Mary Newton Designs

AAACCCKKKK!!!!!!!!!

2011-12-19T10:25:00.000-08:00

I'm so far behind I might as well start getting ready for Christmas next year! Through a series of mishaps, extra hours at work, family obligations and the like I have made almost no progress towards Christmas. It doesn't help that I set these ridiculous goals for myself-handmade presents for everyone. Really? I'm surely nuts.

But one thing I'll say for this holiday season is I'm so impressed and awed by the community of bloggers. I have seen such generosity and kindness recently that I'm touched beyond words. Times may be hard and money is tight but it seems that so many people always find a way to give a little more. I'm not a real regular blogger but I am a regular reader of blogs, so while you may not know me very well, I feel like I know so many of you out there and consider you friends. I share your troubles, your triumphs and too often, your pain.
I love to hear about your kids, your jobs and your creative pursuits. You are truly "friends" to me and I cherish you all. The spirit of Christmas is alive and well all year long here in blog world!

Eventually, I will take some pictures and share my holidays with you all. But, for now, have a special Christmas and I'll see you in the new year!

Peace, Mary

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Winner!

2011-11-15T10:26:00.000-08:00

And the big winner of the turquoise braided necklace is Kim Hunter Designs!

Kim, send me your address to my email or Etsy mail. Congratulations!

Deadline!

2011-11-13T08:48:00.000-08:00

Don't forget to comment to win this necklace! (See previous post)

Surprise and Questionaire

2011-11-10T08:55:00.000-08:00

I have decided it's way past time for a give away here, for no good reason. I've been making lots of jewelry on waxed linen and would like to know how you like or if you like it.

I'm very simple, so here's how we'll do it: just leave a comment on my blog and answer at least one question.

What is your favorite style of necklace, choker, lariat, wire work, long, etc?

What length do you prefer?

Special medium? Glass, stone, lampwork, mixed media, vintage items?

Do you like or would you consider wearing jewelry made with cord and knotting or braiding?

That's it! I will give away the necklace pictured here. It is made on black waxed lined with about 8mm
turquoise nuggets and closes with a loop and button.

You have until Sunday night to enter. I will be out of town tonight and the weekend on family business. I will tally entries Monday and announce a winner Tuesday.

Good luck and have a fun weekend!

Braiding

2011-11-09T14:50:00.000-08:00

I'm really enjoying this!

Knotty

2011-11-07T17:18:00.000-08:00

Just love knotting!

Happy Colors

2011-11-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

Have a happy weekend!

Something Old, Something New

2011-10-30T13:29:00.000-07:00

Recently I had a request for some jewelry in a style I used to make a lot. Back before sterling wire was so expensive, although it would look great in copper, too. A friend of mine wears my silver wire jewelry every day and is frequently asked where she got it. And she reminded me I didn't have any on Etsy for people to see.
So here it is, and old style, made with bits and bobs I had made up already and assembled into new pieces.

So, what do you think? I still wear the pieces I made for myself so I hope someone will like them. Maybe when they're splurging a little for Christmas?

South Haven

2011-10-08T10:46:00.000-07:00

This is the view of Lake Michigan a block down from where I stayed in South Haven. I can't begin to tell you how great it felt to be near a large body of water. I've always loved being near water but even I was surprised by the feeling of renewal I got from it. I nearly missed the retreat because I wanted to stay on the beach all day!
I loved the little tilted fences!

On Saturday morning we went to the local farmer's market for color inspiration. It was about 50 degrees and clear.

On Sunday morning we took a walk in the woods for more inspiration.

Cool covered bridge.

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I loved this wooden path on the beach.

Boardwalk with lighthouse.

And finally, one last walk down to the water in the morning before I left. It was a perfect weekend weather-wise and such a relief from the Texas heat. The morning I left was cold and rainy but it was still gorgeous to me.

I'm not much of a photographer or you'd see how beautiful the sunsets were or all the rocks near the water where I spent a lot of time. I didn't get pictures of my retreat-mates or our projects but others did a better job at that than I did. Hopefully, Heather will post her photos because they're "book-worthy". Did you know that she took the photos in her book?

2011-09-15T19:45:00.000-07:00

I'm so excited to be going to Heather Power's Inspired By Nature Retreat this weekend. It's in South Haven, MI which is right on the beach. The weather will be cool and I look forward to meeting new beady friends.

I'll also be on the beach looking for pebbles and shells and maybe some sea glass if I'm lucky. I've been drilling all the decent stones I can find but I need more!

I'm loving making jewelry from beach stones. Hope you like them, too. I'm going to try to take pictures to share with the blog world when I get back.

New Texture

2011-09-14T12:02:00.000-07:00

I mentioned I got some new texture plates of brass recently. I know some of you out there have tried this but I haven't seen it much. So for those of you not in the know, here is a pair of earrings I textured using a brass plate.

Since brass is a harder metal than copper or silver it can be placed over another metal and hammered to add texture. In this case, I hammered randomly, moving the plate around as I hammered, for a more organic look.
A more precise pattern can be obtained by taping the metal securely before hammering. There are a lot of patterns available and you can combine them for different looks. I love tools but I can't afford all those lovely texturing hammers and this is an inexpensive alternative. Also a cheap substitute for a rolling mill. I'll be trying more-on copper first!

Stretching My Silver Dollars

2011-09-11T20:01:00.000-07:00

Not too long ago I mailed all my scrap silver into Rio Grande for credit. I had over $330.00 worth! That sounds like a lot until you do the numbers. With silver selling between $40.00 and $50.00 an ounce that doesn't go as far as it sounds! Last week I finally put in my order for more silver and it was very hard to decide what to buy. I would love to do some experimenting but I ended up with the usual basics: mostly round sterling wire, a bit of fine silver for fusing and a bit of silver sheet. i love to use the sheet but it's so precious I'm afraid to cut into it!

In the meantime, I'm using lots of copper. I love the freedom to experiment without worrying about the cost!It's so fun to discover new textures and techniques. I got some new brass sheets at the recent bead bazaar and they are great for texturing.

Here's a few recent projects:

Hope everyone has a great week!

Austin Bead Society Bazaar

2011-09-01T06:39:00.000-07:00

So, it's only been a month since I posted and these pics are only 3 weeks old! Just wanted to give you a little feel for our local bazaar. I've done this show for about 15 years now, missing only one as a vendor.

