tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-73116214374109520442024-03-13T16:07:39.648+00:00Handmade by Ellen AdairA peek into the life of a self-employed ladysmith... Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.comBlogger41125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-13444393268197149412016-07-11T14:01:00.001+01:002016-07-11T14:03:19.329+01:00Love Lydiard Craft Fair 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Well what a funny old day at Lydiard Park this year! The weather was not on our side although it could always be worse! Luckily I was in exactly the same spot as last year and knew all too well how strongly the wind swirled and gusted around the gardens (even though it's walled!). So I managed to secure the sides onto my gazebo first thing and luckily didn't loose any stock or any of the display. There were several heavy showers in the morning too so it was a nervy day from the get go.<br />
I had a new display set-up and also launched my latest summer turquoise collection:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Graceful Deviant display at Lydiard Park, Swindon</td></tr>
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It was soon noticeable that the footfall was well down on last year - a possible consequence of the weather combined with a lack of advertising following on from the continued financial issues the council is having with running the house and gardens and trying to find investment partners.<br />
That said, I had a very busy day meeting lots of new customers and making sales that equaled last year. It was great to see <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Salamander-Arts-147523821938401/" target="_blank">Salamander Arts</a> returning again with their gorgeous ceramics:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Julie & Theresa from Salamander Arts</td></tr>
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A new trader this year was <a href="http://www.littlemisscakemaker.com/" target="_blank">Little Miss Cake Maker</a> who made Lydiard Park & Swindon's magic roundabout cupcakes!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Enjoying a magic roundabout cupcake to the live music in the gardens!</td></tr>
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Due to the awful winds it was very difficult to leave the stall and see much of the other traders so I really hope it runs again next year and we have a much calmer day!<br />
I'm not booked into any other trading events until November now - more on that decision to come. The next blog post I write will also have to address Brexit and what it means for me and the business. Not something I relish as I don't believe politics and silversmithing should really mix but it was inevitable. So stay tuned!<br />
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<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-33951517946014553392016-06-07T10:30:00.001+01:002016-06-07T10:32:14.899+01:00Where did I go?!It has been a rather chaotic start to the year and I can't quite believe that we are half way through!<br />
As a brief catch up my partner and I now own our property that we were renting and are thoroughly enjoying finally getting to put our stamp on it. We don't move swiftly though as we do enjoy carefully considering all our options and sourcing unusual/not-on-the-highstreet items! As a consequence this has meant some disruption and made it less inviting for me to try and work in a studio packed with 'spare' stuff whilst we try to work out what we want to keep and what will go on Gumtree!<br />
It's funny that the longer I've spent away from the bench, the harder it is to get back in to. The passion starts to dwindle as new creative outlets appear. I'm hopeful that the Love Lydiard event in Swindon on the 2nd of July will now start to refocus me as it was very successful last year.<br />
We also managed to get away to Lisbon (all be it very last minute!) as my partner had to go for business. I only had two and a bit days to keep myself occupied, the rest of the week was all our own time - here are a few highlights:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lisbon 2016 - the castle, the monastery and the botanical gardens.</td></tr>
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I've also managed several other trips this year including Beaulieu Motor Museum, Dublin, JapDay at Castle Combe and a couple of visits to the south coast. But in amongst that I've also been quite unwell too with a bit of a bad back making it hard to sit for any length of time and also being poisoned by mushrooms! Who knew! I'm one of a small handful of people who react to lentanin - a substance found in raw or undercooked shiitake mushrooms and although it manifests as a rash, I also felt really weak. It probably wasn't helped by having to take lots of antihistamines and steroids - soooo sleepy! So that was another fortnight I barely remember doing anything. To say I haven't gotten into the swing of things this year would be fair!<br />
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Onwards and upwards! All social media platforms will be going through a bit of a tidy up/clear out so that I can refine my style (how do you like the new blog facelift?!) and I'm back at it in the studio.<br />
My new venture <a href="http://metalmountainjewellery.co.uk/" target="_blank">Metal Mountain Jewellery</a> has had some sales and very positive feedback so make sure you come and find me on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/metalmountainjewellery" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/metalmountainjewellery/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> to follow a little more of my travels and outdoor inspiration!<br />
I know us creatives types do go through periods where the motivation for what we 'should' be doing just aren't there and I realise from the outside looking in it must be frustrating as you don't see new work coming out and must wonder if we just fell off the face of the Earth! So if you are reading this I thank you for continuing to hang around to see what happens next. Sometimes it just doesn't happen as fast as anyone would like, you and me included!<br />
Until next time :)Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-17694806540406565942015-12-31T12:37:00.002+00:002015-12-31T12:37:32.912+00:00Happy New Year......<h4>
.....it's time for a change!</h4>
Firstly, an apology needs to be made for neglecting the blog a little over the last few months! It has been an extremely busy December which saw Graceful Deviant selling in Bath during the Christmas market they hold annually along with improved internet sales and some different selling venues throughout the year.<br />
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So this post isn't really to speak about my silversmithing journey other than to say that there are a few New Year resolutions! The first being that there will be a new illustration each month that will be transformed into my jewellery along with a lot more one-off stone pendants. The second is that Instagram will be used solely for studio behind-the-scenes shots so that you can see before, during and after photographs. Lastly, I'm going to try and select slightly fewer events to attend but choose larger ones as regular fairs didn't seem to work out quite so well.<br />
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But the main news for 2016 will be from The Blue Starfish point of view as I have been realising some valuable lessons over this past year of market and fair selling. Ultimately it boils down to the fact that my jewellery making designs and materials have not progressed as much as they potentially could have done and with the surge in people beginning to make their own jewellery mine just doesn't cut the mustard any longer!<br />
And that's ok! I had been trying for a while to incorporate more handmade elements and artisan beads but the jewellery still wasn't attracting the eyeballs when out and about at fairs and so I guess the design element is still 'simple' or too 'commercial' looking.<br />
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Having said all of that I don't want to stop having a second jewellery line (especially as I have a huuuuggggee stash of gorgeous beads) plus Graceful Deviant is quite monochrome so it gives me a chance to explore colours and different metals. With that in mind I have decided to have a complete clear out of The Blue Starfish side of the studio and restock with some simple basics - copper and brass sheet, artisan glass and some precious metal clays.<br />
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Most importantly comes a rebrand. I have thought long and hard about this but as soon as I'd made my decision I was filled with excitement and itching to get started so I know it is the right thing to do.<br />
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-> So, The Blue Starfish will cease trading at the end of January 2016 <-<br />
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What will follow is a brand new website filled with new designs that have a rustic, earthy element but most importantly, a more handmade element. It will launch as 'Metal Mountain Jewellery'.<br />
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The decision to change the name has also been heavily influenced by the fact that I am consistently being mistaken for an eBay store called Blue Starfish Design who claim to hand make sterling silver and copper jewellery for very small prices. I certainly don't want to be associated with eBay wholesalers! Did I say that 'out loud'?! It appears I did :)<br />
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The launch date for Metal Mountain Jewellery is yet to be decided as time is required for design and development along with sourcing some new artisans that I'd like to incorporate. That said, the domain name and website building is already underway and I am very excited about being able to bring something different to my markets and fairs.<br />
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I hope you are all looking forward to 2016 and it would be great to have you on board to keep following my handmade journey :)<br />
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<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-79745918189451819932015-09-24T15:20:00.000+01:002015-09-24T15:22:45.422+01:00Venetian Delights!<h4>
....and a shake up for Graceful Deviant!</h4>
Having had a mammoth lack of motivation following my Canadian road trip (holiday blues doesn't quite cover it!) I was surprised by my boyfriend with a trip to Venice for our anniversary!<br />
It was exactly what I needed to grab some inspiration and yet again, some awesome handmade goodies! On the morning we were due to fly home we took a boat over to the island of Murano, renowned for its glass making. I was in heaven and could quite easily spend a few days let alone a few hours especially as you could walk into factories and watch the makers creating their beautiful masterpieces. Here's some of my haul!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Silver lined glass drops, hollow formed beads and traditional millifiore rounds</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Say 'hello' to my little friend!</td></tr>
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Plus I had to get a little addition for my Christmas travel tree!<br />
This stunning glass sculpture also makes a great pit stop for the birds!<br />
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So one of the reasons I think I was finding motivation difficult was because I was finding my work heading in too many directions and this was the case for both Graceful Deviant and The Blue Starfish. For Graceful Deviant it became simple - create work in collections. I have previously asked my Facebook following how they prefer to shop and the overriding feeling was by type, i.e necklace, earrings etc. So nothing changed on the website in terms of how you could search. But I have increasingly felt that for some it may look too diverse and so rather than change to shopping by collection only, the choice will be available! Having had a think on collection titles this is what will be available so far:<br />
