Suzie's Armoire: filled with charms

Honeysuckle Cha-Cha Bracelet

2011-03-19T00:54:00.002-04:00

A while ago, I bought some pink magnesite beads with the idea of turning them into a necklace with a pink heart gemstone/fossil pendant as the center piece. Then my Etsy Team, the Creative Handmade Artisans, decided to have a Spring Team Challenge, with the theme being the Pantone 2011 Color of the Year: Honeysuckle. Now I know you're thinking "Honeysuckle is yellow, right?" Well, apparently honeysuckle flowers can be pink as well, and that's the shade of the Pantone color. I thought the pink magnesite necklace would be perfect for the challenge.

This past week I sat down to finally begin work on the necklace, and let's just say, it wasn't happening for me. It just didn't feel right. Then I thought about how I've been wanting to do a cha-cha style bracelet for a while, too. Cha-cha style is when you take a ton of beads and attach them along a chain so the bracelet is just full of beads. I knew the pink magnesite stones couldn't stand on their own, so I started pulling other things out of my vast bead collection. Then I just started layering them onto an aluminum chain. Thus, the Honeysuckle Cha-Cha Bracelet was born!

For a little bit of shine, I decided to use some larger pink pearl-finish beads. For a little sparkle, I pulled out some pink crystal and pink glass beads. I filled in with pewter-looking antique-silver finish beads. For contrast, I grabbed these light green glass beads that never seem right in my bookmarks (I plan to make another cha-cha bracelet sometime with them and the same bead in different colors). I think they look like little leaves on the bracelet.

Still not thinking I had enough beads for the bracelet, I used some silver-lined pink glass seed beads and some pale pink seed beads, and finally finished off with tiny pale pink pearl-finish beads and some opalescent pink beads. That's when I quit. Not so much because I felt there were enough beads (I still had room for some more), but because my poor fingers hurt from bending all the wire and because I didn't want the bracelet to get too heavy. I needed a clasp, so I used one that I had with tiny light rose Swarovski crystals on it.

All in all, I'm really happy with how the bracelet turned out. When my fingers recover, and I pick up some more headpins, maybe I'll tackle the bracelet using the green, teal, and blue oval beads. Plus I've had this idea for a while to use a bunch of "misfit" beads to make a bracelet. Then maybe I'll figure out what to do with the poor pink heart gemstone/fossil pendant that didn't get to be used for this challenge.

Let me know what you think of my Honeysuckle Cha-Cha Bracelet!

Delete! Delete! Delete!

2010-10-31T23:23:00.001-04:00

Halloween is finally over. And I got the costumes made. More or less. I probably made Ali's one size too small, so she won't be able to wear it much longer. And we couldn't brave the SW-PA Halloween temps without covering up the costume, instead of wearing an extra layer underneath. The hardest part of her costume was finding a stuffed animal suitable to be Toto.

Now EJ's costume? A completely different story. I think this is the hardest costume I have ever constructed. It took several near-sleepless nights, an almost all-nighter, and it still wasn't as finished as I wanted it to be by today (let alone the school parade last Thursday). I never did get the belt made. And the mask could have been bigger. And the boot covers were a little too small for his huge feet, so they didn't stay on correctly, and he kind of trampled them. All in all, it turned out pretty well. Too bad nobody around here knows what Cybermen are, but they still appreciated the costume.

I realized after I started making it that maybe I should have taken pictures along the way of the construction, but I didn't. I used a pattern for a man's super hero costume (in XS) for the basic top/pants, which I made out of crushed panne. I altered other pieces from the same pattern for the metal "plating" parts, and they're made from two layers of baroque satin, with a layer of fleece in between. I used my machine quilting skills to make all the details, including the Cyber-C. For the hood, I used a boy's super hero costume, and took the idea for the mask from that. But the mask is based on a print-out of an actual Cyber-head, and was made from two layers of the satin with two layers of sew-in interfacing between, and has a piece of elastic to hold it on under the hood. Then I took some sparkly silver "chenille stems" (because we can't say "pipe cleaners" anymore), doubled them up, and stitched them to the shoulder and thigh pieces, as well as the hood and the back of the mask. I used the one on the mask to attach it to the hood piece after it was put on, and to sort of keep things in place. I couldn't find any silver ski gloves (go figure!), so we just used stretchy gray gloves. Never did get the joy buzzer, either.

Here's EJ trying to "delete" his sister before heading out for Trick-or-Treating. And her playing her part with a "terrified" look on her face.

So, do I earn my "Geek Badge" for this one?

I have asked EJ to PLEASE pick something next year that has a pattern readily available and that I don't have to alter significantly. Or else he needs to decide in July want he wants to be, and I have to not wait until two weeks before Halloween to start working on it. And he can't change his mind once I do start working on it. The same goes for Ali. (Yeah, right. Who am I kidding? I'll make whatever they ask for...)

Today's Listing: Black, Hematite, Silver, Gray and Crystal with a Dragon Charm

2010-10-22T11:54:00.001-04:00

Today's new listing in my Etsy shop:

Tons of beads in black, hematite, silver, gray and crystal. I added a metal dragon charm on the end. Doing such a monochromatic combination is always tricky, so I tried to throw in as many different shapes and sizes of beads as I could fit. I think the combination still lends a masculine feel to the bookmark.

Beaded Bookmark in Black Hematite Silver Gray with Dragon Charm BK-059-KSU

Finally adding some new things to my shop

2010-10-20T14:40:00.003-04:00

Since the Holiday Shopping Season is upon us, I've been trying to make a ton of new bookmarks. I've got the middle pieces for almost 40 new ideas started, in every color of the rainbow. From fairies, wizards, and dragons, to ladybugs, butterflies, and flowers, to snowmen, trees, and snowflakes, there should be something to appeal to everyone. (If not, contact me, and I'll create something special for you!)

I've been adding dangles and charms whenever I have a free moment at swim lessons or dance practice. So far, I have 5 completed bookmarks that have been listed in my Etsy shop. Two of them are for Breast Cancer Awareness and feature "Hope" Ribbons. $1 from the sale of any bookmarks in my Pink Ribbon section will be donated to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation (BCRF).

Two more bookmarks are "girly-girly," all pink and sparkly with charms that have Swarovski crystals on them.

The fifth one if my tribute to the Black 'n Gold fans of The Burgh. It features the standard black and gold beads, with some white, red, blue, and yellow from the Steelers emblem thrown in.

Stay tuned for what I hope to be many, many more bookmarks in the coming weeks!

This year's Halloween costume challenge...a Cyberman!

2010-09-10T11:07:00.001-04:00

Somehow in the past few months, the kids have become HUGE "Doctor Who" fans. Completely supported (and enabled) by me, their geeky/dorky mom. But it also creates something of a challenge for me, because E.J. has decided he wants to be a Cyberman for Halloween this year.

