Monday May 13, 2013

Good Morning,

There is no blog post this morning.

The Alchemist is taking the day off.

She deserves to every now and again, and it doesn’t hurt that it is her Birthday today either.

Wednesday Information

Good Morning,

There isn’t much to see on the blog today.

Brief updates and a news item or two.

The blog may become intermittent, it seems as if my iMac is almost obsolete, there is nothing more that can be done to upgrade or install newer OSXs or memory.  The Rainbow Wheel of Doom is rampant and constant, so it looks as if I may have to replace this sooner than later. 

Yesterday my Android phone decided it no longer wished to function.  The screen did a Fade To Black with a little white dot and then it just kind of went ffffzzzzzttttt and that was that.  Must replace that today as well.  Radio shack here I come.

I am still sitting on pins and needles waiting for news of the Brick and Mortar building I have been offered for Little Shop of Artists.  I am in hope that move in will begin as early as next week or the week after.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Yankee Burrow Creations – Featured Artist

Good Morning,

Today I would like to re-introduce you to a wonderful artist and friend from the Handmade Artists site, Debbi of Yankee Burrow Creations. Debbi dabbles in a little bit of everything, from crochet to jewelry,  prints to paper quilling, there is a lot to see at the shop.  One busy lady, she keeps a blog, where she not only shows off her own lovely wares, but tells stories, has videos and belongs to several Blog Rings or Hops in which she participates.  You may find her blog badge on the menu bar to the left.  She maintains shops and sites on the web, has adopted and foster children, enjoys playing with her grandson, and on occasion will give us a peek into her life outside the studio. 

In our hurried hustle and bustle life-styles we forget to take the time to enjoy the finer things that come to us in simple forms; laughter, time spent with loved ones, or just sitting and reflecting.  Yankee Burrow Creations has not forgotten that, and their creations for home, hearth or person are made with love, attention to detail, and range from the cute and useful item, to the modern-must-have accessory.

These bears are one of my very favorite items in the shop.  I love the intent behind them, and they can be so many things for so many people.  They would be great for a Big Sister or Brother awaiting the arrival of a new sibling, one bear for them and a bear to give the new baby.  They also make great comfort items in times of stress or strife, grab a bear and things will be better.

big sister teddy bear duo white and red

Product Details:
these big sister teddy bears celebrate the love between sisters.  The big sister bear is white and measures 9 1/2″ tall, and little sister bear is red and measures only 9″ tall.  The eyes and noses of both bears are sewn on, and they sport matching but co-ordinating scarfs with bright yellow trim.  These would be a nice gift for your sister, big or small.  You can read the full story behind these bears here on my blog, http://www.yankeeburrowcreations.com/2013/03/celebrate-your-sisters.html
~created by Debbi~

How pretty is this? Each shell has been attached by hand.  That took some patience,  and what a beautiful piece she has created.  Fun and livley, this would be perfect for that Sundress with strappy sandals or for that weekend get away at the beach.  This would make a super Mother’s Day gift, that is coming up, you know.  I bet it makes a fabulous soft jingly sound when worn.  Kinetic jewelry, I love it!

bracelet with multicolored shells on a double silver plated chain 

Product Details:
 I created this bracelet by individually attaching each shell piece, by hand, along this double looped silver plated chain.  Very durable, yet still feels light on your wrist, this is a colorful way to dress up for the beach.  This bracelet measures 7″ long and uses a silver-plated swivel lobster claw.  The swivel claw makes it easy to put on, and take off.
~created by Debbi~

You know I can not let May roll by without including cows.  I like this print a lot and what could be more appropriate for a Country Den or a Big City Office.

original artists print of cows on the farm

Product Details:
This print is from an original graphite drawing by Carolyn Valcourt and is titled “Art got milk cow”.  How calm you’ll feel every time you look at it.  This 8.5″ x 11″ print will be shipped to your home FREE for your immediate enjoyment.

