tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-17321367950170630992024-03-13T17:31:47.433-06:00With Wings To FlyThis is the blog for all things Silver Faerie Designs, a handcrafted jewelry and lampwork business.
Photos, musings, new pieces and even personal favorites. You'll find it all here!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.comBlogger72125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-23575274167973915262011-01-07T18:38:00.002-07:002011-01-07T18:42:54.850-07:00Trying new things, see I have to consolidate blogs. I have two right now, one is for all my creative endeavors, and then I have one for all of my band related stuff. I'm going to have to choose one (I'll still be adding glassy stuff!) but I'm going to be phasing out this blog and using my other blog exclusively. <a href="http://www.rubiee.com/blog">You can go here to find it!</a><br /><br />I look forward to seeing you all over there! :DMelissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-85050089784134948832010-11-28T22:00:00.003-07:002010-11-28T22:33:56.462-07:00ChangesNot sure how I feel about the new banner. I think I like it better than what was up there (you can actually read it) but it's still cutting into the background. So not sure 100% yet. Any opinions?<br /><br />So I've taken the dive back into glass working, I've gotten some really awesome colors out of Pandora glass... I'm still not sure why so many people say that they hate that glass.... hmmmm....<br /><br />Been stalking <a href="http://melanie-graham.blogspot.com/">this blog</a> and <a href="http://bluebetween.blogspot.com/">this blog</a> recently. Really enjoying the wonderful creations that people are coming up with!!! They make me want to make more myself. Too bad there aren't more hours in the day!!!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-28540994523112361412010-07-21T07:39:00.002-06:002010-07-21T07:44:57.782-06:00DecisionsI've decided that it's time for a change for the blog. Mind you, not much of a change but I played around a bit with the background and colors of the blog itself. What do you all think?<br /><br />As for me? The reason I've been so absent: I work the Colorado Renaissance Festival. Between that, school and performances with <a href="http://pandoraceltica.bandvista.com/">Pandora Celtica</a> I've been crazy busy. Though I am hoping to soon have photos of a custom set of beads that I just finished for a dear friend and I'll make sure to post about them here!<br /><br />Until then!!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-42927664782327381282010-03-15T13:32:00.007-06:002010-03-15T14:11:43.406-06:00New Creations<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/S56SDJmDC8I/AAAAAAAAASE/V4Y6QVnWElY/s1600-h/P1080707.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 166px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/S56SDJmDC8I/AAAAAAAAASE/V4Y6QVnWElY/s200/P1080707.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448953181977643970" border="0" /></a><br />The past few weeks I have been learning a lot of things about bead weaving. From peyote stitch to weaving crystal and bead types to thread types. I've started not only working with Nymo but also Fireline. I've left little gashes in my fingers from unintentional garrotes and I've pricked my fingers with long needles. It's all so incredibly worth it. Above you can see the crystal ball pendant that I made with 4mm Peridot Swarovski crystals. Megan at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thepeacockshop">The Peacock Shop</a> taught me the technique.<br /><br />Well I had been contemplating making a collar for quite some time, with crystals and beads and shiny bits galore. Last night I finally got a start.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/S56TOYTfCfI/AAAAAAAAASU/dglytomL0wc/s1600-h/P1080728.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 184px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/S56TOYTfCfI/AAAAAAAAASU/dglytomL0wc/s320/P1080728.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5448954474416507378" border="0" /></a><br />The center is a Vitrail Swarovski Rivoli, and the cabochon to the right is bloodstone. I got so much done on this piece last night, I'm really looking forward to where this project goes.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-21922970716263106082010-03-10T22:55:00.004-07:002010-03-10T23:17:16.589-07:00Updates ahoy!There are plenty of times that I sit here and think, "What could I possibly blog about? What could I say that anyone would want to read?" I find that this is a common question among bloggers, one that a person asks themselves at least once in their blogging "career". As for me? I think I've found the point where I'm just going to blog.<br /><br />I have a lot of places that I write. A journal for my band musings, a journal for my life... and a journal for my creative endeavors. This journal has been neglected many, many times and I hope that said neglect does NOT continue.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.129128830.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 430px; height: 429px;" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.129128830.