Dove Designs®

Necklace Using PC Beads and Vintaj Accents

2011-07-24T03:21:00.000-07:00

It sure feels good to complete a project. It is rather hard in this tiny motorhome. Seems I'm forever moving things from here to there and back again on my sink/range top/counter and the sofa bed. I have the system down but it does take a little extra effort. I was so spoiled at home with my dedicated area which was always ready for me to work. Anyway, here is my latest:

Birdhouses-Polymer Clay Beads-Decorated with Cane Slices+Info on FREE video

2011-04-29T11:42:00.000-07:00

Wow - It seems like forever since I've been here! Actually, it almost was a forever. I had double pneumonia and empyema ... needed emergency lung surgery while in the Santa Cruz, CA area. I was in a coma for about 10 days and there was a time when I was not expected to pull through. Well, God had other ideas ... sent an angel to touch me and bring me out of the coma. So here I am! I still have not gotten home from that motorhome trip that started last August! I'm now in a long term RV/Trailer park in Aptos ... a few blocks from the ocean. Walking to the cliff edge is usually my daily exercise. I still need oxygen almost all the time. I'm just not sure when I will get home again since the air at Tahoe (6500') is pretty thin. So, here we are and I will just continue to carry on.

Here are some cute little birdhouses I created following Cindy Lietz' tutorial: Polymer Clay Birdhouse Beads. These were so much fun to make and were an excellent project for me to kick off my return to blogging!

FYI: Cindy Lietz is going to be posting a FREE video on her Teardrop Blend Switch technique. Check her blog on Monday, 5/1. Cindy's blog. Guess my timing was good for returning to the polymer clay world. Even those of you who are not 'into' pc should check out this free video. It will give you a good idea as to why Cindy is my tutor ... and why I watched all her videos even when I was too weak to even lift a block of clay!

My sincerest thanks to all of you who have been supporting me with your prayers and your loving thoughts. Don't stop now ... I still have a fair ways to go before I'm really healthy again. Having this happen in November after the bad spell I had in the hospital at home last April/May ... well, it is not a wonder that it is taking a bit of time for me to get back to 'normal'.

Idaho Sunset-Necklace +Earrings turquoise, rose + cream polymer clay with gold flecks

2010-09-14T15:48:00.000-07:00

I had been working on this set for several days, then last night as I was leaving Idaho I looked at the sky and the colors perfectly matched this set. The beads are 16mm with a 28X36mm cabochon. The toggle clasp is also formed from polymer clay. The 'dressiness' of this set will only be determined by what you wear it with. It can go from blue jeans and a tank top to a glittery evening gowm. There is a dove embossed on the back of the pendant ... it could be worn either side out. The earrings were formed from the same mixed media art sheet on the turquoise polymer clay. Note the second photo with a close up of the pendant and earrings.

Fluorescent Clay and Speckled Rocks

2010-09-03T16:06:00.000-07:00

Here are speckled beach rocks which I have embedded in fluorescent clay which I rainbowed using the Lietz Teardrop Blend also called the Teardrop Method. After embedding the stones in the clay and baking the pieces, stones were removed and glued back in place. The pendants were then sprayed with PYM II. Holes were hand drilled and silver jump rings were added.

These are not exactly my style, but once in a while I have to move outside my own box. These beach stones cried out to be used with clay and the above is the result. The stones regained their 'wet' look when they were sprayed with the PYM II. This is really a great product ... and can be purchased right here on my blog. See the left hand column.

Polished Beach Rock wrapped with copper wires

2010-08-31T22:34:00.000-07:00

Just for fun I thought I'd share this stone that I found on the beach. Since I don't have my rock tumbler with me I used the micro mesh pads t give it a bit of sheen. Then I wrapped it with copper wires. This stone came from Fort Bragg. I am now in Oregon and rocks are mostly what I'm finding on these beaches. Wow! Some are so very beautiful. I pick them up. Enjoy holding them, turning them every which way, and then I toss them back into the ocean. I will admit that I kept a piece of unakite and some agate that I found at Gold Beach this morning.

Dreary, Stay-Inside Kind of Day on the Oregon Coast

2010-08-30T11:33:00.000-07:00

This is what it looked like around here yesterday and today you can't even see the horizon the sky is so low. Actually I went out on the beach at 9 a.m. and it had not started raining yet. I wanted to look around at low tide. Found a few pretties. It had rained some in the night and my rig was still wet ... so I took the opportunity to wipe it down and get the bugs off the front. Now it is just a misty kind of rain, but I am so glad that I decided to spend one more day here. I really do not like driving in the rain, and especially the first rain after several nice days. The roads are slick and I don't need that.

BTW: This ship is the Yaquina and belongs to the Army Corps of Engineers. It went up the estuary and turned around and came back down. When it went back out to the ocean it looked like they were dragging a raft behind them. I guess they are doing something scientific. It was fun watching them.

CA & OR Pacific Coast Shell Hunting for Jewelry

2010-08-28T13:39:00.000-07:00

In order for me to make many of the pieces, I have to go searching for materials ... and not all of the searching is done in Michael's, Hobby Lobby or JoAnn's. Here's a stretch of the Pacific Coast in California. I stopped here, and tho I didn't find anything I could (or wanted to) use for Dove Designs®, I did find three wonderful shells for myself.

Now I am in Oregon, just barely over the border from California. The RV park is right on the beach, but this is an area for great rocks and so far no useable shells. I still love walking on the beach and talking to God and trying to pay attention to Him.

Here's where I am now ... and that rock on the right is definitely too large to take home! Don would have loved watching the ships go in and out.

Polymer Clay Station on Wheels

2010-08-25T10:24:00.000-07:00

The back doors of my Pleasure Way Plateau open completely. That's how I took this photo. I was behind the couch that electrically turns into a bed. This may look like a mess, but I really do know where everything is. I just couldn't decide what to leave behind, so I brought almost everything with me. You may be able to notice the craft oven on its side on the floor ... acts as an end table when not in use ... holds my cell phone, Above the containers on the right is a counter extension. I have my electric pasta machine clamped there all the time. Believe it or not I'm really quite comfortable in here. All the windows sure help to make it wide open.

Delivered all my abalone pendants to the Fort Bragg Sportsmans RV park, along with a tray of lentils and a display holding quite a few of my wire art pendants. Now I have to get busy making more abalone pendants. They seem to be a hit even inland. Maybe today ...

Colorful Blend & Switch Pendants & Earrings under construction

2010-08-20T12:47:00.000-07:00

These are the latest Blend & Switch Technique pieces. They have been coated with UltraDome UV resin. How I wish I could manage to take photos that really showed the shine on these pieces. It is phenomenal! They look like they have been dipped in glass. This has been a fun technique to learn and using the UltraDome made the pieces just that much better. Everything worked well for me on these ... now I have to drill holes or glue on studs and these will be ready for sale.

Rose Quartz Cab Malaysia Jade Gospel Rose Gold Filled Pendant

2010-08-20T11:04:00.000-07:00

This very special Gospel pendant sold yesterday. [The Lord is providing my fuel money for when I get back on the road. I'd say 'gas money' but my rig uses diesel.] As you can see from the two photos, there are two ways that this pendant can be worn: 1) with the Gospel Malaysia Jade beads on the face of the Rose Quartz cabochon or 2) with them draped down below the cab. I used rose gold filled wires for this pendant which enhanced the overall rose color.

The meaning of the Gospel beads: black = sin (we all have this); red = Jesus' blood (shed on the cross to save us from hell which is the end result of sin; white = forgiveness (purity after accepting that Jesus shed his blood for you); green = growth in the Lord (there is so much more to walking the christian life than accepting Jesus ... we need to learn to walk with Him); gold = hope now and forever (reminder that God is bigger than all our troubles and someday we can enter perfection in heaven because God now sees us as pure as His Son, Jesus). Isn't this wonderful! I don't know where I'd be without this Gospel in my life.

Beadcomber Birthday Give-Away

2010-08-19T20:14:00.000-07:00

Don't we all just love Give-Aways ... especially ones by such a talented gal as Tina Holden. I have her Batik and Shimmer tutorial and love it, The pieces come out so beautifully. You can find out more about her special Birthday Give-Away and wish her a happy one.

Gold Filled Blend & Switch Polymer Clay Pendant Set

2010-08-18T11:46:00.000-07:00

This set based on Cindy's Blend & Switch Technique was sold before it could be posted. In fact it was sold before it was finished. Lynn wanted this polymer clay pendant piece but she wanted it wire wrapped. She had seen my wire wrapped pieces that I'm taking back to Fort Bragg for the RV park store and liked my wire work. I wanted to keep the wrap as simple as possible so it wouldn't detract from the multi-colored pendant piece. For the earrings, it was a good thing I am home because I had to search my workroom to find beads that would enhance the Blend & Switch earring pieces. I used a thin wire for these beads and did 5 wraps on each side of the bead to give the earrings more dangle. It felt so good to be combining the polymer clay with the wire art!

