BeadsByEarthTones

Texture

2012-03-07T10:42:00.000-08:00

New Creations....

Down to earth and full of imperfect texture,

kinda like me ;)

Repairing

2012-03-03T09:56:00.000-08:00

I know, I know, it's been awhile...

For the last month or so, I have been busy coming to terms with my pending divorce

and there just wasn't any desire to to drench you with my sorrows.

Fear not though, I feel like I am finally on a clearer path and my heart is starting to heal.

It's amazing how my beads can be cathartic.

So with my head held high and a smile on my face, I will continue to push forward because

I get to wake up to these beauties every morning...

and that, my friends, is all that matters!

Green

2012-02-02T09:30:00.000-08:00

Honored to be amongst such beauty....

'Vegetation' by RobinCottage

All Natural Tree Neckla... MrLentz $70.00	Felted Acorns, lime gre... feltjar $12.00	moss fox / original pai... ohchalet $22.00	Handmade Soap - Choose ... prunellasoap $19.50
Green Grass Ring in Gun... SeahagAndWalru... $24.00	Vintage Green Square Ti... RedEggBoutique $36.00	Osampo Bag (small bag f... aikafeltworks $41.30	Green vegetation soap d... ceramiquecote $20.00
Linen pincushion - cro... namolio $15.00	Crochet Acorn - Green annemariesbrei... $3.50	Hand painted green arti... whitedeershop $19.00	Bag Hanger - Purse Hang... colorelish $15.00
Minimalist Photo-Green ... Maddenphotogra... $15.00	Evergreen: Made To Orde... LoftFullOfGood... $14.00	Handmade Polymer Clay P... BeadsByEarthTo... $6.00	Leaf Button - Ceramic B... BackBayPottery $6.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Crabby

2012-01-27T13:51:00.000-08:00

Can a dog be crabby? I think so...

I had to move her from her favorite sunny spot which is my favorite place to take pictures of beads.

Crabby Abby.

Buttons anyone?

2012-01-25T10:26:00.000-08:00

I was recently approached, through Etsy, to sell my beads and possibly buttons at a local fiber shop here in Bend. Talk about exciting, cuz' I'll tell ya, I don't like doing the craft fair, booth thingy...it's just way too exhausting! I've made a few buttons, not with any real excitement, but the other night I got to thinking buttons in my new Imprint Series could possibly be really pretty...

sweet little bird

little field mouse

cute as a button?!

sorry, just couldn't help myself...

Winter Has Arrived!

2012-01-18T09:04:00.000-08:00

It's been a very unusual, warm winter for us Oregonians, but today...

Jack Frost has finally found his way to us (5 inches and still falling).

My boys are so happy! Hot chocolate, movies by the fire, snowman making,

and a little extra time for me to bead.

Here's to snow days!

Following Through

2012-01-12T10:22:00.000-08:00

As part of my desire to get healthier, ugh, I purchased a juicer. Not being very hopeful and knowing in the end it would sit, lonely, in the cupboard, I dove right in. Well folks, I must say, I love this juicing thing.

My favorite recipe that involves the veggie part....

Carrots, cucumbers, spinach, pears, and apple...

all organic, of course, cuz that's what the people say you have to do these days...

add a little ice, blend, and voila, a perfect green conglomeration.

I know, I know, some of you are probably cringing in disgust, but it's actually very tasty and the increased energy, not to mention a few pounds dropped from my back end, make it all the more worthwhile.

Come on, try it!

I double dare ya!

Ideas, ideas!!

2012-01-10T09:59:00.000-08:00

They pop up in my mind, float around for awhile, and if I neglect them in any way they

end up taking a hike. I now keep a pretty little notepad by my marble slab so I can jot

these things down before they have the chance to run away.

Here's my latest idea...

Pretty bead caps. I've found they're deep enough to create

lovely bell earrings too :)

SALE Time!

2012-01-03T09:32:00.000-08:00

Lots of resolutions this year including the typical weight loss, getting healthy business. I wonder if there will ever be a year when that ugly issue won't be first on the list?!

I have vowed, however, to clean up my little studio (so I can actually see what I'm working on) and I've decided to have a daily sale in my Etsy shop during the month of January. Out with the old and in with the new, right?! Maybe you'll see something you like ;)

TOTAL CHAOS!

Not as bad, but definitely not enough room to make beads.

I really must learn to put things away after their job is done.

2011-12-17T18:01:00.000-08:00

Christmas already?! How the heck can that be? Fortunately I finished my shopping weeks ago, but I do have one remaining person to buy for...my new sister-in-law. I'm her secret Santa this year (she doesn't read this so I know I'm safe) and of course jewelry is in order, but I want to make her something special.

And since I cannot stop making these...

the possibilities are endless...

so I want to make one especially for her with a soft, soothing color combination.

I came up with these last night....

the blue with the dusty rose, oh my, I can't stop looking at them.

She's a pretty simple gal, so I may just put one on a simple chain or on a thin piece of leather.

Now just watch, with my luck she's gonna visit my blog for the first time tonight and the big secret will be out.

I was never good at keeping secrets anyway...

New Path

2011-11-28T10:33:00.000-08:00

I've said it before, when it comes to making my beads, I'm all over the place. I've never been able to tie myself down to a particular style, until now....

I have finally found my niche

Possessing a tremendous love for nature, I have always tried to somehow incorporate it into my beads, always feeling unsuccessful. This new line of mine, "Imprint Series", seems to capture exactly what I've been missing all these years...they make me happy.

So far they have been well received which guarantees a good home for them (yes, I get easily attached).

Hope you enjoy and thanks for stopping by.

Gobble, gobble

2011-11-23T13:58:00.000-08:00

Here's to a wonderful day...may it be filled with love and family.

See you soon!

My new love...

2011-11-09T14:38:00.000-08:00

No, I didn't get a new dog, although if it weren't for my husband you would definitely see me on Animal Planet's "Animal Hoarders"...yes, I am that bad. Anyhoo, I've been carrying this little guy in my pocket all day because I love him so...

He's part of my new "natural" series. Not sure if I can part with him...

Beads for the shop...

2011-11-01T14:23:00.000-07:00

Finally had a chance to sit down and mix up some beads. It's all about Fall colors for me....

I just can't get enough.

I've discovered eight-thirty is my favorite time of the evening. It's my chance to unwind with my favorite episodes on Hulu and bead away. I don't think about anything...really...

husband usually peeks in on me only to wipe away the drool on my chin, it can get gross.

But we all need our downtime, right?!

New news

2011-10-26T14:43:00.000-07:00

Wow, seems like forever since we last chatted....so many new things happening in my little life right now and when I start to even think about writing up a new post I tend to get a little insecure. Really? Do you honestly think people want to know about these little random events in your life? Well, (I tell myself) isn't that what this blogging thing is suppose to be about? Geez, my lack of confidence really makes me want to scream sometimes. Do you ever have those days?

So now that I've gotten that out of the way (aren't you glad you stopped by today), let's get on with it!

My jewelry is finding yet another home in downtown Bend, Tres Jolie. They require at least 50 pieces so I have been extremely busy coming up with a Fall line....

