Colors of the Woods

Where is Spring?

2011-03-10T07:25:00.000-08:00

LOL I woke up this morning and, instead of rain, I had another coating of snow in my yard. This is getting tedious.

Today is going to be busy though. I have a dentist appointment (lost a filling and I think I swallowed it), I need to finish some jewelry for my craft show on Saturday, and I need to do some cleaning in this house. If I don't, I'll find myself on the show, "Hoarders", pretty soon.

I have been busy shopping too. LOL Mostly items for the craft show. I bought this lovely holster apron that I can keep my money and iphone in. I will be using my iphone to take credit cards this time. I am really excited and hope it helps sales.

I also invested in recycled paper gift bags and logo stickers so customers can leave my table feeling good about their purchase.

I've ordered new earring cards and a few more jewelry display pieces. Let's see, have I forgotten anything.....?

Tried the New Clay...and Love It!

2011-02-26T11:02:00.000-08:00

I've been primarily working in stoneware clay and I do like what I've come up with, however, this last batch of pendants was made with white stoneware, which isn't as dark or sandy as the previous clay. After it is fired, the color of the bisque is nice and white so you can use a clear glaze and get some beautiful results from the natural clay.

This first pendant is made using a rose glaze that comes out almost plummy. The second one is the same glaze, just sponged off the front and glazed in clear.

I think the lighter clay body makes the glazes I've been using much lighter in color and brighter too. I really love how the celadon and pea green mix well together.

February is Give-Away Month...and my birthday

2011-02-08T17:50:00.000-08:00

I am having my very first give-away on facebook right now and I am really excited about it. If you are on facebook, go to my page and check it out...leave a comment and be eligible to win a copper chainmaille bracelet. If you aren't on facebook, don't worry. My next giveaway will be on the blog. So stick with me, it will be worth it.

Another wonderful artist, Yolanda, of Yolanda's Clay, is having a giveaway right now too. She has a set of clay beads (they are gorgeous too) for some lucky person who comments on her blog. She has been invaluable to me. You see, I just joined the Beads of Clay group on Etsy, and she welcomed me to the group and led me through all the requirements and has supported me on my facebook page and in the group. I have had a wonderful experience so far and it is due to her. Love ya, Yoli!

Jewelry Lessons and Why Snow is Hypnotic

2011-01-27T13:33:00.000-08:00

OK, I'm just sitting here looking out the window at the snow falling and getting sleepy. The snow is whispering to me, "Dana. It's time to go to sleep," and as it falls, I am headed more and more towards snoreville.

So, I thought I'd blog a bit and wake up my brain.

I've had a few people ask me how I started making jewelry. It sort of started by accident. I was a wine consultant at the time and wanted to make wine glass charms for my hostesses, but one day I really noticed the beads I was using and thought they'd look good on a bracelet. Now, mind you, I've never really been big into jewelry. Didn't even wear much of it. But as soon as I put that little bracelet together with wire (it looked horrible and I didn't do it right), I was hooked.

So, I was off to Hobby Lobby.

After buying a bunch of beads and stuff I didn't know how to use, I went home. My Hobster Lobster didn't offer any classes, so I turned to the internet. You wouldn't believe how many websites are dedicated to making handcrafted jewelry! Here are some great tips and websites that helped me along my jewelry journey.

First, for those of you who would like to learn to make your own jewelry, I'd suggest getting a subscription to Bead Style magazine. They always have great tutorials and differing levels of difficulty, so you can start and keep learning as you progress. They also have a great list of tools that are neccessary to making jewelry and describe what they are used for.

Second, look for a good bead store. Hobby Lobby is OK, but they have limited stock. A real bead store dedicated to jewelry components (also may offer classes) is where you will fall in love with all the gemstone beads strands, the silver bali beads, the lampwork beads, the swarovski crystals, and... well, at this point, you will decide to never leave.

Third, go to the internet. Jewelrylessons.com is a great place to start. They have beginning tutorials all the way through Very Advanced. Some cost a few dollars to purchase, but most of the basics are free. Each tutorial is written by a person who loves to make handcrafted jewelry and wants to share what they know with you.

Beaducation.com is another good website. They have online tutorials that show you exactly how to create beautiful jewelry. And they have wicked tools for sale. :)

You can purchase gorgeous beads at Firemountain Gems. I could browse there for hours. They have everything you would ever need to make beautiful jewelry.

Fourth, join an online group about jewelry-making. There are tons on Facebook and yahoo. Just surf the web and you'll find something. If you find a group near you, it is worth your while to join and go to meetings. Women sitting around talking about beads and jewelry is a wonderful thing. You can learn something and make friends. And if there aren't any groups near you, start one! Meetup.com is a great way to do that.

Finally, look for jewelry classes near you. Craft stores may offer them, community colleges, city recreation departments, etc... taking a class can be really fun! There are so many different ways to make jewelry and learning new techniques can so interesting and rewarding. Besides beading, there is wire-wrapping, metal clay, polymer clay, regular clay, glasswork, hemp braiding, silversmithing, etc.

There is always something new to learn.

Happy New Year Y'all!

2011-01-02T15:42:00.000-08:00

The new year brings a lot of things: the taking down of the Christmas tree, the packing away of the decorations, new year's resolutions, and the building of Pinewood Derby cars.