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:78%;">Photo taken from Megan's shop</span> <span style="font-size:78%;">listings</span><br /></div><br /><br />Today? Today I talk about the amazingness that is a dear friend of mine. Megan owns <a href="http://www.peacockbeadshop.com/">The Peacock Shop</a> out here in Colorado and also is the owner of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Gypsybeads">an amazing etsy shop</a>.<br /><br />Megan is down to earth, creative and has this wonderful and amazing fascination for shiny things. Swarovski crystals can be found in almost every single item she makes or sells. Her color choices have the ability to make customers drool. She is an incredibly helpful woman when it comes to <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22122006">teaching</a> as well. I can't tell you how many times I've gone to her, asking for help and teaching. She always smiles and offers her help without batting an eyelash.<br /><br />She makes <a href="http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=42009506">some amazing bindis</a>, for the bellydancer in all of us.<br /><br />I suggest you check her out!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Gypsybeads">Her Jewelry on Etsy</a><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ThePeacockShop">Supplies on Etsy</a><br /><a href="http://www.peacockbeadshop.com/">The Peacock Shop (in Denver)</a>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-14625541921546699732010-01-05T01:41:00.004-07:002010-01-05T02:06:16.065-07:00A Story...Once upon a time there was a girl. This girl really liked glass. She loved seeing what it could do, how others used it. So she started learning to work with glass, to manipulate it in flame and turn it into works of art. Months turned to years and before she knew it she was arriving at the two year anniversary of her start date at the torch.....<br /><br />Yep. February 18 will be two years! I can hardly believe it! It seems like just yesterday that <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Melissabeads">Melissa</a> was sitting me down at her torch to melt glass. My first beads weren't worth writing home about, but they were MINE!<br /><br />Remember these?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Rt4VriToaDI/AAAAAAAAABs/3Lcu8qhYif4/s200/SFD_melissa.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 159px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Rt4VriToaDI/AAAAAAAAABs/3Lcu8qhYif4/s200/SFD_melissa.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Yep, those were in fact my first beads. Since then I have learned that glass can do amazing things. Two years later the explosion that comes from thrusting a rod of glass into the flame too quickly still scares the heck out of me!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/R73OQzBbXII/AAAAAAAAAJU/Stmkj9p_r9k/s200/P1040767-sm.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 117px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/R73OQzBbXII/AAAAAAAAAJU/Stmkj9p_r9k/s200/P1040767-sm.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> Then came the first beads at my own torch at home in my very own studio. (I really should post new pics so<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SXLF_DHK1TI/AAAAAAAAAPA/yDN9W389lmE/s320/P1060726.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 297px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SXLF_DHK1TI/AAAAAAAAAPA/yDN9W389lmE/s320/P1060726.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>metime. It has changed SO<br />MUCH!)<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />And from there came the point where I stopped being afraid to play with colors. Using colors that people called "fugly" I created some unique focal beads, learning that all colors can be gorgeous when used in different ways.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />This year I'm looking forward to more Silvered Glass, I've fallen in love with shards. Here's to a 2010 full of discoveries, play time and gorgeous works of glass!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-28105293263991458932009-11-22T23:57:00.003-07:002009-11-23T00:01:30.702-07:00Holiday Sale!<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;">Holiday Sale!!!</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Swoy-PONEPI/AAAAAAAAARw/yYCkV2DP3Xo/s1600/b35-2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Swoy-PONEPI/AAAAAAAAARw/yYCkV2DP3Xo/s200/b35-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5407190347431088370" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >Until January 1, 2010 everything in the shop is 10-15% off. Also any order over $75 will receive free shipping!</span><br /><br /><br /></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-82063668274247872412009-11-02T12:41:00.003-07:002009-11-02T13:29:27.628-07:00November<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Su83smbdXMI/AAAAAAAAARo/Q0R4XAGhVYc/s1600-h/quill.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 142px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Su83smbdXMI/AAAAAAAAARo/Q0R4XAGhVYc/s200/quill.