tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18079862026738663242024-02-07T05:38:00.886-05:00indyspire arthandmade musingsindyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-48187329073161422052015-10-01T15:47:00.001-04:002015-10-01T15:47:42.964-04:00Easy Homemade Apple CrumbleApple crumble is a great dessert for Fall. It is warm, comforting, and incorporates a seasonal fruit. Quick to prepare - especially if you have the right tools - and with a crumb topping, this dessert is just as tasty as an actual pie.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghoxX3xMRe4ES0ionbGt6xYREnxTobJy1UU-V_cWHIo9N0KLzkNeTZ-Ehy1onTjg9WVpprCNqMr8A51Ul9GVFgHXHooEq39F5erUzcoeQISLQLMvSOe9kzGDEPZfujX3_GQRU-yUfgAytj/s1600/blog_apple_crumble.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghoxX3xMRe4ES0ionbGt6xYREnxTobJy1UU-V_cWHIo9N0KLzkNeTZ-Ehy1onTjg9WVpprCNqMr8A51Ul9GVFgHXHooEq39F5erUzcoeQISLQLMvSOe9kzGDEPZfujX3_GQRU-yUfgAytj/s320/blog_apple_crumble.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">a favorite dessert - great to make ahead for dinner parties</td></tr>
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<br />The recipe is made with six medium apples. If your variety is a larger size, five apples are enough.<br />
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You will need a 13" by 9" pan. Coat this lightly with cooking spray.<br />
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An apple peeler / corer / slicer is amazing at cutting your time in half when preparing apple recipes. <a href="http://www.bedbathandbeyond.com/store/product/apple-peeler-with-vacuum-base/1011917925" target="_blank">This model</a> from Bed Bath and Beyond works quite well. The base suctions to a countertop for secure use.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">peeling the apples</td></tr>
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Ingredients:<br />
3/4 cup margarine, softened<br />
3/4 cup flour<br />
3/4 cup brown sugar<br />
3/4 cup quick oats<br />
1/8 tsp. salt<br />
5 - 6 apples peeled, cored, and sliced *Golden delicious are a favorite variety*<br />
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cinnamon to taste<br />
1/4 cup sugar<br />
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Instruction:<br />
Mix the first 5 ingredients until crumbly, set aside. Place apples into the 13" by 9" pan; sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar. If you enjoy cinnamon, be generous as it is excellent in this dish. Place brown sugar topping over all. Topping will be sticky. Try and spread evenly. Bake at 375 degrees for 30 minutes, or until topping is lightly browned and crunchy.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">apple slices cut into semicircles for baking</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1bbXDVt4OxPWBpsmJV0V1QnWqjv34-TkMmO3fD84AqsGmIRwEu6yVsFFyz1-l3Sr4FxTK6ccNbRn179T_wtSuMI7l0YHMFnA5UBK_lq3NfdD2gSS7aHCSnfyM-yh2HcdgDJ8uYol8qAHC/s1600/blog_apples_cinnamon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="292" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1bbXDVt4OxPWBpsmJV0V1QnWqjv34-TkMmO3fD84AqsGmIRwEu6yVsFFyz1-l3Sr4FxTK6ccNbRn179T_wtSuMI7l0YHMFnA5UBK_lq3NfdD2gSS7aHCSnfyM-yh2HcdgDJ8uYol8qAHC/s320/blog_apples_cinnamon.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar<br /><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">brown sugar topping added and ready to bake</td></tr>
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Apple crumble is especially good served warm - not hot - with vanilla ice cream.<br />
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indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-3753352342063027092015-08-17T10:47:00.000-04:002015-08-17T16:36:53.229-04:00Disc Golf Bracelet<div style="text-align: center;">
My newest leather cuff bracelet design is for disc golf players. I've drawn the disc golf basket by hand and chemically etched it onto the copper.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yQnBmfYXGXgbiAY_SZGZbqXu8g9PcjO3yQB4FEOAJR3mV5_9vbQNLFIwPWssks4CAwcbHzot7mmxt0glBHJqrFSldApFqwNG3v2XcKXzgvfASQCdPw4-9EO5DkSemphTZB3E9MD7brob/s1600/disc_golf_bracelet_v1.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yQnBmfYXGXgbiAY_SZGZbqXu8g9PcjO3yQB4FEOAJR3mV5_9vbQNLFIwPWssks4CAwcbHzot7mmxt0glBHJqrFSldApFqwNG3v2XcKXzgvfASQCdPw4-9EO5DkSemphTZB3E9MD7brob/s320/disc_golf_bracelet_v1.2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disc_golf" target="_blank">Disc golf</a> is an activity that I first tried several years ago. I found it quite frustrating and challenging as I was just not good. It would take 6, 7, 8 poor throws for me to reach the basket. I kept playing with little improvement. (Fortunately my companions are patient.)<br />
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Finally something has clicked. I am throwing better - which is encouraging me to play each week this Summer. I have improved considerably. The key has been to keep trying, keep playing. This is truly essential to progress on reaching a goal or learning any new skill. <br />
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This past weekend I took part in a disc golf event called the <a href="http://discgolfacerace.com/" target="_blank">Discraft Ace Race</a>. For a $25 fee, participants received a T-shirt, two new discs, and some swag. It was a very fun event with proceeds donated to the Humane Society. Rather than keep score, the objective here was to throw aces; essentially a hole-in-one. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6g1myei2EDu9DieCzLsIcFa5fQXFK-u3c3WTZCrYZY35t6Nsywl1BYRpVB9ozc5WVOPzk_LOf_eQv8G1wWP8qoDQkwaLwjAZZ_IoYeciF_yB7w3K2umUndPW5nOAMaKZM9T02cRz8lX6/s1600/blog_disc_golf.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="270" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6g1myei2EDu9DieCzLsIcFa5fQXFK-u3c3WTZCrYZY35t6Nsywl1BYRpVB9ozc5WVOPzk_LOf_eQv8G1wWP8qoDQkwaLwjAZZ_IoYeciF_yB7w3K2umUndPW5nOAMaKZM9T02cRz8lX6/s320/blog_disc_golf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Happy that I chose to keep trying disc golf. This gave me the confidence to take part in the event. The highlight of my day was actually making my first ace!<br />
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The pictured disc golf bracelet is now available for purchase <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/IndyspireArt?ref=hdr_shop_menu" target="_blank">in my Etsy shop</a>. Do you play disc golf? What is your favorite course?indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-36890673657368404662015-06-10T12:07:00.000-04:002015-06-10T12:07:24.179-04:00Gift Presentation Idea: Bouquet<div style="text-align: center;">
This is a lovely idea for gift presentation. A sweet, handpicked bouquet. Look a little closer and see the extra touches.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHf8jgtmi6MTWdOXwd4LfT4e_VjtreYBkS-En2VKHysI4Q2NiA9LTrARldTJN4iEUV78KSa9WQtUGySoFmWy-ntgGe3QZwKEM9465cEqz7R8R1UQZDx9PkWoXKNp3zelyBAlglCC7KxfZd/s1600/blog_bouquet_present2%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHf8jgtmi6MTWdOXwd4LfT4e_VjtreYBkS-En2VKHysI4Q2NiA9LTrARldTJN4iEUV78KSa9WQtUGySoFmWy-ntgGe3QZwKEM9465cEqz7R8R1UQZDx9PkWoXKNp3zelyBAlglCC7KxfZd/s320/blog_bouquet_present2%255D.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A miniature chalkboard is suspended from flower stems. This particular chalkboard is from Cost Plus World Market. They have similar boards with metal frames <a href="http://www.worldmarket.com/product/mini+metal+chalkboard+signs%2C+set+of+2.do?" target="_blank">here</a>, and heart shaped chalkboards <a href="http://www.worldmarket.com/product/mini+heart+chalkboards%2C+set+of+2.do?" target="_blank">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_54ZTK-RBckpYuyH5WNuS3bVQuN6EPhkih0S3GfrMykSnREH5DBkgtb6y2mF74TnuorznNTSIrCEZbu4S1A1dsrp2HdrTBFZkAeRB6kpJslDx7Fk9avYTNGkx62QgnEXPBFnIUckpmjSV/s1600/blog_bouquet_present.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_54ZTK-RBckpYuyH5WNuS3bVQuN6EPhkih0S3GfrMykSnREH5DBkgtb6y2mF74TnuorznNTSIrCEZbu4S1A1dsrp2HdrTBFZkAeRB6kpJslDx7Fk9avYTNGkx62QgnEXPBFnIUckpmjSV/s320/blog_bouquet_present.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
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Peek into the glass vase and another item can be seen.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisf3hID-a2Xm8wQ6ejzqIu2pLwbvY8fjxjFoOMiWFW3fQAd959wM1pgFztpiRSPpAXOgZZNh8f5PiPxZqizn0CJ5_XzZpBhVcO8Jbdo4rjAxWv_wnueQICa75K5PrKd9VtXHk8g3ZXMklH/s1600/blog_bouquet_present3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisf3hID-a2Xm8wQ6ejzqIu2pLwbvY8fjxjFoOMiWFW3fQAd959wM1pgFztpiRSPpAXOgZZNh8f5PiPxZqizn0CJ5_XzZpBhVcO8Jbdo4rjAxWv_wnueQICa75K5PrKd9VtXHk8g3ZXMklH/s320/blog_bouquet_present3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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A clear glass bottle is floating in the water. This is holding a printed gift card and note tied with ribbon. The glass is a repurposed spice container.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxX6c52beZhB5HnALCVukcqtE10-5gx_821iuEa8jheWEzVdg2Eix3DaqkRYIpyRyGJzAkQZHGSAcGYCbUqvOSARJ0S81poNwrKBlWoReVJHoN2WkV_C1hyphenhyphenJa8M-Cax0cvX-hTPaK7hBdX/s1600/blog_bouquet_present4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="257" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjxX6c52beZhB5HnALCVukcqtE10-5gx_821iuEa8jheWEzVdg2Eix3DaqkRYIpyRyGJzAkQZHGSAcGYCbUqvOSARJ0S81poNwrKBlWoReVJHoN2WkV_C1hyphenhyphenJa8M-Cax0cvX-hTPaK7hBdX/s320/blog_bouquet_present4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Such a cute idea! Something the recipient can enjoy for days after receiving, rather than gathering up the gift wrap for the recycle bin.</div>
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<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-79584129249551811682015-05-31T14:49:00.000-04:002015-05-31T14:53:36.959-04:00Handpicked for MayLooking back through the month of May. This is a personal log of a few favorite experiences.<br />
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Material to work with:<br />
Sterling silver sheet in 22-gauge from <a href="http://www.riogrande.com/Home" target="_blank">Rio Grande</a>. (It is a sustainable material.) This silver is a good thickness; strong yet not difficult to work with. <br />
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Home cooked meal:<br />
Simple grilled sweet potato and black bean burrito bowls with spicy cumin garlic drizzle from <a href="http://www.thefirstmess.com/2014/07/23/simple-vegan-grilled-sweet-potato-black-bean-burrito-bowls-recipe/" target="_blank">Laura Wright of The First Mess</a>. Packed with flavor, this vegetarian dish was a hit with my family. The spicy cumin garlic drizzle is especially tasty. I will be using it to season additional recipes.<br />
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Local musician:<br />
<a href="http://www.chadmillslive.com/about-chad/" target="_blank">Chad Mills</a>. Got a late dinner one evening and the pub had live music. One guy with with his guitar. Enjoyed it so much that I called the restaurant the following day to find out who he was.<br />
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Greeting cards to send:<br />
With a sentiment for any occasion, <a href="http://www.littlelow.com/cards/" target="_blank">Little Low Studio</a> is a great online spot for greeting cards. (She has an Etsy shop too.) The Mother's Day cards I purchased were beautiful.<br />
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Podcast:<br />
<a href="https://unmistakablecreative.com/podcast" target="_blank">The Unmistakable Creative</a>. These episodes are candid conversations with fascinating, creative individuals. Thought provoking and highly recommended. I'm hooked.<br />
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Wearing:<br />
I bought <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/202651557/organic-cotton-color-block-tee-cap" target="_blank">this top</a> from Thimble and Acorn. The organic cotton is so soft, and the colors are gorgeous. I love the cap sleeves. Eve, the owner and maker, is fabulous to work with.<br />
