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Organically Inspired. . .

Updated Earwires

I recently updated the type of earwires used in my copper earrings.  Previously, I used a surgical steel earwire with a copper accent ball.  I was under the impression that surgical steel would be a good choice, given that so many people are struggling with metal allergies.  They use it for surgery, so it must…

Harvest

Yesterday morning I ventured outside to do what couldn’t be ignored any longer.  The Bamboo and Butterfly Ginger that I planted just a year ago had flourished during this hot, wet summer.  Their bushy branches had encroached on patios and pathways, creating a jungle-like environment that was rather pleasant, but certainly not conducive to actually…

Moving in the right direction

Boy, this business of running a business can be tough sometimes. From one day to the next, it’s difficult to know if I’m doing the most important things to move the business forward, or if I’m doing them the best that I can.  To keep myself sane, I just try to keep moving in the…

Experimental

This image is a prototype of a sculpted pendant that’s been rattling around in my head for months.  It was in the greenware state in the photo, meaning it was still fragile, but when it comes out of the kiln, it will be solid bronze.  Then, I’ll start playing around with patinas to add some…

New Birdhouses

I’ve been creating some sweet new birdhouse designs. The are intentionally a bit wonky.  I think it gives them more personality, and it’s fitting coming from this cock-eyed optimist!  I’m offering them to my galleries for holiday sales, as well as my own retail customers.  Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing First…

On the shoulders of giants

I’m always in awe when I hear that some people start their metal clay journey all on their own.  I had read dozens of books and articles but I still didn’t feel confident buying clay and starting out alone.  Instead, I headed off to the John C. Campbell Folk School for a week long introduction…

Welcome to the neighborhood!

Here’s a sneak peak at a prototype for a new addition to my Nature Walk Collection in Silver.  This Dr. Seuss inspired birdhouse is intentionally wonky, curvy and hanging at a jaunty angle.  The momma and baby bird are embellished with 22 carat gold as is the tiny pine cone that hangs below the house.  This was…

2012 PMC Conference in my rear view mirror

This weekend I attended the final PMC Conference.  The reasons for the PMC Guild closing down shop and taking our beloved conference with it are too confusing and fraught with mixed emotions for me to process just yet, so I’ll keep those thoughts to myself. My feelings about the people I’ve met and the amazing…

Learn to make this beautiful bead!

If you live in Orlando, and you’ve ever considered trying metal clay, you can sign up for my class on June 26th.  In just three hours, you’ll walk out the door with a beautiful, one-of-a-kind lace filigree bead.  The bead is solid silver and the technique is really easy.  I promise I can get you from total…

Shiny goodness!

I’m a true believer that it’s the little things that make life such a rich, joyful experience.  I had one of those little “squeal” moments just yesterday when I reviewed a video I shot at Wal-Mart HQ teaching their quality control team all about mangos.  The video included a mango cutting demo, which involved an…