Bead Peeps Swap N Hop Intro #3!

Well friends - here we are again - time for another intro for another partner for the Swap N Hop. It's like the 1st day of school for me - filled with so much excitement, wonder as to what I'll send and receive, what we'll end up making....just an EXCITING time of the year for me.

This year, we've opened things up to Instagram. You can see my feed here:

http://www.instagram.com/cherryOnTopDesign

I find myself posting my newest pieces on Instagram, as I'm working to build my following there and hopefully open up some new business opportunities.

Speaking of business, I'm also working on rebranding myself, this year. I'll continue with CherryOnTopDesign, but I want to get more serious about my business paying for itself, and perhaps getting ME, to some incredible goals. I took a Jewelry Brand Bootcamp, which was a VERY eye opening experience and one I'm GLAD I did. It's helped me to focus a bit, and see where my weaknesses are, in terms of my business and how I'm marketing (or not). =)


1. Why or how did you get started in making jewelry?

I got into jewelry by way of a craft show.  I purchased a beautiful necklace for a family member for $38.  The next week, I saw the same vendor at another show and mentioned that I had purchased a similar piece the week before.  Her response was that they "got some more in".  I thought "I thought you made it"?  A few days later, while at a big box store, I see the same pendant for $4.99.

I went home and found a "how to make jewelry class" that night.  As they say...the rest is history =)  ------> that's my first piece ever

 
 

2. What style(s) of jewelry do you like to make?
My new cocktail line is "Bold, Bright, Classic Jewelry for Original, One-of-a-Kind Women".  =)  I like to make jewelry that can  dress up any outfit (I like to say from ho-hum to SHA-ZAM!).  It's also really important to me that pieces are versatile, so that you can wear it with many outfits vs just 1 piece in your wardrobe.




3. What materials do you prefer to use (and which ones do you avoid)? 
Typically, I'll use anything from handcrafted lampwork beads, to Swarovski pearls and crystal, to bits and bobs of fabric, to beads purchased at big box stores, beads from tradeshows and anything else I find interesting.  I like things that are unique - be it in color, style, size, shape, sparkle...something interesting.  AND I'm kinda obsessed with handmade beads, right now.

Generally, I avoid seed beads, earthy/rustic colors and anything that generally just doesn't appeal to me (seriously, no aventurine).



4. Which techniques do you prefer (and are there any that you don't like)?
I like to make many styles of jewelry.  I consider myself a stringer, first and foremost.  I've done pearl knotting, kumihimo, wire crochet, play with resin, some painting and some basic wire work.  

I don't do bead weaving of any sort or anything involving heat.  So, no soldering, lampworking or anything like that....I sure love the pieces - just don't make them.

 




 
5. What colors do you use most, and which do you run screaming from?

I  love working with color.  When making a piece versatile, having more colors involved tends to make something easier to wear with many things.  I typically lean to silvers and coppers for metals.  I'd also say that anything with rainbow colors is VERY difficult for me to pass up. ;)  

I've realized that making pieces with 1 color are REALLY tough for me.  Someone suggested I make a black necklace.  I didn't (and still don't know) where to start.  I want to add color! Can't win 'em, all right?



Some other random trivia: 
- I'm a Christian and hope that my light shines bright  each day
-  I'm a night owl - that's when I feel the most creative
-  I've got my first tutorial coming out in Beadwork magazine, this summer!  My 4th publishing....eek!
 - I love cherries -  not the flavor - but the shape.  (my biz name is cherryontopdesign) =)
- My favorite shirts are either a deep royal blue or a teal green
- I prefer white chocolate over milk and DEF over dark
- I now have a "dream client" LOL!
- I love to cook and bake - I don't like to clean up the mess ;)
- I'm a pretty decent photographer
- I love PJs and fun socks - I wear them most of the day....every day.
- I've had major health issues for nearly 14 years
- I'm often the 1%...99% of people have no issues.... I'm the 1% who does =)
- I love to laugh.....alot.
- I LOVE board games
- I love to plan an awesome party!


Last year's Q & A's
http://fromthebeadboard.blogspot.com/2016/02/getting-to-know-yougetting-to-know-all.html

Linda


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To be sure you don’t miss out on any of my crazy adventures, you can sign up to follow my blog by email or news servers using the links in the right column of my page. You can also follow me on Facebook get updates about blog posts, see my latest creations, show schedule, and other happenings!
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Welcome 2016....er 2017? WHOA!

Well friends, it's about that time of the year where I FINALLY get to show you what I've made for Christmas gifts.  Obviously, I can't post prior to Christmas....so here we are. =)

This year was an interesting year for me, in terms of gifts.  It seems like the folks I buy for - all magically had something come up in a beading group somewhere - that reminded me of them.