Colorful Blend & Switch Pendant & Earrings

2010-08-13T09:45:00.000-07:00

This very colorful pendant and earrings are not quite finished yet, but I wanted to show you what I did yesterday besides going to the VA, medical lab, doctor and pharmacy. These are made following Cindy Lietz's Blend & Switch Technique which can be previewed by going to that link. These will be coated with UV resin, cured and then holes will be drilled and jump rings added. I'm really excited about this set. I made a couple other sets also using different cutters, but these are the only ones that will have the double dangle earrings.

It is worth the cramped space in the RV to have all my clay and equipment with me when I travel ... though right now the travel is just in my front yard on the U-shaped driveway. I had to come back home from Fort Bragg to get a couple important things handled. Once everything is in order I'll head back out. I will go first to Fort Bragg again ... to deliver the pendants that they are taking on consignment! I have to coat some more of the abalone pendants with the UV resin and get them finished off. Each blend I do turns out just a little different. It is such a thrill working with polymer clay!

Abalone in Lietz Teardrop Blend Jellyroll Cane with UltraDome

2010-08-07T11:20:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest: a piece of abalone shell which I found on the beach at the Noyo River Harbor in Fort Bragg, CA, USA. It was such a thrill to find the abalone and then when I realized what I could do with it, well ... if my rig weren't so small I would be jumping for joy! I followed Cindy Lietz's tutorial for embedding in polymer clay. I started with a Lietz Teardrop Blend and made a jellyroll cane. After baking, the pendant was coated with UltraDome and then put under the UV Light oven. It is a relatively long process ... especially when you add in the hours of beach combing!

Ooooh! A fella (Shelby) whom I met a couple days ago over by the rowing club building, just came by and gave me a bucket of whole abalone shells that he had caught ... legally - the tags are still on them. Wow ... am I set for life or what! I guess you have to be careful when crunching and tumbling the abalone ... must not inhale that shell dust. I'll learn all those tricks when I get home. Now the trick is to figure out where to put this bucket of shells.

FYI: My next Lietz Teardrop Blend will have more of the fuchsia. It got lost in the silver. This is all part of the process. I like the way this batch turned out, but I think I'll like them even better when that fuchsia color in the shell is brought out.

Today would have been Don's and my 45th wedding anniversary had he lived ... these 'special' days are extra hard to live through. I think I'll go take a walk on the beach. Also ... I'm trying now to figure out how long I want to stay here. I'm not sure I'll be ready to move on on Monday. We'll see ...

Golden Highlights on Polymer Clay Beads & Lentil/Goldstone Beads

2010-08-01T13:29:00.000-07:00

This necklace was put together while I am 'camping' in my motorhome in my front driveway. I decided this was one way I could determine if I could actually work on PC while on the road. YES, I CAN!!!
Goldstone rounds and ovals, highlight the gold inclusions in the polymer clay beads and lentil. Cindy Lietz's blog discussed using glitter on polymer clay and she has a video on inclusions, it is called Special Effects with Spices but I adapted that using mica powders and glitter. Yes, I like the way this all came together. I now have a wonderful 'work station' in my motorhome that could even rival the one that I had set up in my kitchen.

Sunday Visit With My Step-Mom

2010-07-27T00:55:00.000-07:00

Usually on Sundays I phone my dear 96 year old step-mom. Yesterday after church I decided to drive to Grass Valley, CA, to visit her instead. It's 100 miles from my doorstep to hers. We had a great visit. I showed her all the polymer clay that I have been making. She was fascinated and even made a small purchase. I also took my computer and showed her the photos from my trip to Philly. She was delighted to see Jono & Katherine's house and the work they are doing on it. She also commented on how much the girls have grown. After all the 'show +tell' I took her to the local Mexican restaurant for dinner. All in all it was a wonderful day. She said I really made her day ... and it was very special for me to be able to be with her again even for a little while.

She is getting tinier all the time, but is really very healthy. She moves slower than the last time I was with her, but that actually is a good thing ... she is being careful. She is really amazing. She still lives in the house that she shared with my Dad. She has her set routines ... says she cleans on room a day. She has set days for specific things ... always grocery shops on Mondays, gardeners come on Tuesdays, goes to the hairdresser on Wednesdays. She has routines when it comes to meals also and she makes sure that her diet is well balanced ... including red wine with lunch and white with supper! She is an absolute delight and has always been a wonderful mother to me. I pray God will continue to bless her. She sure is a blessing to me.

Foil & Ink on Polymer Clay-Yellow/Turquoise Pendant & Earrings

2010-07-22T14:00:00.000-07:00

I'd rather clay than clean and here we see the result.

This set was inspired by Tina Holden, but the techniques themselves were based on videos presented by Cindy Leitz. The outcome is stunning. The glimmer of the gold foil peeks out through the yellow and turquoise ink patterns. They are finished with UltraDome UV Resin making them look like glass. To preview Cindy's videos check these links: UltraDome UV Resin and Ink on Leaf. The inking process seems to be the same whether using foil or leaf. Thanks for you guidance, Cindy, as I developed this outstanding set. BTW: The gold plate lever backs are designed so that the dangles can be interchangeable! There is a gold embossed dove on the reverse side of the pendant.

Faux Dichroic Butterfly Dangle

2010-07-21T15:40:00.000-07:00

For some strange reason I had a terrible time trying to get a halfway decent photo of this dangle. I was trying to capture the gloss of the UltraDome UV Resin and still be able to see the cute little butterfly. Maybe it is because this one is so small ... only 3/4". To see the Tutorial Preview for this Faux Dichroic process, click here.

Blue Polymer Clay Rocker Bead with Gold Plate Cross

2010-07-19T08:00:00.000-07:00

Harvest gold copper core wire holds this shades of blue 'Rocker Bead' with loops on both sides to hold the chain. The wire is then brought down, twisted and ending in a loop to hold the cross. The Rocker Bead is what makes this piece so special and you can begin to see how this bead is made by viewing the Rocker Bead Tutorial preview.

FLASH: This necklace sold on 7/30/10!

Greens on Blue Polymer Clay Stripes & Swirl with Clear Quartz Beads

2010-07-18T02:19:00.000-07:00

This set was so much fun to create, making the slightly different green stripe canes and then wrapping them around blue clay tubes before cutting into various lengths. After curing they were strung with crystal clear quartz 5mm beads. The contrast is what makes this set so strikingly beautiful. Dangling from the necklace is a lentil bead made following the tutorial which is previewed here. This set has a necklace, bracelet and earrings. A winning combination which is for sale on the Lord's Treasures website.

Yellow Roses & Pearls on Turquoise Polymer Clay Necklace + Earrings

2010-07-17T08:00:00.000-07:00

Tensha waterslide decals were applied for the roses on this turquoise oval polymer clay set. The ovals were then coated with UltraDome UV Resin. Click on the link to see a preview of this process. Yellow mother of pearl beads carry the yellow rose theme through in the necklace which has turquoise polymer clay bicone beads made following the Tri-Bead Roller technique. Again, for a preview, click on the link. These bicone beads were sprayed with PYM II. I sure would not have wanted to sand and buff all those tiny beads. PYM II may be purchased either here at the blog or on my website's home page: www.lordstreasures.com.

Sage Silk Organza Ribbon with Crackled Gold Leaf & Ink Pendant & Butterfly

2010-07-16T05:19:00.000-07:00

A lovely Crackled Gold Leaf and Ink butterfly is attached to the sage green silk organza ribbon which holds the Crackled Gold Leaf and Ink Oval Pendant. The sage is also echoed in the inks used on the butterfly and pendant. The Dove Designs® tag completes this stunning necklace. This necklace is for sale on my Lord's Treasures website for $40.

Crackled Gold Leaf & Ink Pendant on Shimmery Gold Braid Cord

2010-07-14T23:23:00.000-07:00

The Crackled Gold Leaf and Ink Tutorial was the inspiration for this pendant. It was fun to make following Cindy's wonderful tutorial. The pendant was finished with UltraDome UV Resin. The pendant is on a shimmery gold braid cord and is completed with the Dove Designs® teardrop dove tag.

Turquoise/Orange/Cream Kaleidoscope Cane with UV UltraDome Resin

2010-07-14T11:35:00.000-07:00

Today's post is another kaleidoscope cane which I learned thanks to Cindy's Easy Kaleidoscope Cane Tutorial. I then used UltraDome UV Resin which Cindy taught at the UV resin tutorial. The resin shimmers and is domed over the pendant tile. I particularly like this tile because it has the look of a cross.

Orange and White Kaleidoscope Cane Pendant

2010-07-12T16:14:00.000-07:00

This pendant was made from an orange and white kaleidoscope cane based on the polymer clay tutorial: Easy Kaleidoscope Cane. Cindy has a way of making all sorts of techniques very understandable and doable.

For this pendant I took one slice of the cane, made sure my edges were very straight up and down, and baked it. I then used UltraDome jewelry epoxy following Cindy Lietz's UV Epoxy Resin Tutorial.