It's always a fun show to do because so many of the vendors are old friends and lots of shoppers come to visit , too. I only get a 'table' space because I don't put out lots of jewelry, mostly components.

This is a tray of etched metal pieces, brass, nickle and mostly copper. They sold very well.

I also made quite a few resin bezels, these are the 'pairs'.

I look forward to this show all year because it's fun to do in spite of the usual show anxiety. I only did a little shopping so I actually came out ahead!

Success!

2011-07-29T18:35:00.000-07:00

The bezels I poured last night came out pretty good, only a few boo-boos. I did some more today and then I will finish up next week. These are for a show in August.

Ice, Ice...

2011-07-28T20:51:00.001-07:00

Just poured a batch of Ice Resin. Crossing my fingers that it works!

Got Some Pictures Taken

2011-06-30T17:13:00.000-07:00

Listing earrings today. Odd assortment of styles. Up first are some discs of faux turquoise. I've been resisting purchasing magnesite but these were so nice.

Soldered copper rings that I wrapped with silver wire. I love these Czech beads! I think the center stripe looks like a peeled apple! Unfortunately, the rest of the apple is brown :(

More silver melted on copper-can't stop doing this.

Hope everyone is enjoying these HOT summer days. I'm mostly enjoying staying inside!

Favorites

2011-06-28T11:00:00.000-07:00

It's no secret that turquoise is my favorite stone and while I think it 'goes' with just about everything, I love to use it in a Southwestern pallete. Deep rusts, reds, browns, amber and always silver, of course.

This rugged matte carnelian was love at first sight! I wish I had bought 2 strands. It has stripes of creamy white and blacks specks. I added little bone rondelles with tiny dots of inlaid stone ( I think). I used black linen cord to knot each bead and the necklace has a very supple feeling and drape. I used teeny little nuggets of Thai silver to make the loop for the button closure.

I've rediscovered my love of knotting with the increase of silver prices!

New In My Shop

2011-06-12T21:48:00.000-07:00

Really enjoying this process!!

Just Back...

2011-05-22T22:02:00.000-07:00

I got stuck in Minnesota an extra day due to a massive power outage that shut down over half of the Minneapolis St. Paul airport for about 10 hours. I'm sure there are plenty of fun things to do in the Twin Cities but after spending 4 hours sitting on the floor and then 5 (FIVE!) hours STANDING in line all I wanted to do was sleep. Delta put me up in a very nice hotel and fed me until I could get another flight home.

All airport hassles aside, the trip was definetly worth it.

This amazing woman turned 100 years old! She can't get around like she used to and her hearing is less than perfect but she is still very sharp. She is my Mother's sister and the last surviving member of her family. She was totally overwhelmed by the fact that I was there and that made the trip worth it. She also loved that my youngest granddaughter turned 2 on the same day! For a woman who has very few living relatives there was a huge turnout for her party. She's touched a lot of lives. All day she very excitedly introduced me to everyone who came. I'm so glad I made the trip.

New Earrings

2011-05-19T06:08:00.000-07:00

New earrings for your viewing pleasure. I'm heading out of town today so everyone have a great weekend!

A few more...

2011-05-17T18:55:00.000-07:00

Here are some more of the "silver melted on copper" series (don't know if it has a name). I'm loving the texture. I think it looks like topographical views of mountain ranges.

What I've Been Doing Lately

2011-05-14T19:00:00.000-07:00

I've taken a break from wire lately, due to the cost of silver. Instead, I'm knotting everything.

No Jewelry Pics

2011-04-14T15:07:00.003-07:00

Taxes e-filed today! Yay!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Tried Something New

2011-04-10T19:28:00.000-07:00

I know I'm not the first to do this, but I was playing around with melting fine silver wire on copper sheet this week. It's fun and I do like the effects but I'd like some honest feedback.

Is it cool or does it just look like a mistake?

Beautiful Turquoise

2011-04-01T11:54:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to show off these lovely turquoise beads. They have such a pretty blue color with just the right amount of matrix. They're 15mm around and faceted. They were perfect for a very simple necklace, so all I did was wire wrap them with heavy sterling silver wire.

Hope you all have a wonderful weekend!

Etched Jewelry

2011-03-28T20:53:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I manage to post two days in a row! I have a funny schedule at my 'job that has insurance'. That's how I think of it because I feel like my jewelry is my real job (and life). But I work nights at my JTHI and my body gets all out of whack trying to adjust back and forth. So sometimes I "lose" days. Anyway.... I have some pictures of some earrings I finished with some of the latest batch of etched metal.

Hope you enjoyed them and thanks for stopping by!

And Now, for the Latest

2011-03-27T20:25:00.000-07:00

...in my etching process. I wanted to show you how the metal plates look after they've been etched but before they've been cut and filed. Sometimes it's hard to envision a piece of jewelry just from the raw etched piece.

This is one that I drew on copper with a Sharpie. I almost always use stamps but I think I'll try more free hand drawings. This was done with the Ultra Fine point.

The rest of these were stamped on brass.

But on this one I stamped a dragonfly twice and filled in the blank space with free hand sketching so as not to waste it. You can tell it's different, but not so much when it has patina and is cut.

Now, these are some pieces that have been cut and filed and then given a patina with liver of sulphur.

The last step before using them in jewelry is to polish them up and give them a coat of Renaissance Wax.

Tomorrow I'll show you some completed pieces of jewelry!

In The Mail

2011-03-22T18:25:00.000-07:00

The packages are in the mail for Lisa and Melissa, winners of my drawing. I won't wait so long to have another one!

Pictures soon of new etching work.

Winners!

2011-03-15T09:30:00.000-07:00

I decided to draw two names this time. The lucky winners are:

Lisa of Lucid Moon and

Melissa of Chinook Jewelry

Congrats girls! Send me your addresses,okay?

Desperately

2011-03-14T18:28:00.000-07:00

trying to bring my Etsy shop up to date! Added more items today.

Big turquoise barrel shaped beads with something reddish. I think it's 'faux' red amber (read:plastic). I've had it forever and just love it so I decided to accent it with sterling bead caps. Lest you think I inherited a fortune, most of these items I've been listing were either partially made or made with sterling wire I've had for some time. I'm going to be much more sparing with it from now on.

This bracelet has bone, serpentine, tiger eye, raku and Oregon opal. I love making this style of bracelet, similar, but no two alike.

