Life, work, children and silver jewellery

Wednesday 13 October 2010

2010-10-13T10:26:00.000-07:00

Time is flying by, need to think about Christmas shopping soon and get organised.

I have been making some earrings which will be great as Christmas presents, priced between £12 - 20 so hopefully they will sell well. I am taking them to a few shops and galleries to stock them up for Christmas.

Went to London last week ....... the Ethical Fashion Expo was good but not for jewellery or materials that I use ...... I went to the Design Museum to have a look round but it was a bit disappointing, not much there. Dealt with a lady having an epileptic fit on the tube on my way home!

2010-09-29T12:14:00.000-07:00

This is one of my first ranges, Luna. It is popular and I have rings, earrings to match. I am working on a new range that is based on Luna consisting of several small domes soldered together.

This pendant sells for about £85 www.thejewelleryroom.co.uk each one is different of course as I reticulate the piece of silver.

I was asked to quote for an amazing commission to make a typeof sword pendant which was line with diamonds. Way out of my league but interesting so I passed dtails on of people who might be able to make it.

Looking forward to watching Ugly Betty tonight .......

2010-09-27T06:33:00.000-07:00

Simple earrings .... small hoops with leaf pattern discs.... in sterling silver ....

Had a curry night last night (well sort of, 4 of them had salmon as they don't eat curry). Hassle to cook curry for 5 and salmon for 4 but hey it was fun and there is leftovers which is great as curry tastes better second time around.

Have finished my new pieces so I can take it show customer tomorrow in Lancaster and Garstang and London next week ......

Saturday 25 September 2010

2010-09-25T02:47:00.001-07:00

This is an image of some new sterling silver earrings I made this week. They came from some jewellery I saw whilst on holiday in Ibiza, we wandered around the market in San Antonio and there was some great contemporary jewellery ....... I am making a pendant to match but have to do some resin earrings first that a customer had ordered.

Its been a good week, some bright sunny days and I am getting back in to my running. Seemed to have slow down a lot but I am still doing the same distances.

Hoping to go to to the cinema this afternoon to see Grown Ups .......

Sunday 19 September 2010

2010-09-19T09:38:00.000-07:00

I have attached images of the new range ... bit late but have been busy .... it is called Fickle ........... I am just in the process of getting it out there ready for Christmas.

Had a great break in Ibiza, will post some images.

My mother in law died over the summer so that was a sad occasion. The day before she went in to hospital was her 81st brithday and I made her ring that she had admired. She left me a phone message to say thanks and that was the last time she spoke to me sadly. She has a stroke and never recovered from it.

I did a couple of Art Fairs, one in Skipton which was great, busy, good people and lots of sales. The one in Shipley was also great, busy with goood people but hardly any sales! Some you win, some you lose ...........

Friday 6 August 2010

2010-08-05T23:37:00.000-07:00

Made this sterling silver eternity ring pendant engraved for the birth of Jack on 16/06/2010 for his Mum or Dad to wear. A nice newborn gift.

I have been working on 2 new ranges which I hope to get ready for Art in the Pen in Skipton over the weekend of 14th/15th August. I love both of them, they look great. Will post images over the next few weeks.

I have been trying to lose weight for my holiday, I have 3 weeks, want to lose 2lbs per week, have managed it this week but have worked hard! And now I discover that Ben and Jerry's ice cream is on offer, 2 for £5 at Booths' supermarket! RESIST!

Thursday 29 July 2010

2010-07-28T23:55:00.001-07:00

Been a busy week, finished earring commission, customer loved them ..... finished distressed crosses and sent them off, waiting to hear on those ...... mother in law is improving, conscious, can look at you and watchyou but cannot talk or move right hand side.

Should be getting ready for work now at The Bath House ......

EasyJet just changed my flight details to return at 12.30am ..... can change them but the alternative is a flight 2 days earlier ....... bummer .....

2010-07-22T23:31:00.000-07:00

Commissioned earrings ........

Sunday 18 July 2010

2010-07-18T00:56:00.001-07:00

Its been a busy and traumatic time. My mother in law went in to hospital with pneumonia and then had a stroke, she was in a coma for a few days but is showing signs of moving and trying to talk now so it is starting to look popsitive.

In the meantime I have been enjoying my work at the Bath House and working with my daughter, it has worked well. The other daughter is joining us this Wednesday for a try out!

Website sales are picking up and I have had lots of commission enquiries and a few have followed through and ordered.

The charm pendant on the wesbite has raised a lot of interest, lots of enquiries about charms and also a few sales.

I am in the process of designing some earrings for a lady who wants them to match a necklace she has. Beautiful necklace by Daniele Geargeoura, tempting to just make the same in earrings but have come up with another idea which the customer loves. Will post image when finished.

website www.thejewelleryroom.co.uk contemporary sterling silver jewellery

Friday 9 July 2010

2010-07-09T09:59:00.000-07:00

What a week. My daughter has worked with me for 3 days this week at my part time job. This is her first taste of working full days in the real world and she has done really well. I wasn't quite sure how it would work out as she is not so quick to do stuff at home but she has certainly proved herself and they loved her and have asked to do more work. She is rubbing her hands thinking of the money she is going to make for her holidays! (and me too!). The other is going to come with us when she finished school next week and give it a try.

Going to the Youth Group BBQ tonight, in the rain of course!

Have an order to sort out and some jewellery repairs to get done but hoping to design some new pieces next week ............ have an art fair in August and then in September but want some new designs for Christmas.

Wednesday 7 July 2010

2010-07-07T12:10:00.000-07:00

Its Wednesday already!
Took my daughter to work today (she spent 2 days glued to the TV, had visions of her being there for the next 8 weeks), they said they would give her some work so she has done her first full days work! Her sweet shop job only gives her 5 hours at a time so this is a taste of the real world!

Sunday 4 July 2010

2010-07-04T06:26:00.000-07:00

Somewhere over the rainbow .................

Tuesday 29 June 2010

2010-06-29T03:08:00.001-07:00

More resin ..... I have used clear resing and embedded the sterling silver chain in to the piece which has green swarovski crystal beads in it. I need to perfect this but I am quite happy with the results, it sort of offsets the brighter much louder pieces I have made!