Blue Butterfly Wing Cane Rocker Beads & Rounds on Blue Wire

2010-07-11T02:59:00.000-07:00

This necklace uses blue beading wire and the beads float freely. The round and rocker beads were made utilizing polymer clay from Cindy Lietz's Butterfly Wing Cane Tutorial. The long beads are based on Cindy's Rocker Bead Tutorial. A self closing lobster clasp is used and there a Dove Designs® teardrop by the clasp.

Are you getting the idea yet that I am a great fan of Cindy Lietz?! Her tutorials and blog have been so very important to me since Don passed away. There is a great group of folks on her blog that are so very supportive and her tutorials give me just what I need in the way of a creative outlet. The only problem is that there just are not enough hours in the day to do everything that I want.

Faux Bone Carved Tribal Rocker Bead Necklace & Earrings

2010-07-10T10:07:00.000-07:00

This set was not only inspired by Cindy Lietz's Rocker Bead Tutorial,but actually contains one of Cindy's beads:Faux Bone Carved Bead Tribal Bead which dangles center front on this exciting 19 inch necklace. The matching earrings have surgical steel earwires and the total drop is about 60 mm. The polymer clay burnt umber bicone beads are separated by silver bicones. The entire feel of this set is earthy and warm. It can be purchased on my website: Lord's Treasures for only $80!

Blue Butterfly Wing Cane Trumpet Pendant & Earrings

2010-07-08T10:05:00.000-07:00

Today I am featuring a blue butterfly wing cane trumpet set. The pendant and earrings are based on Cindy Lietz's blue morpho butterfly wing cane tutorial:. It is available for $25 on my website Lord's Treasures. The pendant is dangling from a 20 inch silver chain with a spring ring clasp. The french hook earwires are silver plate.

PYM II on Blue Morpho Butterfly

2010-07-07T08:54:00.000-07:00

... and here is the butterfly after it was sprayed with that wonderful PYM II! If this doesn't convince you to buy some ... well, I guess then you'd just have to see the difference in person. Remember, if you do want to purchase PYM II, it is available in the left hand column of this blog or on my Lord's Treasures website. What a difference a spray makes! In case you missed it in my prior post, the inspiration and instruction for this pin was Cindy Lietz's Butterfly Wing Cane Tutorial.

Polymer Clay Butterfly Pin

2010-07-06T08:00:00.000-07:00

Cindy Lietz's Butterfly Wing Cane Tutorial was the inspiration for this blue morpho butterfly. In fact, this is almost a direct copy ... and copying is the highest form of compliment. Cindy's tutorials are fantastic and so easy to follow. Take a look at her blue morpho and you'll see what I mean. My butterfly got just a little too close to the heat source, so its whites are not quite so white any more. The wings are not just flat ... they appear in motion since I caused the clay to form in waves. This butterfly has a matte finish with a pearlescent glow.

Pearls, Rose Quartz, Polymer Clay on Spoon Magnetic Necklace

2010-07-05T10:11:00.000-07:00

This is probably the most versatile necklace I've ever made. First lets talk about the spoon ... this is a soup spoon that I inherited from my Grandma. Following the wonderful instructions in Cindy's Spoon Bail tutorial, I bent the spoon, then used polymer clay and embedded a round rose quartz cabochon surrounding it with 4mm rose quartz beads and rice pearls.

Then I made three necklace strands using rose quartz beads and chips, pearls and seed beads. Each strand has a magnetic clasp and can be worn alone or with the spoon pendant slipped on. So there are the three lengths of necklaces. The real versatility comes from the use of a triple strand magnetic clasp! This allows two or all three necklaces to be worn at the same time. The spoon can be slipped on any one of the strands.

So here you have three necklaces and a gorgeous pendant. This necklace is fun and elegant all at the same time. The sales price for this versatile necklace is just $150. To purchase this wonderful necklace go to my website: Lord's Treasures.

Homeward Bound

2010-06-29T07:29:00.000-07:00

These past two weeks have flown by. I can hardly believe that it is time to head for home again. I fly out early this evening, arriving in Reno close to midnight. I'll spend the night in Reno and take the shuttle bus home tomorrow morning.

This morning Jono and I made our traditional Cinnamon Rolls. We've been making these on holidays and some Sundays for as far back as I can remember. My mother made them when I was little, so the recipe and the concept go way back. Here is all that is left of a huge tray:

I wonder how much I can get in my carry-on!

Gramma's Spoon Tutorial Polymer Clay Rose Quarts Pearls

2010-06-25T08:41:00.000-07:00

One of my Gramma's soup spoons became a pendant thanks to Cindy Lietz her Spoon Pendant Tutorial. How she manages to keep coming up with new - and fantastic - ideas each week for the tutorials is beyond my comprehension. In fact, she also blogs every weekday - and sometimes on weekends - and has a family to care for also. Here I've taken one of my Gramma's spoons, formed it into the pendant and then added a round of polymer clay, a round rose quartz cabochon and circles the cab with rice pearls and 4mm rose quartz beads. What I did next I can't tell you yet because it was all entered in a FMG contest. Hope I'm not disqualifying myself by posting this photo, but I just had to share it!

Molded Faux Jade Cameo Pendant

2010-06-24T06:40:00.000-07:00

You may have seen this cameo in a prior post, but I wanted to share it again today so I could point you to the faux jade video where Cindy shows how to use a mold: faux jade molded. This little piece of the faux jade video helped me immensely when it came to actually using this mold. BTW: I made the mold myself from a cameo that I own. This green polymer clay does not have the look of jade. It is a solid green that I blended for another project. The overall look of this piece is rather retro ... has the look of the early 'plastic' jewelry. FYI: This piece is for sale ($45) on the Lord's Treasures website. The satiny cord has a silver self-closing lobster closure. To see it on the website, which also gives a much closer view ... bigger than real life! ... go to 'What's New' in the site's left column.

Hodge Podge

2010-06-23T07:45:00.000-07:00

This photo shows beads that I gave to Ken. It was a bit of a 'hodge-podge' but he seemed to like them. Now he gets to figure out what to do with them! ;-}

There is a puffy zebra fish based on two of Cindy's videos: Zebra Cane and Puffy Beads.

The large lentil and three beads (two large and one smaller) were created especially for Ken using the Mokume Gane technique: Mokume Gane in back issue package.

The black and pink pendant bead shows the Crackled Faux Raku of Cindy's.

Then we come to the butterfly and the two black/gold beads. The butterfly was made with the Ink on Crackled Leaf technique on Cindy's site. The two round beads were actually made with left overs [scraps] from this technique. That's why I never seem to have 'scraps' when Cindy calls for them. I tend to use them up right away.

As always, with my polymer clay I included a 'Dove Designs®' tag.

The rest of the beads were just 'play around' concepts, not related to Cindy's videos, but, as always, inspired be her ... of course, all my PC work is inspired by Cindy! What can I say, except a great big THANK YOU! to the marvelous tutor and mentor. I'd highly recommend her site to anyone interested in developing skills using the very versatile polymer clay. As Cindy says, she made the mistakes so we don't have to. To join: Become-A-Member. And be sure to visit her blog: Cindy's Daily Blog.

My goodness, this turned into an ad for Cindy's site ... but I am so enthusiastic about Cindy's style and teaching that I just want to share it with everyone!

Beads by Ken

2010-06-22T11:19:00.000-07:00

The necklace appears darker than it actually is. In reality it is shades of purple and white ... not the black/white it looks like here. This photo does show Ken's faux jade really well. When we were at the craft show at Head House, we saw some genuine jade bead earrings. That jade looked exactly like Ken's yellow faux beads. I even took them out of my pocketbook and did a close up comparison. Ken really has this technique down pat. To preview Cindy's tutorial on faux jade click on this link: Faux Jade preview. Cindy's technique is different than Ken's but equally comparable. Such fun it is to be in this polymer clay group.

Maybe tomorrow you'll see some of the beads I made for Ken ... along with ones I selected for him from her ever growing bead bin. Though I'm having a wonderful time here in Philly with my family, it will be good to get back home and plunge my hands (and heart) back into polymer clay. It is good to look forward to something positive. That will help me over the heartache of having to leave my family again. I am especially blessed to have daughter, Michelle, and s-i-l, Robert, living close to me at Lake Tahoe. Son, Jonathan, was born in the east (Canandaigua, NY) so it is not surprising that he ended up back here as an adult. Granted he only spent his first 5 months in the East, but there must have been some sort of draw in his make up. He does seem very happy here and speaks very proudly of Philadelphia and its landmarks as he drives around.

This afternoon, when Taylor gets home from tennis camp, she and her sister, Kate, will dig into the bead bin (glass, not PC) that I brought with me. I brought supplies so they could make bracelets and necklaces, either on wire or stretch cord. We should have a lot of fun together!

Well ... enough for today.

Philly Clayers

2010-06-21T11:30:00.000-07:00

Here's a photo of Ken Hamilton and myself. We both belong to Cindy Lietz's polymer clay group. He lives in Philadelphia and we decided to get together while I was visiting my son and his family here in Philly. We had a grand time and Ken is a super tour guide. Over the next few days you might get to see other photos of our time together ...

