tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-91488779728421374432024-03-13T10:51:28.210-07:00ASTERrisk*Footnotes from a HandcrafterAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.comBlogger29125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-65695287485423108862015-02-09T13:14:00.000-08:002015-02-09T13:17:25.167-08:00I Am An Everyday Abolitionist, are YOU?<div class="MsoNormal">
I have invited a friend of mine, Melissa Watson, to write a guest post for me this week. She works for Free The Girls, an organization that works hard at a very worthwhile cause: helping those who have been rescued from human trafficking to get back on their feet, with the resources to develop the skills they need to move forward with a healthy and fulfilling life.</div>
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<i>By Melissa Watson, National Director, <a href="http://freethegirls.org/" target="_blank">Free The Girls</a></i><o:p></o:p></div>
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Five years ago, I would have never thought of myself as an
abolitionist. In my mind, slavery ended in
the United States in 1865 and, along with it, went the abolitionist movement. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Enter <a href="http://freethegirls.org/" target="_blank">Free The Girls</a> with their cheeky name and catchy
slogan, “Donate a Bra. Give a Former Slave a Job.”<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://freethegirls.org/" target="_blank">Free The Girls</a> is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that
provides job opportunities to survivors of sex trafficking in developing
countries by helping them establish their own businesses selling bras in the
second-hand clothing markets. And, through the collection of bras in Western
countries, Free The Girls inspires people and organizations to get involved in
the fight against modern day slavery.<o:p></o:p></div>
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What’s the problem?<o:p></o:p></div>
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Currently over 27 million men, women and children are being
held as slaves around the world—more today than in any other time in history.
The majority of those slaves are women and girls—many of whom are victims of
sex trafficking. <o:p></o:p></div>
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There are a number of amazing organizations that are helping
to rescue these women out of a life of prostitution, but what happens after
they are rescued? <a href="http://freethegirls.org/" target="_blank">Free The Girls</a> partners with established aftercare facilities
to help provide job opportunities to survivors of sex trafficking selling bras.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Bras? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Yes, bras. Every woman has a small graveyard of bras in the
back of her underwear drawer—bras that she doesn’t wear anymore or that never
fit right in the first place. By contrast, second-hand clothing is a profitable
market in many countries around the world. Bras are sought after items. And
even better, bras provide an opportunity for the women in our program to
establish their own businesses, to have flexible hours so they can return to
school and care for their families and, most of all, to work with other women—a
contrast to their former lives where they were being abused and used by men.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>How You Can Help</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Start by donating those bras lingering in the back of your
lingerie drawer to <a href="http://freethegirls.org/" target="_blank">Free The Girls</a>. Then, encourage your friends to do the same.
Give up your favorite vice once a week—the double soy latte, the drive-thru
dinner, or the second glass of wine during happy hour—and, at the end of the
month, total up your savings and sign up to be a monthly donor to support <a href="http://freethegirls.org/" target="_blank">Free The Girls</a> job creation program. In short, resolve to be an Everyday Abolitionist.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>What does it mean to be an Everyday Abolitionist? </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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If you are like most people, you might think that the only
way to make a difference is to “go big or go home.” <a href="http://freethegirls.org/" target="_blank">Free The Girls</a> knows that
real life doesn’t work that way. Becoming an Everyday Abolitionist is simple,
and it doesn’t require you give up all your spare time or make an
endowment-worthy donation. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Everyday Abolitionists take a stand against modern day
slavery in their everyday lives. They take advantage of opportunities like
donating bras they never wear. They write a note to a survivor of sex
trafficking. They buy a sweet <a href="http://freethegirls.org/shop/product-category/apparel/" target="_blank">Free The Girls t-shirt</a>. They use social media to
encourage their friends and family to take a stand, too.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Everyday Abolitionists are conscious consumers and purchase
fair-trade, slave-free clothing, food, and consumer products whenever
possible. Some Everyday Abolitionists
shop at e-retailers like <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/asterrisk?section_id=14135770&ref=shopsection_leftnav_1" target="_blank">ASTERrisk</a> who donates the proceeds from the sale of
her exclusive, handmade <a href="http://freethegirls.org/" target="_blank">Free The Girls </a>branded jewelry. Other Everyday Abolitionists hold garage sales and donate the proceeds. Many Everyday Abolitionists invite their friends to start a book club that selects books
about human trafficking. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Everyday Abolitionists ask thoughtful, discreet questions to
people they encounter in the service industry (such as manicurists,
housekeepers, day laborers, or restaurant kitchen staff) to determine whether that
person is being forced to work in return for room and board. They write to
their lawmakers demanding laws which impose tougher penalties for pimps, johns,
and unscrupulous employers; which de-criminalize and expunge records of those arrested
for prostitution and illegal immigration; and which fund services directed at
the rescue and rehabilitation of victims of human trafficking.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>Small, simple steps leading to real, tangible results. </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Everyday Abolitionists don’t sacrifice their own identity
for the cause, they make the cause part of their identity in small, meaningful
ways every day.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Ready to join us? Learn more at <a href="http://freethegirls.org/">freethegirls.org</a><o:p></o:p></div>
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Report suspected human trafficking violations to the
National Hotline at 888-373-7888 or text the word INFO to 233733.<o:p></o:p></div>
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It's me, Alisa, again! Thanks for reading. I believe that turning outside of ourselves to help others is one of the greatest traits we can develop. Consider supporting <a href="http://freethegirls.org/" target="_blank">Free The Girls</a>, and while you're there you can see my cutie-patootie daughter Hailey! Try to imagine her or any girl or woman you love caught up in human trafficking. It's unthinkable.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-12459451530042937832015-01-30T14:18:00.000-08:002015-01-30T14:18:39.770-08:00The Widow's MiteSeveral years ago my husband and I took a trip to Rome, Italy, and made a side trip to Pompeii. I am fascinated with ancientness, and there are so many ancient places I would love to go! I'd love to tour castles in Ireland and Scotland; see the pyramids of both Egypt and Mexico; go to China to see the Terracotta Army and The Great Wall, just to name a few.<br />
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I have refrained from writing a history lesson. You're welcome.<br />
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I randomly came across an ancient Roman coin once, and it prompted me to look into using ancient coins in jewelry. I've made a few things over the years, and have really enjoyed shopping for coins that are interesting and meaningful to me. I've made a necklace from a coin that I've hung onto for a while because I couldn't decide if I wanted to give it up or not. I'm sure I'll buy another one at some point, because I just love it! It's not the most beautiful or rare coin, but I love it because it has significance. It's a lepton, sometimes known as the widow's mite. It's significance comes from a Bible story you can find in <a href="https://www.lds.org/scriptures/nt/mark/12.41-44?lang=eng#40" target="_blank">Mark 12:41-44</a>.<br />
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You can read it if you like. I have also refrained from writing a Sunday School lesson. :)</div>
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If you aren't religious, it's a touching example of unselfishness, and of sacrificing to support that which one finds to be support-worthy. And if you are religious, it's a poignant example of faith.</div>
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Click on the pictures to see the listing for this necklace in my shop.</div>
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<a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/220709650/necklace-widows-mite-ancient-roman-coin?" target="_blank"><span id="goog_839580611"></span><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ibg_ILy5f8k/VMvzGCzJhBI/AAAAAAAAE0U/BCpGay24f-U/s1600/Widow's%2BMite.JPG" height="320" width="319" /></a><span id="goog_839580612"></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-72555665127338428082013-06-27T12:07:00.000-07:002013-06-27T12:10:42.246-07:00Are Diamonds Really a Girl's Best Friend?What would you say if I told you there was a gemstone that was proven to be more beautiful than diamonds? You'd probably say, "Why, that is not possible! Ones estimation of beauty cannot be proven to be more or less correct than the varying opinions of others! It is unaccountable!" (Because in my head you speak like a character in a Jane Austen novel.) And you would be right. Sort of.<br />
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While it's true that opinions of beauty vastly vary from person to person, there are scientific measurements for things like brilliance (refractive index), fire (dispersion), and luster index. If that data defines beauty, then there is a stone more beautiful, as well as being almost as hard, and a fraction of the cost of diamonds.<br />
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Does that excite you as much as it does me?! I doubt it, but we can compare scientifically if you'd like. What's your heart rate, temperature, pupil size, etc?<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LrzDfU6WEAM/UcxtzEtTKxI/AAAAAAAAD4A/Wsxs7l8AFCg/s228/moissanite.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LrzDfU6WEAM/UcxtzEtTKxI/AAAAAAAAD4A/Wsxs7l8AFCg/s228/moissanite.jpg" /></a></div>