Woke up during the night with the thunder and lightening storm, it was very loud and very bright. Our 15 year old got up and wandered around as she didn't like the noise and couldn't sleep ...... I feel knackered as well and its difficult to focus and get things done today but I need to crack on as I am at work tomorrow with the smellies!

Saturday 26 June 2010

2010-06-26T10:35:00.000-07:00

Lots of sales going on this week (for me anyway).
A friend needed a 40th birthday present so I sold her a pendant, then there were some easy web sales, a quote to make a pendant with a diamond, some sales to a new shop and some sor sales from another shop and sold a couple of pieces to another friend!

Then things started to break ....... vacuum cleaner broke so bought another one, pump in septic tank broke so we are looking for another one to replace it .... hopefully nothing else for a while.

I messed about with resin today .... had some new ideas and tried them out but they are not quite what I was aiming for ....... will keep experimenting ....

Beautiful sunny day, great evening, husband is cooking curry so I am just going to chill now (kids are not here, both of them, how often does that happen?).

Wednesday 23 June 2010

2010-06-23T13:30:00.000-07:00

Have been to work with smellies today. I love going there at the moment, the work is boring but it gives me the chance to think or totally switch off, the pay is terrible but its better than nothing and I can get on with my jewellery on the other days that I am not there .......... had a new shop buy (yes buy, not sor) a few bits from me so hopefully that will be a regualr thing. I have also sold a few bits to friends this week so I must be making things they like for a change.

I made a new ring yesterday, clear resin with green swarovski crystal beads in. I push the silver ring in to the resin as it was hardening .... got it slightly late but it worked, it could just be a bit tidier. Will post image soon.

Monday 21 June 2010

2010-06-21T05:52:00.000-07:00

Lip brooch today ...... sold heart brooch and pair of resin earrings immediately they went on the website.
I opened an Etsy shop at the weekend www.etsy.com/shop/DellaC so I am slowly putting my pieces on there. Will let you know how it goes ........
Eldest daughter at home now, she has finished her exams so no school now until Sixth Form in September. She has a job but it will only be one day a week so goodness knows what she is going to do all summer ............... apart from drive me insane!

Friday 18 June 2010

2010-06-17T22:06:00.000-07:00

Well this is my 3rd day of 'prettyfying' bath products and it has been interesting. The chat in the room has been great, mainly about the locals, they all know each other, of each other or they know someone who knows someone who knows them. The relationships are so confusing ..... he was with her but they split, they have 2 kids together now he is with whatshername etc etc ......... I love it even though I know none of the people they are talking about. The work is quite numbing but I just keep thinking of the holiday it will pay for and the extra's ........ I have seen a couple more jobs I will apply for but they are full time so less time for my jewellery .........

The image is a brooch I made from recycled materials ......... the concept was an identity tag style with a bar code to de-humanise as our information (like a finger print) is like a product code now ...... I am not a number I am a free man.

Wednesday 16 June 2010

2010-06-16T12:51:00.001-07:00

Have been busy making resin jewellery for Saturday. I a doing an Arts Fair in Kirkby Lonsdale in the Institute from 10am to 4pm. Wanted to get a few colour pieces together, sells better and attracts people over to your display!

Have started work at the Bath House today ...... its great working with a group of women and chatting about all sorts of stuff but the work is quite boring ...... however its money and will pay for a holiday this year!

Monday 14 June 2010

2010-06-14T10:26:00.000-07:00

These are some resin lips I made ...... not sure what to do with them, a brooch, pendant, key ring?
Went for a run this morning, it was like running through mud, not sure why as I had a good nights sleep ........
Working through some colours for the resin and liking the results, will post the finished pieces later in the week.
Watched a great programme on The Lady magazine last night ...... new editor trying to drag it in to 2010, quite entertaining. I remember looking in it years ago for au pair type jobs for the summer!

Friday 11 June 2010

2010-06-11T08:38:00.000-07:00

These bangles are made from recycled sterling silver wire and are one piece of silver. I have made a fastening at the end and the beads are handmade glass and ceramic beads by Emma at www.beadenvy.co.uk

We went to look at some houses today ........ we need to move closer to civilisation but I am having second thoughts. All I could hear was the sound of traffic driving past and that was when I was inside the house!

I guess I will have to compromise but I will put a video up soon of where I live and then people will understand what I mean.

Husband is making me a ruby ruby tonight (a ruby coloured curry, its made with beetroot!). Kids are both out so we will watch a film and get drunk! So irresponsible .......

Thursday 10 June 2010

2010-06-10T05:28:00.000-07:00

More resin pieces completed - this is a pendant in a lilac y colour .... think I will do a bigger version as well ..... still looking in to bio resin, need to make sure it is the same to use as my current resin and will react the same to colour etc ......

Wednesday 9 June 2010

2010-06-09T11:56:00.001-07:00

So today have made several more resin pieces and now I am beginning to see what will work and what probably won't.

The piece above is a chunk of resin made in a mould that I made and then set in silver like a chunk of semi precious stone.

As I am trying to work with recycled silver (ethical, sustainable route) then I need to look in to bio resin. It is about 4 times more expensive than the resin I use but if my resin work sells well then I will start to use it.

Which leads me on to my little holiday that I have finally booked today. I go away every year with 2 old school friends and kids (my 2, and one of my friends, thother firneds has no children but she is great and really mucks in). We normally go for a few days camping but this year we are off to Ibiza for 5 days!!!!! One of the friends has a house there which she rents out but she is making use of it herself for a change for a few weeks in August and we are going to join her!

Seriously need to sell more jewellery!

2010-06-08T05:04:00.000-07:00

These green earrings are made from sterling silver with green resin, there is a leaf print on the silver. The resin kind of spins out from the centre.

Monday 7 June 2010

2010-06-06T22:38:00.000-07:00

Its the start of the weekand I am already behind in my quest to contact one gallery/outlet a day to show my new resin rocks range. Not a good start but I will make up for it, I missed two days last week, other things took over.
Last night my youngest daughter had a very high temperature and hallucinated so we all had a bad night. She seems better today but she will probably stay at home today to recover.
I have 2 job applications to fill in so hopefully I will get those done and sent off.
The ring in the picture is another resin one, I used opaque red and dripped blue in to it. I love mxing the colour but I really need to keep a record of what colours I am mixing and how much I am putting i so I can achieve it again! Not my strong point......
Hopefully tomorrow I can report I got my job list for today done ............

