Amy Nicole Artisan Jewelry

Charmed, I'm sure...

2012-02-17T11:24:00.000-08:00


~Estrella~Sterling, Citrine, Apatite

~Marietta~Sterling Silver, Amethyst


~Minette~Sterling Silver

I have added a new section to my Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/shop/AmyNicoles?section_id=11149215

Of course I have big plans to load the new section with charms galore, and time permitting, I will. This section is in the infant phase right now. I plan on adding other chain options for necklaces, and some bracelet options.

I enjoy making these little works of art, and it is also gives my clientele a more affordable option than some of the pieces I've been making lately.

I do have to giggle to myself a little when I name these charms. I read a lot of historical books, mainly about royalty and I love all the high falootin names the ladies had. So, since sometimes naming my work doesn't come easily to me, I am naming them the first name that pops into my head.

HeeHee. Minette was the nick name for the sister of King Charles II of England. Marietta, I believe was the name of one of Marie Antoinette's sisters, and Estrella? Well, citrine and apatite together remind me of the stars....

Stay tuned for more history lessons. One high falootin name at a time ;-)

Crocus Earrings

2012-02-16T10:56:00.000-08:00

More Amethyst! These cabs I had the pleasure of hand picking. I think I've told you before how much I love the very dark Amethyst, and boy are these ever dark purple! I had a devil of a time capturing the fact that they are indeed purple.

I decided to make these post earrings. Beginning with that fabulous pop of purple and ending in a tail that reminds me a bit of the tail on a kite, not that I look at them...

Here you can see the purple in the cabs pretty well...

Each little square has been lightly textured on both sides and domed. Attached are faceted Amethyst and hand cut peridot beads.

I am so ready for Spring. A sure fire sign that Spring is near is when the Crocus blooms in all it's purple and green glory.

Available in my online shop! http://amynicole.bigcartel.com/product/amethyst-peridot-and-sterling-silver-post-earrings

Teddy!

2012-02-14T13:55:00.001-08:00

He's bigger than my 6 year old!

Happy Valentines Day!

2012-02-14T06:56:00.001-08:00

I almost forgot to share this with you guys! Check it out! A heart shaped hard boiled egg! I was making deviled eggs the other day and this egg had half exploded while it was boiling. When I cut it open....voila! A heart! Ahhhhh just in time for the day of love ;-)

Tidbit Tuesday...

2012-02-14T06:44:00.000-08:00

{1} My kids were up at 4:30 this morning like it was Christmas or something.

Nope. Just Valentines Day. :-)

{2} I'm loving watching Nurse Jackie.

{3} As an avid reader, I am having difficulty with electronic readers.

I have three books on my iPad that if I had them in hand they would have been finished long ago. For some strange reason I can't finish a book on the nook!

{4} I won a giant teddy bear from Rita's Italian Ice for Valentines day.

Evidently, my husband put my name in the box.

Where in the world am I going to put a giant teddy bear?

{5} There is a rampant case of head lice in my daughters class room. I am scared to death the school will call telling me to come get her. She said the kids are so mean to the poor kid that started it. She said they all go to the other side of the room and won't go anywhere near him.

He sits next to her.

Yesterday the kid that sits on the other side of her got lice.

Now my head is itching.

A little sale!

2012-02-11T06:18:00.000-08:00

I'm spreading the love this Valentines day! Use the coupon code valentine20 to receive 20% off your order in my Etsy shop! http://amynicoles.etsy.com

Sale ends Monday the 13th. Not good on previously reserved items, made to orders, or custom work.

Sweet Dreams...

2012-02-09T08:47:00.000-08:00

The other day I was at a local rock shop buying beads and cabs, and while perusing the wares, I overheard a conversation that had me giggling a little to myself.

There was this woman asking to see all the Amethyst that the shop had behind the counter. And asking all kinds of questions. I just thought, eh, newbie...and kept looking.

Then I heard her asking the salesperson to educate her on Amethyst. The bead lady just gave her this weird look, while the customer continued to prattle on about the "powers" of Amethyst.

The whole time the bead lady is listening somewhat patiently, and when the customer doesn't seem to be getting the response she's looking for, she finally leans in and says "Did you know that these rocks just aren't pretty to look at? Did you know that they have....powers?"

At this point I can't help the ear to ear grin spreading across my face, and I just about laughed right out loud when the bead lady says, " I know that there are people who believe they do. "

Now, a comment like that would have shut me right up, but not this lady. She kept going on and on. Turned out she is having trouble sleeping, and her chiropractor recommended that she start sleeping with Amethyst. Claims that he sleeps with several around him and sleeps really well. So that sent this lady on the hunt for Amethyst.

And like I said, she kept going on and on. She further embellished by telling the bead lady that she wasn't into "new age" stuff, that she was a Christian. But since learning that Amethyst has such powers, she is starting to think that God didn't just give us gems to adorn ourselves with because of their beauty. Maybe He gave them to us so we could benefit from their power.....

:-)

Now, I don't know if wearing these earrings will really give you Sweet Dreams or not, but it sure couldn't hurt. And you'd look fabulous doing it!

Listed in my online store: http://amynicole.bigcartel.com/product/sterling-silver-and-amethyst-heart-earrings

In love with...

2012-02-07T07:30:00.000-08:00

Adele. I saw this this morning, http://omg.yahoo.com/news/karl-lagerfeld-adele-too-fat-210514633.html
and it got me all fired up.

I've been hearing her music on the radio for some time now, and have always liked it. Hubby happened to be putting videos on for the girls to watch the other day, and I saw Adele for the first time. The above video was the one we watched.

I gotta tell you, whereas I used to only like her before, I love her now. Her face is gorgeous, so full of soul and feeling as she is singing. You can see her feeling what she is singing. And that voice? Magical.....

This is a beautiful video. But, I do get the sense that she was made to sit in that chair perhaps to minimize the fact that she is full figured. At certain points it seems she has so much soul coming out of her that she can hardly stay seated. I wish they would have let her stand and move her body to her music....

Adele has the chops people. With talent like that, who cares how big her rear end is?

WIP

2012-02-05T10:42:00.001-08:00

Bleeding Hearts :-)

Saving Reese...

2012-02-05T09:23:00.001-08:00

We found this little guy on our front porch right under the window. I'm guessing he flew into the window.

Hubby and the girls made him a little place to recover. They even decorated it! I provided the warmth in the form of a sock filled with rice and warmed up in the microwave.

The girls decided to name the bird Reese. Because they don't know if it's a boy or a girl, and Reese can be either a girls name or a boys name. (so they tell me!)

I hope Reese makes it....

2012-02-03T18:17:00.000-08:00

Interesting article that a member of my aspiring metal smiths team posted on Facebook. Be sure to follow the link at the end...

Click here

Me again...

2012-02-03T08:12:00.000-08:00

Ok, this is the last thing, I promise.... But do you other sellers out there offer a discount when a customer asks you for one?

I am asked this question regularly in my Findings Shop, and every once in awhile in my jewelry shop.

I don't know. It's weird. Me personally, I don't think to ask for a discount unless I am buying say $ 200 worth of beads or cabs. I kinda don't think it's the thing to do....

But, different strokes for different folks, and it never hurts to ask right? I mean my husband embarrasses me on a regular basis by asking for discounts pretty much everywhere we go. (love you honey!) lol
So, it doesn't really annoy me or anything, I just wonder if it's the thing to do.

Should I feel obligated to give a discount just because someone asked? Should I feel guilty if I say no? I don't know.

What's your policy?

A little help from my friends...

2012-02-03T07:58:00.000-08:00

If you've been reading my blog this week, you know that I shared these on Wednesday as an in process post. Actually I had planned something different with the silver frill, but I had just bought these heart cabs and had them on my bench. When I set them next to the frills.....it was magic!

I most often get requests from friends and clients for gifts in the price range of $ 25-$ 30. I really struggle with coming up with something fabulous that doesn't have big dough in either materials or time. So my initial intention was to make a pair of earrings in that price range.

I started knowing I wanted to do the scalloped edge, and the size is about as far as I could push the silver for that price range. But of course I thought a plain piece of silver scalloped edge or no scalloped edge was too boring.

And so then I spent about 2 hours stamping a 2x3" sheet of sterling hoping to get 3 pairs of frills out of it. And then I still wasn't happy. I had to go and add sterling granulation all the way around the frills. And that still wasn't enough. They needed Turquoise Heart cabs! Oh yes...

But when I had them all geared up, I thought they needed a little something else.... and that's where my friends came in!

I was absolutely stuck on what color I wanted to add to compliment the turquoise. My initial thought was red coral. And don't get me wrong, I love that color combination! But I thought, maybe something different.....

So I asked my peeps on FaceBook, and I got the best responses! Red coral, orange, yellow, mustard colors, purple, peridot, brown, purple, I'm probably even forgetting some! It was so cool. And kinda proves what I've always said. Turquoise goes with everything!!!