Last chance to comment on Friday's post, I'll draw a name Tuesday morning.!

Ceramic Beads

2011-03-13T18:52:00.000-07:00

I've recently become very enamored with ceramic or pottery beads. There is a great variety of artists on Etsy who make these. Mostly I just look at them and touch them so I finally used some in my jewelry.

This bracelet has little ceramic beads from Gaea wire wrapped on sterling silver wire. The large bead is from Pottery Girl 1.

I know many of you will recognize this pendant from Spirited Earth. I've been waiting for the right beads and designs to do it justice. I hope I have. It is on copper wire with copper chain. The little beige and brown beads are Czech glass- love them!

The other two ceramic beads are from Gaea, again, one of her yummy faceted nuggets and another round. It was so hard to put these in jewelry! I don't want to let them go!

Hope you all had a wonderful weekend and the upcoming week treats you right. Don't forget to comment on Friday's post to win!

Don't forget

2011-03-12T12:55:00.001-08:00

to leave a comment on Friday's post for a chance to win!

Sometimes

2011-03-12T12:43:00.000-08:00

when I can't get out to the garage to hammer or oxidize I just go with knotting. I enjoy it and it's kind of relaxing to me. While I love working with metal, it does require a lot of steps and finishing. Once I've knotted a piece of jewelry, however, I'm done! No patina, no sanding, buffing or polishing. Here's a couple recent pieces.

I used Irish waxed linen (how do I know it's Irish? You should hear it.) with pebbles I collect and drill. I loved figuring a way to make them hang side by side. And I really like the asymmetrical copper closure. I think is goes well with the pebbles, very natural.

This one uses black linen to match the matrix in the African turquoise. And a beautiful pewter button is used for the closure. I've had it a long time, I think it's Tierracast.

Did you know that "African Turquoise" is actually a form of jasper from Africa?

(don't know why that one picture is off-kilter, I guess it just wants to be different.)

I'm not even going to try

2011-03-11T16:57:00.000-08:00

to explain why I haven't blogged in a month. I seem to feel overwhelmed so much these days. But even when I can't manage to post new items or blog about them I continue to read dozens of blogs, if not every day then at least every other day. It helps me feel connected to everyone out there in Blog Land and I always get so much inspiration from all of you.

I've enjoyed reading about the Bead Soup and seeing pictures of all the snow with which so many of you have had to deal. I love seeing the new things you're making and hearing about your kids, home renovations, your joys and your sorrows.

I'm definitely not good at recording my life on camera. I seem to only pick it up to take pictures of jewelry and even that I find a chore. So today I surprised myself by remembering to take Before pictures as well as the After.

This is a big pile of pieces that I put in the liver of sulfer today. There was actually quite a bit more, as you'll see.

This is what I had after several hours of buffing with steel wool and then running through the tumbler.(I told you there was more.) By no means did I make all this stuff today. Some of it is jewelry I assembled in January and February, some of it was old jewelry I thought I'd like better with a patina. And a large portion of it was components I made (mostly silver) ages ago when sterling was not so expensive. I had so much of this just sitting in a box that it just started to make me feel bad, especially after that last order of silver wire I made.

So I dug it out, determined to make something with it. All these bits and pieces, like this,

and this

And THIS.

Do you know how much this weighs? 10.6 grams, which is 0.37 ounces, which is more than a third of an ounce. That's about $8.00 of silver today! I probably made this when silver was $7.00-$8.00 an ounce.

This is a really long post. I'm not done yet.

Here is some of what I did with these bits and bobs.

Earring and pendants,

Lots of bracelets and some necklaces.

So, here we are. If you made it this far, lucky you! I'm going to give away something to someone. Would you prefer a handful of component (since so many of you make jewelry? Or would you like a bracelet or a pair of earrings. Leave me a comment and let me know, you have until Monday, March 14th. I'll pick a name then.

Thanks everybody!!!!!!!

OMG, I just checked the price of silver! It is up to $35.82!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Finally

2011-02-04T19:04:00.000-08:00

...got a few things posted. Not brand new, just new to the shop. I'm sooo behind.

I hope everyone has a great weekend!

Just Hangin' On

2011-01-23T18:30:00.000-08:00

Nothing earth shattering here, either in jewelry or my life. Just my latest postings. Trying to hang on till these seasonal allergies pass. I have been sorting trying to utilize components that I have already made instead of making more. Restocked sterling silver wire while cringing at the price per ounce. The ideas are there, just don't have the energy to carry them out. Looking forward to March.

a few of my favorite things

2011-01-11T12:42:00.000-08:00

Some of the goodies I found recently. Can't resist a Mason jar full of buttons. Lots of old books, some with beautiful nature illustrations. Rolls and rolls of ribbon. A cool fold-out ruler-I know my Dad had several of these, where did they go? And my favorite, a little library drawer.

Lots more, too, when I can get pictures.

2011-01-07T12:09:00.000-08:00

So, I mentioned I did some sewing over the holidays. I made some handbags/totes for some friends. I've been wanting to do this for some time and I've collected quite a stash of fabric. This was an easy pattern and it comes in various sizes.

The linings are just as fun as the outside fabric. It's like a little surprise inside.

This one is so fun because it's beads and jewelry! I found it years ago and have a lot of it. I think it would be great to make little pouches for beady people.

And while I'm not really into animal prints I think this is just great as a lining. I also made matching little cosmetic bags for each one. I really enjoyed making these, especially because there is no fitting involved!

Do you have other crafts you enjoy for fun as opposed to making to sell?

Here I Am

2011-01-06T11:01:00.000-08:00

After losing my camera, last minute shows and all the holiday crafting going on around here, I am finally able to return to posting on Etsy and my blog again. My camera surfaced and I was able to take a few hundred pictures yesterday ( first sun in a while). Spent the evening editing and starting posting again this morning.

I'm anxious to dig into some new things for the new year. I have my instructions and patinas from Shannon Levart. Now I just need some un-interupted time to explore and play. January always seems like a good time for that.

I had a great time during the holidays doing some sewing and thrift shopping. I've found a little place nearby that has all sorts of mixed media treasures. And they're so cheap they don't even put prices on things. I've found stacks of ribbon (still on spools), lots of denim clothes I can cut up and re-use, plenty of old, crackly books and even some old, vintage bottles. I've got projects exploding all over the place!

