Boston Baked Blog

diversion

2012-01-27T06:20:00.001-05:00

These graphic flowers are turning out to be just the diversion I needed. No canes - no variations in tone - pretty much the opposite of how I usually work. I'm just relying on color theory and simplicity to carry out these designs. And having some fun in the process.

grainy and graphic

2012-01-26T06:30:00.000-05:00

This week I've been playing a little bit with simple shapes and graphic patterns. The lighting was lousy so the photograph is a bit grainy.

to bling or not to bling

2012-01-25T06:30:00.001-05:00

Working with graphic shapes, flat colors and texture for a change of pace today. Do you like it better with the sparkle or no?

purple

2012-01-24T06:30:00.000-05:00

snow day

2012-01-23T06:30:00.000-05:00

With our first significant snow on the ground this winter I opted to hang in the warm bright studio on Saturday and work on some light switch plates. I made one for my shop months ago with the intention of creating more to sell. A good friend recently asked me to make one for her which helped to renew my interest. Snow days are always so much quieter and more peaceful. That's only true in my studio however, at home it almost gets more chaotic. Excitement due to the first snow or premature symptoms of cabin fever, you decide.

Be My Valentine!

2012-01-20T20:32:00.001-05:00

Running a little contest on the HomeGrown Arts and Crafts Facebook Page. You can also get to it through the Boston Baked Beads Facebook Page. Just a little Valentine for your hand!

ikat cane heart

2012-01-18T06:30:00.000-05:00

Tuesdays in the studio always seem to be spent walking around in circles half the morning - trying to get things started. Today I decided I'd try to jumpstart my day and and learn a new technique - the Ikat cane - named for the simulation of Ikat, a weaving technique. You can see it in the swirls in the heart.

dangles

2012-01-11T08:10:00.001-05:00

Having fun in the studio playing with a new concept. I like things that dangle and move. So adding the Swarovski crystal and glass pearl charms to this pendant was a natural progression. I'm also obsessed with ball chain. You'll be seeing more of these I'm sure - my latest obsession. Happy Hump Day.

recovery

2012-01-09T10:11:00.000-05:00

What a nice surprise. Due to the comparably mild winter we've been having up here in the NorthEast I haven't had much reason to wear winter jackets. I pulled one out yesterday while preparing for a long walk on the windy beach. I put my hand in the pocket to discover a bunch of beads that went missing last spring. (Guess I didn't really put much effort into their recovery.) Yahoo! - these little suckers are very time consuming.

Another version using a different palette

I made an original heart mold for uniformity. I create the body out of white Sculpy and then bake them. I then individually decorate them with veneers made from coordinating canes. Then bake. Sand with 400 grit, 800 grit, 1000 grit sandpaper. Buff to a high shine - love that look. Add embellishments like swarovski crystal and micro glass beads. String with sterling beads – and enjoy.

I resolve not to dissolve

2012-01-03T06:30:00.000-05:00

Back to work. With the holidays just a memory now it feels good not to feel the weight of those "To Do" lists on our shoulders, doesn't it? As for resolutions - I'm not real good at keeping them so I seldom find myself making them. I'm happy to have a warm studio to work in so I'm looking forward to being more creative and productive. I'm busy updating my website so that should be making an appearance over the next month or so. Blogging adds structure and the graphic designer in me works best with a deadline looming - hopefully consistency will be key in twentytwelve. Other than that - I can't make any promises!

New cuff from new cane

time out

2011-12-22T08:26:00.001-05:00

On the first day of winter all I could think about was the first days of spring. After being bogged down with all of the preparations for Christmas it was so much fun to take some time out of the day and mix it up in the studio. I threw a kaleidoscope cane together using some of the projected Spring colors from Pantone. So much fun. I love the holidays and all the buzz they bring. But I am so excited for the quiet of January and February so I can get back to creating more canes. I'll be working with this cane today - in between presents that I'll be wrapping - to make some new jewelry.

overheard at the craft show

2011-12-07T08:22:00.001-05:00

Daughter: Mom, I'm hungry.
Mom: Well, why don't you get something from that booth over there, like a muffin or something.
Daughter: How about that big* loaf of bread...

*Big is the operative word here. This term is subjective. To a mom this might mean a large round loaf of rye bread costing about $4. To a 12 year old child this obviously means the loaf of bread that could very well be in the pages of Ripley's Believe it or Not.

Craft show entry fee: $250
Large chocolate covered apple: $10
Lunch: $10
Raffle Tickets: $10
Purchases from neighboring crafters: $45
Humongous 8lb, 28" loaf of bread: $15

Look on Mom's face when the "bread winner" returned with her purchase: Priceless

another business lost

2011-11-30T07:00:00.001-05:00

Making a living as a craftsperson or an artisan is not an easy task - near impossible. During this holiday season let's all try to remember how important it is to support small local businesses - whether it be a creative individual or the local hardware store that's up against the giant orange mogul. There's nothing wrong with a mom and pop business. It's the foundation on which these conglomerates were built.

Sadly another small gallery has fallen prey to our faltering economy. Archer West Gallery in Quincy made a commitment to promote creative individuals, their products and services. After just 14 months this lovely gallery was forced to shut its doors. Not only does this adversely effect the owners Charlene Archer and Heather Gage West but its a direct hit to the 26 artists that they promoted. The city of Quincy also lost a unique women owned and run small business. Without the support of consumers these small businesses cannot survive.

great weekend

2011-11-21T11:21:00.000-05:00

I'm a huge fan of the holidays - hectic as they are. It was fun this weekend to be part of a kickoff event that to me signifies the official start of the holiday shopping season. The DAA Craft Showcase delivered again this year as hoards of hopeful shoppers paraded through the doors to get to the goods. I'm a little sad it's over.

i've officially given up

2011-11-16T08:14:00.001-05:00

It's so hard to let go sometimes. One of my favorite little bezels to work with is pictured in the lower right hand corner of the photo on the left. The small size and the shiny finish were so appealing. There was a texture on the inside which gripped the polymer clay canes. A small hole in the back of the little charm also provided extra hold. They were ideal. Unfortunately they were discontinued. But I've been searching and calling - asking old shop owners to dig into the dusty corners of their storage rooms to see if they have any left behind. I haven't had any success. If I were to write an epitaph I'd say - "This bezel was perfect. Hung on an 18" sterling chain, it was the ideal piece of jewelry to take from dungarees and a tee shirt to a night on the town. You will be missed." So I've been on the prowl for a close second. I recently found a small piece that I can substitute. It doesn't have the shine. I certainly wouldn't pair it with a sterling chain but it does look pretty awesome on a ball chain - one of my favorite materials to work with. So at least we've covered the tee shirt and jeans factor.

Hair's Something New

2011-11-15T06:30:00.000-05:00

Hair clips by Boston Baked Beads.

Hadley & Sutton

2011-11-14T06:30:00.000-05:00

How sweet. On Friday the door to HomeGrown opened and two lovely young ladies stepped in hoping to take a class. They weren't looking for anything in particular. They just thought it would be lots of fun to work with polymer clay. I was happy to take on the eager students. They quickly decided on a "good luck" girl. We worked together for an hour and a half. The girls were so smart and full of energy. So positive, it was a pleasure to be in their young presence. I had as much fun as they did.

