Lisa's Kitchen Sink

Maeve Elizabeth has ARRIVED

2012-02-01T11:31:00.000-08:00

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.

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.

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...

2011 Teaching Calendar, February-June

2011-02-16T11:02:00.000-08:00

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.

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.

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.

Baubles & Beads: Berkeley and San Rafael, CA Ongoing

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 current class offering and be sure to peruse great classes by other nationally known instructors: Joe Silvera, Steven James, Anat Silvera, Colin Mahler and many local artists.

Bead Fest Wire: King of Prussia, PA April 7th-10th, 2011

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. Click here for a quick link to all of my class offerings at this show.

Beads By Blanche: Bergenfield, NJ April 29th-May 1st 2011

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.

It will be a great weekend! Check out the details 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.

Bead & Button Show: Milwaukee, WI June 4th-12th, 2011

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.

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.

I'll be busy this week! 10 classes makes for a bead & jewelry workout!

One Night Stand

2010-11-09T09:39:00.000-08:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

And now for a little audience participation. What steps do you take protect yourself from injury while making jewelry? Please Comment.

Time Flies When We Aren't Even Looking

2010-10-12T13:17:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

My niece visited and we signed her up for a arc welding class at The Crucible 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.

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.

Bead & Button: Memory Lane

2010-04-12T09:54:00.000-07:00

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 I will be teaching a mere 11 of them. It is akin to a marathon of creativity and jewelry making!

When this show first began it went under the name 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.

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 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.

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.

I'd love to hear from the other side of the monitor. What are your favorite shows and why?

Alverda's Collar

2010-04-05T08:16:00.000-07:00

This is a story of finishing something I began before I knew what I was starting.

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.

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.

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.

A bit obsessively, I began crocheting wire with her crochet hooks.

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.

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.

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?

I love you Grandmother and I will think of you often and fondly. Maybe some day I will learn to sew.

Bead Fest Santa Fe Travel Notes

2010-03-23T16:07:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

I imagine a garden of forever blooming flowers and cacti. The bright colors against the rusted metal is captivating.

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.

Bead Fest Santa Fe

2010-03-08T14:31:00.000-08:00

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.
There is still room in some of the classes for last minute bead trip takers.

Textile Techniques in Wire Retreat

2010-01-08T10:22:00.000-08:00

I am excited to announce my new wire retreat which will be located in Kelseyville, CA at Perlz Beads & Yarn! 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.

February 26th, 27th, & 28th

Cost: $295.00

"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.

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.

Day 1: Weaving
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.

Day 2: Knitting
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.

Day 3: Crocheting
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.

Additional materials required.

Three Day Retreat

Kit Fee: $28

If you are interested in signing up for this retreat, contact Perlz Beads & Yarn for more information.

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!!

Someone Put Up a Brag Pole

2010-01-04T09:39:00.000-08:00

It's another first peek at something good inside. Lisa Niven Kelly's new book, Stamped Metal Jewelry 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.
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.
Ah, but look even the title of the book is stamped, nice touch.

Earrings, Bullets & Doilies, Oh My!!

2009-12-12T10:15:00.000-08:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Horray, my mom will be so proud!

2009-12-03T12:13:00.000-08:00

Just in, the Bead & Button Show 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.

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.

Call it what you will, just don't call it the garage!!

2009-11-19T10:36:00.000-08:00

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.

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.

So here goes... The Studio in Progress.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Metal Arts Association of Silicon Valley

2009-09-29T11:39:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

The Last Grandparent Standing

2009-09-21T09:24:00.001-07:00

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.

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.

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.

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.

The Computer Monster

2009-08-17T08:28:00.001-07:00

I 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. WORK 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.

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.

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.

Wire Hand Tools & Me

2009-07-23T09:43:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

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 at my local store. They are still my favorite for working wire that is 20g or heavier.

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.

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.

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 Wire Hand Tools!

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.

Studio Angel

2009-06-24T15:46:00.001-07:00

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.

Rest in Peace Franklin, I'll miss you keeping me company in the studio and only remember your good traits.

Although diabetes is not what brought him down, I owe a huge debt to the Feline Diabetes Message Board for their support during his illness.

