New Items and a Special for Blog Readers

Good Morning and Happy Monday.

Not only have I been gearing up for the last Market of the year, I have been busy creating beautiful gifts and items for this Holiday season.

This pretty time piece comes in different colors, including Pink, Purple, and Red.  Also customizable in your favorite bead color.  The face is Stainless Steel and all will be the same for this particular pattern / style.  The Heart or Tear Drop accent is a Swarovski Crystal suspended from a jump ring and attached to the watch band.  Makes a great Christmas or a January or July Birthday Present.  Each watch is currently one of a kind and no more than five (5) will be made in any one color, so you are sure to have a unique and dynamic piece!

Time Enough For Love

Description: Why wear your heart on your sleeve when you can wear it on your wrist instead. As the watch ticks so too your heart. Pretty, bright, very feminine and one of a kind. This lovely time piece is just right for the Holidays, or any time! Titled after the Robert Heinlein story “Time Enough For Love”, the band is adorned with a Swarovski Crystal heart charm and accented with beautiful Czech glass beads in Ruby Red.

8-1/2″ – Stainless Steel watch face is 26mm (1/2″), silver plated wire is hand-spun, cut, linked, and woven with Czech glass silver-lined beads in Ruby Red creating the sturdy and stunning band. Finished with a magnetic locking (screw down) clasp for a secure fit.
Not really interested in Watches?  This style is also available in Bracelets.  Shown below in black, these are also customizable in your favorite bead color and metal of choice.

“Ants” – Beaded Chainmaille Bracelet

Description: 8-1/2″ total length, sleek, sophisticated, and just right for a night out on the town.

Silver plated hand spun, cut and linked jump rings are woven in the Full Persian Chainmaille weave and beaded individually with Czech Glass beads in a matte black. A matching silver plated toggle clasp finishes the piece.

Available in a variety of metals and class bead choices. Please convo the shop with your special requests. Custom work is always welcome.

There are lots of other items and gift ideas in the shop.  Why not have a look, it is always free.  The Alchemists Vessel

Etsy not your thing?  These items are also available on-line at Handmade Artists The Alchemists Vessel 

SPECIAL FOR BLOG READERS

Now through December 15th, 2012, when you enter the Coupon Code HOLIDAY10 at check out (Etsy Shop only), you will receive 10% off your total purchase.

Many of our items have been reduced, and don‘t forget the $10.00 and Under section.

Sea-Horse Charm Earrings

Only $10.00

Description:  Adorable aren’t they? Just short of 1-1/2″ when worn, this cute and charming pair of sea creatures are filigreed and 3-Dimensional with the pattern on either side of the charm. Topped with a Bronze / Brown Bi-cone Glass Bead these are light weight, and a fun summery addition to any wardrobe.

Arrives safely packaged in a padded envelope.

Gift boxes available upon request.

Free Shipping for this item

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant work week.   

 

Time Enough For Love Chainmaille and Czech Glass Bead Watch on Handmade Artists’ Shop

Time Enough For Love Chainmaille and Czech Glass Bead Watch on Handmade Artists’ Shop.

Chainmaille and Czech Glass Bead Watch

Featured Artist

 

Hello,

Today I am pleased to bring to you a new shop from Etsy

StaRsbyDi

Pearl Necklace Handmade with Freshwater Pearls and Cape Amethyst Stone Set

Description: This pearl necklace is handcrafted with freshwater pearls, cape amethyst and small glass beads.
This elegant piece of pearl and stone jewelry, is a delicate thin necklace that can give you more than an aesthetic look.
Freshwater pearls used for this necklace are ivory white and have an approx. lenght of 4mm and 5mm.

Cape amethyst is a translucent gemstone that ranges from light- to medium-purple and has white bands. Note that no cape amethyst stone bead is the same with another.

Cape Amethyst is a very powerful and protective stone.

The necklace comes with matching earrings but you can also buy the pieces separately. The price refers to the set.

Amethyst Necklace Wire Wrapped Amethyst Crystal Pendant Necklace

 

Description: Amethyst natural crystal wire wrap pendant necklace, big pendant necklace, wire wrapped jewelry handmade.

