Get your comment in on the Give-A-way thread - easy to find - check the right side for a direct link
I probably wont be able to get to the draw till late in the day - I have to take care of a family issue with my sister and then I'll be able to get back on line and pull all the names
So dont miss out - if you visit put your name in
Out of the Kiln
Got the 1st sheet out of the kiln
Fired it yesterday but had to wait for it to cool
Fired it yesterday but had to wait for it to cool
ready for engraving
A bit chilly to fire tonight so I'll wait - will take about 3 hours as I have to ramp up slowly the large sheet -
Dapped the toggle but didn't color it yet
I like the roundish feature better than flat and boring
not sure of the wire piece but I'll keep working on it
I have to find my colored inks and bring them back up to the studio (all the liquids were brought down in the fall so they would not freeze)
Working in the studio
In an effort not to do yard work I decided to see if I could spend some time in the studio
I started by making a new sheet of dichro to be fired for engraving - and got it into the kiln
(this shows face up but when fired its face down on the shelf )
Then I started cleaning my etching container and put in some new chemical and heated it up
cleaned some copper and did some stamping and got them into the ferric chloride
Yes that is a lot of copper ready for stamping
after etching - I let sit in some acetone and it makes it easier to take off the resist after etching
Nice deep etch and I used my disc cutter for the large hole and my hole punch for the small hole
( would have put in another but I didnt have any more packing tape - boy you dont realize what you should buy at end of season )
I'll probalby dap it a bit and put on some color (I'll do that tomorrow )
Started another dichro sheet to put into the kiln later (tomorrow probably)
Got my first sheet fired and its cooling
I set up my cricuit that I bought last year at end of season but never got around to trying out
I started by making a new sheet of dichro to be fired for engraving - and got it into the kiln
(this shows face up but when fired its face down on the shelf )Then I started cleaning my etching container and put in some new chemical and heated it up
cleaned some copper and did some stamping and got them into the ferric chloride
Yes that is a lot of copper ready for stamping
I use the staz on (which I only had a little left - so another thing I need to buy )
after etching - I let sit in some acetone and it makes it easier to take off the resist after etching 
Nice deep etch and I used my disc cutter for the large hole and my hole punch for the small hole 
( would have put in another but I didnt have any more packing tape - boy you dont realize what you should buy at end of season )
I did squares - possibly for bracelets but I wanted to try a toggle -
I'll probalby dap it a bit and put on some color (I'll do that tomorrow )
Started another dichro sheet to put into the kiln later (tomorrow probably)
Got my first sheet fired and its cooling
I set up my cricuit that I bought last year at end of season but never got around to trying out
pretty interesting
Not a bad day at the studio - I need to do some ceramics and some glass beads
2nd Zentangle Engraved Batch Finished
It eventually became a lovely day in the afternoon on Saturday - When I got home from my Archery and picking up my new Kitty (Murphy) I decided to go visit the studio
I already had them in the kiln ready to go but again the temps dip at night and didnt want any problems after firing that they cooled too fast
So on the kiln went and I cleaned my very stained sink (from copper etching) while they fired . I love the Lysol Toilet bowl cleaner ( The kind in the goose neck bottle) this stuff cleans anything - I use in the tub to get those stubborn stains out and it leaves it squeeky clean - I wish I had taken before and after pics as it was amazing. The brown stains on the plastic sink/tub I use in the studio is spotless - like new
Again a Fire Polish (about 1425) enough to smooth any rough edges and shine up the dichro and glass
This batch had the long pieces as well as the small pieces I wanted for other projects
I already had them in the kiln ready to go but again the temps dip at night and didnt want any problems after firing that they cooled too fast
So on the kiln went and I cleaned my very stained sink (from copper etching) while they fired . I love the Lysol Toilet bowl cleaner ( The kind in the goose neck bottle) this stuff cleans anything - I use in the tub to get those stubborn stains out and it leaves it squeeky clean - I wish I had taken before and after pics as it was amazing. The brown stains on the plastic sink/tub I use in the studio is spotless - like new
Again a Fire Polish (about 1425) enough to smooth any rough edges and shine up the dichro and glass
This batch had the long pieces as well as the small pieces I wanted for other projects
Only 3 Days left for April Give A way