Here's some earrings I just posted.

Back with more soon! Hope everyone enjoyed the holidays and is filled with hope and energy for the new year!

Hectic Times

2010-12-10T19:13:00.000-08:00

These days every blog I read has something about how busy and hectic things are and I'm no different! I love what I do and the sales are wonderful but sometimes you just have to wonder when you'll get caught up! I sell a fair amount of my jewelry off Etsy so my little shop is looking neglected. Managed to post a couple new things today.

These little earrings are so simple but I just love them. Hope someone else does, too, cuz I'm gonna make more!

This pair really isn't new, I've made variations of it before. Mostly mixing up the silver with copper, which I love. But I really like these in all silver.

I'm trying to squeeze in some time for making some things other than jewelry. Lots of ideas! I love to sew and paint as well as make jewelry and hope to get some Christmas presents made.
I'm also looking for projects to do with the 5 & 7 yr. old granddaughters when they're out of school. They love to make art!

For you busy people out there, just try to remember to have fun!

Happy weekend!

Booth Photos

2010-12-05T16:54:00.000-08:00

Saturday I had a display at a local gallery. It's fairly new so they are sponsoring different types of artists to draw in the public. The owners found me on Etsy by doing the local search.

The lighting wasn't great so my pictures have a lot of shadows but I just wanted you to get a feel for my display. I only had a 6 foot table. I'm getting pretty good at putting a lot of jewelry in a small space!

The little red spots on the table are Dove candies, the dark chocolate! It actually looked a little festive:)

Now I need to get busy and post the rest of my stuff on Etsy!

Gallery Show

2010-12-04T18:49:00.001-08:00

Awesome show today! Indoors, nice setting, sweets to eat! Met some incredible artists with whom I was honored to be included. So much fun to talk shop, or as one of the husbands said, "Uh oh, jewelry geek talk"! Took some pictures of my space, I'll share tomorrow.

2010-12-03T09:38:00.000-08:00

Here's where I'll be tomorrow!

http://s3.amazonaws.com/dostuff-production/photos/737069/dec4jewelryonline.jpg

Pictures

2010-11-16T14:48:00.000-08:00

This morning was a beautiful day for taking pictures! I set up my light tent by a window with indirect sun. Even so, the sun was very bright, no clouds to be seen. I got quite a bit done. I'm trying to fill up my shop for Christmas sales (she said hopefully). I haven't done any really big shows this year but instead I've done lots of little ones. Still two more to come and the only important show in December. I was asked to do a gallery show-hope it's good!

I'm still making these simple charm necklaces. The possibilities are endless but I can spend lots of time trying to decide what to use together.

I had to order more leather last night and I couldn't order just one thing, now could I? So I ordered some seed beads. Now I haven't used seed beads in years and have spent a lot of time trying to get rid of them. But the granddaughters and I have been making memory bracelets for gifts for their friends. Of course, about half of them end up in their jewelry boxes. And then of course I had to get some fire-polished crystals to sparkle up the bracelets. Okay, I'm not de-stashing any more beads-I can see where this is going!

Who else is getting ready for Christmas?

2010-11-11T13:25:00.001-08:00

I made these pendants some time ago and couldn't decide how to hang them. I finally decided to go with the simple leather cord and button loop I've been using. I like it.

Hope you have good dreams!

Green Jewelry

2010-11-09T14:01:00.000-08:00

Collected pebbles, holes drilled by me, wrapped with sterling silver wire. Wear a bit of the earth!

Fold-forming

2010-11-05T09:52:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday and weekend everyone!

Some examples of recent fold-forming I did. I learned this technique in Richard Salley's class last March at Adorn Me! in Houston.

I finally got brave enough to try it in silver. I love the sort of matte finish to the silver.

2010-11-02T14:21:00.000-07:00

Today I finally photographed a few of the charm necklaces I've been making. Mostly I seem to have bits and pieces strewn all over my work surface.

Lampwork, fossil coral and turquoise ceramic with sterling bead caps.

Old Tibetan bone bead, key with pebble and turquoise.

African brass, pebble, serpentine washer and carved bone.

I'm using odds and ends I've been saving for years. It's a little addicting.

Saturday Market

2010-10-24T13:17:00.000-07:00

I participated in a small show yesterday that was held in a neighboring community center. It was very inexpensive and only a few miles from home. I made some pendants and hung them on leather cords. A cute but inexpensive gift, at least that was my plan. I was happy to see others thought so as well. Most of them sold. I only got a picture of the one with my hand drilled pebbles.

The others had a variety of stones, beads and found objects ( keys, etc.). I will post some on Etsy as soon as I get more completed.

This was my solution for a cord and clasp. In trying to keep the cost down I didn't want to use sterling chain or have to make clasps. This button and loop was fast and easy and I really like it. One problem solved!

2010-10-20T15:14:00.000-07:00

Hi, I'm sorry I've been MIB (missing in blogland) for so long. No excuses-I know everyone is just as busy as I am.

So here's what I have to show you today. I found these sterling silver jump rings that I made some time ago. They're big-10-15 mm of 16 gauge wire. I don't have any idea what I had in mind for them. So I decided to try something I saw here:

http://missficklemediacom.blogspot.com/2010/08/peek-into-printers-drawer_30.html

The very talented Shannon Levart shared this technique on her blog. I've been wanting to try it and I have to say it's not as easy as it looks. Okay, it's not rocket science, but it's tedious and hard on the finger tips. But totally worth it. I know I'll be doing this again.

I fused these funky shaped rings then didn't like them much. I like them much better with the copper wire wrapped around them.

I also made "messy" wraps around some oval rings. Didn't get photos of them but they're very cool, too.

Just think of all the ways you can use this technique! Different metals, patinas, colored wires...endless!

Oct. 1st

2010-10-01T09:37:00.000-07:00

I'm on pins and needles. I hope I have good news tomorrow!

In the meantime...

...more of that beautiful Red Creek Jasper.

I might be obsessed. I have it in 5 shapes and sizes.

Happy Friday, guys!

Time Flies

2010-09-29T10:02:00.000-07:00

This is a new necklace i just posted on Etsy. It has one of my etched copper pendants that I paired with Red Creek Jasper. The colors in this stone look like the leaves changing colors in the fall. I think it looks particularly good with copper.

