JulesArtwear

Display Your Jules

2010-04-19T09:16:00.002-04:00

An eclectic collection of display ideas for your jewelry for personal and professional use in my

"Is this display for sale?" This is the question I get at every show and the answer is always no. No is not a word I like to use! So, I try to give my customers a list of ideas about how to look in unconventional places for items to use to organize their earrings and such. I love places like TJ Maxx for instance. Their home department is loaded with goodies that can be flipped over or painted to make a great display piece. Pier 1, Target, Big Lots...the list goes on.

My favorite pieces are a series of wire towers in three heights that I found in the home department of Value City about ten years ago. They all had pineapples on top...oh boy! I got my saw out and voila...no more fruit! Hit the spray paint aisle in Lowe's and suddenly they are fitting right in with my color scheme. These babies have been painted three times to match my ever changing booth and mall kiosk. Currently, they are a metallic bronze.

The possibilities are endless. If you can't find what you are looking for, you can always make your own. A wood frame from a yard sale will do. Remove the glass and staple some screening from the local hardware store. Hang it on your wall and all your french wire earrings will slip through the holes. This way you won't have to rummage through the pile on your dresser to look for matching pairs...haha like I do!

Got an idea to share? Leave a comment!

35th Marine Corps Marathon- Here I Come!

2010-04-07T12:41:00.003-04:00

Today is the day...I am committed to checking a BIG one off my list. I have registered for the 35th Marine Corps Marathon on October 31. My friend Suzette and I are going to do this together with lots of help and support from Nick who has done this one before. Nick and I did the Red Baron Half Marathon in Corning, NY last fall and we had a blast. That was my first half and he did a great job getting me ready for it!
This one is just a tad bit longer :) Excited!! and nervous...

$50 Bead Buck Giveaway Winner

2010-04-06T09:13:00.000-04:00

And the winner of the $50 Bead Buck Giveaway in celebration of my facebook fans hitting 600 is...drum roll please!

Rosalind Gourvitz

of Designs by Ros

Thanks to all of you for entering! Winner was chosen by a random number generator at http://www.random.org

Facebook Fan Celebration & Giveaway

2010-03-22T12:47:00.002-04:00

This week the fan count on facebook hit 600! To celebrate & give thanks, I'm giving away $50 in Bead Bucks! All you need to do is post your comment here to enter. You have until Saturday, April 3rd to enter. The winner will be picked by a random number generator and announced on April 4th.
Thank you for your support!

Gypsy Hoop Not Earrings

2010-02-22T14:54:00.002-05:00

It's Monday and I get to play. Started with some heavy gauge sterling silver wire that I hammered extra flat in places. Added some spiral stampings and a fine copper wire wrap for accent. Used some of the pale beads I made a couple of weeks ago for the Antique Garden series. This is one of many that resulted from this mess on my workbench...

The luxury of having a dedicated workspace...don't have to clean up until I'm ready for the next project!

Plaid Giveaway on The Nighbluey Herald

2010-02-22T12:33:00.001-05:00

You've seen JDWolfe pottery featured here before on MUG Monday. This plaid beauty is the giveaway prize at The Nighbluey Herald! No time to waste as the deadline for entry is February 28th!

Head over the this really cool blog and comment away...

Organized? I try...

2010-02-13T20:04:00.001-05:00

If you bead, then you know. Organizing is a constant battle. I have tried all kinds of ways to keep the beads I need most often easily accessible so the work flows and the digging is at a minimum. These wood nesting trays from Nile Corp have served well for my clay beads for quite a few years now. I use inserts to keep my current colors separated. This way I can see what I have and what I need to make color, size, shape, etc.
The BEST part about these trays is they are great for show and tell. All the color gets the customer's attention. So often, the public doesn't understand what I mean when I say " I make my own beads out of clay" as if I were speaking another language. Once they see the beads in the trays they are instantly interested and tend to ask more questions.

Beads never ever ever go to waste. These are trays of "old" batches so the colors are jumbled together. Funny how, when they sit next to new neighbors, they come back to life with inspiration!

These trays are also great for storing under stock. I use the inserts for pendants and such. Some of them I have lined with cork so that I can pin finished jewelry to transport to shows. All I do is stack them in the zippered jewelry case and off to the show!