I am hoping they will be well received :)

Then there's the new name change at Etsy. I have been waiting THREE years for this!!! Standing ovation for the Etsy team please. My bead shop will finally be know as BeadsbyEarthTones and I will also change my jewelry shop to AlisonPageJewelry. Trying to get the whole branding thing down!

Hopefully (crossing fingers) I'll be able to sit down and start making beads again. So many ideas for a new, more natural look to my beads...stay tuned and...

Happy Fall!!

Home on the range

2011-10-04T17:35:00.000-07:00

Temporary life on the farm has been relaxing and quite peaceful.

A few pics...

Lots of room for the boys to explore

Local wildlife

Hoping to catch a frog

We told the boys this was their bathroom

And a beautiful sunset every night

Although we'll miss it, it's so exciting to be settling into our very first new home. Still so much unpacking to do, but I did get my clay station up and maybe tonight I'll get a chance to play with some new ideas that have been vacationing in my head.

More soon!

Bead Soup Has Arrived!

2011-09-16T23:59:00.000-07:00

And man...is it hot!

I have to be honest, this go 'round was a HUGE challenge. The glorious beads sent my way by Miss Amy ended up frying my brain. I have NEVER worked with seed beads before...they are tiny...so very, very tiny and I will be forever finding them hidden in cracks and crevices all over the house because when they drop, well, it's all over. BUT, because Amy sent such a generous amount, I am happy to report I was able to create not only a necklace, but a pair of matching earrings.

So let's break this down:

Pros: A bright and cheery assortment of beads. Every time I glanced their way I couldn't help but smile. So shiny, so sparkly. And the colors all complimented each other perfectly, not to mention my pretty little fishy pendant (I refer to her as Gladus). Also, everything was extremely lightweight so I didn't have to worry about piling it on, and oh, did I pile it on.

Cons: I have always worked with neutral, earthy colors (hence my name). When I opened my box from Amy, it was like beams of light filling the room. This is not really a con, but it stumped me quite a bit ;) And have I mentioned the seed beads yet?! Oh good god they are TINY!!!! Amy....how do you work with these things and create such treasures?! I bow down to your talent!

So without further adieu....

My double stranded necklace and earrings.

I even added a couple of my polymer clay beads.

Amy, thank you for your generosity and the challenge of thinking outside of my box. I believe we can all fall into the same ol' same ol' routine and sometimes we need to be shaken up.

Cheers to all!

"Please visit http://lorianderson.us1.list-manage.com/track/click?u=7d27f8dfca54ef70719fc9ded&id=2b0a2cce00&e=0318632938 for the full list of participants"

Goodbye....

2011-09-01T10:34:00.000-07:00

I just packed up my clay....my tools....

(sad)

This means no more bead-making for a whole month. And it's funny, I've been in a bead idea rut for awhile, and as soon as the clay hit the box, ideas started to flow like water. What is up with THAT?

Time To Eat!

2011-08-29T16:45:00.000-07:00

I'm hanging my head in shame for not having posted pictures sooner of my beautiful Bead Soup...not to mention the pictures are of horrible quality, but, here it is...

Look at all that COLOR!!! Although Amy and I have totally different techniques and style when it comes to jewelry-making,

we do have the love of color in common.

Really, did you see the color?!

Holy cow! I know I should have taken the beads out of the bag to show them off properly, but they are soooo tiny and I was afraid they would roll away to join the land of the lost.

And did you see this guy?

He's so very shiny and sparkly....I love him :)

I have NO idea where to start and what to create, but once my brain calms down a bit I know it will come to me. Thank you Amy for your incredible and generous soup...you'll be taking me to a different realm!

MIA

2011-08-26T15:26:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm here, somewhere beneath this HUGE pile of boxes....help?!

See this pretty, fit woman looking so organized? Well, that's not me...

Awww, and look at this helpful family, again, not mine...

Basically, how I feel....

Oh well, at least we have....

a new home! Yay, we are so excited to be buying our first house.

A place to put some real roots down. :)

We close on September 23rd so we'll be moving into a

vacation rental temporarily (on a farm)!

You probably won't hear from me much until October begins.

I will be posting pics of my beautiful Bead Soup tomorrow, until then...

Tranquility

2011-08-18T09:08:00.000-07:00

Life is getting a little hectic over here...

my brother gets married tomorrow, the house needs to be packed and ready in 2 weeks, the boys start school SOON, and during all this I'm trying, unsuccessfully, to run a business. SO, to tame the madness I'll be taking a break from clay for a couple of weeks....I can already feel the shakes coming on.

I woke up to this treasury featuring some of my beads. I think someone is trying to tell me something...

What is it they say...."Keep calm and carry on...?!"

'tranquil' by gallery37

Classic Forest Green Ha... RiverOfRomansk $45.80	Faces necklace - handma... BlackDaisyDesi... $87.00	Bestill - Landscape pho... irenesuchocki $30.00	Peace and Tranquility T... AberdeenLane $16.00
3 Crocheted River Rocks... HomespunHandma... $9.00	FEATHERS Watercolor Ori... lorisworld $25.00	River Rocks StoneHood $8.00	Handmade Turquoise Tran... islandgirl88 $23.00
River Stone 8 mm Round ... alatsupplies $5.00	Antique huge brass Key imaginedplace $14.00	Sand dollar, fused glas... ArtoftheMoment $32.00	Sand Castles .. vintage... HulaGirl1922 $18.00
JOURNAL - Large Moleski... thebigharumph $15.00	Humming bird pillow cov... gracioushome $20.00	Handmade Polymer Clay o... EarthTonesOnli... $9.00	scalloped mirror in nat... uncommon $78.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Partnering Up

2011-08-13T08:19:00.000-07:00

I was anxious to see who Lori would partner me up with for the Bead Soup Blog Party.

Drum roll please....

Amy from AmyBeads!

Like me, she's WAY into color, but that's about all we have in common. Our styles are so incredibly different...

(peyote stitched cuff by Amy; where the heck does one find enough patience to do this?!)

And that, my friends, is the whole point of this Bead Soup dealy...

to challenge ourselves and force ourselves to think outside the box.

Here's what I sent Amy...

guess you'll just have to visit Amy's blog for the big reveal ;)

Enjoy your weekend!

Wheelies

2011-08-11T09:19:00.000-07:00

Finally, a new shape!

I get so tired of the same ol' rounds, lentils, discs...

So watcha think of my new rustic wheelies?

It's Coming......

2011-08-02T08:44:00.000-07:00

Have you signed up yet? If not, head on over to Lori's site and do it!

I guarantee you'll have a GRAND time! :)

Organics

2011-07-29T09:28:00.000-07:00

I'm finally getting some of my favorite beads back in the shop....

After a day of hiking you can usually find my backpack stuffed

with all sorts of interesting oddities which are then

incorporated into my beads.

They have such a wonderful worn feel to them.

Moving On

2011-07-17T10:40:00.000-07:00

Abbigail is recovering nicely, although being on a 24 hour leash

is not her cup of tea.

