A Clean Well Lighted Place To Work

Good Morning,

Monday is here, and I for one am rather excited about starting the work week.

This blog has discussed tools, uses and care of, as well as a number of things related to the Studio in general.  Today I thought it would be fun to show off the “workbench”.

Not so much a workbench as it is a large, long table, but it will suffice for the meantime.  I spent the weekend cleaning and organizing the Studio, it still has a long way to go but at least the work area is clean and inviting.  Come, sit and create something, it beckons.

It is important to have a clutter free work area, in the photo below you can see the work space, a large space for equipment (currently a  note book resides in the spot), along with hammers, torches, Dremel tool, mandrels, other tools, and a small rack of incidentals (files, striker, gloves and other things) hangs on the wall within easy reach.  A positionable light with a magnifying lens is attached to one edge of the table, it may be pulled down for small work, or lifted up and out of way as you see here, it is also an excellent extra light source.  The windows and overhead light come from behind me, casting shadows across the table, which is not only bad for my eyesight, but it makes it difficult to see what I am actually working on.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Readers from everywhere,
Welcome to The Alchemists Vessel.  That’s it, right there.  No longer do I reside in the Great Room at the dining-room table, no more do I fret over spills, wax, fire (OK, maybe a little bit) and other things that may mar or damage a surface.  This table, that chair, is my Studio.  Kind of not what you thought, huh.  Yes, there is a whole room attached to the table and chair, don’t you worry, and more equipment lies about the area within a step or two away.  The “heavy machinery” is out in the garage.

It is important to be sure that you not only have enough light, but that you have enough space to work on your items.  Of course things should be within reach, but out of the way of the immediate area in which you are working.  It is also a nice idea to have extra space tools and / or equipment you may need for working on a project.  Here things are rather compact.  The crock pot, for example, plugs into the outlet provided on the lamp’s base, (not visible in photo). Not only is this convenient, it is also within easy reach, as the pot does not have an On/Off switch, it can be unplugged immediately when not in use or switched off with the lamp’s power toggle.

I think this is the first time any of you will get to see a piece of my art that hangs in the studio.  Although not quite completed, I had to get it out of the way, and the wall already had a nail in it, so why not just hang the thing.  I don’t paint well,  but I do enjoy dabbling on occasion.

A front view of the bench, here it is easier to see how it all comes together as a functioning workbench.  These photos were actually taken with my cellphone, because once again my camera has eaten 
the batteries.

This is where the magic happens.

The bench is currently set up for a Super Secret Project!  The plastic bag you see contains materials that if left out in the open one will oxidize and the other will harden to an unusable state.   As you read this, I sit in that chair, at that table, and am more than likely soldering something.  

This lovely item is an actual Bench Jewelers bench, each compartment and drawer are actually made to accommodate specific items.  The drawer in front, unlike a desk, is called a “catch drawer” it is used to catch the metal dust from sheet metal when sawing or cutting or piercing the piece.

From Gesswein this little beauty is solid wood and has a number of amenities, bench pin, catch drawer and ring mandrel holder.  For $315.00 this is a very nice piece of equipment, not a necessary one, but a nice one.

Thank you for stopping in and having a read.

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

Chainmaille Tutorial Key Chain Kit on Handmade Artists’ Shop

Chainmaille Tutorial Key Chain Kit on Handmade Artists’ Shop.

 

Complete Kits or Instructions, both are available and ready for delivery or download.

Jewelry Sets, Tutorial Kits and Wholesale at The Alchemists Vessel

Good Morning,

Happy Friday to one and all, the weekend is almost here and I for one could use a little down time, not like that is going to happen, but I can give it a go.  Today is Shameless Self Promotion Day on the blog, but I do that a lot any way.  That’s what the blog for, besides showing off neat items and cool artists, some of whom are personal friends, and others just because their work amazes me.

What’s happening at The Alchemists Vessel?  Let’s find out.