So, the first purchase was a BEAUTIFUL glass and metal cross, focal bead.  I purchased it from Jennifer Jennings - so does this awesome beads.  She also adds a footprint on the back of the bead - making it seem like the poem, footprints in the sand.  Just a REALLY cool concept and CLEARLY her trademark.  I bought it for my cousin, who was laid off earlier last year.  It was a *complete* shock.  She had no clue it was coming *as usual I guess* and was just stunned.  So, I bought the bead to remind her that even in the storms - God is still there - holding her up and standing strong.  I put the bead on some leather I won from Leather Cord USA and happened to have another spacer bead that matched perfectly to her focal. 
 

Can't wait for y'all to see the bracelet I made for her mom!  OOoooOO!

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To be sure you don’t miss out on any of my crazy adventures, you can sign up to follow my blog by email or news servers using the links in the right column of my page. You can also follow me on Facebook get updates about blog posts, my latest jewelry designs, show schedule, and other happenings!
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"It's the Final Countdown".....

Well, this is it - the final hours of my 30s. 

The 30s were some of the best years of my life.  I remember this 10+ years ago, and was SUPER excited for the next 10 years - right now.....I'm not.  As a matter of fact, I'm kinda scared. 

My 30s were the most AWESOME years - some of the most CHALLENGING - but SO AWESOME!

Things that didn't really go as planned:
- Moving home
- Ending my career
- Still being single
- Gaining all my weight back
- Not having a family by now
- Not owning a home
- Being in a difficult financial situation
- Feeling like I'm wishing my life away
- Depression has returned
- Struggle with perfectionism has reared it's ugly head again
- Spending 45+ days in the hospital
- Replacing work meetings with doctor meetings
- Learning about the medical system in a way I never wanted to

Things that were awesome about my 30s include:
- Falling in love - although it was unrequited
- Having an INCREDIBLE group of friends, for most of those years
- Friends got married
- Tons of birthday parties
- Going to Puerto Rico!!
- Friends getting pregnant
- Having the most INCREDIBLE body of my life
- Discovering an INCREDIBLE love of jewelry
- Discovering that I'm an artist
- Learning that I'm stronger than I ever dreamed
- Understanding what it means to truly TRUST IN THE LORD with ALL your heart
- Surviving 19 months with 0 income
- Seeing God's hand working directly
- Realizing that I'm not perfect - can't be - never will be
- Seeing myself grow up
- Seeing several folks come to Christ
- Being able to support family through difficult times
- Having the honor of being in 2 weddings


Prayers for my 40s:
- To find the love of my life
- Start a family *better hurry!*
- Come to realize my dreams
- Buy a house near water
- Enjoy another 10 years with my father
- Figuring out how to make my jewelry business successful enough that I don't have to be in charge of it for the rest of my  life
- Growing in my relationship with Christ
- Establishing deep friendships
- Learning to manage my life better
- Being the best example of a Godly woman - that's possible
- Seeing amazing things happen to ME

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To be sure you don’t miss out on any of my crazy adventures, you can sign up to follow my blog by email or news servers using the links in the right column of my page. You can also follow me on Facebook get updates about blog posts, my latest jewelry designs, show schedule, and other happenings!
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Pine Ridge Treasures Beach Blog Hop!

OooO how I LOVE me some beach and sea glass!  When I saw the call for The Pine Ridge Treasures Beach Themed Blog Hop - I was on that like white on rice!  I dunno what it is about sea and sand that just makes my heart SING!

I made this adorable piece with memories of my trip to Puerto Rico, dancing in my head.  If you've followed my blog - then you've no doubt read about this amazing opportunity!  AND you've also read about my LOVE of the bio-luminescence bay tour that we went on.  The "Bio Bay" is one of 5 in the world where plankton turn blue, when they are disturbed.  SO, when you move the water - it's a beautiful blue color.  Just STUNNING!

So, you'd think THAT would be my inspiration for my piece....but it's not.  Instead, I went with the beautiful BLUE cobblestone that is throughout Old San Juan. 

Gorgeous blue and white sea glass with a sweet little sand dollar

Sand dollar up close - the piece needed a little something special

Check out the blogs of my friends who also played!

Your hostess:  Lisa Lodge, A Grateful Artist

Carolyn Lawson, Carolyn's Creations

Candida Elkins Castleberry, Spun Sugar Beadworks

Becky Pancake, Becky Pancake Bead Designs

Kari Asbury, Hippie Chick Design

Susan Anderson, La Main Tresor

Kim Dworak, Cianci Blue

Margaret Pelech, Margaret Pelech's Blog

Lisa Prewitt Knappenberger, LiRaysa Designs

Carol Briody, A Beads Life

Karin Grosset Grange, Ginkgo et Coquelicot

Shaiha Williams, Shaiha’s Ramblings

Gloria Allen, Gloria Allen Designs

Rosee Floss Hanemaayer, Silver Penny Artisans

Saundra Farren, Something by Saundra

Beti Horvath, Stringing Fool Jewelry

MaryAnne Kelly Hobbs-Fernie - TBD

Chris Eisenberg, Wanderware

Alicia Marinache, All the Pretty Things

Veralynne Malone, Designed by Vera

Kelly Fletcher – TBD

Linda Anderson, From the Bead Board (You are here!)