The boys refer to her as Frankenstein....

On another note, Kevin and I have just learned that we need to vacate our rental house in 2 months. Something about the owner having financial difficulties....crud. It really serves us right seeing as we have procrastinated on buying a house for far too long.

So on to packing and finding a house in 2 months...

I have found some time for some new beads.

After putting these in a collage, I noticed the softness in the palette of colors. Seems like my brain was seeking a little downtime after a week of stressful events. And since it's Sunday, my goal is to do nothing. That's right, I said it, nothing...now let's see if I can really accomplish just that.

Cheers!

2011-07-08T10:10:00.000-07:00

Already the 8th of July and I haven't blogged once this month...time just slips by so quickly during the summer with constant activity some good, some bad.

The bad...

Abbigail has completely destroyed her cruciate ligament and will go in for surgery on Monday. It's a $2500 repair and some people have told me it's too much money to spend on a dog and then I look at this beauty, full of love and innocence...

And I believe she's worth every penny.

Gee, better get to making more beads!

The good....

My jewelry has been accepted into this little hot spot here in Bend and has been doing quite well (all proceeds go to Abby's knee, thank you very much).

The best...

Lazy days full of laughter and fun.

I have been working on beads, honestly. Finishing up some custom orders and coming up with some new designs and color schemes. I will post pictures soon, promise. Until then, enjoy your days.

Brighten your day...

2011-06-29T17:34:00.000-07:00

How pretty is this treasury?!!

'Not Gonna Lie...Green and Purple are Fabulous!' by inspirationalbanners

These two colors look wonderful together. Enjoy!

Summer Garden - Artisti... PolyDreams $24.00	What Love Between Siste... hilariagalleri... $400.00	Yarn Scrap Bundle For C... KnitzAndFeltz $3.50	Handmade Polymer Clay R... EarthTonesOnli... $11.00
Guest Book BOX- Purple ... itsmyday $56.00	Set of 4 - Cotton XL LA... LuckyHanks $19.00	Vintage inspired Apron ... apronqueen $26.95	Blue Twirl Scarf StitchesByGran... $40.00
DEEP WATER Fused dichro... EarthWindFireW... $24.00	Summer Fun Turquoise, L... TahoeQuilts $220.00	Amethyst and Peridot Pa... JILLreDESIGNS $24.00	1950s floral cotton ga... pinkvintagebou... $54.00
Set of Four Blue,Purple... tylerjocreatio... $5.00	Handmade Clutch - Purpl... BagBoy $45.00	Butterfly Garden, Pillo... chimeracustomq... $16.00	Double peacock bridal f... kathyjohnson3 $18.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Hiatus

2011-06-27T10:27:00.000-07:00

I've been taking a little break lately from my work...too many other things to distract me.

Days at the lake...

Hiking....

My, way too cute, hubby...

and poochies...

Life is WAY too short not to enjoy the little things and although it's taken me 37 years to actually understand that exact concept, I finally do and am that much happier because of it.

Cheers!

Holy Guacamole!

2011-06-15T09:14:00.000-07:00

Mmmmmm....just writing that word makes me drool with desire.

I should really run to the store so I can whip up a batch tonight....

Anyhoo, back to the reason I titled my post with that scrumptious word. Lori Anderson blogged about some of her current favorite beads at ABS and she included a picture of some beads she had purchased from me a couple of weeks ago. I cannot tell you how delighted I was!

Making beads, night after night, is a true passion of mine. Had I not found this passion, I think I would have been declared insane and found tucked away in an asylum...seriously. We won't go into details, but life got a little hectic and I needed something to pour my heart into (other than my beautiful boys).

Each bead is an object of my enthusiasm, my joy for the life I live.

So without getting too philosophical about a darn bead,

thank you Lori for the feature and appreciation of my work.

Humbeled

2011-06-01T08:44:00.000-07:00

I was approached by an Etsy customer a few weeks ago with a special request in mind.

Both of her nieces were diagnosed with breast cancer and she wanted to make

them something special using my beads.

She wanted the beads to showcase breast cancer awareness,

but to also possess a rustic, warm feel.

Having never made my own molds before, I thought the ribbon beads came out well...

I also made some more beads with personal imprints in them...initials, words...

and then I antiqued them for the rustic feel.

I was a little nervous, wondering what my new Etsy friend would think...

I wanted them to be perfect for her nieces...well, it turns out that she loves them.

I was so very touched to be a part of such a personal project and I thank her for that :)

Attention Bead Addicts!

2011-05-24T09:23:00.000-07:00

Have you visited Art Bead Scene Blog lately?

Well, you should because they are having a MEGA giveaway!

Did I say mega...collosal is more like it.

I am drooling with pleasure.

The giveaway will happen on May 30th;

would be a perfect birthday present for yours truly.....

Now go and dive into this generosity!

Cheers!

Double Ugh...

2011-05-12T10:04:00.000-07:00

I am now on my 11th day of this blasted cold/sinus infection and life, well, it sucks right now. I know I shouldn't complain, there are far worse things going on than my stupid cold, but I just blew my nose for the bazillionth time and now cannot hear out of either one of my ears.

(sympathy violin playing just for me)

or as my oldest said to me over Cheerios this morning, "Mommy, I'm gonna call the Waah-ambulance!"
This did NOT make me feel any better, but I sure did smile...

Anyhoo, look at this pretty treasury TheGypsyAssasins featured me in last night...

'A Cooling Warmth' by TheGypsyAssassins

Inspired by MimiMicheleJewelry

Flashy Birch Leaf Neckl... FizaDesigns $38.00	BLUE Agate RING beadycats $32.90	Teal Blue Maple Leaf Me... CopperLeafStud... $45.00	Blue and copper leather... AwakenJournali... $40.00
SALE Porcelain Trinket ... felicesereno $17.00	HUGE MOVING SALE Sale..... Jessicabstract $46.55	Handmade earrings, hoop... MimiMicheleJew... $28.50	Misty Moody Moon Hand-P... kharaledonne $36.00
Boucle Bowl yellowee $17.00	Handmade Polymer Clay B... EarthTonesOnli... $9.50	SALE embellishment nest... laurl $2.76	Stained Glass Suncatche... glassetc $25.99
Midi round copper earri... dawily $20.00	Blue Gold Victorian Flo... vicandalbie $28.00	Symphony Art Tin - blue rengalsa $25.00	Shimmer - 8x10 Fine Art... flandersfield $25.00

Treasury tool by Red Row Studio.

Look at all the different hues of blue...warmed me up inside :)

I love, love, love art in every form!

I'm off to slink back into bed with my cup of tea.

Hope you are all healthy and enjoying the beautiful sunshine!

Ugh...

2011-05-04T08:48:00.000-07:00

I woke up feeling like this...

after being sick, derby practice,

and taking care of a sick little boy all night, all I can say is

UGH!

BUT, I am not complaining (ya, right)...

I'm gonna drink my coffee and make the most of this

gorgeous, sunny day...whose with me?!

I have some new beadies to show you later today;

just need to get some pics done.