We are currently offering a variety of sets of jewelry, bracelets, earrings, and combination sets, soon to be listed.  First up is this fun set of four (4) Chainmaille Bracelets,  all four are a generous 8-1/4″ to 8-1/2″ in length, with a magnetic clasp and enameled aluminum jump rings.  Available in Gunmetal tone or Silver-plated outer rings, with more accent colors on the way.

Available now at Raven’s Nook 

Mystery Chainmaille Bracelets

These fabulous bracelets come in a set of four (4). They are dark, dreamy, striking, yet subtle, just right to match your mood, attire or lipstick. A collection of pretty ribbons for the wrist, these are an excellent choice for the tailored grey Professional suit, a sleek and sensuous bauble for Date Night, a surprise under the black lights at the club, or a cool element to go with your favorite pair of jeans and t-shirt on that weekend get away. Terrific for Rocker, Biker, Goth, and Metal fashions, a superior accessory for velvet or leather. Would make a unique ensemble for Film, Stage or Event attire or costuming. The mystery, how do the rings just float there like that?

Each bracelet measures 8-1/4″ to 8-1/2″ long, including clasp. Gunmetal tone (over copper) and enameled aluminum jump rings in Teal, Purple, Olive Green, and Red, are woven in the Inverted Round Maille pattern and finished with a strong magnetic clasp that holds well during everyday activities and movements.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

This item is not customizable.

Items are 20% Off the individual sale price.

Free Shipping this item.

Also available in silver-plated outer rings.

Ask us about Wholesale and multi-item order discounts. 

*Sold individually as well.

We are always happy to take custom requests.  Like what you see, but don’t see what you like? Drop us a line and let us design and create something especially for you.   We have a wide selection of in-stock materials to choose from.  Consultations, questions and quotes for custom orders are always free.

Coming Soon:

Want to try your hand at making Chainmaille?  Don’t want to spend all that money on a book and supplies?  If you have a couple of pairs of pliers and Adobe Reader, you too can try your hand at these fun and beautiful projects.  

As part of a promotional campaign for In Chains, The Alchemists Vessel will be offering Instructions and Kits for Stand-Alone-Projects from Key Chains to Jewelry, and more, if it can be managed.

Kits will include Printed Instructions and enough material to make two (2) of the Weave Project you choose, plus extra rings just in case you make a mistake.   That’s one for you and one to give away to your best friend, co-worker, or child.

Look for these project listings next month!

Wholesale Orders?  Yes we do.

Everything you see in the shop is available for Wholesale Order.  We ask that all Wholesale Orders equal $200.00 or more.  Discount is taken at time of completed transaction and can be as much as 30% off the listed retail price of your entire order.  We negotiate as well!

We also provide bulk or multi-item discounts for teams, groups, clubs, organizations, wedding parties, events and are willing to work with other designers to fulfill your jewelry or costume piece needs.

Friendly, knowledgeable, over ten years experience and a Certified Jewelry Design and Repair Technician, you can’t go wrong with merchandise from The Alchemists Vessel.   

We guarantee our work. 

We would also like to mention at this time that the official Alchemists Vessel website will be undergoing some changes and under construction once again.  We appreciate your patience as we attempt to provide the finest quality goods and services via our website.  The site is still accessible and orders, e-mails and other items of interest will still be available while the changes are being made.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

 

 

Featured Artists – Brooklyn Bead Goddess

Good Morning,

This morning we feature April, the Brooklyn Bead Goddess, of  Handmade Artists.

Born and raised in Brooklyn, April’s love of Lampworking or “flameworking” glass, began when she was a young girl wandering the boardwalks of Coney Island and watching the Glass Artists there create their amazing, detailed and fragile sculptures.  This life-long love affair with glass is apparent from her incredible pieces.  She takes the time to learn new things, materials and techniques and incorporates then into her designs.

She is also a member of The International Organization for Self-Representing Artists in Jewelry Design.  SRAJD stands for Self-Representing Artist Jewelry Designer. A SRAJD member sells jewelry they designed and created. They are not permitted to sell mass produced jewelry or jewelry that hasn’t been made by themselves.

When you purchase from an SRAJD member, you are buying directly from and supporting the artist.

