Erin Michael

Pre-Spring Cleaning

2012-02-28T15:28:00.020-08:00

As my silversmithing journey has progressed, I've been moving farther away from making chainmaille, and I've decided to retire the colored copper chainmaille jewelry from my ErinMichael.com website. From now through Friday, March 9th, it will be the LAST CALL for orders on any of these things.

Can You Feel It?

2012-01-30T07:32:00.001-08:00

A pendant to give you goosebumps, "LOVE" is spelled out in raised Braille letters down the length of the silver pendant, and a gold heart finishes the end.

I've Been Published in a Magaziiiiiiiiiiine!!!

2012-01-28T05:41:00.001-08:00

And not just any magazine--Art Jewelry Magazine! I subscribed shortly after I started getting into metalworking and ogled all the amazing creations in it. Now, to be able to flip through the colorful glossy pages and see something that I've made inside... Aaaaaaaaaa!!! I am super-stoked!!! When they hit the newsstand, I'll be in Michaels flipping all those mags open to the page with "Seize the Daisy."

On page 44 of the March 2012 issue of "Art Jewelry Magazine" on sale January 31st...

Getting My Vitamin D

2012-01-20T15:43:00.001-08:00

It's sunny and almost 80° here today, so I took advantage of the perfect weather and walked over to the pond at the park. For a place that is in a perpetual drought, there are a number of water-lovin' birds hanging out.

Love the iridescent green feathers on a mallard's head.

I have only one egret... har har...

Ready... Aim... Fire up the Torch!

2012-01-20T08:38:00.000-08:00

I dig the combo of artsy and badass.
Check out this guy... He uses a torch to 'paint' portraits on bullet casings.
POW!

January is Braille Literacy Month

2012-01-19T16:04:00.000-08:00

I thought this would be a great opportunity for a new version of my "Feel the Love" pendant. In Braille, the word "LOVE" is spelled out down the ribbon of sterling silver and a raised gold heart glistens on the end.

Get it before it hits my website and get a deal! (Preview deal has expired.)

Feel the Love Braille Pendant
(comes on a 16" chain)

For more information on Braille: "15 Facts to Share During Braille Literacy Month"

Who Else Is Addicted to Purple Like I Am-ethyst?

2012-01-17T10:21:00.000-08:00

AMETHYST
is February's birthstone.

A Water stone,
Amethyst is known as the Stone of Spirit,
Transformation,
Spirituality,
and Sobriety.

It's also the stone I'm unable to stop accumulating.
I love purple.

Get a Deal when you pick up the Whole Sha-Bang!
Knock off 20 buckaroos AND get FREE SHIPPING
for this amethyst necklace, bracelet, and earring set!
(Offer available only through this link. Expires 1/31/2012.)

Something New for You to Moon Over

2012-01-08T09:46:00.001-08:00

Made from sterling silver and not green cheese...

Riding the '80s New Wave

2012-01-05T12:01:00.000-08:00

This pendant was inspired by the classic 1988 film with Roddy Piper--"They Live." (See clip below.) In a defining scene, Roddy enters a bank ready to put a hurtin' on the invading alien population, and announces his intentions with the line

"I have come here to chew bubblegum and kick ass...and I'm all out of bubblegum."

Wear this and proceed to conquer your day and dominate all in your path.

Like the '80s? Rad!

2012-01-04T18:05:00.001-08:00

Bling in the New Year!

2011-12-26T10:09:00.000-08:00

While you're basking in post-holiday glow and leisurely picking at leftover treats, come on over and pick out something sparkly for your New Year festivities.

NEW IN THE SHOP: Drop your own glittery ball with the Orbital Swirl Pendant with hot pink topaz. {{{sizzle}}} The middle is hollow and the pink light reflects off the inside for a lovely blush glow through the orbital swirls.

More dazzle to feast your eyes upon...

Strike the Sky Ring
Energy-spewing Crystal-driven Magic Necklace
Gong Pendant
The Golden Button Necklace
Pinkie Ring
Byzantine Chainmaille Earrings in silver
Amethyst Ball Drop Pendant

De-Stash-Apalooza!

2011-11-20T12:33:00.000-08:00

The Make Something inventory is being streamlined, so help me clean house while you get a deal! I'll be adding more things as I reorganize.

***UPDATE: PRICE DROP!***
***UPDATE: More added to the Charms, Earrings, and Watch Faces sections***

Click the heading links to purchase securely through PayPal. To purchase more than 1, update the Quantity in the Shopping Cart.

ADD-A-BEAD

Add-A-Bead Heart Keyring
only 3 left!
(beads not included)
$4/each -- Add to Cart

Add-A-Bead Appetizer Fork
only 4 left!
(beads not included)
$4/each -- Add to Cart

Add-A-Bead Canape Knife
only 3 left!
(beads not included)
$4/each -- Add to Cart

Pincharming Safety Pin - Pincharming Safety Pin - matte gold
(beads not included)
$0.75/each -- Add to Cart

Pincharming Safety Pin - silver
(beads not included)
$0.75/each -- Add to Cart

Squiggle Bookmarks
big: $1.50/each -- Add to Cart
small: $0.75/each -- Add to Cart
Comes with a jump ring attached to add on beads, chainmaille, a tassel, etc.

Quick Switch earrings - sterling silver (2 pair-earwires & hoops)
Last one!
$22 -- Add to Cart

Quick Switch pendants - sterling silver (set of 4-various lengths)
Last one!
$22 -- Add to Cart

Add-A-Bead Pen - rosewood
Last one!
(beads not included)
$6 -- Add to Cart

copper & sterling silver toggle sets
ring: 18mm; bar 22mm
Qty: 3 sets
$7.50 -- Add to Cart

copper & sterling silver toggle sets
ring: 15mm; bar 24mm
Qty: 9 sets
$20 -- Add to Cart

copper & sterling silver toggle sets
ring: 15mm; bar 23mm
Qty: 3 sets
$7 -- Add to Cart

copper & sterling silver toggle set
ring: 17mm; bar 20mm
Last one!
$2.50/each -- Add to Cart

hook & eye clasp - copper - 18mm (bag of 5)
Only 4 left!
$1/each -- Add to Cart

sterling silver rectangle box clasp with blue topaz
Last one!
$12 -- Add to Cart

sterling silver rectangle box clasp with citrine
Last one!
$12 -- Add to Cart

sterling silver rectangle box clasp with garnet
Last one!
$12 -- Add to Cart

sterling silver toggle with Jet Swarovski crystals
14mm across
Only 9 left!
$7/each -- Add to Cart

sterling silver interlocking leaf toggle set
Last one!
$6 -- Add to Cart

sterling silver hook and eye clasp set
Last one!
$3 -- Add to Cart

copper heart toggle clasp set
Last one!
$2 -- Add to Cart

hook and eye clasps (base metal -- 2 paired sets)
Last one!
$2 -- Add to Cart

sterling silver wavy bar toggle clasp set
Last one!
$6 -- Add to Cart

sterling silver rope-wrapped toggle clasp set
Last one!
$5 -- Add to Cart

EARRINGS

earwires - copper - 24mm (bag of 30)
$2.50 -- Add to Cart

earwires
sterling silver
Last pair!
$2 -- Add to Cart

WATCH FACES
Note: The watch faces are new but have been in my possession for some time. They will need replacement batteries.

