Summer Color Inspiration and a "Mini-Challenge"

There is an informal "mini-challenge" at the end of this entry!  Be sure to read on!  

In my jewelry-making, what inspires my designs most is the beads.   And I'm drawn to the beads I choose first of all because of color.  Of course there are many factors (such as what the beads are made of, their quality, texture, shape, uniqueness, etc.), but my designs tend to begin with color.

Because of this, I am always looking around me for new color combinations.   Sometimes that may come from a textile, a piece of art, or nature--anything that gets me to looking at and thinking about colors in new shades and combinations.    

Most of you know, I also have a fondness for taking macro-shots of flowers.   Over the last few weeks, I've been lucky enough to receive a lovely bouquet and collect some fresh blooms from my own garden.  

#1:  dark pink, yellow, dark purple

And I tried something new this time.  Because I couldn't seem to find a place to take the the photos that highlighted the flowers without the background of my furniture and walls, I tried photographing them in the light tent I use for my jewelry.   I thought the results were rather unexpected, the images more crisp and vibrant!

#2:  lime green, yellow, pinkish-red

#3:   periwinkle, berry, yellow, green

#4:  raspberry/fuschia, carnation pink, bright yellow, sage green

I also took some in the front living room window, where I used to do all my jewelry photography.  There is lovely light there in the summer months and a sheer curtain which serves as a nice filter.

#5:  white, soft pink, cranberry, yellow

But I'm really sharing these today, not as examples of photography, but for their color inspiration.

#6:  bright yellow, raspberry, lime

Each piece of each bouquet offers some new opportunity to combine colors that would be beautiful in jewelry design!   In addition to color combinations, the photographs suggest colors which could dominate and others which could be used in smaller quantities to accent.  

For example, without the photo above, I don't think it would occur to me to create a bracelet with yellow beads and smaller accents of deep berry and lime green...or perhaps brass beads for that center!  But it strikes me now how eye-catching that would be!

#7:   fushia, violet

What about this deep purple and pink?   More to your liking? 

Totally Informal "Mini Challenge!"

• Which color combination do you like best?  Please leave a comment!  I'm hoping you'll find one that inspires you today!

• If you do make something based on any of these color combinations, I'd be thrilled to receive a photo of your work and the number of the photo on this blog post you used as inspiration!   I'm hoping we can show your jewelry in future blog post!  (To begin this process, please leave me a comment on this blog and a way to reach you.   I'll contact you with further instructions.)

• For this "mini-challenge" you may also submit a jewelry item you have already made that fits the color combinations.

• You are NOT required to use every color listed under the photo.  Please use at least 2-3.

• To sweeten the pie, anyone who submits a photo by  July 31st, will be eligible for a give-away drawing.   I promise you something colorful as a prize!  

If you have any questions, please let me know!

Have some fun and enjoy the weekend!  I hope you find yourselves color-inspired!

~Sharyl / Sharyl's Jewelry

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Independence Day Sale, Store Update, Metal Questions

Sale Reminder:

Today is the last day of the Independence Day Sale at Sharyl's Jewelry!  (Although it's possible the coupon code will still last through part of Monday.   It's good while it lasts!)     

Use this coupon code at checkout:   

INDEPENDENCE15 

to get 15% off all items in the store!

Store Update:

Hope you've had a good holiday!   I've been working on more new jewelry and handmade components.   Unfortunately, they will not be ready right away.  The jewelry pieces I have ready still need to be photographed. Some are for special projects and can't be shown yet.  And the components are in their early stages:   I'm still preparing the metal.   I recently purchased 5 new embossing folders, and I'm anxious to use them!  First, though, a few kinks to work out of the system.  Please read below!  

Metal Questions:

I often get asked questions about metal work and supplies, even though I've only been at this work for about a year.   I've been happy to share what I know, but today is turnaround time.   I have some questions  and hope some of you may have some suggestions for me!

1)  I continue to have the hardest time finding a good supplier of copper sheet metal.   My local hardware store worked well for quite a while, and offered it in packages at a fairly reasonable rate (less expensive than I could find it online, and I like to buy local even though it's a chain).  It was also handy to be able to go just a few blocks away and pick up a few sheets when I needed it.   However, over the last 6 months or so, they've stopped carrying it consistently. I can order it and they'll get it in. Then I have to coordinate a time to get it between when the shipment comes in and before it goes out on the shelf, but without them holding it for me.  (???)  I'm sure if we do this a few more times, we'll get the process down so it goes more smoothly.  It takes a couple of weeks for the shipment to arrive, so it's not handy if I've let my supply get too low.   They have the nicest staff and are very nice to arrange the order, but I need something faster and more convenient.  