Ali always seems to "go easy" on me. "I want to be Alice." "I want to be Tinker Bell." "I want to be Princess Leia."

And this year, "I want to be Dorothy." Of course Mom can't just do a Dorothy version of the Alice costume from before. I got the "official" Wizard of Oz pattern. Not really challenging to sew, just more pieces.

E.J. isn't necessarily always so complex, like the shaggy brown dog year (except for sewing fake fur--it was everywhere). Or the Abraham Lincoln year. We already had the black suit from tap dance; Mom just had to make the hat and bow tie.

Or Captain Hook the year everyone else was Captain Jack. But then there was "I want to be an orange mouse." "I want to be a race car driver, and it has to look just like Jeff Gordan's."

"I want to be Anakin Skywalker, Episode III."

Now it's "I want to be a Cyberman."

I have a few ideas of how to approach it, because I can't just send away to the UK for one. That wouldn't be sporting. ;) I took E.J. to Joann's yesterday to look at fabric. Shiny, gray or silver without using the very nice, expensive, shiny, silver pleather or (shudder) tissue lame'. (After Captain Hook's hook, I vowed no more lame'. Just like after the shaggy brown dog, I vowed no more fake fur. So far I've stuck to my vows.)

E.J. gave some input while at Joann's, but admitted he knows nothing about shopping for fabric. He did say something like, "I know in the end, it will be amazing." (Okay, I can't remember his exact words, but bless his little 9-year-old heart.)

After praise like that, how can I NOT take up the challenge of creating a Cyberman. You'll just have to wait for the results. Think I'll tackle Dorothy first, though.

"Give me candy, or you will be deleted!"

How I'm helping to celebrate World Toilet Day

2010-07-25T19:18:00.001-04:00

Yes, that's right. World Toilet Day, held every November 19, to help raise awareness for the 2.5 billion people who don't have access to proper sanitation. Until a few months ago, I didn't know there was such a day. But then I heard about a Global Quilt Project through @PieceMama on Twitter. The project is being sponsored by GlobalChange.Me, a non-profit organization whose mission is to provide safe, clean water and sanitation to people living in extreme poverty throughout the World.

GlobalChange.Me is collecting 12x12 and 9.5x9.5 quilt sqaures. Their plan is to put the collected squares together into a quilt that will be auctioned off on November 19, 2010, World Toilet Day. Proceeds from the auction will be used to build two latrines for a school in the Central Africa Republic.

Any quilter knows we don't need an excuse to create with fabric, but sometimes it's nice to have something extra motivating you. I learned about the project months ago, and squares are due by July 31. Of course I put it off until the last minute to create something, but I finished a square this afternoon. I was really hoping to have more than one to donate, but at least I have the one! It will be in the mail tomorrow.

I really had no plan going in to making the block. I grabbed a box of scraps, pulled out some of the biggest pieces, and sat down in front of the machine. Somewhere along the way I figured I'd do something of a crazy quilt block. I managed to do this one without any backing/stabilizer. There's really no rhyme or reason to the fabric placement, but I guess if you turn it one way, it could look like grass, a tall red building, and rays of sunshine. Or it could just be a bunch of scraps I stitched together until I had a 12x12 block.

A new bookmark: Blood Red, Jolly Roger Black, and Pirate Gold! With a gold-tone treasure map charm.

2010-06-10T09:27:00.001-04:00

Argh! There be treasure ahead!

I'd like to think of each one of my bookmarks as a little treasure for the reader, but this one takes that idea literally! (Plus I'm trying out some new listing text.)

Beaded Bookmark/Book Bling with glass beads, tiny seed beads, and metal charm by Suzie’s Armoire. Item #BK-054-RKD

This great looking Suzie’s Armoire Beaded Bookmark is a stylish way to add a little bling to your books. Tiny seed beads will not damage book bindings. Middle is long enough to fit inside most books—from paperbacks to best sellers. Charm and dangles add flair, like jewelry for your favorite novel.

Fun and functional. Pretty and practical. Perfect for marking your place while reading at the pool or beach this summer. More stylish than that scrap of paper you always reach for! It’s hard to capture the sparkle in a photograph, so it is even prettier in real life.

BEAD COLORS AND CHARM:
Shades of blood red, jolly roger black, cross bones white, and pirate gold. Gold-toned metal charm on the end has a treasure map on one side, and reads “Property of Davy Jones” on the reverse. X marks the spot!

BOOKMARK FEATURES:

* Fit inside most books, from trade paperbacks to hardcover best sellers.

* Measures approx. 15” overall, with approx. 11” of TINY seed beads along the middle.

* Each has 3 to 5 dangles on one end, ranging from about 1” to 1.75”.

* Come with a metal charm on the other end.

* I primarily use glass beads and base metal findings. Sometimes a resin or acrylic bead will find its way in.

* Handmade one-at-a-time in my smokefree/petfree home.

* Like snowflakes, each one is unique; I have never made the same design twice.

* Care instructions: beaded items are very delicate. Do not yank/pull on the bookmarks. Not intended for small children.

MY BOOK BLING BOOKMARKS MAKE PERFECT GIFTS FOR:

* teachers

* students / graduates

* babysitters

* friends

* co-workers

* stocking stuffers / Secret Santa

* book clubs / bible study groups (ask about custom orders and special pricing for larger orders)

* your favorite reader

* yourself!

Want something completely different? Check out my listing for a custom design. You pick the colors and the charm, and I’ll do the rest! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=35200769

Teacher Gifts 2010

2010-06-09T19:07:00.001-04:00

I planned to write an entry about the gifts I gave the kids' teachers last year. I may still do that, but for now I'll write about what I came up with for this year. As usual, I waited until the last minute to get things together. I try to get everyone to buy my wares to give as gifts, but then I drag my feet putting my own together. What's that line about the shoemaker's kids?

I've had this idea for a gift set for a while now. I just haven't acted upon it. Partly because it was missing one last thing. Then Starbucks came out with their Via coffee packs and the lightbulb went off! The idea was to package up a store bought mug with one of my handmade bookmarks (the shepherd's hook type) and one of my quilted coasters. But it just needed "something." I had thought about a packet of gourmet hot chocolate, but that didn't pan out. I thought about tea, but that didn't work out, either. (I may still use them in the future.) Somehow instant coffee just didn't seem right, until Starbucks made one my husband would consider "worthy" of being consumed. Enter Via coffee packs! I decided to include one of each flavor in the gift set.

I put some shredded paper in the bottom, stuck the coaster, bookmark, and coffee packs in the mug, along with a business card (and a coupon for 10% off an online order), and wrapped it all up with clear cellophane and some curling ribbon in colors to match the coaster. I created a product card for the bookmark that includes information about the whole set. I think the tag taped to the mug will have to be "flashier" for future versions.
I have about 8 more mugs on hand for future gift sets. I just need to get more coasters made. I'd love to have some of these to sell before Christmas shopping season, with hot chocolate packets instead of the coffee. (Guess what next year's teachers are geting for Christmas!)
And now, a few more pictures...