Wedding Season is coming up and why not make yours extra special with these gorgeous hand quilled Memory Frames.  The art of quilling amazes me, it must take serious time, patience and concentration, it is well worth he effort in the end.  This is beautiful.

 quilled doves and flowers picture border

Product Details:
Show off your wedding invitation or photograph with this quilled border, full of doves, flowers, and swirls.  Then every time you look at it, you will be reminded of the joy you felt on that special day.  The mat is 8×10 with the inside opening of 5×7.  Including the frame, the overall dimensions are 9×11.
~created by Debbi~

Here is a lovely piece of home decor.  Original and full of color, that butterfly looks like it might take flight at any minute.

wood cross textured burgundy with metallic butterfly

Product Details:
I painted this wooden cross burgundy and the textured the front with shades of reds and pinks, then added some metallic butterflies for a touch of new life.  Hang this 9″ x 5.5″ cross anywhere you want to share your faith.
~created by Debbi~

 Did I mention that Debbi also works with her daughter Amanda, who created the banner at the top of the page as well as other graphics for various things.  Aren’t they lovely.

You may find, follow and be fascinated at any of the links below.

Blog: Yankee Burrow Creations
Shop: Yankee Burrow Creations ~ Handmade Artists Site
About.me Page: Yankee Burrow Creations
Twitter: yankeeburrow
Facebook: Yankee Burrow Creations
Pinterest: Yankee Burrow Creations
Flickr: Yankee Burrow Creations

In hope you have enjoyed the very brief look into this talented, and clever artist.  There is so much more to see and find at the sites above, take a moment to see what else she has in her shop, on the sites, or just peruse the photo gallery.  Perhaps there is something for you.

Thank you for stopping in and having a read. 

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

In The Merry Month of May

I was taken by surprise
By a pair of roguish eyes
Strolling through the park one day!

Good Morning,

Yes indeed, May is here already.  Gracious is seems as if the year is just flying bye.

This morning, let us have a look at all the cool stuff that is going on in May.

Today is May 1st, sometimes called May Day or Beltane.

May 2 is First Thursday – Free Stuff and Admission to some Boise’s coolest spots!

May 3 – Iron Man 3 opens (also in 3D and IMAX 3D)
Edwards and Majestic Theaters

May 4 – I have a Baby Shower to attend.

Boise State Spring Fling
Put on your dancin’ shoes Broncos, doors open at 7:00 p.m.

May 5th is of course Cinco de Mayo, or Battle of Puebla Day, it is also my parents 51st Wedding Anniversary!  Happy Anniversary Mom and Dad!

May 12th is Mother’s Day, and it is a Sunday as always.

May 13th is my Birthday

May 18th is Armed Forces Day

Pigapalooza Beer & Pork Festival – Eagle, ID
Brewforia Beer Market
78 E. Eagle River St.
Suite 165
Eagle, ID 83616
(208) 938-6261

May 21 -  Limp Bizkit at the Knitting Factory 

May 25 is the Full Moon 
 
May 27 is Memorial Day, the last Monday in May.
The Knitting Factory Presents – Show at 8:00 p.m.
Arctic Monkeys, Dropkick Murphys and The Mahones Boise, Id

That’s about all the fun and excitement I can find for this round.  Be sure to check local papers like the Boise Weekly and The Idaho Statesman for a Calendar of events.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Featured Artists Blog Posts

Hello,

The blog ring has returned and this week I am most honored and excited to be the Featured Artist.   As I post things from the Studio everyday I thought today might be fun to turn the tables on the blog ring.

Below you will find links to those blogs that have featured The Alchemists Vessel this week, in hope of inspiring you to find a favorite you might like to read or follow as well as The Alchemists Vessel of course.

Week of April 7th – Featured Artist

Pam, my friend, and talented gal, not only has lots of lovely things to say, she also has links to her shops and fellow blogs.   Find her wonderful beaded creations on the Handmade Artists site.

Handmade Artists Featured Artists of the Week

April has some amazing Lampwork jewelry, don’t just stop at her blog, check out the beautiful items in her shop as well.

HAF Artist Feature – The Alchemists Vessel

My gal pal Debbi, I love this blog, not only does she feature artists and her own works, she tells stories and has them in “chapter” or part form (and is a clever writer), and she allows you a peek into her life outside her studio.

