Judith B Designs

Jan. 29 Update

2012-01-29T16:48:00.000-06:00

Thursday (Feb. 2) I go for my second treatment of Yervoy. Unfortunately there seems to be now change so far. I'm optimistic and I welcome all of your good wishes, thoughts and prayers.

Until next time

Thank you so much

2012-01-07T14:35:00.000-06:00

Your continued support is amazing. You're all like family to me. You give me the strength to move on. Thurs. is the big day for my lung treatment. I'm slowly coming out of the fog but it's pretty hard. I'm doing it, but in small steps. The cards and the gifts have been wonderful. Thank you, really. I mean it.

Another update

2012-01-04T10:33:00.002-06:00

I'm having treatment to my lungs starting next Thursday. It's called "Yervoy". It will treat the inoperable melanoma that cannot be surgically removed from my lungs. It is supposed to be successful. My son is typing for me because my hand is still numb. Thank you for all of your good wishes. I think of you all constantly, and it would be much harder to go through this without your continued support.

I need a reprieve

2011-12-29T08:29:00.000-06:00

No news yet. I'm still waiting on something positive. Thank you for all of your prayers and your cards; everything. It means so much to me. It's what I think about everyday.

just an update

2011-12-14T11:06:00.002-06:00

Well today is my 4th radiation and it's kicking my butt I can take it. All I crave is salt, McDonald's french fries, cold or not is all I need. It must be the steroids that I'm jacked up on..... Thank-you all for your thoughts and prayers.

I need your positive thoughts...please

2011-12-08T12:08:00.001-06:00

This is the hardest post I hope to ever write...6 days ago I had a normal happy lovely life.Today I lie in a hospital bed waiting to be taken down to xray to begin radiation on my brain.
Last year I had a deep excision of melanoma taken off my right leg, tests came back for clear margins and clean lymph-nodes but somehow with the every 3 month check ups those cancerous cells managed to travel and set up shop in my brain and lungs, as if one place is not bad enough.

What started me on this adventure was the bad cold I was complaining about last month it had me coughing up blood...not a good thing for anyone. My Dr. sent me for a check x-ray and then a CAT scan that revealed nodules on my lungs. Once the bad new was delivered that it most likely melanoma I was sent directly to see an oncologist that specializes in Melanoma. A plan was made for testing, a brain MRI, anther chest and abdominal CAT scan, lung biopsy and a PET scan. Unfortunately symptoms of the ugly brain lesions rared up so quickly to give my a totally numb face, tingling in my right hand and foot and dizziness. So here I am at Baptist hospital in Nashville being pumped up with steroids and starting brain radiation today as well as having the lung biopsy today. To add insult to injury the places they need to biopsy are not in good spots and my lung may get punctured in the process. Is this crazy or what? I am still waiting to wake up from this horrible nightmare.
I was unsure If I should share this or not, but I have made such wonderful friends blogging and need all your positive energy's to help me through this. You all are such caring and wonderful people and I really need your prayers and positive thoughts.

SALE 15% OFF ALL ITEMS

2011-12-04T09:44:00.001-06:00

Just to let you know I am having a 15% off all items in both of my Etsy shops including findings.

Judithbdesigns and Flapyourwings

Be sure to check it out!

Memories, Sentiment and a Connection

2011-11-29T15:25:00.001-06:00

I love when people see my work and it evokes an emotion. They smile and tell me the connection they have with a certain piece of my jewelry. Most recently I had created a necklace with a vintage ladies watch, a women purchased it as it reminded her of her Mother, her mother always wore a similar watch. The necklace was a connection to her Mom.

Here is a bracelet I created called "Memories of Mom". Created with three vintage watch faces and a monogrammed vintage button.

You can find this bracelet in my Etsy shop.

Do you have something that brings about a strong emotion when you see it? Or perhaps a certain smell or food does that for you. Lilacs always remind me of growing up, a tree stood right outside our bedroom window. The sound of a screen door shutting is another favorite, we had a wooden screen door in our kitchen and with five kids in and out it was a familiar sound, one that I still love to hear. What's your connection?

Grateful Living Blog

2011-11-28T18:16:00.001-06:00

There is a new blog in town and it's called "Grateful Living".

Molly Alexander of Beautifully Broken Me created this space for expressing gratitude.

For people.
For circumstances.
For moments.

Dig in, spend time and think about the things you are grateful for in your life, right at this moment.

And enjoy them.
Today.

Celebrate them.
Today.

Be sure to stop by and read some of the wonderful stories from fellow bloggers. It will make you see your moments differently.

Flea Market Treasures

2011-11-27T12:00:00.001-06:00

Trying to get back into my routine....it has been a very busy month for me. I had company, bronchitis and two awesome shows. Last weekend I had a two day show and sold 87 pieces of jewelry...crazy, crazy! I think it has taken me all week to re-coup after that show, plus I put in 2 days of work at the antique shop. So what do I do to relax?...what else but spend the day at the Flea Market.

My found treasures for the day...

round blister pearls, moonstone, copper clasps, old keys, Victorian locket and chain, brass rings, enamel watch face, clock key, enamel cuff links, old rosary beads and masonic medal,, Victorian buttons, vintage dog tags, old chains and photo tin type.

I could not resist this 1930's G-Man toy badge...how cute is that?

I plan to spend the rest of the day in my studio and see what I can do with these treasures.

Congrats again to the Bead Trends Magazine winner QuiltingJewel39, please contact me with your mailing address.

Happy Sunday!

Thanksgiving Eve

2011-11-23T19:43:00.001-06:00

....and the lucky winner of the November issue of Bead Trends is.....quiltingjewel39...please send me an email with your mailing address so I can send out your issue right out.

Here we are Thanksgiving eve, I am sure most of us are either traveling or cooking. I am cooking, the house smells wonderful! We will be spending the day with our neighbor family....the second best thing since we live away from all of our families. I hope everyone has a blessed day and that you are able to spend it with someone you love.

"Remember God's bounty in the year. String the pearls of His favor. Hide the dark parts, except so far as they are breaking out in light! Give this one day to thanks, to joy, to gratitude!"
[Henry Ward Beecher]

We Still Have Paris

2011-11-21T11:20:00.001-06:00

...sigh....Paris is on my bucket list. One day I long to stand in front of the Eiffel Tower and gaze at its majestic beauty. The Eiffel tower is iconic these days and is featured in many accessory designs. I found this great antique Eiffel tower watch fob at an antique shop and included it in my "We still have Paris" typewriter key necklace.

The nice folks at Bead Trends were kind enough to include my necklace in their November issue. You can find it on page 114, or you can see it here in their nice little video.

If you do not have the November issue of Bead Trends you have the chance to win it here. Just leave me a comment and tell me one thing that is on your bucket list and I will draw one lucky winner on Wednesday November 23rd.

Victorian cuff bracelets

2011-11-15T06:56:00.001-06:00

Here are two gorgeous Victorian brooches I picked up at the antique shop last week. I knew instantly they would make perfect bracelets.

I used an antique steel cut button as a connector and made a hand forged brass clasp.

The ruffle on this brooch is just darling and I love the set in stone.

I added some antique connectors that I curved just slightly to form the wrist, vintage chain is used as a clasp along with an antique picture button.

These bracelets will be packed for the show this weekend. If interested just let me know.