The latter being my husband's big ticket item.

It's the one thing every year he really enjoys doing. He and my son collaborate, purchase supplies, and get to building every January 1st so they can compete with the other Scouts and their dads come Pinewood Derby day. And I have to say, they are good at it. Most years, my sons have come in first in their dens and pack.

For me, the new year means making those resolutions that sometimes I never keep, such as weight loss. I always say, "this year I'm gonna lose those thirty pounds!" And it never happens. Instead of making my new year full of anxieties that I won't meet my goal of weight loss, this year I am starting with positive goals. Some fun things that, if I succeed, will contribute to weight loss, a new ability, and business growth.

I only have two resolutions: to become better at wheel-throwing pottery, and learn to bellydance.

That's it.

Doesn't it sound fun???

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-30T13:17:00.001-08:00

I don't know about y'all, but I am ready for the kids to get back to school already. They are driving me nuts. Love 'em, but the house is much quieter without them.

Due to sick kids and the holidays, I have missed my last two pottery classes, so I am looking forward to my next workshop. My goal is to refine my wheel-throwing technique....well, actually I am just trying to get better at it. LOL About 50% of what I make on the wheel is good enough to fire.

My favorite piece though, so far, is my dogwood blossom bowl. The glaze on this one was supposed to be white, but as the glazes all look alike before firing anyway, somehow the cobalt got into the white and created this pretty baby blue. Talk about a surprise when it came out of the kiln. :)

My pendants are coming along quite nicely. I am very happy with how they look and am trying new ways to make them. Now I just need to buy some new glazes in different colors to mix it up a bit.

This is one of my favorites. It's glazed with a dark brown glaze, sponged off a bit to highlight the texture, and then glazed in clear before firing.

I also have been making ring holders. I am using the stoneware clay, so they are very earthy, hefty, and unique. No one is the same as the others. Some I am making by hand from pinch pots, some I am throwing on the wheel. The processes turn out different styles of ring holders and I want to see which works best for me. The one below was made from a pinch pot.

So, anyway, I will be back in the next few days with some new items being made. Hope to see you there!

I still love copper...

2010-11-18T15:09:00.000-08:00

My son's football team is having their banquet this weekend and I am donating some jewelry for their raffle. I decided on this copper chainmaille necklace with a polymer clay pendant that was made by Stephanie Hanson. I love her work.

Plus, everytime I buy one of her pendants, she donates a percentage to Equine Advocates.

Lots to do...and too little time

2010-11-18T09:37:00.000-08:00

I recently joined the Beads of Clay etsy team and was chatting with the representative, and she mentioned that she tweets/blogs/markets her a$$ off and that it is working for her. I definitely see how facebook has worked for me. My shop get hits just by mentioning them on facebook and twitter, when otherwise it might take time for people to find me.

Now, I used to love blogging. I still do. It's just that facebook and twitter takes less time. Or so I thought. When I really sat down and thought about it...I spend a ton of time of facebook when I shouldn't have to. All the games, people popping in and out to chat with, all the crafters and artists to visit and "like" their latest creations.... It can take a lot of time to navigate.

Time that I could be spending blogging.

And so, my resolve is fixed. I will be a better blogger.

Besides, my craft has gone in a whole other direction now. I am making my own stoneware pendants, charms, and ring holders.

Who knew that playing in the mud as a kid and making my sister eat mud pies could lead to this? ;)

Big Earring Giveaway!

2010-06-01T11:13:00.000-07:00

All this week, I am featured on Cafe Handmade's Giveaway page.

What am I giving away? A gorgeous pair of sterling silver hoop earrings with Greek disc beads.

1) Visit Colors of the Wood Jewelry’s shop and tell us (Cafe Handmade) about another item you like and why by leaving a comment with a link below.

2) Visit the Virtual Craft Show and tell us which booth stands out to you and why. Be sure to leave a link so others can visit too!

3) Tweet about this giveaway, include @cafehandmade, and leave a comment below with your @profile.

Entries will be accepted until June 6th at 8pm EST. The winner will be drawn then.

http://cafehandmade.com/index.php/2010/05/giveaway-by-colors-of-the-woods-jewelry/

To Pickle or Not to Pickle...

2010-05-12T08:35:00.001-07:00

...that is the question. LOL

Now that I am working with copper clay, I find the need to use a pickling solution for the first time. I went and bought my copper clay kit, complete with a cute little mini crockpot, and have it set up in my workroom. I have the pickle solution.

What I don't have is the nerve to use it.

What is a pickling solution? Everytime I think of it, I imagine pickles sitting in a jar. More experienced artists know it to be a caustic solution to take off firescale from certain metals.

Here is a link to tell you all about pickling.

Hence my trepidation.

So, to pickle or not to pickle? Well if I want to finish up that copper jewelry, I must pickle.

2010-05-03T15:26:00.000-07:00

I have been having so much fun making jewelry lately that I haven't blogged in a while. So sorry.
Here are a few pieces that I've finished and listed on my etsy page...

I just started working with Art Clay Copper today. We shall see how I like that. :) More to come!

Metal Clay Class

2010-03-29T08:16:00.000-07:00

Oh, I had so much fun at my class on Saturday. There were two other ladies there, both from Wisconsin, who drove down from Green Bay to take a couple of classes. They were a hoot!

