Studio News Jewlery Classes New for the Holidays

Trick or Treat!

I do love the middle of the week, and what more can I say, other than of course I have a treat for you!

I spent yesterday at the work bench, assembling samples for the brand new Jewelry Class projects starting in November and available through December at your local Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store.

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store
1085 Milwaukee
Boise, ID 
208-323-5373 
Instructor: Alixandra Browning of The Alchemists Vessel

Jewelry Making Basics or Jewelry 101 is always offered and includes an overview of supplies, tools and basic jewelry making terms and techniques.  Students take home a project they choose to make during class.  $35.00 for a 2-1/2 hour session.  Includes a field trip through the aisles.

This months projects are pretty and versatile! Simple, fun, fabulous, and  just in time for the Holidays!  Sign up and make presents for your Mom, sister, daughter, Grandmother, or all your girl-friends, in their favorite colors!  Easy and quick these projects have endless possibilities for color combinations!

Jewelry 102

Solar Chic is the first project.  $30.00 for a 2 hour session.  The Class includes both the Earrings and Bracelet.  Project materials are purchased in advance by the student, and tools are provided in the classroom.  In keeping with the Class Instructions and using the suggested materials, and still managing to keep the project unique and different; the goal of the class is to teach the techniques and let the student use their design idea to complete the piece.

Material lists and Class Schedules are provided at time of sign up.  

Suggested materials
Ear Wires
Memory Wire
6mm and 4mm *Bi-cone Beads in your favorite color.
*Project instructions call for Swarovski Crystals in Green (Mix)
Sturdy wire cutters (Memory Wire fights back!)
Round Nose pliers

Solar Chic Earrings

Memory wire and two sizes of Bi-cone shaped glass beads make up this cute and illusion-like pair of earrings.

Solar Chic Matching Bracelet

Memory wire and the same Bi-cone shaped glass beads with an added color or two create this cute, super simple, and very shiny bracelet.

Jewelry 201

I don’t design the projects I just make the samples and teach the class, like they tell me.

Bow Tie Necklace – $30.00 for a 2 hour session.

This pretty project has a surprise, not constructed as you think it might be, the double strand is an eye-fetchingly sparkly and charming bit of decoration.  Great for teens, the office, or to match that Holiday outfit!  The Bow Tie may be attached or removed for two different looks.

Suggested Materials:
Silver Chain
4mm *Bi-Cone Beads
*Project instructions call for Swarovski Crystals in Siam
6mm Jump Rings
Head Pins
Lobster Claw Clasp (or choice)
Beading Wire (7 Stand)
Round Nose pliers
Wire Cutters

Silver (white metal) chain is the basis for this piece.  Shown here without the beaded Bow Tie Accent.

Option:

Shown here with the addition of the Bow Tie. 

Detail

Bow Tie accent.  Bow is created with 4mm beads.

This pieces can be made in any color combination or solid color of choice.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a very Spooky Halloween!

 

New Items and a Word or Two About Change

Good Morning,

Monday is here and the workweek begins.

This morning, I have one new item to share with you.
 
Today we will be doing things a bit differently.  Etsy, in its infinite stupidity has managed to destroy my on-line business in one fell swoop.  Long gone are the fabulous handmade artists shops and fun shopping experience.  Now you are lost in a sea of manufactured $2.00 garbage and crap made in China.  You might as well be shopping at Walmart.

I still offer the Etsy shop, as well as another Venue that isn’t new, but is more intimate and truly devoted to the handmade artisan and their work.

Beaded Chainmaille Bracelet (Etsy)

Full Persian Weave and Czech Glass Bead Bracelet

You can also find this same item listed at handmadeartist.com, by following this link Ants Chainmaille and Czech Glass Bead Bracelet.  There are several other items listed there as I am still building the Shop, but eventually this will be the only place to shop with me on-line, besides the official website.

The Alchemists Vessel official website will also be going through some changes, we will include individual items for purchase as well as implementing new sections and removing others to offer customers and students a more cohesive site.  Please bear with us as we remodel!  The site is up and running now, stop by and see if there isn’t something we can do for you today!