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This stone is called moissanite, named after Dr. Henri Moissan, who discovered it in 1893. Hang in there, this is kind of interesting. He was studying a crater created by a meteorite that hit the earth thousands of years ago, when he found small traces of an unknown mineral.... Unknown because it's from outer space! It is made of silicon and carbon, both of which are found on Earth, but the combination of the two doesn't naturally occur here.</div>
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Obviously, natural moissanite is very rare. Only traces of it have been found, certainly not enough to be used in jewelry. But some brilliant scientists came up with a method for creating it in a lab. They produced it because it's physical and electronic properties make it the foremost semiconductor material for.... some things I know nothing about, and in the interest of staying on topic, I'm going to move on. In 1995 a master diamond cutter suggested that if it were cut it would make a beautiful jewel. He was right!</div>
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Moissanite can be compared to, and in fact surpasses diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds in brilliance, fire, and luster, and is only slightly below diamonds in hardness.</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yKibctF0FiQ/UcyCwFj3SjI/AAAAAAAAD4Q/INGcPmDRXmI/s1600/001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yKibctF0FiQ/UcyCwFj3SjI/AAAAAAAAD4Q/INGcPmDRXmI/s640/001.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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But wait, there's more! Moissanite is considerably less expensive than diamonds. I'm talking in the $100's rather than in the $1000's. That's a smokin' deal for a stone that is proven to be more beautiful, right?<br />
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Are you sold yet? What do you think, should I make some moissanite jewelry?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-48368883416465537242013-04-03T16:43:00.000-07:002013-04-03T16:43:54.517-07:00Stamp Your Way Into Her HeartAre you a mom? Do you have a mom? Do you know a mom? Then you might have started thinking about Mother's Day. It's a little ways off still (May 12), but I've started brainstorming about what kind of mother's jewelry I want to make.<div>
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I made a "Secret Message" ring, that can have almost countless variations.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5nUREo0nAQ/UVy3HfTjlGI/AAAAAAAADuo/3BeDr54SdJs/s1600/Secret+Message+Heart+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z5nUREo0nAQ/UVy3HfTjlGI/AAAAAAAADuo/3BeDr54SdJs/s320/Secret+Message+Heart+2.JPG" width="318" /></a></div>
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As you can see, the outside is very simple. It could be a plain band, or an initial, or any of 100's of design stamps that are available, and the inside has the secret message; which could also be anything that fits on the ring.</div>
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I made some of these rings for a boutique I am going to be at, so I made them in a one-size-fits-all cuff style. It could just as easily be made into a full ring though.</div>
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I also came up with this mother's necklace. Another simple piece (I'm kind of leaning towards more minimalistic styles lately. Just cuz.) that allows for 1,2,3, or 4 birthstone beads.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xQP4vxvI1Gg/UVy5EveDxLI/AAAAAAAADuw/WRvqcmePaZo/s1600/Mom+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="318" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xQP4vxvI1Gg/UVy5EveDxLI/AAAAAAAADuw/WRvqcmePaZo/s320/Mom+3.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This one could also be easily customized. It could have a heart instead of the word "mom," or a name, or whatever. The beads could also just be decorative instead of birthstones. I just had a thought... A star with a red, a white, and a blue bead. Patriotic, right?</div>
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Endless possibilities! That's what I love so much about making jewelry. Especially when it's hand stamped, because it can have personalized meaning. I recently became a distributor of ImpressArt Metal Stamps. They have such a huge variety of design stamps, and alphabet fonts - I'm really having fun with them! You can check out some of the stamps <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/shops/storefront/index.html?ie=UTF8&marketplaceID=ATVPDKIKX0DER&sellerID=A9Q62TK8021U9" target="_blank">here</a> if you're interested. (I've just set this up, so I'll be adding lots more in the coming weeks!) Even if you've never done any stamping, jewelry like this ring and necklace are so easy and fun to make! Think of the fun you'll have whipping out Mother's Day gifts, birthday gifts, YOU gifts! :)</div>
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Mother's Day is in just over a month. Better get started!</div>
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<span style="color: #c00000; font-family: "Worstveld Sling"; font-size: 36.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Alisa<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-84737670883384364032013-03-22T00:06:00.000-07:002013-03-22T00:06:03.179-07:00Friday FindsAre you an April Fooler or an April Foolee? Well, it's coming up soon, and you'd better get prepared if you want to fool more than you want to be fooled! I found an imaginative list of pranks <a href="http://guyism.com/humor/april-fools-day-pranks-jokes-gags-tricks.html" target="_blank">here</a> if you'd like to peruse through them to get your prank juice flowing.<br />
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I also found some fun ideas from the handmade arena. This one made me smile... <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/67234100/boyfriend-in-a-bottle-tm-ships-in-2-3?ref=usr_faveitems" target="_blank">A Boyfriend in a Bottle</a> at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/shopSparklyPony?ref=seller_info_count" target="_blank">Sparkly Pony</a> on Etsy. Hmmmm, not a bad idea.<br />
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And a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/126958789/black-3-d-plastic-mustache-pacifier?ref=shop_home_feat" target="_blank">baby with a mustache</a>! This baby is cute no matter what it has on its face. :) You can find your mustache at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/WeeHilarity?ref=seller_info_count" target="_blank">Wee Hilarity</a>.<br />
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For this, I have only one word. <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/85068071/silly-funny-gag-gift-loo-lites-parody?ref=usr_faveitems" target="_blank">Gross</a>. But, gross and April Fool's Day go hand in hand, right? Find these matchboxes and other fun gag gifts at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/dippylulu?ref=seller_info_count" target="_blank">Dippy Lulu</a>.<br />
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And of course, I found a plethora of fake spills; from <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/78402333/fake-spilled-milk-in-a-peter-rabbit?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">baby bottles</a> and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/95788935/ice-cream-sandwich-melting-vanilla-fake?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">melted ice cream</a> to <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/62239877/fake-spilled-burgundy-red-nail-polish?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">fingernail polish</a> and <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/78764889/fake-puddle-beige-paint-on-a-paintbrush?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">paint</a>. I even found a <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/119895478/halloween-mad-scientist-lab-prop-plastic?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">vial of fake spilled blood</a>. I chose the picture of <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/71187908/spilled-can-diet-cola-pop-drink-fake?ref=shop_home_active" target="_blank">spilled Diet Coke</a>, because that would be totally believable anywhere in my vicinity. You can find all this and more at <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/FakeFoodDecor?section_id=6115849&page=1" target="_blank">Fake Food Decor</a>.<br />
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Do you have any favorite April Fool's Day pranks? Comment and let us know!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-71841675956188080492013-02-22T13:08:00.000-08:002013-02-22T19:01:46.399-08:00Beautiful Bullets<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span id="goog_72167080"></span><span id="goog_72167081"></span>This is not a political blog. But there are some things I just have an opinion on, and this opinion happens to lend itself well to jewelry. :)</div>
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Gun control. This idea scares me. Even if you don't own a gun, and have no desire to ever own a gun, and even if you're afraid of guns; this idea should scare you. Self defense, hunting, and target shooting aside, this is a human right we are talking about - a right specifically outlined in the constitution! Allowing the government to take away any of our rights is so out of our American Character, that I find it appalling that it's even being considered. The governmental snowball is rolling, and if we don't stop it, it will become an avalanche. </div>
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I watched a video recently where a man was talking about Congressman Giffords being shot at a supermarket during a rally. He said that nearby people stopped the attack using a ball point pen when the shooter stopped to reload. I am proud of them for stepping up and using whatever means necessary to protect themselves, their leaders, and their friends and neighbors. But... If I'm ever in a situation where I, my family, my home, or other innocent people are being threatened, I don't want to stand there and wait until the shooter has emptied his gun, while I hope no one gets hurt. And I'd prefer to have a gun over a ball point pen. And if others would prefer to stand there and hope they don't die, then that's just fine, but don't take my right to protect me and mine away. </div>
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I don't carry a gun, actually, but my husband does. He has hunted all of his life, and he knows how to safely handle a gun to protect himself and others from accidental harm. That's key, I think. I'm scared to see the general public waving guns around willy-nilly! My husband recently bought a new gun, and some of the other customers buying guns obviously had no idea how to use one. Maybe people should have to take a gun safety class when they buy their first gun, I don't think that's unreasonable. </div>
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Anyway, that went on much longer than I thought it would! You're probably wondering how this has anything to jewelry...</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TrashAndTrinkets?ref=pr_faveshops" target="_blank"><span id="goog_72167052"></span><span id="goog_72167057"></span><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jZtCaw_sTGk/USfPSdK9rkI/AAAAAAAADqs/Q2sdwuWAFYM/s320/2013-02-201.jpg" width="320" /></a><span id="goog_72167058"></span><span id="goog_72167053"></span></div>
