tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-43175271847018655532024-03-05T07:26:55.370-05:00Inspired Designs by TeresaUnique jewelry handcrafted for unique womenInspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-74077825447536109412008-08-06T12:18:00.004-04:002008-08-06T12:51:05.464-04:00This Is Too Much Fun To Be Work<span style="font-family:arial;"> There has been a game of tag floating around the internet and the<a href="http://esmarsteam.blogspot.com/"> ESMARTS </a></span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://esmarsteam.blogspot.com/">Etsy </a><span style="font-family:arial;"><a href="http://esmarsteam.blogspot.com/">Team</a> I belong to.<span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span></span><a style="font-family: arial;" href="http://abeadedaffair.blogspot.com/"></a><span style="font-family:arial;"> I've been lucky enough to have been tagged by two different people, Tina from <a href="http://linksandloops.blogspot.com/">Links & Loops</a> and Elayne from <a href="http://chezchani.blogspot.com/">Chez Chani.</a> Be sure and check out their blogs to find out some interesting facts about them.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The rules are as follows:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1) Link to the person who tagged you</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">2) Post the rules on your blog (this is what you are now reading)</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">3) Write 6 random things about yourself (see below)</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">4) Tag 6 people at the end of your post and link to them</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">5) Let each person know they have been tagged and leave a comment on their blog.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">6) Let the tagger know when your entry is up.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:verdana;"><span style="font-family:arial;">Now for the 6 things about me</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">1. I was an only child for 12 years and am still spoiled!</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">2. A few years ago I lost 70 lbs on a low carb diet.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">3. I like to go out and sing karaoke.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">4. I'm a huge Star Trek fan, my favorite is Voyager.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">5. I don't like going to the movies, I get bored sitting there.</span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">6. My lifelong ambition is to get organized!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">The six people I am tagging are:</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Yvonne from <a href="http://bluebonnetjewelrydesign.blogspot.com/">Blue Bonnet Jewelry Design</a></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Tammy of <a href="http://www.tammypowley.com/">The Crafty Princess</a></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Danis of <a href="http://dgdesignstx.blogspot.com/">DG Designs TX</a></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Kari of <a href="http://www.novelapproachdesigns.blogspot.com/">Novel Approach Designs</a></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Kelly of <a href="http://www.soulhumming.typepad.com/">Soul Humming</a></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">Jennifer of <a href="http://jenniferjangles.blogspot.com/">Jennifer Jangles</a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:arial;">My apologies if any of you have already been tagged. It's hard to keep up!</span><br /><br /><br /></span>Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-31862315215555748442008-08-04T12:08:00.003-04:002008-08-04T12:17:41.691-04:00Real Life IntrudesWell, I have made a couple of pieces of jewelry this week,but I haven't had time to photograph or post them. <br /><br />While I am on vacation I have spent the last week working on my teaching license. It expired in June and I need to get it renewed before school starts in September. So, I have spent the last week logging all the reading and research that I did over the last year and writing about how that impacted my teaching. While I'm always happy that I've done this after the fact, the actual doing it is not fun! I love doing research and am always looking for ways to improve my teaching methods, but writing about it is more of a chore for me. Now, if you ask me about it, I can talk your ear off!<br /><br />Another artist who has had to put her creativity on hold for the last week for educational purposes is <a href="http://annettepiperjewellery.blogspot.com/2008/08/sunrise.html">Annette Piper</a>. You can read all about her experience home schooling her son for a week on her <a href="http://annettepiperjewellery.blogspot.com/2008/08/sunrise.html">blog</a>, as well as check out her beautiful jewelry.Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-59819554814649531752008-07-31T19:48:00.006-04:002008-07-31T20:29:31.609-04:00Lori McKennaThis past weekend we were lucky enough to see one of my favorite singers, <a href="http://www.lorimckenna.com/">Lori McKenna</a> at a great venue in Londonderry NH, <a href="http://www.tupelohall.com/">Tupelo Hall</a>. The show was great and also featured opening act <a href="http://www.bethwoodmusic.com/">Beth Woods,</a> who did a great job.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Lori McKenna<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBWCWuRfyzp6DfUSKijZltLMIKv-3kI1mHGlQiJ9GWj6dGMOxjN6f1b4al-6Z0mqlcpuFhbcW6qx_DbLlts_7MNbEsnTme2pAXfoa4jJpwdJp6oGmInCJ8kHGmbMvvMj6KBqHtRUNyPA/s1600-h/lori.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRBWCWuRfyzp6DfUSKijZltLMIKv-3kI1mHGlQiJ9GWj6dGMOxjN6f1b4al-6Z0mqlcpuFhbcW6qx_DbLlts_7MNbEsnTme2pAXfoa4jJpwdJp6oGmInCJ8kHGmbMvvMj6KBqHtRUNyPA/s320/lori.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5229331576352077762" border="0" /></a><br />If you haven't heard of McKenna yet, she is from Stoughton, MA. She married young and started a family and now has 5 kids. She also started writing songs in her kitchen. With encouragement from her family and friends she started going to open mike nights locally and then hit the Boston/Cambridge music scene. She came to the attention of the Howard Publishing Company who gave her music to Faith Hill to listen to. Long story short, Hill recorded several of McKenna's songs. She also ended up touring with Faith Hill and Tim McGraw last year. Tim McGraw produced her lastest CD Glamorous which many critics rate among the best country cd's of 2007.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtcVxYtX2qVJiKowwAJKU0x4vUuMqwwafw_rAvHV-3DOCdHcTwnTIZJMoV6jw3_zYLNxSkbKFEkYxW2HoeuJvRTpbl4mFwV3TshstZM2Nh_gFHTPLr2_alEEULjYzZqEW1_tXP7midVFo/s1600-h/unglamorous.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtcVxYtX2qVJiKowwAJKU0x4vUuMqwwafw_rAvHV-3DOCdHcTwnTIZJMoV6jw3_zYLNxSkbKFEkYxW2HoeuJvRTpbl4mFwV3TshstZM2Nh_gFHTPLr2_alEEULjYzZqEW1_tXP7midVFo/s320/unglamorous.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5229333613399159490" border="0" /></a><br />So if you haven't heard Lori McKenna yet, head over to her <a href="http://www.lorimckenna.com/">website</a> and take a listen. Make sure and listen to the lyrics as well as the music. This woman has a way with words.Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-71268527296571255872008-07-25T10:52:00.009-04:002008-07-25T11:25:03.047-04:00Disorderly Conduct<span style="color: rgb(153, 0, 0); font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">One of the advantages of being disorderly is that one is constantly making exciting discoveries. A. A. Milne</span><br /><br />I've posted a couple of entries about moving and organizing my work space. I received a lot of comments about how neat it is. Well it was, for about 5 minutes! I thought I would show you what it usually looks like, after a day of creating.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8joDHODScEL9GJWhWujMC4AbRFhdvxkvRh9W2kKbZsWM6ZN1wtodfy4YpYyyBlFGBz3FgZiTEuJn2CNmzbBqOkiG3RG-wQtxjr8K9sTC0ScNtpseD7NUonJnH3P8dA7GGIXAZpMCxCag/s1600-h/mess1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8joDHODScEL9GJWhWujMC4AbRFhdvxkvRh9W2kKbZsWM6ZN1wtodfy4YpYyyBlFGBz3FgZiTEuJn2CNmzbBqOkiG3RG-wQtxjr8K9sTC0ScNtpseD7NUonJnH3P8dA7GGIXAZpMCxCag/s320/mess1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226968369695529186" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Kc7WiXusd57J8iLSZFGNXCUGwpseVLjGE6odIQbxI5kuKWAOtBx9uU-zkQkyoxlKQltWrzf2whIbW7tO9n9I9qk_ARAcSx_Gpvv5e0l5eQ2IvtW6ZkqkpnFJITk3qmLIzWNVFhexI1g/s1600-h/mess2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5Kc7WiXusd57J8iLSZFGNXCUGwpseVLjGE6odIQbxI5kuKWAOtBx9uU-zkQkyoxlKQltWrzf2whIbW7tO9n9I9qk_ARAcSx_Gpvv5e0l5eQ2IvtW6ZkqkpnFJITk3qmLIzWNVFhexI1g/s320/mess2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226968553211723698" border="0" /></a><br />Notice my new Wubber tools, the ones with turquoise handles. I am really loving these. I will be writing more about these soon.<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQbbvaDW_gzjr83EqXSKfp7YJAPVsxlCaIata3TMKVQB2cjEk43_snOv5TkaUCapEP_qPVGF9JIa3McCL7hyNrOEkMQfIUyiHTavA7CHgpiOOp1kDALaJq5WwUbr0BL3M-OhGZvh3sMI/s1600-h/mess3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIQbbvaDW_gzjr83EqXSKfp7YJAPVsxlCaIata3TMKVQB2cjEk43_snOv5TkaUCapEP_qPVGF9JIa3McCL7hyNrOEkMQfIUyiHTavA7CHgpiOOp1kDALaJq5WwUbr0BL3M-OhGZvh3sMI/s320/mess3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5226968659746600642" border="0" /></a>Now I admit that I will probably clean it up a bit before I start working again, but this is it's usual state. If I was good I would clean it up as soon as I was done, but generally life is what calls me away in the first place, and life doesn't wait. Plus, it really is much more fun to be a little bad!<br /><br />Another artist who is finding out first hand that life can sometimes take time away from creative pursuits is Michelle Harvey of <a href="http://michabellacreations.blogspot.com/">Mirabella Creations</a>. After I read her take on <a href="http://michabellacreations.blogspot.com/2008/07/will-these-days-ever-end.html">life with a 3-year old child</a>, life with teenage boys sounds easy!