Last bit of news which I may have already talked about, but being busy may have forgotten.  Mind like a steel sieve.  I will be opening a Brick and Mortar location in the next several months.  I have a location that just kind of fell into my lap, (Thank You Michelle and Fred Deller of A-1 Video, Boise), and am looking for more artists to fill the space available.  Looking for Painters, Ceramic Artists, Wood Carvers, Sculptors.  Know an artist looking for a physical venue to showcase their work?  Direct them my way!  So there is no confusion, this is a PAID Participation, artist will pay a set price for their “Booth Space” within the shop and all monies in regards to sales are theirs to keep.  Artists may work their booth, or leave it in shop as there will be an On-Duty-Sales-Person at all times! (Me).  More details will be coming soon.

Participating Artists:
The Alchemists Vessel – Chainmaille and Gemstone Jewelry
Green Witch Designs – Jewelry – Knitting Goodies
Wire Witchery – Wire Wrapped Jewelry
Dreathen Leathers – Gorgeous Masks and leather accessories
Mudfipp Photography – Photographic Prints and more

I am in hope of many more participants!  On a sad note, I will not be taking anymore Jewelry Artisans.  As it happens people come and go and this may change.

Space permitting we will also be holding classes at the new store, and engaging other fun and entertaining alternatives for your gift giving needs!

Thank you for stopping in and having a read.

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

 

Studio Syllabus for Today

Happy Wednesday,

Here we are the middle of the week, not quite the weekend and almost too late to start a work week project.  Today’s post is short and sweet as I suddenly find myself with a multitude of things going on and all kinds of doings which require my attention.

Let’s have a look at what I have been doing.  I offer a variety of  Chainmaille items, from Earrings to Watches and most stuff in between, and tried a new way to bead the Full Persian Weave and I am most happy with it.  Reminiscent of the “Dragons Back” pattern, “Leap Frog” incorporates one bead at alternating intervals down the length of chain.  Flexible for a comfortable fit,  substantial enough to make a nice statement piece, so in fashion this season. 

Length of Full Persian Beaded Maille

Beads appear to leap over one ring to another

Beads nestle in the V shape created by the rings

The chain may be turned so beads rest on top or face forward

This pattern is available in bracelets and watch bands, they are not heavy but do have a little weight.  Customizable in your favorite metal and bead color of choice.

Other bracelet patterns to choose from: 

Dragon’s Back:  Shown with Emerald Czech glass beads silver-lined beads and Silver plated jump rings.

Beads are grouped together and ungulate through the chain.

Marching or Walking Beads

Beads walk across the surface of the chain.

Any and all patterns are available in the metal and bead color of your choice.

ANNOUNCEMENT:  Shop News

It is with much pleasure that I introduce Inspired Creations of Spokane, Washington.  After speaking with the owner, Alisha Reinbolt, yesterday, I have agreed to be a Consigned Artist in her shop.  She currently has 25 or so featured artists in her Brick and Mortar store.  If you are in the Spokane Valley area why not stop by and check out the Gallery.  
Location: 523 S. Pines
Spokane Valley, WA

Pretty in Pearl Earrings Class will be held at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft this Thursday (tomorrow) from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., there is still time to sign up! 1850 Milwaukee, Boise ID.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

 

 

Studio News 10-5-12

 

Good Morning,

Wednesday arrives and catches me unprepared!   This morning’s blog is brief as I suddenly find myself up to my ears in display racks, and that’s pretty easy, because I am really short.

The Treasure Valley Flea Market is this weekend, October 6th and 7th, 2012, at Idaho Expo at the Fairgrounds.   I have been busy packing, polishing and preparing items for the up coming event and as such have not made anything new in the studio.  However we do have some cool Halloween themed jewelry in the Shop and at the Market.  Enter the coupon code: Holiday10 at check out and receive a 10% Discount on your entire purchase. 

Also I am currently studying the fifth mod of the Jewelry Design and Repair Technician Certification course I am taking.  Believe it or not, most people behind a jewelry counter, whether department store or fine jewelery boutique have been certified by an educational institution of one kind or other, and it never hurts to continue one’s education and learn about new processes, tools, and materials.  If all goes as intended I should complete, or graduate from the course, if you prefer, before April, 2013.  