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Watching:<br />
Now that Parks and Recreation has ended, I do not watch many comedies. It takes smart writing to make me laugh. <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt2575988/" target="_blank">Silicon Valley</a> is brilliant. Never thought of myself as a Mike Judge fan, but loved season one, and this season is also quite good.<br />
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Fresh flowers:<br />
We experienced many gray days this past Winter in Indiana. I am thoroughly enjoying the sight of fresh flowers in my kitchen this Spring. Handpicked arrangements are especially cheery.<br />
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What have you enjoyed during the month of May?</div>
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<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-38238814952132847752015-05-11T12:43:00.000-04:002015-05-14T17:26:33.821-04:00Secret Message Jewelry, Part 2<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
<span style="text-align: start;">The intent of this necklace is very simple.</span><span style="text-align: start;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25px; text-align: start;">I wanted a design to honor special dates without being traditional. The result is small and clean; something that can be worn everyday. Numbers displayed are significant to the wearer while being curious to the casual observer. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm1AcaQ_TyFsrZlCFRPM3G93cAq8rC9gwOK0-jzXeWGaAo7YWUAGyrAT81ADuIlsxo0LI6W4-WdKv-oBSPpPqX89KdNpIEf1hARcYz3PNCRjY_49pAnNG1nsRYtnJYLDU8BbnmroGAwmmV/s1600/dates_necklace_updated2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="305" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgm1AcaQ_TyFsrZlCFRPM3G93cAq8rC9gwOK0-jzXeWGaAo7YWUAGyrAT81ADuIlsxo0LI6W4-WdKv-oBSPpPqX89KdNpIEf1hARcYz3PNCRjY_49pAnNG1nsRYtnJYLDU8BbnmroGAwmmV/s320/dates_necklace_updated2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="line-height: 25px;">This piece could memorialize </span><span style="line-height: 25px;">adoptions</span><span style="line-height: 25px;">, births, graduations, anniversaries, pet adoptions, or any significant life event. Several different dates may be honored on one chain.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6e27KM6hqauB_5TCG9NC2UuI8WHox-95RDAo8FAdBZ1eq9w-0r0wiLHrMvyIAUxLbBO_1HirhQDM3_eKJe8yZ8wk65vKE5PcbAq4HtyZGtPapYfO0cSq7sS2ee0WqateCBtBTK9gKnbT9/s1600/custom_date_three_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6e27KM6hqauB_5TCG9NC2UuI8WHox-95RDAo8FAdBZ1eq9w-0r0wiLHrMvyIAUxLbBO_1HirhQDM3_eKJe8yZ8wk65vKE5PcbAq4HtyZGtPapYfO0cSq7sS2ee0WqateCBtBTK9gKnbT9/s320/custom_date_three_2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 25px;">The numbers across the top represent the month. Left to right of the middle row commemorates the day within the month. Bottom numbers side to side are the final two digits of the year being honored.</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; font-size: 14px; line-height: 25px;"> </span></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Bxv9LcVuvdDXTNHzIfLAjFDxu_pa0WGpmDvy_uu9tRjWoYknlhJybd4WLZwvdrq541zWnO-HDUDRUlN6B7zg4KFUPQOtI7tCWUqkzi_poxbMgWQG1Nu77fyFg2e_WXwUrhR3f61zoGnY/s1600/four_date_necklace4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Bxv9LcVuvdDXTNHzIfLAjFDxu_pa0WGpmDvy_uu9tRjWoYknlhJybd4WLZwvdrq541zWnO-HDUDRUlN6B7zg4KFUPQOtI7tCWUqkzi_poxbMgWQG1Nu77fyFg2e_WXwUrhR3f61zoGnY/s320/four_date_necklace4.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Once described as "a mom necklace that doesn't look like a mom necklace!"</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 25px;"> In <a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2015/04/secret-message-jewelry-part1.html" target="_blank">an earlier post</a>,</span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25px;"> I featured rings with hidden messages. This particular necklace may not appear to have a secret message. However, with limitless possibilities for customization, I have had the opportunity to create a couple that were quite inventive.</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzwfg4yyP6TFV7ra1G9z5HVKGOSBiHVscD0OIqpi8EUPqNgY3m85NyRsEO-gjLIvpj-uiRH3mHviWeOWqMCkxcsWgJQ-qodANzhb_mIXzI5azx-h3VuHVyL5eAl1MUaJTfsuCy8qimM5V7/s1600/date_necklace_abc.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="281" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzwfg4yyP6TFV7ra1G9z5HVKGOSBiHVscD0OIqpi8EUPqNgY3m85NyRsEO-gjLIvpj-uiRH3mHviWeOWqMCkxcsWgJQ-qodANzhb_mIXzI5azx-h3VuHVyL5eAl1MUaJTfsuCy8qimM5V7/s320/date_necklace_abc.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">This custom request was for 19, 16, 03. The numbers coordinate to letters of the alphabet.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjirvT9hdz7iBbQOeacHfsy1tokfUvlK9Kzo6IF1x5tddMvpr8um2RIxCWrcOPXVex58_SzwKyXmJ2-6BK5jHxw4o2m5d2GcKGBBy9bFnmVmpWdQdELYhSvLTkbq_2AJYAkIkN9_r5C2q2H/s1600/custom_days_of_month.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjirvT9hdz7iBbQOeacHfsy1tokfUvlK9Kzo6IF1x5tddMvpr8um2RIxCWrcOPXVex58_SzwKyXmJ2-6BK5jHxw4o2m5d2GcKGBBy9bFnmVmpWdQdELYhSvLTkbq_2AJYAkIkN9_r5C2q2H/s320/custom_days_of_month.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">This was for a customer wanting a design that held everything special in one pendant. The days of the month for each of her children's births are commemorated on a single piece of silver.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My husband and I joked that had I been creating this style of necklace ten years ago, there may have been some interesting requests from fans of <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lost_%28TV_series%29" target="_blank">Lost (TV Series)</a>.</span></div>
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indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-29629004324651962692015-04-21T13:50:00.000-04:002015-04-22T12:55:06.997-04:00Secret Message Jewelry, Part1<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjETi8tQOva6smQV03JC8myrOy_6alZR3HCDhE7M_UFqM2vdTK6PXCQHHNHlbQL_HQaDLMQskAMRGryFSH5L9fwWQBtPQm1-qv6himK0ejYBFxexw7YWjlVPpV4Z18OEfCAxcucLF87p44s/s1600/blog_love_always_ring3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjETi8tQOva6smQV03JC8myrOy_6alZR3HCDhE7M_UFqM2vdTK6PXCQHHNHlbQL_HQaDLMQskAMRGryFSH5L9fwWQBtPQm1-qv6himK0ejYBFxexw7YWjlVPpV4Z18OEfCAxcucLF87p44s/s1600/blog_love_always_ring3.jpg" height="289" width="320" /></a></div>
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Let me share the details behind the making of my new, secret message ring. It begins with three, fully interlocking rings. Two of these bands represent people; partners in a relationship. A third band is hand marked in morse code. Its characters spell L-O-V-E. This third ring, intertwining with the other two, symbolizes a couple forever joined by love. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIdoEEtihY4DrKCy8Xa96dtEBiQMgw99m7eVt51lQ8YhlqFwt506EXcAU-UVkV377OilqkAALRaN0vjtZorxCSPWC3CKeG3XKR6ilJ4cfD8_4RFSVW3Lsmp3Pm3vWbD9XyjhRwXqgmVET/s1600/blog_love_always_ring1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhIdoEEtihY4DrKCy8Xa96dtEBiQMgw99m7eVt51lQ8YhlqFwt506EXcAU-UVkV377OilqkAALRaN0vjtZorxCSPWC3CKeG3XKR6ilJ4cfD8_4RFSVW3Lsmp3Pm3vWbD9XyjhRwXqgmVET/s1600/blog_love_always_ring1.jpg" height="249" width="320" /></a></div>
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Next, I created a sterling silver ring. The band is tall enough to accommodate the word "ALWAYS" written inside. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVS2LnigFgcfZF12HubNktLb6FfSe9pWhPZ69wdEo0elzTbtwZkSIOERfYTq4LGZk2LiK_FNWptnJX-wf1BOUDcX67U1qFq8709aKzOppcV1_slsDrXQrGofasRmI8Ql_S-GgRaQoNOIvQ/s1600/blog_love_always_ring2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVS2LnigFgcfZF12HubNktLb6FfSe9pWhPZ69wdEo0elzTbtwZkSIOERfYTq4LGZk2LiK_FNWptnJX-wf1BOUDcX67U1qFq8709aKzOppcV1_slsDrXQrGofasRmI8Ql_S-GgRaQoNOIvQ/s1600/blog_love_always_ring2.jpg" height="219" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Formed and soldered. Ready for clean up.</td></tr>
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The rings were filed, sanded, polished, and then oxidized. I perform this step with all my jewelry to add character and enhance details - especially with letters and code on this particular piece. Notice how distinct the markings are with a patina.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIkmcn-eOd57lOeOl_SfkaP3gc1mHG5df0TTsdt4F2LDHgUYz1yLAKxSdhFViOLxLqcZHcS9XZTIBklcdluFb4wPZFfb0yuEfsVanamrG9hDhvmyKAmv1QKW1cO6WVoTNrAwr0SZ6WUcd/s1600/love_always_ring2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdIkmcn-eOd57lOeOl_SfkaP3gc1mHG5df0TTsdt4F2LDHgUYz1yLAKxSdhFViOLxLqcZHcS9XZTIBklcdluFb4wPZFfb0yuEfsVanamrG9hDhvmyKAmv1QKW1cO6WVoTNrAwr0SZ6WUcd/s1600/love_always_ring2.jpg" height="274" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">The interlocking rings are designed to fit onto the silver band and rotate. A brief video of their movement may be viewed on </span><a href="https://instagram.com/indyspireart" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">my Instagram page</a><span style="text-align: justify;">. </span><span style="text-align: justify;">I overlapped the two styles and shaped the edges of the wide band ring in an anticlastic form. Doing this permanently holds the interlocking rings onto the band.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZHdLuOzY4DJKQ05QG1uAftSvZkPZnydy20zZUpJQuplqYgOXfq6vQD_Z6-6MYnxMGRAjwuww9gD2Yx72smDV1oqP2pLnanIM1fUKMnfWfwXg3Q0gaXQPo50MdL97OBsH764N4526bNf3p/s1600/love_always_ring3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZHdLuOzY4DJKQ05QG1uAftSvZkPZnydy20zZUpJQuplqYgOXfq6vQD_Z6-6MYnxMGRAjwuww9gD2Yx72smDV1oqP2pLnanIM1fUKMnfWfwXg3Q0gaXQPo50MdL97OBsH764N4526bNf3p/s1600/love_always_ring3.jpg" height="256" width="320" /></a></div>
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Secret message rings are available in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/IndyspireArt?section_id=11216744&ref=shopsection" target="_blank">my Etsy shop</a>. Shown here is a thin, minimal style with the three interlocking rings only. Morse code spells out "love" on the eternally joined bands.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbRsrHYfGmxPJ7Lb1mv1nlJoZO9LsH_UxeZaII5VoIDUUs2Ia5EZLM-rEXr0v0slwadyrn8Vy3zx4cRput0nlfQjbJaHJwzNmQvg7K5BGGU44OjwnadQfADvZHU_6q0z3GXhyphenhyphenLcGy3XKo/s1600/morse_code_interlocking2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimbRsrHYfGmxPJ7Lb1mv1nlJoZO9LsH_UxeZaII5VoIDUUs2Ia5EZLM-rEXr0v0slwadyrn8Vy3zx4cRput0nlfQjbJaHJwzNmQvg7K5BGGU44OjwnadQfADvZHU_6q0z3GXhyphenhyphenLcGy3XKo/s1600/morse_code_interlocking2.jpg" height="203" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhJMWoKUfv77316rQN_YibIxvgve8LiHz-alHV63Cf_7ErSimZLSV8yxTX4otbgm04B2UX8itXIVmtZIzwCCVAR9g1ZtcIv3yBXalGgaIJsPk1lO9hHifROv2sKdApq93kVBn1ZxMj-uuP/s1600/morse_code_interlocking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhJMWoKUfv77316rQN_YibIxvgve8LiHz-alHV63Cf_7ErSimZLSV8yxTX4otbgm04B2UX8itXIVmtZIzwCCVAR9g1ZtcIv3yBXalGgaIJsPk1lO9hHifROv2sKdApq93kVBn1ZxMj-uuP/s1600/morse_code_interlocking.jpg" height="265" width="320" /></a></div>
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The wide band ring is also offered in my shop. Made to order in US ring sizes. An original design from Indyspire Art LLC.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrVGsbrbPFOjabXo7wHmVZDuKdSrS9O8O2R9_meLy7m4d4fZmxIW7NGcS3Dq3SNTEpWWzSBkpgQHExhJ-Qdw9mOI9ebeB7q9mMTjKCGLj0iusLesKP75oqLzf6texBFDT4vTjOpFGFtddd/s1600/love_always_ring4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrVGsbrbPFOjabXo7wHmVZDuKdSrS9O8O2R9_meLy7m4d4fZmxIW7NGcS3Dq3SNTEpWWzSBkpgQHExhJ-Qdw9mOI9ebeB7q9mMTjKCGLj0iusLesKP75oqLzf6texBFDT4vTjOpFGFtddd/s1600/love_always_ring4.jpg" height="320" width="318" /></a></div>
