tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-46174045240499917622024-03-13T04:19:25.258-04:00Stonehouse | StudioStonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.comBlogger108125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-50526730715724683342014-11-28T10:15:00.002-05:002015-03-02T15:36:07.317-05:00Most Recent Work<h2>
To see my latest work, please visit my <a href="http://www.stonehouse-studio.com/" target="_blank">websit</a>e</h2>
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Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-22236843832323794922012-10-01T18:56:00.001-04:002012-10-01T19:09:19.859-04:00Exuberance meets understatedShow pal and all around crazy gal, Wendy Baker, makes the most fantastic, colorful over the top jewelry of hand painted vintage flowers and costume jewelry components. I make minimalist, understated polymer clay pieces. Totally different, right? Well, maybe not.<br />
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A couple of weeks ago Wendy and I were both showing at the Brewery during JP Open Studios (lots of free samples right next door at the Sam Adams Brewery - alas, we were too busy to sample the wares...). I traded a pair of earrings for a handful of her small flower components. I was planning to hold off using them until my creative play-time during the winter, but I couldn't resist. Here are a couple of window pendants I made incorporating Wendy's cute vintage flowers:<br />
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Who says exuberant and understated don't mix?Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-53282425316541943082012-04-25T09:32:00.000-04:002012-04-25T10:20:03.247-04:00WorkTable WednesdayToday I bring you a photo of the bulletin board over my worktable. Like all bulletin boards, it has both useful and not so useful stuff:<br />
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<li>Maggie Maggio's color pyramid and color scales - priceless!</li>
<li>Inch-millimeter-gauge chart. Not used much anymore since I'm working less with metal. </li>
<li>Expired Trader Joe gift card to scrape clay off the floor. A broken wood skewer to clean pasta machine.</li>
<li>Assorted scraps of paper with color recipes and technique notes which I hardly ever look at again.</li>
<li>Roller. </li>
<li>Slicer. If I caned, I'd use it all the time. But I don't cane so I'm not sure why I still have it there.</li>
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Finally, a photo of a Jil Sander outfit from a couple of years back. I have it there to remind me of my design style. Polymer is so versatile that it is easy to over-think and over-work. The picture grounds me and always brings me back to a clean and spare aesthetic.Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-49051055691882472612012-03-28T11:23:00.000-04:002012-03-28T11:32:52.839-04:00New earring designsEarrings are difficult. The scale is small, you're working in pairs and the engineering has to be right, including balance and weight. And don't forget the earwires! Why would anyone put a fabulous earring component on a flimsy commercial earwire? Yet I see it all the time. Earwires are an essential design element and should not be left as an afterthought.<br />
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Now that warmer weather is upon us, I'm back to my signature black and white Japanese stencil patterns. It's amazing how contemporary these Edo period designs can be, considering that some are more than 300 years old!<br />
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My new shape for this season is a stylized lily pad. Each pair has yummy custom mixed color on the back. The wires are a slightly elongated classic french earwires and fishooks incorporated into the polymer.<br />
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It sprays on, so no more brush strokes and globs. It dries quickly, so that you can apply multiple coats without having to wait all day. And best yet, it dries to an even, glossy shine. I've found that the trick is to put your piece back in the oven for 5 or 10 minutes to heat set the <a href="http://www.precision-blue.com/" target="_blank">PYMII</a>. The result is a rock hard, durable and waterproof finish.<br />
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Here are some pieces sealed with PYM II:Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-87883305595329802002012-02-16T18:58:00.003-05:002012-05-04T08:53:40.916-04:00Mexico InspirationI love the soft, mottled yellow found on some of the walls at the <a href="http://www.xcanatun.com/" target="_blank">Hacienda Xcanatun</a>. The yellow is always touched with a bit of black because of the humidity. I think it contrasts nicely with the matte black of the wrought iron work. I also love the way shadows play on the lush garden vegetation. There are also a myriad of colors, some bright and vibrant and others more muted. My yearly visit is always so inspirational!
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.xcanatun.com/" target="_blank">Hacienda Xcanatún in Mérida, Yucatán</a></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A lovely lavender bloom inspired a color palette.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lush greenery and textures translated into a contemporary, tactile piece.</td></tr>
