Bare Moose Jewelry On Etsy

Absolutely Kismet On Zibbet

2011-08-02T18:06:00.000-07:00

I found this charming shop on Zibbet - Absolutely Kismet !

This lovely shop offers unique, hand crafted wine glass charms, stitch markers and jewelry.

Here is a tiny selection of what you will find at Absolutely Kismet but you must visit this shop to see all the wonderful items!

Light Pink Stitch Markers - a must for your knitting projects or a fantastic gift for the knitter in your life! You will find more stitch markers in this shop, different styles and colors.

Blue and Black Striped Heart Pendant On Braided Hemp Necklace
The hemp pieces offered in Absolutely Kismet are AMAZING!!! She is such a talented hemp artist!

Tiger Striped Heart Pendant On Hemp Choker
See what I mean???

Hemp Necklace Or Wrap Bracelet

How wonderful is this !?! You can wear this awesome piece as a necklace or a bracelet!

Bracelet - Petite Black And Blue Slip Knot

I love the colors!

Absolutely Kismet also offers beautifully hand crafted beaded jewelry.

White Cat's Eye Glass With Black Cut Glass Dangles Necklace

Feminine and Elegant!

Earrings - Teal

The best thing about these earrings is they would look cute with jeans and t shirt and FABULOUS with evening wear!

Brown Glass Dangle Earrings

Beautiful on their own but...they have a matching necklace - shown below!

Brown Beaded Necklace

The holidays will be here before you know it! This next earring and necklace set are the perfect holiday gift!

Red Dangle Earrings

Red Glass Beaded Bracelet

Absolutely Kismet offers a unique selection of wine glass charms. I know wine glass charms are such a necessity at parties, especially holiday parties but...I can't help but think of all the other uses for these super cute charms!

I think they would be adorable on purse and tote straps, cell phones, journals, place cards, etc!

This has been a fun feature!

Absolutely Kismet is an absolutely charming, unique and OOAK Zibbet shop!

Visit today and get all your holiday shopping done!

Little Green Things

2011-05-08T07:26:00.000-07:00

Little Green Things on Etsy is a shop filled with unique, one of a kind belt buckles.
The buckles are tiny works of art that inspire imagination and fun.

You must read this shop's wonderful profile. It is as unique and whimsical as the shop itself, giving you insight on the artist behind the shop. Also, it must be noted, this artist displays a great concern for our environment and uses an eco resin on all the buckles!

I want to share a few items from Little Green Things but you really have to visit the shop yourself to enjoy all it has to offer!

Deer Dream Belt Buckle brings to mind ELEGANT! So unique and lovely! The image hints of a Victorian flavor and is has an ethereal feel.

Overland Journey Belt Buckle - If you know the story behind my shop name, you know the Bare in Bare Moose is a play on the word "Bear". Naturally I absolutely LOVE this buckle! I believe this buckle would look great on a man or woman, especially when paired with your favorite jeans.

Mr. Red Fox and Mrs. Bunny Belt Buckle - So sweet and charming!

Little Red Riding Hood Belt Buckle - I love Little Red Riding Hood and I especially love the uniqueness of this buckle. No doubt it would look great with any outfit but paired with your favorite faded jeans and a red long sleeve tee - perfection!

Deer In Winter Wonderland Belt Buckle - Artistic and beautiful!

You Choose Belt Buckle - While every buckle in this shop would be an awesome gift, this buckle would make the gift even more special. Everyone loves personalized gifts and you could use this opportunity to match the buckle to the personality of the recipient.

Writable Chalkboard Surface Belt Buckle - Fun, Fun, Fun!!!!

This buckle was featured on the front page of Etsy as it should be! Just think of what you can write on this wearable art! Match you buckle to your mood!

Vintage Leather Belt Brown White Flowers - So...you have found the perfect belt buckle but do not have a belt? Here is a wonderful, pretty belt to couple with your new buckle!

Vintage Brown Leather Floral Western Belt - Or...how about this belt!

This was just a small sample of what Little Green Things has to offer. You must visit this shop and when you do, I challenge you to use your imagination!

When I entered Little Green Things for the first time, my mind ran wild with ideas such as:

*Journals* - I love making journals and I can envision using one of these fabulous buckles to decorate one of my journals. Perhaps I would run a wide piece of satin ribbon through the buckle and attach it to the journal. Or...perhaps I could incorporate the buckle as a way of closing the journal. Hmmm....

*Boxes* - These buckles would make an awesome decoration on a wooden box that you purchase or make yourself. I see these buckles attached to either the top or front of the box.

*Purses and Totes* - I have several bags that have detachable handles. How wonderful would one of these lovely buckles look on the handle?? Just remove one side of the bag handle and slide the buckle on!

*Handmade Cards* - Why not use a belt buckle as the gift in a card/gift combo? Just attach the buckle on the front or inside of the card and write a note and decorate the card to match the buckle.

Now it's your turn! Visit Little Green Things and let your imagination go!!

Riverboat On The Potomac / Colonial Beach, Va.

2011-04-17T15:33:00.000-07:00

Dad, Cynthia and I went to Colonial Beach today to have breakfast at the Riverboat On The Potomac. They have a great breakfast bar and an amazing view of the Potomac River. It was chilly out so we didn't spend a lot of time at the riverside but we managed to explore a little. The restaurant: I took some pictures from the back dinning area of the restaurant:

This is the breakfast buffet:

Also part of the buffet:

Dad and Cynthia:

The Tiki Bar at the other end of the restaurant:

Cynthia in the Gaming room:

The Fortune Teller:

My fortune: My after breakfast swing:

Super cute gift shop located next to the restaurant. I bought a pink Colonial Beach hoodie:

Hunting for treasures:

I found one!

Dad waiting patiently while I treasure hunt:

Cynthia's beautiful wildlife photos:

I will show you the treasures I found in another post. I think I will make a tutorial with them :)

Buy Some Love

2011-03-23T18:02:00.001-07:00

If you enjoy truly elegant and unique jewelry, you must visit Buy Some Love !

I am going to share some of the lovely treasures I found at Buy Some Love , but I want to introduce you to the shop owners first.

The owners of this Etsy jewelry shop are a husband and wife team from Canada. They have an interesting and fun profile that you may read here . The profile explains that the husband makes the beaded pieces and the wife makes the earrings and all other pieces.

This fact alone makes the shop unique and interesting but the quality of the product completely draws you in.

Not only is each and every piece of jewelry in Buy Some Love's shop extremely well made but the talent of the creators is stunningly apparent. This duo has a remarkable talent for pairing charms, beads and findings in such a unique way. The outcome is amazing.

Here are a few of the items from Buy Some Love's Etsy shop. It was difficult to select which items to share with you. This shop has 500 (yes, 500) beautiful items for sale. You must visit it to really appreciate what they have to offer!

Buy Some Love offers wonderful sets like these sweet Rose Rings. As the listing states, these rings would be absolutely perfect for bridesmaids gifts. You can coordinate the color to match your wedding because you may select your color!

This Brass Branch Connector Necklace is a perfect example of the talent I was talking about earlier. Such an unusual pairing of a connector and beads. Simply lovely!

This Deployed Soldiers bracelet tugs at your heart strings. Simple, sweet and elegant.

Dolphin and Dream Necklace . Again, pairing 3 items and turning it into something enchanting. The second I saw this charming necklace, I was reminded of all the wonderful days I have spent on the beach. Like I said, Enchanting!

These Heart and Pearl Earrings are so sweetly feminine and lovely. They would be the perfect compliment to any outfit!

Black and ivory are such a lovely color combination. The colors are perfectly combined and expertly crafted in this Black Glass Pearl Bracelet .

This Multiple Layered Glass Pearls Necklace is stunning! This is only one of the many, many elegant items in Buy Some Love's Etsy shop.

This Chalkboard Pendant Necklace is just one of a line of chalkboard pendants. So clever, unique and fun!! You even receive a piece of chalk so that you can change your message!

How sweet are these Light Pink Dangling Rose Earrings !! I think these earrings would be the perfect Mother's Day gift!

This was a very tiny sample of the items Buy Some Love offers in their shop. You will be amazed once you visit this shop yourself!

Easter and Mother's Day are quickly approaching. If you need gifts for these occasions (or any occasion), you are sure to find the perfect gift at Buy Some Love.

*** Buy Some Love is offering a generous discount code for you!! Just enter BAREMOOSE10 as the code and you will receive 10% off your order!!! ***

WIRE HOOK AND LOOP CLASP TUTORIAL

2011-01-08T11:16:00.000-08:00

These hook and loop clasps are fun and easy to make.

I use round nose pliers (I have an assortment but just one is fine), wire cutters, wire, an anvil and chasing hammer.

I purchased my chasing hammer , anvil and a pair of round nose pliers from:

matsbeads on Etsy.

I purchase most of my wire from:

lannasjewelry on Etsy. (I love the 26g argentium sterling silver and the 26g 14k gold filled wire for my viking knit projects).

Both are awesome sellers. Fast shipping, great products!!

I used 20g silver plated wire in this first project.
To make the clasp, cut 2 lengths of wire with wire cutters. The length depends on the size clasp you want. I cut the examples approximately 1 1/2", which was actually too long.

Use the round nose pliers to make a small loop at the end of one piece of wire.

Grasp the wire with the round nose pliers 1/4" or so from the loop you made, making sure you grasp it with the fatter part of the pliers. Bend the wire around the pliers in the opposite direction of the loop. Stop when the wire meets the loop.

Now grasp the wire with the round nose pliers just below the loop and bend towards the back of the hook you have made.

Stop here and use the wire cutters to remove the excess wire.