What I really wanted was Carnelian. But I didn't have any beads that small. What I did have was some really gorgeous Citrine and I used those. But you better believe I ordered some Carnelian rondelles because I am going to do Turquoise and Orange next!

But back to that elusive price range...I'm going to wrack my brains and come up with something that works. It's just that it's soooo hard not to keep adding detail.... :-)

Have a fabulous weekend all! My girls and hubby are going to the Daddy Daughter dance on Saturday! They love going, and have so much fun together. I'll share pictures next week!

Summertime Love...

2012-02-02T10:19:00.000-08:00

I know I'm jumping the gun a bit since this is only the first week of February and we are looking at several months before the summertime weather will be here, but there has always been the feeling of summertime for me when I work with these colors.

Turquoise and Citrine. Ahhhhhh...... :-) The color of these cabs are just the perfect shade of greeny blue turquoise. All metal components are hand made by me, out of sterling and fine silver.

These earrings are available in my store! http://amynicole.bigcartel.com/product/sterling-silver-turquoise-heart-and-citrine-earrings

WIP Wednesday

2012-02-01T07:15:00.000-08:00

Handstamped sterling and Turquoise hearts!

I always manage to have a little something brewing even though I'm supposed to be doing other things. Like taxes. Ugh.... And yes, I'm aware I've been using that excuse for everything. And it is partially true. The other half of the truth is that I've been dragging my feet on really getting it completed. I don't want to be a freaking book keeper! I'm an artist don't you know!! ;-)

I also have some custom orders I'm working on. I have a lovely new client that contacted me through My Store. I don't know how she found me, but she is the very first customer I've had at my own store that I didn't knowingly direct there!

It feels really nice! I mean, I do love Etsy. It is a great community. But Etsy is a business. Just like I am a business. I want the time I spend promoting myself online to benefit me. Not Etsy. Is that selfish? Maybe. But it still feels good to stand on your own. Slowly but surely my little store on Big Cartel will grow fruit. I just must remain patient.

But really the key is to never stop creating right? I went through the whole, brass and copper phase. But I am in love with silver. I plan to keep going until I can't afford to buy any more silver. And then I'll go until I have no more silver scrap to melt down and turn into something beautiful. The time and love and soul that I put into my work deserves to be in precious metal.

And then I'll jump off my high horse and work in copper or brass because really, I just love metal. And copper and brass are just as long lasting and fabulous if you know how to take care of it!

I can't wait to finish these babies up! Perfect for valentines don't you think? Have a happy Wednesday all....we're half way there!

That's sort of a weird feeling...

2012-01-30T08:11:00.000-08:00

I told you guys that I was going to be writing for Etsy Fort Worth's blog right? Well, I'm doing member features, and just had to feature myself! That's sort of weird....anyway, if you want to read it, you can find it here: http://etsyfortworth.blogspot.com/2012/01/member-monday-meet-amy-nicole.html

In case you were wondering..

2012-01-27T09:23:00.000-08:00

what these pieces look like on...

I dislike the task of photographing myself wearing my pieces. For one, it's kinda hard to take pictures of yourself. Ones that look semi decent anyway.
I can't wait for my daughters to get old enough to model for me!

But, I do it because I think it's hard sometimes to get a feel for what something will look like being worn.
So, these have all been added to their respective listings!
I'm happy to have this task out of my way for now.
Happy Weekending all!

Happy Friday!

2012-01-27T07:07:00.000-08:00

I can never get enough of this band!

New

2012-01-26T11:40:00.000-08:00

Freshly listed:

http://amynicoles.etsy.com

Etsy Fort Worth

2012-01-26T06:59:00.000-08:00

Did I tell you?

I just slapped on my boots and my badge and joined a local Etsy team!

Well, not really my boots. And not really a badge either, but come on. It's Ft. Worth. What do you guys think of when you hear Ft. Worth? Cowtown.

And yes, it is Cowtown. But those cowboys and girls must love them some art because Ft. Worth also has a thriving arts district.

Yee Haw!!

:-)

Anywho, I joined this team mainly looking for local exposure, and to get the skinny on events around town since I mostly live under a rock.

(luckily under my rock there is a super cool studio filled with fun stuff to play with!)

It is a small team, but are quite active. I'll be writing for the team blog which you can find

here.

Just for me..

2012-01-21T09:08:00.000-08:00

Over the Holidays, my cousin commissioned me to make a cuff bracelet for her Mother in law. I had about a 4.5" strip of 18 gauge sterling sheet 1/2" wide left over, and decided to run it through the rolling mill until I could get enough length on it that I could make myself a cuff. I think it ended up being maybe 21 gauge. I don't know for sure since I don't have any calipers. Which, btw are on my to get wish list. I think they will come in handy especially since I'm processing my own scrap.

Anyway...The last cuff I made myself also had a similar silhouette, which I didn't realize until I thought to try wearing them together. I guess I just love the scalloped edge!

This one I stamped in a concentric circle using 3 different sized dot stamps, with flowers in the center. I set three 4mm iolite cabs on there because I love iolite. It is a gorgeous shade of violet blue.

The thinner gauge is ok, for me, but I wouldn't sell one that thin. I've decided to offer it as a made to order item with choice of stone, in 18 gauge sterling. I have it listed in my online store, but not yet on Etsy.

I recently made myself a nice pair of sterling earrings too. I don't often set about making something I know will be mine. I have pieces in my personal collection that I have made, but usually because they never sold! lol It's kinda nice to treat myself once in awhile. How about you? Do you make things just for you?

Engraving

2012-01-19T07:09:00.000-08:00

Do you guys remember when I took that hammer engraving class last September? Well, I'm really sort of bummed to say that I haven't done anything with it at all. I mean, I ordered all the supplies I need to get started. But there has always been one huge thing holding me back. And that is how to sharpen the gravers.

In class, the teachers had a Power Hone. And they also discussed alternatives, but it always went back to the best thing to get was the Power Hone. By the time you buy the unit, and the sharpening wheels, and the holder for the graver, you're looking at $ 1,000. Which is a huge investment in something you aren't sure you'll ever be good enough at to justify spending $ 1,000.

So, I've been scared. I did order a graver holder thing for sharpening and a sharpening stone. And it's been sitting in a drawer since October. Sigh....

The very first skill they taught us was how to hand engrave using a technique called Rick Rack. It's super easy to do, and fun! And the teacher had several antique examples of items that had been engraved using Rick Rack. I kinda like it. A lot.

The above pics have hand stamped flowers with rick rack pleats on each petal. I love this little added detail! But after these pieces, my rick rack tool that the teacher sharpened for me was quite dull. I busted out my stone and oil and attempted to sharpen it. And promptly made it a useless lumpy mess.

I am always in short supply of patience. I know this is what I need to coax myself through learning to properly sharpen my gravers. That and I ordered a book published in the 70's (pre power hone!) that covers hand engraving, but has a nice section on sharpening the gravers by hand.

I REALLY want to get back to practicing engraving. It could add so much detail to my work! I was so close to signing up for a class on wax carving and casting, and then I remembered that I haven't really done anything with the last class I took. And what's the sense in just taking classes and not doing anything with the knowledge? I mean, I'm sure every skill out there isn't going to be my cup of tea, but I hate wasting time and money on things I'll never find useful. And engraving can be so useful. I refuse to let it be a waste.

With all that being said.....if anyone out there has or knows of a used Power Hone that they want to unload for like really cheap, let me know!! ;-)

Or tips! I'll take all the help I can get!

I did it?

2012-01-18T08:31:00.001-08:00

Well, I learned a couple of things today while trying to recycle my silver scrap into sheet.

1. My mapp gas torch doesn't get hot enough to melt 2 ozt of silver and keep it hot enough to pour into an ingot.

2. I have some other options to use the ingot, but I'm not in the mood right now to figure it out. I'm thinking I could use the kiln, or bust out my oxy/propane set up to get the extra heating power.

3. I could have saved myself some $ since I ended up carving a rectangle into an old charcoal block to get the job done.

Before

After :-)

Except for the weird hole in one piece, I'm calling it a success!

Last but not least, I learned this is a very time consuming practice. Now that I know I can do it I will probably do it again when the scrap box gets full again!

2012-01-17T19:27:00.000-08:00

My sinuses are killing me. The weather here in NE Texas has been fairly warm for the middle of January. My kids were outside all day long, all weekend long. And today it is much colder. And what with the fluctuating temperatures, my sinuses are screaming. Screaming I tell you. Accompanied by a wailing headache. Okay, I may be exagerating a bit. But just a bit.

I get these sinus issues several times a year, and I've managed to work out a pretty good combo of meds that will eventually control the pain. But I still feel depressed and like my brain is only half working. And tired.

