tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-325931182011-12-26T06:54:04.181-05:00Unique artisan jewelry for the artistic soul. Unique one of a kind handcrafted jewelry. Ramblings of an obsessive, compulsive bead lover. I love making beaded jewelry, especially beadwoven jewelry, and would like to share my creations with you and my thoughts as "life happens." Please visit my web site at BeadJewelryShopGirl.com.BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.comBlogger1161100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-63725901213274986412010-11-15T12:41:00.000-05:002010-11-15T12:41:55.101-05:00

I belong to a GREAT community of artists! Selfless, generous and mission-driven. That truly is the story behind the journey of The Best Little Bead Box. The box is a little past the halfway point of its journey and continues to grow as beaders add MORE treasures to the box to raise awareness and funds for Beads of Courage. Now we're gearing up for Journey Box #2 and already other beaders are

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-3061862176546579062010-10-01T12:22:00.004-05:002010-10-01T12:41:31.998-05:00

Please click on the image above to visit their blog and read about this wonderful fund-raising project for Beads of Courage. The Best Little Bead Box is the brainchild of fellow beaders, Jennifer Van Benschoten of VanBeads and Carol Dean Sharpe of Sand Fibers. Follow the travels of The Best Little Bead Box through it's blog or facebook page and get a chance to secure this treasure box for your

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-76276514056145064132010-08-15T12:16:00.009-05:002010-10-17T15:49:04.398-05:00

Happy Sunday! Spur-of-the-moment salad I threw together made with grated carrots and broccolini lightly sauteed in olive oil and garlic, topped with orange wedges, served on a bed of spring greens, and dressed with a splash of my homemade herb vinegar (fresh oregano, thyme and red wine vinegar). Yum-yum! This reminded me of some of the jewelry I've made that had orange in them. It's a color I

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-1246526363240020012010-07-08T11:54:00.004-05:002010-09-01T08:47:46.931-05:00

I can't help myself. This color palette is one of my favorites and I keep creating pieces using these beads. Almost like an addiction. But you've got to agree these are perfect summer colors.This bracelet is also my play on freeform right angle weave. I love anything freeform and mostly do pieces in peyote stitch but why not right angle weave, I thought, and here is the result. The bracelet came

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-48766036302026346722010-06-20T17:05:00.008-05:002010-10-17T15:49:59.951-05:00

The days have been gorgeous and definitely relaxing. I'm enjoying this summer more than the past summers. My herb "garden" (in-a-pot!) has been flourishing that I've been using fresh herbs in my cooking almost everyday. My son was a skeptic at first ("o-oh, Mom's experimenting again.") but he's now convinced that Mom knows best as evidenced by the delicious meals he's eaten! Let me introduce you

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-58016096668748002942010-05-23T07:30:00.002-05:002010-10-17T15:50:35.206-05:00

I just wanted to share this shot with you all. I don't know the name of this plant. If you do, let me know. They were just so cute and adorable.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-76560245912500328472010-05-21T19:18:00.005-05:002010-10-17T15:51:06.755-05:00

One of the dreaded phrases Account Managers, Copy Writers or Art Directors in the advertising world have to hear -- AAs -- especially if they happen more than once (Yep, I was an Ad Exec in a past life). What it basically means is, you are in the final stages of say getting approval on a print ad proof from your client, and Mr. BrainFreeze thinks the headline is "Just not right." and this after

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-66105989463525059662010-05-21T11:15:00.005-05:002010-05-21T11:24:29.335-05:00

My cuff links are my featured Bead Art Originals (BAO) Item of the Week for May 21-27. Nine other BAO artists are participating this week with their own special items and offers. Click on the image below or go to BeadArtOriginals.Blogspot.com for details on each of these items and the specials available on them below.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-10287483880137405762010-05-19T17:45:00.001-05:002010-10-17T15:51:29.945-05:00

Fewer men wear cuff links these days. I think it's sad because somehow it signifies the decline of the art of fine dressing. But I'm hopeful and so I work on more cuff links. I've done about a dozen of these in the past and they have sold in craft shows and all have been bought by men. I noticed most of these guys were not expecting to find anything on my table and, therefore, surprised -- "Oh,

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-25078097891048959562010-05-12T17:12:00.014-05:002010-10-17T15:51:48.485-05:00

I know this shot is totally unappetizing but just to let you know I didn't get a chance for a food shot because my guests just scooped the hummus straight from this container. So this is "bottom of the barrel" shot so to speak :) Hello! Here's the recipe for hummus I promised to share. INGREDIENTS 2 cans chickpeas (I prefer to drain and rinse the chickpeas) 1/2 c. extra virgin olive oil juice

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-5331965295630430172010-05-11T18:16:00.010-05:002010-10-17T15:52:08.286-05:00

You need to realize I DO NOT HAVE A GREEN THUMB. My DH, Mike, has always been the gardener growing tomatoes and peppers in our back yard. Me, I love rock gardens! But for some reason, I have been appointed caregiver for these bonsai. The last plant I had was a pot of English ivy which in fact is a WEED but it still died on me! I flashback to ages ago when I had a boyfriend who did bonsai for a

