tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-35434287480404825522024-03-13T15:40:58.663-07:00Lisa's Kitchen SinkLisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.comBlogger34125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-9172657500932650702013-01-20T14:54:00.000-08:002013-01-20T14:54:39.529-08:0013 Months and Counting...Gosh it's been a long time since I posted on my blog. Motherhood has taken center stage and I am just loving it. It has been quite a struggle, balancing my professional life with my family life. I yearn to spend time in the studio alone, working up new designs; but I worry that this is at the expense of time spent with my daughter. Maybe I should change the name of my blog from Lisa's Kitchen Sink to Maeve's Diaper Pail. Speaking of, let's take a look at how that girl has grown:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqShyphenhyphen7HoL41erYuXahe4Fy1UJX2rqMjNuzHvIs5fmejpT6K0Q8gBE-tTu0TZ0A5AsDnrS0y-_-LSaiVwfgPdW-9JY4e98YNxI0XtQmPfEXKxfjhLpXNbK6qmE_UKmaxGt_BUwmCl24O7lS/s1600/DSCN1757_0019.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqShyphenhyphen7HoL41erYuXahe4Fy1UJX2rqMjNuzHvIs5fmejpT6K0Q8gBE-tTu0TZ0A5AsDnrS0y-_-LSaiVwfgPdW-9JY4e98YNxI0XtQmPfEXKxfjhLpXNbK6qmE_UKmaxGt_BUwmCl24O7lS/s320/DSCN1757_0019.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What can I say, the girl likes pearls</td></tr>
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We have passed the year marker and it is time to dip my toes back in the pool of creativity. Many of you may have noticed that I do not travel as much to teach classes. Currently I'm only teaching at my local store <a href="http://baublesandbeads.com/store/content/30/Classes/" target="_blank">Baubles & Beads</a> in Berkeley, CA and at <a href="http://search.beadandbuttonshowstore.com/beadandbuttonshow/default.aspx?searchtext=&mode=search" target="_blank">The (who could ever give it up) Bead & Button Show</a>. More info on my classes in the next posting. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://baublesandbeadsblog.com/2012/12/01/123/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEDS7eBRotr-nCHXClmFbfoRy75S_WxLawapfcG9VlC75fo84u6Hgl2hqdlAhiutXiOWetU5milUQsnnA9EP0riEB69m3bTOn1UKq_iRrbenUPezzBT3tPvmfc82hyzVo4ANWmiZX8xqMr/s320/finished.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://baublesandbeadsblog.com/2012/12/01/123/" target="_blank">Woven Chain Mesh Bracelet DIY Tutorial</a></td></tr>
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With a smaller teaching schedule I've had to get a "real job". I am currently the webmaster for Baubles & Beads. I have worked with this store for over 15 years now and I feel lucky to work with people I also call my friends. It feels good to be surrounded by beady people and things on a daily basis. I am responsible for their social media, which is funny, seeing as I can't even keep up with my own blog. The best part of writing their blog, <a href="http://baublesandbeadsblog.com/" target="_blank">BeadShopGirl</a>, is making up the DIY Tutorials. Click on the pics for links to the tutorials.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://baublesandbeadsblog.com/2012/12/27/diy-bead-studded-bangle/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiU2r2bKrAZpDn5xJAzaTaOVYPCr8iQT3E4ohT8dtzWuIPcrQc-fFsgEHfbEhHMz6ZrClffCbkfrZYmRE9LH2vbKf4_0GA1n6SOKUsmk4D5l_VUbzKsxrntvuhsXPUh0hRJnNMldp3oB9kV/s320/fin.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://baublesandbeadsblog.com/2012/12/27/diy-bead-studded-bangle/" target="_blank">Bead Studded Bangle -DIY Tutorial</a></td></tr>
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As most of you know, everything changes when a baby is born. This is my new path. Watching the best thing that I ever made grow up, learning how to maintain who I am creatively, and figuring out how to lead this new life.<br />
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<span id="goog_1197449581"></span><span id="goog_1197449582"></span><br />Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-1122798172983042042012-02-01T11:31:00.000-08:002012-02-01T11:31:06.334-08:00Maeve Elizabeth has ARRIVED<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBXBLbzEni9uOyeBt2lPPnRMkA7tlIgswwbfSCNTzUdYRzQK52cwqrEEQTn956srAUHYARt9j5HtCRuk5__RHiciLC0bSd_DaoImiwQxp6DOHM1FiUPmrl5U2RyOZ1qolRKc-rsN1G5Wy/s1600/IMAG0333.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvBXBLbzEni9uOyeBt2lPPnRMkA7tlIgswwbfSCNTzUdYRzQK52cwqrEEQTn956srAUHYARt9j5HtCRuk5__RHiciLC0bSd_DaoImiwQxp6DOHM1FiUPmrl5U2RyOZ1qolRKc-rsN1G5Wy/s400/IMAG0333.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>What a difference a year makes! On December 1st my partner and I were blessed with the birth of Maeve Elizabeth. Weighing in at 9lbs 2 oz she made a statement from the beginning. </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
I will admit the pregnancy and birth overshadowed everything in my life including my jewelry. Early into the pregnancy my eyesight changed and objects up close became blurred. At night my knuckles swelled up and felt like I imagine my grandmother's felt everyday due to her arthritis. Oh, how youth escapes us so fast. And then this glorious moment happens when everything you have been waiting for arrives and she is so small and so sweet and the aches and pains of pregnancy seem well worth the sacrifice. My most beautiful creation.</div><br />
2012 brings about many changes. I have had to cut back on traveling and will only be teaching at the Bead and Button show this year. My family lives near Milwaukee and Maeve will be coming along for a wild ride of beads and extended family. Maybe you will meet her there...Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-79999895218575891092011-02-16T11:02:00.000-08:002011-02-16T11:40:10.340-08:002011 Teaching Calendar, February-June<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA-qgDWVfN9X9qtq5N2Equtk5CXTnryttLL2FK0fVUxQMLhS8Yn4rEE8CbR77G1tNOCWjEacjRVMIXPxVcYyQCXTxiTxE3RPcRJHN59QncODeX9p3qd9_0RwFzGfSto-Zts6y2dLi876J0/s1600/daffodil.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA-qgDWVfN9X9qtq5N2Equtk5CXTnryttLL2FK0fVUxQMLhS8Yn4rEE8CbR77G1tNOCWjEacjRVMIXPxVcYyQCXTxiTxE3RPcRJHN59QncODeX9p3qd9_0RwFzGfSto-Zts6y2dLi876J0/s1600/daffodil.jpg" /></a>Spring has sprung!! Today marked the change. A little bit of hail and rain with the sun shining bright. I look out my kitchen window and there is a rainbow, wait a second, it's a double rainbow! I will take this as a sign that my annual winter creativity slump is on the upswing.<br />
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I walk outside to my studio and there is the first daffodil of the season standing tall. Upon closer inspection I notice many little tulips beginning to push through the soil. I'm so excited, my bulb planting project from the fall is beginning to pay off. There are nearly 40 freesia now standing at least 5 inches. I can't wait for that sweet scent to greet me every time I walk outside.<br />
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Now I can look forward to a year of blooms. It will be a busy year. From Bead Fest to Bead & Button to Wire Masters and a guest appearance at a New Jersey bead store near you. Take a peek at my class line up and see if what you have been waiting for is here.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><span style="color: lime;">Baubles & Beads: Berkeley and San Rafael, CA Ongoing</span> </b></span><br />
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<a href="http://baublesandbeads.com/store/" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="128" src="http://baublesandbeads.com/store_images/Website_Header_Left.gif" width="200" /></a>I am so lucky to have a local bead store that offers a full range of classes and products. This is my home turf where all my new classes debut and where the smaller class sizes allow me to delve deeper into each technique and how we can take it a step beyond. If you visit the San Francisco Bay Area be sure to check out their current class listing, it is ever changing and always moving forward. Take a look at my <a href="http://baublesandbeads.com/store/search.asp?keyword=Lisa%20Claxton">current class offering</a> and be sure to peruse great classes by other nationally known instructors: Joe Silvera, Steven James, Anat Silvera, Colin Mahler and many local artists.<br />
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<div style="color: lime;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Bead Fest Wire: King of Prussia, PA April 7th-10th, 2011</b></span></div><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbnALZrIQuHmVgEuWR7VwTpBo8bA5gr0wGlNndiY_NJmzg5bmDG81s4OOi3JfOJU8avlfIIMM9sRy31e9s8D68q6KW_pB5wHrY2Ui9iba7eFtCqc_Pw6Si-iEZ6DwcgiG6fguem_zzloLN/s1600/3107t.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbnALZrIQuHmVgEuWR7VwTpBo8bA5gr0wGlNndiY_NJmzg5bmDG81s4OOi3JfOJU8avlfIIMM9sRy31e9s8D68q6KW_pB5wHrY2Ui9iba7eFtCqc_Pw6Si-iEZ6DwcgiG6fguem_zzloLN/s1600/3107t.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisD47UR00-7Etb2QBQRrs_pmEWURDlurE4Bm9IVXgi3Pja8Alfw0jIKErHpWBqlcTU4U385YU95mJulBl5wUS7Jw_0dDmwAoJ5ZELSTNz3RBR87Brw_ir9aeOOzFEUnx1xK67zE7PWF34r/s1600/2207t.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisD47UR00-7Etb2QBQRrs_pmEWURDlurE4Bm9IVXgi3Pja8Alfw0jIKErHpWBqlcTU4U385YU95mJulBl5wUS7Jw_0dDmwAoJ5ZELSTNz3RBR87Brw_ir9aeOOzFEUnx1xK67zE7PWF34r/s1600/2207t.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyh4LJSXAzst5XAlULdBzLxxgLLtU5cOs4yggkXXbmmHXHiZ0I6IK1ip3yVM8A_NJvRdOf6Ry4Rr1JROep8Wwvt3kEG_UcDJqiOdNYyqtGo0y1pVyeJ1nNzzXGAIrfhZiZqGpXceVYVPsy/s1600/4307t.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyh4LJSXAzst5XAlULdBzLxxgLLtU5cOs4yggkXXbmmHXHiZ0I6IK1ip3yVM8A_NJvRdOf6Ry4Rr1JROep8Wwvt3kEG_UcDJqiOdNYyqtGo0y1pVyeJ1nNzzXGAIrfhZiZqGpXceVYVPsy/s1600/4307t.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRXgMkGeYJRkBEhjogiFEASgFkhVp6Uvcf2DTwbJpbYRCnlsfn1RhdEdRFC8XltECcSyJTNKsYtIvR_MWPnFtA0OesAQG3NIA6Za7sfzoTzaw6m1tMAt3iSKXAaWPTsYy-WT_Ocis_HTV1/s1600/2107t.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRXgMkGeYJRkBEhjogiFEASgFkhVp6Uvcf2DTwbJpbYRCnlsfn1RhdEdRFC8XltECcSyJTNKsYtIvR_MWPnFtA0OesAQG3NIA6Za7sfzoTzaw6m1tMAt3iSKXAaWPTsYy-WT_Ocis_HTV1/s1600/2107t.jpg" /></a><br />