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<br />Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-87264591820848093092011-10-20T09:41:00.017-04:002012-02-16T20:04:14.992-05:00A very special weekend<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.ramart.org/sites/default/files/imagecache/product/terra-nova-cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.ramart.org/sites/default/files/imagecache/product/terra-nova-cover.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div>October 21 marks the opening of <a href="http://www.ramart.org/terra-nova">Terra Nova - Polymer Art at the Crossroads</a> at the <a href="http://ramart.org/">Racine Art Museum</a>. Although several museums have polymer pieces in their collections, this is the first permanent collection of polymer art at a major museum. The collection has a <a href="http://www.ramart.org/exhibitions/316-terranovabook">companion book</a> and will kick off with a <a href="http://www.ramart.org/polymer-symposium">weekend symposium</a>. The polymer world owes a huge thank you to <a href="http://elisewinters.com/">Elise Winters</a>, whose vision and determination to have polymer acknowledged as an art form (and RAM's Bruce Pepich for recognizing it) has made this all possible. I wish I could be there, but I have shows to do. In a way, it is a fitting tribute - the fact that I can make a living creating with polymer attests to the power of this versatile medium!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-64437917907067545482011-10-07T09:18:00.001-04:002011-10-07T09:54:59.082-04:00The Stroppel CaneIt's amazing how an exciting new technique can catch on fire among the polymer world. Ever since <a href="http://polymerclaydaily.com/">Polymer Clay Daily</a> featured <a href="http://polymerclayetc.com/?p=3065">Alice Stroppel's</a> new caning technique a couple of days ago, just about every polymerista the world over has tried it out.<br />
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And that includes me! Which is something, because caning is not my thing. But I do have a lot of old canes from my very early days, and I love to use up my scrap. So here goes:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stroppel canes made from my old canes and scrap</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2PrcOFg9cp56WH0xXjv082SDPToqkCWKq187xUjdweMooy6nlpngbyl5bqBjoszUQ7pgqEaPS6MGy6zFFLJiaqTY_jLO-8Nk3qyoPYMH3CqmsozNQQQEBVqTvjMMqFxgFACBlKMlHBw/s1600/stroppel+cane.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="255" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiq2PrcOFg9cp56WH0xXjv082SDPToqkCWKq187xUjdweMooy6nlpngbyl5bqBjoszUQ7pgqEaPS6MGy6zFFLJiaqTY_jLO-8Nk3qyoPYMH3CqmsozNQQQEBVqTvjMMqFxgFACBlKMlHBw/s320/stroppel+cane.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The rather tribal/abstract result</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-40943694154110752132011-09-29T10:35:00.005-04:002011-09-30T08:02:08.793-04:00JP Open StudiosEvery year, from September to December, Boston neighborhoods celebrate their artist communities by hosting Open Studio weekends. My absolute favorite is the <a href="http://jpopenstudios.com/">Jamaica Plain</a> event. It is held amidst colorful Victorian homes, along funky Centre Street, at the Sam Adams Brewery complex, shops and churches and the many private studios around the neighborhood. Since the event features over 200 artists, a handy dandy map is provided and they even have an iPhone app!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://o1.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/PATCH/thumbnail/88x117/crop/88x88+0+15/http://hss-prod.hss.aol.com/hss/storage/patch/2d9938c2d4edc56ae257d4f41db489d9" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://o1.aolcdn.com/dims-shared/dims3/PATCH/thumbnail/88x117/crop/88x88+0+15/http://hss-prod.hss.aol.com/hss/storage/patch/2d9938c2d4edc56ae257d4f41db489d9" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eliot School</td></tr>
</tbody></table><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jamaica_Plain">Jamaica Plain</a>, or JP for short, is a vibrant, eclectic, and diverse neighborhood. Its tolerant atmosphere and bohemian feel has attracted hundreds of artists who have studios all over town. In addition, the Jamaica Plain Arts Council provides group space for artists who live outside the neighborhood. I usually set up on the lawn at the <a href="http://eliotschool.org/">Eliot School</a>, an arts and crafts school.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>The Eliot lawn is a pleasant, tree lined space. This year my neighbors included, among others, regular show pals Vicky and james of of <a href="http://www.fineartcolorphotography.com/facp/">Fine Art Color Photography</a>, Amy of <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/bumblebellydesigns?ref=ss_profile">Bumble Belly Designs</a> and Carolina of <a href="http://www.recycledglassjewelry.com/">Recycled Glass Jewelry </a>. Kingsley Weihe of <a href="http://kwpottery.com/">KW Pottery</a> did a fabulous job as site coordinator - and I added another fab KW piece to my growing collection!<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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjoehIR0wW3JdOMoa5foRdq2HTNUXsFxvrvJkDIBfRz5bHP91yFnHVvUicyI_gLAjK8VQ8_wQr7mH8OgJDv3mA5G7f29leYWlB30pYjXAXy5XGO_zyHoToK7f3R4eFejfdAX7FBI0kyA/s1600/Kingsley+Weihe+vases.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnjoehIR0wW3JdOMoa5foRdq2HTNUXsFxvrvJkDIBfRz5bHP91yFnHVvUicyI_gLAjK8VQ8_wQr7mH8OgJDv3mA5G7f29leYWlB30pYjXAXy5XGO_zyHoToK7f3R4eFejfdAX7FBI0kyA/s200/Kingsley+Weihe+vases.JPG" width="164" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My growing collection of Kingsley Weihe vases</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.227392111.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img3.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.227392111.jpg" width="318" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">First Snow by Bumble Belly Designs</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