Lot 1: Red/Orange/Green/Yellow/Black
$22 -- Add to Cart

Lot 2: silver tone
$37 -- Add to Cart

Lot 3: silver/gold tone
$32 -- Add to Cart

Lot 4: Orange/Blue/Green faces
$37 -- Add to Cart

Lot 5: Red/Pink faces
$37 -- Add to Cart

Lot 6: (3) copper/(1) sterling silver with mother of pearl face
$46 -- Add to Cart

Erin Michael Jewelry Show!

2011-11-19T11:10:00.000-08:00

♦ EAT - SHOP - WIN - PARTY! ♦

Get your holiday gift shopping ON at my first-ever solo public jewelry show!

Saturday, 10 December 1PM - 4PM

Shop at your leisure and indulge in tasty treats. I'll be showing my entire collection plus having drawings to WIN some of my things as my THANK YOU for coming!

Also, as an official Graeter's Ice Cream Fanbassador, I'll be sharing the delicious love that is Graeter's. If you haven't tried it yet, *you must*. Especially if you enjoy chocolate chunks as big as your head in your ice cream. I exaggerate, but not by much. It's the yummiest.

BRING ALL YOUR FRIENDS!

Location:
AMLI at Breckinridge Point - Club House
4250 E. Renner Rd.
Richardson, TX 75082
map

RSVP ON FACEBOOK

De-Stash-Apalooza!: Bead Edition

2011-10-12T16:33:00.000-07:00

My Fall cleaning is getting BRUTAL! First, it was the extras on the Make Something website, and now it's a stash of beads. I loved them when I got them, and I still like them, but they have yet to be used. I'm hoping they'll go to a good home and be made into something fantabulous by someone else. They're house-trained, enjoy belly rubs, and love car rides with the windows down.

Click on the pics to get a bigger view. Taste the Beading Rainbow...

All the beads are ready to go for immediate shipment.

UPDATE:
The Great Bead De-Stash has ended!
Thank you to all of you who assisted me in my Fall cleaning!

De-Stash-Apalooza!

2011-10-03T17:37:00.000-07:00

The Make Something inventory is being streamlined, so help me clean house while you get a deal! I'll be adding more things as I reorganize.

***UPDATE: PRICE DROP!***
***UPDATE: More added to the Charms, Earrings, and Watch Faces sections***

Click the heading links to purchase securely through PayPal. To purchase more than 1, update the Quantity in the Shopping Cart.

ADD-A-BEAD

Add-A-Bead Pen - rosewood
Last one!
(beads not included)
$6 -- Add to Cart

Thinking Big

2011-10-02T14:30:00.000-07:00

Recently, I put all my silver scrap in a pile and went through the repeated process of torching, pickling, and rolling to make all new shiny sheet silver. Seeing all that uninterrupted gleam made me want to use a bunch of it all at once.

First, I started with this drusy moss agate I got from my buddy Gina. The drusy (crystaly center)... The translucence... The swirly greens... This stone is kickin'! It instantly reminded me of a sweater I once had--purple with teal and gold paisley. It was the '80s. I think it also had those weird puffy parts at the shoulder. You know what I mean. Anyway--I wanted to carry the paisley through to the setting and add some dotty details. There are three paisley cutouts on the back of the setting under the stone. Click the link to see all the details.
The big chunk o' pink drusy quartz came from a local gem & mineral club during one of their shows. I loved the pairing of the delicate pink color and the huge angular irregular cut. The glitter going on in this drusy looks like sugar in the sun. There's a shot of it on my finger that shows it better but still doesn't do it proper justice. Since this stone is a statement on its own, I wanted to add more color but subtly. I couldn't decide if I liked the ruby or tanzanite better with the quartz, so I added both. So much for subtle. BOOM--PINKIE RING!

Fall is Here!

2011-09-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

After having a summer FILLED with 100°+ days, I am *thrilled* to have even the tiniest bit of crispness in the air. This is the perfect time to start donning Candy Corn Chainmaille things. It was also a great excuse to buy candy to use for a photo prop. I suffer for my art. Om nom nom...

A Little Something I Dug Up...

2011-09-21T11:34:00.001-07:00

I had the opportunity to tag along with some hardcore rock hounds and dig up some pyrite. It was in Texas, but it looked like I was on the Moon. The sparkly stuff was everywhere! I lost my mind. Space and time no longer existed. It was all about getting many shiny things in my possession as quickly as possible. The eyes focused on nothing but glitz. My arms are longer now, because I LOADED my bucket. And a bag. And my pockets. The only reason I left was because the temps were inching up to their usual 100+°, and I was wilting.

From my haul, I've started pyrite-apalooza by making the Unidentified Pyrite Object Ring, the Caged Fool Necklace, and The Golden Button Necklace.

New Things... Finally!

2011-08-03T12:40:00.000-07:00

I've been a big ol' slacker in the posting department over here. The Facebook page has been getting way more attention, because it's so darn easy and I'm on there more often. Here's what I've made recently and what's been added to ErinMichael.com:

Spine Tingler Pendant

Intergalactic Planetary Ring

Ice Cream Cone Pendant

Trademarked!

2011-08-03T11:34:00.000-07:00

Something that has been on my 'To Do' list for awhile was to get the mark I designed to stamp my things trademarked. I'm so happy to report IT'S DONE DID! On July 26th, it was published in the Official Gazette for Trademarks.

Refer a Friend >> Get Jewelry!

2011-07-16T10:20:00.000-07:00

Since practically all of my advertising is done by word-of-mouth, I'd like to THANK YOU for your time and consideration. Refer a friend and 5% of all of their jewelry purchases will be credited to your account to spend on your own sparkly treasures. Grab your contact list and go pick out some things!

To ensure proper credit, your referral must note your email address or customer # on their order. For more information or questions, email me at me@ErinMichael.com.

Hippity Hoppity... The Easter Egg Hunt Continues!

2011-04-02T15:48:00.001-07:00

The Easter Egg Hunt continues! More Easter Eggs have been hidden on ErinMichael.com. Get on The List or 'Like' my Facebook page for more details.

I have Gift Certificates and Jewelry ready for your bunny basket. Some of you will find Jewelry I'm making *exclusively* for The Hunt!

I'll be updating the status of The Hunt here on the Blog.

(One Egg per person.)

***
UPDATE:
The Green Egg has been found! Congratulations, Robin!!!

The Purple Egg has been found! Great job, Shari!!!

Thank you to everyone who played! There will be more Eggs hidden soon...

I'm a Professional!

2011-03-26T12:03:00.000-07:00

It's official--I'm an Accredited Jewelry Professional! The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) has dropped some serious knowledge of jewelry, colored stones, and diamonds on me, and I lapped it up like a kitten with a bowl of cream. My love and appreciation of rocks has been lifelong, but I will soon have a fancy-dancy certificate with a pretty gold seal from an independent authority to prove it.

You have nothing to worry about. I'm a professional...