Susan, our instructor, was very good. She makes some gorgeous jewelry.

We had all day, so we ended up making multiple pieces out of silver clay. Silver clay is purer than sterling silver clay. I made one ring, two pendants, and two pairs of earring charms.

Sorry, the photos aren't that great. I decided to keep all the pieces for myself so I didn't take the time to photoshop them.

Since I have a love of dogwood trees, I decided to free-hand this dogwood blossom onto a disc pendant. I deliberately did not burnish the inside of the blossom so as to give it the appearance of being a separate layer.

I like these earrings! I used a modern pattern on the surface, and made separate discs to give it a feminine, tinkly, sound when they move.

This pendant was of my own design, but patterned after the one we used as a template. I liked the earthy feel of it. I used a "tree bark" pattern mold to give it texture, and then used the syringe to freehand the "vines". I also used a peridot gemstone as a focal piece. After the firing, I dipped the piece in liver of sulfer for an antique effect and then burnished it to bring out the silver highlights.

This ring was my worst piece. It came out rather egg-shaped instead of round. LOL But it came out a little nicer than I expected after I added some free-hand syringe work and then antiqued it as well.

I have many ideas for making jewelry out of the silver clay. I plan on more dogwood blossom pendants, acorns, pine cones, etc... The possibilities are endless!

Tomorrow is the Day!!!

2010-03-26T08:05:00.000-07:00

Whheee! Tomorrow is the day I take my precious metal clay class! I am so psyched!

I have been interested in this medium for about a year, but couldn't find a class close enough to me. And I "ain't" going into the city to take a class. No way, no how. I don't like driving into Chicago since I get lost too easily. I'm a country girl through and through.

My husband recently asked me what I do all day.

Well, I make jewelry, network online to sell my jewelry, twitter to sell my jewelry, blog to network to sell my jewelry, network online to meet other crafters to get ideas on selling my jewelry,....you get the picture. It's a never-ending process and I am enjoying it so much.

So. Today is going to be a long day, I can tell. Tomorrow night I'll post pictures of the items I make at my class. I can't wait to show y'all!

So in the words of the famous southern Geico pothole....

"Kay! Bye!"

Top Etsy Shops April Features

2010-03-23T07:35:00.000-07:00

OK, The blog, Top Etsy Shops is having a contest. Your blog can be featured for the entire month of April if you just follow a few easy steps.

I can always use the added publicity, so I am posting their links so I can be added to the drawing.

You can too! Just go over to Top Etsy Shops and join in!

http://topetsyshops.blogspot.com/

Long time, no see!

2010-03-23T07:20:00.000-07:00

I am so addicted to facebook. I swear! I spend most of time on there networking, when I'm not making jewelry or taking care of the kids. I have neglected my blog and I am sorry.

Not too much going on lately. Same old same old...but I am taking a precious metal clay class on Saturday and I am very excited about it.

I was surfing the internet one day for bead stores in my area and came across Art Clay World, which is located a few miles from my house. Didn't know it was there, or even existed. So, I called them up and asked some questions about classes and next thing I know, I am at their gallery getting a tour of some of their artists pieces. I was hooked!

For those of you who might not know what Art Clay is, it is a precious metal clay that you can sculpt, then fire in a kiln which leaves nothing but the metal. You can make rings, pendants, charms, sculptures, you can embellish other items...there are so many possibilities.

So, first things first...take the class. LOL Saturday seems so far away.

Selling on Commission

2009-10-17T09:24:00.000-07:00

I've had a few inquiries lately about selling my jewelry in gift shops. How to go about that? I am not even sure.

Right now I am reading "Crafts and Craft Shows: How to Make Money" by Philip Kadubek. It has some pretty good advice on the many different ways to sell your crafts.

I was selling at a craft show last week and realised that I had the highest priced jewelry there. Not that it is overpriced...the opposite in fact...it's just that I had the only wire-wrapped and gemstone jewelry there. Does this mean that I need to start concentrating on Fine Arts and Craft shows? Hmmmm. Something to ponder...

New Line of Jewelry

2009-09-29T19:57:00.001-07:00

I've seen so many women going to their college football games wearing gorgeous jewelry, so I decided to jon the bandwagon. Here are two in my new Game Day line. They are for anyone who's team colors just happen to be crimson and white. LOL

However, I am willing to make some jewelry in other colors. All you have to do is ask.

Some of my favorites on etsy.com

2009-09-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

'Nuff said. ;)

Hello Autumn!

2009-09-21T10:35:00.001-07:00

Wow, summer is almost gone and today really feels like it. Only 63 degrees out and rainy. Y'all know what that means?

Fall Festivals and craft shows.

I am all set for two craft shows and looking to book a few more. But before I go, I have to redesign my craft booth. I have some great ideas; both simplistic and earthy. It includes burlap.

Here are a couple more pieces that I have up on etsy..

I purchased a tutorial off of www.jewelrylessons.com by CL Design. The copper pendant has been antiqued and polished. I love them!

I Have More Sisters!

2009-09-14T08:30:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally joined the Sassy Sisters in Sales! After having a couple of them invite me, I ambled on over to check them out and liked what I saw.

If you like to shop, you should check them out...I mean, "us" out, as well. LOL Lots of crafters as well as vendors with a lot of gorgeous items! Plus, they have an online vendor fair, A Sassy Affair, twice a month where you can meet the vendors, ask questions about their products and shop at the same time.