Three Generations Searching for an Ugly Old Car

2010-01-29T12:10:00.003-05:00

Maybe it's not so ugly, but it is getting pretty old. This lovely addition to our driveway is a '96 Subaru Legacy Wagon with 164k miles on it. Yes, a wagon for a 17 year old seems a bit odd. But, if you knew my girl, it suits her...there is nothing ordinary about her. Her mission from the get go was to find something ugly, as if she was looking to adopt an orphan animal.

The three of us including my dad started this quest a few weeks ago. Searching local lots, calling car guys we knew, perusing the papers and searching online sites. All this looking and we found ourselves circling back around to a dealer only a few blocks away from home. Believe me, there isn't much to choose from in the "cheap" category. Taking cars out for test drives, we took turns driving. Each of us with our own point of view. I went first to get the feel while she played with the knobs and gadgets. Pop Pop was there for his experience. He knows cars... We all agreed that this was the one, hoping our choice was right and luck will be with us.

Savannah has always been good about putting something away from all the years of helping me at People's Choice and at the mall. Her part time job at Wendy's added enough to her savings account to make it work. So, we walked into the dealer and said we wanted to take the Subaru home. Filling out the paperwork and letting the transaction settle in was fun and exciting. This was a BIG deal and I was so happy to be able to do this with her and to watch her realize it was actually happening.

She is a good and careful driver, but of course there is no way to stop the worries. We won't forget this rainy day. Over 3 1/2" had fallen and the creek was flooding. The water was close to the bridge and started flowing up Broad Street before cresting. Later that evening we got word that two brothers, her high school class mates were in a terrible accident. These two boys continue to fight for their lives. A horrible reminder of the fragility of life. Please be careful on the road...

Antique Garden

2010-01-20T16:31:00.001-05:00

Spent the last few hours creating a little romance. These soft pastels contrasted with the antiqued silver capture a sense of time passed.

Translucent clay has been my long time base. Just a smidgen of color will achieve that soapy feel. Baking at a slightly higher temperature gives the beads a bit of a crackle. Sometimes it's tough to decide what style of ear wires to make. The supply of 20 gauge is low, so not too much fooling around. This was the second or third attempt to try and form a good marriage between the beads and the essence of the design. Although these were pretty in shiny sterling I decided to stick to the original mission for the Antique Garden.

I had to see the results from a dip in the liver of sulfur bath!

Maybe I will make another group and keep them shiny?

Oops, have to make another blue pair already. Gave them the daughter test. Having a 17 year old around equals honest feed back. Savannah reacted violently positive and asked for a personal treasure. She has been in a blue mood lately. Hair streaks I mean not the other kind of blue...

Adventures in Photography

2010-01-16T12:56:00.010-05:00

It's best to take pictures outside, right? Nature has to cooperate though. The sun is out and it's not raining making today a qualifier of criteria to cart all that stuff to the back patio to take some new shots for the website and Etsy shop.
A list of supplies to get started. A table so the bending over won't kill the lower back, back grounds and props. Then you hall out the goods. If you are lucky like me, its jewelry so easy to carry a lot at at time. By the time you get positioned to actually get the camera in hand much time has passed. Shoot a bunch and run back inside to upload and see if the results are good, passable or a true failure. Back and forth..how does this background look? What about this camera setting? Who needs exercise on a photo shooting day? And then there is the cleanup, of course my favorite part of the process.

I try to do it this way on occasion, but get frustrated with the timing and the hassle. I need a dependable photo studio on demand. Here is mine perched on top of my favorite storage cabinet. I can shoot in my jammies as I did today. Glorious! No clean up either...ah now that's sweet.

There is never enough light in my studio. I have four panels of awful fluorescent lighting in the ceiling. Quite undependable with lights flickering on a whim. I also have a torchiere floor lamp with a powerful 300 watt halogen bulb. All this and I add these great shop lights mounted on a tripod to pour direct light on the sides of my photo cube. It gets hot in there with everything lit up in full force. The studio is a renovated one car garage attached to the house, so it's not a gigantic room.

After many many years of trial and error. My trusty Fugi FinePix S602Z digital continues to serve me well. Although, adding a really compact point and shoot is on the list for taking to shows.

Here is one result of yesterday's efforts.

Although I am happy with a shot here and there, satisfaction never really comes. There is always room for improvement. Lots of articles to read on technical items from camera settings to what is best for websites and then the ever important slide shots for shows.

Truth is, this part of the job is just one more reason I love what I do.

Never a boring day.

Handmade for the Holidays Photo Contest

2009-11-23T12:49:00.002-05:00

My Autumn Stacks Earrings in sterling silver are up for the vote!

