Flora Art Jewelry

BOO! Scared ya, didn't I?

2011-10-31T14:56:00.004-06:00

Two whole blog posts in one month...what a treat! Or a trick?? Pretty clever how I worked Halloween into this post isn't it!

Just want to show you a couple more of these textured beads. Although I'm spiritual and not really religious, I've always loved images of crosses and churches. Here in New Mexico, there is much religious art and culture, especially during the holidays...and I can't help but be influenced by it. Also, instead of adding alcohol inks for color, I'm going the acrylic paint route. These have just a bit of turquoise paint mixed in with the burnt umber, so it's going a bit green. I like the color though.

I've been on a pretty long kick with texure, since I started "Texture Doodling" and made my CraftEdu tutorial "Textured Tile Tessellations."

I love what I've seen from Roberta Warshaw after taking the class. She's been experimenting with texture on lots of different shapes!

Happy Halloween everybody!

Concho Beads, Snowflakes, Whitewashed Tin...or what?

2011-10-03T16:57:00.002-06:00

These really remind me of the type of pieces that are used in sterling silver Native American concho belts. I find it interesting that I'm subconsciously influenced by designs and colors that I've grown up with living here in the Southwest for 40+ years (shhh...don't tell). Or it could be that I'm just looking for these styles in my work because I like them so much. Either way...I'm going to continue experimenting with my textures on butterfly shapes and ovals too... and hey, maybe I'll even make a belt.

By the way, please visit Artybecca's blog (aka Rebecca Watkins) and Flickr site. I recently shared a work table with her and was very impressed at her creativity. That woman is a bead maker extraordinaire!

barbfajardo.com and new shapes

2011-08-14T11:34:00.004-06:00

Yes, it's true, it's true...I do neglect this blog. You know how it goes...there are so many other things that demand attention in our lives. I won't bore you with mine, at this very moment..let's save that for *another* long awaited blog post ;o)

For now, let me just post a picture for you of some prototypes that I'm working on. I continue to be fascinated by shapes and alcohol inks. Today, I'll be trying some birds...

And for those of you who have known me for some time and have my old site linked (the old swirl lentil tutorials...that by now, everyone knows how to make), you may want to link to my new site barbfajardo.com. Please look around, there is some info on teaching and also some earrings for sale on the purchase page.

Hope you all are enjoying your summer, we can feel fall in the air here already! Toying around with the idea of weed pulling since we have gotten some nice rain the past few days...or maybe not...

Rose from Escondido

2011-04-22T16:16:00.001-06:00

Rose from Escondido purchased Swirl Lentils from me years ago and decided to look me up since she was visiting family here. She sent a nice note that she had really enjoyed working with my beads and that she would like to take a class from me. Rose is a very talented jewelry designer, but she felt that it was time that she created her own beads instead of purchasing them from another artist.

We decided on a 4 hour class (which quickly turned into 6 and could have easily gone another 2) and then she told me that she had never worked with polymer before. Uh oh... But actually, I thought...this is perfect. Just last week I got an email from a Bead Society that was interested in my class. My first thought was, I wonder if someone with no experience with polymer would feel comfortable taking this class? The world works in mysterious ways...

Turns out the answer is yes... I would even venture to say that a pasta machine is not even necessary. Rose was my very first student for my new class and she helped me more than she knows. I took notes as she took notes. I found out some things that students will definitely want to know, things that I take for granted. Rose was very happy with her class. She said she learned so much and that I was a patient teacher. Yay :o)

Midway, we took a break and chatted out back by my shady Purple Robe Locust Tree.

I made us some guacamole with blue corn chips, orange slices and graham crackers. Pretty fancy huh?

Thank you for a great day Rose from Escondido!

Happy Earth Day and Happy Easter to you all!

Attention span and new website.

2011-03-28T12:09:00.000-06:00

Mine is low...my attention span that is. Art ADHD? I think I have mentioned this "condition" in previous posts. But, I think my creativity is pretty high.

I'm not a class taker...I'm mostly self taught. My attention flits from idea to idea and I can't take long to see a piece(s) come to fruition. If it takes an extra amount of concentration, I can't do it. I think that's why attending "in person" classes aren't my thing. Even with books, I tend to flip through them quickly, mostly looking at pictures and rarely taking the time to do a project. I think it's a blessing and a curse...

I'm not a project person, I'm all about technique. I change around my work fairly often, because I become bored fairly often. I use what I know and expand on it. My inspiration mostly comes from inside me. I like it that way...

My Textured Tile Tesselations class is rather short and simple for the price ($30), but I think it's worth it. It's a new technique class...it's meant to make you see how you can use the new technique in your own work. If you've taken "TTT" and want to discuss or ask anything...the hows. the whys. the what ifs. Please, please talk to me! Email me at barbfajardo(at)gmail.com, join my classroom or use the option in the class to ask a question, either privately or publicly. I'm here for you any time...that's why CraftEdu classes are the next best thing to real live classes.

I will be adding some new content for those of you who have already purchased TTT and have views remaining. It will touch on the round domed beads and how I use alcohol inks for color.

I'm working on proposals (yes, I know you've heard that before) to share some of what I've learned along the way. Check my new website which will keep you updated. I've outgrown my old domain name and have found a web host that is about half the price. I'll probably be shutting down the old site by August or September 2011.

So you have an idea where I'm coming from...my son Daniel graduates (Mechanical Engineering) from college this year and next year wants to leave NM for his Masters. My youngest Evan, will be a junior at UNM next year (Computer Science) and will probably be moving out soon (he's rarely home as it is). The boys have their own friends, even though they still like us :-)

That's where I'm at in my world. Sorry for the unusual length of this post, I've been lax so I figure long is better than not at all!

Tiered Tessellations and Photo Backgrounds

2011-01-22T15:15:00.003-07:00

The polymer beads shown below are domed beads I made using some metal paint tins...I placed raw round cutouts of polymer on the convex sides (the under side of the paint tins) and textured each one with tools that I demonstrate in my Textured Tile Tessellations Class. I really love how these turned out and will be doing more experimenting. And yes, the plastic paint tins will melt in your oven as some of us had wondered about on Facebook.

What I really want to show you is a quick side by side comparison of a picture I took today;

the graduated background I used and what simple photo editing can do for an image.

Below is a black to white graduated image that I made in photoshop. Click on the image and enlarge it, then "save as" on your computer. I learned from Janice Abarbanel's Blog - Exploring the Art of Polymer Clay, that she orders her jewelry backgrounds from the printing department of an office supply store. I uploaded the graduated image and ordered mine online at Costco's photo processing site.

Next, I sandwiched the background between non-glare glass (shiny side down) and foam core (you could use cardboard or mat board) and held the 3 pieces together with thin strips of masking tape wrapped around the edges.

If you scroll back up to the collage at the top, you can see the same photo 3 different ways. The first is the original photo with no editing. The second has the exposure only auto fixed in picnik.com and the third has a complete auto fix in photoshop. After editing a few different ways, I usually print out a couple of 4x6 prints of each to see which I like better. Hope this will help you take better photos of your work!

Not a Zentangle

2010-12-07T16:55:00.000-07:00

I mention at the beginning of my Texture class that my "Texture Doodling" (copyright 2010) on clay is based on Mehndi and Henna Designs. Now that the class is up on CraftEdu, I feel that you might like to see the kinds of designs that I've subconsciously been influenced by.

I had already been working with texture for a while when a few months ago, I ran across some images on Flickr and was mesmerized by the complexity of the designs. Soon after, I realized how much some of the shapes and designs were working their way into my polymer textures.