Heathcliff's Choice

2011-11-03T16:28:00.000-04:00

The upcoming season can be harried but also lots of fun. I'm always on the lookout for something new to play around with to get me inspired to create and produce without getting burnt out in the process. These bracelet bezels I found are a perfect setting for this romantic polymer clay style. Looks a little victorian, don't you think? Emily Brontè meets PVC piping.

custom work

2011-11-01T12:48:00.000-04:00

It happens on occasion. I'm asked to do some sort of commission. Recently I restrung a watch. I made new beads of polymer and strung them on a watch face provided by the customer. That same customer came in the other day and asked if I could create a new necklace out of some interesting ceramic beads that she bought at an antique store. What, no polymer? I was in a little quandary. I don't consider myself a beader, although I do happen to make beads. I posed the question to myself: Do I decline the work - abandoning my poor customer in her quest to deliver a unique gift to her adult niece - or do I take it on. As quickly as that debate started in my head it quickly ended as I was reminded that I do actually run a business. I pride myself on customer service. I try to help out my clients as best I can. And who am I kidding - I get paid to do it. So here it is - the finished piece, complete with an accompanying bracelet. It was really a matter of restringing the existing necklace to fit the request. Maybe next time I can add a big polymer clay pendant or something! Hope she's happy with it.

Of Course, I'm Jealous

2011-10-28T15:10:00.000-04:00

It was about 4 months ago that I trucked down to NYC to throw my hat in the ring to be a cast member of Project Accessory. Unfortunately - they threw it right back ...but it was a fun experience. Last night the show premiered on Lifetime. Far more interesting than Project Runway I think. The fact that the average age of the participants is 35 will stiffen the competition due to the experience that age brings with it. There's definitely some interesting characters.

If I had to pick the person with the best design aesthetic I'd say Diego Rocha. Second, I like Shea Curry's work. And can I just say that I find it hard to believe that Nicolina is only 30 years old. I could've sworn I she sat behind me at high school graduation. It was also interesting that many of the designers specialize in jewelry. Lots of Californians. And, Cotrice, I think you irked the judges by using only one name. I think you should make one up if you don't have one of our own, or borrow a friend's. Best looking male: David Grieco. Best looking female: Tie between Shea Curry and Nina Cortes.

I'm looking forward to seeing more...but I still think they should've picked me to be on the show.

Terra Nova

2011-10-24T06:30:00.000-04:00

Elise Winters' Woodland Ruffle Cuff, 2008

It's really unfortunate that Racine, Wisconsin is 1,091 miles from my front door. I would've really liked to have seen this exhibit.

Wine Glass Stems

2011-10-21T20:29:00.002-04:00

Every once in a while I like to take polymer clay out of the realm of jewelry where I'm most comfortable and try something new. These wineglass stems are fun to cover with complex canes but are also a really fun project for beginners to take on using a simple cane. We're going to give this a try at our Friday Diva Night at HomeGrown Arts and Crafts in Duxbury on November 4. (HomeGrown's website currently says October 21st - it's on my list of things to update!) I'll post some pics of the night when the time comes!

On the Other Hand

2011-10-20T06:30:00.000-04:00

"Pricey.", the comment hit me like a slap across the face. "Well, everything's individually hand made", I defended. She had been referring to a pair of $25 custom caned hoop earrings with sterling silver findings and a keychain with a focal bead of an intricate Celtic Knot cane for the same amount. "Hmfff," was her reply as she bid me farewell and was on her way. Granted the Harvest Fair was more about family fun on an autumn day than it was about vendors selling high quality handcrafted items – but that remark was uncalled for. Didn't she realize that each cane is custom made – the more complex ones taking days of work? Didn't she know that once the cane is made then the bead is built — which once baked, I prefer to sand with three different grits of sandpaper and then buff to a high sheen? Was she getting the fact that at that point the bead still had to be carefully assembled with the highest quality findings to create the finished product? Did she realize that there are other costs involved like show fees and tables and tents and gas and credit card machine leases and... Why bother? Although I know how much work goes into each piece – not to mention the hidden costs associated with running a small business – it's quite clear she didn't. Then again that's why there are juried craft shows. The clientele expects high standards of work and is willing to pay the price for it.

But let me just say for that one sour apple there were plenty of others who had great things to say. Isn't funny how those comments can get stuck in your craw. What is a craw anyway?

Lilac & Hunter Green

2011-10-18T06:30:00.000-04:00

First, I noticed him. A quiet, sharply dressed young man in a hunter green jacket perusing my booth offerings. It's not often I get men taking more than just a glance at what I do so when it happens I'm fascinated. He looked for a bit, touching and turning things over thoughtfully. In a blur of high traffic, he was gone.

From my vantage point, I watched her deliberate steps making a bee line for my booth. A petite little woman, she was wearing a tailored lilac coat and a colorful knit head band. She carried an adorable child who posed a challenge to my daughter and I as to whether or not she'd smile for us. I noticed the woman's accent immediately and was pleased that she was so receptive to my work. She studied all the pieces asking prices on a few. She had a particular fondness for a lilac and hunter green necklace. I shared that fondness - that being the very first elaborate piece of jewelry I had ever created. This was the necklace that I was so satisfied with that I used it as the image on my home page for a very long time.

The hunter green jacket with the lilting brogue soon joined the tailored lilac coat to discuss the potential purchase of a piece of jewelry. Aha, they were together. I was so happy that it was a struggle for them to choose what to decide because this read to me that they liked many pieces. She chose an indie pendant with a scalloped edge, the focal point being the kaleidoscope cane of, guess what, purples & greens as a gift for someone. He in turn surprised her with the purchase of the long lilac and hunter green necklace that matched them both so perfectly.

There are some pieces that you create and question whether or not you actually want to sell them or keep them selfishly to yourself. The long lilac & hunter green necklace was one of those pieces. I don't think it could've gone to a more suitable owner however. I just love when that stuff happens.

Newton Harvest Fair

2011-10-17T08:36:00.001-04:00

Yesterday I participated in the Harvest Fair in Newton Centre. I pictured pumpkins & corn stalks but in reality I got asphalt and parking meters. But that was okay because as the gale winds whipped through my spot tucked neatly between a roofing materials supplier and a man running for some political office, I was happy for those parking meters as I tied my support ropes to them to keep my exhibit from blowing down Beacon Street. Actually, my daughter and I enjoyed the sights and sounds of downtown provided. And eagerly partook in the wares of some of the other vendors – like the Korean pancake, the chocolate covered marshmallows and the Kettle Korn. Having left my house a little after 7am it was very convenient to have a Dunkin Donuts right down the block for my caffeine needs (and ladies' room). My expectations weren't high for this show as I started the day, having expected more of a Martha Stewart like setting – afterall this was Newton. I was pleasantly surprised however. I made several sales, spoke to a lot of nice people and had a full belly by the end of the day. I consider that a win.

autumn inspired art

2011-10-13T06:30:00.000-04:00

After spending much of the last two weeks romping around on beaches the nip in there is most evident up here in Massachusetts. Last night I even dragged my buttocks up to the attic and got my down comforter as well as the electric mattress pad. I plugged it in but I did not turn it on. I morph into a 91 year old lady with the first dip in temperature. Tomorrow I might even wear socks. Maybe I'll knit some first - then wear them.

