May 2012

Bejeweled Epoxy Pendant

May 29, 2012

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Remember when we used epoxy clay to make this ring? I really liked how easy epoxy clay was to use, but didn’t absolutely love the end result. Well, I’ve done some experimenting and realized the magic trick to a show-stopping result. With epoxy clay, more is better. It’s better to fill every possible space with jewels and embrace a bit of randomness. Luckily, this actually makes it much easier. You don’t need to worry about perfect placement or alignment, just fill up that space.

For this project you’ll need crystals, beads and/or glass pearls, epoxy clay, gloves and a pendant (though you could also do this with a ring or other piece of jewelry). You can find the clay, crystals and blank pendant at most any bead store.

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Put the gloves on and make equal size balls of the two clays. Epoxy clay consists of two separate clays that create a chemical reaction when mixed. This is what makes them air dry into a rock hard end form, without the need for any kiln curing. For absolute accuracy you can weigh each piece of clay, but I just eye-balled it.

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Once they are completely mixed, allow the clay to rest for about 5 minutes (this makes it a bit less sticky and mushy to work with). Then press the clay into your pendant. You can get your gloved finger a bit damp and run across the surface to make it completely smooth.

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Now just randomly press your crystals/pearls into the clay until you’re happy with the end result. Remember that it looks best if the space is filled up, so be sure to have crystals in an assortment of sizes.

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String onto a chain or any type of necklace (I used a suede necklace).

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I’ve worn my necklace once so far and already got a bunch of compliments. It’s a great starter project to build your creative confidence and get you in the Creative Esteem Cycle.

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This, That, and Some Artwork

May 23, 2012

Doubts can take over, if I’m not careful. They’re like big, dark clouds rolling in from a distance. They loom and threaten. They shift and move unpredictably.

They tell me this unconventional path won’t work. They tell me I should get a “real” job, stop my dreaming, and grow up. They tell me all about what normal people are doing. They point out that I have no experience as an entrepreneur, artist, handmade revivalist – so how the hell do I know what I’m doing? They tell me I should just quit and take the easy road.

Sometimes they properly bum me out and leave me in a tizzy.

But sometimes. Sometimes I’m ready and I don’t let them rain on my parade, no matter how big, dark or quick they are. I tell them that I tried conventional, just didn’t work out for me. I tell them I have a real job, am grown up, but will never stop dreaming. I tell them I’m most certainly not normal, thank ya very much. I tell them I have plenty of experience – just not the accredited kind. I tell them I’m already on the easy road, ’cause this road is paved with passion and joy.

***

As I learn to pay attention to what makes me happy, calms my fears and leaves me energized, I gain complete control. I can get rid of doubts, future funks, and any other melancholy moods. Plus I can take good moods and drive them straight to awesometown.

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That’s what I did today. Even though it’s already the middle of May. And even though it wasn’t that cold. I had a cozy, crackly, warm fire. It took the dreary, sprinkly day and made it just perfect. I spent much of the day happily by the fire dreaming, drawing, and scheming.

Sure, I could’ve lived without it, but it made me happy, happy, happy to have my cozy, creative time. And now I feel refreshed and ready.

I urge you to pay attention to the little things that make you happy(er/est) and pursue them. Even if it’s impractical and silly. Do it. You won’t regret your happiness.

***

Speaking of happiness, I am so excited about a purchase from this weekend. Kale, Baylor and I went to a street fair over the weekend and purchased our very first piece of real artwork!

I have to admit this has been a “bucket list” dream of mine. I’ve wanted to meet the artist, learn about their work and buy an original, unique piece of art. Check, check, check. We came home with this beauty and it makes me smile every time I look at it.

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It’s a super cool mixed media piece that just can’t stop off-gassing creativity.

I hope you’re having a great week, too, and can find a few moments to pursue your happiness.

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Reversible Cloth Napkins

May 22, 2012

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We like using cloth napkins in our house, since they not only create less waste, but look pretty and feel luxurious. Plus, making your own is one of the simplest sewing projects. It’s all straight-line sewing and the small size means they’re quick to make. Feel free to make a bunch of matching napkins or random variety of your favorite fabrics (like I did).

First, iron your fabric. A general purpose quilting cotton works great, but you could also use linen or some type of bamboo/cotton blend.

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A self-healing mat and rotary cutter make cutting the napkin squares really quick, but scissors work, too. For each napkin, cut two pieces of fabric to 17 x 17 inches.

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