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Plus there will be an additional 'Simply Silver' and 'Simply Gemstones' coming soon too as I seem to have underestimated the demand for things like simple hammered silver rings or just one gemstone as a pendant!<br />
For The Blue Starfish jewellery I couldn't quite put my finger on exactly what my direction was after having recently tried my hand at a lot of new techniques which didn't seem to 'fit' my look.<br />
It was only after seeing a lot of talk about autumn and the seasons combined with a comment a customer made to me at a handmade fair that I realised where I stood! The comment (and thinking back I get a few along these lines) was that the colours I use are so bright and complimentary. That's when I understood what my niche was - great colour combos that didn't necessarily follow the seasonal or high street trends! So that is what I will strive to continue!<br />
The next blog post will feature a lot of new work for The Blue Starfish so I hope to see you then :)Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-61835866661881847302015-09-02T13:24:00.000+01:002015-09-02T13:24:40.199+01:00Never miss an opportunity....<h4>
...to buy handmade!</h4>
I'M BACK!!! For those of you who were unaware I'd even left, I've been travelling Canada for the last month! To be more precise it was a road trip around Western Canada starting and finishing in Vancouver and taking in the glorious Rockies. In a nutshell it went something like this: <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.katandellensawesomeadventure.tumblr.com/" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt="HIghlights from The Rockies roadtrip 2015!" border="0" height="353" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-h9pvPnNm3nM/VebL6jXi-MI/AAAAAAAAAhA/GA1PxW-1Jik/s640/Canada%2B2015%2Bcollage.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Highlights from The Rockies Road Trip 2015!</td></tr>
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If you'd like to read more about what I got up to on my adventure I have a travel blog <a href="http://www.katandellensawesomeadventure.tumblr.com/" target="_blank">here</a>. The last couple of days still need to be written up but consisted mainly of lazing on the beach and shopping for goodies!<br />
One of the many goodies that I wanted to share with you is this stunning silver bangle I picked up in Vancouver.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hummingbird bangle handmade by Robert (Bob) Cross </td></tr>
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My road trip buddy and I first discovered <a href="http://www.silvertalks.com/" target="_blank">The Silver Gallery</a> in the gas town district of Vancouver on our first visit to the city and fell in love with pretty much everything!!! We left empty handed though as we were so overwhelmed with the choice of native artists styles and meaning behind each creature portrayed on the many bangles, rings and pendants. So, instead, we spent the rest of our trip researching the symbolism, discovering more about the culture during trips to museums and figuring out what type of jewellery we might want. I was instantly drawn to the hummingbird after reading that they help you focus on the positive in life, that despite their size they travel vast distances and that they can hover in one place, fly sideways, backwards and forwards. They
teach us to look back to our past, but not to dwell, instead to move
forward. <br />
I also loved reading a legend from the Kwakwaka'wakw says that Dzunuk'wa (the mythic guardian
of the mountains and Wild Women of the Woods) loved this little bird so
much, she let him nest in her hair, in return the hummingbird looked
like a jewel pinned in her hair.<br />
After narrowing it down to a bangle I then kept my eyes peeled each and every time we stumbled upon a jewellery shop but I never quite found the right one as I knew I wanted the engraved pattern to be symmetrical and meet in the middle.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The two hummingbirds meet in the middle with their beaks in a flower</td></tr>
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So after 2 weeks on the road we returned to Vancouver and headed
straight for the Silver Gallery but it was closed!! Eventually we called
in on our last full day before flying home and I chatted with the store
manager about what I was after and she showed me some skinny bangles
(as that's what I thought I wanted!) but we both realised they weren't
quite right and so she showed me the Robert Cross bangle I ended up
buying. It was over double my budget but the step up in craftsmanship
and skill was clear to see and I just knew it was the one!!!<br />
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Sometimes pieces of jewellery just speak to you and I don't often buy jewellery for myself (you can probably imagine the 'ooo, did you make that yourself?!' comments you get regularly!) but when I do, I love supporting other handmade artists and this was a prime opportunity to snap something up that I probably won't stumble upon again.<br />
Plus, after googling the artists name and seeing photographs of how these work of silver are produced, I was blown away! <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pyrography pendant handmade by Tiny Timber Designs</td></tr>
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Another sweet little purchase I made was this wooden pendant burnt with mountain and forest details by <a href="https://www.etsy.com/uk/shop/tinytimberdesigns" target="_blank">Tiny Timber Designs</a>.<br />
It's handmade in British Columbia using reclaimed wood which is sliced to shape and then the design is burnt into the surface. I found this hanging up on the desk in the Kamloops visitor centre - again, just something I knew I'd never find elsewhere and so had to purchase as a little memento of my time in the Rockies!<br />
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I did come back with a few stones that are patiently waiting to be set and turned into new pieces. They include Canadian jade, howlite, sodalite and aventurine - quite earthy colours as I'm thinking of a botanical theme for my next collection release.<br />
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The Graceful Deviant <a href="http://www.gracefuldeviant.com/" target="_blank">website</a> is now up and running again with all stock levels updated as is The Blue Starfish <a href="http://www.thebluestarfish.co.uk/" target="_blank">website</a> although it looks a bit bare after a successful sale before I went away!! So I will keep you all posted with new items as soon as they are added.<br />
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If you have any stories behind jewellery you've bought or been given I'd love to hear them! Feel free to share below!<br />
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Until next time......Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-84600285239362991662015-06-02T12:44:00.001+01:002015-06-02T12:44:37.897+01:00The Good, The Bad & The Ugly.....<h4>
...the trials and tribulations of running your own business.</h4>
I'm actually going to start this post with the ugly and end with the good as I feel it's always better to end on a positive note!<br />
As most of my existing customers and followers will know, my communications are rarely negative whether they be posts on social media, blogs or emails but I felt this last week has been important to share. I hope it enlightens my fans as to how hard I strive to offer exceptional products and customer service but also to any fellow artists/crafters/self employed business owners to stay strong and true to yourself and your business ethics.<br />
Those who follow my blog may remember a while back that I completed a commissioned larger version of my Mighty Oaks necklace which was going to be presented to a headteacher of an American school as a retirement gift. All went well and the order shipped off with plenty of time to spare as the deadline was the 1st of June.<br />
As I prepared for a weekend away in Wales for the bank holiday, I received an email from this customer on the evening of May the 22nd informing me that the necklace arrived, she liked it very much but the chain was tangled. I emailed back asap to apologise profusely, assure her that it had not left me in such a condition and asked what I could do to rectify the issue given that the deadline was fast approaching. She asked for another necklace to be sent as she desperately needed it for the 1st of June.<br />
Merely wanting to ascertain how the chain became tangled, I asked her if she thought the package had been opened (perhaps at customs) or if the postal box was damaged in anyway. I told her that perhaps if this was the case she could send me a photograph as she could be entitled to some compensation from Royal Mail.<br />
What followed were three rather angry, rude and abrupt emails accusing me of calling her a liar, threatening to report me to Etsy for not wanting to refund or replace her necklace, not standing by my product and that it was far too much to expect her to send photographs but that the package had not been opened or damaged.<br />
I referred her to my shop policies which state that I am happy to refund or replace any item once it has been returned to me and that in this instance all shipping costs on her behalf would be paid for. I also explained (for a second time) that this was going to be physically impossible given the timelines - even if I could re-make the custom order and ship it on the 26th of May (given that it was bank holiday too) the earliest it would arrive would be Thurs 4th June. <br />
She kept insisting that she needed a replacement, that my emails were harsh and that she had never had such an issue before shopping on Etsy. She was also angry that we had been emailing for over a day - it had been 11 hours since I received her first email. I cannot begin to tell you how upsetting this whole exchange was for me as I pride myself on going above and beyond for my customers but it seemed I just couldn't do right for doing wrong here. Eventually she informed that if it arrived by June the 4th that would be acceptable. For me, that meant returning home from my weekend away earlier than anticipated to start work on remaking her necklace so that it was posted on May 26th. Since emailing the customer with her tracking number and letting her know a new necklace was on its way and where to return the damaged necklace, I have heard nothing. <br />
I anticipate she will leave me negative feedback but I can't worry about that any longer! After a week of reflection I finally feel at ease that I have done all in my power to appease this customer and none of my correspondence can be deemed anything other than polite and accurate but the financial and emotional cost is, well, ugly! So there you have it! Shall we move on to the bad?!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graceful Deviant jewellery display at Bradford-on-Avon</td></tr>
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The last couple of weekends, excluding the bank holiday, have seen my jewellery out and about in Lacock, Bradford-on-Avon and Devizes but to say they have been bad is not necessarily fair. In terms of sales and footfall, they have been awful - to the point at which I am considering having to suspend working on my jewellery full time and look for something to bring in extra, steady income. I had been so hopeful that getting back out there to do these events would help supplement online sales but it's actually costing me money. It may be too early to say but it will require some serious thought after I return from my Canada road trip. *sigh*<br />