Handmade Compete is sponsoring a Handmade for the Holidays Photo Contest. Check out all the submissions & vote for your favorite beginning December 6.

MUG Monday-Texture & Sculpture- Edition#8

2009-11-23T12:14:00.002-05:00

This week's collection comes from submissions from last week's post which included an amazing mug from malbers2. That piece had sold, but the one featured here is from the same rabbit series. Check out the shops of these talented potters by clicking through the big picture to get to the individual Etsy shops or by clicking on the shop names below!

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?

JulieKnowlesPottery TwistedRiverClay malbers2

kogijiki Claygrl krystallin

niswanderceramics onewintrynight joytanner

Supporting Operation CUP (Citizens Using Pottery)
For more info about CUP and featured potters
see Arthur Halvorsen Ceramics on facebook.

I'd love to hear from you! Comments below are welcomed...

If you would like to enter for a MUG Feature on my blog, you will need to do the following TWO steps

1. Leave a comment on this blog with your favorite MUG from this week's feature

AND

2. Post your handmade MUG or your favorite MUG someone else made in this ETSY FORUM

MUG Monday-Support CUP Edition#7

2009-11-09T11:12:00.004-05:00

This week's collection comes from submissions from last week's post and my love for green...is it obvious? Check out the shops of these talented potters by clicking through the big picture to get to the individual Etsy shops or by clicking on the shop names below!

Have you started your Christmas shopping yet?

OldFarmhousePottery JNpottery flyingpignc

justinlambert skybirdarts lawatson

apiecebydenise jjceramics alinahayes

Supporting Operation CUP (Citizens Using Pottery)
For more info about CUP and featured potters
see Arthur Halvorsen Ceramics on facebook.

I'd love to hear from you! Comments below are welcomed...

If you would like to enter for a MUG Feature on my blog, you will need to do the following TWO steps

1. Leave a comment on this blog with your favorite MUG from this week's feature

AND

2. Post your handmade MUG or your favorite MUG someone else made in this ETSY FORUM

Mall Kiosk Update

2009-11-06T11:21:00.001-05:00

The first post on the Mall Kiosk Time Machine had a good response including lots of comments and questions here and on facebook. It was even featured on the Mall Kiosk Success page. I thought a follow up might be a good idea.

Where do I get all my work done? This is the cart on wheels that makes it all possible. My dad stained it cherry to match the kiosk. My brother, the master woodworker finished off the back. They did a beautiful job! I keep my tools, metals and inventory below. There is enough room on top for two stations if you stand on each side and a my ott light. Although this is center court with sky lights, even on a cloudy day it's very dark. With working on both sides two project stages are possible like clay and wire without having to keep moving stuff around when a customer needs something special.

Setup was coming along after only about an hour. One good thing about all the years of experience is that it doesn't take as long as it used to. The next day was spent rearranging everything and getting things priced. A couple of new display pieces needed to be ordered, so of course it's always in transition.

One of the most common questions I get is "Do you have to pack everything up at night?" The answer is definitely no. The tarp wraps around and zips. There is a wire running through the hems so you can padlock for security. Honestly, I don't really worry about it. I have found that most people are good people and allowing the bad ones to rule how I manage my life or my business would tarnish the joy. As a friend said... it's all about "Karma"

In case you hadn't noticed or were too shy to ask. The kiosks do not come equipped with a restroom. Occassionally, for this and a cup of coffee, I make a run for it. Thankfully, there is usually a good neighbor nearby to keep an eye out!

Thank you for all your comments and questions.

Off to the mall...

My First-Red Baron Half Marathon

2009-11-01T20:42:00.021-05:00

Today was a day for checking things off my list. I did my first half marathon. Nick has many half and full marathons under his belt. So, I had the best mentor! The Red Baron Half in Corning was great! After we got pizza at Aniello's..artichokes and roasted red peppers and some tasty cold brews. I couldn't be happier :)

Wire Organizer Tip

2009-10-28T12:37:00.004-04:00

Does your wire get all tangled in piles? Can't find the gauge you want without pulling everything apart? A few years ago I came up with the idea to use these plastic filers to organize my wire. The silver and gold have separate cases and all are labeled by gauge. You can still use a plastic bag for protection within the file sections, but at least it's not a tangled mess! Plus, when I travel which is a lot, it's easy to grab what I need.

Kiosk Opens Saturday, October 31

2009-10-26T20:45:00.031-04:00

The holiday kiosk will be opening a day early on Saturday, October 31 at the Lycoming Mall. Stop by and mention that you are a blog follower and you will get 15% off your entire purchase!