No time for the dust to settle

2010-06-02T01:21:00.000-04:00

Just back in January we formed our new Etsy Team: Creative Handmade Artisans. And we had a happy, little home on Ning. Then Ning decided to stop offering free accounts this summer, so we(I) decided to move our base of operations to a new forum site on Spruz. After being in existence only a few, short months. So now you can find us at CHArtisans on Spruz. Heather shut the Ning site down this past weekend, so the site is no more. It is an ex-site.

So far, so good on Spruz. I've set up a number of forums, and have done the best I can to get members to move along with us. Plus we've got some new members that have joined. I'm really looking forward to working with everyone on the new site, and growing our little team slowly into the best it can be!

If you have a few moments to spare, stop by our new site, and let us know what you think!

A couple unconventional Creative Handmade Artisans

2010-05-20T11:16:00.001-04:00

It's been a while since I've featured any Creative Handmade Artisans. Today I thought I'd highlight two of our members that take a different approach to their art.

Stacey, whose beads I've featured from her Storm Flights Designs shop, also has a second Etsy shop called Keyed Up that recycles computer parts into unique jewelry. One of my favorites is her OMG necklace, but you should also visit her shop and check out her Circuit Board necklace.

Today's other artist is Rachel from Lipstattoo Designs. She paints, draws, designs and sews some pretty unique, ghoulish delights. Being a Disney fan, though, I have a bit of a soft spot for Maleficent. Plus I love the green and purple color combination. If zombies are your thing, you should check out the rest of her shop.

For more from members of the Creative Handmade Artisans team, please visit our Etsy page or our new Spruz forum.

Recognizing Evan Matters

2010-04-26T10:57:00.000-04:00

My 9-year-old son has Asperger's Syndrome (an Autism Spectrum Disorder). Every summer we participate in an autism walk, and our team is called: The REMers (Recognizing Evan Matters). Since April is Autism Awareness month, I have created this treasury in his honor.

Please visit the treasury and leave a comment (and remember to click on all the awesome Etsy items). Thanks!

Featuring a few more Creative Handmade Artisans

2010-04-07T15:56:00.007-04:00

Trying to find a little time to breathe again, and feature a few more shops from the wonderful Creative Handmade Artisans Team on Etsy.

The first artist is Heather from Heather's Haven. Heather is my "kindred spirit" of Etsy artists, and probably my "bestest" online crafty friend. We often joke that we share a brain, because we think so much alike when it comes to opinions on crafting, selling, and promoting online. While we both work with tiny, little seed beads, Heather uses them to create amazing beaded work and art dolls. Her beautiful work has encouraged me to branch out and try to learn more beading techniques. (I plan to work on some things over the summer, while relaxing at the pool.)

The next CHArtisan is Dusty from Inverness Studios. She makes a variety of products, including imaginative reading pillows. But one of my favorite items was this recycled/upcycled map necklace, featuring 221b Baker Street. Truly a one-of-a-kind idea.

Another talented artist is Charon (Curtis) from Stygian Chains. Those of you familiar with Greek Mythology will recognize Charon as the ferryman of Hades who carries souls of the newly deceased across the rivers Styx and Acheron, that divided the world of the living from the world of the dead. This Charon's chainmaille is definately for the living, from basic pieces to beyond.

Laura da Goddess from Totally Unique Treasures is an artist working on "saving the planet, one accessory at a time" by using vintage and upcycled materials in her work. You never know what unique creations you'll find in Laura's shop!

My final shop for this feature is Cards & More by Terri. Besides some very, pretty greeting cards, Terri also creates items such as quilted bags, journals, and boxes. All worth checking out.

My next feature will include the remaining members of the Creative Handmade Artisans Team.

Time to feature a few more CHA shops...

2010-03-15T21:00:00.004-04:00

Last week I featured seven shops from the CHA Team. Today I'm going to feature seven more!

Whenever I look in ColettesBoutique, I always have a hard time choosing just one thing to feature. Some of the neatest wire wrapping I've seen.

I've always liked this pendant from IcedAdornments. Beautifully crafted, delicate, feminine.

The creations coming from Lynwood Jewelrey are nothing short of amazing.

Here's a terrific set from ToraJewelry. I love this color combination.

TwoCheesePlease specializes in custom rubber stamps, like this cute set of angel wings.

If you're looking for something with a more classic, Victorain feel, you have to check out ArtistryJewelry.

For something completely different, and incredible, check-out the tattoo-inspired art by VickiDeath.

Keep watching for more member features in the near future.

I am ready for Spring!

2010-03-13T00:19:00.003-05:00

I never thought of myself as someone that gets SAD (Seasonal Affective Disorder)--goodness knows I've got enough other mental health issues. But yesterday as I was driving home and the sun was shining, and the temps were well above freezing, and the 3 feet of snow from last month was all but gone, I couldn't believe how light my mood was. I am sooooo ready for Spring to be here. I'd almost say I was ready for Summer to be here, because I love sitting by the pool, being creative or reading, while the kids swim, but I don't want to get ahead of myself. For now, I'll settle for that crisp, clean feeling in the air as the spring rains wash away the winter snow. I just need a little more sun to dry up the wetlands that have formed in my yard from the previsouly mentioned 3 feet of melted snow...

In the meantime, I thought I would share some spring-colored lovelies from some of my team mates on the Creative Handmade Artisans Team (CHAteam or CHArtisans) on Etsy.

First, some quilted coasters from my shop. These were made from fabric leftover from a baby quilt I made for my cousin's daughter 7 years ago. I loved the combination of lilac and pale yellow, sprinkled with some orange. I have a bunch of different quilted coasters planned--just need some time by the pool to stitch them up!

I decided to wander through team mates' shops, and choose some bright and cheerful, or floral-themed items. Who can resist the turquoise and tangerine beads on this bracelet from StormFlightDesigns?

I can't wait to see the daffodils blooming, like on this suncatcher from CherishedStainedGlas.

I miss the lilac bush we had in our yard growing up. Although ours were purple, just looking at this white lilac print from FrawgzDezignz, I can almost smell the wonderful scent of the lilacs in bloom.

This cute daisy ring from TanyaW85 is sure to bring a smile to your face.

And these colorful crocheted catchalls from SusanNeedlehands would certainly come in handy for a little Spring cleaning and organzing.

Here in the Northeast, we know that Winter has a way of coming back, even after Spring has made an appearance, so this mystic blue scarf from TheLandlockedSailor might be the perfect thing to finally send Jack Frost packing!