I finally sat down with a two sided sharpie (fine and extra fine tips on one pen) and a piece of copy paper. When I began, the intention wasn't meant to make such a large design, but I just couldn't stop. I've worked on for the past 4 days and I'm pretty happy with it! Okay, I'll admit that I'm VERY happy with it. I even went out today and bought some spray adhesive (I already had some black poster board to mount it on) and a cheapy black frame.

I discovered that I still have a very steady hand. I used to do a lot of watch and some jewelry repair in my younger days selling fine jewelry, and I remember a customer telling me that I must have the hands of a surgeon to be able to work with such tiny parts in watches. I had forgotten that I could actually draw a pretty straight line!

But, I have to tell you...please don't say this looks like a "Zentangle." Of course I've seen the black and white drawings and heard of the method, but I have no idea what the rules or constraints are supposed to be.

Anyhow, now I feel like this could be a new addiction for me. All I know is what I'm influenced by and luckily, I had a piece of white paper and black pens to help me express what is in my head. I know, pretty scary isn't it? ;o) It looks like a bird to me...

Bazinga? Yes, Bazinga!!

2010-12-03T17:18:00.000-07:00

This is a new word to most of us :o) What it means is that a particular class is being offered up at CraftEdu for 25% off for 24 hours.

You can Bazinga my class (I haven't decided if this new word we use is a noun or a verb) until 12noon MST on Saturday, December 4th...tomorrow!!

This really is a versa"tile" lesson (pun intended)...I used mine for a bracelet, but there are oh, so many things you could try...how about ornaments? You could theme a small or large tree with a southwestern style tiles! Here are a few other items you could create from Textured Tile Tessellations:

Pendants
Necklaces
Belts
Bracelets
Earrings
Rings

Bookmarks
Picture Frames
Mirror Frames
Frame a Window or Door
Decorate a Door or Cabinet
Kitchen Backsplash
Poker Chips
Magnets

Let's see...what else is new ;o) I have a page here with some earrings up for sale for the Holidays...be sure to visit. I'm thinking of doing more selling here on my blog, so you may see more items here than on my website.

Each purchase will be sent on a black signed card, gift boxed and shipped (first class) for free until Friday, Dec. 17. I've also uploaded some pieces to Flickr, they are for sale and the same free shipping applies.

Ummm, oh yes. I had an excellent November, hope you did too. I was notified that a piece of mine is a 2011 Niche Awards Finalist...still can't believe that one. The winners are announced at the BMAC in February, but don't think I'll be able to attend. I believe that to have my finalist piece displayed at the show, I need to bring it in person...don't think that's gonna happen.

Also, had a good show Thanksgiving weekend here in Albuquerque and had an artist profile article in the Dec/Jan 2011 issue of Beadwork magazine. Great people to work with, thank you guys!

Lastly, I was invited to join the oldest co-op gallery in Old Town...about 5 minutes from my house...Yucca Gallery. I'll be taking some pieces in for jurying next weekend.

Whew! Have you ever seen so many links in one blog post?! Happy Holidays all, and thank you for your business and friendship this past year!

Creating the Perfect Swirl Lentil Bead

2010-10-13T12:29:00.000-06:00

Tooling around on the web as I often do, I find there are still a lot of questions on why people aren't getting the hang of the Swirl Lentil. There are some important ingredients that are often overlooked in creating successful swirls:

1. The polymer clay can't be too firm or too soft.

2. You may be using too much pressure on the "swirler."

3. Make sure the work surface and the swirler surfaces are clean.

4. Are you using glass, plastic or a ceramic tile for either surface? If the clay slips or sticks as you rotate your arm, you may want to try a different surfaces.

Swirl Lentils can be tricky little buggers, so it may take some experimentation to get everything just right...sort of like Goldilocks and the Three Bears :o)

I have a class on CraftEdu.com that will take you even further in your pursuit of the perfect Swirl Lentil.

Click below to see a free preview of
"Swirl Lentils - Getting Personal"

Hope that helped and good luck!
Barb
www.rubarbdesertdesigns.com

Thinking about where I've been and where I'm going...

2010-07-30T12:59:00.002-06:00

Isn't this something we all think about nearly every day? I have a magazine interview coming up next week and I've decided to put some thoughts down on paper. I don't do that nearly enough. I think about things a lot, but rarely do I write them down.

Even blogging has become a bit difficult as I find it's not that easy these days to put my thoughts into words.

So this weekend, that's what I'll do... try to nail down some of the things that make me do what I do. How I began, where I've been and where I'm going. Why I enjoy it and what keeps me inspired.

Have a beautiful weekend all!

Hand dyed silk ribbons

2010-05-17T15:42:00.000-06:00

I'm starting to experiment with "Layered Flora" beads. I bought these gorgeous silk ribbons from the gals at classactdesigns.com at Bead Fest Santa Fe a few months ago. The centers will most likely be different from what is shown on these...I've even toyed with the idea of embedded turquoise cabs for the centers, but then I would have to up the price and now might not be the time to do that.

I love that you can tie these on any number of ways...and almost anywhere...neck, wrist, hair...I so love it!

Many of you know that I struggle with jewelry designing so I hope these go over well with my customers this summer at the ACRE show and at the New Mexico Arts and Crafts Fair.

Here is one of my new banners for this year so if you see it hanging in a booth somewhere, you've found me!

No peace and quiet on a Saturday...

2010-04-24T22:03:00.000-06:00

Here I was getting ready to be productive this morning. I have two classes ready for CraftEdu, but both or at least one needs narration. I knew Rudy was out to play golf, Dan had a track meet to coach and Evan was supposed to be working at UNM.

Must check Facebook first :o) Then after getting showered, gulping down coffee and readying myself for a not so pleasant task (who likes the sound of their own voice?) Evan pops in. "They put me in a new building and my key doesn't work...I'm locked out!"....kay....about an hour later he leaves to go play basketball and I think "yesssss..." but in walks Dan from the track meet. Then about an hour after that Rudy's back from golf.

Guess what...no narration happened today. But I did get a lot of fine tuning and editing done, so it wasn't a complete waste of a day.

We're all getting really excited for the launch of CraftEdu. It's coming...soon...very soon!!!

Tejae, Vintaj and me...

2010-04-09T14:26:00.000-06:00

Sweet! The designers at Vintaj have put up two projects featuring one of my Flora Beads. The bead used on the project to the left is on page 12 in Tejae Floyde's new Polymer Artists Showcase book. I was also very honored to have my Pink Scroll Flora Bead bracelets chosen as the cover image for the book. And thanks to the gals at Art Bead Scene for the shout out too!

Another announcement: I am thrilled to be a member of the faculty at Donna Kato's new on-line teaching venue CraftEdu.com along with a few hundred other amazing artist/teachers. Sign up for notification of the beta launch, scheduled for a date in the very near future! This is going to be big folks! :o)

For those of you who have asked, most of the beads and jewelry that are left from Santa Fe BeadFest are on my Clearance page. I'll have lots of new work at the New Mexico Arts and Crafts Fair in June.

If you're interested in wholesaling my work or beads, please contact me at barbfajardo(at)gmail.com. All you need to do is supply me with your resale info and I'll send you the password to the wholesale page. I'm also on-line at WholesaleCrafts.com (artist# 25840).

Happy Spring!! May the warm sun be shining down on you in your neck of the woods...

Springtime!

2010-03-13T20:15:00.000-07:00

It's almost here...I can feel it :o)

Today was beautiful here in NM and my sinuses are telling me that everything's getting ready to bloom.

Hope my stuffiness, sneezing and itchy eyes get better by next Thursday.

Here are a few different kinds of blooms that I will be taking with me up north...Santa Fe here I come!

