Sunday, March 30, 2014

My Accidental Bracelet Design


I am a summer lover. Once spring arrives I get all excited for the colors I love most; blues, turquoise, and greens.  I also love being able to wear white without feeling silly, (I know that is my own perception of things but I never wear white in the winter comfortably.)

My love of 'easy' led me into the world of memory wire bracelets and I have a passion for them  They look like multiple bracelets, but don't wiggle around or take ages to put on.  They also keep their shape so well...told you I like 'easy'.

This particular bracelet happened by accident...literally.  My beads spilled and the colors went together so well, despite being a pile on the floor,  and my next idea was hatched.  The only part I actually 'designed' was the addition of silver beads.  I selected silver glass beads to work alongside the rest of the glass beads already chose by default.  I usually like contrast (metal beads with wood, or glass etc.) but this time I felt there was enough going on already.  What do you think?  Perhaps I may use this design in another color too...


Saturday, March 29, 2014

Ukanite Bracelets: Promoting Balance


I have used Ukanite in my jewelry because it is such a beautiful and versatile stone.  It has many benefits for the wearer, and the colors draw the eye as pinks and greens pop! I have created stackable stretch bracelets and can add charms as desired.  While I show silver charms, this stone works well with other metals such as gold, bronze and brass too.  

Ukanite is a semi-precious stone that  can draw negative energies from the body and help to connect the mind and soul. It is thought to provide support for those recovering from a long illness or surgery. Ukanite promotes balance in all aspects of life and allows the wearer to feel more centered. By releasing energy blockages, Ukanite can encourage the wearer to live in the present and move on from the past. 



Thursday, March 27, 2014

Faces of Silver Treasury - Featured Curator




I am very proud to be featured in this beautiful treasury.  There are so many beautiful items.  Click on the picture above to visit the treasury.  Please show it some love and check out the curator, Ninu Milu and her beautiful shop.  She has a collection of unique bag-dolls, cell phone cases and covers for iPads that are so cute.  Her inspiration comes form Koeshi dolls.  They are well worth a look.   

Friday, March 21, 2014

For the Love of Memory Wire Bracelets



This emerald green and aqua memory wire bracelet really sparkles.  The light and dark greens are the perfect compliment to one another and the clear glass and silver elements add contrast.  I really haven;t mastered the art of photographing these pieces as the true brilliance of the sparkle really doesn't come out here. 

I love wearing memory wire bracelets.  They are so incredibly easy to put on and take off.  I'm all for easy anything!  I love how memory wire bracelets can be created using a multitude of beads making every one of my designs totally unique.  Sometimes I add dangles at the ends to give that little extra bling...and I know a lot of people like charms and things that jingle-jangle around as they move. Sometimes I just feel the bracelet is enough in itself, or the stones used are natural and look better without adornments, letting their natural beauty take center stage.  




Thursday, March 20, 2014

White Wood and Leather


Although my main focus is on bracelets, I have ventured into the realm of necklaces and earrings.  In a real breakaway from my norm, I decided to experiment with leather necklaces.  I love wearing these kinds of things, usually with some kind of chunky adornment.  I had some beautiful wooden beads that were not quite right for bracelets.  They were, however, perfect for my necklace.

The result was a summery white on white necklace that will be a stunner this summer.  It is a one-of-a-kind piece as I only had a few white wooden beads.  That makes it extra special, of course.

I added a lovely nickel-free silver toggle clasp with a 'beachy' rope design.

I'm seeing this piece on a beach with a sun-tan...but a white bikini might just have to be bought to go with it perfectly!  Of course a baby blue sundress would look fantastic with it also...or a simple t. shirt and jeans...so many possibilities.

I just see it looking so good here....

 
                                                  
                                                                   ...or maybe that's just me wishing for some sun!

Spring Is Here!

http://butterflywarriorsblog.blogspot.com/

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

Gypsies Crafts & Treats: Featured Etsy Shop: Butterfly Warriors



So many people are getting behind my mission: to raise awareness and fight cancer.  When Team Superman Sammy walks at the Light The Night event each November, we have a sea of orange shirts in support of my little hero.  We raise thousands of dollars.  We remind people how important it is to be cancer aware and to help find a CURE.  That is why I continue to create handmade jewelry...it is a therapeutic, creative and soul satisfying venture that happens to be another avenue to fundraise.

Imagine my sheer joy when a fellow blogger and fantastic crafter asked me if she could feature Butterfly Warriors on her blog.  I am honored and grateful that she wanted to promote my cause and, most importantly, raise cancer awareness.

Please hop on over to Gypsies Crafts and Treats to read more.  Don't forget to check out some of the amazing crafts and treats on the blog too....I got a little giddy of the St. Patrick's day cupcakes :)  Just click on the picture below and happy reading!




Monday, March 10, 2014

Turquoise Jewelry

I have noticed how popular turquoise is during the summer.  I have to confess, I am a sucker for this color and have more turquoise and aqua jewelry than anything else.  In fact, I am drawn to this color for clothes, bags, shoes, and general knick-knacks.  No, I haven't painted a room in this color (nor will I ever), but it is definitely a favorite of mine.

The bracelets above have turquoise match with antique bronze.  This is quite a dramatic combination that is softened by the heart charm.

Then there are the silver and turquoise combinations.  The bracelet featured below is very simple, but the Bohemian silver barrel adds a statement.  This could, infect be worn by both men and women.


My favorite version of the bracelet is with the silver butterfly charm. The silver adds brightness and feels so summery.  I added Tibetan Silver barrels which continued the Bohemian feel.  Even the silver butterfly is engraved in a similar style. 


I have many other turquoise items in my store.  I will probably add many more...I just love the color too much not to.  Stay posted for some really lovely summer jewelry that will be featured soon.  
In the meantime, let me know what your favorite colors are for summer accessories.