Featured Artists Theme: Vacation

 Good Morning,

Ah, the Summer Vacation, I remember those.  Most people can’t or don’t take them any more for whatever reason that may be, but it is fun to think about going someplace exotic, or tropical, perhaps to another country or state you have never been to before.

This week’s Featured Artist for the blog ring is none other than myself.  I think we can take care of those vacation accessory needs!  You may shop either The Alchemists Vessel on Handmade Artists or The Alchemists Vessel on Etsy.

Going to the beach? How about these adorable Sea Horse earrings.  Perfect for Steampunk Summer fashions or just something to match sand and surf, you’ll look fabulous in these highly detailed earrings.

Earrings Seahorse Charm and Glass Bead In Antiqued Bronze

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 boxed, ready for gift giving.

Free Shipping for this item

Available from handmadeartists.com

Or how about this interesting Chaimaille Bracelet?  Light, pretty, and just right for a Summer outing or Fourth of July Fire Works display.

Candy Apple Chainmaille Bracelet

Product Details:

Bold, bright and beautiful, this firey and racey little bracelet is not for the timid.  Red rings accent the length of chain and makes for a stunning accessory.  A fabulous pop of power color at the office, a lovely accessory for a romantic evening out, or a livley and electric addition to a casual outfit.  You’re sure to dazzle them with this vibrant bangle.  Would make a great July Birthday present.

8.25″total length, including clasp.  Silver-plated wire and enameled aluminum jump rings in Red are woven in an 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.

Customizable, may be made to desired length or in a favorite color of choice.   
Multicolor request please add $5.00

Check the shop to see if there in not one in your favorite color in our ready-to-wear collection of pieces.

“Starry, Starry night, paint your palette blue and grey…” Vincent, Don McLean.

Although written about or inspired by Vincent Van Gogh, the song is a wonderful tribute to the beauty that is a Summer evening sky.  These perfect little stars will do nicely as an accessory for your warm starry nights this summer.

Oh My Stars Sterling Silver Star Charm Earrings

Product Details:

It’s full of stars!  These super  cute earrings are Sterling Silver, findings, chain, stars charms and ear wires.  That’s it, Sterling Silver nothing else.  Great for Bohemian Fashions!

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

Summer is time for things that sparkle in the sunshine and this bracelet certainly does that!  Glass beads throw rainbow colors across their surface as you move or when they catch the light.

 From the $10.00 Collection

Rainbow Memory Wire Wrap Bracelet

Product Details:

This pretty little bangle is simple and shiny.  Coated glass beads in silver rainbow in iridescent blues, pinks, purples, greens and yellows.

16″ total length, beads are threaded along the wire in an alternating pattern.  Finished with simple loops, matching beaded dangles may be added at the customers request.

Arrives boxed ready for gift giving.

Last but not least, this lovely pretty in pink timepiece.  No one wants to to keep track of time when having a good one, but alas, time is of the essence on occasion and you might as well be stylish and unique when keeping it.

Precious Time Chainmaille Watch

Product Details:

Pink and precious, this pretty time piece is feminie and fabulous!  Great for the office, date night, or that casual outfit.  Adorned with a Swarovski Crystal Heart charm in matching pink.

8-1/2″ long.  Silver plated wire is hand spun, cut, linked and beaded in the Full Persian Chainmaille weave.  Stainless Steel watch and Locking Magnetic Clasp finish the piece.

Available in Red, Purple and Crystal Clear beads.

Arrives boxed ready for gift giving.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

If you’re in the Boise area, remember to stop by Little Shop of Artists opening July 01, 2013, all these and many more items will be available in the store.

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

Inside Little Shop of Artists

Good Morning, 

Today, I am pleased and very excited to tour the interior of the building for what will be the home of Little Shop of Artist.

Taken with my cellphone, it may not be the best quality, but rent is paid, and clean up will commence on or about June 15th, 2013.

We, the participating artists, are hoping to open the doors July 01, 2013.

We hope that you will come and visit us if you are in the Boise, Idaho area.

We apologize for a lack of video but WordPress SUCKS when it comes to uploading them.  Get it together WordPress, you are the only service that is this much of a pain in the ass!

Once the participating artists have set up their displays, these now empty rooms will be filled with Art, Handmade Goods, Jewelry, Gifts and other items to delight the eye and treat the senses.