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399595717610003650" border="0" /></a>November is the time that snow flies, the leaves have fallen. The time for hot cider and cocoa and curling up to watch movies with friends. It's also the time for <a href="http://www.nanowrimo.org/">NaNoWriMo</a>, which I've decided to once again take part in. The goal? 50 thousand words in 30 days. That's roughly 1,667 words a day.<br /><br />Yes, people tell me I'm crazy. No, I'm really not. I don't stress about it, don't freak out if I don't make my goal because really? It's just a goal, and if I write at all I've already succeeded.<br /><br />Last night I tried an off mandrel leaf. I was <span style="font-weight: bold;">so</span> very worried that it was going to thermal crack on me. I'm not used to making off mandrel things, and so for some reason I was terrifyed it was going to crack. It didn't though! Yay! I plan on making a lot more of these. They're fun to play with.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-75136096709503720062009-10-27T22:41:00.004-06:002009-10-27T22:48:21.812-06:00PromisedSo I got way too excited about these pieces that I thought I'd post the promised photos just a bit early.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SufLukha_bI/AAAAAAAAARY/fSdQdfvurKw/s1600-h/P1080060.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 165px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SufLukha_bI/AAAAAAAAARY/fSdQdfvurKw/s200/P1080060.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397506679365107122" border="0" /></a>I've been playing a lot with silvered ivory. The photo above is definitely proof of that! Top right is Vetrofond dark ivory with silvered ivory shards and a string of goldstone through it. The top left is Vetro Dark ivory again, with dots of violet pastel. The bottom bead is Vetrofond dark ivory, silvered ivory shards and a bit of Double Helix Elextra glass.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SufMquLqo0I/AAAAAAAAARg/IKr55x0R0x4/s1600-h/P1080063.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 180px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SufMquLqo0I/AAAAAAAAARg/IKr55x0R0x4/s200/P1080063.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5397507712750363458" border="0" /></a><br />Definitely in love with these glasses. Managed to get some CIM Plum and Thai Orchid to play with too. Looking forward to seeing what I can make!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-30208705375390865472009-10-27T13:03:00.002-06:002009-10-27T13:12:40.172-06:00Trying new thingsSo over the days I've been looking at glass again, at tutorials and thinking up big dreams.<br /><br />The first tutorial I bought? Amy Kinsch's <a href="http://beeswaxrubberstamps.com/lampworkbeads.htm">Taking Reduction Glass by Storm Tutorial</a>.<br /><br />I've drooled over Amy's beads for as long as I can remember. Often looking through <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5297302">her etsy site </a>and not being able to make up my mind which bead to buy. Now I can try to make them myself! Not only is the technique gorgeous, but the tutorial is easy to read and understand. I'm very excited to try more and more. I have done one bead, but it was wonky and lacked the proper "storm" as it were. Just takes practice!<br /><br />Other than that? I think I've finally achieved the effect I want when using silvered ivory. Very exciting indeed. I'm half tempted to just play with dark ivory and silver... but I'm telling myself that it will get boring... I'll post photos tomorrow and see what you all think.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-42015842663392326362009-10-24T16:00:00.004-06:002009-10-24T16:08:22.083-06:00Alive!Yes, contrary to popular (not so popular?) belief- I'm alive!<br /><br />Working full time plus some sucked my creativity dry. So! I'm back now, the fates decided that I was to be job-less for a while and guess what that means? Light up that torch!<br /><br />Yesterday I made some simple green rounds to get back into the swing of things. I'm finding that I'm real fond of Effetre's Green Grass Pastel. That stuff is pretty awesome, and when used alone I got some nice color variation. It worked a lot like the old petroleum green for me. Yummy.<br /><br />Today? Today I pulled out a thin rod of Precision 104 Van Gogh. Tossed it in with some ivory... We'll see what happens. When I put it into the kiln I didn't see much color variation, but I'm hoping that the kiln will bring out some color. I also tried Laguna Blue, another Effetre color. I've had it sitting around forever, but hadn't played with it any. I'm watching my kiln with excitement to see what comes out!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-42733979458360322632009-03-28T11:07:00.006-06:002009-03-28T11:18:40.427-06:00New!!<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Sc5aJBS_dfI/AAAAAAAAARQ/3yVF_WykxVI/s1600-h/btc97.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Sc5aJBS_dfI/AAAAAAAAARQ/3yVF_WykxVI/s200/btc97.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318287320984548850" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Sc5aIp7slFI/AAAAAAAAARI/oNY0i8KJyJE/s1600-h/btc95.