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I think these are awesome! You can find them in an Etsy shop called <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TrashAndTrinkets?ref=seller_info_count" target="_blank">Trash and Trinkets</a>. She has recycled, upcycled, repurposed and uppurposed (if that's not a word now, it soon will be) used shell casings from different sized bullets. She uses silver, brass, and copper embellishments and lots of different colored stones or crystals to make each one unique.</div>
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I had to try to make one myself! I looked online for some pretty embellishments... for about 10 minutes, then I got too impatient and just made one with things I had on hand. :) Mine is not as pretty as hers, but it satisfied my itch to make one, and I kind of like it. I want to be clear, though, that I won't sell these; it's obviously not my design. But I'm happy to send you to <span id="goog_72167060"></span><span id="goog_72167065"></span><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TrashAndTrinkets?ref=pr_faveshops" target="_blank">Trash and Trinkets</a><span id="goog_72167066"></span><span id="goog_72167061"></span> to buy one of your own!<span id="goog_72167062"></span><span id="goog_72167063"></span><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hWa1ELtkF5Y/USfTcHtI-4I/AAAAAAAADq0/S8NmqMoaF0g/s1600/bullet+key+chain.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hWa1ELtkF5Y/USfTcHtI-4I/AAAAAAAADq0/S8NmqMoaF0g/s320/bullet+key+chain.JPG" width="318" /></a></div>
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I do have a <span id="goog_72167075"></span><span id="goog_72167084"></span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/56841248/tie-tack-lapel-pin-hat-pin-bullet" target="_blank">bullet tie t<span id="goog_72167078"></span><span id="goog_72167079"></span>ack<span id="goog_72167085"></span><span id="goog_72167076"></span> </a>that I'll sell you though! It's a nice statement piece. I can make you one out of a mold I already have, or I can make one for you with your bullet of choice if you'd like to send it to me.</div>
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In the second picture, the tie tack on the left is made from a bullet that hasn't been shot, and the tie tack on the right is made from the shell of a used bullet. It's kind of cool to make one from a significant shell of your own (from a successful hunt, bulls-eye shot from a tournament, etc). Feel free to contact me if you'd like to discuss the possibilities!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-65289527046878955792012-05-11T08:53:00.000-07:002012-05-11T08:53:53.990-07:00Friday Finds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">I have been looking into the world of Etsy's edible goodness.... And I'm getting hungry! I, myself, enjoy being in the kitchen only to eat, and for no other reason, so I am very impressed with these talented and creative culinary artists.</span>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Look at these candies! Yes, candies... They look like real seashells, don't they? Jason and Andie at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/andiespecialtysweets?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Andie's Specialty Sweets</a> make these candy coated chocolates, and many other incredibly beautiful candies for your enjoyment. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 12px; line-height: 15px;">Here's something different... <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/96805969/maple-bacon-cake-bites-perfect-for" target="_blank">Maple Bacon Cake Bites</a>... Cake mixed with maple icing and pieces of bacon, dipped in chocolate and topped with more bacon. Oh my goodness, sweet and salty at its best! You can find these at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/bitesizedelights?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Bite Sized Delights by Ann</a> on Etsy.</span></span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Classic. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/79734291/strawberry-rhubarb-jam-pure-sustainable" target="_blank">Strawberry Rhubarb Jam</a>. My mom used to make this stuff, and it's my "berry" favorite! My mouth is seriously watering looking at this picture. Get it at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/copperpottraditions?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Copper Pot Traditions</a>.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4HLysLvXI0U/T60u-7X6KLI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/yu9e1GOx2Eg/s1600/vanilla+macaron.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4HLysLvXI0U/T60u-7X6KLI/AAAAAAAAAbQ/yu9e1GOx2Eg/s320/vanilla+macaron.jpg" width="233" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And, oh my. <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/99375740/organic-vanilla-bean-french-macarons-1" target="_blank">Organic Vanilla Bean French Macarons</a>. Not to be confused with macaroons... Do I need to even say anything about these? Just look at that cookie. If the sight of it alone doesn't sell you on it, there's nothing more I can say that will. Mmmmm. Andrea has these and more at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SaltCityBakery?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Salt City Bakery</a>.</td></tr>
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<span style="color: #c00000; font-family: "Worstveld Sling"; font-size: 36.0pt; line-height: 115%;">Alisa<o:p></o:p></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-72486436900937662792012-05-05T20:15:00.000-07:002013-01-04T11:38:47.045-08:00Hollow Book Nook/Kindle CaseI keep seeing these online, and I've been wanting to make one forever. I'm so excited to finally have one done! It took some thought and planning beforehand, and since I usually tend to tear into things without much thought and planning beforehand, I thought I'd better document the process in case I want to make another one.<br />
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The choosing of a book actually took me a while. I started out wanting to use an old classic book... Something that would make me look cultured and intelligent if I carried it around. :) But finding one that was big enough without being too bulky was a challenge, not to mention the fact that I would probably have a hard time "destroying" a classic when it came right down to it. I finally found this blank journal, and I think it's perfect! It's nice looking, has a ribbon marker, and best of all, it has a magnetic flap closure. I found it at <a href="http://www.vickerey.com/paperie-shopbytype-journals.html" target="_blank">The Vickerey</a>.<br />
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Ok, let's get started! In addition to your book of choice, you'll need Elmer's Glue All (or something similar), a small bowl, a paintbrush, an exacto knife, coarse sand paper, a stapler, and clear elastic. I had a hard time finding clear elastic (in the one and only store I looked in - I hate shopping!) so I bought a pair of removable clear bra straps. Worked perfectly! You'll also need to have something heavy on hand to weigh the book down as the glue dries. And, of course a Nook or Kindle for sizing purposes.</div>
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1. If your book has a ribbon marker, cut it out, but leave the top inch or so to make it look like it's still in place as it should be. We'll get back to the ribbon later.</div>
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2. Glue together the first 1/4 or so of the pages*; just lightly to hold them together before you start hollowing out the book. It probably won't hold for the whole process, and that's ok. You'll apply more glue later. It's important to thin the glue with water so it seeps into the pages better, and isn't visible when it's dry. Put a bit of glue and water in the small bowl, and use the paintbrush to apply it to the outer edges of the pages. Be so careful not to glue the cover down! It's better to leave the first few pages unglued for now than to accidentally glue down the cover.</div>
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<i>*The reason I only did the first quarter is because I wanted to insert the ribbon marker and clear elastic later. Therefore, I couldn't glue all the pages just yet. If you just want a hollow book without the ribbon and elastic, go ahead and glue all the pages,<span style="color: red;"> </span>EXCEPT for the last 4 or 5, or however many pages you want to leave as the bottom of the "box" when you're done.</i></div>
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3. Place something heavy on top of the book and let the glue dry. I placed a notepad between the book and the cans to even out the weight and to protect the book from any marring.</div>
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4. After the glue is dry, use your e-reader to trace the hole you will be cutting out. Make sure that it's centered and straight, then use a straight edge and the exacto knife, and start cutting. </div>
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<i>*Tip - it's better to cut it just the smallest smidge too big than it is to shave off a millimeter or so afterwards because it's too small. Trust me on this! You still want a close fit though, to keep your e-reader safe.</i></div>
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<i>The cutting process is a long one, but please take your time. Just gently cut through a couple of pages at a time. If you find yourself pushing too hard on the knife, back off, because one slip.... and it's off to the hospital for stitches; or even worse, you may cut where you don't want to cut and have a crummy looking hollow book when you're done. :)</i></div>
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5. When you're done cutting through the first quarter of the book, it's time to glue together the rest of the pages.* Well, most of them, anyway. Leave out 4 or 5 pages in between, and 4 or 5 pages at the end. This is just a buffer to make sure the glue doesn't seep too much and glue all of them together yet. (In the above picture the book is upside down, so the cut out portion is actually at the front of the book... I don't know why it's upside down, it just is.) Glue the back section of pages together, weighing them down as they dry, just as you did the front section.</div>
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<i>*Again, if you're not including the ribbon or elastic, you will omit this step, as your book will already be glued together.</i></div>
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6. After the glue is dry, put a piece of cardboard just before the pages at the back that will be the bottom of the box, so they don't get cut. Continue to hollow out the book.</div>
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8. When you're all done hollowing, the edges where you have cut will be rough. Carefully sand them with coarse sand paper to smooth them down.* It won't be perfect, but it will have a much more finished look.</div>
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<i>*Hold the pages together as tightly as you can to prevent damaging them as you sand. The pages, which were glued lightly, will probably be coming apart a bit, and the edge you will be sanding hasn't been glued at all. Remember, it doesn't have to look perfect, just sand off the roughness.</i></div>