Handmade Artist Feature – The Alchemists Vessel

Teresa is also a jewelry designer and has her own shop on handmade artists as well.  She has fun things to check out on her sidebar menus, as well as in her shop.  Take a moment to check it out.

Don’t forget to check out the sidebar menus here for links to the shops, blogs and other sites.  There is always something new going on somewhere!

I would like to thank the Blog Ring for featuring me this week.
*This post may be edited to include those Ring Participants that have not posted a feature yet.

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Handmade Artists Artists

Good Morning,

Since this past weekend was Easter, the Blog Ring took a little break to allow people to be unwind and be with family and friends for the Holiday.

No shop in particular is featured this week, I just thought it would be fun to take a peek at some of the new artists and a couple of new items from some of my favorite shops.

From Yankee Burrow Creations

What can I say, I just love Teddy Bears, and these are so cute and what a wonderful gift and so full of love.

big sister teddy bear duo white and red

Product Details:

these big sister teddy bears celebrate the love between sisters.  The big sister bear is white and measures 9 1/2″ tall, and little sister bear is red and measures only 9″ tall.  The eyes and noses of both bears are sewn on, and they sport matching but coordinating scarfs with bright yellow trim.  These would be a nice gift for your sister, big or small.  You can read the full story behind these bears here on my blog, http://www.yankeeburrowcreations.com/2013/03/celebrate-your-sisters.html
~created by Debbi~
http://www.yankeeburrowcreations.com
 http://www.handmadeartists.com/shop/yankeeburrowcreations
 http://www.about.me/yankeeburrowcreations
 http://www.twitter.com/yankeeburrow
 http://www.facebook.com/yankeeburrowcreations
 http://pinterest.com/yankeeburrowcreations

From Linda Nelson

BOHO STYLE TABLETOP GREETING CARD

Product Details:

Say thank you, cheer up someone’s blue day, remind a friend or loved one how special they are… You know exactly who this charming little gift should belong to.
Sweet, chic, boho style tabletop greeting card made of embellished wool felt and fabric on miniature easel. Interior muslin patch for writing a personal sentiment. Cream colored organza pouch and small box included for hand delivery or postal shipping convenience. Overall dim 3.5″w x 5″h.

From: Jen’s Tangled Threads
 

Autumn Ruffle Scarf Red Orange Purple Fashion Scarf

Product Details:

Ruffle scarves are the latest fashion trend. They are so easy to wear and stay in place with a couple twists. Dress up a pair of jeans and a turtleneck, or add a splash of color to that little black dress. Everyone loves a ruffle scarf! 
My scarves measure 60″ in length. 
Looking for a different color? Contact me and I will look for the color you are searching for.
Each scarf is made to order. Please allow 1 week for creation and shipping. 

From Wish Song Design

Pink and Grey galahs cockatoo painting bird art large print

Product Details:
My newest painting in the Australian animal series. Its of two sweet pink and grey galah’s sitting amongst the flowers in the Eucalypt tree. It comes as an 8.5 x 12 inch print with a thin white border surrounding the image. A lovely addition to a country kitchen or for those who love birds!
Please note that colours may vary slightly from what you see on your monitor due to different monitor settings.

All my artwork is printed on archival quality Hahnemuehle Fine Art Paper 310-350gsm with a lovely texture that resembles the watercolour paper the original was painted on. It is printed using archival quality Lucia pigment inks on a Canon IPF5100 printer ensuring very rich and sharp prints.

Each print is signed, dated and titled on the back. Watermark will not appear on your print.

Your print will be shipped in a protective cellophane sleeve between cardboard or in a rigid mailer to ensure safe delivery of your print.

All artwork is copyright Jodie Blanchard 2011-2013. All rights reserved.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

A Little Information and a Random Item

Yes it is Tuesday and that usually means I have five gift ideas to share.

Today instead of gifts, because I think the elves are all very busy at their respective workbenches making new things, I thought I would share a little information.

As many of you may or may not know Google Reader is being retired July 31, 2013.  That means that your favorite blogs, and whatever else you use reader for will no longer be available.

There is an alternative, Blog Lovin’, and yes you have to sign up for it, but it does keep your blog reading in one spot.

