Etching

I'm trying my hand at etching for the first time today.  Since I've never done this before, I'm so nervous!....I just want my project to turn out.  I'm etching on copper and plan to turn these blanks into copper cuffs.  I can't wait!  Keep your fingers crossed for me:)  Here I go.....

The SQUARE

Have you heard of the "square"?  A friend of mine recently told me about this amazing little device and I just received one in the mail yesterday.  I can't wait to use it! 

Ok, so you're wondering, what the heck is this "square"?  Square is a revolutionary service that enables anyone to accept credit cards anywhere. Square offers an easy to use, free credit card reader that plugs into a phone or iPad. It's simple to sign up. There is no extra equipment, complicated contracts, monthly fees or merchant account required.

No monthly fees?  Are you kidding me?  This is fantastic!  Does it really accept any credit card?  You betcha!  Now all I need is a sale so I can try it out myself.  Perhaps it's really time to take the plunge and buy that IPhone I've been eyeing!

For more details on the "square" or to get your very own, please check out http://www.squareup.com/.

The Colors Festival of Arts held in Roswell, GA on Mother's Day weekend is accepting artist applications.  Don't hesitate, sign up today!

http://www.visitroswellga.com/include-new/2011colors-app.pdf

Whimsical Wares Show this November!

Bead and Button Show Again?

I can't believe it's that time of year again. Time to pack up and get ready for the Bead and Button show! This is an event I look forward to attending all year long. I am very fortunate that I am able to participate in this event. There are so many things that make this such an exciting opportunity. Here are a few highlights:

• Spending time with my jewelry making friend from CA.
• Meeting some amazing and talented artists.
• Learning new jewelry making techniques.
• Making new jewelry that I get to keep for myself!
• Shopping at the bead show!!!
• Getting inspired.

Folks from all over the world gather together to attend the Bead and Button show. It's such a thrill to meet other people who are also passionate about jewelry design. Bead and Button, here I come!

Copper Ball Head Pins

I DID IT! Finally. So I've tried and tried to make my copper ball head pins with no success. Making them in fine sterling silver was so easy! So I thought...why is it so hard to make them in copper?

It's actually quite difficult if you don't know how to do it right! So what's the trick you ask? Here are the simple, easy steps to follow to make your very own copper ball head pins:

1. Hold the copper wire at the very end with a pair of wooden handled metal tweezers.
2. Using a butane torch, turn up the flame as high as it will go.
3. Using a kiln brick, hold the copper wire (with the tweezers) just 1/2 inch above.
4. Center the end of the wire in the flame, just in front of the blue cone of fire.
5. Viola, a ball will form at the end of the wire!

The trick is using the kiln brick to help keep the heat centered on the end of the wire which helps to form the ball on the end. I've made copper ball head pins in 20 gauge and 18 gauge wire with ease following these steps.