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</tbody></table><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://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.260095881.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://img1.etsystatic.com/il_570xN.260095881.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cobbled Bike by Fine Art Color Photography</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjLOQCUeDAcElTBxo9KN0dNYZtEV1K3pYVAnOOk4HcqQ-zeVlYM1-ymxwS-ybPKKNcsFz6sTebA50WoqaynaqojhlchRN3DSv5mzI0-v6ECiuJH9t6RmNMijG6kTEfmLe3497Zd_dkbQ/s1600/jp+3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkjLOQCUeDAcElTBxo9KN0dNYZtEV1K3pYVAnOOk4HcqQ-zeVlYM1-ymxwS-ybPKKNcsFz6sTebA50WoqaynaqojhlchRN3DSv5mzI0-v6ECiuJH9t6RmNMijG6kTEfmLe3497Zd_dkbQ/s320/jp+3.JPG" width="295" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A musical interlude ...</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil0A4N4pfRiTCxZwd_t5PjtBROVGgGHI8uPckqsPwutGvdgWGnUQUryWPxRMVixUagNOMYBS3MUyJaacntceLi7dN3ge3H1RDI4xeVLk2nXkcHeMFGMl52mjXVcOjduLkePFwENCkTP0g/s1600/jp+2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil0A4N4pfRiTCxZwd_t5PjtBROVGgGHI8uPckqsPwutGvdgWGnUQUryWPxRMVixUagNOMYBS3MUyJaacntceLi7dN3ge3H1RDI4xeVLk2nXkcHeMFGMl52mjXVcOjduLkePFwENCkTP0g/s320/jp+2.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And a happy customer wearing her new Stonehouse earrings!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div style="text-align: left;"></div>Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-77098781371053906942011-09-22T09:02:00.001-04:002011-09-30T08:06:34.536-04:00Variations on a theme<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHFeRNxOz-QwvvnswpAeyNzEQrixoJn1dZ8c-n3_RJmmtTwGFR8UkJbXz9CL04o-Vmoj09IunaE7zOJj9Q_Y70WJEUxiT897fjWPYkkPfTxC9-r8dG3E19Pe3uTmgPsLuYoZLGBSXYUs/s1600/silver+dot+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhHFeRNxOz-QwvvnswpAeyNzEQrixoJn1dZ8c-n3_RJmmtTwGFR8UkJbXz9CL04o-Vmoj09IunaE7zOJj9Q_Y70WJEUxiT897fjWPYkkPfTxC9-r8dG3E19Pe3uTmgPsLuYoZLGBSXYUs/s320/silver+dot+collage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Variations on a theme are a time honored tradition in the Arts. Variations also mean less waste, because all the material is used. I even use the bits and pieces left over to make stud earrings that I sell for $5 at shows. I want everyone who likes my work to leave with something, even if only a simple pair of studs!.Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-86393616583949864312011-05-17T10:20:00.007-04:002011-05-17T10:32:42.434-04:00Organics!<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://craftanddesign.net/_i/melaniemuir_xx_6y11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="192" src="http://craftanddesign.net/_i/melaniemuir_xx_6y11.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Melanie Muir</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://ravensclay.com/Bioangle---Bamboo-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://ravensclay.com/Bioangle---Bamboo-1.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Melanie West</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Earlier this month I had a wonderful visit with good friends and fellow polymeristas <a href="http://www.melaniemuir.com/artist.asp?ArtistID=16505&AKey=2B7TAE5R&tid=1285">Melanie Muir</a> and <a href="http://ravensclay.blogspot.com/">Melanie West</a>. It was great seeing the two Melanies again - we had last seen each other at Synergy II over a year ago. Both are masters at what they do - Melanie M's mokume technique is flawlessly executed and so evocative of her native Scottish landscape. And Melanie W's Bio series is in a league all its own. Complex and simple at the same time, and ever so tactile. Both artists are intensely organic in their work.</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.mfa.org/sites/default/files/images/chihuly.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="156" src="http://www.mfa.org/sites/default/files/images/chihuly.jpeg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dale Chihuly at the MFA</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And speaking of organic, the <a href="http://www.mfa.org/exhibitions/chihuly">Dale Chihuly</a> exhibit at Boston's <a href="http://mfa.org/">MFA</a> has to take the cake. It is a jaw dropping series of large scale installations that defies the imagination. Colors, fluid alien-like forms, forests of glass. And did I mention colors? </div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"> <br />
</div><div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_170x135.192640541.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">idea2lifestyle on etsy.com</td></tr>
</tbody></table></div>After all that inspirational overload, I just had to play. I've used mokume techniques off and on since I first started working with polymer, so I decided to try my hand at it again. The natural feel of mokume coordinates well with the soft, flowing, ethereal feel of current fashion trends.</div><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/-0ZErIKdA6gI/TdFEE6GDmzI/AAAAAAAAGVo/x72uhs_rEV8/s1600/Baker++brooch+.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0ZErIKdA6gI/TdFEE6GDmzI/AAAAAAAAGVo/x72uhs_rEV8/s200/Baker++brooch+.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Sun and Shade" brooch</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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/-Lyk0RrP33Eo/TdJw9mjemhI/AAAAAAAAGWY/CsQAfW_sSyI/s1600/botanical+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Lyk0RrP33Eo/TdJw9mjemhI/AAAAAAAAGWY/CsQAfW_sSyI/s320/botanical+collage.jpg" width="256" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Botanicals" window pendants</td></tr>
</tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div>Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-21155494325249214842011-04-14T20:27:00.001-04:002011-04-15T10:02:03.183-04:00Snails and SlugsWhat do snails and yucky slugs have to do with polymer, you ask? My city garden fights a losing battle every year to said critters. I don't use pesticides, so I'm constantly on the lookout for natural controls. A few years back, I bought copper tape. Supposedly, it keeps out snails and slugs (something to do with positive/negative electrical charges). I never got around to using it and it's been sitting around ever since.<br />
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Well, as polymeristas the world over already know, those of us who work in polymer are constantly on the lookout for stuff to use in our work. Our medium is so new that it doesn't have a lot of established tools and materials. We use pasta machines to sheet and condition, medical tissue blades to slice, coffee stirrers to make holes. Not to mention knitting needles, tinfoil, packing peanuts, toilet paper rolls, sandpaper, screws and dirt. <br />
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So when I ran across that roll of thin copper tape while cleaning out my garden supplies, I did what comes naturally: I used it with polymer. I cut thin strips, rolled and fanned it to make a flower and added a brushed copper disc. I'll bet those snails and slugs are breathing a sigh of relief!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigz7Jb3fa7gKEIbQW4TPccwP2zZ_Fd9uMrGWwcdSZQ8i96c_MHU1-C5AEdzpka7m7ghfo1tky34-p6XME4r7uLqym2l7duTYYiFNutpmvPIwgoGDjqZmDPVOHwZgJYraUCS7FGzFBNwKk/s1600/copper+flower+on+back+chain+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigz7Jb3fa7gKEIbQW4TPccwP2zZ_Fd9uMrGWwcdSZQ8i96c_MHU1-C5AEdzpka7m7ghfo1tky34-p6XME4r7uLqym2l7duTYYiFNutpmvPIwgoGDjqZmDPVOHwZgJYraUCS7FGzFBNwKk/s320/copper+flower+on+back+chain+collage.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-5387628043435635862011-04-08T07:56:00.005-04:002011-04-10T05:09:15.641-04:00White on WhiteWhile at CraftBoston last month, I was mesmerized by Kathleen Dustin's new piece <a href="http://kathleendustin.com/whitePollenNeckpiece.php">"White Pollen"</a>. The piece, with its subtle tones and hints of gold leaf peeking out of the holes, is elegant, urban and so very chic. The use of white also brought to mind Dan Cormier's<a href="http://www.americanstyle.com/2009/02/dan-cormier/"> "White Necklace"</a>, a masterful study in texture from a couple of years back. <br />
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I've been doing a lot with color blocking lately - no subtle Skinner Blends for me these days! I've also been doing a lot with textural and satin finishes. Over the winter, I played with color and black, but now that the warmer weather is upon us I want to lighten things up a bit. Inspired by Kathleen and Dan, I've started to work on a new series of window pendants, adding pops of bright color to creamy white. <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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ8_nkZKchNfGaJCDUiHU4_AoM-5pMrMcR_gbNWsiw9xlkKObviYKq-OIB-EerEmGksm4dVBcM9V6xZknoeYCSBn2xPx4b49bHThQ6CupStWmmyQKZwl1r6aMoEe69-Zj3Ej-ODLQ0MhQ/s1600/White+grid+trio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJ8_nkZKchNfGaJCDUiHU4_AoM-5pMrMcR_gbNWsiw9xlkKObviYKq-OIB-EerEmGksm4dVBcM9V6xZknoeYCSBn2xPx4b49bHThQ6CupStWmmyQKZwl1r6aMoEe69-Zj3Ej-ODLQ0MhQ/s320/White+grid+trio.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Grids" in lime, red and blue</td></tr>
</tbody></table><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="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc2jwmGWTajHPj0wtQcRw6VYKVsRClafEDnHi13kfgBjeGBPH_IyAN-C9Do_oZkDXGEGX2CHMRd7Qr94TtTIZAGrw2x0SBxVc6yaGibbQtCyxXoF4FbWibKjLHruXmSYjRpuWYrIaSS48/s1600/white+graffitti.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc2jwmGWTajHPj0wtQcRw6VYKVsRClafEDnHi13kfgBjeGBPH_IyAN-C9Do_oZkDXGEGX2CHMRd7Qr94TtTIZAGrw2x0SBxVc6yaGibbQtCyxXoF4FbWibKjLHruXmSYjRpuWYrIaSS48/s320/white+graffitti.jpg" width="319" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Grafitti"</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikkztyh1pYVPg4fXJ3shRWdM4uNjNNzAoC3Ywy4gRfsX4-N9k8WFo9c8hHoh-IMAPp2b436TJ1Veme4KDDyzMsVfiJz70nlbd_UDCjuIIxl2VBA4KutIzUuZ1wLELc2Bt69xiocUk5Idg/s1600/white+bumps+with+red.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikkztyh1pYVPg4fXJ3shRWdM4uNjNNzAoC3Ywy4gRfsX4-N9k8WFo9c8hHoh-IMAPp2b436TJ1Veme4KDDyzMsVfiJz70nlbd_UDCjuIIxl2VBA4KutIzUuZ1wLELc2Bt69xiocUk5Idg/s320/white+bumps+with+red.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Bumps" in red</td></tr>
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While on the subject of inspiration, I'd also like to share some refreshingly candid comments by <a href="http://www.austinkleon.com/2011/03/30/how-to-steal-like-an-artist-and-9-other-things-nobody-told-me/">Austin Kleon</a> on creativity, originality and living the artistic life.Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-62243239334188647652011-03-29T10:27:00.007-04:002011-03-30T06:40:04.990-04:00CraftBoston!Last year I was thrilled to be asked to be an Invited Artist for the 2011 <a href="http://craftboston.org/">CraftBoston</a> shows. I've done a ton of shows over the last five years, but never any of the high end ones. It seemed incredible (and still does) that I would ever be in the same show as <a href="http://kathleendustin.com%20/">Kathleen Dustin</a>, <a href="http://fordforlano.com/">Ford|Forlano</a>, <a href="http://www.syronbishoff.com/">Bonnie Bishoff</a>, <a href="http://karinnoyes.com/">Karin Noyes</a> and <a href="http://www.maryandlouann.com/index.html">Mary and Louann</a>! It was also very gratifying to see polymer's strong showing at CraftBoston, topped off by Kathleen Dustin taking home the Best of Show award!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My CraftBoston 2011 booth. My home for 4 days!</td></tr>