<span style="text-decoration: underline;"></span>Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-79659295368311283482008-07-19T10:28:00.003-04:002008-07-19T10:31:03.534-04:00Jewelry Montage<div><embed src="http://www.onetruemedia.com/share_view_player?p=67208d3213af193cc4f945" quality="high" scale="noscale" width="408" height="382" wmode="transparent" name="FLVPlayer" salign="LT" flashvars="&p=67208d3213af193cc4f945&skin_id=701&host=http://www.onetruemedia.com" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" pluginspage="http://www.macromedia.com/go/getflashplayer"></embed><div style="margin:0px;font:12px/13px verdana,arial,sans-serif;line-height:20px;padding-bottom:15px;width:408px;text-align:center;"><a href="http://www.onetruemedia.com/share_player_link?p=67208d3213af193cc4f945&skin_id=701&source=emplay" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.onetruemedia.com/share_player_link_image/67208d3213af193cc4f945/701.gif" style="border:0px;" width="408" /></a><br/><a href="http://www.onetruemedia.com/landing?&utm_source=emplay&utm_medium=txt1" target="_blank" style="text-decoration:none;">Make an on-line slide show at <span style="text-decoration:underline;">www.OneTrueMedia.com</span></a></div></div>Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-82685258687589201062008-07-18T11:35:00.011-04:002008-07-18T12:12:13.158-04:00Organized Work SpaceI talked about moving my work space into the family room in an earlier <a href="http://inspireddesignsbyteresa.blogspot.com/2008/07/new-work-space.html">post</a>. Well I finally finished (for now!) organizing my beads and findings. I know I'm always very curious about how others organize and use their space, so I thought I would share how I organized mine.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"> Everything is against one wall in plastic storage drawers.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPNuKz0y-r2XFllfW60QJufeT3rYbrjUdOnk6q1cdSmZDUtLyUZlb9pI9Vi3kwrqGEO3ZqHUb2YqsANe1SJKeKnEWBpaNyn5ynqOTLFmZFCNU36eRGWT0qQ6-nWDaOOU8tudTjpjUDYRE/s1600-h/storage+wall.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPNuKz0y-r2XFllfW60QJufeT3rYbrjUdOnk6q1cdSmZDUtLyUZlb9pI9Vi3kwrqGEO3ZqHUb2YqsANe1SJKeKnEWBpaNyn5ynqOTLFmZFCNU36eRGWT0qQ6-nWDaOOU8tudTjpjUDYRE/s320/storage+wall.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224379269431862642" border="0" /></a><br /></div>The large set of drawers on the far right contains paperwork, shipping and packaging materials and tools that I use occasionally. The four 3-drawer units in the center contain most of my beads organized by color. I have one or two drawer for each color: red, pink, orange, yellow, green (2), blue, purple, brown, black/grey, white/clear, mixed/multi. Most of the beads are stored in see through acrylic boxes. This system works well for me. The drawers come out easily so I can look through them, or I can pull out individual boxes and put them together until I find my inspiration. Previously I stored my beads in ziploc bags, but the beads are so much easier to see, and prettier to look at too, in the acrylic boxes.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">One of the bead drawer units.<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHaFb71EsZtBwsWyomFiQ0hY_kPIEZMiP2DEtfNw28NA-LAczLti1HBsaNhO-ELBa8Fed3Sf1JBehxtHEl1Q8zPxRQRqpPfSym8CyfdQcwWXRuy538csAvgE-xmZndRGtbo4oYvbkbcqk/s1600-h/bead+drawers.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHaFb71EsZtBwsWyomFiQ0hY_kPIEZMiP2DEtfNw28NA-LAczLti1HBsaNhO-ELBa8Fed3Sf1JBehxtHEl1Q8zPxRQRqpPfSym8CyfdQcwWXRuy538csAvgE-xmZndRGtbo4oYvbkbcqk/s320/bead+drawers.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224381439335109218" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Here is the inside of one of the green drawers.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD7Zf_NTFYWi6bnejVdHV1kRMQdIIms52ZeG6C0low6VlTfOHqpt4_wwjB40wfN-fXxdNb5iII4WE-5Q78_hoxbYG2QCtYytpn8zd38jPmon6xT56mJj_1GuYbMDtuMsUTwpzjEHhcgj8/s1600-h/green.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhD7Zf_NTFYWi6bnejVdHV1kRMQdIIms52ZeG6C0low6VlTfOHqpt4_wwjB40wfN-fXxdNb5iII4WE-5Q78_hoxbYG2QCtYytpn8zd38jPmon6xT56mJj_1GuYbMDtuMsUTwpzjEHhcgj8/s320/green.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224381606097757442" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">I have seperate 3-drawer units for sterling silver and copper beads and components. They are organized by findings, beads/spacers and chain/bead-caps/misc.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlv43oXNNAu8wfjUBXLoTufOJypDNYl75_qjRBU81CLVDA52VpMjRX9YVA7FrCUU8qNxCNGhBN1jgGpVhcWPPtF5JxN3V1huYD8Qcna1mAYAIqogyJfcsDqhcAyV-fS80J_JqNt0ZL_yI/s1600-h/P1010274.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlv43oXNNAu8wfjUBXLoTufOJypDNYl75_qjRBU81CLVDA52VpMjRX9YVA7FrCUU8qNxCNGhBN1jgGpVhcWPPtF5JxN3V1huYD8Qcna1mAYAIqogyJfcsDqhcAyV-fS80J_JqNt0ZL_yI/s320/P1010274.