That being said, let’s take a look at some of her stunning pieces.

Yes, she makes jewelry.

Lampwork Earrings Handmade Glass Beads Handcrafted Wearable Art Jewelry SRA SRAJD

Product Details:

Handmade brown and green glass beads made by melting glass in a torch flame. I love the contrast of these two colors. Bottom brown bead has a green swirl design, top brown bead has raised green dots and drops of crystal clear glass on each dot. Intricate, one of a kind pair of earrings.
Sterling silver ball beads on top, middle and bottom. Sterling silver wire wrapped onto a soldered jump ring connected to Sterling silver french ear wires.
Measures from top of ear wire to bottom 1 1/2 inches.
These lampwork glass beads are made by myself in a torch flame. They are digitally kiln annealed for added strength and durability. I clean the bead holes myself using a special dremel diamond drill bit. They are closely inspected before using in my designs. I take pride in my work and you will too when you wear a piece of Wearable Art.
I am a registered Self Representing Artist (SRA) member number G-122 and registered Self Representing Artist Jewelry Designer (SRAJD) number 2147.
My jewelry is mailed in a padded envelope for safe shipping. First-Class Mail Parcel with delivery confirmation It will be beautifully gift wrapped and gift boxed.
Thank you for supporting independent artists.

Lampwork Necklace Handcrafted Glass Beads Handmade Artisan Jewelry SRA SRAJD

Product Details:
The focal bead on this necklace takes patience and a long time to create. It’s a hollow glass lampwork bead. I’ve added handmade white squiggle designs over the blue transparent glass. Copper bead caps on each side. Shades of blue and white glass have been used in the twenty lampwork glass beads throughout the design. Each one made by melting glass in a torch fire flame. 
This necklace also has four unique blue goldstone beads along with the iridescent gray pearl beads.  
Large fancy sterling silver toggle clasp closure. 
Measures 23 inch neckline.
Sterling silver crimp beads and wire protectors used. 
All the lampwork glass beads I use are handmade by myself by melting glass in a torch flame. The Moretti Glass / Effetre Glass glass I use is Made in Italy and imported to America. I also like to use CIM lampwork glass. My beads are digitally kiln annealed for added strength and durability. I clean the clay-like bead release powder from the holes myself using a special dremel diamond drill bit. They are closely inspected before I consider using them in my jewelry designs.
I take pride in my work and you will too when you wear a piece of my Wearable Art.
My jewelry is always packed well to ensure safe shipping. I send them gift wrapped AND gift boxed too.
I am a registered Self Representing Artist Jewelry Designer (SRAJD) number 2147 and Self Representing Artist member ( number G 122).
Thank you for supporting independent artists and feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.

She also is very clever in her designs, this item is new, and I think they are super cute, and would make fabulous Cocktail Swizzles Sticks (what they actual are) or  Hair Accessories.

Swizzle Drink Stir Stick Artisan Lampwork Glass Beads

Product Details:

Add bling to your party. Don’t use plain plastic to mix your drink. Swirl in style with my handmade glass beaded swizzle sticks. It’s brushed stainless steel measuring 8 inches. Perfect gift for the new bar or man cave. Unique conversation starter. I make my own glass beads by melting glass in a torch flame. No two alike. One of a kind, artisan crafted.
Silver top bead unscrews for easy on/off for hand washing.
My beads are digitally kiln annealed which is an important step in quality lampwork beads. This process insures added strength and durability. However, they are glass and should be used with care. I thoroughly inspect all of my glass pieces to ensure there are no flaws or cracks before using.
I am a registered Self Representing Artist Jewelry Designer (SRAJD) number 2147 and Self Representing Artist member ( number G 122).
Thank you for supporting independent artists and feel free to contact me with any questions or comments before ordering.
Colors will vary from monitor to monitor. Photos were taken in outdoor light to capture their beauty.

She works with a variety of colors, making beautiful one of a  kind pieces.