Saturday 5 June 2010

2010-06-05T01:59:00.000-07:00

In laws are here, they stayed overnight but will leave this afternoon. It's nice to see them but they make such a mess that its always a big clear up when they have gone.

Went to see TINA - There is no alternative - exhibition at the Storey in Lancaster yesterday. I have to say I really didn't get it, if it is art then I am totally lost, I couldn't appreciate any of it!

Sun seems to have disappeared today but hopefully will come back, we haven't had enough of it yet .............

2010-06-03T04:22:00.000-07:00

http://www.ethicalfashionforum.com/home

I wanted to share this website with you. It is very informative, has constant news and keeps you in touch with (yes mainly the south) what is happening in the ethical fashion world. You just join up to become a member and get on their mailing list.

On the children front or should I say young adults as they are now 15 and 16years old, we had a slight panic last night when I got a call from a friend where my 15 yr old was sleeping over to day that they hadn't come home and it was 11pm. These friends live in the middle of nowhere, on the moors, and her daughter and mine had gone for a walk to the 'Big Stone' (local landmark) about 8pm. For some teenage reason it didn't occur to them to start walking back when it started to go dark! Its about a 2 mile walk but my friend is a single mother with younger kids and couldn't get out to search for them so she called us and we went out. Fortunately by the time we got to her house they were home .......... telling off from both sides about the time etc ...... lots of answering back from her daughter and an apology from mine ........ sorted, sort of!

Other daughter is studying for GCSE's in between Facebook, iTunes and TV.

I am starting to contact outlets about my resin, I want to get in to some better ones this time, ones with a higher footfall, more sales etc etc ...........

Will let you know what happens ........ in all areas ........

3 June 2010

2010-06-03T02:54:00.000-07:00

I am really pleased with my resin work, I have attached some images for you to see so I hope you like them too.
I have just heard about bio-resin which is a natural non toxic alternative to yukky resin but the price is quite high, about 4 times more than the one I buy. Its rather frustrating that a more natural alternative so much more expensive. In contrast I recently came across a supplier of 100% recycled metals which I am now buying to make my jewellery which is exactly the same price as the supplier I normally buy from.

23 May 2010

2010-05-22T23:32:00.000-07:00

Have applied for a part time job ..... definitely need the money but hoping that the combination of work will be good ...... what a gorgeous day yesterday .... we managed to clear our attic out and enjoy the rest of the day. A job well done, 15 years of junk now sorted.

Of to uni tomorrow, got a few resin things to do, need to take down my exhibition at Hoopers and see the tutor ......

20 May 2010

2010-05-20T06:32:00.000-07:00

I have been working hard on new designs for resin jewellery ..... its still a learning curve but I quite like where I am going with it.

I have some great ring and pendant designs and probably a bangle but I need some earring designs ..... back to the sketchbook.

I am a bit clueless as to the difference btween polyester / clear / casting resin? I have bought polyester in the past. Does it make any difference?

Going outside to mow and chill with the ipod for some fresh air ........

20 May 2010

2010-05-19T23:06:00.000-07:00

No blogs since last September!
The degree course, travelling to uni, family and holding on to the website has been all consuming .........I can't believe the academic year is almost over ..... really need to breath now.

New Beginnings ........... Saturday 26th September 2009

2009-09-26T01:09:00.000-07:00

Haven't blogged for nearly 2 months, have been busy tweeting tho .......... thought I would concentrate on the one thing but now I realise I can use my blog to record my things about my degree course.
Started by Foundation Degree in Contemporary Jewellery last Monday. Usual induction stuff going on, met up with classmates, they are great and there is another student my age so I am not the only mature one!
Everything went pear shaped when both my daughters were ill! Tom managed to cover 2 days and I did the rest. Will catch up but feel like I have missed out, maybe something really important but I guess I am just anxious anyway.
First project is to design and make a brooch in your favourite colour! 2Weeks to get it done ...............
In the meantime I have been working on a new range in copper .......... see images!

Saturday 1st August 2009

2009-08-01T10:05:00.000-07:00

Might have shown the ring before but I just love it so here it is again .......... and a new pendant which I also love, biased? yes but I don't always love everything I make. I don't like doing hearts or flowers but I get asked for them all the time as they sell well.

Maybe I need to be more commercial especially if I want to make any money. I need to look at 2 separate sections really, one for outlandish pieces and one for middle of the road pieces ......... there is definitely a market for both but they need to be approached differently.

Anyway, have spent a lot of today power washing the back patio of our house ..... now there's a very satisfying job and it looks great!

Friday 24 July 2009

2009-07-24T01:02:00.000-07:00

my upmarket chave earring, had a good response, people who I thought wouldn't like them love them!

they are sterling silver, 6cm hoops .............

Wednesday 22 July 2009

2009-07-21T23:59:00.000-07:00

Just lost 3 hens to a fox, saw it dragging off Lulu and ran after it but too late ......... only 1 left so might as well give it someone and thats the whole thing over with .....

Have just ordered some silver for some new designs, a few experiments going on ........

My chav inspired earrings have gone down well so far .... will post image tomorrow ........

Off to Manchester with daughters to shop ..............

Tuesday 21 July 2009

2009-07-21T01:12:00.000-07:00

I spent last week at an Art Fair in Kendal ........ had a great time, sales were good but not brilliant although I might get a trade customer out of it which would be great ..... lots of compliments and appreciative people and the other Art people were fun.

I have a few bits to make this week but mainly I am going to enjoy being at home, its weird being out for 7 days and it made a change for me but I really enjoy working in my workshop by myself!

I have doing some photos for Vogue, hoping ot get my bead jewellery in the magazine in the September issue. Watch this space.

I have customised some 'chav earrings' which I love, even my kids like them, so far most people like them so will get some on the website soon.

Thursday July 2009

2009-07-08T22:44:00.000-07:00

Have a look at this website, there is lot of knitted jewellery out there but this is really classy professional stuff, the best I have seen ........... I love it.

http://www.stuff.co.nz/life-style/fashion/2576097/Knitted-jewellery

Wednesday 8 July 2009

2009-07-08T07:02:00.000-07:00

Trying to take more professional images so hope this is better (and not ebay - ish)
I love these bangles and they are starting to get noticed, everybody comments on the one that I wear so they are getting centre stage at the markets that I am doing over the summer and hopefully I will be advertising them in a magazine soon!