A very short list of his nicknames included: Little Bear, Special Sauce, Lunch Box, Frank-n-Stuff, Frankenstein & Cranklin.

Etsy Finally Hits

2009-06-01T18:24:00.000-07:00

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.

I have just opened my Etsy store: LisasKitchenSink

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.

How to Start a Jewelry Journal

2009-05-10T14:49:00.000-07:00

If you haven't started your Jewelry Journal this post is here to get you started.

What is it about? 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.

Getting Started:
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.

10 Tasks to Get the Journal Going:

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? If you are new to design this task will help you discover your own design style and taste.

2. Write a list of all the jewelry techniques you know. Put stars by the ones you are really good at.

3. Make a list of techniques you want to learn.

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.

5. Make those earrings. If the design changes, write a note by the original drawing stating what changed and why.

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.)

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.

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.

9. Spend 1 hour cleaning up and sorting beads in search of inspiration.

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!

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?

Bead Away -LAS VEGAS

2009-03-30T12:40:00.000-07:00

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.

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.

The big question on everyone's mind now is...where will Bead Away be held next year?

Newest Work

2009-03-20T15:09:00.000-07:00

Oh 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......
The Leaf Cluster Pendant (small version)
...wait till you see the big one

Where do the designs come from?

2009-02-18T11:52:00.000-08:00

I have had several conversations lately with students regarding a general lack of design classes.
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.

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 Hooked On Wire . 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.

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:

Wire: cause I like a little friction in my life.
Silver metal: cause it is cheaper than 14K while gold and takes on a great patina.
Sterling warps: 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.
Fine Silver wefts: because a challenge is fine so long as I will win in the end (fine silver doesn't work harden as quickly as sterling)
Spirals and curls to end: because it is the easiest way to decoratively end a wire.
Blackened patina: because it shows the detail of frustration achieved while trying to weave wire.
Rubies: because I managed a bead store for 10 years and know my way around a good bead.
The title: Ionic Column Earrings because Emily Miller suggested it and she is a rock star when it comes to conjuring up a good name.

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.

Why do you do what you do and what influences drive you?

Simple Loop Making with LNK

2009-02-01T14:57:00.000-08:00

My 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 Beaducation demonstrating this technique. Enjoy.

Gosh, she is good. In fact here is Part 2.....

She offers several freebie videos on her website (see link above).

Free Tutorial: Wire Chain Stitch Choker

2009-01-26T09:20:00.000-08:00

Materials Needed
15ft 26g Fine silver wire
4-4.5mm crochet hook
4-6mm beads of mixed type and textures
2 cones w/ 8mm open ends
1 Sterling silver clasp
This is a loose version of a class I previously taught called Simple Wire Crochet. It uses basic chain-stitching techniques to connect beads into a flexible and bouncy chain. Work up several strands to make a great necklace that catches the light with every movement.
A little basic wirework technique goes a long way when finishing off the necklace clasp.

Making a Beaded Chain

1. String 12” of beads onto the wire.

2. Make a loop 4” from the end of the wire. (The hook should fit loosely inside the loop.) Secure the loop by wrapping the short wire around 2 times.

Hold the hook like a pencil in the dominant hand. The beaded wire is held in the non-dominant hand. Tension is maintained by feeding the wire over the index finder.

3. Push a bead up against the hook.

The chain is held with the thumb & middle finger of the non-dominant hand. This grip is used to pull the chain down as the crochet progresses.

4. Yarn Over (YO) Wrap the wire ar-ound the hook by bringing the hook under the wire from front to back. Turn the hook so that it points downward and catches the wire.

5. Pull the hook through the loop (lp) on the hook. This is the first chain stitch (ch st) made.
After the first completed chain stitch (ch st): push downward, against the bead, with the thumb & middle finger for leverage when pulling the hook through a loop.

1. Push a bead against the chain
2. YO
3. Pull hook through lp on hook
4. Repeat 1-3 until desired length

Finishing the Strands and Connecting the Clasp

Finish each strand by running the working wire through the final loop. Secure it by wrapping the wire several times around the last loop. These wraps will be hidden inside the cones. To learn more about how to make a simple loop check out Lisa Niven Kelly's website, Beaducation, to view a few free tutorials.