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Fortunately, I had lots of time to prepare. I thought long and hard about my display and decided to invest in ProPanels. They've turned out to be very useful at all my indoor shows. I took the full set to CraftBoston, but also use them in different combinations for other shows. They are modular, so they fit into any kind of space. The panels wiped out my display budget, so I made do with my folding tables, making new coverings out of a soft gray cotton. I opted to go rug-less to keep the look rather stark and industrial. I used gray chipboard on the panels as a backdrop for my work. Twine necklace busts, wood pushpins and baskets add an organic touch. <br />
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The show logistics were pretty much what I'm used to, just on a bigger scale. Load in and out was super smooth, with walkie talkie organizers keeping things moving. I had very nice neighbors, which is important since there's nothing worse than a cranky show neighbor. The crowds were steady all three days, Saturday being the busiest. Overall, I had a great show and hopefully will be accepted again next year!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My stuff waiting to be loaded into the car</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGd10TQnMf8nBXa0ET83T_WC2xAq2pX1oHO2QFSWpA3xrioN_6pHLOc_HBo05wcPWV3j43LX-LctvOULc7zoWi9__mzUkw5OunfQngIK0JUP4w4E3Z3jvb_0spRRZ5ecD8YzEQHvSDdQ/s1600/Copy+of+craftboston+set+up+day+-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGd10TQnMf8nBXa0ET83T_WC2xAq2pX1oHO2QFSWpA3xrioN_6pHLOc_HBo05wcPWV3j43LX-LctvOULc7zoWi9__mzUkw5OunfQngIK0JUP4w4E3Z3jvb_0spRRZ5ecD8YzEQHvSDdQ/s320/Copy+of+craftboston+set+up+day+-1.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of aisle 200 during set-up</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUQFUpbBsBVxgLyatAb8owLc700K4HRCIkdktgWFzy6sPuo6NR7-icV6k-Y9KlNhiNdVR24D1l-mwCjiiioI33ddN9VnWwqHplUtix3Ushgi79jbouIWAvDnKskkQD1DGSxqo0SJP5zw/s1600/Copy+of+craftboston+set+up+day+-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrUQFUpbBsBVxgLyatAb8owLc700K4HRCIkdktgWFzy6sPuo6NR7-icV6k-Y9KlNhiNdVR24D1l-mwCjiiioI33ddN9VnWwqHplUtix3Ushgi79jbouIWAvDnKskkQD1DGSxqo0SJP5zw/s320/Copy+of+craftboston+set+up+day+-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">View of the main floor area right before the opening reception</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqz0I49FlaSoMf5gm-ZWdf-p_HwVlXebxmoW4vY5nygd4mq2dIEu53Nyxj9PaietSdH2WRx13ZLe36hOMfPNlUArAWPDXv-bOIjV140KK1_G4HJMjWCiWRjsj-XDxEPoBsZ-dYaYIueM8/s1600/Kathleen+Dustin+CraftBoston+2011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqz0I49FlaSoMf5gm-ZWdf-p_HwVlXebxmoW4vY5nygd4mq2dIEu53Nyxj9PaietSdH2WRx13ZLe36hOMfPNlUArAWPDXv-bOIjV140KK1_G4HJMjWCiWRjsj-XDxEPoBsZ-dYaYIueM8/s320/Kathleen+Dustin+CraftBoston+2011.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kathleen Dustin - Best of Show award winner!!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-68750031677177234782011-03-15T12:20:00.000-04:002011-03-15T12:20:54.945-04:00To wholesale or not to wholesale<a href="http://stonehousestudio.trunkt.com/"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOv9JL3YwXvMjxVcaV8uLK7DXMO0qL0cYGc79Gf-i8uyWN6iANq9yC2Yyv4neBuGSGiZP7BvpS677A6ejAnPzdUWQcXXyLOJp-lVOdhQydIwvrGXT7eTHVWWQQ0oIaF9oYZUpSsnf_W1A/s400/trunkt+screen+shot+march+2011.jpg" width="400" /><span id="goog_1557192243"></span><span id="goog_1557192244"></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></a><br />
That is the question. And it's one I've struggled with for a while. For some, the decision is easy. They hate doing shows and love the ease of filling orders, shipping them off and checking off the to-do list. Conversely, there's the artist who thrives on shows and much prefers selling face to face.<br />
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I'm a show groupie, no question about it. As long as I can schlepp my stuff, carry 40lb weights and deal with the elements, I'll keep doing them. For me, the wholesale dilemma is strictly a price point issue. If you wholesale, your retail prices have to be consistent with those charged by the shops carrying your wares. Which means doubling your artisan direct price. But will increased prices put off show buyers? For me, the answer is yes. I do mostly juried indie shows where it's important to keep the average price points around $30 to $75, so raising all my prices is out of the question.<br />
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After much deliberation, I've decided to test the wholesale waters again. This time, I've created a limited wholesale line consisting of items that are cost/time efficient and where my retail price equals the suggested retail price for wholesale buyers. I'll leave the more complicated pieces and one of a kinds for my show customers.<br />