The Easter Egg Hunt Is ON!

2011-03-24T07:55:00.000-07:00

Easter is a month from today and to hop into the spirit, I'm having an Easter Egg Hunt! Get on The List or 'Like' my Facebook page for more details.

I have Gift Certificates and Jewelry ready for your bunny basket. Some of you will find Jewelry I'm making *exclusively* for The Hunt!

I'll be updating the status of The Hunt here on the Blog.

(One Egg per person.)

***
UPDATE:
The Red Egg has been found! Congratulations, Susan!!!

The Blue Egg has been found! Way to go, Sheryl!!!

More Eggs will be hidden in the days leading up to Easter, so stay tuned to The List or 'Like' my Facebook page for details!

Simplifying is the Byz Knees

2011-03-17T17:25:00.000-07:00

My Spring Cleaning effort is ongoing, and a part of that is simplifying things on the website. I've added and condensed the various sizes of Byzantine Chainmaille Bracelets in silver on one page and added a new finish -- BLACKENED! Different-sized rings make different looks within the same chainmaille pattern. Now, you can easily see the differences side-by-side. The simplification effort will continue with all the patterns and items. Have a gander...

Ring in the Warmth

2011-03-11T11:08:00.000-08:00

Is anyone out there ready for Spring like I am? I want blue skies and sunshine, so I'm releasing some sparkly things to herald in the warmth of a new season. Bring it!

Seize the Daisy! with Harold the Bug is unleashed...

2011-03-11T11:06:00.000-08:00

...on the website and the world.

Spring Cleaning Freebies Part 2

2011-03-07T16:40:00.000-08:00

The Spring cleaning continues... This time with glass beads. If you would like them, cover the shipping and they're yours! Pick the Groups you want or pick them all. Your choice--First to email me gets them! (shipping: $3 domestic/int'l USPS first class; $5 domestic USPS Priority)

UPDATE: These freebies have been snapped up. Enjoy, Mary! ☺
My Spring Cleaning seems never-ending, so I'm sure there will be more.
Keep your channel here...

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes...

2011-03-04T06:02:00.000-08:00

For the past couple months, I've been transitioning all my 'e-maille' stuff to 'Erin Michael.' When I started e-maille, I was making primarily chainmaille. Over the years, I've grown to include much more than chainmaille and I plan to further my skills as I go on. I thought it was best to simply work under my name and not feel the need to fit inside a certain box. Consider me fully unbridled now--Wheee-hoooo!

Spring Cleaning Freebies

2011-02-13T09:35:00.000-08:00

I'm getting a jump on my spring cleaning. Here are some odds and ends that have been hanging around. If you would like them, cover the shipping and they're yours! Pick the Groups you want or pick them all. Your choice--First to email me gets them! (shipping: $3 domestic/int'l USPS first class; $5 domestic USPS Priority)

UPDATE: The freebies have been grabbed, but the Spring Cleaning will continue. Stay tuned for more freebies...

Seize the Daisy!

2011-02-07T06:35:00.000-08:00

The daisy is finished! This has been my most involved project so far, and I'm really happy with how it turned out. It's made completely from sterling silver with a 14.24 ct. citrine in the center. I rolled all the sheet silver myself from scrap, so it's *completely* handmade with my ten little thumbs. That's Harold the Bug on one of the petals. He's a flirt. "Seize the Daisy!" will be posted on ErinMichael.com soon, and if you'd like to see the process photos, 'Like' my Facebook page.

Set Sail for a 3 Hour Tour in Style...

2011-01-26T16:05:00.000-08:00

Even if the weather starts getting rough, you'll still look smooth.
The Nautical Rope Collection is made with pairs of twisted gold rope-y rings and heavy sterling silver 'life preservers.' Every ring has been soldered closed with a torch for extra durability.

Amethyst--February's Birthstone and More...

2011-01-17T11:45:00.000-08:00

A Water stone, Amethyst is known as the Stone of Spirit, Transformation, Spirituality, and Sobriety. Me... I just *really* like purple and can't stand to not pick up a good amethyst when I find it. In honor of all you February birthday babies and for those who are also lovers of mixing red & blue, I made some new amethyst goodies.

Sure, You've Seen Jewelry, But Has Jewelry Seen You? This Choker Can...

2011-01-12T16:46:00.000-08:00

I like weird stuff, and I cannot lie. Last year, I acquired this antique glass eye made in Germany around the 1900s. It looks sooooo real and I've had it hanging up on my pegboard staring at me. I finally came up with an idea on what to make with it, and here you have it--the Beholder of the Eye Choker!

Not-So-Secret Santa

2010-12-09T10:25:00.000-08:00

Do you have a friend, sibling, or coworker who could use a little festive cheer? In the spirit of the holiday season, I'd like to send out Christmas Tree Necklaces to them. Send me a message telling me why you'd like to 'Tree' someone, and they'll receive a gift from you--or anonymously if you prefer.

I have five friendly trees waiting to brighten someone's day.

UPDATE: All the Christmas Tree Necklaces have been sent out to spread the seasonal joy. Happy Holidays!!!

Geocaching: e-maille Edition

2010-12-06T14:45:00.000-08:00

First, I'd like to thank all of you who came out and said *Hello* during my shows. I met some really cool people--customers and vendors--and I appreciate the support. I'd especially like to thank everyone who helped me Saturday night when a gust of wind overturned my tent, walls, and tables as we were tearing down. That was some show season finale. Oy.

Now that the shows are over for the year and the temperature is dropping, I'm feeling Santa Claus-y. I've decided to hide Gift Bags filled with jewelry around town in my own geocaching adventure. Geocaching is a treasure hunting game where you use a GPS to hide and seek things. To get the locations of the Gift Bags, join The List or Like my Facebook page.

This Saturday: Wylie Arts Festival

2010-12-02T09:58:00.000-08:00

All my e-maille is locked and loaded and I'm looking forward to a beautiful day at the Wylie Arts Festival this Saturday from 10am - 8pm. There will be a little something for everybody including the Festival of Lights Parade and the Tree Lighting Ceremony! The map below shows where the festival will be located. Click on it to get directions.

Protection for Your Earlobes

2010-11-30T05:48:00.000-08:00

This is the last thing I'm adding before getting ready for the Wylie Arts Festival this Saturday from 10am - 8pm. Wylie will be my final show of the season and I'm thankful that the December weather looks like it will be cooperating--near 70° and mostly sunny. Come out and take advantage!

Candy Canes in Four Flavors

2010-11-28T17:47:00.000-08:00

Peppermint was lonely so I added spearmint, cool mint, and cinnamon to the group. Which flavor would you like?

Ready for a Treasure Hunt?

2010-11-28T05:39:00.000-08:00

Who watched "Goonies" as a kid and thought it would be kickass to find your own One-Eyed Willy and all his treasure? I'll admit it--I did. A part of me hasn't stopped imagining what it would be like, and the Treasure Map Pendant is ready to go on your journey with you.

Get Blown

2010-11-27T06:59:00.000-08:00

I was so happy with how this ring turned out, because it even spins with a breeze! When experiments go right, it more than makes up for the ones that go horribly wrong. If you'd like one with different colors or without any colors at all, let me know. I'm just itchin' to make another one.