I found another source online that offered even better prices, but didn't take PayPal unless you called ahead and made special arrangements.   Months later, I still haven't remembered to do that.   I need something I can go to, order, and have it be delivered through the mail.   And of course, at the best rate possible.   

Any ideas for me?   

2)  I've been using a sealant with my color patinas I was very happy with, but recently it seems rather sticky/gooey when it should be dry.   I've made several items with this result and so I'm not applying any more from this bottle.  (I'll strip the pieces to the bare metal and redo them.) The bottle is about 1/2 full/empty.   I've shaken it well each time I've used it, but perhaps it is just what happens after a while?

I'm trying to quickly decide whether to buy another bottle of the same  or try something new.  I know some have had good luck with aerosol sealants, but I'm not supposed to use those.   Do you have sealants you like that work well with color patina products?   Renaissance Wax seems to make the color disappear.    It works very well with copper that has been darkened.    What I have been using with color is a Vintaj liquid product.   I will contact Vintaj and/or sellers of their products to see if they have suggestions.  I'm not trying to diss them.   I've been very happy with their product until very recently, and maybe it's just time I get a new bottle. Still, I would welcome your thoughts and suggestions about other products too!


**Customers, please note:    

• I don't believe I've sold any metal components that were defective, with the sealant in this gooey state, but if you feel you have purchased components from me with this problem, I would greatly appreciate it if you would contact me  directly immediately.
• (Contacting me through the Sharyl's Jewelry store on ArtFire will be the best way to reach me.  Use the "Contact Seller" link on the main page.)   
•  I have always tried to make sure components are dry and the sealant hardened before they go in the packages to be mailed.  I typically wait 24 hours after the last coat of sealant to wrap, but 12 hours minimum.   **

Thanks to you all for your help and advice!    Hope you've had a good holiday!

~Sharyl

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"Bead Chat" Magazine Feature & More New Summer Jewelry

I was honored to be featured in this month's just-released  Bead Chat online magazine! 

To see the article, click here

Then click the right arrow on the screen 

until you get to pages 7-10.

I was interviewed by Natalie McKenna and asked to submit photographs of my work on a beach-theme.  While I had quite a few pieces already in my store, I couldn't help but take this opportunity to design some new ones too!  

Most of those I submitted ended up in the magazine, but there were more than they could include.  So I thought I would show the others here!   I designed a few more pieces after the submission date, and I'm including those here too.

One thing I love about creating more beach jewelry is that it gives me a good reason to use more aqua!  Aqua is probably my all-time favorite color for jewelry design, so how much more fun could I have!

Sparkling Waters Lampwork and Chrystal Earrings

"Turquoise Swirl Sparkle" Lampwork by SueBeads

Wirework by Sharyl:  (Sterling Silver Filled with White Brass), Faceted Czech crystals,

and encased glass seed beads.

Metallic Fins Lampwork and Copper Earrings

"Psyche Luster" Lampwork Beads by Taneres.  (aka Serena's Beadery)

Handmade copper components by Sharyl.

Orange and Purple Summer Fun Earrings

When I first saw these yellow-orange and purple lampwork beads they reminded me of the colorful blow-up innertube toys kids often play with in the pool or beach!  

Those inspiring beads are by SharplineDesigns.  

Though it wasn't intentional, I think the finished product looks a bit like swimmers 

bobbing in the waves with their inflatable swim toys!

Japanese Art Waves Altered Brass Components Navy

Altered brass components.   

There is a pair of these featured in "Bead Chat" but with different colors.

This pair is light blue and navy.

Red, White, and Blue Lampwork and Ceramic Necklace

I designed this necklace especially for Independence Day, 

but it is certainly fitting year round!

Beads from Inspire Glass Studio, Eclectic Prairie,and Taneres.

Sterling silver chain.

I describe this one as "quality casual."

I hope you'll take a good cover-to-cover look at "Bead Chat," the monthly online magazine from Artisan Whimsy.   There are many talented people's work represented there.   Please share with us if you have something in this month's issue! 

Happy Summer to you all!   

~Sharyl

P.S.  I've just listed all jewelry and components from Bead Chat and this blog entry in my store if you want a closer look!   Sale info below!



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Photo Credits:

Cover of July 2013 Bead Chat magazine, used by permission of editor, Melinda Orr.

Sea Shell on Beach:  http://www.wpclipart.com/animals/aquatic/shell_and_shellfish/Whelk_on_beach.jpg

Jewelry photos by Sharyl, 2013.

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Independence Day sale!

Get 15% off all items 

at Sharyl's Jewelry on Artfire!