I wire wrapped the beautiful lilac amethyst crystal (3*2cm – 1.18*0.78”) with silver plated wire. Two silver plated metal beads adorn the black cotton cord (6 strand) finished with silver plated lobster clasp.

This lovely necklace measures approx. 41.5cm (16.33”) around the neck and the extension chain is 6cm (2.36”) long.

Elegant Black Necklace 

 Description: I handcrafted this black necklace using black glass beads, a beautiful antique silver plated wire bead(2cm – 0.79”), two rondelle crystal ab beads, antique bali style silver plated beads, small silver plated metal beads, silver tone chain and a silver plated lobster clasp.

This extra modern black necklace measures approx. 46cm (18.11′) all around and the hanging part (chain + wire bead) measures approx. 5cm (1.97”).

**Please note there is no extension chain.

Organza Flower Choker with Flower Pendant

Description: I handmade this lovely stylish organza choker necklace with a flower pendant (2.7cm – 1.06”), double black ribbon, silver plated beads and silver plated lobster clasp. There is a lovely wire wrap red coral bead and a metal feather hanging in front of the flower pendant.
This classy choker measures 42cm (16.54”) from one end to the other in a straight line.
The flower pendant is fine quality non-tarnish.

Celtic Knot Necklace with Brown Silk Cord and Green Geometric Bead 

 Description: This is a fine celtic knot necklace that looks fine on a woman’s neck. I handcrafted this cletic piece of jewelry with a geometric green and gold stripe glass bead, gold plated wire and chain, and brown silk cord (3strands).
I finished the necklace with an elegant gold plated lobster clasp and extension chain.
This beautiful necklace measures approx.40cm (15.75”) around the neck and the gold plated extension chain is 6cm (2.36”) long.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

 

Featured Artist: Crochet Hooked’s, Cari Baker

 

Good Morning.

 

Today, as usual on Thursday’s is a featured artist, from Handmadeartists.com Cari Baker of Crochet Hooked.

 

Cari’s shop – Crochet Hooked

What’s a Braidlet?

Cari says:

I design a wire crochet braided bracelet known as ‘Braidlets®.’ 

Using the finest Swarovski crystals and pearls. Anything in my 

shop can be custom made, within 24 hours, at no extra charge. 

Because ‘A Little Bling Goes Along way!‘ 

 

Let’s take a look.

 

Harmonious Swarovski Crystal Bracelet

This stylish bracelet features three strands of Swarovski crystals, which are braided together forming a durable, lightweight, and comfortable handmade bracelet. A terrific gift for Bridesmaids, as they will cherish the bracelet for years to comes and it is a reminder of the fun had by all at your wedding.

• Size:  7” long x 3/8” wide
• Swarovski Crystals: 4mm Bicone Crystal Moonlight, Jonquil, and Silk
• Clasp: Silver filled magnetic

There are also these simple and pretty earring, in a rainbow of colors.

Primary Color Simple Swarovski Pierced Earrings, Your Choice of Two Colors 

These simple earrings are made using 3, 4mm bicone Swarovski Crystals and antique brass wire. The total length is about 1⅜inch, the dangle is about ¾ inch. Please choose from the following:

Yellow: Sun Swarovski

Green: Emerald Swarovski

Red: Light Siam Swarovski

Blue: Sapphire Swarovski

Purple: Amethyst Swarovski

Orange: Sunflower Swarovski

Please choose 2 colors from the 6 colors I have listed above. When you are purchasing the earrings, don’t forget to specify color choices.  If you forget, no problem, I will send you an email requesting your colors. Custom orders are always welcome.

Want to learn how to make those fabulous and fun Braidlets?  Cari has been kind enough to provide a downloadable pdf tutorial. 

Easy Wire Crochet Bracelet Pattern PDF Download 

A tutorial to learn how to make my Multi colored, Cuff style and Swarovski Crystal Wire Crochet Bracelets, with this easy to follow PDF Pattern.

