2018 Swap N Hop!

Well, another April - and another Swap N Hop!
First - a HUGE shoutout to my girl, Kari Asbury for her help, this year.  Y'all should really be sure to thank her, as well. =)

Now....for my partner!
This year, I had Inge Van Roos and I was one SPOILED girl!  Holy CANOLI!  Inge makes her own lampwork beads and absolutely OVERWHELMED me with not 1....not 2...but 3! different color schemes.  Blue/greens (YES! She made that bead with the goldfish!!!), rainbow beads and my FAVORITE the pink/purple family.  Y'all - I could HARDLY choose which palate to go with!  I've got some big plans for the rainbows.... but for Hop purposes - I wanted to go with pinks/purples.

Click to enlarge and see the details in all these beads! Dang girl!!

If you've followed my challenge adventures, you know that I LOVE to give myself an extra challenge within a challenge.  This year, I decided that I wanted to make a piece that could be worn at least 2 different ways.

In addition, I've noticed a real trend in jewelry with using curves.... be it a false collar with chain or using seed beads to create swags... I REALLY wanted to incorporate this somehow into my own piece.  So...here we are!

Y'all - I picked through all the beads that she sent and pulled all the ones that I LOVED out *y'all LOOK at the details on these beads!* and put them on the strand with the wavy tubes.  It was tres-importante to keep the lampwork beads the focus.  The chain was there to enhance the lampworks.

As for the challenge within a challenge - I made this piece such that I can wear it short OR I can wear it long.  By using the round links, as connectors, it makes sense to see them in the long version.  I can wear whichever strand I'd like in the front.  I kinda love it!  Ok - I REALLY love it!

Click to enlarge and see these CRAZY COOL beads!

Another cool shot

AND.... I also put together another set with her pinks and purples.  This one is pretty and classic.  I used Swarovski pearls and added in a GORG pendant.  *** The story of the pendant is that I created it at the Twin Cities Bead Bazaar, during "Coffee with Candie".  We had the chance to play with the new pearl Vintaj patina paints. EEK! I REALLY loved how this pendant came out.  A few weeks later, I ordered the paints for myself and used them to paint the dangles on the earrings that you see, as well.  

THANK YOU, Inge!  I can't WAIT to see what you've made!

Tell me what YOU think....



Hostess
Linda Anderson http://fromthebeadboard.blogspot.com


Linda Anderson http://fromthebeadboard.blogspot.com (You Are Here)
Inge von Roos          https://ingetraud.wordpress.com

Kari  Asbury https://kariasbury.com/blogs/design-challenges
Nadine Edris http://instagram.com/moondancemaine

Kathy Lindemer         https://bay-moon-design.blogspot.com/
Hope Smitherman http://CraftyHope.com

Marde Lowe         http://fancimardesigns.blogspot.com
Christina Hickman         https://www.instagram.com/laughingsalmon/

Terry Jeanette Carter https://tappingflamingo.blogspot.com
LISA JOHNSON https://spudandmrsbutters.blogspot.com/

Catherine La Vite         http://drygulchbeadsandjewelry.blogspot.com/
Joanne Bell                 https://joannetinks.wordpress.com

Rosantia Petkova http://bairozan.blogspot.bg/
Bonnie Robbins https://www.instagram.com/brobbins_wireandwonder/

Natalie Davidson        http://www.northshoredays.com/
Robin Reed                 http://www.willowdragon.blogspot.com

Karin King http://www.maverickbeads.blogspot.ca
Jenny Kyrlach http://anafiassa.blogspot.com

Erika Price https://www.instagram.com/erikapricejewellery/
Sarah Reid http://www.instagram.com/sarahreiddesigns

Divya N                      http://www.jewelsofsayuri.com
Lori Schneider http://beadaddicted.blogspot.com

Robin Showstack http://heartsdesiresjewelryforyou.blogspot.com/
Nicole Rennell https://www.instagram.com/nicolerennelldesigns/