Diana Chavis - TBD

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To be sure you don’t miss out on any of my crazy adventures, you can sign up to follow my blog by email or news servers using the links in the right column of my page. You can also follow me on Facebook get updates about blog posts, my latest jewelry designs, show schedule, and other happenings!
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Week #22 - Beach theme continued....

What an AMAZING trip!  Puerto Rico was divine!  We had SUCH an amazing time!  I can't wait to write down all the details and share them with you!

In the mean  time, though, I'll just share week 22's earrings.  They feature BEAUTIFUL hand made, glass rounds on top and adorable little star fish charms on the bottom.  Just looks like a beach on a headpin. =)  *sigh*

I miss you, Mr. Ocean!

Saturday's View from the Beach - *swoon*

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To be sure you don’t miss out on any of my crazy adventures, you can sign up to follow my blog by email or news servers using the links in the right column of my page. You can also follow me on Facebook get updates about blog posts, my latest jewelry designs, show schedule, and other happenings!
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Week #19 - Sweetly Swirly

This week's installment is brought to you by Czech glass and some fun new beads! =)

I'm still kinda in love with Czech beads and just can't seem to get enough of them! 

I also, added something new for me - bead caps.  I'm learning that bead caps can add some texture and depth to earrings, so thought I'd give them a whirl this week. 

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To be sure you don’t miss out on any of my crazy adventures, you can sign up to follow my blog by email or news servers using the links in the right column of my page. You can also follow me on Facebook get updates about blog posts, my latest jewelry designs, show schedule, and other happenings!
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Week #16 - Here SeaHorseyHorseyHorseyHorsey.....

It's week 16!! Can you believe I've made it THIS FAR?!  I can't! =)

This week, a dear family member is celebrating a birthday and being that she's one of my best customers, I nearly always make something special for her.  This year, is no exception. =)  Lemme tell ya a bit about her:  When we were little, we never spoke.  Not because we hated each other or anything of the sort - we just didn't speak.  So, when she was in college and she called me to see if she could come spend a few days with me in Indiana, I was floored.  We had SUCH a great time!  I played some pranks (which we STILL talk about) and learned what an incredible woman she had become. 

As the years progressed, good things and tough things happened in each of our lives.  I got sick....really sick....and she has been there with me to support me through nearly all of it.  She came to spend weeks with me in DC and driving me all over creation to different doctors (and adventures), she's cried with me, laughed with me and had some tough talks with me.  We've walked through boys, doctors, friends, jobs, social security, disability and drama - she really means the world to me.  So it's fitting that the first piece I ever had published was a piece I created for HER wedding! =)

Ok, so back to task at hand....she loves sea horses.  Loves them.  She loves all things ocean, but ESPECIALLY sea horses....so you can imagine my surprise when I found these little goodies!  I, also know, that she loves unique things and styles so I really wanted to "go outta the box" with this and the idear for squares came to mind. 

*I* created the ear wires and with the Swarovskis wanted to add both the purples (also her favorite color) and some sea colors, so she could wear them with other things beyond just purple....and honestly - sea horses live in the SEA - they need sea colors. =) 

I hope she likes 'em - cuz I LOVE them! =)

Happy Birthday, K!  Love you, girlie!

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To be sure you don’t miss out on any of my crazy adventures, you can sign up to follow my blog by email or news servers using the links in the right column of my page. You can also follow me on Facebook get updates about blog posts, my latest jewelry designs, show schedule, and other happenings!
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Bead Peeps Swap N Hop - Partner #2 - Teaser

As a reminder.....a few months ago, nearly 100 folks signed up to be part of an incredible adventure, which is being hosted in my facebook group, Bead Peeps. (We are a group of nearly 1500 jewelry designers/bead makers and general jewelry peoples.)  They signed up, I assigned them a partner...we switch beads and on May 2, we will all post what we made on our respective websites.  I have never led something like this and was excited (and terrified) to take on the challenge. 

I was lucky enough to have an extra partner and both of them are OUTSTANDING! =)  I've been blessed by both of them and am so excited to get the 2nd package on it's way on Monday! 

Jessica lives in Alaska - out in the bush.  Her family mines gold and she is a homeschoolin' momma.  And....CONGRATULATIONS to my partner on baby #6!  Hooray!!  Both Mama and baby are doing great and should be home! WOOHOO!

Here's a sneak peek of Jessica's package:

Any guesses?  tee hee

Build A Line Challenge - Blog #2 - Ever feel like you've been caught with your pants down?