If you are an artist in the surrounding Boise, Idaho area, stop by and see if we might assist you in showcasing your work.  We welcome all kinds of wares, pottery, knitting, woodworking, sculpting and more, a monthly rental fee applies we offer both participating and featured artists space.  (Currently LSoA is not accepting any more Jewelry Designers at this time). 

 

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

 

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

Links, Promotions, Friday Post 250

Happy Friday,

Welcome to the 250th post of blog.  Lack-luster, I know.  It is a balmy four (4) degrees outside and the snow is piled up against the back door with promises of snowing me in today.  The garage door has frozen shut and is stuck to the driveway,  I kid you not.  As soon as the sun rises here, it’s time to haul out the pick and un-stick it!  That is a first for this California Grrl.  (I spelled it right).

This morning I am out of links and promotions, so gentle reminders are in order.

If you are brave enough to venture out into the below freezing temperatures and the icy roads you can visit the:

Treasure Valley Flea Market
*Expo Idaho
5610 Chinden Blvd.
Boise, ID
Saturday Jan 12, 9 – 6
Sunday Jan 13, 10 – 4
Admission is $2.00 at the door.

*Formerly the Western Idaho Fairgrounds.

The Alchemists Vessel will not be in attendance this month, but you can look for us at the Market in February.

Things are gearing up for 2013 here at T.A.V.  I am in possession of and almost finished with the final module for class, and am well on the way to having the e-book blog ready for inspection (or reading), as well as opening a second shop for the hand-forged items I am making and accumulating.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

What?  No photos?  Man…

 

Monday – Market Report

Good Morning,

Monday’s are usually devoted to new items in the on line shops.  This morning, due to my participation in the Treasure Valley Flea Market over the weekend, I do not have much to share.

I can’t say I am happy with the results of this months Market, and as such I think it is time I look for another venue.  Today will be devoted to sorting, cleaning, and re-organizing inventory!  Doesn’t that sound like fun?

Although I enjoy the socializing and talking to customers, it has become more of a chore than an event I look forward to participating in.  I would like to thank those of you that came out, said hello, and did a little shopping.

There are still plenty of lovely items on-line and custom work is always welcome.  Get those orders in early as I gear up for the Holidays.

The Alchemists Vessel – Handmade Artists
 
The Alchemists Vessel – Etsy

 The Alchemists Vessel – Official Website

 Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

 

Links, Promotions, Flea Market and Sale

Good Morning,

Today’s blog is super short because I have to pack and prepare for set-up at the Market today.

The Treasure Valley Flea Market is this weekend, and unless you live under a rock, you are aware that it is also the last Market of the 2012, and the last one before the Holidays start in earnest.

Can’t make the Market?  You can always find us on the web.

The Alchemists Vessel on handmadeartists.com
The Alchemists Vessel official Website

I know Etsy is very popular, however with all that is going on with the site, I am debating shutting down the shop.  There are several factors and a final decision has not been made, but I encourage you to see what handmadeartists.com has to offer, and not just my shop.  There are a lot of talented and fabulous artists, and everything is hand made.  Paintings, Hand-bound Books, Sculpture, Mosaics, Fabric Craft (Knitting, Crochet, etc), the list goes on.  Buyer accounts are always free, and a unique gift is better than mass-produced crap from China.  

SALE:  In light of that there is a sale on at The Alchemists Vessel on Etsy.  Many of the prices in the shop have been reduced and when you enter the coupon code: HOLIDAY10 at check out, you will receive an additional 10% off your total purchase.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

 

Monday Miscellany

 

Happy Monday,

Today is a collection of miscellaneous stuff.

New in the shop is this pretty Chainmaille bracelet available in a variety of Metals.  This one is Silver Plated (over copper) jump rings with a matching Toggle clasp.

Japanese Weave Flower Bracelet

Description:  9″ total, this very cute and feminine bracelet comes in a variety of metals. Shiny, bright and pretty, light enough to wear all day. Great for the Office or a Casual outfit. Each Flower-like unit is hand linked individually and joined as a chain.

All items arrive boxed, and ready for gift giving.

Custom work is always welcome.