Pickin Nashville

2011-11-13T12:00:00.001-06:00

The past 5 days have been super busy, my best friend Donna from high school came to visit, and this being her first visit to Nashville there was lots to cram into 5 days. To top it off I have been sick for the past week and lugged tissues everywhere and was honking the whole time...all in all it was such a great visit!

We surprised Donna with a visit to Antique Archaeology in Nashville. Donna is a big American Pickers fan. Mike Wolfe has recently made Nashville his part-time residence and has the coolest shop in the city. It was so cool to see all of the treasure hunting finds as they were all marked where they were picked and what episode they were on. It you are a fan of the show you would just love this place!

(I'm wearing my new Pickin Nashville shirt)

Last night we had a wonderful dinner at Maggiano's and our very handsome son Nick joined us...(just stating the obvious...)

Now it's time to get back to work...very seriously too. I have a 2 day show this coming weekend and it will be a busy one. I hope everyone is doing well and I look forward to checking out some blogs and catching up.

Keepsake

2011-11-07T10:24:00.000-06:00

I have had an extremely busy week getting ready for a show I had on Saturday. The show was fantastic and it was so nice to see so many repeat customers that came by to visit and make some purchases. I love interacting with customers and to see their reactions to my jewelry, it makes what I do so worthwhile! Besides getting ready for the show I had a repeat appointment with this FABULOUS shop in Leipers Fork, Tenn. called "Serenite Maison". I am so honored to be selling my jewelry here, and if you are ever in the area it is a must visit place.

Keepsake

Here is one of the pieces I finished yesterday. I had been coveting this vintage mother of pearl picture heart for sometime and it finally found its home in this necklace. What is even more special about this heart, is the reverse side also holds another picture.

...how precious is she? I think a piece like this can conjurer up all kinds of thoughts and emotions. The couple could easily remind many of us of our parents and the little girl could bring back memories of yourself or your sister or perhaps a lost loved one. Working with vintage and antique pieces evokes lots of feelings, it brings them to the surface, it makes the piece of jewelry a keepsake and a holder of emotions...something extra ordinary.

vintage mother of pearl rosary beads and vintage steel chain

The way we were

2011-10-31T08:48:00.000-05:00

Many years ago in our single life we were the "Farquars" a couple of tourists on vacation. My name was "Dot" and my hubby was "Fred".

...and then a few years later came this little scarecrow...

Happy Halloween Everyone!

Aluminum Words

2011-10-28T15:05:00.000-05:00

 One of my Texas finds was a aluminum printing plate, it is thin and easy to cut and I knew it had endless possibilities. Last night I finished this bracelet. I think it offers a lot visually and is so super lightweight. 

I plan on making some earrings as well and thinking of making some rolled beads from the aluminum, I will let you know how that goes.

Hope everyone is well and stocked up on candy for all of the tricksters! 

Tex

2011-10-25T18:59:00.000-05:00

Today I made my new favorite piece I call "Texas". It is created using some treasures found on my recent trip to Texas. It is kind of whimsical, it's fun and very cowboy-ish! Love it...hope you will too.

Six shooter embossed charm, old horseshoe, antique Gold Medal adv. charm, brass horse button and a vintage monopoly game piece. Mixed metal vintage chains. You can find "Texas" in my Etsy shop.

I forgot I still had these pictures in my I-phone..taken where else but Texas. Looking at them again I just can't get "Dirt road" by Jason Aldean out of my head!

It actually rained like 10 drops when we were there, enough to produce this beautiful rainbow.

Owl in the Night

2011-10-22T13:17:00.000-05:00

 "The Bat that flits at close of Eve

Has left the Brain that won't believe.

 The Owl that calls upon the night

speaks the unbeliever's fright."