For those of you that have a blog, they do have a button that will allow others to follow your blog on their own page.   In fact I have one on the side bar, click the link and whisked off to either the site’s homepage or my blog list, not sure where it takes you yet, but you will get there.  I think you can also sign up with your facebook account, there‘s a plus.

On to random items

Ah Nuts Bracelet

Product Details:

This cute 7-1/2″ bracelet is made from tiny hexagonal nuts, in two sizes.  The shape of the nuts catches the light nicely, and they shine like a matte gemstone might.  Interesting, unique and a great WOW! factor when your friends realize you’re wearing hardware.  Confortable and light weight.  Would make a great accessosry for Steampunk Fashions, Industrial Chic, Rocker or Biker Babes.  A fun conversational piece: “You’ll never guess what I”m wearing”, office or date night jewelry.
Hexagonal nuts are hand sanded to remove any and all sharp edges, the nuts are polished and linked together with hand spun and cut silver plated jump rings.  Completed with a magnetic clasp that really holds tight.  The hardware components come from the package and have never been used in any machinery, tool, equipment or construction application.
Arrives boxed ready for gift giving.
*This item can not be customized or re-sized.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Promotion – TVFM March Market

Good Morning,

I am out of stuff to talk about this week.  So in lieu of a real topic, let’s take a look at the Treasure Valley Flea Market.

I have not attended the show since November of 2012, as a vendor, nor have I returned as a shopper, but sometimes life is a four letter word that gets in the way of what you would like to do.

This weekend is, once again, The Treasure Valley Flea Market, hosted by Spectra Productions, and held at Expo Idaho, on Glenwood at Hawk’s Stadium.

There are vendors of all kinds, Crafts, Garage Goodies, Nick-Knacks and local businesses from Cell Phone Accessories to Home-baked Doggie Treats.

Stop by and have a look see.

5610 Chinden Blvd.

Garden City, ID

Admission is $2.00 at the door.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Taking Care of Your Tools

Good Morning,

This weekend I was on a bit of a creating jag.  Boxes were sketched on for painting, things were prepared to be assembled, soldered and etched, until this happened…

This is the inside of my hand held, battery operated Engraver.  This little tool is one of my favorites; however due to age and I would suppose use, the innards have obviously deteriorated, or in this case are just plain broken.

The plastic casing has cracked and broken away from the works, the metal pin that acts as a contact is in the battery tube leaving the copper wiring exposed.  I have had this for a good seven or eight years, and I never thought to look inside, until it stopped working yesterday. 

This brings me to the care of your tools.  Not only is it necessary to keep your most important tools, your hands, healthy, it is also important to keep the implements you use healthy as well.

Once a month check you tools.  Really look at them, evaluate their health and assess the best way to repair or give the tool some much needed attention.  Is something broken or starting to wear or fray?  Are there nicks, chips, divots, dings, or other things that may prevent you from achieving that perfect look or  other task you are attempting while creating your goods?

If so, you may want to think about replacing or perhaps repairing them.

A simple sheet of sand paper can be used to polish pliers jaws and the heads of your hammers.  This removes surface imperfections that may mar or interfere with the finish of your piece.

When possible tools should be kept away from each other, this eliminates much of the wear and tear on tools you are not using, they won’t bang into and damage each other.  Try to dust your tools during the inspection, little bits of this and that can gum up the joints or movable parts and damage the tool or cause it not to work properly.

Inexpensive plastic cases can be purchased, or plastic containers from your favorite Deli or Market can also be used as storage.  Clean them out and place your tools inside.  Keep the lid and you can keep them dust free.

Keep your tools in good working order and they will last you a life time.

Thank you for stopping by and having a read.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Thursday Random Post

Good Morning,

The Blog Ring is on hiatus for a couple of weeks and I have no one to feature today.

Instead, I have done the unthinkable and signed up for a twitter account.  It may not last long signing up was extremely annoying, and the site itself is awful.  Not intuitive and frustrating at best.

If you would like to follow, add to a list, or grow your own list of followers (I will follow you in return) you can now connect with the Alchemists Vessel via twitter.

Tweet to:  @AlixAlchemy

Follow us: @AlixAlchemy 

Don’t forget to check out the side bar menus for links!

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.