Railrunner day trip to Santa Fe

2010-02-22T22:42:00.001-07:00

This past Sunday Rudy and I finally took the Rail Runner to Santa Fe, just to fart around for the day. After about 90 minutes and 4 stops we arrived. We were told that the shuttles around town don't run on Sunday, so we were left to trek to the Plaza on foot...which was fine except that it started snowing (hard) as soon as we got off the train.

Our first stop was just a short walk down the street to Zia Diner catch a bite and warm up. We then made our way to the Plaza and we see a Five and Dime store. Again, we need to warm up and dry off a bit. I had a hat and scarf, but no gloves...so I find a great little pair of purple gloves for $3.99. Hey, you can't beat that right?

Next, it's on to the La Fonda, where I want to check out the Ballroom where my table will be at the Santa Fe Bead Fest in a few weeks. We were lucky enough to have a nice security guard open up the Ballroom so that I can take a peek. I had been there some years ago, but it looks different.

We rested in some wonderfully comfortable big leather chairs in the lobby and wondered what we wanted to do next. We had about 5 hours to kill. We cross the plaza over to the Palace of the Governors to look at the Native Americans selling turquoise jewelry on the ground as they've done for almost 75 years.

Around the corner we find the New Mexico History Museum which just opened last May. It's an incredibly gorgeous museum and one that you should definitely see when in Santa Fe. If you get a chance go before the Fashioning New Mexico exhibit leaves on April 10. The wedding dresses were just mesmerizing. I got lost imagining the lives of the people who wore these lovely costumes. Rudy had to go and sit it out, I just didn't want to leave!

Again, we talked to a really great security guard at the museum, who directed us across the street to warm up in a sweet little bar at the Inn of the Anasazi. Couple of beers later and we were back outside. The snow has finally stopped.

Time to find Rudy's college roommate Nick who he hasn't seen in about 30 years. He owns a bar called Evangelo's. It was so funny to listen them talk about the old crazy college days. A portion of the movie Crazy Heart with Jeff Bridges was filmed at his bar.

We are down to about 2 hours until the train leaves for Albuquerque and we've worked up quite an appetite. So we decide to walk back towards the Santa Fe Depot and we find a cool place that is across the street from Zia which was our first stop at 11:30 that morning. It's called Cowgirl BBQ...thought we could catch the Olympic hockey game on the big screen, but they weren't playing yet.

With only about 45 minutes now before the train pulls in we decide to go and have apple pie and coffee at The Flying Star.

What a day...whew! Exhausted, but happy!

I'm thinking about all of my clay friends traveling to Baltimore for Synergy2 this week. I so wanted to join you guys, but I'll be following all the fun on Crafthaus where Cynthia Tinapple of Polymer Clay Daily and Libby Mills will be live blogging for the event. Can't wait for pictures too, so don't let me down peeps! ;o)

Hope you all have a blast!!

Dream Interpretation and new bracelets

2010-02-13T15:08:00.002-07:00

I always have trouble coming up with a blog post, which is doubly hard for me because I'm a terrible typist.

But, I have been on a bracelet making binge and I had a weird dream last night. I'm hoping if I tell you about the dream, it will help me figure out if there is a connection between the two. LOL, just for fun you know...

So, to make a long dream short...

I'm with some old friends (think 20's when we used to party every weekend, no clay friends)...they had rented this enormous house in a gated community that was at the very top of a winding trail of ups and downs, steps and ramps. It took quite a while to get there...going along narrow ledges and crumbling steps. I feel like I'm in Spain.

We finally get to the fabulous house which is like a long southwestern ranch spread, one story with lots of space. Some people are relaxing in about 6 claw footed bathtubs (weirdest part for sure) on different levels of a sunroom with lots of hanging ferns. There is sumptuous ochre leather furniture, a roaring fire (although it is summer outside) and a Spanish tiled kitchen.

So, I walk through the house putting my purse in one of the back rooms. I'm kind of disgusted because the house is a mess...not with trash, but just junk everywhere. A house this beautiful should be kept nicer.

When we leave, neighbors are partying in swimming pools and on decks at some of the houses we pass on the way down. Again, we are winding up and down steps, and around winding curves. About half way down we stop to chat with people.

Then I remember that I left my purse, go back by myself and wonder if I can even find the house again. None of the houses looks familiar so I circle around, go back, take different turns like I'm in a maze. Finally, I end up at a dead end and then I wake up!

Strange, huh. It really was a pretty and colorful dream though!

Oh, here's the bracelets ;o)

BeadFest Santa Fe 2010!

2010-02-01T14:52:00.000-07:00

I'm happy to announce that I'll be showing at BeadFest Santa Fe this March! The Show is at the new Convention Center and at the La Fonda Hotel. I'll be in the La Fonda Ballroom booth #27. I'd love for you to come by and say hi if you attend the show. Santa Fe is beautiful in the springtime and the show promises to be as gorgeous as it was last year
.

I need to let you all know that most of the unsold merchandise here on my site will be taken with me to Santa Fe, so if you've been looking at some beads or jewelry now is the time to purchase them. I will keep everything here until Sunday, February 28th. After that what's gone is gone!

Happy February to you all. Here's hoping that Punxsutawney Phil doesn't see his shadow tomorrow ;o)

New Style - Watercolor Flora

2010-01-08T15:39:00.002-07:00

So...last year my wholesale line did well, but I've never been very comfortable making the same thing over and over. Even making different textures, using different colors of paints, trying different petal shapes and petal arrangements hasn't been very satisfying. I should be figuring out how to make rings and brooches and narrowing down my 2010 line, taking pictures, making a catalog. And I have other deadlines that I need to meet, but yet again...I get sidetracked thinking of new bead designs.

Anyhow, I like these beads and it felt good making them. Being able to shape individual petals and not feeling so constricted with petal shape is more my style. I've been getting a little tired of brown acrylic paint and missing using black clay. I like using clay bits for the centers of the flowers instead of embossing powder or coiled clay.

For my next set I'll change up the layout...because like I said, I'm easily distracted...but I'm guessing you all can figure that out by now ;o) I must have ADD for artists...bet lots of you can relate.

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T11:07:00.001-07:00

Free Priority Shipping!

2009-12-17T12:15:00.002-07:00

Limited time only!

Announcing FREE Domestic Priority Shipping on all orders of $75 and over.

http://www.rubarbdesertdesigns.com/purchasebeads.html
http://www.rubarbdesertdesigns.com/purchasejewelry.html
http://www.rubarbdesertdesigns.com/clearance.html

This is a wonderful deal for all of you last minute shoppers that like to shop

from the comfort of your computer chair...

or perhaps because buying on-line makes more sense than fighting the crowds

and/or shoveling your driveway to get out!

Barb Fajardo

Turquoise

2009-12-11T11:17:00.000-07:00

I love Turquoise...the color and the stone. I was pleased to find out that it is Pantone's pick for the Color of the Year for 2010.

Here is a strand of a few squiggly, swirly, scrolly beads (not sure what to call them)! I had in mind making beads that were sturdy enough to use as a belt. I didn't have enough chain to make it long enough, but it makes a cute necklace too.

I mixed trans, pearl and white clays, stuck the coily things down on raw clay bases, painted with Baja Blue pinata ink, sanded some, added some gold paint, sanded more, added more gold paint, sanded more and finally buffed. They were tons of work, I like them, but the Baja Blue isn't quite turquoise, and I'm not totally fond of the shape.

Look for more turquoise stuffs in the weeks to come!

Revisiting Inks and Banners

2009-12-01T13:06:00.024-07:00

I'm dragging out my inks to play with this week. I do miss working with them. Layering color upon color and trying out different textures...it's soooo satisfying, but soooo messy. I'm wondering if I can isolate myself to just using a few colors, to be consistent enough to offer these at the wholesale level. I can work a gold filled line in that way and not just the more rustic style with the Vintaj brass findings I've been working with.

