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Six Great Gifts For Giving

 

Tuesday, one of my favorite blog days!  I get to check out all the cool stuff and the neat shops to bring you Five nifty items.  Gifts for you, a loved one, special occasions, birthdays or just because you want to show some one you care.  
 
I can count!  Today I offer an extra Gift to Give, some of these are so wonderful I can’t post jut one!  We have two offerings from each shop today.  A returning shop, and some new folks to check out too.

I usually don’t gush over items, but these are so cute!  Somebody snap these up before I do!  There are several to choose from, and the hoops are adorable.  Would make a fabulous addition to any Steampunk’s jewelry box or Girlie-Girl wardrobe.

From: Sues Arts
Description:  SOLD SEPARATELY: PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHICH ONE YOU LIKE♥ CRYSTALS CLEAR or
♥ WHITE PEARLS
♥ CRYSTALS WITH WHITE PEARLS

Amazingly gorgeous, elegant, classy and chick Swarovski crystals chandelier earrings.

Delivered in a gift bag.

Custom orders welcome.

Thanks for looking.

and to go with those fabulous earrings…
 
Description: Gorgeous cluster necklace created out of Swarovski crystals. Very sparkly, elegant, dressy and unique.

Bow is removable.

Delivered in a gift bag.

Custom orders welcome.

New Shops to Check out!  And are these wire-wrappings cool!  Cobra’s and Butterflies and other things!  Oh my!
 
This is a very clever design, and it really does resemble a Cobra.
 
Description: Beautiful copper wire wrapped cobra snake pendant with a lapis lazuli stone bead.  It is 6.5 cm long and 1.8cm wide. 
This one just fascinates me… How’d she do that????  Reminiscent of Arwen’s pendant from Lord of the Rings, is Diana’s
 
 
 Description: A reinterpretation of the stunning necklace worn by Arwen in LOTR.
Copper wire wrapped, with small beads, measuring 6cm long and 3.5cm wide
 
Alrighty Mad Hatters and other Tea Teetotalers!  These are for you!  Elevenses, High Tea or just a cup because you want one, these English Tea cups are bound to make tea taste better!
 
 
Description: An unusual tea cup trio by Meakin. The set includes a teacup, saucer and cake plate. This set is really beautiful and is in a matte lustre finish which is unusual for teacups. This gives it a lovely silk like feeling to the cup. The motif is a pink flower with a mint green/ blue type colour and green leaves. The motif is also inside the tea cup. The actual shape of the teacup is also unusual for this design.

Very elegant and in great condition. Would be lovely for afternoon tea.

Description: A 1950’s teacup trio including teacup, saucer and cake plate.  Made in the 1950’s by Duchess.  English Bone China with gilt edges.


Violet/ Viola flowers motif on teacup as well as saucer and cake plate. Very dainty and beautiful. The teacup is footed.

Condition: Mint Condition. Looks as if it has not been used. No cracks, rubbing or chips.

More available on request if you are looking for a pair or a set. Please contact me.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

 

Unknown's avatar

Monday Means New Shop Items

Happy Monday Morning,

Now that the custom orders are completed and on their way to their new owners, I took a moment to take some pictures of a couple of new items in the shop.  Not only are the items new, but so are the materials.

White Metal Chains, Glass Beads and “Tibetan Silver“, just to name a few.  It should be noted here that like “German” or “Indian” Silver, “Tibetan Silver” usually contains little or no silver whatsoever.  It resembles an antiqued silver piece and is highly popular in jewelry creation for today’s current fashion trends.  It is mostly Tin and Zinc, and is usually nickel and lead free, due to allergies to these metals.
One of my favorite items and already listed on Etsy is:
7-1/2″, this lovely beauty is one of a kind.  This sparkly three strand bracelet is a combination of  three different styles of chain link chains, and glass beads in a bi-cone shape, in purple hues ranging from deep purple to a soft pink.
Deep purple, pink, wine, and lavender glass beads.

Next is a cute and very GothicDía de los Muertos” themed jewelry set.  Tibetan Silver Pendant and Charms compliment the very pretty Black, Smoky Purple and Silver Glass Bi-cone beads that form the rosary style chain.  Finished with a white metal link chain for durability.