The ring is a hammered copper washer. I used sterling silver wire to wrap the beads and oxidized the whole shebang.

I had a particularly hard time photographing this so the colors didn't look like mud. The close-ups are good, I think. It's so difficult to get good pictures of long necklaces with pendants.

We've had a couple of lovely fall days here, enjoying the outdoors!

2010-09-27T14:20:00.000-07:00

I've let my Etsy shop get a little low on stock so I'm trying to get caught up this week. I don't know why I don't make more bracelets-I love to wear them. Maybe it's the sizing issue.

So, lots of projects in the works. I always have many things going at once, hard to focus all the way through a project sometimes, cuz I have so many things I want to do!

The top bracelet is made with Impression Jasper and fossil coral. The bracelet just above is a fun mixture of neutrals. There's wood, rutilated quartz, African Opal (with the silver bead caps) and some I can't name.

I really love this holey bone bead. Something a little creepy, other-worldly about it!

How are you starting off your week?

2010-09-21T07:04:00.003-07:00

New etching-cute little owls.

Brass etching with red creek jasper.

Gratitude

2010-09-10T05:41:00.000-07:00

http://mairedodd.blogspot.com/

Marie Dodd has a post this am about gratitude-it seems like a good idea. I think i will follow her lead.

Today I'm grateful that when I walk in the door after a long night at work someone is glad to see me and wants a hug.

I'm grateful to have had the opportunity to know a wonderful woman who died this week from breast cancer. Too young, too soon, she leaves behind a husband and young children.

I'm forever grateful for a family who always tries to help me be my best and friends who support me.

And finally, for cyber- friends who inspire me, make me laugh and make me think. And remind me to be grateful.

What are you grateful for?

Weekend Post

2010-09-04T08:47:00.000-07:00

Just some new postings for you to browse.

Have a wonderful holiday weekend, everyone!

Pebble Jewelry

2010-08-31T15:24:00.000-07:00

I posted this bracelet today. It's one in my 'pebbles' series. I collect pebbles wherever I can and drill them myself. It's not easy but it is satisfying. And it's one of the few things I make that men will buy and wear (not this one, but the all-stones styles).

Here's a necklace, also of pebbles.

These are just fun.

Newly Posted

2010-08-30T14:27:00.001-07:00

I fell in love with these beads I found at a recent bead show. I'm not sure why, they're just Czech glass, which I rarely even look at anymore. But that asterick shape looks carved into the glass and the backround has a little turquoise mixed with the brown. The coloring is irregular, making it look ancient to me. I cut out some little leaf shapes and hammered "veins" in them. Of course, they needed a patina to go with the beads. They feel really cool, too.

These are a collage of beads and wire. I like them so much I made another pair for myself. I love anything dangly and mixed stone colors are especially nice to liven up solid color clothes. I fuse the little rings and stamped them and the charms are Thai silver.

How was your weekend?

Don't let me bore you...

2010-08-27T20:29:00.000-07:00

...but I've got more etching to share. Finally got some new stamps and got to try out bronze sheet-I love it.

First up, copper of course, with text, it's a smaller font than any of my others, so you get more text per piece. Does that make sense?

This is the bronze, it's a lot like brass but a little warmer color.

This is one little corner of a large collage stamp. Love clock faces.

This is my favorite. It's from the same stamp as the clock face. I hammered the blank space and I really like how it came out.

A different corner - same stamp. This was a great purchase!

That's all for tonight folks. Just got back from " Girls Night Out". Dinner and a movie. We saw Eat, Pray, Love. It wasn't great but it was enjoyable and the scenery was breathtaking. If you read the book you know how hard it must have been to put all that experience in a 2 hr. movie.
Still, it makes me want to meditate and travel. I've got the eating part down:)

'Night!

Some New Stuff

2010-08-26T19:23:00.000-07:00

Here's a couple new things I just posted. The first is a style necklace that I make again and again but it is always different. Different pearls of different shapes and colors with assorted bits of chain. I call it my Natasha necklace because my granddaughter says it's "mixed-up". She's my biggest fan and critic.

These earrings are fast becoming a favorite as well ( with me, anyway). So far I've made them in all sterling silver, all copper and a combination. I'm sure I'll try adding a little color soon.

I have more etching to show you tomorrow. I hope you're not getting too bored with it. I continue to be fascinated with the process.

TTFN

Just Pics

2010-08-13T08:56:00.000-07:00

Have a great weekend!!!

Just Posted!

2010-08-10T11:45:00.000-07:00

This bracelet inspired by the very talented Cindy Wimmer of http://www.sweetbeadstudio.com/
It was in the 2009 issue of Easy Wire magazine.

Fun with Fusing

2010-08-10T08:28:00.001-07:00

Last week I got busy fusing fine silver rings together. Most of the necklaces I made were of a simple variety but with this one I just got carried away. I love it. It will probably be mine, at least until I make more.

I have a question, though. I'd like to know if you think there should be something hanging from the last tiny ring. Does it look finished? I guess it could go either way but I'd like to know what some of you think.

Happy day!
Mary

SHOP SALE

2010-08-09T19:03:00.000-07:00

I've decide to have a sale to move old stock. I have 15 pairs of earrings marked down to $10.00 and will be adding more. Please pass the word to any jewelry buying friends!

In other news, I was a vendor at the Austin Bead Society show this weekend. I decided to try my hand at selling my etched pendants and earring components. I was pleasantly surprised that they were very well received. So I am going to open a second Etsy shop to sell these items as well as overstock beads. I will be photographing things this week in preparation. Stay tuned!

2010-07-30T10:05:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

Have you seen the Aug./Sept. issue of Step by Step Wire? It has some great projects from some fellow bloggers. One I've already tried out is from http://judithbdesigns.blogspot.com/ of Flapyourwings.etsy.com . I love it. I've made two versions of it already. Here's one:

Check it out-such talented cyber friends we have!

Busy Summer

2010-07-28T07:23:00.000-07:00

I wish I could say I've been on an exotic vacation to explain my blog absence but it's nothing so interesting. It's not that I've been laying by the pool or reading in a hammock, either. It's just life. Life with a job, grand kids, visitors, birthdays and all manner of summer activities. Every chance I get I've been hammering, etching, twisting and shaping. Somehow, though, I just don't seem to get photos taken. I did, however, get a new light tent recently, along with some new lights that I think will make things easier. I also finished a major project for the house that has been taking up my time.