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A little bit of wire...A little bit of metal makes for a great show! If you have never been to Bead Fest in PA you are in for a treat. King of Prussia touts itself as the East Coast premier shopping destination. If you still have energy to shop after all that bead buying and class taking, shop till you drop at the nearby mall. <a href="https://thriva.activenetwork.com/Reg4/Form.aspx?IDTD=3307593&RF=2910197&Cat=1702907760;CatOp=1703032102&Cat=1702907742;CatOp=1703032033&Cat=1702907745;CatOp=1703031912">Click here</a> for a quick link to all of my class offerings at this show.</div><br />
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</div><b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="color: lime;">Beads By Blanche: Bergenfield, NJ April 29th-May 1st 2011</span></span></b><br />
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<a href="http://www.beadsbyblanche.com/LisaCl2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="132" src="http://www.beadsbyblanche.com/LisaCl2.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.beadsbyblanche.com/LisaCl1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="187" src="http://www.beadsbyblanche.com/LisaCl1.jpg" width="200" /></a>I have long heard of this beadstore and its classes. I usually only teach at my local bead store and bead shows but when the invitation to teach at Beads By Blanche came around, how could I resist? Textile techniques in wire and a little metalsmith hammering to let off steam.<br />
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It will be a great weekend! <a href="http://www.beadsbyblanche.com/Workshops2.html">Check out the details</a> of the classes I will be offering and while you are there be sure to look at all the other classes this store has to offer.<br />
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</a></div><div style="color: lime;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Bead & Button Show: Milwaukee, WI June 4th-12th, 2011</b></span></div><br />
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When you think of the Bead & Button show, think dizzy thoughts of glitz beads piled row after row with the clink of 650 classes going on in the background. </div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">The energy at this show is amazing. In 2010 over 14,000 (yeah, look again at that number) attended the show. Milwaukee is close to where I grew up. For many years I finished the show with a stay a Grandma's house. I remember one year she saw an ad in The Kenosha News that featured one of my pieces. The memory of this warms my heart because Grandma was one of the few in my family never had a bad word to say about my wanting to grow up and make jewelry for a living. I will always think of her when I attend this show.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">I'll be busy this week! <a href="http://search.beadandbuttonshowstore.com/beadandbuttonshow/search.asp?mode=search&ins=T118">10 classes</a> makes for a bead & jewelry workout! </div><a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_20700648" rel="lytebox" title="B11248 Fused Fine-Silver Chains"><img alt="B11248 Fused Fine-Silver Chains" border="0" height="100" hspace="0" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_20894661" vspace="0" width="150" /></a><a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_22412212" rel="lytebox" title="B11249 Herringbone Weave Wire Wrapping"><img alt="B11249 Herringbone Weave Wire Wrapping" border="0" height="100" hspace="0" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_22602932" vspace="0" width="150" /></a><a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_70654466" rel="lytebox" title="B11254 Wire Flower Links"><img alt="B11254 Wire Flower Links" border="0" height="100" hspace="0" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_70858016" vspace="0" width="150" /></a><a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2141_9598133" rel="lytebox" title="B11252 Fundamentals in Wirework with Lisa Claxton"><img alt="B11252 Fundamentals in Wirework with Lisa Claxton" border="0" height="100" hspace="0" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2141_9839783" vspace="0" width="150" /></a><a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_60632057" rel="lytebox" title="B11250 Fused Ball-Link Chain"><img alt="B11250 Fused Ball-Link Chain" border="0" height="100" hspace="0" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_60847540" vspace="0" width="150" /></a><a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_76193424" rel="lytebox" title="B11817 Crochet Wire Rosettes"><img alt="B11817 Crochet Wire Rosettes" border="0" height="100" hspace="0" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_76430412" vspace="0" width="150" /></a><a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_31467686" rel="lytebox" title="B11251 The Eclipse Chain"><img alt="B11251 The Eclipse Chain" border="0" height="100" hspace="0" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_31738174" vspace="0" width="150" /></a><a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_1758197" rel="lytebox" title="B11816 20-Minute Spiral Ring"><img alt="B11816 20-Minute Spiral Ring" border="0" height="100" hspace="0" src="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_1962317" vspace="0" width="150" /></a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_20700648" rel="lytebox" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="B11248 Fused Fine-Silver Chains"><br />
</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://ep.yimg.com/ca/I/beadandbuttonshow_2143_31467686" rel="lytebox" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="B11251 The Eclipse Chain"><br />
</a></div>Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-10588747232008847582010-11-09T09:39:00.000-08:002010-11-09T09:42:59.641-08:00One Night Stand<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDm-VpbnyxFCxDV_9AjnkBPklJfnIungCwj1zaMSau_g7WLxig0SVtduPj_jvWbq7dd3EzurdDfMY_lx9J_XXcelYBNosIu2nh5yqItcSh_3pVuIGErwxf3t6uKoYV3dcW6bzKmfu1c3u-/s1600/pearl+topaz2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDm-VpbnyxFCxDV_9AjnkBPklJfnIungCwj1zaMSau_g7WLxig0SVtduPj_jvWbq7dd3EzurdDfMY_lx9J_XXcelYBNosIu2nh5yqItcSh_3pVuIGErwxf3t6uKoYV3dcW6bzKmfu1c3u-/s200/pearl+topaz2.jpg" width="149" /></a>Last weekend I was invited to sell my jewelry at the Oakland Art Murmur with 16 other artists. For weeks I had agonized over making jewelry to sell. It doesn't usually work this way for me. The act of making jewelry for sale is stressful to say the least.<br />
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In the background I hear the ca-ching of of a cash register ringing as I add this little 30 cent ring here, make some ball-end headpins for dangle, 3 feet of chain at $6.45 a foot, oh my silver is at a 30 year high, let's spend 20 minutes on the bail top and another 30 minutes adding patina and then polishing it off.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJ3aBxsRM0fwOTkPiHvOI2H2J2XGLZzVx_6Uvh2MuZLIGe423Zm-pIG68dtJHt7AUkW9s6hdwkcdcUjZwe35xnZ_Kpl5VyE4xbMjyc8XzxhFf0K05vje85G7KSwq9IJLmE7Qd1i__KB6u/s1600/jasper+wrap+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="184" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFJ3aBxsRM0fwOTkPiHvOI2H2J2XGLZzVx_6Uvh2MuZLIGe423Zm-pIG68dtJHt7AUkW9s6hdwkcdcUjZwe35xnZ_Kpl5VyE4xbMjyc8XzxhFf0K05vje85G7KSwq9IJLmE7Qd1i__KB6u/s200/jasper+wrap+2.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuBFJsDeK4RCvwkijIVL7E96WftyLgEqPXOw9BPZq0dxAj_IpcclFXVTqfS9KR-XTZ-PaUnfUhAl3_-fgAHHIy1Y2Lt0jVB-xNkzLghPBBhzMNN7j8NOLqghzz0HdSOgY-bFg985Pc6Ki/s1600/eggs+leaf3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="195" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguuBFJsDeK4RCvwkijIVL7E96WftyLgEqPXOw9BPZq0dxAj_IpcclFXVTqfS9KR-XTZ-PaUnfUhAl3_-fgAHHIy1Y2Lt0jVB-xNkzLghPBBhzMNN7j8NOLqghzz0HdSOgY-bFg985Pc6Ki/s200/eggs+leaf3.jpg" width="200" /></a>I'm impressed with those who do this for a living. Ok, nightmare jewelry making fears set aside, it was time to come up with some new designs and not keep making the same 'ole stuff. So I set aside some time and started playing back and forth with finishing things I had already begun and trying to make something new.<br />
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Then two days before the show it hit me. Bird's nests. To be exact it was crochet wire bird's nests. Oh my, these little guys are so lovely and sweet. I made about a dozen in no time and was so proud that for once I made something that worked up fast and easy. Later that night I bit my tongue, as my wrist ached from working the wire into that cute little shape. So now I hear the ca-ching once again as I add the repetitive motion injury surcharge. Oh well, I never expected to pay the mortgage with birds nests anyhow.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje6iKZKUQZDQY7dV92VcW7xggHatmobVQRuScPVFHC8XEk7wCDFY6xYUbis1ZV1VN_MTFtyiX1nkCrg0Eri7_IzUmivxqAx8VgTjZTpdXx_HR2A4ku1F5tC7zLVw-E-81l17A2o0Bl1i6o/s1600/bird+nest+piece+.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="185" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEje6iKZKUQZDQY7dV92VcW7xggHatmobVQRuScPVFHC8XEk7wCDFY6xYUbis1ZV1VN_MTFtyiX1nkCrg0Eri7_IzUmivxqAx8VgTjZTpdXx_HR2A4ku1F5tC7zLVw-E-81l17A2o0Bl1i6o/s200/bird+nest+piece+.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
Oh yeah, I should mention, I sold one $45 necklace at the event but I did get to talk to several other wireworkers throughout the night.<br />