Friday 3 July 2009

2009-07-03T04:07:00.001-07:00

Great summer bead necklaces with sterling silver flower ..... £18.00 www.thejewelleryroom.co.uk
Had no electricity this morning, it was a scheduled cut but I forgot so the washing machine was half way through, and I was polishing some silver in the polishing machine ..... computer went dead, then it clicked ...... anyway I prepared my hallmarking ....

I was expecting a silver delivery this morning but it didn't arrive so its really screwed up my day and tomorrow ..... oh well happy Friday .......

Wednesday 1 July 2009

2009-07-01T01:52:00.000-07:00

U2 started their tour yesterday in Barcelona, you can see a set up of their stage design www.360.u2.com/ ........ supposed to be fantastic .............

Have made a couple of new necklaces /pendants ..... will post images tomorrow ...

Friday 26 June 2009

2009-06-26T00:30:00.000-07:00

Necklace with fantastic glass beads made by Emma@beadenvy.com ...... love the turquoise colour ........ this one is going to Obsidian Art in Stoke Mandeville so hopefully someone will give it a loving home!

I am making stock at the moment ready for the Summer Art Fairs .... I am at Old Nell's in Bilsborrow on Sunday 28th at the Lancashire Love It Fair and then I have a week at the Art Fair in Kendal from 13th - 19th July and then I am doing the Art in the Pen weekend in Skipton in August. Hopefully I will need lots of stock so I am busy making .............

Wednesday 24 June 2009

2009-06-24T04:16:00.000-07:00

Great sterling silver and glass bead bracelet ...... great beads from emma@beadenvy.co.uk, just received some more for a necklace I am making. I lover her work.

Wednesday 17 June 2009

2009-06-17T02:47:00.000-07:00

So have made 3 men rings ........... I was asked by a gallery in Devizes if I did any rings for men, they were looking for something that was defintitely handmade and for men so I came up with these 3. The wrap ring I have made for a long time and have made a few for men over the years but the other 2 are new .... quite inoffensive but definitely handmade so I am hoping they like them ..... if interested email me your ring size. Everything is sterling silver ......

Coincidentally, I saw this article on men's bangles ..... will have to come up with some new designs now .......
http://www.thisislondon.co.uk/lifestyle/article-23707682-details/Band+of+brothers:+The+rise+of+the+man-bracelet/article.do

Wednesday 10 June 2009

2009-06-10T02:36:00.000-07:00

http://www.missmalaprop.com/

The above site has a great article on cleaning silver jewellery with or without gemstones, definitely worth a look and it works .....

9 June 2009

2009-06-09T08:39:00.000-07:00

http://tiakramerjewelry.com/home.html

love this jewellery all made from paper, well worth a look ..........

Summer Exhibition opens Friday at Arteria Gallery23 Lancaster with my Black and Gold range in it, preview evening on Thursday ......

Have got some new designs for pendant lined up, will experiment over the next few weeks .............

Monday 8 June 2009

2009-06-08T00:50:00.000-07:00

Love this story, she obviously has a reputation wearing the brooch and then everything that happened after ..........

http://www.prweb.com/releases/hazel-blears/brooch/prweb2505004.htm

Tuesday 2 June 2009

2009-06-02T01:49:00.000-07:00

Have to mention Susan Boyle or SuBo (that must have been an indication of her fame, she got a nickname within a month of being on TV). These reality TV shows are fantastic entertainment but it is beginning to show now how dangerous it all can be. Of course we all think we want the fame and the life that goes with it (or not) but in reality only a few are equipped to deal with it. Most people who pursue it from a young age are prepared for it but even then there are a few who don't quite make it. I really don't mean to rant I just wanted to say that Susan Boyle look likes she could deal with it all, needs time out and some help which I am sure the show is providing ............. best of luck to her.

I went off on a sales trip last week, visited some galleries/shops that I have sold to in the past and got some great orders. Now I am busy ordering/making etc .......... I checked out a few places in Cheltenham as I don't sell there so hopefully I can generate some new customers as well ........ I also saw some great countryside ....... particularly liked Devizes (Bluestone Gallery) and Bishops Castle ........... beautiful places.

Off to London tomorrow for a photo shoot for my daughter!!

Tuesday 26 May 2009

2009-05-26T03:35:00.001-07:00

How times have changed ............

http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=104465622

Tuesday 26 May 2009

2009-05-26T03:20:00.000-07:00

Great story on engagment rings ..... girls are buying the guys engagement rings ..... makes sense, we wear them to show we are going to get married but the guys still look single .......

http://www.miamiherald.com/living/story/1060259.html

Sunday 17 May 2009

2009-05-17T12:16:00.000-07:00

"been a busy week, we became the first rural area to lay fibre to the home, so Lancashire leads the way in UKplc. We did a trial dig from one house to two more who had poor visibility due to trees, and we sent the wireless signal to them through the fibre.
I have put links to two of the videos on youtube, (sorry about the quality) but there are five in the series if you want to see them all, just click on 'more from this user' and youtube will list them. You can access the links from the village blogspot, http://wrayvillage.blogspot.com/

Computer club next Friday if anyone wants more info, just call in, 1.30 at Wray online centre or email anytime.

It is crucial that rural areas have access to next generation broadband, it means we can keep up with digital britain and also adds value to our children's futures, our businesses and our house prices! If we want to stay in the game we need to be looking at advanced wireless/fibre connections. If anyone has any contacts for ducting, manhole covers or any digging equipment please reply to this email, and please watch the vids if you get time, and feel free to forward this message to anyone who isn't on our mailing list.
Power to the people
chris

--
http://www.wrayvillage.co.uk "

From the wonderful Chris who does so much forus all ..... thanks

Saturday 16 May 2009

2009-05-16T07:58:00.000-07:00

http://www.treehugger.com/galleries/2009/04/edible-fashions-that-make-a-tasty-tasteless-statement.php?page=1

Edible fashion ......... great slideshow ..........

Thursday 14 May 2009

2009-05-14T00:42:00.000-07:00

http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/fashion/articles/2009/05/14/serving_notice/?page=2

This is a great story on Lady Gaga and her future plans .....

