Making it BIG

I was so excited when I found a set of letter stamps in a giant size-1/2" letters-I just had to get them. Here I stamped a 1" disc and made it the focal point for this multi-strand bracelet. It's definitely big and funky.

I also found this beautiful paillette chain and couldn't resist. It was a bit blingy before I oxidized it, but now it has an appealing, aged feel to it.

Just in Time for Valentine's Day

With Valentine's Day just around the corner, I wanted to create some heart-themed jewelry, but wanted something different than the mass produced heart stamping blanks out there. So I decided to make my own organic, perfectly imperfect versions. I came up with this pendant and deliberately didn't want the X and O to line up. For me, things that are too precise, too measured or too perfect simply lose their appeal. Asymmetry, texture and patina add personality to a piece, like it has it's own history.

Here's a ring that I just finished. I will be logging both on my etsy site soon. I think I'll keep by hand saw ready to see what other imperfect shapes I come up with.

Where did the day go?

Well it got cold again so I'm back indoors pounding my metal. I have a couple of ring sets to make and decided to make one for myself. Here's a set of stacking rings...you can never have too many.

Also got a chance to finish this family charm bracelet.

A New Day, Hope for Peace

What an amazing day! Time seemed to stand still during the inauguration, at least for me because I was glued to the TV and didn't budge for the a couple of hours. Let us all pray for peace and a new beginning.



I was inspired to create this PEACE bracelet. A simple, but strong statement.

Ahimsa is Good for Your Marriage

After being out all day, I couldn't wait to get back to my workshop. I have some Etsy orders to fill and am eager to get to work. After looking at my freshly cut pendant I felt it appeared a tad plain and needed something more, a little embellishment. So with tools in hand I started pounding away. I like the way it turned out...more paisley like, don't you think? I also decided to stamp AHIMSA on it. It's a reminder to live life by doing no harm, whether it's with your thoughts, words or actions. It is reminiscent of the Buddhist teachings that urge us to try to think pure and beautiful thoughts, to say pure and beautiful words, and to do pure and beautiful deeds.

When I showed it to my husband he seemed a bit confused and asked why it said "Amnesia"? Funny how I was presented with a perfect opportunity to practice ahimsa. I had to remind myself, only pure and beautiful thoughts.