Yesterday I manged to photograph a batch of jewelry and I posted a few things this morning.

Many of you will recognize this bracelet from "Easy Wire" magazine by Cindy Wimmer of Sweet Bead Studio. It's quite easy to do and I've made another one already.

These are fun, dangly mixed metal that are a favorite of mine.
And here are some curly, spiral shells that I ran across in my stash. They seemed perfect for summer.

I'm still taking lots of photos for jury applications, trying to get them just right. More to come!

Layered Necklaces...

2010-07-07T13:31:00.000-07:00

... Mary Hettmansperger style.

I've been experimenting this summer and thought I'd try this style again.
My idea was to use 3 different metals on each. I made a bunch. This seems to be the way I work. I can't make just one of something.

Here's a few. What do you think? I'm obviously playing around with backgrounds again.

I can't decide if I should offer these on a chain or leather or make necklaces. Maybe just post the picture and let the customer provide a chain/cord? Any opinions? I'd love some help.

Latest Necklace

2010-07-01T15:46:00.001-07:00

This is my latest necklace creation. It was a lot of fun to make but a little hard to photograph, it's so long. It used my hand drilled pebbles, copper etching and wire wrapping. I love the golden beads-they look like a type of seed but they're glass. Here's a few views.

What do you think? Happy July!

Resin Success!

2010-06-29T13:46:00.000-07:00

I mentioned a few weeks ago that I took a class in Ice Resin from Deryn Mentock. I finally completed some jewelry using the components I made. I can't tell you how easy it was to use! If you follow the directions (very simple) it works like a charm! I was so nervous and afraid everything would be full of bubbles. My photography may not be great, but, trust me, these came out gooood.

They were so much fun to make and I'm dying to do more. The hardest part is not touching them until they dry! I have a bunch of ideas of things to use as bezels. Can't wait!

Look at this!

2010-06-20T08:57:00.000-07:00

Okay, I can't get this link to work but you can cut and paste to see this. Stephanie made an incredible necklace with the etched copper pendant I sent her. Look at this!

http://stefaniessammelsurium.blogspot.com/2010/06/thank-you-mary-charmed-again.html

Hope this works!

Just Listed!

2010-06-15T12:10:00.001-07:00

Necklaces I've been working on recently. Etched copper, chain, buttons and pearls

New Workspace

2010-06-12T06:34:00.001-07:00

It occurred to me that I've yet to share pictures of my new workspace. It's set up in the garage for all the messy, noisy jobs. I've been enjoying hammering and filing and etching so much I have a hard time stopping to put all the pieces together! It's just enough space for a 6 ft. table but it's mine, mine, mine!A bit dark, here, I took the pictures in the evening. The light on the table is enough to work by, with the addition of the ceiling light.Usually I work with the garage door halfway up for light and breeze.See the cut out in the wall above my table? Soon I'll have another electrical outlet. I got the table on Craigslist, it's 3 x 6 and sturdy. The little purple chair? That's where # 2 granddaughter watches me. Plenty of space under the table for storage boxes.

It's not a studio in the woods but I'm happy with it!

Playtime

2010-06-08T07:22:00.000-07:00

Lately I've been playing around with new and old stuff, combining this and that, trying something new. Recently I dug out some pieces of silver that I had stamped and then put away. They just felt too thin to be used for much. I hate wasting expensive metal so I decided to try to make it useful. I riveted the silver pieces to copper to make them more substantial. Here's the results:I've also been revisiting the marvelous book, Wrap, Stitch, Fold and Rivet by jewelry artist Mary Hettmansperger. It has lots of projects with layering metals. I tried some when I first got the book but then got off track. So I'll be trying more of those.This twisted cone shape is in her book. I don't know what to do with it, I was just happy to be able to make it. I had to anneal the metal in order to curl it up like thatHere is some more etching, hammering divots and fold forming metal. That's really fun. I like annealing the metal over and over so I can do more with it. Lots to try.Here I just started playing with the wire. I really like the results, I think they can be links of some sort. Since I took this picture, I oxidized and tumbled them and they really look great! So much more interesting than the bright copper.

A new link or chain design (new to me).And last, just some stamped pieces I plan on using in some collage-type necklace. These are 22 gauge copper, so I think they'll stand on their own.

Maybe today I'll actually make some jewelry!

Giveaway!

2010-06-07T09:53:00.000-07:00

Check out this generous giveaway!

Something Special Just For You Giveaway!!

Results

2010-06-06T11:16:00.000-07:00

Where did the two weeks go?! Well, I've been busy. It's just that when I get busy creating I forget to take pictures. So this morning I decided to take a break from creating (just a little one, there's something new I can't wait to do, hint, hint!)

So here's a few pics of all the etching. Some with buttons.
Some in brass with aqua chalcedony.
Faceted olive jade with copper.
Copper with amanozite. That's all for now, except for a little story, if you're still here!

A few weeks ago we had a real thunder and lighnting extravaganza. I love a good storm! It was in the evening when we were all at home to "enjoy" it. The next day we found out a family in our circle of friends had their house hit by the lightning and it burned down! It seemed so wrong that we had been enjoying something that caused so much pain for others. Not to worry, everyone was fine, and immediately collections were being organized for the family.

Now it turns out that the parents were not at home at the time but the children were, with a babysitter. I did lots of babysitting when I was a kid and was always afraid of something awful happening when I was "in charge", (nothing ever did). But I couldn't stop thinking of this baby sitter, so I made something to show her what I think of her!

Bye! Have a great Sunday!

and the winners are...

2010-05-23T17:26:00.000-07:00

I said I'd post the winners on Sunday...I didn't say what time on Sunday...

Through the marvel of modern technology, the winners were chosen... by drawing the names from a hat... by my youngest granddaughter, who turned one this weekend.

1. Stephanie of Stepanie's Sammelsarium

2. MyWifes Studio

3. Vickie Hallmark

Okay, girls, send me your address and your preference-pendant or earring components.
www.marynewtondesigns@yahoo.com

Thanks for playing!

Etching Giveaway!

2010-05-21T13:21:00.000-07:00

Sign up for a chance ( a really good chance) to win an etched jewelry component! See Wednesday's post to play. Three lucky players will win either earring components or a pendant.
Here's a few things you can do...