There are so many wonderful things from CHAteam members, but I'll start with these seven items. Watch this space for more products and shops from the Creative Handmade Artisans. I'm only one-fourth of the way through all of them! For a complete list of member shops, visit or team shop on Etsy: http://www.chartisansteam.etsy.com/.

Here's to Spring!

Bringing Out the Green

2010-03-02T22:58:00.003-05:00

Anyone that knows me, knows that my favorite color is green. I have a weakness for just about anything in that earthy shade. So when it's time for St. Patrick's Day, I love making some emerald colored items. (And as far as I know, there's no Irish blood in me!)
Today I finally finished a bookmark in shades of green and gold to go with the golden Celtic Circle charm on the end.

I've also created some earrings in three shades of green glass beads, along with the same golden Celtic Circle charms.

With all this crazy winter weather lately, I was inspired by these subtle olivine and amethyst crackled glass beads to create some earrings ready for Spring with little gold butterfly beads.

I've got plenty more green to create. And some pictures of already made items to track down on my laptop. In the meantime, I hope you enjoyed these cheerful green beaded items.

Monday Minute

2010-03-01T16:03:00.000-05:00

I was planning to make a bookmark or two today, but somehow I ran out of time. I spent 45 minutes or so this afternoon wandering around inside the local quilt shop. I had a $20 gift certificate to spend, but no real plan of what I wanted to buy. I know, not a good idea, right? After checking out some of the many, many bolts on the shelves, I found myself gravitating to the fat quarters. What quilter doesn't love fat quarters? I know I already have boxes and boxes of them at home, but I don't have many novelty prints. Then I started pulling out some interesting novelty fabrics. That led to looking through all the other fat quarters to find things to complement the ones in my hand. With my $20, I figured I could buy 10 fat quarters, and pay for the difference with my own money. It was hard limiting myself to just 10, but I did it! I have some ideas of what I'm going to do with them, but I'll keep that a surprise for now. Here's what I picked up today:

What is reading?

2010-02-21T17:17:00.006-05:00

What does reading mean to you?

Whatever reading means to you, make it even more enjoyable with a pretty beaded bookmark from my shop!

Pretty Turquoise Colored Bracelet

2010-01-26T23:18:00.003-05:00

I listed this one in my Etsy shop today. I love the color combo! In fact, I originally used it for a custom bookmark, and I loved it so much I had to use it on this bracelet.

Beaded bracelet in shades of turquoise, black, brown and antique brass beads. An antiqued copper feather charm hangs from one end.

The bracelet is designed and handmade by Suzies Armoire, and is approx. 17" in length. Since it is made from memory wire, it should fit any wrist, and wrap around twice. Just like snowflakes, all of Suzies Armoire bracelets are unique--I have never made the same design twice!

And the custom bookmark:

One Year and Counting!

2010-01-20T23:51:00.005-05:00

(If you make it to the end of my latest rambling, you will be rewarded with a special offer for orders from my Etsy shop.)

This week marks the one year Etsy-versary, as they call them, of my little shop on Etsy. It's been a bit of a roller coaster ride--ups and downs, twists and turns that have led me to where I am today. I've learned a thing or two along the way (like buying a better camera does get you better pictures), and met lots of really great people. Some have held my hand as I started on this new adventure, showing me the ropes. Some I have unfortunately lost touch with because life has taken them in a different direction. And some I hope to hang around with for a long time to come, because they have become good friends who offer me support and advice when I need it most.

I started out just making beaded bookmarks...

(One of my very first listings, that's strangely still in my shop.)

Then I added beaded phone charms...

(The very first sale I made on Etsy.)

Then I added some jewelry...

Discovered Twitter...

Joined a team or two...(left a team or two)...

Made some necklaces for challenges, that I will never sell...

(Mine, all mine!)

Tried out a quilted coaster idea...

Bought some cute props...

(How could I resist a mini little armoire!)

Redesigned my beaded charms in a CHA-CHA style...

And started a new, terrific team with some of those great people I mentioned earlier. My shop is getting more exposure then ever, so let's hope it leads to great things for all of us!

Thanks to everyone that has helped me and supported me during this first year. Here's to an even better year for this little adventure of mine.

And to celebrate making it this far, I am offering an Etsy-versary special of 25% off to the next 5 orders in my Etsy shop that include "1YEAR" in the notes to seller. I will refund the discount through PayPal.

Oh, and I still make those beaded bookmarks.

Thanks again,
--Suzie

Something a little different from me

2010-01-17T10:04:00.004-05:00

I've been wanting to try out memory wire for some time now. Below is one of the results. The memory wire is a lot of fun. Unfortunately, it's so strong that I think I've ruined a pair of pliers trying to make the loops on the ends. (They still work, they just kind of slip to the side when I try to make loops now.)

Here's the first one I'm listing in my Etsy shop.

Beaded bracelet in shades of yellow, brown and antique brass beads. Yellow spotted beads make it look a little like leopard or cheetah print. Three beads dangle from one end to complete the pattern.

The bracelet is designed and handmade by Suzies Armoire, and is approx. 17" in length. Since it is made from memory wire, it should fit any wrist, and wrap around twice.

Another pretty little charm

2010-01-15T21:57:00.004-05:00

I've been coverting all of my old phone charms to CHA CHA charms, so I've made quite a few of these over the last few days. So here's another one for your viewing pleasure.

Beaded charm in shades of turquoise, blue and purple beads. Indigo resin star on the end. Beaded charms can be used on cellphones, backpacks, purses, keychains, and more!

Just in time for Valentine's Day: a cute little charm

2010-01-14T10:27:00.005-05:00

I'm a little behind with posting. I listed this one in my Etsy shop yesterday.

Cha-cha style beaded charm in shades of pink, white, and crystal beads. Cute pewter heart and flower charm on the end. Beaded charms can be used on cellphones, backpacks, purses, keychains, and more! I can also switch it to a shepherd's hook bookmark, if you would like. Or remove it from the loop and add your own chain/cord to use it as a pendant! (I need to get some pictures up of the book-hooks.)

A phone charm WITH a phone charm!

2010-01-11T23:49:00.002-05:00

Beaded charm in shades of turquoise blue and black beads. Cute pewter phone charm on the end. Beaded charms can be used on cellphones, backpacks, purses, keychains, and more!

Each charm is designed and handmade by Suzies Armoire, with CHA CHA beads attached to ~1.5" section of chain, which is attached to a charm loop. Just like snowflakes, all of Suzies Armoire charms are unique--I have never made the same design twice!

New Beaded Bookmark in my Etsy Shop

2010-01-11T14:50:00.004-05:00

Just got this photographed and listed in my shop last night. It's not really a "new" bookmark, I guess. It originally had a pewter charm on the end that read "Love Much" on one side, and "Laugh Often" on the other. But someone requested that charm for a custom order before Christmas, and well, that was the last one I had and had to take it off of this bookmark. So it took me until yesterday to add a new charm, and re-photograph the bookmark. I actually think the gold-tone butterfly charm looks pretty good since I had originally used gold-tone findings when making the bookmark. (Now I need to get more gold-tone butterfly charms, lol!)

