And of course for a quick peek at what they are up to, check them out on Facebook and Twitter

Handmade Artisan Jewelry from Gilliauna

2011-03-29T21:00:00.001-06:00

Bits n' Beads carries an impressive array of handmade artisan jewelry that is beautifully designed and constructed with quality materials and attention to detail. It is hard to know where to start first when telling you about this artist's work. You can find something in most any price range for yourself or for a gift.

Gilliauna creates fine handcrafted rosaries with exquisite detail. I am especially drawn to her Holy Rosary Handcrafted in Blue Ceramic and Pearls. The fabulous cross is unique with a gorgeous rich blue inlay. In addition, a gold-plated Madonna and child is the centerpiece. This piece contains 191 links each of which is turned by hand.

You can find delightful practical items such as beaded key charms, beaded eyeglass holders, beaded id badge lanyards, and beaded bookmarks. This shop also offers beautiful earrings, bracelets, and necklaces.

Here is one of Bits n' Beads made for fun pieces,

and a vintage inspired piece

and an elegant piece for a very special occasion.

A visit to this Etsy BESTeam member's Bit n' Beads shop will surely delight you. To find out more about the artist's work and thoughts visit her blog, The Meandering Musings of a Consummate Shopper, and find her on Twitter and Facebook.

BESTeam Feature: Ancient Oils

2011-03-22T20:05:00.002-06:00

Lilly DelValle is well versed in her calling. She is a treasure of knowledge regarding Holistic and Spiritual healing. Her shop on Etsy is Ancient Oils and she creates Goddess Blends of therapeutic essential oils. The practice of using essential oils is often referred to as aromatherapy, and use of these types of oils contribute to physical and psychological well-being.

I asked Lilly how she became interested in aromatherapy. She explained that it started with her sensitivity to chemicals, and her daughter’s sensitivity to many things. This led her on a search for holistic alternatives. She found that essential oils were integrated throughout her studies of Metaphysics and Holistic Healing. Essential oils actually carry the vibrational energy of their plant and retain the plants amazing healing properties; properties which enhance moods, ease pain, and help get rid of disease. To top it off, these were an excellent alternative for controlling Lilly’s allergies as well as improving the over all health of members of her family.

Then I questioned Lilly about what inspired her to look into Biblical essential oils. She told me:

“As a Metaphysician, I am also challenged with questions of spirituality and
religion. Most of what I practice can easily be supported by Biblical
scripture. Hands on healing is not only mentioned in the bible but was practiced by
Jesus himself. The use of essential oils was just as common then as taking an
aspirin in today's world. A matter of fact, within the Bible there are 33
species and over 500 references to essential oils and the aromatic plants
from which they came. This was considered a natural way of living.

As we look at the plants and essentials oils in the book of Exodus v30, I
just marvel at the thought that God gave Moses a natural formula that is an
anti-bacterial, anti-viral, anti-fungal, anti-inflammatory, etc. to anoint
with. Talk about a booster shot. This one formula taken directly from the
Bible can teach us a lot.”

You can find Lilly’s wonderful products and fascinating information on her Ancient Oils Etsy shop and at her blog, Living Vibrations. Also, check her out on Facebook.

I am sure you will be captivated as I was.

Pink and Green Treasury Challenge

2011-03-20T17:45:00.000-06:00

I enjoy making beaded id badge lanyards, and sometimes I make them in colors that are a little different for everyday work situations. One of my newest lanyards "In the Pink" features large soft pink beads. Smafactory is an Etsy seller who decided to put it into her treasure below. I was happy with the lanyard when I made it, but it certainly looks fabulous with all the lovely complementary soft pinks and greens in this treasury.

I also learned about the Treasury Challenge that occurs each week. If you have an Etsy shop, you may wish to participate in this challenge. You do not need to be part of a team. You see what the theme is for the challenge, and then you create and submit a treasury based on that theme. The theme that inspired the treasury below was a spring textile art piece.