Offer valid through Friday, November 6. This offer extends to facebook fans as well!

MUG Monday - Support CUP

2009-10-26T13:09:00.006-04:00

This week's collection comes from submissions from last week's post and an eclectic assortment from my favorite list. Check out the shops of these talented potters by clicking through the big picture to get to the individual Etsy shops!

One mug from last week's post sold!

cinderelish khphillips geobubstudios

JoshBoock khouser landrydeese

ippuku meadowpoint trudalakingglatz

Supporting Operation CUP (Citizens Using Pottery)
For more info about CUP and featured potters
see Arthur Halvorsen Ceramics on facebook.

I'd love to hear from you! Comments below are welcomed...

If you would like to enter for a MUG Feature on my blog, you will need to do the following TWO steps

1. Leave a comment on this blog with your favorite MUG from this week's feature

AND

2. Post your handmade MUG or your favorite MUG someone else made in this ETSY FORUM

2009-10-19T15:20:00.041-04:00

MUG MONDAY-Just the Mugs Please

Edition #5-Etsy Artisans

terraworks JDWolfePottery vesselsandwares

dhergtdesign trpottery rebeccalowery

HurricanePottery TofanoPottery KbOriginalsetc

Supporting Operation CUP (Citizens Using Pottery)
For more info about CUP and featured potters
see Arthur Halvorsen Ceramics on facebook.

I'd love to hear from you! Comments below are welcomed...

If you would like to enter for a MUG Feature on my blog, you will need to do the following TWO steps

1. Leave a comment on this blog with your favorite MUG from this week's feature

AND

2. Post your handmade MUG or your favorite MUG someone else made in this ETSY FORUM

Mall Kiosk Time Machine

2009-10-17T18:42:00.008-04:00

I remember calling the Lycoming Mall back in 1994 to see about leasing a kiosk for the holiday season to sell my clay bead jewelry. Brand new carts were coming in and I was the first to inquire. What great timing! In my previous life as a buyer for 400 card and gift stores I had been to many malls coast to coast where carts were common. It seemed a logical step to try since the first six months had been a thrilling success at shows. The scary part of course was the cost, but I had to try.

This must be circa 1995 judging my Savannah to be about three here.This was the original cart design. All natural wood with wheels. It had a big drawer for storage at each end on wheels. I actually had a toaster oven in there to bake the beads. Start to finish everything was made at the cart. An all day long demonstration which captured attention, started conversation and helped with sales. This cart style lasted quite a few years then was put out to pasture to sell apples or who knows what, as the mall purchased a new model.

This model came around 2003 with its bright white laminate finish. I made the "lovely" sage skirting to cover up as much of the stark white as possible. I tend to go with a natural look for display. Wood, cork, tile, burlap...you get the picture. At the time, the skirt looked sooo good. Now, change of mind...

For 2004 it went skirtless. A soft suede overlay, more cork and natural fibers to cover up that drastic white. Better than the skirt? Maybe... Is anyone ever satisfied with their display?

The end of the cart view with the bamboo blind as a backdrop. This look became a part of my show booth design, but that's another story entirely. Having settled into solution for the white laminate model, the mall announces it is bringing in yet another design for 2007. This one would be cherry wood in a pagoda style. It's a beauty except the display space was cut down. Time to regroup once again and brainstorm for display ideas.

This was the beginning of the transition from wood displays to metal and tile. Ahhh, so many tile choices. I stood in the aisle at Lowe's and drooled.

Today, title for first and most continuous cart vendor is mine. Guess it makes me the old lady of the mall, old at 43? Naaaa .... People seem surprised when they find out how many years it's been since they've been coming. This I appreciate the most. Little kids who have been picking out their mother's Christmas present are now in college. I love making even the smallest contribution to the holiday season. It warms my heart.

Center court is my home for November and December. It's a crazy time of year trying to squeeze in taking care of everything, but it's all we know at my house. Making beads and jewelry all day at the kiosk where family, friends and customers gather to watch or chat. This is the time when I get to catch up with everyone! The bonus comes after with four months off before the outdoor season kicks off again.

End of Outdoor Season Giveaway

2009-10-15T13:07:00.005-04:00

$50 BEAD BUCK DRAWING

In celebration of the end of the outdoor show season I am giving away $50 in Bead Bucks! Bead Bucks can be used on Etsy, ArtFire, or in person of course. Originally the drawing was for facebook fans, but decided to extend it to my growing blog following as well.