Hey, here is something I bet a lot of you can relate to. January 2010 will be my 10 year anniversary working with polymer clay (and also my 50th BD...shh...don't tell anyone).

I began to look at the gazillions of folders that I have on my computer and started to get sort of nostalgic. Not only did I find a lot of family photos that I had forgotten about, I found sort of a time line of my work in the banners that I've made for my website and auction descriptions. Unfortunately a lot of the banners I've made over the years I've deleted, but here are three that I ran across.

I think the plain one that you see at the top of this blog and on my website will last for a while. It's simple, just my name and tag line "Flora Art Jewelry" The initials FAJ are the first three of my last name "Fajardo" so it seems right. It will be nice to stick with something for a while ;o)

One last bit of news for the Holidays. I have a new "Newsletter" page on my website and will use it to
communicate with my buyers and fans. If you are on my mailing list, I'll still send you a note letting you know that I've got a new one up.

Now through December 28, 2009 get a Free Pair of Matching Earrings with every pendant or necklace that is purchased from the clearance page!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

ACREs of Opportunity 2009

2009-11-05T13:24:00.000-07:00

Barb Fajardo - Flora Art Jewelry

The business of wholesale is a completely different animal and one I'm glad that I leapt into. I was unsure if my work was marketable because I had submitted images for ACREs of Opportunity '07 (for the '08 show)and didn't make the cut.

As I let the dates to apply for ACREs of Opportunity '08 (for the '09 show) tick by, a good friend (she knows who she is) urged me to enter, saying that she didn't want me to regret not trying again. I thought about it and really...what did I have to lose? I may not make it, but then again I might. Life is a crap shoot and I wanted this, so I had to try again!

I was thrilled that I made it and now after successfully taking orders at the paid IPCA booth that Pat Bolgar, Lauren Abrams and I shared last year, I can say that if it weren't for my caring and kind of pushy friend, I wouldn't have had this experience.

Having the previous year's ACRE 2008 winners serving as our mentors was incredible. The insight and support from Sandra McCaw (one of the jurors this year), Meisha Barbee and Judy Belcher (past IPCA president who stepped in for Lindly Haunani) helped us to feel comfortable with decisions we made on everything from our product line, catalogs and price lists, to lighting and display.

IPCA members can submit until November 15 at callforentry.org. You still have 10 days (which include two whole weekends) to gather together 5 images of your best work.

We'd love to see you in Las Vegas next June. It really is an amazing time to take that leap. I am now serving as your pushy friend...don't let it pass you by!

Making textures...

2009-09-30T09:17:00.002-06:00

I get a lot of questions on how I make my textures. I use a variety of tools, my favorites being stylus, kemper cutters and tools, tissue blade, etc. I impress different designs, make reverse textures and then sometimes texture again. Here is a picture of some that I've made in just the past couple of days. I myself never use store bought textures, it's way more fun to just sit and let your mind do it's thing :o)

Petal Perfection ;o)

2009-07-19T15:23:00.002-06:00

I'm only calling the necklace that because it might actually *be* perfection this time. I'm pretty proud of myself for not giving up on this design. I've been very stubborn...every time I thought that I had it, I said to myself...no...there has to be a better way!

I joked recently on twitter and facebook, that this necklace was an "engineering marvel." Well, maybe not quite, but it felt that way to me since I've spent many days bugging family members (husband Rudy - an autocad teacher, and son Daniel - an engineering student). I asked, prodded, wondered why, asked some more, tried to change minds...and finally, FINALLY, I came up with the final design mostly all by my little ole self. It might look the same as some of the others on flickr, but it *is* different...you'll have to take my word for it.

Now, I won't give you details, but I've given you a close-up to try and figure out what the problems were, and how I fixed them. I am wholesaling these after all, so I wouldn't feel right spilling all the beans, but...anyway, here you go. Enjoy wracking your brain, like I have!

I'm still here...

2009-05-14T14:27:00.006-06:00

just trying to be focused and disciplined...it is so unlike me :o)

So sorry for neglecting the blog, I really haven't stopped to breath lately. I probably won't be doing another post again for a couple of weeks at least, since I have a big show in June...so you're forewarned!

Here is a necklace finally worth showing. I won't bore you with the details, but let me say I spent three days on one necklace and I ended up ruining it! I wanted to make connector beads and ended up drilling so many holes and laying out so many variations, linking and un-linking chain that I just about drove myself mad! I did learn that the best way just happened to be the easiest way on this one.

So...I think I finally have most of my line figured out for ACRE in Las Vegas in 2 weeks. Of course I still have the hard part left...making a line sheet with descriptions and sizes and of course a wholesale price list.

But, for this weekend I have to stop thinking about beads and upcoming shows. I have a high school graduate that has his party this Sunday. Congrats to my "baby" Evan and the 2009 class of Valley Vikings!

New Mexico Art and Celebration

2009-04-18T14:30:00.004-06:00

The art is from a polymer clay artist living in Taos, NM that I ran across yesterday. Her name is Elizabeth Rusnell. I found her work on a site called New Mexico Creates which is run by the Museum of New Mexico Foundation Shops in Santa Fe. It's always exciting to find other artists in your home state who work with polymer. Shown is a lovely daffodil yellow necklace that she calls Yellow Abstract Shapes Necklace. I looked around the web, and haven't found a website for her or anywhere else that she sells from.

The celebration is the annual Founder's Day Fiesta, held in Old Town which is just a few blocks from me. It is Albuquerque's 303rd birthday this year! There is a parade, music and Old Town merchants sell their goods on the sidewalks and plaza. I'm so happy that the sun is shining and the wind isn't blowing after a few days of rain (which we really needed!) and constant howling of the wind.

On a side note, if you are interested in learning how I made some of my very first Flora Beads, I've added a link to the left sidebar where you can purchase my new PDF tutorial "Introduction to Textured Flora Beads." I also have buttons on my website here and here.

Happy Weekend!

You'll never guess...more flowers...

2009-04-09T21:07:00.004-06:00

I have made so many beads these past couple of weeks that I'm seeing texture and color every waking moment. It can get to be exhausting when you are trying to get new work done and narrow down your product line. I'm getting closer, but ready to take a break this weekend.

I wanted to give a shout out to Cynthia Tinapple of Polymer Clay Daily. Last month at her home in Ohio, she hosted the past and incoming board of the National Polymer Clay Guild newly named International Polymer Clay Association. You can view some of the photos on Cynthia's new personal blog and even a youtube video of a drumming session that brought on some serious brainstorming regarding the direction the new board will take. Thank you Cynthia for all you do!

Sidetracked...sort of

2009-03-24T14:28:00.005-06:00

Only sidetracked from working with the colors I had planned on, as in the last post. Got to finishing up some beads that I already had going and decided that I needed to get more jewelry made since I bought a day (Thursday, March 26th) in the Gifts Guide Showcase at Etsy. I'm still working on getting my shop noticed there, but it's sort of been taking a back seat lately.

Anyhow here is a necklace that looks nice and since I'm going to be doing a double strand Flora Bead necklace for my "wow" piece at ACRE, I need to get comfortable with the shape and how the necklace will drape. Need to stop thinking about it and actually *do* it though!

Speaking of Flora Beads, my Intro To Textured Flora Beads on-line class at thatcreativeplace.com will be available to download through next Saturday, March 28th. I'll be checking the message board and will be available for chats too. Did you know that I have a fan page on Facebook? I usually post news there too.

Something else that I'm working on for 2009 is more on-line classes. I will probably do a Swirl Lentil on-line class from my website, since I remembered today that I can put a chat board on my site and make the page password protected. For now the old Swirl Lentil with Beadcaps tutorial is there, but probably just through April. If you want to download this tutorial, just email me (desertdesignsbybarbara (at) gmail.com) for the password. I hope to have a new Swirl Tutorial available for purchase in early May.