'The Lovely Things...' by smafactory

This treasury is an entry in the NonTeam Treasury Challenge! Feel free to join in!http://treasurychallengenonteam.blogspot.com/

Mardi -limited edi... jenskelley $19.00	Spring Clean Framed... Emilyparkesart $20.00	Bridesmaid Jewelry ... taylorseclecti... $100.00
Earrings. Jewelry, ... laurenblythede... $21.00	Floating in Light -... DovieMoon $14.99	Flower leather broo... julishland $25.00
Peridot Hammered St... jorgensenstudi... $38.00	Big Thoughts in a W... ClothandPatina $12.00	Vintage inspired fl... MEimCRAZY $95.00
15 Assorted Multi-c... simplychiclily $15.00	Choose your Color P... cindycolumbia1... $30.00	Antique Brass Key E... gardenmis $15.00
Agate Sea Urchin Te... seaandasters $32.00	Pocket full of Flow... ChloeandOliveD... $44.00	In the Pink Beaded ... Plumbeadacious $23.00
Dusty Rose.....Embr... JANNYSGIRL $18.00

Treasury tool is sponsored by Lazzia.com A/B image testing.

Does What You Learn Lead You to Take Action?

2011-03-13T21:20:00.002-06:00

Don't let your learning lead to knowledge,

let your learning lead to action.

Jim Rohn

We have so many opportunities to gain knowledge and to learn from others around the globe in this computer internet cyberspace age. I don't know about you, but I can spend hours surfing the web reading about all kinds of things ... health information, financial information, marketing on the web, decorating, how to articles, etc. My mind gets overloaded with all this information. I can spend hours doing this in the evening, and then, I'm tired and I go to bed.

But ---what am I doing with all this information? I find I have multitudes of ideas for action, but very few of them come to fruition.

When it comes to my jewelry business, I decided I need to take one of my ideas, test it, market it, and see it through. I seem to jump around a lot. I may decide to work on improving my photos, so will take some photos again to post online for the items in my shop. Then I may read a good article on keywords and off I go rewriting my titles and descriptions of products. Meanwhile my blog gets forgotten for weeks.

Blinders on

Really, I believe I need to put on blinders to prevent me from being distracted by all the data and information coming at me through cyberspace, totally focus on a plan of ACTION, and see it through. The plan can be multifaceted, but should have clear goals and milestones.

I am trying to do this by marketing to a niche of career women who need to wear id badges to work each day. I am focusing on making beaded lanyards and selling them. I set up a new shop on Artfire, LeAllyson's Lanyards and I also sell them at my Plumbeadacious shop on Etsy. I am beginning to have some success with these. Here is one I sold just this last week.

Gold Chain Lanyard with Lampwork Focal Bead

How do you deal with the massive amounts of information or knowledge that you take in each day? How do you put your learning into ACTION?

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.

James 1:22 NIV

Copper Beauty

2011-03-10T17:30:00.000-07:00

I am so thrilled to be included in another collection on Artfire. This collection features a variety of artistics designs that use copper or coppery hues. My Autumn Sunset Earrings are included. They feature soft plum Czech glass beads, lovely copper decorative beadcaps, and sweet small Czech glass beads.

I am always excited when I see that someone has included one of my creations in a collection. It is truly an honor.

Shimmer hues of old and new

Curated By: daffydill

ArtFire.com

New Crimping Tool

2011-03-09T21:08:00.001-07:00

I picked up a new crimping tool for myself. Do you ever have trouble getting your crimps even and tight on the wire? I do. The traditional crimper is a two step process that requires you to apply pressure on the crimp, and then to turn the wire on its side and apply pressure at a 90 degree angle to what you did in the first place. Ideally this causes the crimp to fold tight onto the wire and to look very even and nice.

Along comes the Bead Buddy crimper. This tool is a little intimidating to look at, but it works like a charm. The Bead Buddy crimper allows you to crimp in a one-step process. There is a small groove into which you place the crimp bead or tube. You then press the handles together. In one step the crimper pushes the crimp down in the middle creating a small crease in the metal. Then two small arms come together the opposite way and complete the crimp. OK - if you are scratching your head with my attempt to describe this mechanical process, take a look at this video from Bead Buddy.