And all I want to do is play with metal. I am literally never without an idea of something I want to make. It is just finding the time to do it. And today actually feeling well enough to do it! I am trying to concentrate on working in sort of collections. Like my last batch was all hand stamped. I love to stamp, and I think I will go back to it again and again. But I am ready to move on to something else. The next collection...

Right now I am dreaming of enameled earings, and simple rings with beautiful stones. But first! First I am going to attempt to recycle my own silver scrap into sheet. I got the last of the supplies I needed last week, and have been waiting for the girls to go back to school (four day weekend!!!) to see if I can do it.

I'll keep you updated!

New Work!!

2012-01-16T09:51:00.000-08:00

All items have been listed in my store on Big Cartel!

Click Here

to go directly to my store!

2012-01-15T12:50:00.001-08:00

It looks like I'll have this necklace finished today! I'll be listing all of my new work tomorrow. I'll let you know when I do! ;-)

2012-01-13T09:29:00.000-08:00

I am slowly transitioning into the New Year. I've found myself a little depressed ever since my parents left on the 1st. It seems to me that I remember feeling this way last year after the Holidays also. I've come to the conclusion that it is just a bit of a let down after all that go go go go for almost 2 months straight. On one hand I love the leisurely pace I am able to enjoy, but yet I have this nagging feeling that things should be rolling along faster.

It doesn't help that on December 31st at midnight, along with ringing in the New Year, my husband starts harping about the taxes. I hate doing paper work. I know it would be easier if I kept up with it month to month but I don't. I prefer to torture myself and my husband by procrastinating to the point that I must spend a solid week sitting at the computer jogging numbers around. Bluck! :-p

So in between trying to make a dent in the taxes, working on orders, and being a smidge leisurely I have been making some new pieces.

I have a couple more things on the burner. A necklace for sure. A couple of earring ideas that are haunting me. And I'm already planning the next collection. This collection is tied together in that all the pieces have been hand stamped or hand engraved in some way.

I set out down the road to discover more Turkish Delights. And along the way I seemed to run into the American Southwest a little as well. It is interesting to me that in my mind they really aren't that far apart. The repeating patterns. Sometimes with a western vibe, sometimes an eastern vibe. The line is fine.

Here is a little sneaky peaky. The light was just gorgeous this morning and I was able to get pictures taken. I plan on finishing the stragglers, and will be updating my online store next week! I'll let you guys know for sure when I decide that will be.

Until then my friends, enjoy your weekend! I know I will! :-)

WIP

2012-01-09T07:53:00.001-08:00

I'm dreaming of Spring!

Happy Friday!

2012-01-06T16:14:00.001-08:00

Weeeee! Can you see the pattern on the silver? Hand stamped flowers with hand engraved accents on each petal!

I came up with this today on a whim and I am in love! Yes it's engraving so basic my kid could do it, but it feels soooo good! ;-)

Earrings to be paired with these gorgeous faceted blue/green chalcedony cabs that I've been hoarding for ages.

Does anyone else do that? Hoard product? It's like I can't let some stones go for a long time. Until I feel ready to send them out into the world.

Happy Friday all! I hope you have a fabulous weekend!

Workspace

2012-01-06T07:03:00.001-08:00

WIP Wednesday

2012-01-04T09:23:00.001-08:00

Handstamped sterling cuff!

Prototype 1

2012-01-02T10:14:00.001-08:00

Sterling Silver and White Topaz, a photo by Amy Nicole Artisan Jewelry on Flickr.

Hubby says I need to get in the wedding business. So, I must say that I made this under duress, but have ended up loving it.

It is still a prototype because I haven't been able to work out sizing issues. I need to be able to offer it in any size, and I just don't see how it can be done without having to cut into the first pebble on either side of the tube bezel.

It's a smidge larger than a size US size 7.5. I'll list it in the Etsy shop in a minute! :-)

WIP

2012-01-02T06:54:00.001-08:00

Work in progress...Ayla earrings in copper.

Year end

2011-12-30T10:22:00.000-08:00

The past three months have been fairly quiet here on my blog.

I've been deliciously busy, and had my best Holiday season ever!

Like everyone else, I have been mulling around goals for the New Year.

I don't really do resolutions any more. It seems they never quite manage to stick.

My parents have been here to celebrate Christmas with us,

and are leaving back to Nevada on New Year's Day.

Monday the kids will be back in school and I will be ready to hit the bench with the vengeance of one who hasn't been able to work the way they want to for 2 weeks.

I can't wait.

I will be around here more in the New Year. Things will finally settle down now that the Holidays are over.

I do want to leave you with some pics of my recent custom work.

Some of the pictures aren't that great, but you'll get the idea. ;-)

I hope you all have a Happy New Year!!!

Here's to the best year ever in 2012!!!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T08:23:00.001-08:00

Our gingerbread house has so much candy on it that I'm expecting a cave in at any moment ;-). I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Winners!!!

2011-12-14T11:16:00.000-08:00

I had very close to 100 entries for my annual Holiday giveaway!

So I drew 2 names to win a charm necklace!

First:

Thank you so much to new fans and old,

for reading my words,

for loving my work.

For being here when I need to vent,

or have a question.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all of your support!

I look forward to a New Year and getting to know all of you a little bit better!

So, without further ado:

The Winners Are:

Lorelei Eurto

and

Stephanie Silva

Ladies, you have your choice of available charm necklaces in my shop!

You can view the section here

Email me with your selection!

amymarez@yahoo.com

Congratulations!

Giveaway ends tomorrow!

2011-12-13T06:38:00.001-08:00

If you haven't entered my giveaway, enter now! The deadline is tomorrow!!

Click Here

Service Announcement!

2011-12-13T06:36:00.000-08:00

Hello all! Just a little FYI.

I have removed all the made to order items out of my shop on Etsy,

and deactivated all products in my own shop hosted by Big Cartel.

I just don't have time to make anything else!

I am going to be lucky to finish everything I've already taken on.

My last shipping day before Christmas will be on December 20th.

All orders must be placed by December 19th in order to make it before Christmas.

Anything purchased after the 19th I cannot guarantee that it will make it on time.

(this applies to orders in the US only-International deadline has already passed!)

This Holiday season has kept me delightfully busy, but I am starting to feel the pressure this week.

Lots of things to be done, and lots of parties for the kids.

Well, off to it then. Have a great day all!

Arthur Christmas

2011-12-10T20:42:00.001-08:00

If you haven't seen it, go see it! Take the kids, they'll enjoy it too.

Listed

2011-12-10T12:35:00.000-08:00

I had better luck with pictures today. These necklaces are both listed in my shop on Etsy.

Have you guys noticed I've had a thing for gallery wire lately? I don't know why I have eschewed it for so long!

I realized this morning that in the next week there are 101 things to be done. But if I make it through this week everything will be A ok..... At least I hope anyway! :-)

Enjoy the rest of your weekend everyone! We are taking the kids to see Arthur Christmas this evening. I'm looking forward to it!

Preview of new pieces...

2011-12-09T10:34:00.000-08:00

Sterling and Labradorite

Bleeding Heart w/ Garnet

Dendritic Opal and Sterling

Back of the Dendritic opal

I had another pair of earrings, but I'm not happy with them. Some things work, some don't....what are you going to do? ;-)

These pics are a preview. The light isn't that great today, and I need to retake most of the photos I took today in the yucky light....

If you are interested in reserving any of these pieces, please contact me at amymarez@yahoo.com otherwise I hope to be back tomorrow with better pictures!

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend and are enjoying the magic of the Holiday season!

When buying handmade goes bad...

2011-12-08T06:47:00.000-08:00

I read this interesting blog post this morning on my friend Nancy's blog. I kinda felt the need to share. I've been lucky to have only one semi bad experience as a buyer from sellers I've found on Etsy. And it was a supplier. Anywho... Beautifully worded Nancy! We all have personal problems, but when they start effecting your work you need to be professional and shut down business.

I could never leave a customer hanging like that. I wouldn't be able to sleep at night. Letting a situation get out of control like this is bad for the Handmade community. It feeds directly into the fears of buyers. "What if I never get what I ordered?" "What if I pay my hard earned money to this individual and I never hear from them again?"

It reminds me to be thankful to every one of my customers who took a chance on me for the first time. I'd like to think that after the first transaction with me people realize I am on the up and up. But guys like this, whose work is gorgeous BTW, give buying handmade especially online a bad name.

Such a shame....

The Three Fates Cuff

2011-12-03T09:14:00.000-08:00

I showed you guys a work in progress pic of this cuff on Wednesday, and here she is all ready to go:

I got a request a couple of weeks ago from a lovely lady who wanted a sterling cuff based on my Three Fates Necklace

I've always wanted to make a sterling cuff! It was an excellent learning process and I was happy to have the challenge. I can't call it a complete success until I hear back from the lovely lady regarding the sizing. So until then, I'll keep my fingers crossed! :-)

I hope you all enjoy your weekend! And thank you so much to all you fabulous ladies out there who snatched up a trio of my quartet yesterday! You all made me smile. :-)

Earrings!