William Blake

~~~~~~~~~~~~

This owl button finds an unconventional life in this necklace. I purchased several domed buttons from a dealer in Texas and knew they would make great pendants. The dome gives off a spooky effect and pairs just perfectly with old black rosary beads.

You can find Owl in the Night in my Etsy shop.

Vintage Beads

2011-10-20T19:53:00.002-05:00

I came across these beads today and could not resist purchasing them. However....I am not going to keep them, I am putting them in my Etsy shop. Ok, yes I did keep a few bags for myself but the rest are for whoever wants them. If you love working with antique and vintage and new beads just don't do the job for you well these beads are awesome. Some really cool shapes and nice smooth wear, the pictures do not do them justice. They need some cleaning as you can tell, but who does not like a little natural "patina".

The greenish beads to the left are actually to halves of a whole almost like a bead cap and they are faceted too! Nice matte discs and check out the cool green shapes!

Yes, those are rose shaped glass, and the really neat rectangle shape is side drilled on the top.

I am sure most of these are Czech and early 1900's, with some vintage mixed in.

Aren't they just beautiful....yes I am an easy girl to please!

It's a soup day

2011-10-19T12:59:00.001-05:00

I woke up this morning and it was 46 degrees, the coldest it has been yet. We had been enjoying the most wonderful weather and last evening it changed drastically from 74 to burrsville! I actually had to turn the heat on because I could not do anything with numb hands! It's a day that called for hot soup so I pulled out one of my favorites "Sweet Potato Chowder"...since I still have some sweet potatoes from my garden this was a perfect thing to make. I'd love to share the recipe with you.

Sweet Potato Chowder

(Blue Moon Cookbook) recipe from my dear friend Laura

2 large sweet potatoes

1 leek chopped 1-1 1/2c

1 tbl. white wine

1 carrot chopped

2 1/2 c Milk or cream

2 tbl. butter

1/2 tsp dry mustard

1/4 tsp salt

1/2 tsp pepper

1 1/4c canned creamed corn (1 can)

Boil peeled cubed potatoes in 2 1/2 cups water until tender, about 15 min. Drain and save broth (set aside)

Melt butter in soup at med. heat, add leek, wine, mustard, salt and pepper and saute for 5 min. Add potatoes, broth, carrot, 1/2 can of corn and 1 1/2 cups water. Bring to boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 min.

In blender add 1/2 of the soup and milk until thick and silky. Return to pot and add remaining corn.

Enjoy!

I alter the recipe a bit and use vegetable broth instead of water and I like a little heat so use a little red pepper flakes as well as a smidgen of thyme. Milk or cream work just the same as well as onions instead of leeks.

Pay the rent

2011-10-18T09:59:00.001-05:00

Wow, where have the days gone? Last week I was getting ready for a show and this week I am doing the same. I had a great show this past Saturday, surprising me by doubling my sales from last year! Yeah, can you believe it, and I thought last years sales were good for a one day show...who knew! I know I have said it before and I shall say it again....Newsletter! I send out a newsletter via Mail Chimp and it sure works because my local customers know where they can find me. It is well worth the effort!

Do you have an item that "pays the rent"? What I mean by that is a good inexpensive item that covers your booth fee. My "pay the rent" items are my typewriter key pendants on a stainless ball chain, these are reliable sellers and at a good price point of $20 at shows.

I always tend to sell more necklaces than anything else, especially religious How about you? What are your strongest sellers?

One Design Four Ways

2011-10-13T15:24:00.000-05:00

I loved making these yesterday...assemblage jewelry is probably my most favorite to make. Anything that involves found treasures just makes creating so much fun and challenging for me.

The four pieces are all the same design but with different elements. The common factor is rosary beads, filigree settings, antique buttons, etched discs,and a religious focal.

The unexpected touch is the etched disc behind the filigree flower. It adds a really cool element to the necklace without being too much.

You can find all of these pieces in my Etsy shop.

Etched metal with a little hoot

2011-10-11T19:46:00.000-05:00

I have been busy etching metal today, mostly copper and a few brass pieces. For the most part all came out pretty good, there are usually a few that bite the dust....which is the norm for me. Here are a few of my favorites.

You can find these and more in my Flapyourwings Etsy shop.

A Change is in the Air

2011-10-09T11:44:00.002-05:00

The weather in middle Tennessee has been glorious...warm sunny days with cool nights. These are my kind of days and you surely appreciate them after 3 months of constant heat and high humidity. It also makes me want to cook...I would rather be making jewelry than cooking, but I like to eat too. I have a pumpkin bread in the oven and will be making sweet potato salad (using my ginormous sweet potatos from my garden). You make a regular potato salad but add a few sweets to it, yummy!

I have finally realized after 5 years of living in the South that you can not keep flowering annuals for long. I have gone the portulaca route and love them! Constant color and I do not have to worry about watering them. Here we are in October and they are still so beautiful!

Knock-Out Roses are another great plant for the south, they bloom constantly from early spring until frost. I love color and what better way to enjoy it in your landscape.

The field in our backyard is changing, autumn in Tennessee has mild colors compared to what I am use to in Massachusetts, but it still is so pretty. The air is crisp and has that beautiful scent you only get in the fall.

Sam has to come and see what I am doing and he loves gazing out at the field just hoping to see something to run after. I hope everyone is enjoying a wonderful Sunday!

We have a winner !

2011-10-07T19:08:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to KJ of KJ's Beadacious Beads she is the lucky winner of my Making Room for a Bead Giveaway! This pile of beads grew from 3 pounds to FIVE pounds, I sure hope your mailman is strong! Thanks everyone who entered and left a comment, I loved hearing what your favorite flea market find was, there were some really great finds! KJ, be sure to get in touch with me so I can send your goodies out.

Number 352

2011-10-05T17:45:00.000-05:00

 I've been hard at work in my studio, (at least that is what I tell my husband when he comes home from work!) there is nothing hard about doing what you love. Anyway...as I was saying I have created a few pieces and I wanted to share them with you, they have evolved out of the treasure pile I shared with you yesterday.

Number 352 on Etsy

This great watch face, which by the way is 44mm, was given to me my one of the vendors The Cheeky Mare at the Big Red Barn in Round Top Texas. I was perusing in a wooden bowl filled with watch faces and chose a few to purchase as well as some old tags. He told me folks were buying the watch faces to make jewelry from, I told him I was going to do that as well, so he actually gave them to me and asked me to send him pictures of the finished product. How nice was that! I just finished sending him pictures and I hope he likes the finished piece.

Master Lock dangle earrings on Etsy

Industrial Chic Earrings on Etsy

If you have not already done so be sure to enter my Making Room Bead Giveaway, I am adding to the pile everyday! You can read about it HERE.

Making Room for a Bead Giveaway

2011-10-04T13:23:00.002-05:00

Since yesterday I have been putting away all of my little found treasures from Texas, trying to organize it into a space that is already lacking good storage. So to make room I have cleaned out some of my containers and have made roughly a 3 pound pile of beads to give away.

No junk in this pile! There are some vintage beads, pendants, gemstone and glass beads lots of beady goodness for you!

Just leave me a comment telling me what is the best treasure you purchased at a garage sale, flea market or antique shop. I love to know what folks are buying! If you want to share this giveaway go ahead and let me know you did and your name goes in the proverbial hat twice. Giveaway will end on Friday Oct. 7th with one lucky winner.

Here are more of my new treasures,wonderful vintage religious medals in all sizes.

tons of great rosaries

old hardware, buttons, keys, game pieces...

clock faces, tags, monopoly game pieces, cuff links...

These trinkets are my passion, what's yours?

Unpacking

2011-10-03T09:56:00.002-05:00

We have been home for the past two days and I am still unpacking and going through all of my purchases from Texas. The following pictures are the large items, I will share the photos of all the goodies for my jewelry designs tomorrow. I did not want to over load you with so much eye candy your eyes would just pop! Most of the large items will go to my antiques booth at Bright's Antique World and some of the others are for my home. So here we go on a little tour of what came out of my SUV...and yes it all fit (my husband is a master packer!)..with room to spare!