Still on that acorn streak. I love the simple shape.

Acorn

2011-10-12T06:30:00.000-04:00

Well I've gone off on an acorn theme. This is not the best photograph but you can see where I'm headed with this one.

Inspiration.

2011-10-03T06:30:00.000-04:00

It's funny what can inspire you to create. I just spent the week in the Caribbean. I would imagine that most artists visiting the same area would be inspired by the lush tropical landscape, the vibrant aqua waters and the bright smiles of the islanders. I have been inspired by a grungy blind pull. The acorn like shape is classic and the textured band wrapped around it adds an interesting feature. Now, let's see how his translates into polymer clay.

2011-09-22T08:56:00.004-04:00

See you on October 3. After a little respite I'll be back - hopefully inspired and ready to jump into fall! Enjoy these last few days of September. Rainy here, but it's a warm rain. Have a good week!

Homegrown

2011-09-21T08:43:00.000-04:00

One of Kate's picks

Last night I listened to Kate Hines of Kate Hines Jewelry speak very candidly about her jewelry business at a Design Salon gathering. In the '80s her jewelry was a big as the hair and the shoulder pads. Now her look is streamlined and sophisticated. I suppose that's the look that won her the opportunity to provide private label designs to J. Jill and other successful women's clothing moguls. She entertained us with stories of successes and failures, assuring us that she was just as human as the rest of us. Once her designs are approved her product is produced overseas. She's not selling out, at the moment, that's the only way to keep the costs low enough to do business with the big dogs. Halfway through I wondered what could I take home from this as a designer who creates "lines" and then does all the production work by hand. Most of us out there in polymer clay enjoy creating and designing each piece. Sure, the gals at Viva Beads aren't sitting in their kitchens rolling beads but I think that business was built more out of a desire to earn cash through mass production than a passion about creating wearable art. The conversation did however lead back to the importance of production staying here in America. It does feel appreciated - maybe just because I want it to be. And I'm talking about things on a teeny tiny scale - but I think customers get a sense of satisfaction buying local, buying homegrown.

Photo Finish

2011-09-19T17:35:00.000-04:00

How lucky am I? A friend of my husband's offered to shoot my jewelry for me. Perfect timing. I'm just starting to redesign my website. Nothing major - just polishing up a few rough edges. You probably won't see any changes for a few weeks when I take it live. I'll let you know.

In the meantime, here's a sneak peek at one of the photos. This is one of his rejects so I can't even imagine how nice the finished work will be.

Polymer clay, micro beads and copper.

Copper Leaf

2011-09-14T06:30:00.001-04:00

With silver prices on the rise and gold absolutely untouchable, I've been being selective with my applications and trying to incorporate different metals like copper and brass into my work. I really like the way it looks except now I'll have to find the perfect spacer beads to complement the finished pieces. This one's in production. I just strung it because I wanted to see how it would fit together but I'm not really in love with the beads I chose. I'll keep working on it and see if I can come up with something better.

Red Hot Chili Peppers

2011-09-13T06:30:00.003-04:00

I think I was going for a kind of leaf shaped thing-a-majig. Looks like it's something Mary Engelbreit would create. That's not a bad thing - I always loved her work - more so in the early days though - before she got really successful. And I LOVED her magazine. It gave a glimpse of the inside of artists' homes and studios.

A friend of mine compared this piece to a red hot chili pepper. And so it is.

Dragonfly

2011-09-12T06:30:00.001-04:00

Today I saw the dragon-fly

Come from the wells where he did lie.

An inner impulse rent the veil

Of his old husk: from head to tail

Came out clear plates of sapphire mail.

He dried his wings: like gauze they grew;

Thro' crofts and pastures wet with dew

A living flash of light he flew.

~Alfred Lord Tennyson, 1833

Channeling Ben Franklin in the Bocce Courts in the North End

2011-09-09T06:30:00.007-04:00

Here he lies, the man I stalked in the North End bocce courts last spring. Alas, his scratchboard portrait is not yet complete and will not be completed any time soon. At mid day the voice of reason spoke to me saying, "Lisa, you're out of your mind if you think you'll get this done by Friday. You'll ruin it if you rush it." So I heeded the advice and I've put him in a safe place. I'll work on him an hour a day and when he's done I'll enter him in a show. And now back to polymer clay.

Have a nice weekend and don't forget to take a few minutes on Sunday to recognize all those lost on 9/11.

Anticipation

2011-09-07T06:30:00.001-04:00

Today I worked mostly on a scratchboard project and never really got to spend a whole lot of time with polymer clay. But while I'm scratching away I'm thinking about what I'll work on next. I'll probably be scratching for most of the week. It's a big surface. I'll post it when it's completed. But in the meantime...

Always Trying New Things

2011-09-06T06:30:00.001-04:00

I feel very lucky that my occupation is creating new things. Polymer clay is such a wonderful medium to experiment with. I enjoy working in lots of different styles and using a variety of materials to accompany my designs. I created these earrings over the summer when I needed something to wear with a purple top. Sterling silver beads offset the lilacs and green.

Polymer Clay Daily!

2011-09-05T12:39:00.000-04:00

What an awesome surprise to be featured on Polymer Clay Daily - the premier site for polymer clay enthusiasts! Getting a late start on this unofficial last day of summer - just poking around checking out my favorite blogs and then WHAM! there it was. Thanks Cynthia Tinapple!

Happy Labor Day Weekend!

2011-09-02T18:25:00.000-04:00

The Importance of Structure

2011-09-01T06:30:00.004-04:00

It feels good to be back in the studio. The hurricane came through and churned things up a little. Feels like a new energy out there. A little crispness to the air - just in time for the kiddos to go back to school today. Although I hate to see summer

go I'm happy to have a little structure back in my life. Developing new polymer clay jewelry like these quasi mosaic leaf pins/pendants and having a blast!

Gearing up for Fall

2011-08-31T06:30:00.001-04:00

My studio is surrounded by Locust trees. In the later afternoon sun the leaves set the room aglow. It's beautiful! I'm really not sure what color they'll turn later in the month as Autumn makes its debut but I'm thinking a tawny copper shade - which will be even more amazing. Inspired.

Whoo Hoo! Says the Owl

2011-08-30T11:18:00.000-04:00

At least that's what I thought I heard when I entered my home earlier to find the electricity beaming brightly from the few light switches absentmindedly turned on over the 48 hour span without power. On Saturday, while waiting for Irene to arrive I put the finishing touches on these and 5 other owls. Intended for Newport Arts Festival - it doesn't look they're going to make it there this year :( But they are available at HomeGrown Arts and Crafts in Duxbury. I'll also be - I say hesitantly, anymore storms on the way? - in Newton next month on October 16 at the Harvest Fair on the Newton Center Green. Hope to see you there!

This just in: Newport Arts Festival Cancelled

2011-08-25T17:30:00.001-04:00

The Newport Arts Festival is cancelled for this weekend and postponed to September 24 & 25th. Trouble is I'm not sure I can make it that weekend. What to do?!