2011-12-02T11:21:00.000-08:00


Winter's Day ~ Sterling Silver sold (can be made to order if you are interested)


Hurts like Heaven ~ Yellow Sapphire, Turquoise, Sterling Silver Reserved (can be made to order if you are interested!)

Poinsettia Earrings ~ Sterling Silver and Garnet

Wheel in the Sky ~ Sterling Silver and Sleeping Beauty Turquoise
*sold*
(can be made to order if you are interested!)

Embellished and embossed sterling silver, with little pops of color!

Please contact me if you are interested in any of these pieces.

amymarez@yahoo.com

More pictures can be found on my Flickr page:
Click Here

Giveaway Time!!!

2011-12-01T07:42:00.000-08:00

Would you like a chance to win one of these necklaces?

Sterling and Rainbow Moonstone

Sterling and Silver Moonstone

Sterling and Melanite Garnet

Sterling and Aqua colored Chalcedony

Sterling and Lucite


Sterling and Garnet


Sterling and Faceted Pink Opal

All you have to do is follow me on FaceBook or Twitter!

Here is a link to my FaceBook page:
Click Here

Here is a link to my Twitter page:

Click Here

And of course Follow my Blog!!!

After you follow me, leave me a message saying that you are now following me, and you're in!

One entry for each follow, and if you already follow me, leave me a message so I'll know.

I will take all messages from my FaceBook page, Twitter and my Blog and lump them together to draw the winner(s).

If you leave me a message on my Blog, please leave individual comments on where you are following me. It makes the tallying easier for me!

So here is the deal.

For very 50 entries, I will giveaway one necklace. Winners choice of available charm necklaces from my Turkish Delights Collection in my shop. So share this giveaway with friends! The more entries, the more necklaces I giveaway!

Thanks for playing!

:-)

Contest ends on Wednesday December 14th at noon CST

WIP Wednesday

2011-11-30T12:58:00.001-08:00

Custom sterling cuff after my Three Fates Necklace

Garnet and Sterling Silver

2011-11-26T11:41:00.000-08:00

I am wavering a bit on a name for this ring.

The hand stamped band is along the same vein as the Turkish Delights charms I made awhile back.

The deep red of the garnets make me think of a Turkish Sultan.

(and most specifically the Sultan's Harem)

Garnet is such a sexy, sultry color...

I must say I am quite pleased with the band.

I am amassing quite a collection of stamping tools.

Using them in this manner makes me think of Zentangles.

I just start stamping and one thing leads to another.

I use this stamp and that to fill in spaces.

There is something about the repetition and methodical concentration

stamping by hand requires.

And,

I got a new squarish ring mandrel that is supposed to produce rings

the true shape of the human finger.

The shape is very comfortable, and keeps the ring in place quite nicely!

I really needed repetitive this week.

My heart has been heavy for some time now.

Thank God for my work.

I don't know what I would have done without it recently.

I went back to a favorite design element of mine.

I just love the four stone cross.

Texture galore.

Heavy gauge sterling silver and gallery wire bezels.

Yes, I think her name is the Sultan's Harem.

I just can't get away from that sense of the

exotic

when I wear this ring.

US Ring size 8

or made to order in your size.

amymarez@yahoo.com

*sold*
still available as a made to order item though!

Wishing you all...

2011-11-24T08:17:00.000-08:00

I am happily baking away this morning, pumpkin and pecan pies.

Mixing, sauteing, stirring, roasting. All in preparation of a bountiful feast!

Thank you all so much for being here, reading my words. Supporting me, and my work.

I have really come to love this online community I am a part of, I am thankful for you all.

As a way of saying "Thank You" I have begun my annual Holiday sale.

This will be the last sale of the year, and will end on Monday November 28th.

Use coupon code Holiday2011 at checkout in my shop on Etsy to get 15% off your order.

And don't forget fans and followers can always get free shipping by using the coupon code Gratis.

I have a lot to catch you all up on after Thanksgiving.

And I'm mulling around ideas for my annual Holiday giveaway as well.

I hope you all have a wonderful Thanksgiving, full of good food, family and friends!!!

Magic Moon Necklace...

2011-11-17T08:41:00.000-08:00

My daughter came into my studio this morning and said, "Momma, this is a pretty necklace! You sure have been making a lot of moon things lately..." I can't deny it. I have been on a bit of a moon kick.

2 faceted rainbow moonstones flank an 8mm smooth round rainbow moonstone on a magical crescent moon. The back has been stamped with wavy stars and my initials with a swirly bail. The chain is a delicate by sturdy cable chain that has been oxidized and left black. It closes with a hand made hook clasp and closes at 16" and 18". All Metal components are sterling silver, and have been created by me save the chain.

If you are interested in this piece, please email me at amymarez@yahoo.com.

To view more pictures of this piece, please visit my Flickr! page.
You can find the link to the right of this post -------->

Starry Night...

2011-11-16T08:59:00.000-08:00

~Starry Night~

These asymmetrical earrings are made up of two cabs of Koroit Boulder Opal (cut by Ed on Stones in Motion on Etsy), and a faceted silver moon and star.

My first attempt at a hand made prong setting! I had a lot of fun with these earrings. I've been hoarding the stones for some time, as I am wont to do....

The rivers of purple blue opal running through the boulder peak in and out, here and there in these stones. And of course, I couldn't capture the beauty of the opal rivers amongst it's boulder home.

And, I am still on a moon kick. With stars. There is just something about working with stones that flash that make me think of the moon. And I am drawn to working with flashy stones right now. I have a Magic Moon necklace on my bench as we speak!

These earrings are available for purchase.

Please contact me at amymarez@yahoo.com

*sold*

We have a winner!

2011-11-02T16:50:00.000-07:00


"Astro" by Bess Lynn Thank you so much to all of you who took the time to enter my pumpkin contest! Bess, I'll be contacting you via email so you can claim your prize!

The Three Fates Necklace

2011-11-02T12:33:00.000-07:00

My inspiration for this necklace can be found here.

An impromptu giveaway!

2011-10-30T12:45:00.000-07:00

Wanna play?

We are squeezing all the goodness of Halloween into three days.

We started with taking the girls to the pumpkin patch.

We went through the corn maze,

Checked out all the pumpkins and gourds...

There was even a little hay ride with friends!

Tonight we are going to carve pumpkins, and that got me to thinking....

Let's have a pumpkin decorating contest!!

How about it?

The prize will be a $ 25 gift certificate to any of my online shops.

All you have to do is send me a picture of your best Halloween pumpkin!

It can be carved, painted, or decorated any way you want!

(just keep it PG rated ;-) )

These two will be the judges!

So send me those pumpkins!
amymarez@yahoo.com

To give you time to send in those pumpkin pics, the contest ends on Wednesday at noon CST.

The winner will be announced Wednesday evening!

I can't wait to see what you all come up with!

2011-10-30T12:22:00.000-07:00

I'm calling it...

Turquoise.

With a Frill

I did something really unusual for me.

I bought this gorgeous Kingman Mine Turquoise cab from Ed over at Stones in Motion on Etsy.

It came in the mail at the beginning of the week. And I was so moved by it's beauty I had to make something with it right away.

Ordinarily I hold onto stones for quite awhile before I am ready to let them go.

So it is quite unusual for me to use a stone immediately.

I wanted something simple, but substantial.

This stone sings pure and true all on it's own.

I had planned to hang it on a simple chain, but then I decided to kick it up a notch with a frilled chain.

I love the texture in these sterling beads.

As always, all my pieces are available for reserve.

If any of my work speaks to you, feel free to contact me at

amymarez@yahoo.com

Handmade Holiday Shopping Guide

2011-10-27T18:12:00.000-07:00

I am a big believer in shopping local, and in supporting people in the artisan community.
One of the greatest things about Etsy is all the wonderful and talented artists I have discovered.

I hope this will be the first of several Holiday Shopping Guide features that I do here on my blog. Every one I highlight here I have ordered from in the past, and recommend them highly! I hope I am able to lead you to a great undiscovered talent!!

First up is Lauren Alexander. I first found her work on Etsy searching for Owl paintings to give to my owl crazy daughter.

This was my first Lauren Alexander pruchase!

This one I bought for the Panda lover in my life!

The quality of her prints are excellent, they are shipped quickly and quite securely. And I just love her work. So bright and cheerful. I've already purchased her 2012 calendars for my girls! They are going to love them!

You can find Lauren's work here. I hope you'll stop by and give her some love!

Magic Moon Catchers...