Fay Wolfenden http://torchfairy.blogspot.com
Shai Williams             http://www.shaihasramblings.com/

andrea frank https://instagram.com/andreazeef
Cheri Reed                 http://creativedesignsbycheri.wordpress.com

Seed Beaders

Deborah Apodaca         https://deborahapodacadesigns.blogspot.com/
PALAK UDESHI         http://kalaabhushan.blogspot.in/

Penny Houghton      http://www.forgottentrack.com.au/blog
Paulina Russell         Http://www.instagram.com/thewildbead

Heather Canepa         http://www.instagram.com/canepaheather
Tina Hemr                 http://instagram.com/mariecaroldesigns

NAOMI KNAFLA      https://www.instagram.com/naomiknafla/
Michelle Marson         https://www.instagram.com/ellecountry/

REbecca White            https://morganafeycreations.com/blog/
Laura Bosch https://www.instagram.com/lauraboschmultibeadia

Kathleen Breeding https://www.instagram.com/99bobotw.kb/
Becky Pancake http://beckypancakebeaddesigns.blogspot.com/



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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 Instagram or Facebook get updates about blog posts, my latest jewelry designs, show schedule, and other happenings!
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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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JSBArts Beach Blog Hop

Hello Dear Friends - Please excuse my tardy entry.  You don't wanna know and frankly - who needs excuses? Right?

So, a few weeks ago, I received some hand crafted, one of a kind beads from Shawna Barnes of JSB Arts. Her theme was Summer Lovin'!

 TOTALLY exciting!  I love EVERY.THING. beach so I was ALL OVER this! =)

I will say - I was VERY challenged with this round.  For a couple of reasons - personal reasons, as you see above and I really had no.idea. what to do with the beads I was sent.  They were in colors I wasn't expecting, so it really took me a while to kinda think through how *I* could make them shine.

What I received - sweet beads and some silk

After thinking long and hard.... I decided to go with some gorgeous beach colored glass beads I had.  I loved that they helped bring the neutral color of the designer beads, up to a beachy look.  I, also, found some GORGEOUS Amazonite that tied all the colors together.

Now, to figure out how to put it together.... I could just string it - but why?  Does jewelry cable really help the design?  Not really.  So, I went through my drawer of goodness and found some beautiful green/tealy waxed linen cording that was PERFECTION!  I have never used it, so in keeping with another challenge I've issued myself, to continue learning and trying new products during challenges, I dug in.  =)

It took me 3 tries to FINALLY get it to where I liked it, the knots worked well together, even spacing etc.... but I fell in love with it.  Pretty proud, indeed!

My piece - ceramic beads, glass beads, Amazonite, bead caps and a gorgeous anchor charm

Details of handmade beads and cute linen in between

If I were to do it again, I'd have made the knots a bit bigger, but otherwise - very proud of this bracelet and am VERY excited to wear it!



Thank you, Shawna for putting this together!. Check out some of my friends work here:

To see more of Shawna's components available for purchase, please see her Artisan Component Marketplace store.

Linda A. - http://fromthebeadboard.blogspot.com/
Kelly P. - http://travelingsideshow.blogspot.com/
Wendy S. - http://dragonflydreamers.blogspot.ca/
Lori S. - http://beadaddicted.blogspot.com
Shaiha W.  - http://www.shaihasramblings.com
Carolyn - http://Carolynscreationswa.blogspot.com

Debbie E. - https://www.facebook.com/designsbydebbi

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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 #31 - Bead Caps Keep A Comin'!

So, this is week #3 of bead caps.  =) 

I didn't realize how EXPENSIVE these little buggers can be!  Holy man!  So, a little confession to make - sometimes I troll certain websites for folks who are selling their beads....I won't say which for fear that someone else may become my competition...but anyway. =)  I found this listing that a woman had put up saying that she had bead caps.  I clicked on the link and saw a smattering of bead caps, and not really sure how many or what they REALLY looked like - but I bit the bullet.  I bought them from her, and she was kind enough to send them to me. 