Finish the loop with the round nose pliers.

Use the second piece of wire for the loop section of the clasp.

Grasp the wire with the round nose pliers almost in the middle of the wire. The size of the loop will be determined by the section of the round nose pliers you use.

Wrap the wire around to form a loop.

Turn the wire around and wrap around the round nose pliers to make the second loop. Wrap the wire in the opposite direction of the first loop to form a figure 8.

Trim off the excess wire.

The finished hook and loop clasp.

**Optional**

You may hammer the clasp to give it strength.

Hammering the pieces causes them to spread out and get a little wonky.

Just reshape and close all the openings.

To make your clasp a little fancier, you can simply coil the wire.

Start as usual but continue to wrap the wire in a spiral.

I make these backwards, starting at the part of the clasp that hooks to the chain.

Wrap the wire around the round nose pliers.

Bend in the opposite direction to make the small loop which was the first step in the directions above.

Use the wire cutters to remove the excess wire. Finish the small loop with the round nose pliers.

I also make the loop backwards. Start with a coil.

Turn the wire over and bend around the round nose pliers to finish the figure 8.
Cut off the excess wire.

I used a very soft 18g wire in the example (very cheap craft store wire). If you use a super soft wire, it will become very flat when you hammer it.

Work it back into shape.

Here are some of the pieces I've made using the handcrafted clasp.

I used the clasp as part of the design in this viking knit rose bracelet. I used 2 of the hooks, one on each side of the rose (there is a rose tutorial on my blog). When I wire wrapped the rose and swarovski crystals, I wrapped leaving a loop large enough for the hooks to fit through.

I made the clasp for this viking knit necklace with the spiral ends.

I also used the spiral on this viking knit bracelet.

I used 2 clasps on this viking knit rose bracelet. One hook and loop on each side of the rose.

I used the simple clasp on this bracelet.

I used viking knit pieces to display these clasps because that is what I'm hooked on right now.

Viking knit is extremely addictive!!! Perhaps I should make a viking knit tutorial???

I hope you find this tutorial useful!

Now, go make some clasps!!!!

xoxoxoxo

HENNY SEASHELL

2010-10-23T19:29:00.000-07:00

Henny Seashell is a lovely Etsy shop that offers wonderful sewn and quilted items. Items that are made using only the highest quality fabrics and materials.

This artist has a natural talent for combining the perfect colors, patterns and textures in every piece she crafts. Her talent in sewing and quilting is also evident in every item.

If you are holiday shopping, you are sure to find the perfect gifts at Henny Seashell .
Every item in this shop is as useful as it is beautiful which makes them an especially thoughtful gift.

If you would like to learn more about Henny, please read her well written and interesting shop Profile.

I am going to share some of my favorite items from Henny Seashell , but keep in mind it is just a small sample of the lovely items in her shop.

This Table Runner would be a beautiful focal point on a holiday table. Or... anytime.

Here are the cutest Quilted Coasters I've ever seen!!!!

The lovely fall colors in these Quilted Pillow Covers makes them the perfect Autumn accent.

I love bags!!! I can never have too many totes, pouches, clutches, etc. Henny Seashell has an awesome selection of bags, including this sweet Blue Batik Tote .

These adorable pouches come in a set of 3! That means you can give 2 as gifts and keep 1 for yourself!

Perfect for a night out, this Fold Over Clutch will hold your essentials without the inconvenience of a bulky purse.

The colors in this Slouch Bag are simply stunning!

I really love this Quilted Tote ! It's perfect for "going green" when used to carry home purchases rather than using a plastic bag supplied by the store. Of course, it has many other uses as well.

There you have it! Beautiful, expertly crafted, useful gifts for someone special on your gift giving list!!

Don't forget to shop for yourself as well!!!

Visit Henny Seashell today.

Mike and Sam - Baby Shower

2010-08-28T20:04:00.000-07:00

My son, Mike and his wife, Sam are expecting their first baby (and...my first grand baby)!!! They are having a girl and have named her Mia.
We attended their baby shower today, so I thought I would share the event with you.

Mike and Sam:

Opening gifts:

Cake and Decorations:

I made this watermelon baby carriage with the help of a YouTube video.

Cynthia made this diaper wreath. Super cute!

Guests - Family and Friends:

Cynthia and Chris clowning around :)

Seabreeze Seafood Restaurant

2010-08-10T16:51:00.000-07:00

Just sharing some pictures I took while visiting the Seabreeze Seafood Restaurant.

It's a nice little restaurant, located in Mechanicsville, MD.

They even have a cute tiki bar.

You can check out the website http://www.seabreezeseafoodrestaurant.com/

Crabby Dick's - Port Tobacco, MD

2010-08-02T18:56:00.000-07:00

I decided to take my dad and daughter to Crabby Dick's in Port Tobacco Maryland. I wanted to go to this particular restaurant because I've never been before.
When we arrived, we were faced with a dilema. How do we get into the restaurant???

The picture above was taken from the parking lot. As you can see, there was water between us and the restaurant.

Then we saw the stairs. The very, very tall stairs which is pictured above. The archway is actually the top of the stairs.

These stairs are not only very tall but they are rather rickety as well.

At least they were kind enough to provide a resting place :)

The 4 pictures above were taken from the top of the stairs.

Another profile picture of the stairs.

My dad will be 89 years old in September and I am sure this climb was rather tiring for him. I couldn't help but wonder how anyone physically handicapped could possibly patron this restaurant.

Once inside, I asked our server how on earth they expected everyone to get to the restaurant, especially the physically handicapped. He looked puzzled and said "well, there's a ramp right out there". Out where??? I didn't see a ramp.

He was kind enough to point to the ramp. And...it was on the opposite side from which we came.

I had parked at the Port Tobacco Marina and we had entered the restaurant from the back!!!

Port Tobacco Marina

Port Tobacco Marina - taken from the stairs

My daughter, Cynthia, heading back down the stairs to the Marina. We had to get the car and drive around to the front of the restaurant to pick up my dad.

Outside eating area at Crabby Dick's

My dad at the front of Crabby Dick's

Our meal.

We were treated to Old Bay seasoned potato chips while we waited for our food.

Next, we were each given a sample of cream of crab soup and vegetable crab soup. Both were yummy.

We ordered crab and spinach dip. Cynthia and I love crab dip.

Cynthia had cream of crab soup.

My dad had a crab cake and baked potato.

I ordered a 1/2 dozen steamed crabs. Yum!!!

The food was good and the server and manager were super nice.

I love seafood and especially love seafood restaurants on the water.

My dad, Bill, waiting at the FRONT of the restaurant.

SECRET SANTA

2009-12-28T19:12:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone is having a wonderful holiday!!!

I was wandering around the Etsy forums ( it's so addictive!!! ) and I came across a Secret Santa thread. A lovely Etsy seller - Jolly Jennifer organized an awesome Secret Santa gift exchange and invited everyone to join. To participate, all we had to do was comment in the thread and send her a convo to confirm our participation. Jolly Jennifer organized everything from that point, pairing up all the Secret Santas, convoing everyone, double checking to make sure everyone received a gift and even worked overtime pairing a late comer.

Several Santas thanked Jolly Jennifer for organizing such a fun gift exchange and she modestly stated it wasn't much work and she liked to organize events.

Personally, I believe it was a LOT of work and she is a wonderful, giving person!!! So...I felt the least I could do is feature her shop here. She has an amazing, diversified Etsy shop. You will have to visit it to see all of her lovely items. Here are just a few:

A beautiful Tree Of Life Pendant

This very creative Upcycled Notepad:

Beautiful Purple Floral Fine Art Prints:

Awesome Purple Mary Poppins Purse - Hand Felted:

As you can see, Jolly Jennifer has a wonderful selection of items. You are sure to find what you want in her unique shop!!!!

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My Secret Santa was the owner of Del Guidice Studio. This shop can be described in one word: ELEGANT!!!

I want to share a few of her items before I show you my lovely gift.

There is a large selection of sleep masks like this sweet Dopo Puccini Mask:

Several silk scarves. Pictured here is the elegant La Peonia Floral:

Beautiful jewelry. Including the La Dolcetta Bracelet pictured below.

You will also find gorgeous dresses. This is the Spagnola :

Everything in the Del Guidice Studio is sweet, refined and yes, very, very elegant!!

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And...here is my gift from my Secret Santa!!!!
(I must apologize to Del Guidice Studio for the following pictures. I am horrible at photography!!)

My lovely gift came beautifully wrapped in a white box which was tied with an amazing, silky black ribbon.
When I opened the box, I was treated to a sweet card, simply lovely silver tissue paper and a wonderful little seal.
Inside the tissue paper was a gorgeous sleep mask!!!!
Thank you sooooo much Helen!!! I love my sleep mask!!!!

Playing Secret Santa with wonderful Etsy artists was such a fantastic experience! I hope Jolly Jennifer will hold another Etsy Secret Santa again next year. If she does, I hope all of you will participate!!!

xoxoxoxoxo

I WON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-11-06T06:05:00.000-08:00

Here is the AWESOME necklace I won!!!!

I can't believe I won another awesome giveaway!!!! I won this super cute necklace on the very wonderful and creative blog Life In Left Field. If you are not familiar with this blog, it is a MUST READ!!! Missy is funny and delightful, I recommend you follow her blog today.

Missy also has a lovely Etsy shop SYHO Customs. You must visit her shop to enjoy all of her items but I will share a few of them here:

She makes the cutest Christmas stockings I have ever seen:

SYHO Customs is full of beautiful fabric arts but that's not all you will find featured in this awesome shop.