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-58359724679366635262010-05-10T16:07:00.015-05:002010-10-17T15:53:04.762-05:00

To celebrate a friend's milestone birthday (Happy 5oth!), I thought I'd make her a pendant. I know I wanted to use purple swarovski crystals. I was sure I wanted to create a piece using silver and 24K gold delicas, so I started working on the stones while I tossed around ideas on how I wanted to complete the piece. As most of my bead projects progress, I start bit by bit and then proceed with

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-14579919230505143932010-05-09T12:09:00.000-05:002010-05-09T12:09:33.508-05:00

Just wanted to share this bouquet with all Mothers on this special day!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-86235087403409982642010-05-08T13:04:00.002-05:002010-10-17T15:53:35.679-05:00

My best friend from college, Cheryl, finally got a chance to come and visit me. Her last trip here to the US was about 4 1/2 years ago. She stayed over from Monday and left yesterday. Her son, Sean, who had formed a bond with my son, Iggie, was also here so the two had a marathon of gaming and whatever teens do on the internet these days that don't get them into trouble. Needless to say it was

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-38457816229941597902010-04-04T15:20:00.007-05:002010-04-05T15:59:23.653-05:00

In an effort to satiate my teenager's ever growing palate, I try to come up with new recipes. I have never been the type to looks at cookbooks and follow recipes to the tee. More often, I would embellish or make up an ingredient or method on my own. Hmmm...almost sounds like I'm talking about my beadwork.At any rate, back to recipe talk. I thought I'd share this one with you. It's a completely

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-20446944200777356672010-04-03T17:37:00.009-05:002010-10-17T15:54:06.252-05:00

Yesterday was a glorious day in DC. Spring has finally taken a hold with the sun shining, clear blue skies and cherry blossoms in full bloom at The National Mall. I'd like to share these photos of our walk to the Tidal Basin. It was a madhouse, with tourists swarming the whole scene and mad traffic, ambulance sirens screaming every half minute - but well worth the walk. Wherever you are in the

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-17552103347780773112010-02-21T18:09:00.010-05:002010-10-17T15:54:28.991-05:00

I started a new project the other weekend, playing around with chinese crystal beads. I posted my first attempts on this the last time (click here to read that.). It's interesting to work on the same materials but to come up with as many combinations on technique and color. My work has ranged from the stringent peyote bezeling technique which requires a prescribed bead count, size and shape to

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-63144043610690310162010-02-14T11:15:00.009-05:002010-02-14T11:31:52.752-05:00

Things are finally back to normal. Skies and clear and blue and the snow, albeit huge piles of it, are starting to melt. The weatherman predicts snow tomorrow, I think, but let's not worry about that.I started a new project which is a good sign for me. Just playing around with chinese crystals and itty bitty beads. I just realized the blue and smoky crystals reflect the past winterstorms and

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-32280330134463668952010-02-09T09:53:00.028-05:002010-02-09T12:52:53.951-05:00

We just finished with the 3rd snowstorm for the year and the weatherman says to expect the 4th one today. No rest for the weary and snow bound here in Southern Maryland (aka Washington DC Metro area).My ordeal started last week after returning from a business trip in San Diego, getting home at 10 pm Thursday night. I woke up, jetlagged, Friday morning to light but steady snow which never let up

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-28445340107416812572009-12-06T09:41:00.005-05:002010-10-17T15:55:13.100-05:00

My husband likes to cook. It relaxes him. But our dietary preferences are on opposite ends of the spectrum -- he's trying to gain weight and I'd like to lose a few more. This morning, he prepared this for me: kiełbasa and scrambled eggs on english muffin, and yes, mayo! He had the same but count 3 eggs, 2 muffins and a load of the kielbasa but I will bet you that I will be the one to pay for this

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-68192508976790740302009-11-07T17:53:00.007-05:002010-10-17T15:55:31.742-05:00

More shots from the same day I did my photo safari at the National Building Museum. The shot above is part of the National Enforcement Officers Memorial. I liked how the shadows mirrored the curves of the archway that made part of this memorial. The photo below is the interior of the National Building Museum. I think I took this shot from on the 3rd floor gallery. The whole album will be in my

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-59450134132539201162009-10-20T19:47:00.004-05:002010-10-17T15:56:10.543-05:00

I thought I'd share this photo with you all. I made like a tourist in DC and spent one afternoon on a photo safari. This is one of my favorite shots. Hope you like it.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-64251715446676923802009-10-11T09:35:00.005-05:002009-10-11T09:52:51.439-05:00

This is the first time I'm holding a sale since I first opened shop. I've been uploading pieces since yesterday into my etsy shop so please have a peek. A lot of these pieces have never been posted online. I've sold mainly through live craft shows as they've sold more quickly that way. BUT as my life and work schedule and pressure has intensified, I have not scheduled any shows but would still

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-13116456881028687222009-08-30T16:29:00.005-05:002009-08-30T18:15:18.757-05:00