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Once the decision is made and your line designed, you have to put it out there. For starters, I've created a <a href="http://stonehousestudio.trunkt.com/">linesheet</a> at <a href="http://trunkt.com/">trunkt.com</a>, a beautiful site for handmade that aims to connect buyers and sellers. Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-33189220367483475342011-03-05T11:35:00.001-05:002011-03-06T07:15:51.934-05:00A treasure trove of information!Maybe all you crafty folk out there already know about <a href="http://craftstew.com/">CraftStew.com</a>, but I just happened to stumble across it. The polymer pages include a ton of links for techniques, projects, tutorials, info and all sorts of stuff. It's so nice to have all the info in one spot! Check them out - there are two pages on polymer <a href="http://craftstew.com/category/polymer-clay/page/2">here</a> and <a href="http://craftstew.com/category/polymer-clay">here</a>. While you're at it, take a look at all the other categories about things handmade!Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-15665529383845442902011-02-02T09:41:00.007-05:002011-02-03T06:46:28.364-05:00Etsy Front Page<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d46eac9f6fd8eefad100703/urban-chic"><img border="0" height="244" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnfUSAgXHc9kSx1tDWMzbZtxZfUrzPwcYdfvr8kCJwdKl5dGEnMnBqwFuJegfW90g-LZ1e4UOQV2fYF6QfqhQ_0JMOc7OYjFbetTPn6C-7pq53iSWTbk5h5htg-sBVISJktNON8jkHwSY/s320/Etsy+Front+Page+11pm+1+31+2011.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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It's a huge deal to make it to the Etsy home page - you are seen by literally millions of handmade aficionados all over the world. Occasionally one of my pieces makes it and it always results in tons of views and sales. <br />
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The FP, as Etsians call the home page, uses "treasuries" made by sellers and buyers. Hundreds of treasuries are made every day, so it's a big deal when Etsy admins pick yours to feature on the FP. I was lucky enough to have my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/4d46eac9f6fd8eefad100703/urban-chic?index=10">Urban Chic</a> treasury featured on the front page at 11pm ET on January 31!Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-61926941967333083572011-01-12T13:05:00.001-05:002011-01-12T13:06:47.166-05:00Snow Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygy-tKuTJVwwme2cWmfyYqNyZG0zl0QWcM6qfczXKHacoxyQsqhKlTPs7lQchPeiMBCepZAO50UsIW2kHiVa8VAm2ywOU4m4be8igLR51FASxvLVznJLj9rpTgHBUccCS6qq1eStnmtI/s1600/blizzard+1+12+2011.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygy-tKuTJVwwme2cWmfyYqNyZG0zl0QWcM6qfczXKHacoxyQsqhKlTPs7lQchPeiMBCepZAO50UsIW2kHiVa8VAm2ywOU4m4be8igLR51FASxvLVznJLj9rpTgHBUccCS6qq1eStnmtI/s320/blizzard+1+12+2011.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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</div><div style="text-align: left;">Massachusetts is closed today! Why not spend a snowy, lazy day browsing <a href="http://www.etsy.com/treasury/?ref=fp_treasury_more">Etsy Treasuries</a>? I'm in the one below and it's a perfect color match for a day like today!</div><script src="http://www.craftcult.com/js/trwi.js?s=1&l=4d1ae91d538d8eefb3cb77f6&r=3134&t=s&m=1&u=5023490&">
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<div style="text-align: left;">Every winter I try to take a couple of workshops. I'm a big fan of workshops - I find them inspiring, energizing and, well, just plain fun. This year I've decided to try my hand at Japanese brushpainting, or sumi-e. I've signed up for an 8 week class at the <a href="http://www.ccae.org/catalog/">CCAE</a> with the amazing <a href="http://www.janzaremba.com/Sumi-e/index.html">Jan Zaremba</a>. I'm really looking forward to it and seeing how I can apply sumi-e techniques to my polymer work.</div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><br />
While on the subject of Japanese art, I found this <a href="http://www.vam.ac.uk/collections/asia/asia_features/japan/japanese_art_design/japanese_craft/inro/index.html">inro page</a> at the V&A museum website:<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.vam.ac.uk/media/thira/collection_images/2006AU/2006AU2706_jpg_ds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://media.vam.ac.uk/media/thira/collection_images/2006AU/2006AU2706_jpg_ds.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.vam.ac.uk/media/thira/collection_images/2006AT/2006AT6650_jpg_ds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://media.vam.ac.uk/media/thira/collection_images/2006AT/2006AT6650_jpg_ds.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://media.vam.ac.uk/media/thira/collection_images/2006AT/2006AT9192_jpg_ds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://media.vam.ac.uk/media/thira/collection_images/2006AT/2006AT9192_jpg_ds.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://media.vam.ac.uk/media/thira/collection_images/2006AT/2006AT6650_jpg_ds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br />
</a></div>Inro's are small containers used to carry seals and herbs. These fabulous museum pieces are inspiring me to revisit inro making. I took a polymer clay inro construction class from <a href="http://www.slsavarickstudio.com/">Seth Savarick</a> a couple of years ago, but haven't really had the time to pursue it much. Making inros in polymer is a long, painstaking process, but there is something very zen and calming about careful, laborious work. <br />