Good through 7/7/2013.

Must use coupon code at checkout:  

 INDEPENDENCE15

Only one coupon code may be used at a time, 

but this code is good for all jewelry and components purchased.

You may share this code with others.

You may use the code as many times as you like during the sale period.

Thank you, and have a happy 4th!

***Please sign up for my 

Sharyl's Jewelry Facebook page

to keep current on sales and promotions! ***

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They are Married! Part Three: The Bride's Jewelry

"Here comes the bride!"

So we have made it to the bride's jewelry, at last!    As with the bridesmaids' jewelry, we came up with multiple plans before we settled on the final design and materials.   One thing we agreed on from the start--there would be pearls!   

I purchased multiple strands of beautiful white freshwater pearls

 (9mm, Baroque and 6mm, Potato) for the bride 

from Willow Bay Supply Company on Etsy.

Then I added high quality white opaque and clear faceted Czech crystals in a variety of sizes from several sources.  Some were used in the bridal set.  Others were used for the bridesmaids.  I tried twisting strands, though again, without much luck.  We considered six strands, then brought the number down to three.    Even at three, I realized that the necklace seemed heavy for fastening with a ribbon.  

I went back to Jenna and we discussed the necklace wrapping clear around her neck in strands instead.   By now I had a better idea of how much a well-designed clasp could make a difference in how nicely the necklace would hang.  So I went hunting for the perfect clasp for a 3-strand necklace.   

As in pieces described in Part 1 and Part 2 of this series, 

I found exactly what I was looking for at LilysOffering on Etsy.

The back of the necklace uses a solid sterling silver connector clasp.

Sterling silver bead caps were also used on the ends on each strand.  Because of my great fear that one of these heavy strands of beads might break, the bride's necklace was double-crimped on each end and covered with silver crimp covers.

Each strand was a combination of pearls and crystals, in graduated sizes. The smallest sizes at the neck, and the larger size beads on the longest strand.  The bead patterns were each different but complementary.  

  

I wasn't completely sure I had done well, until my niece tried it on the week before the wedding.   I feared the patterns were too busy.  But she looked absolutely beautiful in it even in her white t-shirt and jeans,  and then I knew all would be well!

I had sent her several earring samples electronically to view, and we both like the same pair the best!  

Bride's earrings in progress.

And finally, we came to the bracelet.  You would think we could finish this up easily, but no... We had decided early on that I would make a wire cuff bracelet with beads woven through and around it.  I had made two of these some years ago in different colors, but when I tried it this time, I just couldn't seem to get the wire to shape and harden as I envisioned it.  Not at all happy with my start, I went reconsidered the design.    I reconsidered numerous designs!

And I finally decided that a bracelet to echo the design of the necklace might be the best thing of all.   We consulted, agreed, and I sent photos of sterling silver bracelet clasps in such a variety I thought it might be a pain for her to decide.   But guess what?  In moments, she chose one of my absolute favorites again!  

(Sorry, you get my arm as a model here for a moment!)

I learned this is known as a "box clasp."

It seemed very secure and so in line with our beads and design,

neither of us could resist this one!

It's solid sterling silver with 2 side clasps, and a pearl within a bezel.

I found this beauty at LGKJewelrySupplies on Etsy.

At the bride's request, a few purple beads were added to the middle row of the bracelet.  The other beads were pearls, clear and white Czech glass crystals.

So, while Jenna and I knew what the jewelry would look like, it was secret to the rest of the world until the wedding day!

  

The bride's jewelry packaged for her wedding day!

And still, there was one more surprise for me!

One thing I never considered in all of this was the impact the dim romantic side lighting would make.    While it made photographing challenging...  (Most of my photos are blurs.   The Mother of the Groom has kindly let me share these pictures below with you...)   The lighting did have the most magnificent effect on the jewelry itself!

I never expected such sparkle!  

The bride, Jenna (left) with one of her bridesmaids, Meg (sister of the groom)!

Lovely young women in every respect!

And here is the ready bride, just waiting for the ceremony to begin!

So radiant, so lovely, and such a joy!

I will thank you all once more for supporting me during this time of preparation, for reading along here and sharing my joy that things turned out, and for your wishes that the bride, Jenna, and her husband, Jake, share a life filled with much happiness!

These are beautiful young people, very special to me, and it meant the world to get to create jewelry for their special day.      And you all are wonderful friends!   I'm so glad you were willing to share this with me too!

Best wishes always,

~Sharyl

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Image Credits:

Jewelry photos by Sharyl McMillian-Nelson, Sharyl's Jewelry, 2013.

Wedding photos by Mindy Kissner, 2013.  Used by permission.