My DC Craft Mafia peeps and I spent a hardworking afternoon a few weeks ago going through applications for our annual holiday show, HOLIDAY HEIST. We have a smaller show this year due to our choice in venue and we could only take in about 30 artists. We would accepted more is we could but maybe next year.Here's a peek at the array of talent we have for the show:A.W.E. DesignArtmongerBead Jewelry

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-51224083308399677182009-08-16T07:17:00.007-05:002009-08-16T07:29:53.033-05:00

I'm so proud to belong to a talented group of artists. I'm referring to my peeps from Bead Art Originals, a prolific group of beadweavers and bead artists who week after week create a vast array of art. Every week we feature special items with special offers. Don't miss out on this week's smorgasbord of delightful treasures! Click on the image above and it will take you to the BAO blog and view

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-79526023650913144302009-07-12T17:42:00.005-05:002010-10-17T15:56:57.425-05:00

My style has always been freeform. I was always the type who never stuck to patterns, who never followed instructions to the letter, always improvising to my own specifications. When I started beading, I worked on designs from my head, never drawing designs like other artists, just picked up my tools and worked away and improvised my work as I progressed. I guess it was basically because I was

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-54994533231227204052009-06-01T15:50:00.010-05:002010-10-17T15:57:27.374-05:00

I spent yesterday with my DC Craft Mafia peeps, Erica Burns (Erica Burns Designs) and Mary Kearns (Herban LifeStyle) at the Handmade Mart in Downtown Silver Spring. The day started out with rain but the sun didn't let us down and it shone the rest of the day (I have the sun burn to prove it!). Everyone was out and about and buying tons of stuff! There was live music and lots of things to eat and

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-91944616082596115532009-05-29T19:09:00.002-05:002009-05-29T19:13:24.722-05:00

This is a short post to remind everyone about my show this weekend. I will be with my DC Craft Mafia peeps in Handmade Mart this Sunday, May 31st in Downtown Silver Spring. Find us in Tent #58 (close to CakeLove's store. Yummy!)The Handmade Mart in Downtown Silver Spring will bring together more than 50 independent artisans and crafters for a one-day show and sale of handmade goods. With hands-on

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-23527835786537368042009-05-24T10:40:00.006-05:002010-10-17T15:57:49.721-05:00

I had a busy and rewarding day yesterday. I got to make 4 necklaces and 2 earrings. I had a bit of a slow start with a new design - did 3 false starts before I finally got the hang of it - then did a quick trip to the local bead store for some emergency supplies and back to beading again. This is a short post cause I need to get back to work! Hope you are all having a lovely weekend!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-74257823942110345052009-05-22T19:24:00.007-05:002010-10-17T15:58:15.056-05:00

Sun is out finally out, it's a three day weekend and I'm beading like mad again! I have a show to prepare for and trying to remember all the thousand details to get ready for one. Number one on checklist is make more jewelry! So as I prepare for the beading marathon, let me show you some lovelies that I already do have on hand. The pendant shown on the left will definitely be hard to part with.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-82608172752124767632009-05-11T10:49:00.002-05:002010-10-17T15:58:43.970-05:00

Beading is great therapy. It certainly helps me to de-stress from work. But life took a turn and the stress became personal as my husband was diagnosed with cancer. The energies got shifted to him and beads became trivial. But beading still helped to keep my sanity. What do you do when you don't have access to a computer, can't really bring your beading stuff with you and had hours of dead time

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-47808399410437140562009-05-09T09:52:00.007-05:002010-10-17T15:59:02.266-05:00

I tend to take the earrings I make for granted. Probably because I make earrings when I need a mental break. Well, I've done a lot of earrings in the past year (yeah! needed that many mental breaks!). They've all been in hiding in my box of earrings begging to be photoed and shown off to the world after staying in the dark for too long. So I'm going to start introducing them here and in my etsy

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-58948252332944314382009-04-12T10:49:00.005-05:002009-04-12T11:20:41.132-05:00

It is indeed a time of renewal. I'm finally relaunching my jewelry shop, BeadJewelryShopgirl, with a SALE! Don't miss this wonderful event my artists friends and I are offering! Great value for the buck for items from talented artists! Click on the image above and see the list of shops offering these great deals.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-81217546850496897962009-04-10T18:33:00.004-05:002009-04-10T18:41:57.014-05:00

I have exciting news! Bead Art Originals is celebrating Easter and welcoming spring with a SALE! Not just a sale, but you'll also have chances to win free giveaways! Starting Sunday, April 12, 15 BAO artists will be participating in this extravaganza. I'm in the process of adding more jewelry to my store, too!The fun begins Sunday! Watch for it! I'll send you more details on Sunday ;)

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-52116831436838771772009-04-05T12:17:00.033-05:002009-04-07T10:26:36.617-05:00