2011-10-27T11:32:00.000-07:00

These earrings ended up differently than I had originally intended.

You see, a few days ago a friend asked if I had ever thought of making

dream catcher earrings.

Hmm..

Right away I started designing them in my head, made a quick sketch and decided to make them when I had time....

As I began making these earrings yesterday, they evolved from my original design...

into Magic Moon Catchers.

The stick pearl tails are reminiscent of dream catchers.

It seems the idea stuck in my head and decided to come out in my work.

I love it when that happens!

A pair of crescent moons in patterned sterling silver feature 8mm fabulous rainbow moonstones. The tails are made up of fresh water stick pearls and lapis beads.

These earrings measure 4" in length from the top of the ear wire.

I posted a preview pic yesterday, and have had a couple of inquiries.

If you would like to reserve these earrings, I will be listing them in my
own store. Email me at amymarez@yahoo.com
if you are interested!

WIP Wednesday

2011-10-26T12:57:00.001-07:00

Magical moonstone!

Custom cut off date...

2011-10-26T08:51:00.000-07:00

Hi all! Just wanted to pop in real quick with a little shop announcement. I've already changed the announcement at my Etsy shop stating that I'm not taking on any more custom work.

My plate is nearly full, but I didn't want to spring this cut off date on my followers without a little advance warning. It all just snuck up on me so fast!

So, for FaceBook, Twitter and my blog followers, I am setting the cut off date for custom orders available for Holiday delivery to Sunday October 30th.

If I've already discussed an order with you, you are already in line and need not worry!

I still have a bunch of new earrings to list, and I hope by keeping custom work to a minimum I'll have some time to create some really special pieces!

Back to the bench y'all! This is my first day trying to make something in nearly 2 weeks! Let's hope I still remember how.... ;-)

Charm Necklaces...

2011-10-19T19:51:00.000-07:00

All listed now in my Etsy shop!

These charm necklaces are a combination of all things I am into right now. Roller printing, copper and bronze clays, ceramic beads.

The charm necklace is my new favorite thing. I love making charms, I love putting the necklaces together, and I love wearing them! They are too much fun to fidget with.

In other news, my oldest got the entire family sick.

(including my poor Mom who had the misfortune to visit while we were passing a heinous cold around to eachother)

She is happily on the mend and the rest of us feel like crud. I hate being sick...

Maria Tallchief

2011-10-19T08:53:00.000-07:00

While getting a pedicure with my mom on Monday, we watched a PBS special on Maria Tallchief. She has utterly captivated me.

You can read her biography here.

And you can see her dance:

She is still on my mind....

Grateful....

2011-10-16T14:40:00.000-07:00

I just want to say Thank you , thank you, thank you to all of you wonderful people who stopped by the show over the past couple of days.

My build your own charm necklace was a big success, and I enjoyed seeing many of my creations go home with some of the nicest people around.

My favorite parts of the whole show were:

Buyers who were "handmade" buyers, they knew what they wanted and what it was they were getting.

The customers I had who thanked me for doing what I do!

The customers who have returned every year for the past three years to add to their Amy Nicole collections.

Past customers who didn't buy this year, but still came by to say Hi and to inquire if I remembered them. (Of course I remember you!!!)

And a lovely blog reader who stopped by to tell me that she reads my blog and enjoys my posts.

You all made every ounce of extra work involved getting ready for this show worth it!

Thank you from the bottom of my heart! :-)

Listening..

2011-10-14T10:17:00.003-07:00

over and over.

Poppy ring...

2011-10-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

This poppy ring is going to the show with me, but I'm going to be offering this ring made to order in both of my shops!

New!

2011-10-13T10:29:00.000-07:00

Sterling silver initial pendants!

I kinda envision these as a necklace worn at about 15-16" and layered with other necklaces.

Or it even works by itself. I hope to get some pictures taken soon.

These will be listed made to order in both of my shops!

Square

2011-10-12T17:56:00.001-07:00

Has anyone used Square to take credit cards? What do you think? I want the good, the bad and the ugly!

Today is it!

2011-10-11T06:30:00.000-07:00

I could probably go right up to the last minute thinking I still need to make something else for the show. So today is it. I'm cutting myself off. Today I'm finishing up odds and ends, chains and clasps, a few jump rings, headpins for beads, and that's it. I have to stop and say this is it. This is what's going on the table, and it's just going to have to be good enough. (It will be, I'm just psyching myself out)

My Mom is coming to stay for a week starting Friday. I don't even want to think about metal anymore. I think I've mentioned before the bad dreams I have about metal sometimes. I know it's just a manifestation of work related stress, and they aren't really bad dreams, they are just not that relaxing. Almost like I don't get a break from thinking about it. Even in my sleep. So, anyway, now the rolling mill has been added to the mix of my dreams. I find myself having to process sheet metal in it in my dreams...

I just really need a break. My Mom will provide that in the form of shopping til we drop. And pedicures. After a week of shopping (something I rarely do) (except on line for supplies), I hope to come back renewed and ready to rumble! :-)

Oh, and my jewelry shop will close at 12:00 pm on Saturday the 15th. I'll be keeping my findings shop open, and orders will ship as usual!

Taste & See

2011-10-10T07:39:00.000-07:00

This is it! I only do one show a year and this is it. Come visit me and check out my "Build your own charm necklace" section and racks of earrings in bronze, copper and sterling silver. I also have plenty of gemstones and natural stones mixed in there too. I'll also have my hand stamped sterling silver pendants available for special order.

The pumpkin decorating and carving contest is new. I like that a lot! That's reason enough to come.

I know my girls will be there ready to check it out.

I hope to see you there! :-)

I just noticed the flyer doesn't have the address on it:

1000 Tinker Road
Colleyville, TX 76034

The final push...

2011-10-10T07:20:00.000-07:00

If you'll forgive my ramblings, this post is mainly going to serve as a to do/already done list in preparation for my show on Saturday and Sunday.

I'll be doing another post with the details about the show later today.

Last night I put together a clearance section. I have pieces that are at least a year old, if not two, and I am ready to have them gone. That means they are mm away from going to my personal jewelry collection, being given as gifts, donated, or just plain scrapped. Everything is priced for the cost of materials only. And the clearance section is pretty big! I surprised myself at all the pieces I had tucked away from last years show, and just stuff in general that didn't sell on Etsy. I'm going to display them in a black tray.

Last year I did a "buy two get one free" tray that I made most of my sales out of. They were all sterling or gold fill with gemstones and glass beads. Simple designs.

This year it has struck me that maybe the reason I hardly sold anything else on my table was because of that tray with the "bargain". And then I read an article about how department stores set up their stores in a way that you have to walk past all the new stuff before you finally get to the ratty, disorganized clearance section. And that they make it hard to find, and ratty looking on purpose. They don't really want you to buying clearance when you can buy new.

So, needless to say, instead of having my bargain tray up front, I am going to have it on the back far corner. I'm torn because I really do want to see this stuff go. And there is some really great bargains in there too.

I'm almost finished with all the pricing. Still have a bit more to go.

I have some pieces to finish off.

A big batch to be oxidized and finished.

I need to locate all my displays, dust them off. Iron my table cloth. Find my cash box. Get cash.

And a hundred other things, but that's enought to focus on for today. One day at a time people. That's all you can do.

Meet Charlie

2011-10-06T18:02:00.001-07:00

If ever I had a spirit "animal" it would be a crab. Not technically an animal I know, but it is still the creature I most feel an affinity to.

Hubby found Charlie gray and dull at Lowes. He helped the girls paint him, and they were so excited to surprise me with him.

Charlie and I get along great in the shop together. I don't bother him, and he doesn't bother me.

And he's great at guarding the mill ;-).

Sterling cuff bracelet....

2011-10-06T09:56:00.000-07:00

First, I want to thank you all in your continued support of reading and commenting on my blog. I'm not always the best at replying to your comments, but I read them all, and you guys always lift me up with your words!

Ok then...

I've been desirous of late, of a sterling bracelet for myself.

And, I wanted it to be a cuff.

I just hadn't decided what it was going to look like yet!

Yesterday I wasn't feeling well, and started to take a nap, but then decided to get up and go tinker around in my shop.

I've worked with so much copper and brass lately that I wanted a treat.

Ahhh yes. The silver.

I took this length of 12g sterling round wire I had and made about a dozen small rings with it.

And the whole time I was doing it, I was like.

What in the world are you going to make with these?

Next thing I knew....

I had created myself the perfect little silver cuff bracelet.

It is exactly what I wanted, although I didn't even know it until it was completed.

:-)

After all the madness around here settles down..

Oh, I didn't tell you about all the goings on around here?

Well, it begins Friday night with the girls having some friends over for "pizza and pj's"

we're going to watch a movie, feed our faces, paint our nails. You know, just be girly.

Saturday night my 9 year old is going to her first ever concert!!