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9. Now it's time to add the ribbon and the elastic. Lift the first quarter of the book (that you originally glued together) and place the ribbon and elastic as pictured above. Staple them in place by opening the stapler so you can staple right into the pages beneath... Just like you would staple something to a bulletin board. As long as at least one side of the staples catch the ribbon and elastic, it should be fine. Sorry, no picture to show you, I hope my explanation makes sense!</div>
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<i>*The elastic, of course, is to help keep your e-reader securely in place, and the ribbon is meant to go under it to help lift it out when you need it.</i></div>
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10. Glue the back cover and back pages to each other and to the hollowed out pages using regular glue (sparingly) not the diluted glue, to help avoid wrinkles in the bottom. Glue all the edges around the outside of the book, and the inside edges of the hollowed out portion, using a thin layer of the glue/water mixture. Apply the glue in several coats, weighing down the book and letting it dry in between, until you feel confident that it will hold solidly.</div>
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And there you go!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-4367918253392783402012-04-26T13:37:00.004-07:002012-04-26T14:43:03.869-07:00Autism AwarenessDo you know anyone with autism? Chances are you do. The <a href="http://www.autism-society.org/" target="_blank">Autism Society</a> states, "In December 2009, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued (a report concluding) that the prevalence of autism had risen to 1 in every 110 births in the United States, and almost 1 in 70 boys."<br />
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Autism is treatable. It's not something people "grow out of," but if it's detected early, a lot can be done to improve the lives of those affected and their families.<br />
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April is Autism Awareness month, and as the month comes to a close I want to draw your attention, again, to the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58646688/autism-awareness-puzzle-bracelet" target="_blank">autism awareness bracelets</a> that I have in my shop. $5 from each purchase is donated to the Autism Society. That's true all the time, not just during the month of April.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58646688/autism-awareness-puzzle-bracelet"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EL86MDCiLPE/T5mvsUhMPJI/AAAAAAAAAXk/WRtd4vC_HgI/s320/Autism+Awareness+Bracelet.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/58646688/autism-awareness-puzzle-bracelet" target="_blank"><span id="goog_1107714349"></span>Autism Awareness Bracelet<span id="goog_1107714350"></span></a></td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-53025526135949857442012-02-09T12:25:00.000-08:002012-05-05T14:06:32.051-07:00Friday Finds... A Thursday VersionAhhh, love!<br />
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As you browse through today's Finds, please enjoy the #1 love song of all time, according to About.com... The Beatles - Something. :)<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/xzkhOmKVW08?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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There's nothing like good sugar cookies... And they're nothing like my sugar cookies, so these look super tempting to me! <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/sugarandflour?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Sugar and Flour</a> has them for every occasion, and she's happy to take custom orders! Mmmmm....<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89521936/valentines-day-conversation-heart-sugar" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Gm6ba7ti__4/TzQlIjOAh4I/AAAAAAAAAVI/eefXZXhhrTg/s320/sugar+cookies.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love this fun, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89296546/valentines-red-lace-shades-funky-scarf" target="_blank">handmade scarf</a>; to wear on that Valentine's Day date, or any other time you want to look trendy and super cute! <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/fairstore?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Fairstore</a> has this and lots of other great crocheted items to choose from.</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/89296546/valentines-red-lace-shades-funky-scarf" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="258" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tp5GbdLREd4/TzQm7u-4JFI/AAAAAAAAAVQ/zdcVAT2gngM/s320/funky+scarf.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Ha, ha... I love it! These <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/86369714/mason-jar-redneck-wine-glasses-set-of">Hill-Billy approved goblets</a> made me laugh, and I think everyone should have a complete set! You can find them at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/AWineTwist?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">A Wine Twist</a>, on Etsy.</div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/86369714/mason-jar-redneck-wine-glasses-set-of" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="312" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-l7xPQjX_IC8/TzQn6bGcedI/AAAAAAAAAVY/ANR_jan2vWA/s320/Hillbilly+wine+glasses.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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And last, and probably least, check out my new <a href="http://asterriskjewelry.com/sterling-heart-ring.html" target="_blank">Sterling Heart Ring</a>. :)</div>
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<a href="http://asterriskjewelry.com/sterling-heart-ring.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wriUnsla2VE/TzQqD22FxPI/AAAAAAAAAVg/4Ocs6xmRYEs/s320/IMG_0865.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Happy Valentine's Day!<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-79902110618192764562012-01-29T14:39:00.000-08:002012-04-24T12:28:02.906-07:00WARNING:This post contains religious content. Proceed with caution. :)<br />
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I'm a Mormon. Recently, there has been a lot of talk in the media about Mormonism. Therefore, (as the media tends to create) there's a lot of confusion. I'd like to do my part to calm the chaos if I can, at least in my small circle of influence.<br />
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I understand that religion can sometimes be a difficult topic to approach. You might be curious, just for curiosity's sake. There are, after all, some interesting ideas out there about what Mormons believe. But, even though you wonder if there's any truth to the stories floating around, you DO NOT want anyone to try to convert you, so you don't ask. It goes the other way too. Sometimes it's hard for us to bring up our religion to others because we're afraid of offending, or being judged, or other such silly things.<br />
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In contrast, you might be seriously seeking religion; trying to find something that rings true and brings you peace and purpose, but you don't know anyone who can give you real answers.<br />
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In either case, let me direct you to an official website of the The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints - that's the church's real name, not the Mormon Church. Mormon is just a nickname. The website is called <a href="http://mormon.org/" target="_blank">Mormon.org</a>. It's risk free, with no obligation to buy. (By "buy" I mean buying into concepts... there's not actually anything for sale....) There are countless profiles of church members on the website that are full of stories, and experiences, and answers. You can search for people who have things in common with you, or just browse through random profiles. They're all written by normal, everyday people, who live normal, everyday lives. I've even got one. You can read it <a href="http://mormon.org/me/2SF2/Alisa" target="_blank">here</a> if you'd like. In addition to profiles, there are links where you can find the church's official beliefs and stand on all kinds of things. And, if you'd like to go so far, you can even chat with a real live Mormon.<br />
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Check it out. You might be surprised by what you learn. :)<br />
<a href="http://www.mormon.org/">www.mormon.org</a>.<br />
<span style="color: #990000; font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;">Alisa</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-35610642070793662042011-12-29T22:59:00.000-08:002012-05-05T14:06:57.705-07:00Friday FindsIt's almost New Year's Eve! Have you got big plans? Maybe some of this week's finds will inspire you.<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/87762122/tiny-top-hat-ooak-blue-shiny-sparkle-new" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kIYJnwxhjtk/Tv1dRaY9zGI/AAAAAAAAATg/Fm2uU1-JUa8/s320/top+hat.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
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Find this eye catching top hat, and many more, at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/BonnieMadeDesigns?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Bonnie Made Designs</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://blog.hgtv.com/design/2011/12/27/hgtv-how-to-festive-new-years-party-poppers-and-cocktail/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1UIDpkK-hZQ/Tv1elEDTHsI/AAAAAAAAATs/uxSO2OyFiz0/s320/party+poppers.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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You can learn how to make these fun party poppers, and other fun ideas on the <a href="http://blog.hgtv.com/design/2011/12/27/hgtv-how-to-festive-new-years-party-poppers-and-cocktail/" target="_blank">Design Happens Blog</a>.<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63950244/vintage-new-years-eve-printable-party" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_Ng8jY5sxZM/Tv1gOyzsViI/AAAAAAAAAT4/w8l4PHJ6E0c/s320/printable+party.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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Take a look at this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/63950244/vintage-new-years-eve-printable-party" target="_blank">Vintage New Years Eve Printable Party</a> set at the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/FrogPrincePaperie?ref=seller_info" target="_blank">Frog Prince Paperie</a> shop. It's not too late to put together an unforgettable party!<br />
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Happy New Year<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-42518234764762701342011-12-14T12:27:00.000-08:002012-04-24T12:10:20.877-07:00DruziesI have recently fallen in love... with druzies!<i> </i><br />
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<i>"What is a druzy? Druzy crystals take hundreds or even thousands of years to form. They form as molten rock begins to cool with trapped gases inside. The gases cause gaps in the rock. As groundwater flows through these gaps for century after century, minerals crystalize on the rock - forming a blanket of intense crystallization."</i><br />
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This description is taken from an Etsy shop, <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/beadsaddict">Beads Addict</a>, where I have recently purchased several druzies. I made a couple of Christmas necklaces with them, which, of course, are one of a kind, because no two druzies are ever the same.<br />