Lampwork Bead Bracelet Handmade Glass Handcrafted Wearable Art Jewelry

Product Details:

Handmade Glass Bracelet with fifteen handcrafted lampwork beads. Each one has been made by me, one at a time in a torch flame. I used shades of browns, beige, peach, white and creamsicle. Decorative designs were then added for a unique look. Topaz/Orange iridescent swarovski crystals added with small sterling silver beads. Toggle clasp closure is sterling silver.
Measures 6 3/4 inside
and end to end is 8 inches
All the lampwork glass beads I use are handmade by myself by melting glass in a torch flame. The Moretti Glass / Effetre Glass glass I use is Made in Italy and imported to America. I also like to use CIM lampwork glass.My beads are digitally kiln annealed for added strength and durability. I clean the clay-like bead release powder from the holes myself using a special dremel diamond drill bit. They are closely inspected before I consider using them in my jewelry designs.
I take pride in my work and you will too when you wear a piece of my Wearable Art.
I am a registered Self Representing Artist Jewelry Designer (SRAJD) number 2147 and Self Representing Artist member ( number G 122).
My jewelry is always packed well to ensure safe shipping. I send them gift boxed too.
Thank you for supporting independent artists and feel free to contact me with any questions or comments.

 Not only is she a busy and active member of the Handmade Artist Forum, she also keeps a blog and attends to other Social Media and Promotes her work with groups and shows.

You can find more about April at any of the links below.

Brooklyn Bead Goddess Blog 
Facebook  
Twitter 
Brooklyn Bead Goddess on Etsy  
Brooklyn Bead Goddess Site
Brooklyn Bead Goddess on Handmade Artists

Take the opportunity to stop by and have alook at some of her beautiful and amazing pieces.  April also sells loose beads, so you can make and create your own jewelry as well, an excellent place for that unique One-of-a-kind item that you just can’t find (or get) anywhere else.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  In hope that we have inspired you to check out any of the links above and see what this talented artists has for you.

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

Dark Maille In The Studio

Good Morning,

Is it inappropriate to expect Children of the Night to be up at this hour?  Probably.

New items have appeared in the shop, and with a darker twist.  Subtle, surprising and unusual, these Chainmaille bracelets are woven with Gunmetal tone (over copper) and enameled Aluminum jump rings.  Part of the Captured Color Collection, they allow for an accent of color about the wrist while keeping the mystique of your attire in tact.

From Raven’s Nook

Enchantress Chainmaille Bracelet

Wicked, wild, wonderful and sure to enchant even the darkest of hearts. This unusual and attractive bracelet is just right for those with a penchant for a darker wardrobe steeped in black and clothed mystery, this bracelet is no exception. Purple peers out through its cage of rings, the puzzle-like construction suggests they may be trying to free themselves from captivity, as they float, between ring and empty space. Great for a subtle pop of color at the office, a sleek and intriguing date night accessory, or perhaps and evening in stripy stockings at the local dance club. Whatever you choose, your outfit will catch the eye of many an admirer.

Makes an excellent adornment for Goth, Rocker, or Biker Fashions, Fantasy costumes, Film, Stage or Event attire.

8-1/4″ total length, including clasp. Gunmetal tone (over copper) and enameled aluminum jump rings in Violet are woven in the Inverted Round Maille pattern and secured with a strong magnetic clasp that holds well during everyday activities and movements.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

*Customizable,may be made to desired length or color of choice. Multicolor request please add $5.00 or choose from our line of ready-to-wear selections currently available in the shop.

Free Shipping this item. Custom orders please allow 2 – 3 Days for shipping we will need time to create your item.

Siren Chainmaille Bracelet

Sing your own Siren Song in this stunning and subtle bracelet. Appropriate for Professional Office attire, Date Night or wandering long forgotten halls at twilight. Perfect for Goth, Rocker, or Biker fashions, or Film, Stage and Event costume design. You’re sure to lure many an on-looker in this lovely and fun bracelet. Although associated with the sea, Sirens (Greek Mythology) are actually beautiful and dangerous half-women, half-bird creatures, that live on one of several Islands near Cypress. The daughters of the River god, Achelous, they lure sailors to their rocky shores with enchanting music and song. Although they lured mariners, for the Greeks the Sirens in their “meadow starred with flowers” were not sea deities, but “winged-daughters of the earth”.