I had to practice on this to get the crimp centered on the tool, so I wasted about 5 crimp tubes. Use inexpensive ones for practice. Then I tried it on one of my lanyards. I am still not perfect, but it is a good solid crimp done very quickly.

I purchased my Bead Buddy crimper at Joann's Fabric and Craft Store, and used a 50% off coupon. Joann's has lots of coupons for 40% and 50% off right now. Some are good this week, and some are good later. This brought the price down to make it reasonable to give it a try.

Let me know how you like using this tool. I'm pretty happy with it.

Mistakes Can Be Your Friend

2011-03-06T17:08:00.002-07:00

"The man who makes no mistakes does not normally make anything."

- Edward John Phelps - January 24,1899

Oh gee! How many mistakes have I made? Countless mistakes.

One of the biggest deterrents to taking up a new hobby or activity is the fear of failure. Years ago I thought I had no artistic ability. Why did I think that?

My father could draw very well. He had been a commercial artist for awhile when he was a young man. When I was a child, he would entertain me by taking a blank piece of paper and with a pencil, he would quickly sketch a picture of a puppy or Mickey Mouse or any number of delightful pictures.

This was wonderful. Unfortunately, when I picked up a pencil to try to do the same thing, I was slow, clumsy, and really not very good. I gave up and decided I had "no talent".

It was many years later that I started painting. I learned that it takes practice and patience. I really think that "talent" plays the least important part.

Early attempt at jewelery and photographing it

I don't paint much now, but I started creating jewelry about 7 years ago. Again my first inclination was that beading wire and working with pliers, crimpers, and cutters was definitely not my cup of tea. Yet I was drawn to the beautiful beads and the endless possibilities to create unique jewelry. Once again I found that practice and persistence paid off. Now I am not so clumsy when I wrap the wire or attach a clasp. It is fun to do these things, and it brings me hours of enjoyment.

More recent piece I made and photographed

Did I goof and make mistakes to start with? Absolutely! Many many mistakes. I had to cut wire off the piece and throw lots of it away, and then start again.

Do I still make mistakes? - Oh, YES! Not as many, and not the same ones, but every time I try something new, I go through a learning curve and make new mistakes.

Never fear making mistakes! It is part of the path to success!

Have you had similar experiences with learning from mistakes? We would love to hear your story. Comment below.

"Though he stumble, he will not fall, for the Lord upholds him with his hand."

Psalm 37:24 -NIV

In the Garden - Artfire Collection

2011-02-12T15:18:00.000-07:00

I have been included in Artfire Collections, but I had never created one until now. I am looking forwards to spring, the greening of the grass, flowers budding and then blooming, birds visiting our birdhouse and bird bath. In the spirit of this, I found lots of artisan created goodies on Artfire to help me through until spring actually arrives. Enjoy this eye candy!

In the Garden

Curated By: LeAllysonsLan...

ArtFire.com

Handmade Gifts

Flowers Galore!

2011-01-30T15:08:00.003-07:00

I always enjoy flowers. We have them outside in our gardens, and I often make flower themed jewelry. I just made some flower cuff bracelets and posted them at Plumbeadacious on Etsy last night. One of the bracelets was picked up and featured on this Etsy treasury of flowers.

'~ ~ â™¥ Flowers means Lâ™¥VE Yâ™¥U ~ ~â™¥' by Kokolele

~ Flowers in any way are always beautiful !

COUNTRY ROMANCE dri... podsandpetals $	Dream Garden card rochelle31 $4.00	Vintage Lavender . ... NatureTasty $7.50
autumn colors brace... angidega $148.00	Pull Over Baby / To... MaricoleDesign... $	fairytailcolla... $
Calla Lilies Fine A... ViennaIsLove $9.99	Statement Ring Pale... hotpinkchick $12.50	daffodillies $
New Orleans Nasturt... cynthialarae $25.00	Flower Vinyl Decal quirkk $	Brilliant Stars. Or... hanatsukuri $
Antiqued Silver Flo... Plumbeadacious $17.00	4 inch hand painted... ThePaintedPIne $18.00	Love - Large Rose F... loveheylola $26.00
Geisha Gem Purse Ho... gamiworks $20.00

Treasury tool is sponsored by Lazzia.com A/B image testing.