When the package arrived, I nearly dropped it on the floor - it was HEAVY!  I weren't expectin' that.  I opened the bag....and my jaw about hit the same spot as the envelope!  That sucker was PACKED with bead caps.  SO!  You can see a *small* sampling of the goodies that I received and have sorted.  I've got about 3/4 of the bag left.  

I decided this this week, I hadn't really worked with pearls too much so I pulled out my organizer of pearls and settled on these pink marquis sweethearts.  I used some of the caps from the bag and matched the pearls with some GORGEOUS, round, Jonquil/Antique pink Swarovski crystals.  I LOVE how they turned out.  What do YOU think?

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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 #26 - HALF WAY THERE!! An ode to the lagoon

 WOOHOOO!  We're half way there!  26 pairs of earrings MADE and 26 left to go!  I CAN do this! =)

This week's installment comes from being inspired by blues of the carribean waters.  My trip has really been at the front of my mind this last week and so I thought I'd see what I had to play with in the blue family.  This photo was taken on our trip to Bioluminescence Lagoon - the only one in the world.  When the water is moved, these special little plankton turn blue.  Isn't that AMAZING!?!  The photo was taken by the captain of the boat we took (if you go - TAKE A BOAT NOT
 a kayak!) is a Nikon trained pro photographer.....he took my camera and took this shot, while I played. =)  BUT it shows the GORGEOUSNESS of the sky and the water.  And that light - is light pollution from San Juan - which is nearly an hour away!

I pulled out some of my FAVORITE (so far) wood components and paired them with some of my ALL TIME FAVORITE czech beads - satin blue rounds.  The gorgeousness of these beads can HARDLY be captured by photo.  But I tried. =)

So, here's this week's installment....ode to the lagoon

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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 #15 - Sweet Simplicity

A few weeks ago, I had this wild idea that I wanted to see if I could make my own components for some of my Year O Earrings.

I reached out to some folks to see if anyone might have some scraps left over and while there was plenty of excitement, it just didn't pan out.  So instead of using the metal scraps, as I'd hoped....I reevaluated my design idea.

I decided to stick with copper and made my own little frames, then wrapped my sweet new 3mm Swarovskis around it.  So cute!

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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 #13 - Too many to pick!

 This week, I went a little crazy with the earrings. I made so many that I can't decide which to make #13!  SO - I'll go with..... ones I made for folks with metal allergies.  

One of the things, I've learned over the years of doing shows is that there are WHOLE LOTTA FOLKS who are allergic to metal of some sort.  I started making "metal free" pieces a few years ago and found that there aren't a whole lotta options out there for folks who can't do a metal.  I did, however, find plastic posts.  Genius!  So, these little sweets have them and make them perfect for those awful allergies! 

The beads are wood, coated with resin on front and back, so the posts should not ever come off, and because they are wood - they are SUPER lightweight!  The charcoal and turquoise are PERFECT for spring!  Enjoy!

 

https://www.etsy.com/listing/228054030/gray-turquoise-metal-free-wood-earrings

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!

Bead Peeps Swap N Hop - Package #2 Received!

 As the leader of the group, Bead Peeps, while matching we had a "spare" person....so I picked up a 2nd partner....and what an adventure it has been! =)

Jessica lives in Alaska and has just had her 6th child.  She's SUCH a strong woman!  I can't imagine having 6 children, let alone...living in the bush.....homeschooling AND being a wife and mom.  Whoa!

I sent her package a few weeks ago and you can see what SHE received here:
http://fromthebeadboard.blogspot.com/2015/03/swap-n-hop-partner-2-has-received-her.html

And THIS is what I received:

 

Some gorgeous spacers, some hearts and a beautiful "message in a bottle".

 

A beautiful lampwork bead, some blue quartz chips, some heart clasps and a beautiful blinged out crown.  