Shop News:

On an interesting note, I have been invited to participate in a Consignment shop,  Inspired Creations, of Spokane, Washington.  Although this is just an invitation and I have yet to confirm what will be available in the store, or what I will be sending, it may be a great opportunity for exposure and expanding the shop a little.   I am cautiously excited!

The Treasure Valley Flea Market was an enjoyable event.  A good time was had by all.  We’ll be doing it again next month, November 10th and 11th, 2012.  This will be the last Market before Christmas, come on down and get your Holiday Shopping done early!

Don’t forget that this Sunday is The Witches Market hosted by Bella’s Grove.  October 14th, 2012, at 2210 S. Broadway, Suite 102, Boise, ID.  The Market will be held throughout the building.  Stop by for your Halloween Chopping needs!

Thank you for stopping in and having a read.

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

 

Friday – Events, Promotions and a Cage Match

 

Good Morning,

Friday arrives with a definite chill in the air, and is cold in the office this morning.

I have been working in several things this week as well as preparing for the Flea Market.

Cage Match – Coif Caged Genuine Rose Quartz Heart shaped gemstone. Using the European 4-in-1 Weave, a cage is created for things to placed into and then closed, ensnaring the object within.

The twist tie is still attached, as I do not know how I want to complete the piece.  It hasn’t told me what it wants to be yet, pendant, key-chain, thingamabob.

After creating a rectangular length of chain, the opposite sides are brought together and connected at one edge creating a tube of sorts.  The top or bottom edge is tapered and closed with additional jump rings.

The bottom of the piece is closed tightly, and the rest of the cage spreads across the surface of the stone, the top of the cage is closed as the bottom and stretches over and across the stone creating a bail to hang the object from a cord or chain.

As soon as I decide on an appropriate something to hang it from it will be listed in the shop.  Time to cage more rocks!

There are two Markets to shop this October so lets get the information out there.

This weekend is the Treasure Valley Flea Market.  You know the drill! 
Expo Idaho, at The Fairgrounds
5610 Chinden Blvd
Garden City, ID
Admission is $2.00
Saturday 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
 
Also going on in Boise is a real Halloween treat.  Bella’s Grove is hosting The Second Annual Witches Market, Sunday, October 14th, 2012.  2210 S. Broadway, Suite 102, Boise, ID.  Spooky fun for everyone!

Hostess, Shelly Moody of Green Witch Designs describes the event:

“This will be our second Annual Witches Market. We will have vendors and goodies and all kinds of great stuff. Join us in merrymaking and frivolity and take the opportunity to support your community and get a jump on your Yule shopping! We will have vendors selling custom leather work, incense, jewelry, terrariums, and other odd bits and pieces. We will have Tarot Readers, and a palm reader as well.”

We hope you will take the time to mark these events on your calendar and stop by and see some of the wonderful, unique Handmade items as well as other offerings from around the Treasure Valley, a Scentsy Representative will be attending the Witches Market, as well.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look, the Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant weekend. 

 

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.

 

In My Studio – Random Thoughts

 

Image via CrunchBase

 

Hello there,

I did not have anything specific in mind for today’s blog, thought about a couple of subjects, but they just didn’t seem to grab me.  So I’m just gonna ramble I think.  Gotta post something.

 

I had an excellent conversation with my good friend, and incredible sculptor, Ralph Cordero of RGC Studios, you can find his work on Etsy under Twisted Little Things.   I actually own a couple of those gruesome cuties!  We discusses the state of employment for artists, what’s available and what’s not, and what to do or how to re-create your offerings to appeal to the masses, or get that coveted job that was applied for.  The industry is full of kids just graduating from their respective colleges and looking for work that doesn’t exist.  Competition is tough in an industry job-market that is already overrun with want-to-bes.  So what does the established artist do when this happens?  That is a conundrum.

First of all you sit down on your tushie and git that hamster on the wheel, and start thinking about how to create interest and drive customers to your site, shop, table, display, store, or what have you.  Contemplate, evaluate, decide, rearrange, organize, and have a cup of coffee in the middle of all that, narrow your focus to laser-beam precision and begin the process of elimination or addition to make the items stand out, or to make it all happen.

After attending the Treasure Valley Flea Market this weekend, I sat down and did some serious thinking and reorganization as well as re-evaluating and deciding what to do about the lack-luster performance in sales.  Several things have come to mind and may be worth passing along.  