Valentine's Collection in Red and White on Artfire

2011-01-27T21:43:00.000-07:00

Here is another collection on Artfire that is beautiful for Valentine's Day in red and white. This was curated by StephanieRonnyeknit1bead2.

Red and White for...

Curated By: StephanieRonn...

ArtFire.com

Craft Supplies

Red and White -Just Right for Valentine Wedding

2011-01-20T17:25:00.000-07:00

Here's another lovely Artfire collection for Valentine's day.

Valentine Wedding

Curated By: CanterburyVin...

ArtFire.com

Unique Gifts

Charmed Again-More on Artfire

2011-01-17T18:35:00.000-07:00

How fun! My same purse charm is included in another Artfire collection. This one is curated by Sandee Knits. Sandee has some beautiful knitted scarves in her Artfire shop plus patterns for you to knit your own scarves.

SHE LIVES A CHARMED LIFE

Curated By: sandeeknits

ArtFire.com

Charming I'm Sure - Artfire Collection of Handmade Charm Creations

2011-01-16T07:44:00.000-07:00

There is something about charms that fascinate us. I am constantly amazed at the huge variety of charms that can be purchased and used to embellish our creative handmade items. The collection of handcrafted charm items below was curated by Sugar Shack Beads. I am pleased that my Purse Charm was included in this collection.

For those of you who like all things charming, I am offering 20% off of my purse charms at my shop Plum Beadacious on Artfire. Use the coupon code CHARMED between now and February 15 to receive the 20% discount.

A Charmed Life...

Curated By: SugarShackBeads

ArtFire.com

Unique Gifts

Artfire Wedding Items

2011-01-11T19:41:00.000-07:00

Artfire is gearing up for the Wedding Fair. See the beautiful items in this collection below.

The Perfect Wedding

Curated By: CanterburyVin...

ArtFire.com

Handmade Jewelry

Beautiful Blushing Brides - Finding Just the Right Accessories

2011-01-02T12:46:00.001-07:00

Bridal fairs will be popping up all over the country as brides, mothers, sisters, friends and wedding planners plan and gather the findings to create a beautiful spring or June wedding. In anticipation of this flurry of activity, over sixty artisans with ArtFire shops are gathering together to create all kinds of delightful creations for weddings. They are hosting the Artfire Bridal Fair from January 17-January 31.

This creative group is sponsoring a blog called Artisan Wedding Fair. Each day an article will be posted dealing with various aspects of preparing for a wedding. In addition, it will feature some enticing eye candy for you to take in and think about purchasing for your special day.

Here are some items from the talented artisans that will be participating in this bridal fair on ArtFire.

From Canterbury Vines Studio, the picture above is the artist's Freeform Crystal and Pearl Encrusted Neckwire. Notice the beautiful hand work with the wire wrapping,the pearls, and the fabulous focal point of the pear crystal. How lovely!

From Absin the Dragonfly, delightful fragrances to add the sense of smell to your special day. Take a look at Blushing Beauty Botanical Perfume and read the description and review. A definite must for the blushing bride!

From The Red Magnolia, search through this artist's variety of bridal hair combs and other hair accessories. Each one is lovelier than the one before. The bridal comb above features handmade flowers, vintage rhinestones, ostrich feathers and lace. What opulence!

So much goes into planning the perfect dream wedding. Each of the artisans listed at the Artisan Wedding Fair blog has something special to offer for that day.

Farewell to 2010- A Year Full of Change

2010-12-31T23:12:00.000-07:00

As we leave 2010 behind, I am struck by how much life has changed for my husband and me this year. We moved last January from St. Louis, MO to Severance, CO. To do that we drove both vehicles across icy windy highway. Once we settled here, I started work. Hubby is retired. Shortly after that I found I had breast cancer, and that knocked me for a loop. I had surgery, and no chemo or radiation was needed. I am so thankful to the Lord for that.

We spent time taking drives to new places here in Colorado and enjoyed the spectacular scenery. This fall I did three craft shows from November 19 to December 1. It was crazy working full time, plus hauling my things to these places. Bill, my husband, was an incredible help with this, and we found that we have fun working a craft show together.