C'mon Irene

2011-08-25T06:59:00.000-04:00

I guess I've never really had a knack for timing. So it's not a surprise to find that the only large outdoor, out of state, weekend long craft show event that I'm planning on attending this year happens to be the exact same weekend that Irene has decided to pay us a visit. I try to avoid tallying the costs associated with this event and concentrate on the fact that maybe, just maybe there's a chance that the hurricane could blow out to sea - although highly unlikely because it has now moved further west than east. As of this moment the Newport Arts Festival is still scheduled to run, on the waterfront in downtown Newport RI at the yacht club. I can just see it now all the crafters and musicians jockeying for position while people are trying to get their million dollar yachts out of the water to safety. It's the boaters vs. the craftspeople vs. Irene - who will win? Find out Sunday at 11.

Oops - Forgot about this!

2011-08-19T06:30:00.000-04:00

So it just dawned on me that I never showed you the results of this post. I have more to show you but that'll have to wait until next week. Hope you all have a great weekend!

Black and White

2011-08-15T17:39:00.000-04:00

Countless times I've been asked for black and white jewelry and never had any to display. Loving the fact that I have so much studio time now. Worked up some new black and white cuff bracelets.

At last! A post actually involving polymer clay!

2011-08-11T06:30:00.000-04:00

Settling in to the new digs and I finally got a chance to do a little studio work. really enjoying my bright new space. I bet you can guess what I'm planning to do with the clay. Update tomorrow.

2011-07-27T10:26:00.000-04:00

Dear Boston Baked Blog,
No I haven't forgotten about you but yes, there is someone else. But I swear this union will only make us stronger.
Love, Lisa

Next Wednesday I plan to open my new gallery called HomeGrown Arts and Crafts here in Duxbury, MA. I've been working non stop trying to pull it all together (and squeeze in some summer fun at the same time). Lucky me - I will bringing most of my home studio with me so that I can work in the gallery as I will be one of the artist's featured there. And once I'm in I need to really get crackin' because I have my next Craft show at the end of August in Newport!

almost heaven...

2011-07-14T07:01:00.000-04:00

Bright and early this morning one half of my family headed south. First stop the Jersey Shore to pick up one of my daughters, her Massachusetts accent floating on a sea of Snookies. After a day or two the tribe will continue on to West Virginia where they will be camping for the week. I've made the trip before – and will probably do it again sometime. Got too much going on at the moment. I'll spend my week catching up on a couple of projects I've pushed to the wayside in my studio. And then I'm off to New York for a couple of days. That's a little more my speed.

Newport Arts Festival

2011-07-12T06:30:00.005-04:00

It's always nice to hear from unexpected visitors. I found out yesterday that we're all linked up on the Newport Arts Festival site. Check out the website to get an idea of some of the other talented artists and craftspeople that will also be there for the weekend. Really looking forward to it!

Time flies...

2011-07-08T06:30:00.003-04:00

Here's another watch I created in greens and corals.

I can't believe it's Friday already! It seems like we all were just getting ready for the big holiday minutes ago. Why is it that winter drags on and on but summer flies by so quickly?

A few weeks ago at a craft fair a woman asked me if I could fix her watch which had previously been strung with polymer beads. The string broke - the beads went flying and all she had left was the watch face and a few strays. I accepted the challenge and made her a brand new band containing my beads. Unfortunately for me, my beads are now on a watch face with the brand name of a major player in the commercial polymer clay world. How lucky are they?!

In the meantime, I hope you've had a chance to check out the progress of HomeGrown Arts and Crafts - a retail shop that I'm opening in Duxbury, MA. I hope to showcase my own work as well as the work of many other talented fine artists and contemporary crafters in the area. Check us out at the HomeGrown Daily blog.

kapow!

2011-07-04T06:30:00.001-04:00

Happy Birthday to the USA! I'm having a great long weekend and I hope you are too. The plan is to head into the Hatch Shell tonight to listen to Martina McBride and the Boston Pops liven up the banks of the Charles River. A family tradition, we've seen Neil Diamond, Steven Tyler and Joe Perry of Aerosmith and Toby Keith perform. I missed out on John Cougar Mellencamp and Rascal Flatts because I didn't want to brave the elements in years past. Hopefully the skies will be clear - or clear enough to see the amazing fireworks display. And on another note I've got some spectacular news to share with you on HomeGrown Daily - please pop over and check it out!

why isn't there a higher value credited to creativity?

2011-06-29T14:34:00.000-04:00

Bouncing around on the internet this morning I happened on one of my favorite blogs, Boston Handmade. Today on the site a video was posted that really hit home. Having freelanced as a graphic designer & illustrator for most of my career, I could totally relate to this snapshot into the glamourous world of design and creativity. Although more blatant and apparent in my former industry, the art of "negotiation" or "dismissing the value of creativity, uniqueness and creativity in an effort to get a reduced rate which will totally benefit the buyer and not the seller" exists in the world of fine art and crafts as well. Just the other day I was manning my booth at a craft fair when a patron asked me how much a necklace cost. When I told her it was $30 she recoiled as if I hadn't brushed my teeth in 3 days and let out a resounding, Fonzie like "Whoaa". I explained the process and the materials used: PMC, a custom cane made of polymer clay and an 18" sterling chain. Silver is $34.84 an ounce at this publishing. She reconsidered and deemed the price appropriate.

I am the self proclaimed Queen of Bargain Shopping - I grew up on a steady diet of the original Filene's Basement and Jordan Marsh dollar days! But even I don't expect an artisan (that's probably only making about $1.26 an hour if they actually stopped and broke it down after considering actually designing the product, producing the product, the materials, the equipment, the show fees, the travel time, hotel fees, I could go on and on... the marketing... ) to give me a break on the price of their wares.

decorate your décolletage!

2011-06-28T06:30:00.001-04:00

Time out for a little jewelry. Kind of boho, wouldn't you say? I love the color combination of green, orange and purple in different values and hues. I'm a sucker for a sparkle too. Here I've added a Swarovski crystal or two to offset the matte finish of the clay. Summer's finally here so brighten up your bosom ladies!

rain, rain, go away

2011-06-24T09:35:00.000-04:00

Ugh. It's raining yet again. I have an outdoor craft fair scheduled for tomorrow. It's part of a fundraising event so I feel like I really should make a wholehearted attempt to be there. On the other hand, standing with my feet on the wet grass for 6 hours does not appeal to me at all. Boy, I really wish I had bought those rain boots I was looking at in NYC last week. Have a nice weekend.

hooray for the first day of summer vacation!

2011-06-23T15:19:00.000-04:00

My cat is about 13 years old. I love her dearly but she can be a real pain in the rump. In the summer she likes to come in and snack on a little domestic cat food before she goes outside to terrorize the rabbits, birds, chipmunks and moles in the neighborhood. In the winter however she likes to come inside and walk around wailing - perhaps a feline version of my constant complaining from the first drop in the temperature until mid May. She/I could drive anybody crazy. This past winter was an exceptionally long, snowy one in Massachusetts. My children are just today celebrating their first full day off - the school year extended to make up for a healthy dose of snow days. I was spring cleaning today and I came across this illustration I had done. Obviously I must have had my fill of the stormy, cat wailing, snow shoveling mess. Now, come on all you animal lovers, be kind. It was just a passing phase. I really love my cat...and my dog...and my kids...and my husband. But maybe not as much in the dead of winter. What a difference a few months make.

polymer clay a.k.a. the misunderstood art form

2011-06-22T06:30:00.003-04:00

A selection of "indiependants" using kaleidoscope beads.