Beaded bookmark in vibrant shades of blue, purple, orange, and green beads, with a cute gold-toned butterfly charm on the end.

Makes a great gift for someone who loves to read or for yourself. Imagine curling up with a good book and some hot cocoa! Even prettier than the photographs in real life. It's hard to capture the sparkle.

Each bookmark is designed and handmade by Suzie's Armoire, with ~11" of tiny seed beads in the middle to fit inside most book sizes. Just like snowflakes, all of Suzie's Armoire bookmarks are unique--I have never made the same design twice!

NOTE: The bookmarks contain VERY small parts and are rather delicate. Do not pull/yank on beaded items. Products are not intended for small children, especially children under 3, unless otherwise indicated.

Time for a change...

2010-01-07T22:23:00.005-05:00

Lets just say that my old Etsy team and I had a "parting of the ways." It was certainly the best decision for me--so much less stress to deal with! And stress and drama are two things I can do without. But I still love the idea of a group working together to promote/support each other, so some Etsy friends and I have gotten together to form our own new team, the Creative Handmade Artisans (CHA) Team! We're still awaiting the official recognition from Etsy to call ourselves a "team," but in the meantime we have been busy working to get everything set up--twitter account, blog, ning site, Etsy account. Everything is shaping up really well! And I think it will all work out great because we're friends first, teammates second.

So check out the Charter Members of the Creative Handmade Artisans:

More to be added later!

Looking forward to the New Year

2009-12-31T12:50:00.002-05:00

I'm hoping to get everything more under control and have a better schedule for keeping up with stuff in 2010. One of those scheduled items is time to write up a new blog post at least once a week. Sorry for neglecting my poor little blog(s).

Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, productive, and prosperous New Year!

Nature's First Green is Gold

2009-11-09T22:59:00.008-05:00

About two months ago, I got this idea to do an Etsy treasury using items from HAFteam members that had an autumnal feel to them. Either in colors or design. Then I got an idea to continue the theme and keep doing treasuries until I featured every HAFteam shop. We have nearly 200 shops on the HAFteam, so it's taken me until now to finish out the series. 15 treasuries later...

I took screen shots of all of the treasuries (one time I forgot, but took a shot of my poster sketch), so I would have a record of everything. Just in case you've missed any of them.

Nature's first green is gold,
Her hardest hue to hold.
Her early leaf's a flower,
but only so an hour.

Or in this case, eight weeks. The complete set of 15 autumn-inspired treasuries.

Nothing gold can stay...

Footnote: Nobody's perfect! I just double-checked against my member list, and I think I'm missing a treasury somewhere. (I knew the number of shops seemed one treasury too little.) Don't have a screen shot. Mis-numbered something somewhere. So, I created a poster sketch with those missing shops, and some of the items I was sure I had featured, plus a few more.

My Latest Thing (for now)

2009-09-08T13:24:00.005-04:00

Anyone that is creative, and has ADHD, knows how hard it is to focus on one particular craft, medium, or project. While I love making beaded items, especially the bookmarks, my true passion is quilting! I have a fabric fetish, lol! I can sit and stare at all the fabrics for hours if people let me. Oooooo, prettyyyyy.

I just don't have the time to work on big quilts right now. But I have this HUGE stash of fabric. (Probably not that huge by most quilter's standards. But enough that I don't have room for my clothes in my closet.) So I came up with an idea to make quilted coasters. I can whip out a set in a day, and I still get to play with all the pretty fabrics. And I get to move on to the next color combination before I get tired of looking at the last one.

I've only made one set so far, but I'm pretty happy with the way they turned out. And I have another set in the works. They are constructed like a traditional quilt: top, batting, backing, and binding. I don't just serge the ends like some folks making fabric coasters do. I actually take the time to cut my own binding, machine stitch it to the front, and then tack it down by hand on the back. Each coaster is like it's own mini-quilt.

So far I've only been doing "whole cloth" fronts, not pieced, but I've got some ideas for pieced ones, too. I have made some ACEO (Art Cards, Editions, and Originals) that are pieced. That's what got me onto the idea of quilted coasters. I took the ACEOs one step further than a quilt and added some beads! I got to combine two of my favorite crafting materials. But for now I've switched gears to the coasters. Until I get back to making more bookmarks, that is. Can't stay with any one thing too long...

Etsy HAF Team "Spread the Love" Shops of the Week for September 7-13

2009-09-07T00:14:00.001-04:00

It's that time again! Time for the Etsy Handmade Artists Forum Team's (HAF Team) "Spread the Love" campaign. A different member shop is randomly picked for each day. Then we try to promote that shop by whatever means possible. I've decided to make a weekly blog post featuring all of the shops for the coming week.
And now, without further adieu, here are my choices from the shops for the week of September 7-13.

Shop for Monday, September 7: Island Crystal Crafts
Jewelry, candle holders, mini-purses, and beaded ornament covers. From Brunswick.

Flower Power Necklace--

Shop for Tuesday, September 8: Armored Hearts
Custom chainmaille jewelry and wearable art From Howard City, MI.

Egyptian Inspiration Necklace--

Shop for Wednesday, September 9: The Wire’s Edge
Wire jewelry from quality materials (sterling silver, titanium, etc.). From Bethany, CT..

Vivace Cuff--

Shop for Thursday, September 10: Kitzbitz by Jolene
Lampwork beadmaker, glass artist and jewelry designer. From London, UK.

Blossom Lampwork Button Lentil Bead Set (5)--

Shop for Friday, September 11: T.Rusk4U – Handcrafted Jewelry for Every Woman
Handcrafted and affordable jewelry made just for you. From Hillsborough, NC.

Blue Swirls Wire Wrapped Pendant--

Shop for Saturday, September 12: EarthShine
Monster clean. Monster fun. Monster scrubbies and jewelry. From Sugarloaf Township, PA.

Clovis the Colorful Monster Mit, Little Kid Sized, With Scrubbie Bobbles and Drawstring--

Shop for Sunday, September 13: Paperbutterfly Crafts: Bags, Purses, Baby Shoes
Handcrafted fabric bags and purses, and cute knitted baby shoes. From Sunderland.

Little Beaded Bag--

Check out all of these great shops! Give them an Etsy Heart and browse around--you may just find that special thing you've been searching for.

Watch for seven new shops featured next week!