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Sc5aIp7slFI/AAAAAAAAARI/oNY0i8KJyJE/s200/btc95.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318287314712826962" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Sc5aIXcCo3I/AAAAAAAAARA/Or6hJktDaSo/s1600-h/btc98.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/Sc5aIXcCo3I/AAAAAAAAARA/Or6hJktDaSo/s200/btc98.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5318287309748216690" border="0" /></a><br /></div>I've started using my new camera and I'm slowly taking new photos of inventory to add to both the <a href="http://www.silverfaeriedesigns.com">main site</a> and <a href="http://silverfaeriedesigns.artfire.com">artfire</a>. These are just three of the new bottlecap pendants that I've added to the main site. I have a ton more to add, but I'm doing it in small groups as to not overwhelm myself.<br />I'm in love with my new Canon Rebel, but I know that I have a ton to learn. Right now I'm working without a macro lens, I'm hoping to remedy that very soon though. It's nice to have something other than a simple point and click in my hands, I used to use a 35mm Canon in my photography classes in school. It was my father's and was completely amazing. It opened up my eyes to the amazing world of SLR cameras....<br /><br />Look for updates on <a href="http://silverfaeriedesigns.etsy.com">Etsy</a>, <a href="http://silverfaeriedesigns.artfire.com">Artfire</a> and the <a href="http://www.silverfaeriedesigns.com">Main Site</a>.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-64252805573375920272009-03-26T11:37:00.002-06:002009-03-26T12:15:21.501-06:00Snow!Well today in Colorado it's snowing. They say we're going to get anywhere from 4-18 inches depending on what news station you listen to. When I got up at 10am it was lightly snowing, in the past almost two hours the snow has intensified and I'm wondering if they're going to close the mall that I work at...<br />The good part to all of the snow? More time in the studio. Now, I can't say that I've melted glass or made jewelry in the past few weeks. My most recent task has been cleaning. I'm really trying to re-organize everything.<br />I did just get a new camera though. I finally got my Canon Rebel. The DSLR that I've been drooling over for years now. I'm hoping to start playing with it today, the set up is amazing and I'm so excited to finally have my camera!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-76938528794173936052009-03-11T11:03:00.002-06:002009-03-11T11:09:20.292-06:00Boys...Well, boys come and go. Luckily I still have my art to keep me balanced. Recently I've been doing a lot more sketching than glass melting. I want to get back into my costume making. Depending on the costume, I hope to incorporate glass into the jewelry designs.<br />I'm rather excited that I've been able to design costumes again!<br /><br />On the glass front, I have a custom order that I'm working on figuring out. I'm excited about the beads, I just have to figure out the correct mix of glass in order to achieve a peacock effect.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-25288235732284152812009-01-28T10:37:00.004-07:002009-01-28T11:21:13.212-07:00New Glass Forum!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SYCX_OHP9aI/AAAAAAAAAPY/ToLWMIj5O7M/s1600-h/tblogo.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 209px; height: 91px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SYCX_OHP9aI/AAAAAAAAAPY/ToLWMIj5O7M/s320/tblogo.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5296400274163758498" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Last night I stumbled upon a wonderful discovery with much help from a fellow lampworker and overall amazing woman, <a href="http://blog.glassbysarah.com/">Sarah Hornik</a>.<br />This is a forum for any and all that love glass and lampwork. Whether it's the beads themselves, jewelry with lampworked beads or any other form you can think of.<br />Come on over and join us. We're a friendly group that has a ton of fun!!!<br /></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-43363697134120219452009-01-25T12:05:00.004-07:002009-01-25T12:16:45.735-07:00New creations...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SXy5z9HFM9I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/KQMaQqs9XEA/s1600-h/P1060731.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SXy5z9HFM9I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/KQMaQqs9XEA/s320/P1060731.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5295311564109591506" border="0" /></a><br /><br />So over the past few days I've been mulling around bead ideas in my brain, and trying to figure out how to make a perfect "round" bead. I would like to announce that I have, in fact made perfect matching spacer beads! The same day I made those, I was playing around with silver and frit and all sorts of wonderful things.<br /><br />The bead to the left is just one view of one of the focals I made. I love this bead! I used frit from <a href="http://valcoxfrit.com/">Val Cox</a>, which I am just in love with. Under the frit was a bit of silver foil, which reacted as yellow on the white glass. Also I added some perriwinkle stringer, just because I could and was playing.