She said: So, what do you hand paint of all of these?

I said: (paraphrasing) Most of Boston Baked Beads jewelry is created with “canes”. I make canes by methodically combining colors of clay to create a log that contains the same pattern throughout. I reduce the cane and slice it putting the pieces together like a puzzle to establish a pattern. I apply the sheet of clay like a veneer. The pieces are baked in a conventional oven 'til they're cured. Then I sand and polish everything to a high sheen to come up with the finished work.

She said: Ok. And then do you hand paint of all of these?

my adventures in NYC and the Project Accessory casting call

2011-06-20T10:33:00.000-04:00

My Pit Crew & I in Times Square (I'm in purple)

Had a lovely day down at the Pinehills in Plymouth on Saturday. I met a lot of really great people. The weather was perfect. I'd love to do it again next year. My big adventure was yesterday. My very supportive pit crew and I decided to take the challenge and throw caution to the wind. We travelled all the way to NYC with the hope that I might get a shot at being considered a contestant on the Lifetime Network's new show Project Accessory. It was a long day but we had tons of laughs and lots of fun. I have a great group of friends.

This is how it went:

4am Rise & shine.

4:15 - Shower.

4:25 - Decide that my legs would better with spray tan.

4:26 - Spray tan legs in shower.

4:30 - Clean bottom of shower so husband won’t slip on spray tan juice and break legs. Happy Father’s Day honey.

4:32 - Regret decision to apply spray tan.

4:33-5:00 - Not really quite sure what I did. Seems like I got nothing accomplished during this time. Possibly suffering from narcolepsy and am unaware of it.

5:00 - Spray tan still soggy in spots. Decide I should try and wipe excess off.

5:01 - Regret trying to wipe excess off.

5:02 - 5:20: Get dressed, makeup, teeth brushed, hair done.

5:20 - Doorbell rings. First member of my Pit Crew arrives.

5:21 - Spray tan totally dry. Realize I now look like I have vitiligo.

5:22-5:45 - Run around in circles worrying what I possibly could have forgotten. Look at dirty house and consider why I am doing this anyway. Other two Pit Crew members arrive.

5:50 - Gassing it up at Exxon. Grabbing a little Dunkin’ Donuts for the long ride to CT.

6:00 - 8:40 - Non stop chatter.

9:00 - Board train at New Haven bound for Grand Central Station NYC

10:30 - Board shuttle to Times Square

11:00 - Admire sights and sounds of early morning NYC. Stroll down to the Yotel Hotel where casting call is being held.

11:20 - Arrive, check in. Number 38. Cha-ching!

12:30pm - Given the option to get out of line, get lunch and return to spot in line after.

1:30 - Return to line. Savor the experience of sitting on a terrace in NYC, drinking a delicious bloody Mary, eating a yummy turkey & cheese on a baguette. Lots of laughs.

2:30 - Total sun exposure. Noise from the once chatty crowd inaudible. Wonder if the effects of dehydration are causing a mirage. No, I’m in NYC and yes, that really is a 45 year old man strutting down the street in leather briefs wearing some sort of S&M bra.

3:00 - Moved to the upstairs lobby of hotel. Wait some more. But now sitting. No sun.

3:30 - Alex, the screener announces that the judges have decided that unless you are an “idiot savant” who has the capability to design and construct in all of the categories, jewelry, shoes, handbags, belts, hats...and that you have samples with you to prove it that you would probably not be considered. Dang it, I can’t cobble!

3:40 - After a consolation interview with Alex, where I was applauded for being a mom, I was asked to leave my application and photo and invited to do this again for next season.

3:45 - 6:15 - Leave the Yotel. Head back up 10th Ave, my legs glowing in the late afternoon sun. Enjoy people watching as we walk through Times Square. Man with rat on head. Naked Cowboy. Stop at John’s Pizzeria. Junior’s Cheesecake. Stranger points out the star of the musical Memphis signing autographs. (This was totally wasted on me - I wouldn’t know him if I fell on him) Walk through Bryant Park. This I loved. Everyone was sitting around under the trees playing chess, enjoying music, eating dinner.

6:30 - After stopping for drinks for the ride - we boarded the train in the knick of time. Tried to catch 40 winks - might have succeeded in grabbing 6.

8:30 - 11:30 - Finally making the long drive home. Traffic. Clear. Traffic. Clear. My eyeballs feel like they are about to dry up and blow away. I am doing my best to stay awake - which is fairly important due to the fact that I’m the driver. Oops, did I just take the wrong turn off to take us down the last leg of our trip? On two wheels to boot? The one I have taken thousands of times? The delirium sets in. I get us back on course. We’re home in twenty minutes. We say our goodbyes. My passengers thank God they are still alive.

11:45 - My exhausted body lies in bed. Fresh pajamas shield my eyes from my legs. I’m pretty sure they’re glowing in the dark. I’ll shower tomorrow. As sleep starts to consume me I laugh a little at the long day’s adventure. Had a blast. Don’t regret a thing. I’d do it all again in a heartbeat.

2011-06-15T09:39:00.000-04:00

Anyone that knows me at all knows that I'm a huge reality tv show junkie. I have been hooked since the first season of MTV's Real World in 1992. But what began as an interesting experiment about "7 strangers picked to live in a house..." and the interaction of the inhabitants based on their previous life experiences and environments seems to have morphed into a showcase for alcohol poisoning and three ways. BTW - I don't watch it anymore. Now that I'm old enough to have mothered most of the cast I feel more like a peeper than an intrigued viewer. My more sophisticated palette is now more inclined towards the likes of Project Runway, All on the Line and Betheney Ever After with an occasional side order of the Real Housewives of Disfunction. The folks at the Lifetime Channel, specifically Goodbye Pictures, are casting a spinoff of the hit show Project Runway called Project Accessory. They're looking for designers of jewelry,handbags, shoes, hats, belts...and "other" (?). This weekend they're in NYC. Now, does one head to the Big Apple to join the throngs of would be candidates to stand in line for many hours to be considered as the representative for the token middle-aged demographic or what? On the upside - there's the always thrilling experience of being in NYC, even just for the day - it's amazing. And of course - the possibility of actually being considered for the program is nice too. On the downside - there's getting there, there's getting home. There's the staggering odds of me being one of thousands of other designers hoping to cash in on their 15 minutes of fame. (Three other cities are also hosting casting calls over the next few weeks as well.) There's the 29! page application which feels suspiciously similar to an indenture servant contract.

"... you've got to ask yourself one question: Do I feel lucky? Well, do ya, punk?"

three cheers for the red, white and blue

2011-06-14T06:30:00.001-04:00

It's a busy week for the red, white and blue color trifecta. Today we celebrate flag day to commemorate the day we began flying the flag of the United States of America. It's also Bastille Day - a french national holiday celebrating the anniversary of the storming of the Bastille fortress. The US and France share this patriotic combination of red, white and blue as their country's colors. Friday is Bunker Hill Day - it marks the anniversary of the battle of Bunker Hill, fought between the colonists and the British during the American Revolution. We actually lost so it seems a little odd to celebrate it but... I'm pretty sure it's only celebrated in Massachusetts - we love a good party. There's a parade held in Charlestown - it was this past Sunday. Lat year the Senate voted to eliminate the benefits of Bunker Hill Day and Evacuation Day (also known as St. Patrick's Day). Both meant a day off for state workers and Boston Public Schools. Not sure how that panned out however. Either way - wear your red white and blue today!