Dont just visit put your name in for the April Give-A-Way - find the post and add your comment (I'll make it easy - here it is )
http://deborahreadcom.blogspot.ca/2013/04/april-2013-give-away.html
no obligations - shipped to you free anywhere in the world if you win
I'll be drawing the names from my Tea Cup May 1st (might be later in the day - I have to go with my sister to a specialist very early in the morning ) - so visit and leave your comment for a chance to win the Earrings this month
http://deborahreadcom.blogspot.ca/2013/04/april-2013-give-away.html
no obligations - shipped to you free anywhere in the world if you win
I'll be drawing the names from my Tea Cup May 1st (might be later in the day - I have to go with my sister to a specialist very early in the morning ) - so visit and leave your comment for a chance to win the Earrings this month
Pattern # 2 Zentangle Rubber Stamp - Is back in Stock on Etsy
Those of you looking for Pattern #2 of the Zentangle Rubber Stamp - I have them back in stock again
Remember to make a comment on the Give-A-way page for a chance to win the free gift this month
Remember to make a comment on the Give-A-way page for a chance to win the free gift this month
Blog - Catcha - back on
So I took the Catcha off the blog and now I spend too much time deleting anonymous comments - I only would like to see real people with real comments - I know people get frustrated with the Catcha but unfortunately I can spend more time keeping my blog clean from all those crazy advertisings and nonsense comments
So as of today I am putting it back on - sorry to those that have problems seeing the phrase or the time it takes to enter but its the only way real people can comment with real comments that will mean anything to me .
I love to read your comments - so I figure you took the time to enter them I like to take the time read them
1st Kiln Run of the Season
I got up early today (4:15) could not sleep any longer - the weather was so nice out last night and this morning it was till about 60 degrees - I took a walk up to my studio to grab my first batch of firepolished zentangle etched and loaded the 2nd ready to fire hopefully tonight if the weather is nice. I also had to drive my car back as the winds last night were so fierce I moved my car from under my big willow tree - just in case anything broke off
Here are the final pieces ready to have bails put on - its really hard to photograph (and I still need to set up a proper area for shooting) these beautiful dichro pieces - I still hate my new camera - and I may just go in search of a battery for my old Sony Mavica that used to take the best pics ever
Here are the final pieces ready to have bails put on - its really hard to photograph (and I still need to set up a proper area for shooting) these beautiful dichro pieces - I still hate my new camera - and I may just go in search of a battery for my old Sony Mavica that used to take the best pics ever
Punching Holes in Copper Discs
After having so much fun making the etched necklace for the Bead Soup - I thought I'd start to make another
I had a number of discs already etched so I thought tonight (being almost 73 degrees) I ventured to the studio to do a little clean up and fire up the kiln to do a batch of the Etched Zentangle pendants that needed Firepolishing
after firepolishing I left them to cool down and I'll pull them out tomorrow and put the 2nd batch in
was beautiful just before the storm - warmer outside than inside - I even opened the door so the warm air would warm the studio
Placed it on top
center in appropriate hole
coat end in some bur life - this is to help lubricate it - makes it easier to punch if less side resistance
you will end up with a nice little round piece you can use as a bead end or another connector 
then using positioning dies
(I have these but did not use ) center that hole in the larger punch
I had a number of discs already etched so I thought tonight (being almost 73 degrees) I ventured to the studio to do a little clean up and fire up the kiln to do a batch of the Etched Zentangle pendants that needed Firepolishing
after firepolishing I left them to cool down and I'll pull them out tomorrow and put the 2nd batch in
of course I still have a bunch of sheets to cut up and fire
A huge storm was brewing outside - black clouds and the wind had picked up
was beautiful just before the storm - warmer outside than inside - I even opened the door so the warm air would warm the studio
Torrential downpour ensued but I was actually nice and warm and dry
TV on for noise- counters clean and kiln firing
I decided to do the copper
I pulled out my disc cutter - I particularly love this one as it has a see through top and makes it easier (so I think) to see through when I line up the holes
to center the hole I made a template and then made an outline on the copper
Placed it on top
used a felt tip to outline
center in appropriate hole
coat end in some bur life - this is to help lubricate it - makes it easier to punch if less side resistance 
carefully place as not to displace your disc (you can usually tighten down the die but I was lazy)