Ever feel like *everything* you touch kinda turns to dust and then you realize that you need to turn that dust into SOMETHING because you committed to it? This is pretty much how I've felt every day in the last 30. I'd like to say that I just need some time to catch up, but the truth is, I feel completely overwhelmed. 

I DESPERATELY want to get my line going. In seeing the 35 notifications pop up everyday, the more I want to read, but the more I just run out of energy to read.   I feel like 50+ people is maybe waaaay too many for something like this, but that's just me. 

Beautiful pieces from B'Sues Boutique - didn't use filigree beads

So, knowing that today a blog post is due.... I set out to get to work on my pieces.  I started with the pieces I purchased from B'Sue.  The ADORABLE czech flower beads and antique copper wire....and some filigree beads.  When I ordered the beads, I should have realized that I'd need a whole lot more than 2 packages to do a necklace...BUT maybe it was ok because in trying a new medium (czech beads) I should PROBABLY start smaller.  So, the bracelet was born. =)  I LOVE how it turned out.  I ended up adding some 4mm crystal ab fire polished beads, as well, and just LOVE the end result.  I also kinda loved the 1 strand, which is something to consider - because there ARE people who would like something more dainty and sweet.  Hey - lesson learned

A dainty version

While I was working on my "line" last night, and thinking through the question "What my ARE my barriers to getting a line going?"

Here's what I came up with...because actually MAKING the line isn't a barrier for me.  Pricing, I have a decent idea of (not really for wholesale yet, but I have a good idea of how much I use in terms of beads and generally what they cost) retail pricing and what is a good price point for me to focus on.  Doing shows for 2+ years has given me some insights, at least for THIS area of the country.

So....my barriers include:

- Packaging

•  consistent packaging....for pieces that could go wholesale, for sending pieces and packaging at shows
• Where do I find said packaging?  How do I buy less than 500 or 1000 pieces at a time? 
• Coming up with a new logo and is it wise to do something with crochet fool or stick with my current branding and do something cherry-esque (I'm leaning towards a new brand as cherry is OOAK, so if I go with another brand, then I could do non-OOAK)

- Where to find clients that are wholesalers - I have no bloody idea
- How do I get my products in their hands?
- How do I set MY pieces apart as my own - which I think just the way that I approach these pieces is "maybe" enough?  Maybe not.

• Could I have a little charm that's added on to each piece that notes it's mine?  
• Maybe this is where packaging comes in.... including a story about their piece or even just signing the packaging with a personal thank you?

- I, also think, that my pieces would be great for brides and EASILY customizable to their colors or needs....but again - How do I break into that industry?  Where do I find those wholesalers.  As a side note: my first published piece....my brightly colored crocheted piece.....was a bridesmaid piece.
From where I'm sitting, these are MY biggest barriers.  What are your thoughts?

Hostess and Teacher: Brenda Sue Lansdowne, B'sue Boutiques
Jewelry Making Outside the Box


Linda Anderson
From the Bead Board (You are here)