<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-68955546949316096012015-04-14T08:36:00.000-04:002015-04-14T08:36:56.809-04:00Cat Memorial JewelryI love cats. I love incorporating cats into my jewelry designs. I also love when jewelry holds special significance for the wearer. Then, it becomes a keepsake. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOk8sGiQbpcCJ5zH7zAuX7NBcMIi12o-yuKjBbTpnoGDbQ5KOsBTP-XQPMQ42XlfYQlHA_6Q9-6cfHJUGTT8uZaJW4SQ9k50Spf5_-afHKZXErJcIXRiJcXMLzhCPULSy9VlyCwBuA3EN/s1600/cat_necklace_hold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilOk8sGiQbpcCJ5zH7zAuX7NBcMIi12o-yuKjBbTpnoGDbQ5KOsBTP-XQPMQ42XlfYQlHA_6Q9-6cfHJUGTT8uZaJW4SQ9k50Spf5_-afHKZXErJcIXRiJcXMLzhCPULSy9VlyCwBuA3EN/s1600/cat_necklace_hold.jpg" height="288" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In loving memory of Gandalf, the wonderful grey kitty.</td></tr>
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A few short years back, my beloved cat passed away. I created a necklace to honor his memory and wrote about it <a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2013/05/made-with-love.html" target="_blank">here</a> on my blog. A portion of the sale from each cat memorial necklace is donated to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/heartrescue" target="_blank">From the Heart Rescue</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkcB91doiKWPtUT4nwYY3N3AydGL3kiNg4QKu8BtiUO6L13gKAiKTmSVWA5ssioMfN0a2TALEYGwyEsS1ddaffunZ79u-wGtgDNmO1n1wDlVz__0nk0m1ClGK9Aybqiwik7qRaFHR6BjT/s1600/cat_memorial_ring2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOkcB91doiKWPtUT4nwYY3N3AydGL3kiNg4QKu8BtiUO6L13gKAiKTmSVWA5ssioMfN0a2TALEYGwyEsS1ddaffunZ79u-wGtgDNmO1n1wDlVz__0nk0m1ClGK9Aybqiwik7qRaFHR6BjT/s1600/cat_memorial_ring2015.jpg" height="227" width="320" /></a></div>
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I make cat rings in the same style as the necklace. A customer requested the name of her sweet kitty to be inscribed inside the band, and the idea for a cat memorial ring came about.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxLH9HEFc7XWBMCjCgEi77P94sDwy2f2r6KEiBZJDFRWCYVW00uDDuSxTMA3datyQzwDsqQav33a1F34GmoVxfNAOMfncR9IoZsl_Ig1B0ZzcuHga0gXmFLWapoO-1qvMENkqabDb_YFqw/s1600/cat_ring_inscription4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxLH9HEFc7XWBMCjCgEi77P94sDwy2f2r6KEiBZJDFRWCYVW00uDDuSxTMA3datyQzwDsqQav33a1F34GmoVxfNAOMfncR9IoZsl_Ig1B0ZzcuHga0gXmFLWapoO-1qvMENkqabDb_YFqw/s1600/cat_ring_inscription4.jpg" height="258" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The first cat memorial ring was in honor of Moka.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Each ring honors the memory of a dear companion while also providing funds to From the Heart Rescue. This donation is used to lower the adoption fee of a rescued cat awaiting its forever home.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-RXXBMla2sX4kqE91icgtVzic20OIMlSQxYq8-3FFE2PL0N-JrE_L34oqfwKcGWxuhnusiYcPiPX3tJ0eiyDsmRLlnxVfeDLev_2sYKO5f3bLVyD7OqF3xv0JMYUVIO4iFsPkC2IiArB/s1600/cat_memorial_ring2015.3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgi-RXXBMla2sX4kqE91icgtVzic20OIMlSQxYq8-3FFE2PL0N-JrE_L34oqfwKcGWxuhnusiYcPiPX3tJ0eiyDsmRLlnxVfeDLev_2sYKO5f3bLVyD7OqF3xv0JMYUVIO4iFsPkC2IiArB/s1600/cat_memorial_ring2015.3.jpg" height="262" width="320" /></a></div>
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The most recent ring was to commemorate Ruby. I am grateful to Ruby's owner for sharing her photo. Isn't she beautiful?<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEGj1Ejb_RmmvXB6ftOc0-hNmE-YnchufmYFqwSVIp1PCE2RNpafIr9OWw3-qLgyEDOE8OumxzTTC6CPmfIOiFqYNH1R7Sl6sa-pXFgzVHQMZoTHFnHyTF9kVTKJ6gQwJHXARRbzyLd1p9/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55736341_a4g4q2k364w8k80gs4ss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEGj1Ejb_RmmvXB6ftOc0-hNmE-YnchufmYFqwSVIp1PCE2RNpafIr9OWw3-qLgyEDOE8OumxzTTC6CPmfIOiFqYNH1R7Sl6sa-pXFgzVHQMZoTHFnHyTF9kVTKJ6gQwJHXARRbzyLd1p9/s1600/icm_fullxfull.55736341_a4g4q2k364w8k80gs4ss.jpg" height="260" width="320" /></a></div>
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Cat memorial rings are available for customizing / personalizing in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/203575764/cat-memorial-ring-inscription-ring" target="_blank">my Etsy shop</a>. Each ring is made with love in hopes of helping others to heal after their loss.<br />
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<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-393361023223664702015-02-02T16:57:00.000-05:002015-02-02T16:57:23.897-05:00Personalized Jewelry. Custom Designed Compass Rose.<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Jewelry is an intimate way to adorn the body. It often holds special significance to the wearer, be it as a symbolic display or an extension of personal character. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I have had the opportunity to work with a number of customers on special pieces of jewelry. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">One client found my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/215992694/compass-mens-cuff-bracelet-compass-rose" target="_blank">Compass Cuff Bracelet</a> and wished to personalize the design.</span></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigE-0Bu9VECKscs5XTfdsP2yZtxpCOcgxbxxb8vOHRj3Extvt3pr5duNbneIkPse-GY4kmTPwrseq3RqEcRs9tBblOSOGQ2UXhZA43vTF2kGlBWDVcY9BbwVF7onZtvRRp27f5uAryIb6V/s1600/compass_v2.4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigE-0Bu9VECKscs5XTfdsP2yZtxpCOcgxbxxb8vOHRj3Extvt3pr5duNbneIkPse-GY4kmTPwrseq3RqEcRs9tBblOSOGQ2UXhZA43vTF2kGlBWDVcY9BbwVF7onZtvRRp27f5uAryIb6V/s1600/compass_v2.4.jpg" height="228" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original Compass Rose Cuff</td></tr>
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<br /><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">We talked over ideas and this is the custom bracelet I created for him:</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQA4L6GmjS-P7dKbIViiZueYiSS6x7UvZY4jrFv2E2f6zNldmh0QHouPaczuJ__kSfbAkXpq32hgxK2prw0IY0xxb-UhoJlZIIp94K85-zGeGClxtZWZOoR0IxK2Nk1Wb_J4TJZIcivaB/s1600/blog_true_north.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBQA4L6GmjS-P7dKbIViiZueYiSS6x7UvZY4jrFv2E2f6zNldmh0QHouPaczuJ__kSfbAkXpq32hgxK2prw0IY0xxb-UhoJlZIIp94K85-zGeGClxtZWZOoR0IxK2Nk1Wb_J4TJZIcivaB/s1600/blog_true_north.jpg" height="234" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Custom Design</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><span style="font-family: inherit;">This bracelet is a symbol of living life by following your internal compass in how you do things each day. Abide by this compass and remain true to your True North. </span><div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">My client's own True North is his 11 year old daughter. He strives to set good examples and serve as a positive role model for her.</span></div>
indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-45546423446329493092014-02-28T10:28:00.000-05:002014-02-28T10:28:01.114-05:00Artisan Fair ApplicationsSome important things to do when applying to Craft Fairs:<br />
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<b>Read the Vendor FAQ </b><i>before</i> filling out the application. </div>
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<b>Make note of the event date and time.</b></div>
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<b>Determine your booth fee. </b> Will there be additional charges for electricity, wifi, table and chair rental? Must you provide your own canopy, table, equipment? Is this within your budget?<br />
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<b>Apply early. </b>The number of booths at a craft show are limited. <b> </b>In addition, rushing to make the deadline does not allow you to be thorough.</div>
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<b>Follow the instructions precisely. </b>Submitting an incomplete or incorrect application to a juried event with hundreds of candidates will be declined.</div>
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<b>Submit stellar photos. </b>Images speak louder than words. Make a great impression. No blurry or poorly lit pictures. Adhere to the size specifications. <br />
<b>Craft an interesting bio of your business.</b> This is generally a difficult area for me, and I have a few tips that helped me through.<br />
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<li>Give yourself plenty of time to write the synopsis. (At least three days.)</li>
<li>Begin by making notes of the most important points to touch upon.</li>
<li>Read summaries from other small businesses. Seek out individuals whom you admire. Look through magazines, brochures, online marketplaces. How do they tell their story? <i>Do not copy, only explore for insight.</i></li>
<li>Avoid obvious likeness. I found small businesses in the same medium and actively abstained from similar wording, so as to focus on the individuality of my work. </li>
<li>Refer to <a href="http://99u.com/articles/7025/the-resume-is-dead-the-bio-is-king" target="_blank">this article</a> about how to write your bio.</li>
<li>Draft your summary, stating the main points. Save it and take a break.</li>
<li>Return to your bio the next day with a fresh mind and evaluate. Now you may edit. Save your work.</li>
<li>Allow yourself an additional day or more to think it over. Did you get to the essence? Does the application have a limit to the number of words or sentences that you may submit? Is your writing succinct?</li>
<li>Must you write a separate description in regards to the process by which your work is made?</li>
<li>Save your final draft. You will amend and develop this when applying to your next show.</li>
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<b>Website.</b> Most applications request a link. Do you have an online shop or a means for the jury to evaluate your work collectively?<br />
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<b>Submit the application on time.</b><br />
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<b>Pay the application fee if required.</b></div>
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<b>Verify that you have a Sales Tax Collection Permit.</b> If not, take the necessary steps to obtain this authorization.<br />
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<b>Congratulate yourself for completing the application. </b>This is not easy, but you did it!<br />
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<b>Keep your chin up. </b>If you are accepted, fantastic! If you complied to application guidelines, yet were declined, it is alright. The application itself was a giant learning process. You will improve in every attempt. Keep trying!<br />
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indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-81953381454916927712014-01-31T17:33:00.000-05:002014-01-31T17:33:51.504-05:00Custom Made JewelryThe people have spoken. They like custom made jewelry.<br />
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I am feeling honored this week after wrapping up work on several specially made pieces of jewelry. It truly is wonderful when individuals entrust my hands to craft a meaningful keepsake.<br />