Detail Photo
Although the earrings do not match exactly, they carry the flower motif with a cute daisy perched atop their heads, also crafted with black and smoky purple glass bi-cone beads.

Detail Photo

These items, listed as a set, may be sold individually upon request.

I don’t have pictures the new beads, but we have new Australian Green, Fancy, and Leopard Jasper, Fluorite and Lava beads for stretch bracelets and coming soon new Charm bracelets!

Thank you for stopping by and having a read.
The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant work week.
Unknown's avatar

Tuesday – Five Great Gifts To Give 6-12-12

Good Morning,

We’re back with five (5) great gifts to give!

From: StaRsbyDi

Description: This amazing necklace measures approx. 47cm (18.5”) all around. I wire wrapped a beautiful rose coral pendant (color light peach, dim. 30*30mm). I used coral beads, small silver plated metal beads, thin silver tone chain (non tarnish) and silver plated lobster clasp. 

From: Sam Clark Photography

BABY URANGUTAN PHOTOGRAPHY – Wall Art, Nursery Art, Baby Urangutan photo, Jungle baby animal, Childrens room, Sepia, cute baby

Description: BABY URANGUTAN PHOTOGRAPHY by wildlife photographer Sam Clark. Baby Urangutan Photography is a perfect gift for your babies nursery or childs room, or a gift for friends and loved ones.

WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY by SAM CLARK
TITLE: ‘URANGUTAN BABY’ PHOTOGRAPH by SAM CLARK

* SIZE: 10×10 inches with white border
* PAPER: Hahnemuhle Fine Art Photo Rag 320 GSM Pearl finish
* INK: Quality Archival Epson Inks
* LONGEVITY: 64 years framed under glass, 129 years framed with UV filter, 200 years Album/dark storage.
* ORIGINAL: Hand printed and personally signed on bottom front of print.
* PACKAGING: Shipped in sturdy moisture resistant packaging.
* WATERMARK: For copyright purposes only, will not be visible on your print.

From SuesArts

Shalom – Chai heart necklace in antique bronze

Description: 
SOLD SEPARATELY – SHALOM or CHAI

Beautiful heart charm necklace with a custom made and one of a kind print.

One necklace has the word “Shalom” in Hebrew for “Peace” and the other has the work “Chai” in Hebrew for “Life”.

About 18″ long. Size can be adjusted per request at no extra charge.

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME

DELIVERED IN A GIFT BAG

Also From: SuesArts

Vintage image cameo charm necklace

 Description: Created with vintage antique bronze frame charm pendant and chain.

This is a vintage image of a beautiful girl custom printed and designed

Necklace is about 18″ long but can be adjusted per request with no extra charge.

ALL MY ITEMS ARE HANDMADE AND ONE OF A KIND

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME

DELIVERED IN A GIFT BAG

 

Last but not least:

From: The Alchemists Vessel

Amethystos – Silver Plate and Amethyst Czech Glass Chain Maille Bracelet

 Description: 7-1/2″, These absolutely fabulous bracelets are hand woven in a Half Persian Chainmaille pattern, are light weight and lacy, perfect for an evening out, dressing up that casual daytime outfit, or for a touch of color at the office.

In Greek mythology, Dionysus, the god of intoxication, and of wine, was pursuing a maiden named Amethystos, who refused his affections. Amethystos prayed to the gods to remain chaste, a prayer which the goddess Artemis answered, transforming her into a white stone. Humbled by Amethystos’s desire to remain chaste, Dionysus poured wine over the stone as an offering, dyeing the crystals purple.

These are sizable! May be made to desired length to fit any wrist. Please indicate wrist circumference in inches.

Would make a great gift for February Birthdays or just for people that like purple.

Crafted from Silver plated jump rings and Czech Glass Amethyst beads in the Aurora Borealis finish. A Lobster Claw clasp complete the piece.

Available in a variety of metal and Czech Glass bead choices. 

 

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.  