As some of you may know, I've taken a hiatus from my beading to attend to "stuff." But I think I can finally start getting back in the groove of things, little by little and I'm getting some help with inspiration. Last Saturday, I spent the afternoon with my DC Craft Mafia peeps - Novelty Kitten, Erica Burns, Polly Scoots and NinnyCat and a new peep called Tweet. Well, Tweet spent Sunday with me

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-87224508155003932032009-03-02T18:20:00.004-05:002009-03-02T18:37:23.845-05:00

Well, I think I need to come out of hibernation. It looks like with no new posts since September, my blog has just been begging for attention. I just recently got a new camera for my birthday. Nothing fancy but it's still an upgrade from my last camera. My hubs got me a Nikon P80 and I've been playing around with it getting acquainted with the features. It's been fun and just this morning I took

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-55256308658259596652008-09-07T17:41:00.006-05:002008-09-28T14:24:30.898-05:00

The DC Craft Mafia is pleased to announce a call to Artists and Crafters for its annual craft fair, The UnUsual Suspects Holiday Arts & Crafts Festival, to be held November 1, 2008. Deadline for applications is September 28, 2008. The event will be held at The Anastasi Room at the Bethesda Fire House, Battery Lane, Bethesda, MD. Applications can be downloaded from the DC Craft Mafia website:

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-88852350586848125572008-07-26T14:46:00.005-05:002008-07-26T15:20:47.681-05:00

It's always exciting when a group of artists from different disciplines decide to band together with the common goal of creating wonderful art. The latest group in the Etsy world is Bead Art Originals. Bead Art Originals consists of a select group of independent artisans, including creators of art beads and creators of beadwoven art. Our focus is on the business and artistic growth of our

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-21516642057941222022008-06-21T19:46:00.002-05:002008-06-21T19:47:47.644-05:00

15 minutes of fame, part 2Originally uploaded by BeadJewelryShopgirlTwice in this month alone, I've made it to the etsy front page! And I have to thank Carol Dean aka SandFibers who created the Treasury List that landed in the front page last June 18, 2008.Lovely beaded creations were featured in this TL featuring etsy beadweavers street team creations!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-47756673367708417992008-06-07T15:32:00.002-05:002008-06-07T15:35:33.013-05:00

15 minutes of fameOriginally uploaded by BeadJewelryShopgirlThanks to the Treasury prowess of co-etsy seller, wmarlaine of rainy lane, I managed to be featured in etsy front page!After over a year and a half in etsy, this is my first (known) appearance on the front page! Thanks to quick screenshooting abilities among my etsybeadweaver peeps, someone actually recorded the moment. Otherwise, I'd be

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-59318844057987209972008-05-28T05:00:00.000-05:002008-05-28T05:00:00.981-05:00

After almost a year from the time I was invited to submit pictures of my jewelry, it's here at last! My jewelry is featured in a new publication titled: 1000 Jewelry Inspirations, Beads, Baubles, Dangles, and Chains by Quarry Books: www.quarrybooks.com/description.asp?isbn=1592534139I've had my work featured in web sites, blogs, magazines and to have it in a book just makes me feel I've come

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-66589905175866800022008-05-26T12:00:00.002-05:002010-10-17T16:01:12.514-05:00

All too often it happens. You work on a piece and end up wanting to keep it for yourself! I'm doomed on this unless someone out there knocks me to my senses. Can you blame me? The design is Laura McCabe's (for the few who don't recognize her work). I did use vintage swarovski crystals that cost me an arm and a leg (well, almost). Take a close look at the crystal next to the toggle bar - it

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-14037607608529572782008-05-25T14:48:00.005-05:002010-10-17T16:01:31.226-05:00

My mental fog has been lifted and I'm working away and I thought I'd show you this pendant as the work progresses. Should I stop here or keep going? I have visions of working further, adding more rings, spiral rope, embellishments, etc., etc, etc... or go minimalist and do a simple beaded necklace.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-63861914400791047492008-05-04T12:43:00.003-05:002008-05-04T13:30:20.923-05:00

It's been slow going for me creative-wise these past months. I feel like I've been in somewhat of a mental fog. I've so many ideas and projects crammed in my head but I can't find the drive to jump start production.What the heck? I've been busy building a web site, testing new photo equipment, photographing jewelry I've not listed in my etsy store - just doing everything except creating more

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-5347160927408991452008-04-20T14:10:00.006-05:002010-10-17T16:02:11.392-05:00

So it's a miserable day in the neighborhood with clouds overhead, no sun and buckets of rain all day long. I've been wanting to shoot these crystals with not a window of opportunity. Lo and behold, the sun decides to stop slacking for 30 minutes, I quickly set up to shoot this photo. It's not the best but is the closest to capturing the beauty of vintage swarovski crystals. For more details on

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-47172763196795901272008-04-19T20:19:00.003-05:002008-04-19T20:37:22.720-05:00

Last week, I went to the Smithsonian Craft Show with the sole purpose of meeting Laura McCabe and seeing her creations first hand (Yes, I'm starting to feel like a groupie). I had my copy of her book, of course, and a crown jewel I had made from one of her bead kits. Laura absolutely rocks! The most down-to-earth kind of a person, we spoke about beadweaving, which she likes to refer to as "