Etsy HAF Team "Spread the Love" Shops of the Week for August 31-September 6

2009-08-31T09:45:00.003-04:00

It's that time again! Time for the Etsy Handmade Artists Forum Team's (HAF Team) "Spread the Love" campaign. A different member shop is randomly picked for each day. Then we try to promote that shop by whatever means possible. I've decided to make a weekly blog post featuring all of the shops for the coming week.
And now, without further adieu, here are my choices from the shops for the week of August 31-September 6.

Shop for Monday, August 31: ”Vintage” Beadlady5…”vintage” beads and more
A wonderful assortment of vintage beads, cabochons, charms, and some findings from the 60's, 70's , and 80's. From Staten Island, NY. Visit her other shop filled with unique, original, and eclectic handcrafted jewelry designs: Beadlady5.

Vintage Blue Glass Beads (6)--

Shop for Tuesday, September 1: AJ’s Designs...all thing mixed media
The art she creates are showdow boxes, collages on canvas, journals, art cards, greeting cards, bookmarks, mandalas, and holiday ornaments. From Tulsa, OK.

Christmas Ornament with Teal and Silver Diamond Topper--

Shop for Wednesday, September 2: Eclectically Chic by Emily Lazo…custom design handbags
Custom designed, one-of-a-kind, handmade handbags and accessories. From Kutztown, PA.

Medium Chocolate Faux Leather--

Shop for Thursday, September 3: Shendoe Ceramics
Ceramic figures and objects with a sense of humor and wit, and often with a sense of beauty. From Concord, CA.

Necklace Red Teal Flower Shapes-—

Shop for Friday, September 4: RioRita
Handmade silver and gold jewelry. From Haifa, Israel.

Lapis Lazuli Rosette Silver Earrings--

Shop for Saturday, September 5: Totally Unique Treasures…the ultimate recyclers
Handmade and vintage goodies for home and humans. Saving the planet, one accessory at a time. From New Waverly, TX.

Swarovski’s Everywhere Off-Center Circles Swarovski Crystals and Bright Silver-tone Chain Long Necklace--

Shop for Sunday, September 6: Tres Chic Designs…have your Tres Chic Jewelry Designs at affordable prices
Jewelry designed with thought to every woman’s taste and affordability. From Katy, TX.

Green Turquoise and Tigerseye Necklace, Bracelet and Earrings--

Check out all of these great shops! Give them an Etsy Heart and browse around--you may just find that special thing you've been searching for.

Watch for seven new shops featured next week!

It's Time to Vote! Summer Memories Challenge

2009-08-26T01:02:00.002-04:00

It's time to vote in the HAFTeam Summer Memories challenge:

Voting Page

Vote for your favorite Summer Memory piece. Of course, I would love it if you voted for mine:

Everyone who votes is eligable to win this beautiful pendant from MakintheBestOfIt:

All details are on the voting site.

Thanks for voting!

Etsy HAF Team "Spread the Love" Shops of the Week for August 24-30

2009-08-24T01:41:00.005-04:00

It's that time again! Time for the Etsy Handmade Artists Forum Team's (HAF Team) "Spread the Love" campaign. A different member shop is randomly picked for each day. Then we try to promote that shop by whatever means possible. I've decided to make a weekly blog post featuring all of the shops for the coming week.

My little shop was featured on August 23, and I got almost 300 new views of my shop items on that day. No sales, but that's the largest number of views I've ever had in one day (that I can remember).
And now, without further adieu, here are my choices from the shops for the week of August 24-30.

Shop for Monday, August 24: Virginia Nin
Handmade art from Puerto Rico, featuring one of a kind colorful handcrafted resin art pieces.

Sparkling Collection, Set of 3 uneven Stackable Rings. Model No.2--

Shop for Tuesday, August 25: Unkamen Gifts...from an un-common family
Handmade chainmaille, modern, fun jewelry, and Accessories, plus a new steampunk line.

Mini Rhiannon Earrings in Non-Tarnishing Silver-Plate and Czech Crystal Beads in Green and Blue--

Shop for Wednesday, August 26: Sister Jewelry's "The Pirate Chest"
Watches, bracelets, and necklaces made using handmade beads and semi-precious gemstones.

The Nina Crysocolla Swarovski Watch--

Shop for Thursday, August 27: Rose of Sharon Jewelry
Affordable, fun, fab handmade beaded jewelry for extraordinary women of all ages.

Hour Glass, Handmade Silver and Emerald Green Beaded Watch-—

Shop for Friday, August 28: Artsy Crafty
Adorable clothes for infants and toddlers.

Spring Lambs Set--

Shop for Saturday, August 29: Artistic Will
Beautiful sparkling glitter artwork. Hand-painted in stained glass style, shinning and brilliant with reflective radiance

Glitter Rainbow Beta Fish Paper Weight--

Shop for Sunday, August 30: Fiber Felter
Felted art, altered fabric, and wool.

Hand Beaded, Blue Heart, Pin or Brooch--

Check out all of these great shops! Give them an Etsy Heart and browse around--you may just find that special thing you've been searching for.

Watch for seven new shops featured next week!

Visit my booth at Cafe Handmade

2009-08-23T22:10:00.003-04:00

Suzie’s Armoire: filled with charms

Posted using ShareThis

Vote for me! Thanks in advance. :-)

Etsy HAF Team "Spread the Love" Shops of the Week for August 17-23

2009-08-16T23:35:00.003-04:00

The Etsy Handmade Artists Forum Team (HAF Team) recently started a "Spread the Love" campaign. A different member shop is randomly picked for each day. Then we try to promote that shop by whatever means possible. I've decided to make a weekly blog post featuring all of the shops for the coming week. So without further adieu, here are my choices from the shops for the week of August 17-23.

Shop for Monday, August 17: Mylingy’s Purr-fect Candles
The home of "uniquely" exquisite, highly scented home-made, hand-poured candles, votives, tarts, and tealights.

Japanese Cherry Blossom Votives--

Shop for Tuesday, August 18: Yuko Designs
Pretty and feminine handmade jewelry from Japan, using Sterling Silver,14K Gold-filled, and Antique Brass metals, with Gemstone beads.

Apatite flower, moonstone oxidized silver chain necklace--

Shop for Wednesday, August 19: Victorian Fantasy
Bringing the fantasy of Victorian romance, femininity, and elegance to reality.

Lovely Lilies, Romantic Offset Necklace made with Vintage Bellflowers--

Shop for Thursday, August 20: MakintheBestOfIt Chainmaille
Chainmaille for everyday, using stainless steel, copper, sterling silver, or bronze.

Sterling Daisy Chain Necklace—

Shop for Friday, August 21: Christine’s Jewel Box
Fun, funky unique jewelry for stylish women, using beads, metals and gemstones from Germany, Israel, Italy, Spain, cities in the US.

Yummy, Candy Earrings--

Shop for Saturday, August 22: Shabby Rose Boutique
Specializing in her origional dog clothes designs, handmade with loving care for your pampered pooch.