Attach several strands together by using cones to secure and hide the crochet wire ends.

1. Using 6” of 22g wire, make a loop and string the last loop of each strand onto it.
2. Secure the loop by wire wrapping it closed.
3. Cut the wire end flush.
4. String on the cone.
5. Make a wire wrapped loop, attaching the clasp before wrapping. Use a bead on the wire between the cone and the wrap to stabilize the cone.
6. Repeat the above steps to finish the second side.

The Lortone Tumbler and You

2008-11-17T18:50:00.000-08:00

In many of my classes we talk about how the tumbler is your friend till the end. It can be a big expense in the beginning but after a few uses you will wonder how you ever did without it.
Below is a video from Cool Tools (be sure to check out their other great videos). They were kind enough to make a video explaining how and why we tumble.

Enjoy

Non Profit anyone?

2008-11-03T11:54:00.000-08:00

I am lucky. My mom once said that things seem to always work out for me. If you are reading this blog at home in a heated house, on your own wifi-connected computer then you are lucky too. It's funny how easy it is to forget our own privileges and to respect the idea that these things must be shared in order to be maintained.

Four years ago I joined the board of directors of the Bead Society of Northern California. My original goal of becoming involved with the group was to be able to promote educational beading programs that did not require "turning a profit." Finally our bead society has been recognized as just that, a non-profit.

Over the next couple months I will be compiling a list of groups that need contributions, recognition or volunteer activities. Help me discover other programs that use beads to educate and sustain our communities and cultural diversity. Please comment below or email me any information of groups that you think need the word spread about their activities. I will do my best to share this information with all my students and fellow bead society members.

It all begins with us, check out Beads of Courage by clicking on the picture below.

Teaching Someone Else's Design

2008-10-07T09:35:00.000-07:00

I have a friend whose favorite pastime is to find my designs online being taught by past students. (Pls. note, I have given a few students written permission to do this.) Hmm, maybe she is not really my friend, as each new discovery sends my stomach into clenched frustration. So I ask:
Is it okay to teach a design you learned in class?

I often relate the situation of students teaching my designs to buying a handbag. You can buy a Coach bag at the store or you can buy one on the street for a lot less. Later when you get home, you may find the one you bought on the street has a label inside that spells Cooch instead (oh my gosh, I gotta make a bag tag that says that).

My designs are a pathway for me to teach my students the path of creativity. I begin with a wire and twelve attempts later come out with a new project. For me, the shining star of my classes is being able to convey to students how the design was born and how they can draw from their own experience to later create their own pathways and designs.

But alas, I have yet to be hired as the world leader of Because I Say So. Do you have thoughts on this? Please take some time to think about what your opinion is. Share it in a comment or keep it rumbling inside your head. If there was a clear answer here I'd quote it, but right now we are just throwing opinions.
Thanks,
Lisa

Upcoming Shows

2008-09-18T12:14:00.000-07:00

For 2009 I have introduced several new classes. Of course they all use wire and many of them even melt the said wire with a torch. Over the past year my work has shifted a bit to include more low-tech meltalsmithing. Fusing and melting wire has left me in a daze and I love to show it off any chance I get. Plus, hitting things with hammers feels good.

Shows for 2008-2009 include: (will update class links and other show dates as they become available)

Bead Fest: Santa Fe
March 14 & 15th Classes Include: Wire Bezel Wrap, 20 Minute Spiral Ring, The Hug Ring

Bead Away: Las Vegas, Baby
March 26-30th Classes include: Woven Wire Cuff, 20 Minute Spiral Ring, The Breakup Ring, Hug Ring

Bead Expo-Wire: King of Prussia, PA
May 1-3rd

Bead & Button: Milwaukee, WI
May 31- June 7th

Leaf Drop Earrings: These earrings are not only beautiful to behold but quick to make and the techniques can be used to create many different styles and components. At the top is a delicate woven wire cap designed to showcase the semi-precious stone beads below that are wrapped with fine wire to the inside of the frame.