You will find unique handcrafted jewelry, like this creative, wire wrapped necklace:

You will also find this super sweet Holiday Banner for your Etsy shop!!!!

Start your holiday shopping at SYHO Customs today!!!

Howdy Sailor is also the perfect place to start your holiday shopping!!!!

The awesome "Blogging Is Sexy" necklace I won was provided by this unique, charming Etsy shop.

Here you will find funny, unusual and fabulous jewelry.

Like this Gorgeous Brooch:

And this cute heart shaped necklace - I'll Rip Your Heart Out:

Do you love bracelets? I do!!! Especially this Fabulous Bracelet:

Howdy Sailor also offers beautiful art. This lovely Liar artwork on canvas is just one example:

Thank you for allowing me to share my awesome giveaway win!!!

Now go visit SYHO Customs and Howdy Sailor and get your Holiday shopping done!!!!

xoxoxoxo

HALLOWEEN MEMORIES

2009-10-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

Halloween has always been one of my favorite holidays.
Who doesn't love a holiday that revolves around dressing up, candy, scary decorations, candy, pumpkins and...oh yeah, CANDY!!!!

When I was in the 5th grade, many, many years ago, my school held a Halloween Costume Contest every year.
My mom was very talented with a sewing machine and she made me a Fairy Princess costume out of beautiful old curtains. It was a beautiful long dress made lovely and full by wearing a hoop skirt beneath it. I was so proud of that BEAUTIFUL dress and it really did make me feel like a Fairy Princess. That is...before the itching started!!!!

I was participating in the Costume Parade when I started itching. The itching grew worse very quickly and then a burning sensation began. When the parade was over, I ran to my mom and told her my itchy, burning problem. She had no idea why I would be itching and burning but decided I should change right away.

When I removed my beautiful dress, my skin was a lovely shade of beet red.
It was then that my mom realized that the curtains used to make my dress had a fiberglass lining!!!!

In the end, I won the award for the Prettiest Costume :)

I miss my mom so much and would gladly wear one of her itchy, burning creations if it meant I could spend some time with her again.

MADE BY MELISSA

2009-10-16T19:39:00.000-07:00

I love, love, love Halloween!!!

If you love Halloween as much as I do, you need to check out the awesome Halloween jewelry at

Made By Melissa !!!

Some examples are this super cute Bat Pendant Necklace:

This adorable Hang Man - Skeleton Charm Necklace:

And this charming Purple Spider Necklace:

If want beautiful jewelry that is not Halloween themed, Made By Melissa has many pieces to choose from!!!

I love this Let It Snow Glass And Crystal Snowflake Bracelet

Made By Melissa also offers lovely crocheted items.

I love the colors used for this Watermelon Slice Baby / Toddler Blanket!!!

You will find vintage items in this very versatile shop too !!!

I love roses, so I had to include this Vintage Gold Rose Brooch :

Made By Melissa has 101 items for sale, you are sure to find something you are looking for !!!

HALLOWEEN LOLLIPOP COSTUME / PIN TUTORIAL

2009-09-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

This project would be great for a children's party. Cut out and glue the lolly costumes before the party and let each child decorate their own. If you are not having a Halloween party, change the pattern to match the party theme. Maybe a clown face, train, flower, etc.

If your child is having a Halloween party at school, you could make one of these covers for each child and personalize them by writing each child's name on the back or front with fabric paint.

The lolly costumes are inexpensive and are a quick and easy project.

What you need:

1. Felt

2. Fabric paint ( I wanted black glitter paint to decorate the edges of my pieces. I could not find black glitter paint so I substituted with glitter glue )

3. Paper ( I used plain copy paper )

4. Scissors

5. Ink pen

6. Pin backs

7. Fabric glue

8. Lollipops

To begin, lay your lollipop on the piece of paper. Make a mark at the top and sides of the lollipop. This will give you a guide for the size needed. If you are using a round lollipop, you will need to allow extra room for the lolly to fit inside the costume. In that case, allow at least 1/2" to 1" extra space when you mark around the lolly.

Draw the shape you want, using the guides you marked. I made my ghost a little smaller than my original guide because I decided to use a smaller lollipop.

Cut your shapes out. Mark one side of your pattern with a 1 and the other side with a 2. You will need to trace the back and front ( 1 & 2 ) of each shape onto the backside of the felt. Tracing the front and back of your pattern will allow you to have both sides on the right side of the felt once the project is complete.

Having said that, I must be honest, I cannot see a difference between the "front" and "back" of felt. I figure the side that has the manufactures sticker on it is the back.

Trace your pattern onto the felt. Cut around your pattern. To make these neat and clean, cut slightly inside your pen mark. Personally, for a project like this, I don't worry too much about neatness.

***** This next step is optional *****

Before gluing the front and back together, glue on the pin back. If you want to make sure the pin back will stay on the costume, sew it on. It will only take a few stitches and it will be easy if done before gluing the front and back together. Including the pin back makes the lolly costumes useful after the lollipop is gone.

Glue the front and back together with the fabric glue, making sure you glue the wrong sides together.

Now the fun begins!! Decorate your lollipop costume with fabric paint. Make them all the same or all different.

This poor thing!!! Not only is he a ghost ( which can't be good ) but right after I painted on his eyes, I dropped him. Of course, he landed upside down and his eyes splatted. Hmmmm, is splatted a real word??? Anyway, I had to repair his eyes which caused them to be extremely large in the end.

If you make these costumes in the shape of flowers, it would be cute to fill a flower pot with Styrofoam and stick the lollipop handles into the flowerpot.

The ghosts and pumpkins could be displayed in the same way by substituting the flower pot for a plastic black cauldron.

WOODBURNING TUTORIAL

2009-09-20T14:38:00.001-07:00

Years ago, I decided to make my daughter a wooden keepsake box. I wanted to woodburn a rose on the top of the box. My standard woodburner was doing a very poor job. I think the wood I selected for the keepsake box was too dense (or something ) for my little burner. My dad, who owns a tool store, solved the problem by purchasing an industrial woodburner for me. It was an amazing burner, it got twice as hot as a standard woodburner. It did an awesome job on the keepsake box but...it burned way too hot for other projects. I was forced to retire my super hot woodburner after I completed the keepsake box, but I am sure I will find a use for it again one day.

In the meantime, I have only used my regular woodburner for all my projects and recently, sadly, my standard woodburner burned it's last wood.

So...I thought I would use the purchase of a new woodburner as a tutorial.

This is a very satisfying craft because you are able to see your results immediately.

I purchased the woodburner at my local Michael's. It was $12.99. It came with a holder and 4 points. I also purchased, at Michael's, a pre-made wood box for $2.99.

To finish my project, I bought Minwax Wood Finish at my local hardware store for $4.89. I selected a Cherry finish but of course there are many finishes to choose from - some lighter and some darker.

****Please Note****

1. Be extremely careful, the woodburner heats to 950 degrees (510 degrees C).

2. Never, ever leave the woodburner unattended.

3. Always, always use the woodburner stand.

4. Remember, you are burning wood. There is smoke - a lot of smoke. Wear a mask if you are sensitive to smoke.

The 4 points with the burner were:

1. Shading point ( I didn't use this point for shading in this project )

2. Flow point

3. Universal point

4. Cone point

To duplicate this project:

Put the Shading point on your woodburner and turn the burner on. Once heated, press the Shading point down on the box along the bottom edge, pointy side upwards. Next, press the same Shading point along the top edge of the box, pointy side down.

( I forgot to take a picture of this first step but you can see the top and bottom edges in the picture below )

Turn the woodburner off and cool completely - please, do not burn yourself!!!! While the burner is cooling, select a stencil for the box top. I used an ivy stencil. ( I should not show you this stencil!!! I am embarrassed by the 50 layers of green stencil paint on it - uggg I should have washed it after each use ).

Please do not limit yourself to a stencil. You can freehand anything you want. You can also trace something onto the box. If you do use a stencil and you want it to look less stencily - just connect the lines where they are broken on the stencil.

The box top with the ivy stencil penciled on it - pictured below.

Do not press hard with the pencil while tracing or drawing. Woodburning is not precise like drawing on a smooth piece of paper, the burner may slip some and veer slightly off your penciled lines. Therefore, you will need to erase any visible pencil marks.If you press hard on the pencil, it will leave a permanent indention on the wood where you erase the pencil lines.

Remove the Shading point and attach the Flow point to the cooled woodburner, turn the burner on. Burn over all of your pencil lines. If you want to, you can add to or change your traced pattern, while you are woodburning. I added curly tendrils to my project.

Turn the woodburner off and cool completely. Remove the Flow point and attach the Cone point, turn the burner back on. Select areas on your project that seem a little plain and use the Cone point to add three little dots, in a triangle pattern, on those areas. Do this by placing the Cone point straight down on the wood and press slightly, it will make perfect little circles.

To decorate the top edge, use the same Cone point to make 3 dots and then a line - continue around the box. If you do not feel comfortable doing this without a guide, draw it on the box with your pencil first.

Turn the box on it's side and repeat the 3 dot triangle around the outside top edge.

At this point, trace, stencil or freehand a pattern around the outside center of the box. Of course this is optional.

I wrote "Secret Garden" with a pencil using my own handwriting.

While the Cone point is still on the woodburner, turn the box upside down and sign it.

Turn the woodburner off and cool completely. Remove the Cone point and attach the Universal point, turn the burner on. Use the Universal point to burn the pattern (if any) along the outside center of the box.

Lastly, if you choose, stain your box. I think the stain gives the box a finished look.