And how could I forget that on the way to the fair in Bradford-on-Avon this Sunday, someone drove into the back of our car as we were stopped at a roundabout! Both us and the car are in one piece thankfully! Plus, there was also some sad family news to round off the 'bad' but there has been some 'good'.<br />
I had some lovely feedback once again whilst exhibiting including a customer return to a fair a month on from buying my <a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3235541-Sterling-Silver-Full-Moon-Hammered-Circle-Stud-Earrings.html" target="_blank">full moon studs</a> just to let me know how comfortable and well made they were :)<br />
I've also had the need for some greeting cards and so some time to unwind and relax with a little water colouring - my favourite! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qnTW8fhmvf4/VW2TSMhsTEI/AAAAAAAAAe4/hu1g62DLP0g/s1600/IMG_5689.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qnTW8fhmvf4/VW2TSMhsTEI/AAAAAAAAAe4/hu1g62DLP0g/s320/IMG_5689.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Before and after - the image is stamped using archival ink and then water colored with Tim Holtz distress inks</td></tr>
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This gorgeous Santoro Mirabelle stamp lends itself so well to distress ink water colouring and I recently bought some pretty papers from Trimcraft which worked perfectly:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vUXWsOnN5to/VW2TWeEPiJI/AAAAAAAAAfE/rLZ3lsCS504/s1600/IMG_5682.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vUXWsOnN5to/VW2TWeEPiJI/AAAAAAAAAfE/rLZ3lsCS504/s320/IMG_5682.JPG" width="262" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A personalised birthday card using the Santoro Mirabelle collection of rubber stamps</td></tr>
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In a bid to cheer myself up I also snagged some Magnolia stamps in a sale - her name is Tilda and here is my first attempt at using the fairy version:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sneak of the water coloured Tilda fairy princess</td></tr>
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I can't show you the whole card just yet as it won't arrive with the recipient until later in the week :)<br />
After a day of card making yesterday it's time to dust myself off after a horrid week and get my mini 'Sunken Treasures' collection back on track. To say I've been less than inspired to get back in the studio and creating is an understatement but some 'down time' has certainly helped and I'm raring to get going again.<br />
To those of you that realise, understand and appreciate that this is a one woman show and not Amazon or a Chinese factory - thank you! I will endeavour to hone my smithing skills and offer the best, personalised customer service that I can within the space and time constraints that we all have to operate under in this universe :)<br />
Thank you<br />
<br />
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<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-51538791462150013682015-05-18T13:09:00.004+01:002015-05-18T13:09:50.586+01:00Sneak peeks from the studio....<h4>
...plus the one-off items up for grabs!</h4>
For those of you who follow <a href="http://www.facebook.com/GracefulDeviant" target="_blank">Graceful Deviant on Facebook</a>, you may have seen the new stones I've been playing with in the studio last week.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-itbV3s7KFG4/VVnN0Y-9dLI/AAAAAAAAAd8/_OIDDsBs_i4/s1600/laguna%2Bagate%2Bstone.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-itbV3s7KFG4/VVnN0Y-9dLI/AAAAAAAAAd8/_OIDDsBs_i4/s320/laguna%2Bagate%2Bstone.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laguna Agate Cabochon</td></tr>
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The gorgeous red stone is Laguna Agate and I wasn't sure if it should become a necklace or a ring so I asked my fans on Facebook. One lucky follower let me know that if I could make a ring in her size then consider it sold! So I did! It's that simple folks - if you see anything in the first stages of a design please feel free to shout out your preferences and customise your own piece of jewellery!<br />
So the finished ring is now on its way to the new owner:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hCe5mh3w2Cw/VVnMz-uwt1I/AAAAAAAAAdU/BInnROUKNHY/s1600/Laguna%2BAgate%2BRing%2B2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hCe5mh3w2Cw/VVnMz-uwt1I/AAAAAAAAAdU/BInnROUKNHY/s320/Laguna%2BAgate%2BRing%2B2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I love the fact that this stone is cut and polished by hand from rough slab here in the U.K. I've met the Yorkshire lad several times before at gem shows and he carefully chooses rare, unusual stones that are untreated and ethically sourced. Laguna agate is a particularly rare form as it can only be found in an area 4 square kilometres in size on the side of mountain in Chihuahua, Mexico. How cool is that?!<br />
I also finished setting this fossilised wood cabochon in silver too:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qgjY5kQCoYE/VVnMutZfImI/AAAAAAAAAdM/R5QqkAuS03A/s1600/Fossilised%2Bwood%2Bcabochon%2Bin%2Bsterling%2Bsilver.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-qgjY5kQCoYE/VVnMutZfImI/AAAAAAAAAdM/R5QqkAuS03A/s320/Fossilised%2Bwood%2Bcabochon%2Bin%2Bsterling%2Bsilver.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fossilised wood set into sterling silver</td></tr>
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I cut the tree detail out of the back plate using a tiny saw before soldering the bezel wall in place - not just for decoration but also as the wood cabochon has a tiny see-through inclusion right in the middle which I still wanted people to be able to admire!<br />
Following on from the tree theme I also completed a commission to send off to America for a teachers retirement gift - a larger version of my Mighty Oaks necklace:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tJLL4zAk12M/VVnM5YVNCJI/AAAAAAAAAdo/hPV6F1Ru9iw/s1600/Large%2Bmighty%2Boaks%2Bnecklace.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tJLL4zAk12M/VVnM5YVNCJI/AAAAAAAAAdo/hPV6F1Ru9iw/s320/Large%2Bmighty%2Boaks%2Bnecklace.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div>
A couple of other custom orders that came in:<br />
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These next couple of weeks will see me working with some more stones so they will be complete one-offs. If you'd like to see what I'm working on next and have your say in what pieces should become hop on over to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/GracefulDeviant" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and join in the fun! There will also be lots of small run, limited edition items coming up too as I get to work with some gemstones and charms that I've been hoarding :)<br />
My next event will be with <a href="http://www.thebluestarfish.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Blue Starfish</a> jewellery on Saturday 30th May at Devizes followed by <a href="http://www.gracefuldeviant.com/" target="_blank">Graceful Deviant</a> on Sunday 31st May in Bradford on Avon.<br />
Hope to see some locals there! Bye for now!<br />
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Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-75549822430596450992015-04-20T12:46:00.003+01:002015-04-20T12:46:55.588+01:00Graceful Deviant Jewellery in Lacock!<h4>
A busy weekend of handmade fairs!</h4>
With so many ideas buzzing around my head these last few weeks, my little sketch book has been relied on daily as I've been so busy preparing for a two-show weekender!<br />
The first of which was back at Hungerford with <a href="http://www.thebluestarfish.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Blue Starfish</a> Jewellery.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-An8AymREoKw/VTTUBAO0imI/AAAAAAAAAc0/ZytVEqXM8DA/s1600/The%2BBlue%2BStarfish%2BJewellery%2BDisplay%2BSet%2BUp%2Bat%2BHungerford%2BHandmade%2BCraft%2BFair%2BMarket.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-An8AymREoKw/VTTUBAO0imI/AAAAAAAAAc0/ZytVEqXM8DA/s1600/The%2BBlue%2BStarfish%2BJewellery%2BDisplay%2BSet%2BUp%2Bat%2BHungerford%2BHandmade%2BCraft%2BFair%2BMarket.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Blue Starfish all set up at the handmade fair in Hungerford Town Hall.</td></tr>
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This was the first fair of the year for my handmade glass beaded jewellery and I was hopeful that some half price goodies would help make the way for lots of new pieces I have in the pipeline. Alas, it was not a good day at all and so my bead buying will have to go on hold for another month or so!<br />
Still, I was excited to be taking <a href="http://www.gracefuldeviant.com/" target="_blank">Graceful Deviant</a> on the road for the very first time!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Graceful Deviant jewellery at Lacock</td></tr>
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To say I was nervous was an understatement! I felt like it was the first time of ever selling at a fair - I was unsure on most things, venue, pricing, display, the jewellery itself!<br />
Although it wasn't the busiest day in terms of footfall, those that stopped by were very complimentary, positive and intrigued to hear more about me and my jewellery journey! Plus a some sales here and there made it very worthwhile and lots of people helped themselves to business cards with lots more keen to discuss commissions.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ogbUQwvFBE0/VTTSDLdDNWI/AAAAAAAAAcY/uEaE8n16C9M/s1600/Handmade%2BBox%2BFrame%2Bfor%2BDisplaying%2BJewellery%2Bat%2BCraft%2BFairs.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ogbUQwvFBE0/VTTSDLdDNWI/AAAAAAAAAcY/uEaE8n16C9M/s1600/Handmade%2BBox%2BFrame%2Bfor%2BDisplaying%2BJewellery%2Bat%2BCraft%2BFairs.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These box frames were great for a professional jewellery display.</td></tr>
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As with all selling weekends though - I'm now exhausted and very dehydrated! All that talking!! As much as I enjoy it I do feel as though an afternoon off to get outside in the good weather wouldn't go amiss so I'll plan to head out for a hike tomorrow :)<br />
If you're local to the Wiltshire area or perhaps visiting in the near future, be sure to check my <a href="http://ellenshandmadejourney.blogspot.co.uk/p/blog-page_29.html">events</a> page to find out where I'll be and if you mention 'I read your awesome blog!' you'll be eligible for a 10% discount at any of my shows!<br />
Until next time...... <br />
Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-14343759078462509622015-04-07T11:44:00.003+01:002015-04-07T11:45:52.885+01:00Gemstone setting...<h4>
....and a trip to the beach!</h4>
Last week I was super chuffed to have made this setting from scratch for this faceted amazonite gemstone and have since ordered a few more stones to set which I am patiently waiting for the postie to bring! It sold instantly which was a great confidence booster!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mX191guTD4Y/VSOdKAI3HAI/AAAAAAAAAbA/HPBGOWQWJZg/s1600/IMG_5301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mX191guTD4Y/VSOdKAI3HAI/AAAAAAAAAbA/HPBGOWQWJZg/s1600/IMG_5301.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sterling Silver & Amazonite Necklace</td></tr>
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Plus I managed to have a go at hand stamping a ring band which I finished with a sparkly melanite garnet - it is black - not a deep red like a traditional garnet.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Vv4DOYb908/VSOdL233K1I/AAAAAAAAAbI/WAvi1d7BxSA/s1600/IMG_5316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Vv4DOYb908/VSOdL233K1I/AAAAAAAAAbI/WAvi1d7BxSA/s1600/IMG_5316.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hammered Heart Ring with Faceted Melanite Garnet</td></tr>
