Saffie's Blog

Sunset

2010-07-16T20:53:00.001+01:00

sunset
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Seemed apt really as this is likely to be the end of this blog but I have not quit at all just moved it to wordpress

http://samhalliwell.wordpress.com

Please come over to visit me, I would love to see you all. jewellery and beads will feature still promise!!!

Look forward to seeing you all soon, thank you so much for being with me here, come on over and take a lookie
Sam xx

Periwinkle

2010-07-11T10:44:00.001+01:00

periwinkle
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I am missing making beads terribly but simply do not have the time right now but I have found time to make more zentangles. These are fab as they can be picked up and put down so if I have 10 mins to spare I can do a little doodling! This is my favourite so far I love the way it all came together.

Hope you are all well, the heat is blistering here at the moment which saps energy as well which makes me less likely to sit in a hot shed with a torch! Never thought I would say it but roll on autumn when it is a little cooler! That said the heat has been so long coming this year I should enjoy it while it lasts!

TTFN x

Savannah Sports Day

2010-06-30T10:29:00.001+01:00

Savannah Sports Day
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

It is that time of year when the schools have their annual sports day! This is Savannah's first sports day and I was lucky enough to be off this morning to be able to go and see her race. Bless them they all looked so bemused at the number of parents standing around shouting encouragement and taking pictures. Imagine my embarrassment at seeing Savannah come out with her T shirt on back to front bless her. All sorted though and put on the right way round by her teacher!

Andrew (Savannah's cousin) is in the same class as her so I have a few shots of him as well. They both looked like they had loads of fun.

TTFN xx

Up on the roof

2010-06-28T19:42:00.001+01:00

Up on the roof
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Got a thing for photography lately! I have been admiring my brother in laws' photographs (one of which you have seen on here!) and found out that my point and press camera has a couple of gadgets on it. Added to my photoshop elements I can play a bit with my pictures! This picture here is taken from my 2nd floor bedroom window and whilst not the best picture for composition I am so chuffed I managed to get the colours from the sunset.

Hope you are all well
TTFN xx

Closing down

2010-06-22T15:59:00.000+01:00

It is with great regret that I am announcing the closure of Aurorabeadz. This is with immediate effect and for the indefinite future. I am not sure about this blog at the moment so I am not going to delete it but postings may be few and far between.

Thank you for sharing my glassy journey this far. I sincerely hope it has not ended I am not selling my equipment but I am taking a step out for a while and am not sure how long that will be!!!

TTFN, thank you for reading, for buying and for being with me

Sam xxx

Focal bead

2010-06-09T10:33:00.001+01:00

P1030604
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Sometimes things just seem to go right! I made a few beads last night first time on my torch for a good week I think. I made 3 focal beads which I am mostly happy with. I think I need to work on my ends, they are ok but tend to slant a bit. Not a mega problem at all just me being a perfectionist! Anyhoo this bead and a few others will be up for sale later on in my Etsy shop
TTFN xx

Elegance

2010-06-08T20:13:00.001+01:00

Elegance
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Only a quickie today a few things going on in my life right now that are demanding my attention but I am still here an just wanted to touch base with you all!

This focal bead is made with a base of black glass and with Triton shards laid over it! My photography skills are still a bit lacking so this picture does not do it justice, you should see the different colours in the silver glass simply gorgeous if I do say so.

TTFN x

Aurelia

2010-05-28T19:15:00.001+01:00

Aurelia
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Another little beauty for you to admire! This has been cored with 6mm silver tube (outer diameter) approx 5mm inner diameter! and so will fit Pandora and Chamilia bracelet systems. These will be available very soon in my Etsy shop!!!

Hope you are all well. I am about to go up my shedio and make some more gorgeousness (i hope ;o)) and have got a long weekend off with my girls and hubby. We are hoping to pop off sometime over the weekend to London to the science museum which the girls are very excited about!!!
Pictures will follow I hope. Have a lovely bank holiday weekend
TTFN xx

Falling Leaves, Grand Shaft

2010-05-23T11:25:00.001+01:00

Falling Leaves, Grand Shaft
Originally uploaded by barry@undergroundkent

I want to talk about something other than me or glass of jewellery. I have a very talented brother in law who has a huge interest in the tunnels and features of underground Kent. He regularly enters war time tunnels (with permission i hasten to add) and is a very good photographer to boot! This awesome picture speaks for itself and is among a bunch of favourites that he has on his Flickr album. If you click on the picture next to my bit of blurb then you will be taken to his Flickr album and I would recommend you have a look
TTFN xx

Deep purple earrings

2010-05-14T17:40:00.001+01:00

Deep purple earrings
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Introducing my new range of earrings! These are still needing a little tidy up but I have been hanging on for ages to show you guys these and finally got them glued today!!! They measure approx 7mm across and have been glued with a strong epoxy to a sterling silver post. Once I have tidied them up they will be for sale in my Etsy shop. Expect many more in different colours etc and of course if you have a special request for a colour then please do not hesitate to contact me . They are selling for £8 a pair.

TTFN xx

Blast from the past

2010-05-11T10:47:00.001+01:00

pink and emerald set
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I have been looking back through my Flickr album and found this set I made in September 2008. I have not made a set like this since and am having some shed time tomorrow as it is my day off so expect some more of these!!! They are gorgeous to make and I have other colour combos I can play with!!!

Other business: thank you so much to the 8 people who left comments they were very welcome and boosted my confidence no end :o) I used a random number generator and person number 2 has won a little prize made by me and I will be popping it in the post asap! Congrats Karen I hope you like it xxx

TTFN x

SPECIAL LAUNCH OFFER

2010-05-08T17:38:00.002+01:00

All of my little ladies!
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

To celebrate the relaunch of my Belita beads I have put together a little offer for you all.