Use a hammer with some force
you will end up with a nice little round piece you can use as a bead end or another connector 
and my little collection of finished discs
next I'll have to find beads or stones I want to highlight - might have to make some
There are large hole disc cutters where you can cut the center hole first
then using positioning dies (I have these but did not use ) center that hole in the larger punch
Rio Grande has a selection
you can get square punches and heart punches as well
Reminders
We are half way through the month and I've accomplished a few things - etched/ engraved zentangle dichro is etched/engraved, cut up, edges ground down and sitting in the kiln waiting for a nice day to be fired up at the studio. I created a necklace for the 7th Bead South hosted by Lori Anderson : http://lorianderson-beadsoupblogparty.blogspot.ca/ Even if your not part of the bead soup take the time to venture through the blogs as its not just about the soup - you may come across a blog that will inspire you.
A reminder that the give-A-way for April is still on and all you have to do is leave a comment on the give-a-way thread (only that thread will qualify you for the draw) will ship the gift to the winner no charge anywhere in the world
Because of the Bead Soup I'll be creating some new necklace lines using turquoise magnesite , coral and stones that I have hoarded up in the studio (bought a bunch in San Diego- South Sun Beads - when I was down there)
A reminder that the give-A-way for April is still on and all you have to do is leave a comment on the give-a-way thread (only that thread will qualify you for the draw) will ship the gift to the winner no charge anywhere in the world
Because of the Bead Soup I'll be creating some new necklace lines using turquoise magnesite , coral and stones that I have hoarded up in the studio (bought a bunch in San Diego- South Sun Beads - when I was down there)
7th Bead Soup - Reveal #2 April 13, 2013
Finished Necklace :
I so stress over getting a good picture of the item so you can see the details
Here are my goodies from Jo Tinley in the UK
http://daisychaindesignsjewellery.blogspot.ca/ her website is : http://www.daisychainjewellery.co.uk/
she makes amazing Metal Jewellery - In the box there is a large Bird - clasp a small bird charm, two small heart charms - made out of copper (used all of them ) the focal is a round multi colour bead (used that) two small turquoise Lampwork beads (used them )eight small ivory etched Lampwork beads (used them all )
three jump rings (used them) Turquoise silk (did not use) hardened copper wire (did not use )
As soon as I saw all my goodies I knew what I wanted to do - but as usual never had time - I kept thinking about it and thinking about it and know me I might forget decided to write down what I thought it should look like -
I mentioned this before - I tend NOT to draw out and prefer hands on materials when assembling as I get great ideas when I lay everything out in front of me
As I laid the pieces out
I loved the way it framed the focal bead
and centred the turquoise bead and attaching to the wires that I used to connect each link
Here are my goodies from Jo Tinley in the UK
http://daisychaindesignsjewellery.blogspot.ca/ her website is : http://www.daisychainjewellery.co.uk/
she makes amazing Metal Jewellery - In the box there is a large Bird - clasp a small bird charm, two small heart charms - made out of copper (used all of them ) the focal is a round multi colour bead (used that) two small turquoise Lampwork beads (used them )eight small ivory etched Lampwork beads (used them all )
three jump rings (used them) Turquoise silk (did not use) hardened copper wire (did not use )
As soon as I saw all my goodies I knew what I wanted to do - but as usual never had time - I kept thinking about it and thinking about it and know me I might forget decided to write down what I thought it should look like -
I mentioned this before - I tend NOT to draw out and prefer hands on materials when assembling as I get great ideas when I lay everything out in front of me
As I laid the pieces out
Things started to change - instead of all three charms on the centre I spread them out
My big focus was how to put the turquoise beads and my focal on top of my etched Zentangle circles
and decided to punch out the centres of each (using a circle punch ) which gave me extra smaller etched copper circles I incorporated into the piece and the punched circles framed the beads - I found with the extra circles and using all the ivory etched beads by using a basic wire wrap I had to do away with the Byzantine chain as my ends (way too long) and looked too heavy ( I love making Byzantine)
I loved the way it framed the focal bead
I punched the hole slightly smaller than the focal bead so that there was no space around it
and centred the turquoise bead and attaching to the wires that I used to connect each link
the clasp worked like a charm when using the twisted wire
these little birds are so cute !