8-1/4″ total length, including clasp. Gunmetal tone (over copper) and enameled aluminum jump rings in Olive Green are woven in the Inverted Round Maille pattern and finished with a strong magnetic clasp that hold well during those evening flights of fancy.

Arrives boxed ready for gift giving.

Customizable, may be made to desired length or clasp may be switched to toggle or Lobster Claw at customer request. Multicolor request please add $5.00, or take a look at our selection of ready-to-wear pieces available in the shop.

Free Shipping this item.

Custom orders, please allow 2 -3 Day shipping, we need time to create your item.

Have any questions? Contact the shop owner. 

 Thank you for stopping by and having a look.

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

  

Five Great GIfts To GIve List 14

Good Morning,

Tuesday has rolled around once more and it is time for five more gift ideas.

Absolutely perfect this morning, is this Original painting from

From: Jackie Guttuso Design

Coffee art, Original collage, Coffee painting, Modern kitchen art, Coffee wall art, OOAK Coffee decor, Original coffee cup art

 

This coffee collage is an original, one of a kind piece. I created it by painting with professional grade heavy watercolor paper with layers of acrylic paint and hand cutting the individual letters and pieces to make this unique collage. It would make a wonderful gift for a coffee loving friend or would look great hanging in the kitchen or dining room. I left it unmatted and unframed so that you can choose the color and style that will look just right with your decor. Click on the photos above to get an idea how it would look with different color mats and frames.

Here’s another original coffee collage that I’ve created:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/120318585/coffee-art-original-kitchen-art-coffee

If you’re a tea lover, you’ll love this piece:
https://www.etsy.com/listing/120215280/tea-art-collage-original-tea-wall-art

Visit my shop to see other original kitchen collage art as well as original, whimsical kids art and ready to hang gallery wrap giclee prints and canvas giclee prints:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/JackieGuttusoDesigns

I’d be happy to create a custom piece for you, if you’d like another size or other colors. Click the “contact the shop owner” below to request custom work.

From Sue’s Arts

crystal charm necklace, gold necklace, bead work charm necklace, Hamsa charm, Hamsa necklace, silver necklace

 

Gorgeously charming and elegant necklace created with Swarovski crystals.

DELIVERED IN A GIFT BAG

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME

Suzan ♥

Have any questions? Contact the shop owner. 

From Green Jade Goddess

Unakite Sun bracelet, Sun bracelet, Unakite bracelet, Balancing and meditation bracelet, Stretchy bracelet

 

Unakite Sun bracelet. I have used to make this protection bracelet 8 mm faceted Unakite and white jade gemstone beads strung in clear strong stretch threat with Sun charm.

Size is approx. 6,7″. I can make this bracelet in other lenght. Just contact me.

Unakite is a stone of vision. It balances emotions with spirituality. Unakite provides grounding when needed. It facilitates rebirthing, gently releasing conditions that inhibit spiritual and psychological growth.

100% CUSTOMER SATISFACTION: If you are not happy with your purchase, please contact me and I will do my best to help.

Please have in mind that the colour displayed in the picture may be slightly different than the real product due to your computer configuration.

Please read the Shop Policies.

Thanks for visiting my Shop!

Have any questions? Contact the shop owner.

  

From Diana Shye Jewelry

Copper coiled wire spiral red tiger eye bracelet on Etsy

 

This eye-catching handmade bracelet by DianaShyeJewelry on Etsy features a copper coiled wire spiral winding around gleaming red tiger eye beads.

The first step in making this bracelet was to create a long copper wire coil of copper by winding fine gauge copper wire around a mandrel. I removed the copper wire coil from the mandrel and stuing it on a length of thicker gauge copper wire. Then I wound the strung coil around the mandrel to create a coiled coil of copper wire. I then strung the 10 mm red tiger eye beads on still another length of even thicker gauge core copper wire and wound the coil of copper coil around the beads and the core wire. Finally, I finished the bracelet off with a handcrafted copper wire clasp.