It would be interesting to see what her fashion line might be, where would it sell ...... etc, etc ........ or perhaps there are too many other things in life to actually be thinking about Lady Gaga?

Monday 11 May 2009

2009-05-11T03:00:00.000-07:00

Definitely overdid the exercise this weekend ... but enjoyed it all. Had a great walk up Ingleborough on Saturday .... only set off at 7.00pm so didn't quite make it to the top (Tom walks exceptionally slow)..... we turned round at 8.30am so we could get back before it was dark .... had a picnic .... great views, lovely deep pink sky at that time in the evening ........

Sleepover went well .... not sure that they moved from their pyjama's and the TV for 18 hours ......... but they enjoyed.

Have a couple of commissions to make over the next few weeks .... not much going on so will try and drum up more sales from my trade customers .............

Saturday 9 May 2009

2009-05-09T03:04:00.000-07:00

Eldest daughter was 15 yesterday ........ she was made up with her wireless mouse for her Mac and other bits and pieces. Having a sleepover tonight, kinda girls night/chickflick/junk food night.
Tom and I are going out and hopefully climbing up Ingleborough if the weather is okay.

Have made new bangle and matching ring, simple hammered charm, moves, bangle and ring hammered on one side .......... have also finished new range, more on that later ......... can buy pieces from www.thejewelleryroom.co.uk

Missed Dizzie Rascal on Jonathan Ross last night, will have to catch up on iPlayer later ...........

Thursday 23 April 2009

2009-04-23T00:28:00.000-07:00

Have a look at this article, its great, uses recycled pieces to make funky jewellery

http://www.metroactive.com/metro/04.22.09/style-art-0916.html

Wednesday 22 April 2009

2009-04-22T02:34:00.000-07:00

Tis World Earth Day! Celebrate our environment and take care of it .....

Have been running and walking alot recently, feeling good .... new jewellery range is doing good, pendants,earrings and cufflinks finished, doing another set so I can get it all hallmarked .... hoping to launch it in Arteria in June but will probably sell it at Wray Fair on 4th May as I am doing a jewellery stall there ......

Thursday 16 April 2009

2009-04-16T00:28:00.000-07:00

Daughter's birthday yesterday, there are still 8 of them in a tent, weather was good but the wind got up last night but they all stayed in there! A bit too much shrieking but they had fun ..........

Black and Gold range almost finished ..... I am really pleased with it ....... image shows pendant and long earrings ....... 2 more pendants and 2 more earrings to do ....... love it!

http://www.prweb.com/releases/Precious_Accents/Pandora_Charms/prweb2217934.htm
Pandora charms still going well, what a great concept and update of the old charm bracelet. I sold it for a few years and it just flew off the shelf but it was difficult to get stock as it was so popular ....... not my cup of tea but looks beautiful!

Wednesday 8 April 2009

2009-04-08T00:56:00.000-07:00

Have just finished some bridal jewellery, love doing that, makes it so special, so hopes she likes it.

Starting some new designs, black and gold ...... made a couple of pendants so far .... probably won't get much done over the holidays but will crack on with it when the girls are back at school .....

Went to BCTF on Monday, dominated by jewellery as usual but some great pieces, some very talented people ......... hope they got lots of orders, its expensive and tiring.

Going for a run with Barbara then in to town with the girls to meet my neice and shop ..............

Wednesday 1 April 2009

2009-04-01T01:46:00.000-07:00

No April Fools this morning from the girls ..... definitely growing up!

Weather's great again, ran to the garage to pick up my 'courtesy old banger' ..... not going to get my car back until next week!

Still working on Business Plan .... and waiting for materials for acid etching .... waiting, waiting .... need to be more patient ... will spring clean my office today, might as well .... whilst I am waiting .........

Tuesday 31 March 2009

2009-03-31T01:34:00.000-07:00

Have been busy doing paperwork/research/accounts so no blogging .... got hallmarking back and distributed that only to find out that one customer has closed down their jewellery shop in Preston due to the recession .......... hard times ...... have been researching acid etching and have ordered materials needed so I am designing pieces for that and if it goes well hopefully there will be a new range soon ..............

Saturday 21 March 2009

2009-03-21T01:28:00.001-07:00

Bought these rings from Lucas Jack, sterling silver, faceted glass in great colours .... peridot, amethyst, baltic and black .... they look great, chunky but no too big, have put them on my website.

Had a good week, got lots done, Tom's birthday tomorrow so we are going to the Inn at Wray for dinner tonight and hopefully off for a walk/picnic tomorrow if the weather is good ...............

Thursday 12 March 2009

2009-03-12T02:43:00.001-07:00

Forgot I had taken this picture when it snowed .... got geese, hens and cat prints!
Had a weird meeting yesterday which is becoming more clearer ... just when I decided on a direction something else comes along but this time I am going to try and achieve both ....... can't really elaborate as I haven't got my head round it yet.

Tuesday 10 March 2009

2009-03-10T02:41:00.000-07:00

More cufflinks in sterling silver ..... look great, Tom wants them!

Saw the Young Victoria last night, the girls loved it and they learnt a bit of history as well!

Been for a run, doing admin and posting off some orders ....

Thusday 5 March 2009

2009-03-05T00:34:00.001-08:00

Sterling silver wrap ring ...... textured and wraped around 3 times .... one of my first ever commissions .... I have resurrected it and put it back on my website.

Garden is full of sheep again .... most of the plants have been eaten now but think we have worked out where they are coming through ....

At home working all day ..... on call for First Responders last night, today, tonight and tomorrow night! Lots of gaps in the rota, definitely need more volunteers.

Wednesday 4 March 2009

2009-03-04T01:39:00.000-08:00

Dali bangle to match ring - sterling silver - simple but satisfying as it has a moving bit which people like to fiddle with!
Went to Parent's evening last night everyone was pleased and results are good ...... just got to decided on options for GCSE before next Friday now ...... she still doesn't know what to do.
Snowing lightly at the moment ...... have joined Twitter ... not sure what it is all about but I enjoy 'tweets' .... read that it was for people with no identity!!

Running and walking going well ... can't believe I have had no alcohol/chocolate for 10 days which makes me sound like an alcoholic but you just take it for granted and reach for the wine bottle instinctively sometimes. I don't drink during the week anyway but I really look forward to it at the weekend .... just waiting for some positive consequences for my deprivation .... haven't seen any yet but hopefully I will losr a bit of weight or maybe not as I seem to eating more sweet stuff to make up for the chocolate!