the copper looks so good with the ivory and the turquoise
Its hard to see the focal how nice it is until you see it up close and with the light
this has given me some ideas for some new jewellery lines I'd like to pursue with my copper
again I thank Jo Tinley for the superb Bead Soup
and for once I am keeping this piece for myself !
Full List of Participant Links : http://lorianderson-beadsoupblogparty.blogspot.ca/2013/04/7th-bead-soup-blog-party-2nd-reveal.html
Pinterest Bead Soup Contest Link: http://pinterest.com/limamike/contest-entries-for-bead-soup-blog-party-7/
thank you all for visiting
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I try to share step by step learning experiences or at least what I am working on and will answer any questions you may have
Display Trays- Subway Sandwich Trays
We order in once a month subway for the guys in the shop and I've never noticed the trays that the sandwiches come in - thought they were round but maybe they just changed .
Cool trays - I can use them for displays and holding my jewellery cards
Of course I'll clean them out and I can even use the clear covers to pack them as well
Cool trays - I can use them for displays and holding my jewellery cards
Of course I'll clean them out and I can even use the clear covers to pack them as well
they are angled and deep once clean I'll put some of the jewellery cards in and see what they look like
Don't Forget the Give-A-way
I'll be posting my Bead Soup necklace tonight at midnight
so while your here look for the April Give-A-Way thread (you can also find a short cut on the right side where I announce the give-a-way for the link ) and leave a comment for a chance to win this months gift
Remember - no charge to you and shipped anywhere in the world
In The Kiln - And Ready to Go
As I mentioned I have the first batch of engraved dichro to be firepolished
I almost turned it on tonight but it would mean a few hours and the temperature was already starting to go down - so I didnt want to endanger the pieces - if by Saturday it does not warm up enough I'll bring the kiln into the house and get the two batches done
I almost turned it on tonight but it would mean a few hours and the temperature was already starting to go down - so I didnt want to endanger the pieces - if by Saturday it does not warm up enough I'll bring the kiln into the house and get the two batches done
You will note that they are pretty close together - I am only firepolishing and not to a full fuse where they would melt more and spread - firepolish they stay the same footprint and the sides and surface where things were engraved will become shiny again
I want to get them finished so I can put some bails on and card them up and then onto the next batch of things - not sure yet what they will beZentangle Pattern #2 Rubber Stamp - Out of Stock
I ran out of Pattern #2 of my Zentangle Rubber stamp on Etsy - but I do expect a new shipment within the next week or so. So if your looking for that pattern it will be back in stock shortly.