Marcia Tuzzolino
Aurora Designs

Jann Tague
Clever Designs by Jann

Judy King
Apt to Wander Studio

Linzi Alford
Magpie in the Sky, Spoil Heap Tales

Cynthia Wainscott
Exotic Peru

Carole Carlson
Beadsophisticate

Lynn Stinten
Dragonzwench

Marica Zammit
Bead Lovelies

Catherine Shattuck
VRBrose

Michaele Collie
The Vintage Gem

Mary Craig
Jewelry Alchemy

Lee Koopman
Strega Jewelry

Erin Whitacre
Shattered Time Jewelry

Monica Casady
MJCasady Copper Works

Leila West
Leila Nicole Designs

Cindy Peterson
Howling Dog Jewelry

Leila Belcher
Leila Bee Designs

Gloria Allen
Wings and Beads

Pamela Anger
Novegatti Designs

Tammy Adams
Paisley Lizard

Lynda O'Mara
LOmara Creative

Elizabeth Hildreth
MadScientistsDesigns

Dana Hickey
Wind Dancer Studios

Janet Calardo
Jan Lea Designs

Maria Clark
Sweet Willow Designs

Lori Beekman
B. Accessorized

Jennifer Kroeger
Relic Charm

Amy Jorgensen
Hoarder's Corner

Robin Reed
Artistry: Handcrafted Bead Designs

Ingrid Anderson
Lilis Gems

Louise O'Shields
Desire Divine Jewels

Susan Killam
Killam Creative

Mary Katherine Deis
The Rose Sword: Artisan and Vintage Collectible Jewelry

Nike Bottalico
Nike Bottalico

Susan Bowerman
Woodside Wireworks

Kristy Le
Kristy Le Trendy Jewelry Designs

Jan Peters
Stylized Vintage

Mitzie Crider
Needful Luxuries Occasional Blog

Gina Hockett
Freestyle Elements

Alexandra Sefton
Imaginary Jewelry and Altered Art

Melida Boman
The Journey of Pens and Things

Teresa Shurter
TreeZ's Treasurs

Melissa Latimer
Smithed Up

Renee Hong
Fine and Dandy Jewelry and Art

Nadine Edris
Moondance Jewelry

Lori Meyer
Parisienne Girl

Jennifer Merrill Williams
Artists of All Stripes

Denise Lussier Poirier
Jewelry by Denise

Renee Allen
Small Stuff Design

Autumn Adams
Autumn Dawns

Elizabeth Owens
1996 Shabby Lane

Kat BarronMiller
Midnight Kat Productions Art Jewelry

Sandra Ballard
Mama San's Mojo

Coral Law
ab:coraldesign

I Present To You.....My Partners - Bead Peeps Swap N Hop

LOOKING FOR THE PARTNER LIST? Click HERE

*ahem* Hello Friends, Family and Fellow Countrymen....I'd like to introduce you to my partners for 2015 Bead Peeps Swap N Hop.

My first partner, and the one I've talked with the most, at this time, is Marica Zammit.  Now, you may be wondering..... Linda - you had the chance to pick ANYONE since you're the leader....why choose Marica?  I mean, she's a whole world away....TOTALLY different style from yours and frankly....she's much cooler than you....so why HER?  Well, for all the reasons that you just stated. =)  And if I'm being honest, that's why I chose Jessica Hocutt, as well.  See something that's REALLY important to me, is getting to know other artists and people outside my comfort zone.  I don't know Jessica - at all.  I know Marica a bit from her interactions within Bead Peeps, but really - that's about it.  So - why not?  

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So, on the deets about Marica.  

http://www.beadlovelies.com 

https://www.etsy.com/shop/beadlovelies?ref=si_shop 

- She lives in Malta (a small island country - with 3 islands south of Sicily)

- She grew up there but went to Australia for her masters

- Is a marketing geek and that's her day job

- Loves clay and making things with it

- Has her own line of clay products

- Says she doesn't use yellow but her clay has yellow in it - which just makes me laugh

- Has a wicked sense of humor

- We both LOVE the ocean and she is making a line of ocean themed pieces!

 

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Let's not forget, Jessica

https://faithfamilyandadventure.wordpress.com/ 

- She lives in ALASKA!  Yes - our 49th state!

- She moved there from Oklahoma

- Likes to work with resin and does soldering (completely jealous!)

- Is a lampworker (even more jealous)

- Is expecting another little one VERY SOON!  This will be #5?

- She likes silver

- She LOVES gold (since she's a miner!!)

- Is COMPLETELY opposite from me in SO MANY ways, but we both have our faith in common

I don't have any photos of Jessica's work yet - but I'll update when I do. =)

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I'm SUPER excited about having these 2 partners!  I can't wait to get to know them more and for them to experience the fun and challenge of a bead swap!  I remember my first time kinda wandering my way through things not really knowing what to do....so I hope that the new folks feel a bit more prepared than I did.  

More importantly though, I hope that it's an INCREDIBLE experience for all who have signed up!  I took quite a bit of care to carefully assign partners and so far...it seems everyone is pretty excited! HOORAY!

Build a what?!

WHAT am I doing!??!!?

My name is Linda and I'm a jewelry designer. (HI, Linda!)  I started making jewelry in Oct 2010 after going to a craft show and purchasing a piece for a family member for $38.  A few days later, I found the exact pendant at Michaels for $4.99.  I went home, googled 'How to make jewelry class' and there was one that night.  I took the class and wore my piece, proudly.  Then something weird happened..... people started asking where I got it.  (Strangers) I told them I'd made it and you'd have thought I told them I had won the lottery.  So, I felt like I was on to something.

I found another bead store that was offering classes where you'd pay for the supplies and they'd show you what to do with them.  I was kinda hooked (hardy har har).  I took classes about every other weekend..... learning new things....going home and practicing.  It wasn't until the crochet class (where I promptly threw the piece down, pouted and said 'I'm NEVER doing this again!') that I was challenged.  More importantly, when I went home.... I detoured through another shop where I found some gorgeous multicolored beads.  I made this GIGANTIC piece with the beads and lots of strands (not just the 3 we were told to use) and again - strangers.... but this time - the store owners and teachers noticed.   Something was happening......... 


All that said, those who know me, know that for many many moons I've dreamed of having my own line of jewelry.  Specifically, a line of crocheted pieces.....necklaces, earrings, bracelets....colorful - so quite versatile....geared towards working professional women...... and I'm taking the plunge!  I'm doing the B'Sue's Boutiques Build a Line Challenge!