Contest starts now and the drawing will take place on October 31.
Two ways to enter:
1. Leave a comment here to earn one entry.
2. Refer a new follower who must also leave a comment including your name for the referral. You can refer as many as you like to earn additional entries.

For those who are already fans on facebook and follow the blog, lucky you! You can double your chances as each entry counts separately.
Good luck!

MUG Monday Supporting Operation CUP

2009-10-12T11:13:00.013-04:00

Make the coffee, open the cupboard door and now I get to choose which one. This is one of my favorite morning moments. So many different colors and shapes. Each one is a memory of where I got it and the artist who made it with their hands. All the perfect imperfections that make each piece unique.

This morning, I drink my coffee from a fine Aaronsburg Pottery vessel which I purchased at People's Choice in Boalsburg, PA.It's body is round and fat with a deep olive color and smooth...I mean really smooth and perfect to the touch.

These are the work of Tofano Pottery. I had the priviledge of trading with Tanya and Mike at Bedford Fall Foliage. The color is serene and the quality is perfection. They are new to Etsy so check them out!

Every chance I get at a show to seek out potters is a thrill. It makes me a little bit giddy with happiness and I am not kidding around here. Scanning for color and texture and quality, I pick up the mug and imagine how it will feel doing its job. The weight of it in my hand feels comforting. The handle has to fit. The rim has to be like silk. Any rough spots will not be friendly on the lips. It has to be beautiful and practical, not just for show.

Even after all these years of collecting, it's not difficult to find something new and interesting to add to the collection or to put in the gift pile.This year we decided early that it would be a mug Christmas. The tough part is deciding which to give and which to keep. Gotta be honest, I want to keep them all!!!

Support Operation CUP (Citizens Using Pottery)
For more info about CUP and featured potters see Arthur Halvorsen Ceramics on facebook
Buy handmade. Give handmade.
Below is the fourth edition of MUG MONDAY. If you click through the picture, you will be able to click on each individual mug to visit the artists Etsy shop. Please show them some love!!

MUG MONDAY-Eclectic Mix

2009-10-12T11:12:00.015-04:00

This week's collection comes from submissions from last week's post and

an eclectic assortment from my favorite list.
claynfiber      hijackedceramics      miekongo
shoshonasnow      JulieKnowlesPottery    jewelpottery
cofstudios      patspottery    ApplewarePottery
Check out the shops of these talented potters by clicking through the big picture to get to the individual links or by clicking on each studio name!

Supporting Operation CUP (Citizens Using Pottery)

I'd love to hear from you! Comments below are welcomed...

If you would like to enter for a MUG Feature on my blog,
you will need to do the following TWO steps,

1. Leave a comment on this blog with your favorite MUG from this week's feature

AND

2. Post your handmade MUG or your favorite MUG someone else made in this ETSY FORUM

End of Another Outdoor Season

2009-10-12T10:02:00.003-04:00

Packing and unpacking the minivan (my daughter would prefer we have a cooler vehicle, but this is a job requirement) to hit the road twenty times or more from April to October is how I earn my living. Setting up at the crack o'dawn in the wet grass (please tell me I remembered to bring a second pair of sandals) or on the street with its slope to the curb hoping the displays won't be too tippy.
Cringing with the howl of a wind gust. Chatting with my neighbors about the last place they have been or the weather..always the weather. Wondering if there is going to be a food vendor making breakfast, oh I hope so. Where is the good coffee? Anyone know of a local coffee shop with the good stuff? Take a bite and put some more stuff out.
What did I forget this time? What booth configuration will I use? Inney or outey, corner? Some mornings it's the hardest decision to make. You can ask Nick, he knows when to leave for more coffee. Thank goodness for him. He is the most awesome weight attacher, sign poster, table cover folder and yes, he even does a great scarf. Better than me as he recently pointed out...

Honking the horn on the way out of town saying good bye to a favorite town on the show circuit. Loving this gypsy lifestyle. Stopping on the way home for more good coffee. Talking about how fast things went and oh yeah, where was that hotel with that incredible shower? I forgot to take notes again this year about which hotels were our favorites.
Smiling as we know that this weekend we get to stay home. Hmmm, no he is driving to Pittsburgh to see his daughter play college soccer. The next weekend we go to Long Island and then to the city for a birthday celebration on broadway. I think there is one weekend at the end of October that is free?? No, that would be time to set up the kiosk at the mall. That is if we don't head up to Corning for the half marathon. We love Corning!! Aniello's Pizza, Mac's Grill, Market Street Brewing Co. ... yeah, let's do it. Back in the van for another trip. A cold one after a long run sounds like a great way to spend the day!
This trip the only load in the back will be a change of clothes...all the show stuff is taking a rest in the garage.