A few final tips:

*You can dye your piece to make it colorful. In this case, I could have dyed the ivy leaves green. There are colored wood dyes on the market but you can also use regular clothing dye.*

*You can add a layer or 2 of clear satin or glossy finish.*

*You can embellish your piece by gluing on gems, charms, etc.*

*You can line the inside of the box if you want to.*

*You can personalize your project. If you are making it for a gift, woodburn the recipients name on it.*

*You can glue 4 wooden balls (with a flat top) or cabinet pulls to the bottom of your box to give your box a lift.*

METAL CLAYART CLAY***

2009-09-18T12:05:00.001-07:00

In my spare time (you know, between my new job, Etsy, Zibbet, Blog, Myspace, Facebook, Twitter, etc, etc - LOL) I decided to take a metal clay class at the College of Southern Maryland.

It was such an AWESOME experience!!!!

The class was taught by a wonderful instructor - Barbara Diane Hance. She was informative, patient and knowledgeable.

It was a 2 day class. On our first day, we were taught all about the different types of metal clay. We also learned about textures and other techniques.
We were given a metal clay tool kit and a package of clay - pictured below.

We made a pendant first. We were provided with the instructors supply of many, many textures, cutters, CZ beads and everything else we would need to apply our imagination.

I LOVE writing, so I selected a texture sheet with writing on it. As you can see in the picture below, you can not tell the texture is writing - LOL, what was I thinking????
I chose a large and small heart cutter and pressed the CZ in the center.
Barb taught us several bail techniques and I chose the bail that is made by rolling a long thin rope and wrapping it around a straw. I placed my bail off center cause it matches my personality!!
I am pleased with my very first metal clay project!!!

Next, we made earrings. I selected the same small heart cutter.

Barb took our pieces home and fired them in her kiln.

During our second class, our pieces were returned to us, ready to complete our projects. We cleaned the pieces with a wire brush first (ouch!!! I didn't like this part) and then Barb tumbled them in her tumbler.

We were given the option to patina or not, using a liver of sulfur mix.

I applied the patina to my earrings but not my pendant.

Next, we put our earrings together. We selected the beads we wanted and were provided with earring findings and silver wire.

We were taught wire wrapping. This is a technique I usually avoid because I use my fingers to wrap and end up with sore fingers. But...our awesome instructor taught us how to wire wrap using 2 pair of chain nose pliers!! WooHoo, you will see more wire wrapping in my pieces now!!

We had clay left over after we made the pendant and earrings. Barb told us we could make something with the left over clay and she would teach us how to fire the pieces using a torch. I made 3 initials - J for me, C for my daughter and D for my friend. I made them by rolling the clay into a long rope and shaping the rope into the letters. Then I rolled the rope initials flat. I rolled one of the files from my metal clay tool kit over my letters to make the texture on them.

Barb taught us how to torch fire during our second class. She fired one of my letters and I fired the other 2. Once fired, these pieces were placed in the tumbler. Now all I have to do is add a jump ring and chain to each one.

I am really, really sad that I can't attend Barb's advanced metal clay class :(

I am burdened with a conflict of schedules.

But...I will attend her next advanced class and am looking forward to it!!!

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Now...I have a real treat for you!!!! I emailed Barb and asked permission to provide a link to her website on this post. I also asked for and received permission to share pictures of some of her AMAZING pieces.

Here is her website - Adornments By Diane.

Please visit her site to learn more about metal clay, classes and see many more of her lovely pieces!!!

I am awed by Barb's metal clay skills!!

Like this lovely, lacy seahorse.

This beautiful leaf design would make a wonderful gift for any lady but especially someone with an autumn birthday.

This is a gorgeous necklace!!! Have you ever seen a cuter toggle????

This fish is absolutely beautiful!!!!

And...Barb makes other pieces as well. Like this stunning paperweight.

Visit Barb's site now to see the rest of her unbelievably beautiful items.

If you live in Southern Maryland, I suggest you attend one of her classes if you are interested in metal clay or any of the other crafts she teaches. She's a wonderful instructor!!!

I have to mention Barb also makes custom pieces, just email her with your design!!!

MooBeeTees

2009-09-07T20:27:00.000-07:00

MooBeeTees is an adorable Etsy shop that caters to little ones.
When you visit this shop, you will find the cutest OOAK appliqued tees you've ever seen!!!!

MooBeeTees Bio:

MooBeeTees is an Australian crafter whose shop is a place where you can find tees (and all sorts of other items!) that you won't find in any stores. All of the designs come from her imagination - with help from her children - who knows what you will find! MooBeeTees believes in having fun with crafting and using her imagination to make little people smile!

The "Your A Star" tees pictured above are personalized!!! They are sweet and unique. I can imagine how special your little one will feel wearing one.

MooBeeTees also offers a Limited Edition Signature Tee. What child wouldn't absolutely love this imaginative, super cute tee???? (Such an adorable model too !!).

Do you need a creative, fun and colorful way to teach your child to count? This Number Bunting

is the perfect counting aid. Plus, it does double duty as a wonderful wall hanging for your child's room!

This cute Bones Tee is the perfect gift for your special little boy. We all know how much little boys love doggies :)

You will also find many, super sweet, hair ties at MooBeeTees.

Like these Pink/White and Purple/White Spotted Pony Hair Ties.

Now...something special for YOU! This Personalized Bunting will add the perfect, professional touch to your craft show display!!!

It will also be a fabulous decoration for any holiday or special occasion celebration.

You have just seen a small sample of the treasures that await you at MooBeeTees.

I hope you will visit this awesome shop today :)

NECKLACE GIVEAWAY WINNER

2009-09-06T18:14:00.000-07:00

The winner of the necklace giveaway is MooBeeTees !!!
We are working out the details for her feature and Etsy mini.

In the meantime, please check out her shop, it's ADORABLE!!!!

Thank you all for following, entering the giveaway and leaving the awesome comments.
You are the BEST!!!!!

xoxoxoxox
Janet

GIVEAWAY & TUTORIAL

2009-08-23T07:56:00.000-07:00

This is my last week of training for my new job - WOOHOO!!!!
Thursday will be my last day of traveling 130 miles everyday!!!

So...I need to celebrate. I am celebrating by hosting a giveaway, what better way is there to celebrate?? My followers (YOU) are the BEST!!!

How to enter -

1. If you are already a follower - You do not have to do anything!!! You are automatically entered.

2. If you are new to my blog - Become a follower and leave a comment here.

That's it!!!

The rest of the giveaway details will be given at the end of this post.

NECKLACE TUTORIAL

If you are not a jewelry artist or beader but would love to make simple jewelry for yourself or as a gift, this project is perfect for you. I am going to show you how to assemble a necklace. It requires very little tools, supplies or money but will give you the satisfaction of making a beautiful necklace. Of course, you will inject your own style and personality by the pendant and clasp you select.

What you will need:

Chain - 1
Jump Rings - 3
Closure (toggle, clasp, lobster claw, etc) - 1
Pendant - 1
Pliers
Wire Cutters

Measure out the amount of chain you will need to make the necklace the length you want. Cut the chain with the wire cutters.

Open 1 jump ring with your pliers. Make sure you open the ring by twisting sideways - DO NOT open the ring by pulling the 2 ends apart.

Hook the jump ring on the ring of your pendant and close the ring by twisting the 2 ends back together.

Now slide your chain through the jump ring you just placed on your pendant.

Open another jump ring and insert it through the last link on one side of your chain. Place one end of your closure on the same open jump ring that is attached to your chain. Close the jump ring.

Open your last jump ring and repeat - placing the second half of your closure on the second chain end.
That's it!!!! You now have a pretty necklace you can wear or give as a gift. Why not make all your friends a necklace for Christmas?!!!

Every once in awhile you will find a pendant that does not need a jump ring. The chain opening on the pendant will already be in the proper position. This pendant did not need a jump ring but I included the instructions because you will need to add a jump ring to the majority of pendants.
As you can see in the picture below, I have removed the jump ring and just inserted the chain through the pendant opening.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS:

1. The winner will be announced on Sunday - September 6, 2009

2. The winner will receive the necklace that was just made in the tutorial above.

Also, if the winner owns an Etsy shop (or any other shop - Zibbet, Artfire, your personal website, etc), I will blog about your win in a feature and put your Etsy mini on my sidebar :)

Thank you for following my blog!!!

xoxoxoxo

We Need Votes, Please!!!! (UPDATED)

2009-08-08T21:15:00.000-07:00

******UPDATE******

Cynthia entered a new picture for this weeks contest. So...we need votes again, please.
You can vote once a day. I have changed the link below, it will take you to the new picture :)
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My daughter entered a picture in The Cutest Dog Photo contest and she needs your votes!!!

Just click on the link below and click on vote, it's that easy. It only takes a second.

Thank you in advance :)

xoxoxox

http://www.cutestdogcompetition.com/vote.cfm?h=8F4F72FD5D5F6540F0F0F9A00BA0AEF0

I Am The Lucky Winner!!!!

2009-08-08T16:42:00.000-07:00

I am so glad I finally have time to blog about winning a giveaway on this beautiful blog

http://theetsian.blogspot.com/ !!!!

The blog belongs to KTPaperCrafts who offers elegant, fun and personalized cards and more.

Here is an example of the lovely Cards:

Awesome Personalized Notepad:

And adorable Gift Tags:

There are many, many more beautiful items in KTPaperCrafts Etsy shop.

As for my wonderful prize....

I won this fabulous Scrubber/Soap Saver from FunnyFace12345 !!!!!

I am thrilled with this Scrubber/Soap Saver!!! It is such a clever idea and the craftsmanship is just wonderful!!!

I want to share a couple more items from FunnyFace12345's
beautiful Etsy shop.