Have fun!

New items Posted at Etsy

2009-09-09T20:08:00.000-07:00

I got a new shipment of ceramic pendants in from Chinook Jewelry. Y'all know I love her stuff...anyway, here are a few pieces I've made with them. I've more on the way...

My Autumn Waters Necklace Blog Feature

2009-09-03T12:32:00.000-07:00

I got the news that my necklace was featured over at TiLT Treasures' blog today. I am so honored and excited.

There are plenty of other items featured as well...all gorgeous. Y'all go check them out!

http://tilttreasures.blogspot.com/2009/09/brown-autumn-leaves.html

I Love Giveaways!

2009-08-18T12:09:00.001-07:00

I just ran across a fellow etsian, zizzybob, who is having a wonderful giveaway on her blog, Just a Little Zizzy.

If you like handmade fabric baskets and cards, go check it out!

The giveway is for a beautiful tan fabric basket with amber beads and it goes until August 31st, 2009. Good luck, y'all!

Silver and Gold...

2009-08-18T11:18:00.001-07:00

I just got in a batch of sterling wire and some copper wire, but I don't know what I am going to make with all of it.

School starts in a week and we haven't even bought all of the school supplies needed, my mother-in-law is in the hospital with serious problems, and I am worn out.

Ever had one of those months?

I did make a few more necklaces last week. The pendants are ceramic and handcrafted by Melissa at Chinook Jewelry. I think they turned out nicely. What do you think? Remember, I do take criticism in the spirit that it is offered.

Vendor Sale - Sassy Sisters in Sales presents the Sassy Affair

2009-08-10T16:25:00.001-07:00

Thursday, August 13th
6:45 - 7:15 Colors of the Woods jewelry

I will be having a special sale for those who attend. All of my wine glass markers will be 20% off and if you purchase a necklace, earrings will be 50% off. Hope to see you there!

Here is the official blurb..

A Sassy Affair Shopping Extravaganza
Sponsored by Sassy Sisters In Sales
August 13, 2009
5:00pm - 9:15 pm EST

Various vendors representing a variety of products. There is something for everyone. Games, Prizes, Special Deals, Exclusive Savings! Invite your friends - they won't want to miss this either! All of our guests will be entered for a chance to win fabulous prizes , but you must REGISTER !!!!!!!

Event will take place on WAHMChats.com. In the menu select Chat rooms, enter your name, no password needed. Once logged in you'll be in "the lounge". At the top of the box click on the arrow & choose the room assigned to a Sassy Affair.

Sit back and enjoy the fair! Chime in with questions or comments anytime.

In Creative Mode

2009-08-07T09:15:00.000-07:00

lately, things have been going good for me jewelry-making-wise. I have had success with the ceramic pendants from Melissa at Chinook jewelry. In fact, the day after I posted two necklaces in my etsy shop, they sold! Talk about exciting.

So, I ordered three more pendants from Melissa. It will be fun picking out the color combinations for them.

Oh, and I just found out yesterday that last time I went to my favorite bead store (the day I bought beads for the necklaces mentioned above) I spent waaaaaay more than I intended. $100.00 more!!!! And not on beads.

Yep, I got a traffic ticket and didn't even know it.

It seems that as I was making a right turn on red (didn't see a sign at all) a picture was taken of my car. Why is it some intersections are legal to make a right turn and some aren't? There's so much traffic, sometimes you are so busy making sure it's OK to to turn, that you don't have time or even remember to check for No Right Turn on Red signs. There were none that I saw anyway.

So, lesson learned.

Announcing the winners of the Name the Necklace Contest...

2009-08-02T14:18:00.000-07:00

Ann Hite and Lois D'Agostino from my facebook friends came up with the two winning names. I couldn't decide which to choose, so I combined them to come up with...

Caribbean Dreams!

Thanks ladies! And thanks to everyone else who participated.

Colors of the Woods is Holding a Naming Contest

2009-07-28T13:21:00.000-07:00

I'm having a problem coming up with a proper name for this necklace. So, I am having a contest. The person who comes up with the best name, in my opinion, will be able to choose a free pair of copper earrings, or a beaded (strung, not wire worked) bracelet from my etsy store.

So, let's see what you've got!

Chinook Jewelry is Giving Away a Free Pendant!

2009-07-27T12:23:00.000-07:00

I love Melissa's pendants! I bought two a while back and am planning on buying more soon. They inspire me. LOL You can see the necklace I created with one of them at http://colorsofthewoods.blogspot.com/2009/03/i-found-new-ceramic-artist.html

Anywho, she is having a contest over on her blog to name some new glazes she has come up with. Also, just for blogging about her contest, she is having a drawing for a free pendant.

So, go check it out! Go on now!

Chinook Jewelry

Wine Glass Markers

2009-07-27T12:07:00.000-07:00

Here are a few sets that I posted on etsy last week.

Getting Back in the Swing of Things

2009-07-27T12:01:00.000-07:00

I have been neglectful of my blogs lately and have to start organising myself better in order to get around to doing everything that needs to be done.

Y'all know what I'm talking about.

