Monday, May 24, 2010

I'm Back

Apologies to all who have checked in for updates over the last few months. I guess having a blog is like an exercise program. Doesn't do you any good unless you spend time with it on a regular basis. No excuse. I just lost track of time.

Since my last post, I've taken a few workshops including one on wire-wrapped rings. Great fun. Not something I'd list on the Buy Bling site since size matters. Rings need to be customized to both fit the hand and the wearer. Enjoyed it though but the bling I've added to my own wardrobe.

Have also experimented with some new materials like stainless steel wire which is harder to handle than expected. To date, I've played with some pendant designs. Looking forward to a bangle bracelet workshop at the end of June where I hope to pick up some new techniques.

Earlier this month, I also enjoyed the second annual Bead Bop staged by a handful of independent bead shops in the Ottawa Valley area. The concept is you buy a passport for a nominal fee which entitles you to some discounted prizes for the duration of the event. Each shop also provides some goody give-aways and you're eligible for a grand prize draw at the end. Great way to support local merchants and develop new sources.

Thanks to the Bead Bop I also found a new lampwork studio. It's been a few years since I've worked with this technique so I'm now taking a refresher workshop on making my own glass beads. Will have to wait for next week's session to see what came out of the kiln.

Most of my free time is invested in yardwork these days -- planted half the vegetable bed this week -- but I still have a few new pieces to share with you. Enjoy.

On the right  is a close-up of the FIVE Swarovski crystal rivolis used in this wire and beadwork endless chain necklace. Unfortunately the photos don't do justice to the beauty of the Volcano crystal. Sorry, this one isn't listed on the Buy Bling site since I decided to enjoy it myself. But there are some new items on the Necklace
catalogue.

You have to start somewhere

Q. When does a hobby stop being a hobby?
A. When you no longer continue the activity for pure enjoyment.

That being said, I’m a hobbyist who enjoys creating. My current interest is mostly jewellery – glass beads, metal, natural stone and minerals. I get a kick learning a technique or working with a medium I haven’t tried before. The problem is what do I do with all the items I’ve made. My solution is this blog.

I’d rather see the bracelets, necklaces et al find a home with someone who will enjoy wearing them as much as I did making them. If I can cover my costs as well, then I can afford to keep trying new projects without going broke. Sounds good in theory. Hope it works.

Look forward to hearing from you by email if you see something you like or have questions.