**Beginning crochet, braiding, and beginning jewelry knowledge is helpful for this pattern.**

Materials needed:
Artistic Wire
A toggle clasp
6/0 Seed beads

Tools needed:
Needle Nosed pliers
Flat-nosed pliers
Wire cutters
0 (3.25 mm) US steel Hook

Required:
A cup of coffee or water
And a smile… ;o)

I wrote this pattern with you in mind… (I used to teach a beginning crochet class) with clear colored photos, showing you how to crochet with wire and beads. Along with easy to follow step-by-step instructions, as if I were sitting right beside you. ;o).

From the pattern above you can make three (3) different styles of braidlet! 

 

What Cari says about herself:

 

My name is Cari and I design a Beaded Wire Crochet Braided Bracelet, I have branded Braidlets®. I taught myself to crochet about 11 years ago. And over the years, I have made baby items, hats, lapel pins, scarfs, and jewelry.
In 2005, while working as a Custom Picture Framer for a local arts and crafts store, I started teaching a beginning crochet class. I enjoyed sharing my enthusiasm about the art of crochet, with my students.
It was during this time, I discovered crocheting with wire and beads. I was (and still am) awestruck by the simplicity of creating jewelry, by crocheting beads to wire.
~ ~ * ~ ~ * ~ ~ * ~ ~ * ~ ~ * ~ ~ *
Thank you for taking the time to read my profile. I appreciate your visit and until next time, have a wonderful day. Cari

Braidlets® / Copyright © 2008-12 All rights reserved.

 

 

Thank you for stopping in and taking a moment to read about Cari and her wonderful and clever jewelry.

 

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant rest of the week.

 

 

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

Boise, ID.  

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.

May-June’s Brochure

June – July’s Brochure

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  

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

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.

Outside and Gemstones

Happy Friday.  The weekend is here and we should all breathe deeply, take a moment and relax, work week is over and we have earned it.

Sitting here trying to think of something to promote is never easy.  I have no idea half the time what to write, what readers may find interesting, entertaining, useful or worthwhile.

Instead of promoting something on the net and posting links, I thought I would take a minute to look outside and see if something out there wasn’t interesting.  You know what?  Outside is amazing!

So today I am promoting “outside”.  Funny that I would be doing such a thing on a blog, that I want people to read and comment on, and here I am suggesting that you turn off the box and go do something out of doors!

Many of you have seen this picture as it is posted on my wall and the Facebook‘s profile cover photo, but this is outside!  Beautiful, delicate, colorful, wonderful, awesome and inspiring.

Material in this lovely pink, would make a fabulous skirt or dress.  The yellow is bright and sunny, a nice contrast to the pink.  Green, yellows, and pinks are simple, fresh, colors for any Spring or Summer wardrobe.I get a lot of my inspiration from outside, and most of the materials I use come from outside.  Gemstones and precious metals are taken from the ground, and many are left in their natural state, shaping and polishing is all that has been done to them.

Amethysts and Rubies come in crystalline materials that are created in specific conditions to grow in geodes or other formations. 

Amethyst in a geode.

Rubies in their natural state, prior to cutting and polishing.  They appear to range from pink to a reddish-purple color.  Some seem to have milky white striations across the surface of the natural stone.

Idaho is the “Gem State”, the Official Stone of Idaho is Garnet.

Garnet is also a crystalline gem.  It comes in many colors from yellow to red, red being the most popular for jewelry.

Many states have official stones, Oregon’s is Rhodonite.  A gorgeous pink stone that looks somewhat like marble.

For designers of all types, nature is an essential part of the process.  Shapes, colors, forms, textures, even the numbers of leaves or petals on a tree or plant can play an important part in the creation of jewelry, fashion, architecture, and art.

The outside world is an amazing place, full of adventure and inspiration.  City or Rural area, there are parks, rivers, wildlife (even if they are pigeons), take sometime this weekend to rediscover the backyard, the playground down the street, the Zoo, your local Open Space or Walking Trail.  The Great Outdoors awaits!

Now, go outside and play!

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.  The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a wonderful weekend and in hope that the weather allows for outdoor fun and games!