The deets - So, Jessica made the lampwork piece - oh so gorgeous! I LOVE pink and blue - like LOVE it!  So, that will be fun to play with.  I'm going to see how I can add the hearts in.... I haven't worked with something like that before so that will be a challenge for me. 

She also made the stunning message in a bottle, which features a verse about being healed.  I have struggled for nearly 12 years with chronic illness.  God has used that sickness to bring me to a new place in life, where I'm *artistic* and for those who know me - that's weird.  Before getting sick, I had no CLUE I had a lick of artistic ability inside me.  Isn't that incredible?  This beautiful gift that comes from the ashes of a life that *I* thought was the way life would be, from then until forevermore.  

Going to be interesting to see what comes from these pieces..... so many options....so little time. 

Check back here on May 2 to see what I've made and check out the blogs of the other participants, too!

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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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Swap N Hop Partner 2 has received her package!

 Jessica received her GOODIES!! YAY!

Here's what I sent her:

Click to enlarge

Click to enlarge

I went with a tree theme for 2 reasons - first is that we're both Christians and the Bible talks about God being the vine and we are the branches.  The second is that trees remind me of family and seeing that Jessica just had baby #6, I thought it was fitting to carry that through to her goodies.  I included 6 little star czech beads, one for each child. =)  Awww......

Just waiting for her to send her goodies to me now...... been waiting by the mailbox with bated breath!

How Hops and Challenges Made Me a Better Jewelry Designer

Every now and then....something strikes me and I just need to write.  Today, right now, is one of those times.

I was sitting in my bead room working on some new projects and got to thinking about how I've changed since I started doing blog hops and challenges.  In my Facebook group, Bead Peeps, we've embarked on a HUGE task of asking designers to sign up, be paired with someone they probably don't know, swap beads and make a piece of jewelry with what they were sent.  I was thinking about my first swap n hop..... it was an adventure.  I didn't know what I really getting in to, but "the whole class was doing it" so I signed up, too.  =)

Examples of "What the....?!?!?!"

I received my package from a gal in Kentucky.  She sent all kinda stuff I'd never seen before or ever worked with.  She sent some clay beads she'd made, and some antique brass metal pieces - which were by FAR my biggest challenges.  I didn't know WHAT I was doing...but somewhere in the depths of my soul - something came out.  And frankly - to this day (2+ years later) - it's a piece I'm most proud of.  Is it perfect? NO.  It is my taste? Not really.  Is it something *I* would have picked for myself?  Not on your life.  BUT that package of beads GREW me.  It encouraged me to step past my obsession with bright silver and explore other metals....copper, gold, brass, stainless, gunmetal and even (gasp) antique silver.  Thanks to HER, I use other metals now.  CRAZY!  (Read the story here: http://fromthebeadboard.blogspot.com/2013/03/bead-soup-nom-nom.html)




My 2nd partner was a sweet gal from Indiana (Whoop whoop!).  She was so wonderful!  She sent me a package of beads that I nearly cried in excitement over.  She had sent this GORGEOUS clasp, the cutest owl bead I've ever seen and Czech beads.  *coughcoughWHAT?!coughcough*  I had NO BLASTED IDEA how to work with Czech beads...let alone ordering them, and frankly - learning a new language.  Words like "picasso" and "pressed" and "firepolished" meant 0 to me.  I just wanted ones like she had sent! So, I learned.....and read...and googled...and asked questions...and ordered. Alot. ;)   (Read the full story here: http://fromthebeadboard.blogspot.com/2014/05/bead-soup-reveal.html)

 The pieces I made from THAT group of goodies is by far....some of my most proud pieces.  I am still COMPLETELY obsessed by them and get compliments EVERY time I wear them.  I learned a new language, I learned about a different type of bead and I expanded my skillz by making a wire flower to mimic the clasp she'd sent, using some basic wire working techniques to make my owl into a pendant and made my OWN headpins AND earwires (my first EVER).....and I fully blame her... with all kinds of thanks to her, I now own.....THIS....(all Czech glass). =)