Neighbors we barely know came by and gave us a fabulous platter of goodies. It was so pretty I took a picture of it before we ate any of it.

After the craft shows, I got sick with a cold and then bronchitis. Somehow we got prepared for Christmas, and had a wonderful time with our family here. Our son came in from California to join in the festivities.

I had neglected to come up with a nice centerpiece for the dining table, but crafty as I am, I managed to piece together a really nice one about two hours before the meal. I found an inexpensive wreath we have, some white trim, a long red candle, a square vase, and some marbles. The marbles went into the vase with the candle in the middle. The wreath was placed on the table, and the white trim was draped around it. I was quite happy with it when I finished.

I learned a lot this year, and am so happy to be close to my daughter, Mary and her family. Our grand-baby turned one in September, and we were able to participate in the party.

When it was time to decorate the Christmas tree, I put up the ornament I got for Mary when she was a baby. Today I took the Christmas tree down, and as I removed that ornament it crossed my mind that I had not cried when I put the ornament on the tree weeks ago. Now, you need to understand, that for the past 8 -10 years I always had a good cry when I laid eyes on that ornament. Mary, my daughter, was not at home and was living in other states. I missed her. How significant, that this year I did not feel the need to cry. I see Mary all the time, and her husband, and her step-children, and our fabulous new granddaughter. No tears needed!

Life is good, and we are blessed by the living God! Let's all look forward to 2011 with anticipation and hope. Happy New Year!

Monday's Mentors - Good Ideas from EHow.com

2010-12-20T20:24:00.009-07:00

Necklace Lengths

There is much to know about jewelry, how it relates to your personality, clothing and feeling good about yourself. Here are some articles about choosing the right necklace that appear on EHow.com.

How to Choose a Necklace Length

How to Choose the Right Necklace for Different Necklines

Purple Matinee Length Necklace

Flower Princess Length Necklace

Do You Like My Hat?

2010-12-16T23:27:00.000-07:00

I found the most fabulous crocheted hats at a shop on ArtFire, GalleriaDeArta. Monica is the artist and is creating 1920's inspired retro hats. Here is a picture of the one I purchased from her.

I love the colors in this one. I will wear it with my brown tweedy coat. I tried it on when I received it. You can play with the brim and turn it up or down. I kind of like it with one side up and one down, a little jaunty. My bangs peak out a little from one side. Look out here comes grandma in her new hat!

Please visit Monica's shop. She has some delightful children's hats as well. In addition, Monica makes jewelry. She gave me a sweet present of earrings with my purchase. Visit her jewelry shop as well,

Galleria MonArt.

A Little of This and That ~ December Giveaway

2010-12-14T10:52:00.001-07:00

Have you visited this wonderful blog? It is called A Little of This and That. It is full of wonderful recipes, ideas, and lots of yummy handcrafted items.

Julie is the blogger and she is doing a December Giveaway of a wonderful mix of beads. Hop on over to her blog and maybe you can win!

Fort Collins Colorado Craft Shows

2010-11-15T21:01:00.001-07:00

I will be selling my jewelry at three events in the Fort Collins and Loveland area of Northern Colorado. If you live in the area please come by and see me.

Poudre Valley Hospital - Holiday Craft Show
Cafe F - Basement near cafeteria
1024 South Lemay
Fort Collins, CO
November 19, 2010
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Holiday Market - Fort Collins Senior Center
1200 Raintree Drive
Fort Collins, CO
November 26 & November 27, 2010
10:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Medical Center of the Rockies - Holiday Craft Show
Long's Peak Room
2500 Rocky Mountain Ave.
Loveland, CO
December 1, 2010
7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Handmade Halloween!

2010-10-31T08:54:00.003-06:00

We have beautiful weather here in Northern Colorado today, and I am sure the little trick or treaters will be out in large numbers this evening. Yesterday my husband and I were at a shopping plaza in Loveland, and they were having a special event for the children. The stores were handing out candy, and they had some sort of events for children in one area. We couldn't get close to whatever the event was due to the throngs of children in their halloween costumes.