MUG MONDAY-Dark and Earthy

2009-10-05T11:20:00.003-04:00

This week's collection comes from submissions from last week's post

and an assortment of dark and earthy mugs from my favorite list.

Check out the shops of these talented potters by clicking through the links!

I'd love to hear from you! Comments below are welcomed...

If you would like to enter for a MUG Feature on my blog,
you will need to do the following TWO steps,

1. Leave a comment on this blog with your favorite MUG from this week's feature

AND

2. Post your handmade MUG or your favorite MUG someone else made in this ETSY FORUM

Gotta Have Music in the Studio

2009-09-30T16:10:00.001-04:00

Do you listen to music while you work? I have to have the tunes crankin' while I am playing in the studio! Ipod (love my Touch) , Pandora, CD's ...anything but traditional radio. Today was Pandora on the Dave Mathews Band station. This station button would wear out if it were not virtual. Then, I switched to the Bonnie Raitt station which covers Susan Tedeschi to Norah Jones...la la la ... keeps me floating while my hands are working.

Do you listen to music while you work?

MUG MONDAY - Textures and Brights!

2009-09-28T09:18:00.003-04:00

This is the round two of MUG Monday - Just the Mugs Please!

One mug sold from last weeks collection!
This week's collection comes from two submissions from last week's post

and an assortment of brightly colored and textured mugs from my favorite list.

Check out the shops of these talented potters by clicking through the links!

I'd love to hear from you! Comments below are welcomed...

If you would like to enter for a MUG Feature on my blog,
you will need to do the following TWO steps,

1. Leave a comment on this blog with your favorite MUG from this week's feature

AND

2. Post your handmade MUG or your favorite MUG someone else made in this ETSY FORUM

Swirly, Twirly, Textured Green - Spotlight on FFEST Members

2009-09-27T19:19:00.001-04:00

This is a collection of members of FFEST..Facebook Fans on Etsy. This is an new and very active team filled with a variety of talented artisans.

MUG MONDAY - Just the Mugs Please!

2009-09-23T09:34:00.009-04:00

I have collected mugs for about 20 years at arts festivals...mostly in trade...lucky me! I have been trying to figure out a weekly themed blog and decided I should go with my passion for handcrafted MUGS!

This is the launch of MUG Monday - Just the Mugs Please!
I am anxious to see what turns up in my favorite category of earthenware!
This idea came from one of my favorite blogs
Creative with Clay

If you would like to enter for a MUG Feature on my blog,
you will need to do the following TWO steps,

1. Leave a comment on this blog with your favorite MUG from this week's feature

AND

2. Post your handmade MUG in this ETSY FORUM

Milton Harvestfest 5K

2009-09-23T09:05:00.002-04:00

Nick and I did the Milton Harvestfest 5k for fun with Suzette! It was a beautiful cool, sunny morning and a flat course. Although we girls couldn't keep up with Nick, we had a good run!
Suzette is training for the Army 10 Miler. This was her first race ever and I was so happy she invited us to do it together. Nick and I are preparing for the Run for the Diamonds in Berwick. This one is a 9 miler with a 2 mile hill...yippee, I love hills! Thanksgiving morning couldn't be more fun than with the crazy folks from Oregon East Running Club and the huge turnout in Berwick to support the 1200 plus runners. I can't wait...it's my favorite!

Joined FFEST Today

2009-09-22T22:42:00.001-04:00

FFEST is Facebook Fans on Etsy. There is so much action going on in the group that I am having a hard time turning this thing off to go to bed!

Spotlight on Autumn Adornments..you and your home!

2009-09-21T22:45:00.004-04:00

Finally got around to putting together a spotlight on some Etsy favorites...

ArtFire Kiosk for Facebook

2009-09-10T21:55:00.002-04:00

ArtFire made it too tempting...the new kiosk for Facebook that is. I am totally excited about the new features added by ArtFire! This year I have been spending time working on my website, learning about social networking, blogging and handmade marketplaces. Originally, I went with Etsy because it's established. Last week with the introduction of the kiosk it was apparent, that Etsy has some competition with new and very practical applications for online sellers like me. So, although I don't want to spread too thin... I had to dive in to explore.
It will be hard to keep myself from working on my online shop tomorrow. The to do list for Wild Winds this weekend is still quite long. Plus, there are a couple of orders to take care of before I head out of Dodge??? Discipline......hope I can dig some up :)

Thank You to Studio Hands

2009-08-19T10:38:00.006-04:00

With school starting up again, it makes me think about how lucky I have been to have had such great studio help! I want to thank my awesome crew before they head off to hit the books.