Fluffy purple tutu, dog clothes costume dress ballet--

Shop for Sunday, August 23: Suzie’s Armoire
(Yes, yours truly.) Unique beaded bookmarks, charms, jewelry, quilts, and more. (How am I suppose to pick a favorite from my own shop, lol! I LOVE them ALL!)

Beaded bookmark in blue, white, and silver, with a flip-flop charm--

Check out all of these great shops! Give them an Etsy Heart and browse around--you may just find that special thing you've been searching for.

Watch for seven new shops featured next week!

Alina Necklace = Pretty One

2009-08-15T14:29:00.004-04:00

Finally have my entry ready for the HAFteam's Summer Memories challenge! I saw this pendant in KanYoFuse's Etsy shop, and decided it would be the centerpiece of my Summer Challenge project.
For me, this summer has meant spending time at the local pool with my kids--while they swim, and I relax, LOL! This summer my 5yo daughter taught herself how to swim. Which left me to sit back, and read, and create. I actaully made this piece AT the pool on Friday (8/14). I started with square white shell beads, and round blue shell beads, and tiny pearls. I then added in glass beads in the colors of the water, bright and shimmering, to pick up the blues of the pendant. I finished it off with off-white and sandy shades of small glass beads.
Since I give all of my necklaces names, I'm calling this one Alina (pretty one), in honor of my DD since her favorite color is now blue, and her swimming was the inspiration for the piece.

Watch for details on the upcoming challenge voting contest, and find out how you can vote for my entry (or another favorite). We will be giving away a prize to one lucky voter!

Etsy HAF Team "Spread the Love" Shops of the Week for August 10-16

2009-08-10T20:30:00.006-04:00

The Etsy Handmade Artists Forum Team (HAF Team) recently started a "Spread the Love" campaign. A different member shop is randomly picked for each day. Then we try to promote that shop by whatever means possible. I've decided to make a weekly blog post featuring all of the shops for the coming week. So without further adieu, here are my choices from the shops for the week of August 10-16.

Monday's Shop: CrazyButCute
Everything here is 100% hand-sketched, hand-cut, hand-stitched, and made for YOU.

Embroidered Paper Lantern Trio in Hoops--

Tuesday's Shop: CraftyPantsCarol
She uses recycled materials from around her home, vintage and used materials from estates and garage sales, and new things that add interest.

Fused Plastic Evening Bag/Clutch Purse, Patchwork Design--

Wednesday's Shop: BitsyCreations
BitsyCreations offers custom graphic design: logos, business cards, web headers, web banners.

Fabric Labels, Iron-On or Sew-In--

Thursday's Shop: WhiteRavenArts
All the art and prints are handmade, hand-printed, and hand bound (unless otherwise noted in the descriptions) as one-of-a-kind pieces or in very small editions.

Aeryn Daring Airship Jules Verne Letterpress Postcard Print--

Friday's Shop: Foret
Artisan jewelry and accessories with a luxe sophisticated ethnic flare and a healing touch.

Turquoise and Black Jade Bracelet--

Saturday's Shop: SeedlingsBits
Handforged jewelry findings, earwires, supplies and destash beads.

Bopeep with Sturdy Swirl, Handforged Argentium Sterling Silver Earwires--

Sunday's Shop: ATouchofGlassJewelry
Handpainted fused glass pendants and jewelry.

Handpainted Fused Glass Steampunk Bracelet--

Check out all of these great shops! Give them an Etsy Heart and browse around--you may just find that special thing you've been searching for.

Watch for seven new shops featured next week!

Addicted to Treasuries

2009-07-21T22:07:00.008-04:00

It's probably a good thing that I didn't figure out the whole "Etsy Treasury" thing until just recently. I've had my shop open on Etsy for six months now, but finally decided to "take the plunge" and start making treasuries only in the past month or so. And I've found that it is completely addictive! It's fun to search through all the wonderful handmade items on Etsy to find "just the right ones" that fit the theme I came up with. (At the end of this post, I will present a TON of screenshots from ones I've done recently.)

Maybe I need to back up a second, and try to explain Etsy treasuries for those that have never done or seen one before. A treasury is a user created gallery of 12 items (+4 alternates) that are listed on Etsy. The buyers and sellers of Etsy get to make the choices, not the "Powers That Be" at Etsy. We get to be creative and promote handmade and vintage items to the online community. Some people list things they would like to buy, some pick items from friends or team members, some choose items that match a theme, some people even search on keywords for items from total strangers that fit their theme. However you pick the items to list, it's fun to create them, fun to look at them, and even more fun to share them.

Once I made my first treasury, I immediately thought of another idea, and then another, and...I had to start writing a list! It's not complicated to get a treasury once you know the secrets of using sites like craftopolis for their countdown clock. See, Etsy only opens up Main Treasury when the number of treasuries drops below 333. And the magic number on Treasury West is 222. So you can't just go and create one whenever you feel like it. You have to wait until the exact moment the number of current treasuries drops below the magic number. There's still some amount of suspense involved.

You check the countdown clock throughtout the day. Or you just happen to get lucky and sit down at the computer and see that it's opening soon, which is a big rush if you don't have your Poster Sketch filled in--hurry, hurry, pick some items. What was my next theme again? Where's my list? (Now "soon" can be in an hour or two, because sometimes it takes me that long to find 12-16 items to include! We all know how easy it is to get lost looking at handmade items on Etsy.)

Then you sit there, looking at the bottom of the treasury screen, waiting for the box to pop up so you can enter the (hopefully creative) title you thought of for your next treasury. It's a little like waiting for an online auction to end. This is where the adrenaline rush really kicks in. "Did I get it? Am I too slow? Did I blink and miss the box?" Then you have to make sure you type the title correctly, because you can't fix it later. A moment of hesitation...

You click the button! Did it work? Yes! Then the watching and waiting pays off. It's time to enter the beautiful items and share your choices with the Rest of the World. The only downside is that your creations only last for 2-3 days until they, too, expire and decrease the number of live treasuries. But, hey, that just means it's time to make the next one!

And now, for you viewing pleasure, some of those expired treasuries, captured forever as screenshots. (You didn't think I'd let all that hard work just disappear, did you?)

"Finer Folks You Will Never Meet"

"The People That You Meet, When You're Sending Out a Tweet"

"Running in Circles...Can Sometimes Be a Good Thing"

"Pretty, Purple Please!"

"HAFTeam Treasures"

"Teal, or No Teal?"

"I'm Just Peachy! Orange You?"

"CMYK: Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black"

"Back to Basics: Red, Yellow, Blue"

Just wait until you see what I come up with next!