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-5049359535447116292008-02-26T20:53:00.027-05:002008-04-19T20:19:02.354-05:00

My first show for the year and I was in heaven! Never did I think I would get into a show of this magnitude and prestige. The press release they sent about it says it all: NEW WAVE CRAFT. I met new artists, met my idol, Valerie Hector, made new customers, even 2 online friends! Best of all my babies (jewelry, that it) all found new homes.This first picture shows my set up on the first night. I

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-54412976274907767872008-01-04T21:47:00.000-05:002008-01-04T21:56:46.432-05:00

So my fellow beaders at Etsy Beadweavers have decided to start 2008 with another beading challenge. This challenge is simply focused on the theme of "RED." Pictured here are entries from these talented ladies who share this obsession of needle-weaving tiny beads, one by one, to create exquisite works of art.As always, the public gets to vote on their favorite! So don't miss out on picking your

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-21509233382570164542007-12-24T21:12:00.000-05:002007-12-25T11:31:48.890-05:00

Here's to wishing you all love and blessings during this holiday season from BeadJewelryShopgirl! Thank you for all your suppport and encouragement.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-22799233362565844392007-12-16T14:24:00.001-05:002007-12-16T14:42:08.783-05:00

It began to look a lot like Christmas last December 4-5, showing off my wearable art at The National Museum of Women in the Arts holiday gift show. Showing my work in the same building housing the works of great female artists like Mary Cassatt, Georgia O'Keeffe, Frieda Kahlo is quiet a heady experience for me. I also met 2 fellow Etsy CREST gals, Bella Luna Designs and Cavanaugh Craft.Now I have

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-86513443042528658792007-12-01T15:12:00.000-05:002007-12-01T15:17:52.947-05:00

National Museum of Women in the Arts in Washington, DC is the only museum in the world dedicated exclusively to recognizing the contributions of women artists. I’m proud to announce that I am one of the selected artists to participate in their annual holiday gift show featuring talented women artists and designers. The show is juried meaning artists apply and show their work which is reviewed by

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-80974753406301586652007-11-10T07:57:00.000-05:002007-11-17T16:52:39.848-05:00

Holiday Season has started. I've already had a couple of shows with good results - more of my jewelry have found new homes and here are a few of my favorites that are now adorning their happy new owners.African Opal Cube necklace with sterling silver beads and toggle claspMother of pearl chips with glass beadsChaos Freeform beaded pendantThis necklace is one of my early works. Copper delicas with

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-35320722374443969642007-10-27T11:03:00.000-05:002007-10-27T11:09:11.789-05:00

October's Etsy Beadweavers challenge entries are all in and it's amazing what artistry can bring to a simple theme "Study in Monochrome." Monochromatic pieces are usually boring but not to these jewelry artists and here is the evidence!Don't miss out on voting for your favorite piece. Visit the EBW blog to vote.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-61855799751109987462007-10-15T18:37:00.000-05:002007-10-15T18:50:29.762-05:00

It seems the 2 street teams I belong to are both in competition mode. This time Eclectic Jewelry Artisans (www.EclecticJewelryArtisans.com) is holding a competition with theme "Reflecting." Entries are being posted as we speak and voting will begin tomorrow. Of course, I entered my piece for the competition. Check out all the entries in our TeamEJA etsy store, after you've picked your favorite,

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-59462124133564600702007-10-14T20:45:00.000-05:002007-10-14T20:53:50.561-05:00

Yesterday, I was at the Ballston Arts + Crafts Art Market (the last one for the year-sniff, sniff). It was a good day, a bit chilly but people were still out for a walk shopping for handmade goodies. I was happy that quite a few of my pieces found a new home with ladies who fell in love with them. Several of my buyers simply put on the jewelry, not bothering to have me wrap it up for them! I was

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-21418739653012034012007-10-11T20:04:00.000-05:002007-10-13T18:03:44.815-05:00

I've been toying around with triangles in my latest jewelry designs. Pendants, earrings, bracelets and now these rings. You say it's a diamond pattern but really what is a diamond but 2 triangles put together?

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-30261173375712426252007-10-06T21:07:00.000-05:002007-10-06T21:45:22.150-05:00

Step By Step Beads is a bead jewelry-making magazine from Interweave Press, in publication since Spring 2003. The magazine is published bi-monthly and features 12-20 bead jewelry projects per issue.The November/December issue of the magazine will hit newsstands on October 9 and my bracelet design is featured in this issue!I was asked by the editor to write a tutorial for my Embellished Square

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-4384925906299061862007-09-29T21:42:00.001-05:002007-09-29T21:50:35.891-05:00

Give a group of talented beaders, like those in the Etsy Beadweavers, a creative theme and you come up with as many variations you can imagine! Each and everyone of these beaded creations took hours to create with so much love and talent! My thanks for my friend, SandFibers, who prepared this collage featuring all these beaded creations.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-16880932699403268132007-09-28T20:51:00.000-05:002007-09-28T20:57:51.886-05:00