 
I learned to crochet from my mother, while she was fighting her losing battle with cancer.  Crocheting was my way of dealing with things....until my carpal tunnel nearly made my fingers numb. She used to call me "A Crocheting Fool" - so I want to build off of that for this line's name and focus. 

One of our last photos together <3

 I had NO IDEA that in 1996, when I learned to crochet, that 15(ish) years later, I'd be BACK to crocheting and now doing it with wire, beads AND making a line!

How do I know this will work?  I don't.  I DO know that BeadStyle published one of my crocheted pieces.  I also know that the crocheted pieces are my best sellers....so....as they say "money talks".  

 SO....that's what I'm doing.  You can see what others are doing below!






















Hostess and Teacher: Brenda Sue Lansdowne, B'sue Boutiques
Jewelry Making Outside the Box


Linda Anderson
From the Bead Board (You are here)

Marcia Tuzzolino
Aurora Designs

Jann Tague
Clever Designs by Jann

Judy King
Apt to Wander Studio

Linzi Alford
Magpie in the Sky, Spoil Heap Tales

Cynthia Wainscott
Exotic Peru

Carole Carlson
Beadsophisticate

Lynn Stinten
Dragonzwench

Marica Zammit
Bead Lovelies

Catherine Shattuck
VRBrose

Michaele Collie
The Vintage Gem

Mary Craig
Jewelry Alchemy

Lee Koopman
Strega Jewelry

Erin Whitacre
Shattered Time Jewelry

Monica Casady
MJCasady Copper Works

Leila West
Leila Nicole Designs

Cindy Peterson
Howling Dog Jewelry

Leila Belcher
Leila Bee Designs

Gloria Allen
Wings and Beads

Pamela Anger
Novegatti Designs

Tammy Adams
Paisley Lizard

Lynda O'Mara
LOmara Creative

Elizabeth Hildreth
MadScientistsDesigns

Dana Hickey
Wind Dancer Studios

Janet Calardo
Jan Lea Designs

Maria Clark
Sweet Willow Designs

Lori Beekman
B. Accessorized

Jennifer Kroeger
Relic Charm

Amy Jorgensen
Hoarder's Corner

Robin Reed
Artistry: Handcrafted Bead Designs

Ingrid Anderson
Lilis Gems

Louise O'Shields
Desire Divine Jewels

Susan Killam
Killam Creative

Mary Katherine Deis
The Rose Sword: Artisan and Vintage Collectible Jewelry

Nike Bottalico
Nike Bottalico

Susan Bowerman
Woodside Wireworks

Kristy Le
Kristy Le Trendy Jewelry Designs

Jan Peters
Stylized Vintage

Mitzie Crider
Needful Luxuries Occasional Blog

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Alexandra Sefton
Imaginary Jewelry and Altered Art

Melida Boman
The Journey of Pens and Things

Teresa Shurter
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Autumn Adams
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Elizabeth Owens
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Kat BarronMiller
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Sandra Ballard
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Coral Law
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Year of Earrings - Wk 1 and 2 - #fail

OK - so I kinda committed to doing a Year of Earrings and I've already failed. Oy. But at least I KNOW I failed and am ready to share my first jewelery of 2015!

Czech beads with Seagulls by Asbury Avenue Designs - can you smell the sea air?

 

Druzy Agate with Amethyst rounds - Delicious! 

These friends aren't on sale yet, but I'm just proud that I've made SOMETHING in 2015!  It's been a struggle, between running a group on FB and having 2 MAJOR events since Thanksgiving, I've been overwhelmed.  I've also been sick - that Christmas Crud had taken me over - 3 rounds of antibiotics, a whole box of day-quil/ny-quil and so many other things.... just felt miserable!

If the seagull earrings are any indication of the jewelry I'll be making this year - I can't WAIT!! WOOHOO!

New Year - New Goals

Well here we are....2015.  Holy Canoli!  I will state for the record that the first check I wrote I used 2015...pretty impressed with myself. =)

Looking back at 2014, it was QUITE a year.  I experienced my lowest sales ever, I started a facebook group which has grown to over 1200+ after a group that I dearly loved closed down, I had a pair of earrings published, was paid for my designs for the first time, my alumni magazine published an article about me and my journey of illness which lead to jewelry, I discovered lampwork glass beads (my wallet is KILLING ME), built up a nice supply of Swarovski crystals, had a destash, had surgery to get my bionic belly battery changed, joined a company's design team, played some online games to win some FANTASTIC beads, played with some new techniques and expanded my knowledge of jewelry.  

I've got some new goals for this year - both personally and for my biz.  I'm looking forward to seeing how they will play out.  They're gonna take some work, some determination, some courage....but I'm hopeful I can do it.   Oh? You wanna know what they are?  HAHAH - No.  I'm not a big sharer of my goals.  Mostly because I hate not meeting them, then having to explain.  Ya know? 