Alicia Miller has been in the studio learning the jewelry trade for five years now. She is about to start her sophomore year in college.She keeps me in line and does not hesitate to tell me what my next priority will be. She manages to always have something new on her wish list and has amassed quite a collection!

Corey Tilburg has been with me for four years and will be a freshman in college. He is a talented artist who can draw, sculpt and create amazing things. He has spent time designing his own pieces for the special people in his life. He and I share a love for the asymmetrical and the unusual!

Spending time with both Alicia and Corey has brought me so much pleasure. I have enjoyed watching them learn new techniques and claim their favorite tools. They are willing to tackle any task from piercing earring cards to sanding clay beads to stringing endless seed bead chains. I am grateful for their work and their company. Hopefully, the skills they have learned will be put to use in the future. Jewelry making is a great way for a college kid to make gifts for family and friends!

Thank you Alicia & Corey!

Eye Candy for the Ears

2009-07-30T22:41:00.005-04:00

It took several hours to arrange, shoot, upload, and post the listings for the 20 colors of these basics! Interchangeables are my bread and butter and require a lot of attention to keep in stock. These little round beads may not look like much one at a time, but when I mix and cut and roll out each one it adds up :)
Levers are done. Next are the separate listings for all the bead charm colors. How do I communicate that the bead charms are all made to mix and match with any interchangeable style? In person it's easy. I can demo all day at a show or at my holiday kiosk. Once I pull out trays of bead charms it all makes sense.
After I get these done, I can do all the hoops.
Maybe I will get to some gold before the snow falls?

Interchangeables Contest

2009-07-28T13:12:00.010-04:00

The "interchangeable" earring series needs a new name! For most of my 16 years I have made vaious interchangeable designs, but have never figured out exactly what to call them?

I am looking for ideas to let people know that the earrings can be worn solo as just plain silver or...they can add bead(s) to mix and match. Something short, to the point and calls for action :)
Any ideas?

If your idea is chosen, I will give you your choice of earring style and a set of beads! Be sure to include your email with your comment.
Entries must be submitted by August 31, 2009.

Want to see more styles for inspiration? www.julesartwear.etsy.com

Glass Attic

2009-07-23T11:08:00.003-04:00

Ever get lost in good ideas? Overwhelmed by tips and techniques? Polymer clay has so many possibilities. Glass Attic is one of those sites where you can swim in a pool of knowledge. Want to know specifics about how to mix a certain color, tricks for sanding or what glues to use, this place covers it.

http://www.glassattic.com/

Etsy Showcase #2

2009-07-17T08:45:00.004-04:00

This is the second of the two showcases I booked on Etsy. Let's see how this one does...

Website Renovation

2009-07-16T10:18:00.007-04:00

Although I have been doing some "house cleaning" on my site, it is need of a major renovation! I would love some input on this. Let me know your thoughts...

www.julesartwear.com

Etsy Showcase

2009-07-14T18:36:00.003-04:00

This is my first try at an Etsy Showcase. So far it has had only 21 views. I think I will try a little bit of everything I am learning to see what works. This one is doubtful...

Polymer Clay Tutor

2009-07-14T15:34:00.002-04:00

After so many years of playing with clay, there is always something new to learn. I stumbled upon a pretty thorough blog today with lots of great tips.

http://www.beadsandbeading.com/blog/

People's Choice

2009-07-14T08:14:00.004-04:00

Savannah and Ildi at People's Choice.

Etsy Front Page 7/8/09 Weezawear

2009-07-08T16:13:00.001-04:00

Etsy Front Page 7/8/09 Weezawear
Originally uploaded by Etsy Front Pagers

Thank you to Weezawear for including my Wedgewood Pendant in your treasury. It made it to the front page of Etsy this morning! All featured items are from Handmade in PA artisans.

2009-07-02T00:57:00.002-04:00

Dotted metallic beads covered the work table today.

Etsy Education

2009-07-02T00:52:00.002-04:00

Today's lessons on Etsy helped to expedite the listings I posted tonight. EtsyHack for Firefox has a great feature to copy listings so each one doesn't have to be created from scratch!