Is anyone making any real money on Etsy besides Etsy?

2011-06-13T06:30:00.001-04:00

There are over 363,500 listings for bracelets on Etsy with 5600 listings for polymer clay bracelets alone. Oversaturated to say the least. $0.20 is not a lot to ask for a listing. In order to make a sale on Etsy however I've found your prices need to equal that - 20 cents. And then there are the fees if you actually make a sale. And don't forget - customers don't want to pay shipping and handling costs. There are plenty of us on Etsy that are actually trying to build a business. Our prices reflect the costs to produce our beautifully handcrafted pieces which includes the time, materials and overhead. There are a lot of items sold by enthusiastic hobbyists. I look at the prices they are charging and wonder how they could possibly be making a profit. I'm also learning that once you send a potential customer to Etsy to inspect your wares - they are veered off track and spend truckloads of time looking at all the other great stuff ... like groovy crocheted potholders and macrame flip flops.

I think I need to investigate some other ways to sell one of a kind items online. Any thoughts?

I like mine crispy!

2011-06-03T11:16:00.000-04:00

Yes it's true. Polymer clay gives off noxious fumes when over baked. I use a pan to get the curved effect on the belt buckle. It got a little too close to the heating element. Won't do that again! I wish I was headed off to do be a vendor at a craft fair this weekend. It's the perfect weekend to peruse. Not too hot - Not too cold.

Don't forget to wear your sun screen this weekend!

kiln roasted

2011-06-02T19:15:00.000-04:00

About a month ago or so I bought a kiln. I got the Paragon SC-2. I've been planning on making this purchase since the first of the year. I ordered and received the kiln within 4 days. I also bought a 45G package of PMC+ to work with. With silver prices as high as they are these days - $36 per ounce if I'm reading the chart correctly - I was panic stricken to run a batch. Fear was a key component in my procrastination. I talked myself through it. Deep breaths. I fired my silver, added my polymer and was thrilled at the outcome. Onward and upward!

credit cards anyone?

2011-05-26T06:30:00.017-04:00

So I took the plunge. I can now officially accept Master Card, Visa, American Express, Discover and debit cards. Last year I lost a bunch of sales because I did not have the ability to accept credit. There were several times with a little hoop jumping I was able to deliver the goods and accept payment at a later date but that's not a very reliable way to make a sale. Buyer's remorse is a dreadful disease that affects the lives of so many of us! What seems like a necessary addition to one's wardrobe one evening, can seem like a flight of fancy in the light of day. I want all of my customers to be thrilled with their purchases for the rest of their days — but it's human nature in this economy to think and rethink purchases. Sure — it's costing me fees but I truly think that the sales that I won't lose because of the lack of the ability to take credit and debit cards will make up for it in the long run. Agree or disagree?

is that a bug in your hair or are you just happy to see me?

2011-05-25T06:30:00.000-04:00

Last year it was squirrels in the walls. This year giant ants with wings. There I was in my studio polishing some beads I intended to make into earrings when the first one struck. Dive bombing in from the left - it hit me. Out of the corner of my eye I could see it's wings flapping as it stuck to the side of my head – fighting against the effects of the Bumble & Bumble molding wax I use in my hair. I flicked it off my hurriedly and continued my pursuit of shiny beads. Then I noticed it's fifty or so pals on the walls and ceilings of my studio - thank goodness for Raid. Tomorrow is another day.

joe zee - gotta love him

2011-05-23T06:30:00.004-04:00

"Learning to reconcile art with commerce while maintaining your signature and voice, all at a price can be tough, regardless of experience or tenure."

~ Joe Zee, from the Sundance Channel's All on the Line

Making a living selling things you love to make. It sounds like such a simple concept. I want to provide my customers with incredible items that are a reflection of my design principles. However, I tend to be a perfectionist and I want everything to be a work of art. Art & perfectionism takes time.

TIME = $$$

Like Joe Zee insinuates, it's hard work to draw the line and determine when you've reached handmade nirvana - for the artist and the customer. There's no sense in continuously creating pieces that price you out of the market. This year for me is all about streamlining and refining. I'm trying to train myself that I do not need to reinvent the wheel every time I create a piece. Once I develop a successful structure for a particular piece, be it a bracelet, necklace, belt buckle, then my creative time will be spent on the color and canes used to decorate the frameworks, like a fashion designer who works with a set pattern and relies on fabrics and color to create a signature look. Make sense?

save the date

2011-05-11T21:01:00.000-04:00

Filling up my calendar fast with upcoming summer craft shows:
Opening of the Bay Family Fun Day in Duxbury, MA - May 28
Art on the Green at the Pinehills in Plymouth, MA - June 18
Newport Craft Festival in Newport RI - August 27-28

Fun, fun, fun!

spring has sprung

2011-05-04T14:54:00.000-04:00

Spring is here and with it comes the search and application process for all the upcoming juried craft shows, shopping nights, trunk shows and ... you hate to miss anything! This means photographing new product, creating great descriptions and bios - and getting those applications out the door. A work in progress - choosing which ones make sense financially, geographically and demographically is key.

off the cuff

2011-04-29T04:25:00.000-04:00

There's nothing better than sipping on a nice hot cup of French Vanilla (Extra light, no sugar if you're buying), listening to some great music in my little studio and enjoying the process as I plow through yet my latest obsession - cuffs. I just finished adding a few to my Etsy site - poor thing, it's sat neglected for a few months. It's good to get it populated again. I'm hoping to add many more as the next few weeks go by. I have quite a few complete. It's just a matter of photographing now...

bangles

2011-04-14T13:05:00.000-04:00

I'm finally believing that spring is actually on its way. Although the weather doesn't show it, I have noticed the fact that my weeping cherry is getting ready to bloom. That's always a good sign. With spring comes thoughts of tee shirts and simple jewelry to wear with them. Been playing around with these bangles all week. I like to put them through some tests to make sure they hold up and if there's any issues the wearer might run into. The ends were a little scratchy but worked that out. I think they're just about ready...

concept to completion

2011-04-07T16:54:00.000-04:00

Here's a little glimpse into how this particular project went. The palette of the blouse was my inspiration (which just happens to be the last photo in this montage - It just fits better this way!). I start off by forming the core of the beads using a heart mold I made some months ago. I combine the colors of the clay until I get just the right shades that I want. I create a few canes - very simple ones in this case. I used a jelly role, stripes and a cane I made with extrusions. After I bake the heart forms undecorated - I coat them with a liquid polymer and adhere the sheets of canes as I see fit. I sand them with a 400, then 800, then 1000 grit sandpaper. I then buff them because I like the finished look of the high sheen. I add the embellishments and the bottoms - and bake again. All set for stringing. What do you think?

