Trunk Show!

It's all set! The first Stone Designs Trunk Show is set for a preview at Bead Artistry in Fresno,Calif. on Thursday, March 4,2010 and continues through to Saturday,March 6,2010.Lots of eye candy! I have been busy making beads for the last few months for this show and I have some surprises too that are not shown in my Etsy store!

Tuesday's Tip

Today's tip is about Lampwork bead hole sizes.When purchasing handmade Lampwork beads the artist will usually list a mandrel size(that's the little steel rod used to wind the hot glass onto).If it says 1/16" that's the smaller size,perfect for beading jewelry.If it says 3/32" that's the larger size perfect for beaded accesories like pens,letter openers and bar tool,but can also be used in jewelry,just make sure you fill in the hole(see Tuesday's tip Jan 12)Please make sure you are purchasing Lampwork beads handmade by the artist,not mass produced.
WIN,WIN,WIN!! Don't forget to leave your favorite jewelry making tip in the comment section and you could win a beautiful Lampwork focal bead!

Newest Treasury

I have just created the most beautiful Treasury on Etsy! Some of my favorite Lampwork beads.Here's the link:http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=111976

My class on striking silvered glass was a ball.Sue Stewart is a great teacher and meeting Corina Tettinger and her little Chihuahua,Bonzai was a real treat!
Here's a bead I made from the technique.
I also just got my jewelry back from Bead trends magazine that was published in the February issue.The necklace sold right away to one of my boutiques and the earrings are listed in my Etsy store.

Tuesday's Tip

When you reach the point when you decide you want to sell your jewelry,make sure you have a professional finish on your pieces,like crimp covers,wire guards and perfect wire wrapping.
Today I am launching a new contest called Tip of the Month! Just leave your favorite jewelry making tip in the comment section of Tuesday's Tip.At the end of the month I'll select the best one and the winner will recieve a beautiful Lampwork focal bead! Let's see those tips ladies!(and gentlemen!)

Taking a Class

Saturday I am taking a class at Franz Art Glass studio on working with "Silvered" glass.I'm so excited! I just found out the famous Lampwork artist Corina Tettinger is going to be taking the same class!!!I can't wait to meet her.If you're not familiar with her work, she has written several books,one of which is considered the Lampworker's "bible" called Passing the Flame.Here's a link to her website:
http://www.corinabeads.com/
I've been making lots of new eye candy! Here's a few photos for you to enjoy.

Tuesday's Tip

Well,I'm a little late getting Tuesday's tip on,but I had a great day with my niece doing lunch and shopping!
I'd like to talk about a great Free online course from Cornell University about the Principles of Design:balance,proportion,rhythm,emphasis and unity.She also covers the Elements of Design: line,form,movement,color,texture and pattern.So,get your favorite beverage and a notebook and have a look.You can skip through alot that doesn't pertain to jewelry making too.Here's the link:
http://www.char.txa.cornell.edu/