an old dress form, a couple of screen door halves (perfect for when I do shows) old signage letters, wire locker baskets, old mill work from a porch in Round Top and 4 wonderful vintage typewriters!

An awesome grain painted metal trunk and a vintage metal printing sheet, perfect for cutting up and using in bezels.

a vintage cowboy puzzle, metal stool and the coolest metal suitcase!

I feel in love with these new cement castings and some religious fonts.

Antique linens, vintage store displays and my absolute favorite....2 vintage garden chairs!

I LOVE these chairs! I actually put them in the keeping area of my kitchen...they make me smile!

some old jars and beakers, transfer-ware, German clock, sewing box, Christmas scrap santas, a carved wooden hand and pottery.

...and lastly a vintage watering can and teddy bear.

Tomorrow I will show you all the other treasures. Today I am trying to organize them, I literally have no room for all of the trinkets so I am cleaning out some beads I no longer use and will be having a bead giveaway starting tomorrow, so be sure to check back.

Thanks for stopping by and have a great Monday!

Texas Toast

2011-09-28T17:52:00.000-05:00

We have been in Round Top Texas for the last 4 days and it is just a tad toasty...it is sooooooooo HOT with temps over 100 each day!! I do not tolerate the heat so well, so to be out and about in this heat is just wearing me out! On the flip side of my whining I must say I have made some wonderful purchases! I am so pleased with the the show here in Round Top. It is more than just the show, its the Texas hospitality, all the cowboy "flavor" (yum) that I just love! Sheriffs on horseback, the western apparel and don't forget the long horns!

My honey's name is Ed so this just caught my eye...how sweet is that! Unfortunately when I went back to buy the book is was sold.

Texas is in dire need of some rain, the pastures are all burnt up and the ponds are all dry and cracked. One rancher said today his yard had cracks so big his cats were falling in them! Yesterday we did get a few raindrops but it never really amounted to much in this area. Pray for Texas!

I have lots more pictures to share but Wifi is hard to find and very slow so uploading pictures takes forever. Hopefully tomorrow I can post them. I will leave you with these great pictures.

Birds of a Feather

2011-09-22T17:41:00.000-05:00

Birds of a Feather on Etsy

Yes, I know it is rather a predictable name for this bracelet but it required no thinking! I have no time to think about anything but my trip to TEXAS! I am leaving in the morning for Round Top to attend one of the biggest, baddest antique shows in the country. My heart is all a flutter at all of the cool things I will see!

These are all packed.....

...even if I do not wear them they are going. How can I go to Texas without my boots!

I will be keeping you informed about the show as I have a VIB (very important blogger) pass from the Marburger Farm Show. I can't wait to share with you all that the shows have to offer.

See you in...

Creative Jewelry

2011-09-20T10:37:00.001-05:00

I am excited to say that I have two pieces in Creative Jewelry. This is interweaves 10th edition and it is filled with 130 wonderful jewelry projects!

Unlock Your Dreams

can be found on page 76

this piece is created with an antique brass cabochon pin, lampwork beads from Beingbeads.etsy, lapis and antique watch fob chain.

Glory Be

you can find this piece on page 116

Etched, hand stamped copper is the background for the metal cross, along with wire wrapped hematite beads, matte Czech glass spacers, rhinestone roundels and repousee copper beads.

I am still struggling to see all the wonderful creations made for the Bead Soup Party. I say struggle because of the blogger issues I continue to have. It seems I can comment on blogs via the comment link on my email but can not comment directly on the blog without Mozilla shutting off. It is most frustrating, especially when I have written a comment only to loose it.

Blog Partay!

2011-09-17T09:47:00.000-05:00

Welcome and thanks for stopping by!

Today is the day! 362 folks from all over the country are paticipating in this bead soup blog party, Just a few weeks ago each person listed below received a nice little package of beads in the mail. We were paired randomly with a partner to whom you had to send a focal, a clasp and some accent beads, one of the rules was you had to use the focal and clasp. This is what I received from my partner Karen Sinowski.

Karen created some beautiful lampwork beads in a variety of sizes. She also included some swarovski crystals, sterling Hill Tribe spacers, some sterling charms she made and a metal 4 hole clasp.

When I sat down to my work table I started on a simple wire wrapped necklace, I felt bored by it and could not figure how to incorporate the 4 holed clasp. I struggled and struggled...the sun went down and came back up. I finally just put some of the elements aside and decided to just focus on a few of the beads and made a multi layer long necklace.

I used several different styles of vintage chain and created a leather link to compliment the dark brown in the beads.

Here is the clasp that talked back and gave me all the trouble. Vintage lightweight steel chain solved my problem, perfect size without the heavy weighed down feeling.

You can find the list of participants on our Hostess Lori Anderson's blog. Thanks Lori for another fantastic party!

VIB Countdown

2011-09-16T19:54:00.001-05:00

This "Very Important Blogger" (huh, who does she think she is...)

is so very excited to be counting down for my trip to Round Top Texas. I have never been and look forward to going to one of the biggest Antique Fairs in the country.

The fires in Texas are miles from Round Top and are being contained, the weather is cooling off so It is looking good! While in Round Top I will be going to the Marburger Farm Antique Show and will be blogging on site. A VIB package is available to bloggers so that they may keep their readers up to date on the show. Participation includes free admission with press badges, complimentary t shirt and swag bag. Free wifi is available on the show field. How cool is that?

Now I am off to get ready for tomorrow...the biggest, baddest blog bead party in blog land!

See ya tomorrow!

Countdown to Bead Soup

2011-09-15T10:09:00.000-05:00

I can't believe the 17th is just a few days away and the Bead Soup Blog Party will begin! With 362 participants from all over the world this has turned into quite the international event. Lori Anderson of Pretty Things is our hostess and event planner for this event, she does a wonderful job organizing everything and surely deserves a round of applause!

I finished my piece ahead of schedule which is rare for me. I found this swap quite a challenge, I know that is what this swap is all about, but I must say I did struggle and had a few choice words to say along the creating process. I will let you know on Saturday why I was so challenged. I was paired with Karen Sinkowski a new blogger and lampwork artist. She is so enthusiastic about this party and I just can't wait to see what she creates with what I sent her.

Pile of trinkets and a winner

2011-09-12T20:19:00.000-05:00

I always like to save the best for last, so first let me share with you this little pile of trinkets I purchased at the antique shop. I am lucky to know a dealer that gets the best antique early jewelry odds and ends and calls me when she is coming up to the shop, (she's coming tomorrow, yay!)These little odds and ends are perfect for my jewelry designs. Some of you may look at this little pile and think what the heck is she going to do with those? That little pile is my piece of heaven!

Here are a few of the pieces I created using some of the elements from the above pictures.

Vintage Eagle Medallion on Etsy

Victorian cuff link used as a connector (check out the tiny shamrocks on it)

Victorian Sway Assemblage Necklace

and now the best for last...

the winner of the $25 certificate for Vistaprint is..

Beadroe

The day our world changed

2011-09-11T09:20:00.000-05:00

It is as somber day filled with remembering and sadness 9/11/01....the day the world changed. Do you remember what you were doing at 8:46 and 9:02 am ten years ago?...I know I remember it like yesterday.

"For me and my family personally, September 11 was a reminder that life is fleeting, impermanent, and uncertain. Therefore, we must make use of every moment and nurture it with affection, tenderness, beauty, creativity, and laughter." -Deepak Chopra, M.D.

Vintage Button Earrings

2011-09-08T09:44:00.000-05:00

I could not resist working with these vintage glass buttons, even though the buttons seem a bit like spring, I think the earrings would pair nicely with warmer fall clothes.

The red Czech glass beads are so deep in color and I especially love the picasso finish on them.

You can find these on Etsy