So, for now - I'm just cranking some tunes...working on a HUGE project for my FB group - Bead Peeps.  (Right now, Fireball by Pitbull - Black Widow, Booty, Lips are Movin', Pompeii, Light 'Em Up, All About That Bass)  I'll be doing my first ever swap n hop.  THIS will be an adventure!  =)

Join me!  Come along for the ride!! 

#humbled

So, some of you may know that several months ago, one of the groups I was a part of (and was VERY dear to my heart) closed.  It was something that needed to happen - as the leader was struggling with her health and really needed a break.  When that happened, I kinda jumped  into action and started a new group for all of these magnificent folks to land. 

As the months have gone on, the group has grown TREMENDOUSLY!  We have SUCH an awesome group of jewelry people, it just blows my mind!  I was trying to come up with a way to get folks excited about the Holidays, expose them to some new artists or businesses they may not have heard of before and maybe learn something new.  So, I set out to see if some folks would be willing to donate some goodies to giveaway during, what I hoped would be 12 days of Christmas.  I felt guilty asking folks to give something, I felt guilty putting a dollar value on it and I felt even more fear that no one would want to do it and I'd look like a fool. 

Let.Me.Tell.You - Jewelry people are A-MAZ-ING!  We received over $700 in donations and have *14* days of giveaways!! Isn't that OUSTANDING?!

I have had a wonderful time seeing folks get excited and giving these goodies away.  I just want to say - THANK YOU to all of them!  You have absolutely HUMBLED me!

I also want to say - that an added bonus has been getting to know all of these new folks..... some more than others....but what AWE inspiring people - just....wow.  =) 

Ever have one of those times when...

you feel like you have SOMETHING to say - but no idea WHAT?!  That's kinda been  me this last week.  I feel like there are things that need to come out, but for some reason are stuck in my "what the freak is THAT" folder of my brain. 

 

This has been a tough season for me.  I feel like every show I've gone to this year, has been a complete and utter flop.  This last show was a 2 day show - Sat 9-4 and Sun 10-2 - my first sale came at 3:45 on Saturday.  Sunday, I sold 2 pairs of earrings.  I've NEVER been so discouraged with my jewelry.  The show before that - was the same way. (Granted, it was an outdoor-ish show and it rained, so MANY of the people stayed away)

It's clear I have talent - if I didn't....I wouldn't have had 3 pieces published and be on the design team for a bead company.  So, what's the problem?  My stuff is unique.... all the other vendors tell me so (good or bad, who knows).... it's fairly priced....and yet nothing is selling.  I.just.don't.get.it.  It really hurts my heart.  Every piece I make, is a piece of me..... so what is missing?

Just a tough time in Linda land =(

Weird

So, many of you know that from time to time, I write about personal stuffs here - this will be one of THOSE posts

I've realized in the last few weeks that I've been struggling, quite severely, with depression.   It hasn't taken the usual forms of feeling bad about myself (although that does happen from time to time), it's come more in the form of feeling sad, overwhelmed and like something inside just needs to come out....somehow.

I know that part of this is because some tough days are ahead....my mother's birthday would have been Saturday - she would be 70.  It's kinda strange to think that my mother would be 70.  I can't even begin to imagine her at that age.  I'm beginning to see many traits that she had, in myself - some good - some not so great.  I do wish that she were here, though.  I can hardly imagine what she'd say about my jewelry business.  It would be awesome to see her excitement and I'm sure she'd be my #1 sales woman. =)  She sold Home Interiors for MANY moons and was quite successful with it.  I wish I could ask her for wisdom with selling and ideas of marketing and all that jazz.  She could, truly, sell ice to eskimos.

I'm sad that I'm quickly approaching ANOTHER birthday, single.  My deepest desire is to find a wonderful, Godly man, get married and have a family.  My heart hurts that it just hasn't happened.  Much of that, I'm sure, is due to my weight - which because of severe health issues - is kinda outta my control right now.  It just hurts my heart that I'm single...still.  This was *not* my plan.  Yes, I know I could be married....and feel like I'm in a prison - which is no way to live, either.  My dad often encourages me with "There is no pain, like the pain of a lonely marriage" and I'm so thankful God has protected me from that....but desperate to find the man for me.  WHERE THE FREAK ARE YOU, WALDO?!!?

I'm also realizing, that my depression comes through in my lifestyle....specifically my bedroom.  When my head is a mess - so is my room.  Part of this, is due to my health (if I bend over - my body wants to vomit, nearly automatically) and part is just due to the fact that there is plenty of time, another day, to deal with it.  I'm pretty overwhelmed with it.