craftboston 2011

2011-03-28T10:03:00.000-04:00

I went to CraftBoston yesterday. What an incredible show. I was lucky enough to meet Kathleen Dustin. She is the "queen" of polymer clay ...to me anyway. She makes exquisite one of a kind handbags and jewelry. She was incredibly gracious and chatted with me for a moment or two, answering questions regarding the length of time it took to work on her handbags. She made the point that she has to work efficiently as possible - working on several projects at once. After all, her goal is to make a living from creating, producing and selling her work. I also stepped in to the Ford and Forlano booth. Last year I gushed so badly when I met them. I didn't want to do that again so I just nodded hello and admired their interesting work. CraftBoston provides a venue for craftspeople to show their high quality creations and raise awareness of the dedication it takes to create such beautiful work. Speaking of work - I have been moving forward on some new pieces. Here's a quick glimpse of the the beads that I'll use to make a couple of new interlocking heart bracelets. Maybe one of these days I'll get them on Etsy...

off on a tangent

2011-03-10T14:13:00.002-05:00

Every now and then it's fun to go off on a tangent. Let's start the week last Friday night when I went to my friend Sally Dean Mello's opening at Native in Scituate. Tuesday night I spent in her studio with another couple of dazzling ladies and we made amazing mixed media art. The "ribbon" you see on my piece below is actually from a spool of copper mesh that one of the other artists brought with her to share. I love it - and you'll be seeing a piece incorporated into jewelry one of these days soon.

Spreading my wings a little, I'm taking an oil painting class on Wednesday mornings with a friend and was lucky enough to do an open studio directly following to finish up my small work of art. Today I attended a gallery talk at the Art Complex Museum in Duxbury.

Valentine Vessel

2011-03-07T06:30:00.004-05:00

Finished this around Valentine's day - how appropriate. Fun to do - a little awkward to wear however, nearly chipped a tooth.

extrusion earrings

2011-03-04T09:04:00.000-05:00

A new year brings new tools. I got a new clay extruder from Makin that's so much easier to use than the one you push with your hand. I've been having a lot of fun with building canes using this method. Earrings are something I wear a lot but don't build that often. These I really like...if I do say so myself.

That much closer to spring. Can't wait to air out the studio and move back in.

patience

2011-03-01T09:43:00.000-05:00

It's been a month. I've got things to say but I'm still having problems transferring photos. I've been working on some earrings, using extrusions, building more interlocking heart bracelets. I'm hoping to be back with photos as soon as I get this problem solved.

hearts and snow

2011-02-01T09:51:00.000-05:00

Just playing around with the heart theme over the past few days. These little romantic hearts are a real departure from my usual style - more colorful, bold and shiny. A lot of fun to make but time consuming, applying each little petal by hand. The Swarovski crystals add some sparkle. I'm going to experiment today - maybe a try a vessel. Keep you posted.

more hearts

2011-01-28T06:30:00.001-05:00

We'll be saying hello to February in just a few short days and then before you know it, Valentine's Day is here. I made a larger mold for these hearts. Nice bright colors. Happy weekend.

brrrr

2011-01-27T16:08:00.000-05:00

The third snow day of 2011 - kids home stealing my space again! Oh well, so it goes. I'm sure there'll be a day when I'd give anything for an entire day with my gals - stuck in the house. My studio - staring at me from the corner of the yard - about 2 feet of snow creeping up its exterior - (it's built on blocks) - only 2 more months 'til spring!

Anyway, this is what I've been working on - interlocking heart bracelets. And now that I've figured out how to use the bench buffer - everything's high sheen. Hard to tell in this photo though. First I created a puff bead and made a mold of it. I then molded a slew of beads out of scrap clay. After choosing my palette I began to decorate each bead - adding simple canes where necessary. Obviously pierced and baked each bead. Sanded with 400, 800 and 1000 grit sandpaper - buffed with my new machine that I am obsessed with. No wax anymore. I added sterling spacer beads on stretch cord and voila:

the mystery of the unfit cord

2011-01-21T07:06:00.000-05:00

See, the trouble is - I have no photo access at the moment. Mysteriously the cord to my camera no longer fits it so I can't transfer my images to the computer. Can't figure that out. In the meantime, I did figure out how to attach the buffing wheel to my new bench grinder. Unbelievable! How have I lived without it?! If you like a really high gloss sheen, like glass, you'll love the results. I made a really great little heart bracelet that I wanted to show you but... I want to modify the design a bit and make a few in different colors - and then polish them up! Maybe I'll borrow my daughter's camera for a few shots and post them.

happy new year

2011-01-17T09:33:00.000-05:00

I'm a little late getting back into the swing of things. I've been very busy with a different project - just not working on polymer clay so much. I have several purchases planned for the new year. The other night I decided on the Ryobi 6" bench grinder. What a glamorous accessory - every girl should have one. I bought the buffing wheel and what I thought to be the adaptor to attach the buffing wheel. Of course, when I went to put it all together, the adaptor doesn't work with bench grinders - only on hand drills. So back to the store - turns out they don't carry the part I would need. Never heard of it. Contacted Ryobi - we'll see what happens. In the meantime, I'm probably going down to my local auto supply shop to see if they carry a table top buffer/grinder with all the parts I need in the box. If so, I will pack up my previous purchase and return it to the big orange hardware superstar.

merry christmas!

2010-12-24T10:47:00.000-05:00

It's the night before Christmas and not a new post in sight,

Merry Christmas to all and to all a good night!

Looking forward to settling down after the holidays and getting back to work creating new canes and designs...and new blog posts. If you're not celebrating Christmas tomorrow I hope you have a nice peaceful day.

and the winner is...

2010-12-14T06:33:00.000-05:00

Caught in the hustle and bustle of the holidays, I'm just finishing up/starting all those things that most people have finished by now. Little do they know but when organized people announce "done! I'm completely wrapped", it sends shivers down my spine. Wrapped??! - I'm still shopping...I pretty much just started. And I'm ok with that...until the radio announcements say things like..."It's not too late! Last minute shoppers....blah, blah, blah" I'll get it done - I always do. So anyway, the new Pantone Colors are here! And the winner of color of the year is honeysuckle. Love it! I can't wait to work with them...but that will not be happening until after I finish all the Christmas magic.

canes of color

2010-12-08T06:30:00.003-05:00

After my visit to company c the other day - I've been dying to get back to creating some new vibrant canes. Here are some results of some of the latest adventures in color - a favorite combination of orange, purple and green. I've moved some of my studio indoors which makes it a lot more bearable to work. After the first of the year - I'm hoping to do a new cane every week or two. Until then, not so much. Just trying to keep up with the demands of the season!

To buy or not to buy

2010-12-06T09:55:00.001-05:00

You know, I just love this time of the year. The only trouble is - I wish it could be spread out over a few months. Like a child, I anticipate the coming of the holiday season with glee. There are parties to be had, swaps to be swapped, friends and family to visit, trunk shows in which to participate...and I want to do it all! No wonder my eyes are crossed because I'm so exhausted! But - next month we'll all be wishing the excitement wasn't over, right? I use this same logic in the summer when I need an excuse to overindulge.