Today's starting point...

2009-03-19T11:46:00.002-06:00

Working on some pieces for NM Arts and Crafts Fair, ACRE and possibly a Bead Dreams submission. Thought you might like to see what I'm starting with today. I should have a couple of different blends with a Vintaj selection to work with tomorrow.

It Ain't Easy Being Green...

2009-03-16T17:38:00.004-06:00

Remember Kermit the Frog? That was his line, but when I realized that the color of this pendant was not going to tone down much with more sanding, that was what I heard in my head. I thought about antiquing, adding more copper....something. But I couldn't decide what if anything to do, so here it is...the color is crazy, no?

And I had a lovely 5 minute visit with polymer clay goddess Victoria (Tory) Hughes at Bead Fest Santa Fe. A couple of other clay artists had booths there as well (Klew, Jeanette Easley and Loco Lobo)The show was very busy and everyone was happy that Bead Fest was back in SF...where it all started I was told.

Here is an FAQ page for those interested in my Intro to Textured Flora Beads on-line class at thatcreativeplace.com. I'll "see" you all there on March 21st, next Saturday...can't wait!

And Happy St. Paddy's Day!!

gapingvoid.com...cartoons drawn on the back of business cards

2009-03-12T11:57:00.003-06:00

Thought I would share with you the latest blog that I've added to my google reader...
this guy, Hugh MacLeod is insanely brilliant!
His advice is "Ignore Everybody" which is the title of his book coming out this summer...

Intro to Flora Beads on-line class prep

2009-02-23T18:24:00.004-07:00

I'm gearing up for my first on-line class which will take place on March 21st at thatcreativeplace.com called Introduction to Textured Flora Beads. I know a lot of you have seen my workspace before and how unbelievably chaotic it usually looks, but I couldn't resist taking a picture or two...

Double Strand Lentil Necklace

2009-02-20T08:49:00.002-07:00

One of the reasons I mostly stopped making swirl lentils was that I could never find a way to string them up that I really liked. I love how this piece turned out and it was so easy to take apart and put back together in different ways. It's kind of exciting to be working with this bead shape again, I've missed them!

Valentine Hearts

2009-02-13T10:38:00.004-07:00

I love hearts...I just don't make many of them. Here are a few from past years for the occasion. Happy Valentines Day and lots of love to you and yours!

Sampling of International Blogs

2009-02-07T09:23:00.032-07:00

Blue Green Flora beads are the most fun to make...

2009-02-05T18:54:00.005-07:00

not sure why...whenever I made caned flora beads, I almost always avoided blue for some reason (me too Susan :o). But these well, the blue makes me think Lapis and I love how gold (that has always been a favorite of mine) looks with blue and green. I did like the purple too like Marla did so I'm sure more of those will be coming. Something else that Mel noticed is that the outie textures are cooler than the innies (are we talking about belly buttons or what?) I'm right there with you Melly. You should be able to see what we mean if you look at the largest image either here or on flickr.

I'm using findings from Vintaj with these beads so I'm calling them Vintage Flora...tricky huh? Loving how the red coraly orangy brown looks too, so I made a first simple necklace so you can see the style that I'm going for. I've never been great at making jewelry so linking and unlinking and making loops is about all I can bring myself to do. Oh, btw this is all to get ready for the wholesale show, ACRE coming up in Las Vegas in June. I think I've finally found a theme :o) If you are interested, there are a few up for sale here.

A few more new ones...

2009-02-02T10:45:00.002-07:00

I'm definitely enjoying myself and learning what I like and don't like with each new batch. If you'd like to comment on your favorites and your *not* so much favorites, it's fun to do it on my flickr site where you can make a little box around different areas and leave your note with it.

Idea that hit me last night

2009-01-25T09:43:00.002-07:00

As I was about ready to jump into bed last night, I was thinking about my flower beads (as I do for practically every waking moment ;o)

An idea popped into my brain and I ran out to my beads and arranged them like this, lest I forget the idea. Do you think a mirror like this would look nice?

My American Prayer

2009-01-20T08:16:00.000-07:00

My Rainbow, pretty accurate...

2009-01-16T20:27:00.000-07:00

Your rainbow is intensely shaded brown, indigo, and violet.

What is says about you: You are a proud person. You appreciate beauty and craftsmanship. You are patient and will keep trying to understand something until you've mastered it. You feel closer to people when you understand their imperfections.

Find the colors of your rainbow at spacefem.com.

Barb the Clay Coach ;o)

2009-01-13T16:54:00.004-07:00

Hettie and I had an intense 3 hour private lesson where I showed her some tessellation techniques. The idea that I wanted to convey to her was that she didn't need to make alot of complicated blends or build a big cane to see the potential of the technique. All we used for these samples were two blends and black and white...four colors. The size of cane we made would really only be enough for a few pieces...which works for me. I don't like to have too much of the same cane...but that's just me. Hettie was so excited when she saw how easy these were, I got a huge hug and an "Oh Barbara!" or two. It was neat...

I really think that more people could benefit from private polymer lessons. I sort of thought of myself as a "Clay Coach." There isn't the time or the cost involved in attending a large workshop. You have undivided attention and you can interrupt the teacher with questions whenever you like. I love the one on one personally, so I hope that I have the opportunity to do more of these...and I provided everything she needed...all she had to do was show up. We are planning another lesson for February.

If you plan to be in Albuquerque or NM at any point and you're interested in setting up a lesson or two...just shoot me an email at desertdesignsbybarbara (at) gmail.com or rubarb04 (at) gmail.com

Still exploring...

2009-01-09T13:19:00.006-07:00

As I try to recreate the look of the previous flora beads, I realize that the grit of the sandpaper I use makes a big difference (sarcasm).

At first I liked these beads. I strung them up, took pictures and put them up on flickr and my fan page on Facebook. Then I didn't like them. I know...I'm wishy washy.

I added more color to the sanded off areas, and black to kind of shadow and outline the petals. I also used some black soot embossing powder to define the centers of the flowers. Not too crazy about that part.

Anyhow, here is the before and after. Which do you like best?

Here is the look I'm after...

2009-01-03T15:17:00.007-07:00

These are the first petals I made which I referenced in a post a few days ago. As a matter of fact, I think I said that these ended up in the trash. Well, instead what was left of the bead sat there on my work table and before you know it I was sanding some of the color off and loving the effect. The color of the clay to begin with was an off-white. Since then I've played with different colors of base petals including some skinner blends. I see a lot of potential here, so it's pretty exciting. Here are some close ups of the petals after sanding and how some of the layers of color show up. But since these petals were inked quite heavily before curing, the inks leached into the clay and dried them out...so a couple of them split at the center where I apply them to the base. I also think that they sat around a day so it helps to get the color really soaked in before curing, otherwise the inks tend to fade. Click on these images for a super duper close-up. I uploaded a few of the other prototype beads to Flickr. So, back to the drawing board.

Israel Kamakawiwo'ole & Dan Fogelberg

2008-12-31T21:15:00.003-07:00

Materials list for today's solo playday...

2008-12-30T18:44:00.004-07:00

1) Old beads that were supposed to be antiqued with acrylic someday
2) Various alcohol inks
3) Various embossing powders
4) Liquid Clay
5) Paper Towel
6) Water
7) Alcohol (for cleanup, not for drinking)
8) Small paintbrush, makeup sponge applicators
9) Heatgun
10) Various grits of sandpaper

So, I played like crazy. Came out with some pretty okay stuff I'm glad to say. I'll have a few to show on New Year's Day so that I can claim they are 2009 beads ;o)

Notice the widget on the left side of my blog that will take you to President-Elect Barack Obama's change.org site to vote on a very important cause! It is all about requiring National Parks to sell only American made crafts and souveniers. Have a Safe and Prosperous 2009!