Here's hoping you're ready to conquer the day!

(BTW, that's Harriet up there. She resides at the Portland zoo. Isn't she a beauty?)

My dirty little secret...

2011-04-27T11:18:00.000-07:00

Well, not exactly a secret, but I thought I'd share what else I like to do besides

beading and jewelry.

Yup, I'm a derby girl and oh, how I LOVE it!

Bet you didn't see that one coming?!

I'm actually going through the 3 month training process and if I pass the final exam

I'll be a part of these gals...

the Cinder Kittens.

I wake up with aches and pains and bruises and motrin has become my best friend,

but it's so worth it. So there you have it my cyber friends.

Life is WAY to short not to have a little fun...

Cheers!

My other children

2011-04-22T16:29:00.000-07:00

As I walked into my room to get ready for bed last night, I came upon this....

Love comes in all forms, doesn't it?

Have a wonderful holiday weekend!

New Beads

2011-04-19T09:24:00.000-07:00

I came up with these pretties last night while watching some horror flick on Hulu. The movie was so bad, can't even recall the name, that I had time to actually concentrate on what I was doing. I love the colors. They kinda have an Egyptian flare so I anointed them River Nile.

We have beautiful blue skies here today...hope you're feeling the sunshine!

Tumaini

2011-04-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

I am a lover of all creatures great and small. In fact, I cannot recall a period of time when my life did not, in some small way, revolve around their presence. It had been my dream to achieve a college degree that would allow me to work with them, but, as it goes, life happened. I fell in love, got married, and had my boys. Now my days are filled with them and my bead/jewelry businesses. My life is good. But, there is a slight void that is aching to be filled and as it so happens, I came across the solution.

I just recently found out about a private sanctuary here in Bend, Oregon called Chimps Inc. Their goal is to offer lifetime sanctuary to adult chimpanzees in need and at the moment there are 11 chimps in their care. I was blown away by their story and what they have done to care for these creatures, each of whom has been saved from horrific conditions. I will be applying for a volunteer position there, but I also wanted to do something special; something involving my art. So I came up with a new collection of beads/jewelry that I have named Tumaini. Tumaini is Swahili for hope. Hope for awareness, hope for habitat renewal, hope for a better future...

The start of this collection will soon be up in both stores and 30% of all sales will go directly to Chimps Inc.

For the love of purple....

2011-03-24T09:21:00.000-07:00

This treasury just made my day!

My purple discs are happy amongst such incredible color.

(and yes, I have a relationship with my beads)

'Two Tone - Purple / Pink' by AngelaDesign

Upcycling Ring - pencil... ArohaJewelz $9.50	Purple Orchids giclee f... karenfaulknera... $20.00	Felted purple pincushio... astashtoys $8.00	4 Long felted wool stic... dramaofgiftedc... $10.00
Magnificent Magenta Lov... TheStitchEnd $3.50	Purple Capacitor Post E... clonehardware $10.00	Double-Faced Hot Pink S... GriffithGarden... $1.25	Small Two Tone purple/p... mannmadedesign... $28.00
7 Flower buttons, vinta... oritdotan $3.00	Felted Fuchsia Pink Bag cowgirlrosie $50.00	Big Girl Juice Scrabble... TightlyWound $6.00	RESERVED - SAKURA - ch... RiRiFisch $18.00
Big Hot Pink Owl Pendan... owlsomegifts $18.00	Handmade Polymer Clay D... EarthTonesOnli... $9.50	1960s Her Majesty Silk ... afarawaylook $18.00	Spring - Mini Pencils B... tinyisland $6.00

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

Spring?!

2011-03-20T10:35:00.000-07:00

First day of Spring and we woke up to snow!

At least I have this pretty treasury to look at :)

'Carnival!' by greetingsfromjane

25 PINK Striped Straws ... HeyYoYo $4.00	PRINTABLE PARTY CIRCLES... tomkatstudio $12.00	Enjoy vintage look circ... homemadecircus $45.00	Carnival Stickers pumpkinbeans $6.00
CLOWNING AROUND gift se... Melsfunsuds $7.00	Fun Popcorn Soap LoveLeeSoaps $4.50	Carnival felt flower hy... louandlee $20.00	Vintage Carnival Invite... BushelandPeckP... $20.00
Fun Belt Buckle- Collab... bmused $20.00	Carnival Birthday Bunti... BlueMoonStudio... $25.00	Circus Clown Chunky Rin... MichellesCharm... $5.00	Elephant with Letter JessicaBush $25.00
S A L E - Handmade Poly... EarthTonesOnli... $11.50	bright lights - fine ar... donnahwhittake... $25.00	White - 48 Raffle Ticke... greenridge $0.99	Bozo Brother Clowns - C... HeyHarriet $6.00

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

Full Moon

2011-03-19T11:57:00.000-07:00

An honor to be in this beautiful treasury.....

'Purnama - a Celebration of the Full Moon' by Indounik

Blow O wind to where my loved one is. Touch him and come touch me soon. I'll feel his gentle touch through you and meet his beauty in the moon. These things are much for the one who loves. One can live by them alone: that he and I breathe the same air and that the Earth we tread is one. ~ From the Hindu epic, the Ramayana.

Moon light - Sterling s... artisanlook $194.00	Lake Erie 5, Moonrise -... jennifersquire... $35.00	SHINNY ORGANIC NATURAL-... CGPGemBeads $13.79	FULL MOON, vintage Swar... plasticouture $24.50
Pale Moon Face Bubble R... bnoelbijoux $16.00	Lotus Rising LotusArtwork $75.00	cradled moon, a celesti... ORphotography $15.00	Super Moon Funkychunkies $22.00
Supporting the Moon - 8... judemcconkey $30.00	Mother of Pearl and Gre... Serrelynda $28.00	Handmade Polymer Clay P... EarthTonesOnli... $6.00	Moon Over Owls Earrings... decoratethediv... $20.00
Phases of the Moon Brac... nerdgoddess $15.00	By the light of the Moo... mingtaphotogra... $28.00	White Plumeria TheSnapShot $25.00	Moonlit Ocean Quilted W... CraftsandCultu... $200.00

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

2011-03-15T19:33:00.000-07:00

I have this spot on my worktable where items I have bought sit and wait for my inspiration to take over. Sometimes, as in the case of my vintage brass pieces, they get a little dusty. But, FINALLY, it came to me. Maybe it was my brain telling me how sick and tired it was of this cold weather or maybe (crossing fingers) it was my creative side speaking to me.
Either way...

My new pretties made with some of those vintage brass pieces.

They sing to me with the promise of warm breezes and blue skies.

What a Trip!

2011-03-04T08:46:00.000-08:00

The Bead Soup Party has come to a conclusion and boy, was it a blast! Not only did I meet a bunch of really cool people, but my eyes were given the opportunity to feast on some beautiful works of art. But, good lord, I AM EXHAUSTED! That was an awful lot of blog hopping :)

I want to thank everyone who took the time to stop by and look at my goodies and I really appreciate all of the warm, positive comments that were left...makes a gal feel so good.

Now, back to the grind...

