articulations

Enameled Elements...

Fallen

enameled copper element

Today I got started into the enameling process. I had so much fun, and what I thought was going to be scary and difficult, was actually fun. Whenever chemicals are involved, or potentially fire causing ingredients, a little part of me panics. I still hold my breath when I light up my torch...With my studio in the downstairs of our home, I have a lot to lose if I mess up, or don't follow proper safety precautions. But today was exciting, I had some success with the few pieces I did, and managed to totally ignore the custom work I am supposed to be doing for a family member...I do think I will have to work on that part tonight. I've listed a few of these enameled components on  Etsy  this afternoon, but keep your eyes out, I'm sure I will be adding more pieces in the weeks to follow. For now here's a little peek at what came out of the kiln today...light and love-amanda

 

-A few bits and pieces- 

 
 

When it rains....it pours....

BronzClay Harpy Pendant (sold)

Just happens like that sometimes. This week has been interesting to say the least. We have had some technical difficulties....and I'm not so technical which leads to alot of difficulties. We have been trying to switch over to a different service provider, and we just purchased a different computer for upstairs. My main computer has been dying a slow and painful death. 73 viruses and counting. My daughter was unable to even use her drawing programs or get on-line, so we took the plunge and got something small, and suitable for her usage, and then decided to switch providers at the same time.... that lead to a slew of headaches and confusion on my part. It's difficult and maybe a little humiliating when you don't really know how to hook all of this stuff up, and you don't even know the correct lingo to use to ask for help. Well I finally got the new computer up, then the internet working, and then my printer and my camera died. Well technically my printer still works, but the wireless connection to my laptop is not working. So, I'm leaving that for another week, and am struggling to learn the new software for a different camera. In the meantime, I was able to get a few pictures off and two new pieces listed on Etsy. The above piece is a pendant made from Bronzclay. I've been toying with the idea of putting a few "components" for sale in my shop. It's a difficult decision for me, but I thought I might give it a shot. I also made a bracelet, but photos for that will have to wait. My parents are traveling this week, and my Mom wanted to take the bracelet to show my Aunt...One more photo for today...

Wild Iris Earrings...Sterling Silver

 

Our thaw is over, and it's back to frigid temperatures. Just makes me ache for Spring-time even more.

Light and Love-amanda
 

Love, Hope, Faith...

 

-Hope for Haiti-
Please check out this link for storenvy....proceedes from this shop will go to support the Red Cross efforts to aid the earthquake victims of Haiti. The t-shirt below was designed by my (nearly) brother-in-law: Workerman...

 

$8.00 from every t-shirt sold will go directly to the Red-Cross.

Thanks-amanda

Remnants...and tools

We have had some rain here over the week-end, it's what we Wisconsinite's refer to as the January Thaw. It offers some relief from the bitter cold winter, but uncovers alot of ugly, brown, dirty messes. And if you have dogs, it's serious...Peeking out of the snow and mud, I spotted this yellow pansy. A remnant from this past summer, just sitting there saying hello to me. So although it's been a bit gloomy out, there's always a spot of sunshine..if you look. I had to go out and pick this little treasure, then I started looking around and noticed how beautiful my orchids looked in this winter light...

Mind you, I do have a green thumb for some things, Orchids are not one of them. It's almost unnatural that these two plants haven't died in my care. The lovely purple one has been with  me for over a year, this is it's second blooming, and the other, has only been here  6 months or so.

They are a treat during these winter months.

My Love (sold)

-Sterling Silver, Freshwater Pearl, Handmade Copprclay Heart-

 Andy picked up a hood vent for my kiln a few days ago. He was determined to get it in today before he left for work...With some major effort, he was able to get it installed, and eat lunch before he started 2nd shift.  Our house is of the vintage variety. It's a log home that was covered with several layers of siding, and plastered at one time on the inside. Anytime we have to cut a hole in the wall, it's kind of a big deal. I'll post a picture later of the drill bit that did the damage.  So he's off to work, and I've got a dusty mess to clean up. I'm really enjoying the Copprclay and the kiln. I've just made a handful of things, but I can see how artists could just focus on this one medium. The possibilities are endless. I just ordered a few DVD's on Copprclay/Bronzclay specifically. I've watched one of Sherri Haab's PMC videos-it was wonderful. I don't know if I will be able to take any classes this year, so I figured the DVD's are a really good investment...and for those of us with less then stellar memories, I can go back and watch it again. Gotta sign off-the dog's are calling...I'll be back soon with a few more pictures..light and love-amanda

 
 

Ode to March

handmade copprclay pendant, sterling silver, aquamarine
 

Ok just a few quick pictures, then my daughter will be off the bus. Here is the hole that we had to drill...