<br /><br />There is nothing like being able to sit down and torch for two hours straight. I loved being able to just sit and play, not caring about anything really. It's amazing that I pulled such wonderful things out of the kiln! ...Now to clean them.....Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-12577902344984648662009-01-17T22:50:00.003-07:002009-01-17T23:05:00.456-07:00Color<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SXLF_DHK1TI/AAAAAAAAAPA/yDN9W389lmE/s1600-h/P1060726.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 297px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SXLF_DHK1TI/AAAAAAAAAPA/yDN9W389lmE/s320/P1060726.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5292510199071561010" border="0" /></a><br />I've started using colors that I wouldn't normally touch. Mainly for an exchange that I'm doing over on <a href="http://www.lampworketc.com/">Lampwork etc</a>. The idea of the exchange is to make beads out of colors that others consider "ugly" or "fugly".<br /><br />So far I've played with EDP, Strawberry Sweet, Coral, Opalino Grass Green, and Candy Corn. I think that I'm really fond of all of the beads that I've made so far. Really it's a step out of the box for me- working with colors that I wouldn't think to combine.<br /><br />Sadly, one of the beads (with the Opalino green and Coral) Looks really Christmas-y. I was hoping the coral would have turned out more orange than red. Silly coral colors.<br /><br />I'll admit that I burned the crap out of the EDP (Evil purple) and it's a bit hazy and... chalky almost? I need to learn more about the color before I play more with it. I don't like how chalky it turns.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-65257998125049514182009-01-16T20:23:00.005-07:002009-03-28T11:35:35.790-06:00My goodness!I hope that everyone's New Years was an absolute blast, whether you were sitting at home or out on the town! As for me, I was surprised by my amazing boyfriend who flew into town just to surprise me!!! We stayed home, but had lots of fun playing darts and random games with good friends. There were also marshmallows and s'mores thanks to the fire we had going! Nothing beats a fire and marshmallows.<br /><br /><br />On the bead front- I've been playing. It seems that I've lost the ability (once again) to make round beads. Ugh. They say that you're supposed to PPP (Practice, practice, practice) but heavens- those round beads are just eating me alive! I'll admit I'm also very frustrated at my camera and the fact that it has randomly decided to hate me and anything that I have the plan on photoing. Where is the summer sun when you need it? The sun is amazing for me when it comes to taking photos... But only 6 months of the year it seems!<br /><br />I think I'm going to go make melty fire- and sing my heart out while trying to coax my glass Goddess into playing muse for the night. Hope that the days are treating you well!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-33835174094184648382008-12-14T10:44:00.002-07:002008-12-14T10:47:05.059-07:00A bit to share - 10 Reasons to Buy Quality Lampwork BeadsThis was posted on <a href="http://www.lampworketc.com">Lampwork Etc</a>. and I wanted to share it with you all.<br />-----------------------------------------------------------------<br />Ten Reasons to Buy Quality Lampwork Beads:<br /><br />© copyright 2008, Helen Simon, helensharvest.com<br /><br />1- It is original and unique art. No one else will own or wear it.<br /><br />2- You can meet the artist in a cyber way thereby understanding your purchase. You can inquire about the inspiration. Most artists are delighted to talk about their work.<br /><br />3- It will outlast quilts and even painted canvases, with proper care, perhaps for millennia. Ancient Roman beads are commonly available, even on Ebay.<br /><br />4- Because of its longevity, it will enhance your portfolio, and provide inheritance for your heirs. What a lovely, thoughtful gift of art to your appreciative loved ones!<br /><br />5- You can wear your art, expressing your daily mood, your ensemble often secondary to your Lampwork.<br /><br />6- You can request custom work for a special occasion. Most artists are honored to help with special orders.<br /><br />7- It is small, so easy to store with other precious treasures.<br /><br />8- Your purchase will have inexpensive shipping because it is light.<br /><br />9-Your unique Beads may inspire your original designs worthy of being published, winning contests and prizes.<br /><br />10- It is FUN to buy, own, give, be inspired by, and wear.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-28085978449694914112008-12-13T10:57:00.002-07:002008-12-13T11:02:28.236-07:00Camera woes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SUP4l-gRlFI/AAAAAAAAAKM/uQOloX63Pt4/s1600-h/P1050020.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_oooKz_kbDhI/SUP4l-gRlFI/AAAAAAAAAKM/uQOloX63Pt4/s320/P1050020.