 

The economy is terrible right now,  Just awful, this is an obvious given, no one is blind to the fact that gas is now creeping up over $4.00 a gallon, again, and with that goods and services are also going up, which leaves little money for the aspirational (not necessary) things like art, and jewelry.

The Treasure Valley Flea Market occurs once a month, I have attended since 2005, I have been a regular vendor at Booth #28 for seven years.  I see the same vendors and the same customers every show, occasionally there will be something new to see, but for the most part it is the same stalls over and over again.   I have come to the conclusion that I have run the gamete at this particular venue.  

In the interest of keeping myself sane and my bank account in the black, I will be reducing the number of TVFMs I attend.  I will of course be attending October and November Markets, however during the 2013 Season, I will perhaps attend one Market, and one Market only.  Save those pennies, because The Alchemists Vessel will only be there once.

There will also be several changes coming to The Alchemists Vessel as well.  We will still provide quality off the rack jewelry, but the focus will be on high end One Of A Kind pieces, and not your average everyday manufactured comes-in-everything department store jewelry.

The website alchemistsvessel.net will also see some changes, as well as a complete and well stocked items page for your shopping pleasure.  The handmadeartists.com shop The Alchemists Vessel , will also be seeing some changes as we add to and remove some items listed on the site.  I know many people get lost on Etsy or e-Bay with the overwhelming amount of products there are to peruse.  We will also be closing the Cafe Press shop.  There isn’t any traffic and even though it is free, there is no sense in monitoring or putting energy into something that is not performing as one would have liked.

 

A quick reminder, Halloween is coming up and we have cool themed items in the Ravens Nook for your costume or just for fun.  Spiders, bats, skulls, black and orange gemstone beads, ooooo spooky!  Blog readers this is a special for you!  Starting October 01, 2012, there will be a coupon code for 20% off all themed items in the shop.  Bookmark your favorites now and come back and get them when they are on sale later! 

OK, I think I have run out of random stuff to discuss.  Tomorrow’s blog will feature a fellow Handmade Artists jewelry designer.

Thank you for stopping in and having a read.

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

 

 

Studio Switch – Market Season Begins

 

Good Morning!

Wednesday arrives bright and beautiful, some of the smoke from the northern and surrounding area wild fires has been blown out of the valley.  Clear and haze-free sunny skies is the order of the day.

There is not much happening in the studio this week, except there are beads and bits of metal everywhere, as we fill out the racks, take inventory, clean, pack, prepare, and check the list at least three times to be sure all is ready for the Season Opener of Treasure Valley Flea Market.  (No, I’m not going to post the commercial.)

Yes, indeed!  It’s that time again.  More than just a Flea Market, there are artisans from all over the Treasure Valley area, antiques, collectables, glass-works, wood-works, and of course, garage goodies of all kinds can be found.  Personally I wish they wouldn’t call it a “Flea Market”, there is so much more, I think the “Treasure Valley Market or Bazaar” would be a better descriptive title.

Now that I have your undivided attention.

Can’t attend this weekend?  That’s OK, you’ll miss out on free chocolate though.  The Market is open one weekend a month, the dates are below.  Put them on your calendar and come on down and say Hello!  Admission is $2.00 at the door.

Market Dates:
Sept 8-9, 2012 – This Weekend!
Oct 6-7, 2012 – Halloween Jewelry will be on sale!
Nov 10-11, 2012 – Christmas is coming!  Get that custom order in!
Jan 12-13, 2013 – I am not sure if T.A.V. will attend this market.
Feb 16-17, 2013 – We’ll be there to whip the winter blues away
Mar 23-24, 2013 – Spruce up for Easter
Apr 13-14, 2013 – The Tax Man cometh!  Spend it, before he gets it!

Happy shoppers check out the goodies at the booth next door.

Location:
Expo Idaho at the Fair Grounds
5610 Chinden Blvd.
Garden Cit, ID

The Alchemists Vessel, Booth #28, East (right) side of the building as you enter.

Booth Map

The Alchemists Vessel, Booth #28, a right and a left and you’re there.

Why yes we do take Credit Cards at the Shows, via SQUARE and my “Smart Phone”.

We accept Cash, Debit or Credit Cards and Personal Checks.  No need to spend that $3.00 for an ATM FEE!  We can have your goodies in a bag and you on your way with just a swipe.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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