Bead Soup - and other stuff
Getting excited as we will be doing the 2nd reveal this weekend (April 13th) for the 7th Bead Soup Blog Party - Originally schedule for April 4th (and I had my piece ready even before that )
I've been taking all kinds of pics trying to get a really good picture - I have to say my new camera I bought last year or so just does not take the same type of pics my old Sony Mavica did no matter what I do
I went to the studio on the weekend to take pics in the little photo booth I have set up and still not happy
I f I could only find a rechargeable battery for my mavica - still looking (outdated) going to try another method and bring out the cloud dome again - havnt used that in ages to see if that will help
I actually managed to put the first batch of engraved / etched zentangle dichro in the kiln - I just need to turn it on and stay in the studio till its done (but its to freeking cold to sit there for a few hours) plus being cold - would cool too fast and would be afraid glass would crack
but any way this staturday will be the big reveal and I cant wait to see my partners goodies
Jo Tinley in the UK http://daisychaindesignsjewellery.blogspot.ca/
If you want to see what the 1st group of beaders did you can visit here
http://www.prettythingsblog.com/2013/03/the-7th-bead-soup-blog-party-first.html
Its so hard to prep and get things done when your working a full time job, get sick, family gets sick, the weather sucks so that you cant work in your studio
so keep an eye out or subscribe by email and you will see the new posts
and remember - dont just visit leave a comment on the give-away page (quick link is on the right side to find the current give-away thread )
I've been taking all kinds of pics trying to get a really good picture - I have to say my new camera I bought last year or so just does not take the same type of pics my old Sony Mavica did no matter what I do
I went to the studio on the weekend to take pics in the little photo booth I have set up and still not happy
I f I could only find a rechargeable battery for my mavica - still looking (outdated) going to try another method and bring out the cloud dome again - havnt used that in ages to see if that will help
I actually managed to put the first batch of engraved / etched zentangle dichro in the kiln - I just need to turn it on and stay in the studio till its done (but its to freeking cold to sit there for a few hours) plus being cold - would cool too fast and would be afraid glass would crack
but any way this staturday will be the big reveal and I cant wait to see my partners goodies
Jo Tinley in the UK http://daisychaindesignsjewellery.blogspot.ca/
If you want to see what the 1st group of beaders did you can visit here
http://www.prettythingsblog.com/2013/03/the-7th-bead-soup-blog-party-first.html
Its so hard to prep and get things done when your working a full time job, get sick, family gets sick, the weather sucks so that you cant work in your studio
so keep an eye out or subscribe by email and you will see the new posts
and remember - dont just visit leave a comment on the give-away page (quick link is on the right side to find the current give-away thread )
April - 2013 Give-away
THIS THREAD IS NOW CLOSED AS OF MAY 1, 2013
The winner is : Angi Mullis
MAKE A COMMENT HERE TO WIN !
Dont just visit - leave a comment and get a chance to win
Rules are easy - just enter a comment on this blog thread only (go to end of thread and hit the make comment area)
On May 1st I'll pick a name from the entries from my trusty Tea mug
Remember you dont have to do anything - just leave a comment
I'll mail it out to you at no charge anywhere in the world
I do read your comments - I just dont answer so that I can see the actual total of people commenting and it makes it clearer when I list everyone for the pick - so I am not ignoring your wonderful comments and I thank you for your kind words of encouragement
Without further adoo - here is the Giveaway for April
Copper Etched Earrings with sterling silver wires- they are not flat but slightly curved - copper is about 1.5" long -
The design is from my Zentangle rubber stamps - available on etsy (see upper left corner )
(stamp not part of give-away)and using Staz-on ink pad and etching with Ferric Chloride (see step by steps
http://deborahreadcom.blogspot.ca/2012/07/etched-copper-earrings-using-staz-on.html )
REMEMBER TO REVISIT AT THE BEGINNING OF MAY TO SEE WHO WON - IF YOU WERE ANNONYMOUS OR DO NOT HAVE YOUR EMAIL LISTED ON YOUR BLOG - THE ONLY WAY I HAVE OF CONTACTING YOU IS THROUGH THE DRAW - AGAIN THANK YOU FOR PARTICIPATING