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The red one has been sold, but the green one is still available on my <a href="http://asterriskjewelry.com/christmas.html">website</a>.<span id="goog_428643840"></span><span id="goog_428643841"></span><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"></a><a href="http://draft.blogger.com/"></a><br />
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I have a few other druzies just waiting to be made into pieces of jewelry... rings, perhaps? They're a bit smaller than the Christmas pendants. Aren't they gorgeous??<br />
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/beadsaddict?ref=seller_info" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_CYW1I9503M/TukIlJE8eCI/AAAAAAAAAS0/kvPDq2C-srY/s320/druzy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/beadsaddict?ref=seller_info" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CqT2C045FKw/TukIlSL7VII/AAAAAAAAAS8/S5l-HGPXtlk/s320/druzy+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/beadsaddict?ref=seller_info" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="257" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-YiXRWlhObtI/TukIlo7_TlI/AAAAAAAAATE/3mqMCFVft4k/s320/druzy+3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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If you click on the above pictures, you'll be taken to Beads Addict, the Etsy seller I bought these druzies from. If you see any stones there that you love (or anywhere else, for that matter) let me know! I can work with you on a custom piece.</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-25909198845035125892011-10-24T15:37:00.000-07:002012-04-24T12:10:37.062-07:00New Website!I am so excited to announce my new <a href="http://www.asterriskjewelry.com/">ASTERrisk Jewelry website</a>! I've been busily adding items, and tweeking things here and there, but I think it's finally ready to unveil. Please visit it, and "like" it, and tell your friends! I'm sure it will continue to evolve over time, so please let me know if you have any recommendations!<br />
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<a href="http://asterriskjewelry.com/index.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gLaReU85vF8/TukL78LDUyI/AAAAAAAAATM/g3roLc5YZT4/s320/Jewelry+Main.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I do still have my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/asterrisk?ref=si_shop">Etsy shop</a> as well, and will continue selling there just as always.<br />
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Wow, building a website has been such a fun undertaking! I have wanted to do this for a long time, but really didn't know where to start. I finally bit the bullet, and researched some web hosting providers, and settled on a company called <a href="http://www.ipage.com/ipage/index.html">iPage</a>. I have to admit, I was (and still am!) pretty clueless, and it took me a good week full of many hours of trial and error; adding, removing, and revising widgets; rearranging elements; and lots of what-do-you-thinks aimed at my husband... and I know I will continue to make more changes, cuz that's just the way I am. But it's been a lot of fun! If you've ever thought about doing it, I would encourage you to go for it! Feel free to ask me about the process if you'd like. I'm a novice, but I'd still love to discuss it with you. :)<br />
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Thank you for all your love and support!<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-55283455267766178532011-08-31T21:30:00.000-07:002012-04-24T12:10:58.051-07:00Festival of Arts & Pageant of The MastersIf you're ever in Southern California during the months of July or August, you have GOT to check out the <a href="http://foapom.com/site/overview_foa.asp">Festival of Arts & Pageant of The Masters</a> in Laguna Beach. I wish I could have recommended this earlier in the summer, but at that point I had never been.<br />
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Admission to the festival is only $7/adult and $4/students and seniors, so you can't beat that! The pageant is more expensive, and it varies depending on where you're seated and what day it is.<br />
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The open-air gallery of the festival isn't huge, you could see it in a couple of hours if you're pressed for time, or you could spend the whole day. You can also opt to go on a guided tour, or just wander around on your own. My family and I enjoyed the tour because we got to meet the artists and listen to them talk about their art. It's really amazing because the artists have to be juried into the show by a committee, and then they are judged throughout the festival to determine if they will be invited back. It's very competative, and the exhibits are quite impressive.<br />
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I wish I could share more pictures, but most of them are copyrighted.</div>
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In addition to browsing through the gallery, you can create some art of your own if you'd like. This is my husband making a print.</div>
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I have to say, the lady helping him was a piece of work herself! You definitely want to follow her directions very closely, or everyone there will know it! In a loud, but funny way... She made us laugh. :)<br />
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I regret that I wasn't able to see the Pageant of The Masters. Really regret! But I will definitely catch it next year. The sets and the people are designed to look exactly like famous paintings. But don't think "costume," think "artwork." </div>
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So, I hope you can put it in your future vacation plans... Maybe I'll see you there!<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-60202095249468793952011-08-12T14:43:00.000-07:002012-05-05T14:07:31.708-07:00Friday FindsI decided I need a new serving bowl. Maybe a few. So I started shopping around and found some beautiful handmade stoneware and ceramics! Now, I'm thinking I need new dishes to go with those serving bowls...<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WfSNyK1YKZg/TkWbMdLOg7I/AAAAAAAAAQw/i6NIIrNZ3No/s1600/Large+dripping+blue+and+deep+red+serving+bowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WfSNyK1YKZg/TkWbMdLOg7I/AAAAAAAAAQw/i6NIIrNZ3No/s320/Large+dripping+blue+and+deep+red+serving+bowl.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I love this! Especially the deep red color. I found it at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69742613/large-dripping-blue-and-deep-red-serving">Sheila's Art</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r1Etrb4q4SM/TkWbQzmYGEI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/p27RQKJibZI/s1600/Stoneware+Bowls.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-r1Etrb4q4SM/TkWbQzmYGEI/AAAAAAAAAQ0/p27RQKJibZI/s320/Stoneware+Bowls.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pretty! These are at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/77890234/set-of-3-stoneware-bowls-perfect-for">OC Pottery.</a> He's practically my neighbor! Maybe I could pick them up and get free shipping... :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F9c6Qc-TAP0/TkWbVSzFMxI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/LH6FH4oLTj8/s1600/blue+dinner+plate.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-F9c6Qc-TAP0/TkWbVSzFMxI/AAAAAAAAAQ4/LH6FH4oLTj8/s320/blue+dinner+plate.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ok, you HAVE to click on this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/56032508/blue-dinner-plate">link</a> and look at the beautiful detail on this plate! You can't see it in this picture, but there are other pictures in the listing that show it up close. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7UgXfuGN9aA/TkWbZOVGc4I/AAAAAAAAAQ8/JN5jN3aCDNw/s1600/Kitty-Proof+Yarn+Bowl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7UgXfuGN9aA/TkWbZOVGc4I/AAAAAAAAAQ8/JN5jN3aCDNw/s320/Kitty-Proof+Yarn+Bowl.jpg" width="316" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I might have to take up knitting and get a cat, just so I can buy one of these adorable <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/78188508/kitty-proof-yarn-bowl-featured-in">Kitty-Proof Yarn Bowls!</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-51705186571370692512011-08-09T22:44:00.000-07:002012-04-24T12:11:32.349-07:00Wow... It's a Whole New World!Did you read my post "Unique" from a week ago or so? I was all excited about drawing original pictures and paying to have them made into custom stamps. Well, looky here!.....It's <a href="http://www.metalclaysupply.com/Imagepac-Stampmaker-Kit-with-HP-1000-Printer-p/54734.htm">The Stampmaker</a>! I haven't been this excited about finding a new product since PMC!<br />
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Watch and be amazed....<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/cQzUTQjRap4?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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This is on my birthday wish list (hint, hint!)!<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-84119089601544878522011-08-08T22:31:00.000-07:002012-04-24T12:11:50.785-07:00Cameo Factory<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
This summer my husband and I celebrated our 21st anniversary by taking a trip to Italy. It was amazing! My dream vacation! One of things I enjoyed most was visiting a cameo factory in Pompeii. We got to watch a video demonstrating how they are made. It is so incredible to me that people can carve such detailed and intricate pictures by hand with just some chisels, and they've been doing it the same way for thousands of years! I found this video that you might enjoy that explains the process.</div>
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I actually wish I could have spent more time there, and that I could have watched an artist, first hand, making one. It really does fascinate me!</div>
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The hardest (but most fun!) part of the visit was picking one out for myself. There were so many to choose from, it was a little overwhelming.... But I managed! :)</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oa7iKzXxq9k/TkDDLUyKqqI/AAAAAAAAAQo/VcEqXbc4KzE/s1600/Cameo+Factory+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oa7iKzXxq9k/TkDDLUyKqqI/AAAAAAAAAQo/VcEqXbc4KzE/s320/Cameo+Factory+2.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rY7o8uti2ns/TkDDZYWW1HI/AAAAAAAAAQs/NnBuHpAFJKQ/s1600/IMG_3245.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rY7o8uti2ns/TkDDZYWW1HI/AAAAAAAAAQs/NnBuHpAFJKQ/s320/IMG_3245.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my cameo :)</td></tr>
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So cool. I really admire people with such artistic talent!<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-40307254164252086152011-07-30T15:37:00.000-07:002012-04-24T12:12:14.869-07:00UniqueOne of the joys I find with making jewelry is trying to make something completely unique and handmade. Of course I make jewelry with components I buy, but I enjoy making as much of my jewelry myself as is possible. I like how that idea pushes me to learn new techniques and keeps things exciting and new.<br />