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<b>And now for a little audience participation. What steps do you take protect yourself from injury while making jewelry?</b> Please Comment.Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-4918993658856102010-10-12T13:17:00.000-07:002010-10-12T14:02:50.177-07:00Time Flies When We Aren't Even Looking<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfU3RQlhg5rODFXGSmhkHE1STbND_kYJtu6KcfbRQQSa-yGHY0kmQTl33oDCCcKORgkx6lvE0gy37L9Pw6jYdNE4fdjbMwlfsdTm9BfdrEaw-lPFNaFvpHhB7z1Yb7_lBCooZy06SMpuM/s1600/WallE.jpg"><img style="float: left; margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; cursor: pointer; width: 216px; height: 162px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGfU3RQlhg5rODFXGSmhkHE1STbND_kYJtu6KcfbRQQSa-yGHY0kmQTl33oDCCcKORgkx6lvE0gy37L9Pw6jYdNE4fdjbMwlfsdTm9BfdrEaw-lPFNaFvpHhB7z1Yb7_lBCooZy06SMpuM/s400/WallE.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527267794384195298" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0PQw0Xg1Jr5ACh1IyJMDG3wP_aer8VuZVEQO2rZeKuDEtk1Kv7hf-xEut0eSfuQp1aQeyj__Ej3nwJRIZJotmb1aDaYN2iwuBkck5hfsQkLrF99sPIEV3k2niwDIxNuI7AA6OXgSGm5I/s1600/tig+welding.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 252px; height: 177px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0PQw0Xg1Jr5ACh1IyJMDG3wP_aer8VuZVEQO2rZeKuDEtk1Kv7hf-xEut0eSfuQp1aQeyj__Ej3nwJRIZJotmb1aDaYN2iwuBkck5hfsQkLrF99sPIEV3k2niwDIxNuI7AA6OXgSGm5I/s320/tig+welding.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527266790948804738" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjr0PQw0Xg1Jr5ACh1IyJMDG3wP_aer8VuZVEQO2rZeKuDEtk1Kv7hf-xEut0eSfuQp1aQeyj__Ej3nwJRIZJotmb1aDaYN2iwuBkck5hfsQkLrF99sPIEV3k2niwDIxNuI7AA6OXgSGm5I/s1600/tig+welding.jpg"></a><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0GEWB8or5QBWLMmOZtBHYb53vpeFM_MSXauQIVci8QK9di7A2fnzQGxP2UhunR8DA3ip80ir_74THzCgm_X_ZdZth9IOXbtBgs4DuSRdg7nINyKQ0VEseIaYQq0oT42LWFb2DZOHfTTq/s1600/Crochet+Wire+Rosettestitle.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 254px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm0GEWB8or5QBWLMmOZtBHYb53vpeFM_MSXauQIVci8QK9di7A2fnzQGxP2UhunR8DA3ip80ir_74THzCgm_X_ZdZth9IOXbtBgs4DuSRdg7nINyKQ0VEseIaYQq0oT42LWFb2DZOHfTTq/s320/Crochet+Wire+Rosettestitle.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527259927429225266" border="0" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9vRfJWt7PzonrHyIgZKzQ-EppgTZ4Xe4VDjg8VqZtBPIEH0DJjeZupF5J4h8grae-E4xjtJ4tPfmRiB79CuXjMBFXBmXK27RT2oU46J7AL-hRlNpy5GLEub4sYDPAWMkyB9Z9duwbzN3C/s1600/HFused+Ball+Link+Chain.jpg"><img style="float: right; margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 281px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9vRfJWt7PzonrHyIgZKzQ-EppgTZ4Xe4VDjg8VqZtBPIEH0DJjeZupF5J4h8grae-E4xjtJ4tPfmRiB79CuXjMBFXBmXK27RT2oU46J7AL-hRlNpy5GLEub4sYDPAWMkyB9Z9duwbzN3C/s320/HFused+Ball+Link+Chain.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5527258663130588866" border="0" /></a>Oh my, it's October! Suddenly when the months turn to double digits it feels like the end. I have the desire to drink warm cider and curl on the couch with a blanket but it's 90 degrees today.<br /><br />The biggest question is what is happening in the studio. I admit, besides a few bead shows I took much of the summer to leisure about.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">My niece visited and we signed her up for a arc welding class at <a href="http://www.thecrucible.org/">The Crucible</a> in Oakland. They have a sweet setup there. She made a sculpture of Wall-E for the yard as a thank you. Then she recommended that I take a tig welding class as that's more my style. I took her advice and signed up. Man, I sucked. I made a flower for the yard and it took a lot of the instructor's help to get that far. Guess I'm not as refined a welder as I had hoped.<br /></div><br />I have been working though, little by little on my jewelry. Two of my newest classes include Fused Ball Link Chain (who doesn't love melting wire into balls) & Crochet Wire Rosettes. Both of these classes will be offered at my local store and Bead & Button in the summer of 2011. Yep, we are already working on 2011.<br /><div style="text-align: right;"><br /></div>Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-54733320353851398722010-04-12T09:54:00.000-07:002010-05-25T10:31:43.430-07:00Bead & Button: Memory Lane<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beadandbuttonshow.stores.yahoo.net/"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 94px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIChvdBiTsmaRNaO5QrMrjrsVlc4A3E7RqCptJSAIjelwSstS2EdYzGY69blvFFaZfMBQ24q9fpUgRO2d03teJOU8nT7svN_-_qu8c0J374v-AAJwDfDIS5esR8EDpjegJoF_tj2H9Zklk/s400/bandblogo2010.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459299460005683730" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beadandbuttonshow.stores.yahoo.net/b10555.html"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 146px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgz2FqsaFZDeKc2Qdihz2PPigjSSlysIDiTM-riFOQv_1yEcVNAMoflJxGum8QcDPnipIuyCl7yDCKJfJvqa1kEffmdGA_CHb2Nt9DPwGG3b3i5gE5xj318toWWc5rGL9mYPJt_PQXlFim5/s200/Claxton-EyesOnThePrizeBracelet.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459301247534996482" border="0" /></a>Yep, it is right around the corner!! The Bead & Button show is much like attending the Super Bowl of bead shows. With nearly 650 classes to chose from you can't go wrong. Of those 650 classes <a href="http://www.beadandbuttonshow.com/beadandbuttonshow/search.asp?mode=search&ins=T118">I will be teaching a mere 11 of them</a>. It is akin to a marathon of creativity and jewelry making!<br /><br />When this show first began it went under the name <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beadandbuttonshow.stores.yahoo.net/b10553.html"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 147px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfk1R7uPB5Sqmx0UWi4g6U-_j-9wSHj7nmichhTTc-hGpZ2jyytyILYaSO-52w-oIOgiGW996NS7SrkSatTxf-otn0gASxsEydi3cixhLD9fEBhbljkhR8_RVLMH3LNtGGoPIMm59U-Nba/s200/B09118.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459300962442334834" border="0" /></a>Embellishment and was first located in Texas. In those days I was a budding obsessive beader who dreamed that one day I would be able to attend. The chance came when the show changed its location to Sacramento, CA for one year.<br /><br />The day before the big show I went on a date. We ended up going to a nude beach (I was 20 something and a bit firmer) in Marin County. Lesson learned: wear waterproof<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beadandbuttonshow.stores.yahoo.net/b10552.html"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 190px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0MD8M9RTEo_yvcKowqTZWp36D65et5gFPkTUkMzlhT3p7nRqPPUUbJ815qOxpYhabe1VgE96stUzOueyt8K1blP870ddSqKyqerx1mFY13Ebi31EBbpnsk6Brtzm0AQiFiHKtswXVLzVd/s200/leafcluster.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459300596598218770" border="0" /></a> sun block at nude beaches when swimming. Needless to say, I burned my top half to a light shade of purple. But there was no way I would miss that show! The temperature in Sacramento during that weekend was a paltry 108F. I didn't know if the stars before my eyes were of excitement or heat stroke.<br /><br />I haven't missed a show since. These days the show is located in Milwaukee, WI. I am looking forward to this years show, busily making mental notes of what to bring and jewelry to wear.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://beadandbuttonshow.stores.yahoo.net/b10554.html"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 156px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0IDb1zaxRWTE6ZrVkYPwoFBN5MGqypOmKGSo9KSQiFS0eYGxPE-AlUT5RDCCzRrTrIRgaSfXGNNaAhNKH3DCwEZuMfEEeU9zjk3BnDXURBN-fBX3qoFJDdwe0TAj2DbfJflpvlPkZhEv2/s200/fused+chains.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5459300755835815570" border="0" /></a><br />I'd love to hear from the other side of the monitor. What are your favorite shows and why?Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-29953804329221217092010-04-05T08:16:00.000-07:002010-04-05T09:28:06.067-07:00Alverda's Collar<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 0);">This is a story of finishing something I began before I knew what I was starting.</span><br /><br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAkkYpFAVmqzzq-TI18qjRokgdPTqXFS6XQJnla1XTkyRkwFr2X1fDtsmOrXOr_xM6qqOG3gURxiQgKrwaN7r8sGneiJxNkwtJBxtczkdW6CztAZ5ZDkaqFQlMPDphHC3uzw0v8bN2NkP4/s1600/AlverdasCollarBLOG.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 306px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAkkYpFAVmqzzq-TI18qjRokgdPTqXFS6XQJnla1XTkyRkwFr2X1fDtsmOrXOr_xM6qqOG3gURxiQgKrwaN7r8sGneiJxNkwtJBxtczkdW6CztAZ5ZDkaqFQlMPDphHC3uzw0v8bN2NkP4/s400/AlverdasCollarBLOG.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456675489711595810" border="0" /></a></div>I admit there is quite a lot of laziness to my work. More often than not, the goal of my work is to complete enough structure that the piece can be worn and pose as jewelry. For those of you who are familiar with the blog you have heard this story before and finally it is coming to a close. Or so I believe at this moment.<br /><br />The crocheting began with my grandmother Alverda Moore's death in September 2009. Funny how we take something so crushing and remake it into something of a dream that glistens in the light. I think she would be very proud of this piece.<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwr9gGz1SbYiUYItJYsAUJw8lWuo_cL2cCNBk7xCMz_CK6Do4bhX3GGBBXzh9cxIb6MTGT-aIsm8KEBIdg9bENo41bGbpWfT3QRTQ8FuieJ4o4IdWrXqy7ZfU3vwqqGre3WYR0urj-74kp/s1600/PileofrosettesBLOG.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 361px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwr9gGz1SbYiUYItJYsAUJw8lWuo_cL2cCNBk7xCMz_CK6Do4bhX3GGBBXzh9cxIb6MTGT-aIsm8KEBIdg9bENo41bGbpWfT3QRTQ8FuieJ4o4IdWrXqy7ZfU3vwqqGre3WYR0urj-74kp/s400/PileofrosettesBLOG.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456681142891437986" border="0" /></a>After returning home from her funeral I found regret was deep inside me, as I am sure it is with all of us after losing someone we love. Why didn't I call more, why didn't I take more time to sit with her, why didn't I pay more attention. Why do I still resent her attempts to make me a calm girl who can cook, sew and serve her family well.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXEIqK36OpdS6SfJ03siyeXh3dbMlyUvv0ahHKVpAU3lLPBoqOV_ZRnDfy2fgtL8-Ghw7H9VhYMjS8mT-Xpvzk-lT36Dn9eiLmT6a_JfVr81NHVhauUuPpNxwbsrOlL2XoZJ0RJ40-a_u/s1600/meddallions+patina+black.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 310px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPXEIqK36OpdS6SfJ03siyeXh3dbMlyUvv0ahHKVpAU3lLPBoqOV_ZRnDfy2fgtL8-Ghw7H9VhYMjS8mT-Xpvzk-lT36Dn9eiLmT6a_JfVr81NHVhauUuPpNxwbsrOlL2XoZJ0RJ40-a_u/s320/meddallions+patina+black.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456682272716681266" border="0" /></a><br />A bit obsessively, I began crocheting wire with her crochet hooks.<br /></div>At first I did not intend to incorporate beads into this project. But as time passed, I noticed I was losing my focus and lifting many of the rosettes to complete other projects on the side. I began using beads as a means of claiming certain pieces to my grandmother project. Solidifying them in stone so to speak.