Cameo

2010-06-04T18:29:00.000-07:00

I had an old cameo and I used it to make a mold. This is the end result. Why green, you ask ... well, that just happened to be the color of clay that I had been working with when I decided to try making the cameo. I had been making frogs, also from molds that I made. You'll get to see the frog some other time. I am rather pleased with how well the mold making has been going for me. Now I'll find out how well they hold up when I use them repeatedly.

These days I never seem to get caught up with myself. There is so much that needs to be done around here and I just don't have the energy to do it all. I am trying to get things organized for my trip to Philly, and also get some golf stroke counters made so I can approach the Edgewood Golf Course, and work on a project that I want to submit to FMG's contest. There is just no end of things ... and now that spring is finally here, there are more things that need to be done both inside and outside. Today I did get the ashes cleaned out of the fireplace and set it up for next winter. That was my big project for the day.

Tomorrow I'm going to try to put together the new bird feeder pole that is supposed to foil the squirrels' attempts to get to the feeders. I don't believe it. I've never seen anything stop squirrels. But at least this will put the bird feeders out in the inner section of the U shaped driveway. Right now they hang from the eaves outside the living room window. I like them there, but Robert & Michelle are convinced that that is one of the main reasons I have squirrels and chipmunks in the attic. We'll see if moving the feeders makes a difference. I hope it does 'cause I really don't like those critters in my house!

Sorry I don't blog every day right now. I'll get back to it eventually. In the meanwhile, just keep checking back to see if there is anything new. Bye for now.

VA Benefits?????

2010-06-01T11:16:00.000-07:00

No photo today ... just a disappointing word about the VA. After Don died I contacted the VA for survivor's benefits. Don and I both felt that his MDS was a result of his being in charge of the radar shack on the flight line in Viet Nam. He was exposed to high levels of radar all the time. Back then no one realized how dangerous this was. Anyway, for a year I've been trying to get some action on this claim. Today I got a return phone call from a new man. The one I was working with is no longer with the VA. It seems Don's file ... which was rather thick the last time I saw it ... has vanished. I essentially have to start all over. Fortunately I kept the originals of the most important docs, but there were some others where I expected to get them back after they were reviewed. Those were originals and they are no where to be found. I just again have to trust that the Lord will see me through this and whether I get benefits or not is really up to what the Lord wants for me. I believe we are to do what we can and then leave the results up to the Lord. I have an appointment at the VA office in SLT on Thursday.

My Daffodil

2010-05-25T20:45:00.000-07:00

This lacy daffodil came out of my own garden today. I guess this almost makes it worth the delay in my travel plans. For those of you who are interested I plan to visit Jono, Katherine, and my granddaughters, Taylor and Katie, the last two weeks in June. [Ken H. - I'm hoping we can clay together sometime while I am there!] I'm also thinking of renting a car and driving to the ocean since I'll be so close. Then maybe in July I'll do a western swing in the motorhome ... Lupe and Bonnie, hope to connect with you and maybe your clay guild this time. I'll also be visiting with Debby & Denny in NM - and finally delivering some of my jewelry for their gift shop! After that I'll head up to CO, stopping in Wheat Ridge to visit my dear friend, Catherine, and then on to Loveland where I'll be seeing lots of dear ones ... too numerous to name here since it includes as entire church family. From there I hope to scoot up to Vancouver, BC, and spend a little time with {you clayers are going to be so jealous!}, you guessed it, my dear Polymer Clay Tutor, Cindy!

Now, as we all know, especially since my prior plans were so drastically changed, this could all change also before it happens. I sure do hope and pray that nothing keeps me from getting on that plane to visit J, K, T & K!!!!!

Too long for Facebook ...

2010-05-24T19:24:00.001-07:00

Here is the message I tried to post to facebook, but it wouldn't take it 'cause it was too long:

It has been such a long journey through this illness and it was not fun ... ulcers in the esophagus ... the doctors just didn't know what to do because my situation was not improving. They planned to do surgery on Monday to insert a tube into my stomach for feeding. Prior to this I was being fed through a vein in my arm. On Sunday Pastor Dan led our church family in prayer for me that I might be healed. They prepped me for surgery. The doctor who was to do the final endoscope (I found out later, cause I was already knocked out for the surgery) placed his hand on my forehead and said, 'Carolyn, you are healed.' He went ahead and did the scope and sure enough! the ulcers were healed! I'd call that a definite miracle!!!!! They cancelled the actual surgery and sent me back to my room to begin the recuperation process and to start eating again. 3 1/2 weeks after being taken in an ambulance to the hospital, Michelle and Robert were able to bring me home! Now I just need to regain weight and strength. Keep those prayers flying for me.

Growing stronger

2010-05-24T15:39:00.000-07:00

Here's a photo of one of my favorite name pendants. Without Jesus I don't think I would have survived this illness.

I can't thank you enough for all your love and support. I know I scared some of you … frankly, this scared my kids also. They tell me now that they were not sure that first week whether I would make it or not. Obviously, I survived! ;-} I am doing ever so much better. Prayer is VERY powerful. Ladies from church have been providing my meals. Gaining weight is probably the #1 priority right now and they are fixing some superb dinners for me. I've managed to put on several pounds this past week. It is almost as hard to gain weight as it is to lose it.

I will be in Philly from June 16th thru the 28th. No I am not driving this time – I was able to get a free flight with my United miles. I'll be completing my recuperation at my son's house in the heart of Philly. My son, Jono, said they have a guest room waiting for me and when I called to let them know I was actually coming, I could hear Katherine hurraying in the background. My granddaughter's, Taylor and Kate, will be there also. We will all have a grand time.

Another Golf Stroke Counter

2010-04-19T16:51:00.000-07:00

I am having a blast making these. I don't have spare PC beads at the moment, but I am raiding all my other bead bins and finding some wonderful stuff. I really do hope that Edgewood Golf Course, and maybe a couple others here at Lake Tahoe, will be interested in carrying these. Bonnie said if I get overwhelmed with orders she'd be happy to fill in and make a little on the side! One good thing about my not leaving home yet is that I have time to check out these courses. I'm not sure if they are open yet, but they should be real soon since the snow is almost gone from my front yard.

Once I get my new bead rollers, I'll be taking off like gang-busters on making PC beads. I can hardly wait!

Garmin Nuvi 1350T

2010-04-16T08:00:00.000-07:00

This was a 'late' but very timely Christmas present from Jono & Katherine. It should be a great asset on my forthcoming trip across the country. This model even tells me what lane I should be in at junctions! That's something that has always made my hands sweat! Adam, the young man who helps with snow and plumbing and other handy man things, is going to take me out in his pickup and help me learn how to use this wonderful tool.

Yesterday I finished off and photo'd two necklaces that I am entering in the FMG gemstone contest. Soon I will start on my entries for the Kato Clay + Pearls + Organic Beads contest. I have some pretty ambitious ideas about what I want to do. This entry - assuming I actually accomplish what I have pictured in my mind - will be in the home decor category. I may also work on some type of jewelry item. I have some ideas for that also.

So what are my plans ... drive all day and clay all night!!!!! ;-}

Turquoise & Copper

2010-04-15T04:19:00.000-07:00

This turquoise and copper polymer clay set I made especially for the KOA shop in Las Vegas, NM. It kind of matches the jacket I bought when I was there. I blended my own colors for the turquoise. I had a lot of fun making it. And to think I didn't use any bead rollers. One of the great things about polymer clay is that the pieces may look heavy but they are actually quite light so they are comfortable to wear.

Tensha Decal Set

2010-04-12T18:56:00.000-07:00

This Tensha decal set on green to black polymer clay is one of several pieces that sold at Nehemiah's Wall on Sunday. What I really love are all the positive comments that I hear about my polymer clay work. And here I am, still virtually a newbie! I will say that God is granting me skill with this medium just like He did with the wire art. It just seems to flow right out my hands!

I'm working on a couple contest entries right now. I'm hoping I can earn a little this way in order to keep purchasing the materials that I need to keep producing new products. We'll see how it goes. If God does not choose to provide through this avenue, I am sure He will direct me to a different one.

In all I do I rely on my Lord. Right now I'm also relying on Him to let me know when I should leave Tahoe. As long as the snows keep flying, I think I am supposed to stay put!

2010-04-10T08:00:00.000-07:00

Lupe Meter is giving away this fabulous necklace. Bonnie thinks she's going to win it, but I'm trying to also. What is really great is that I plan [Lord willing] to meet up with both of these talented gals when I get to the Phoenix area on my motorhome trip. You can check out the work of both these creative ladies by clicking on these links: B-LEE KREATIONS - BONNIE'S KREATIVE KORNER and Mirame Creations Little Tid-bits.

It seems there just are not enough hours in the day to do everything that I want to do. I started a batch of cookies at 8:30 last night. That was after I had baked a batch of cinnamon rolls. I noticed that my weight is down again so I needed some food that would tempt me to eat. Now the cinnamon rolls are really just empty calories, but the cookies are oatmeal with white chips, cranberries and walnuts. Now they are nutritious right?