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I was recently asked to design a necklace for my nephew who had earned his Eagle Award in the Boy Scouts. Being a guy's necklace, I wanted it to be simple... just an eagle on a leather cord. Sometimes I use rubber stamps to impress a design into Precious Metal Clay. It's a simple way to add texture or a picture to a piece of jewelry. So I started looking for a small rubber stamp that had a simple and masculine image of an eagle on it. I didn't have any luck. Most of the stamps I found were too large for a necklace... at least for the simple necklace I had in mind. The only one I found that was small enough was rather cartoony, more something for a child.<br />
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So... I decided to make my own! I didn't actually make the rubber stamp (which some people carve by hand, I found! Like <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Corrabelle?ref=seller_info">Corrabelle in her Etsy shop The Mayberry Sparrow</a>) but I drew an eagle that was exactly what I had in mind, and had it made into a rubber stamp. I was really pleased with the way it turned out, and with the fact that it was truly unique. I think my nephew liked it too! :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hFjuXrqDig8/TjR0NzNRkeI/AAAAAAAAAO0/KbJAAR8adnQ/s1600/Cache%2527s+Eagle+jpeg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="146" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hFjuXrqDig8/TjR0NzNRkeI/AAAAAAAAAO0/KbJAAR8adnQ/s200/Cache%2527s+Eagle+jpeg.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my drawing. It has to be fairly simple, because too much detail ends up getting lost in the clay. Especially when it's going to be a small stamp.</td></tr>
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I took a picture of the stamp, but it is the clear kind and didn't show up well....<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nYemkwgakBQ/TjSFplGZyxI/AAAAAAAAAPg/f7acLs-_hj4/s1600/IMG_0801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="250" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nYemkwgakBQ/TjSFplGZyxI/AAAAAAAAAPg/f7acLs-_hj4/s320/IMG_0801.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">...but this is the completed necklace.</td></tr>
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I'm so excited about this new method for making jewelry that won't be found anywhere else, I can't even tell you! I've had a couple more stamps made, and this time I ordered them from an Etsy shop called <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/dragonflybuzz">Dragonfly Buzz</a>. She makes laser cut custom stamps. I do like to buy handmade when I can!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jHuebJjz4KE/TjSCrTIL-4I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/9tJeb370XMM/s1600/IMG_3228.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jHuebJjz4KE/TjSCrTIL-4I/AAAAAAAAAPQ/9tJeb370XMM/s320/IMG_3228.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I drew the shark for a key chain I made for my husband. He likes sharks because they don't stop swimming. They have to keep moving forward, even when they sleep, or they will drown... That's just how their gills work. That pretty much describes my husbands outlook on life!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F-EsbscWdXA/TjSCwnxb-MI/AAAAAAAAAPU/X1v5Nc843iA/s1600/IMG_3227.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-F-EsbscWdXA/TjSCwnxb-MI/AAAAAAAAAPU/X1v5Nc843iA/s320/IMG_3227.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is inspired by my mom. Not only does she collect lighthouses, but she is a constant, guiding beam of light.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n82pNtR28C8/TjSC0_RYR2I/AAAAAAAAAPY/EJ-KKlJeRRw/s1600/IMG_3226.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-n82pNtR28C8/TjSC0_RYR2I/AAAAAAAAAPY/EJ-KKlJeRRw/s320/IMG_3226.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And this dove represents my best friend. Every time I go to her in a frenzy, which is often, she listens patiently and calms me with her practical wisdom. She brings me peace!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zl18e7LPATU/TjSEq4ju3BI/AAAAAAAAAPc/9ALZ6HBrIG4/s1600/IMG_3232.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="229" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zl18e7LPATU/TjSEq4ju3BI/AAAAAAAAAPc/9ALZ6HBrIG4/s320/IMG_3232.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is the clasp for a bracelet in progress. :)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-13018471961524697672011-06-03T14:03:00.000-07:002012-05-05T14:08:04.397-07:00Friday FindsWith Father's Day just a few weeks away, it's time to start shopping handmade! Give those artists time to create for you, especially if you want something custom. Browse through <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> or <a href="http://www.artfire.com/">Artfire</a>, or anyplace else you like to shop for handmade items, and run a search for "fathers day." You might be surprised at all the creative things you'll find that you've never even thought of. I was!<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://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wn_3JT8fNNE/TelB9e0YjTI/AAAAAAAAANc/F6Ry_hM0wjY/s1600/valet+box.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wn_3JT8fNNE/TelB9e0YjTI/AAAAAAAAANc/F6Ry_hM0wjY/s1600/valet+box.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73901239/valet-keepsake-box-leopardwood-with">Valet / Keepsake Box, Leopardwood with Birdseye Maple</a></td></tr>
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This is a beautiful box, and <a href="http://www.etsy.com/people/KnotheadsWoodshed?ref=ls_profile">Knotheads Woodshed</a> has more where this came from.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xeSCk1_66tM/TelEJ9tYB-I/AAAAAAAAANg/XlL7_ukDXsg/s1600/bbq+spices.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xeSCk1_66tM/TelEJ9tYB-I/AAAAAAAAANg/XlL7_ukDXsg/s1600/bbq+spices.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/75333705/fathers-day-sale-dry-spice-rubs-8-tins">Dry Spice Rubs</a> </td></tr>
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For the BBQ lover in your life. These spices and a few nice ribeye steaks, and my husband would be in heaven! Check out everything <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/cookoutsidethebox?ref=pr_shop_more">Cook Outside the Box</a> has to offer.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--CkLRwBiEwg/TelFeAWdhAI/AAAAAAAAANk/U4_2WqDMDNM/s1600/iphone+case.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--CkLRwBiEwg/TelFeAWdhAI/AAAAAAAAANk/U4_2WqDMDNM/s1600/iphone+case.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74705528/natural-sapele-case-for-apple-iphone-4">Sapele Case for Apple iPhone 4</a></td></tr>
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This is great, huh? Yes, it is. Find more at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Signimade?ref=seller_info">Signimade</a> on Etsy.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dghvvEijKlo/TelGfhg3SWI/AAAAAAAAANo/zgHXEL3KOVk/s1600/nerd+mu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dghvvEijKlo/TelGfhg3SWI/AAAAAAAAANo/zgHXEL3KOVk/s1600/nerd+mu.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/67783877/nerd-4-life-mug">Nerd 4 Life Mug</a></td></tr>
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Ha ha! Your dad's probably not a nerd, even if he IS a genius, but this made me laugh! My husband is an engineer, so... yeah. ;)<br />
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My contribution to a happy Father's Day is a discount for you! Use coupon code DADDAY11, from now through Father's Day (June 19), when you order either of these customizable gifts:<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://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pIbhbhQmi74/TelKaSC4YkI/AAAAAAAAANs/cVklJ0cpPII/s1600/IMG_0074+%25281000x784%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="156" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pIbhbhQmi74/TelKaSC4YkI/AAAAAAAAANs/cVklJ0cpPII/s200/IMG_0074+%25281000x784%2529.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/70143314/return-with-honor-tie-bar">Hand Stamped Sterling Silver Tie Bar</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KmzYYLVbgbE/TelK0TZ0PcI/AAAAAAAAANw/_nhbxsomB8g/s1600/Mixed+Metal+CTR+Necklace+4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="145" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KmzYYLVbgbE/TelK0TZ0PcI/AAAAAAAAANw/_nhbxsomB8g/s200/Mixed+Metal+CTR+Necklace+4.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/70142323/mixed-metal-ctr-necklace">Mixed Metal Necklace</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-88440642861521437692011-06-01T10:06:00.000-07:002012-04-24T12:12:53.578-07:00Water Casting... Thoughts?A few months ago I took a water casting class at <a href="http://www.sawdustartfestival.org/">The Sawdust Art Festival</a> in Laguna Beach, CA. Fun? Yes!<br />
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Water casting is pouring molten metal into a pot of water, where it almost immediately solidifies in random shapes. As students, we each got to melt a mixture of sterling silver and a bit of copper in a crucible with an acetylene torch, which we then poured into the pot of water. It was fun (and a little scary!) to use the torch in one hand (a much larger and hotter torch than I usually use), and swish molten silver around in dish in the other. I kept visualizing myself splashing some out on my foot or someones pant leg. Exciting! :) We could either pour the silver directly into the pot of water, or pour it into a bundle of straw which had soaked in the water and was standing up in the pot. I wish I had pictures to show you of the straw method, but I didn't go that route, so no pics. They came out in sort of a long shape with vertical grooves in them. They almost looked like some kind of crystallized mineral or something. They were pretty cool, but I watched several unsuccessful attempts, and decided to just use the pot of water.... It was a larger target to aim at! I had time to do it twice, and ended up with two very different pieces.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_MsgkJwSuJA/TeZqyyotjyI/AAAAAAAAANU/WkbEKonM5j8/s1600/Water+casting+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_MsgkJwSuJA/TeZqyyotjyI/AAAAAAAAANU/WkbEKonM5j8/s320/Water+casting+2.JPG" width="223" /></a></div>
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This was the first one I made. The metal hits the water and cools immediately in whatever shape it splashes into. Each piece also comes out with an interesting patina. The colors in the patina depend on several factors like the temperature and length of time the metal was heated, the combination of metals used, and the speed of cooling. We didn't get into trying to acheive a particular patina... we were just newbies, but I kind of like the golds and greens and pinks in this one.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMs5uZ44JMk/TeZs-oSV5wI/AAAAAAAAANY/tsW75T51EgY/s1600/Water+casting+1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-dMs5uZ44JMk/TeZs-oSV5wI/AAAAAAAAANY/tsW75T51EgY/s320/Water+casting+1.JPG" width="221" /></a></div>