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On Easter Sunday I had a very successful shopping trip around the gorgeous village of Lacock including bagging this enamel mug from <a href="http://wiltshirescrapstore.go-ecommerce.com/shopping/mall/wiltshirescrapstore/Homepage/" target="_blank">Barty's</a>! It'll be perfect for my morning brew whilst camping in the Rockies on my summer adventure this year :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wiltshirescrapstore.go-ecommerce.com/shopping/mall/wiltshirescrapstore/Homepage/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eQDvx5Mf-GE/VSOdMb08x6I/AAAAAAAAAbM/-mYf4tuqhqw/s1600/IMG_5368.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://wiltshirescrapstore.go-ecommerce.com/shopping/mall/wiltshirescrapstore/Homepage/" target="_blank">Do what you love - love what you do</a></td></tr>
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Making the most of the gorgeous weather on the bank holiday Monday I got to visit the stunning coastline opposite the Isle of Wight. Stop-offs included galleries and a cuppa at Lymington, lunch at Christchurch and an intense game of boom bats and an ice cream before heading home. It was bliss!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q_8MOwc_nc4/VSOdYAWb4_I/AAAAAAAAAbY/eNjeRHck7Ag/s1600/IMG_5374.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q_8MOwc_nc4/VSOdYAWb4_I/AAAAAAAAAbY/eNjeRHck7Ag/s1600/IMG_5374.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Highcliffe Castle</td></tr>
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Back in the studio this week I'll be working on setting this unusual stone - solar quartz:<br />
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Plus, I'll also be working on stock levels for upcoming markets. This month you can see <a href="http://www.thebluestarfish.co.uk/" target="_blank">The Blue Starfish</a> Jewellery at Hungerford on 18th April and <a href="http://www.gracefuldeviant.com/" target="_blank">Graceful Deviant</a> jewellery at Lacock on 19th April followed by Bradford on Avon on 26th April.<br />
Hope to see you there!<br />
<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-70750387667377388312015-03-09T11:59:00.001+00:002015-03-09T11:59:27.295+00:00Another string to the bow!<h4>
Bezel making technique finally achieved.... </h4>
This has been, quite literally, the most exciting week in the studio for me! Although slightly worrying in some respects too because now I know this technique is achievable, I'm going to want to go on a spending spree for gemstone cabochons and fancy bezel wire!<br />
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It all began about 3 years ago when I commissioned a glass artist friend of mine (<a href="http://www.turnerroweglassart.com/" target="_blank">Jo Turner</a>) to make a glass cabochon for me. I spent many hours researching how to go about making a setting and bought in all the necessary equipment. Low and behold, I was able to create this beast of a ring!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nm-9Yr55Q4w/VP16gqJmDYI/AAAAAAAAAZk/AxBtgC86bTM/s1600/DSC09534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Nm-9Yr55Q4w/VP16gqJmDYI/AAAAAAAAAZk/AxBtgC86bTM/s1600/DSC09534.JPG" height="245" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The basic ingredients - a cabochon, bezel wire & sheet silver</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One huge ring!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-irKMK5qUBbU/VP16s9NjvVI/AAAAAAAAAZs/rh4bRo6oj_c/s1600/DSC09551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-irKMK5qUBbU/VP16s9NjvVI/AAAAAAAAAZs/rh4bRo6oj_c/s1600/DSC09551.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I added the beaded wire to hide a few soldering mistakes!</td></tr>
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So off I went on my merry way sourcing some more lovely glass cabochons!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zX7YLuPvOYc/VP17XlN3WkI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/3cZlEDnnlwQ/s1600/IMG_2337.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zX7YLuPvOYc/VP17XlN3WkI/AAAAAAAAAZ8/3cZlEDnnlwQ/s1600/IMG_2337.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These glass cabochons look like the contain mini galaxies or nebulae!</td></tr>
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But could I solder those bezels?! Perhaps they were just too big and I couldn't get my silver sheet hot enough? Well, 3 years on and I have finally got this technique to work again for me - fluked the first try I guess, I'm not sure!<br />
It's pretty hard for me to pick myself up after failure. Some people are able to bounce back no problems but for me, I stew for long periods of time. I consider the financial costs of having to purchase more materials, new equipment and question my own sanity - after all, isn't the quote about insanity something to do with repeating the same task and expecting a different outcome?!<br />
So every few months I would come back to this technique, try something new but alas, fail. Until finally, last week, I had a breakthrough! What did it in the end? Buying a tripod with wire gauze allowing me to heat my silver sheet from below - it worked a treat! Here are some work in progress shots:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R0WDXS4RSbg/VP2JwQ8CKlI/AAAAAAAAAaU/5zptZtmEe3k/s1600/freshly%2Bsoldered%2Bbezel.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-R0WDXS4RSbg/VP2JwQ8CKlI/AAAAAAAAAaU/5zptZtmEe3k/s1600/freshly%2Bsoldered%2Bbezel.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The bezel wall freshly soldered onto the sheet silver - no gaps!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IaEF4Hx3gO0/VP2JpTEqpbI/AAAAAAAAAaM/RsYlbmx0tF0/s1600/Cutting%2Bthe%2Bbezel.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-IaEF4Hx3gO0/VP2JpTEqpbI/AAAAAAAAAaM/RsYlbmx0tF0/s1600/Cutting%2Bthe%2Bbezel.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carefully sawing around the bezel wall</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eo1lLw5CaAs/VP2Jy-mi7QI/AAAAAAAAAac/i8VumXpJO3s/s1600/Turquoise%2Bbezel.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-eo1lLw5CaAs/VP2Jy-mi7QI/AAAAAAAAAac/i8VumXpJO3s/s1600/Turquoise%2Bbezel.jpeg" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Soldered on a beaded loop to the back - ta da!</td></tr>
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To prove this wasn't a fluke either I also successfully managed another 2 settings but these are a top secret personal project - all will be revealed shortly!<br />
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Thanks for reading!Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-76519594968681943342015-03-03T13:57:00.001+00:002015-03-03T13:57:34.853+00:00Graceful Deviant hits the road!<h4>
Come and see Graceful Deviant jewellery in the flesh....</h4>
When I first founded Graceful Deviant in 2011, the aim was to get a nice & full Etsy store going with the possibility of starting my own website too. <br />
I also found a few other online sites to sell through but in truth there really is nothing quite like selling face-to-face with the public!<br />
It gives you the opportunity to see what draws people over, which items they lean towards and why they buy - all things that can be difficult if not impossible to judge online.<br />
So I have set out to find some venues locally that will set me up to spread the word about my jewellery but it hasn't been easy and is still an uphill struggle! Why? Because a lot of events I apply for are inundated with people making jewellery and those sellers that have success at a venue tend to book in again for the foreseeable making the possibility of new talent entering slim to none.<br />
That said, I am starting to get some positive responses and I am pleased to announce that from April this year you can find me exhibiting with Graceful Deviant in Bradford-on-Avon on the last Sunday of each month. For a full list of dates see my <a href="http://ellenshandmadejourney.blogspot.co.uk/p/blog-page_29.html">EVENTS</a> page.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/becreativebeyourselfworkshops?fref=photo" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7ov8PGD51YA/VPW9Hf_7U-I/AAAAAAAAAZA/RVOH9kmA6oU/s1600/Be%2BCreative%2BFairs.jpg" height="147" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/becreativebeyourselfworkshops?fref=photo" target="_blank">Come and 'like' the Be Creative, Be Yourself page to stay up to date with fairs and exhibitors </a></td></tr>
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If you click on the photo link above you can come and see more details of the fairs and who will be attending each month - hope to see you at one of these in the near future!Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-37257176250289946982015-02-23T14:52:00.001+00:002015-02-23T15:17:58.831+00:00Wanderlust Stud Earrings...<h4>
....and a hint of spring!</h4>
Would you look at that?! The snowdrops are appearing!<br />
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And the days are slowly but surely starting to feel longer - I worked in the studio until just after 5pm last week before needing to switch the light on!<br />
So I was inspired to get back to The Blue Starfish table and get some bright, spring-like colours on the go:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebluestarfish.co.uk/ourshop/cat_715152-Bracelets.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0cRk277NJ34/VOs5kaTwZmI/AAAAAAAAAYk/tFfLfCGEw40/s1600/BraceletCollage.jpg.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://thebluestarfish.co.uk/ourshop/cat_715152-Bracelets.html" target="_blank">New bracelets coming to the website - click on photo for link</a></td></tr>
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It has been a long while since I've been inspired to get making new jewellery for The Blue Starfish and I think there are several factors surrounding this but the main one has got to be finding fairs/markets/shows to sell at - organisers are just flooded with jewellery applicants making it nigh on impossible to get in to any. I've even been trying with Graceful Deviant jewellery but no-one wants a silversmith either!<br />
Still, there are lots of ideas kicking about for new designs and new avenues for selling will eventually appear I'm sure! Speaking of new designs, I was also desperate to have a play with my new metal stamps that came through from America - and here is the result: <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/cat_790991-Stud-Earrings.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VBNzo7b2bNI/VOsvfUy7QeI/AAAAAAAAAYM/ZVUxzfbLoaw/s1600/StudsCollage.jpg.jpg" height="222" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/cat_790991-Stud-Earrings.html" target="_blank">Tiny silver studs - perfect for everyday wear!</a></td></tr>
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To say I am thrilled with the possibilities for these stamps is an understatement! The studs are just the start there will be charms, rings and hopefully some stone settings all featuring some of these designs. The wanderlust theme is not going anywhere fast and when I spotted this gorgeous pendant handmade by <a href="http://www.grubbiceramics.co.uk/content/home" target="_blank">Grubbi Ceramics</a> I just had to have it!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7bupjZM0qs0/VOs9Da2leDI/AAAAAAAAAYw/VgwxQw3Y4UY/s1600/IMG_5084.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-7bupjZM0qs0/VOs9Da2leDI/AAAAAAAAAYw/VgwxQw3Y4UY/s1600/IMG_5084.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A little treat for me!</td></tr>
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Leather is probably going to be my material of choice when it comes to stringing as I want this stunner to remain the focal point of my necklace! As for the other little beadies - I'm not too sure what design to settle on but I think I might make a bracelet - I promise to show you all the finished results!<br />