Soups On!!

2011-02-26T08:56:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the 3rd Bead Soup Blog Party!

What is a Bead Soup Blog Party?

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

~ A focal

~ A special clasp (not just a lobster claw)

~ Some coordinating spacers or beads

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

My partner was Anna from The Laughing Raven and she sent me some gorgeous components!

Anna was so generous I ended up making two pieces. Most of my past bracelets have always been single strands, but I thought it would be fun to try something a little different here.

I love the turquoise/copper combination...such a soothing theme. The tiny seed beads added a splash of color. The copper clasp, (isn't it beautiful), worked perfectly with this trio.

And next came the necklace. So much fun to make! Can I just tell you how much I love that silk ribbon? It's so comfy on the neck and the colors are amazing. I had NO idea how to use the fairy focal at first...she had a lot of holes, but I ended up filling them with the colorful seed beads, almost as if she offers treasure to the one who wears her.

What an experience this was! Thank you Lori for putting this all together and Anna, your soup was perfect!

Here are the rest of the participants....
Stop by if you get a chance!

1. Lori Anderson, Pretty Things

2. Kitty Durmaj, Perles and Life

3. Michelle Heim, Life In the Bead Lane

4. Lisa Petrillo, Lucid Moon Studio

5. Anitra Gordy, Leelu Creations

6. Paige Maxim, Paige Maxim Designs

7. Marianna Boylan, Pretty Shiny Things

8. Cheryl Roe, BeadRoe

9. Heidi Post, Ex Post Facto

10. Cindy Wimmer, Sweet Bead Studio

11. Terri Gauthier, Blooming Ideas

12. Rachel Walsh, Balanced Crafts

13. Marian Hertzog, M's Place

14. Mary McGraw, MK's Musings

15. Sarabeth Burke, Chronicles of Sarita

16. Deci Worland, Gem Trails

17. Erin Prais-Hintz, Treasures Found

18. Laura Zeiner, Stick Lizard Designs

19. Kristin Latimer, MJM Jewelry Designs

20. Cathryn Brooks-Williams, Chile Cats

21. Holly Westfall, Silver Rose Designs

22. Janna Harttgen, Palima-Lim

23. Libby Leuchtman, Libby Leu

24. Rebecca Anderson, Songbeads

25. Deb Hunter, Living On Air

26. Diana Ptaszynski, Suburban Girl Studio

27. Jennifer VanBenschoten, VanBeads

28. Margot Potter, The Impatient Crafter

29. Cyndi Lavin, Beading Arts

30. Courtney Breul, Beads by Breul

31. Stefanie Teufel, Stefanie's Sammelsurium

32. Patricia Gasparino, My Life Under the Bus

33. Tari Khars, Pearl and Pebble

34. Kristi Bowman-Gruel, Kristi Bowman Design

35. Jayne Capps, Mama's Got to Doodle

36. Becky Fairclough, Chameleons Designs

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

38. Lynne Bowland, Islandgirl's Insights

39. Barbara Lewis, Painting With Fire

40. Lorelei Eurto, Inside the Studio

41. Stacy Hartis, Sissy & Jack's

42. Jennifer Cameron, Glass Addictions

43. Marcie Abney, La Bella Joya

44. Johanna Rhodes, Fire Phoenix Creations

45. Nan Emmett, Spirit Rattles

46. Melissa Mesara, One Eared Pig

47. Amanda Davie, Articulations

48. Cherin Poovey, Lanyard Lady

49. Virginia Joste, ViviBijoux

50. Andrew Thornton, The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton

51. Lori Dorrington, Lori's Glassworks

52. Melanie Brooks, Earthenwood Studio Chronicles

53. Kate Gardenghi, Tropical Blonde

54. Serena Trent, PinkIce Jewel's Blog

55. Malin de Koning, Beading by Malin de Koning

56. Shai Williams, Shaiha's Ramblings

57. Francy Inman, 8 Second Studio

58. Amy Freeland, Copper Diem

59. Lisa Liddy, Joolz By Lisa

60. Sandi Lee James, Do Be Do Bead Do

61. Mary Harding, Mary Harding Bead Blog

62. Stacey Curry, Star Hitched Wagon

63. Leslie Gidden, Mad Maggie Designs

64. Elisabeth Auld, Beads For Busy Gals

65. Niky Sayers, Silver Nik Nats

66. Linda Djokic, Lutka and Co.

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

68. Laurel Steven, Rue's Daftique

69. Ingrid McCue, Wrapped In Silver

70. Birgitta Lejonklou, Create With Spirit

71. Diana Hawkey, Diana Hawkey

72. Norma Turvey, Moonlit Fantaseas

73. Jeanette Ryan, Jeanette Blix

74. Jackie Ryan, Silver Lodge Gems

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

76. Debbie Goering, Prairie Emporium

77. Valerie Norton, Hot Art

78. Jana Trupovniece, Stories of the Secret Garden

79. Amy Severino, Amy Beads

80. Emma Thomas, Fred Beans Nook

81. Karen Zanco, Everyday Gypsy

82. Suzann Sladcik Wilson, Beadphoria

83. Janet McDonald, Singing Woods

84. Dana James, Dana's Jewelry Designs

85. Kristina Johansson, Wild Roses and Blackberries

86. CJ Bauschka, CJ Bauschka

87. Angela Barribea, Re: Angela Rae

88. Marcy Lamberson, Studio Marcy

89. Tanya Floyd, Glass Migrations

90. Lisa Kavanaugh, Beading Bliss

91. Sue Hodgkinson, Hello Gorgeous

92. Jenni Connolly, Jenni's Bead

93. Nally Parfyonova, Nally's Creations

94. Karyn White, Releases By Rufydoof

95. Emanda Johnson, Artemisia Studio

96. Sandy Richardson, Sandy's Coloring Box

97. Cindy Dolezal, Cindy Dolezal Designs

98. Stacie Stamper, Park Avenue

99. Mallory Hoffman, For the Love of Beads

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

101. Nicole Valentine-Rimmer, N. Valentine Studio

102. Jacinta Meyers, Jamberrysong's Creations

103. Charlene Gary, Gray Girl Studios

104. Rubiee Hayes, Glitter and Keys Galore

105. Marge Beebe, Rock Creek Creations

106. Elizabeth Freeman, Turquoise Sky

107. Shelby Foxwell, Sundown Bead Designs Rhetoric

108. Lynda Moseley, Diva Designs

109. Grace Danel, Grace Beading

110. Lois Moon, Que Onda Quitman

111. Agnes Shapiro, Beader Bubbe

112. Terry Carter, Tapping Flamingo

113. Judy Glende, Judith B. Designs

114. Mary Ellen Parker, Bee Tree By Me

115. Barbara Bechtel, Second Surf

116. Charlene Sevier, The Bead Dreamer

117. Alice Craddick, Alice's Beads and Baubles

118. Cory Celaya, Art With Moxie

119. Ronda Adams, The Ravished Heart

120. Sandi Volpe, Sandi Volpe Designs

121. Anna Lear, The Laughing Raven (my partner!)

122. Susie Hibdon, Vintagesusie & Wings

123. Amanda Austin, Sea Shore Glass

124. Jennifer Velasquez, Jen Judd Rocks

125. Hazel Ward, All Those Things

126. Brenda Salzano, Salzanos

127. Dee Gordon, Runako Designs by Dee

128. Anna Denisova, Anita-M

129. Margaret Saari, Mags-Jewelry

130. Genea Crivello-Knable, Genea Beads