Artistic Challenges are so much fun especially with a group of highly talented artisans. Etsy Beadweavers' latest challenge is to "Show Your Colors." For my entry, I created this Pearlescent Purple Freeform Peyote Cuff featuring my favorite color, purple. 20 other beadweavers came up with gorgeous creations is various styles to whet your appetite. The public also gets a chance to pick their

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-36049190274100247322007-09-21T06:44:00.000-05:002007-10-22T20:15:32.141-05:00

It's been a fun summer. Every second Sunday of the month, I've been able to hang out with my new DC Craft Mafia friends. As Arty4Ever always says, "We're crafty and we're connected!" This October 8th will be the last Ballston A+C Market so if you haven't visited Ballston lately, be sure to come!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-61396316447412523302007-08-30T07:40:00.001-05:002007-08-30T07:48:15.630-05:00

One of the street teams I belong to in etsy.com is ETSY Beadweavers. A group of very talented artisans equally obsessed as I am about weaving teeny tiny seed beads into gorgeous wearable art. We have a monthly theme going on now. The above creation was done by NoEasyBeads, titled "Midnight On The Bayou Raku Necklace"as her entry for this month's challenge on "Hot August Nights." Check out the

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-59157288016354576342007-08-25T16:01:00.000-05:002007-08-26T11:30:09.639-05:00

I'm fortunate that I'm never alone when I go to craft shows. I always have my son with me. Why? That's because he has his own craft to sell - origami. My son has been doing origami since he was 5 years old. He has always been fascinated with paper - cutting it, crumpling it and finally discovering the joys of folding. Now at the veteran age of 11, he can do large origami figures from one long

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-46835606680561465042007-08-19T20:49:00.001-05:002010-10-17T16:03:47.175-05:00

(Another edition for Etsy Bloggers' Blog Carnival!) When I first took Humanities in college I first learned the word “Chiaroscuro.” A technique made popular during the Baroque period by Caravaggio, I think. Simply put, it is a bold contrast in light and dark. In shooting my jewelry, I instinctively go for this look. Now you can’t altogether be too dark since buyers need to see details, but play

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-79728062444445241242007-08-18T20:34:00.000-05:002007-08-18T20:49:33.438-05:00

Months ago, I participated in a collaborative project as a call for artists by Belle Armoire magazine. Together with a group of etsy artists, we created a charm necklace with each charm representing each artist's concept of the Etsy Community. Lo and behold, our submission was accepted by Belle Armoire and is now featured in their Sept/Oct 2007 issue! I've included a picture of the necklace and a

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-39140131082093345322007-08-15T07:32:00.000-05:002007-08-15T07:38:11.968-05:00

I just found out that my Embellished Gold Bracelet is featured in WickedlyChic.com!!! They have a Daily Ditties sections (see under August 13) featuring some neat handmade stuff. This happens to be the same bracelet I did an article on and will be featured in the holiday issue of Step By Step Beads magazine! Wicked!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-20071744919824970742007-08-12T19:45:00.000-05:002007-08-13T17:50:01.274-05:00

It is my honor to host this week’s edition of the Etsy Bloggers Street Team Blog Carnival – Carnival of Colors! Take a peek at my post about this just yesterday. Now treat your eyes and surf the Etsy blogoshere for a rainbow of colors and interesting stories from talented indie artists!Yazmin shows how she tackles a challenging project in a Ring of Colors posted at A Pretty Rock Jewelry -

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-35211671742427149172007-08-12T11:21:00.000-05:002007-08-13T07:53:23.670-05:00

This week's Etsy Bloggers Street theme is "Carnival of Colors." It is also my first time to host so it should be exciting! (I'll be posting the carnival by tonight so don't fret). I beat my brains out for what to feature (I suggested the concept I should be able to think of one - duh!) till it dawned on me as I was setting up for a show yesterday morning. I had dumped my bracelets on the table -

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-13344550300431988022007-07-29T18:52:00.000-05:002007-08-12T20:13:36.084-05:00

Don’t we all wish that selling in craft shows is as simple as selling lemonade when we were kids? Never that easy! I’m preparing for another craft show next weekend and it’s great timing that the theme this week for Etsy Bloggers Street Team is “How To Prepare for a Craft Sale/Show.” So here are a few pointers on how to prepare for a craft show. I sell jewelry but some of these pointers

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-92184398892600016772007-07-22T16:39:00.000-05:002007-08-12T20:14:06.103-05:00

Purple is one of my favorite colors so it's not surprising that I create a lot of jewelry in this color. Just look at some of these pieces! There more not featured in this photo but I think you get the drift. What's you favorite color?