Another example....some have heard references to my "favorite color of gemstone" "baby food orange".... red aventurine.  ugh. (and every time I say "red aventurine" "ugh" is immediately followed).  I signed up for a blog hop where I would be sent a "mystery" package of beads and metal parts (again...antique brass).  Now, for those unaware - I HATED IT!  I'm not sure hate is even a strong enough word for my feelings toward this stone.  =)  After a loooong while of sitting and stewing....the deadline was looming and I had to get my rear in gear if I was going to finish....long story longer..... I pulled out a color wheel and went to town.  And guess what? They are AWESOME! Different, cohesive, not too cray-cray....and I'm pretty proud of those pieces, too.   (Read the full story here: http://fromthebeadboard.blogspot.com/2014/07/gems-and-metals-hop.html)

Moral of the Story

So, I want to encourage you that if you opened your package and went "what the....?!", sit with it...work with it....look at it in a different light....this is an INCREDIBLE chance to learn and streeeeeeeetch yourself.

Week #4 - Something New, Something Borrowed (ok given), Something Blue - No old

Week 4 - TA-DA!

Last week, I was so excited to open a package from a FANTASTIC artist, Kari Asbury of Asbury Avenue Designs.  Her talent, just makes my heart sing.  She was so SWEET to have also included this GORGEOUS silk, taffeta fabric with my order.  (Holy surprise, Batman!)

So, this week, I wanted to try incorporating her fabric into my earrings. 

Fabric in Earrings - Something new
Giving by a friend (not really to give back, but work with me here) - Borrowed
And LOOK at that COLOR! - Something blue
 
I wrapped the taffeta with silver wire and added some  crystals to give a little shimmer.  In addition, I wanted something in the middle.....it really needed SOMETHING.  So, I went to my box of Swarovski pendants and found 2 options...starfish or the triangle.  Which do YOU prefer? 

Starfish or triangle?

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

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
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Coral Law
ab:coraldesign

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!

GO Green for Choosy Chicks and Gastroparesis!

Choosy Chicks..... we love chicklets....especially ones from SUEBEADS!  Check it OUT!

A few weeks ago, I was invited to participate in another challenge called "Choosy Chicks Choose Chicklets " and we were all sent a GORGEOUS chicklet bead hand crafted by Sue Kennedy of  SueBeads. I was sent the adorable and lovely earthy green color (the GORGEOUS bead in the middle).  It's made of glass and has an adorable little flower imprinted on both sides.

I'm not a huge fan of green, but was quite excited to see how I rose to the challenge, yet again (I really DO have favorite colors, I promise!). =)  I made this sweet little bracelet with Sue's little bead in the center and I found some incredibly beautiful Unicorne beads that matched nearly exactly!  I was SO EXCITED to be able to use those Unicorne beads because sometimes it's tough to use handcrafted beads, when I'm making pieces for resale, because they can be tough price points - BUT since I'm keeping this gem for ME, MYSELF AND I - I went big! =)  I also used some precious blue pearls and some sagey green bumpy pearls.

Click to enlarge

One other detail worth noting - I used copper accents.  Typically, I use silvers but the silvers just made the piece so..... pale...and it felt like all the details in the beads were lost.....so copper it was!  I LOVE it!  I'm proud of this little piece and so glad it's MINE MINE MINE!

Click to enlarge

One other thing worth noting: Green is the color of choice for Gastroparesis awareness.  I have suffered with gastroparesis for 11 years, after a botched gall bladder surgery. It causes me to feel nausea and pain 24/7 and causes chronic vomiting (imagine the flu - every.single.day.of.your.life).  Gastroparesis is the reason that I'm disabled and have been able to pursue making jewelry in the last several years.  While this season of life has been devastating, it's been something I would NEVER choose,  but am thankful that in the horridness of life.....beauty has come from these ashes.  So, I'm THANKFUL for the green and a beautiful way to display my support on "Go Green for Gastroparesis Fridays".