In a suite at the Cowboy Stadium .

Taylor Swift live!

One of her friends is having her 10th birthday party there.

Some party eh? In my day we had balloons and pin the tail on the donkey.

If we were extra lucky we got a pinata too.

But I am so excited for her. It's her first concert, and most certainly a big deal as we would never take her to do something like that.

Next week is that mad dash to wrap up show details, and get ready for my Mommy to come visit.

So, after the madness, I'm going to offer this cuff in my shop in all different finishes.

Shiny, oxidized and brushed, matte finish non oxidized, etc...

Have a good rest of the week all! The weekend is almost here!

Nothing is safe...

2011-10-04T09:42:00.001-07:00

I'm rolling everything in sight.

Happy Monday!

2011-10-03T07:25:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling a bit manic. I am in overdrive getting ready for my show in 2 weeks.

I have so much admiration for people who do shows on a regular basis.

It is a ton of work!

My usual pace tends to be.....

almost leisurely.

I like to savor the joy in making.

Now I am just busting stuff out without really even thinking about it.

I have nightmares of having an empty table.

And as a direct consequence, I find I am beginning to overflow in certain areas.

Earrings.

Are you surprised?

I love making earrings.

I'm going to try to come back later with a few photos of the goodies.

and,

I want to introduce you to Charlie.

He's my new shop mascot.

See you in a bit. Have a great day all!!!

Two birds, one stone...

2011-10-01T10:39:00.000-07:00

I talked a little bit earlier about how important I think it is to shop locally, and to buy handmade.

This post is going to be a two fer....

I want to show off my new background, and also to tell you about Mary Howe. Mary is an artist living and working in the Grapevine area. She specializes in murals and faux finishes.

She also happens to be my daughter's art teacher!

One day while picking my daughter up from her lesson, I spied a sample board she had done, and asked if she could make me one as well.

I couldn't be happier!

So, if you are in the area and are looking to have some furniture refinished, some faux painting or a mural, contact Mary!

You can find her here.

2011-09-29T08:18:00.000-07:00

I belong to a team on Etsy called The Aspiring Metalsmiths.

A couple of the members came up with the idea to make a graphic that we could all use on our Facebook pages, Twitter, blogs, etc.... as a way of promoting the handmade movement this Holiday season.

I have always made things. It's only recently that I have truly realized that people can earn their livings making things. It's not always just someone at a craft show selling the stuff they've made in their spare time at home as a hobby.

Granted, we all start out as hobbyists.

But as the investment in time spent honing your skills, and the investment in the tools and supplies grows you quickly realize that what you are doing is not just a hobby anymore.

There are many people who make things as their only means of support. There are countless Moms like me who want to be at home for their children but are still looking to contribute to their household finances.

And let me tell you. It is work to run your own small business. The creation of the product is the fun part. The other aspects are not as much fun. Marketing, accounting, packaging and shipping, picture taking, customer service...

you get the idea right?

Listen, all I'm trying to say is consider spending some of your Holiday budget on handmade. Go to local art and craft shows. Buy an ornament from the lady next door who makes them.

Considering a splurge for your special lady? Get her some quality handmade jewelry.

Just get out there and buy Handmade! :-)

I think I'm going to have to do a series of posts on my favorite places to shop for handmade! There is some fabulous work out there!!!

Leather

2011-09-28T16:46:00.001-07:00

I've spent the last two days playing with leather. I'd forgotten how much I enjoy working with it!

These are ready to have sari silk added for bookmarks, and rivets and key rings for key fobs.

Whew! I am happy to be on a roll creatively speaking. I always have worked best under pressure. Although I have had plenty of time to ask myself what in the heck I've been doing all summer that I don't have more of an inventory built up.

My mind of course is trying to tell me to make a dozen other things that aren't on the show to do list.

I must stay focused. But it's so hard. I have the rolling mill I want to play with. My engraving stuff is here, just sitting. I even ordered pnp paper to do some more etching.

(my studio is a mess)

There just aren't enough hours in the day.

Etsy

2011-09-26T05:45:00.000-07:00

I'm just mulling around this new advertising thing on Etsy.

I read this in the forums the other day, about why we shouldn't do it.
Previous to reading it I had already signed up for the $5 deal. I think it gives you 5,000 impressions or something like that.

Then I read the post, and decided I should think about it more.

I'm kinda one of those people that takes things for what they are, and try not to complain about things that are beyond my control. That being said, my sales have really bombed since they changed the relevancy thing. And now this advertising thing.

Maybe it's the loss of control I thought I had when I was able to renew items to bump them to the top. At least I felt like I was doing something to try to get my stuff noticed.

I guess the advertising deal would kinda give me the same feeling, but what I really want to know is if it's worth it. I guess there's really no way to know without giving it a go right?

Maybe I've already answered my own question.
I think I'll give it a trial run. I guess it won't be any more than I was spending on renewing.

I don't know.

What do you guys think?

This one has a story...

2011-09-22T09:36:00.000-07:00

It all began with a request to make the above earrings in a different size.

The buyer said she liked to wear "huge but light weight earrings",

and could I make these in a 2.5" diameter?

So, I had some 24 gauge copper on hand, and made the first earring.

When I tried it on I quickly realized it was way too heavy to be worn as an earring.

I ended up making them in 26 gauge which worked out well, and got the earrings shipped off to the customer.

I was however, left with the first piece I made.

Now, I've never made earrings that were 2.5" wide. I'm not sure I've even made a pendant

that big before! But I thought this would make a gorgeous pendant.

But, it needed something really special to go along with it.

Something just as big and fabulous.

So I pulled out this strand of rough cut, BIG blue quartz beads that I've been hoarding for a year.

So.

Perfect.

The color of these beads is sort of an icy aqua color.

So delicious.

And to give you a sense of the scale of this piece.

It is a rich and weighty necklace. Not for one who doesn't want to be noticed,

because this piece makes a statement.

********

And, on another note,

I got my rolling mill home!!!!

I dragged a friend with me to pick it up.

(What a trooper!)

It is currently resting on a table in my garage because it was so heavy all I could do was drag it onto a table from the bed of the truck.

I can't wait for my husband to get it bolted down so I can give her a spin!!!!

And on one more note, I got a confirmation of sorts today about something I've long suspected.

How many of you have had people you know ask you for a quote to make something for them, and then when you give them the quote, you get the sense that they think it's way too expensive?

I'm not talking about Etsy buyers. I feel that most people who buy from me on Etsy are quite savvy and now exactly what they are getting. In fact I think they are probably some of the smartest buyers around considering most of us still don't charge what our work is really worth.

I'm talking about "friends" or friends of friends that heard you make jewelry.

It just really irks my gizzard. I don't know if it's just ignorance. Or if they really think that I'm trying to gouge people with my prices. I mean seriously. Have you seen the price of silver? Is my time worth nothing? Do you think I take time away from my kids trying to improve my skills so I can make you a necklace? And that I should be happy to do it for next to nothing? That the supplies and tools themselves aren't a fortune?

I just have one question. Do you expect to get paid when you do your job?

Ok.

I just had to rant a little there.

And now I will let it go, because it doesn't do any good to rant. Maybe I'll be in a better frame of mind to want to educate people in a nice way sometime.

But not right now.

Bought...

2011-09-20T09:47:00.000-07:00

sight unseen,

except for this picture....

I don't know if it works, if all the parts are there,

(how to use it)

My husband found out

there was a jewelry company in Dallas going out of business, and they

were auctioning off a bunch of their equipment.

(Gotta love a man who buys a girl tools!)

There were a lot of things I had no clue what to do with them,

but I knew I wanted this baby the minute I saw it!!

I pick her up Thursday.

In the meantime I'll be researching how to use the old girl....

:-)

P.S. For those of you who don't know, this is a rolling mill. It is used to make sheet metal and to imprint metal. And it probably does other stuff that I need to find out about!

Monterrey Bay Aquarium

2011-09-15T09:32:00.000-07:00

~Monterrey, California~

Of all the creatures in the sea. This has always been Isabella's favorite.

This is a Bat Ray. She got to touch it! She's not picky...she likes all the Ray's. Bat Rays, Sting Rays, Manta Rays....

These are some of my favorites. The sea stars in the touch pool.

The girls like the touch pool too!

Pretty little Sea Urchin and Sea Star

I forget what these are called...

I've never seen these live before! Sand Dollars.

I've never seen these before either and they were cool and creepy all at once.

They're called Mermaids Purses. They are these pod things that a baby (I forget again what they are!)

growing in them.

They still humor me when it comes to getting pictures...

Sea Turtle coming to say Hi to my little one.

The Sea Horse exhibit was my favorite!

I love aquariums, and always try to visit them when I can.

This one was a really nice one and I would recommend stopping in if you're in the area!