As far as polymer clay goes ... I did get in an order of Kato clay for the main project I am working on (so far just in my head) for the FMG contest. They only accept Kato clay creations. I wonder how they can tell in the finished product, but I had to get Kato so I could be totally honest with my entry. I really do want to start working on it ... it should be exciting ... and it would also be good if I could get it finished before I leave on my journey across the country. Of course, I'll be taking all my clay working stuff, but still, I'd kind of like to have this one done.

Golf Stroke Counters

2010-04-09T13:31:00.000-07:00

Bonnie of B-Lee Kreations very kindly gave permission to make (and sell) her golf stroke counters. Of course, my beads will be different than hers, but she gave me all the information I needed to begin creating my own. If I build up enough stock I will approach the Edgewood Golf Course here at Lake Tahoe and try to get them to sell them. Wouldn't this be exciting! I don't have the right cord yet - it is on order - and I haven't made the polymer clay beads that I will need, but I scrounged around in what I do have and these are the result:

My cords are too long, but at least I now have the general idea. I do have lots of the pony beads so I'll be using them along with PC beads that I make. I may also have some metal rondelles that I could use.

In case you can't figure out what to do with these - in fact it took me a bit of time since I'm not a golfer - for each stroke you slide one bead down the cords. Now isn't that cool?!!!!!

Nehemiah's Wall on Sunday

2010-04-08T08:00:00.000-07:00

This coming Sunday we will be holding a Nehemiah's Wall at Sierra Community Church. This is where I display my work and all the proceeds from sales go directly to the church. This is my way of contributing what extra I can. I had a special request to have some of the satin bead bracelets. I made this one and also one in blue and one in purple. Each one has a slightly different style. This one has the rondelles between every bead, whereas the others have rondelles spaced differently. BTW - These are stretch bracelets.

I'm also mentally working on designs for a couple of the Fire Mountain Gems contests that I think I might enter. I have been a finalist in the past and figure I can't even get that acknowledgment if I don't enter. There's one right now for gemstones and then next month they have one for Kato polymer clay with natural items - like wood; pearls; etc. The Kato clay one I have in mind just keeps getting more intricate all the time. It should be interesting to see how it actually comes out in reality. Rarely do my designs turn out the way I originally intended. They seem to take on a life of their own. Writers say that this is frequently what happens with their characters. I can certainly relate!

Little Flock of Puffy Polymer Clay Doves!

2010-04-07T12:58:00.000-07:00

Here are my first attempts at making polymer clay doves. You could probably determine the order of their creation if you look closely. That 'lumpy' one on the lower right was my first and they just kept getting better. How fitting it is to have polymer clay doves for Dove Designs®. Once again I have Cindy to thank for the technical know-how ... and the Holy Spirit for the inspiration ... and for helping me to find the right cookie cutter for these 2" doves.

The sun in shining here at Lake Tahoe today, but the temps must still be down 'cause there are ice cycles all around my house! I'm not heading out on my cross country trip until I am sure that I and my rig won't freeze like we did in Denver last year!

Just beads ...

2010-04-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

Here's a cluster of beads that are waiting to be made into jewelry items. There are a few different techniques included in this photo, but the majority of them were taught to me by Cindy Lietz, my Polymer Clay Tutor. Learning from Cindy and the wonderful people in her blog community make me feel like I really get individualized instruction. I just don't know where I would be with her. Every week she presents a new technique to be learned. What a challenge ... for her as well as her students!

Copper Delight

2010-04-05T22:44:00.000-07:00

This lentil absolutely cried out for a copper chain. You might think it is strange but copper chain is relatively hard to come by. In the past I've made my own copper chains, but they are sooooo time consuming, it's just not worth it any more. Also, just as there are different tones in gold, I find that coppers can be hard to match. Copper clay is the least like copper of any coppers, though you can see the difference between the copper chain and the copper toggle. All these things aside, I still call this one 'Copper Delight' - just 'cause it feels delightful.

Easter Flower

2010-04-04T16:58:00.000-07:00

Here is an Easter flower for all of you. Though I first designed this jump ring flower over a year ago, this just seemed to be the thing for today. May your Resurrection Sunday be truly blessed!

Interchangeable Pendant Necklace!

2010-04-03T08:00:00.000-07:00

It is sooooo much fun using my new camera! I just finished this interchangeable pendant necklace and photo'd it right away.
This set is another of Cindy Lietz's wonderful ideas. This one has the Gospel Shield with the colors: black=sin; red=Jesus' shed blood; white=forgiveness; blue=obedience of baptism; green=growth; and gold=hope now and forever.

Included with this set is a lentil in shades from pale lavender to deep purple and the sea green and white Lietz Teardrop Blend as a flat backed pillow.

You'll notice the special hooks by the shield. This is what makes this group interchangeable. These hooks, as well as the clasp, are my own design. This clasp has been my 'Signature Clasp' for about 10 years. Many others make similar clasps now. That's OK. I know that I designed them myself!

Now, I wish all my faithful readers a most Blessed Easter, celebrating the resurrection of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ! Just knowing Jesus brings me all the blessing I need!

Snail? Shell? Whatever!

2010-04-02T13:46:00.000-07:00

Here's a pin that I made using a Lietz Rainbow Blend of Turquoise and Violet, with a darkened violet around the outside of the cane. Other than the colors, which happen to be some of my favorites, it reminds of 'things' I see at the beach - snails? - shell? - Whatever! I like them. I made a couple others like this and they are pendants. It was a rather fun project.

And this photo was taken with my brand new Nikon Coolpix L110 camera which Jono (son, Jonathan) gave me for my birthday! Actually my b'day isn't until 4/29, but since Don died on 4/28/2009, we decided (at least for this year) to change my birthday. Jono and I celebrated (via phone) yesterday, 4/1! No joke!!!! I had mentioned that I needed a new camera 'cause my old one was only 2.2 megapixels ... kind of a dinosaur. He picked up on that and went way over board in getting me this new one. It is fantastic!

BTW: This piece was not sanded. I simply coated it with PYM II. To purchase your PYM II just go to the left column where it says: Buy your PYM II now. There's a PayPal buy button for your convenience.

Award Winner!

2010-04-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

This chalk turquoise and tarnish resistant copper core sterling necklace won an award at Wire Sculpture. It combines my Twin Maille© links and coiled wire. This is one of those where I had no idea what would develop. I just started putting links together, decided beads were needed, thought of using coiled wire for the ends. I used my signature hook and ring for the clasp. Then I remembered that I had the chalk turquoise go-go. A few more jump rings, a very simple bail with a tiny sterling cross, and the piece was finished. It may sound quick but it took many days to make. Would I sell this necklace? No way! It is in my personal collection.

2010-03-31T19:14:00.000-07:00

My Katie Swirls©

2010-03-31T14:13:00.000-07:00

My youngest granddaughter was the inspiration for the swirls in this necklace. She is charmingly precocious and tends to just go this way and that. I used this same Katie Swirl© in the necklaces that I made for the bridesmaids at Jonathan and Katherine's wedding. Those had red crystals and instead of the cross piece with the Bavarian crystal, I made pendants for each with crystals and pearls. One of those pendants would be a good photo - tomorrow, maybe.

Here I have used medium purple crystals and tiny sterling beads. I love this Bavarian crystal focal. It has many more facets than you normally see, so it just sparkles and sets off rainbows.

How wonderful it is to have people looking out for me. It snowed off and on all day yesterday ... and most of the night. This morning when I got up Adam (he grew up with my Jonathan) had already plowed my big U-shaped driveway. He is such a dear and will only accept cookies in payment. I've spent a lot of time baking this winter! I can create more varieties of oatmeal cookies than you can imagine. I want Adam's treats to be healthy as well as tasty. Anyone tried using sunflower seeds in cookies? They are fantastic!

Dove Pendant

2010-03-30T12:32:00.000-07:00

I just thought that it would be fitting to show my wire dove pendant here. It is available on my website, Lord's Treasures. In gold filled it is item 2845; copper = 1891; and silver = 1822.

Yesterday I was outside and thinking that I should soon be removing the leaf mulch from my flower beds. TODAY IT IS SNOWING. It looks like we might have a white Easter!

Do you believe in Easter? The real Easter - not the eggs and bunnies? This is the day we have set apart to celebrate the life, death and resurrection of our Lord, Jesus Christ. How very thankful I am that I do believe in Easter. I know that when I die I will go to be with Jesus ... and with my loved ones, like Don, who have gone before me. Praise God!

Amber Delight

2010-03-29T14:26:00.000-07:00

Here is a lovely reconstituted amber cab that I wrapped with gold filled wires. The swirls flow and float much the way the gold flakes in the cab do. This piece has a 14k gold cross dangling from the cross wires at the top.

Now I wonder ... since we have been working on faux stones with Cindy Lietz ... even a gorgeous faux opal ... I wonder if it would be possible to recreate this stone. Bet we could!

I'm spending some time these days starting to organize my findings to determine just what I can take with me in the motorhome. Space is rather limited. Our old motorhome had scads of underneath storage - this one has nothing underneath but the wheels! Maybe tomorrow I'll post a couple picture of the Plateau so you can see what I mean, and how I will be traveling over the next several months. Well, I won't leave until some time around mid-April, but most of the snow is gone already so I'm getting anxious!