The bracelet is 7″ (17.8 cm) long and 7/16 ” (12 mm) in diameter. It fits a small to medium wrist.

Red tiger eye is a birthstone for Scorpio (October 23 – November 22).

For more copper jewelry by DianaShyeJewelry in this and other styles, see my Copper/Brass/Mixed Metal Section at https://www.etsy.com/shop/DianaShyeJewelry?section_id=12690789.

For more coiled wire jewelry by DianaShyeJewelry in this and other styles, see my Coiled Wire Jewelry Section at https://www.etsy.com/shop/DianaShyeJewelry?section_id=12690639.

To return to my shop home: http://www.DianaShyeJewelry.etsy.com.

From Charming Basics

Crochet Coin Purse-Bridesmaid Gift (Kiss clasp coin purse)

 

A kiss clasp coin purse made in 100% mercerized cotton. Lined so it won’t stretch in a colorful umbrella print fabric.

If you’d like to give these as bridesmaid gifts the lining can be done in wedding colors.
I can also embroider your initials or special date on the outside of the purse. Please contact me either through Etsy convo or through e-mail charmingbasics [!at] gmail.com to work out details for multiples and customization.

Have any questions? Contact the shop owner. 

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.

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

Guinevere Chainmaille Necklace New Item

Good Morning,

Monday is here, the work week is ahead, and there are five days to get it all right.  Due to a personal situation the blog will be short and not very detailed for these next couple of weeks.  Sometimes you get so busy taking care of business that you forget to take care of yourself, and that can cause down time for the artist.

This morning’s item is very pretty and rather neat.   Available on Etsy: Guinevere.

The chain is woven in two patterns Round and Inverted Round Maille weaves.  Genuine Australian Green Jasper beads are secreted in the chain and accent the main focal point of the necklace.  Silver Rings are also tucked here and there to add stability and another design element the piece.

Most Maille pieces will lay flat, this one has some dimension to it, as the Round Maille weave actually “stands-up” when the piece is worn, giving it a unique and very pretty lace-like look.

Detail can be seen here, a Green Jasper bead has been tucked inside the chain, just a couple of links below are silver rings, captured in the weave.

Detail of focal point, the genuine Jasper beads are a lovely greenish-blue with deeper green inclusions across the surface of the stone.  These are very pretty and may be mistaken for turquoise on occasion. 

 18-1/2″ total length, the piece rests just along the decolletage (decollete) making an attractive collar to jazz up that stuffy Professional Office attire or a dazzling accessory for Date Night.  Also appropriate for period costumes, film, stage and event attire.

Customizable, may be made to desired length or with different beads.  There are two more versions on the workbench awaiting finishing touches, as well as to be photographed for listing and sale.

This piece is also on handmadeartists.com.  You may find it under the listing, Merry Go Round.
 
Thank you for stopping by and having a look.

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

   
 

Merry Go Round Chainmaille and Jasper Necklace on Handmade Artists’ Shop

 

Merry Go Round Chainmaille and Jasper Necklace on Handmade Artists’ Shop.

TRusk4U – Featured Artists

Good Morning,

Today‘s blog features Teresa Rusk of TRusk4U.  You have met Teresa before, she is a member of Handmade Artists Foum as well as the owner of the shop trusk4u.

Not only does Teresa own an on line store, she also has a physical location to show off all her lovely wares.  If you are in the North Carolina area stop by and check her out, not only will you find Teresa’s own designs and goodies, but other finds from local area artists as well.  

Hollyhocks, LLC
102 W. Clay St. #C, Downstairs
Mebane, NC 27302
919-563-2522

Teresa is a jewelry designer, she loves to work with recycled items and creates items from the simple string of beads to more intricate work.  Her artisan creations are not only lovely but they are affordable as well, and will suit most any style of attire.  Many of her pieces are customizable for length and color choice of the item.