Round Rabbit Relief ...

2011-09-14T09:08:00.000-07:00

Do you all know Nancy Schindler from Round Rabbit?

Well, her home town was flooded after the recent storms that pounded the Northeast.

Her entire basement was flooded, and among other things she lost her kiln.

Not only has she lost her tools to work to earn a living, she also has devastating damage at her home.

A donation page has been set up to give Nancy a helping hand.

I don't know about you guys, but this is the kind of cause I like to donate to.

Not only am I helping someone from our online community,

I know for sure where my money is going.

I hope you consider sending Nancy a little something.

A little from many will add up to something that can really help!

Copper Queen...

2011-09-13T06:14:00.000-07:00

Copper Kites with Czech Glass in Gorgeous Autumn Colors

Copper Kites with Turquoise, because Turquoise goes with EVERYTHING!

Rain Clouds in nearly 4 inches of Copper!!

I feel like I'm turning into the Copper Queen.

I've been working almost exclusively with copper over the past several weeks.

I'm not sure why. I guess there are several reasons really. I'm running low on Silver, and am hoarding it, like a squirrel hoards his acorns.

I also think it's because I am just in love with patinated copper. What a gorgeous color! And this time of year, it's just perfect.

I'm still trying to make some affordable pieces for my upcoming show, and the rain clouds in copper were a custom for a friend.

I would never have thought to make my rain clouds in copper, but they turned out gorgeous! Extra long with my best turquoise beads. I'm in love with these!

I'm trying to motivate myself to hit the gym. And then there's room Mom duties to attend to. The post office. And then finally....

more copper.

Have a fabulous day all!

Stones...

2011-09-09T07:49:00.000-07:00

Instead of being a good housewife and cleaning the house and doing the laundry,

I have allowed myself to be distracted by these:

In my defense, they needed organizing. NEEDED it, I tell you.

I bought this old printer's drawer to use as a display. It still needs some work, I just haven't decided if I want to paint it or not yet.

So instead of letting it just take up space, I decided to make it useful.

I had a total aha! moment. I can't believe I hadn't thought before to lay all my stones out and have a good look at them all together.

I love and remember every precious stone. Pulling each one out and putting it in it's space was like seeing an old friend.

And then I realize a lot of these old friends are just begging to be Autumn hued designs.

I've always been one to be influenced by the season, and the colors associated with it.

Reds, oranges, yellows...

Does anyone else talk to their stones?

"Ok, who wants to go first? What do you want to be?...."

;-)

Oh, and P.S. Clearly I need more stones....

Silver Filled Earwires...

2011-09-08T07:24:00.000-07:00

I don't know how long silver filled products have been around for, but I just recently discovered this silver filled wire.

I have some super cute base metal charms that I want to make some affordable earrings with, but was kinda stuck when it came to putting an ear wire on them. With the price of silver being what it is, it really adds to the cost of a piece to use my usual sterling silver ear wires.

The silver filled wire is a perfect solution! It is wire made of either sterling or fine silver over a base metal core. In this case, it's red brass. I've read that it is supposed to be a layer of silver hundreds of times thicker than silver plate. It can be hammered, soldered etc and still maintain it's silver look.

If you look really closely, you can see the brass at the end of the wire:

I have added these 7 styles to my shop, all in a shiny finish. I have yet to oxidize them, but I don't foresee them looking any different than solid sterling.

I'm really excited about offering this new option in my findings shop. I always have plans to add to my shop, but it seems that it only happens a little at a time!

Only if you promise not to point and laugh....

2011-09-07T17:43:00.000-07:00

Naw....It's not really that bad.

But it's not really that good either. ;-)

I wasn't sure I was going to share anything that I worked on during my hand engraving work shop.

I really liked the structure of the class in that we were shown a skill, and then left to practice it.

The teachers were readily available to answer questions and offer suggestions, and we weren't pressured to make a project just for the sake of making something.

I mean, it's nice to have something to take home, but I liked spending my time working on the skills and being able to ask for guidance when it wasn't working for me.

So, this is what I learned. Hand or hammer engraving is super cool, and just beautiful when done well. And of course being the perfectionist I am....I want to do it well.

Problem is, that's going to take a lot of practice. But nothing worth having just happens overnight now does it?

I am waiting for my supplies to come in so I can begin practicing again. And, we also learned flush setting, which is another thing I've always wanted to learn. I have yet to try it out on my own. You know how it is...the teacher always makes it look so easy. I hope I don't have too hard of a time with it.

So...Without further ado, I give you my attempt to hand/hammer engrave.

It's kinda hard to see because of the ultra dark patina I put on it...and I wish I could say I formed it, but we were in the last few minutes of the last day when the teacher took pity on me trying to form my bracelet and fixed my wonky mess.

It was also my first time to see someone create an anticlastic form. So cool.

Anyway, the bracelet doesn't really feel that comfortable on me, so my daughter's have been playing with it.

Had someone given me this bracelet when I was a kid, I would have pretended like I was Wonder Woman with it! :-)

Remembering...

2011-09-06T11:39:00.000-07:00

~ Muir Woods, California ~

The temps here in North East Texas have finally dropped a little. It has been soooo nice.

Except all it does is make me nostalgic for Northern California. I love this pic of the girls in a tender moment. They were probably fighting 2 minutes later, but at this moment they were feeling the love.

I have a few things to share with you all, but I need to get some pictures taken first.

I've been debating on whether I wanted to share my first "engraved" (if you can call my mess that!) piece.

I decided I will share.

Be back soon...

I'm ready!

2011-09-01T08:00:00.001-07:00

Bring it on!

Engraving day 2

2011-08-31T12:20:00.000-07:00

The bright cuts kicked my butt. I'm feeling less optimistic today. Could be because I'm tired. And that's all I have to say about that.....

Engraving day 1

2011-08-30T14:36:00.001-07:00

I have a lot of information swirling around my brain regarding hand/hammer engraving. One of the most interesting things I learned is that engraving is the oldest form of art there is. Isn't that fascinating?

The workshop is presented by NC Black, and the instructors Andrea and Les have the most amazing credentials.

It is interesting to come out from under my rock and see what's going on in the real world. I am struck by two prevailing feelings. 1) there are some really amazing artists in the world. Everything I could ever hope to make in comparison is crap. And 2) what the hell do I have to lose by trying? I may never be amazing, but there is much good in being the best that I can be.

I really like their angle. Engraving is a very specialized skill, usually done with very expensive training and equipment. NC Black has developed a way to do engraving for jewelry making that is quite affordable.

It is sort of a mission of theirs to spread the skill of engraving. To keep the skill alive, and I think that is fabulous. I am a history lover, and I loved all their antique examples of engraved pieces. It was sad in a way though because they were all antiques. Almost no modern examples. I would love to carry on this skill in my work.

Today all we did was a little hand engraving, and made numerous lines with the hammer engraving. Tomorrow is learning the art of engraving the curved line.

I will tell you, I see a lot of practicing in my future. But, I find it utterly captivating. And like all metalsmithing techniques I have undertaken, I feel a determination to make it work.

More tomorrow...

The Palace of Fine Arts

2011-08-27T11:48:00.000-07:00

~ San Francisco, California ~

Our first full day in San Fran began at one of my favorite places! The Palace of Fine Arts.

I wonder what they are looking for?

I absolutely love the architecture here. All scrolls and decorative work are right up my alley.

The ceiling rather looks like a honeycomb, don't you think?

Wishing I had some cool weather right now!

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend!

Amethyst Sage Plume Agate and Sterling Silver Necklace

2011-08-25T18:01:00.001-07:00

Amethyst Sage Plume Agate and Sterling Silver Necklace, a photo by Amy Nicole Artisan Jewelry on Flickr.

Preview pic of my latest. I've been hoarding these Amethyst Sage Plume Agates for several months now, and decided to use them together in one piece!

I took pics today, but I'm not really loving them. I'll be listing tomorrow!

Sale!

2011-08-25T07:30:00.001-07:00

I wish I could attach pictures, but our computer is still out of commission. Hopefully we will be back on track tomorrow!

I just wanted to let you know I added several pieces to the sale section of my shop. Click hereto check it out! :-)

WIP Wednesday

2011-08-24T16:06:00.001-07:00

I've not been able to blog much lately....Hubby is remodeling the office and our desktop isn't hooked up.

I have been trying to get some work done though. Looks like I'll have new work ready to add to the shop on Friday! See you then!

- Posted from a secret and remote location using my iPhone

The first day of school...

2011-08-22T12:42:00.001-07:00

Here is a blurry picture of my girls on their first day of school. They came running into my room and the little one shouted "this is the moment we've been waiting for!" I don't remember seeing this much excitement since Christmas.

I am happy to get back to work on a more regular schedule. This week I'm working on customs and copper earrings. Yes, copper has won in the battle of the non precious metals. I really love working with it, and I love the warm rich color it takes on. Just in time for fall too! Look for new work this week!