Fuax Raku Still A Favorite

2010-03-28T20:40:00.000-07:00

The faux raku technique taught by Cindy Lietz is still one of my favorites. Here is a set that I finally got finished into earrings and a pendant. The pendant has two jump rings attached to chains. The earwires are silver plated fishhooks with tiny beads.

And for those of you who have been so kindly following my health, I want you to know that I am feeling ever so much better. I will take care of myself so that I don't slip back. It is just so good to feel good! Thank you for all your love, concern and prayers.

Reminder Coins a big hit!

2010-03-27T13:18:00.000-07:00

These 'Reminder Coins' were truly a hit at last night's Navajo mission fund raiser. Sixteen of them were sold! This 'coin' says 'Jesus is Lord' with the dove of peace on one side and a Holy Spirit dove on the other. Only as we confess Jesus as our Lord will we ever find peace. Though there may be trouble and heart ache, the peace of the Lord can still reign in our hearts. I know this very personally, and this knowledge is what has upheld me though my heart was breaking and troubles of all kinds surrounded me during these past 11 months since Don died. I don't know how I would have survived without the constant realization that God is bigger than all my problems, and He is always with me and never leads me anywhere without holding my hand. He has a purpose for everything that He allows to come my way. I may not understand - and usually don't - but I trust that God knows best. This is what gives me peace in the midst of it all.

There were a lot of wonderful comments about the Navajo garnet jewelry, though only one of those sold. People expressed amazement that I was able to make all the items that were displayed and a few other pieces sold also. We didn't raise as much money from this display as I had hoped, but more than I would have been able to donate on my own. So, in that, I'd call it very successful.

Some things we can't part with ...

2010-03-26T10:00:00.000-07:00

and this is one of them. The faux wood polymer clay looked to me like a desert scene with the garnet 'rocks' strewn about. The one above center line is like a sun shining down on the sandy desert. Anyway, I just have to keep this one for myself. I used copper for the chain to pick up the 'oranger' shade of this selection of garnets. They say we should always wear some of our own work, so I'll just have to wear this one tonight for the fund raiser. I have a special tray set up for the Navajo garnet pieces - 14 in all - some pendants, some earrings and some sets and, of course, the bangle. It has been a challenge getting them all finished in time, but I'm pleased to say, I made it. Pray all goes well.

Tree of Life

2010-03-25T16:57:00.000-07:00

Just to be a little different I thought I'd post one of my Rock Wire trees. This one can be seen on the Fire Mountain Gems site. It made it to the finals. I've made 'decorations' for it that can be changed out each month of the year. I got this idea from my fantastic 96 year old stepmom. She always has changed decor based on seasons and she gave me the idea for making decorations for my trees. The really neat thing about the decorations is that they can also double as earrings or pendants! Rather a clever idea all the way around.

Here's the 'March' tree: Leaves, frogs and also shamrocks which I made from bronze wire.

Bangles in Red

2010-03-24T21:20:00.000-07:00

Today I did more work with garnets from the Navajo Indian Reservation by Shonto, AZ. I used red pearl polymer clay and faux bone cane. The bracelet on the left, as you can see, has garnets imbedded in the clay. The one on the right has stars and dots pressed to a red bangle. These were great fun to make!

I also added jump rings to about 30 or more lentil beads and did some creating with the faux bone and garnets for pendants. Some of the pendants would be great for men ... they look rugged ... and kind of like long teeth. Maybe I'll get around to photographing some of these pieces if any are left after Friday night's fund raiser. These pieces all came together so well. I really felt like the Lord was guiding my hands as I worked. Right now they are drying after being sprayed with PYM II.

If you haven't ordered your can of PYM II, be sure to go to the left hand column where you can buy some at any time.

Garnet Hearts

2010-03-23T12:52:00.000-07:00

This set has the faux wood look with genuine garnets imbedded in the hearts. These garnets were gathered - with permission of the tribal leader - on the Navajo Indian Reservation in Arizona a few years ago when Don and I were there on a mission trip. It is another one of those special times that we had together that I will always cherish.

I made this set ... and am working on other pieces with imbedded garnets ... for the fund raiser which will be held this Friday at my church. The next mission trip to the Navajo reservation is this June and we are trying to raise funds for building materials - and gas to get the teens down to Arizona so they can work.

Thank you to all of you who have been praying for my health. I am feeling much better. I think I've turned that corner and am on my way to wellness. Thank God! For a while there I wasn't sure I'd ever get better. I have a ways to go yet ... and weight to put back on. I know, some of you would like to be able to say that! But it is almost as hard to put on weight as it is to lose it. I have to make sure that I do not try to do too much. That could set me right back on my ... ear.

Polymer Clay Bangles!

2010-03-22T12:58:00.000-07:00

Here are some totally polymer clay bangles. There is a bit of flexibility to them - in other words they are not brittle. The flexibility allows them to ovalize to get over the hand, then they pop back to being round. As you can see in the picture, I used a texture plate on some of them. A pop can was a little large in circumference, so I searched and found a circle cutter that came close to the 7 1/2" normal bracelet size. The width doesn't seem to matter when it comes to strength and durability. They are all very strong. Extra clay was added to the back of the joint prior to baking. I have a special leather tool that I used to round the edges.

For myself, I needed one smaller - tiny wrists. After baking the bangles, I took one and cut it down at the joint. I used poly glue to hold the ends together, added a thin piece of clay on the inside and rebaked for 20 minutes. I have not taken this one off my wrist since I put it on. It holds up in the shower and while sleeping. I'm really quite excited about this technique and plan to make more using cane slices as embellishments.

Mica Shift with Cross

2010-03-20T14:38:00.000-07:00

Since I have not been feeling really great, I have not been creating and had to go back in time to find a photo for today's blog. It has been a couple weeks since I worked on the mica shift technique. I do especially like this set though. It is another of those reversible ones, with green on one side and purple on the other. (Hence, the different colored earrings shown.) The cross, chain and toggle are silver plated. When I created this set I knew I would have a cross dangling at the bottom of the pendant so I strategically placed the hole for the jump ring. Eyelets were used for the primary holes, giving this piece extra strength and durability.

Cindy Lietz, my Polymer Clay Tutor, has a fantastic video tutorial on this fabulous Mica Shift Technique. Check it out!!!!

Plumeria & Pneumonia

2010-03-17T11:27:00.000-07:00

Well, guys, by popular demand, here are the plumeria blooms that I made quite a while back. I still have not made them into a necklace ... someday ... maybe. These are some of my early attempts at polymer clay and I'm not exactly thrilled with them.

Since I didn't know how I was going to string them, I put little 'buttons' on the backs with side-to-side holes in them. I've learned so much since then, mostly from Cindy Lietz, my Polymer Clay Tutor. Maybe I will have to try my hand at making some more, now that I have at least some idea what I am doing.

I was going to make these into a necklace, but then the weakness from the pneumonia knocked me down again. Even sitting at my work table is exhausting these days. I'm just not sure what to do to regain my strength. I'm not sure if I am doing too much, or not enough. I went to church on Sunday and to the eye doc yesterday and feel like I've used up all my energy for the week. Hmmm! Can I have some cheese with my whine!

PYM II Now Available!

2010-03-13T11:43:00.000-08:00

Hi, All! The shipment of PYM II arrived - and I've already sold the first can! There's a special 'Buy Now' button on our Lord's Treasures home page - and there is one right here on the blog - over in the left column. I guess that this gal is not too old to learn new tricks after all! Thanks go to Catalina for suggesting I use PayPal.

Since PYM II is in an aerosol can it must be shipped via ground. My local PO wasn't even sure how to handle it, so I had to guide them through the process! It also requires a specially marked box, and chemical test results must be included in the outside pouch. This seems like a lot of fuss and bother, but it is worth it if we can get this 'miraculous' product out to folks. I guess all these requirements are part of 'Homeland Security', but they have increased the cost of shipping this product. Your price for a 12 ounce can, shipping and handling included, is $23.95. Order yours today ... you won't be sorry!

Silver and Gold Mica Shift

2010-03-12T12:53:00.000-08:00

This mica shift purple and green pendant and earring set is truly spectacular. Though it looks like the designs are carved in the polymer clay, the surface is actually glass smooth. This set it totally reversible with surgical steel earwires with gold plate coils and a double strand, silver and gold, chain. The Dove Designs® tag was fashioned in purple to match this set.

I have Cindy Lietz, my Polymer Clay Tutor, to thank for the great tutorial on the Mica Shift technique.

This set is available on my website: Lord's Treasures: Silver and Gold Mica Shift Set

Teal Calla Lily Set

2010-03-11T13:10:00.000-08:00

As promised, here is the calla lily set that I have been working on. I wrapped the lilies with teal color coated copper wire. The earwires are surgical steel. As always, there is a dove - this time on a hanging tag. The closure on this silver necklace is a self closing lobster claw and a silver oval jump ring. Cindy Lietz teaches the calla lily technique in volume 16 of her videos: Cindy's Video Library.