Teresa also blogs, and I do like her blog, there are fun things to do on the side menu bars, like the Daily Ohm, as well as read what she has been doing in the Shop and B & M Store.  Links to her sites, pages, shops, and blogs, may be found below.

Done in this year’s must-have fashion color (Green), is this lovely bracelet and earring set.

Rosa’s Garden
  

Product Details:

Crisp, bright green glass beads are paired with silver plated, antique look, round and fan style beads to give Rosa’s Garden a very unique look. A large, dark green acrylic bead is the focal  with flat , weblike bead caps at either end. This bracelet has been carefully strung on flexible beading wire with wire guards, and crimp covers. A smooth toggle clasp adds the finishing touch. This bracelet is on the small side at 7.75″(18.5cm) long from end to end (including the clasp) and will fit a 6.5″(16cm) wrist.
 The matching earrings also have the same bright green glass beads and are topped with the fan beads. Small ribbed saucer spacers are at either end of the bead and a neatly wrapped loop attaches the dangle to the fishhook ear wire. They are 1.75″ (4.44cm) long including the ear wire.

This next item is one of my favorites.  The simple design allows for the natural beauty and interesting pattern of the stone to be the focal point of the pair.

Water and Earth Jasper Earrings

Product Details:

Water and Earth are created using large 18mm Aqua Terra Jasper coin beads.  With beautiful shades of green and taupe, they are perfect for anytime of the year! Small silver plated beads add a little extra sparkle to the bottom, and are finished at the top with neatly wrapped loops. They are attached to silver plated fishhook earwires and measure 1.75″ (4.44cm) long including the earwire.

Why I like her work so much.  This simple three strnaf beaded bracelet is something else!  Powerful, elegeant, bold and beautiful in a Cuff style piece.

 Tiger Eye Triple Strand Bracelet

Product Details:

This classic style bracelet is beauty in simplicity! it features golden brown, oval Tiger Eye beads that have been spaced with small gold beads.It’s been carefully constructed using flexible beading wire and gold spacer bars to keep it all lined up straight so it lies flat against your wrist. To finish, I used wire guards, crimp covers, and a lovely filgree box clasp, all gold plated. This bracelet is 8.75″ (22.22cm) from end to end, and will fit up to a 7.25″ (18.41cm) wrist size.
* Bonus pair of matching earrings at no extra charge!        

Here is an example of Teresa’s Up-cycling or Re-purposing skills.  I think this is very pretty and unique.

Dream Weaver Upcycled Woven Pendant

Product Details:

Upcycling at its very best, this pendant is a mixture of handmade and recycled parts. The pendant itself is a chandelier earring component which has been woven using 22 gauge silver non tarnish artistic wire.The beads I used are 8mm fire polished, faceted Jablonex beads in a rich Iris Blue. Each dangle has a silver lined E bead at the bottom and a wrapped loop securing it to the pendant. A handmade split ring acts as the bail and is made using the same non tarnish wire. The pendant including the bail is just around 2″ long and 1″ wide. 18″ of silver plated cable chain and a lobster claw clasp complete this charming necklace.

Wow, not just your ordinary wire ring.  Teresa has several these in here shop, but this one just really caught my eye.

Copper and Italian Onyx Swirl Ring

Product Details:

A small indulgence, this feminine ring with those great curvy swirls is truly  treat! The tarnish resistant, 20 gauge wire is cut to length and the pieces are bundled and wired together. They are then placed around a ring mandrel to get the basic shape and lightly hammered.  5mm Italian Onyx beads are added for a little extra flair and the wire ends are curled into those fabulous swirls! Because this ring is open in the front, it can be adjusted to fit any finger, making it the perfect gift . 

Links 

Handmade Artits Shop: T. Rusk 4U 
About Page: Teresa Rusk
Twitter: trusk4u 
Blog: T. Rusk 4U 
Blog: Hollyhocks, LLC
Facebook: trusk4U 
Facebook: Hollyhocks, LLC 

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

 

 

How To – Create A Movie Using Picasa 3 Tutorial

Good Morning,

Last month there was a contest on the Handmade Artists Forum, aimed at making a Movie or a Video showcasing the site we all love and with which we hold buyer or shop accounts.