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A personalized cat necklace was the first item made. This particular pendant is marked with the letter "e". The story behind the design of this special token can be found <a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2013/05/made-with-love.html" target="_blank">here</a>. A percentage from sales of each cat memorial necklace is donated to <a href="http://www.heartrescue.org/Heart_Rescue/Home.html" target="_blank">From the Heart Rescue</a> in Westfield, Indiana.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBPa0VD5reTOKqX3jBNxmc5-Ld0lDG5LetYf-WqzRgEpAAcWHMAz5i7_-HLNtOEfL6Ng5wa5WdzjS3ux06psySpWnCrt2ORcVPiJG9aiFQpDKrjH8WPSPYMZGZauPn7R50r2BxOX-R634E/s1600/blog_e_cat_necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBPa0VD5reTOKqX3jBNxmc5-Ld0lDG5LetYf-WqzRgEpAAcWHMAz5i7_-HLNtOEfL6Ng5wa5WdzjS3ux06psySpWnCrt2ORcVPiJG9aiFQpDKrjH8WPSPYMZGZauPn7R50r2BxOX-R634E/s1600/blog_e_cat_necklace.jpg" height="305" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pendant is entirely handcrafted.<br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Next, I was contacted from a client inquiring about a custom bracelet for her boyfriend. He is a pilot. She found the <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/174968100/airplane-mens-bracelet-p-51-mustang" target="_blank">P-51 Mustang bracelet</a> in my Etsy shop and was hoping to get an airplane silhouette made into a cuff for him. She sent me an image and requested that his nickname be included on the copper.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2YXlGE0a7C3Mkd_e8_3S-Ro5LbpHtfumnzRMJSNtH7O_f_EEgZl45ht2On4hmWTD0d19Dr39WDvpqFa7TeZborWIhxth2B9Ea1bQA1yDT6TErykpWyN-pdoW6YxWEMzC5SbYrM9gz51B9/s1600/blog_airplane_bracelet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2YXlGE0a7C3Mkd_e8_3S-Ro5LbpHtfumnzRMJSNtH7O_f_EEgZl45ht2On4hmWTD0d19Dr39WDvpqFa7TeZborWIhxth2B9Ea1bQA1yDT6TErykpWyN-pdoW6YxWEMzC5SbYrM9gz51B9/s1600/blog_airplane_bracelet.jpg" height="262" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copper is cut by hand, given a heat patina.<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My final customer wished to replace a lost ring. She found <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/120884243/intertwined-ring-fully-interlocking" target="_blank">these interlocking rings</a> in my shop which were similar to the missing ring. Through a series of conversations we determined the number of bands, thickness, and what type of finish she would like in a ring that she plans to wear regularly.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIcCmBJxtzNQnAp6Dih2Saf42LMhZpnNmU5bHXQnjUxjAbc3A_yBX8KSw9Fb0JzibkX4taA-Ui2o_TGla6N1kluX68Jkbc55vJ1-5VeF4ndFycNZ_6rroSBbWsxlc3IH-ltg1fQP5Lmo4T/s1600/blog_three_interlock_rings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIcCmBJxtzNQnAp6Dih2Saf42LMhZpnNmU5bHXQnjUxjAbc3A_yBX8KSw9Fb0JzibkX4taA-Ui2o_TGla6N1kluX68Jkbc55vJ1-5VeF4ndFycNZ_6rroSBbWsxlc3IH-ltg1fQP5Lmo4T/s1600/blog_three_interlock_rings.jpg" height="320" width="305" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Combination of hammered and smooth bands.<br /><br /><br /><br /></td></tr>
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These stories and pictures exemplify the best thing about working directly with the maker: the end result is precisely what the buyer is seeking.indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-55672606481581001042013-07-03T15:37:00.000-04:002014-01-31T16:47:12.418-05:00Marking on Copper SheetPrecision can be important when performing detailed work on metal. When drilling holes in a straight line, or creating a symmetrical pattern, I must draft the design first.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0eR_JuXfK1P3EMefDc_tkfogIwD-TfblLrSen2qdwjW0KiAVr2NZQfRBOg0ooRie6fGtLFg6veYDwTKJUPLFBH7ws7eZydVINKabbU0Xe7Y-viRjavHaBj8JnJvcyga8XFia7T7ecxKP/s1000/blog_copper_lines2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU0eR_JuXfK1P3EMefDc_tkfogIwD-TfblLrSen2qdwjW0KiAVr2NZQfRBOg0ooRie6fGtLFg6veYDwTKJUPLFBH7ws7eZydVINKabbU0Xe7Y-viRjavHaBj8JnJvcyga8XFia7T7ecxKP/s200/blog_copper_lines2.jpg" height="191" width="200" /></a></div>
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Dividers are a great tool for precise measuring because of their very fine endpoints. They firmly hold an exact distance, and can easily be adjusted. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFk0_PQZYb0us3jJ7ZU014XmDYYQqw_Te9MPEoqoqcxaAcHRf9Xu_fujjDNgBOjH0PWE1P7NqXgz3-l-2IjfH8I4RPwZRUKxTNlH03NESiGiNGRZeyisEPxVxYRiFAf324UCN827rOmpa2/s1000/blog_sharp_tools_points.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFk0_PQZYb0us3jJ7ZU014XmDYYQqw_Te9MPEoqoqcxaAcHRf9Xu_fujjDNgBOjH0PWE1P7NqXgz3-l-2IjfH8I4RPwZRUKxTNlH03NESiGiNGRZeyisEPxVxYRiFAf324UCN827rOmpa2/s200/blog_sharp_tools_points.jpg" height="126" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caution: sharp!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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A scribe is good for etching marks on the metal. I use a scribe when drawing a line to be cut or when placing a dot for drilling. Removing scribed lines requires a lot of sanding: first with a coarse sandpaper and progressing through higher grit (smoother) sizes.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLxVfGkQROujIqpIFK59WiDAGX00_6XC6WhxzRp-YLpIxT4i6_2j35vTXNGCnArPnZMlW3AMPSFOQDX6ExGovH6mJvxhW1mjj50Z1XuD9hxtwrcvczFPHrjgqWpLsa2EO_uSEUyeBDjuwe/s1020/blog_sharp_tools.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLxVfGkQROujIqpIFK59WiDAGX00_6XC6WhxzRp-YLpIxT4i6_2j35vTXNGCnArPnZMlW3AMPSFOQDX6ExGovH6mJvxhW1mjj50Z1XuD9hxtwrcvczFPHrjgqWpLsa2EO_uSEUyeBDjuwe/s200/blog_sharp_tools.jpg" height="200" width="195" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carbide scribe & adjustable dividers</td></tr>
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Rulers with millimeter notations are also helpful.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibHDGthkWvT3Tf6lVGUGfnFO8bYzvjXUuW2kZwfCJ95oYV-Ve51tZEkjE0vSuWzODu_0qF_W51a6m7s05w-NE6zIPACk20LgSRn_bHVeTx-WWGSBanwh6oTm055-q4nXpa7igu_vKNIIrp/s1000/blog_mm_ruler.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibHDGthkWvT3Tf6lVGUGfnFO8bYzvjXUuW2kZwfCJ95oYV-Ve51tZEkjE0vSuWzODu_0qF_W51a6m7s05w-NE6zIPACk20LgSRn_bHVeTx-WWGSBanwh6oTm055-q4nXpa7igu_vKNIIrp/s200/blog_mm_ruler.jpg" height="120" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Useful hash marks</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Pencil and sharpie are good alternatives to a scribe when lines and markings are required for visual aid. They last long enough in my experience to finish a task, yet remove easily from the metal with only a light sanding.<br />
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Intersecting pencil lines allow me to determine where to drill.<br />
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<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-19511198713781450772013-05-15T13:45:00.000-04:002013-05-15T21:11:46.621-04:00Made With Love<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5_Gd-riHyvjaJvEeEXzbn_R3DvkXvTMiSFK2ZtUJSo7kkZvSxVqInMp9r7BtrdgvkaOkyBXdlZ_Br9xOTfgFqhi_vJtKPKeb1LBEhD1hzFaEA2DEcsRPr-OoL4dYtShUV93_lMAwQlBlp/s1600/10-26-03_005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5_Gd-riHyvjaJvEeEXzbn_R3DvkXvTMiSFK2ZtUJSo7kkZvSxVqInMp9r7BtrdgvkaOkyBXdlZ_Br9xOTfgFqhi_vJtKPKeb1LBEhD1hzFaEA2DEcsRPr-OoL4dYtShUV93_lMAwQlBlp/s320/10-26-03_005.JPG" width="212" /></a></div>
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Recently, I had to say goodbye to the best grey cat in the world. My furry boy was nine years old and had lived with me almost his entire life. We rescued him, along with his yellow sister, at the tender age of five weeks.<br />
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As a baby, he loved being held and would cry when I set him down. Sometimes I would put him in the pocket of my hoodie and carry him around the house with me to comfort him. He grew up surrounded with love and affection.<br />
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The loss was shocking. His vet checkup a few months before had been fine. A slight heart murmur was detected, but no sign of illness. He appeared to be a healthy adult cat. We were not prepared for his life to end so abruptly.<br />
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Several weeks after the loss, I was working with <a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2012/03/what-is-precious-metal-clay.html" target="_blank">precious metal clay</a>. I had previously created a ring by utilizing a vintage cat button for a template with the metal clay. This time, I wanted to design a piece in memory of my own cat.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkfcVbc5J94me-FU0AUrKUVK57A_kSv0f-z3UUxZw5LTDnCk5GuFEHhYT-EEllPp26QIvq9gwb0DR8ibN7VzBloifgyVSvNM1WlZB5Ud_QFFbPecx3GaoyDw0x7fl6QJoaA14hT6ZJ3W6y/s1600/cat_ring_custom_hold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="166" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkfcVbc5J94me-FU0AUrKUVK57A_kSv0f-z3UUxZw5LTDnCk5GuFEHhYT-EEllPp26QIvq9gwb0DR8ibN7VzBloifgyVSvNM1WlZB5Ud_QFFbPecx3GaoyDw0x7fl6QJoaA14hT6ZJ3W6y/s200/cat_ring_custom_hold.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I thought about my kitty's collar. It had a heart tag with his name on it. He looked so cute and funny with that heart dangling from his neck. Maybe I could make a little heart for the cat on my composition to wear. I cut the shape from sterling silver with my jeweler's saw. It had to be tiny as not to cover the cat's face.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGAbGZhGYCuenSfbQyZxb5Iz8KnW-R9Bpvjvm56TYxOlne3gHbj0CpnCE1SiOtF_qEreNe5FI3Iy8-PP7LZWHeaRa8XhaVYE6nGDXMFeJAsVtdAkDCpLT0r0ch9FE9BDwIvFd-JfBRaAkC/s1600/blog_cat_necklace2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGAbGZhGYCuenSfbQyZxb5Iz8KnW-R9Bpvjvm56TYxOlne3gHbj0CpnCE1SiOtF_qEreNe5FI3Iy8-PP7LZWHeaRa8XhaVYE6nGDXMFeJAsVtdAkDCpLT0r0ch9FE9BDwIvFd-JfBRaAkC/s200/blog_cat_necklace2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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From there I decided to honor my cat by hand stamping the first letter of his name onto the heart.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAyK45Ses-QEUQLEPo2cVuoai-P-B5HZvWinTX9rN8hqd8qjapSZlAnhyphenhyphenm9oI5S5rFM-CMb1tVq46p6wH0mVltPh8ht9GXkLcSFekAdA7vVR0dfJW6ZTb5gMSd7xt0icCpbULASETK1p8i/s1600/blog_cat_necklace3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="135" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAyK45Ses-QEUQLEPo2cVuoai-P-B5HZvWinTX9rN8hqd8qjapSZlAnhyphenhyphenm9oI5S5rFM-CMb1tVq46p6wH0mVltPh8ht9GXkLcSFekAdA7vVR0dfJW6ZTb5gMSd7xt0icCpbULASETK1p8i/s200/blog_cat_necklace3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Next I soldered the heart to the precious metal clay cat. I decided it should be a necklace and added a bail.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoo_1ihmbzwU4BzvarWr6BtHY0VdoRmyXW1NvS5yuiI-8SXF3flvjZLtWcY4EK8I9C81iVX4hgVwpY51XjFuAVavRM1HgF9inPgsBE_CYrJ91MeXrAMOYqhGaUaOdFay8AXuPaboyixqEt/s1600/blog_cat_necklace4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="192" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoo_1ihmbzwU4BzvarWr6BtHY0VdoRmyXW1NvS5yuiI-8SXF3flvjZLtWcY4EK8I9C81iVX4hgVwpY51XjFuAVavRM1HgF9inPgsBE_CYrJ91MeXrAMOYqhGaUaOdFay8AXuPaboyixqEt/s200/blog_cat_necklace4.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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I am happy with how this piece evolved. His memory can be kept with me, close to my own heart. Losing a pet is an extremely difficult experience. Maybe this little necklace can be a way to honor and remember the beloved, furry companions that have such a big impact on our lives.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghP-v_VOnsYS0Mf0czWi9qJ8jlyfOHefW-yEf36giGw6R59CsxTRUAc7Uq6l_Lq6dwt_S0LaaFbKD6ekAg5NwKFTgty_IYeyL9emBCbQ84NRvx4vfYmzKbNuagjaNUARb_aIY7WNroE-wy/s1600/cat_necklace_hold.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghP-v_VOnsYS0Mf0czWi9qJ8jlyfOHefW-yEf36giGw6R59CsxTRUAc7Uq6l_Lq6dwt_S0LaaFbKD6ekAg5NwKFTgty_IYeyL9emBCbQ84NRvx4vfYmzKbNuagjaNUARb_aIY7WNroE-wy/s200/cat_necklace_hold.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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The necklace is now available for customizing / personalizing. I am selling it in <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/151278182/cat-memorial-necklace-personalized-made?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">my Etsy shop</a>. Each cat is made with love in hopes of helping others to heal after their loss.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEUICq9BISBXuuXWqdaT8UPnNlbPCqH2ouZYtxDsgeBsx0V-st1gU28EY02lrix_0qbJSFllZmqUMGsw2GpGtV51zlcju9NuYsCRHJlWcePrHFn91kXErLa2l3OG0hOx_ZNvEJQyycCy4/s1600/cat_necklace_wear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPEUICq9BISBXuuXWqdaT8UPnNlbPCqH2ouZYtxDsgeBsx0V-st1gU28EY02lrix_0qbJSFllZmqUMGsw2GpGtV51zlcju9NuYsCRHJlWcePrHFn91kXErLa2l3OG0hOx_ZNvEJQyycCy4/s200/cat_necklace_wear.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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To keep the love going, 5 percent of each sale will be donated to <a href="http://www.heartrescue.org/Heart_Rescue/AboutUs.html" target="_blank">From the Heart Rescue</a>, a non profit cat rescue organization that is local to my area.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJwSy9G_G3pEdCMhpX1U1lZXhyphenhyphenqBWe4NUVal08jqO7lPOWMRyRg7E7BbBu7Om2-_frfhYET_PdkWC0zzboS1zFqIOW3LGMBvwnZpma-jv4cqNg9WVJKIN-JZT6B6deqqJs1XHEBVeFSgC_/s1600/blog_gandalf_me.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJwSy9G_G3pEdCMhpX1U1lZXhyphenhyphenqBWe4NUVal08jqO7lPOWMRyRg7E7BbBu7Om2-_frfhYET_PdkWC0zzboS1zFqIOW3LGMBvwnZpma-jv4cqNg9WVJKIN-JZT6B6deqqJs1XHEBVeFSgC_/s1600/blog_gandalf_me.jpg" /></a></div>