Come on, I'll extend the entries to Saturday!

PRIZES

2010-05-20T06:43:00.000-07:00

Don't forget to enter for etched metal designs! See previous post!

A Poll and a Prize

2010-05-19T10:48:00.000-07:00

I've been etching again but this time I tried some nickle and brass. I've used them before but not with any consistent success. So what I'd like is to have some people critique my etching and make suggestions if you have etching skills. In return, I'm going to give away 3 of the best pieces! You can win a pendant or a pair of earring components to use in your own designs. I have some finished pieces and also some etched pieces that have yet to be turned into anything. So, here we go!

These are some nickle and brass pieces that I etched but haven't done anything to yet. The nickle is so dull! Does anyone know how to avoid this? All these pieces were put in LOS and polished up with steel wool.

Two sets of earring components, copper and brass. Maybe they're a little too etched?

I think I like the copper birds but the nickle bird looks blah to me-barely shows up.
This little brass bird is better but still not where I'd like it. I wonder if it has too much detail to show up well?

Now, I like the copper birds but I think the brass elements are over-etched, or else too much detail. It's hard to know when to stop the etching process.

These are all copper pieces that I think have turned out just right. Some are ready to go and a couple have to decide what they want to be when they grow up.

Now, leave a comment if you'd like to play. Let me know what you like and don't like. Would you use any of these in your designs?

You have till Friday night to enter. I will post results and the winners on Sunday!

Leave a link on your blog if you'd like. Thanks!

2010-05-16T11:25:00.000-07:00

Here's some fold formed copper earrings that I made using techniques from Richard Salley's class. It's very fun to do-lots of hammering and fire! They'll be posted on Etsy soon.

Do you like the very rugged texture? It says very "Old West" to me.

2010-05-01T08:14:00.000-07:00

Can anyone tell me how to photograph amethyst so it's not so dark? These are really pretty faceted beads. I have the same problem with garnets!

Pearls!

2010-04-14T12:37:00.000-07:00

When I was a girl I thought pearls were so old-fashioned and conservative. I did have a strand that my uncle gave me but I'm sure they were fake ( I still have them). But about 10 -15 years ago I started seeing freshwater pearls in other colors and shapes. I fell in love. I like the huge, smooth oval pearls, I like the sticks, the button shape, the coins and organic shaped ones. I love all the colors, although I admit I like the softer colors best-they look more "real" to me (not so dyed). I like the classic style of knotting silk thread in between each pearl. And I love the fact that pearls look good with all kinds of gemstones.But I think my favorite way to use pearls is in what my granddaughter calls a "mixed-up necklace". Whether I knot them or wire wrap them I love to use different colors and shapes all together. People seem to like them so I whipped up a couple more. Maybe tomorrow I can get a picture of the multi color one (as opposed to the one above which is multi color but all neutrals).

All Time Favorite

2010-04-13T18:15:00.001-07:00

I just can't get enough turquoise. I'm always drawn to it even though I should try to branch out. I love the variety of colors and shapes and the way it goes with everything else (doesn't it?).
These necklaces were made recently with old turquoise. The first is made from Sleeping Beauty turquoise I purchased in Santa Fe over ten years ago. The stamping on the silver is a little wonky ut I like it that way. Hopefully, someone else will, too. It has a tiny ruby for fun.

This next one is made from those different colors, shapes and sizes I was talking about. I used a Thai silver heart as a pendant.

You can easily see by my Etsy shop how much I love turquoise. I think it's perfect with copper. I love it with pearls, gemstones and all the Southwest colors that go so well with it: coral, amber, amethyst, lapis...shall I go on?

Bracelets

2010-04-12T11:10:00.000-07:00

These bracelets have sold recently, so I've been making more. I forget about bracelets for long stretches , I think, due to the fact that wrists sizes vary so much. But I can easily add beads to wire wrapped bracelets.

I like this one because every bead if different.

And this one is small enough to wear with other bracelets. I love mixed metals but I usually combine copper with silver. But I have some gold filled beads and findings from waaaaaay back that I dig out now and then. The gold in the early nineties was about what silver is now!

2010-04-08T19:33:00.000-07:00

Maybe I'm slow, but I had a revelation today. I was driving to work and thinking how glad I was to have my taxes done and that led to thinking about credit card debt. Unfortunately, I have a fair amount. Like many people I abused my cards and now I am paying for it...and paying and paying and... I quit using my cards a year and a half ago and it seems like the balance doesn't change! So I'm thinking, "At least I'm trying, I won't give up". Then I thought, where have I heard those words before? Oh, yeah, that's what I tell myself all the time about my weight! Money and weight, it's so easy for both to get out of control. You use a credit card and tell yourself, " I'll pay it right off ", next thing you know you owe way too much. You think, " Just a little bite won't hurt ", then the cake is gone... or the ice cream or the leftovers. I don't think I've ever realized how constant and similar these two things are in my life.

Too much information? Probably. But I keep trying.

So Much Copper Etching

2010-03-28T12:11:00.001-07:00

When I etch copper I always spend the whole day doing it so I get the most use from the etchant. Then I get rid of it. So, I always have a lot at once and use most of it right away. Since I'm doing an earring challenge I've been making lots of earrings. I do have some pieces left over that I plan on using in necklaces or bracelets but that's for later. Here's some of what I got photographed today.

I like this shape, the beads are African opals.

Little houses with carnelian and turquoise.

I think these look like little baskets.

And lastly, a leafy design paired with beautiful golden rondelle pearls.

I got a package in the mail yesterday that I've been anxiously awaiting. It's from Objects and Elements. Can you guess? It's the only place you can purchase it. I bought Ice Resin and can't wait to try it!

Here's the link to the earring challenge- go see all the talented designers!

http://www.flickr.com/groups/1352736@N23/pool/

Copper Etching

2010-03-27T15:50:00.000-07:00

Last weekend I spent etching copper and all that is involved with it. It's not a difficult process but it is time consuming with lots of steps. I finally got around to some photographs. I'll have more to show you soon.

Sometimes the etching process doesn't work just right but these were good.

Question of the Day

2010-03-17T03:29:00.000-07:00

Check out Art Bead Scene today? What fuels your passion?

http://artbeadscene.blogspot.com/

Mission Accomplished

2010-03-16T06:51:00.000-07:00

Got quite a bit of work done yesterday. Not as much as I'd like but then I never do. I took pictures and it's a good thing, since it's rainy and dreary today.