Sweet Crochet Dish/Wash Clothes:

Beautiful Hexagon Ecru Doily:

I have been crocheting for 42 years and I can honestly say FunnyFace12345
is a very skilled crocheter!!! Her work is very professional.
This is her blog: http://www.giftsandmore-funnyface.blogspot.com/

Please visit both of these Etsy shops and follow their blogs!!!

Once again, KTPapercrafts and FunnyFace12345 , thank you so much for the great giveaway and the super nice prize!!!!

Let Me Follow Your Blog

2009-08-03T16:51:00.000-07:00

I just got home from my first day of training for my new job.
I am tired but happy. I feel so fortunate to get such an awesome job, especially now when jobs are so hard to find. It's really a career rather than a job!!!

I am posting this because I came home tonight and had 4 new followers. I found 2 that I wasn't already following and I am now following them. I am not sure if I am already following the other 2.

I think it's disappointing when you take the time to follow someones blog and they do not bother to reciprocate. I do not want anyone to be disappointed by me!!!

This will probably be my last post until my 4 weeks of training are finished.
I will only have enough time to check my email and take a quick glance at my blog, Zibbet and Etsy.

So, please, if you follow me in the next 4 weeks, leave a comment on this post. Let me know you are following my blog and rather or not I am already following you.

I will check this post every evening so that I can follow everyone.

I will be actively following all of your blogs once my training is finished.
I love to read blogs, enter giveaways and leave comments.

Thank you!!!
xoxoxoxoxo

New Banner!!!!

2009-08-01T14:46:00.000-07:00

I just had to share my beautiful new banner with you!!!
I won this awesome banner from Muskmallowdesigns!!
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7730514

I am also using this new banner for my Etsy shop.
I am thrilled to have such a beautiful, professional banner!!

You can see Muskmallowdesigns' Etsy mini on my sidebar.
Please purchase your next banner and avatar from her. You will not be disappointed.

More About Resin & A Message For You

2009-07-31T12:57:00.000-07:00

I would like to share a few more resin tips with you.
I also want to let all my awesome followers know that I will not be posting anything new for awhile. I begin training for a new job on Monday. I will be driving 1 1/2 hours - one way - everyday. My training is from 8:30am - 5:30 pm and lasts for 4 weeks. So...I will not have the luxury of working on my blog and hanging out on the Etsy forums.
Please don't give up on me and unfollow!!!
I will be blogging like crazy once I have finished training :)

Resin - Continued:

I was wondering what I would do if I wanted to do a resin project and I didn't have a pendant setting.
This is what I came up with. I coiled up regular craft wire and ended the coil with a loop. I left the loop even with the rest of the coil so the pendant would lay flat. I glued my picture onto the wire with E6000 glue and let it dry.
I spooned the resin on the picture and allowed it to over flow. I was not trying to control the resin at all but on 2 of the coils, the resin stayed right on the picture.
You can see in the picture below, the resin over flowed on the large pendant. If this bothers you, cover the back with a circle of felt.

I made the large and tiny pendant using that great collage I bought from Cachecache
http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5529873.
The middle sized pendant was made with one of Cynthia's floral pictures.

This is the front of the large pendant. I deliberately Mod Podged this picture only 1 time. I want you to see the importance of all the Mod Podge steps. The dark halo around the witch (especially by her hat) is staining from the resin. It was all white before the resin was applied.

Once the resin was cured, I used chain nosed pliers to twist the loop into the proper position. This eliminates the need for a jump ring.

So there you have it. A resin pendant without a pendant setting. I know you will come up with a million other ideas!!!

I found these lockets at Michael's. I wanted to see how resin would work in them.

I put photos of Cynthia's min pins in the lockets by repeating all the preparations in the resin tutorial. I very, very carefully filled the picture side of the locket with resin. I literally filled it one drop at a time. If this locket is over filled, it will not close. As you can see, they turned out great.

I also wanted you to see that your photos will work great with resin. I printed these pictures on matte photo paper but glossy photo paper will work great too.

I hope you will make some wonderful resin projects and post them on your blog!!!

If you do, please let me know, I would love to see them.

I will try to visit the Etsy forums for a few minutes each evening over the next 4 weeks. I hope to see you there :)

xoxoxoxoxo

Resin Pendant Tutorial

2009-07-28T16:43:00.000-07:00

Before I begin this tutorial, I want to share with you where I purchased some of my supplies

I bought the very cute pendant settings from ChristianHaylie

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6047415.

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The awesome Agatha Christie and Sherlock Holmes Collage is from Herculiz

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6470117

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The adorable Halloween Collage is from Cachecache

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5529873

***********************************************************************************

And the fantastic fireworks and floral pictures are Cynthia's. You can see more of her pictures under the "pictures" heading on this blog.

***********************************************************************************

For this project you will need:

Resin ( I used Easy Cast )

Mod Podge

Pendant settings

Pictures

Embellishments

Chain, satin cord or pin backs

Jump rings

mixing cups

spoons

measuring spoon

I used these pendant settings on most of my projects. I also used a very tiny pendant setting I just recently purchased. All of the settings can be found here:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6047415

I printed out the fantastic collages I bought from my fellow Etsians.

Agatha Christie/Sherlock Holmes http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6470117

Halloween http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5529873

Both of these sellers have a lot of wonderful collages!!!

(The collages were too large for my projects so I made them smaller. Since I am not very good at sizing pictures, I made them a little too small. To combat that problem, I used satin cord to line the inside edges of the pendant. The cord covered my size problem and also embellished the pendant.)

Once you have your pictures, coat both sides with Mod Podge. I usually coat the front 3 times, allowing each layer to dry and then repeat for the back.

Once your pictures are dry, cut them out. Coat the inside of your pendant setting with Mod Podge and place your picture in the pendant, allow to dry. Once dry, cover your picture and your pendant (inside) edges with Mod Podge and let dry.

This is how they will look.

I know this seem like a lot of Mod Podging but you will have great results every time. If you miss a tiny spot by skipping some of the Mod Podge steps, you run the risk of your picture being discolored in that spot. Your color may also run.

Now you are ready for the resin.

**Work in a well ventilated area**

**Wear gloves to protect your hands**

**Cover your work surface - lol!!**

I used Easy Cast which is mixed with equal parts resin and catalyst.

I measured the resin into a plastic cup and the catalyst in a separate plastic cup.

There are special resin measuring/mixing cups on the market but I just used what I had. I used an old Tbsp. to measure with (do not use for food after using the spoon for resin) because I needed such a small amount of resin - 3 Tbsp. was plenty. I used regular plastic cups - the red ones in the picture below and regular plastic spoons.

Pour the catalyst into the cup with the resin. Stir for 2 minutes. ( I use my cell phone as a timer. )

After 2 minutes, pour the entire mixture into the cup that the catalyst was in and stir 2 more minutes.

Most people use new cups and spoons for each step in the mixing process. I always use the catalyst cup and spoon for the second mixing. It comes out fine so why waste more cups and spoons?

Once your resin is mixed, use a plastic spoon to fill your pendant settings. Less is more!!! Pour half of the resin you think you need. These settings are very small and it is so easy to over fill. If you need more, add more, but be very careful.

Inspect your pendants. Make sure all areas of the pendant is coated with resin.

At this point you can use a blow dryer or heat gun to gently blow the air bubbles out of the resin. I usually do not have air bubble problems and if I do, I simply blow on the resin. I know not everyone is full of hot air like I am, so use a blow dryer if needed.

Check for air bubbles several times over the next hour - blow when needed.

Cover the pendants with something once you have filled them. As you can see in the picture below, I use whatever I can find.

That's it!!! Allow the pendants to remain where they are, covered, for at least 24 hours. Read your resin package to get the best information on curing time.

Here are some of my finished products.

I used Cynthia's beautiful fireworks pictures for some of the pendants. I think they look great!

Another awesome fireworks picture.

And the last one. I embellished this one with a head pin and a Swarovski Crystal.

Sherlock Holmes - using the collage I purchased from Herculiz

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6470117

I embellished the pendant on the left with a simple bow using the same cording that I used for the necklace. I embellished the pendant on the right with a cute little key.

I love Agatha Christie!!! She is my all time favorite fiction writer. I have all of her books and re-read them all the time. I have taken some of these pictures with my matching books.

Evil Under The Sun - I embellished this pendant with one of my polymer clay roses.

A Murder Is Announced - one of my favorite Agatha Christie books. I didn't embellish this one at all. I made it into a pin by simply gluing a pin back on with E6000 glue.

Black Coffee - I embellished this pendant with a tiny key. For some reason, I feel a mystery novel and a skeleton key go well together.

A very, very cute Halloween image from Cachecache. You can purchase the collage here: http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5529873

I embellished this cute pendant by inserting a black bead on a head pin and attaching to the pendant loop.

Halloween will be here before we know it!!!

I want to share my OOPS with you.

I did not inspect some of my pendants as well as I should. Therefore, I had problems with areas on my pendants that were not covered with resin.

Cynthia's super sweet floral picture.

The entire top of this pendant had a tiny space of missing resin. I inserted 3 Swarovski Crystals on a head pin and curled both ends. I glued the crystals to the pendant with E6000 glue.

Another one of Cynthia's stunning floral pictures.

This pendant was missing a tiny bit of resin on the bottom corner. I used E6000 glue to attach a flat backed Swarovski Crystal to cover my mistake.

Sherlock Holmes - I made this one into a pin. It had a tiny speck of lint trapped in the resin. I used a key to embellish the pendant so that it would hide my lint problem. I used jump rings to attach the key to the pendant.

Brilliant Dame Agatha Christie - I over-poured Ms. Christie.