Lots of good designs are coming up. Got some awesome ideas that need to be implemented. (hint) Since I am an Alabama fan, I have some ideas for cute Bama jewelry. My own design, as I don't want to infringe on the university's copyrights.

Plus, I will be ordering more sterling soon and am planning on purchasing metal stamps so I can make personalised necklaces and bracelets.

So, Colors of the Woods has some great things coming up. Stay tuned to this station for more! ;)

Back From Vacation

2009-03-30T09:30:00.001-07:00

Hey y'all! Just got back last night from my trip to Alabama and I am tired. But lot's to do: unpacking, blogging, tweeting, advertising, listing new items on etsy, etc...

My grandmother, bless her heart, fell in love with a couple of pair of copper earrings that I made while I was down there. SO, I gave them to her, knowing she would wear them when they went out to eat, and knowing how much she would tell everyone about them. Family advertising is great!

I scoped out a local craft fair while I was there. Lots of jewelry talent there, but only one who had my style. She wasn't into the wire wrap as much as I, but she did lovely bead work with gemstones beads and pendants. Gorgeous! Here is her info...

Lilah Broxton Designs - B'ham, AL
lilahbroxton@hotmail.com

I am lovin' working with sterling silver now. Just posted some in my etsy shop, so y'all come on ever and check them out!

Stay shiny!

All's Well That Ends Well

2009-03-18T10:00:00.001-07:00

I set up my booth at the Tinley Park Recreation Center Craft Fair last weekend. It was my first time selling there and I wasn't sure what to expect from them.

As soon as I walked in, I noticed that there were a LOT of other jewelry crafters there.

At first, I thought they had put us all together in one room ( we were spread out into six or seven smaller rooms), but then word trickled in from the other rooms that they had just as many jewelry folk set up in there as well.

Tinley obviously did not limit the types of crafts who signed up.

Regardless, I did pretty well and they show was very fun to do. I think I was one of the only ones there who did copper wirework and I had lots of customers tell me that my jewelry was unique.

That's what I wanted to hear! :)

Sold a lot of copper rings and had requests for sterling silver. So the other day, I ordered 30 feet of silver wire and have a lot of projects planned for it.

Stay tuned!

I Found a New Ceramic Artist

2009-03-06T19:37:00.000-08:00

I received my Beading Daily newsletter the other day and saw an article about a necklace inspired by a ceramic pendant made by Melissa at Chinook Jewelry.

You know how it is. You see a focal bead or an unusual pendant and just have to make something with it.

That's what I did.

I immediately went over to her website and ordered two pendants from her Botanical collection. Not only did I receive what I ordered, she also sent me a free pendant. Bless her heart. Now that's what I call customer appreciation.

Here is what I made with the square pendant.

I thought it turned out rather well with the unakite beads.

Etsy Team Member of the Week

2009-03-01T12:08:00.000-08:00

I want to start featuring a team member from my etsy team, The Big Damn Crafters, every week. I will start out with OmShanti Handcrafts.

Her Minty Footy Spray is awesome for your feet. I bought some a few months ago and love it! Sometimes at night, I can't sleep because my feet are hot. So I spray a little of the footie spray and it cools them off.

Check omshanti and the other BDC team members for some great handcrafted items!

This Week's Sale Items

2009-03-01T11:12:00.000-08:00

This week you can get the copper chain necklace PLUS matching earrings for only $25.00 and FREE SHIPPING! Just click on the Paypal button on the sidebar!

Finished Product

2009-02-27T08:05:00.000-08:00

I ended up not using the rose bead. Here is the finished product. It is only a one decade rosary.

And...I made earrings out of the rose beads.

A Rosary for my Sister-in-Law

2009-02-26T10:24:00.000-08:00

My SIL wanted a rosary for her mom and since they are Irish, I wanted to make an Irish rosary, so I bought shamrock beads and a shamrock crucifix and center.

At first I was very excited about it, but now I am having doubts as to how it looks.

I want it to be special, so I thought of adding a cherry quartz rose bead for the pater instead of another shamrock bead.

What do you think?

Wishes

2009-02-23T16:46:00.000-08:00

I am really wanting to go to Bead Fest Wire in Pennsylvania this year.

There are lots of wonderful classes that will be offered, such as Asymmetric Woven Wire Ring, and Two-Tone Woven Wire Bangle.

Unfortunately, most of the classes that I'd love to take are closed already. I guess this is one of the events in life that you have to make reservations for a year in advance. Kind of like a big wedding.

Y'all Love Bargains, Right?

2009-02-21T16:46:00.000-08:00

UPDATE: This necklace has already sold to one of my fellow tweets on Twitter.com! Thanks Brian! Y'all check back next week for a new bargain!

___________________________________________________

I have decided to start offering a weekly bargain in my etsy shop and I'll feature it here on the blog.

This week, I am offering the Walk in the Woods Necklace. It is made of jasper beads and has a silver tree pendant and a silver plated "s" hook clasp. The colors of the beads are just beautiful and remind me of a summers day in the woods.

Just click on the Buy Now button on my side bar and be looking out for more weekly bargains every Saturday.

Etsy Teams

2009-02-18T07:21:00.000-08:00

Over on Etsy, we have teams that we can join. The teams are not only for socializing, but for support. We promote each other's shops and get to know each other.

The first group that I joined was the Big Damn Crafters.