Getting My Rocks On

2010-11-22T09:15:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend, I went to the Dallas Gem & Mineral Show and scored some cool finds. I'm especially excited about the meteorite and nuggety ball of pyrite.

Bloody Yell: Final

2010-07-16T12:24:00.000-07:00

The final pictures for "Bloody Yell" are finished! Go see...

Feeling Hammered? Take Three Rings and Call Yourself "Awesome"!

2010-06-03T17:19:00.000-07:00

I just added some new things to the shop: Medieval Hammered Rings in 3 different widths. Sign up for my Facebook group or email List to take advantage of Promo Prices on new things!

I Would Like to Buy Your Friendship

2010-05-28T08:08:00.000-07:00

Sign up for my Facebook group or email List and as a thankyouthankyouthankyou not only will you get first dibs on new things I add, I'll be knocking a few bucks off my already incredibly reasonable prices to entice you further. And not everyone will have access to these promo prices... Oh, nooooo... I play favorites. I only suck up to people who "Like" me.

Why pick silver or gold when you can have both?

2010-05-26T06:36:00.000-07:00

For those of you who saw me at the CityArts Festival, you got a sneak peek of the new silver & gold striped chainmaille rings. Now, I have them posted them in the shop for all the world to see.

Oot & Aboot: Rachofsky House

2010-05-23T05:05:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, I ventured out of my hollow tree to check out the Rachofsky House in Dallas with some other cool DANG! people. (Thank you, Zoetina!) The place is chock full of modern art, but, truthfully, I was taken more with the house itself and the grounds. I'm a sucker for a pond with a weeping willow.

This is the view from the kitchen. What a drag to have to sip your morning coffee looking at this mess out your window, huh? The apples behind the bushes in the far background have a secret.
An inside view. Clean lines. Open. Tons of light. And completely surrounded by lots of green stuff. Perfect.
Not a bad way to wake up.
Back of the house.
The grounds.
If I get the opportunity, I'd like to go back and see it again. Maybe if I stand still I can pass for an art installation and I can stay. Worth a try.

Bloody Yell--It's Finally Finished!

2010-05-06T17:10:00.000-07:00

About 180 hours and over 22,000 rings later... "Bloody Yell" is complete! He's all framed and ready to go on someone's wall. I'll be taking proper photos and eventually listing it in the shop. Until then, he'll be hanging out with me.

I really appreciate all the words of encouragement and amazing comments I've gotten from so many of you. It really motivated me to get it finished. About a 1/3 of the way, I had one of those "what the hell am I doing" moments, but it passed. Now I'm off to think of what to do for #3. I'm thinking a tribute to a daVinci piece. Suggestions?

Get Your Art On

2010-05-06T12:23:00.000-07:00

This weekend I'll be at the CityArts festival in Fair Park in Dallas. C'mon down and see all the new stuff I've made like brand new patterns of chainmaille rings and a finished Bloody Yell. There will also be alcohol there. Whatever motivates you...

I'll be on a corner in Booth #5 inside the Automobile Building.

Hello, BY, My Old Friend...

2010-03-22T08:42:00.000-07:00

Chainmaille Inlay #2: "Bloody Yell" progress photos

stats:
22,540 total rings when complete
14 colors of enameled copper and brass jump rings (saw cut by yours truly)

Current Progress: 75.2% ∙∙∙ Updated 3/31/2010 @ 2:30 PM
weight: 2 lb 1.4 oz

Introducing the MAILLE BOX!

2010-03-15T07:57:00.000-07:00

Make your very own framed chainmaille art!
Comes with all the jump rings you need and a handmade shadowbox frame.
Each kit is customized with the colors you pick.
Introductory Price for a Limited Time

Hanging Out with My Yang Out

2010-03-10T07:56:00.000-08:00

The Yin Yang chainmaille inlay is complete! This afternoon, I will be working on the last element of the inlay kits. If all the work fairies cooperate, the final kits will be up on the web tomorrow in Can You BeWeave It? land. I hope you all like them. I'm pretty excited about 'em.

Pick the Next "Can You BeWeave It?" kit!

2010-02-24T17:47:00.000-08:00

Happy Hump Day Fellow Maille-iacs!

In the middle (or nearly the middle) of working on "Bloody Yell," I had an idea for kits in the Make Something store. Because my ADD won't be denied, I've been working on samples. I started with a couple designs I've always liked--a Fleur-de-Lis (phone pic sneak peek at right) and a Celtic Knot.

I want to know what you'd like to see! Look at the poll on the left and click on the ones you like. To start us off, I have an ankh, a cross, a yin yang, and a skull & crossbones. Please realize you're only seeing a part of what the final kit will be (but it's gonna be cool!).

If I've listed NOTHING that you like and think I have some nerve even asking you to pick one, send me a scathing email with ideas of what you'd like to see in future polls.

UPDATE: And the winner is... Yin Yang! A big THANK YOU to all who participated! Pattern making in progress... (please stay tuned...)

Chainmaille Inlay #2: "Bloody Yell" progress photos

2010-02-11T05:54:00.000-08:00

stats:
22,540 total rings when complete
14 colors of enameled copper and brass jump rings (saw cut by yours truly)

Current Progress: 44.1%
weight: 1 lb 3.8 oz

Something New AND Something Blue

2010-02-10T06:04:00.000-08:00

I picked up this blue onyx cab awhile ago. I didn't know what I was going to do with it (like most rocks I get), but the color completely sucked me in. Yesterday, it found its home in a swirled heart pendant setting I made. Yes, I realize I'm biased, but I love how it turned out. That blue is just... BAM! Thank you Mother Nature! I hope I've done your work justice.

Blue Onyx Swirl Heart Pendant

I made a swirly setting with a hidden heart on the back for this crazy beautiful blue onyx. The Earth made the onyx.

I wanted to play with a setting that was asymmetrical and kind of free form. I started by making the the bezel (the thin band that holds the onyx) and torch soldered rings and hand-formed, hammered swirls around the outside. I continued with the back--two more swirls coming together to make a heart that also hold the stone in place. I set the stone and tumble polished the finished pendant to a high shine. The color of the onyx is so beautiful, you'll swear it's made of dolphin tears. Don't worry--they're happy tears.

Recycled Heart Pendants

2010-02-02T07:31:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is coming up. I'll admit, it's not my favorite holiday, but I do like hearts. I made some molds, melted down some scrap silver and made these textured heart pendants. They are all unique. The mold is destroyed in the creation process and can't be duplicated.

I have them in my shop for $39 until Feb. 7th. Consider it my VD gift to you. (Yeah, I know how that sounds but I typed it anyway.)

Holy crap, Batman! It's, well, BATMAN!!!

2010-02-01T06:59:00.000-08:00

This past weekend I went to the Dallas Comic Con. Since I have been looking for places to set up a vendor booth with my things, I thought it might be a unique possibility for the future. I had never been to one before and decided to go and do some official Comic Con recon. I walked through the doors and saw all the creators, illustrators, colorists, people in costumes, posters, memorabilia... It was so beauuuuutiful. I found that Adam West (BATMAN!!!) and Peter Mayhew (CHEWBACCA!!!) were going to be signing autographs (among others but those 2 were all I needed to hear) and my eyes glazed over and my geek took control.