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

 

 

 

Unknown's avatar

Links and Promotions – Jo-Ann Fabrics Classes with Alix

Happy Friday!

The weekend is upon us!  Although I have to work, I hope the rest of you have a wonderful and super relaxing couple of days off from the hustle and bustle of work!

If you have been paying attention then you are aware that Jo-Ann Fabrics is having an Open House this weekend on 
Saturday, June 09, 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm
1085 Milwaukee, in the Central Plaza
I will be there with all the projects for you to look at and decide if you would like to take one.  No task master I, we have a good time in a relaxed environment.  Wire cutters, material and yourself are all that is required to take the class.  They are given at Jo-Ann’s in a back classroom, come be social and learn a new skill or technique in the process.  What a great way to fill up a Saturday afternoon.

Class sign up is 50% off the regular price if you come in and sign up on Saturday.  Also there are coupons and in-store sales and specials.  If your a Craft-person with some extra cash now is the time to visit the store and find some great deals.A Materials list is available for all the projects you see below, and not all items required for the class may be purchased at Jo-Ann Fabrics and Craft Stores.


Jewelry-Making Classes with Alix

Beginning Jewelry-Making is also taught, by my self as well as another Instructor.  Instruction is given on how to open and close jump rings, different sizes of wire, what findings are and how to use them, and when the class is complete you go home with a nifty something you made yourself.

Skill Level 1 = Easy
Skill Level 2 = Intermediate

Skill Level 3 = Advanced

Dare To Dangle Earrings
Skill Level 2
Wire Wrapping and Jump Rings
Crystal Life Bracelet 
Skill Level 2

An improvised design using suggested and some substituted supplies.  The great thing about jewelry class is you can follow the instructions to the letter or purchase the suggested material or using the instructions and sample as a guide, create your own unique piece!
Wire Wrapping, Jump Rings, Chain and Selected Elements.



These next three pieces make a set, Earrings, Watch and Necklace.  I purchased one strand of each of 8mm, 6mm and 4mm Glass Pearl beads from Bluemoon Beads, and was able to complete all three projects.  Economical classes to say the least.

Pretty in Pearls Earrings
Skill Level 2 
Wire Wrapping, Jump Rings, Findings and Beads
Time for Style Watch
Skill Level 2 
Wire Wrapping, Findings, Selected Elements and Beads


Floating Pearl Necklace
Skill Level 2 
Wire, Findings, Crimp and Glass Beads

 


Can’t make it to the store Saturday?
You can also sign up and find a Current and Upcoming list of Class times and schedule the one that is best for you at Jo-Ann Store Events page, or you can have a look at the brochures as well.


June – July’s Brochure

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a wonderful weekend.

Unknown's avatar

Studio Time – Class Projects from Jo-Ann Fabrics

Hello and Happy Wednesday!

As many of you know I occasionally have the pleasure of teaching / instructing a class at Jo-Ann’s Fabrics, and also involved in the process of getting my own classes started up as well.

Today I thought we would take a brief look at a Jo-Ann’s Class Project.  All the materials for these were purchased at Jo-Ann Fabrics, 1085 Milwaukee, Boise, ID.
Dare To Dangle Earrings

Class Session: 1
2 Hours 
Skill Level: 2
Jo-Ann’s List of Materials:
Stone Chips bead tube – Quartz Mix
24 Gauge Wire
Ear Wires (Hooks)
Jump Rings
I used 
Stone Chips bead tube – Quartz Mix
22 Gauge Wire (Sterling Silver Plated Copper)
Ear Wires (Hooks)
Jump Rings
 FRONT

Stone Chips are threaded on to a length of wire (Sterling Silver Plated Copper in 22 Gauge).  The wire is twisted back on itself to form a loop, adding one Stone Chip at a time, the bead and wire wrap around the base stones to form a cluster.  Simple, pretty and may be done in any color or selection of Stone Chip Beads.  These are genuine Semi-Precious stones and include, Fluorite, Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Aquamarine, and other varieties of quartz.