Is anyone else having issues with blogger? It has become very fustrating. I still am having a problem posting comments and can not access blogger from Moxilla Firefox. uggghhh!

I am having a super giveaway this week a $25 certificate for printing at Vistaprint.

Be sure to enter here!

$25 Vistaprint Giveaway

2011-09-06T18:21:00.000-05:00

As a special thanks to all of my wonderful blog followers I have a great giveaway for you! Something that will come in handy for many of you, a $25 gift voucher to use on printed materials at Vistaprint. It is a perfect time to restock those business cards or get some postcards for advertising your fall shows!

Enter HERE

Get Carried Away Vistaprint Giveaway!

2011-09-05T11:31:00.002-05:00

lets get carried away...

#1.To enter please leave a comment and tell me your favorite show to attend or exhibit in. It will be fun to hear about different shows around the country.

#2.For an additional entry share this post on your blog, facebook or twitter.

#3. If you become a new follower of JudithBDesigns on facebook or my blog you also get another entry.

and now for the fine print....very important!

~Just be sure to tell me what you did and leave me your email address so that I may contact the winner. This giveaway will end on Monday September 12th at noon.

~the vistaprint offer is not valid in the following states, NY, NC, CT, IL, CA, or outside of the US.

~No cash value/cash back

~Tax and gratuity are not included

~Entire value must be used in one visit

~Cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion

~gift ceritficate must be used by November 10, 2011

you can find this piece on Etsy

Good Luck!

September

2011-09-02T15:55:00.000-05:00

Is is September already??? Lordy, Lordy, I sure would not know it by the weather here, It's been hotter than a goats butt in a pepper patch and dryer than a bone. We have had hardly no rain in August. The pastures are drying up, the poor cattle wade into the ponds in water up to their ankles. Oh, please someone do a rain dance for us because mine is not working!

My little package from Bead Trends arrived yesterday with my September submission and the usual eye candy magazine. I feel honored to be amongst many of my talented friends. You can find my bracelet From the Earth on page 115.

I love the cube beads in this piece, the colors are made from shards of glass. These beads were a gift from my good friend Lori of Cedar Swamp Pottery. (If you ask her real nice and tell her I sent you I bet she'll make some for you.)

College boy just called and said he is coming home with company....I need to stock the pantry! I hope everyone has a great holiday weekend! Stay cool and be safe!

So what do you think?

2011-08-31T20:24:00.001-05:00

seriously....in all honesty I truly want to know what you think of this bracelet,
and no fluff either.

I have lots of old mother of pearl buckles and I never quite know what to do with them, this piece just kind of evolved one day. It has been sitting on my photography table for about a week as I am still trying to decide what I think.

So, since we have this great blog platform I figured I would ask you .

This piece is a combination of styles, vintage, modern, eclectic....It actually is so comfortable to wear and very lightweight.

so, sock it to me, I will still like you...no worries.

Hatch Show Print

2011-08-30T16:46:00.000-05:00

We are taking a little field trip today to Hatch Show Print on Broadway in Downtown Nashville Tennessee. It is one of the oldest american poster shops where they still make letterpress and block printed posters by hand.

I have been wanting to stop in and purchase a poster to have framed, so today's the day and you get to tag

along!

These posters have a turn of the century irresistible appeal. Hatch posters were first used to promote vaudeville, circus, and minstrel shows across the country.

There's a reason why music lovers, Americana buffs, graphic arts collectors and designers, and commercial advertisers of all persuasions continue to turn to Hatch for inspiration.

This is the poster I purchased. It Captures the singing spirit of Music City USA, this three-color Hatch Show Print poster takes historic Hatch elements and updates them stylishly. The end result—a dynamic artistic approach to the essence of Nashville, Tennessee.

Miss Sarah and a little soup

2011-08-28T20:53:00.000-05:00

I had made this resin pendant a while ago and had offered it for sale strung on a sterling ball chain, but it did not sell and it felt "plain" to me. The image is on parchment and I set it in a sterling bezel. Well today, I cliped the ring on the top and filed it smooth and I then set it in a vintage brass setting and mounted it to an etched copper rectangle...wow, what a difference!

It gave the piece some age and looks like it has a story to tell. I added more antique elements and some gorgeous Czech glass beads. A sweet gold washed lingerie pin is the closure.

You can find Miss Sarah in my Etsy shop.

I have been souped! Yay, my little package from Karen arrived the other day and I was so excited to rip into it! Check out the little purse that was holding all my goodies, how cute is that?!

Karen made me some beautiful lampwork beads and some silver charms, she added some Swarovski beads and some hill tribe spacers. I can't wait to get started!

I hope everyone had a good weekend and all you New Englanders survived Irene in good shape.

Talk Much

2011-08-25T13:18:00.000-05:00

Sit long...talk much

This saying has been with me for well over 30 years. My mother-in-law had a painted sign that said those very words and I always love it. I have painted that saying on chairs and have used it in other graphic designs. Today I used it in a piece of jewelry.

Etched and stamped metal along with a vintage watch gear mounted on an old charm, all strung on a great vintage brass chain.

I am still having issues with blogger, I suppose I thought it was temporary and it would all be back to normal within a day or so....wishful thinking on my part. I am an impatient person when it comes to technology, I want it fast and I want it now. Looking back at the telephone in the pendant, do you realize our kids don't even know what that is? I had purchased an antique phone a while back and had it home, my son Nick was amazed by it and asked how it worked? It dawned on me that the rotary dial is not even in their vocabulary! Talk about technology and speed!

Thinking of all you Carolina folks as you retreat from the up-coming storm. Be safe!

30 Years!!

2011-08-22T11:45:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it....time goes by so fast...no I am not celebrating my 30th birthday (oh Lordy how I wish I was!!!) I am celebrating my 30th wedding anniversary to the man of my dreams! We have been blessed with a wonderful life filled with love, fun and so much laughter. He makes me laugh everyday!

I had hoped to have a giveaway starting yesterday but I have been having some serious blogger issues so I am postponing it. I am not even sure if this post will post correctly. I use Moxilla Firefox as my browser and whenever I try to go to my Dashboard it shuts me off and does not work. So I am on Internet Explorer, although there are still some issues with things not showing up and my words getting all moved around.

Well I am off to spend the day with my darling husband. I hope ya'll have a great day too!

A few more Rosary inspired pieces

2011-08-19T16:29:00.000-05:00

I have two more rosary necklaces to share with you...One of my favorite things to create are religious pieces. I love vintage and antique rosaries for their beauty, patina and the feeling they have. Those of you who also work with these know what I am saying. I am not an overly religious person but I do find these pieces humbling and comforting. The medals and crosses are time worn with history and a past,they fit my designs beautifully.

You can find this piece in my Etsy shop.

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Victorian Mourning Locket Rosary Necklace

Thanks for stopping by. The weekend is upon us and I hope ya'll have great plans! Stay tuned, I am planning a great giveaway for Sunday!

The Believer

2011-08-18T23:13:00.000-05:00

My intentions for today was to post and show you three necklaces I created from old rosaries....but I ran out of time, so I will only show you one piece and save the others for another day.

I found these beautiful glass rosary beads at the Nashville Flea Market last month, they have the image of Mary embedded in each bead, in addition I thought the color was great as it is not common at all.

I created the pendant from a fabric scapular and preserved it in resin. I was very happy with the outcome, my first time doing this technique to fabric. Tiny turquoise beads along with some very old filigree compliment the rosary beads nicely. It is a super lightweight necklace to wear. You can find The Believer in my Etsy shop.

I'm Feelin Horsey

2011-08-16T20:10:00.001-05:00