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224382395970287378" border="0" /></a><br />Other drawer units hold other types of metal findings, stringing materials, focal beads, metallic beads etc. I'm sure as time goes by I'll make some changes, but this is working very well for me right now, and it makes it very easy to clean up after a creative session.<br /><br />Not shown in the pictures is a portable file box that is stored under the desk. Inside are hanging file folders. I have my stash of wire stored there, seperated by type (sterling, copper, brass) and gauge.<br /><br />Well, that's how my space is organized. If you are curious how another artist organized her space, check out how Lily of <a href="http://tulipstalking.blogspot.com/2008/07/story-part-ii-hi-my-name-is-lily-and-i.html">Tulip's Treasure Box</a> organized hers.<br /></div></div>Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-86217731631707473572008-07-17T23:35:00.005-04:002008-07-17T23:53:20.883-04:00Teresa's Tool TalkOne of the really fun aspects of being a jewelry maker is all the toys, I mean tools, that you get to buy and play, I mean work, with. One of my favorite new tools is a bead reamer. I know you can get powered bead reamers, but I decided to go the frugal route.<br /><br />I have to admit that I was skeptical that it would really work, but I find myself using both this and a pearl reamer on a regular basis. A reamer is especially helpful when I make bangles like the one below using 14 gauge or heavier wire for the base. It is hard to find a great variety of beads with holes big enough for this wire, so this tool can expand the palette that I have to work with.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIyZfMvlK2QbCniuZouxuO8D15pU_tAZT22a4PKFi_tWONP8bwIq6nqKh_KpFrvDmQmnzb3E35JHF00BgI0XI6T6FerPl_KId84hFR4atIuPjAT7K4Qg9Qdttpkq6wmPJ_xCYxmy3Ng4s/s1600-h/green+ceramic+bangle.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIyZfMvlK2QbCniuZouxuO8D15pU_tAZT22a4PKFi_tWONP8bwIq6nqKh_KpFrvDmQmnzb3E35JHF00BgI0XI6T6FerPl_KId84hFR4atIuPjAT7K4Qg9Qdttpkq6wmPJ_xCYxmy3Ng4s/s320/green+ceramic+bangle.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5224195021148729826" border="0" /></a>It is best to use the reamers in water if possible, and I find that it works best if I try to 'file' the sides of the bead hole rather than forcing the reamer into the bead. You do have to be careful not to use to much pressure or you can crack or break your bead. I'd love to hear other artisan's opinions on their bead reamers, especially if you have any experience with the powered ones.Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-49752425575555787552008-07-11T13:13:00.007-04:002008-07-11T13:24:44.651-04:00Guest Blogger on eSmarts BlogI am the guest blogger on the <a href="http://esmarts.blogspot.com/">eSmarts Team</a><a href="http://esmarts.blogspot.com/"> Blog</a> this weekend. Check out my post <a href="http://esmarts.blogspot.com/2008/07/weve-got-whole-world-on-our-team-well.html">here</a>. In the blog I introduce members of our team who live and create outside of North America.<br /><br />I'm also happy to share that I sold two of my necklaces from my <a href="http://InspiredDesign.etsy.com">Etsy store</a>! I was so excited to send them both off to Alaska. I hope my customer enjoys them as much as I enjoyed creating them.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHeZnlRCB0hwBjKfwCHhi5KWr06qCktiqpwt_zypxkA-xlcVyT1hk9auTi_X7AxHRpdij9ErBNHpoWgM0xBWbFG015zTcbRf6mzd6xthhJInVC4dsDL7vudW69VklaoqE6A_htQj3HvLo/s1600-h/il_fullxfull.8538617.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHeZnlRCB0hwBjKfwCHhi5KWr06qCktiqpwt_zypxkA-xlcVyT1hk9auTi_X7AxHRpdij9ErBNHpoWgM0xBWbFG015zTcbRf6mzd6xthhJInVC4dsDL7vudW69VklaoqE6A_htQj3HvLo/s200/il_fullxfull.8538617.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221806876800230226" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNm6GhYFWY_LLaIWvk3xMMjeiG9awmPnt2MV2gB8e1MIjkVZDZrhitrV2mMFG7wt9K2oEPcJSF7W2QbDKSY5wDSUPgdjeDYhGPS1EiplBGJ_A4sqWoBv54YzyUxU-U1rBdlaqfP8fXuqg/s1600-h/il_430xN.28248110.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNm6GhYFWY_LLaIWvk3xMMjeiG9awmPnt2MV2gB8e1MIjkVZDZrhitrV2mMFG7wt9K2oEPcJSF7W2QbDKSY5wDSUPgdjeDYhGPS1EiplBGJ_A4sqWoBv54YzyUxU-U1rBdlaqfP8fXuqg/s200/il_430xN.28248110.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5221806877824370978" border="0" /></a>Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-845396343083252072008-07-10T17:57:00.005-04:002008-07-10T18:04:17.860-04:00Finding InspirationI've been thinking and reading a lot about inspiration this week. I keep a file of different kinds of jewelry that I often look through to inspire me. But I think that sometimes it might be helpful to open my eyes a little wider and see what other artists and artisans are doing.<br /><br />I was reading my fellow <a href="http://www.skwigglekreationz.com/profile/TeresaMagee">Skwiggaziner</a> Stacy's blog, <a href="http://busymommyproductreview.blogspot.com/2008/06/grid-online-interactive-art-project.html">Busy Mommy Product Review</a> and found out that she is part of an interactive art project called <a href="http://daydreamartstudios.com/greatartgrid.aspx">The Grid</a>. I went to their website and found examples of many artists' work. The pictures of each work form a collage which is both beautiful and inspiring. If you are in a creative slump and looking for inspiration, check it out!Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-37197539870280449062008-07-02T23:49:00.009-04:002008-07-31T18:57:05.177-04:00New Work Space<div style="text-align: left;">I'm finally getting my new work space set up. I have a large L-shaped desk from Ikea that I set up in the family room. The smaller part of the L hold the storage drawers. I think most jewelry artists have a tendency to collect many beads and finding, and I'm no exception. I'm still moving things around and trying to fit everything in, so I'll post more on that later, when I get it all figured out!<br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Storage Area<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgoW1fOQ79e9iLaj3A9xI6sXgYxhty1VEYBUF3A5CpSoVLJkpY1zTjRhCsK-dviHk-lEu3F_pdDQSRIIjk5kzNfs0ZBhoRTUk4ylLnWgbK60kBaO8EkQgTVN9qkcJcYQ_z2ufDZW6zB08/s1600-h/desk1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgoW1fOQ79e9iLaj3A9xI6sXgYxhty1VEYBUF3A5CpSoVLJkpY1zTjRhCsK-dviHk-lEu3F_pdDQSRIIjk5kzNfs0ZBhoRTUk4ylLnWgbK60kBaO8EkQgTVN9qkcJcYQ_z2ufDZW6zB08/s320/desk1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218630353256232226" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div>The middle section of the desk is where I do most of my work. My beads, findings and tools are within reach, and I have lots of light.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Middle Work Area<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_q-bc_Iw1uC-qGwgVQRJOiJlYeFMtEUKcuqYWDeTgyzO95BmCBEyfmnNil4sSdjbkt2JqaAhJXwHKkhSfBmYGAxw7-8JC7G8d75fePTW1vWcXr6z6YmIYzYK0ZW6MgqPwtoKAAK5goOE/s1600-h/desk2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_q-bc_Iw1uC-qGwgVQRJOiJlYeFMtEUKcuqYWDeTgyzO95BmCBEyfmnNil4sSdjbkt2JqaAhJXwHKkhSfBmYGAxw7-8JC7G8d75fePTW1vWcXr6z6YmIYzYK0ZW6MgqPwtoKAAK5goOE/s320/desk2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218630474433773570" border="0" /></a><br />The larger L-section is my secondary work area. It contain most of my tools, some magazines and a computer. I'm hoping that there will be room to set up my light cube here, although I haven't tried that yet.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Secondary Work Area<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5iiyoRl_fp5rdSxH_LvTyqJQSEqi5I12IOFTt8w94U1n1jh3BY5wr1f7NxKak2OHd0L_F7TkZ2wyRxatf_LG00WdoVTU4JqmcZHVUYYsjao87Ra5x6N5u7jeRJ9-PclF2JCRY12FUpxs/s1600-h/desk3.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5iiyoRl_fp5rdSxH_LvTyqJQSEqi5I12IOFTt8w94U1n1jh3BY5wr1f7NxKak2OHd0L_F7TkZ2wyRxatf_LG00WdoVTU4JqmcZHVUYYsjao87Ra5x6N5u7jeRJ9-PclF2JCRY12FUpxs/s320/desk3.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218630615116342098" border="0" /></a><br />Now that my life has calmed down a bit and I'm on summer vacation, I'm hoping that I can use my new space to create lots of pretties. I'm also planning on trying some new techniques, including wire weaving and wire crochet. Have I mentioned that I love working with wire? LOL<br /><br /><br />Here is my first attempt at a crocheted bracelet. I used 28 gauge black wire and glass rondelles.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Wire Crochet Bracelet<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9ftNGqhFaVhoBP7PYdwYHsjB-Zs3JWaphlAdCGWJnq6nt2bQBAjFy8o4fKleV4_X50YnuIL4f9Nd2OirwLuOB9MmNfpAUpeqdw6cedPPEEaMBaumL1_RSrw6fEhSta2MZT5HIj5DRZM/s1600-h/crochet.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiE9ftNGqhFaVhoBP7PYdwYHsjB-Zs3JWaphlAdCGWJnq6nt2bQBAjFy8o4fKleV4_X50YnuIL4f9Nd2OirwLuOB9MmNfpAUpeqdw6cedPPEEaMBaumL1_RSrw6fEhSta2MZT5HIj5DRZM/s320/crochet.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5218636573802566946" border="0" /></a>I think this looks almost like polka dots. Polka dots can be a lot of fun, but they can also be quite sophisticated. To see examples of polka dots used in a sophisticated way check out my fellow Skiggaziner Stacy's <a href="http://svlm2005.wordpress.com/2008/06/01/wedding-plans-underway/">blog</a>. Stacy is planning her wedding and the theme is polka dots! How cool is that?Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-20921210127940830112008-06-21T13:11:00.007-04:002008-06-21T13:40:17.023-04:00Transition Time<div style="float: right; margin-left: 10px; margin-bottom: 10px;"><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mjp3000/308110472/"><br /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/mjp3000/"></a></span></div>Phew! I finally have a few minutes to get my thoughts together. These past few weeks have been very busy. It seems like everyone and everything close to me is going through some kind of transition.<br /><br />My oldest son Andrew is graduating from Boston University and moving into his own apartment in Boston. My middle son Ethan graduated from Salem High School and will be going off to college in the fall.