new chain just in!

Just got a huge order of chains in the shop-some old favorites like the leaf chain (now in all finishes) and some new, large link chains for extenders and linking projects.

We'll have them all on the website soon, but for now, here's a little teaser!

New stuff just arrived!

We just opened the boxes of lots of "new" vintage lucite, brass stampings and findings!

We're stranding fast & furious and have all the stock out for your beading enjoyment. I'll post some more samples as we finish them (I made a new lucite necklace last night...now I want matching earrings!)

Happy Tuesday!

while I've been away...

Ok, that title sounds like the beginnings of a bad country song, but I have been away...at least from blogging.

I do have reasons, although, I realize there really is no excuse for not posting in such a long time, but I promise to make it up to all of you.

First, here is a picture of one of the things I have been working on during my "absence":

These are new samples for the color on metal workshop to be held this fall...I have lots more samples to share, and I promise to get caught up soon ( I don't really need sleep). We'll also have a new workshop series on making a business with your arts & crafts. Topics for the first few are, making money with your craft, picture taking tips for crafters, and retail & wholesale marketing strategies. Check out the website and this here blog for more info in the next few weeks.

UFOs spotted!

Yup, lots of UFOs have been spotted and they will be here tonight! Join us from 4ish until whenever we call it a day for our Un-Finished Object Night at echo artworks! We'll supply the food, tables, chairs, tools and design assistance all you need to bring are those pesky projects that just aren't getting done. Come early (we ran out of chairs last time!) and settle in for a night of fun and more important, finished projects!!! Beth will also show and tell the new Copper Metal Clay and preview some new workshops for summer and fall. See you tonight!

School's Out for summer...

School is coming to a close for many children & adults alike. Graduations are plentiful and many of us are wondering if it is too late for summer plans...I think not!

We have just updated our workshop schedule online and are looking for a few good men (& women) to teach workshops. Do you have a skill or talent that is unrealized? Have something to share, but nowhere to teach? Come teach here!!!!

Your workshop does not need to be bead related (although we'd love that too). Anything that you think others might be interested in learning about is fair game. Digital photography-absolutely (I still don't know how to use my camera to its full potential). Encaustic painting-yes, please! Polymer clay, fabric & fiber, writing, drawing, silk painting, knitting-the sky is the limit! We will have workshop proposals here at the shop outlining what tools & supplies are needed, space considerations, class size and payment info. Talk to Beth anytime with questions about your proposal.

We'll also be rolling out some new drop in workshops for summer on the business of design, pricing your work and beyond basic jewelry design. Look for the first meeting of a new metal clay chapter too.

Thanks for all creativity you share with us and let us share with you!

lazy days

Summer is officially here. Lazy days, cool nights and lots of iced tea.

Well, I have been lazy long enough! I am woerfully behind in making samples and the book...I think I've only written about 2 pages and taken 3 pictures so far...can we say procrastination?!?

So here it is, the clean, clear workspace. The only problem is that I work very poorly in a vacuum. I NEED YOUR HELP!!!

Come, work at the table with me...bring friends! I'll bring the iced tea.