Speaking of classes and courses.  I am still the Contracted Jewelry Instructor at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores here in Boise and will be starting classes at Bella’s Grove, 2210 S. Broadway, upstairs, in November.  Dates and details will be announced on this blog.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

 

Bella’s Grove and Links and Promotions

Good Morning,

Friday is here, the weekend promises to be bright and lovely and I can’t wait to get out on the Greenbelt down by the river and go for a little Autumn walk, and see what mother nature has in store.

Before I get into the announcements and event promotions, I would like to venture to the Discovery Center in Boise Idaho.  This month a new exhibit began, Bodies Revealed, and this is just fascinating.  Although I do not have tickets yet, I intend to go.   The link will take you to The Plan Your Visit Page, with information on Tickets and the Discovery Center’s address and hours of operation.  The bodies are actual people, plasticized and preserved in an exhibit of how the body functions and what you look like on the inside.   For $8.00 this is not to be missed.

ANNOUNCEMENTS AND EVENTS

The Alchemists Vessel is excited and very pleased to announce that Jewelry Classes will be starting soon, dates need to be confirmed and will be announced within the next couple of weeks.

I would like to thank Bella’s Grove, for graciously agreeing to rent space for classes.  A local business in town, Bella’s Grove is located at 2210 S. Broadway, Boise, ID 83706.
Hours: Monday – Closed
Tuesday through Friday – 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Facebook: Bella’s Grove

 

The store has a lot to offer, jewelry, incense, crystals, gemstone pendants, herbal workshops, Reiki, and a number of other marvelous and unique things to delight the mind and the senses!

~ EVENT ~

Just in time for All Hallows Eve, Bella’s Grove will also be hosting The Witches Market, Sunday, October 14th, 2012, at 2210 Broadway, Boise, ID (Broadway and Iowa).  Stop by for a fun and unique shopping experience, many of the artisans that are featured in the store will be available in person with their wares on display.

The Alchemists Vessel at Bella’s Grove, Jewelry Classes with Alixandra Browning

Classes Offered:

Jewelry Basics: $30.00 per person 2-1/2 Hour session
This class will cover the very basics of jewelry making, including Tools, Wire, Bead Sizes, Findings (Jump Rings, Ear Wires, Head Pins, etc.)  A simple project will be made during class for attendees to take home.

Sample Tools and Materials

Intermediate Jewelry Design:  $40.00 per person 3-1/2 hour session
This class will be project based, attendees are expected to be familiar with basic jewelry making techniques, materials and equipment.   Jewelry Basics is NOT required for any of the classes offered.  If you can string a bead and bend a head pin you’ll be more than comfortable in this class.  

Genuine Gemstone Necklace

Advanced Jewelry Design: $45.00 – $50.00 per person To Be Determined
This class will cover more advanced projects and processes of Jewelry Design.  Including Resin Trapped Objects, Chainmaille, and Inking projects.

Beaded Chainmaille Watch

All class materials will be provided by the Instructor, if you have your own materials and / or tools discounts will be given at time of class.  Registration will be available via the website or visit Bella’s Grove and pick up a brochure after October 14th, 2012.  You will also be able to sign up via Facebook and the Etsy Shop as soon as the sample projects are complete.

*NOTE: All items shown are handmade by Alixandra Browning Owner / Designer of The Alchemists Vessel, and may not be the specific projects taught in class.

Thank you for stopping in and having a read.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant weekend!

Friday Shamless Promotion of Self – Coupon Code

 

Greetings,

Friday is here, it is the weekend, and tomorrow is the first day of Fall.  There has been a nip in the air of late, and the mornings have been cooler.  Leaves have been changing color and it is getting dark earlier in the evening.  Autumn.  Ain’t it grand?  I think so.

Let’s get to what everybody wants to know.  What’s the Coupon Code, I could make you wait until the end of the post, but that’s just cruel.  If you are thinking about purchasing that item you’ve had your eye on you can enter Holiday10 at check out on any item in the Shop and receive a 10% discount on your entire order.  Good through December 15, 2012, and active now.  Coupon Code includes all shop sections and items!