<br /><br />My house is also in transition. We moved everything out of the office/den to install a new hardwood floor (it's beautiful, thanks Tommy!). At the same time I moved the desk to the family room to set up a new work space, which I'm still organizing. I'm also getting ready for the big graduation party next week. Then I hope to get back to business.<br /><br />My first year of teaching kindergarten came to a successful close with a beautiful graduation at <a href="http://www.searlescastlewindham.com/castle_history/castle_history.html">Searles Castle.</a><br /><br /><a href="http://www.searlescastlewindham.com/castle_history/castle_history.html"> </a><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mjp3000/308110472/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm1.static.flickr.com/115/308110472_68c48d14e8_m.jpg" alt="" style="border: 2px solid rgb(0, 0, 0);" /></a><br /><span style="margin-top: 0px;font-size:0;" ><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/mjp3000/308110472/">Searles</a><br />Originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/people/mjp3000/">mjp3000</a></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The children felt like they were in a fairy tale. During their last few weeks of school we spent lots of time talking about their feelings of excitement and nervousness at moving on to first grade. It was sad to see these 39 children move on, but very gratifying.<br /><br />Going back to clean up the classroom after the last day I had to strip everything from the ceiling and walls. I was left with a sterile, cold classroom. It is amazing how much energy color can add to our lives. I think this is why the work of <a href="http://ktcherished.blogspot.com/2008/03/new-march-listing-at-etsy.html">Cherished Dreams</a> speaks to me. Her use of color is both vibrant and sophisticated. If you could use a shot of energy for your work or living space check out her work.<br /><br /><br /></div></div>Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-46344558541221381542008-06-16T19:31:00.005-04:002008-06-16T19:39:54.705-04:00What Are Backlinks And What Is QassiaIn my research to learn how to market my jewelry, <a href="http://www.inspireddesign.etsy.com">my etsy store</a> and my blog online, one term that kept coming up was backlinks. Apparently backlinks, or links to your site from other sites, helps you rise in the rankings of search engines. There are many ways people get backlinks to their sites. Leaving comments on blogs and hoping that the blogger will reciprocate is one.<br /><br />During my search one site I came upon is called Qassia. According to the website "Qassia is a site to which you can add your websites. You can also add your knowledge, in the form of tidbits of information called "intel". The more intel you add, the better your sites will rank, the more backlinks you get, and the more money you make. Qassia is 100 percent free, and does not require reciprocal links. You can get unlimited quality backlinks to your websites from Qassia."<br /><br />Now to be honest, I'm not completely sure how this all works, but I figure at this stage of the game what do I have to lose. Qassia is currently in the Beta stage, and you can only join by invitation. If this is something you are interested in exploring further, you can check it out here:<br /><a href="http://inspireddesignsbyteresa.qassia.com/">Qassia</a>Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-80033477567857674252008-06-14T07:32:00.000-04:002008-06-14T07:54:39.677-04:00Old Work Space<div style="text-align: center;">Here is a picture of my old work table. It's former life was as a kitchen table.<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1nbtEWvSDlGjcdQI6YsLbvS_gudQhKfoRoRL5WVBBUwP715UCoWXD2wPgbv47OQGPgV-gqW8jclvVhz-44Je5jkwqRC5Xql-6wA1avFEQPNKE6NjHg40I9DBs3Yw3FlBtDp-ONmLIeoE/s1600-h/P1010244.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1nbtEWvSDlGjcdQI6YsLbvS_gudQhKfoRoRL5WVBBUwP715UCoWXD2wPgbv47OQGPgV-gqW8jclvVhz-44Je5jkwqRC5Xql-6wA1avFEQPNKE6NjHg40I9DBs3Yw3FlBtDp-ONmLIeoE/s320/P1010244.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5211701186684435298" border="0" /></a><br />My main problem with this space was that when I pulled out materials to work with, there was no place left to work. I usually work on several different pieces at once. Some might be in the design phase where I like to pull different beads together and just let them sit for a bit while I think about it. Then I might have one or two pieces that I'm trying out a new idea or technique on, and I often like to let those sit for a bit too. Then of course, when I finish a new piece I like to leave it in view for a time so I can critique and/or admire it. So you can see how having a few creative days can result in a work table that becomes completely unworkable!<br /><br />But don't worry, relief is on the horizon. I am in the process of setting up a new work space. I've moved a large L-shaped desk from the office to the family room. This will allow me to store all my supplies on one end of the L where I can also 'audition' stones and materials. This will give me the other end of the desk, about 80" to actually work on my pieces. There will also be room to set up my light box, so I won't have to turn the dining room table into an electrical octopus with tentacles of power cords radiating in every direction.