I was mostly okay until I heard Adam West talking to the people in the line ahead of me and his voice turned me back into an 8-year-old that watched the Batman series religiously in her Batgirl Underoos. I got all giggly and weird but somehow mustered a "Hi" and "Thank you." I geeked out even more than I thought I would. That's why the pic below of Peter Mayhew signing my Chewie pic is all blurry. I couldn't even hold still.

I'm so glad I went and took it all in. It made me want to go to the big one in San Diego in July. There is a concern, however, that my brain may explode at that one.

Back to Yell-ing...

2010-01-30T07:49:00.000-08:00

Chainmaille Inlay #2: "Bloody Yell" progress photos

stats:
22,540 total rings when complete
14 colors of enameled copper and brass jump rings (saw cut by yours truly)

Current Progress: 34.8% ∙∙∙ Updated 2/1/2010 @ 8:30 AM
weight: 15.6 oz.

Chainmaille Inlay #2: "Bloody Yell" progress photos

2010-01-07T12:17:00.000-08:00

Chainmaille inlay #2 "Bloody Yell" has begun! I'll keep posting progress pics if you'd like to see how everything comes together...

stats:
22,540 total rings when complete
14 colors of enameled copper and brass jump rings (saw cut by yours truly)

Current Progress: 28.6% ∙∙∙ Updated 1/24/2010 @ 8:00 AM

Chainmaille Rings -- Something for every finger...

2009-12-06T13:19:00.000-08:00

I liked the narrow version of the silver and gold chainmaille rings, I decided to make them wider, so there's more to love. The narrow bands are 3/8 inch wide and the wide bands are 1/2 inch wide. Here's a photo to see the difference.

European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Ring in gold (narrow band)

European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Ring in gold (wide band)
European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Ring in silver (narrow band)
European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Ring in silver (wide band)

The one on my middle finger (the narrow silver band) I wear every day and was one of the first ones I made. If you live near me and drive while talking on your cell phone, I may have already shown this ring to you in traffic.

Have Yourself a Maille-y Little Christmas

2009-11-14T17:09:00.000-08:00

I've just added TWO new kits to the Make Something Projects menu!
Can You BeWeave It? Snowflake Ornament Kits
in Japanese 2-in-2 and Byzantine Chainmaille

Make them to brighten up your own holiday
or someone else's.

What the Fuchsia?!

2009-11-07T09:07:00.000-08:00

After I regained my sight from basking in the wirey glow, I looked on the packing list and saw that fuchsia was not currently available. Bu-but fuchsia is one of the colors I need for "Bloody Yell." I dropped to my knees, threw my palms up to the sky, and in my best Nancy Kerrigan scream, I asked, "Why wire people have you forsaken me?!" I may be exaggerating a smidge, but I was disappointed. I have a backup source I hope comes through. Is it too much to ask to have wire available in every color I want? Is it really? puh.

Letting the Cat Out of the Bag

2009-10-31T16:39:00.000-07:00

It's driving me absolutely crazy waiting for the rest of the wire colors to get here so I can start on Bloody Yell. In the meantime, I made a simple frame with a rod to weave it while it's hanging. I think it's a lot easier that way. For the first, I just used a thick piece of wire, but this one needs something a little more substantial.

Monkey helped when she wasn't hiding in a grocery bag and jumping out to attack me as I walked by. She thinks she's a lioness. She takes Biggie down like a young gazelle and he's at least twice her size.

Chainmaille Inlay #2 "Bloody Yell" Inspired by Edvard Munch's The Scream

2009-10-15T06:31:00.000-07:00

After getting distracted with a bunch of different projects, I've revisited doing my next chainmaille inlay "Bloody Yell" inspired by Edvard Munch's The Scream. Maybe it's the Halloweeny spirit that seeps into me every October, but I thought this would be a great time to work on something kinda creepy.

My first chainmaille inlay, "Ol' Blue Eye," was inspired by M.C. Escher's "Eye." Inlay #2 will be around 4½ times the size of the first. "Ol' Blue Eye" has 4720 rings and "Bloody Yell" will have 22,400. I already have the frame, light, and hanging rod for it. It's much easier to find the frame I like and size the maille to it rather than the other way around. I'd ultimately like to find someone who's handy with their wood [ :) ] to make me custom frames with the lighting built in. If anyone knows of someone who'd like to work with me, let me know! I have ideas incorporating LEDs and other extras for a more cohesive presentation. Maybe for inlay #3...

I finished the pattern last night and tonight I'm putting in my wire order. As soon as I get all that pretty metal, I'll be sliding on a new sawblade and going ring-cutting-crazy! For inlay #1, I posted the pattern first, but this time I thought I would keep some mystery and just post the progression pics. Stay tuned to watch the bloody unfolding...

Channeling My Inner Hooters Girl

2009-09-09T17:21:00.000-07:00

On my last visit to the motherland, a lady showed me her owl pendant that had lost its tail somewhere along the way and asked if I could make a piece to finish it. I hadn't seen the original, so it was an interesting challenge to add to the existing parts and make it look like it belongs. This is how the finished project turned out. Whooooooooo...

Time for hot wings!

Life Is Graet!

2009-06-04T08:56:00.000-07:00

I audibly gasped in what I can only call a kind of euphoric attack in the middle of Kroger this morning. First, some backstory... My first year of college, I went to a small, private school. It was lovely, but our 'strip' consisted of a hat shop, a third-run movie theatre, and an ice cream shop. I know... where to begin the hard partying, right? This lineup would be completely uneventful, but the ice cream shop had the BEST ICE CREAM IN THE WORLD-->GRAETERS! I'm not a big foodie, but I knows me some ice creams, and this place was NOT in the best location to avoid the Freshman 15. Besides the kickass Native American History class I had with Maroukis, this was the best part of my first year. We all have our priorities.

After I departed school, I was left to only the occasional creamy, chunky treat going to or from the airport. It was right on the way--pity not to stop. [Cut to:] This morning, I went to the dentist for a crop of fillings and went to shop for soft comfort--applesauce, yogurt, the usual. Then, on an end freezer, as big as life, a sign that said "GRAETERS IS HERE!" That's when I gasped and my cart slowly rolled away from me as I stood in front of the glassed-in, fluorescent-lighted goodness. "Oprah's Favorite" another sign touted. That's good and all, but my belly honestly doesn't give a rat's ass what Oprah likes. It just knows it wants some of THAT in it. In one swift movement, I opened the door and whisked out some of my favorite--Mint Chocolate Chip. I smiled as much as my numbed mouth would let me and happily bounced back home.

If you like creaaaaaamy ice cream with chunks of chocolate in it so big that they will leave caverns in your scoop when you pull them out with your teeth, this is the stuff for you. I haven't seen it at SuperTarget, and I'm guessing it's only at Kroger which isn't a big surprise--Buckeye companies stickin' together. As soon as I get enough feeling to chew a chunk, I'm going to nurse my sore mouth and get HUGE! nom... nom...