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Here are some boxes using inro construction techniques that I made after taking Seth's class. I'm itching to make more and decorate them with my soon to be learned sumi-e skills!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQaG2LzKk4gteJWe6Lodle64z8Dx6cc6gBpNsiuQGbuS2nwXDU4DI7VWtRdc-EZwRpRkKNs_kEGawYYPm0BA7nINyjmR_DO9oaNzqmKgOjlLUoloaB2aOIuIy-r9iXlrXr9wYqWZr5F0/s1600/bamboo+inro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeQaG2LzKk4gteJWe6Lodle64z8Dx6cc6gBpNsiuQGbuS2nwXDU4DI7VWtRdc-EZwRpRkKNs_kEGawYYPm0BA7nINyjmR_DO9oaNzqmKgOjlLUoloaB2aOIuIy-r9iXlrXr9wYqWZr5F0/s320/bamboo+inro.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNcq0kYDxNOQBBuIM9HA2NJgs30PhxFJQpl8hwouISJUtID6xxQPXZRz-iufYvMmN6BMOdRgZv7I09DPMedsJs0zS7h0XKXBu1JszTLS8pXmJVeyvN3JEofL5sTavuFWnfvK5s8Kh5OE/s1600/textured+leaf+inro.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieNcq0kYDxNOQBBuIM9HA2NJgs30PhxFJQpl8hwouISJUtID6xxQPXZRz-iufYvMmN6BMOdRgZv7I09DPMedsJs0zS7h0XKXBu1JszTLS8pXmJVeyvN3JEofL5sTavuFWnfvK5s8Kh5OE/s320/textured+leaf+inro.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIA0VQ6m8kO1SpIMGFKfZjzfvxJWtM2JEw0V3gj6V0R-nYQ8Yd5gsJOAfFMstnW8GxB_Vj-WnskKPySTkYghvpVvKXzxCKeNpDhlWsQBXZ0sMGpqb8V4wto0rCOECG0HBDhLaYum-EsBE/s1600/Business+card+holder+collage-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIA0VQ6m8kO1SpIMGFKfZjzfvxJWtM2JEw0V3gj6V0R-nYQ8Yd5gsJOAfFMstnW8GxB_Vj-WnskKPySTkYghvpVvKXzxCKeNpDhlWsQBXZ0sMGpqb8V4wto0rCOECG0HBDhLaYum-EsBE/s320/Business+card+holder+collage-5.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-50659537052187415472010-12-26T10:00:00.004-05:002010-12-26T10:04:51.461-05:00Treasury Time<script src="http://www.craftcult.com/js/trwi.js?s=1&l=4d117bcac67d8eefdd0de2d1&r=1673&t=s&m=1&u=5023490&">
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Etsy's new Treasury feature is so easy to use that there are literally thousands of treasury lists made by Etsy sellers and buyers every day. I can't think of a better way to feature the enormous variety of handmade and vintage items found on Etsy - the talent out there is impressive! So much so, that Etsy features a different Treasury every hour on its home page! I'm fortunate to be included in Treasuries on a regular basis and will pick one to feature every week or so.In this Treasury, I'm particularly taken by <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Evgene">Evgene's</a> nuno felted <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55238828/nuno-felted-light-coral-scarf-with-roses">scarf!</a>Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-15980175672104306212010-12-13T10:41:00.002-05:002011-01-12T13:11:40.149-05:00Phew!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/#%21/pages/SoWa-Open-Market/66364906019"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs835.snc4/69587_464997221019_66364906019_6218635_4040229_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div>Another show season over! But don't get me wrong, I absolutely adore doing shows and, after I catch my breath, will miss them terribly until my regular show season starts up again in May of next year.<br />
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To deal with show withdrawal, I plan to keep busy organizing and painting the studio, coming up with new designs and getting ready for CraftBoston in March (my first high end show!)<br />
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In the meantime, take advantage of my Etsy <a href="http://stonehousestudio.etsy.com/">Holiday Sale</a>. Just use coupon code <span style="color: red;">holiday10</span> at check-out to receive a 15% discount on your entire order. Sale ends December 31, 2010.Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-16629770936035629182010-10-23T08:46:00.001-04:002010-10-23T08:47:25.021-04:00Friday WorktableFriday has always been my favorite day of the week. When I was working in the corporate world, I liked Friday because it meant the weekend was just about here. Now that I work in my home studio, every day is a weekend, but I still like Friday because it's my jewelry assembly day. It's very satisfying to see an entire week of production sitting on my table waiting to become finished jewelry.<br />
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When I <a href="http://stonehousestudio.blogspot.com/2009/02/studio-re-do.html">designed my studio</a>, I created separate workstations for polymer work, metal work, assembly and office work. Here is a picture of my Friday polymer table. I've just finished the last pieces of the week that are now on their way to the oven. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3f2Oy43de0OyU0rgVC-ugDTrK5hey0uI-5eC9f4zwMZS8hnEhYGYAYk4mqgsWvA3fivsDR6pj0biJGefKx8C2GMxD85DT4tJfV3mTBgou9UO27xYpYlTBnmXnUkLO7osZN7SMPTsP-Ks/s1600/IMG_0788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3f2Oy43de0OyU0rgVC-ugDTrK5hey0uI-5eC9f4zwMZS8hnEhYGYAYk4mqgsWvA3fivsDR6pj0biJGefKx8C2GMxD85DT4tJfV3mTBgou9UO27xYpYlTBnmXnUkLO7osZN7SMPTsP-Ks/s400/IMG_0788.JPG" width="337" /></a></div><br />
After cleaning up my polymer table, I head across the room to my assembly table. It's a bit of a mess, but I'll organize it into piles before I start. I'll need to make earwires for all the earrings, make neckwires and assemble chains, drill holes in the window pendants and package everything up in time for my weekend shows!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6dwwpyT1JLXd_EZ2Qhd-yHS4-foIk2mf7bHPcO40GEr0xZ8fmmsE7HROVp1LV8t6Y5bXSePtvMzeFk9uxv57aoidezD_yy5ILJRyf9ZJgGBoG8CHl0wBxl3OAC8zZ4uqF8OEjUQFA0Bg/s1600/IMG_0786.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="331" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6dwwpyT1JLXd_EZ2Qhd-yHS4-foIk2mf7bHPcO40GEr0xZ8fmmsE7HROVp1LV8t6Y5bXSePtvMzeFk9uxv57aoidezD_yy5ILJRyf9ZJgGBoG8CHl0wBxl3OAC8zZ4uqF8OEjUQFA0Bg/s400/IMG_0786.JPG" width="400" /></a></div> <br />