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<i>My sweet boy getting </i><br />
<i>hugs and love from</i><br />
<i>me in 2012.</i><br />
<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-17842055271198758892013-04-30T17:28:00.000-04:002013-04-30T17:30:49.938-04:00Expressing Individuality With JewelryEveryone likes to be unique. And everyone should be. We are all individuals. We have our own distinct personalities, interests, and idiosyncrasies. Perhaps what sets us apart from one another the most is our experiences.<br />
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Personal experiences in life affect who we are and shape who we become. Some incidents may greatly impact a person: adoption, marriage, birth, loss, graduation, achievement of life goals. These firsthand encounters give us wisdom, knowledge, understanding, and maturity.<br />
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I've been thinking about society. We all have experiences. We all have a personal history. I wanted to find a way to express and display these cherished events.<br />
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I designed a necklace to honor special dates and keep them close to the heart. I prefer a piece of jewelry that is modern, not traditional. A small accessory with clean lines. Something that can be worn everyday. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEi9v9fJFvWvuPNPnLxdaSZz5bvz90hydT4-eAe2bs-JTmVAnvL4YSCJloF8LpoJSuC3v2ibWqgaGiXc1mrmFY0zbVleBIk5h67IDWXdwVInpzSLVfX7eyj4p3CunNcD7RQcDuwK2CIKI9/s1600/date_necklace_one_hold.2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEi9v9fJFvWvuPNPnLxdaSZz5bvz90hydT4-eAe2bs-JTmVAnvL4YSCJloF8LpoJSuC3v2ibWqgaGiXc1mrmFY0zbVleBIk5h67IDWXdwVInpzSLVfX7eyj4p3CunNcD7RQcDuwK2CIKI9/s320/date_necklace_one_hold.2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A special date.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The result is this custom date necklace. The numbers hold special significance for the wearer while being interesting and mysterious to the casual observer.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjml_U56U4NwvSxLvN0w_28GG5B8FD59gqVWcMnwUHmifkSrj0ovopp95DyyDdyaR2m4fIgC2gbwbsMshiqU3bKFOY0P2vrizpG7IfpyMZbEijo-u-Ay7c1tia5EAf08r_JCnplCITuyFBn/s1600/date_necklace_one_wear.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjml_U56U4NwvSxLvN0w_28GG5B8FD59gqVWcMnwUHmifkSrj0ovopp95DyyDdyaR2m4fIgC2gbwbsMshiqU3bKFOY0P2vrizpG7IfpyMZbEijo-u-Ay7c1tia5EAf08r_JCnplCITuyFBn/s320/date_necklace_one_wear.jpg" width="286" /></a></div>
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The numbers across the top of the pendant represent a month. Middle row (left to right) represents the day within the month. Bottom row indicates that last two digits of the year being honored.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEganNuO_q0Age3WlcXyhnElI5C9f8Xe2eGgeMI1vSTqmcx9FHlejnwtU5VJzbKQjP7gqCJO9v5izYK4sZbnBMfXSG1xzUTmvoBoFkV5im_Alsb31TvXqrChEcjIjDawSNCX6b7N9BHeniXK/s1600/dates_necklace_two3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEganNuO_q0Age3WlcXyhnElI5C9f8Xe2eGgeMI1vSTqmcx9FHlejnwtU5VJzbKQjP7gqCJO9v5izYK4sZbnBMfXSG1xzUTmvoBoFkV5im_Alsb31TvXqrChEcjIjDawSNCX6b7N9BHeniXK/s320/dates_necklace_two3.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Two or more dates can be honored.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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The specific measurements of this necklace are provided in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/113678474/contemporary-custom-date-necklace-one?ref=shop_home_feat" target="_blank">Etsy shop.</a><br />
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We are unique. Let's celebrate our individuality. Let's celebrate our experiences. indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-81815800106360997522013-04-24T17:06:00.000-04:002015-05-11T12:49:08.133-04:00Digital Scales for a Handmade BusinessA digital scale is very helpful to have around when operating a handmade business. <br />
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This small appliance was on my list of items to purchase for quite some time, but I delayed shopping for one because the vast selection seemed overwhelming. When I was ready to explore my options, I determined what the most important factors were for my situation:<br />
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<ol>
<li>Size / weight of the items to be shipped.</li>
<li>Accuracy of digital scales.</li>
<li>Durability.</li>
<li>Value.</li>
</ol>
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The parcels sent out from my business are generally under one pound. I quickly ruled out many of the digital desktop scales which may handle 75 pounds or more, and focused my attention on kitchen scales. This was a good idea for me, personally, because I spend a lot of time cooking. </div>
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Once I concluded a digital kitchen scale was the obvious choice for me, the browsing was easier. I decided on the <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Escali-P115C-Digital-Multifunctional-Chrome/dp/B0007GAWRS/ref=sr_1_2?s=home-garden&ie=UTF8&qid=1366664605&sr=1-2" target="_blank">Escali Primo Digital Scale</a> due to many favorable reviews on Amazon.com and multiple cooking websites / blogs. The fun color options also made my decision easier.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20YCl3eu3dmb4mjr54yZUGKa2X6m5c_fTimB5aAHwiGzIdpE2lxjUNtslgbE5kwQjeksg_MafAbkBYVLF3YkUsKYtvPhNANbAlG7O9uDMLa-Ejeqqc7XYJGYAW9hRtZNSeIswnejLRDJQ/s1600/blog_digital_scale_box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh20YCl3eu3dmb4mjr54yZUGKa2X6m5c_fTimB5aAHwiGzIdpE2lxjUNtslgbE5kwQjeksg_MafAbkBYVLF3YkUsKYtvPhNANbAlG7O9uDMLa-Ejeqqc7XYJGYAW9hRtZNSeIswnejLRDJQ/s320/blog_digital_scale_box.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What? No more standing in line at the post office??</td></tr>
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This little scale is durable and easy to clean. The display is straightforward and can measure in grams, pounds, or ounces. Accuracy is good. Accommodates up to 11 pounds. Sells for less than $30.</div>
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Owning a digital scale allows me to accurately determine the cost of shipping packages to customers. I can also purchase and print shipping labels from my computer - a valuable time saver.</div>
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I did not fathom how much this handy little device would be appreciated until it was actually here! What are some of the most useful items for your small business?</div>
indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-84123727290588790002012-10-30T11:57:00.000-04:002012-10-30T11:57:01.672-04:00Holiday Prep for Handmade Business, Part 3: Packaging<span id="goog_583134687"></span>When a customer receives a package from your handmade business, they should be excited! They are opening something special. The packaging should reflect how unique the contents are. What can you do to stand apart without investing significant amounts of time and money on intricate wrapping?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/cutiepiecompany/3743246187/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="product packaging by cutiepie company, on Flickr"><img alt="product packaging" height="248" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2605/3743246187_a09f52c43b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Via Cutiepie Company on Flickr<br />
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Packaging handcrafted goods can be both fun and challenging. Finding the right details to set the tone takes time. Think of the word <b>handmade</b>. <b> </b>What do you envision? To me, it resonates with original, imperfect, detailed, and creative. I do not think of it as busy, overbearing, or trying too hard.<br />
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I relish the little details. Simple, clever additions that don't try to go overboard. The use of decorative edge scissors. Textures on bows or fabric. Stamps and stickers can be good ways to include your theme without being overly expensive. Reusing items in a surprising way. A pleasing color scheme. What materials will invoke <i>your product </i>and<i> your self </i>into the overall look of the parcel?<br />
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The gift shown here from Cutiepie Company is the perfect example. It is wrapped in elementary school writing paper. Very simple, yet a surprising choice. They have added a ribbon - small, not complex, and complimentary to the lines on the paper. Stamping the recipient's name is great. The font is legible and not overly sophisticated. Red stands out on the paper and brings to mind a teacher's grade at the top of the page. I would guess the package might hold a journal, stationery, or special writing set.</div>
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Consider the recipient of your item. Do you sell to men and women? Simplify things by going with gender neutral packaging. The gift in the photo could be for anyone of any age on any occasion. It is charming enough to be a holiday gift. Try to find wrapping that works year round. This makes things easier on you as a seller.</div>
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As you prepare to ship those holiday orders for your handmade business, reflect on the presentation of your goods. What message are you giving about the contents?<br />
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Visit my earlier posts on holiday preparations for <a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2012/10/holiday-prep-for-handmade-business-part.html">shipping </a> and <a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2012/10/holiday-prep-for-handmade-business-part_10.html">materials</a>.<br />
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indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-28801590587685143052012-10-10T11:55:00.000-04:002012-10-10T11:56:24.918-04:00Holiday Prep for Handmade Business, Part 2: MaterialsLast week I took an inventory of my materials. This can be a dull process, but it must be done. When holiday orders are coming in, who wants to turn customers away because they ran out of yarn to knit scarves or silver to make necklaces?<br />
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Some tips to prepare a Handmade Business for the Holidays:<br />
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<ul>
<li>Set aside time to look through your goods <i>now.</i></li>
<li>Which materials are running low?</li>
<li><i>Estimate</i> which of your items will be in demand. What is generating the most interest? Consider getting extra materials to produce more of that particular favorite.</li>
<li>Planning a new piece for your line? The holidays could be a good time to introduce something different to draw in fresh buyers and bring back previous customers. What supplies are necessary to create this? </li>
<li>Don't forget about office supplies: tape, printer ink, labels, business cards, pens, etc. </li>
<li>Make a detailed list of needed items and, when possible, a notation of where to purchase.</li>
</ul>
Getting that order for materials in now means that you can price compare. Who will give you the best deal? Do you have any discount codes to use before they expire at year's end? Ordering early eliminates the need to pay extra for rush delivery to your shop. You'll have time to wait for standard shipping. Finally, if anything is on back order, you have a head's up to plan for this inconvenience.<br />