Try the NEW Gold & Silver Twisted Jump Rings for FREE!

2009-05-09T16:21:00.000-07:00

Get them at MakeSomething.NET!

Get It Twisted! -- In Gold AND Silver

2009-05-06T20:38:00.000-07:00

Do you have a hard time deciding on either gold or silver jump rings? Now, you don't have to! I've just added some twisted jump rings in gold & silver. Add them as an accents between segments of Byzantine or create a new twist on the Do-Si-Do. Whatever you use them for, you can't go wrong with these pretties!

I will be adding more jump ring sizes and re-vamping the other jump ring pages to make them easier to use. Stay tuned...

Sicko de Mayo

2009-05-01T05:36:00.000-07:00

Along with the school closings in the DFW area, some of the events scheduled for this weekend have been canceled in reaction to the swine flu outbreak. Among them, Mayfest, Cinco de Mayo celebrations, and (my favorite) the Garland Healthy Living Expo have all been canceled on the recommendations of public health officials.

But if you like gems & jewelry, the Intergem show is still on, so grab your masks and your Purell and get your rocks off!

Feature: 3-Color Byzantine Chainmaille Kits

2009-04-15T06:23:00.000-07:00

Select from over 20 colors of jump rings and customize your kit to make your own Byzantine Chainmaille Jewelry! Pick colors for your favorite school/college, sports team, or homecoming/prom. Surprise a bride-to-be with jewelry matching her wedding colors.

You can select 3 different colors, but you're also welcome to match your color selections to make 2- or 1-color jewelry.

Two sizes of rings are available. The smaller rings create a lighter, more dainty Byzantine weave, and the larger rings create a more substantial piece of jewelry.

Don't just sit there... Make Something!

My Newest Thing Inspired by Doctor Who

2009-04-03T07:14:00.000-07:00

I watched Doctor Who back when Tom Baker was at the helm and the stage crew made the best out of some cardboard, tiny lights, and silver paint. Good times. I never missed the late night British TV lineup shown on PBS, and I still have a Pavlovian reaction when I hear the theme music. Best ever.

While I was sick with the flu a little while ago, I got to catch up on the series, now with David Tennant as the Doctor. I gotta say I really like him in the role. There is something "other worldly" about him. The combination of watching the TARDIS travel through realms and my near-death flu experience lead me to make sketches of this -- my Etheric Traveller Pendant with drusy quartz. I picked up the drusy quartz a couple years ago at a gem show and it fit perfectly with the picture I had in my mind. The iridescent quartz crystals draw you in with such sparkle and color. It's really a gorgeous stone.

BAP! Cool Stuff for Your Wall

2009-04-03T07:01:00.000-07:00

I love comics, and I can't get enough of the Batman series with Adam West. These wooden laser cutouts from a company called Start have that same fun boldness translated into really cool art.

My New Year's Resolution: De-JUNK

2009-01-06T12:02:00.000-08:00

Sure, it's only one, one-word resolution, but there are parts, see? De-junk to me means removing all the crud from my life that doesn't really benefit me. It's easy to say, but old habits die hard, and I'm known to be quite stubborn. It'll be fun.

Stuff
As much as I think I'm quite frugal on what I acquire, I've still managed to accumulate too much stuff. I will de-junk my entire place, keeping only what I need or really want. I realize the "really want" part is extremely subjective on my part, but I don't really want much. It's mostly that stuff has sat around and I just don't see it anymore.

I've already started on this one. I'm literally going through every single thing, and donating or trashing it if at all possible. I've purged areas before and I always feel better afterwards, so doing my whole place should feel fabulous when I'm finished.

Time
This is going to be the hardest one for me. When I think back at all the time I've gotten sucked into web surfing, I wish I had it back, because I know that it could have been time better spent. This goes for most media--internet, TV, magazines, etc.--but the internet's the worst one for me. I need it to work, then I get distracted by something that leads to something else that leads to something else...

I'm always feeling like I never have enough time in the day, so I hope that this will solve at least some of that anxiety. We'll see how it goes...

Wishing You All a Happy and Prosporous 2009!

2008-12-30T08:07:00.000-08:00

I'm working on getting my goals set for the new year, so this post will probably be updated as I brainstorm and prioritize.

I have decided to pare back and simplify the inventory on MakeSomething.NET. I plan to add findings that are handmade and more specialized toward chainmaille use like multi-strand and differently-shaped clasps and transitional pieces.

In e-maille.com land, I want to sell at some craft/art shows in 2009. The shows I had previously attended from 2005-2007 had gradually declined in attendance and quality of other vendors (mass-produced junk or otherwise banal, non-handmade wares). The trick is finding the shows in my area that are good. I'd love to find an all-handmade (with the artists in attendance), artsy, juried, fun show with other vendors who are passionate about what they make. If you've attended a really good show in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area (either selling or shopping), I'd appreciate your perspective. I've learned the event promoters are mostly concerned with getting their booth fee and won't give an honest opinion. The last event I did in 2007 was so horrible, I had no desire to do any this year. Depending on researching and feedback, it's not out of the question to arrange a show myself with other artists in the area. It's A LOT more work, but I think the end result would be great.

Overall, I just want all my family and friends to be happy and healthy and remember that no matter how bad things get, those moments will pass and life goes on.

Giving Something for Nothing

2008-12-15T07:02:00.000-08:00

The economy has been dodgy as of late and most people are watching their pennies. If you don't have enough cash for the basics, donating to non-profit organizations becomes even more difficult, if not impossible. You may have noticed the "Click to Donate" links I keep on teh right side of my blog, but I thought I'd point them out if you haven't.

Sponsors on these sites make a donation to the charity every time you click, and it's FREE to you! What's better than that, eh? Bookmark them and click on them daily. It takes only a moment and you'll be helping out people, animals, and causes in need.

View list of "Click to Donate" sites at http://www.thenonprofits.com/

People Who Need People...

2008-12-09T16:31:00.000-08:00

...boggle my mind. On the local news tonight, there was a segment about people in Austin with telecommuting jobs getting lonely and paying an average fee of $250/month just to be around other people to work. Wha-huh?! It's my dream to be able to work only from home, and to see these people whine about how they're just at home with their dog and they're lonely and depressed and stressed simply baffles me. It's akin to those who say having a lot of money is difficult. "There are dishes in the sink. Laundry in the hamper. An episode of "The Daily Show" sits waiting in the DVR, waiting to stretch that work break to 22 minutes." Really? That's what's stressing you out? WOW! (One moment to let me wipe away the tear. Wait. There's not one.)

I have an internet connection, jewelry-making tools, and endless ideas. I can't fathom reaching a point working at home when I think it would be great to drive to a house and pay to hang out with people. Are they just needy? Unimaginative? Insecure? Undisciplined? Irresponsible? It's just a workday. Why are they unable to get all their social validation in the evenings and weekends?

I can't be alone on this, right? I realize I am more anti-social than the average bear, but c'mon.