<br /><br />After completing the rosettes I decided to patina the metal. This was a hard call, as polishing crocheted wire with beads is no easy task. But life tarnishes use all in the end to some degree so why not embrace what we know will come with or without us.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvpKvtFJJaNoRnE5ahuY5r81zDZSgY4q9Pcj2RTnO-sJ1MHKT2zl-_72MpdmHUUeJsFQVAUdtQMOmsO-kU2GobIAVQn6p0JWvDiw2JFy43jyYMXOtqjsGw4XrckwPqNq0CXjD5hZfg5C7E/s1600/layoutBLOG.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 396px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvpKvtFJJaNoRnE5ahuY5r81zDZSgY4q9Pcj2RTnO-sJ1MHKT2zl-_72MpdmHUUeJsFQVAUdtQMOmsO-kU2GobIAVQn6p0JWvDiw2JFy43jyYMXOtqjsGw4XrckwPqNq0CXjD5hZfg5C7E/s400/layoutBLOG.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456685609887149474" border="0" /></a>Over the course of creating this piece the layout changed about many, many times. My first intention was to keep it small but impressive all the same. Deciding when we are finished is one of the hardest choices we make. Letting this project come to a close is the end of a chapter I have spent nearly six months on. During the entire process I have felt that I was serving the memory of my grandmother, but what does it mean now that I have finished?<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFGP6jhSUyHytGfHhhTYLOCONosBr2lAs6vcGh7uVs0IBnOMkfGAKtCFdZGDeYNqiQVlYtfWB2cl-r1XV0qeuSUPtwZxNHPe4R84z3LFUZWZjXLjESZ75JbJuavxlsfxlZnxDPvObJoHBx/s1600/Alverdascollar+BLOG.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 389px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjFGP6jhSUyHytGfHhhTYLOCONosBr2lAs6vcGh7uVs0IBnOMkfGAKtCFdZGDeYNqiQVlYtfWB2cl-r1XV0qeuSUPtwZxNHPe4R84z3LFUZWZjXLjESZ75JbJuavxlsfxlZnxDPvObJoHBx/s400/Alverdascollar+BLOG.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5456686464544060754" border="0" /></a>I love you Grandmother and I will think of you often and fondly. Maybe some day I will learn to sew.Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-5657150183946053572010-03-23T16:07:00.000-07:002010-03-24T07:33:39.045-07:00Bead Fest Santa Fe Travel Notes<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv36VvQ7_W_Kz4cHl3bkS157rU_Z0SeiepbibmW9kYkMyeBx8rBeb0KN5z9SVucII7fwhggMOPG_1hHSvTAhsIreU5M6MKXhtjDrXiVbzCPjp-Jrnq32GnuxBV7y560bmNuuV1NP2GuCiL/s1600-h/DSC02794.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv36VvQ7_W_Kz4cHl3bkS157rU_Z0SeiepbibmW9kYkMyeBx8rBeb0KN5z9SVucII7fwhggMOPG_1hHSvTAhsIreU5M6MKXhtjDrXiVbzCPjp-Jrnq32GnuxBV7y560bmNuuV1NP2GuCiL/s200/DSC02794.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451971345022544034" border="0" /></a>Leaving Oakland I was disappointed that I would miss a weekend that boasted 80 degree weather. No worries, I’m heading to New Mexico! All was well until the drive from the Albuquerque airport to Santa Fe. About 1/2 hour from the Bead Fest location it started to snow. No big deal, just a dusting? My Converse shoes and me beg to differ as over 6” accumulated by Saturday morning. I complained but I do like inclement weather patterns.<br /><br />The classes were held at Ghost Ranch, several blocks from the main scene. At first I was disappointed by the off-site location. Then I beheld the large classroom with elbowroom and ample lighting. Hot coffee and tea awaited on the second day. The students were great and so many pieces were made that I didn’t get a chance to take pictures.<br /><br />Of special note: Fusing fine silver wire is a bit different at 7000 feet above sea level. I had no idea; it was a humbling demonstration of my master techniques.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_V1Ipipr0JpuQK6ON1xO0FvBkpg753RvWv-eSYzgdZ_pChX-l4ziP-Zzv3CXnoq3cIXdFBIH_tZKs-U62zB0sLGZtm1lo2hlyDmsylO8tBUszr8P_Xrlj7EOvgsrClJnuY-hmTt_LXzL/s1600-h/DSC02796.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 263px; height: 196px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhH_V1Ipipr0JpuQK6ON1xO0FvBkpg753RvWv-eSYzgdZ_pChX-l4ziP-Zzv3CXnoq3cIXdFBIH_tZKs-U62zB0sLGZtm1lo2hlyDmsylO8tBUszr8P_Xrlj7EOvgsrClJnuY-hmTt_LXzL/s200/DSC02796.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451972298979120722" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1F1MJBQxhhUGj75mIRF5dMXWOM9jH_9N5C4WDGiVEf-AQ5rO_5eaaY4mMEPNrbIn9qqmVbCk5jNpbKNzMpI_c2JWQsMVw-CL2sHOw9H2tP9wyp6rpY9DCmumdc2BIinqWzg0C28yGAWPj/s1600-h/DSC02798.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 257px; height: 192px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1F1MJBQxhhUGj75mIRF5dMXWOM9jH_9N5C4WDGiVEf-AQ5rO_5eaaY4mMEPNrbIn9qqmVbCk5jNpbKNzMpI_c2JWQsMVw-CL2sHOw9H2tP9wyp6rpY9DCmumdc2BIinqWzg0C28yGAWPj/s200/DSC02798.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451972839672211314" border="0" /></a><br />This year I decided Santa Fe was worth an extra day. On the way out of town we headed to Taos came upon a fantasy garden. There are some crazy things in the desert. I wanted to bring them all home with me but I was limited to my bead filled 49.9lb suitcases. So photos will have to remind me.<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRnqJWgMEUtB4DJDrl0QG02jql_Ft7F16HNRxLQ55VBYdrkumQwWI6THvyO1GPu9uatn6mbpi4P_d28D5ZLigErN1AkbhkR7uk48M8j6_5vbbOHGv_KmxJyRZ69fa9nYW_Ho48MzpGwOh/s1600-h/DSC02799.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 531px; height: 397px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirRnqJWgMEUtB4DJDrl0QG02jql_Ft7F16HNRxLQ55VBYdrkumQwWI6THvyO1GPu9uatn6mbpi4P_d28D5ZLigErN1AkbhkR7uk48M8j6_5vbbOHGv_KmxJyRZ69fa9nYW_Ho48MzpGwOh/s400/DSC02799.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5451973183624416082" border="0" /></a></div>I imagine a garden of forever blooming flowers and cacti. The bright colors against the rusted metal is captivating.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JihVAf0dbzEvcL3DILsNCcE7WCF70OO1uXQOb8leICtk-IWr5V4ha6w_NvabWfssa6wnTGeAFk53xj3-VYaaLONjzM1samb9ZBY_4ndPSDhGuLtqqbzDsfymCMZ-eg6PXYr1j_4hF8sk/s1600/DSC02800.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5JihVAf0dbzEvcL3DILsNCcE7WCF70OO1uXQOb8leICtk-IWr5V4ha6w_NvabWfssa6wnTGeAFk53xj3-VYaaLONjzM1samb9ZBY_4ndPSDhGuLtqqbzDsfymCMZ-eg6PXYr1j_4hF8sk/s320/DSC02800.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5452201084349099090" border="0" /></a><br />I brought home a few Mexican tiles to put along my fence in the back yard and some terra cotta for the lobelia. Coming home, I rested my weary traveling mind (read as grumpy, drinking a pint)out back on the patio. I love this space. Each day when I enter my studio I feel transported into a secret garden, observing new life by the day. I feel the need to log each bloom.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAL_5W9AHMQzEYPe21tOcljRdGA0dmYy53CBdi_qcQBQNb0kqSUGUyN9nMN7GjF6hzTPvlV6Hz_1UAPj7aQoItcIQvB8ZtImeC5-btfeKaOJ57S02lJIq13AApvNQc9pp4erfDERe4gF0A/s1600/DSC02819.JPG"><br /></a>Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-85033469416099531912010-03-08T14:31:00.000-08:002010-03-08T14:40:11.981-08:00Bead Fest Santa Fe<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.beadfest.com/beadfest/santafe.cfm"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 141px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKFaOAnrp7_Z-wAAMdy1hK8en3sRsDKdm0yvKm0L7SBJc8bXnZKsgpB8WGic3PpTZn_gTWz-uqrrRVwI3s2nJrgxd-aXDW7sR_gpj_XLvkph2w6o6nUWdgq1j4P-kYO2-JCGNoRLmeqCSI/s320/10SAFm.png" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5446395234565912738" border="0" /></a><br />Join the fun at Bead Fest Santa Fe March 18-21. Not only is this a great show with wonderful classes and loads of beads, Santa Fe is a bit of an art mecca. I must admit I tend to mix this trip with a bit of personal exploration.<br />There is still <a href="https://thriva.activenetwork.com/Reg4/%28S%28lrb4xi21dvhpcgakpotmsh45%29%29/Form.aspx?regkey=RpYOYPxE37%2beky8ByS4XhQ%3d%3d">room in some of the classes</a> for last minute bead trip takers.Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-47084912700701531912010-01-08T10:22:00.000-08:002010-01-08T10:46:29.689-08:00Textile Techniques in Wire RetreatI am excited to announce my new wire retreat which will be located in Kelseyville, CA at <a href="http://www.perlz.com/classes/w/Textiles-Techniques-in-Wire-Retreat-New/Beadwork/ID/198/details.asp#">Perlz Beads & Yarn</a>! This is a three day workshop that explores the possibilities of creating jewelry with knitting, crochet & weaving techniques using a medium that transforms the techniques into the sculptural.<br /><p><span class="bold">February 26th, 27th, & 28th</span></p><p><span style="color: rgb(204, 204, 204);" class="bold">Cost: $295.00</span> </p><p>"Join guest artist, Lisa Claxton, for three days of knitting, crocheting and weaving wire with beads into incredibly beautiful jewelry. This retreat combines 5 of Lisa’s best classes - including a brand new project - Spool Knitted Bracelet, Viking Knit Chain, Woven Wire Cuff, Simple Wire Crochet Bracelet and Crochet Medallion Bracelet.</p> <p>Since the beginning of civilization, textiles have been a fundamental part of human life and culture. Over time, the methods and materials used to produce textile works have expanded immensely but the basic function of textiles has remained the same.</p> <p><b><br /></b></p><p><b style="color: rgb(255, 204, 0);">Day 1: Weaving</b><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkCEtVwFONuZExtQ3gLr0S1FwVfNqtkMNXOci9uOkdGh0SZOw3A3uogUF8dcE2T3bfjYQcuz3M71X8rTMKaVq3Loh-LIzHLtLIkw-YCCcDm1j-IKpFEXxopSpm9wMNTJ2OBiRXzsOVdZP/s1600-h/Cat3_Img599-309x0.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 309px; height: 231px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDkCEtVwFONuZExtQ3gLr0S1FwVfNqtkMNXOci9uOkdGh0SZOw3A3uogUF8dcE2T3bfjYQcuz3M71X8rTMKaVq3Loh-LIzHLtLIkw-YCCcDm1j-IKpFEXxopSpm9wMNTJ2OBiRXzsOVdZP/s400/Cat3_Img599-309x0.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424437794619932610" border="0" /></a><br />We will begin our exploration of textile techniques with wire by creating a woven wire cuff. Students will learn technical aspects of structure building, coiling, weaving with wire and incorporating beads into the design.</p><p><br /></p> <p><b style="color: rgb(255, 204, 0);">Day 2: Knitting</b><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eKqtIJfePC8SQu_3ylqdQ3Rwk65ghI_YUPianCbzMj1bhKL76LAWlXXKb_XbTwFh_sFFjh8J2xkXIec-wQXser6WZF0cft4GBfmMhbrDUFpvtiElWighHLkRDhJzvPO4oWcldMSqcW7n/s1600-h/Cat3_Img597-600x0.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3eKqtIJfePC8SQu_3ylqdQ3Rwk65ghI_YUPianCbzMj1bhKL76LAWlXXKb_XbTwFh_sFFjh8J2xkXIec-wQXser6WZF0cft4GBfmMhbrDUFpvtiElWighHLkRDhJzvPO4oWcldMSqcW7n/s320/Cat3_Img597-600x0.