Perhaps it is after that nice country ride out to Leiper's Fork and seeing all of the gorgeous horse farms....naaaahhh, I always feel like this. I LOVE horses! My love developed late in life, 4 years ago to be exact. I am fortunate there are horses all around where I live, I can go out on my deck and hear all of the nickering from a neighboring farm. It is a longing I have deep within to own a horse. So for now I will share with you some horse themed necklaces I created in the past few days.

Enjoy!

Windsong Farms

Roman Chariot Brass Medallion Cuff Bracelet

Antique Hunt Scene Repousse Brass Medallion Necklace

Leiper's Fork

2011-08-14T15:04:00.003-05:00

It has been a busy week and I just realized that I have not blogged since Tuesday. Where has all the time gone? It has been a week of appointments...car repairs, a dental visit, work at the antique shop and some jewelry making squeezed in. Yesterday the DH and I took a ride to Leiper's Fork. We have lived in Tennessee for 5 years and this was our first visit. It is not terribly far, over an hour at most and so well worth the country ride. Rolling hills, and tons of horse farms along with beautiful estates. Leiper's Fork is the home of Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban, as well as the Judd's, Faith Hill and Tim McGraw. The town in so charming and reminds me of one of our favorite towns in Vermont.

We passed this sign yesterday and laughed so hard...

Learn to play Polo...no riding experience necessary! For real? Seriously??

I hope everyone has had a great weekend. It seems the temperatures are starting to cool a bit. It is funny when 89 feels cool.

My favorite!

2011-08-09T17:55:00.000-05:00

I had a million things I should have been doing this morning before an appointment with the dentist, but I HAD to make this bracelet. I had it all lined up to make last night but was too tired to get up off the couch. So before I left the house I finished it and it made my morning...this piece just delighted me! I love the way it came out...the only thing I wish is that I had more of the vintage butterflies.

Good news, I am happy the way the bracelet came out...bad news I had to have a root canal. Ouch! Not planned at all, but done. At least I did not have to stress about it...only my wallet does now.

You can find this piece in my Flapyourwings Etsy shop.

Bracelets 3 ways

2011-08-07T19:40:00.000-05:00

If you follow my blog then you know I create jewelry in several different styles, although when displayed together they are a cohesive group.

Here we have Through the Keyhole. A rustic cuff style bracelet. I have been experimenting with some leather and found layering it suited me best. A weathered copper base, leather and an old brass keyhole with natural verdi patina. I hope to offer this style in my wholesale line, I am still working on the design and this is the first. What do you think? Honestly...

Here you have Green Lagoon which is in the August issue of Bead Trends. For this piece it is all about the color...the Chrysoprase is just stunning and pairs so nicely with the smooth rich color of the Amethyst.

and lastly...Vintage Rhinestone Sparkle. An assemblage of vintage findings featuring a very sparkly rhinestone earring re-purposed as the focal in this bracelet.

Do you have a favorite? Perhaps vintage is not your thing...what is your favorite style?

My Two Favorite Things

2011-08-04T20:23:00.001-05:00

I love working with vintage and antique elements almost as much as I love shopping for them. It is all about the hunt and the treasures you can find. I know y'all know what I am talking about..... that awesome feeling you get when you see a really cool piece and you are able to claim it as yours. My jewelry design allows me to enjoy my two most favorite things...hunt and create. I am extremely fortunate as lots of my findings come from the antique shop where I have a antique booth and where I work 3 days a month. There are several ladies who keep me in mind when they go to auctions and sales they always have great things for me to pick from.

This antique button necklace has lots of old elements in it. Mother of pearl button from my stash, old watch fob chains and antique glass cube beads. Etsy is also another great source for vintage finds and I am addicted to searching for them. The vintage raw brass figaro chain comes from LuxeOrnaments and the rhinestone beads are from EightJewelry also on Etsy. This necklace is available at Bright's Antique World in booth #158.

Faith, Hope and Love

2011-08-01T18:33:00.000-05:00

And now these three remain: faith, hope and love.
But the greatest of these is love. ~

...and Teddy Roosevelt...because.

You can find Faith, Hope and Love in my Etsy shop.

Tomato Tomahto

2011-07-30T15:23:00.000-05:00

You say tomato, I say tomahto...either way they are my favorite things to grow, there is nothing like a fresh picked tomato! I have 6 varieties of tomatoes growing in my garden this year, my favorites are the grape and the heirloom variety. The grapes are so sweet like candy and a great snack to nibble on. I also like to roast them to toss into pasta and for pizza. This is my first year growing the heirloom tomatoes and they are HUGE, very meaty and tasty. Today I picked about 7 and I am making a fresh sauce. I do not follow any recipe just a little of this and that. Olive oil, fresh garlic and chopped onions, fresh basil, some red pepper flakes, salt,fresh ground pepper and let simmer. I will need to add some tomato paste later to thicken it up. An easy sauce that you can do so much with.

What's your favorite summer time veggie? Do you have a favorite recipe to share?

ADDD

2011-07-29T14:21:00.001-05:00

Yeah, that's what I've got....ADDD or more commonly known as Attention Deficit Dusting Disorder. Some-days it just hits me. I start doing one thing and then before I know it a dust rag is in my hand and I am re-arranging and dusting. Then I go back to my studio and start working and it starts all over again. On days like this I just have to let the syndrome take over and be glad my house gets semi cleaned.

I have not shared a picture of Captain Morgan in awhile so here he is in all his glory! This is his usual sleeping position, he is the silliest of cats! Lately he has taken to sleeping with us in a space between our pillows. This was taken at like 3 in the afternoon and he is already staking his claim. He sleeps like a rock there is no bothering him one bit!

Pondering...
I have been giving the thought of offering a line of my jewelry for wholesale. It would have to be pieces that are easily re-produced but still staying true to my esthetics and offering one of a kind pieces. I am not new to wholesaling as years ago I had a very successful wholesale business called "Country Glen". I made handpainted copper pins and sold to stores through out the US via sales reps. It was a great business but all I did was work. Due to the economy, and a severe swing in what the retailers were willing to pay and then our move to the South things changed and I was done. I got really burnt out, when you make over 10,000 pieces a year it wears on you.
However, I am now ready to jump back into that market but in a very limited way and on my terms, not on a rep that I am trying to satisfy. A few things I need to get are some printed jewelry tags and earring cards. Can anyone recommend a good on-line source? I rather go by a recommendation than out of the blue. The ones I use now are good for shows but not for store displays.
Well, I better get back to my dusting...have a great evening!

Laugh Darling

2011-07-27T14:22:00.000-05:00

Here is a whimsical piece I call "Laugh Darling". An assemblage or collage pendant. My most favorite part is the old Victorian pin that says "Darling", how cute is that? 

Created with Verdi patina-ed and etched copper , a resin charm created from a vintage dictionary definition and stamped,hammered copper.

Thanks for stopping by!

Queenie

2011-07-24T15:25:00.000-05:00

I suppose we all need to feel like a queen once in awhile. Yesterday was kinda my day as it was my birthday. Although the day is really like any other it is nice to know it is your special day and you own it. So, what did I do? I puttered (my favorite thing to do)...visited with my good friend and neighbor, make some jewelry and did not get dressed until 7pm. Ate Chinese food that I did not have to cook or pick-up and then went to play cards with some friends. It was a nice day.

So, if it's not your birthday and you want to feel Queen like, maybe this long necklace will put you in the mood. You can find it here.

...if you would like one of these crowns you can also find them in my Etsy shop.

Hope everyone is staying cool and enjoying their weekend!

Make Magic

2011-07-19T20:07:00.001-05:00

make magic

some future projects...

I finally got it right! For the last few weeks I have been having the most difficult time etching copper....spending hours getting the metal ready, stamping, designing...then 95% of them would not etch. I was so frustrated! I bought new acid and peroxide...still not working. So I tried again, this time checking Google...(picture me banging my head against the wall). I had the damn ratio's wrong. Instead of 2 parts peroxide and 1 part acid, I was using 2 parts acid and 1 part peroxide. sigh....

So finally I am back in business!

you can find this piece in my Etsy shop.