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Read an earlier post on preparing for holiday shipping <a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2012/10/holiday-prep-for-handmade-business-part.html">here</a>.<br />
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<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-57400721175312089472012-10-02T22:41:00.000-04:002012-10-03T14:28:19.554-04:00Holiday Prep for Handmade Business, Part 1: Shipping MaterialsThe Holidays are rapidly approaching, and a handmade business needs to be prepared. Customers' orders should be shipped promptly. Having suitable packaging materials ready to go will accelerate the process. <br />
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The jewelry I send is first placed into a gift box. This keeps pieces secure during mailing, and the item arrives ready to be given as a present - no additional wrapping required. I consider the dimensions of my handmade goods when deciding which size gift box will work best. A few more things to contemplate: Is there a particular item that is popular with buyers? Will I be selling custom orders? If so, I may need more of one specific size box than others. Estimate and plan for this. <a href="http://www.riogrande.com/default.aspx">Rio Grande</a> has a nice selection of jewelry packaging. Their gift boxes are available in a number of sizes or can be purchased in variety packs. <br />
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Once gift boxes are resolved, it is time to choose shipping materials. I do a fair amount of online shopping. This occasionally leaves me with bubble wrap and kraft wrap. If clean and like new, the wrap can be reused for my own shipping purposes. I simply store it away until needed.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWLz-6QuFg3_4fz_A5YQeDsEloJSdxxZq6RHgacaRT2P7wieaOIr3RNVcYNexZcargEMEQAfqM6ZKCH0lSWPG4dyNFpF5bZAt1SyZfoDlTtggB0Oi2d80hVRFap9IbWEFU1ehyRuB2Sh5/s1600/blog_shipping_boxes2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipWLz-6QuFg3_4fz_A5YQeDsEloJSdxxZq6RHgacaRT2P7wieaOIr3RNVcYNexZcargEMEQAfqM6ZKCH0lSWPG4dyNFpF5bZAt1SyZfoDlTtggB0Oi2d80hVRFap9IbWEFU1ehyRuB2Sh5/s320/blog_shipping_boxes2.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A box full of boxes</td></tr>
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Boxes for mailing my jewelry must be small, yet big enough to accommodate the aforementioned gift boxes. I recently ordered from <a href="http://www.uline.com/">Uline</a>. Their shipping boxes come in every shape imaginable. I am a visual person, so I drew the length and width of the shipping box that I was considering buying onto a piece of paper. Then I placed a gift box inside the lines to evaluate the fit. Keep a ruler handy to check the height. Most boxes are sold in bundles, which allows Uline to have competitive pricing. However, they only send orders via UPS, so plan for this extra expense. <br />
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How do you streamline holiday shipping?<br />
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<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-79538200633103890162012-09-18T15:17:00.000-04:002012-09-18T15:17:58.547-04:00Finishing the edges of leatherWhen incorporating leather into a piece of jewelry, I like to give the cut sides a finished appearance. This is fairly easy to do.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUiPw4HZnpVEBK6wWMUydg8QJKwkiYc4GHNgH7tK3FWmXS1l5o79iEW9DvV6Zdj9KO2yCbfKBY3zQZkIpeCS6g1Pk1hHgb7o7ryFYUfL1I7RZ4BHIaNBsSW8wMzzFzlecRGzZtXFGM6iol/s1600/blog_leather_roughedge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUiPw4HZnpVEBK6wWMUydg8QJKwkiYc4GHNgH7tK3FWmXS1l5o79iEW9DvV6Zdj9KO2yCbfKBY3zQZkIpeCS6g1Pk1hHgb7o7ryFYUfL1I7RZ4BHIaNBsSW8wMzzFzlecRGzZtXFGM6iol/s320/blog_leather_roughedge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freshly Cut</td></tr>
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You will need:<br />
<ul>
<li>Q-tips</li>
<li>Distilled water</li>
<li>Beeswax</li>
<li>Lamp</li>
<li>Soft, sturdy fabric (denim from old jeans is ideal)</li>
<li>Dremel tool with cotton buffing attachment (or an additional piece of denim)</li>
</ul>
Set the beeswax under a lamp before starting. It will become soft and easy to work with.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAr3Hc-CXd9X3DDw6_CU1eAp7iGqAyEiOZvq0WQp75JerLK69CoBwxlLjZB0n4cd23vZBJI8l-oKmJe6R-bqpytOyXH2zda-16-vSCpy3TYxDfBAminZSP0Wo5-3gpdePEAUD-gMs9N2bC/s1600/blog_leather_beeswax_lamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAr3Hc-CXd9X3DDw6_CU1eAp7iGqAyEiOZvq0WQp75JerLK69CoBwxlLjZB0n4cd23vZBJI8l-oKmJe6R-bqpytOyXH2zda-16-vSCpy3TYxDfBAminZSP0Wo5-3gpdePEAUD-gMs9N2bC/s320/blog_leather_beeswax_lamp.jpg" width="308" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Block of Beeswax with Adjustable Arm Lamp</td></tr>
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Cut a two inch by two inch square from the fabric, fold it over, and set aside. Dip a Q-tip in distilled water and run it over the raw edge of leather.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBaPHAuPFey-67aBy-21TR88HszX_XatWILe_9iSil_Lej7hem78D3pGE3DnBRUKUyZx5K5owjWzGuyOsHYOACOyhMR9UmOPRZpPzEH2HaSC9gJRwl0UJMHIzfF3zEMxQIGb-UtV3Vw1HB/s1600/blog_leather_water.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBaPHAuPFey-67aBy-21TR88HszX_XatWILe_9iSil_Lej7hem78D3pGE3DnBRUKUyZx5K5owjWzGuyOsHYOACOyhMR9UmOPRZpPzEH2HaSC9gJRwl0UJMHIzfF3zEMxQIGb-UtV3Vw1HB/s320/blog_leather_water.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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With light pressure, rub your fabric across this moistened edge. Keep your movement going in one direction; not back and forth. This motion will help the fibers to lay flat. The leather must stay damp throughout this process. Add water as necessary with the Q-tip and continue buffing with the fabric until smooth.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbmYdez-OGKhAWJ5FgnKJOJR6ZaRtmlpZde0TXSz5iaPDBCcMdmQy3dqTn6eVOO2t8qT4TYux8fD5nUO8Us3Ejp4KRetBzLR68OTdcEIsjdRvM9sBY_Ly8i0rpXKnRAe2xVZLCXvyqVje/s1600/blog_leather_denim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="251" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirbmYdez-OGKhAWJ5FgnKJOJR6ZaRtmlpZde0TXSz5iaPDBCcMdmQy3dqTn6eVOO2t8qT4TYux8fD5nUO8Us3Ejp4KRetBzLR68OTdcEIsjdRvM9sBY_Ly8i0rpXKnRAe2xVZLCXvyqVje/s320/blog_leather_denim.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Apply the softened beeswax to a small, cotton buffing attachment on your Dremel or to the extra piece of fabric. Buff the edge of your leather with wax, moving in the same direction as before. The leather will gain a burnished feel and appearance.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQ__oGHn-SPs_15-EXPdhUSikl9Yf-gmVneRppWgzsuDezqxXt4uuKpCOuyZgd4OSVYsECj69f9RlZCV9larjSS7B_itcA3owC3aD0vJ2t8qGxY7ZpTfTBgampaCG5v3vR608oga__R0F/s1600/blog_leather_dremel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="199" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwQ__oGHn-SPs_15-EXPdhUSikl9Yf-gmVneRppWgzsuDezqxXt4uuKpCOuyZgd4OSVYsECj69f9RlZCV9larjSS7B_itcA3owC3aD0vJ2t8qGxY7ZpTfTBgampaCG5v3vR608oga__R0F/s320/blog_leather_dremel.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Remove any extra wax from your piece with a soft cloth.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD90nTrcc0lX3i636K_wwRethDv1sz0z77bymLbMW8_nbO4lx6BFczpei1_falGcKDkRe7yhyphenhyphenvUbqVeQQJfgR_WZWYZSet4KQRmpMiblO8tq4EccUXCdFCYkqrCiI-35XqIepcdHnDk6Oj/s1600/blog_leather_finished_edge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjD90nTrcc0lX3i636K_wwRethDv1sz0z77bymLbMW8_nbO4lx6BFczpei1_falGcKDkRe7yhyphenhyphenvUbqVeQQJfgR_WZWYZSet4KQRmpMiblO8tq4EccUXCdFCYkqrCiI-35XqIepcdHnDk6Oj/s320/blog_leather_finished_edge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Smooth Finish</td></tr>
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*Please note the leather I work with is no greater than 5 mm in thickness.* indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-9587325820666376912012-07-19T17:49:00.000-04:002012-07-19T17:49:27.656-04:00Fear and Accepting FailureFear is a strange thing. It can keep us from doing what we enjoy. <br />
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Eight months ago I had an idea for a men's necklace. The inspiration struck, I excitedly drew it in my sketchbook, and there it stayed. Every time I flipped through the pages and saw the drawing, I loved it. But I was afraid to do anything more than look at it. I had the materials on hand. I also had the tools. My fear of failure was holding me back. I was afraid that my abilities were not good enough to produce the desired results. So I did not even try.<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"The greatest mistake a man can make is to be afraid of making one." </blockquote>
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- Elbert Hubbard, <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Elbert_Hubbard">Writer, Publisher, Artist, Philosopher</a></i></blockquote>
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I came to a realization a few weeks ago that if I made a mistake on this necklace, I could just start over. And I could make it better the next time. <br />
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Why did it take so long for this consciousness to sink in? Perhaps because of my strong desire to succeed. I am creating something personal, something by hand. My work is an extension of me and I want the best possible results. <br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Creativity is so delicate a flower that praise tends to make it bloom while discouragement often nips it at the bud. Creativity is not something we can turn on and off like a faucet. It is an experience and expression in our lives that must be nurtured. This nurturing process means that creativity is at once a skill, an art, and a life-style." </blockquote>
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
- Alex Osborn, <i><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alex_Osborn">Creativity Theorist</a></i></blockquote>
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To succeed as an artist, I must be willing to accept failure. It is a normal part of the process. <br />
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To successfully create I will:<br />
<ul>
<li>Be comfortable making mistakes.</li>
<li>Learn from these mistakes.</li>
<li>Ask myself how I can improve next time.</li>
<li>See how far I can take ideas; push the boundaries.</li>
<li>Never stop learning. </li>
<li>Always have fun. </li>
</ul>indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-725042725053300742012-07-10T11:29:00.000-04:002012-07-10T18:20:51.571-04:00Summer Read: The Night CircusI just finished reading "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern. Mysteries and fantasy are two of my favorite genres, making it easy for this story to draw me in.<br />
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Celia is raised by her father, Prospero the Enchanter. He is a magician. Not any magician who deceives an audience with sleight of hand tricks. He truly manipulates his physical surroundings, and his daughter has the same natural ability. He trains her to sharpen these skills. Prospero and his mysterious acquaintance, Alexander, commit Celia and Alexander's own student to a duel. Alexander chooses a child named Marco from an orphanage to compete with Prospero's daughter. Alexander uses his own, very different style of teaching. His methods incorporate the use of symbols, glyphs, and imitative magic for his student. <br />
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As they reach adulthood, Celia and Marco meet for the first time when both begin working at <i>Le Cirque des Rêves</i>, the Circus of Dreams. Celia is the illusionist and Marco is the assistant for the proprietor of the circus. They inevitably fall in love while also learning that <i>Le Cirque des Rêves</i> is the stage for the duel that was established many years ago. They are given no guidelines or instruction on the rules to this contest, but eventually learn that to be pronounced the winner is to be the last one standing. <br />