Until next time,......Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-57810179635711114732015-02-16T10:23:00.000+00:002015-02-16T10:23:21.046+00:00Cheltenham Rock, Gem & Bead Show<h4>
A jewellers paradise!</h4>
This is one of my favourite shows to visit as it is a wonderful mix of beads and loose stones for jewellery making as well as a great selection of crystal, mineral and fossil specimens. Held at The Pittville Pump Rooms, Cheltenham, it was a lovely way to spend a few hours, grab some lunch and have a walk around the grounds.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6DLdWTlKI7c/VOG_BZ4EEuI/AAAAAAAAAXc/N7Keiot33Y0/s1600/IMG_5069.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6DLdWTlKI7c/VOG_BZ4EEuI/AAAAAAAAAXc/N7Keiot33Y0/s1600/IMG_5069.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bit of a grey & gloomy afternoon at The Pittville Pump Rooms</td></tr>
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I think it's fair to say that I was fairly well restrained this time out! After my most recent makes I decided to focus on sourcing similar gemstone shapes and sizes to offer more colour options for my earrings. Here's my haul:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WpSP46eSrQ/VOG9v-NmwbI/AAAAAAAAAXU/WD9ttdfiP9k/s1600/IMG_5071.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_WpSP46eSrQ/VOG9v-NmwbI/AAAAAAAAAXU/WD9ttdfiP9k/s1600/IMG_5071.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Here we have crackled rock crystal, hematite, picasso jasper, lava, faux sea glass, coral and larkavite.</td></tr>
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These rock crystals will work so well with the sea glass style beads for a wintery, cool look but also with blackened silver. Last week I also cracked the key to hand polishing oxidised silver to a matt, almost satin brushed, antique finish using steel wool - messy but absolute metal perfection!<br />
I was also lucky enough to visit the Bristol Museum to view the Wildlife Photographer of the Year exhibition which was excellent and I thoroughly recommend having a wander to your nearest one - it is touring around 60 locations so keep your eyes peeled!<br />
The great thing about the museum is that it's free to explore and so after some lunch we headed back to view the Egyptian display, dinosaurs and more rocks and minerals! I never tire! Just look at this gorgeous display of weird and wonderful Earth gems - all of these were found right here in the U.K!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V2jyyWPjUFw/VOHBEDQcF_I/AAAAAAAAAX0/-TfadYN3tlc/s1600/IMG_5075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-V2jyyWPjUFw/VOHBEDQcF_I/AAAAAAAAAX0/-TfadYN3tlc/s1600/IMG_5075.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Selection of U.K minerals and gemstones</td></tr>
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Fingers crossed the weather gets better this week as I have some new pieces I'm looking forward to photographing but it's just so gloomy and I struggle enough with product pictures as it is!<br />
Until then, thanks for reading!<br />
<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-25982421788277779022015-02-10T13:20:00.001+00:002015-02-10T13:22:02.462+00:00New found inspiration<h4>
Upcoming road trip seems to have influenced me more than I realised!</h4>
Itchy feet have struck again readers!! This summer, my friend and I are planning our second road trip and this one will be even bigger and better!<br />
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We're jetting off to Vancouver to begin almost a month of traveling around the West of Canada and flights were promptly booked last weekend so it certainly feels more real now. Here is our rough route:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUJKVfBOWms/VNoB1B8sdMI/AAAAAAAAAWk/AbLOSA-fwug/s1600/Road%2BTrip%2BRoute.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ZUJKVfBOWms/VNoB1B8sdMI/AAAAAAAAAWk/AbLOSA-fwug/s1600/Road%2BTrip%2BRoute.jpg" height="241" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One big ol' loop from Vancouver taking in the best of the National and Provincial Parks</td></tr>
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We absolutely loved our time in Yosemite NP on our last road trip around California and so are making the most of what BC and Alberta have to offer and I think it's fair to say that the wilderness has definitely made its mark on my jewellery recently.<br />
Plus, new tools arrived from the States last week so I had to have a play!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3711745-Bear-Face-Sterling-Silver-Bear-Paw-Earrings-with-Pyrite-Black-Onyx.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ACT_JmpYK0Y/VNoC9KZxHzI/AAAAAAAAAWs/6t32SQuiYr4/s1600/BearPawGold5.jpg.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3711745-Bear-Face-Sterling-Silver-Bear-Paw-Earrings-with-Pyrite-Black-Onyx.html" target="_blank">Bear Face // The cubes of pyrite reminded me of a sheer cliff or mountain side!</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3711724-Be-Wild-Sterling-Silver-Bear-Paw-Earrings-with-Rock-Crystal-Kyanite.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-kDXzhRKVwpo/VNoDNQLX5RI/AAAAAAAAAW0/g1X396W7YuI/s1600/BearPawBlue5.jpg.jpg" height="320" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3711724-Be-Wild-Sterling-Silver-Bear-Paw-Earrings-with-Rock-Crystal-Kyanite.html" target="_blank">Be Wild // Clear rock crystal and kyanite to give an icy river or lake feel</a></td></tr>
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This bear paw stamp is one of my absolute favourites at the moment - I love how deep the claw impression is giving a sense that the silver may actually have been clawed at!<br />
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A couple of new designs too utilising my solid acorn charm:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3714839-Sterling-Silver-Woodland-Acorn-Charm-Brown-Leather-Bracelet.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ni92t1Juo_M/VNoEPL8LaYI/AAAAAAAAAW8/EZYSyDKof50/s1600/DSC07069.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3714839-Sterling-Silver-Woodland-Acorn-Charm-Brown-Leather-Bracelet.html" target="_blank">Simple, but effective and on leather it can even be unisex</a></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3714919-Mighty-Oaks-from-Little-Acorns-Grow-Silver-Charm-Leather-Bracelet.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Srwzv5g2uzo/VNoEmvP5JKI/AAAAAAAAAXE/XLdlLVap55A/s1600/DSC07074.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3714919-Mighty-Oaks-from-Little-Acorns-Grow-Silver-Charm-Leather-Bracelet.html" target="_blank">The ever popular tree illustration with acorn charm - I never tire of making these!</a></td></tr>
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If you click on the images they all link to the website where these are available to purchase.<br />
I am curious to know peoples thoughts on whether they enjoy reading this blog or would perhaps prefer a weekly newsletter? If you would like to throw in your tuppence feel free to leave me a comment on here or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GracefulDeviant" target="_blank">Facebook</a> - thank you!<br />
<br />
Until next time......Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-39727015739296079812015-02-02T11:35:00.000+00:002015-02-02T11:35:25.372+00:00Tea & Jewellery....<h4>
...does it get any better?!</h4>
It was a bit of a short week in the studio as I had to head back down to visit family on the South Coast for Thursday but some new earrings appeared using these fantastic little chunks of Fools Gold!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gracefuldeviant.com/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nFpnYK33f2k/VM9bdkYKLgI/AAAAAAAAAV8/MJMksvWv2os/s1600/IMG_5020.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gracefuldeviant.com/" target="_blank">Domed sterling silver stamped arrow discs with turquoise & pyrite</a></td></tr>
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Plus I also created this stunning necklace for a custom order - a 30th birthday gift:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sTxLGvXO3q0/VM9dITSzZZI/AAAAAAAAAWI/Y8luBwXAkCE/s1600/IMG_5004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sTxLGvXO3q0/VM9dITSzZZI/AAAAAAAAAWI/Y8luBwXAkCE/s1600/IMG_5004.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sterling silver angel wing charm & amethyst with oxidised silver chain</td></tr>
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On Friday I paid a visit to the most fantastic little tea shop in Brighton called Talk of Tea on Spring Street. It's just off of Western Road, one of the main shopping streets in the city centre but pretty well tucked away which is why I would never have known it was there!<br />
What a gem! Over 60 types of tea to try and all available to buy in 100g bags.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.talkoftea.co.uk/talkoftea/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j0Zrdgbmmdk/VM9e-z8QxtI/AAAAAAAAAWU/ZA7PiGwXtQw/s1600/IMG_5022.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.talkoftea.co.uk/talkoftea/" target="_blank">Talk of Tea on Spring Street, Brighton</a></td></tr>
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I'm building my own collection at home now as I've got their breakfast tea, snow buds and jasmine dragon phoenix pearls - I can't wait to try more and I'd really recommend hunting it down if you're ever in the area.<br />
<br />
So it's back to the studio this morning to catch up on orders and also to test one of the five new metal stamps that has arrived from the States - it's quite small but very detailed! Hopefully I can show you all what I've created with it next week so stay tuned :)<br />
<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-56706981848611527222015-01-26T10:42:00.000+00:002015-01-26T10:44:14.749+00:00Looking forward to spring!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<h4>
<span style="color: #a64d79;"><u>Pastels & Arrows</u></span></h4>
Is it just me or are you slowly feeling the days getting just a little longer, the days feeling ever so slightly brighter and the lull after New Year slowly dissipating?! No?! Well, whatever the weather in your part of the world, pastels can be an all year round kinda colour scheme - the pale blues/lilacs for a cooler feel and pinks/yellows for a hint of something warmer.<br />
<br />
There will be brighter colour mixes to come but for now I'm on a pastels run! Here are my latest <span style="color: black;"><a href="http://www.thebluestarfish.co.uk/" target="_blank">Blue Starfish</a> makes:</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thebluestarfish.co.uk/" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-XfySqXYUlkg/VMYUtagFzgI/AAAAAAAAAVY/s5rf1BvyjkQ/s1600/New%2Bdesigns%2Bjan%2B2015.jpg" height="160" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thebluestarfish.co.uk/" target="_blank">Pastel jewellery designs made with natural wood, glass and gemstones</a></td></tr>
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I'm also impatiently waiting for some new metal design stamps to come from America for my <a href="http://www.gracefuldeviant.com/" target="_blank">Graceful Deviant</a> shop. Currently I just have the single and crossed arrows, skull and heart and they have been somewhat underused so before the new ones arrive I've been playing some new designs:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3690005-Crossed-Paths-Sterling-Silver-Crossed-Arrow-Discs-with-Rock-Crystal-Amethyst-Earrings.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YTzA5t-Acow/VMYXnXKt4jI/AAAAAAAAAVk/XbTelZ_KtiA/s1600/IMG_4984.JPG" height="320" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3690005-Crossed-Paths-Sterling-Silver-Crossed-Arrow-Discs-with-Rock-Crystal-Amethyst-Earrings.html" target="_blank">Sterling silver arrow stamped discs with rock crystal & amethyst</a></td></tr>