I have also listed some new etched pieces and some copper blanks for painting and or stamping. You can find them here.

....and here she is!

2011-07-18T20:03:00.000-05:00

You know I have been looking for one of these gals for sometime. So when a friend of mine said she found a dress form I had to go and get her. Here she is in all of here glory!

She certainly has been around the block a few times...she is missing her base and has some boob problems, but she is all mine and I love her!

I am debating on repairing the rips, or just trimming the muslin back. The form will be great for my booth display, so eye catching! Hopefully my DH will be able to make a base for her.

On my way home from Kentucky the other day (after picking up my new girl) I stopped to take a few pictures. Here I was in the middle of corn fields and farms. It was hot as usual and the cows were cooling off. Whenever I see cows in the ponds it just makes me smile.

Only one curious cow turned my way and then went back to swishing her tail.

gotta love Picnik...so many fun things to do to your pictures.

A glimpse at my Antique booth

2011-07-17T10:29:00.000-05:00

The other day I spent about 6 hours at the antique shop working on my booth at Bright's Antique World. It really needed a good cleaning and re-arranging, this is something I always puts off but when it's done it is so worth it. I don't usually just move a few things around...I move everything around even the furniture.

I have a hopeless addiction to transferware dishes.

...and white ironstone.

I also have some of my jewelry designs for sale as well.

Today I am spending time in my studio where I can relax. The last few days were busy with estate sales and cleaning and pricing new finds for my booth. I found an awesome set of teal blue rosary beads yesterday so I will play with them today.I finally found via a friend something I have been wanting forEVER! I will share "her" with you tomorrow. Hope everyone is having a great relaxing weekend. As always thanks so much for stopping by!

Grape Candy

2011-07-15T18:10:00.000-05:00

I tend to stay away from bright colors (does turquoise count?) in my jewelry designs but today a little jar of colorful polymer clay beads was calling to me. This piece and many more will head over to a shop in historic Franklin Tenn. called Heart and Hands, a shop that sells only items handmade in Tennessee and I have been selling there for a few years. I am trying to be better about keeping my inventory up as my sales are great when I am well stocked.

Looking at the beads all I can think about is grape candy and sticky fingers.

These fabulous polymer clay beads come from Hande Burge of Aslancrafts.etsy.

Thanks for stopping by!

Hot Connections

2011-07-13T11:37:00.000-05:00

As promised here is the book I mentioned in yesterday's post, "Hot Connections" by Jennifer Chin, published by Potter Craft. When I was first asked to review this book my first thought was no, because my skills are not in soldering. However I am very glad I agreed. This book has a wealth of information from basic metal skills, annealing, drilling,how to use a jewelers saw, riveting, how to make jump rings, applying patina's along with sanding and finishing. Great color photos and clear precise directions. The book continues with what is needed to set up a soldering station and then on to easy and more complex projects.

I really liked what Jennifer had to say in the Preface of the book. "Before you begin soldering, I'd like to offer some advice: First,, there's no one "correct" way to make jewelry, only techniques that provide direction and encourage experimentation with tools and materials."

Here is what inspired me to make my ribbon earrings yesterday.

Although my earrings are quite different from these shown here, this book inspired me to try a new technique I had not thought of before and create something that was more in my style.

Hot Connections is 160 pages of easy-to-follow resource for people who have experience making jewelry and want to expand their skills to include soldering in their creative repertoires.

Copper Ribbons

2011-07-12T15:35:00.001-05:00

It is extremely hot and steamy here in Tennessee so I am staying put in my nice cool house! We actually have been having a heat advisory for the last three days. Today I am working on earrings and it seems my color palette is non-existent as I am only staying with one color...Turquoise. Here is a glimpse at some of the pieces I have finished.

These may actually be good to wear in this heat...just shake your head a bit and you have a nice little breeze going on. 

I was inspired to make these from book I was asked to review. Although my skill set is different from the ones in the book, these came out more like me. I think we all adjust according to our abilities and skills when it comes to following instructions in a book. What a book does for us is inspires us to create and hopefully learn something new. I think you will be surprised to see what type of book it is and what my interpretation came from....tomorrow I will share the book with you! 

You can find Copper Ribbons on Etsy.

Stay cool friends!

Giveaway Winners!

2011-07-09T13:05:00.001-05:00

Congrats to Lana of Something Unique and Jenna of Redshadow for winning my blog giveaway. Please send me your addresses so that I may send you your winnings!

It seems that the consensus is that we ladies do not leave the house without earrings on, I know I feel naked without mine.

Thanks to all who entered and for your comments. I hope y'all have a great weekend!

These have me laughing!

2011-07-08T19:48:00.000-05:00

Trixie & Lola

I found these photo's on Etsy today on a site called "Frightened" and thought everyone may need a little chuckle. They are so cute in a weird kinda way!

This is what happens when you combine a love of antique photos and animals.

If you want to see more of these unique photo's hop on over to "Frightened".

It is not to late to enter my Bead Trends giveaway. I will be drawing two winners tomorrow. You can enter HERE.

Light and Lovely

2011-07-07T10:51:00.000-05:00

There are times especially in the hot months that I do not like to wear much jewelry (however, I never leave home without earrings). I tend to go for something lighter ...I mean it is bad enough to be choked by the terrible humidity here in Tennessee,I don't need my necklace doing it too! So, for me here is a pretty alternative.

Elegant Romance on Etsy

A sweet little necklace that is light on the neck. I used one of the great findings I found in Connecticut (also available here) and added an antique Victorian button. I used a copper disc to finish the back off and give it a nice neat look.

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Be sure to enter my Bead Trends giveaway. Two prizes will be given away, the July issue of Bead Trends and a pair of earrings that are also shown in the July issue. Giveaway ends July 9th.

Bead Trends Giveaway

2011-07-06T14:26:00.002-05:00

I just received my package from Bead Trends and was wowed by the cover...the turquoise pail and sand are perfect for July and the lampwork earrings by Tracy Gonzales just gorgeous! There are so many great projects in this issue especially the crochet necklace by Sharon Borsavage...this is really just wonderful and so creative. You also do not want to miss The designer highlight who is Cherrie Fick, she shares her love of nature in all of her wonderful designs. Don't you just want this issue? Well.... Seeing that I just love to share I would like to give a way a July issue of Bead Trends to one lucky blog reader and to another lucky person the pair of earrings "Midnight Dance" that I have on page 41. Yes, that's right two winners!

Ok, now to all the fine print...(1) Become a follower of this blog and leave me a comment telling me what type of jewelry you wear everyday. Is there something you just can not leave the house without?

(2) Hop on over to my JudithBDesigns Facebook Fan page and be one of my friends. Your name will go in the proverbial hat for each entry, just let me know what you did. Giveaway ends on Saturday at 12noon.

Ok dokey...good luck!

You had me at woof

2011-07-05T16:36:00.001-05:00

"He is you friend, your partner, your defender, your dog. You are his life, his love, his leader. He will be yours, faithful and true, to the last beat of his heart." Unknown

An assemblage necklace created with a vintage Iowa dog tag and one of my vintage dog stampings. I am in love with this guy...I mean really how could you not love that mug!

You can find this piece in my Etsy shop.

I have one more piece to charm you with...

"My Little Scottie"

You can find Scottie in my Etsy shop.

I see a giveaway coming up....check back tomorrow!

Nostalgic Americana

2011-07-02T22:57:00.001-05:00

What a great time of the year...the 4th of July! Summer means picnics and good times spent with friends and family. I hope everyone has a great 4th! We also need to remember those who serve our country and those we have lost protecting our freedoms so that we can continue to wave our proud flag. Here are a few pieces I created with just that in mind.