The resin flowed over the side of the pendant well. I attached a charm to cover the spilled resin.

I used a charm that says "JOURNEY" because Agatha takes me on a journey every time I read one of her books. I used head pins to attach the charm - curling up the ends to hold it in place.

I then glued a pin back on the pendant.

Agatha Christie - I used the tiny pendant setting I just received from ChristianHaylie.

You can purchase this tiny treasure here:

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6047415

I used a key pendant and attached the Agatha Christie charm with a jump ring.

How cute is that!!!!

For the satin cord necklaces, I used E6000 glue to attach the cord ends into cord caps and squeezed the caps closed. I attached a jump ring and toggle end to each end of the cord.

Resin may seem like a difficult product to use. But...you can see how easy it actually is. Just make sure you follow all the instructions that comes with the resin.

All little mistakes can be covered with embellishments so you don't have to worry about imperfections.

Audrey's Country Crafts On Etsy

2009-07-24T16:05:00.001-07:00

I am thrilled to post my very first feature!!!

I am honored to feature Audrey's Country Crafts http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6272600. She is such a talented and versatile artist!

You will find a variety of beautiful items in her Etsy shop, everything from jewelry to blankets.

She paints, sews, creates beautiful earrings and crafts delightful paper items.

There is no way you can visit her shop and not find the perfect item for yourself or for a gift!!!

Take a look at some of her items:

Like this adorable Rooster Bucket!

And this super sweet Handmade and Painted Heart Stool.

Beautiful Ceramic Bead Earrings.

Hand Painted Flip Flop Jean Blanket.

And this very cute Blue Raggedy Bag!!!
(I guess you can tell I love this!!!)

This is just a small sample of her beautiful items!! You must visit her store to see all of her awesome items!!

Audrey's Country Crafts http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6272600.

I asked Audrey to introduce herself to us:

___________________________________________________________________

Hello. My name is Audrey and I'm addicted to Crafting.I started crafting about 15 years ago. At the time I was a stay-at-home mom with 2 small children. One day I saw an ad in the local paper for a beginner folk art painting class. My husband suggested that I go, as a way to get out of the house one evening a week and talk to other adults. So I joined. I think he's sorry now. LOL After attending the class I was hooked and haven't stopped painting since. Did many small craft shows at the beginning, and have done a few larger ones lately. It's a lot of work, but also a lot of fun. I just keep telling my husband that crafting is my therapy and it's cheaper than a psychiatrist.

Some of my inspiration for my crafts comes from other crafters. For the last 6 years, 5 friends and I would get together every Wed. evening for coffee, painting & inspiration. But my grandma inspires me the most. She lost her eyesight slowly about 35 years ago, but it didn't slow her down. Grandma tried to teach me to knit when I was younger, it's just not my thing. Couldn't manage to even knit a scarf straight. She is now 93.5 years old (1/2 years count at that age), and still knits everyday, making scarves, mittens and slippers for the great-grandchildren. I hope I can still craft when I'm 93!

I've started sewing again. My Grandparents gave each grandchild a sewing machine as a wedding present. It came in handy when the boys were little, boys clothes are pretty easy. No zippers in sweats, sweatshirts or t-shirts. (don't like zippers) I was thrilled when I realized that I could combine sewing and painting by making the jean blankets. They are so much fun to make and paint. It's easy to have each one be unique.

The best thing about crafting is meeting other crafters/artists. It's an amazing community where most everyone is quite willing to share their knowledge and help whenever they can. I love to see what everyone is doing, and learn about them, there art/craft and why they do it. Hopefully I can craft/paint and blog for many more years.

___________________________________________________________________

Thank you for sharing, Audrey!

Thank you also for allowing me to feature your lovely Etsy shop!!!

Memory Wire Bracelet

2009-07-17T13:45:00.000-07:00

Here is the bracelet for Clarissa, the winner of the giveaway. She requested a blue, brown and silver bracelet.
I really hope she likes it!!

Memory Wire Bracelet Giveaway Winner!!

2009-07-17T05:55:00.000-07:00

Clarissa from Digital Deacons is the winner of the memory wire bracelet.

She selected brown and blue beads with silver memory wire.

I will post pictures of the bracelet once I have made it.

A big "THANK YOU" to everyone that entered the giveaway and became a follower.

I will hold another giveaway soon!!!

Potpourri Warmer Tutorial

2009-07-17T02:10:00.000-07:00

This is a very simple, inexpensive gift.

When you turn on the lights, the warmth releases the potpourri scent.

**Never leave the Potpourri Warmer unattended. Treat it like you would a candle**

What you will need for this project: a jar or vase, potpourri, 20 count Christmas lights, ribbon, flower, rubber band and a doily.

Start by inserting some of the lights into the bottom of the jar. Add some potpourri on top of the lights. Alternate the lights and potpourri.

Layer the lights and potpourri until the jar is full.

Once the jar is as full as you want, place a doily on top of the jar and hold it in place with a rubber band.

Tie a ribbon around the jar on top of the rubber band. Decorate with a flower.

That's it!!!

I am a crocheter so I made the doily.

However, you can purchase a doily and a jar at a thrift store or yard sale.

You can change the Potpourri Warmer by using different embellishments. In this case, the warmer has a country look because I used a paper flower and vintage cotton ribbon.

My personal style is Victorian. When I make a warmer for myself, I embellish with satin ribbon and flowers. I also add a tassel.

Giveaway! Memory Wire Bracelet - You Select The Color!

2009-07-14T12:21:00.000-07:00

I am going to start a thread on Etsy forums in the promotion section.

I will be looking for new blog followers.

If you become a follower, just comment on this post to be entered in the Memory Wire Bracelet Giveaway. When you leave a comment, please tell me what color bracelet you would select if you are the winner.

I will draw a winner on Friday July 17, 2009. I will convo the winner and also feature the winner on this blog.

Good Luck and Thank You so much for following!!!!

Molded Candy Tutorial

2009-07-12T07:55:00.000-07:00

Making molded candy is very, very easy. Even so, it always gets the most compliments. Everyone is so impressed!
You can spend hours making a special fudge with candy thermometers and temperature control and no one notices the skill and work involved.

What you need for this project - candy melts, lollipop sticks (if you have a lollipop mold), candy molds, a microwave safe bowl, a spoon and something to wrap up your finished product.
**You can purchase candy melts, molds and packaging material at any craft store. I bought my more intricate molds online.**

Pour the candy melts into the microwave safe bowl. Heat the melts according to the package directions. I usually start at 1 minute, stir the melts and continue at 15 second intervals until they are melted. If you heat the candy beyond it's melting point, it will "seize" which is a fancy way of saying "You have burned the candy. Throw it away and start over".

This is what the candy melts will look like once they are melted.

All you do at this point is spoon the melted candy into the mold.

As a long time candy maker, I have learned a few tips:

1. Once you fill the mold cavity, tap the mold on the table. You don't have to be gentle - slap that mold on the table. You need to do this to remove any air bubbles in the candy.

2. If you overfill a mold, don't panic. It really doesn't matter. You can fix it later or leave it like it is.

3. Make sure your mold, bowl and spoon are completely dry. Water and chocolate do not play well together.

That's it. Once the molds are filled, I pop them in the freezer for about 10 minutes. (If you make a lollipop mold, insert the lollipop sticks after tapping the mold to release the air bubbles.)

Here is an example of a simple mold over filled.

Plus, I did not tap the air bubbles out of this one.

You can see that over filling is okay.

You can repair the over flow of chocolate by simply cutting off the excess.

If I over fill a mold for candy I am making for my family, I leave it alone. It just means they get more chocolate!!

You can not fix the air bubbles that were trapped in your candy. It is not very pleasing but, again, if it is for family it won't matter.

This mold makes a candy box. In this case, it is an Easter Bunny but you can purchase box molds in many shapes.

Here is the bunny box un-molded. The mold also comes with tiny carrot cavities you can make and put inside the box. You can also fill the box with small candy like M&M'S.
This is an example of a lollipop mold. In this case, it's a moose (surprise!!) but of course, there are hundreds of different shapes.

The moose lollipop un-molded.

You can package your candy any way you want. I used bags that were made for molded candy. They come with twist ties. I used the twist tie for the bunny box but used a white satin ribbon for the moose lollipop.

I have this huge swan 3D candy mold.

I thought it would be a great centerpiece for Mike and Sam's wedding.

I made the swan using white candy melts. I place the swan on a wooden circle and decorated with flowers and a candle.

The theme of the wedding was double hearts. I tied a bow around the swans neck and attached double heart charms on the ribbon tails.

I attached a wine glass to the board behind the swan and dropped in a white candle.

I was so impressed with this centerpiece!!!

But...we had a slight problem. I needed 18 of these white chocolate swans and the wedding was in the middle of August! No one had a place to store the swans.

Even if I had enough room in my fridge for 18 swans, they could not be stored like that for any length of time. If they were cold stored for longer than a day or two, they would sweat and look terrible once they were placed in room temperature.

So...this is what I ended up making for the centerpieces.

They turned out okay, but they are not as awesome as the chocolate swan!

I made them different colors and with different flowers. This is one of the decorated tables.

However, my molded candy did make an appearance at the wedding!! I made milk, dark and white chocolate hearts. I rubbed the tops with edible gold, placed them in a candy bag decorated with double hearts and placed a charm on the twist ties before sealing.

This is a picture of the basket full of them. I made 200 candy hearts.

(When Mike was about 4 years old, I told him we were going to make molded candy for Christmas. He said he didn't know why anyone would want to make or eat "moldy candy")

This is one of the wedding tables. They put one of the candy hearts at each setting.