On Saturday, if I don't have a show, I'll take pictures, then edit and resize so that they are ready to list in my <a href="http://stonehousestudio.etsy.com/">Etsy </a>shop the following week. I have a photo studio (I use that term generously) permanently set up in my basement - more on that in my next post.Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-57862416008611028482010-10-09T08:05:00.001-04:002010-10-09T08:12:59.888-04:00Yucatan Inspiration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqM2_eMSEv1qMjsHzOHyPXbZrDYy-t2YHEgBlnwA4kZm52QsZz0h00W8L2nfhvTjOJaKQ1Mdc_BBSfRES_IoizqxqgjATbbwgw2OjC9hF6wQ4zmp6yoGfIoQsJSGKS_kgxXRCSAOTRBzM/s1600/cenote+collage+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqM2_eMSEv1qMjsHzOHyPXbZrDYy-t2YHEgBlnwA4kZm52QsZz0h00W8L2nfhvTjOJaKQ1Mdc_BBSfRES_IoizqxqgjATbbwgw2OjC9hF6wQ4zmp6yoGfIoQsJSGKS_kgxXRCSAOTRBzM/s320/cenote+collage+2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Mexico always inspires me. Last year, I created my Maya series based on the vibrant colors of the Yucatan. But there are more subtle colors there as well - in the deep cenotes and caves that are all over the area. The Yucatan sits on a bed of limestone that is riddled with underground rivers and caverns. When shafts of sunlight hit the deep sinkholes (cenotes), you get an <strike></strike>eerie combination of light and shadow, liquid aqua blues and muted browns. This fabulous photo of the Cuzamá cenote from <a href="http://www.facebook.com/#%21/WeVisitMexico">We Visit Mexico</a> on Facebook inspired a new piece.Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4617404524049991762.post-71432391812048936342010-09-30T20:27:00.003-04:002010-10-01T18:35:47.977-04:00The feared "Booth Shot"<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;">I cringe whenever a show application requires a booth shot. No matter how awesome your booth looks in real life, when you take a picture you always manage to include your neighbor's boxes and junk, parked cars, weird people walking by and all sorts of stuff one doesn't notice on market day. Case in point is a picture of my booth at the <a href="http://sowaopenmarket.com/">SoWa Open Market</a> a couple of years back. </div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzM03UFezUvWEh2M8bDJ9i7YAaoykf3AKWn0Qm0xAtK3sNsi_qxNrHYpC91Iw5qXmhEh1PFxdeesF9cQvK-Tf7GbLbFmdy8-dyY13r1E77cBef5-u957SE_EgXKOxhl3msZuI1FsXk4PE/s1600/IMG_2243.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzM03UFezUvWEh2M8bDJ9i7YAaoykf3AKWn0Qm0xAtK3sNsi_qxNrHYpC91Iw5qXmhEh1PFxdeesF9cQvK-Tf7GbLbFmdy8-dyY13r1E77cBef5-u957SE_EgXKOxhl3msZuI1FsXk4PE/s320/IMG_2243.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Last Sunday I was finally able to get a clean shot at the <a href="http://jpopenstudios.com/">JP Open Studios</a>. My friend and photographer extraordinare, <a href="http://www.luciewickerphotography.com/">Lucie Wicker</a>, was showing right across the street and she kindly took some awesome booth shots for me. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzEAeDnn5FhlMNOxWksBstZW2Ns-I51d3G7TDDLAbvC0Os2rxzmckWIdiLew4OghitsIVlduJX3gJTpcsVIemIfgNziGTpnV8e655mQa3dMSDNRbGMmS7R_2RazDR0zegcDoZ9vhcHNI/s1600/Booth+shot+collage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRzEAeDnn5FhlMNOxWksBstZW2Ns-I51d3G7TDDLAbvC0Os2rxzmckWIdiLew4OghitsIVlduJX3gJTpcsVIemIfgNziGTpnV8e655mQa3dMSDNRbGMmS7R_2RazDR0zegcDoZ9vhcHNI/s400/Booth+shot+collage.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've streamlined my set-up quite a bit in the last couple of years. My hanging boards now have removable canvas covers that match my table coverings and I've added some awesomely organic twine necklace busts. I still go vertical as much as possible - I find it's the best way to showcase my work. And what are those crazy blue bags on each tent leg? Well, they are my very creative weights made out of re-usable plastic shopping bags filled with plastic bags full of pea gravel. Easy to carry and waterproof . And also pee-proof - a must at all my windy, doggie friendly shows (that's Plato eyeing my weights in the top left picture).</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.frankronstadtstudio.com/index.html" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="214" src="http://www.frankronstadtstudio.com/Images/Gallery/latest_belts_014.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I ran into Fran again at a couple of shows this summer while I was mulling designs for my fall line of window pendants. The muted tones and warmth of oxidized metals has always intrigued me, so I took my cue from Fran's belt buckles and got to work combining polymer with a faux metal finish with real copper, brass and silver accents. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvRL2YK4ohtEnKkzcc_zPpQ8Sy7Nx8MB8kSNUXsg3LqqaJ-BkG2_JvyqHlJj3i2I2cjUnCHUIj8gwIF2YtgPquOpeEdoeZMR_XWT1a1Y2MU0DPCU_ynUXIpsoa94torTStK_EOIKNV3k/s1600/Copper+Nights+neckwire.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwvRL2YK4ohtEnKkzcc_zPpQ8Sy7Nx8MB8kSNUXsg3LqqaJ-BkG2_JvyqHlJj3i2I2cjUnCHUIj8gwIF2YtgPquOpeEdoeZMR_XWT1a1Y2MU0DPCU_ynUXIpsoa94torTStK_EOIKNV3k/s320/Copper+Nights+neckwire.jpg" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxUeULQ2kE4xCJTKeIEtqBqBrBuhQ5sjMz401YDnQyfJRQ6ZW-EN77XFLMXK8T9Nsh2vTU6pxkpsipKwoJtnWJWpDsD4vR2hrKPjAvm5CxP49BjvOnvXivHG_d78tpjqaFyTpdMREwrs/s1600/custom+order+for+Barbalace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifxUeULQ2kE4xCJTKeIEtqBqBrBuhQ5sjMz401YDnQyfJRQ6ZW-EN77XFLMXK8T9Nsh2vTU6pxkpsipKwoJtnWJWpDsD4vR2hrKPjAvm5CxP49BjvOnvXivHG_d78tpjqaFyTpdMREwrs/s320/custom+order+for+Barbalace.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj26ce5sHuZG1M5IpbaB87e_HioMxoyYUmbSbtNciXWHqzjSo0UKbADkZXQhxXGANr8GxqptGpU0-DSJ7z4CkoyKxKJvqDwzt3sZtHC8GZOxV9M_qxbHNSS5r48sjQaqNZPca1zzSrcAPY/s1600/IMG_0439.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj26ce5sHuZG1M5IpbaB87e_HioMxoyYUmbSbtNciXWHqzjSo0UKbADkZXQhxXGANr8GxqptGpU0-DSJ7z4CkoyKxKJvqDwzt3sZtHC8GZOxV9M_qxbHNSS5r48sjQaqNZPca1zzSrcAPY/s320/IMG_0439.jpg" /></a></div> <br />
And, yes, I am a proud owner of a Fran Kronstadt belt!Stonehouse Studiohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17729020432851734921noreply@blogger.com0