Emmie says Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T09:20:00.002-07:00

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to All!

2008-12-24T09:23:00.003-07:00

Merry Christmas everyone!

Mad Scientist...me?

2008-12-21T18:14:00.003-07:00

Sometimes I feel like one. Lately, I end up with all kinds of surface treatments spread out around me, and most times I can't even remember what my original focus was going to be. Sometimes I get lucky and some great stuff happens...other times it's junk. Most of us only show our most beautiful stuff, but Elise Winters has started a page on Facebook to show some of her struggles as an artist. I think it's extremely generous for her to do this and an absolutely awesome idea. Keep checking back...she only just put up this page.

For now I'm going to show you some lovely petals I made yesterday...too bad they ended up in trash :o(

ArtFire.com

2008-12-08T17:56:00.011-07:00

Every New Year I tell myself to get out there more...teach, write more articles, do more shows, enter more juried competitions and maybe to sell at on-line sites like Etsy rather than just from my own website. Etsy seems so glutted already...I mean sheesh, I would have to really be on top of my game to get seen there!

I'm thinking of trying out a new selling site for handcrafted items called ArtFire.com. If 10 of you sign up through me, I will get the $7/month premium account free for life! You can do the same thing too, so if you decide to sign up make sure that you invite 10 others to join so that you can get your free premium account too! As far as I can tell, there are no other fees associated with selling there. I'm fairly sure this offer ends at the end of December, so if you you'd like to try a new on-line selling venue, sign up with ArtFire and maybe we'll all get rich and famous ;o)

Register on ArtFire.com

Victorian/Antique Inspirations

2008-12-05T13:53:00.004-07:00

I've always love rusted, crackled, antiqued, soft looking things. Then the shapes, a ruffle, a flower, the flow of a piece. I really love these felted neckwarmers created by Irena Rudman from Israel (although I think she's Russian). Aren't they just beautiful? Not to mention how warm and comfy they look. Be sure to look around her website too. The blend of metals is just so pretty in these delicate earrings from AmberSky. The mixture of different colors of metal in a piece is incredibly appealing. I'm looking at brass and copper in a different way.

And now that I've done most of my work where Progress and Possibilities is concerned, posted lots of things on my clearance page, I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. I'm cleaning up messes and starting to feel it again...yay....!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-27T11:49:00.006-07:00

I'm very thankful this Thanksgiving Day. Of course for family, friends, good health, good food...all of those. I'm also so very thankful that we will have President Obama in the White House next year.

Another thing I'm thankful for is that we are having a 5:oo dinner at my sister-in-law Gloria's house which is right next door. No driving anywhere and I'm not crazily cleaning house getting ready for company. I did fix my guys a Thanksgiving Breakfast though of Green Chile Sausage Quiche and Cinnamon Rolls. Later I'll be fixing mashies and salad to take to Glo's. So this morning, the aroma in my house is of cinnamon and chile...not the usual turkey. You can see a couple other pics of my messy house, since I don't have to clean (yay!) on flickr.

Say a prayer for the people's safety in Mumbai today and enjoy your family, friends, turkey and dressing...

Across the Pond...

2008-11-21T09:04:00.020-07:00

I was honored to serve as chair for Progress and Possibilities 2008. The jurors have completed their task and chosen the finalists and winners.

It was an enriching experience as I was able to view some of the best work from all over the world. One of the questions that I heard more than once from some of them was "I didn't know I could join the NPCG, much less enter Progress and Possibilities. I thought the exhibition was only for American artists." To that end, the board of the NPCG has decided that 2009 is *the* year to note that our guild is truly a Polymer Clay International Association. So, get ready for some changes next year as a new board is elected and a name change and new logo is in the offing.

Fish Pendant by Ana Belchi of Spain
Translucent Claypainting Pendant by Bettina Welker of Germany
2008 Bracelet by Sylvie Peraud of France
Blue Waves by Alev Gozonar of Turkey

First clay work in weeks!

2008-11-17T14:54:00.002-07:00

I was invited up to visit and clay with some very fun and cool clay ladies up near Taos, NM last Friday. We had a very nice afternoon and evening. I didn't get much accomplished except for these two beads, but it was wonderful to hang out with the ladies and to see (up close and personal like ;o) Cynthia, Dayle and Carol's polymer clay work.

If you'd like to see the reverse side of the longer bead (the square pillow is the same on both sides) you can see it and a few others on my flickr page.

My newsletter for November

2008-11-12T09:40:00.003-07:00

Greetings Bead Lovers...Happy November to you!

Again, first I must apologize for procrastinating on getting beads up on my site. Well, you'll be pleased to know that I've found about a gazillion things to put up on the Clearance Page, and I have a gazillion more to put up after some of the current ones are sold. I've marked everything as low as I possibly can to move things and to give more room for new work as well. Lots of great stocking stuffers for the girls and girlfriends!

I believe that in my last email some months ago, I mentioned that I might not be making any more floral beads...wrong! I have a renewed appreciation for them and just a few of the new ones are on the Purchase Beads page. I'll begin selling them wholesale beginning in 2009, so if you're interested email me for details. I do have some of my Art Nouveau Earrings on the Purchase Jewelry page too.

I won a spot at the ACRE wholesale show which is sponsored by the NPCG. There will be three Polymer Clay Artists sharing one large booth.

Here are the details:

Come to the NPCG booth

at ACRE

www.acrelasvegas.com

Las Vegas Convention Center

3150 Paradise Road

Las Vegas, NV

(wholesale only)

May 31-June 2, 2009

Free Priority Shipping on all domestic orders over $100. I've also added a new shipping option for international orders. I can send orders under $75 via Airmail or if you prefer you can still pick Global Priority.

Thanks a million, hope you're all well and happy!
Take care,
Barb

President Obama...behind the scenes on election night

2008-11-06T16:40:00.000-07:00

It's the Best Day Ever!

2008-11-05T07:55:00.000-07:00

Yes, we did :o)

2008-11-04T22:57:00.002-07:00

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T09:01:00.002-06:00

Obama '08 - Vote For Hope

2008-10-18T19:08:00.002-06:00

Obama '08 - Vote For Hope from MC Yogi on Vimeo.

A few more...

2008-10-09T21:49:00.003-06:00

swirl lentils for a special order.
These have everything thrown in but the kitchen sink...
I think I'll keep 'em. *g*

Have decided that using black in my work is a great contrast with the colors that I like to use.
I have lots of cane bits and pieces with black in them from the latest floral beads,
so be prepared to see more...

My first PMC work

2008-10-05T15:38:00.002-06:00

I've been wanting to take a PMC class for ages! I was flipping through my new Art Jewelry magazine and saw an ad for classes right here in Albuquerque :o) I immediately signed up and took my first class on Saturday.

I had such fun...I haven't taken a class since 2002 with Sarah Shriver! I'm hoping to take a class with Kathleen Dustin next year too...

Forgot...

2008-09-27T13:34:00.002-06:00

how hard it is on the hands to sand and buff each bead individually. Still, it was fun to get back to these after about a year away. I have a special order of 60 beads due by Oct. 15th, so I'd better get back to it ;o)

I admit it...

2008-09-18T17:56:00.002-06:00

I've been politically obsessed and I'm sure that's not what you expect when you visit my blog, so my apologies for that. But, I'm not abandoning it completely, so be fore-warned ;o)

I'm refocusing my energy. Hope you like these...I'm toying with opening up my etsy shop again.

Tina Pallin and Amy Clinton

2008-09-14T18:54:00.001-06:00

Hot, Flat and Crowded...Obama is the only choice!