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The circus is the true star of the story. It conjures images of something out of a <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tim_Burton">Tim Burton</a> movie. The venue is open from dusk until dawn, with a multitude of black and white striped tents filling the area. Guests wander around captivated, deciding which tent to step inside. The entertainment is eerie and fantastic: contortionists, acrobats, a cloud maze, fortune tellers, a living carousel, human statues, an ice garden. Everything is blanketed in black and white. The author does an astounding job of immersing the reader in the circus. I could distinctly see it, smell it, and taste it. <i>Le Cirque des Rêves </i>is a fantastical place that I want to visit. <br />
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I was a little disappointed with the ending of the book. The way in which everything neatly wraps up. Something darker seems more appropriate. And perhaps I am a little sad to be back in the real world, away from the magic and mystery of this circus. <br />
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Although the story did not play out exactly as I hoped and some of my questions remain unanswered, I definitely recommend reading it. <br />
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After finishing "The Night Circus", I learned that a film is in development. I am excited to see how the director and cinematographer bring Erin Morgenstern's Circus of Dreams to life.<br />
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Notes: <br />
Two different perspectives on "The Night Circus" from <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/09/books/review/the-night-circus-by-erin-morgenstern-book-review.html">The New York Times</a> and <a href="http://www.washingtonindependentreviewofbooks.com/bookreview/the-night-circus/">The Washington Independent Review of Books.</a><br />
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CNN's <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2011/09/12/living/the-night-circus/index.html">interview with the author</a>. <br />
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This would make a fantastic theme for a party...possibly a Halloween party.<br />
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<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-84262506046142414522012-06-28T22:01:00.000-04:002012-06-28T22:07:47.111-04:00Hand Drawn Templates for Precious Metal Clay<span style="background-color: white;">If you are new to precious metal clay, read my earlier post </span><a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2012/03/what-is-precious-metal-clay.html" style="background-color: white;">here</a><span style="background-color: white;"> for an overview.</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Transferring hand drawn images to precious metal clay is a fun way to enhance creations. The process is quite similar to </span><a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2012/03/adding-texture-to-precious-metal-clay.html" style="background-color: white;">making texture templates</a><span style="background-color: white;"> but allows more personalization of the artists' work.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuWSjleIgGpBMzc2V5jg_WXy-yzZCjY_oL6g0F0NGasJwgUdU14d5_oobjtRqErb03Lz6l6m7M4o3kyVChOJeM85yJ2in6g3CTA6OGYush5uzRfL5tDpvwPLn8biHuu_QQ2NYTjgl_F9j2/s1600/mouse_bamboo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuWSjleIgGpBMzc2V5jg_WXy-yzZCjY_oL6g0F0NGasJwgUdU14d5_oobjtRqErb03Lz6l6m7M4o3kyVChOJeM85yJ2in6g3CTA6OGYush5uzRfL5tDpvwPLn8biHuu_QQ2NYTjgl_F9j2/s200/mouse_bamboo.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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The materials needed to make a hand drawn template are:<br />
<ul>
<li>two ounces of polymer clay</li>
<li>wooden stylus</li>
<li><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Colour-Shaper-Modeling-Tools-x-firm/dp/B0027IVNVI/ref=pd_sim_sbs_ac_7">clay shaper tool</a>, firm with tapered end</li>
<li>toaster oven *</li>
</ul>
* It is best to designate a small toaster oven exclusively for use with polymer clay projects. Do not use a traditional home oven. Polymer clay emits low-level fumes while heating. Though non-toxic, the fumes would be re-released when baking food.<br />
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<b>The Process </b><br />
<ol>
<li>Take 1/4 of the polymer clay and condition until flexible. A good tutorial for conditioning clay can be found <a href="http://www.jaedworks.com/clayspot/polyclay-faq/conditioning.html">here</a>.</li>
<li>Roll the clay out on a non-stick surface. 1/8 inch thickness is good to begin with.</li>
<li>Carefully draw your image onto the soft clay with a wooden stylus. Press lightly. As you add more, retrace the existing lines keeping the image depth even throughout. The shaper tool aids in "erasing" and smoothing edges. <i> My drawings average between 1 and 1.5 inches in height. This is large enough to add details. The final product on precious metal clay will be slightly smaller after firing the piece. </i></li>
<li>
If you are not happy with the results, fold the clay into a ball and start over from step 1.</li>
<li>When finished, place the drawn template onto a plain index card and bake in the preheated
toaster oven at 275 degrees Farenheit for 15 minutes. </li>
<li>Turn off the oven and allow the clay to remain inside while the device cools completely.</li>
</ol>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6RtWG_5JHTjelXJA8tzwtOdQh6KQKpw2zRN40OPSueqKPoHXpT1b7ka_sJNdIBlz4tFIX9IbPf_T6ywh0vhr7B-pcm1TAbiVSu19iCmd8HDN_nMj_yRKpQv_4SSkFyfciQhE4i1XnGbLt/s1600/blog_drawn_templates.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="203" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6RtWG_5JHTjelXJA8tzwtOdQh6KQKpw2zRN40OPSueqKPoHXpT1b7ka_sJNdIBlz4tFIX9IbPf_T6ywh0vhr7B-pcm1TAbiVSu19iCmd8HDN_nMj_yRKpQv_4SSkFyfciQhE4i1XnGbLt/s320/blog_drawn_templates.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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The drawn template is now ready to use. Practice on a softened piece of polymer clay. Spritz with distilled water before testing so that the clay will not stick. <br />
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Lightly apply a product such as Cool Slip or olive oil to precious metal clay prior to using the template.<br />
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<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-31900883866477068332012-06-21T17:05:00.000-04:002012-06-21T17:05:11.930-04:00Jewelry Design InspirationThe inspiration behind the jewelry I create emerges in several ways. A topic may spark an extensive drawing session. This leaves me with ideas to make immediately, or alternatively, can give me more to build on. Other concepts come about by playing with materials. This is my favorite way to create. Trying new and unexpected ideas with materials is fun. I gain knowledge by doing this and improve my skills, even if the attempts are not successful.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIvWyDUkVhe55VkSsLNLapT-IUN5dYhCfBRJvRqmphPYrc4DzKVhHefrHRkwrlqwtUZDtwDZd_MLOXQDtJaykXqRQ73HCT1Umt1BV9YZhfTsLOfxNGhI4vE8LMT4A5rZrKCjv1Fq042_Yr/s1600/divider_earrings_closeup2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIvWyDUkVhe55VkSsLNLapT-IUN5dYhCfBRJvRqmphPYrc4DzKVhHefrHRkwrlqwtUZDtwDZd_MLOXQDtJaykXqRQ73HCT1Umt1BV9YZhfTsLOfxNGhI4vE8LMT4A5rZrKCjv1Fq042_Yr/s320/divider_earrings_closeup2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">Let me dissect the design process behind this pair of earrings I recently finished. The inspiration came from one of my tools. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZqMfkaZA-IX0ydlZTdINe5AD4LZCh1tbu_0Dfq7r_w9D90znzRuqFdnSbgclPKW1Z5gztUHHUiZfmI-Y1AZ-JKP0oEls9niu3aijASqh1sbds-LdvKPS9OlHmsrH3M2M08wYLeW2fOKx/s1600/blog_dividers_whole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAZqMfkaZA-IX0ydlZTdINe5AD4LZCh1tbu_0Dfq7r_w9D90znzRuqFdnSbgclPKW1Z5gztUHHUiZfmI-Y1AZ-JKP0oEls9niu3aijASqh1sbds-LdvKPS9OlHmsrH3M2M08wYLeW2fOKx/s320/blog_dividers_whole.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I love the style of these dividers. I bought the tool new, but it feels like an item that could have been used 60 years ago. They appear sturdy and industrial. I like the angles of the legs. As a fan of texture, I appreciate the bumpiness of the buttons and handle. Everything about them is very functional.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-wcS9eWVap2cZVHjgYEIm-KfD2TSRa4IJmAdurf6lzInBUSGYbRYrYWD1Zb_mTsqkopDOkXRdyx7L_GV9w79RGvxPyDzGWAFjvcoiHhbfv82B92vTSZjGeNHLgz_lukosT0htk5AphW2w/s1600/blog_divider_earring_sketch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-wcS9eWVap2cZVHjgYEIm-KfD2TSRa4IJmAdurf6lzInBUSGYbRYrYWD1Zb_mTsqkopDOkXRdyx7L_GV9w79RGvxPyDzGWAFjvcoiHhbfv82B92vTSZjGeNHLgz_lukosT0htk5AphW2w/s320/blog_divider_earring_sketch.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Considerable amounts of thought and sketching brought about this creation. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkkr5NlV79KcyjiSMCcZPMAFewL2inUfMK_NiCygM9uSqO8cHbUpBghSodjuqloHm-Rvi1AbmtjJxj7EpAVyXkJ7_WgWNkYiGLxsyIuwBKrVE5OSO_vdG8vTUMa77keb8ynf1yyhqKNi0u/s1600/blog_dividers_ball.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkkr5NlV79KcyjiSMCcZPMAFewL2inUfMK_NiCygM9uSqO8cHbUpBghSodjuqloHm-Rvi1AbmtjJxj7EpAVyXkJ7_WgWNkYiGLxsyIuwBKrVE5OSO_vdG8vTUMa77keb8ynf1yyhqKNi0u/s320/blog_dividers_ball.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">I created two buttons from </span><a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2012/03/what-is-precious-metal-clay.html" style="background-color: white;">precious metal clay</a><span style="background-color: white;"> and added </span><a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2012/03/adding-texture-to-precious-metal-clay.html" style="background-color: white;">texture</a><span style="background-color: white;"> to the sides. Next, I balled the end of sterling silver wire to represent the knob from the dividers. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqLYJM31mx4R8GqsxJ6Fl68bi6EpSkascUFvQ5CTDbCMgF7YOR_xmRJnejEIdwTK7yNjZI-04u8yYonx1H4Exib_F9c4rn_y_ld0ppN0j5jmjvs7xfoQJ7XxyEgfsU9RTRtNN-71C46Eq-/s1600/divider_earrings3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="168" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqLYJM31mx4R8GqsxJ6Fl68bi6EpSkascUFvQ5CTDbCMgF7YOR_xmRJnejEIdwTK7yNjZI-04u8yYonx1H4Exib_F9c4rn_y_ld0ppN0j5jmjvs7xfoQJ7XxyEgfsU9RTRtNN-71C46Eq-/s320/divider_earrings3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">The vintage copper bead corresponds to the thickness along side the divider's button. I liked the appearance of the copper </span><i style="background-color: white;">under</i><span style="background-color: white;"> rather than</span><i style="background-color: white;"> over</i><span style="background-color: white;"> the button in my design.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiFASLGrZZL66PUZ4os5opQL3creH4jtpm9BFbTW6DJbPQIbTcpHyOB3HD2WmjAj6F_JBm-1T0eozKOP7qTHUw64f53aC7BA_OJVvfI_jO7Wx44tA52qXEEQcarKM0crNgb0KlU6tgzaa6/s1600/blog_dividers_triangle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiFASLGrZZL66PUZ4os5opQL3creH4jtpm9BFbTW6DJbPQIbTcpHyOB3HD2WmjAj6F_JBm-1T0eozKOP7qTHUw64f53aC7BA_OJVvfI_jO7Wx44tA52qXEEQcarKM0crNgb0KlU6tgzaa6/s320/blog_dividers_triangle.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">The flared triangle earring shape symbolizes the legs of the divider. It is cut from sterling silver sheet.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB7ISmMst5YhmOorCmlpTBf_4ymC4hpQLF_Ap7UCU-l47492TLLqZY8NPBAxlkdgL4P6C_be-1JknBgS6UqcRE_6_Twi6qqFTDnce4DwJFzg79ApVr1kMWxJNXblKkFd0LZvBNpT96QWm2/s1600/blog_x_stamp.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB7ISmMst5YhmOorCmlpTBf_4ymC4hpQLF_Ap7UCU-l47492TLLqZY8NPBAxlkdgL4P6C_be-1JknBgS6UqcRE_6_Twi6qqFTDnce4DwJFzg79ApVr1kMWxJNXblKkFd0LZvBNpT96QWm2/s320/blog_x_stamp.