Tuesday, March 30, 2010

It's Sparkle-tastic!

I've been a wee bit quiet on the blog this month...between getting my class instructions done for the new classes that we had this month and all of the other lovely paperwork that comes along with running your own business, I haven't had a lot of time.  I did eek out some time to participate in a challenge through one of my vendors.  Ok... really got sucked into this one.  I haven't done any bead embroidery projects for awhile, so my mom said to give it a try for this.  The creative challenge was to use Swarovski cupchain.  Cup-a-wha?  Cupchain is chain which is made up of settings then set with chantons (usually round chantons).  My brilliant idea was to cut the chain apart and create beaded bezels for the components.  Now cupchain is usually about 4mm--this cupchain is about 6-8mm.  So my fingers got a bit antsy! 

This was my initail design.  I was just winging this project as I went along. 



All my cupchain has been bezeled.  I then bezeled a 16mm rivoli and attached it via stitching to the backing material.  The cupchain components were all glued into place.



My finished project.  Since I've taken my pictures at night and without two photo lamps (still have to replace the bulb that the doggie popped), the picture came out a bit darker than I wanted.


I also created a bangle using a Vintaj Creative hoop as my base.  I wired the cupchain to the hoop with steel wire.  I made a very basic hook & eye closure from the wire as well.

I've worked on a few other items as well, but I'll save those for another post.

My spring resolution is to post more frequently...I hope I can stick to this! 

Thursday, March 11, 2010

Aren't I Pretty??

I just had to share a current picture of our "baby".  She was getting a make-over this weekend! 


I need a little more blush please!


Iz I bootiful? 

I just had to share...Zoe was being really needy on Saturday and while I was getting ready to go into the shop, she figured she needed a bit of attention!

Hope this gives you a giggle!