2008-09-14T11:28:00.000-06:00

Les Misbarack

2008-09-12T17:16:00.000-06:00

Dreamweaver...

2008-09-07T20:12:00.001-06:00

Barack has rhythm :o)

2008-09-06T09:56:00.000-06:00

Progress and Possibilites '08

2008-09-05T11:14:00.006-06:00

Thank you so much to everyone who entered Progress and Possibilities '08! This year, talented artists sent in images of their work from all over the US, Canada, the UK, France, Israel, Germany, Spain, Turkey and Portugal. We truly are an International Guild!!
The top 10 finalists in each category will be announced on the NPCG website and notified via email by November 1st. Finalists will also be included in the Progress and Possibilities '08 book and a gallery of images will be hosted on the NPCG website. Best of Show will be selected from the chosen finalists.
Again, thank you everyone!

Progress and Possibilities...deadline extended!

2008-08-30T08:25:00.005-06:00

Due to the U.S. Labor Day weekend, the deadline for entries for Progress & Possibilities has been extended to midnight on Wednesday, September 3rd.

Thank you!! Judy Belcher NPCG President

When we selected the dates for P&P, no one realized that the deadline for entries fell on a Holiday weekend. Please note that the above extension to midnight on Wednesday is MST as CaFE is based in that time zone.

By the way, have you seen Kim Cavender's new work? She'll be teaching her new organic techniques at Clay Carnival in Las Vegas in November.

Have a great weekend everyone!

My dad's art and new studio layout

2008-08-25T12:01:00.009-06:00

I've needed to be in this corner...seeing outdoors. I've also needed to feel my dad's influence around me. Here is what my space looks like now, and here a couple of pieces of his. One is framed the other two are not. He also gave me that tiny little stained glass lamp...a cheapy made in China. He loved shopping out of those catalogs at Christmas time :o)

Autumn Mornings in NM...

2008-08-21T11:39:00.003-06:00

I know it's not quite here yet, but I can feel a bit of a chill in the air. My husband Rudy and I are getting into healthy habits lately...we walk 2.5 miles on the bosque every morning. He even walks again in the PM with his sister Gloria who lives next door. Occasionally, we reward ourselves with our favorite breakfast, huevos rancheros (red chile for me) ...it's colorful and delicious.

Totally off topic here, but keep in mind that you only have 10 days to enter Progress and Possibilities. If you've never entered this annual exhibition/competition before, this is your chance. Entering on-line at CaFE has never been easier. This month is just flying by, so don't wait until the last minute!

My website...

2008-08-18T08:31:00.005-06:00

rubarbdesertdesigns.com needed some serious updating. There are still bits here and there that need revamping. My biography page is one of them. I was able to put quite a few of my new Art Nouveau Earrings up though...you can purchase a pair for yourself here :o)

Image formatting in CaFE

2008-08-11T08:41:00.004-06:00

I purchased Adobe Elements 6.0 a few months ago, and haven't had time to properly play with the program. But, I have finally done a test image to CaFE specs.

I'm pleased to say it was *super* easy, so email me if any of you want to submit your work to Progress and Possibilities or ACRE's of Opportunity and I can walk you through it.

Albuquerque Murals Project

2008-08-08T08:35:00.003-06:00

is a group that I found on Flickr. I love my city and state which never fails to inspire :o)

Nobody does it better...

2008-08-05T12:47:00.004-06:00

than Cynthia Tinapple of Polymer Clay Daily. After all, she is the Sean Connery of Polymer Clay Blogs :o)

Teary-eyed...

2008-08-02T22:14:00.003-06:00

Can you imagine being able to create faces like this? Watching with the sweet acoustic guitar playing really got me missing him again.

Philippe Faraut

A Colorful Distraction

2008-07-31T15:37:00.002-06:00

Found a lovely "pickmeup" on the web this morning. I've seen Lauren Abrams of LabeanaBags jewelry work on Flickr before, but I must have missed her resin purse handles, buckles and embellishments. These are really fabulous. She also sells on Etsy. Maybe I should take up crochet or knitting.

Tomorrow is the first day of submissions for Progress and Possibilities '08. Go to CaFE on August 1st when the page goes live to enter the juried exhibition. I'm excited, are you??

My Dad...

2008-07-25T19:03:00.002-06:00

A wonderful man passed away last Monday...my dad, Richard. He was an artist too and was my biggest fan. I miss him terribly and I know you'll all understand why I need a few more days to get back into things. Thank you to my friends who have offered their thoughts and prayers. Love, Barb

Donna's Rings...

2008-07-20T18:27:00.002-06:00

are so wonderful! Wedding bands, eternity rings, pods, squiggles and flowers...seeing new work from Donna Kato is always a pleasure and an inspiration :o)

Bead Nerd and Tejae

2008-07-09T21:21:00.005-06:00

Lori Greenberg of Bead Nerd is a really nice gal...a bead nerd, but a really nice gal ;o)

She interviewed me to help spread the word about Progress and Possibilities on her very cool blog.

Tejae of Tejae's Art (her work is shown below) started a new Flickr group called Polymer Clay Today and she's started a thread about P&P there. If anyone else feels so inclined to spread the word, please do! We only have 3 weeks until August 1st you know! Thank you Lori and Tejae!

We've better defined the P&P categories for you below, ultimately it is your decision to choose the one that best fits your work...

Categories and Jurors for 2008

Art Jewelry: Wearable art such as necklaces, pendants, bracelets, rings etc.

Sarah Shriver
Robert Liu

Sculptural Objects: Decorative items such as dolls, figurines, holloware, wall art/mosaics etc.

Marlaine Verhelst
Richard and Jodi Creager

Functional Objects: Items that perform a function such as bowls, vessels, boxes, purses etc.

Victoria Hughes
Jill Heppenheimer

Best of Show

Cynthia Tinapple

This is beautiful :o)

2008-07-04T11:10:00.002-06:00

Where the Hell is Matt? (2008) from Matthew Harding on Vimeo.

From Christine Kane

Progress and Possibilities '08 is coming!

2008-07-01T09:46:00.007-06:00

Progress and Possibilities 2007

First place in Container Category
Barbara Sperling
Koi Bowl with Lilac Stand

Now that my summer show is over, groceries bought, house sort-of picked up and laundry started (you didn't think that three guys were going to take care of all that did you? ;o), I can concentrate on getting you all of the details on the 4th annual Progress and Possibilities International Juried Exhibit.

The first thing you should all know is that you don't need to send your images on a CD this year. Register at CAFE and familiarize yourself with how to prepare your images. You must be a member of the NPCG to enter your work in the show. You can join on-line here.

If you have any questions at all, email me at desertdesignsbybarbara (at) gmail.com

Art Nouveau earrings...

2008-06-23T20:14:00.002-06:00

These remind me of the art nouveau style almost exactly in some pairs. I'm definitely getting the hang of these the more I make...however the little swirl at the bottom is going to take extra time to perfect! Somehow, it's fitting that swirls are making their way back into my work again :o) I've always loved creating when you don't quite know what the finished product will look like. These totally fit the bill.

Finished with all of my earrings tonight. Now, on to pricing...

See what I see...

2008-06-20T07:54:00.003-06:00

My daily dose of inspiration is right outside my door. Ben Roberts captures New Mexico...and his dog Chaco :o)

New Mexico Arts and Crafts Fair starts next Thursday. I'll continue to be "awol" until the show is over. Wish me luck!