We had so much fun watching the children. There were so many creative costumes. One little kid was dressed as a pelican. Pelicans are frequently seen at the lakes in this area. There was a tin man, cowardly lion, scarecrow, and Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz. Lots of princesses, a well muscled police man costume on a tiny boy, and much more. The sun was shining. It was the perfect day to be out and about.

I was impressed with the creativity of parents and children in the costumes. We moved here from St. Louis last winter, so this is my first Halloween in this area. People really get into the spirit of the holiday here. When talking to people at work over the last few weeks, I have heard how moms and grandmothers were sewing and creating costumes. My beautician created flying monkey costumes for her two dogs.

It shows the spirit of HANDMADE is alive and well!

Enjoy all the little people who visit your home tonight, and remember those adults who make it happen for them. Happy Halloween!

ArtFire Collections Featuring My Jewelry

2010-10-11T21:32:00.000-06:00

I just opened my ArtFire studio again on October 1, and my work has been featured in two collections by two different artists. This is quite exciting to me.

AN APPLE A DAY....

Curated By: VioletRose

ArtFire.com

Unique Gifts

Florals and Flour...

Curated By: FusedGlassCabs

ArtFire.com

Handmade Gifts

Daily Jewelry - Beaded ID Badge Lanyards

2010-10-10T08:55:00.000-06:00

I am focusing much of my beading efforts these days on creating beautiful beaded id badge lanyards. As a person who works at an organization that requires me to display my id badge at all times above the waist, I find that having an attractive way to do that makes me feel good. I have created five different ones that are in my own personal collection. Now I have created many more to sell.

I have come up with several different styles of these. One style I really like is to use a large lampwork bead as the focal bead, and then use smaller beads on the strand of beads.

Turquoise Shell Beaded ID Badge Lanyard

Some people may not like a large lampwork bead, so I have made some lanyards with smaller beads such as the one below. Realizing that many people cannot afford or want to spend money on multiple lanyards, I am trying to make some that are fairly neutral that can be worn everyday.

Simple Silver and Crystal Beaded ID Badge Lanyard

For those who love to wear chain necklaces, I created chain lanyards.

Rainbow Chain Beaded ID Badge Lanyard

And finally, the holidays are just about here. For those who love to wear holiday apparel, I am beginning to make lanyards for Christmas. Here is the first of those.

Santa in the Chimney Beaded ID Badge Lanyard

Each of these is carefully handcrafted from strong materials to ensure durability and safety.

Do you wear an id badge lanyard to work? What kind do you like to wear?

Teddy Bear's Picnic

2010-09-19T07:17:00.000-06:00

If you have been following this blog, you know that my daughter had her first baby last year. I was so enamored of the baby who lives here in Colorado, that I packed up all my worldly goods and moved from St. Louis to Colorado to be near her and to watch her grow up. It's hard to believe, but one year has passed since her birth. I don't regret a moment of making this move out to Colorado.

My granddaughter's name is Maggie, and we celebrated with her in style last week. Her mom created a Teddy Bear's Picnic for her and the family. First Mary, my daughter, created darling invitations that she mailed to us. They were on pink card stock, with a cute poem inside and the dates of the picnic. She used Maggie and her bear friends in a picture that she glued to the front of the card. Don't you wish you could be at their picnic? :-)

The weather cooperated beautifully for the party outdoors in Maggie's back yard. We had some of a bear's favorite foods, salmon salad, lox, cream cheese and bagels, berry salad, and of course cake. What bear would ignore a good chocolate cake?

Maggie got all dressed up in a sweet purple and white dress. For those of you into "all things handmade", this is a handmade dress that Mary bought at a small shop in Salida, a quaint town nestled in the mountains.

Then Maggie enjoyed her first birthday cake, and I mean she REALLY ENJOYED IT! She totally immersed herself in the experience.

What a memorable day!

Apples Hangin' from Your Ears?

2010-09-17T21:01:00.000-06:00

Apple Love Earrings

It's apple time! Pick them, eat them, cook with them, and wear them from your ears or on your wrists. I found some cute silver apple charms and have combined them with red beads, green leaf beads and silver to make some fun jewelry for this autumn. Check them out at Plum Beadacious!