131. Penny Neville, Copper Penny

132. Angela Blasingame, Hopemore

133. Helena Fritz, Beadwork by H's Blog

134. Stephanie LaRose, Confessions of a Bead Hoarder

135. Stephanie Haussler, PixyBug Designs

136. Diane Cook, Rosa & Josies

137. Maryse Thillens, Glass Bead Art

138. Jennifer Pride, Jewelry by J.P.

139. Shannon Chomanczuk, For My Sweet Daughter

140. Lisa Godfrey, Bead Happy

141. Heather Pyle, Welcome to My Muse

142. Regina Santerre, Regina's Writings

143. Liz DeLuca, Creative Arty Facts

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

145. Loretta Carstensen, Loretta's Boutique

146. Raida Disbrow, Havana Beads

147. Amber Dawn, Inventive Soul

148. Shelly Graves, Stars Dance With Me

149. Jess Italia Lincoln, Vintaj Blog

150. JJ Jacobs, Coming Abstractions

151. Carrie Tahquechi, Carrie T

152. Staci Smith, Staci Louise Originals

153. Katarzyna Kwiatkowska, Quiet Area

154. Ema Kilroy, Ema K Designs
155. Magdalena Sikora, Poranna Gazeta

156. Nicole Keller, Nicki's Reef

157. Ann Rishell, My Critical Eye

158. Noemi Baena, Fire, Metal, and Color

159. Christa Murphy, Adventures of One Beady Woman

160. Barbara Blaszczyk, Labotorium Flory
161. Collette Collins, Firefly Myst

162. Carola Greiser, Polymer Clay Shed

163. Joanna Kopijczuk, Bizuteria z Filcu

164. LeAnn Weih, Summers Studio

165. Cassandra Watsham, Design by Cassandra

166. Anna Motz, Stunning

167. Shea Zukowski, Gr8findings

168. Susan Kennedy, Sue Beads

169. Lisa Boucher, Lisa's Clay Happenings

170. Hope Smitherman, Crafty Hope

171. Alison Sachs, BeadsbyEarthTones (that's me!)

172. Dorcas Midkiff, Wondrous Strange Designs

173. Melissa Rediger, Sea of Glass

174. Marina Dobrynina, Savon Feutre
175. Julie Nordine, Julie Nordine

Credit River Art Glass

176. Menka Gupta, Menka's Blog

177. Patsy Evins, Patsy Evins Studio

178. Cherrie Fick, En La Lumie're

179. Suzette Bentley, Ellie's Bijoux

180. Molly Alexander, Beautifully Broken Me

181. Lyn Foley, Lyn Foley Wearable Art

182. Tara Plote, The Newbie Beader's Blog

183. Natalie Schuetz, Natalie S Perlen

184. Kim Hutchinson, Running on Ink

185. Haley Frank, Wide Eyed Smilin

186. Grace Caputo, Suddenly Last Summer

187. Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp, Skye Jewels

188. Erin Siegel, Erin Siegel Jewelry

189. Janea McDonald, Organized Chaos

190. Kristi Evenson, Colie Bug & Co.

191. Linda Inhelder, Must Haves Jewelry

192. Hilary Frye, FryeStyle

193. Whitney Lassini, Whitney Lassini

194. Nancy Schindler, The Rabbit Muse

195. Pam Brisse, The Blue Between

196. Beth Bricker, Vintage Sweets
197. Ruthie Stickney, Rose Works Jewelry and Gifts

198. Rose Noble, Lady Noble Designs

199. Karen Williams, Baublicious

200. Claire Maunsell, The Next Bend

201. Christine Damm, Stories They Tell

202. Kerry Bogert, Kab's Creative Concepts

203. Wendy Blum, Sand & Sea Designs

204. Juli Cannon, Julsbeads

205. Jenny Robledo, La Dona Boutique

206. Krista French, French Elegant Jewelry

207. Pam Krinski, Ewa Beads

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

209. Dana Jones, Dana's Jewelry

210. Shirley Moore, Beads and Bread

Addiction

2011-02-17T14:59:00.000-08:00

Let's face it, we all have one, maybe two, possibly even three things we can't get enough of. For me, it's usually all about food. If I'm not eating it, I'm thinking about when it's going to happen again.

Yes, it's horrible, but something I have lived with and will live with the rest of my days.

I've accepted it. There, enough said.

So how, you may ask, does this pertain to my craft? Okay, meet my second addiction...shiny beads. I'm not talking about rhinestones and all the bling you see out there. I'm talking about beads that you can see your reflection in.

I have always coated my polymer with a special gloss (4 coats, to be exact). Boy, do I love how they shine! But, I have felt as if I were always cheating myself out of something. I was never quite sure of what that was until I did the research. You see, the pros (polymer clay big wigs) sand and buff their beads. I have always thought this to be quite tedious and way too time consuming. But after reading several testimonies and seeing the finished products, I figured it was worth a shot.

Now I'm hooked. I can smooth out my beads (sanding) and buff each one until I get the desired glossed effect. Yes, it may take a little more time and my fingers do get sore, but it's worth it.

So, although I may never stop thinking about all the yummies that will find their way into my mouth, at least one of my addictions have met with a happier outcome.

Cheers to all!

The Big 500

2011-02-10T14:53:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it...500 sales. It's a number I'm proud of considering I knew nothing about polymer clay when I began this journey. So a BIG thank you goes out to all my wonderful supporters and customers. Are we ready for the giveaway?!

Tari Khars of PearlandPebble was my 500th Etsy sale so she'll be receiving and extra set of beads.

And now for my blog followers....

My husband did the pick...

Boot-C of Mamas Got to Doodle!
Hey Boot-C, thanks for being a reader and I'll contact you for an
address so I can send you some pretties.
Cheers to all!

New Beads

2011-02-04T17:53:00.000-08:00

We've had an unusually warm winter here in Central Oregon. Temps have been sticking

between 40-50 for the last 3 weeks. Might seem cold, but last year our winter lasted until May! My feelings are mixed...I love the snow, but I love to be able to be outside, running,

hiking, soaking up the sun. I guess my heart is content with the warmth and the blue

skies because I made these last night.

The contrast between the blue and browns is

so calming and full of warmth. I've decided to sell sets that include different shapes...

any thoughts on this?

Yummy Soup

2011-02-01T15:02:00.000-08:00

Okay, I have to admit, when I found out I'd been paired up with Anna, I began secretly hoping my soup would contain a scrap or two of turquoise. You see, I had scurried over to her blog (omg, so beautiful) and found out she lives in New Mexico. New Mexico, that's where I'm from! Oh, and how she captures the beauty of the southwest... so....I thought she may have a bit of turquoise in her stash of treasures.
Maybe, just maybe, she'd share a little...?