Cool WHIP

2008-12-08T06:19:00.000-08:00

This year, I got myself a WHIP for Christmas. It's not the leather braided kind of whip (although, also a great gift), it's a Wire Handled Ingot Pouring Device. Basically, it's what's going to allow me to melt all the scrap silver I've accumulated over the years and turn it back into cool things. It was invented by master jeweler Jay Whaley. Watch him demonstrate here.

In a semi-related meandering, see the Cool Whip clip of Family Guy here. Seth MacFarlane is a sweet genius. On Conan O'Brien last Tuesday, he mentioned how he voices Roger on American Dad in the style of '60s homosexual character actors. I thought from the beginning that he had a twinge of Paul Lynde and it looks to be true. Paul Lynde played Uncle Arthur on "Bewitched," the center square on "Hollywood Squares," and voiced Templeton in "Charlotte's Web." Surprisingly, I found he was from Mount Vernon, Ohio when I looked him up. Huh... fellow Buckeye.

Math Is For Wieners

2008-11-26T05:51:00.000-08:00

I'm kind of a trivia junkie. One of my goals is to go on Jeopardy and try to win some cash with the bits I've accumulated in my head over the years. That's why in the right column of my blog I have a "what happened in history on this date" gadget--to perpetuate my obsession or at least have my daily "huh, interesting" moment. Here's something to gobble on...

Today is the birthday of Norbert Wiener. Besides having one of the best names ever, he was an applied mathematician who founded cybernetics--a field that studies how anything (machine or man) processes information. He was a ground-breaking advocate of using technology like robotics, computer control, and automation to improve our lives. Working with a team at MIT, his research made pioneering contributions to computer science and artificial intelligence. (Sounds like the background story for Terminator 4: Rise of the Wiener)

Today is also the anniversary of the day King Tut's tomb was opened and doomed all those involved. It was worth it, though. I plan on seeing a bunch of his loot at the Dallas Museum of Art while it's in town. Since I haven't made it to Egypt yet, I figure this is the next best thing. OH-WAY-OH!

RRRRRRRRRRRRings...........

2008-11-23T16:48:00.000-08:00

I've continued to tweak the e-maille.com website this weekend. For each item, I've added a section to give some insight on the process that went into making things. Also, the customization options have been improved for more flexibility.

I also added 2 new rings --
Swirl Etched Stackable Ring

Unique enough to stand on its own, but dainty enough to stack a few, you'll find these rings complement any style. A fine etched line swirls around the ring for sparkle and interest. Sold individually.

Saturday Morning Bird Watching

2008-10-18T17:19:00.000-07:00

Part of my Saturday morning routine includes opening the porch door, so the kids can go out on the balcony and enjoy the morning--mostly the birds that fly between the trees and rooftops. Moving to the top floor is the best thing I ever did as far as they are concerned. I wanted to play with my black & white camera setting and capture them ready to pounce. I ended up getting one of the aforementioned tweeties in the frame, too. Lucky shot.

Who Knew Fences Could Be This Cool?

2008-10-13T07:11:00.000-07:00

Inspiration can be found anywhere. I came across a site for a Dutch design company, DEMAKERSVAN, that is making chain-link fence with an original flair. It looks amazing and makes me want a yard just so I'd need one.

Ike-an See Clearly Now, The Rain Is Gone

2008-09-15T07:42:00.000-07:00

Well, here around Dallas, we were expecting more effects from Hurricane Ike but got a steady, gentle rain for most of Saturday, and that was all. I had taken everything in from the porch, since Friday's forecast predicted winds up to 40 MPH. It ended up going more East and there was no wind to be felt. We've certainly had worse storms without a hurricane involved. Our thoughts go out to all those families who have incurred loss during the hurricane, and we wish you all the best in the recovery.

My Favorite Things... Metal Version

2008-06-23T19:17:00.000-07:00

This is what happens when a tune gets stuck in my head while I'm up late working on things.

(sung to "My Favorite Things" from The Sound of Music)
Metal and torches and tumblers and pliers
Rocks set in bezels or maybe square wire
Doming blocks, files, when hammers go TING
These are a few of my favorite things - - -

Kilns fusing glassware and PMC gold
Liver of sulfur and cuttlebone molds
Anvils and pickle and pearls on a string
These are a few of my favorite things - - -

Draw plates, wax carvings, roll printings, crochet hooks
Tubing and lubing and reading McCreight's books
Headpins and eyepins and Links for a Queen
These are a few of my favorite things - - -

When the fuel's out
When the ring flings
When my eyes are had
I simply remember my favorite things
And then I don't feel so bad

Real or Fake? Does It Matter?

2008-06-22T05:54:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading an article on Smithsonian.com about the increased quality of lab-grown diamonds making them practically indistinguishable from natural diamonds. I've never been a big diamond person. Sure, I think they're beautiful, but the main reason I got into jewelry making was to work with elements that at one point in time were a part of the earth. I'm just as impressed by a well-cut diamond as I am a great piece of jasper with tons of color and character. Their price differs greatly, but their value is equally as precious.

The nerdy, science-lover side of me thinks the ability to create specimens that are nearly indistinguishable from the natural thing is amazing. There are functional areas that I think these diamonds are perfect for. But the other, earthy side says they will never be the same. Part of the fascination of stones for me is that they're just THERE without the intervention of humans. I guess it depends on the reason you like the stone. Is it the stone's visual beauty? It's history? It's chemistry? The energy that went into making it?

For those who make jewelry... Is there a difference between what you work with and what you like to wear personally (when it comes to natural/lab-created stones)?

For those who enjoy wearing jewelry... Does the stone's origin factor into your decision when buying a piece?

See the article on Smithsonian.com

[photo by Max Aguilera-Hellweg]

The Artist Formerly Known As...

2008-06-21T20:55:00.000-07:00

I've been wanting to come up with a unique symbol I could use on my e-maille jewelry tags and other things. I've been using just an "E" until now, because nothing before was really working or 'grabbing' me. I finally came up with one, so the next logical step was, of course, to make a pendant of my artistic identity. You know... like Prince... because he and I are so similar. I like purple. And rain. Anyway...

My new mark consists of my initials "ELM" arranged in a sort of skewed way. I couldn't have it too straightforward. That's not how I roll. My initial arrangement is enclosed by one big ring, because it was one ring that started all my maille madness, and I'm thankful. My new pendant is symmetrical, relatively simple, and, although I've been told it looks like a TIE Fighter turned sideways, I like it. So, now I just need to order a metal stamp and emblazen the world like Zorro. Again... so similar we are.

If any of you have ordered a custom metal stamp, I'd appreciate any info either way--who you'd do business with again or who you'd avoid.

Happy Flag Day!... Surprise!

2008-06-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Since today is Flag Day, I thought I'd celebrate by giving away a "Can You BeWeave It?" Make Your Own Chainmaille kit. Here's how you can Win Something!...

Somewhere on the Make Something site is a Win Something! icon like this one. Click on the icon to send an email. (Do not change the subject line.) The first person to find the icon and send an email will win their choice of one of our new Flags of the World "Can You BeWeave It?" 15"/16"/17" necklace kits, complete with instructions. (Tools not included.)

More surprise Win Somethings will be posted throughout the summer here on the blog. Subscribe to the Blog Feed and get ready to grab free things!