BACK
This is a super simple and easy project that makes a cute pair of earrings.  I like this project because it is totally “organic” and very primitive in nature.  The Craft-person decides on stones and designs the earrings as they go along, the wire wraps naturally (where it wants to) around the beads dictated by the bead shape, creating and additional element to the design. Class Space for this project and others are still available.   This Saturday, June 9th,  1:00pm – 3:00pm, Jo-Ann Fabrics will be having an “Open House” classes are 50% Off for in-store registration, and completed projects will be on display!

There will also be other projects on display as well as other instructors and Jo-Ann team members are always there to help!
Other Projects Available – August
“Crystal Life Bracelet” – using Swarovski elements
“Pearls of Time Watch” – using Glass Pearls and a Watch Face
“Pearl” Earrings -using wire and a Glass Pearls to match the Watch.
There is one more pair of earrings that classes will be given for as well.  Come on down and check it out.

Thank you for stopping by.  

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a wonderful Wednesday.

Unknown's avatar

Monday Montage with an Announcement

Good Morning,

We’re back!  After a lovely week in San Francisco, California, and a great drive across Nevada and through Oregon, The Alchemist is refreshed and ready for work! 

I arrived in time for a couple of neat things, although I did not attend due to schedule and other obligations.  The Golden Gate Bridge had its 75th Anniversary.  Did you know that the color of the bridge is primer?  That’s right, that distinct orange color is primer!  It takes about two years to paint the bridge from San Francisco to the Waldo Tunnel (“Rainbow Tunnel” for the locals) and they start all over again.  The bridge is constantly being painted.  Happy Birthday to a fabulous icon of The City.  (Don’t call it “Frisco”.)


The Gold Dust Lounge, one of San Fransisco’s oldest establishments (1933-2012), had to close its doors at the original location on Powell Street, downtown, a friend and I had the pleasure of stopping in on the last day for a drink.  We even got T-shirts!  Never fear they are opening a new location.  Locals be on the look out for it in the North Beach neighborhood, (I think).


If you are in The City, downtown, around 6th and Market, check out Tu Lan’s.  A tiny hole in the wall Vietnamese restaurant.  Delicious food, and if you have never had a Vietnamese Coffee, go there just for that!  Yummy!


There isn’t anything new in the shop, I have been busy filling out orders and organizing some of the new things I purchased on my trip.

ANNOUNCEMENT:  The Alchemists Vessel is pleased to announce that we are now “Mobile”.  Now accepting SQUARE as a payment option!  Slide your card and sign on the Android screen and you are on your way!  Simple, safe and secure, quick, easy and convenient!  Your receipt can even be e-mailed to you!

The schedule is jammed to the gills with new things to make, classes to teach (and those projects to create), the Northwest Motorfest Auto Show is coming up July 14th and 15th, 2012, and inventory is required for that, and I still have my own classes and examinations to take as well.  Whew!

Well be back tomorrow with some cool ideas for Summer.
Thank you for stopping by and having a read.  The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant work week.

Unknown's avatar

Thursday Feature: How to Wear Pearls

Good Morning,

I thought it might be kind of fun to discuss necklace or chain lengths, what they are called and how to wear them for a particular occasion.

Today’s Fashion is a mish-mash mix and match mess! Long gone are the Fabulous Fashions of the 1940’s sophisticated, tailored, feminine. So, I could do without the hats.  My favorite attire consists of Jeans and a T-shirt, but there are occasions when I have to dress up and put on the Girl-wear and behave like a lady. Then comes the question of the right accessory to go with that little black dress.

Although these lengths are meant for Pearls, they are a good gauge for chains as well.

Pearl Collars are 12 to 13 inches long, usually made up of three or more pearl strands and lie snugly on the middle of the neck. Very Victorian and luxurious, pearl collars go best with elegant V-neck, boat neck or off the shoulder fashions. Sometimes also called a Wedding or Bride’s Collar.

This collar is a bit over done. Pearl collars should a be simple three strand piece. You may also use longer strands of pearls and wrap them to create a two strand collar with a “swag” that drapes the shoulder and collarbone area called the décolletage or décolleté.
 