Here's part of the chunk that came out of the log...maybe I will save it for some assemblage doll?

And here's the tool to get the job done...well, it might need my husband behind it...there's no way I could have done that...

If you know anyone who owns an old log house, or is purchasing a country home...this drill bit would make a lovely gift. It has saved us countless times...lol...when we first got internet service, we told our provider that they would have to drill through logs to get the cable through. They still came unprepared, and Andy ended up running the wire and drilling the holes for them.

-have a great night-
 
 
 

The joys of copper...

 

Woodlands Earrings (sold)

Etched Copper and Sterling Silver with Smokey Quartz

 
I've been an etching fool...

As part of my New Year's resolutions, I am trying my hand at expanding my skills, and my comfort levels. I've tried etching copper (with the traditional chemicals) in the past, and have been pretty disappointed with the results. #1 it's really toxic and smells terrible, and #2 what do you do with the toxic waste that's left over?  With our dogs in the house-not to mention humans-I was always worried about the fumes.  I had read about electronically etching metal, and then last year I came across Sherri Haab's website and her etching system called the E3...I finally saved my money and ordered the system. I have to say, I've been really happy with the results...the above picture isn't the best, but it's just a small sampling of what I've tried. The unit is small, and fits into my studio set up without any problems. It's really easy to use, and it can also etch sterling with a different set of chemicals. I haven't tried that yet, but it's on my to do list....

Nesting Instincts

-Handmade Etched Copper Pendant with Sterling Silver-

available on Etsy

 

My other project right now is gigantic, one that I hope to be working on for the rest of my life...wow, sounds pretty big...I was able to take the plunge and get the small kiln that I have been dreaming of for the last two years...I'm certain it will take me a lifetime to learn how to use it to it's full extent...so far I 've fired one small project... Copper Clay. Talk about scary...you can read all you want, and study, and try to learn as much as you can, but firing something up to 1650 degrees in your house is a bit nerve racking. Andy is off this afternoon picking up a few things he needs, and he will be picking up a hood vent for the kiln. No more firing until it's properly vented, but I had to give it a a little test run.

I won't be winning any awards for these small trinkets, especially the cracked pieces, but it was a great learning experience, and I can't wait to try it again. My hope is to be able to create more of my own components. I do love using other artist's work in my jewelry designs, but I'd also like to be able to come up with more of my own focals. Again, I wish I had more time in the day...

So that's about it for today. Andy just got back from the store, time for some lunch and a coffee. I'll keep you posted on my progress...and for you fellow artists...just a reminder Sales and Use Taxes are due in a few days...no more paper filing...you have to E-File...get it done soon!! I filed mine via the phone this morning. Good Luck-light and love-amanda

Wind and Rain Earrings

Handmade Etched Copper with Sterling Silver and etched glass drops
 
 

Last Day...

Just wanted to invite everyone out to the last day of the Holiday Sale at KeLe Alpacas! We still have lots of great artwork and wearable art available! 

It's been far too long...

Where have I been? I know, it's been some time...I've been working everyday for the last few months at a Handmade Holiday Sale. The show is going well, but it leaves me little time to do much else. I just wanted to pop in and say hello. I'll be back again soon. The show closes on the 6th of December, and I hope to get back into my own rhythm once again. Please enjoy the special Holiday Sale I'm having in my Etsy shop while I'm busy finishing up at the brick and mortar shop. If you are in the neighborhood, stop by and say hello. The sale is located at:

KeLe Alpacas

E1870 Pine Grove Rd.