Summer Citrus: Another Beautiful HAFteam Treasury

2009-07-05T13:17:00.007-04:00

Well, the patriotic treasury expired this morning. But that just meant that I was free to snag another one! I actually got the idea for this one right after I did the first one, and have just been waiting for the chance to create it. I searched HAFteam on Etsy, and the mosaic mirror caught my eye. And the colors went well with my ACEO I had just listed. So I started picking out things that had orange and green in them. And yellow snuck in along the way. The result is a pretty beautiful treasury, IMO, showcasing the talent and diversity of the HAFteam once again. Enjoy!

(Click the title to see the treasury and to comment. Remember to help our ranking by clicking on the beautiful items. Thanks!)

And here's another that is now expired, but I thought I'd post a picture so you can see what you missed! This one I did in dark shades of green and black. I was inspired by the gorgeous bead in Seedlings ring.

RED, WHITE, and ROCK N ROLL

2009-07-02T13:57:00.002-04:00

I finally snatched up a treasury collection on Etsy! I'm so excited since this is the first one I've gotten the chance to create! I've included items from the Handmade Artists Forum (HAF) Team, and tried to show a variety of styles/materials of handmade items. I only wish I had spaces to include something from everyone on the team! Click the article title to be taken to the treasury itself. Click, Comment, and Enjoy! Support the quality of handmade, and celebrate the freedom of creating handmade!

I lost my "sole" in Devil's Den

2009-06-27T23:22:00.009-04:00

Devil's Den is an outcropping of rock that was very important during the Battle of Gettysburg. We've went touring the battlefield today, and my 11-year-old LLBean boots finally "gave up the ghost" as it were. After climbing around on the rocks, I realized I had no "sole" left to my boots.

When we got back to the hotel, we were making jokes about my boots, and I said "I lost my 'sole' in Devil's Den!" I thought it was pretty Klever with a Kapital K.

A Treasury of Collaborators

2009-06-02T10:41:00.004-04:00

Woke up this morning to find that one of my bookmarks is in a treasury. Check out all the great items from fellow Collaborators in Cahoots!

Then click on the title above to go to the treasury and "click & comment" on some beautiful items. You might even find something you just have to buy!

Looking for Teacher and Grad gifts?

2009-05-12T12:27:00.015-04:00

Browse around my Etsy shop. I still have plenty of beaded bookmarks to choose from. These make great Teacher gifts! Or how about some pretty "book bling" to send your grad off to college? Or a little jewelry for their phone? Teens and tweens love my cellphone/purse charms. Here are a few of my favorites:

Bookmark -- Red, Blue, Gold, Brown, Follow Your Heart
Bookmark -- Blue, Aqua, Brown, Heart
Charm -- Blue, Green, Emerald, Sapphire, Star

My new STANDARD shipping of only $1.50 on any size bookmark/charm order to the US & Canada makes these items very affordable. (Offer does not apply to jewelry items.)

Plus I can easily change a charm on any bookmark or phone charm--just convo me! I also have a few charms in stock that aren't pictured on any bookmarks listed in my Etsy shop (and a bunch of phone charms that I never listed), so feel free to ask about what I have available. I hope to get pictures up (someday) here on my blog of all the other stock I have.

Thanks for looking!

And while you're looking, check out these other great Etsy shops with some terrific gift ideas. All they did was reply to my Etsy forum post about teacher and grad gifts, but I thought their products were such great ideas, I decided to blog and list their shops:

www.ajscountrycottage.etsy.com
www.aljdesigns.etsy.com
www.antiquebasketlady.etsy.com
www.art4milkbones.etsy.com
www.BeppeMartha.etsy.com
www.Buddhakittyglass.etsy.com
www.cardsandnotes.etsy.com
www.dammas.etsy.com
www.EclecticaByJan.etsy.com
www.ForestCreations.etsy.com
www,idarose.etsy.com
www.klosti.etsy.com
www.kuteklipboardsbyamy.etsy.com
www.lorkey1981.etsy.com
www.Nikonman.etsy.com
www.nursesnaturally.etsy.com
www.rabbitwhiskers.etsy.com
www.sassybellewares.etsy.com
www.scrappersbydesign..etsycom
www.SleepDreamPlay.etsy.com
www.sdkent79.etsy.com
www.styrendesigns.etsy.com
www.susanstreasures.etsy.com
www.TALKTAGZ.etsy.com
www.teaman.etsy.com
www.wishwithme.etsy.com
www.yarndeb.etsy.com

Happy shopping!

The "Vanessa" Necklace

2009-05-07T22:24:00.009-04:00

Vanessa (Latin): a genus of butterflies
I made this one over the weekend, and I've decided to name it "Vanessa" because of the butterflies. (Not sure how long I can keep up the naming thing and try to actually make them mean something!)
This is a three-strand necklace, with ~20.5" strands. I used at least 6 different kinds of glass seed beads and bugles, in shades of sky blue through azure blue.
One strand has only seed beads on it. Another strand has four teeny-tiny metal butterfly beads. And the third strand has four 12mmx15mm azure glass bead butterflies spaced along the seed beads. The entire necklace is finished off with a twisted toggle clasp.Watch for the Vanessa necklace to be listed in my Etsy shop soon!

The "Lisha" Necklace

2009-05-04T09:13:00.009-04:00

Lisha (Arabic): the darkness before midnight

The latest addition to my necklace collection is the "Lisha" style necklace. This one isn't even in my shop, yet! The colors made me think of a storm at sea or the sky late at night.

This is a three-strand necklace, with ~16", 21", and 25" strands. I used glass seed beads in dark metallic shades of blue, green, purple, and copper.

The smallest strand has dark teal pearl-like beads and amethyst foil-lined beads as accents, with large black seed beads on either side of them. The middle strand is made completely of seed beads. The largest strand has multi-colored round and oval beads that have an iridescent quality to them, with clear spots of no color. These beads pick up all the colors found in the seed beads. The entire necklace is finished off with pewter crimp covers and a metal spring clasp.

Watch for the Lisha necklace to be listed in my Etsy shop soon!

Just added to my Etsy shop: The "Melanie" Necklace

2009-05-02T14:49:00.015-04:00

Melanie (Greek): black or dark
This is my new "Melanie" style necklace. I challenged myself to use some beads that I wasn't able to work into any of my bookmarks, and some split rings I once picked up by mistake. This necklace is the result! It's something completely new and different for me.
The necklace is approx. 50" in length. It is meant to be double-looped around your neck. I made the chain by linking two sizes of antique copper split-rings. (Yep! Linked every one of them by hand to make the chain. First time I've tried anything like that.) I wanted it to be longer, but I ran out of the split rings. So I accomplished that part of the challenge!
I then added a mixture of black, gold, copper, and amber colored glass beads of many different shapes and sizes, spacing them around the necklace. Antique copper eyepins were used to attach the beads. This necklace is one-of-a-kind, and will never be made by my again.

The Melanie necklace is available for purchase from my Etsy shop (click the title above to go to the listing).