They got the name from an episode of Firefly, which is the common thread that binds us in this group. We are all Browncoats...fans of the cancelled show Firefly and the movie Serenity. So we have contests to make the best Firefly-themed items each month and we post promotions in Etsy Promotions that sometimes are themed to Firefly.

If you are fans of this series or just looking for something different, check out the BDCers on Etsy. Just type in TeamBDC on Etsy's search box. There are some very talented crafters/designers on there.

Jewelry Lessons

2009-02-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

Hey! For those of you who would like to know how to make some lovely jewelry creations, Jewelry Lessons by Eni Oken is a very good place to start.

There are a bunch of beginner lessons on making findings such as jump rings, chains, simple pendants and tumbling. Also, you can learn to make intricate designs such as a wire-wrapped cabochon, and how to oxidize the metal with eggs.

Some lessons are free and some aren't, but there are some mighty good designs on there and some nice designers willing to share and teach you as well, such as Bobbi from My Wired Imagination.

Flame Painting Copper

2009-02-06T07:37:00.000-08:00

I ran across this phrase a while back and it intrigues me.

Flame painting.

On copper.

I love copper and love working with it, so this techinque might be something to look into for the future. Here is an example of a flame-painted pin.

Flame painting involves a using a torch to heat the copper. Different degrees of heat make different colors. I can just imagine making a pendant using this technique. Isn't it beautiful???? This heart was made by a husband and wife team. You can find them at www.coppercolorists.com

Organizing IS fun...

2009-02-02T09:23:00.000-08:00

OK, I just have to keep reminding myself that. ;)

I am just sitting here in my home office, hanging up pictures, a white board, cleaning off my desk, etc... Not very entertaining, I admit, but I need to get on my blog more often and share my beading adventures with you.

I just signed up with twitter.com. You can find me at www.twitter.com/colorsofthewood. The full name couldn't be added due to it being too long, so the final "s" is missing.

Now I just have to figure out how to tweet.

Happy Inauguration Day!

2009-01-20T10:47:00.001-08:00

I had the pleasure of watching the Inauguration of President Obama this morning and I have to say it was inspiring. We've come a long way, America! Let's keep going in the right direction.

Glitter Text Maker

Let's Talk Ladies

2009-01-17T19:40:00.001-08:00

I was steered towards this new website today called, Let's Talk Ladies.

Looks like there are a few artists/designers in there. I haven't been able to explore much of the site yet, but it looks user friendly and so do the people.

http://www.letstalkladies.com/colorsofthewoods

Y'all come on over and check us out!

New Necklace - Made today

2009-01-16T15:44:00.001-08:00

I used copper wire and amber lampwork beads for this one. I love it!

New Items Up on Etsy

2009-01-03T13:17:00.001-08:00

My New Tumbler

2008-12-31T10:36:00.001-08:00

Santa brought me a nice rotary tumbler for Christmas, a Harbor Freight model with a 3 lb. barrel, and I am trying it out today on some of my copper pieces. Not just for polishing, but for work hardening and deburring. I don't need clothes snagging on my copper chain or scratches on skin.

I am using about 2 lbs of steel shot and some plastic pellets.

So, it has been going for about 1/2 an hour now. After an hour I am going to check it and see how it looks. I am not sure exactly how long I need to tumble the jewelry.

I have been reading up on tumbling instructions and all, but it is still a learning experience for me. And it's not nearly as loud as I thought it was going to be. Sounds like a little dish washer and is sort of soothing.

I'll post some pictures later of the finished products.

Frazzled

2008-12-17T10:43:00.000-08:00

Sorry I haven't posted in a while, but with Christmas coming up and the holiday fairs, I haven't had time to clean my own house, much less blog.

The last three fairs were a bust. There is just no money to spend in my area, I guess because no one is coming to shop. At one, there must have been 50 crafters/vendors, but a very slow trickle of customers. Half the crafters left hours before it was due to end. I made no sales that day either.

Right now I am working on three rosaries. Do you know how hard it is to find a St. George rosary center? Almost impossible. I am waiting on some rosary findings before I can finish them though. I am sooo behind.

Hope y'all have a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year, or whatever you celebrate this time of year!

Last Week's Craft Fair

2008-11-24T20:19:00.002-08:00

Our Lady of the Ridge school had a craft fair last weekend that I participated in.

Not much traffic = not that many sales.

In a country with such a bad economy right now, it's understandable that people don't do much shopping anymore, but it's not good for me and the other crafters as we can't sell our goods.

Anyway, I'll stop whining and get on with it.

I wanted to post some pictures from the fair. Enjoy.

Last Week

2008-11-24T20:19:00.001-08:00

Unique Women in Business

2008-11-09T13:54:00.001-08:00

Today I wanted to bring to your attention a blog called Unique Women in Business. I found it on Myspace, actually, and found it interesting in that it highlights many women who work at home or have their own businesses. So, of course I joined.

The other day they featured by Etsy store, Colors of the Woods.

Hey! Word of Blog is advertising. I got two sales yesterday.

Y'all go check it out.

Today is the Day

2008-11-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

Election 2008.

America is impatient to see who will become her next president...a World Leader. Will he be Obama or McCain?

I know who I am voting for, and the decision came after many, many weeks of soul searching.

Good luck, America! I hope whoever wins is the best for our country. We need someone to look out for us, the regular folk.