Kewaunee, WI 54216

need directions? just shoot me an e-mail, and I can help you find your way....light and love-amanda

Total Randomness...

 
I've spent alot of time Home lately...I'm not sure why, although we have had alot of things going on with our family, work, life...you know how that goes. I've cut way back on my work schedule these last few weeks, but I still don't feel caught up on "rest."  I haven't done a whole lot in the studio, and oddly I only feel a small sense of guilt...But now, I'm getting back into the swing of things, and getting energized about this coming year. I've spent alot of time researching some new tools to add to my studio, and still have more research to do. I'd really like to add a kiln, but I still have some fact finding to do (and some money to save) before I take that leap.

We spent the week-end celebrating my daughter's 12th birthday. She had a few friends over on Friday. Saturday we took all the girls bowling and out for pizza- I think everyone had a great time. I couldn't remember when the last time I had been bowling...it had to be at least 16 years ago...but it was kinda fun. Something to keep in mind when my daughter complains about being bored.

...New wire-wrapped bangles...

I've really enjoyed making these new bangle bracelets. I stumbled upon a wonderful web-site called JewelryLessons.com by Eni Oken and friends. It's a great resource for all things jewelry related and has wonderful tutorials that you can buy and download for just a few dollars. Some of the tutorials are even free. These bangles were made using techniques I learned  from a tutorial by Tadaosgirl. The tutorial was called "Robin's Egg Bracelet."  There is a wealth of information and knowledge on that website, I'm looking forward to heading back over there to try some more tutorials.

I've also been working on some more resin/bezel pendants. I just listed "Ode to Poe" today.

Ode to Poe on Etsy

 Well that's about it for today. My husband just came in to yell at me that the sun is out, and it's not freezing cold. I think that's a hint it's time to take a walk...hope you have had a wonderful week-end. light and love-amanda

 

Fiber Art Eye Candy

Ok, it was difficult for me to wait until 8:15 to bug my friend. I am such an early riser, that I forget normal people don't get up at 4:00 in the morning. I did get her blessing to post a few pictures of her work, I wish I was a better photographer, but this is what I wanted to share with you...

Front

Back

This wonderful jacket has so much detail, it's really hard to see in these photographs. It's beautifully lined, and the most comfortable jacket I own. Love it!

This next photo is of a felted wool collar that Jeanne needle felted a beautiful blue bird image into. The detail again is amazing. In person the design looks like a watercolor portrait....I've never seen anyone else who can blend the wool in this manner...

 

Ok, and lastly my Magic Jacket. Jeanne made this for me on my birthday this year. She called it a smock, but I wouldn't dare wear it for a smock. It's my Magic Jacket, and I do wear it in the studio, but only when I'm not being messy. It's so beautifully illustrated and painted. It's one of those things  that makes you smile, and makes you feel loved and grateful for the friendships you have.

 

 

 

The above picture is on the back...Magic

Fresh out of the tumbler-a special order of sterling silver and gemstone earrings...now I have to match those pairs! Have a great afternoon-I'm going to hit the couch with my dogs! light and love-amanda

Friend and Fiber Artist Jeanne Shay....Published in Belle Armoire this Month!!!

 

I Just wanted to say congratulations to my dear friend Jeanne Shay! Jeanne called me this week to let me know she heard that her beautiful felted wool collar would be in this month's (Sep/Oct) Belle Armoire (page 77) magazine. So please pick up a copy and check out her inspiring work. Jeanne is one of the most talented women I know and I'm so excited for her. I met Jeanne a few years ago at a friend's holiday show. She mentioned that she might be looking for a companion -of the furry sort-and me being the dog magnet of the area, set out to find a good match...we've been friends ever since....and yes I did find a dog for her-a lovely border collie cross who had been abandon by her owner..."Maggie" couldn't have found a better home with Jeanne and her husband. I'm going to call Jeanne today and see if I can get her permission to show a few photos of her other work. I've been lucky enough to receive several beautiful pieces of her work as gifts, and I'd love to show them to you...light and love-amanda

P.S. Jeanne's fiber art can be found at the Red Cup Coffeehouse on Washington Island, WI.

Isn't it lovely!