This is Mike and Sam. Their first dance as a married couple.

For some reason, they do not look concerned about not having candy swan centerpieces!!

There you have it - molded candy.

Simple, quick and impressive.

You can color your candy by simply pouring different color melts into the different sections of the molds. You can also "paint" your candy once you un-mold it.

But...you can see, even if you just pour a solid color, they look great.

Now, go make some candy!!!!

Have You Ever Had "One Of Those Days" ???

2009-07-10T09:39:00.000-07:00

I was so excited, I had planed on posting a tutorial today. I was going to feature 2 Etsy shops, using the items I bought from them.
It was going to be a tutorial with resin.
I bought the cutest brooches from one Etsian and awesome clip art from another Etsian.
It is clip art which included Agatha Christie - I love Agatha Christie!

I prepared the clip art, brooches and resin.
The first 2 rules when using resin are: 1. work in a well ventilated area 2. COVER YOUR WORK SURFACE.

Guess who didn't cover their work surface! When I went downstairs to retrieve my awesome brooches, 2 were stuck to my dining room table. And...when I say stuck - I mean stuck!!!
You can see in the pictures where I have tried to pry them off the table.
Notice, there is no table cloth. That's right, I poured resin right on my bare wooden table.

I think I just may leave these brooches on the table (like I have any choose right now) to remind me to cover my work surface.

Stepping away from crafting, I decided to catch up on some ironing.

The first thing I did was knock the iron off the ironing board. The water in the iron splattered everywhere. Plus, it came very close to hitting Rosie, our husky. Rosie ran out of the room like her tail was on fire and I haven't seen her since.

Cynthia is getting new tires for her truck. They are on order and are suppose to come in today. If the tire place can install the tires today, she wants me to ride along. I am not sure that is a good idea. With my luck today I suspect all 4 tires will fall off on our way home.

Once I took pictures of my craft disaster, I promptly lost my camera. It took me an hour to find it. It was in my craft room, I never leave my camera in the craft room.

So, this has been my day so far. I will post the resin tutorial soon.

Now if you will excuse me, I am going back to bed, pull the blanket over my head and pray the tires don't come in.

Altered Book - Clay Rose

2009-07-08T22:26:00.000-07:00

I made this book to, well, look like a book.
This altered book holds a secret.
(I will post a tutorial soon on an altered book that I will make into a keepsake box)

For this book I used - a book, a ruler, a craft knife, wax paper, gel glue, fabric, ribbon and a clay rose.

To start, I had to decide where I wanted to make a niche for the surprise. I also made a tiny niche for the clay rose.

When I make this type of altered book, I select a book that has at least 3 entire novels within it. I leave the first novel in the book completely unaltered. That way it can actually be read.

This particular book is a Reader's Digest - Select Editions which I purchased at a local thrift store.

I opened the book to the first page of the 2nd novel and placed wax paper between the pages. I closed the book and applied gel glue around the edges of the bottom portion. This makes a solid block of pages to cut out a niche.
I put a heavy object on the book and allowed the glue to dry.

I don't measure the niche, I just start cutting. I used the ruler as a straight edge to guide the craft knife. I run the craft knife a few times over each side of the niche, remove the pages and repeat. I stopped when the niche was as deep as I wanted it.

**HINT** - Do not press extremely hard on the craft knife. The first time I cut a niche, I pressed really hard thinking I could hurry it along. The tip of my index finger was numb for several months and the niche was a mess.**

Next, I applied the same gel glue inside the niche - both of them. It makes them stable.

I know what your thinking! Your thinking "Bare, that's a rather ugly niche you have there". Not to worry, I will fix it.

See, all fixed.

I glued fabric inside of the large niche and applied ribbon around the edges.

I didn't decorate the small niche because I love the way the clay rose looks on the words. I glued the rose in the niche with the gel glue.

I now have an altered book that still looks like a book and can even be read.

It will hide a small gift and the recipient will think the book is the gift.

( The book wouldn't stay open, my moose friend had to hold it open so I could take pictures!! )

What do you think????

Fireworks!!

2009-07-07T18:53:00.000-07:00

Family and friends gathered for our own little fireworks display. Cynthia took these awesome pictures. I just may have to make pendants using some of these photos!

Zutter Bind It All Book With Roses

2009-07-06T21:57:00.000-07:00

Another use for polymer clay roses.
For this project I used - a Zutter Bind It All, O wires, a paper cutter, heavy card stock, scrap book paper, index cards, double stick tape, E6000, stickers, scissors, wire cutters, ribbon and 3 small clay roses.

I used wedding papers and stickers to make a book for a bride to jot down her wedding plans.
Normally, when making a book or journal with the Zutter Bind It All, I use a recycled box (cereal, cracker, etc) to add body to the covers. In this case, the glitter card stock was heavy enough to use without it.

I used index cards for the inside pages and cut the front and back covers the same size as the index cards. I used double stick tape to adhere the inside lining to both covers.

I cut the binding holes in the covers with the Zutter Bind It All - I love this machine!!!!

Next, I cut the binding holes (there is probably a proper name for the holes but I don't know what it is) in the index cards.

Here are the covers and index cards, ready for the O wires.

To prepare the book for binding, I put the index cards on the O wires first, then the front cover and lastly - flip the back cover over (the 2 covers will be facing each other) and place it on the front cover. This will keep the closure at the back of the book.

I cut off the excess O wires, then pressed the O wires closed.

Here it is after binding and before the embellishments. I love making books and journals.

I used wedding themed scrapbook paper to line the front cover.

I used a different scrapbook paper for the back lining. This picture also shows the closure at the back of the book.

I wrapped ribbon around the front cover and tied it in a knot. I used a wedding sticker and 3 polymer clay roses to finish the embellishment.

I used E6000 to glue the sticker and roses on. The sticker would not stick to the glitter paper.

I cut a piece of white scrapbook paper to fit inside the front cover. I applied double stick tape to the sides and bottom of the paper only to create a little pocket.

I decorated the inside back cover with a sticker.

I think this would be a great gift, especially if you personalize it. Add the bride and grooms names, embellish it in the wedding colors and replace the sticker on the front cover with a picture of the couple.

That's it!! Another way to use the polymer clay roses :)

Altered Clipboard With Clay Rose

2009-07-05T22:07:00.000-07:00

Altered clipboard using a polymer clay rose.

For this clipboard I used - a plain clipboard, scrapbooking paper, ribbon, a bone folder, Mod Podge, double stick tape, an emery board, a paper cutter, a paint brush and a polymer clay rose.

I used a piece of ribbon to tie the clip open. Then I painted the top and sides of the clip board. I used the paper cutter to cut the scrapbooking paper into strips. I didn't measure the width of the paper but I did measure the length to have the correct fit. You can use as many strips of paper as you want, if you prefer more strips, just cut them smaller.

I attached the paper strips to the clip board with double stick tape. In this case I applied the tape to the clipboard first and then attached the paper. You can use any tape or glue to attach the paper but you must have adhesive on the entire strip of paper. If there is a section of paper missing adhesive, it will bubble when you apply the Mod Podge. Trust me, I have made this mistake several times.

I rubbed the bone folder on the paper to make sure it had good contact with the tape.

I do not have a sanding block used for scrap booking but I found that an emery board works great. I sanded the sides of the clipboard. Sanding ensures the paper is well adhered along the edges. It also looks nice after sanding.

Once I attached the paper and sanded the edges, I applied Mod Podge. I gave the clipboard 2 coats of Mod Podge but you can apply as many coats as you want.

Once the Mod Podge was dry, I cut 3 pieces of ribbon and tied it to the top of the clipboard. Then I applied the polymer clay rose using E6000 glue.

I left the back of the clipboard plain but have painted or papered the backs in past projects.

And here it is, the completed clipboard.

PIECE BY PEACE DESIGNS

2009-07-05T19:04:00.000-07:00

Are you looking for a unique, beautiful, handcrafted piece of jewelry? You must visit this Etsy shop. You will find awesome bracelets, necklaces and earrings.
PieceByPeaceDesigns

TAGGED !!!!!

2009-07-05T13:29:00.000-07:00

I have been tagged by Sybillinart !!!! I have to tell you 10 facts about myself and then tag 10 blogs.

1. I have 3 children. Cynthia, Paul and Michael. Here they are at Mike's wedding.

2. I live on a farm in Mechanicsville, MD.

3. I am extremely patient.

4. I hate cold weather.

5. My entrance into the crafting world was through crochet. I still love to crochet.

6. I have 2 sisters and 1 brother. Peggy, Kathy and Billy.

7. I love to make candy. Mostly fudge, fancy nut bark and molded candy.

8. I collect moose which I am sure is a big surprise!!!

9. I love to read. Fiction - Agatha Christie. Non fiction - True Crime.

10. I have 3 dogs. Rosie, a husky/spitz mix. Nemo, a pom. Bubba, a rat terrier that adopted us.

Here are the 10 blogs I have tagged:

love2binspired

flyinghaystacks

prettypaperpassions

cuterthanabuttoncreations

Please visit these blogs. When you do, please check all the beautiful Etsy shops. You are sure to find something wonderful!!!

Polymer Clay Rose - Pillow Box

2009-07-05T10:49:00.000-07:00

Using the clay rose to decorate a pillow box.
I used a purchased pillow box as a pattern. I also used ribbon, a bone folder, red lined tape, 2 charms, scissors, jump rings, card stock, stickers, and of course, a clay rose.
I opened the pillow box, traced it onto heavy card stock and cut it out. To make the project easier, I used the bone folder to crease the folds. I left the inside of the box plain.