Oh sweet mama....would you look at all that glory?!
Nuggets AND rondelles, yes, I am spoiled.
Oh and look at all that copper. One of my most favorite materials to work with.
The accent beads are so full of color! Excuse me while I wipe away my drool....
And look at this beauty...

Isn't she beautiful? She's from Green Girl Studios.

I knew, just KNEW immediately what I was going to create...actually, there is so much generosity here I think I'll be making a couple of things.
Thank you Anna, for sending a little Southwest my way and reminding me of home :)
Be sure to check back February 26th for the big reveal.
This is going to be one heck of a party!

Bead Soup Has Arrived!

2011-01-31T16:11:00.000-08:00

I've been anxiously awaiting my package from Anna a.k.a. The Laughing Raven and I got it today!!

Oh, and what treasures I found in my little box.

Unfortunately, there's no sun today so you'll have to come back tomorrow

for pictures of my new treasures....

Winter Treasures

2011-01-26T16:29:00.000-08:00

Look at the pretties I picked up this weekend.

The sun was out and it was quite seasonably warm so off I went on a scavenger hunt/hike.

I tend to annoy my fellow hikers with my oohs and aaaahs as I try to take in the foliage around me...

and then I gobble it all up.

And what do I do with them? They will soon be turned into molds for future beads and pendants, especially that awesome looking pod thingy at the bottom there. Kinda like these...

Cheers!

Giveaway

2011-01-13T14:42:00.000-08:00

Alrighty my friends.

My etsy bead shop has almost hit its 500th sale (yay!) and I'd like to show my gratitude by doing a giveaway, which I've never done, I don't know why, I'm really not a scrooge in any way.

Soooo, when the mark is hit, not only will that person receive an extra set of beads,

but I'll also send one of my blog followers a set of beads too.

So stayed tuned....

Cheers!

Bead Soup Blog Party!

2011-01-07T22:19:00.000-08:00

Have you joined? I just did and I'm totally excited. Can't wait to see who my partner is and what the materials will look like!

Thanks, Lori, for putting this fun together!

And a Happy New Year To You...

2011-01-02T22:09:00.000-08:00

What a crazy couple of weeks and I've loved every minute of them...except the days I spent in bed due to a tummy flu...ugh. I've enjoyed having my little men home from school, much time spent with family, and a beautiful end to the year.

And to start off the New Year....

All items in my Bead shop will be 10% off for the upcoming week. I've taken the last two weeks off and I have a lot of new ideas floating around...so out with the old, in with the new.

Upon completing your purchase, I'll send a quick refund back your way.

Happy New Year!

2010-12-24T08:37:00.000-08:00

Peace, Love, and Happiness!

Snowed In...

2010-12-22T15:00:00.000-08:00

So far 6 inches of the white stuff has dumped with more to come.

Woohoo!

Yes, I love snow. BUT, I don't like to drive in it because I am a big chicken. So, that means we stay home and do fun Christmas projects and play in snow. AND the best part of all....I get to bead more...yes, my name is Alison ans I am a beading addict...that felt really good. :)

I just finished these little lovelies with some of my beads
and now I'm off to make another pair for myself

Because of the mix in colors, I've found they practically go with everything. Here's to having a productive day!

Closing Shop

2010-12-09T18:02:00.000-08:00

Closing shop tonight for the upcoming Christmas show.

Have a fabulous weekend!

2010-12-01T18:05:00.000-08:00

I've got Christmas on the mind, how could I not with it surrounding me everywhere I go. Not that I mind...I have always been a bit of a geek about this holiday. It usually takes me about a week to decorate due to the massive amounts of decorations I own. So, as usual, beading is put on the back burner and even more so now that I am fortunate enough to have my jewelry pieces in a cute little boutique AND now I'm preparing for an upcoming Christmas show. Busy, busy, busy!

One of my bracelets...

My ruby red...

Dreaming of blue skies....

all using my clay beads, which is my goal, but sometimes I do without.

There are just too many different kinds of beads out there;

a gal could go crazy!

Thanks for letting me share and I hope you're enjoying

the beginning of this glorious season.

New Directions

2010-11-20T10:47:00.000-08:00

Sometimes, yes, sometimes I get bored with my beads. I hang my head in shame when I say this, but it happens. When this does occur I try to take my clay new in directions. I was recently asked to show my jewelry in a shop, & Then Some, and in this little boutique were the CUTEST handmade Christmas ornaments. And oh, I needed to be a part of it! So I created these...

Rustic, but still a little shiny...I love them. I made a million, well, more like 20 and saturated a tiny Christmas tree in the shop with them. All different colors and shapes. They look wonderful!

For the Love of Dogs

2010-11-03T09:57:00.000-07:00

I've been feeling a bit under the weather for the past couple of weeks and I do believe my creativity decided to take a vacation. So, to fill the void, I decided to work a little more on Abby. Abby came to us back in April, abused, fearful, and needing much love and attention. It took a month with us before she even wagged her tail. I decided to turn to Cesar Millan for the crucial help we needed. Bought his book and dug right in. She began to transform right before our eyes. Unfortunately, I didn't get the chance to finish the book....

Apparently, Abby didn't see eye to eye with "Cesar's Way" and where she got the matches still remains a mystery. Anyhow, I just recently ordered Cesar's new book, although in my humble opinion it should have been sent free of charge, and we continue to progress in our training and understanding of each other. Her transformation is a beautiful thing to watch.

She even got into the Halloween spirit...

But most importantly, she's happy, loving, smart AND she feels safe.

Mokume Gane

2010-10-17T09:28:00.000-07:00

This is probably my favorite technique and the first one I learned when I picked up Carol Blackburn's book. The design possibilities are endless and I think I really enjoy the thrill I get right before slicing into the stack of clay...will it reveal a beautiful design worthy of all that time or will I be left with a pile of well, poo?! I'm happy to say, I've been fortunate...a lot of happy beads have been made and only a few piles of "poo" have been added to the scrap pile.

Here are a couple of my designs when I first began with polymer clay 4 years ago...

Coming up with different objects to inject into the clay is challenging for me and I usually resort to the old round imprints...pens, paintbrushes, straws, toothpicks. Yes, I get lazy, maybe that's the reason for loving this technique so much.

Here's some of my recent work..

Full of color, just like my life.

Happy Sunday to you!

Halloween Treasures

2010-10-04T10:54:00.000-07:00

An honor to have my beads choosen for
this fun treasury :)

'Oh what a tangled web we weave...' by grandmaspider

"Will you walk into my parlour?" Said a spider to a fly; "'Tis the prettiest little parlour That ever you did spy."