Torpedo earring beads

2008-06-07T19:41:00.003-06:00

I've decided that this shape works best for earrings. Although I did have a thought as I was falling asleep last night. I may try some more, flattened on one side, and drilled through the center, so they kind of look like half moons strung together. I would put the canework on each end of each bead. I think that might look kind of cool when strung together. I usually upload pics of my work to flickr so if you'd like to see more you can look there :o)

I have a new email addy for business correspondence only. If you'd like to be notified when I add new beads and jewelry to my site, or if you would like information on wholesale or teaching, please email me at desertdesignsbybarbara(at)gmail.com.

Bead Dreams winners announced...

2008-06-05T12:18:00.004-06:00

Polymer Clay

1st Place - Carol Simmons - Korean Embroidery Series

2nd Place - Julie Picarello - Cityscape

3rd Place - Louise Fischer Cozzi - Symmetry Denise Necklace

Since I know what Julie Picarello entered, I'll show you her gorgeous 2nd place piece here. Hopefully, Cynthia Tinapple will show her good friend Carol Simmon's winning entry in the Polymer Clay category. I can't wait to see what amazing work Louise Fischer Cozzi entered...I'm sure it's stunning :o)

A list of Bead Dreams winners in all of the categories can be seen here.

Congrats to all of the finalists and winners!

Bead Dreams entry '08

2008-06-04T07:49:00.003-06:00

Here it is. I was really surprised that this piece (same necklace shown earlier, different dangle) was accepted to the Bead Dreams competition and another one that I liked so much better wasn't. I think we find out today who the prize winners are. I'm nervous this year for some reason.

Thanks so much to Heather for showing some of my beads on Craft Gossip Polymer Clay :o)

A bead shape revisited...

2008-05-22T15:11:00.005-06:00

I was finally able to get past my flower bead obsession which I've had for the past year. I'm not sure what got me to want to make this shape bead again, but I'm guessing it was seeing the gorgeous "Shibori" beads that polymer clay artist Judy Dunn makes. First I saw them on Flickr and they made quite an impression on me...then after being able to see them in person at the ACRE show in Las Vegas last month, well that was the kicker I guess.

Initially I think I was attracted to the blending of colors and how each bead was so unique and beautiful. Then realizing that the beads were even sort of abstract (not all the exact size and shape), well that made making some much more appealing.

So, anyhow here are the first ones. Mine are slightly flattened and the finish is what I call "bisque" which is basically smoothing with cornstarch. As I continue on with the "torpedo" shape, I can see where straightening out one side of each bead, making sort of a crescent shape, then matching up beads side by side, a tessellating design emerge. I'll show you those after the Memorial Day Weekend.

Perfect timing to see what Judy's Crane Project is all about. Thanks so much to Judy for helping me get out of the rut I've been in! :o)

Have a good one!

Progress and Possibilities '08

2008-05-12T09:44:00.008-06:00

The jurors for the NPCG's 4th annual Progress and Possibilities International Exhibit are now up on the website. You must be a member of the National Guild to submit to the show. On-line submissions will begin August 1st, 2008. You can read more about submission guidelines here.

They include Sarah Shriver (above) and Robert Liu of Ornament Magazine for Art Jewelry, Victoria Hughes and Jill Heppenheimer of Santa Fe Weaving Gallery for Functional Objects, and Marlaine Verhelst and the Creagers for Sculptural Objects. Cynthia Tinapple of Polymer Clay Daily will judge "Best of Show."

Read their biographies and I think you'll agree that these are very talented and accomplished people that will be viewing your work this year. I'll be posting much more detail soon on this exciting event! If you have any questions you can email me at rubarb04(at)gmail.com...

Emmie's birthday present?

2008-05-09T20:48:00.002-06:00

Emmie girl is one year old this week and I'm taking her to get spayed in the AM. Poor baby...but at least for a treat we put bacon grease all over her "Beneful" doggie food today :o)

Polymer category on BeadArtists.org

2008-05-05T07:59:00.002-06:00

While looking at Jael's beautiful beads on Flickr, I was lead to her blog and then to her bead gallery on BeadArtists.org which is an on-line art community. The lovely work of Eugena Topina is there too.

When I put up an image there some months ago, there was no polymer category and now there is. It looks like a great place to show your work, so get crackin'! :o)

I've been tagged...again!

2008-05-01T10:54:00.011-06:00

I guess I'll play since this is the second time I've been tagged, this time by Kathi. I'm not really such a grouch, just pressed for time these days... :o)

The rules:

1. Post the rules on your blog.
2. Name seven of your favorite blogs.
3. Place the name of the person and URL on your blog.
4. Write seven things about yourself.
5. Send an email letting those bloggers know they have been tagged.

Favorite Blogs:

http://kimcavender.blogspot.com/ - Kim Cavender
http://amusedcreations.blogspot.com/ - Gera Scott Chandler
http://blockpartypress.blogspot.com/ - Tamara Shea
http://polymerionline.blogspot.com/ - Iris Mishly
http://www.humblebeads.blogspot.com/ - Heather Powers
http://clayhappenings.blogspot.com/ - Melanie Dilday
http://www.tejaesart.blogspot.com/ - Tejae Floyde

Seven things about me:

I have a weakness for white tops, sandals, purses, soaps and lotions
The weirdest sandwich that I like is Peter Pan Peanut Butter, crisp lettuce and Miracle Whip.
I hate waiting in line
I'm a very light sleeper and an occasional insomniac
I think I'm a fantastic driver but I'm directionally challenged
I love "Funniest Home Videos" except when someone gets hurt!
I met my husband Rudy when he was coach for our company softball team 25 years ago

ACRE show in Las Vegas

2008-04-28T19:16:00.005-06:00

I had a great time meeting up with some very cool and talented polymer clay artists. Here are a couple of pictures of Judy Belcher, the president of the National Polymer Clay Guild and Sandra McCaw...I am a new owner of some of her fabulous earrings.

Anyhow, at dinner, I asked these women whose opinions I value greatly to look at my work and critique. They were all very kind and had some nice things to say...and these two even decided to try a necklace on!

I've posted a few more pictures on my Flickr site. I've decided not to take the cheapy camera along with me anymore after seeing the poor quality of these pictures :o(

Hopefully Judy Dunn will have some better ones...

Russian beading forum

2008-04-20T09:01:00.004-06:00

This morning I was checking my site stats and saw that I was getting hits from this Russian site. Someone did an article on me, and although the translated version doesn't always make sense, the way I read it, it sort of sounded like poetry. I just loved the pictures that they picked out, all some of my best work. Thought you might want to take a look. I am very flattered and appreciative :o)

Crackle Crazy

2008-04-17T11:46:00.002-06:00

I was enjoying the pearlescent/foiled crackled look, but now I'm liking this matte finish with just a hint of sparkle. I used tempera paints as the base...

Morning Color jolt

2008-04-16T08:25:00.007-06:00

Coffee doesn't wake you up like it used to?

Maybe these two artist's work will help ...Gera Scott Chandler from Vancouver on Flickr and Holly Kitaura from Hawaii on etsy.

Much healthier than caffeine too! ;o)

Go see Kathleen Dustin this weekend!

2008-04-09T10:20:00.004-06:00

The Smithsonian Craft Show runs from Thursday to Sunday, April 10-13. Kathleen will be exhibiting there, so if you are lucky enough to be able to attend the show, don't miss seeing her amazing works.

Kathleen Dustin, for those who might not know, is an extraordinary artist and a pioneer in the medium of polymer clay.

Beader's Ethics

2008-04-06T08:24:00.002-06:00

Surfing around this morning, I came across a couple of interesting links that I had never seen before.

Read the "Beader's Ethics."
Take the "Ethics in Beadwork" quiz.
Read an article written by Sarah Feingold called "Know Your Rights to Jewelry Design."

Read the "Rules to Live By" put up on the NPCG's website this past week. I love this part the best (paraphrased) :
Be kind to each other and go in your studio and make something beautiful.