New Items Up

2008-11-02T14:39:00.001-08:00

I was in a creative mood today and thought I'd make some earrings.

Then, I felt like making a ring.

I just got in some 14-gauge copper and am having some fun with it. Luckily it is soft copper and can be manipulated relatively easily.

Now I am working on a copper and bead bracelet with some ceramic beads that I have in stock. I hope to finish it tonight and get it up on Etsy tomorrow.

Not Quite There Yet

2008-10-30T06:25:00.000-07:00

I purchased a bracelet tutorial from gailavira on Etsy recently and thought I was up to the task...

It didn't quite go as I expected it to.

It was harder than I thought it would be. This weave is easy in itself, but I had a hard time keeping the frame wires straight. My end result came out messy and not uniform at all.

They say practice makes perfect...I guess I'll be practicing a bit longer on this particular weave.

Ya' Can't Kill Me, Copper!

2008-10-29T07:01:00.000-07:00

On one of my jewelry-making groups today, they were talking about copper and a study done in England regarding copper's healing properties. Here is a sample of the article...

"Making door handles, taps and light switches from copper could help the country beat superbugs, scientists say.

A study found that copper fittings rapidly killed bugs on hospital wards, succeeding where other infection control measures failed.

In the trial at Selly Oak hospital, in Birmingham, copper taps, toilet seats and push plates on doors all but eliminated common bugs.

It is thought the metal 'suffocates' germs, preventing them breathing. It may also stop them from feeding and destroy their DNA.

Lab tests show that the metal kills off the deadly MRSA and C difficile superbugs.

It also kills other dangerous germs, including the flu virus and the E coli food poisoning bug.

Although the number of cases of MRSA and C difficile is falling, the two bugs still claim thousands of lives a year.

During the ten-week trial on a medical ward, a set of taps, a lavatory seat and a push plate on an entrance door were replaced with copper versions. They were swabbed twice a day for bugs and the results compared with a traditional tap, lavatory seat and push plate elsewhere in the ward.
The copper items had up to 95 per cent fewer bugs on their surface whenever they were tested, a U.S. conference on antibiotics heard yesterday.

Professor Tom Elliott, the lead researcher and a consultant microbiologist at the hospital, said: 'The findings of 90 to 95 per cent killing of those organisms, even after a busy day on a medical ward with items being touched by numerous people, is remarkable..."

You can read the rest of the article here. It is very interesting and raises all sorts of questions and possibilities.

2008-10-22T09:04:00.000-07:00

I started a Creative Writing Club at the school that I am the librarian at, and so far it is going good. The kids seem to enjoy it and that's what counts. I gave them a writing assignment for tomorrow's club day and I can't wait to see what they have written.

Things to do Before Craft Fairs:

Buy longer tablecloth
table lighting
Buy earring cards w/logo
tweak display

A Few New Pieces

2008-10-20T15:01:00.001-07:00

Here are a couple of new items in my etsy shop...

Beading and Jewelry-Making Beginnings

2008-10-17T12:33:00.000-07:00

When I started making jewelry, I was at a loss on how to start, so I did a lot of internet research to find my way.

First, what kind of jewelry did I want to make?

Well, I knew I wanted it to be linked with nature in some way, so I checked out all the different types of beads out there. I chose gemstones and glass beads over resin, shell and plastic.

Second, I researched tools. The more I learned, the more I realised there were more tools needed all the time. But the basics suited for a while. Basics being: flush cutter/nipper, round nose pliers, beading wire, crimps, and crimping pliers. Not to mention the findings (clasps, bails, spacer beads for accent, etc...)

Third, I subscribed to Bead Style magazine to get ideas on what I wanted my jewelry to look like. Bead Style has all of your basics to get you started as well as jewelry projects, reader's gallery of creations, how-to videos and more.

Another great magazine is Step by Step Wire jewelry magazine for those of us wanting to learn more about wire-wrapping. It has some awesome tutorials!

Fourth, I joined a few yahoo groups on beading and jewelry-making. The networking is invaluable. You meet people who are doing the same thing as you as well as people who have been there and can offer advice.

Here are some groups that I have joined:

Jewelry Making

Bead on a Wire

Wire Wrap Jewelry

Unique Wire Artists

The more I learn, the more I realise that there is much more to learn and more tools to purchase. Right now I am wanting a jewelry tumbler so I can get a nice polish on my pieces, but until then, hand-polishing is in order.

********************************************************************

On another note, I will be at a couple of craft fairs next month. Eisenhower High School in Blue Island, IL and Our Lady of the Ridge in Chicago Ridge, IL. I have a bit more tweaking of my display booth to do in the meantime, such as a bigger table and longer table cloth. I'd also love to have a banner made up with my logo...as soon as I get a logo made.

Made a Sale!

2008-10-14T09:00:00.000-07:00

Well, today is starting off well.
I made a sale!
There it was as plain as day,
A sale to liven up my day.

That is always something nice to see first thing in the morning. Someone liked my Warrior River Cuff enough to buy it for themselves. I hope they enjoy it.

Firefly Tribute

2008-10-11T13:55:00.000-07:00

Mal's Song

I am a member of Etsy's Big Damn Crafters group and love anything Firefly. Today, I found this video on Myspace. I loved that show!