And here's a flash: Round Hill Jewelers just phoned to tell me that they sold another one of my link necklaces! These sales go toward more wire, clay, and other supplies that I need in order to keep working on my wire and polymer clay art. I had been wanting to place an order but needed income before I could justify the outgo. God really does provide!

New Beginning

2010-03-10T19:39:00.000-08:00

Today I'm sharing a leopardskin jasper cabochon wrapped with gold filled AND rose gold filled wires. This combination of wires really brings out the gold and rose colors in the stone. I call this piece 'New Beginning' because it was the first wire art piece that I made after Don died. This particular technique with the wires is especially good for showcasing the gemstone. It is a bit tricky to get the proper 'balance' between securing the stone and leaving as much of the stone unadorned as possible. I'll be working with this type of setting for some of my polymer clay art also. This one is available on my website: Lord's Treasures - Item #3295. Just enter this number in the search box.

FYI: I went for my follow up visit at the doctor's today. He was very pleased with my progress and I don't need to see him again for at least a month. Since I was out and about I stopped at Round Hill Jewelers. They have some of my jewelry and M. I. Hummels in their store. I took my molding clay and made a mold of the celtic pendant that the jeweler's daughter, Alex, always wears. You'll see the results of that here one of these days. Maybe tomorrow I'll finish the calla lily set that I've been working on. Check back to see if it gets posted here.

Button Bracelet

2010-03-09T12:19:00.000-08:00

For those of you who did not see this bracelet on Cindy Lietz's blog, I'll post it for you here. This is a button bracelet that my grandmother made for me when I was a child. It is close to being an antique now! No, actually it is only 50-60 years old. You should know how much it means to me in that I still have it and knew where to find it!

This Friday, Cindy's video tutorial will be all about making buttons. How fun it will be to make buttons and then make bracelets for my two granddaughters! I'm thinking Christmas - it may take me that long to get them done. First I'll have to find some fancy elastic. I think Grandma might have crocheted the gold elastic before tying the buttons on. Hmmm! I've presented myself with a new challenge! But how much fun this will be ...

PYM II On Its Way!

2010-03-08T12:52:00.000-08:00

My shipment of PYM II is on its way here, so I can start taking orders. I'll be selling the 12 oz. can for $19.95. This includes the special shipping and handling that are required because it is an aerosol can. Not only is this a great product for those of us who work in polymer clay, it is also a fantastic finish for sterling. It puts a gentle sealant on the wires and retards that dreaded tarnishing of our finished pieces. You can see my full endorsement of PYM II on my blog. PYM II Endorsement

You may have seen this photo of the Red Hat lentil beads that I made. Three of them were finished in the traditional manner: sanding, sanding, sanding and buffing. The rest were coated with PYM II. I challenge you to determine which are which. See why I think this is such a fabulous product?!

Any scrapbooker should try PYM II also. It is marvelous for preserving paper products, while still retaining their original appearance and texture. Here's a link to some video demonstrations of this great product: PYM II Demo

Now, if you want to order a can, just send me your email address and we will work from there. Within the next couple weeks PYM II will be available on our website. It just takes a bit of time to get that all worked out. So, while we're waiting for it to appear on Lord's Treasures, we can work through emails. My email for this is: PYM II Orders.

Reversable

2010-03-07T15:25:00.000-08:00

I sure do like things that have multiple uses. This pendant and earring set fills that bill! These were done with the mica-shift technique. Though the surface looks sculpted, it is actually glass smooth. The pattern is created by shifting the mica. Yeh, right! You'd have to see Cindy Lietz's video to understand what this means. Her link is in the left column. Anyway, the one side of this set, obviously, is green and the other purple. The earrings dangle from interchangeable lever back earwires. You can have a whole collection of earrings (with loops at the top) and just pop them on and off these earwires.
I wear this type almost exclusively. The lever backs are great because they won't fall off, and neither will the dangles. If you need to wear only pure gold or sterling silver, you can invest in an expensive pair of interchangeable lever back earwires and then you'll be able to dangle any type of wire from them without having a chemical reaction. What more could we ask for!

BTW: I am winning the battle against the pneumonia. Feeling better every day. Will go back to see the doc one day this week, and I am sure he will pronounce me clean. Funny, that made me think of the Bible reading we are doing at church and how the Israelites had to go to the priest to be pronounced clean from a disease. Who says the Bible is not applicable to today's life?! It's there is you look for it.

I'm working on making calla lilies from flower petal canes. Photos should appear within the next few days. Watch for them ... they are worth waiting for!

Glow In The Dark!

2010-03-06T15:51:00.000-08:00

Cindy's tutorial this week was made with glow in the dark clay ... and it really does glow in the dark. There was some discussion about the pendant backing. I think hers is hammered metal, but I decided to try my hand at duplicating it in polymer clay. PC is so great! You can do just about anything with it. Anyway, here are the results of my experimentation. I purposely left the glow in the dark rainbow cane irregular and somewhat lumpy - wanted it to 'match' the distressed look of the silver backing. Maybe now that I have done this, Cindy will let us know what she did use for her pendant.

Chipmunk Housemate

2010-03-05T09:13:00.000-08:00

Chasing chipmunks! We've known for a long while that chipmunks - and squirrels - liked the attic. Last fall while I was away on an extended motorhome trip, Robert and Michelle reported that there were chipmunks in the main part of the house. When I got home we found a couple areas where they could be getting in and Robert covered those areas. Well, yesterday afternoon I heard something (kind of a crunching sound) near my clay station. Sure enough! I spotted a chipmunk. When I told it to 'scram' it ran for my bedroom! Swell ... now I get to sleep with them. Robert is coming over later today to see if he can find the hole that I once spotted in the attic near the chimney. I set up the catch and release trap by the clay station but so far haven't caught my 'housemate'. This is just another of those many problems that I've had since Don passed on to glory! We never had chipmunks in the house while he was alive. Now, chipmunks are cute ... and some of you would love to see one in real life ... but let me tell you - when they are in your house they are no cuter than mice!

Serendipity

2010-03-04T12:19:00.000-08:00

Had a serendipitous moment when I was working on mica-shift a couple days ago. I was going to see what would happen if I used my silver dove to do a mica-shift. Well, that really didn't work too well, BUT I ended up with 'cut-outs' of the dove as I was shaving the surface. Here are the results of that 'ah-ha!' moment.

And please keep up the prayers...

this pneumonia is a hard one to kick. I really want to get back to normal activity but so far I just can't ... quickly exhausted. A little time with my clay and it is back to my recliner for rest. My mind whirls with all I want to do, but when I start I find I have to stop before much is even accomplished. This is so unlike me.

Purse Charm Featured

2010-03-02T13:11:00.000-08:00

Check this out: How exciting to have my purse charm featured on Cindy Lietz's blog: http://www.beadsandbeading.com/blog/purse-charm-spliced-flower-cane-lentil-beads-kaleidoscope/8735/
What is really neat is that this has inspired others in our polymer clay community to make charms from some of their beads. We do learn so much from each other ... an extension of the learning we receive from our Polymer Clay Tutor. If you are at all interested in learning the art of polymer clay, this is the place to be: http://www.beadsandbeading.com/

Here is a mokume gane technique set that I really like. It was posted on facebook, but you might not have seen it there. I just love this technique and think the results are striking!

Yesterday I did some work on the mica-shift technique and hope to have some photos of that to share with you in the next couple days. I'm still working in just fits and starts while trying to battle off this pneumonia. It is hard to have things take days to accomplish when it used to only take hours! But I can't just sit and do nothing!

Well, I do a lot of thinking and meditating ... am managing a little writing ... and tons of reading!

Egg ...

2010-03-01T10:46:00.000-08:00

A very dear friend is going through a lot of what Don did with bone marrow treatments. In spite of all that she remembered that I was going to make an egg for my son, Jonathan, for Christmas and asked for a photo. Since I'm not up to much else, I'll just include the photo of that polymer clay egg for today's viewing audience! (Smile) It took me quite a while to make it and I think Jono really liked it. Don't tell him (ha-ha) but now I'd like to make a pen to go with it for his desk at the University of Pennsylvania where he is on faculty. But then, with Easter coming, and since I've already blown out a dozen eggs, guess I should get going on them ... in a slow way as I recouperate.

No Church

2010-02-28T19:34:00.000-08:00

Wow - it sure doesn't seem like Sunday when I don't get together with others to worship! There was just no way I could make it yet. In fact, my house seems extra long these days ... tires me to walk from one end to the other. But I will rest, eat, drink and care for myself so I can beat off this pneumonia. I just can't rush it ... so, I'll be rather scarce here on the blog. I am thinking of all my friends and family who I know are also thinking of me ...

Doing Better

2010-02-26T14:54:00.000-08:00

Sorry I didn't get to post anything yesterday. I'm really feeling the drain of this pneumonia. My doctor's visit was a success ... he said I had made a dramatic turn for the better and he'd cancel my reservation at Hotel Barton (hospital). Now I just have to keep up the good work in order to be able to stay at home. That means lots of rest, and eating and drinking more. I think I can handle that ... for a few days.