UPDATE : The Win Something has been found!
Congratulations to our winner!
Thanks to everyone for playing...

Let Your Flags Fly!

2008-06-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

I was inspired by the forthcoming Flag Day and Olympic Games and decided to make some flags of the world. Come see the new collection! Even more flags will be added soon...

Flag of the United States of America/USA European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Necklace

Flag of Italy European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Necklace

Flag of France European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Necklace

Flag of England (St. George's Cross) European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Necklace

Flag of the Netherlands/Holland European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Necklace

Flag of Belgium European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Necklace

Flag of Germany European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Necklace

Flag of Sweden European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Necklace

Flag of Poland European 4-in-1 Chainmaille Necklace

What's Creepier Than Monkeys and Robots? Monkey Robots!

2008-05-29T08:38:00.000-07:00

I've mentioned before that I think monkeys are creepy. There's something about that look in their eye. I should have mentioned robots, too, as being on that 'don't want them around me' category, but they weren't very high on the creep-o-meter until today. Let me say that, from a distance (a vast, faraway distance), I do understand the greatness of the implied eventual benefits for those with physical limitations with this technology. That said... When I see a robotic hand reach out and grab something because a money's wired-up brain said so... HEEBIE freakin' JEEBIES!

I mean, there has to already be a horror movie out there about how this eventually goes ALL WRONG, right? If there isn't, there should be.

"Monkey wants another banana. "
"You've had enough bananas. "
"I don't think you understand..." {{{brain waves}}} death. banana. end scene.

See the article on FOXNews.com

Rings are Round and Rosey

2008-05-11T09:39:00.000-07:00

We've added lots of new colors of jump rings in Make Something-land--including Rose. Start your Summer projects now with every color of the rainbow!

"I Wish My Brother George Was Here"

2008-04-26T20:22:00.000-07:00

Since it was the last week for the Damien Hirst exhibit at the Goss Michael Foundation downtown, I went today to check it out. I first became aware of Hirst in an article about his diamond skull creation "For the Love of God."

The skull is covered with 8,601 flawless diamonds - three times the number on the crown the Queen wears on state occasions.

The skull is in London, sadly, but I wanted to see what else he had done. The exhibit was interesting, but I would say I'm more of a platinum and diamond skull fan than a Damien Hirst fan. This was the last week for Hirst, but there will be different artists featured in the future.

The Foundation was started by my 'brother' George Michael and his partner to bring a little cultural somethin'-somethin' to DFW. They also sponsor art contests for the school kids. Check out their website and have a visit.

Hot in Herre

2008-04-23T06:56:00.000-07:00

I welcomed a new member to my family of tools yesterday -- a new torch! Sure, I already have a couple, but this one is different. And can you ever really have enough tools. Just in time for those nice, cool Texas summers. T.G.F.A/C.!!

I also hammered out some silver and added rings made of square wire. Light just sparkles off all the facets.

And the Winner Is...

2008-04-07T08:05:00.000-07:00

THE SCREAM!!!

I started looking at The Scream a couple days ago in preparation, because it was ahead in the votes the whole way. This may be a very appropriate name for this picture in more ways than one. When I was looking at my wire colors and pattern-izing, it quickly became apparent that this is not going to be an easy task, but I'm up for it -- even if I will be doing plenty of screaming on my own in the process.

Thank you to all who voted and gave feedback and suggestions, especially to my fellow maille crazies on MailleArtisans.org!!

Eye've Been Framed!

2008-03-31T22:06:00.000-07:00

"Ol' Blue Eye" is framed, lit, and now officially my favorite thing. The LED lighting makes the blue eye look like it glows. The Eye is suspended on a single wire in an open shadow box for a 3-D mounting. The battery-powered LED light has 2 brightness settings, which I've found to be especially nice. No matter where I move, it's looking at me.

Do ya, do ya, do ya, do ya... know what ya doing, doing to me?

2008-03-25T10:52:00.000-07:00

I finished my nearly 25 ct. black/red star ruby ring on Easter Sunday. It's funny, because it ended up looking kind of Pope-y. I kiss it, anyhow. I love how it turned out.

Many Pearls.... How-DEEE!

2008-03-21T06:36:00.000-07:00

I finished a couple pearl bracelets and necklaces, but I don't think I'm finished. Pearls just say Spring to me and it's hard to put them down when it's this time of year--especially when the weather's been so nice. That is one thing I will say I love about living in Texas... warmth! It's nice for us 'circulatorily' challenged. (Even if in July I'll consist only of a melted puddle of flesh.)

Freshwater Pearl 3-Strand Bracelet - white & pink (pictured)
∙ Buy Now ∙

Ruby is still looking at me. I know, I know, you need a setting, but all in due time, dear.

And kudos to all of you who noted the 'tagged' reference in my title. I'm not a redneck, but I've played one on TV.

'Eye' Am Done

2008-03-15T17:56:00.000-07:00

"Ol' Blue Eye" saw it's last ring this afternoon. I am so happy with the completed sheet and can't wait to add the frame and light and get some photos taken to post.

Eye Half Open

2008-03-07T08:20:00.000-08:00

Last night, I reached the halfway mark with "Ol' Blue Eye." Woohoo! I plan on cutting more rings tonight like a maniac. I'd like to get the entire Eye -- frame and lighting included -- finished by next weekend at the latest. Much of the wire I'm using is silver-plated copper under the blues, so the color just shines and pops. If you've never experienced the movement and feel of a sheet of Euro 4-in-1, you're missing out. It's amazing that metal can be so graceful & beautiful and tough at the same time. That's the reason I've decided that the frame will have an open front and the maille itself will be suspended. It seemed a shame to lock it away behind glass. I can't stop poking my Eye!

Fo' Sh-Izzard!

2008-03-05T11:13:00.000-08:00

Here I am just a few days ago saying how kickass Eddie Izzard is and that y'all need to check him out... AND NOW... I get the email about his (WHAT?!) 2008 American Tour!! Sweet.

Go get tickets. Do it. You'll thank me.

Opening My Eye

2008-03-02T06:45:00.000-08:00

I'm really happy with how "Ol' Blue Eye" is coming together. I'm at 20% and I can see better how the pattern is working. I'm totally obsessed with getting this finished. As much as my hands started to ache yesterday, it was always 'just one more' ring. I'm on a mission. I've already started looking for the next thing I'd like to do in 4-in-1, since the first decision took forever. It's a big time investment, so I want to choose carefully. Back to work...

Ol' Blue Eye

2008-02-26T19:07:00.000-08:00

I've had this idea of doing a Euro 4-in-1 sheet of a picture adaptation, but I hadn't been able to decide on what to do. I was revisiting my inspiration files and 'focused' on M.C. Escher's art--in particular, his "Eye" mezzotint from 1946. It has always been one of my favorites, and I thought I could adapt it to the chainmaille pattern. I've sketched out the pattern and I think it's either going to be super-cool or so-totally not. There are 4720 rings, so I'm really hoping for the cool. It's worth the time and effort if it turns out like I envision and it leads to other patterns and pictures. I'll post photos of the progression of "Ol' Blue Eye" if I think it's going well. If not, you'll never hear about it again.