Because my iMac is not quite vintage but it is outdated, and I was, as were many others for various reasons, unable to compete in the contest.  My problem was simply a technical issue.  However; in hope that they may try the contest again, it might be helpful for those that don’t have Movie Maker (Windows) or just don’t like their iMovie program, they might want to try using Picasa.  Picasa is a free photo editing program on the web, if you have a blogger blog or a Google account of any kind you probably already have Picasa.

My version is Picasa 3 for Mac OSXs.  I am guessing that the program works more or less the same on either a MS or Apple based machine.

I should mention that Picasa is fairly limited to movie making.  Basically it is drag and drop photos to a new folder, click a button, let the program do it’s thing, add Title Cards (Slides) and add music.  A word of *caution about adding music.  Facebook WILL delete your video if you attempt to upload it to your page if you use an audio or music file.

How To Make a Movie using Picasa 3

1.  If you do not have Picasa you may click the link above to down load it.  It is free.

2.  Open your Picasa program on your desk top.  You do not have to be logged into the web.

3.  Click the + File Button at the top of the box. 

Follow the Prompts in the Dialog Box

1.  Enter a Name for your video
2.  Change the date or leave it as is.
3.  Choose to include music, click the box, if not leave blank.*
4.  Place:  I suggest using your business name.
5. Description: Anything you like.
6.  Click OK.

Your new folder will appear at the top of the program screen and will be empty.

Select the photos you would like to include in your movie.  Picasa should have all of your photos collected for you.  Choose from an existing file or upload fresh pictures if you like.

From a File:
1. Click on the photo you would like to add to the movie folder (file).
2.  Right Click on the picture to bring up the menu.

3.  Highlight Add to Album (as above).
4.  A selection of available folders will appear, select the one  you created for your movie.

NOTE:  The picture will be copied to the folder (file) you created for your movie and still remain in its original folder (file) as well.

5.  Continue to Add photos to your Album until you are satisfied.  *You may edit and add more pictures later.

All done?  OK.

Your folder will look something like this.

From the Menu at the top of the screen, click “Create Movie Presentation”.  It is the third button from the left.

Create Movie Presentation Button

You will be whisked off to a screen that looks something like this.

You are in the Movie Maker Tab
The First Tab in this window is Movie
This first box is where you may choose your options for music (sync with photos).
Transition Style (What the pictures do when the movie is played , fade, dissolve, etc).
Dimensions – Full Screen or an actual dimension may be chosen. 
*I chose 800 x 600 so the photos would not automatically crop to odd views in Full Screen).

The Second Tab in this window is Slide.

This is where you may change the text of the Title Slide (this is the first picture in your movie).
1. You may choose fonts, and varying styles.
2. You may also change the style of you slide’s template as well as the wording.
3. Type your changes in the box on the left, they will appear on the slide to the right.  Double check your spelling.
4. You may also add more slides by clicking on the icon that looks like a rectangle with lines in it. (See photo).
The photos and slides you have placed in your movie can be seen in the “tray” below the main screen. (See photo above).

Almost there!

The third tab in this window is Clips
If you would like add photos you may do so here.

 1.  To add photos click Get More.

It is the way you want it?

Great.

Return to the Movie tab.

1.  Click “Create Movie”.

The movie will take a while to download (mine took about five minutes or less).

The movie will begin when processing is complete.
After the movie ends, if you would like to make any changes it will give you an opportunity to Edit the movie. 
You may also return to the Clips page and remove photos after the movie has been processed.
Select individual photos to be removed.
*Remember each edit will take another five or so minutes to process your changes.

After you are satisfied with you film, it will be saved to Picasa under the folder “Movies” (mine was any way)

Before closing out the window, if you would like you may watch the movie again or select the YouTube button and upload the movie to your account.

The finished product can look something like this.

In hope that you have enjoyed the tutorial and that inspiration may strike for your own video, or that you might give it if try, just for fun.

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.

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