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424439718224146322" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuzr3scUQZAHpWdgyozupBsnaEN31BO5iL-I3ol7wp0t8ads2FwCnF0C8fIlLqriftXNYJHyWeuF5DeWrPkVRS3vGkdZbV32Gv33fnreJ_CQmq3fCzM-YZurPJszSUUYiqnniJ8SV0CB2/s1600-h/Lisa-Claxton3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRuzr3scUQZAHpWdgyozupBsnaEN31BO5iL-I3ol7wp0t8ads2FwCnF0C8fIlLqriftXNYJHyWeuF5DeWrPkVRS3vGkdZbV32Gv33fnreJ_CQmq3fCzM-YZurPJszSUUYiqnniJ8SV0CB2/s320/Lisa-Claxton3.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424440089333995522" border="0" /></a><br />Traditional knitting techniques with needles do not always translate into wirework. For this reason a combination of techniques are used to reproduce a knitted pattern including spool knitting and hand knitting. Students will experience both techniques by first learning the function of a knitting spool and how to make a bead-laden bracelet with wire. Then we will take it one step further by learning how to hand knit the wire around a wooden dowel to create a tightly woven chain. Techniques include: knitting the wire, drawing down the chains both by hand and with the aid of a drawplate, and finishing techniques.</p><p><br /></p> <p><b style="color: rgb(255, 204, 0);">Day 3: Crocheting</b><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbYv82Tlamer2hbpuOMWNVJvxQuNvmLA296dxocV3W3EWwl00YiuKI5JGI7u9FN_JW9XcziebGSCmcQ3XQ6bYDVsTZErnuYHh5xtUNBhm_fLloACuKNuqR8VdynB3ZTuaRX1CTHKGYAaWC/s1600-h/Cat3_Img598-600x0.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 239px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbYv82Tlamer2hbpuOMWNVJvxQuNvmLA296dxocV3W3EWwl00YiuKI5JGI7u9FN_JW9XcziebGSCmcQ3XQ6bYDVsTZErnuYHh5xtUNBhm_fLloACuKNuqR8VdynB3ZTuaRX1CTHKGYAaWC/s320/Cat3_Img598-600x0.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424440339681864562" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikeUWZ6ofBMqkYEzoD1UvmDUmfvvVVhBWOS7JZfaty3ZoGwcSVo96E_cQFapzuadXu-ziB77Sp7TYk3JSuybNXrXqimy7IG9jVVD9lTM54OoytwPLD3lhR1sO4bbTWLFkNDZ7YV8moxucj/s1600-h/Lisa-Claxton4.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikeUWZ6ofBMqkYEzoD1UvmDUmfvvVVhBWOS7JZfaty3ZoGwcSVo96E_cQFapzuadXu-ziB77Sp7TYk3JSuybNXrXqimy7IG9jVVD9lTM54OoytwPLD3lhR1sO4bbTWLFkNDZ7YV8moxucj/s320/Lisa-Claxton4.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5424440500386132146" border="0" /></a><br />Fine, annealed wire can be used in almost every crochet application so long as steps are taken by the craftsperson to properly care for the wire while crocheting and mimic the looping technique of yarn. Students will be introduced to crocheting with wire by making a multi-strand bracelet that incorporates chain stitching with beads. This technique is then built upon by learning how to crochet in the round using both single and double crochet. Finishing techniques and consistency in tension are explained in detail.</p> <p>Additional materials required.</p> <p><span style="color: rgb(128, 0, 0);"><i>Three Day Retreat</i></span></p> <p><b>Kit Fee: $28</b></p><p><b style="color: rgb(255, 204, 0);">If you are interested in signing up for this retreat, contact <a href="http://www.perlz.com/classes/w/Textiles-Techniques-in-Wire-Retreat-New/Beadwork/ID/198/details.asp#">Perlz Beads & Yarn</a> for more information.</b><br /></p><p>Kelseyville, CA is located in a sleepy part of Northern California that will make you question whether small town livin' is right for you. With little to distract us from the task at hand our work over the three day period is sure to inspire obsession. Plus a nearby attraction is Clear Lake, which it turns out is not clear at all!!</p><p><br /></p>Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-27193048998314261482010-01-04T09:39:00.000-08:002010-01-04T09:45:40.710-08:00Someone Put Up a Brag Pole<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.interweavestore.com/Beading-Jewelry/Books/Stamped-Metal-Jewelry.html"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 378px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqbtE4VyOccGKYkF8y_K7WNZT_I5o3tsvJRE5QXwH91eXIT06JJ1DYiTThSJDK1UIelqiSKJm2GnEUqF6EAo3FaTjtPTP_62oI0f4oooc9ddSrZSoSehtNBfcS4VD9TuIw6_0MOLWK-nUW/s400/10BD05.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5422940928964244370" border="0" /></a>It's another first peek at something good inside. Lisa Niven Kelly's new book, <span style="font-style: italic;">Stamped Metal Jewelry</span> is about to be published. There was a little dance around the house in slippers and a robe while drinking coffee right after spotting my contribution in the upper left hand corner of the cover.<br />Thinking back to the time I made the earrings, I was very nervous about getting it perfect as possible as LNK is the Stamping Queen. I must have made about 5 or 6 before all the stamps came out even.<br />Ah, but look even the title of the book is stamped, nice touch.Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-80488580331940963442009-12-12T10:15:00.000-08:002009-12-15T13:47:48.244-08:00Earrings, Bullets & Doilies, Oh My!!<span style="font-size:85%;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_twXiXkeXaqkZ9Tp6hFhxZtswfN-DqG4Z0EkHdFZ9VjU7TP3ELDa4jnG8gHfxcXViCK91C4iHsAxNgQle_BqlPfjrMPV-DsMfnr7M-J6e-Pb4IhAV-EHkZ3ava0Mc8YKSB4-aJ6TZxBWU/s1600-h/imperial+jasper.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_twXiXkeXaqkZ9Tp6hFhxZtswfN-DqG4Z0EkHdFZ9VjU7TP3ELDa4jnG8gHfxcXViCK91C4iHsAxNgQle_BqlPfjrMPV-DsMfnr7M-J6e-Pb4IhAV-EHkZ3ava0Mc8YKSB4-aJ6TZxBWU/s400/imperial+jasper.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5410706220306418082" border="0" /></a></span><br />In 2003 a tornado hit my parents house. At the time, my mother had taken my father to a last hope cancer clinic in Mexico.<br /><br />The next day I flew down to Tennessee to help my sister reclaim my mother’s house, as we knew that Dad was coming home to die. They lived in a log home, so much of it was spared less the 20,000 gallons of water from the lake that replaced the roof. I spent the next week trolling through everything they owned cleaning up and clearing out.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQdXrAybhaffkz53zP1K654T05-RJyWVjC8mR1o4nxe5KFK0_TFEuuezChbLINrD-4X9zMuAwchMBaHgsEvXrebj_4cHaPN9DX-IVqJ_SZhV70-OI6L-RUFZ-2QFLppHSOCsOz-9hkFPVJ/s1600-h/garnet+snowflakel.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 298px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQdXrAybhaffkz53zP1K654T05-RJyWVjC8mR1o4nxe5KFK0_TFEuuezChbLINrD-4X9zMuAwchMBaHgsEvXrebj_4cHaPN9DX-IVqJ_SZhV70-OI6L-RUFZ-2QFLppHSOCsOz-9hkFPVJ/s320/garnet+snowflakel.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415497343570400338" border="0" /></a><br /><br />In time a pattern emerged. In every nook and cranny of all things small, little tokens of those who lived there became apparent. My father’s tokens were ammunition (remember urbanites, we are talking about a log cabin in Tennessee.) I don’t know what kind they were, all I saw were little bullets everywhere. My sister’s stamp was earrings. Not necessarily in pair form. Just a lonely earring, abandoned over the course of 15 years, tucked away for me to find. And my mother, little crochet doilies everywhere. She didn’t make them, but when you live in Tennessee they aren’t hard to come by.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihi0Ho-WYS18HOaY9KMNNQcHBpD_MF_7FhHMALE4sNIuIK9rteQTMQYRdcsaQKhusRA_owKaVUbKpjxZ-NILeVLTkVxuBCC1tIzgPPAiW52VtXpOJZ-dvC4954zlUBWWq7shNl5okF8046/s1600-h/snowflake+2.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 276px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihi0Ho-WYS18HOaY9KMNNQcHBpD_MF_7FhHMALE4sNIuIK9rteQTMQYRdcsaQKhusRA_owKaVUbKpjxZ-NILeVLTkVxuBCC1tIzgPPAiW52VtXpOJZ-dvC4954zlUBWWq7shNl5okF8046/s320/snowflake+2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5415493905399083730" border="0" /></a><br />Open a drawer, look in a teapot, on top of the bookcase, in the bathroom you will find a bullet, an earring and a doily, parts of my family.<br /><br />And now I’m stuck. Crocheting these little wire doilies that keep reminding me of that time. A time when everything was coming apart at the seams and comfort was found in the familiar signs of everything that annoys me about my family.Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-12369349025980204422009-12-03T12:13:00.000-08:002009-12-03T12:22:38.190-08:00Horray, my mom will be so proud!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqawsZz4h36heyq9Kz6k2IFpomSu7jhHgMVkmBu-VkFbZm5P7jSh2eDqXgXugCOWbXfjkui77IEfm1pVss4MNrZrNT_pjvKJOEDh2O5j28zCYYW2YJO1jQsv7GLSnB_O-ExXqWXys4SCa/s1600-h/B10Poster.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 262px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqawsZz4h36heyq9Kz6k2IFpomSu7jhHgMVkmBu-VkFbZm5P7jSh2eDqXgXugCOWbXfjkui77IEfm1pVss4MNrZrNT_pjvKJOEDh2O5j28zCYYW2YJO1jQsv7GLSnB_O-ExXqWXys4SCa/s400/B10Poster.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5411105994776204098" border="0" /></a><br />Just in, the Bead & Button Show <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKqawsZz4h36heyq9Kz6k2IFpomSu7jhHgMVkmBu-VkFbZm5P7jSh2eDqXgXugCOWbXfjkui77IEfm1pVss4MNrZrNT_pjvKJOEDh2O5j28zCYYW2YJO1jQsv7GLSnB_O-ExXqWXys4SCa/s1600-h/B10Poster.jpg"><span style="font-weight: bold;"></span></a>2010 just revealed their cover for the class catalog. I am humbled to jump up and down and point excitedly at my Leaf Cluster Pendant as the wire representative! Many thanks to Kirstyn Russell for learning how to photograph jewelry, who knew it was so different from landscape photography. Nothing feels as strange as having something you made on a poster or front cover. No biggie, except that I will need to print out 100 copies and distribute them to everyone I know.<br /><br />Now we just need to wait until they send out the catalog so that we can all drool all over their 600+ classes offered in a mere 7 day span.Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-19185210681380423102009-11-19T10:36:00.000-08:002009-11-19T11:37:01.836-08:00Call it what you will, just don't call it the garage!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOqz-IW9z0ZvcTyR5euE5rEnUZ-x8gHwrFE3bplQ2fHA-Y0gKKrWIht7DOWmN6qjjn_p9gZPmVid-ndLjKsig-tRDPd-CmrYCOHiPGGBgrmHEFlXZ64zb5vZBecQYj6VvemG5JKq_ZENg7/s1600/lisa+claxton+beadcabinet.