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<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3689515-Due-South-Sterling-Silver-Arrows-with-Rock-Crystal-Turquoise-Earrings.html" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kFjXN227JZQ/VMYXngckY5I/AAAAAAAAAVs/vL_jhwWDLQw/s1600/IMG_4989.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/ourshop/prod_3689515-Due-South-Sterling-Silver-Arrows-with-Rock-Crystal-Turquoise-Earrings.html" target="_blank">Sterling silver arrow connectors with rock crystal & turquoise</a></td></tr>
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The new stamp designs are going to be similarly rustic/nature/travel orientated - my influence coming from the desire to set off on another epic road trip I think! There are plans in the pipeline for a month in Canada but more on that later :)<br />
Designs will include a polar bear, paw print, mountain range and a native thunderbird. My mind is going ten to the dozen with ideas - several are for more dangle earrings so that I can combine my many, many gemstones but also for studs, stacking rings and charms for bracelets. Feel free to chip in with any ideas you have for items you'd like to see!<br />
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That's all for now - check back soon for dates of fairs where you can see my Blue Starfish jewellery for 2015.<br />
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<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-55355306020853504652015-01-19T13:48:00.000+00:002015-01-19T13:48:21.965+00:00A New Year.......<h4>
.....but no changes!!</h4>
Welcome to my first blog post of 2015! Hello!<br />
Firstly, I hope you all had a wonderful with family and friends over the Christmas break - I myself played host this year having my parents to stay and thoroughly enjoyed cooking up a plethora of homemade goodies including mince pies (including the mincemeat!) and sausage rolls with plum and mulled wine sausage meat! You can trust Delia to deliver you quick and easy recipes for both of these <a href="http://www.deliaonline.com/xmas14.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
The big day saw us eating duck breast with a homemade plum sauce and a revival of a classic for dessert - Black Forest Gateaux which I subsequently found out was my parents wedding cake choice!<br />
Having never made it before I was slightly nervous but needn't have worried - <a href="http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/2303676/black-forest-gteau" target="_blank">this recipe</a> worked a treat:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EeqZKLrSw6Q/VLWyYxB56mI/AAAAAAAAAU8/NOOUBsQNMKI/s1600/Image(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-EeqZKLrSw6Q/VLWyYxB56mI/AAAAAAAAAU8/NOOUBsQNMKI/s1600/Image(1).jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
For some relaxation over the New Year I got to witness this view every afternoon from a gorgeous beach house in Tywyn, Wales:<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vxvyxdM04Vk/VLW0ETyPScI/AAAAAAAAAVI/n_Fq9YuBUjw/s1600/Tywyn%2BWales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vxvyxdM04Vk/VLW0ETyPScI/AAAAAAAAAVI/n_Fq9YuBUjw/s1600/Tywyn%2BWales.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
So, no changes?! No resolutions?!<br />
Well, no not really - just to continue from where I left off really!<br />
If there's one thing I know I don't want to repeat it's to jump on the bandwagon trying to make things that are 'on trend' or 'fashionable'.<br />
Although according to Vogue, some ideas I have for the New Year actually <i>will</i> be 'on trend' for 2015!<br />
Plans to add wording, snippets of poems and inspirational wording to silver bangles and charms is something I have flirted with for a short while now and hope to expand.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://en.vogue.fr/uploads/images/thumbs/201440/chanel_850697840_north_883x.1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://en.vogue.fr/uploads/images/thumbs/201440/chanel_850697840_north_883x.1" height="233" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Slogan Bracelets at Chanel</td></tr>
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Natural materials have always played a large role in my designs and this year will be no exception - especially if I can source some artisan pieces!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://en.vogue.fr/uploads/images/thumbs/201440/marni_850273454_north_883x.1" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://en.vogue.fr/uploads/images/thumbs/201440/marni_850273454_north_883x.1" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wooden and Natural Material Necklaces from Marni</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
And the Pantone colour of the year?! Marsala:<br />
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<a href="http://kwwl.images.worldnow.com/images/6126886_G.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://kwwl.images.worldnow.com/images/6126886_G.png" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
Personally not a fan - how about you?!<br />
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I guess if I had to make one resolution it will be to post here every Monday to showcase new products, ideas, works in progress and everything handmade in between as Facebook begins to dwindle the number of fans who get to see my posts :(<br />
It's really easy to keep up to date with the blog though - follow with Google Friend Connect or subscribe via email. See the options on the right hand side of the page :)<br />
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See you next week!<br />
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<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-43286755867789943362014-09-01T11:54:00.006+01:002014-09-01T11:54:57.171+01:00International Jewellery London 2014 Review<h4>
Exhausting but such fun!</h4>
I'm aware that many of you may not know what IJL is! Well, it's the U.K's premier jewellery trade show held annually in London featuring upcoming designers, collection releases from big brands, supplies of loose precious gems plus catwalk shows and free seminars. In a nut shell, an opportunity not to be missed for me!<br />Best of all this event is free if you register online in advance so an early train to Paddington on Sunday saw me making the most of this fab event.<br />
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When I arrived I started upstairs where the Design Galleries were and most notably the New Designers and Kickstart exhibits. I was really looking forward to this part for several reasons. Firstly, to see what trends designers had picked up on, secondly, any new innovative techniques that I might want to try my hand at and lastly for a good ol' chat! I expected to be able to have a natter with a few designers, hear how they got started, where their inspiration comes from and what they want to get working on next.<br />
<br />
But it couldn't have been more different! With the exception of one or two people, everyone was (I almost don't want to say) hostile.......?! As soon as it was revealed my badge said 'Designer' and I wasn't looking to buy for my shop/gallery, conversation ceased. Whether that's because outside of their sales pitch they didn't know what to say or that they felt it was a waste of their time talking to someone that wasn't going to place an order I have no idea. Perhaps they thought I was there to steal ideas! However, as I mentioned previously, I was there to see what trends designers had picked up on so that I <i>wouldn't</i> do the same!<br />
I've jumped on the 'trend' bandwagon before and it has not paid dividends.<br />
<br />
I saw a lot of similar things too - nature themed jewellery, lots of bees, butterflies flowers etc. A lot of bright, semi-precious gemstone set jewellery and plenty of rose gold plating because that's a 'trendy' thing :)<br />
<br />
Another peculiar thing I noted too was that along with myself, I overheard a lot of people commenting on how cheap the wholesale prices of designer jewellery was. 'Too cheap?!' I hear you say! Yup, and this was for two reasons I think. New designers were massively underselling themselves and probably because of reason two - most designers now it seems are getting their work made abroad, cast and finished in India and the far East. How does a designer who also makes their own work by hand compete with that?<br />
Now there were plenty of shop owners I heard asking designers where there products were made so it was encouraging to know that there are still discerning shoppers out there!<br />
<br />
In conclusion it made me come to realise where I want to be taking my business and trade shows is not one route. I don't want to sell out! I want to continue to improve my silversmithing skills so that I rely less and less on mass producing techniques and instead create more with my own two hands. This will mean that you won't be seeing my websites selling sterling silver opal earrings for under a tenner but instead will find something fabricated by me or if not by me, then I will tell you who! For example, I have recently collaborated with a self employed U.K charm maker who has cast new acorn charms for Graceful Deviant, my very own exclusive design rather than using a generic, mass produced charm. I know we can't worry 24/7 about where our purchases come from and how they are made but from my own standpoint, I want to be transparent so that when people want to be a little more discerning, they can be :)<br />
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Now, on a less-ranty note - shopping time! I had a blast drooling over all the scrumptious gemstones on offer and I'm rather pleased I don't set 'proper' gemstones and diamonds or I would not be eating for the rest of the year! But I got a good haul including these stones for setting into rings and studs:<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w-BExwMwRGg/VARN5X4mLfI/AAAAAAAAAUc/RfSSimuMHa0/s1600/gemstone%2Bface.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-w-BExwMwRGg/VARN5X4mLfI/AAAAAAAAAUc/RfSSimuMHa0/s1600/gemstone%2Bface.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amazonite eyes, labradorite nose and carnelian smile! </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Plus these strands were too tempting not to buy!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RwLQJ3A6Kvo/VARN7_W2C3I/AAAAAAAAAUk/b2yjh8el8Ng/s1600/Gemstone%2Bstrands.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-RwLQJ3A6Kvo/VARN7_W2C3I/AAAAAAAAAUk/b2yjh8el8Ng/s1600/Gemstone%2Bstrands.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peacock pearls, turquoise, amazonite, onyx, rock crystal and pyrite</td></tr>
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And my winter colours:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vp8ncryWSws/VARN8x2VMlI/AAAAAAAAAUs/R7dfyHOZ1wM/s1600/Winter%2BGems.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Vp8ncryWSws/VARN8x2VMlI/AAAAAAAAAUs/R7dfyHOZ1wM/s1600/Winter%2BGems.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning faceted rock cystal, hematite and onyx</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Those teeny, tiny faceted gems hold sooo much potential!<br />
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Would I go again? I'm not sure. I would have loved to be able to spend more time browsing other peoples work upstairs without feeling intimidated and perhaps one day when I require some diamonds or other precious stones I will but I've made some good contacts and may not need to return for a good few years.<br />
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What are your thoughts on how jewellery is made? Would you mind if you bought a British brand only to discover it was all made somewhere else? Do you support handmade and what does that mean to you? I'd love to hear your thoughts!<br />
<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-50461049543358097282014-08-24T20:53:00.000+01:002014-08-24T20:53:10.241+01:00Latest Graceful Deviant Designs<h4>