Chokers are 14 to 16 inches long, and perhaps the most classic and yet versatile of all the single strand pearl lengths. A simple pearl choker can go with virtually any outfit from casual to fancy evening wear, and just about any neckline imaginable. A 16 inch pearl choker necklace is the most popular length for pearl necklaces


Princess / Tea Length – 17 to 19 inches long. The princess or Tea length pearl necklace is best suited for crew and high necklines. It also compliments low plunging necklines. A pendant or pearl drop may be added for extra appeal and “oopmh”. 18″ inch strands are the second most popular length for pearl necklaces.

 

Matinee is 20 to 24 inches long. Longer than the pearl princess necklace, and just a bit shorter than an opera length pearl necklace, the matinee pearl necklace is the right choice for casual or business dress.

 

Opera Length is 28 to 34 inches long. The pearl opera necklace is the queen of all lengths. When worn as a single pearl strand, it is refined and perfect for high or crew necklines. When doubled upon itself, it serves as a versatile two strand pearl choker.

Ropes are 45 inches in length (or longer). Elegance and sensuously sexy, the pearl rope was a favorite of Coco Chanel. For those looking for the complete pearl wardrobe, this length is a must. The rope can be wrapped for a shorter collar and swag look.

These are sometimes tied (knotted) and worn down the back, showing off a slinky backless or strapless dress.

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.  The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant rest of the week!

 

 

 

 

Unknown's avatar

Five Great Gifts To Give May 01, 2012

Hello Tuesday Morning,

We’re back to our regularly scheduled blog posts!  Today we have some returning shops that haven’t been listed in a while, some cool stuff for the home, or parties (the season is upon us) and other things.

Let’s start off with these natural feather Earrings.  These are all the fashion rage!


Description:Dark blue copper wire and blue iris Czech pressed glass beads complement the iridescent sheen on these mallard duck feather dangles.No ducks were harmed in the creation of these earrings! Feathers are natural molted/found items, sanitized by soaking in isopropyl alcohol, and allowed to air dry.

Silver ear wires are nickel-free. Earrings are 4.75 inches long.

Description: I just love these Mugs”, Truly adorable, written from the heart with just the right amount of true sweetness we all want to enjoy in our lives. Each individual mug will bring to mind someone special in your life. Great fun to have the girls over for hot chocolate, lattes, or Mexican coffee or a gift for someone who truly is the “peanut in your butter”. And remember, that could be any number of people in your life. 

  Description:  This set of 6 wine charms features semi precious stone chips. Aventurine, Blue Lace Agate, Carnelian, Smoky Quartz, Yellow Opal and Rhodonite, are all featured here. These charms make a wonderful hostess gift, or a fantastic add on when giving a bottle of wine.Aventurine – drawing money and prosperity, protection, stability, fertility and independence
Blue Lace Agate – the stone of peace and calmness, reduces tension and heals the effects of stress
Carnelian – Boosts all psychic and magical powers, especially intuitive gifts such as psychometry, dowsing and clairvoyance
Rhodonite – Used in emotional healing to help restore feelings of worth, confidence and self-love
Smoky Quartz – Clears the mind and banishes confusion
Yellow Opal – can be used to remove falsehood and trickery, find that which is hidden


These are a LIMITED EDITION ITEM.  Only available until MAY, 9th, 2012!  Available in four styles and a wide selection of Semi-precious  Gemstones!  Now $7.50 to $10.00 a pair.  Fifteen pair (15) pairs left.  Get them before they are gone!  Once they are gone, they are gone!
 
Description:Geared for the teen Rock Star in your household, these cute and simple earrings really swing and shine, and are appropriate for any age. Ideal for Birthday’s, as several pairs have been made with birthstone beads; Amethyst, Aquamarine, Carnelian, Garnet, Pearl and Peridot, just to name a few. The 10mm Sterling silver star tops a 6mm A grade Amethyst bead.Amethyst is February’s Birthstone

10mm Mirror Finish Sterling Silver Star flat 3 dimensional charm, Sterling Silver findings and a genuine Amethyst beads.