WHAT A TANGLED WEB ... lovespelljewel... $9.95	Tangled Web - Sculp... AUNALIArtisanM... $26.00	Moxie Fairy Wings -... OnGossamerWing... $250.00
Aged Spider jewelr... ravenofskys $34.00	Original Philip Cro... PhilipCrow $219.00	Ginger Tangled Web ... theothermagdal... $18.06
Spiderweb on blue 5... BlueberryBayPh... $20.00	Silver Scent Locket... TheEnchantedLo... $25.00	Tangled Wire Hoop E... hypho $35.00
Handmade Polymer Cl... EarthTonesOnli... $15.00	SALE 10 percent off... SilverArrowOri... $26.99	Oh What A Tangled W... GhostShip $19.00
Natural Dreamcatche... Unseelienchant... $60.00	Spider Web Porcelai... SuiteOneStudio $46.00	Halloween Steampunk... jillddesigns $75.00

Generated using Treasury HTML code generator by Whale Shark Websites.

Happiness

2010-09-26T09:11:00.000-07:00

Many, many things make me happy, but I must say,

when I venture down an avenue with my clay and the

results are successful, I squeal with delight.

And believe me, my husband will attest to the

squealing part, poor guy.

I adore the look and texture of pottery and stoneware

and decided it was time to figure out how to replicate

it with my clay.

And by golly, I think I did it!

Here's what I've come up with so far...

Where do you find happiness?

Spooky Contributions

2010-09-18T12:37:00.000-07:00

I've always been a Halloween fan. Spooky things fascinate me.

So my contribution to the polymer clay bead

world every year are these little guys...

To get into the pre-Halloween mood last night while creating,

I watched Mary Reilly on Hulu. It's a Dr. Jekyll and Mr.Hyde flick...very enjoyable!

But check out this crazy, black cat...

He comes from the imagination of chikiegirlcreations, whom I've always admired.

And yes, he's polymer clay...love it!!

Can you smell it?

2010-09-10T16:12:00.000-07:00

Well, I sure can! The fabulous scent of autumn

is in the air and my innerchild is screaming with excitement.

Not only is this my favorite time of the year,

but it's also my favorite time to create.

Fall colors just seem to suit me well.

So I've begun some new avenues....

Acorns, to soon adorn a necklace...

and some new egg-shaped fall beads with a

beautiful faux lampwork look.

More colors to come!

Refreshed!

2010-09-01T19:02:00.000-07:00

Back from the coast and I am feeling good!

We had a such a fun time and saw some beautiful places.

Yes, this was a really big tree,

but I have this thing for trees...

Lots of romantic walks on the beach with my hubby :)

and yet,

I still woke up feeling (and looking) a bit like these guys...

but I've never been a morning person.

So I'm home, refreshed and ready to go!

I even created this beach inspired bracelet for my jewelry shop and I'm really digging the natural feeling it has.

Now on to fill some custom orders that came in while I was away.

Cheers!

Ahhhhh, vacation...

2010-08-19T09:24:00.000-07:00

It's finally here!

Headed for the beautiful Oregon coast tomorrow

morning for some well deserved rest and relaxation.

The boys are excited and cannot wait to build their sand castle "cities".

My shop will be closed while I'm away...

Capturing Beauty

2010-08-13T08:54:00.000-07:00

Abigail, my pitie, was chasing butterflies again this morning.

You can't imagine how funny it is to watch this "ferocious" puppy frolic in the grass

after these delicate creatures ;)

Anyhoo, butterflies....

they inspire me!

I whipped up some more tiles/pendants last night and applied some bright, eye-catching colors.

and the smaller one...

They have a slightly old, vintage feel to them (kinda how my body felt when I woke this morning).

Hope your day is full of beauty!

Success!

2010-08-11T09:15:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a fun weekend! Set my little booth up at the Bead Stampede in Sisters, Oregon amongst some really big guns....I felt a little out of place (not to mention tiny), being that it was my first show and all. But I seem to have held my own.

I was the only poly clay artist there so explaining the process and techniques involved

in my work to every customer became a little tedious.

Book with LOTS of pictures showing some of the steps is definitely in order for the next show.

But I'll tell you, my favorite part of the show was meeting the other artists.

They were so wonderful and so very helpful!

Now I'm home and can breath a little easier. Time to work. I have so many new ideas....

more to come!

Btw, that's my Mom in the corner there, without which this show would not have been possible.

Thanks Momma!

Closing Shop

2010-08-05T08:43:00.000-07:00

I'll be closing my Etsy shop tomorrow through the weekend. Bead show starts Saturday and I'm taking all inventory with me. Excited and nervous, but I'm sure it will be fun.

Wish me luck!!

Bottling time....

2010-07-27T14:32:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning with a smidgen of terror in my heart...

the show

is in

1 week!!

And of course, I'm nowhere near prepared.

See, this is my first bead show and I really have no idea what to expect. I've done the research, figured out my layout, written my lists, and now I am trying to bead like mad. The hold up....

are they not gorgeous?! My boys, my life.

Summer time means camping, fishing, hiking, biking, laking, and any other outdoor activity you can think of. I spend my days fulfilling their every desire. So that leaves me a couple of hours at night before I go to bed, to bead. Adding to that, sales have shot up along with more custom orders than I can keep up with, meaning my inventory is low; too low for a bead show (dang, nice rhyme)!

Hence the panic.

And now I will kick myself because it really sounds like I'm complaining. I'm not. My life is wonderful and I am so extremely fortunate. I just need more time!!

OK, one more, 'cuz I just can't help it!

It's a Faux Thing...

2010-07-14T16:27:00.000-07:00

I have to admit, I never knew what that word meant until I dove deep into the polymer clay world.

Fox, huh, oh pardon me, f a u x....I am such a DORK sometimes.

Here's the wonderful thing about this medium...the ability to simulate so many different types of surfaces. Probably the reason why I never get bored and why I am so often accused of having polymer clay ADD (yes, I'm all over the place and darn proud of it)!

So here's my latest experiment...

Ringing any bells yet?

It's suppose to look like ceramic. I love these greens.

These were made from a mold of a fern collected on a recent hike.

Simulated ceramic or rather faux ceramic.

Polymer clay excites me way too much!

Bead Buddies

2010-07-06T13:34:00.000-07:00

Do you have one....?

I have two.

They sit or rather lay at the foot of my stool while I bead away in the evenings.

My Abby and Harley.

Pretty darn cute, huh?

New Addition

2010-07-01T14:59:00.000-07:00

No, I'm not talking about the boy band that made my skin crawl in the 80's...

I figured out what to do with my successful tile transfers...keychains!

I have all sorts of fun images just waiting to be assembled.

More to come!

2010-06-22T14:17:00.000-07:00

I was flipping through an addition of National Geographic and came across this photo of beach huts in Cape Town, South Africa. I couldn't help but fall in love with the color contrast so....

My little beach hut house beads; aren't they cute?!

Just goes to show, inspiration can come from anything.

Opening Doors

2010-06-16T13:47:00.000-07:00

My secret is out, I am no longer a closet jewelry maker. I have created way too many pieces to keep them bundled up anymore so I opened ANOTHER etsy shop...the insanity!

Here's what I did with one of my pressed flower beads

Earthy and organic; right up my alley

The shop still needs work, especially the pictures,

but if you get a chance stop on by.

http://www.earthtonesoriginals.etsy.com/