THANK YOU, Toltec Jewels and SueBeads - SUCH an INCREDIBLE opportunity and chance to stretch myself - AGAIN! =)

ARTISTS:

Guest of Honor & Featured Artist:  Susan Kennedy

Sue Kennedy's blogs:                               SueBeads...A Beady Girl's blog

                                                               Art Jewelry Elements

Sue Kennedy's website                            SueBeads

SueBeads Art Beads                                SueBeads

Hostess:

Toltec Jewels                                           http://www.JewelSchoolFriends.com

Artists:

Linda Anderson                                       http://fromthebeadboard.blogspot.com/

Jennifer Reno                                           http://jenrenjewelry.blogspot.com/

Shirley Moore                                          http://beadsandbread.blogspot.com/

Kristen Stevens                                        http://kristen-beadjourney.blogspot.com

Marybeth Rich                                         http://forestofjewels.blogspot.com

Jael Thorp                                                http://jaelsjewels.blogspot.com/

Melissa Trudinger                                     http://Beadrecipes.wordpress.com

Andrea Glick                                            http://zenithjade.blogspot.com/

Nan Smith                                                http://wirednan.blogspot.com

Blanca Medina                                         www.peru-medesigns.com

Shai Williams                                            http://shaihasramblings.blogspot.com

Carolyn Lawson                                       http://Carolynscreationswa.blogspot.com

Rana Wilson                                             http://Ranaleadesigns.blogspot.com

Robin Reed                                              http://willowdragon.blogspot.com

Robin Showstack                                     http://heartsdesiresjewelryforyou.blogspot.com/

Sheila Prosterman                                     http://catswithbeads.blogspot.com

Karla Morgan                                          http://Texaspepperjams.blogspot.com

Kari Asbury                                             http://hippiechickdesign.blogspot.com

Kelly Rodgers                                          https://www.facebook.com/BeadinBlackBlue

Jayne Capps                                            https://mamasgottodoodle.blogspot.com/

Mischelle Andrade Fanucchi                    https://micheladasmusings.blogspot.com/

Heather Richter                                       http://desertjewelrydesigns.blogspot.com

Chris Eisenberg                                       www.wanderware.blogspot.com

Kathleen Breeding                                   http://www.zibbet.com/99BottlesofBeadsontheWall

Linda Landig                                           http://lindalandig.wordpress.com

Crystal Thain                                           http://beaddragons.blogspot.com/

Cheri Reed                                              http://creativedesignsbycheri.blogspot.com

Heather d-Entremont                               http://frugalmadougall.wordpress.com/

Dini Bruinsma                                          http://angazabychanges.blogspot.com/

Lori Schneider                                         http://www.beadaddicted.blogspot.com/

Tammy Adams                                        http://www.paisleylizard.com/blog.html

Melinda Orr                                            http://bandanagirl.indiemade.com/blog

Lennis Carrier                                         http://windbent.wordpress.com/

Cynthia Machata                                     http://antiquitytravelers.blogspot.com

Elizabeth Hodges                                    http://thewhisperingseas.blogspot.com

Debbie Rasmussen                                  http://kepirasmussen.blogspot.com/

Tanya McGuire                                       http://tanyamcguire.blogspot.com/

Charlie Jacka                                          http://clay-space.com/blog/

Ev Shelby                                               http://raindropcreationsbyevelyn.blogspot.com/

Sharyl McMillian-Nelson                        http://sharylsjewelry.blogspot.com/

Jasvanti Patel                                        http://jewelrybyjasvanti.blogspot.com

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!

OOOOOOOOHHHHMOMMA! You Ain't Gonna Believe THIS!

....... some CRAZY NEWS is a COMIN'!!  

So...why's it so expensive

This weekend, I have a rare Saturday off.  I don't have a show and it feels kinda nice. =)  I'll be sad when my bank account looks the same on Sunday, as it does today, but I could use some forced rest and frankly, God closed all the doors for shows this weekend - so I'm gonna enjoy it.