$10.00 and Under is a new Shop Section, where all items for sale are, you guessed it, $10.00 and under.  Chainmaille, Genuine Gemstone Stretch Bracelets, Earrings, there will be more to come.  These little items make great stocking stuffers, Office Gift Exchange presents, or Secret Santa Gifts for your Group or Organization.

Set of Three Earring Pairs $10.00 at The Alchemists Vessel.

The Bridal Path is also a new Shop Section and venture.  A Web page will be added to the Official Website for a complete list of beaded Wedding Accessories, Favors and Jewelry for the Bride and her Party.  We will also be offering custom Wedding Bands, for the Bride and Groom, unique and original pieces especially made for the happy couple. 

Currently for sale is this very pretty pair of glass Pearl earrings in Gray and White, more styles and colors are available, as well as other items that will be added soon, and all customizable in the colors of choice. 

Watch Monday’s blog post for more new items.

AN IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT!

Dear Customers and Flea Market Attendees,

After much pondering, evaluation, and tough decisions it is time to adapt new ideas, modify the Shop, and fill out the inventory.  Changes within the Treasure Valley Flea Market, and the fact that I seem to have reached my sales audience, has lead me to adapt several more alterations, I will be appearing at the listed show dates, and that is all.  I will be seeking a new permanent venue whether through a Consignment Shop or other Brick and Mortor Shopping location around the Treasure Valley and Boise area.  I will continue to be an active member in the other Fairs and venues, time permitting.  This is not an easy decision or one I make lightly.  You can still find us on the web to shop, and available by phone for Customer Service, Custom Orders or General Questions.  Business Phone Hours are 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Monday – Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Sunday.

Always available via e-mail – alchemistsvessel@gmail.com

The Alchemists Vessel will be in attendance at these Flea Markets.

October 6th and 7th, 2012 – Halloween Themed Jewelry On Sale!

November 10th and 11th,2012 – Last chance for in person Holiday shopping

February 16th and 17th, 2013 – We will be showcasing new items and announcing our continued presence and new shopping venue.

I will continue as the Contracted Jewelry Instructor at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores, as well as completing my Certification course during the coming months as well.

Thank you for stopping in and having a read.  Don’t forget to bookmark us, we have some exciting plans in the works.

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

 

Things To Click and a Promotion or Two

 

Hello there!

Happy Friday one and all.  It’s a long weekend this time!  For some of us the weekend brings the last summer barbeque and a camping trip or two, live music or a relaxing day with friends.

This weekend – Three Days Only!  The Alchemists Vessel is having its first Labor Day Sale!  That’s right!   Saturday through Monday, enter the Coupon Code: LDAY10 and received 10% off your total purchase price.  Some special in-shop items include free shipping, like this pendant.

Sterling Silver and Black Onyx Genuine Gemstone Necklace

That’s right Monday is Labor Day!  Yes, it is a Federal Holiday.  Yes, it means that most of us have the day off from our jobs, whatever those may be.  For some it means sales and shopping, for others it is a day for the Honey Do list and household chores.

Labor Day: 11 Facts You Need To Know

After we have had a refreshing weekend, it’s time to head back to work or school.  It is also the beginning of Market Season!  Flea Markets, Holiday Gift Shows, Specialty Booths, they are all a great place to find that unique and must have item.

Treasure Valley Flea Market, September 8th and 9th, 2012.
5610 Chinden Blvd. Garden City, ID
Idaho Expo at The Fair Grounds
Saturday – 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Sunday – 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Admission is $2.00

We hope to see you there.  Booth #28, The Alchemists Vessel.

New Classes in September at Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores with your friendly instructor, me.  Jewelry Basics is always available,  and covers the basics from tools to findings and a completed project to take home.  Learn to make “Pretty in Pearl” earrings in two designs.  New project is an interesting Swaovski Crystal bracelet.   See your local store for details.  

Classes are taught at the Milwaukee location.
1085 Milwaukee
Boise, ID
(208) 323-5373
Call or Sign up for classes in store.  
*Open House Saturday Sept. 8th at this location.

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.  

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant Labor Day Holiday.