Friday 27 Feburary 2009

2009-02-27T07:47:00.000-08:00

Hammered sterling silver pendant to match bangles and rings ........ not happy with it so look out for 'modifcations' ....... have been busy but have accomplished lots, feel exhausted and have to go out tonight, have given up alcohol for Lent and am starting to feel it ..... will have to see how long I last!

2009-02-25T02:29:00.000-08:00

Have decided to make a Dali bangle to match the ring .... can't think why I haven't done one sooner ..... simple design and looks great in silver ......

Went for a run yesterday and had that 'tall' feeling again!

Did lots of pancakes last night, sweet and savoury ...... have given up chocolate and alcohol for Lent!! Lets see how long that lasts ...........

Monday 23 February 2009

2009-02-23T01:25:00.000-08:00

Well done to Slum dog Millionaire for all those Oscars and to Sean Penn for Best Actor, haven't seen Milk yet but its on my list ....

Managed to get everything made last week despite half term .... hammered range, chaos pieces etc and got a few pieces out and the rest is at the Assay office in Sheffield.

Looking in to funding for the course in September ..........

random image of my favourite range ........ Luna

Thursday 19 February 2009

2009-02-19T03:39:00.000-08:00

Have just posted the hallmarking, hurray so that is all orders almost completed ...... new hammered range is doing good and Chaos pendants and earrings as well so hopefully I can sell lots more of those ..........

Went to see Benjamin Button with the girls on Tuesday .... loved it, saw Brad Pitt in a new light, like him more now, more serious, intellectual role for him ........ long film though, started to worry about the car park ticket!

Car broken down today so its in the garage .... waiting to hear what the damage is .............

Monday 16 February 2009

2009-02-16T02:29:00.000-08:00

Had a good weekend, went for a run Saturday, in laws came over and stayed, went for a walk on Sunday, played games with the girls, Uno and card games in the afternoon and watched a film, Matador with Pierce Brosnan, Tom loved it ..... I thought it was okay ......

Need to sort out a few outlets this week but nothing strenuous ..... got an offer from the U of Cumbria so need to look in to that more closely .............. make more stock .... keep everything ticking over ...

Tuesday 10 February 2009

2009-02-10T01:44:00.000-08:00

Finally some bangles to match the rings .... have made the earrings but not got to the pendant yet!

Have my interview tomorrow at the University of Cumbria so I am preparing some jewellery to take with me ..... and I am finally getting round to doing my accounts .... again ..... managed to put it off for 2 weeks now ........ so todays the day.

Monday 9 February 2009

2009-02-09T06:22:00.000-08:00

Went on a walk with Barbara and dog round Halton and down the Lune this morning ...... finishing and polishing some pieces ready for my interview on Wednesday at the University of Cumbria to show in my portfolio .....

Wednesday 4 February 2009

2009-02-04T00:50:00.000-08:00

Have almost completed new hammered range ..... 3mm thick round wire hammered in either silver or oxidised silver, looks good together as rings 'stack up' ...... have made bangles as well and some earrings and WILL make a pendant some time this week .......

I am on call today for First Responders .... no one on call hen until Saturday now so I will hang on to it and work it in over the next few days ........

Had a hair cut yesterday ..... Jade (Brown) needed a model to work on so did a last minute dash to Jo and Cass ...... she did a great job, feels so much thinner!

Monday 2 February 2009

2009-02-02T01:24:00.000-08:00

Paperwork day today..... have a ring and some earrings to make for customers this week ....... didn't win the lottery on Saturday so will have to keep working.

New range almost finished, just a simple hammered range, highly polished and oxidised, ring and bangle finished, just working on the pendant and earrings .........

Lovin the snow and sun today .....

Tuesday 27 January 2009

2009-01-27T02:02:00.000-08:00

Trying to improve my images on the website so I am re-doing them on a white background ...... new necklace of beads and silver ... not sure if it will be a one off or if I will make more, will put it on the website and see what the response is.

Did a run this morning ... had that feeling of being far taller than I actually am .... looking down from high up which was quite weird when I was running ... it happens when I am walking about but not normally when I am running .........

Lots of paperwork to do today, keep putting it off but will knuckle down to it today!

Friday 23 January 2009

2009-01-23T07:15:00.000-08:00

Girls are off school due to the funeral of a teacher Mr Percy. They have been given plenty of work to do at home and are getting on with it!

I have been making just about all day and my fingers are aching ... Brauz in Burton on Trent wanted a Chaos necklet minus pearls .... Oxo Tower shop in London want earrings and lower priced pieces .... I wanted to make some new bangles and a bit more stock for samples to show prospective customers .............

Wore new shoes yesterday, had to go to Kendal ..... initially thought I was walking like a duck but was reassured that I wasn't .... no sore feet either today ..... liking high heels now!

Thursday 22 January 2009

2009-01-22T00:16:00.000-08:00

strange things are happening .... bought a pair of shoes .... Country Cousins sale in Kirkby Lonsdale ....... shoes with HEELS! .... it is 20 years since I wore heels over 2cm so this will be interesting as I don't go anywhere 'posh' so they are supposed to be everyday shoes .......... is this middle age creeping in slowly, taking over my psyche? Am I yearning to be 'Boden' Woman? Can't dwell on it for longer as it is too disturbing ..........

started watching Donny Darko again but had to switch it off as not suitable whilst the kids are around but fantastic film ....... have been watching Big Chef Little Chef and really enjoyed it .... Heston came across as a very likeable guy, didn't like the Chief Exec, he seemed to have small man syndrome but I warmed to him slightly at the end ..............

Ordered a few more bits of silver yesterday .... shops/galleries have had a mixed Christmas, some have sold lots of my jewellery, others not so much, London shops did the worse .... smaller, lower priced pieces sold best so will make a few more earrings over the next few days for Valentine's Day ..........

Wednesday 21 January 2009

2009-01-21T00:49:00.000-08:00

Earrings and pendant in Chaos range ..............