What I Thought I Could Be, Is Not Possible

2008-10-09T08:19:00.000-07:00

OK. To start with, I am the school librarian at my kids' private school and this is my second year. Last year, I was a volunteer so the homeroom teachers sat in with them while they checked out books, read, and/or did homework. This year, I am officially on staff and I have the classes all by myself.

I had the reputation of being a nice, kindly librarian who gently interested the kids in reading and was a friendly type.

This year, I feel as if I am turning into Linda Blair, or the Wicked Witch of the West.

I was hoping they would respect me and the environment and whisper in the library.

Hmmmfff! Not so. The majority of them like to talk loud and run around the room. Last week was so bad and I was so frazzled, that I banned one class from coming back for a week.

They think they can get away with more since I am not an actual teacher, but they are learning the hard way that I won't take misbehavior. It's hard for me to be like that, but with their teachers' help, and some nice little detention slips, I am learning to be more in control of the classes.

I tell you what...as soon as I get home, I am locking myself into my studio/office and making some nice earrings to go with my wire ring. Jewelry-making is so therapeutic.

Here I am!

2008-10-06T09:56:00.000-07:00

Well, I just love my new avatar so much that I forget that you don't know what I look like or that I am a real person, so here I am!

Had enough? ;)

Fall Craft Fairs

2008-10-05T14:54:00.000-07:00

Well, I have been busy lately trying to find local craft fairs to sell my jewelry at. Craftlisters.com has a great selection of events to apply to and I have had success with what I have attended so far.

Fall is a good time for Holiday Craft fairs and I am excited to get started. Here are a couple of my latest pieces -

On another note: I joined my first etsy group, the Big Damn Crafters, who are big into the series Firefly, which was on SciFi and then cancelled.

Check out Ohm Shanti Handcrafts...I love her Footy Spray!

Name that Etsy Store Contest

2008-09-06T19:05:00.001-07:00

Right now, I am using the name Colors of the Woods to sell my handcrafted jewelry, but I am just not content with the name. I have gone through many different names, but nothing is jumping out and screaming, "this is it!"

I would like to propose that anyone who wishes can suggest a name, and if I decide it is the one, I'll make you a one-of-a-kind bracelet.

Any takers?
-----------------------

Well, I forgot to give you a bit of info about me...I love the forest, nature, southern pine trees, dogwood blossoms, magnolia blossoms, my favorite color is green, and I use a lot of semi-precious gemstones in my works.

Just What I Like

2008-09-05T13:43:00.000-07:00

I was surfing through Etsyland today and came across a fabulous store. I mean, some girls like shoes, some girls can't get enough of jewelry, but I...

...love purses!

Plus, I am a country girl at heart, so these creations by hoganfe are right up my alley!

Amethyst

2008-09-04T08:17:00.000-07:00

Amethyst has special meaning to me, as it is my birthstone. Not only do I love the color, varying from light to deep purple, but I love all of the myths and stories written about it.

Amethyst is actually a type of quartz and the most valued variety, according to a really interesting website I came across today called Gem by Gem. It has some interesting facts about gemstones, such as wearing amethyst in direct sunlight for too long can fade the color markedly, or that wearing amethyst can keep you from becoming drunk (don't know if I would want to put that to the test or not), and of course that it was the favored color gem for royalty for many centuries.

I found a nice strand of amethyst chip beads in northern Wisconsin this summer and made a chucky, but elegant necklace from it. You can find it on my Etsy page.

Ugh!

2008-09-01T13:01:00.000-07:00

Sorry, y'all. I meant to get involved in this blog immediately, but I have been sick all weekend with the flu.

Please visit again. I am going to discuss how joining certain jewelry Yahoo groups can help you in your jewelry making and buying.

But first, I am going to take some more DayQuil and chill in my bed.

First Communion Rosary

2008-08-26T15:32:00.000-07:00

Now that I am Catholic, I have become familiar with rosaries. I made my younger son one for his First Communion, at his request and in his school colors.

Just Thinking...

2008-08-26T11:39:00.000-07:00

The name of my jewelry business has been bugging me for awhile. Colors of the Woods is as close as I could get to what I was "feeling" it should be called, but there is still a tiny voice inside that isn't sure.

What I am going for is a feel for the forest, the colors you can see there, the smells of the pines, the flowers, the earth itself.

I am a very earthy person. I like to walk in silence in the woods. I like to find new bowers of trees to rest in and feel the cool earth and moss on my bare feet.

I want my jewelry to invoke those feelings and thoughts, so the wearer can journey with me into the woods and relax in the spirit of nature.

Learning Wire-Wrap Techniques

2008-08-25T17:37:00.000-07:00

I am really intrigued by wire-wrapped jewelry.

A few months ago, I bought some copper wire, 18 gauge, and started making earring dangles. Then I bought 20 gauge copper and learned how to make ear wires for the dangles.

Now I am making necklaces, bracelets and earrings out of copper and I am having so much fun!

Next project??

Sterling silver!

These danged webring thingamajiggies!

2008-08-25T17:26:00.000-07:00

It's been awhile since I joined a webring, and it seems much harder to add to my blog than before.

This is driving me nuts!

Getting Set Up Here

2008-08-25T16:17:00.001-07:00

I don't know if I like this template or not yet. Looks nice, but will it work????

Hmmmm!