I used red lined tape to close the box flap but any glue or glue stick will work.

This is the completed pillow box before decorating.

I used white ribbon and tied a bow. I placed a piece of red lined tape on both of the ribbon tails and folded each ribbon tail up to form a loop. I inserted a jump ring in each loop and attached the charms. Lastly, I used the red lined tape to attach the rose in the center of the bow.

The front of the pillow box is complete.

I used glitter alphabet stickers to personalize the back of the box. I used CY - short for my daughter - Cynthia.

This is one way to use the polymer clay rose. I will be adding more clay rose projects soon.

One Last Polymer Clay Rose Bracelet

2009-07-01T19:35:00.001-07:00

Once I finished the rose tutorial, I decided to make a lot more roses. I am going to use the new roses in different crafts and post a tutorial on each application.
However, I couldn't resist making one more bracelet.
I made this bracelet with beading wire, crimp beads, super sweet butterfly and flower toggle and Swarovski Crystals. I think this is my favorite!

2009-06-29T17:16:00.001-07:00

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Polymer Clay Rose - Part 3

2009-06-29T10:16:00.001-07:00

Here are the finished roses. I think you can add to them with glitter or special finishes. This necklace was made by inserting a head pin and looping each end of the head pin. Add a chain and that's it.

I made this necklace by inserting a head pin. I looped the top for the chain. I added 2 - 6mm crystal Swarovski Crystals to the other end. Then I curled the head pin up to finish it off.

This is a very simple bracelet. I attached a toggle with crimp beads. Strung on faux pearls and the rose.

This bracelet was made with memory wire. Curl the end and add beads - I used clear E beads and used the rose as my focal bead. Curl the other end of the memory wire and your all done.

Simple and pretty. I put a bead on the head pin and added the rose. I made a loop at the top of the head pin ( I have some head pins with loops and some without ) and just curled the other end up. I added a thin white ribbon and tied with a bow.

A purple rose? Why not? I inserted a head pin through the rose and added a purple bead to each side. Then I made a loop at each end of the head pin. I attached a chain in each loop and added a toggle.

So, that's it! I would love to know what you think.

If you make a clay rose, please send me some pictures.

Polymer Clay Rose - Part 2

2009-06-29T09:34:00.001-07:00

This is where I left off on my rose making venture.

The rose is still unbaked and I used a head pin to make the hole.

I decided where I wanted the hole to be. I wanted the rose to be in the best direction for the finished product. There isn't a right or wrong, it's just personal preference. Then I just inserted the head pin. I removed the pin before baking.

This is a reference picture to show the actual size of the roses.

I used Sculpey for these roses. I baked them according to the directions but they discolored. It didn't seem to matter in the end.

Once baked, I sanded the backs of the roses to make them flat and smooth.

Then I painted the roses using regular acrylic craft paint and a well loved paint brush. It took several coats to get the effect I wanted. Plus, I kept finding spots in the crevices where I had missed.

Once I was satisfied with the color, I let them dry completely. Then I sprayed them with a clear coat to protect them and make them shiny.

I know there are polymer clay artists that are cringing right now - lol. I am sure there are paints and clear coats that are made for polymer clay. However, I just used what I already had.

Polymer Clay Rose Tutorial Part 1

2009-06-25T09:51:00.000-07:00

I have never made anything with polymer clay but decided it was time to try. I wanted to hand sculpt roses to use as necklace pendants. I think they would also look great on boxes, picture frames, etc. So...this is my first clay project.

I kneaded the clay until it was soft and easy to work with. Then I rolled a chunk of it into a ball.

I rolled the ball into a long rope.

I tore 7 sections off of the rope. I don't think they have to be the exact same size.

I rolled the 7 sections into little balls.

Then I just used my fingers to flatten each ball.

You need the rose center to start. I just rolled one of the sections around itself.

Then I started adding the petals. I added each new petal in the gap where the last petal ended.

Keep adding the petals.

And adding.

Each time I added a petal, I curled the top a little to the back of the petal.

It's starting to look like a rose :)

Almost done.

And here it is. A little clay rose.

In order to get rid of the excess clay under the rose, I just rolled it between my fingers. It will get long and thin.

I rolled it as thin as i wanted and then sliced it off with a craft knife.

And this is the completed rose. You can stick a tooth pick or wire through the rose to make a hole for jewelry making. Make sure you make the hole before baking.

It was so much fun, I had to make more. Each one will be completely different.

You can either paint the rose after baking or you can just buy the clay in a rose color.

What do you think?

I know I need a lot more practice but I think they turned out pretty good for a newbie.

Extremely talented artist on Etsy

2009-06-19T20:52:00.000-07:00

This is such an awesome Etsy shop...I just had to share it with you!!!

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5041208

Cynthia's Nature Pics

2009-06-17T15:12:00.000-07:00

Here they are. A few of the thousands she has taken.

My Daughter The Photographer

2009-06-17T12:28:00.000-07:00

Cindy has been practicing with her new camera. She took some beautiful floral pictures. I think they are awesome!!! What do you think?

New Etsy Shop

2009-06-14T21:55:00.000-07:00

I have been working on paper items - journals, altered books and altered clipboards. I was going to list these items in my jewelry shop - http://www.baremoose.etsy.com/ but I think a seperate shop will be better. So...I will be setting up a new shop soon. Let's hope it will do better than the first one!! LOL!!!

Myspace, Facebook, Twitter, Blog

2009-06-12T09:29:00.000-07:00

I have read time and time again that Myspace, Facebook, Twitter and Blog (like this one) will help promote your Etsy shop. So...I now do all of the above but when does the benefit kick in??? I am sure I am doing something wrong because I do not seem to be getting any promotional value out of these venues. However, I do seem to be spending too much time doing them.

Myspace - http://www.myspace.com/baremoose.
I have to admit I do love my new Myspace page. I search for fellow Etsians and send them friend requests. Every once in a while someone requests to be my friend. It is great to see all the new items my friends have added to the Etsy shops. But...no promotion value that I can see.

Twitter - http://twitter.com/BareMoose.
Okay, I admit, this confuses me!!! I am following people that I do not know. I am being followed by people I don't know. I have a few fellow Etsian followers and followees and maybe it would be more fun if there were more Etsians. But...again, how is this promoting??

Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/profile.php?id=1781055110&ref=name.
What can I say? This is sooooo boring. No promoting that I can see.

Blog - You are here.
I am very surprised you are here. If you look at my followers you will see I have 0, zilch, nada followers. Who is here for me to promote to??? The problem with blogging is you have to be a talented writer. You have to write things people actually want to read. Why would anyone want to read this?

That's it - my point of view on M, F, T and B.

THE T-SHIRT PRINTING NIGHTMARE

2009-05-27T19:30:00.000-07:00

I decided to start a new business. The business of applying photo images to t-shirts, mugs, water bottles, mouse pads, key chains, etc. Cynthia, my daughter, owns a pet supply store and will soon be adding a pet photography studio. It seemed logical to set up my printing business within her store. I mean, who wouldn't love a pic of their pet on a t-shirt or mug???

So...I ordered all the equipment and essentials. I opted for a MagicFlow system with an Epson 1400 printer for the t-shirts. For everything else I selected an Epson C88+ with a CISS for sublimation. Yes, you can sublimate on t-shirts, but they must be 100% poly ( or atleast a blend? ) and I don't like polyester.

Well, all the equipment arrived - the printers, heat press, mug press, sublimation ink, mugs, transfer paper - everything in perfect condition. Paul, my son, hooked up the ciss to both printers and installed them on my laptop. I delivered the equipment to Cynthia's store - Wy&Cy Pet Supply and Cynthia and I set up everything. So far, so good.

LET THE NIGHTMARE BEGIN!!

I filled the ciss on the 1400 with majic flow ink. While doing so, I dropped the lid to the cyan inside the printer. I couldn't get it out so I figured - no big deal. I finished filling and priming the ciss and printed. There was cyan (blue) ink everywhere - in the printer and on me. The ink was pouring out of the opening where the lid was suppose to be. I put a piece of scotch tape over it and printed again. DO NOT try to use scotch tape as a lid substitute, it does not work. The ink continued to pour out at an alarming rate and I could not get it to stop. Out of desperation I told Cynthia to chew some bubble gum - that's right - I was going to use the gum as a substitute lid for the blue ink. However, I got the ink to stop flowing before she had the gum chewed.

At this point we decided it was in our best interest to retrieve the blue lid. I removed the ciss from the printer but...we couldn't find the lid. We turned the printer upside down and sideways. When we finally found the lid, we couldn't reach it. Cynthia got a piece of wire and stuck her gum on the end to stick it on the lid and pull it out. She pulled the wire out and not only did she not have the lid but she also didn't have the gum!! GOOD LORD, I now had a lid and a wad of gum stuck in my brand new printer. She got most (yes, most) of the gum out. Our next brilliant idea was to take the back and sides off the printer. That didn't work either, we still couldn't get to the lid.

This entire process had taken several hours. Completely out of patience, I ran to an electronics store to see if I could find something to replace that stupid lid. I had just arrived when Cynthia called and said she retrieved the lid!! WOOHOO!!!! When I got back to her store, she was holding her wire/gum tool and the lid was stuck on the end of it!!

The printer is working great. It doesn't seem to be suffering from all that trauma.

Now...as for the heat press and sublimation printer. OMG.

Debbie

2009-05-20T12:34:00.001-07:00

I am at Debbie's.

Hello!!!!!!!

2009-05-19T20:40:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my new blog. I hope to promote my new store at Etsy.
Please check it out - http://www.baremoose.etsy.com/.
Let me know what you think!!