The Hug Ring:
The marriage of fine silver metallurgy and wire weaving brings together the striking form of this ring. Students will learn how to draw a single bead made up of two wires with a torch, shape it into a ring form and apply woven wire embellishment. The variations of this technique are endless.

The Eclipse Chain:
(A fitting name as the first time I taught this class was during a Lunar eclipse.)

Designed for students who have already been introduced to fusing with fine silver, this chain design is sure to leave those who gaze upon it lost in wonder. The inner rings seem to float freely over one another while the individual texture of each ring catches the eye. Students will cut their own jump rings, review the basics of fusing, fuse a multi-layered chain and add texture to the wire itself.

The Breakup Ring aka What's in a Name

2008-08-27T21:01:00.000-07:00

I've struggled for many years trying to see art in the work that I do. Making jewelry is a lot like a woman chef or hairdresser, it can come naturally and who cares cause it's kinda expected of a girl anyway. Is it just because I like to make pretty things, is there anything deeper behind it? For those who work outside of the established art community it can take some time to discover that much of what we make says something whether we recognize it ourselves or not.

It hit me hardest in 2006. I got dumped. It wasn't like the ending relationship lasted long enough to devastate me, it was more an issue of not being the one to make that decision first. So I got out of bed the next day and went to the jeweler's bench (at the time it had replaced the table in the kitchen). In a single day, with no planned design I made The Breakup Ring and it kicked ass. It was one of those pieces you look at after you're done and get so excited cause you can't believe you just made that.

Since then I have begun to reflect more on each new piece and make a point to discover what brought out the design. (I could try and play it cool here and pretend that I know what I'm

doing when I'm doing it, but alas I'm a little slow in the obvious at times.) These days I find it is all in the name. When I teach a design, I have to title the piece. At times this can turn into a quiz for my friends/family; those who know me best are the ones who usually name it right if I can't.

What's next? don't I wish I knew. I do know it involves fire, let's hope this is a reflection of the fire glowing within. Art is after all messy work.

Something to look forward to: A photo shoot this weekend that will resonate the transitional qualities of human (read: my) relationships over several years in jewelry. Will post those pics soon.

Pretty Things

2008-08-20T10:06:00.000-07:00

The task of cleaning up the studio is taking longer than expected. One big shopping trip to Ikea, a set of curtains in the mail and hopefully a rug soon to be chosen will provide the atmosphere I think I need. While I wait for these things to come together, I take stock of the jewelry I admire most. Last year at the Puget Sound Bead Festival I ran into Kriss Silva and we traded one of my 20 Minute Spiral Rings for one of her Riveted Rock Band Rings. (I think I got the better end of the trade.) She is currently living the hard life in Hawaii and only teaches a few times a year on the mainland.

A Room of One's Own

2008-08-14T12:41:00.000-07:00

Once the dishes are done I can move on to the studio. After a summer of bead shows the space is filled with boxes and bags of wire and beads. Each pile representing hours of time absorbing bead sorting. I have decided that I can't work until I get these mountains down to a reasonable hill.

Several months ago two young girls attended my Fused Chain class at Baubles & Beads. The materials list included a quench cup. They brought vintage carnival glass bowls to use as a quench cup. I scoffed at this as I remember these bowls in my Great Grandmother's house, an item we look at but never touch. Weeks later, I found myself wishing I too was cool enough to use an antique glass bowl to quench my red hot rings. I made my way to the monthly Alameda Antique Show and bought myself a small lilac bowl with a gold foil rim and a lovely carved scroll design in the glass. I do believe my fusing has improved since the purchase of this lovely tool.

This week will focus on my studio space and how to make it more of a reflection of who I wish to be as an artist.

Why the sink?

2008-08-13T14:21:00.000-07:00

It all starts here. My home, my studio they are the same. I awake only to find a sink full of dishes, a stack of things left behind on the counter and general life mess standing before me and the work I should be doing. It is where I clean, patina, prepare and rinse all of the day's sustenance. It is what calls my name with procrastination priority when I should be making a sample or a handout. I feel as if when the dishes are done I can stand before the jewelry bench and create to my fullest ability. ...if only there wasn't laundry in the next room.