- Posted from a secret and remote location using my iPhone

Rejection...

2011-08-21T11:15:00.000-07:00

It's really the first time in my life rejection has felt like relief. I got the email this morning that the big show I applied to has me on the waiting list. Which means that when someone they accepted right away doesn't pony up the $150 booth fee they'd love to have my money instead. ;-)

Had I gotten in, I was prepared to have to really put the pedal to the metal and come up with the best showing I could. But truth be told, I am sooooo glad not to have to get myself all stressed out. I guess I would feel different if I had a huge inventory of unsold stuff laying around, but I've not been very productive this past summer.

So now I only have the church show to prepare for, and I already know exactly what I want to make for that. So, off to it then!

Every cloud has a silver lining....

2011-08-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

Rain clouds are back! You can find them here.

A question...

2011-08-19T08:08:00.000-07:00

First, let me preface this by saying I swear I'm not trying to be snarky, or call anyone out, or any such thing. I don't have any ill will, or bad thoughts about anyone on the subject, I am merely curious.

Ahhhh....Now you're interested right? :-)

Anyway, I've discussed this topic a bit with a friend. And the whole thing is still swirling around my brain several weeks later.

What I am wondering, is how can someone take a cast of an object such as a lego, or a hello kitty face, or a logo of a famous company and use it in their work without infringing on another's copyrights? And what about molding and casting or embossing commercial metal stampings?

I really don't know anything at all about copyright infringement other than people in the forums of Etsy like to throw the words around a lot, and use them to try to harass others into not making the same type of work that they do.

Is it ok to take a metal stamping, mold it, and reproduce it in say ceramics? Has the original design been changed enough not to be infringing? Is it ok to take a component, say made in brass, and cast it into sterling and use it in your work?

Way back when I took the intro into metalsmithing class. Our teacher had a big ziploc bag full of sterling components that he had cast himself. He wasn't at all shy about announcing to us that he had ripped them off from Rio Grande. And sure enough, every component he had could be found on Rio...
He just flat out didn't give a rat's ass about it. He was a bit of a rebel artist. :-)

A couple of weeks ago, I was up late one night supply shopping on Etsy. I'm looking for some cool brass or copper stampings to use to make necklaces and earrings for an upcoming show. I was happily shopping, hearting things left and right when I came across a component in pewter that I recognized immediately because I follow the original artist's work. Someone in presumably Asia had cast an artists original design and mass produced it in base metal. I slept on it overnight before convoing the artist the next morning. She didn't know about it, and succeeded in getting the shop to remove the item.

It really gave me sort of an odd feeling. On one hand, it would be kinda cool for someone to think your work was great enough to be mass produced. But how bad does it suck to have your work stolen and reproduced without your permission? I mean, we all know the blood, sweat, and tears that goes into creating a piece sometimes. After that I felt really jaded, and was a bit afraid to buy any base metal components wondering what poor unsuspecting artist they had been ripped off from.

I don't know.....help me out here guys. Give me your thoughts on the subject....

Oh. My. Gosh.....

2011-08-18T08:44:00.000-07:00

I have decided to jump out of my comfort zone and just registered for this workshop.

I read an argument once about the term "self taught". This particular author didn't like the term. Her point of view was that nobody is really self taught. We learn from books, the internet, watching videos, other people who work in our field etc...

I guess technically she is correct.

So I will use the term self chosen curriculum. Ha!! Self taught sounds much better doesn't it? :-)

Anyway, since I have always chosen what it was I wanted to learn, all I really know is what I've decided to learn.

I bought a set of gravers about 6 months ago. I knew I was in trouble when I wasn't even sure how to attach them to the handles!

Luckily a metalsmith friend told me how. (but I still don't really know what to do with them!)

I know I'll be fine once I'm in the class, but I must admit I'm anxious to step out of my comfort zone.

But I badly want to learn engraving, and I just don't have the strength to figure it out on my own.

I am soooo excited! :-)

The first day...

2011-08-18T07:12:00.000-07:00

Chinatown ~ San Francisco, CA

After checking into our hotel, the first thing we did was go to Chinatown. It's kinda one of those things you have to do if you visit San Francisco, at least once.

Chinatown is comprised of several city blocks lined with red lanterns above. There is shop after shop after shop filled with imports from China.

My kids of course had to have something, and they got these hats right away.

It turned out they came in quite handy, and they wore them practically non stop the whole time we were in the Bay area.

Which is really the reason we went to San Fran in the first place. We were trying to escape 110 degree weather back home, and we succeeded! The temps were in the lower 60's the whole time. It was fantabulous.

I allowed the cool wind to embrace every fiber of my being. My body drank it in, and it soothed my heat wrankled nerves. Ahhhhh....... :-)

This was a painting on one of the buildings.

And here is that quintessential icon of San Francisco, the trolley.

We didn't get a chance to ride the trolley. Frankly, they made me nervous with the girls.

San Francisco is a great city, and my point of view has changed every time I've been there.

The first was when I was about 14. We had gone to Northern Calif. for a family reunion, and stayed with family in Hayward. We rode BART under the bay, visited Fisherman's wharf, Ghiradelli square, etc. And I saw a homeless person for the first time. I was filled with wonder, and had a new understanding of the world outside my little town.

The second was after my husband and I first started dating. My memories of that trip are ones of relaxation and enjoyment. Seeing San Francisco through the eyes of a young adult, and more wonder at the people and the lives being lead in this famous city.

This time, I did enjoy visiting San Francisco. But instead I began to see it through the eyes of children, and while there is plenty of wonder, there are also things that you want to hurry on by as the kids gawk...

like when my youngest saw her first homeless person. "Is that guy dead?" in an alarmed voice.

It is a very hard thing to explain to a six year old.

New Bulk Copper Earwires....

2011-08-15T14:05:00.000-07:00

Copper ~ Oxidized and Tumbled

Copper ~ Oxidized and Tumbled with inverted loop

Copper~ Shiny

Copper~ Shiny with inverted loop

I am offering these in my findings shop in bulk orders of 10 or 20.

$ 1 a pair. Yes! You read that right! $ 1 a pair.

These are a nice size and are formed individually by hand. I then sand the ends for comfort and oxidize for a darkened finish, or left raw and tumbled for strength and shine. By eliminating the decorative hammering I do on most of my ear wires, I am able to offer these for such a great price.

Making handmade with handmade!

Brass is up next....

The secret lives of seahorses...

2011-08-14T17:45:00.001-07:00

On the third day we headed south to Monterey seeking a quiet spot on the beach. It took exactly two days for me to get officially tired of the crowds in San Fran.

It so happened that Monterey is home to a fabulous aquarium. We always like to pretend we are visiting the aquarium for the kids, but truth be told I am so in my element surrounded by sea life. (if only there weren't so many people there!)

I got to satisfy my urge to plunge hands into icy water and gently touch the sea stars.

The best exhibit for me was the seahorses. Such beautiful, graceful creatures. The photo is of a wall sculpture. I just love it....

- Posted from a secret and remote location using my iPhone

Amy Nicole Artisan Jewelry

Charmed, I'm sure...

Crocus Earrings

Teddy!

Happy Valentines Day!

Tidbit Tuesday...

A little sale!

Sweet Dreams...

In love with...

WIP

Saving Reese...

Me again...

A little help from my friends...

Summertime Love...

WIP Wednesday

That's sort of a weird feeling...

In case you were wondering..

Happy Friday!

New

Etsy Fort Worth

Just for me..

Engraving

I did it?

New Work!!

WIP

Happy Friday!

Workspace

WIP Wednesday

Prototype 1

WIP

Year end

Merry Christmas!

Winners!!!

Giveaway ends tomorrow!

Service Announcement!

Arthur Christmas

Listed

Preview of new pieces...

When buying handmade goes bad...

The Three Fates Cuff

Earrings!

Giveaway Time!!!

WIP Wednesday

Garnet and Sterling Silver

Wishing you all...

Magic Moon Necklace...

Starry Night...

We have a winner!

The Three Fates Necklace

An impromptu giveaway!

*Handmade* Holiday Shopping Guide

Magic Moon Catchers...

WIP Wednesday

Custom cut off date...

Charm Necklaces...

Maria Tallchief

Grateful....

Listening..

Poppy ring...

New!

Square

Today is it!

Taste & See

The final push...

Meet Charlie

Sterling cuff bracelet....

Nothing is safe...

Happy Monday!

Two birds, one stone...

Leather

Etsy

This one has a story...

Bought...

Monterrey Bay Aquarium

Round Rabbit Relief ...

Copper Queen...

Stones...

Silver Filled Earwires...

Only if you promise not to point and laugh....

Remembering...

Handmade Holiday Shopping Guide