 

Links, Promotions and Things to Click

 

Friday! 

 

The weekend is here.  Hurray!

 

PROMOTION:

Tomorrow at Jo-Ann Fabrics and Craft Stores 

Open House

Saturday, August 11, 2012

1085 N. Milwaukee

Boise, ID

(208) 323-5373

Jewelry Making Flyer Page

 

Come on down and sign up for a class.  The coupon on the page is good for 50% off any and all classes for which you sign up.  Sewing, Cake Decorating, Knitting, Painting or take a Jewelry Class with me!  Contact your local stores for their dates and class lists.

LINKS:

 

I know that there are an awful lot of links to pages and videos and the odd website now and again.  Listing several seems like a good idea, remember to bookmark them if you visit the page again.

 

Twisted Little Things – The Etsy shop where those wonderful little monsters can be found.  There is a whole new crop of marvelous macabre for your collection.

Gimp –  Free downloadable Photo editing software.

Rio Grande – Jewelry Making Supplies

Handmade Artists –  On line shopping

 

Craft Stack – On line shopping, the page is not “open” yet, but they have gone from just a logo to an actual homepage, looking forward to a new venue.

 

You know where to find me, any of the links to the right will re-direct you to any of the sites, pages, or videos you are interested in.  

Have a question, comment or just curious.  They are welcome here!

 

Thank you for stopping by and having a read.

 

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant and wonderful weekend!  Relax and be good to yourself.

 

Friday Local Links and Promotions

 

Friday is here, and the weekend is right around the corner!

 

Speaking of the weekend, this is a big deal up here, and it is fun.  The Western Idaho Fair is this month.  August 17 through the 26th, 2012.  Contests, Farm Exhibits, Rides and Funnel cake.

Jo-Ann Fabric and Crafts Stores has new Jewelry-Making classes, with Alixandra Browning of The Alchemists Vessel.  Come on down and have an enjoyable afternoon of fun and crafting.  Projects suitable for all ages, taught in a classroom at the store in a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere.  These are the projects for August.  Don’t forget to ask abut special deals when signing up for class, many have up to a 50% discount on the listed price.

Green Chutes

 

I don’t know anything about this other than they are up the street from my house.  The appear to be an Artists Co-Op that sells food.  I have never been there, and should probably go.  Off State Street in the Collister Shopping Center near the Bowling Alley. If any of you have been there, a review would be wonderful.

 

Thanks for stopping by and having a read.

 

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

 

In My Studio – Earring Tutorial

 

Happy Wednesday!Here we are in my studio, that must mean it’s time for a project.  Wonder what I do at the workbench?   Wonder no more, below is  Earrings 101 a tutorial video. 

 

As promised, I have finally managed to create and upload a video on crafting a pair of very simple dangle earrings.  You can definitely try this at home!  The video covers, materials and how to’s for finishing and attaching the parts and pieces to make and  complete a pair of earrings.

 

If you would like to participate along with the video or perhaps make a pair afterwards you will need the supplies listed.  Expensive tools and supplies are not required, you can find the wire cutters and other things at your local Walmart for about $5.00 each, I bet most you have pliers at home, those will work just fine.  Beads can be any material and color you like, you can also find the Headpins and things at a local craft store for around $2.00.

 

Tools:

1 pair of Flat or Chain Nose Pliers

1 pair of Round Nose Pliers

1 pair of Wire Cutters

 

Supplies:

2 Head Pins

2 Fish Hook Style Ear Wires

2 4mm Jump Rings (optional)

Beads of your choice (any color, size, shape to your liking).

If you are experiencing problems watching the video on the blog you can also try clicking the links to your right or following them from the links below,

Earrings 101 on The Alchemists Vessel (Official Website)

Earrings 101 on Youtube

Earrings 101 on Daily Motion

*Earrings 101 on Facebook

 

*NOTE:  This link will take you to The Alchemists Vessel Fan / Business Page on Facebook.

There is no pdf or written instruction, if I have requests for this I will write one out for downloading later.

I hope you enjoyed this brief tutorial on creating a simple pair of earrings.

Thank you for stopping by and watching.

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