Something that's been on my mind, as of late, has been.....pricing.  Some folks look at my pieces and say "WOW! SO cheap!" others say "Yeah, not THAT cute" so I wanted to take a little time and explain "Why so much".

First, some education - when I started making jewelry - one thing I had to learn was the language.  Much like other hobbies, be it a sport or craft, you need to learn the words to make yourself, at least, SOUND like you know what you're talking about.  More importantly, when you don't MAKE something - you don't really care about what's inside - you just see that it's "hot" or it's "not". 

One of the largest reasons my jewelry is priced where it is (and I believe it's priced very competitively AND fairly - I do need to eat, buy medicine and of course, new beads) is because of the materials that I choose to use.  One of the most expensive things being wire.  Now, you may be thinking "Wait...hold up!  I don't have WIRE in my necklace - it's all beaded and pretty...ain't no wire here!" - well - actually - look between the beads...what's holding them in place?  It may be wire, or thread or some other fiber.  If you've purchased from http://CherryOnTopDesign.Co - nearly all of my pieces have wire somewhere in them...either strung on wire or held together by wire.  That wire is VERY important - without it - you have no necklace!

As with many pieces and parts, there are different "grades" of wire...good, better, best.  Personally, I choose to use the "best" wire because not only does it create a stronger piece, but it ensures that one day it's pretty unlikely that  your beads will fall off your neck and fall to the floor like little ping pong balls flittering in every direction known to man.  I like "best" wire because as a consumer, I want to know that YOU (designer or in this case, I) have thought of me (or this case - you the customer) and thought highly enough of me to "use the very best".  The truth is - in every single piece of jewelry I make...I try to think of YOU, what is easy (magnetic clasps on bracelets, toggle clasps on necklaces, ear nuts on earrings)  and what drives me insane as a consumer.  I guess I'm trying to fix the wrongs, as I see it, in the jewelry industry (one piece at a time!).  Er something like that.

SO - next time you're at a craft show and see a piece of jewelry for $5, ask them about their materials...why they chose it...why they choose not to use higher grade materials and let me know what they say. 

Don't get me wrong - $5 jewelry can be good...and trust me....I bought it for YEARS!  I can only imagine how much money I spent on jewelry before making it myself...but remember this...

Life is too short to wear crappy jewelry. =)

Exciting News!!!

I'VE BEEN PUBLISHED!!  My very first piece that I ever sent in to be published, was picked up and published in the September 2013 BeadStyle Magazine!!

I made this piece a few years ago, when I was pretty young in my jewelry making.  I found this strand of adorable glass beads - for $1/strand.  I wanted to make a bubble style necklace, but being that I didn't have or really know where to find, the prefab pieces - I set out to make my version of the necklace.  THIS is what came out. 

Now, I have to be honest....this piece was just ok, in my eyes.  I didn't really wear it but kept it around because it was cute and something I thought was a good learning experience.  It was a pretty deary day and a galpal and I stopped at the Post Office to mail some packages out.  While there, a woman who worked there saw my necklace and just raved about it.  My friend immediately said 'She has other stuff in her purse'...which I did. SO, I finished my business with the PO and walked back to her to give her a biz card, when she walked us over to another coworker who loved jewelry, too.  This necklace started a beautiful friendship with these women - it also got me thinking that maybe this was a better piece than I thought. 

On a whim, I decided the week before Thanksgiving to send a photo of this piece in to BeadStyle to see if they may be interested.  Within a week, I had an answer and it was YES!  I FREAKED! =)

Fast Slow Forward to June when I receive an email telling me that MY piece will be the first piece featured in a BRAND NEW SECTION of the magazine!  *I* would set the bar!!  EEEEKKKK!

I don't know what will come of this, but what I DO know is to NEVER discount your own work.  Had I not pulled this little piece out on a rainy day - it might not have given me exposure on a world wide scale and even more importantly - put me on the radar in jewelry world.  SO excited to see where this goes!