Apples for You Earrings

Apples for You Bracelet

Jewel Tone Colors in Hot Air Balloons

2010-09-15T20:51:00.000-06:00

Over Labor Day Weekend I had the pleasure of getting up early and heading over to Windsor, Colorado where a hot air balloon event took place as part of their annual Harvest Fest. There in a small park they had about 10 or so hot air balloons. When I first arrived they were laying totally deflated flat on the ground. It was early in the day, about 7:00 on a Saturday, and I had rushed to get there by 7:00 thinking that these grand balloons would all lift off into the sky at that moment. When I saw that they all needed to be inflated first, I was a bit disappointed thinking I would be standing there all morning, waiting for them to lift off into the sky.

Boy, was I ever wrong! Shows how much I know about hot air balloons. Shortly after I got there several of the people began inflating balloons with huge fans and flames. I wasn't close enough to figure out exactly how this happens. It was so much fun watching these large balloons lift up onto their sides one by one, stand straight up full and proud, and then quickly rise into the sky with hot flames shooting up inside of the balloons.

Here are some of the balloons I saw. The colors are fabulous, and one is quite fun. The balloon represents the moon, and a cow is jumping over it.

Photos of Jewelry in Natural Sun Light

2010-08-17T19:56:00.000-06:00

Since I moved to Colorado, I have many more opportunities to take photos of my jewelry in natural light. My key light sources through windows are to the east and to the west. Both are good, but in different ways. When I lived in St. Louis, I took my photos for my shop, Plum Beadacious, in the basement with a homemade lightbox and artificial lights. I had everything set up for me to place my jewelry for the shot. I did occasionally change background surfaces, and programmed my camera for the type of light I was using. I think I got better over several years at doing this, but the pictures still had a harshness to them that I never did eliminate.

Now I have been playing with taking pictures in natural light. I can get fresh crisp color that is not harsh, but I can't get it consistently. The light changes from hour to hour and day to day. Take a look at the pictures of a beaded id lanyard I made for a special order. These pictures were all taken about 5:30 PM after I got home from my day job.

The first picture is one that was taken in my east window, somewhat shady at 5:30, but it has been a beautiful sunny day. I placed the lanyard on the white painted window sill. The blinds were lifted to allow as much light as possible to spill through the window.

Nice, but a little blue looking. This is because of the shade at this side of the house at 5:30 PM. However, by adjusting the lighting level on Photoshop Elements, I can improve this picture dramatically. I do this by using the Full Edit function and going to

Enhance
Adjust Lighting
Level

There you will see some icons that look like eye droppers. I clicked on the white one and then moved my cursor over my photo to a place on the white background that is closest to true white and is not too close to the item or any shaded areas. I then clicked my mouse, and magically the entire picture lightened up.

I then went to

Enhance
Auto Sharpen

This provided crisper edges to my jewelry photo.

Next I selected the crop tool and cropped the picture to a square.

Once I do all of this, I select File, Save for Web. This allows me to tell the program what size picture I want. Since Etsy recommends 1000 pixels, I type in 1000 pixels, and since the picture is square, and it is constrained to proportion, the picture ends up being 1000x1000 pixels. I can then save it into my pictures folder in Windows. It is ready to post on Etsy or anywhere else I would like, such as this blog.

Here is the edited photo - same one as above. It is much brighter, but is it the best it can be? Not really!

Let's take a look at a photo taken minutes later at my west window. The sun was quite intense there at 5:30 PM. I lowered my nice honeycomb blinds about 2/3 of the way, and I placed my item on a table about two feet away from the window sill. The light was more intense than the east window, but not glaring. I also used a soft decorative floral background.

Look at the first picture here taken at the west window, unedited. Notice the crazy angle. This is how I took the picture.

Now look at the edited version of the same picture. I changed the orientation by going to

Image
Rotate
90% right

Then I did the same edits with the lighting level using the white eye dropper, and auto sharpened. Don't you think it looks much better?

These edits are quicky fixes to immediately enhance your photos. There are more sophisticated techniques to make them even better.

