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Saturday, February 25, 2006

I've Been Practicing

I've been practicing my wrapped loops, and I'm pretty happy with the results. I'd say this is the first time that I've been able to consistently produce wrapped loops. This item is made from non-tarnish silver plated Artistic Wire, porcelein heart bead, and Chinese 6mm bicone crystal beads with an AB finish. The wire for the links is 20 gauge, and the clasp is handmade from 18 gauge wire.

Monday, February 20, 2006

I'm on Etsy!

Ok, so this is the eve of my taking the plunge to actually sell some of what I make. I set up my Etsy store, and you can see it at aridanfashions.etsy.com. I set up my PayPal account. I created items for my store. So, I'm officially out there now.

I've heard nothing but good things about Etsy. Of course as a jewelry designer we all pretty much get lost among each other out there, but we can't expect Etsy to do everything for us. It's nice that they promote and categorize and try to drive buyers through the site, but I don't expect to drive sales from their efforts. If one or two come in, I'm not complaining though. I expect this is a place where I can send people who are interested in buying my stuff. Here are the pictures of what I'm offering in my shop.

I think it's the perfect, get-your-feet-wet opportunity for busy people like myself. Although I wish I could spend all my time on jewelry and designing, I actually have to provide shoes, clothing, shelter, food, etc. for my little ones.


Saturday, February 18, 2006

Diamond Pendant


I just recently finished the new tutorial posted by Ruby Fisch at her site, www.rubysbeadwork.com. Many thanks to Ruby for continuing to share her knowledge on the forums, in her self-published work, and with her tutorials. Just browse her site at the link above to understand more about this talented jewelry artist.

I greatly enjoyed making this pendant, and I see a whole set of them in a variety of colors in my future. It is my hope in the future to share with others what I have learned. I only wish that I could find more time to devote to this passion.

Friday, February 17, 2006

When RAW Doesn't Look Like RAW


A few years ago I used to buy beads in bulk. It was during a time when I thought the more beads, the better. I learned better, though, over time, and therefore there are containers upon containers of unused beads wasting away. I decided to take a few of them out of their dark abode and allow them to see the light of day.

This bracelet was made using right angle weave and drop beads. It was an enjoyable project, and the result hardly looks like a right angle weave design.