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5279336519525569618" border="0" /></a><br />So I've been making a large amount of lampworked beads reciently and I seem to have hit a block in the road. You ask, "What could possibly block you?!"<br /><br />....My camera. It's a wonderful camera, don't get me wrong. I just seem to have lost my touch. The white balance is off, the pictures aren't sharp enough and nothing I do in photoshop can fix any of that. *sigh* So today I'm going to go out, try and get some good photos in natural Colorado light and after that I get to play surgeon on my light box. There is no other choice.<br /><br />I think I'm going to use <a href="http://digital-photography-school.com/blog/how-to-make-a-inexpensive-light-tent/">this DiY tutorial</a> on how to put together a light box. I'm very fond of it.<br /><br />I'll let you know how it all works out! Hopefully I'll have photos soon that look similar to the one in this post!Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-19235628641703720772008-11-30T18:10:00.002-07:002008-11-30T19:04:57.916-07:00Woooo!!!!!!!!!!So as I type I have a kiln full of beads. It's nice to be back at the torch... and back in snowy Colorado.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">"Wait a second? Didn't you just say you were moving?"</span> Yeah, I did. We had a change of plans so I'm back in Colorado. You all don't mind, do you? I hope not, because you're stuck with me!<br /><br />My studio is a mess, but I made beads today. In my mind that's all that matters right now.<br /><br />I'm content.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-66052466476587576262008-11-25T10:49:00.004-07:002008-11-25T12:39:56.838-07:00Reasons..So I'm rather addicted to the internet, as many are. I spend so much time around the 'net itself that I often forget to post! So- I'm going to share some of my favorite places to visit.<br /><br />There are going to be lots of links! :D<br /><br /><a href="http://www.starvingjewelryartists.com">http://www.starvingjewelryartists.com/</a> - The forum of a lot of wonderful ladies and gents. This is a jewelry forum that often covers everything from lampwork to metal smithing and even "basic" stringing. I love all of the amazing people there!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.lampworketc.com">http://www.lampworketc.com</a> - Home of wonderful lampworkers and those that work with glass. There are many great and creative people here that I learn from. Definitely one of my favorite forums.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com">http://www.etsy.com</a> - Of course this is one of my favorite places to visit! What better to do that shop through many many talented artists. I have so many favorites that it almost isn't funny!<br /><br /><a href="http://www.lestbeads.com">http://www.lestbeads.com</a> - The home of the Lampwork Etc Street Team for etsy.<br /><br /><br />There are a few of the places that have been keeping me from you, my dear readers.Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-88754095185511873912008-10-27T16:29:00.002-06:002008-10-27T16:30:40.485-06:00Moving<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: arial;font-size:180%;" >As you all know I'm moving.<br />So! To celebrate this I'm holding a sale at <a href="http://www.silverfaeriedesigns.com">my website</a>.<br />10-20% off EVERYTHING!<br /><br />Go! Look! Tell your friends! :)</span><br /></div>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-82546684995380063812008-10-15T16:37:00.004-06:002008-10-15T16:41:50.842-06:00ChangesIn the next month or so I'll be gearing up to move. Yep. Away from the green and the mountains of Colorado, I'll be moving to the beauty of New Mexico. Yes, the boy finally talked me into it.<br /><br />What will I be bringing? Not my glass sadly. Not yet at least. Jewelry and papercrafting stuff will be going though. I'll still be able to do art journaling and make jewelry- I just need to figure out a camera for the move. I've been stealing my father's for quite some time, much to his annoyance.<br /><br />I haven't done many things that are creative. Unless you count writing. My time has been full of work, writing and playing World of Warcraft. It's an addiction that I partake in gladly. *laughs*Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1732136795017063099.post-71204390454541187862008-08-25T11:40:00.002-06:002008-08-25T11:44:41.776-06:00Days and Days<span class="standard">The torching is coming along. I think I'm back in the hang of it. As for jewelry making, it can be hard to sit there and stare at so many things and know exactly what you're doing. I call this over exposure. Often times I have to hide things from my sight so I'm not overwhelmed. It isn't easy I have to admit.<br />In that same vein, I find so many things that I can no longer use. Jewelry supplies that just don't fit into my theme any longer. What do I do with those you ask? Why I add them to my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5271119">etsy destash shop</a>. I'll be adding more over the next few days, so if you're in the market for new beads and supplies keep your eyes peeled!<br /></span>Melissahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04961586046753030101noreply@blogger.com0