Did you spot one of the new designs in Vogue U.K magazine?!</h4>
So, last month was very busy (hence the lack of blog posts, apologies!) as I was working on new designs when I was contacted by an agency working on behalf of Vogue magazine.<br />
They thought my jewellery would be perfect for a feature they had due in the August edition entitled 'Get Your Rocks On' and I thought it would be a great opportunity to reveal a new design.<br />
And here it is! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XD8CHURkbm4/U_o7O6jH-vI/AAAAAAAAAUA/xm9uDBuoZpU/s1600/Etsy%2BVogue%2Bpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-XD8CHURkbm4/U_o7O6jH-vI/AAAAAAAAAUA/xm9uDBuoZpU/s1600/Etsy%2BVogue%2Bpic.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Graceful Deviant piece as seen in Vogue U.K magazine (Aug 2014 edition)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uc0LIPg03I4/U_o7F3zqamI/AAAAAAAAAT4/48bPSCwqwfU/s1600/Etsy%2BPic%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
Some of the other designs I had been working on included this <a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/shop/search.php?pageid=2998190&q=daisy" target="_blank">summer daisy</a> design:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xp7nTC5Ayc8/U_o6Kl_FxQI/AAAAAAAAATg/FxBR4zkzrVg/s1600/daisy%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Xp7nTC5Ayc8/U_o6Kl_FxQI/AAAAAAAAATg/FxBR4zkzrVg/s1600/daisy%2Bwatermark.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This summer daisy design worked perfectly in my dainty studs</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Along with this <a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/shop/search.php?pageid=2998190&q=mandala" target="_blank">star mandala</a> style doodle. Although once this had been digitally scanned and shrunk, it lost a lot of definition so now only the very middle part has been used in my charms and studs.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XFVf6ORl7DE/U_o6L2bKAtI/AAAAAAAAATw/WRN6C8YKNpk/s1600/star%2Bwatermark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XFVf6ORl7DE/U_o6L2bKAtI/AAAAAAAAATw/WRN6C8YKNpk/s1600/star%2Bwatermark.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The original star mandala was just a bit too big so only the middle section got used!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
One of my favourite designs was the legendary <a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/shop/search.php?pageid=2998190&q=thunderbird" target="_blank">North American thunderbird</a> which works so well with the summery turquoise:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://gracefuldeviant.com/shop/search.php?pageid=2998190&q=thunderbird" target="_blank"><img alt="http://gracefuldeviant.com/shop/search.php?pageid=2998190&q=thunderbird" border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-PCd6tLtlVjQ/U_o9HDANvnI/AAAAAAAAAUM/de51ax6R8QI/s1600/FotorThunderbird%2BCollage.jpg" height="240" title="" width="320" /></a> </div>
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<br /></div>
However, the feature in Vogue did throw up a rather important question and one which I had been ignoring for the past few weeks. It was the concern over using bought in components and the copyright issues that may surround them.<br />
<br />
Now I have been very careful recently when designing new items to ask myself the following questions:<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Can you source these materials on a larger scale quickly and efficiently should you suddenly have an influx in orders?</li>
<li>Is the design predominately handmade or hand-assembled? Which of these makes more business sense? Does it even matter? If so, how can you make it more unique?</li>
<li>With any purchased materials is there any copyright issue?</li>
</ul>
This has led me on a slight detour to my original Graceful Deviant mission but one that I feel now is actually better for it. More of this discussion in my next blog post and new product reveal :)<br />
<br />
I'm also off to<a href="http://www.jewellerylondon.com/" target="_blank"> IJL</a> next week so there will also be a blog post about the goodies I uncover and the talented designers too! Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-75658276398454198112014-06-24T10:28:00.002+01:002014-06-24T10:28:58.736+01:00Handmade Cards & Commissions<h4>
A week of card making and silversmithing - perfect!</h4>
It's been a busy few days full of birthdays, Father's Day and more so the dining table has been littered with pretty papers, ribbons and flowers!<br />
<br />
These are just a hobby for me really, I take commissions by word of mouth and don't sell them anywhere online but if you think I can help with anything - just ask! I love making them!<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FuOpPfYvVgw/U6lBRSwsn2I/AAAAAAAAAS4/wYO_noy5rP0/s1600/Fathers+Day+Card+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FuOpPfYvVgw/U6lBRSwsn2I/AAAAAAAAAS4/wYO_noy5rP0/s1600/Fathers+Day+Card+2.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pr9NxFZ9FRs/U6lBQozcCfI/AAAAAAAAASw/nr11LjfsOu0/s1600/Fathers+Day+Card+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Pr9NxFZ9FRs/U6lBQozcCfI/AAAAAAAAASw/nr11LjfsOu0/s1600/Fathers+Day+Card+1.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
A couple of weeks ago I also got asked to come up with a floral necklace in silver with the recipients favourite stone - emerald. It was decided that a poppy shape would be just right as she had them in her garden!<br />
And here is the result:<br />
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</div>
<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O-JtqmOhE3s/U6lDRK-ZOGI/AAAAAAAAATE/nvON05Jfhdo/s1600/Poppy+Necklace+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O-JtqmOhE3s/U6lDRK-ZOGI/AAAAAAAAATE/nvON05Jfhdo/s1600/Poppy+Necklace+2.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uR8debxWNsI/U6lDQ9_5zHI/AAAAAAAAATA/b3T2dLfb90A/s1600/Poppy+Necklace+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uR8debxWNsI/U6lDQ9_5zHI/AAAAAAAAATA/b3T2dLfb90A/s1600/Poppy+Necklace+1.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
I still get nervous soldering but I know it's just a practise makes perfect issue - I'm always so conscious of how much the materials cost, what if it solders in the wrong place, what if I get too much firescale etc!!!<br />
But I'm pretty pleased with this one and it has definitely inspired me to get back to the torch - at least once a week!<br />
<br />
My next post will show you my latest Graceful Deviant product launch so stay tuned!Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-27742169062163527212014-06-11T10:41:00.001+01:002014-06-11T10:47:14.062+01:00Featured Bead Artisan Part VI: Linda NewnhamA very warm welcome to Linda who makes the most glorious glass beads over on the Isle of Wight! You will recognise a lot of her work in my designs as I am a big fan of her style!<br />
<h4>
How did you begin your craft?</h4>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It all started when I went to some ceramics classes with a
friend and made some beads. Of course I had to make something with them and the
next logical step was to take a jewellery making class where I made a necklace,
bracelet and earrings using the beads I had made.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wVPcsKeoVZ8/U5ge6-XQUUI/AAAAAAAAARk/TFlxvu17P4w/s1600/Photo+1+bracelet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wVPcsKeoVZ8/U5ge6-XQUUI/AAAAAAAAARk/TFlxvu17P4w/s1600/Photo+1+bracelet.jpg" height="219" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Linda's Ceramic Bead Bracelet</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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I found the process of making the beads very slow, making
them one week, glazing them the next and then having to go back the following
week to pick them up. <br />
<br />
There were only 2 bead shops on the Isle of Wight where I live (only 1 now)
with not a great selection so I started buying jewellery from charity shops
that I could break up and use. I found buying beads online a frustrating
experience so when I saw someone making glass beads during an Open Studios
visit I was fascinated. I was so excited at the thought I could make my own
beads in any colours I liked.</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I set about investigating online to see what I would need to
set up this craft of lampworking and found Becky Fairclough who lived not far
from my Mum and did induction courses. I signed up for a 2 day course and made
my first glass beads. That was in June of 2011. I picked up my equipment from
the Big Bead Show in September and finally started making beads in the November
and I haven't looked back since.</div>
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<br /></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xJNfH6xEtmk/U5ge685FEfI/AAAAAAAAASI/a9bkrSUgRyE/s1600/Photo+2+studio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xJNfH6xEtmk/U5ge685FEfI/AAAAAAAAASI/a9bkrSUgRyE/s1600/Photo+2+studio.jpg" height="320" width="279" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An early picture of Linda's studio - it's grown a lot in recent years!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
Where do you draw your inspiration? </h4>
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That's a tricky one as it's never from just one source,
sometimes it's someone else's work such as<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>glass artist such as Chihuly or a painter. But quite often I find it is
in the process of making beads that inspiration strikes, one thing leads to
another and ideas pop into my head as I go along.</div>
<h4>
Describe one of your favourite techniques to use in your work?</h4>
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I would have to say at the moment it is making headpins for
those of you who don't know what a headpin is, it is basically a glass bead on
the end of a piece of wire.
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xhfvI_l6dNA/U5ge7v8BCsI/AAAAAAAAAR8/Zmw1bE7VPpY/s1600/photo+3+headpins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xhfvI_l6dNA/U5ge7v8BCsI/AAAAAAAAAR8/Zmw1bE7VPpY/s1600/photo+3+headpins.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fabulous Glass Bead Headpins</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<h4>
Is there anything new you are itching to try and incorporate?</h4>
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I have so much glass I haven't tried yet and a gold fuming
kit I have yet to use to name but a couple of things I would like to try.</div>
<h4>
What would you describe as your biggest professional achievement?</h4>
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Well, I am going to narrow that down to my biggest
achievement in lampworking and that would be my recent win of the jewellery
category of the Glass Beadmakers UK annual competition at Flame Off. A necklace
inspired by a Dale Chihuly sculpture I saw in Murano last year. I am very proud
of this piece which has over 100 headpins in it.</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SnfjDWWKev8/U5ge62TIxhI/AAAAAAAAARw/uJVlLeTjB4g/s1600/Photo+5+necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SnfjDWWKev8/U5ge62TIxhI/AAAAAAAAARw/uJVlLeTjB4g/s1600/Photo+5+necklace.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uuUGL8Alca0/U5ge7u-ke4I/AAAAAAAAASE/7IQbSp5YWLc/s1600/photo+4+necklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uuUGL8Alca0/U5ge7u-ke4I/AAAAAAAAASE/7IQbSp5YWLc/s1600/photo+4+necklace.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>
You can find out more about Linda's work via her <a href="http://www.earth-shine.co.uk/" target="_blank">website</a> and stay in touch on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Earthshine-Lampwork-Bead-and-Jewellery-Design/181676661913927" target="_blank">Facebook</a>!