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 288px; height: 384px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOqz-IW9z0ZvcTyR5euE5rEnUZ-x8gHwrFE3bplQ2fHA-Y0gKKrWIht7DOWmN6qjjn_p9gZPmVid-ndLjKsig-tRDPd-CmrYCOHiPGGBgrmHEFlXZ64zb5vZBecQYj6VvemG5JKq_ZENg7/s400/lisa+claxton+beadcabinet.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405891286875044194" border="0" /></a>I've been in my new house & studio for a month now. In the battle of time my house has been the winner so today I'm shifting gears. My new jewelry digs are alas, located in the one car garage. We just bought a duplex and our tenant has a garage beside mine. She uses her's as her Letterpress studio so I have high hopes that we get positive creative juices flowing between our walls.<br /><br />Today's project was to photograph the setup of the space. Ah, all projects have ulterior motives, mine was to create a reason to put things away and unpack a bit more and take to take the garage out of the garage. After painting every room in the house I have elected to wait out some time before I paint the studio. A student of mine from San Rafael inspired me to express the mood I desire while working through paint. Another day another project, I'm still young. <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVq56zI_vxpUD2xezibPLGHLP9nNQAFFeaMU6YzRGKhigDgf3yygGoM-VnvI73uT1DVWNDp7ZVL3zAnjI9mcrN_5OqLURIt18vJ42rW3dFwx5vdaeBxO_viFwiQh3XtciXOTtZaa-PJin/s1600/Vintageglassdrawer.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 294px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwVq56zI_vxpUD2xezibPLGHLP9nNQAFFeaMU6YzRGKhigDgf3yygGoM-VnvI73uT1DVWNDp7ZVL3zAnjI9mcrN_5OqLURIt18vJ42rW3dFwx5vdaeBxO_viFwiQh3XtciXOTtZaa-PJin/s400/Vintageglassdrawer.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405891634732180738" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: right;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_Hsqn0Z37WMcyEXsxFeu6vo4lOVfMSxWXGwhi5UOHQQp6S9dPWCoZGZXn9RcnX7L0_7TQYFK_YOYf3F_roEbgOUvdetbOAN9eda2GgTjn7kE6scrwTU4sM0Ipyx0YTjYJvtZQ319P-njl/s1600/stonedrawer.jpg"><br /></a></div>So here goes... The Studio in Progress.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">My bead cabinet is my pride and joy. I purchased it about 10 years ago at an antique store for $500. (Worth every penny) There are 24 drawers that measure 18" x 36". Inside are all my single bead treasures, clasp collection and lovely things to touch and behold. Each drawer is removable from the cabinet so I can spread out.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6A50gxtaFwD-RcKsnF5_vvLDMR7hSYc3O9gd-4UcnFyYpmuj1cL7Far9uBem-1QVV2WI7PYCFL1nB4PFUh5FR4mTxtkELlKYr8qJ9YmCaVzZ9v00w3dJFFNnozRF8bArL0WpGARrcFmTc/s1600/ikea.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 288px; height: 252px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6A50gxtaFwD-RcKsnF5_vvLDMR7hSYc3O9gd-4UcnFyYpmuj1cL7Far9uBem-1QVV2WI7PYCFL1nB4PFUh5FR4mTxtkELlKYr8qJ9YmCaVzZ9v00w3dJFFNnozRF8bArL0WpGARrcFmTc/s400/ikea.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405893532843811426" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />Of course what thrifty beader could do without IKEA? Each of these cabinets and wooden boxes came from that lovely DIY place. The little drawers served me well in the move. I labeled each drawer as to what mess was inside and just packed up all those loose beads, findings, chain, hoo-haas that seem to pentrate every crack and crevice of a beaders life. From the photo you may think everything is nicely put away but every good wire worker knows that there is often a mess hidden behind the embellishment.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG10jA32-lBf2ShwLzpOk3rjXq5XAyl4e36HAuAK2935MXC1-UbOZInCPnbN4wGiLICKGNlEp4N69YM-AhAz9wgl6cYAh4DJtT-rfK0P8PIf2lG9PX8e43uWXMrQTKN4Gplams05HWnr-e/s1600/thebench.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 360px; height: 270px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjG10jA32-lBf2ShwLzpOk3rjXq5XAyl4e36HAuAK2935MXC1-UbOZInCPnbN4wGiLICKGNlEp4N69YM-AhAz9wgl6cYAh4DJtT-rfK0P8PIf2lG9PX8e43uWXMrQTKN4Gplams05HWnr-e/s400/thebench.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405894854253380306" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Then we have the jeweler's bench. I purchased this at Otto Frei years back for about $750. I LOVE my bench. I'll admit, a dining table works fine but there is something to be said about having a table top surface that no one else in the house would use. My tools love the bench too. Someday far, far, far away, when everything is organized, I will make a photo tour of all the tools that live inside it.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIQ9KN2kqHbdzutK_EiNMmzn9oSaTZvz6h5Gw6qIfOS6JM2xR2vlOMYUHM6B7r5_12iR34OYLYMwAbh8jw5z4p-j_PS02DZU2vTCFCOwmUiOXvylBOneTT41f6pywK59BPudrncTyMnZx/s1600/The+dark+side+of+the+studio.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 288px; height: 216px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIQ9KN2kqHbdzutK_EiNMmzn9oSaTZvz6h5Gw6qIfOS6JM2xR2vlOMYUHM6B7r5_12iR34OYLYMwAbh8jw5z4p-j_PS02DZU2vTCFCOwmUiOXvylBOneTT41f6pywK59BPudrncTyMnZx/s400/The+dark+side+of+the+studio.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405895835507286130" border="0" /></a><br /><br />And just like life, there is often a dark side. Behind all things cleared away and organized, I have a wall of boxes waiting for attention.<br /><br /><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></div>Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-69898786837210058872009-09-29T11:39:00.000-07:002009-09-29T12:02:51.728-07:00Metal Arts Association of Silicon Valley<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.maasv.org/"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 108px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNSavwtDFXwhD2YuPWhQtz1fNUYGHI8aztsuIAbixDtrs3_NMWDqe_SLGUhZcPiUup-0qAwLea9QvRmHPLTm2gD10glY15o1KO-LgvNWqzOG0IogpEI2zCXrxiDZmaEESJxuguzdS9Lmv8/s400/image002-2.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386966318252691282" border="0" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://maasv.org/index.html#upcoming_events"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 190px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdR9XaldC5uJvNtFTdTlMrR-B5ilGDCq9s0rO2m5s3Xvaz0SYnt0hsRagderQl7GLxBpQs0SDS-WwFUZfyMT3c6dujLWdDIRK9xdjxgN8m-zIDpIeLdG33fJFX6Aey1szHftaZinfLd3Ff/s400/image002.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386963077945861522" border="0" /></a>All these years I have lived in the Bay Area and only because of Maureen Delema did I find out about MAASV. I am so excited to see such a great local organization that I have posted a few pics from their website, click any pic and it will take you to the website.<br /><br /><br />My latest jewelry obsession these past couple weeks has been crocheting with wire. MAASV is offering a two day workshop with Arline Fisch on October 10-11th in San Jose. I have had a secret artist crush on her for many years. If you aren't familiar with her work get to the Google search bar right away.Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-61104060237701886072009-09-21T09:24:00.001-07:002009-09-21T10:00:18.150-07:00The Last Grandparent Standing<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg73avbjMvGXQc-ddd1ttGsAsqFiDRScnWz3ebgYmZ_zX1njHXOmF3EBbPky5skAz0Bssjcf5_MDRto-x3WTJWXiClU7ng8e722XDwe7GLR1cZInvNxU7DJ_gUg5YfX64NmTc7iarwHFI_/s1600-h/GMs+scissors.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 242px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg73avbjMvGXQc-ddd1ttGsAsqFiDRScnWz3ebgYmZ_zX1njHXOmF3EBbPky5skAz0Bssjcf5_MDRto-x3WTJWXiClU7ng8e722XDwe7GLR1cZInvNxU7DJ_gUg5YfX64NmTc7iarwHFI_/s320/GMs+scissors.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383959956060486002" border="0" /></a><br />Grandmother exhibited many talents, from gutting fish to knitting a knobbly sweater, all in a day's work. There are remnants of her exhibits around my home, minus the scaled fish. A quilt she made me in college, a denim apron with my nephews handprints painted on it (great for chemical patina protection), to a pillow that converts into a throw. When I was little girl I resented her encouragement to learn these finer female crafts. Outside was always more fun.<br /><br />Grandpa was a welder. By the time I was born his 4 car garage was a wonderland of greasy dark finger chopping tinker tools that provided no hope for a car seeking respite. Against Grandma's wishes us grandkid's loved to sneak a peek at the urinal in the back of the garage. It was a porcelain idol for men who knew tools and drank beer in the afternoon. When Grandpa would weld, the orange sparks would fan out but we didn’t dare look as our eyes might shrivel up as if we were looking into an eclipse.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7aVAPcEWQVH58DrRI39daFYH4Rlo8CwzBUeeMMwFpPw9i6imvJIlpypM0d0Y2L6snHNiTwyv-WW6XQ-CRHpMfQem7JgaKd4GLBuAaX6dNsB1ns0UmsYbQ5Iwf6003L_hbbna4Egl6xW-o/s1600-h/GMs+crochet+hooks.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7aVAPcEWQVH58DrRI39daFYH4Rlo8CwzBUeeMMwFpPw9i6imvJIlpypM0d0Y2L6snHNiTwyv-WW6XQ-CRHpMfQem7JgaKd4GLBuAaX6dNsB1ns0UmsYbQ5Iwf6003L_hbbna4Egl6xW-o/s320/GMs+crochet+hooks.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5383963435624439186" border="0" /></a>After the final funeral my heart went out to my grandmother and the activities that I refused her. I wonder if I told her that I can garden, knit and crochet, learned long after I set up my own home. I see her sewing machines, left now abandon, and wish I had had her teach me to sew. So I collected my inheritance from her studio. Her scissors, needles, crochet hooks, a pin cushion (because like a good woman she had three) and a collection of vintage German glass buttons I gave her many years ago that I am sure were a bit too fancy for her work.<br /><br />And now I stand on the other side of that life. That generation has passed and now my mother is the grandma and I am no longer the granddaughter. Grandpa, I'll see your metal with some wire and raise you a crochet hook from Grandmother and may I build a strong family fabric to bring it all together.Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-41165808973070875442009-08-17T08:28:00.001-07:002009-08-17T08:49:34.495-07:00The Computer MonsterI get quite a bit of flack at home for not posting often enough on my blog. After a bit of soul searching I recognize that I have lost direction in my work. Maybe it is that word alone that has misguided me. <span style="color: rgb(255, 255, 255);font-size:130%;" >WORK</span> It has been almost 2 years since I worked full time for someone else, so I must question why has my brain applied that dirty little word to my favorite thing: making jewelry.