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;"><br /></span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"><span style="color: black;">I wanted to cover the piece with texture. Hammering steel letters from</span> </span><a href="http://www.harborfreight.com/36-piece-1-8-eighth-inch-steel-letter-number-stamping-set-800.html" style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">a stamping set</a><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;"> </span><span style="background-color: white; text-align: center;">onto the silver would give the desired effect. Did I want straight lines or an X shape? Practicing on a small piece of copper first (much more affordable than sterling silver) allowed me to see which pattern I preferred. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnyUiGT9SBJPOiOk3V7P8CvMhROQQsGW_gS7OHocctdGU0cXO5fbR6wTr6XmfaBm9HOXUf10ZTcoF_Ttm1h0z6F5lSylof9NkkANWNVhzA7K2ygqjWu6OBeVBq9jXDCLSoZdFq_Xp2c-Z4/s1600/blog_copper_stamping.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="264" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnyUiGT9SBJPOiOk3V7P8CvMhROQQsGW_gS7OHocctdGU0cXO5fbR6wTr6XmfaBm9HOXUf10ZTcoF_Ttm1h0z6F5lSylof9NkkANWNVhzA7K2ygqjWu6OBeVBq9jXDCLSoZdFq_Xp2c-Z4/s320/blog_copper_stamping.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Two holes were drilled into the triangle for attaching the balled wire and an earwire. </span><span style="background-color: white;">I hammered one end of each wire to flatten and appear more durable. Rounding the hammered ends slightly with a file provides a finished look. The wires were given loops and added to the triangle. I squeezed them and gave a slight flare; functional because it prevents the wires from slipping off and it looks nice. The earwire was formed by shaping around a pen.</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYRtopjfAy8pBiN7A71AnByv8t2NTxwz3d8wpAgq4Hn_Z439ZSVeOAx04uoeN2w3B6qxPLS0mOySR4qg4PDpeqj0esthyTVA_r9XOZ5yhudjRR0C3T_ZuY5js2yV_1RyqtZyufU4CyCrAi/s1600/divider_earrings_side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYRtopjfAy8pBiN7A71AnByv8t2NTxwz3d8wpAgq4Hn_Z439ZSVeOAx04uoeN2w3B6qxPLS0mOySR4qg4PDpeqj0esthyTVA_r9XOZ5yhudjRR0C3T_ZuY5js2yV_1RyqtZyufU4CyCrAi/s320/divider_earrings_side.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;">The entire piece was given a patina. I love the results on metal. Tiny details and imperfections stand out to give the jewelry more character.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_QVjNvpgpcwRWiqF8lCgxPAhj02oc7aTSZo8KpdJM3rY9zYfVf06tnpb6Djeq9o1KAgvWqxbMlUr4G9jh2LQsmIk0D2wpXm0xaY_KaGswmwG-Uw-HcMFxNIki4Fw6by6K3tete7jQ_wGx/s1600/divider_earrings_basket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="294" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_QVjNvpgpcwRWiqF8lCgxPAhj02oc7aTSZo8KpdJM3rY9zYfVf06tnpb6Djeq9o1KAgvWqxbMlUr4G9jh2LQsmIk0D2wpXm0xaY_KaGswmwG-Uw-HcMFxNIki4Fw6by6K3tete7jQ_wGx/s320/divider_earrings_basket.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">Where do you find inspiration? Share your ideas and methods!</span>indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-63481519288976250552012-05-31T23:35:00.000-04:002012-05-31T23:35:15.132-04:00CollaboratingA great way to connect with others in the Etsy community is by joining teams. I recently became a member of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/teams/12039/artists-helping-hands">Artists Helping Hands</a>. The team captain, <a href="https://www.etsy.com/people/BlackAntBeads">Elise</a>, envisioned a group of compassionate artists uniting to help those in need through creativity. Each month, an organization is chosen by the team to benefit from the members' efforts. Handmade items are donated to the cause. Collaborative projects are made and auctioned; the proceeds given to that month's charity. Artists Helping Hands is a new venture and has completed its first project with Genesis Women's Shelter in Dallas, Texas. The inaugural undertaking is outlined <a href="http://2horseweaving.blogspot.com/2012/05/artists-helping-hands.html">here by Trey of 2 Horse Weaving</a>. <br />
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The second project for Artists Helping Hands is donating handmade beads to <a href="http://www.beadsofcourage.org/pages/beadsofcourage.htm">The Beads of Courage Program</a>. Our team captain also requested beads for collaborative necklaces
that are being created for auction. I am honored to be one of several team members who is assembling necklaces. All proceeds from the public sale will benefit this wonderful program. The color theme is a happy
combination of blue, pink, and purple, designed by many loving hands for this specific purpose. I cannot wait to see how it all blends together.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDvnOaPD7SiBt0-MkYPHBQXtVmpjW7z9Rent2hf6EuRrs6h3534xJ1fcvBG3nyLuYTuOWw_Ep4vnjQy0XGGLrkq1okZkTG4knmI_mr8Vn9QTP8PzuDbqQ30rTS_UsOVKpMpI0GgHhdlzJO/s1600/blog_collaborating.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDvnOaPD7SiBt0-MkYPHBQXtVmpjW7z9Rent2hf6EuRrs6h3534xJ1fcvBG3nyLuYTuOWw_Ep4vnjQy0XGGLrkq1okZkTG4knmI_mr8Vn9QTP8PzuDbqQ30rTS_UsOVKpMpI0GgHhdlzJO/s200/blog_collaborating.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Collaborative Necklace Donations</td></tr>
</tbody></table>indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-75571342487845340732012-05-23T07:54:00.000-04:002012-05-23T10:29:59.468-04:00Little Ways to Make A Small Business More Socially Responsible<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">Reuse</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Boxes and packaging that are in good condition can be reused. Remove any previous labels and color over extra markings with a heavy black marker before shipping.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Save your scraps! Can they be upcycled or donated? </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Increase Efficiency</span></b></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Combine tasks such as picking up supplies, meeting with clients, and shipping packages into one trip to reduce the amount of driving. Make errands more environmentally friendly (and fun) by walking or biking if possible.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Support</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Do you believe in shopping locally? Buy supplies from nearby stores. Prefer giving your support to other small businesses owners? Research independent suppliers for your business needs.<b> </b>Do any companies share a common belief or endorse causes that are important to you? Purchase from them. (I like ordering from <a href="http://www.riogrande.com/landingpage.aspx?n=poweredbythesun">Rio Grande Jewelry Making Supplies</a><b> </b>because of their approach to renewable energy and great customer service.)</span></div>
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<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Mentor</span></b></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Serving as a teacher or guide to another person is rewarding for both parties. If the business is very small, and without extra funds, working with a high school or college student as an intern could be a good choice. You will streamline your process. The trainee will benefit from your business knowledge and particular areas of expertise. Positive support from an adult role model makes a huge impact on young lives.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<div style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Volunteer</span></b></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">Give your time outside of work to a cause that you believe in. Not only will it make you feel good, you will gain new skills. Skills that could be applied to your small business. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Spread the Wealth</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Donate a portion of your sales to a favorite charity. Do what you can. Even if it is a small percentage, you are making a difference. If the funds are too tight, spread the word. Tell others about the organizations that you want to support. Serve as a humanitarian. Be an </span><span style="font-size: small;">example through your actions</span><span style="font-size: small;">.<b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Get inspired. Take a look at <a href="http://mashable.com/2012/05/06/world-at-work-6/">5 socially conscious startups</a>. </span></blockquote>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b> </span></span><b><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></b> </span></span></span><br />
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<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1807986202673866324.post-69626691073527985282012-05-01T15:22:00.000-04:002012-05-01T16:07:09.078-04:00Authenticity Part 2: The Handmade Movement<a href="http://indyspireart.blogspot.com/2012/04/authenticity-part-1.html">Last week's thoughts on Authenticity</a>
motivated me to do more research. I began to ask myself questions: When exactly did the Handmade / DIY Movement begin? What started it? Is
it as big as I perceive it to be? <br />
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The Do-It-Yourself mentality has been going strong for some time. <a href="http://www.nbm.org/exhibitions-collections/exhibitions/diy.html">This article from the National Building Museum</a> illustrates how both the surge in home ownership between 1890 and 1930, and a
multitude of new products with step-by-step instructions in the 1950s
and 1960s, transformed hobbyists into handymen and handywomen. Amidst the enthusiasm of DIY Home Improvement, <i>This Old House</i> was first broadcast in 1979. It's popularity continues today.<br />
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<i>This Old House</i> is a favorite show of mine. Watching the team progress through the home remodel is fascinating. The crew completes each step thoroughly. No mediocrity here. Everything is built to last. Local craftsmen are commissioned to fashion ironwork for balconies, repane original windows, and replace vintage trim with historically accurate pieces. This teamwork keeps the house authentic.<br />
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I return again to authenticity and our desire for it as consumers. We do not want the same exact thing as everyone else. We do not want all of our purchases to be manufactured in China. We do not want cheaply made. We do not want unsafe. We do not want pesticides in our vegetables and meat that is burdened with antibiotics. Fortunately, these opinions are prevalent. We are doing something about it. We are getting smarter about purchases. We are growing our own food and supporting CSAs. We are making. We are recycling. We are upcycling. We are crafting. <br />
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Our search for the genuine, unique, or quirky has been made much more accessible by the internet. Online marketplaces such as <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> allow the buyer not only to purchase handmade and vintage items, but also to communicate with the creator / seller. Artists have the opportunity through Etsy for their work to be put in front of a global audience, to make a living without the necessity of a brick and mortar shop. Artisans are taking their own passion for authenticity, individuality, and durability, and becoming <a href="http://news.change.org/stories/what-does-the-handmade-movement-say-about-social-entrepreneurship">social entrepreneurs</a>. <br />
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I may not be an expert yet like <a href="http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/biography/0,,420027,00.html">Norm Abram</a> on <i>This Old House</i>, but I am learning. I am acquiring many new skills along the way. I am making. If something that I create with my own hands is liked enough that a person wanted to give it as a token of friendship, love, or appreciation, that is all I need to feel rewarded.<br />
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<br />indyspire arthttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03234420352532442415noreply@blogger.com0