<br /><br />I'm hoping to have things set up within the week to get back to work. And hopefully I'll have some nice pictures of my new space to share.Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-35388690942408541142008-06-10T20:53:00.000-04:002008-06-10T21:00:14.531-04:00Creative Growing PainsToday I turned my house upside down moving things around. I had been doing all my creating at a small table in my family room. Everytime I took supplies out to work on a project, there was no space left to work. So today I moved an L-shaped desk from the office to the family room. I'm hoping that I'll have room to spread out supplies and still have room to work. I'm still trying to work out the best way to store everything. I'll try to post some pictures later when I get it all set up.Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-17713084554493596662008-06-09T20:30:00.000-04:002008-06-09T21:00:41.710-04:00Rings & Things Trunk ShowToday was a day I have been waiting for. The <a href="http://www.rings-things.com/">Rings & Things</a> trunk show was in the Boston area, so off I went. If you are not familiar with this trunk show, they rent out a a hotel ballroom and fill it with pearls, gemstones and jewelry-making supplies. You need to have your business license or an invitation to attend. I often buy supplies online, but it is nice to be able to pick out stones myself. Of course, I wanted about twice as much as I bought! Here are some pictures of my goodies.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">From top to bottom: African Turquoise, Honey Jade, Carnelian, African Adventurine<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvCltFjvDfhweSVjB3LOT6WWTJsWyHa1AJTrY54GhefRXuWyhGqQbkuBQWRiPm1pXcaUqoDSIBW_tn_95DmA22eyFNLbN1UtRYww9QTlUMTjHWCRuJWSRvWu1u5cc0KBXKfRkc6phNrU/s1600-h/DSCN4071.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguvCltFjvDfhweSVjB3LOT6WWTJsWyHa1AJTrY54GhefRXuWyhGqQbkuBQWRiPm1pXcaUqoDSIBW_tn_95DmA22eyFNLbN1UtRYww9QTlUMTjHWCRuJWSRvWu1u5cc0KBXKfRkc6phNrU/s320/DSCN4071.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210046259975409714" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">From top to bottom: Rutilated Quartz, Smoky Quartz, Green Tourmilated Quartz, Garnet, Unpolished Crackle Agate, Chinese Charoite, African Adventurine<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcYkSaHyapTu1PiLPXw51_G-DuEGmEGHs3fTi0pOo5TYMsv0_yG-ciFLoSi42q17Yx0IuVRQJFhlZltQ2ZP7QLr4DGclld8PfDMilBHEd70a_oS0dfG8eF5EBMe5eaIY29Jtpef15hssw/s1600-h/DSCN4072.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcYkSaHyapTu1PiLPXw51_G-DuEGmEGHs3fTi0pOo5TYMsv0_yG-ciFLoSi42q17Yx0IuVRQJFhlZltQ2ZP7QLr4DGclld8PfDMilBHEd70a_oS0dfG8eF5EBMe5eaIY29Jtpef15hssw/s320/DSCN4072.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210046480456842818" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;">From top to bottom: Pyrite, Bone, Copper Tradebeads, Black Onyx, Ametrine, Garnet<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjh8XKQIOOihCBUwFEaxoUDsKA1ch89Lq28oVUjZUyPdFTTLXpQWbvaGdu7L9lBed3vj7C19NZYOJuMIj3ExhkHk0gBAI9MmUhkk8NlFeNCX83ZJ-dTD55jSE287k_wS3w1odOR6wF7k/s1600-h/DSCN4074.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAjh8XKQIOOihCBUwFEaxoUDsKA1ch89Lq28oVUjZUyPdFTTLXpQWbvaGdu7L9lBed3vj7C19NZYOJuMIj3ExhkHk0gBAI9MmUhkk8NlFeNCX83ZJ-dTD55jSE287k_wS3w1odOR6wF7k/s320/DSCN4074.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5210046675083886994" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-16849105953210971682008-06-01T13:29:00.000-04:002008-06-01T14:13:47.674-04:00Crazy for CopperI originally started working with copper wire as a way to "practice" before working with more expensive sterling silver wire. I now feel confident enough to work in silver, but along the way I developed quite a crush on copper. I love the freedom of being able to experiment and not worry about the cost. Also, being of Irish heritage, I have very pale skin and copper, either in its shiny state or oxidized, looks much better with my skin tone. Much of what I make in copper I do go on to make in silver, but have come to think of copper as a precious metal, at least precious to me. Here is a sampling of some of my copper pieces.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Fluorite and Copper Pendant<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkHXFtbk3EbZhHXJwZvxBy-mlR_i8ozg-iZ89qWEIHGGVgzLUsmDPYga101w_jLoJBrwwhvtO56gu6QNSQBeGCunQpSfqsR6QphKcltzTC_rLXXz728APmqBRjgKUXxptPZuPCIqaaNqc/s1600-h/flourite+close.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkHXFtbk3EbZhHXJwZvxBy-mlR_i8ozg-iZ89qWEIHGGVgzLUsmDPYga101w_jLoJBrwwhvtO56gu6QNSQBeGCunQpSfqsR6QphKcltzTC_rLXXz728APmqBRjgKUXxptPZuPCIqaaNqc/s320/flourite+close.