Went to PAD gallery in Preston yesterday to swap over jewellery. Depsite their move to a more central place they only sold one piece of mine over Christmas! ..... and they told me they were very busy! Fortunately I also supply a shop called Vibe in Preston and I received a nice big cheque off them yesterday for sales over Christmas ....... at least it justifies (to me) having 2 outlets there........... managed to pick up a bargain from a little designer shop there , pair of purple In Wear velvet trousers for £5!!!

Friday 16th January 2009

2009-01-16T02:25:00.000-08:00

Remember this sterling silver bangle with chunks of amethyst from November? Everyone admired it, picked it up, tried it on but nobody bought it? Well it sold off the website at Christmas! Hurray.

Going to the Computer club in Wray today to hopefully resolve a few issues for me ..... putting links on wesbite etc .... still can't get the hang of it ......... going to cycle there if it's not raining!

Making some earrings for a customer and some other pieces for a gallery in Garstang .......... then its the weekend!

Must go and see Slumdog Millionaire ..........

Thursday 15th January 2009

2009-01-15T00:46:00.001-08:00

New BIG ring ..... sterling silver ..... this one is oxidised but doesn't have to be ......... its on the website www.thejewelleryroom.co.uk

In the process of making more new designs ..... I am designing and making some pendants which I wil put on bead necklaces rather than chains ....... just learning the intricacies of beading at the moment!

Have signed up to do The Art Market in the Westmoreland Shopping Centre in Kendal this July ..... a new one but hopefully a good place and time ..............

Tuesday 13 January 2009

2009-01-13T03:20:00.000-08:00

Over a month since I blogged! Got 'blogged' down with Christmas sales etc and then just didn't bother to get back in to it ..... not good ..... so here I start off in 2009...... a new range called Chaos .... I love it ..... a combination of fine silver and freshwater pearls .... lots of different bits thrown together to form a necklet, earrings and pendant but the necklet is definitely my favourite ..... the fine silver is great to work with and it really shines better ... lots of lustre! .... the pearls just hang really well with it all ..............

Have some more designs brewing ..... big ring ..... lots of earrings ........

2008-12-04T12:33:00.000-08:00

One of the most touched pieces of jewellery at the Christmas Market ...... but nobody bought it! Sterling silver hammerd bangle with fastening and mega chunks of amethsyt .....Much admired ...... oh well.

Have been very bad at blogging, time flies ..... web site is doing good ...... I am shopping for pressies so thats good ..... sorting out Christmas, family, etc etc ....... have been steadily losing weight in anticipation of putting it on over Christmas! ...... hope my silver jewellery trade sales are good .... have put a lot in to sale or return ..... have a buzz going on in my head, ideas, plans which hopefully will come together soon ..... need something to solidify it, bring it all together .... hopefully n the near future!

Wednesday 26th November 2008

2008-11-26T13:51:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Dad.

I survived the cold of Manchester Christmas Market for a week .... how do people do it for 5 weeks I do not know ...... I was exhausted from the long hours and freezing from the cold .... all because I want to sell my beautiful jewellery! There has to be easier ways .......... but saying all that it was great fun, really enjoyed the banter with the people looking and sometimes buying and had great fun with the other traders ............. glad to be home, hardly saw the children for a week, Tom had to 'run' everything and he did a good job and it made him realise how much I do ......... not a bad thing!

Back to reality, sorting/making some commissions, and actually making some decisions about next year!

Wednesday 12 November 2008

2008-11-11T23:43:00.000-08:00

Going to drop off some jewellery today, had some re-orders from Arteria which is good ........ trying to come up with a 'credit crunch' range to suit a budget in time for Christmas which is easy for earrings but pendants/rings/bangles are more difficult ...... had too much rain over the last few days but we have remained surprisingly free of water around the house ...... going for a quick ride this morning on my bike before I start work!

Sunday 9 November 2008

2008-11-09T01:35:00.000-08:00

Got my bike last week and went for a ride whilst weather was decent enough .......... good to get out but need more practice with the all the hills round here .... made quite a bit of jewellery, trying to use bits and pieces up whilst sales are low - ring with peridot is a 'recycled' bangle! ........ finally saw Barbara the other day, haven't seen her for ages.....

Remembrance Sunday today so going to church early for a wreath laying ceremony .........

Friday 7 November 2008

2008-11-07T00:01:00.000-08:00

simple sterling silver square earrings for Christmas presents ...
£10 .... trying to come up with low price pieces ......

finally got my bike from Pedal Power ..... feel like I have paid totally over the top for it bit my recycling/environmental conscience is topped up for quite a few months now ....... so now I can get on with cycling places instead of driving .....

Thursday 6 November 2008

2008-11-06T00:26:00.001-08:00

Love this bracelet - I know I love all the glass bead jewellery I make - the beads by Emma www.beadenvy.co.uk are called Poppyfield ..... they are great, red green and white ....... look great with the sterling silver .....

The amber pendant is ok ..... I decided to set some stones in silver, I have a few knocking about and never use them, stone setting is'nt my strong point .... they don't really go in to it in detail when you are studying so you end making one piece for the course and nothing else ...... so I decided to do a few stones yesterday .... the amber came out best .... I did a turquoise stone but the setting is so bad I am going to redo it .... I also did some other bits and made a ring with a peridot which I have claimed for me! Will post images another day ................

Went to Wennington Hall School fireworks last night ..... great display and we got treacle toffee and chocolate apples that they had made .........yum .... and thanks.

Tuesday 4 November 2008

2008-11-04T02:01:00.000-08:00

So much to do so little time to do it in .......

Sunday 2 November 2008

2008-11-02T02:08:00.000-08:00

November already! ......... Thursday went well at Arteria Gallery 23, display was good and lots of people looking and buying ........ Friday was Bond day ...... film was good, usual stry line but I quite like Daniel Craig as Bond, brings something to it that the other didn't ....

Planning for Manchester Christmas Markets, stock, pricing etc .... have been invited by the Lady Mayoress to a dinner before the Market opens to celebrate the 10th Aniversary!

Wednesday 29 October 2008

2008-10-29T02:23:00.000-07:00

Went to bed last night after hearing about the Brand/Ross fiasco and woke up to it on the news again this morning ......... at least its a change from the crdit crunch doom and gloom ....... it just shows shows you how much power the media has in this country .....

off to Manchester shopping with my girls today ......