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And this is my second piece. I like the more compact shape of this one. I played around with the patina a little after I got home because I wanted to accentuate the high spots by darkening the nooks and crannies. I like the effect, and I also like how, over time, the high spots have darkened to a goldish color because of the copper mixed in with the silver. However, the original patina had some of the same greens and pinks that the first one has... maybe I should have just left it alone. Trial and error. Live and learn.<br />
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Ever since I took this class I have wondered about making some pieces like this to sell. They are very different from my usual style. I normally like to plan something out ahead of time, and then make my jewelry according to plan. These water cast pieces are completely random. I suppose with practice I could control the outcome a bit, but not much. You get what you get. Maybe that's good? <br />
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What do you think?<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-43669160254356235112011-05-26T22:53:00.000-07:002012-05-05T14:08:22.661-07:00Friday FindsIt' Memorial Day weekend for those of us in the USA! I hope you've made some fun plans... Hanging out with your family and friends, maybe a barbeque or a picnic, or even camping! Sounds fun to me, I love that stuff. :)<br />
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But let's also take a little time to think about this great country, and the freedoms we enjoy.... And remember how we got it. Remember all the brave men and women who gave their lives to protect ours, and all those who are protecting us now. And maybe say a little prayer of thanks.<br />
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Now I hope you'll enjoy some hand made patriotism, and have a great weekend!<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://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xHbGPyFxqro/Td82r8tuplI/AAAAAAAAAM8/v9zcC5rfBV8/s1600/flag+canvas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="162" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xHbGPyFxqro/Td82r8tuplI/AAAAAAAAAM8/v9zcC5rfBV8/s200/flag+canvas.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69658757/land-of-the-free-american-flag-8x10">Land of the Free American Flag 8 x 10 Canvas Wall Hanging</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/MarkMyWordsStudio?ref=pr_shop_more">Mark My Words Studio</a></td></tr>
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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://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m5jWO5XUKXE/Td821cnWRKI/AAAAAAAAANA/fY4jHe-U3vQ/s1600/canon+picture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="149" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-m5jWO5XUKXE/Td821cnWRKI/AAAAAAAAANA/fY4jHe-U3vQ/s200/canon+picture.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/72471827/misty-battlefield-8x10-print">Misty Battlefield 8 x 10 print</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/WildWildernessPhotos?ref=seller_info">Wild Wilderness Photos</a></td></tr>
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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://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s30TgbZyR1w/Td823elxBOI/AAAAAAAAANE/pVWDgP5O3q8/s1600/hero+husband.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-s30TgbZyR1w/Td823elxBOI/AAAAAAAAANE/pVWDgP5O3q8/s200/hero+husband.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74803660/my-husband-my-hero">My Husband My Hero</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/shanynmarie?ref=seller_info">The Beaded Butterfly</a></td></tr>
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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://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tCoMQ_BhrVc/Td828vM-FAI/AAAAAAAAANI/nZMxsexiVAw/s1600/navy+tee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tCoMQ_BhrVc/Td828vM-FAI/AAAAAAAAANI/nZMxsexiVAw/s200/navy+tee.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/74669669/custom-dyed-and-screen-printed-navy-wife">Custom Dyed and Screen Printed Navy Wife T-Shirt</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/PikiNikiDesigns?ref=seller_info">Piki Niki Designs</a></td></tr>
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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://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aP2Ga9FgZKA/Td82-u0KuPI/AAAAAAAAANM/wyvvoSK6CJM/s1600/arlington+painting.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="158" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aP2Ga9FgZKA/Td82-u0KuPI/AAAAAAAAANM/wyvvoSK6CJM/s200/arlington+painting.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/43004745/arlington-cemetery-20x16in-original-oil">Arlington Cemetery 20 x 16 Original Oil Painting</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/ArtdeJoie?ref=seller_info">Art de Joie</a></td></tr>
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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://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OWowr9Iz-oA/Td83BnWQj2I/AAAAAAAAANQ/B1rZzVuY2A8/s1600/tutu.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OWowr9Iz-oA/Td83BnWQj2I/AAAAAAAAANQ/B1rZzVuY2A8/s200/tutu.jpg" width="132" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/65208480/american-flag-tutu-baby-toddler-6-9-12">American Flag Baby Tutu</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/gogirlusa?ref=seller_info">Teddy's Tiny Tutus</a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-35800367257267907362011-05-24T11:49:00.000-07:002012-04-24T12:13:33.017-07:00Can You Picture This? (Part Two)I have been working on some of the things I wrote about last week... remember, this is not "instructional" as much as it is "exploratory!" I am on a quest to improve the quality of my pictures, so I have been researching, practicing, and reporting here. I am not a professional. That is my disclaimer.<br />
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The first thing I did was to borrow my son's light tent. It really is great, I don't know why I don't always borrow it... except that maybe I am too impatient to set up a good shot, or it could be that I feel bad borrowing the stuff that he paid for instead of getting my own... Either way somethings gotta change! I did decide that if I buy my own, I would like a smaller one than he has. His is about 2' across by 2 1/2' tall, which worked well, but the jewelry seemed so small inside that I felt like some of the light kind of got "lost" in that big area. I wanted it to be more condensed. Smaller would be a little less awkward to work with too. But, all in all, the tent made a great improvement.<br />
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I also played around with backgrounds. You may remember that in the <a href="http://strobist.blogspot.com/2006/07/how-to-diy-10-macro-photo-studio.html">DIY light box tutorial</a> it suggested getting two pieces of poster board; one white and one black. I tried that, and I, personally, don't care for the black. There is probably a method for using it that I'm not aware of. If someone knows it, I would love to hear about it, because it came in a package of 5 sheets. :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pRPAZJ2Oo_E/TdvWTkGnIPI/AAAAAAAAAMc/6AH3btOOgBc/s1600/IMG_1495.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="148" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pRPAZJ2Oo_E/TdvWTkGnIPI/AAAAAAAAAMc/6AH3btOOgBc/s200/IMG_1495.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/69270458/amethyst-spinner-ring">Amethyst Spinner Ring</a></td></tr>
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See? It just doesn't do anything for me. Again, <a href="http://store.tabletopstudio-store.com/bicjephkit.html">The Tabletop Studio</a> has a solution, this <a href="http://store.tabletopstudio-store.com/bicjephkit.html">black acrylic sheet</a> and accessories, which look pretty, but has a pretty price too. But look at <a href="http://www.vipplastics.com/product_info.php?cPath=67&products_id=292">this</a>! Here's a 12" x 24" piece of black acrylic for under $8. Of course that's minus the lights and other accessories, and you'd want to read up on how to set up the shot, but it's definitely a more affordable route.<br />
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Back to poster board.... I did like the white. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhjieeNVyAV82qKBM6eXmx2EV-MaT0FOGG-oOI7dLQoPHSd_ej9-iBe715v3WqDzKgjhz8fddb6v0Mub2bkhBRRRyD3np2_ioAwxv2CdmjhnSuWCs4CvVb4ZIGc-5GYH_88WPKUa_eMml/s1600/white+background_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWhjieeNVyAV82qKBM6eXmx2EV-MaT0FOGG-oOI7dLQoPHSd_ej9-iBe715v3WqDzKgjhz8fddb6v0Mub2bkhBRRRyD3np2_ioAwxv2CdmjhnSuWCs4CvVb4ZIGc-5GYH_88WPKUa_eMml/s320/white+background_1.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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The white background is nice and clean. I tried to adjust my lights to minimize the shadows, and while I wasn't able to completely eliminate them, I still think they turned out quite well. You'll notice the bottom left picture has a different hue. That piece is made of bronze, and I tweeked it a little in Windows Live Photo Gallery to make the bronze color a little more accurate. I don't do much tweeking, frankly because I don't know how. But I also wonder why you would want to make the picture you're posting look any different from the piece you'll be mailing out? I almost always click on "auto adjust" though. It usually makes to colors look more accurate than the original picture does.<br />
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Although I like the white, I experimented some more by printing out some gradient backgrounds. I just googled "gradient backgrounds" and clicked on "images" and there were a ton of them. I found a few I liked and printed them out on photo paper (be sure to find non-copywrited backgrounds). I tend to like the more subtle backgrounds, but that's just me. Find what works best for you.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cJaqyQF7YdA/TdmB-o6VVpI/AAAAAAAAAMY/svONYLpCecg/s1600/dk+blue+background.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cJaqyQF7YdA/TdmB-o6VVpI/AAAAAAAAAMY/svONYLpCecg/s320/dk+blue+background.JPG" width="223" /></a></div>
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This blue was a bit bright for me. I chose it because I thought it might help bring out the purple color in the amethysts on the top ring. It didn't. I had trouble with those amethysts! I do kind of like the reflection in the picture of the ring on the bottom.<br />
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The above pictures were taken with a background that was very light blue (almost white) in the center and became more of a sky blue as it radiated out. Because the jewelry is so small it was hard to position it in a place where the camera would catch the gradient color. In other words, in the background immediately surrounding a small piece of jewelry there was not a lot of graduation of color - it almost looked all the same color. The necklace shot was easy because it covered more of the background. I took several that way, and they all turned out nice. You might notice I have the amethyst ring propped up, hoping to catch the color. It's a bit better, but I don't like that particular prop.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EjFSIlsUPD4/Tdvqb_CEyjI/AAAAAAAAAMg/ioRvX8h9E7U/s1600/IMG_1506.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EjFSIlsUPD4/Tdvqb_CEyjI/AAAAAAAAAMg/ioRvX8h9E7U/s200/IMG_1506.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