I've been working with PMC. I've had a pack in my possession for some time and finally did what I planned to with it. I created some bezels for new "Indie Pendants". I'd run out of the bezels that I used to use - a sterling dipped copper disc. I felt like it was time to crank it up a notch and offer a more sophisticated version using silver instead anyway. When I went to have the pieces fired, I discovered my source is planning to close - moving to a studio setting instead of a shop. I think the forces of the universe are telling me to purchase my own kiln. Maybe I'll ask Santa.

company c

2010-11-30T08:39:00.000-05:00

Out and about yesterday, doing some errands for the family, I found myself staring longingly into the windows of company c. If you haven't been, get there. An instant mood enhancer - the gorgeous bright hues of the textiles are sure to put a smile on your face. I eventually opened the doors and actually entered the interior of the shop. A little over my budget at the moment - or more truthfully that I simply cannot justify a luxury buy at this time - but if I ever have a showroom I'm definitely purchasing one of their amazing rugs...and some pillows. I did not walk out empty handed, however. The sales girl was kind enough to give me one of their gorgeous catalogs which is gonna have to satisfy my craving for the time being. Immediate inspiration!

it's a beautiful morning

2010-11-22T06:30:00.013-05:00

Had a great weekend - knee deep in the craft showcase presented by the Duxbury Art Association. Here's my booth - I've got no back drop at the moment but I kind of like it with the collage up above it, yes? I'm tired today but it was so worth it. I met lots of terrific people and sold a lot of jewelry. I was in very good company - 69 other artisans - although I never really got to see anybody's wares except for my two neighbors - that's how busy it was. I hope I get to do it again next year. Actually that's not true - I was lucky enough at the end of the show to sneak down to Janice Arbanel (Naftali) and check out her beautiful creations.

happy weekend everyone!

2010-11-19T08:19:00.000-05:00

organization and the lack thereof

2010-11-18T09:14:00.001-05:00

It's amazing how much "stuff" I've acquired. Trying to pull everything together over the last few days it's dawned on me exactly how much. I'm very organized...about 5 times a year when I put everything in its place. Other than that I'm the stereotypical creative type who's got the tools - mixed in with the beads - in the middle of the clay... I try, I really do. Another New Year's resolution in the making perhaps? Maybe I'll try to be organized once a month - but I'm not starting until January 1.

tired tuesday

2010-11-16T09:02:00.000-05:00

Spent the day just sort of messing around in my studio. You know, there's something to be said about having a plan. And that plan should be written down. Maybe on your forehead so that you can't ignore it! Here it is, days from my big show and I'm reminded of all the big plans I had for this show and never followed through on. I wanted to start adding some PMC pieces to my stash - I didn't do it. I wanted to add more beads to my inventory so that jewelers could work with my creations - I didn't do it. Life gets in the way and plans get lost. Well, that sounds like the makings of a really good new years resolution.

Lose 10 pounds - I didn't do it.

Monday morning panic attack

2010-11-15T10:13:00.000-05:00

Another Monday morning... Had a lot of fun this weekend but at some point I remember a shiver of panic running through my body. This week I have two jewelry events. I have a 3 hour event on Thursday evening that's open to a lot of crafters and non-crafters. My other event is a two day juried craft showcase. To be present among 69 fellow juried artisans should be inspiring if nothing else. Having never done an event this large I started to question whether I have enough inventory. I'll head to the shed today to try and figure that out. You live and you learn.

marcel the shell with shoes on

2010-11-09T05:55:00.000-05:00

I have not been very diligent in posting. The studio's getting awfully chilly. Somehow I manage to get the temperature up to "tolerable" but the clay is even less flexible than I am when it comes to being cold. With the holiday season just waiting in the wings to pounce, I have been busy packaging and primping for a few seasonal events. Soon after the holidays I will probably start bringing some of my operation indoors. It forces me to work in small spaces and to clean up after myself. My studio right now looks like "who did it and ran" as my mother would say. In the meantime watch this adorable little movie my daughter introduced me to. "Marcel the Shell with Shoes On" by Jenny Slate and Dean Fleischer-Camp is bound to warm you up today - so cute!

happy friday

2010-10-22T14:53:00.000-04:00

Well here it is - the semi-finished project. I'll probably add a few more baubles just because I like these charm bracelets to be really busy...like my weekend. I hope you enjoy your's.

will it be a charm bracelet?

2010-10-21T06:30:00.001-04:00

Well, I guess you can probably guess where this project is headed. I can't help it - I just love the look and feel of big, noisy, colorful jewelry. They're so much fun to make. Come back tomorrow, won't you? Maybe it'll be complete!

polymer clay owls

2010-10-20T15:47:00.000-04:00

It seems as though I have owls on the brain! Now that the temperature has dropped to "near frosty" I've succumbed to the fact that it sure is autumn around here. Brr! With that, the leaves are falling rapidly, I better go take a walk to check out the last of this beautiful foliage before it's all swept away with a good wind!

Just decided to work on something fun...because it's already so cold in my studio! I'll be moving this gig in doors soon. Let's see how these little feathered friends will evolve.

happy friday

2010-10-15T06:30:00.001-04:00

Here's one of my favorite types of jewelry to make. They take a long time. People love them and they can appreciate the work but unfortunately I haven't had much luck selling them because the price tends to be fairly high. All is not lost however, this is one of my incentive gifts for my trunk show hostesses. This is a bracelet I made for a home party I have at then end of the month.

saved the day

2010-10-14T06:30:00.004-04:00

In the next couple of months I'm going to try and concentrate on making beads - without finishing them as jewelry. Not always, because I do enjoy the jewelry making. But a few people have requested to purchase beads alone. My beads tend to be about 1". I can make them smaller but I don't really like to. After all the work of building the cane and working the colors just so - I like them to be seen. My beads are bold and so is my jewelry. In the meantime, I strung the 9 beads I made out of the not so favorite cane and I was pretty happy with the results.

working with canes in polymer clay

2010-10-13T06:30:00.000-04:00

So I made some beads with the new cane. I first tried kaleidoscope beads because that's the most fun for me - seeing what the three unique designs will be when I fit the pieces together. I traditionally make triangle canes - especially if I plan on making kaleidoscope beads. Well...I didn't even bother taking photos - they just looked all murky with weird pops of reds and pinks out of nowhere. They looked overly toasted because of that forest green I chose to use. You really have to work on the contrast when building canes because if you don't when you shrink them you lose all definition. And this is why I need to start being more patient - allowing myself several days on a cane instead of trying to squeeze it into one. Carol Simmons is the most amazing kaleidoscope cane artist - I'll bet she's extremely patient and takes the time to work the colors properly. Her site's been under construction for quite a while now. You can learn more about her on Polymer Clay Daily. Anyway, just for the fun of it I added some little pops of color that I felt needed a little help. These beads are kinda cute - not my usual work. But not a total loss.

I will build a new cane and I will be patient...next week.

cane trouble

2010-10-12T06:30:00.001-04:00

I truly enjoy making canes. I'm a little immature though when it comes to building them properly. I get so excited at the prospect and am just dying to see the outcome that I rush them...and maybe I don't make the wisest color choices. When working with polymer clay, sometimes the colors change when the clay is cured. I know this - and I know the particular dark green I was using cures to the color of a deep forest green. This is why I like many other artists like to mix my own colors and rarely use the clay right out of the package. But I was just back from vacation and thought I could outsmart the clay - I only altered the color a bit - softening it up with a bright citrusy yellow. Looks great as a cane, huh?

happy long weekend

2010-10-08T17:49:00.002-04:00

So happy to be posted here today! Have a good one!