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-58731085948352211962007-07-20T19:59:00.001-05:002007-07-20T20:05:41.251-05:00

Here's your chance to vote for your favorite wire project by the artisans of Eclectic Jewelry Artisans (EJA) and your chance to win a free gift bag that will include hand made jewelry and other goodies!!Just visit EEJA web site and fill out the form. On July 25th, we will draw a lucky e-mail address from those that have voted. One vote per person. Voting on an item will sign you up for our

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-63492195836700326872007-07-04T18:44:00.000-05:002007-07-15T14:46:28.820-05:00

I admire Tiger as a golfer but as a person, there is none other than Phil Mickelson. This is a man with a BIG HEART! Like Arnold Palmer, he enjoys his fans and knows not to neglect them. After his pro-am round today at the AT&T National he spent at least half an hour signing EVERYONE's memorabilia. Now that is class! More pictures loaded in my flickr page or or copy and paste to your browser:

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-59788482547338453202007-07-03T18:47:00.000-05:002007-07-03T19:22:33.270-05:00

I'm a bead-addict, aikido-addict, golf-addict and Tiger Woods addict. My hubby, son and I spent the day following Tiger Woods today as he had his practice round in the golf event he is hosting this week in Washington, DC - AT&T Invitational at the historic Congressional Golf and Country Club. It was fun and exciting to watch him play in a relaxed mode. Here are a few shots. For more pictures,

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-45711533739855718842007-06-30T17:04:00.000-05:002007-06-30T17:17:15.925-05:00

Etsy Bloggers Street Team theme for the week is ORANGE! Orange is not a color I would usually wear or use but I do have a few pieces that are close to orange. This necklace is called "3 Sisters in Crime!"

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-61665233868223366822007-06-20T23:07:00.000-05:002007-06-22T13:17:22.902-05:00

I, along with the talented artists in EJA (eeja.org) made it to the etsy front page! It's a first for me!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-21337760839143578012007-06-12T09:18:00.000-05:002007-06-22T13:18:05.454-05:00

A fellow etsy beadweaver I admire, SandFibers, has created a Treasure List featuring gorgeous bead weave creations! Too bad the list will only be live for 2 days.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-44019358660793812412007-06-11T20:42:00.001-05:002007-06-22T13:18:31.097-05:00

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-31125432402627829632007-06-10T18:01:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:15:20.656-05:00

Ooh, I got a new stash of beads from a new lampwork artist I just discovered! This picture does not capture half the secret behind this bead set - the curls and dots on the surface have blue and bronze metallic highlights on it that is so gorgeous. Works of art like this need only a simple display so here's the first bracelet I made from this set. Now, I'm not sure I want to part with this but

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-46997191211050575002007-06-04T20:23:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:12:38.799-05:00

This week on Wickedly Chic, I'm their Reader of the Week! As Reader, I get to mention a few of the indie designers I have grown to admire. It was a hard choice as I have a long list of indies I would have loved to mention but space would not allow. I just had to take the indie designers who stood out in my mind in terms of their devotion to their craft and high level of creativity they

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-6896491023646372712007-06-02T18:40:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:15:51.550-05:00

I had a show today and one of the things I sold is this favorite bracelet I made from the lampwork bead set I bought from artist, Linda James of Flame One Glass Studio! I will miss this but I'm glad she found a new home. And it fit perfectly on the lady who bought it, too!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-30228842592335359082007-05-31T21:26:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:11:13.461-05:00

Don't miss this! Visit eeja.org before June 21, 2007!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-62591524865195465762007-05-27T22:26:00.001-05:002007-06-22T13:25:04.900-05:00

So I've hit the jackpot again this weekend and gotten featured in 2 Treasury Lists at the same time. One was created by GirlieGirls and the other by DBrownDesigns. It's always great being picked by fellow indie designers.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-68759092713851440062007-05-19T19:38:00.000-05:002007-06-22T13:25:27.460-05:00

Etsy has a section called Treasury List (TL) where members can create a list of items from the site based on a theme or concept. It's an honor to be featured in a TL -- kinda like a People's Choice awards since your colleague sellers and buyers are making the choices. I'm proud to be featured in 2 lists this weekend!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-43726707445488646512007-05-13T17:10:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:16:26.225-05:00

I am dazed by talented lampwork bead artists, especially those the come up with exciting and unbelievable designs in a bead that's barely an inch wide! I like beads that seem to draw me in, like I can jump right into the bead and spend days studying the swirls and patterns created by the artist. Such an artist is Linda James whose beads I covet but alas is always auctioned way out of my budget.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-51842479944289749632007-05-04T22:37:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:16:48.126-05:00

Q&A: What is a beaded bead? You basically decorate a bead with other beads or create a bead using a cluster of beads.How does one bead a bead? Very obsessively!I made my first group of beaded beads and showcased them in this necklace. Kinda a modern and old world feel to the design.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-35736959120043177392007-04-27T23:20:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:11:47.201-05:00

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-55215094873619715092007-03-24T17:17:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:12:56.403-05:00

UPDATE: The verdict is in! This necklace was selected as Special Mention:**Most Likely to Start a Conversation:BeadJewelryShopgirl's "Winter Medley" Necklace.It's stunning, dramatic, and incredible in every detail.Art, geometry, and fashion work together exceptionally well here. --Rena Klingenberg of Home Jewelry Business Success Tips.comLast fall I participated and won "Best in Show"