And finally, I'm sad that 2 years ago, I boarded a plane to come home for "2 months" to take a vacation and then go back to DC and move into a new place.  I have yet to get my things from DC.  I'm $800 short.  Why is it that some random dude can raise $50k for potato salad and I can't raise enough to get my things home from DC?  I have a good "story" - I'm chronically ill, I can't work, I live with my father, my medical style bed is in DC - and I'm DESPERATE to get it home.  My body is suffering even more without it.  I even offered my jewelry at a HUGE discount and I sold $30.  REALLY?!!?  What the....?!?!  As soon as I get a little extra, something else comes up that bites me in the rear and sets me right back to where I started.

These things are things that many people deal with......these things are things that aren't easy fixes.....but these are my things.  I'm prayerful that God has a reason why my junk is still there, I'm still single and I miss my mom....but it'd sure be nice to see some of those pieces fall in to place.  So, if you know a wonderful, single, Godly 'sugar daddy' - have him me a call =)

What I learned from 500+ Blogs

*****Looking for my Bead Soup Piece? =) Click here!****


A few weeks ago, I posted about being part of Bead Soup Blog Party (This party has taken a hiatus)  where I exchanged beads with my partner, Lisa Johnson of http://spudandmrsbutters.blogspot.com and made some pieces with what she sent me.  As part of the "party", I made a commitment to myself that I wanted to go to each blog to see what was made and I DID IT!  I commented on most (probably 400+) and tried to make personal comments vs something generic like 'nice piece'.  After visiting all those blogs (including folks from 30+ countries), I started to notice some things and wanted to share with the class...

- Sometimes it's hard to comment on things that you just don't get or like (that's ok and part of the fun) 

- MANY tried something new - either a technique, a color palate or style 

- LOTS of pieces featured asymmetry 

- LOTS of pieces featured cording of some nature (i.e., linen cotton, leather, rat tail, etc...) 

- I was exposed to all SORTS of new ideas and techniques

- I found myself downloading ALOT of pieces in my "inspiration" folder - I wish more had put a watermark on their photos so I know whose pieces I'm looking at again

- The average comments per post was about 35 

 - Of those who participated, many are collecting pieces for next years soup already 

- There weren't as many seed bead pieces as I expected 

- I LOVE seeing the international pieces 

- I feel like i have to use ! for everything! 

- It's interesting to see how folks overcame their challenge

- It's interesting to see what folks considered a challenge and/or thought their partner would be challenged with

- Photo backgrounds can make or break how a piece looks =)

- If the person is an active blogger, it was REALLY helpful to have a link near the top directly to their pieces so I didn't have to scroll through everything to find it

- I was surprised at how many hadn't posted something (especially since we had an extra week). It made me sad that they didn't post and that there were many who would have given their eye teeth to be able to participate. More than that, that Lori worked so hard to pair people up and it was like her work didn't matter. =(  That hurt my heart.  And I know things come up, life happens...but post *something* - I stubbed my toe, my order was lost, my dog ate my piece...just something.

- Of those who posted nearly every.single.one. mentioned how much they appreciated how much work Lori Anderson, and her AWESOME support team, did!  

- CAPTCHA blows when you're commenting on 400+ blogs

- The creativity of the people in this group is ASTOUNDING

I've been honored to be a part of this group of EXTRAORDINARILY TALENTED jewelry designers.  They have encouraged me, challenged me and made me a better designer.  If you're a designer - JOIN.THIS.GROUP.  You'll be amazed at what you'll learn!

Help Me Get Home?

Looking for my Bead Soup Piece? =) Click here!

Hey Y'All - It's looking like I might FINALLY be making progress to get my belongings HOME!  They are currently living in Virginia, right outside of DC, while I'm living in Minnesota.  I need to raise about $700 more dollars and I'll be able to get EVERYTHING home! 

Would you help?  You can make a donation here: Go Fund Me Page or purchase some jewelry here: Cherry On Top Design.Co. I'm SO CLOSE!  Even $5 would be a HUGE help!

It's GIVEAWAY TIME!!

It's GIVEAWAY TIME!!  

250 FANS is worth celebrating!  

You could win a pendant similar to this one - other color options available

a Rafflecopter giveaway

=(

The last few days have been some tough ones.  I've been weepy, more nauseated than usual, and generally down.  Today, we learned that my father has a somewhat aggressive auto-immune disorder, that if not treated quickly, can result in blindness. 

There was a shooting at the Washington Navy Yard....a place I nearly took a job.  Thankfully, none of my 'people' were injured or killed.  Praising God for that.

Today, is the 16 year anniversary of my mother's death.  She had cancer - unknown origin - with it spreading to her liver and lungs.  Approx 11:15 a.m. she passed peacefully, in to the arms of Jesus and the Angels who were there to bring her home.  I felt the presence of the angels.  I felt the warmth of their presence in the room and specifically over her.  Something I'd never experienced before or since - thankfully. 

It's been an emotionally draining time....glad I finally figured out what was happening in my spirit.  I love her so much and wish she were here - so so so so so much.

See you soon, Mommy!