<br />
<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-39669297123502976062014-06-09T10:16:00.001+01:002014-06-09T10:16:14.826+01:00It's crunch time - the detox is over!<h4>
Drum roll please......</h4>
Not going to lie, this detox has required a lot of time and attention to make sure I didn't fall off the wagon so I haven't been updating my blog daily! That said, there's not a lot to write about with respect to what I was actually eating as the last 4 days are self explanatory - see the full plan <a href="http://ellenshandmadejourney.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/weekly-detox-plan.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br />
I did however have a brief change around on Day 6 - rather than just beef and veg, I took out most of the beef and replaced with wholegrain brown rice. Yummy!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0TH7BgnyPxI/U5V0bezqNwI/AAAAAAAAARA/gUNUADUUpQI/s1600/detox+rice.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0TH7BgnyPxI/U5V0bezqNwI/AAAAAAAAARA/gUNUADUUpQI/s1600/detox+rice.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Breakfast, lunch and dinner!!</td></tr>
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So, how have I been feeling? Well, as much as I hate Day 5 (beef and tomatoes), the increase to 3L of water was fantastic! I felt full of energy, my stomach was feeling a lot less bloated and flatter and I wasn't craving anything stodgy (unlike on the fruit and veg days!).<br />
<br />Day 6 was a strange day and I thought I'd made a terrible mistake in introducing the brown rice a day early as I went to bed feeling very bloated indeed. I felt better in the morning but made sure I cooked more veg and less rice on the final day.<br />
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The scales beckoned this morning and the moment of truth.....124.6 lbs!! That's 5.2 lbs loss in a week! Woohoo!<br />
Now the real work starts to maintain this loss. If you try this detox, lose weight but the very next day after finishing think 'Ooo I can have a takeaway for dinner now' then this detox has not worked for you!!!<br />
I am now inspired to keep drinking my 2L of water, cooking from scratch with fresh ingredients and cutting back on processed foods, sugar and carbs. I have been looking to improve my diet since Feb last year when I started keeping a food diary - not just for calorie counting but to open my eyes to how much fat and sugar was in the food I was eating. I'm now proud to have lost 22.4 lbs since then. Slow and steady making just a few lifestyle changes - that's the way :)<br />
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Feel free to ask me any further questions on what I ate during this detox, how to get more creative on your fruit and veg days - anything at all! There is a science behind this detox too so if you do want to undertake the challenge, please follow every day exactly as it is laid out - don't swap days around!<br />
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I hope you have enjoyed these posts even if they are a little different to my usual but if you think about it, it is still along the same vein as my blog - homemade/handmade is best :)Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-76768600864871599672014-06-04T10:08:00.000+01:002014-06-04T10:08:20.076+01:00End of Day 2 & Some Commissions<h4>
Homemade Leek Soup and Friendship Bracelets</h4>
It's always rewarding to see happy, appreciative customers wearing their latest custom order! The most recent of these was for 2 of my cord friendship bracelets with some personalised charms.<br />
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They were kindly shared on my facebook page too!<br />
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I would love to see any pictures you may have wearing my jewellery whether it be Graceful Deviant of The Blue Starfish. Facebook is one of the easiest ways for <a href="http://www.facebook.com/TheBlueStarfish" target="_blank">The Blue Starfish </a>but you can also find Graceful Deviant on <a href="http://www.twitter.com/GracefulDeviant" target="_blank">Twitter</a> and <a href="http://www.instagram.com/gracefuldeviant" target="_blank">Instagram</a>.<br />
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And the day wasn't too tough detox wise either! If you remember from <a href="http://ellenshandmadejourney.blogspot.co.uk/2014/06/weekly-detox-plan.html" target="_blank">my plan</a> it was a whole day of veggies. Here's what I ate:<br />
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1 x jacket potato (for my breakfast), 3 x leeks, 2 onions, 1 pepper, 1 x tin of tomatoes, 4 mushrooms, 1/2 tin of sweetcorn and my 2L of water.<br />
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Doesn't sound like much but here's what I did - I ate the jacket potato which a small pat of butter very slowly which filled me up until around 1.30pm. Then I made a leek soup!<br />
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It was delicious and I still have a little left for the next day too. I usually make this with leeks, onion, veg stock, potato and milk but cut out the last 2 ingredients not really knowing how it might change the flavour. I needn't have worried, it was lovely!<br />
Then for dinner a tomato based soup stuffed with chopped pepper, mushroom and sweetcorn with a few dried herbs and seasoning.<br />
Now I must admit I was getting chronic headaches from caffeine withdrawal and so I did have 1 cup of tea with a tiny splash of milk :/<br />
I'm still feeling a bit bloated but that's probably the water more than anything! Let's see how it pans out!<br />
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<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-64301370354267376822014-06-03T10:49:00.002+01:002014-06-03T10:51:59.418+01:00Weekly Detox Plan<h4>
A slightly different post from me today!</h4>
So, I mentioned yesterday that I was a having a fresh start and a clean up with my jewellery ideas and the same is also true of my diet!<br />
We all reach that moment when we realise something needs to change. Now don't get me wrong, I eat a good, balanced diet most of the time and it certainly helps that my studio is the spare room as it means I can prepare a lot of meals from scratch throughout the day. The trouble is the takeaways, naughty snacks and decrease in exercise all creep up on us every now and again. So to snap out of this and eliminate the cravings I try a 7 day detox. I have done this particular detox 3 times before and each time I lose around 4-5lbs but really I do it to get myself back into fresh, clean living!<br />
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Here is the idea:<br />
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Day 1:<br />
Fruit day! You can eat any fruits you fancy (no bananas) and preferably melon especially watermelon because it has such a high water content. Drink 2L of water.<br />
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Day 2:<br />
Vegetable Day! Start the day with a jacket spud and small pat of butter if desired. Then, any veggies you like throughout the remainder of the day but try and steer clear of beans and no more potatoes! Drink 2L of water.<br />
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Day 3:<br />
Fruit & Vegetable Day! Mix and match any fruits and veg excluding bananas, potatoes and preferably beans. Drink 2L of water.<br />
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Day 4:<br />
Banana & Milk Day! Eat no more than 8 bananas throughout the day with 3 glasses of milk and still try and drink your 2L of water.<br />
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Day 5:<br />
Beef & Tomato Day! Choose lean beef (even hamburgers are ok provided they are a high % lean beef) and eat no more than 600g. Combine with 6 tomatoes which you must eat. Increase your water intake to 3L.<br />
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Day 6:<br />
Beef & Vegetable Day! Eat as much lean beef and any veg (except potatoes) as you like plus 2L of water.<br />
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Day 7:<br />
Brown Rice & Vegetable Day! Suggestion is to have around 1 cup (200g) of the dried rice which should give 3 cups rice once cooked (so enough for 3 meals) and lots of fresh veggies.<br />
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Et voila! There are a few other rules you should follow too - definitely no alcohol, you should cut out caffeine and try not to use any oil for cooking your veggies/over salads etc.<br />
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So how did I do yesterday?! Well, I drank my 2L of water and visited the loo more times than I probably do in a week!! I consumed a small honeydew and canteloupe melon, 300g strawberries, peach slices (drained from the juice in a tin) and a satsuma. I think that was all!<br />
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I will keep you updated everyday with how I get on!<br />
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This detox was found on pinterest here: <a href="http://health-heaven.tumblr.com/post/17089615944/what-do-you-think-of-gms-diet">http://health-heaven.tumblr.com/post/17089615944/what-do-you-think-of-gms-diet</a> but originates here: <a href="http://www.gmdietworks.com/home" target="_blank">http://www.gmdietworks.com/home</a><br />
There are slight differences between these 2 sources but the one I have outlined above is the one I follow and has worked so far! Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7311621437410952044.post-63320070014685804442014-06-02T10:36:00.000+01:002014-06-02T10:39:12.010+01:00Newbury Market & A Fresh Start<h4>
A clean approach to jewellery display and my diet!</h4>
What a wonderful day I had at The Kennet Centre in Newbury on Saturday selling The Blue Starfish jewellery! I have attended this market once before and love the location - we are essentially a handmade pop-up shop!<br />
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There are plenty of lovely stalls and so I felt I really needed to up my game this year to make my display really stand out. I have struggled before in the past to exhibit my wares in a coherent manner which easily portrays my overall style and theme.<br />
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But hopefully you'll agree that I'm definitely heading in the right direction!<br />
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I opted for a natural fabric to cover the table - almost sandy looking! Along with some white-washed wooden crates, pebbles and a treasure chest to place my business cards in, I think you'll agree, the beachy theme is coming together nicely!<br />
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There is also a brief introduction to me and my work placed in the frame at the middle of the table but I've never clocked anyone reading it to date! So perhaps I will use that space for more stock next time.<br />
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Also in love with the fact that I now have a real blue starfish to display on the table! Found in a gift shop on Pier 39 in San Francisco on my Cali road trip last summer :)<br />
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So with a fresh approach to my market appearance, it's that time again to do the same with my diet! I don't know about you but sometimes things can get so busy and hectic that what you put in your mouth at meal times becomes more about convenience rather than homemade, fresh and sensible choices.<br />
One of the best ways I have found to get back on track is to follow a basic detox plan. It's amazing after 7 days how your cravings for sweet treats as well as the naughty stodgy meals suddenly disappear!<br />
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Now this detox plan is not easy but does make sense when you look into why you are eating certain things on certain days and I have lost around 4-5lbs after completing it. So, today I have shuffled onto the scales, noted down 129.8 lbs (I'm roughly 5'4") and have begun preparing all the fresh fruit I could ever want as today that is all I can eat. It's important to note that you shouldn't feel starving hungry! Eat as much fresh fruit as you like (excluding bananas) and drink at least 2L of water. I also cut out caffeine which is the hardest to do and headaches will be noted tomorrow I'm sure!<br />
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Tune in tomorrow to see how I'm getting on and find out what's on the menu for the rest of the week :)<br />
<br />Ellen Adairhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17105890642241785652noreply@blogger.com2