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-3651806938879806552007-03-03T09:43:00.000-05:002007-08-15T07:41:03.605-05:00

I just got featured as Indie of the Week in Wickedly Chic! Read on......Regina Jiron is a self-admitted obsessive compulsive beader. That’s quite a title for this DC area mom but it doesn’t seem too bad if you have to called a compulsive something. Bead Jewelry Shop Girl is the name of her Etsy shop and she creates jewels that Wickedly Chic readers will want to take note of. Click here for more.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-55345695129473823642007-02-28T23:49:00.000-05:002007-06-22T13:30:31.066-05:00

Talk about an eclectic group of jewelry artisans! Gorgeous jewelry made by members of the Etsy Eclectic Jewelry Artisans featured in a Treasury List in Etsy. For more on this group of talent, visit their web site EEJA.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-29946334925932306972007-02-26T12:59:00.000-05:002007-06-22T13:31:06.817-05:00

I'm celebrating my birthday today by listing this new necklace in my etsy store, titled "Desert Queen." This is a beadwoven necklace in Ndebele stitch aka Herringbone stitch.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-85010477127249961002007-02-17T23:02:00.000-05:002007-06-22T13:31:34.518-05:00

My son was born in the year of the Pig so I'm celebrating the coming of this Chinese New Year. The jade pig pictured in this necklace is one that was given to me by a Chinese friend for good luck when my son was born. I made it into a necklace with other jade stone chips.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-70203974210848131612007-02-10T20:38:00.000-05:002007-02-10T23:18:06.995-05:00

I have a spot in Etsy Showcase for Valentine! Pardon the poor picture. Can't get why it's not coming out right :(

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-71532937375503261352007-02-04T22:18:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:17:20.543-05:00

This is one of my freeform pieces available in The Way Goose Gallery in Maryland.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-78084289425658607412007-01-30T22:54:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:17:46.903-05:00

My beadweaving continues. I can't stop creating my freeform peyote beaded jewelry. From my bracelets, to rings and now pendants.And some exciting news - Bead Jewelry by Shopgirl jewelry are now available at The Waygoose, a Fine American Crafts gallery in Bethesda, Maryland! Woo-hoo!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-4913699303691397932007-01-22T23:11:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:23:23.839-05:00

It pays to have a good model for your product shot and even better when the product itself is well made that customers just flock to your store in droves. Such is the case with The Portland Beanie Company. Since they opened their etsy shop last October 2006, they have sold 400 of these cutie beanies (adult sizes also available). Check them out!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-25924358685781748122007-01-12T21:23:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:18:10.425-05:00

Surfing through the stores in etsy one day, my jaw dropped when I landed into Scarfguy's shop. Handweaver, Fred Ullom of Ohio, weaves unbelievably beautiful scarves and shawls using luxurious natual fibers like superfine merino wool, mongolian cashmere, fine chinese silk, quviut and even yak! Each scarf is his own design and can take him 2 1/2 to 3 days to make. I am in awe.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-84403901126673556962007-01-09T23:03:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:18:42.215-05:00

I found a novel idea for Valentine's Day! Dottyral of Dyed in the Wool Designs has these adorable crocheted hearts to romance your love on Valentine's Day:"Here's [Dotty's] idea...On the night before Valentine's Day, hide these hearts everywhere...next to the coffee-maker, on the bathroom counter, in a pocket, in the car, in a briefcase. Your guy or girl will be finding them throughout the day.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-35039170033026381012007-01-07T02:06:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:19:04.538-05:00

I just had to share that I've started to make freeform peyote rings and this is the first one I've listed on my store called Mermaid Ring. Each ring will be one of a kind due to the nature of how these are made -- freeform, improvisational with no pattern. Even I don't know how these rings will end up. Where the beads, needle and thread take me, I will go!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-46385484683000812192007-01-05T00:08:00.000-05:002007-06-22T13:33:59.437-05:00

I've joined an incredible group of jewelry artisans --Eclectic Jewelry Artisans (eeja.org) who create just about the most fabulous pieces of wearable art you can find! Take for example this Chaos Ring with Rhodolite Garnet handcrafted by Ahna of Shattered Glass. Ahna's bold and original designs are not for the faint-hearted!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-55121921125564558612007-01-03T23:58:00.000-05:002007-07-15T19:19:39.130-05:00

After a hectic rat race day, there's nothing like relaxing in a nice warm bath infused with bath salts like this Lavender Violet Bath Salts from Mishutka Design Studio, another inventive etsy artist. Their slogan "Vintage elegance. Modern comfort." says it all.

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32593118.post-24872257033279621102007-01-02T22:35:00.000-05:002007-06-22T13:43:01.684-05:00

Another top Etsy store is Starry Designs from Singapore. Talented jewelry designer, Cindy, creates bold yet simple contemporary designs. My favorite is her signature piece, Birds Nest Rings. Clean, expert and uncluttered wire wrapping I so envy!

BeadJewelryShopGirlhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03507546478028635845noreply@blogger.com0