2008-10-27T09:32:00.001-07:00

Monday 27 October 2008

2008-10-27T09:16:00.000-07:00

Love this ivory necklace .......... have received some great bead today from Emma at www.beadenvy.co.uk who is currently in Spain! Can't wait to make some pieces ..........

Half term ........ got bits done today and baked bread! even had an order for some earrings ........ girls have chilled enjoying the luxury of being at home all day .... lit an 'early' fire so its nice and cosy ..... hoping to go to Manchester this week, see the Bond film, go to Halloween party, might even go for a run!!!

22 October 2008

2008-10-22T01:32:00.000-07:00

Hoping these cufflinks will sell well this Christmas .... have some more but can't find the image ... will sort out ... going to London tomorrow to see customers, stock them up for Christmas etc .... meet up with Paul (friend) for lunch and hopefully see the Rothko exhibition at the Tate Modern ....

Why do most of my friends listen to Radio 2? I love Radio 1 especially the Chris Moyles show ..... makes me laugh and I love the music ....................

Tuesday 21 October 2008

2008-10-21T06:05:00.000-07:00

Getting sorted with more jewellery ..... ordered more silver as need to make enough stock for run up to Christmas ...... have to buy more beads from Emma www.beadenvy.co.uk as I love em so much!

Image is of first in new range .... need to develop it further but will not launch it until after Christmas ......... sterling silver and perhaps a bit of gold ..... sterling silver and leather .... bracelet, silver earrings ....... the full monty!

Weather is a fantastic range of allsorts today .... quite fancy a quick walk but need to make some pieces that have been ordered off the website ............. www.thejewelleryroom.co.uk

Saturday 18 October 2008

2008-10-18T03:43:00.000-07:00

Loving these beads from www.beadenvy.co.uk ..... another necklace

Happy Birthday sis ............ had a good week, got hallmarking back, went to PAD gallery and gave them some stock for Chirstmas sales ...... I am off to London next week to see some outlets there and leave more stock and then i need to stock up before the Christmas rush .... yes ever the optimist but there will be one.... just might not be my jewellery!

Having a chill out day today, one daughter at a sleep over an one has gone off to the Big Gig in Birmingham, a Girl Guide pop concert, very exciting - Scoutin for Girls, the Hussiers, the Saturdays etc are performing ........ she will come home on a real high!

So we might just nip out for lunch whilst we can, sans enfants ... omg .... how often does that happen?

website is looking good, I really like the new design, Roger has done a good job on it www.thejewelleryroom.co.uk

Wednesday 15 Ocotber 2008

2008-10-15T02:28:00.000-07:00

wow .... new look website went live yesterday

www.thejewelleryroom.co.uk

love the new look and it was about time really, its been there for 4years so needed a face lift though I am slightly nervous as I loved the original site ............... slowly the site is filling up with my own designs of sterling silver jewellery...... not sure if it will end up being just my jewellery .... don't think though as there is some great sterling silver jewellery out there from other designers ...........

lots of other stuff going on .... Winter Exhibition coming up at Arteria Gallery 23 in Lancaster (if you want a ticket to the Preview email me) ............ Manchester christmas Market 18 - 24th November for me and Jo, we are sharing a stall .......

On call for First Responders again today so am home based and need to do phone calls etc .. tidy up, maybe bake!

New range of sterlig silver jewellery brewing up ........... have amde a necklace so far! but am loving it ...

9 September 2008

2008-10-09T09:45:00.000-07:00

Good week so far .......... left lots of sterling silver jewellery at 2 outlets, made more and sent off for hallmarking ...... will go see more outlets next week .......... things are going well, I hope people like the new range, have more ideas coming through so want to start on a new range soon .......... have removed jewellery cabinet from Barton Grange, they felt they weren't selling enough and want the space for other things ........ will have to find a replacement.

Saturday 4 October 2008

2008-10-04T05:08:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness for Emma and her handmade glass beads, she has made some fantastic beads for me, its so nice to find someone this helpful with an equal passion for what she does! She has a great website www.beadenvy.co.uk so have a look at her beads and little critters!

I have made some great sterling silver jewellery designs with her beads and Emma loves it as well which is a great endorsement for me.

No running this week ....... having some time out from that but have been to the gym and hope to get my bike soon so will start on that ........ if the weather improves! rain rain rain ..........

I am on call today and twice next week for First Repsonders so that should make me get on with more silver jewellery, stocking up for Christmas sales!!!

Might even bake this week, haven't done it for a couple of weeks and actually bought some muffins which I never do!

Monday 29 September 2008

2008-09-29T02:16:00.001-07:00

A week since I last blogged! ..... finally got the bike I bought off Ebay for my daughter .... bought it in August and the courier didn't pick it up as it was n't boxed! Anyway its here now and perfect.

Have found a great new bead maker, fantastic except I have spent way too much on her great glass beads .... need to get on with my designs and retail my jewellery!

Did the 10km run yesterday in Preston and it went well, actually enjoyed it but have decided to give up running for a few weeks again mainly to see if it is easier to lose weight and will I be able to sleep better which are all my own theories but we shall see ......

Went to Carlisle on Friday with Tom and had a good look round whilst we was at some meetings ....... nowhere for my jewellery but it was a good day ..... shopping is good and I found a nice park area outside Tully House to have my lunch and enjoy the sun for a while ......... met a nice lady called Ivy Graham who I had a chat with ...... well it was a long discussion really ......

Family came over yesterday and we had a nice dinner altogether ......

Monday 22 September 2008

2008-09-22T07:46:00.000-07:00

Great weekend at Harrogate, good sales so helps to pay everything!

Went to an impromptu bbq (making the most of some fine weather) at friends which was very pleasant, had a good time. Think it was the second bbq of the summer!

Got all my orders done from the trade show so happy about that and think I have sourced another bead supplier thank goodness. Her glass beads are great and just need a few tweaks for my Equal range and she seems obliging so here's to a happy working relationship.

Went for a 10k this morning, did well so feel okay about the Preston run on Sunday despite lack of training ........

Wednesday 17 September 2008

2008-09-17T05:15:00.000-07:00

Went for a run this morning and met Barbara's new puppy! Cute as can be but lots of work .................. getting everything ready for Harrogate, hope the jewellery sells well ..... hallmarking due back tomorrow so can get my orders out ............. probably going to the gym tonight with Marnie .... on call today for First Responders so hope no call outs!