This last item I found while Stumbling, I do like that little green button, you never know what you will find.  This is super cute and I love tea, not to mention I want one.  What a fabulous way to steep tea, and it would make a marvelous unique and useful gift!
Description: Looks like we’re going to have to add a fourth law of robotics. #4 Over-steeped robot tea will be slightly bitter.
Thank you for stopping by and having a look.  The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Unknown's avatar

Thursday – Featured Fashion – Weddings

Greetings,

This morning I arose and looked out my window to see the wonderful colors of Spring blooming and bright.  Inspiration is everywhere if you look.

Spring means new life, new beginnings, and for many it is also the Wedding Season that will slowly edge into summer.

Ladies, you can have that Traditional Wedding, but what about your jewelry?  You have the ring!  Now what?  Something borrowed, something blue, something old, SOMETHING NEW!

This years Bridal Couture is about adding a spark and flash of color to yours or your Bride’s Maids ensembles.  Traditional White (Fresh Water) or  Colored (Dyed) Pearls and Swarovski crystals mix beautifully, to present a unique take on the traditional bridal necklace or choker.  Much time is spent fretting and worrying over color scheme and dresses, why not put a little thought into tying it all together with accent jewelry to match your Wedding colors.  A light touch or pink or sea-foam at the ear, or throat can enhance any parure (matching set of jewelry) with a point of soft pastel color to accentuate, highlight, and draw the eye to the face of the blushing and beautiful bride.Swarovski Crystal Pearl Selection available from Fire Mountain Gems.

A pretty Spring / Summer  Pastel Palette.


Bride’s Maids could have fun with this, each in a different note or hue of color matching the entire Wedding Party, from the Bride to the flower choice on the tables.

We would love to create the special and unique piece just for you or your Wedding party.  Give us a call, look us up on the web, all the links may be found to your right.  Let us work up that amazing and simply stunning adornment together!

Unknown's avatar

In My Studio – Beginning Jewelry Classes

Hello,

As many of you may be aware, I was offered a Contracted Instructor position at a local Craft Supply store here in lovely Boise, Idaho.  After much thought, weighing the pros and cons of the situation, and the offer, I have decided that it would be in my best interest to not participate in the program.

However, a little enamored with the idea of teaching in a social atmosphere, I have decided to start up my own class.  The complete and solid details have yet to be worked out and right now I am putting feelers out to see if there is any interest in a Beginning Jewelry class.  If response and class / lesson plans go well, or some people would like to continue past the basics, Intermediate and Advanced classes will be offered.  If you’re interested in private lessons those may be taught as well.  I hope to schedule the first class for sometime in June.

Open to the public and all who wish to attend.  Before everybody get’s excited, these classes will not be free.  You will be expected to provide your own tools, materials and a fee will be charged to include class time, forgotten materials (provided from stock on hand), and of course classroom space.  A list of all the materials, where to buy them and their cost will be provided along with printed instructions and a completed projects to take home when class is over.
Beginning Jewelry or Jewelry Basics will cover the very basics, a sample of class instruction may include and will not be limited to:
What is a finding?
– head pin
– eye pin (difference in pins and their uses)
– jump rings (aka O-rings)
– Clasps (spring, Lobster Claw, “S”)
Ear wires (styles and variations) 
Gemstones, Crystals and Glass beads (Birthstones and alternatives)
Opening and Closing Jump rings properly
Using a head / eye pin
Wire vs. Beading Wire or “Tiger Tail”
Wire Wrapping (We may have a special guest to demonstrate another process / form of wire-wrapping)
Threading or Stringing beads
Metals and their composition (Copper, Bronze, Nickel, Sterling)
Design Elements (Fibonacci Numbers, Focal Points, Accent Beads and Caps)
A completed pair of earrings or project made by you to take home and wear!
There are also other projects that may be offered, such as a Seed bead Flower-chains, a simple charm or crystal bracelet or an easy to string beaded necklace (lanyard for your glasses).

Techniques taught will cover a wide range of how to’s and don’t do’s along with basic finishing touches.  No special equipment is necessary, I bet most of you have at least several pairs of pliers at home, those will work great!
Thank you for stopping by and having a look.  If you are interested in the class you may leave a comment, e-mail, or phone, details will be given at a later date.