<br /><br />There is a new day dawning here. I am about to move (keep your fingers crossed that all goes well on this front) and I have decided to take the computer out of the studio (can you hear the record scratch in the background?). For me it's like I just said when I move I won't be taking the TV along.<br /><br />The hope here is that I can separate myself from the noise of tempting clicks to be had and refocus on the quiet inside that guides me to make and create and enjoy the activity that drives me most. While I'm at it I would also like to leave my big beader's butt in the studio whenever I leave. Hmm, it's gonna take a while to figure that one out.<br /><br /><object height="344" width="425"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/8CrySouTiQk&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/8CrySouTiQk&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="344" width="425"></embed></object>Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-14923622132491995922009-07-23T09:43:00.000-07:002009-08-04T17:08:00.358-07:00Wire Hand Tools & Me<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://greengirlstudios.com/"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH3HVSa79eJg1-JRMDOAVzFMlRffxO2GUrSV_wVJI7pCnTtagRJs_S6VWtiHLHSoBVZOjFhLse90YQGIy3WQg50QJp8ae8JxJZXPeLJJqUrLGYI1dLBH6VWmiQFNm_T3558tBha43KxGuI/s200/222laced-heart.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366259079528025186" border="0" /></a>I'm a tool junkie, I can admit it. I have so many tools in my drawer and each one has a special place in my heart (and hand). Writing about them is like taking a trip down the Lost & Forgotten Love Memory Trail.<br /><br />Take my roundnose pliers for instance. My first pair was bought in Boston at Beadworks when I was 20 yrs old. I worked at this beadstore for about a year and it was a slice of heaven for a new beader. The pliers are German with a red rubber coating on the handles. One may think I am fancy as my first pair were German pliers but alas, before this tool was welcomed into the fold I was using a serrated chainnose plier to make "triangles" on the top of my earrings. I still have both of those tools.<br /><br />Then came the German Ergonomic handles. At first sight I was excited by their sexy red and black striped handles, teasing me to hold them and spin then about inside a loop of wire. These I picked up about 9 years ago <a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibsktE4sIUOL_iTQxsWqoM97AAOkh9xY8WnztLfB_H5op782kjR-mngv3JubV40044wF7gnOd06cryAJGT5JQxl92P34zJSUYweuY8LX134kUgLIx7TpqH4wH85Eek3I21kKthxGU0GlT5/s1600-h/germanergorn.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 250px; height: 162px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibsktE4sIUOL_iTQxsWqoM97AAOkh9xY8WnztLfB_H5op782kjR-mngv3JubV40044wF7gnOd06cryAJGT5JQxl92P34zJSUYweuY8LX134kUgLIx7TpqH4wH85Eek3I21kKthxGU0GlT5/s400/germanergorn.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366261298406542610" border="0" /></a>at my local store. They are still my favorite for working wire that is 20g or heavier.<br /><br />Next came the Lindstroms. When you read Lindstrom think diamonds. This lovely tool features a light weight, cool-blue and black ergo handle with such fine tips on the jaws that wire wrapping with 28g wire is a miniature lovers dream. These are my babies, they are always in play for wires smaller than 20g.<br /><br />Of late I have developed a secret lust for a 1/2 round-1/2 chainnose plier. I know, I know it's not a "normal" tool but I just love how that chainnose jaw keeps me from dinging the outside of my loops on heavy gauge wire. Mock me if you will, this tool will one day be a hot ticket item.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2FoHavc4ME7ob-NAClsq6f7n7RKzY1Sq_TMk7P6qLjp6-MeLlsJuNrqAXu0QA-0AyVQeupuLQrrde1nYYRC_ZKpR92cNa0dKla-KbbltVGGGZQUBCKngTgD_Tm4rNro3KM5Jvj_aMsLE/s1600-h/lindstromrn.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 137px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJ2FoHavc4ME7ob-NAClsq6f7n7RKzY1Sq_TMk7P6qLjp6-MeLlsJuNrqAXu0QA-0AyVQeupuLQrrde1nYYRC_ZKpR92cNa0dKla-KbbltVGGGZQUBCKngTgD_Tm4rNro3KM5Jvj_aMsLE/s320/lindstromrn.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366260811729773362" border="0" /></a><br />But this is just a list of my roundnose; let us not forget the wire cutters, nylon-jaw flat nose and chainnose (with it's bent-nose cousin in tow.) Move aside files and hammers, this post is about <span style="font-style: italic;">Wire Hand Tools</span>!<br /><br />What kind of hand tools do you love and why? I'd love it if any reader would like to share your tool stories via comments.Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-51636798748676090952009-06-24T15:46:00.001-07:002009-06-24T18:36:57.363-07:00Studio Angel<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimGDJjEvryHqzPlcaHdfAlanxa7RAetk1GDWXRJJQaI_lCiFlMYXvpjZXHjErvpqsdYSa4dCVeVLucaAAX8y42Vy9VjU-CnUI8RLD_CHh9gHofkqnNfHjWtrVV4hzFbLPPGnYQZpi6LoSu/s1600-h/franks+tongue.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 160px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimGDJjEvryHqzPlcaHdfAlanxa7RAetk1GDWXRJJQaI_lCiFlMYXvpjZXHjErvpqsdYSa4dCVeVLucaAAX8y42Vy9VjU-CnUI8RLD_CHh9gHofkqnNfHjWtrVV4hzFbLPPGnYQZpi6LoSu/s200/franks+tongue.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5351030131248705538" /></a><br />Franklin was the most annoying studio cat ever! When he would hear the hiss of the torch it was like I was shaking food in a bowl. When I sat at my computer, there he was, trying to get his fat little body to fit between me and the desk. He had good taste too, forget the copper wire, sterling wire was where it was at. Oh, and French Bullion Wire is sooo much fun to stretch all over the house.<br /><br />Rest in Peace Franklin, I'll miss you keeping me company in the studio and only remember your good traits. <br /><br />Although diabetes is not what brought him down, I owe a huge debt to the <a href="http://felinediabetes.com/phorum5/">Feline Diabetes Message Board</a> for their support during his illness.<br /><br />A very short list of his nicknames included: Little Bear, Special Sauce, Lunch Box, Frank-n-Stuff, Frankenstein & Cranklin.Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-58104623935152769762009-06-01T18:24:00.000-07:002009-08-17T09:06:10.888-07:00Etsy Finally Hits<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTJvk9Idk6PHrsFBC9gvU0S5k3OO7MVDrABqG7Nh_z8i1UOJJBhk3sqXCveMdH5IwfV5-Ze8xrxvlWzA8sam6cZ-rrzXwK5-2-gyB9QDgId_4Pt7IayzkFX_WEewK7zI_UJ1rQVDF0TpvX/s1600-h/DSC02147.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 364px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTJvk9Idk6PHrsFBC9gvU0S5k3OO7MVDrABqG7Nh_z8i1UOJJBhk3sqXCveMdH5IwfV5-Ze8xrxvlWzA8sam6cZ-rrzXwK5-2-gyB9QDgId_4Pt7IayzkFX_WEewK7zI_UJ1rQVDF0TpvX/s400/DSC02147.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5370964567721833106" border="0" /></a><br />For all of you who have requested kits I have just opened my ETSY store. If the one you are looking for is not listed please feel free to contact me about availability. I am working to get as many online as I can.<br /><br />I have just opened my Etsy store: <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6849928">LisasKitchenSink</a><br /><br />On this site you will find my latest and greatest Kits. Over the next few weeks more kits will be added as requested. If you have suggestions of items you would like to see, drop me a line, feedback is greatly appreciated.Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-59072875735765762342009-05-10T14:49:00.000-07:002009-05-12T11:14:29.465-07:00How to Start a Jewelry Journal<span style="font-size:100%;">If you haven't started your Jewelry Journal this post is here to get you started.<br /><br /></span><span style="color: rgb(255, 153, 0);font-size:100%;" >What is it about?</span><span style="font-size:100%;"> This is not a "these beads make me feel funny" journal, well actually it might be depending on how into beads you are. More to the point it is a journal in which you chronical your likes and dislike, report (a later reminder) technical difficulties and sketch out future designs.<br /><br />Getting Started:</span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">Go pick yourself out a cute blank book that is so sweet that it will call your name to come and fill it with content. Procrastinators may chose to buy a simple design and then spend the next 3 months decorating the cover, as you will.<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(255, 204, 51);font-size:130%;" >10 Tasks to Get the Journal Going:</span></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br />1. Find 5 pictures of jewelry you admire and glue them in the book, do the same for 5 yucky pieces. Write a list of your likes and dislikes of each piece. What would you do better, different, or omit</span><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-size:100%;">? </span> If you are new to design this task will help you discover your own design style and taste.</span><br /><span style="font-size:100%;"><br />2. Write a list of <span style="font-style: italic;">all</span> the jewelry techniques you know. Put stars by the ones you are really good at.<br /><br />3. Make a list of techniques you want to learn.<br /></span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBpwaw6MT6fMxdSNmof7QbFVlkKbPTtloBbESdVFZnTE9RJUtANIPcDsRtC62fmjGlGOMXJH3zOyYGHT3IpXF8p12T1itljXcw0aAlSR6Zi6a-3OkfDiKtWhX6o2oTgO0Mioo1jEJpnuud/s1600-h/wire+sketch.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 74px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBpwaw6MT6fMxdSNmof7QbFVlkKbPTtloBbESdVFZnTE9RJUtANIPcDsRtC62fmjGlGOMXJH3zOyYGHT3IpXF8p12T1itljXcw0aAlSR6Zi6a-3OkfDiKtWhX6o2oTgO0Mioo1jEJpnuud/s200/wire+sketch.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5335000796223105858" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-size:100%;">4. Draw a picture of a pair of earrings. Remember this is your journal so it doesn't have to be a fine art drawing, in fact lets just say "sketch" a pair of earrings. Try to include details like a bead cap or the wraps of a wire wrap. Use colored pencils to show off your style.