My mother has been gone (i.e., joined the ancestors) a little over five years. For some reason, this Mother’s Day had me missing her more than usual. I usually send Mother’s Day cards to aunts and other beloved women warriors in my life. This year, I didn’t have the energy or will to do so. [...]
Last month I was one of the featured artists to participate in Takoma Park’s third annual Art Hop. Art Hop Takoma is a week-long event which features predominantly local artist throughout the shops of Old Takoma, Maryland. This year I was hosted by the House of Musical Traditions which was a good match to feature [...]
So you have this talent creating handcrafts. People are telling you how fab you are and orders start coming in. Do you look the proverbial gift horse in the mouth and just give your talent away, keep it under wraps and bring it out on special occasions, or do you thank your lucky stars that [...]
I’d bet you know many people who are allergic to base metals like copper, nickel, lead, brass. In rare cases, and I’ve encountered a few recently, there are those also allergic to precious metals such as silver and gold. But that doesn’t mean they can’t love or wear jewelry. There are a number of alternatives [...]
I’d bet you know many people who are allergic to base metals like copper, nickel, lead, brass. In rare cases, and I’ve encountered a few recently, there are those also allergic to precious metals such as silver and gold. But that doesn’t mean they can’t love or wear jewelry.
There are a number of alternatives to metal clasps and chains. Waxed linen, waxed cotton and buttons made of bone, resin and other organic materials are but a few of the options for those with metal allergies.
Here are a few items from my Etsy collection that would suit those allergic to metals:
I’d be interested in knowing what other suggestions you may have for jewelry lovers limited by metal allergies. Please leave me a comment.
I love Etsy Treasuries. They give you the chance to assemble collections of products made by Etsy artisans and share them with others. Though I love making Treasuries, I also love being chosen for inclusion in others’ Treasuries. Here are a few of the Treasuries that I’ve been include in recently:
Treasury: I'm a Fool for You
Treasury: Ruby Tuesday
Treasury: Optimism is Clothed in Blue
Treasury: Shine a Little Light
Please check out the artists in the Treasuries, above, as well as those of the curators and spread the love around.
Happy New Year to all.
I returned to the States from Mali just in time for all of the holiday hoopla that I try very hard not to get pulled into. Luckily I have my collection of beads that I brought back to keep me occupied. As I’m putting my next collection together, I’m savoring in the moment and wondering what I’m going to make. Hmmmmmm……let’s see:
Red simple trade bead
Horizontal Pendant Red trade bead
Trade Beads - Multi
Green/Sterling top pendant Trade bead
Blues - Trade Beads
The term “trade beads” comes from how the beads (Venetian millefiori and other glass beads) arrived in Africa — they among other things – were traded for slaves and other “goods.” Since most of these “traded beads” are found in Africa, they have grown to be associated with the Continent.
In any case, were I particularly like how the craftsman added sterling silver to the beads, making them into pendants. Fabulous. I’ll keep you posted on how designs for these beads take shape. In the meantime, it’s back to the studio for me.