2009-06-30T21:19:00.004-04:00

Life is so good at my house..my girl is home from California and my son is working hard and cooking up a storm! People's Choice is coming up fast and I am in high gear making beads and playing with new designs.
Today I spent a lot of time doing research on my facebook and etsy sights. It's been interesting and I feel almost obsessed with learning how these sites work. It's fascinating...for me anyway. My facebook page reached 100 fans today so it finally qualified for a personalized url. Yeah!!
http://www.facebook.com/JulesArtwear
And...I had to try an ad. Today is day one of my first ad running. Hopefully it will get some clicks??
It's been great seeing so many etsy shops and facebook pages with great handmade goods. Keeps me motivated and wanting to start shopping for Christmas.

Up and Running

2009-06-18T08:11:00.002-04:00

The new laptop is up and running. After upoading over 7000 photos, I am ready to start taking more. Trying to come up with a new design for my website. Plain and simple is my goal, but coming up with an attractive and inviting background has me totally frustrated.

Whirlwind

2009-06-08T17:34:00.002-04:00

After my hard drive crashed things went into panic mode. I have all kinds of ideas and work to do before my Open Studio ~ Home Show this Saturday and now it's all been pushed back. Thanks to Savannah today, we managed to get postcards mailed out before the office closed. Emails were sent out, facebook event updated...now to clean my studio and set everything up.

Still working on a wedding for Friday pick up. Five colors for nine bridesmaids, plus mother of the bride!

Dance recital weekend has been crazy. Five hours of rehearsal had to be a record! The show was awesome and watching Savannah dance is worth all of it !!

Relaxing Weekend

2009-05-31T19:10:00.006-04:00

It's been a relaxing weekend. This is the first after five shows in a row. Savannah had a lovely evening at the prom with David. She was beautiful !
I just couldn't stay away from work all together, so I finally got around to posting a bunch of bead charms on Etsy. I don't think I will ever get all of that done...so many ear wire styles to shoot and post still.
Ah well, kids are home and all is well. Life is definitely good !

Day off from the work bench.

2009-05-29T18:00:00.003-04:00

Today turned out to be a blissful day away from the work bench. With open finals, I got to hang with my girl this afternoon. Even managed a nap on the couch.

The evening started with teaching Ian how to trim the hedges. We got the front beds done and had a good time ... weather is beautiful. He promises to tackle the back beds in the morning. All this for a tank of gas !

Tomorrow is prom, so it's time to paint toenails...

2009-05-28T14:28:00.002-04:00

Earthy cluster on rustic copper hoops. Posted three items on Etsy today.

Rings

2009-05-27T17:03:00.002-04:00

More rings today... Wish I could make the make them faster!!

Regroup

2009-05-27T10:08:00.002-04:00

Today is the day to clean up. Unload the van, reset the studio and straighten up the house a bit. Gotta love my Pandora.. The Gourds...Wilco...Robert Earl Keen...Steve Earle...what's next?? Music for every mood down a fresh path ! www.pandora.com

Metallics & Texture

2009-05-23T15:04:00.011-04:00

Texture! I love making great colors and playing with texture. It's always been about the simple stuff. My style has always been casual, simple and maybe a little funky from time to time.
When it came to fancy glittery jewelry for my daughter's prom, I just couldn't do it. Sparkling and glitz are not in my vocabulary.
Etsy Listing Purple
Etsy Listing Blue

Etsy Listings

2009-05-23T14:21:00.009-04:00

Working on getting a few more items listed on Etsy this week. Some of the metallics with copper and sterling tags are my next project for posting.

Etsy Listing

Open Studio Event!

2009-05-22T10:20:00.001-04:00

Ordered postcards for my Open Studio Event June 13th. Now I need to work on more of my new designs. After Boalsburg this Monday, I can get more posted on Etsy too and start gutting my website ... again!!

Etsy Listing

http://www.julesartwear.etsy.com/

http://www.julesartwear.com/

New Silver

2009-05-21T12:48:00.000-04:00

Working on pics of new silver pieces. I am excited about new designs and am anxious to go through my show season to see how my long time regulars react!
Latest posting on Etsy http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25357665

So much to learn

2009-05-20T23:46:00.000-04:00

It seems 2009 has my curiosity on edge. So much to learn. It's been 16 years and I still am loving my job. Time to give my head some rest to start fresh tomorrow. Working on website, etsy shop and learning this blogging thing...