<br /><br />5. Make those earrings. If the design changes, write a note by the original drawing stating what changed and why.<br /><br />6. Write down five projects you want to make. These projects can be in the beginning stages, say something like "a bracelet with those sexy little faceted rubies I bought in India while I was searching for my guru." Or a necklace for my sister with a chunky pendant that takes away from that awful haircut she just got that I can't admit to her about. (This is just an example Beth, your haircut is fine.)<br /><br />7. Write a list of your material preferences. Do you like metal and which ones are your favorite and why? Do you love stones and which stones rock your boat? Are you a seed beader and why do you work with them? Try to relate some of your material preferences to aspects of your life. For example, I weave wire because it continues my childhood struggle of trying to make something beautiful out of cold hard reality. This task requires a proper atmosphere: light some candles, get a glass of wine, or put some heavy metal on the radio, whatever you need to get the words flowing.<br /><br />8. Find amongst your jewels the designs that you consider to be original. Write a few of them up in your journal. What inspired you, why did you use what you used, what would you do differently next time? Do this task every time you make something.<br /><br />9. Spend 1 hour cleaning up and sorting beads in search of inspiration.<br /><br />10. Repeat the previous steps until you don't have to think about it any more and the journal begins a life of its own. Enjoy!<br /><br />I'd love to hear comments on this. Do you already have a journal? Do you have any tips that may help others get it going?<br /></span><span style="font-size:100%;"><br /><br /><br /></span>Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-53984178505122081622009-03-30T12:40:00.000-07:002009-06-15T13:04:39.755-07:00Bead Away -LAS VEGAS<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0IQ32vVisAoBUZE82qx9T0BTPWdXBsVEUTQxolZIOFGbibqHKgNJsa48w-gdDLRjmHWl857lRXuTl2FpCNIxbdvIrC9Ap-yCr4IKRIMFe619ICZBFyRWPDoMIMcar1Cgdkmd8Sb9SNTt/s1600-h/Breakup+Ring+Las+Vegas.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 179px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiM0IQ32vVisAoBUZE82qx9T0BTPWdXBsVEUTQxolZIOFGbibqHKgNJsa48w-gdDLRjmHWl857lRXuTl2FpCNIxbdvIrC9Ap-yCr4IKRIMFe619ICZBFyRWPDoMIMcar1Cgdkmd8Sb9SNTt/s200/Breakup+Ring+Las+Vegas.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5347646464119954882" /></a><br />Gosh, the Las Vegas show was a whirlwind! I love the smaller venues for classes. This was my first year teaching for Bead Away. Scott and Wendy Remmers from La Brea Beadworks hosted the event. They put on a great selection of classes that included PMC, seedbeads, wire work and metalsmithing. The photo on the right is of a very talented student working away at her Breakup Ring.<br /><br />One of the things I love about traveling is visiting new places. Good thin this visit to Vegas was more about beads than gambling. I lost $40 on the slot machines in about a time span of about 20 minutes. Luckily, it was the last night of my stay so I needed to head back to the hotel to pack up.<br /><br />The big question on everyone's mind now is...where will Bead Away be held next year?Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-82999649487109975472009-03-20T15:09:00.000-07:002009-03-25T10:26:16.513-07:00Newest WorkOh it is sooo exciting when you make a new design. Back in the old days I would work something up in secret and as soon as it was completed I'd wear it to work. The benefit of working in a Bead Store was that everyone would notice what you made and appreciate the time it took to create, plus they understand how important it is to jump up and down and "ohhh & ahhh" it all. This is why it is important to have artistic friends. These days I have to admit that my cat isn't as impressed as I wish he would be. So instead I present to my blog my new work......<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 204, 0);"><span style="font-size:130%;">The Leaf Cluster Pendant</span> (small version)</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdSzmV5pPNfz15gvXoSwvhME-N7UHkwRlllW3o0NNDBX-g4xCo4r1t0IkhWZraYzST9n_nIh1w9-yGnEsCnNzrJZodUBFbEbEWKnXN7c2W7oZVjbyP_E5oOI-qA4KUR5ay0x8aUysyzLE/s1600-h/Leaf+Cluster+Pendant.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 285px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAdSzmV5pPNfz15gvXoSwvhME-N7UHkwRlllW3o0NNDBX-g4xCo4r1t0IkhWZraYzST9n_nIh1w9-yGnEsCnNzrJZodUBFbEbEWKnXN7c2W7oZVjbyP_E5oOI-qA4KUR5ay0x8aUysyzLE/s320/Leaf+Cluster+Pendant.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5315396759071556274" border="0" /></a><br />...wait till you see the big oneLisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-59302808739127067972009-02-18T11:52:00.000-08:002009-02-19T10:51:56.879-08:00Where do the designs come from?I have had se<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeQA1XNL3W5o4VHQ5wFaH4pMPHz8oZq4Z2pWylbf2bFpztyOrLqUCeWe_KqPypz4E9gmK9ODBt4cz8tHGdUh4evw8NQQvG80nCrmr84hTrDhUWp-YJVc73cONAUVhpG8LaZ8BqjX_6AlEm/s1600-h/howionic.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 183px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeQA1XNL3W5o4VHQ5wFaH4pMPHz8oZq4Z2pWylbf2bFpztyOrLqUCeWe_KqPypz4E9gmK9ODBt4cz8tHGdUh4evw8NQQvG80nCrmr84hTrDhUWp-YJVc73cONAUVhpG8LaZ8BqjX_6AlEm/s320/howionic.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304234814807120018" border="0" /></a>veral conversations lately with students regarding a general lack of design classes.<br />It brings to mind many questions. Why do I choose those beads: textures, colors and material. Why do I use fine silver wire, why do I weave or wrap or coil, is this a necklace or earring or bracelet and why exactly choose one over the other? There are so many details that go into a single project that a full description of why would take you through years of boring life details and preferences and a few professional decisions.<br /><br />On a particular day of procrastination I decided to organize all photos on my computer. In the process I found a sketch of an idea, the purpose of this post. For many years I have taught evening classes for <a href="http://www.hookedonwire.com/index.html">Hooked On Wire</a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipkvP02ZsdUWfWR-EwbNmMG0lETGGWZm1vRxKCKJfkrvJNLKE8kFdHr8khGKU6YhUmlxgr7No8k0BiIlPxYj2-NIBxUcrPdCAALfBGvcmCPs3ypEFpPZuEKgSEEGNUtC5EfZHp5la67RJc/s1600-h/ioniccolumnear300.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 210px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipkvP02ZsdUWfWR-EwbNmMG0lETGGWZm1vRxKCKJfkrvJNLKE8kFdHr8khGKU6YhUmlxgr7No8k0BiIlPxYj2-NIBxUcrPdCAALfBGvcmCPs3ypEFpPZuEKgSEEGNUtC5EfZHp5la67RJc/s320/ioniccolumnear300.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5304235727521919634" border="0" /></a>. Each year I try to come up with a new project for the retreat and each year I wait till the last minute. One particular year I was very bad and found myself sketching the day my idea was due. I sent it in for approval. Man, these ladies have faith as it was accepted.<br /><br />Now I had to make it. Things don't always work out like they are planned. After making a few pieces I discovered what worked best for the earrings. So let's pick it apart:<br /><br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Wire:</span> cause I like a little friction in my life.<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Silver metal:</span> cause it is cheaper than 14K while gold and takes on a great patina.<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Sterling warps:</span> because it is a hard enough metal that I know they will hold up to casual touchy, touchy that we all do with our earrings.<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Fine Silver wefts:</span> because a challenge is fine so long as I will win in the end (fine silver doesn't work harden as quickly as sterling)<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Spirals and curls to end:</span> because it is the easiest way to decoratively end a wire.<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Blackened patina:</span> because it shows the detail of frustration achieved while trying to weave wire.<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">Rubies:</span> because I managed a bead store for 10 years and know my way around a good bead.<br /><span style="color: rgb(51, 51, 255);">The title:</span> Ionic Column Earrings because Emily Miller suggested it and she is a rock star when it comes to conjuring up a good name.<br /><br />Every piece of jewelry that we make is a reflection of everything we have ever made, the materials that are available to us, the inspiration that drove us to make something in the first place and many other indeterminable factors that often elude us. Above is a design that for myself is rather straightforward, draw it out, work it up, add some beads. My best pieces allude me for many months, even year, and seem to fall out of my hands with surprise. <br /><br />Why do you do what you do and what influences drive you?Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3543428748040482552.post-48165249772665740712009-02-01T14:57:00.000-08:002009-02-25T09:36:02.954-08:00Simple Loop Making with LNKMy mom has been checking this blog of late. It come to mind that some people may be so new to wire that even a simple loop means agony. For those of you who need a refresher I now present you with a video by Lisa Niven Kelly of <a href="http://www.beaducation.com/">Beaducation</a> demonstrating this technique. Enjoy.<br /><br /><object height="364" width="445"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/2qjNzvE2-D8&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/2qjNzvE2-D8&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="364" width="445"></embed></object><br /><br />Gosh, she is good. In fact here is Part 2.....<br /><br /><object height="364" width="445"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/S5nFdMkGUTI&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/S5nFdMkGUTI&hl=en&fs=1&color1=0x234900&color2=0x4e9e00&border=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="364" width="445"></embed></object><br /><br />She offers several freebie videos on her website (see link above).Lisa Claxtonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15708238118119242927noreply@blogger.com0