God Bless America

Nostalgic Americana

resin heart pendant 

 You can find these pieces in my Etsy shop

Arizona Treasures

2011-06-30T16:59:00.001-05:00

Concho's

The word concho comes from the Spanish "concha" which actually means "conch" or "seashell" but has come to mean round or oval disks (occasionally rectangles) of silver used to decorate saddles, bridles, clothing, used as jewelry such as for pendants and bolo ties and for adorning or making belts.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I have returned home from Arizona with lots of little treasures for making jewelry and a terrible cold. It was not the most pleasant plane ride with my ears feeling like they were going to explode and to tell you the truth I was hoping they would! I am really excited about my finds and if my nose wasn't dripping all over the place I would be in my studio right now.

great leather scraps from the saddle shop, milagros and some great beads from the Town Dump.

My antique and vintage finds from the Antique Emporium in Cave Creek Az.. I coveted the most awesome green glass rosary beads and more milagros.

My little collection from the Scottsdale Bead Supply. I fell in love with all of their handmade bronze components..all though they were very pricey.

I am glad to be home amongst all my goodies and I can't wait to get started on a few Arizona inspired pieces. I hope everyone is doing well, thanks so much for stopping by!

P.S. I am having a 20% off sale on all of my handmade etched components in my Flapyourwings Etsy shop. New etched pieces are in the horizon!

The town dump

2011-06-27T21:10:00.000-05:00

We were told to go to the town dump ( in my favorite little town of Cave Creek Az.) I was a little skeptical to say the least...but we went anyway, as you can see it not full of trash.

I want that angel girl in the worst of ways!!

great selection of crosses...I see a new collection in my future.

some really great ironwork...unfortunately my suitcase is way too small!

We went to beautiful Sedona yesterday....it was an awwww kind of day!

The Creative "Us"

2011-06-25T20:35:00.000-05:00

The Sonoran Desert

We enjoyed another great day in Arizona and got to take a class at Creative U in Care Free. My friend Eileen and I took the PMC Organic Forms class with the most fabulous and talented Jen Hanscom as our instructor. The class is pretty easy and relaxing , Jen also taught us so much about PMC and its uses and different techniques. Creative U is a really warm and inviting place with the nicest instructors, they also offer studio time at a very reasonable cost...if only I had them in Nashville!

Jen and Kathy (the owner of CU)

Me and Eileen

I know it is hard to see...My little leaf projects before firing. Jen is going to fire them on Monday for us. We took home the rest of our PMC slip and will make a few more pieces for firing on Monday...see they are so nice that way.

... I will leave you with this picture that is posted on the CU bulletin board, a little chuckle to end your day!

ha! Off to Sedona tomorrow!

Amazing Saguaro's

2011-06-24T21:06:00.000-05:00

The saguaro is a large, tree-sized cactus species. It is native to the Sonoran Desert in the U.S. state The saguaro blossom is the State Wildflower of Arizona.

I am here in Scottsdale Arizona with two lovely friends. This is my first visit here and my first to the desert. I am in amazement of the scenery and the incredible landscape. Our day started with a nice soak in the spa and a swim then we visited this small charming "cowboy" town called Cave Creek, I was smitten...while there we went and signed up for a jewelry class on PMC, had lunch at the "Horny Toad" and shopped at a great antique emporium ...where I found the best treasures!! A perfect day!

A few more pairs...

2011-06-22T00:02:00.000-05:00

I have had these findings from AD adornments for about 2 years and finally they came to life. I added some vintage metal and glass rosary beads in keeping with the vintage feel that the findings have. I also added some tiny czech glass beads and rhinestone roundels for a little sparkle. Handmade sterling earwires.

Prayers of the Past

Falling Leaves

Czech glass leaves and sterling

these are so lightweight!

I am packing my bags once again, on Thursday I am leaving the very hot and humid state of Tennessee and heading to the extremely hot state of Arizona. I am meeting my good friend Eileen (from Massachusetts) in Scottsdale and we are staying at her friends home. I have never been to Arizona and have never seen the desert. We plan on having a spa day and will also be going to Sedona, I think a jewelry class may fit into our schedule too.

Pearls from the sea

2011-06-19T16:33:00.000-05:00

How I love mother of pearl... especially buttons! The irregularity and iridescent that makes each one so unique.

I think with the addition of the sterling box chain it adds a little modern touch...a kind of balance...the old and the new..

You can find these here.

Gorgeous vintage carved mop that had a former life as clip on earrings...I gave them new life into dangle earrings.

You can find these here.

I hope everyone is having a great Father's Day, be it with your Dad or remembering special memories. I know my DH is enjoying time with his dad in Connecticut.

sadness

2011-06-17T19:56:00.000-05:00

I started the day working on some earrings ...and then came some very bad news....a loss so horrible I can not begin to imagine. My dear girlfriends son was killed in Afghanistan. I still can not comprehend this family's terrible loss. Eric was 20 years old...the same age as my son. He was a gunner in the Army and was killed while on mounted patrol, his vehicle hit an explosive device.This was his first tour and was expected to come home in two weeks. My thoughts are filled of him as an infant, toddler, and young boy to a vacation we spent together at the beach. God Bless Eric and his family and we thank him dearly for his bravery and serving in the United States Army to protect our freedom. It surely gives us pause at what is most important to us.

our lady

out of sadness you reach for what comforts you

Found Objects

2011-06-16T19:03:00.001-05:00

I hit the road today for a little treasure hunting...made a few stops at some antique shops that I have not visited in a long time. I have been working on lots of "found object" pieces lately and was on the hunt for some more treasures, you know you can NEVER have enough! Here is the little pile of goodies I came home with today.

Steel chain, old watch housings, watch fob chain, #1 tag and a cool old key

I see something with resin for the watch housings and the rest who knows just yet...

While I was shopping at The Rare Bird I met this really nice and helpful lady...she knew just what I was looking for, most of the things came from her showcase. Lisa had the nicest booth, our tastes were so similar. Well, it turned out she is also a blogger....how cool is that! Lisa's blog is called "Out Junking" be sure to check it out here.

Here are a few of my latest Found Object pieces.

Dainty Sue

Lost and Found

You can find these in my Etsy shop.

Thanks for stopping by!

Round the corner

2011-06-12T20:54:00.000-05:00

..round the corner there may wait,

a new road or a secret gate.

Can you guess which famous author wrote these words?

no peeking!

You can find Round the Corner in my Etsy shop.

The Enlightened One

2011-06-10T19:10:00.000-05:00

Here is a little copper cuff I made the other day....I used some copper tube and hammered away. I messed up on my lettering as it is not centered on the cuff...but I like it anyway.

What do you do with your mistakes...toss them out and start over or make do and work around it? There is a uniqueness that comes from a letter perhaps stamped backwards or different size links...whatever it is, it may be a mistake to you but not to someone else.

"in time of Emergency"

2011-06-08T21:52:00.000-05:00

I wanted to share with you this treasury created by Thispage on Etsy. It is called "in time of Emergency", it certainly is fitting considering the many weather disasters our country has been suffering through. A necklace of mind called "Nashville Rising" is included. I created this piece last spring after Nashville and its surrounding areas were severely flooded.

You make me look so good BT!!

2011-06-07T20:56:00.000-05:00

I am so honored to be Bead Trends designer highlight this month. I was thrilled when they asked me and now I am just tickled pink to see how they showed my work. I lived for weeks camped out at the front door waiting for the UPS man to arrive with my Bead Trends package and it finally arrived this past Friday.

I just LOVE how this photo came out.....I was like "WOW" who made that?....

yeah...I actually forgot what the pieces looked like.

I made these pieces way back in December....a wild and crazy month for us. I just had major surgery on my leg and we went to Connecticut to spend Christmas with my husbands family.

I remember now, that I almost did not send this piece in.

I would love to thank the kind folks who sent me emails about the issue and to my facebook friends for their kind words.