Some things I posted on Etsy...

Fossilized coral beads with copper bead caps that I made.

Hammered silver with moonstone.

I really love these...hammered, fused rings with a bright blue turquoise bead with silver bead caps.

I really need to make some necklaces, don't you think? Earrings are a kind of instant gratification:)

A Day To Myself

2010-03-15T08:34:00.000-07:00

Spring break started here this week and my daughter-in-law is off with the kids for Drs.' visits, lunch out and play dates. So I have a beautiful day of quiet to myself! I posted a few things on Etsy already this morning, have stuff to mail out, more to photograph...oh, you get the idea. It's hard to know where to start. Should I finish up already-started projects or "play" with new ideas. Can I do both? Maybe, if I hurry!

I don't repeat a lot of things, but this is a popular style and I like it, too. I really love these faceted pearls. I hope I can get more at the upcoming Intergem.

I really like this African Turquoise, it has clear, bright color unlike a lot of what's out there. For the longest time I thought this was turquoise and then found out it is just another jasper. So it's more common and less expensive, which is good for me. I just like the look. And you can see I'm enjoying really banging away at the copper.

A Few More New Things

2010-03-14T14:33:00.001-07:00

Lampwork "Raku" From Blue Seraphim, one of my favorites on Etsy, with fused silver rings
copper bead caps (by moi).

Should have had these in time for Valentine's Day. Hand stamped with faceted coral.

More copper. Not quite round, on purpose.

Copper and more copper!

2010-03-13T08:52:00.000-08:00

Just a few things I got around to taking pictures of for Etsy. Seems like it was all copper today. I guess I tend to work in batches or something. I can see that this background doesn't enhance my jewelry at all...back to the drawing board!

I'm loving a very coarse, rugged texture, lots of hammering.

Some texture plus a new cross pein hammer.

Fold forming and bezel setting as taught by Richard Salley.

Some patterned bezel wire I've had for a couple years, all I did was cut and file, but a pretty pattern!

Don't laugh too hard...

2010-03-07T12:30:00.000-08:00

I said I would show you what I did in Thomas Mann's class but it's really not much good for more than a laugh. I'm lousy at sawing and my examples will show that, but I'm determined to improve. I feel like I took in a lot of valuable information but we didn't have much time to practice it in class. Our project was a tiny (2"x3") piece of brass with 13 (13!) items to cut out. Some squares, circles, etc. and the pieces in the picture below. Some of my pieces were so tiny they fell on the floor as I sawed them loose and I just left them there.I thought my star came out pretty good:). Those other pieces were a puzzle of sorts to put together. Can you tell what it is?It's the saddest little cow I've ever seen and I think cows are cute! At least he can stand up! So while it doesn't look like I learned much, it could have been worse. I promise to post some sawing samples I do in the futue, so you can decide if I'm improving!

Adorn Me Class

2010-03-04T08:45:00.000-08:00

Wow, I had so much fun I didn't want to eat or sleep! Guess it's a good thing I could only take one day of classes! Someday I would love to take a full week and immerse myself in one of the artists' retreats.

My first class Tuesday was with Richard Salley. I really admire people who can come up with new ways of doing old things. And it was so easy once I saw his secret!

Just a regular guy! Everyone was so friendly and laidback.

This is one of Richard's samples in progress.

And completed!

This is an exercise in fold forming that we all did. This is mine. I think it's called a ribbon fold.

This is the piece I used for my pendant, with folds made and dapped space for the bezel. I got too involved and didn't take pictures of the next steps, but here is the finished pendant. WARNING:
THE PHOTOGRAPHY SUCKS!

Yes, I fractured my cabachon in the progress, But I finally got it riveted! I'm more pleased with the results of my earrings.

I take classes to learn techniques, so the project isn't important to me if I learned things. And I did! Fold forming is a blast and I made several pieces to use when I got home. I've riveted before but I wasn't comfortable with it and now I'm anxious to do more. And in between hammering, the metal needed annealing. It's more than I can do with a creme brulee torch so now I know what to get at Home Depot. Classes always make you need more equipment! I love tools!

The class with Thomas Mann was excellent, I'm so in awe of him. I went in early and asked if I could help set up the room so I could meet him early! I didn't take pictures in his class because I didn't want to miss a second. Oh, the class was on sawing. I've always hated to saw so I wanted to conquer that. He's an great teacher, explaining things so you really understand and helps the process. He had some little items for us to saw and was my arm sore! But I learned and I'm anxious to try it again. I'll take some pictures of my pitiful little sawing projects and post them later.

All in all, a very positive experience and I was so sad I couldn't stay longer!

Good Idea

2010-03-03T13:22:00.000-08:00

Hi, just back from Houston. Will update soon, but first, go to this blog to see if you can help.

storiestheytell.blogspot.com

Adorn Me!

2010-03-01T08:43:00.000-08:00

I'm off to Houston today for a couple of classes at Adorn Me! Tomorrow I have an all day class with Richard Salley and an evening class with Thomas Mann. I' so excited-I love to take classes. I'm taking my camera and will try to get pictures of the events.

Just a couple pictures of one of my favorite necklace since a post without pictures is boring:)

Our Blizzard

2010-02-23T09:09:00.001-08:00

This is what passes for snow in Austin, TX! It's a blizzard!

My granddaughter, who has been begging for snow since we left Washington.

Our snow woman!

Month of Earrings

2010-02-22T13:59:00.000-08:00

Who's playing the Month of Earrings challenge? You can read about it here.

I'm a little late in starting but I listed 6 pairs of earrings today. Here's the first three pair. The challenge runs till April 1st so it's more than a month (for those of us that can't manage daily posts), so it's not too late for you to play along.

2010-02-21T09:54:00.000-08:00

This is a batch of bracelets I made this week. I wanted a simple bracelet to wear clustered with others. I made one with gold and silver for a friend's birthday and then got carried away! My favorites are the third from the top and the last one. Two are a bit chunkier but still "neutral", which is what I was going for. Something to wear with any outfit or add to other bracelets. They were fun to make and went fast because there are so many variations you can make. I don't make that many bracelets so I hope people like these!

More Etsy

2010-02-17T15:58:00.000-08:00

Posted today...hope someone likes them enough to give them a home!