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In this picture is a black gradient background I tried. I don't recommend it. I still don't think the black is black enough. It was also hard to use because it was so easily scratched. By the time I was done there were little scratches all over it, and I was being careful! Printer ink is too expensive to print out backgrounds that can't be used more than once. But, again, I do like the reflection.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-Xh7k78mMw/Tdl-G4laE5I/AAAAAAAAAMA/Y9RLrGtsEbs/s1600/gray+background.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Z-Xh7k78mMw/Tdl-G4laE5I/AAAAAAAAAMA/Y9RLrGtsEbs/s320/gray+background.JPG" width="247" /></a></div>
These are my favorite! It's a gray gradient background, less subtle than the blue. Just enough! I tried to get tricky in the bottom picture. I was getting really frustrated with trying to catch those purple amethysts! I read about <a href="http://store.tabletopstudio-store.com/sparklerlight.html">the sparkler light</a> on <a href="http://store.tabletopstudio-store.com/">The Tabletop Studio</a> website. Its a third light that can be used, which should be positioned at about the same angle as the camera. It's designed to catch the color and sparkle of gemstones. I used my son's desk lamp. :) I held my camera just at the top of the lamp, I wanted the light and the camera to be as close together as they could be so that the shadow cast behind the ring would be hidden from the camera's view. It resulted in the shading at the bottom of the picture, which was unplanned, but which I really like. Sometimes good things just happen. I stood the ring on it's side, not so much because I like that position, but because it raised up the amethyst to a spot where it could really shine.<br />
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Two more things that I definitely think are worth mentioning are to always use a tripod (and maybe your camera's timer or remote if you have one) so there's no wiggle, and to have your camera set on the highest quality pictures. Especially if you aren't using a camera with a macro setting, because you're probably going to have to crop them. That can accentuate any blurriness, and make them a little pixely if they are on a lower quality setting. If you have trouble uploading them onto a site because the file is too big, you can always resize them. But I like to keep the original in case I ever want to print them for a catalog or something.<br />
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Ok, I think I've told you everything I know! Hopefully I have not confused you or led you astray. Remember, I am on a journey of learning. Any tips, comments, or corrections are welcome, and in fact, hoped for!<br />
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After last weeks post, <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/03411538881134901843" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: #bb3c00;">Cheryl @ Sew Can Do</span></a> made a comment about a light scoop. I didn't know what that was, but she loves hers! I found it <a href="http://www.lightscoop.com/buynow.html">here</a>. It looks like a great invention to me, and I'd love to give it a try, but I don't have the right kind of camera. I've been trying to think up a way to rig something up for me to use.... haven't finalized that thought yet.<br />
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I also want to thank <a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/14638344073899053857" rel="nofollow"><span style="color: #bb3c00;">UKZoe</span></a> for mentioning looking on ebay for less expensive light tents. As I mentioned last week, less expensive makes me happy! :)<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-75571498730202642682011-05-18T11:48:00.000-07:002012-04-24T12:13:50.683-07:00Can You Picture This? (Part One)<div style="text-align: left;">
Because pictures are so vital in selling anything online or in a catalog, I'm always trying to improve mine... or I'm always thinking in the back of my mind that I need to improve mine. :) Some days I will take some pictures and they turn out great, but then on another day I can't get a single good one. The frustration has pushed me over the edge! </div>
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I decided to learn more about taking professional looking pictures, specifically close up, or macro, shots. At first I was a little daunted, as I don't know much about aperture, composition, white balance or any number of other photography terms. I have a point and shoot digital camera, and am not interested in spending obscene amounts of money on a fancy camera and equipment. I was happy to find that there are some very effective techniques that are also inexpensive. Inexpensive makes me happy. And so does effective.</div>
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Ok, so you need a camera. Most, but not all, point and shoots have a macro setting, which allows you to take very close up pictures. If you are in the market for a new camera, definitely find one with a macro setting! If you already have a camera, and it doesn't have macro, don't despair. You've just got to be sure to use a tripod to get nice, clear pictures that will still look good after you crop them... More of that next week... Other than that, if you know few helpful hints, the auto setting works great!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6qBv4ta_K_M/TdQMjuzgRHI/AAAAAAAAALw/G-QLfufQ81U/s1600/elph.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6qBv4ta_K_M/TdQMjuzgRHI/AAAAAAAAALw/G-QLfufQ81U/s1600/elph.png" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is my camera, a Canon Elph, and I love it.</td></tr>
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Lighting is a biggie. Natural light is the easiest, and it's free! I've got a window in my house that I like to take pictures by, especially in the morning. It faces kind of southwest, so mornings are good for the light because at that time of day there is no direct sunlight coming in. Going right outside also works great, either in the shade or on an overcast day. You want to avoid both direct sunlight and a flash; the goal is bright diffused lighting.<br />
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There are other ways to get good lighting, of which I am not an expert. You can use a light tent and some lights, which gives you a lot of control of the brightness and direction of the light, and also allows you to get that smooth seamless background that looks so classy. <a href="http://www.tabletopstudio.com/jewelry_photography.html#exposure">The Table Top Studio Store</a> has all the fancy-schmancy photo equipment you could ever want, and it also has some very helpful (and free!) tips and instructions for taking great pictures. You could learn more about professional photography there than what I can tell you. But, they won't tell you this: How to make your own light tent for $10 or less. But <a href="http://strobist.blogspot.com/2006/07/how-to-diy-10-macro-photo-studio.html">This Guy</a> can! He's got some very simple instructions for a DIY light tent that will cost you $10 only if you're a big spender, but probably less than $5.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GgBz4daIaBk/TdQJV4gXoPI/AAAAAAAAALo/vuvYHVvMNgw/s1600/light+tent+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GgBz4daIaBk/TdQJV4gXoPI/AAAAAAAAALo/vuvYHVvMNgw/s1600/light+tent+2.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Commercial light tent</td></tr>
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My son has one of these commercial light tents and it's great. You could find one for under $50 (without the lights), and you'd have a nice, durable and portable tent that will last you a long time, no hassle.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WPKoRSbq8Nk/TdQJlY077UI/AAAAAAAAALs/cORczfezlSI/s1600/light+tent+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="130" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WPKoRSbq8Nk/TdQJlY077UI/AAAAAAAAALs/cORczfezlSI/s200/light+tent+3.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://strobist.blogspot.com/2006/07/how-to-diy-10-macro-photo-studio.html">The Stobist DIY macro photo studio</a></td></tr>
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Or, if you're a do-it-yourselfer, this one works just as well, plus it has the added feature of the side flaps for more light control. A bit more fragile maybe. Click on the above link for instructions. Either choice is a good investment, in my opinion.</div>
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Alright, I'm going to play around with my camera and the lighting (and hopefully you will too) and be back next week with some pictures, and more tips I've found helpful! If you've got advice or questions I'd love to hear them!</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9148877972842137443.post-57175914247283444972011-05-13T14:21:00.000-07:002012-04-24T12:14:06.320-07:00Friday FindsI found some great Springtime Finds this week! I love Spring, when the days get longer and warmer, and the flowers start blooming. Ahhhh, it makes me happy!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sN7PwUxgpks/TcqbvPMDdYI/AAAAAAAAALg/K-K5Yey4Jf8/s1600/Spring+flowers.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="224" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sN7PwUxgpks/TcqbvPMDdYI/AAAAAAAAALg/K-K5Yey4Jf8/s320/Spring+flowers.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love this sweet, simple <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/57547888/beautiful-white-pillowcase-dress-sizes">Pillowcase Dress</a> that I found in a shop called <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/theuptownbaby?ref=seller_info">The Uptown Baby!</a> She's got them in lots of colors, along with other adorable baby fashions.</div>
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And this <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/71569632/chippy-blue-mosaic-ladder-back-chair">Chippy Blue Mosaic Chair</a> by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/rushcreekmosaics?ref=seller_info">Rush Creek Mosaics</a>... Wow, I love it! </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WSogaFWN9bY/TcqeTkExNUI/AAAAAAAAALk/Ah8VaTAeQP8/s1600/Spring+pics_1.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WSogaFWN9bY/TcqeTkExNUI/AAAAAAAAALk/Ah8VaTAeQP8/s320/Spring+pics_1.JPG" width="223" /></a></div>
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What says "fresh spring day" better than <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73212702/crisp-apple-soap-daisy-gift-box">Crisp Apple Daisy Soap</a> found at <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/SatinandBirch?ref=seller_info">Satin and Birch</a>?</div>
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As a child I remember watching for the tulips to start appearing as one of the first signs of spring. This <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/73855300/dew-tulip">Dew Tulip</a> print from <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/WaldaPhotography?ref=seller_info">Walda Photography</a> takes me back!</div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Worstveld Sling'; font-size: 36pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="color: #990000;">Alisa</span><span style="color: #7abc32;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17173217115056334709noreply@blogger.com5