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5206974728286780274" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Copper Wrapped Unakite Pendant<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimw90HxiDP0jDfhq72kEmuepN19yvw8Vn-eesAv45oGpwxDmBMLRlLHmsMZVsQLBKUEPAdRpyZ0RJxEqDWELvAhRc_l8FRobkcSriUWufdeq1-7238o9DKuPkhds3r-ljTfGSxWaa1VCQ/s1600-h/P1010126.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimw90HxiDP0jDfhq72kEmuepN19yvw8Vn-eesAv45oGpwxDmBMLRlLHmsMZVsQLBKUEPAdRpyZ0RJxEqDWELvAhRc_l8FRobkcSriUWufdeq1-7238o9DKuPkhds3r-ljTfGSxWaa1VCQ/s320/P1010126.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5206974985984818050" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br />These bangles are so fun to make. My friend Paul dismantled an old drill and made me a wire wrapping tool which is clamped to my table. It is great for twisting wire as well as wrapping it around a mandrel. It's made from parts we found in my basement, so it sure isn't pretty, but it works, it was free, and I love it. At some point I'll take some pictures of my work table and post them.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Copper Coiled Bangle<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFMSDqxedOtzZH-mAvwkO9whfOfHVZjO24t6FUnniCp64vwPFlqwGO8j3klkMDsJbPQidFzhptdS7JdieMvvr7XOs5DMCvGZHWHG8an3Q8YVSbQrDBkK2qFpnckc4ziEoVu6oKk-Za2o/s1600-h/P1010037.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHFMSDqxedOtzZH-mAvwkO9whfOfHVZjO24t6FUnniCp64vwPFlqwGO8j3klkMDsJbPQidFzhptdS7JdieMvvr7XOs5DMCvGZHWHG8an3Q8YVSbQrDBkK2qFpnckc4ziEoVu6oKk-Za2o/s320/P1010037.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5206974573667957602" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Copper Coiled Bangle with Green Porcelain Beads<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzofmm0GMVbTRX-gNvwGUW9_sM7QRDLIgU9H9Ll1UgypygNhCXAR9ptYovmHesM_Dqwg1XIj8rWDnZKdOkHS1srped-lgZh34L_sTt5dvINjZVM_3VQY_WvlZe0ardvzolxsTEdUIOaQ/s1600-h/green+ceramic+bangle.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSzofmm0GMVbTRX-gNvwGUW9_sM7QRDLIgU9H9Ll1UgypygNhCXAR9ptYovmHesM_Dqwg1XIj8rWDnZKdOkHS1srped-lgZh34L_sTt5dvINjZVM_3VQY_WvlZe0ardvzolxsTEdUIOaQ/s320/green+ceramic+bangle.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5206977635979639698" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4317527184701865553.post-1377683948922787112008-05-31T11:27:00.000-04:002008-05-31T22:47:35.250-04:00WelcomeWelcome to my new blog. After my first year of teaching (kindergarten!), I'm getting back on track with my jewelry endeavors. I'm busy stocking up on supplies (fun!) and making jewelry (fun!). I'm taking pictures of my pieces to put up for sale in my <a href="http://www.inspireddesign.etsy.com/">Etsy shop</a>. (not so fun). I have a very old digital camera and limited photography and editing skills. I swear this part takes longer than making the jewelry. I'm also starting to reach out and network with other artists. I plan an sharing links to other blogs and sites and look forward to "meeting" people all over the world.<br /><br />Here are a few photos of some of my newer pieces.<br /><br /><br />The first is a unakite donut wrapped in twisted copper wire. It hangs from a necklace of unakite buttons and copper spacers.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4nJ2JiEuB6gvQmf0VKfyFf8QgIQHAe5h5JZZTBQwVijM_7Q_IXQcQWohF4pG_f8JDzoFBldKz0oi6Ad_NRmccTE1qpTS4NvEGbSd7iCwteevbupBXW0b3f4oKv5u8ivrKdstQC3LDyow/s1600-h/Unakite+close.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 291px; height: 220px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4nJ2JiEuB6gvQmf0VKfyFf8QgIQHAe5h5JZZTBQwVijM_7Q_IXQcQWohF4pG_f8JDzoFBldKz0oi6Ad_NRmccTE1qpTS4NvEGbSd7iCwteevbupBXW0b3f4oKv5u8ivrKdstQC3LDyow/s320/Unakite+close.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5206583409521474050" border="0" /></a><br /></div><br /><br /><br />This necklace is made from labradorite and opal rondells and features chalcedony drops.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYsJW48lynx0-PUij32iNbtAyLygKl9XAXQvCDpgiLmxAj8n0jsQe5iPo_NKM9ATmmNJVZq1s1crcd5KYjshBoQybZHfVGkFfnYxBpdqCprbKRFnMiBr-AdipxA8iQqzFpEryC4rGhrA/s1600-h/Chalcedony+Drop+Necklace.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUYsJW48lynx0-PUij32iNbtAyLygKl9XAXQvCDpgiLmxAj8n0jsQe5iPo_NKM9ATmmNJVZq1s1crcd5KYjshBoQybZHfVGkFfnYxBpdqCprbKRFnMiBr-AdipxA8iQqzFpEryC4rGhrA/s320/Chalcedony+Drop+Necklace.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5206632707156097666" border="0" /></a><br />This copper swirl pendant wrapped with garnets hangs from a handcrafted copper chain.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMiYeswsPTI0nuqAAjs17B2l0ncauBhCmJEWidYp37_zV-oUOcFqv2qRu-bu5I7c6JkyiS6I9Aaunwl0iBsxX9DkjMjewLsiY_6wwXtaVTH01uTwenXd1FjpzM2xIvEFyQTEDvDrzdqY/s1600-h/garnet+swirl.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVMiYeswsPTI0nuqAAjs17B2l0ncauBhCmJEWidYp37_zV-oUOcFqv2qRu-bu5I7c6JkyiS6I9Aaunwl0iBsxX9DkjMjewLsiY_6wwXtaVTH01uTwenXd1FjpzM2xIvEFyQTEDvDrzdqY/s320/garnet+swirl.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5206631427255843426" border="0" /></a>Inspired Designs by Teresahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13929790735577299310noreply@blogger.com6