The birds out front are just going to have to survive on the small amount of seed that is left. The squirrels can eat what they have tipped out onto the ground below the feeders. Of course, it is snowing and could soon get covered, but they do a right fine job of digging around. I have a family of Junko birds. They are supposed to be ground feeders ... around here they usually head for the hanging feeders. The chick-a-dees are my favorites this time of year. The other species that 'live' here during the summer, fly south for the winter. It is always such a treat when they return. They stay until their young start eating at the feeders - and sometimes there are 8 or more at one feeder - then they head away again. I guess the 'babies' can remember where they first ate.

It's nap time for me ... I'll go to my recliner and watch the birds and/or read a book for a bit but I can feel my strength draining, so I'll give in and rest - doctor's orders. Those of you who really know me, know that that is a hard thing for me to do.

Hope to have a new picture for you some time tomorrow ... Bye for now ...

Driftwood Delight + Pneumonia

2010-02-24T21:33:00.000-08:00

Building on Cindy Lietz's teaching is so much fun, but I admit to getting a bit sluggish over the last few days. Then this morning I finally called my son-in-law, Robert, and asked him to take me to the medical center. I have pneumonia AGAIN! I came down with it last fall a few days after I got home from my 2 1/2 month motorhome trip. That time I landed in the hospital. This time I really felt like it was pneumonia so I told the doc right up front that I was NOT going to the hospital. [Nothing against hospitals, I just prefer, as I guess most people do, to be in my own home.] So, I spent a few hours at the med center with an IV, bronchial meds, antibiotics, and I'm not sure what else they pumped into that IV. I have to go back tomorrow, probably so he can give me instructions ... I was rather out-of-it today with a fever over 102°.

Anyway, to get back to Cindy, last Friday's video was on doing inlays with clay. I made this set. It will be earrings and a pendant when the findings are finished, but the pneumonia got in the way of that. I just wanted to share with you the result I got from making driftwood-looking clay and then embedding shells and Sworavski flat backs. Now I know why I gathered those handfuls of tiny shells and bits when I was at Dockweiler Beach [near Los Angeles, CA] last fall.

This is it for today ... I must get back to my recliner ...

Eye Candy

2010-02-23T09:27:00.000-08:00

Since I'm still not feeling too well today, I thought I'd just post a bit of 'eye candy' for you. This unakite and pearl pendant, "Fantasma Into Glory", utilized gold filled wires. Note the cross at the bottom and the butterfly rising from the central cabochon. As some of you may know, the butterfly is the symbol of our Lord's resurrection. There is even more symbolism in this piece the longer you look at it.

Hope you enjoy it ... and pray for quick healing for me.

Under the Weather

2010-02-22T17:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I started feeling not well, and my left eye seemed maybe infected. It was almost 'glued' shut. I went to bed praying that things would be better this morning. Remember God's time is different than ours! This morning was really bad, feverish, chest cough and still that gunky eye. I slept in my recliner until about 2 pm, then things started looking up. The cough is virtually gone and the eye is only a little crusty. What this was all about, I sure don't know. It certainly slowed me down and made me realize that nothing HAD to be done today. Tomorrow, Lord willing, I will get back to DOING, but I'm taking the rest of this day off!

It is really great that folks can't tell which three lentils were finish the 'old' way! It just proves my point that PYM II is fantastic. I'm working with Doug & Donna and will soon be selling this great product on my website Lord's Treasures. I have to get in the stock and set up a special section on the website. PYM II has to be sent ground, which is different than anything else we sell.

Now it's back to recliner for me ... bye for now.

Which Ones????

2010-02-21T18:17:00.000-08:00

Sorry it is so late in the day. After church I sprayed the backside of the Red Hat lentils, then I got all engrossed in working on Cindy Lietz's faux bone and inlay techniques. [I am following her blog on this blog, so you can just click on her link ... lower left.] I did remember to call my dear 96 year old stepmom at 2 p.m. That's a routine that we have had for quite a few years. It gives me a chance to check up on her - always learn something from her - and she says she enjoys hearing about all the stuff I've been doing. I have come to realize the great importance of a set routine as we get older. She has one ... I don't, but should!

Below I will be posting the finished Red Hat lentil beads. I've arranged them the same way they were arranged on the original photo. I have a guessing game for you. Three of these lentils were done the 'old fashioned' way: lots of sanding and much buffing. The rest received relatively light sanding, no buffing, and one coat of PYM II. Now, tell me which three YOU think did NOT get sealed with PYM II. Quite honestly, I had to put tiny stickers on the backside of those three so I would know once I had them all arranged. Enter your selections in the comments section below.

Now you can see why I am so excited about PYM II. You can view my endorsement doc on the left. It is a separate page. Doug and Donna are great to work with and any time I had a question while testing this great product, Doug always called me (yes, on the phone) to explain the reasons and provide answers.

Tomorrow I hope to have some faux bone and inlay with a seaside twist to show you! I've had a really great day ... Sundays usually are!

Red Hat Pendants

2010-02-20T12:19:00.000-08:00

We had a tiny dusting of snow last night and it is snowing a bit now. I should have known this was coming since the aches were a bit more than usual. My joints are even better than the weather forecast. We've had several gorgeous days - snow on the ground and that very special Lake Tahoe blue sky with sunshine so clear and bright. It is the weather change that causes aches. Now, if it will keep snowing for a while I should feel great!

A friend asked me to make some red/purple/gold lentil beads for her Red Hat Club. In spite of having another of those really bad missing-Don days, I did start these and enjoyed what I was doing. The lentils shown below were baked, but no finishing has been done on them. I used a couple different 'formulae' and techniques to make them. Since some contain Premo Frost translucent, I will be doing a little (minimal) sanding before applying a finish coat.

Just wait ... I'll work on these today ... the finished product promises to be really worth seeing!

You never know ...

2010-02-19T11:28:00.000-08:00

I just received a phone call from my CPA. Eric said he and his wife, Nancy, will be delivering my tax file in person. Seems she wants to see the jewelry I design and make! She's viewed them on the web and likes what she's seen ... maybe she'll purchase! In any event, that will spur me on to cleaning up the family room/shop. And here I thought I was going to increase the size of that open space on my workroom counter. Oh, well, first things first. Thank God they aren't coming today or I'd be in a real frenzy.

Here's today's photo - I just love making lentil beads:

Think I did it ...

2010-02-18T13:27:00.000-08:00

I think I managed to get the endorsement for PYM II over on that left side. I think that is where the Scripture verse of the day will now be available. I tried to put the new pendant right up front, but it was way too up front - huge - and I didn't know how to shrink it ... so it should appear over on the left side also. This is fun but really fries my brain. I hope my son, Jonathan, is proud of all his mom has learned and accomplished with facebook and this blog!

Peace Like a River

2010-02-18T12:22:00.000-08:00

Well, I never did get to the clay play yesterday, but I can see one open space now on the main counter in my workroom! That's progress of a sort. In moving things around I found a wire art piece that I had been wanting to photograph. I'll include that photo here - if I can figure out how!

I also want to post my endorsement of that great PYM II. I have to figure out how to do that too! So much to learn and so little time!

Lots of Riding

2010-02-17T11:50:00.000-08:00

This morning I spent almost half an hour riding that elliptical trainer - now that's a lot of morning prayer time. I spent so much time thinking about family and friends that I didn't get to check my mileage before the session timed out. From the way my hips feel, it must have been a fair distance.

PYM II posted a photo of one of my Mardi Gras sets. This one actually went to Gretchen who held the neighborhood Mardi Gras party Monday night. The technique I used here is called Mokume Gane. It is really fun to do. Cindy Lietz teaches the basics of this technique in her video Mokume Gane Polymer Clay Tutorial

Today I really am going to work on getting some things organized. Hopefully this afternoon I'll also have time to play with clay!

2010-02-16T22:30:00.000-08:00

Scripture reading is a very important part of my daily life. If I am going to share 'me' with 'you' I want to share this also. Right now I have no idea where this blog is going to go. I'm brand new at blogging, but it seems to be the thing to do. Anyway, my posts are set up to include a new Bible verse every day. I happen to think this is pretty cool. Hope you do too!

Happy Mardi Gras

2010-02-16T21:15:00.000-08:00

Mardi Gras is celebrated the day before Ash Wednesday or the start of the Lenten season and today is that day. Socially it has become a day to eat, drink and be merry. Initially it was a day to reflect on all the gifts that God has given us and to decide what we wanted to 'give up' (fast) in honor of Him during the weeks leading up to Easter. The traditional colors for Mardi Gras came from the Catholic Liturgical Colors: Purple for the passion of our Lord and our repentance; Green for new life and growth in the Lord; and Gold for our hope in God's promises now and forever. So, there you have it in a nutshell.

On my Dove Designs® facebook page you can see a pendant and earrings that I designed especially for Mardi Gras. http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stateline-NV/Dove-DesignsR/306759126890