Natural light is my friend for my jewelry photography, and besides that my life is definitely enhanced by taking pictures in the wonderful sunshine instead of a dark basement with artificial light.

I invite you to share your experiences with photographing your jewelry, whether done in natural or artificial light. We can all learn from one another. I hope this is helpful to some of you.

More about Beaded Lanyards

Handmade Spark - You Gotta Love It!

2010-08-02T19:43:00.000-06:00

I can't prove it, but I think Handmade Spark is one of the best things going for Etsy sellers! I joined Handmade Spark on July 29, 2010 paying only $6.00 for a month's membership. This site allows an Etsy seller to have a mini-site on www.handmadespark.com.

This site has good articles and SEO, which means it gets traffic! So....

I signed up on 7/29/10. At that time I had sold 23 items on my Plumbeadacious Etsy site in two years. I have been listing/relisting about five items a day for several months, and my last sale was on July 15.

DRUM ROLL PLEASE! I sold three items to different new customers from the time I signed up on 7/29 through yesterday, August 1. Hooray!

Take a look at what I sold. Each of these items has been listed on Etsy for a long time.

Yellow Millefiori Bracelet sold on July 30

Under the Sea Earrings sold on August 1

Pink Flower Violet Leaf Earrings sold on August 1

Sunshine Inspired Earrings

2010-07-11T21:07:00.000-06:00

What a fabulous day this has been! It is one of those at home days where I got some things done around the house and found time to create some new jewelry. Here in Colorado, we often have breezes even when the weather is hot. Such was the case this afternoon. One of my favorite activities is to take a beading project out on the deck and create beautiful jewelry while I enjoy the beautiful weather.

The lampwork beads in these earrings have been sitting in my collection since early last fall. The black eyed susans and shasta daisies blooming in our yard inspired me to create my own sunny garden earrings. These earring are spicy hot, with fabulous movement in the way the crystals dangle beneath the lampwork beads.

Enjoy the eye candy!

Spicy Yellow and Orange Lampwork Earrings

Sugar Plum Delight

2010-07-05T16:31:00.000-06:00

I totally enjoyed designing and creating this necklace. For those of you who enjoy creating jewelry, this type of necklace is a great way to improve your wire wrapping skills Each of the sweet plum colored Czech crystals are individually handwrapped with sterling silver 24 guage wire and dangle from a strand of delicate pink seed beads.

For more information and to purchase - Sugar Plum Delight

Crystal Dreams - Very Vintage and Victorian

2010-07-04T22:26:00.000-06:00

I made multiples of the earrings below. They are just so Victorian and vintage looking to me. I call them Crystal Dreams, and I posted them today on Etsy. Hope you like them! Happy Independence Day!

Black and White Twist

2010-07-01T21:31:00.000-06:00

Here is one of my new creations. I went outside of my normal comfort zone and style to create this bold chunky necklace from some lovely white howlite nuggets. The nuggets are streaked with gray, and I decided to do the black and white theme. When I made this I tried to offset the nuggets on the three strands so they lay well on the neck.

Copper Glow - Summer to Fall

2010-06-06T10:38:00.000-06:00

Most of us are looking for accessories that we can wear for multiple occasions and across the seasons. I am so pleased with this necklace and earring set. The copper is great with clothes in summery yellows, oranges, pinks and reds. Then the copper is equally good for fall browns, golds, rust and plum colors. It all hinges on these warm glowing shimmery square Czech glass beads. These are square and backed with a bright copper metallic color. The top of these beads are glass so the copper shines through and just glows.

I chose soft white shimmery freshwater coin pearls to compliment the coppery glass beads, and then added champagne and amethyst color faceted Czech crystals to give a touch of color. Wear this necklace with a dress or shirt with a scoop neck, or place it over a sweater in the fall. The earrings can go with just about anything.

I must admit, I am not always thinking about this type of versatility when creating a new design. If you are a jewelry designer, do you try to create items that are versatile either regarding colors or transitioning seasons? From a marketing perspective, do you prefer to create lots of neutral pieces or do you design mostly with colors that are trendy, fashionable, etc.?