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Independence Day sale begins TODAY!

Get 15% off all items 

at Sharyl's Jewelry on Artfire!

 6/29-7/7/2013.

Must use coupon code at checkout:  

 INDEPENDENCE15

Only one coupon code may be used at a time, 

but this code is good for all jewelry and components purchased.

You may share this code with others.

You may use the code as many times as you like during the sale period.

Thank you, and have a happy 4th!

***Please sign up for my 

Sharyl's Jewelry Facebook page

to keep current on sales and promotions! ***

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The Wedding! Part Two: Gift Jewelry & More

Rehearsal Thank-you Gifts for Wedding Party:

Between making the bridesmaids' jewelry and the bridal set, I worked on gifts for the bride and groom to give to their wedding party.   They ended up with a wonderful collection of gifts  for their bridesmaids, groomsmen, and their close family.    My contribution, of course, was jewelry for the women in the wedding.    This was different from the jewelry they would wear during the wedding; it was a "thank-you" for being a part of the event.  

Handmade Lampwork Beads Rakuli Whirled

from Flame on Glass (Etsy)

Early on, I had found this lovely set of swirled lampwork beads that I purchased, just thinking they might be used for the wedding.  Once we decided on our other designs for the bridesmaids, I offered to put them to use for the thank-you gifts to be given out at the rehearsal dinner.   My niece like the idea, so I set them aside for that purpose.   

Time was starting to crunch a little when I got to these.  I knew I had just enough beads to put use one as a focal bead in each necklace.   Being a one-of-a-kind designer, and these being items the women would wear away from the wedding, I knew each should be unique.   It was so wonderful that the beads had streaks of many colors in addition to the central color of purple. 

 I pulled together some beads with coordinating colors, 

added some accent metal accent beads, 

and went to work designing.   

This was one of the most fun parts of the project for me.  While it would seem that it would take longer designing each necklace OOAK, I made 5 of the necklaces in one day and finished the others the next day.     I made most of the clasps myself by hand and antiqued them to match the chains.

I don't have photos of all the necklaces to show, but have a couple samples below.   The five bridesmaids and mothers-of-the bride and groom received necklaces with the purple swirl beads.  

Some had strung sections of beads attached to chain.

This one used freshwater pearls in two colors.  

Others used faceted Czech glass crystal. 

And others, small spacer handmade lampwork beads.

Others were pendants designed utilizing the focal bead and integrating others,

then hung on chain.  The bride matched each necklace to the recipient.

For the two junior bridesmaids, I selected a different style bead.  These purple pottery flower-stamped beads by Natalie Pappas from NKP Designs seemed to fit the theme and be a good match for the younger participants.

Dark African Violet Porcelain Daisy Imprint Beads*

from NKP Designs (Etsy)

Each of these younger women received a unique design created just for them.   

A Small Gift for the Bride Too:

While the bride was busy giving away gifts, it seemed only fitting she should receive one of her own:  

A little something in purple for the bride too! 

Earrings with lampwork glass beads from Koregon on Etsy.

Finally, What's the Jewelry Maker to Wear?

I'll add this last part here, although chronologically, it belongs at the very end of the story!   In all the scurrying, I nearly ended up with no jewelry for myself!   I was wearing a black skirt and pale blue-grey summer sweater.   I had made these earrings to sell this Spring, but never listed in my store, so I "claimed" them for myself!

The light blue swirled lampwork glass beads are from Koregon.

I patinized silver-plated brass leaves in pale blue to go with this pair of earrings and handmade the ear pieces from sterling silver filled wire.   

Similar altered and handmade metal jewelry components are for sale

 in my Sharyl's Jewelry store on ArtFire.

I had ordered a batch of beads in pale blue and blue-gray colors  and decided as the wedding neared to make myself a memory-wire bracelet.  This was the same technique used for the bridesmaids' bracelets.

And below is the necklace, which I made in the hotel room the morning of the wedding!   

Large lampwork bead from InspireGlassStudio on Etsy

"Light of India" Connector from LilysOffering on Etsy

"Something blue" for the jewelry designer to wear!

I hope you will join me next time for the final installment of "The Wedding!"   The bride's jewelry will be featured!  

Thank you all for reading along!  

Sharyl

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Image Credits:

Photograph of  Dark African Violet Porcelain Daisy Imprint Beads taken by Natalie Pappas of
NKP Designs (Etsy).  Used by permission.   2013.

All other photos by Sharyl McMillian-Nelson, 2013.

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Sharyl's Jewelry

Get 10% off + Free gift 

through the end of June 2013 

by using this coupon code at checkout:  

AW-10FREE

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