Buy any 2 Belita beads and get 15% off OR buy any 3 Belita beads and the bracelet and get 20% off.

They are available through my Etsy shop here. You will need to go through Paypal and pay the full price as usual but I will then refund you the difference.

I am quite excited to be able to offer these gorgeous little charms. They make a beautiful gift and can easily become a little heirloom to be handed down. They can be changed to reflect the outfit you are wearing and are simply fab to wear! I wear mine loads!!!

I would love to hear what you think of these so please feel free to pop a comment in you never know one of you may just get a little surprise!!!

TTFN xx

Belita beads are finally on sale

2010-05-07T18:49:00.001+01:00

Rhona
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Yay I am so totally happy to finally announce that my Belita beads are on sale. I had so much fun today coring them and cleaning them up absolutely no housework got done let alone me eat lunch LOL.

Anyway my beads and bracelet set can be found in my Etsy shop and there will be many more to follow (if you all like them!!!)

TTFN xx

Deep purple

2010-05-07T09:32:00.001+01:00

Deep purple
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Quite simply I adore these and the way they came out! They also sold very soon after putting them up for sale in my Etsy shop!!! I love that feeling that I have made something and someone wants them straight away.

My beadliner arrived yesterday and I have 15 big hole beads waiting patiently for me to pop the silver core in so who am I to refuse the chance of some treasured bead time LOL. I am about to go up my shedio and line my beads pictures to follow shortly I hope and then grand launch of my Belita Bead range will be ready to go! I am thinking of a prize draw or something similar to launch so watch this space!!!

TTFN xx

BIG bead!!

2010-05-05T13:19:00.001+01:00

BIG bead!!
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I am kinda liking making the big beads they just take so darned long I can only bring myself to do 1 per session. They do seem ever so popular tho cos this one sold within a couple of hours of me putting it up for sale! It is quite scrummy and I hope its new owner is as pleased with it as I am
TTFN xx

Jens pind bracelet with lampwork beads

2010-05-03T17:22:00.001+01:00

Jens pind bracelet with lampwork beads
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Do you remember these beads!!! I made them a few weeks ago with the thought of a new lariat in my head. I made the lariat but was not happy with how it turned out so it has been hanging around waiting for some inspiration. This afternoon I was tidying up my beads corner and came across the bracelet I made a couple of weeks ago and thought "Wow those beads would look fab on there" and there you go. Jens pind chain maille weave with my own handmade lampwork beads embellishing it! On sale now in my Etsy shop!!!

TTFN x

Pretty Woman

2010-05-02T21:48:00.002+01:00

Pretty Woman
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I made a set of beads like this one last night and am very chuffed with them. They are called Pretty Woman as they remind me of the dress worn by Julia Robert's at the polo match in the film of the same name!
I made another set as well which will shortly be up on my website for sale

TTFN x

Belita Beads

2010-04-27T11:46:00.001+01:00

Belita Beads
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I finally got some torch time and whilst ideas lacked for sets etc I managed to make 5 more Belita beads. These gorgeous little beauties are waiting to be cored with silver tube and will then be available to buy. The bracelet is also handmade by me and the Belita beads will fit onto it!! I am quite excited by these and very glad to be able to offer them to you for sale very soon
(Promise!!!)
TTFN xx

Eeek I am sooooo sorry!

2010-04-24T11:38:00.001+01:00

I have been really poor at blogging lately and simply this is due to the fact that I have not got a huge amount to share with you. What with my new job and all that I simply have not got any beads made and there is only so much you guys wanna hear about my life eh ;o)

Life is good still I am very happy and settled. I would like more bead time but that will fall into place and I am not gonna get stressed about it cos that ruins my mojo when I do get into the shed! My 2 girls are fine. Imogen is 13 in June and Savannah is 5 in June...doesn't time fly! Both ages bring with them a different set of challenges but we seem to be doing good right now they are both doing well at school and not getting into any difficulties that I am aware of.

Tony is fine the talk of redundancies that was being banded around 3 or 4 weeks ago seems to have gone quiet so we are keeping our fingers crossed that all has settled and now the weather is improving work will start to come back in. All in all things are plodding along!

I am loving my new job very much. I swore I would not go back to shifts and weekend working but actually it is not to bad at all! I seem to get a little more time to myself like if I am on a late shift then I have the morning to myself. Not really enough time to get into the shed but enough to do a bit of housework and keep on top of things, I get into my shed in the evenings still for a few hours a week. Working with patients again is so brilliant I have a real sense of achievement after each shift. The people I work with are fab and have made me feel really welcome.

I am hoping for some shed time tomorrow evening so hopefully more bead pictures will be on their way soon. I have made some rose murrini which I am playing with still so I hope to have some bead sets with roses on them to show you soon. I am waiting for my silver core stuff to arrive and then I will be making my Belita beads again to see as per my last blog so I am still beavering away just not as high profile as usual!!

I hope you are all well stay with me guys things will pick up again soon and I will have eye candy for you to drool over LOL

TTFN xx

Long time coming but finally.....

2010-04-13T15:00:00.001+01:00

smaller rings for Jens pind bracelet
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

...I have got my head around the Jens Pind weave in chain maille and have made it small enough to go through my Belita Beads (silver core beads). I am therefore proud to announce that coming very shortly I will be offering the full system both bracelet and beads for you to design your own bracelets. I am quite excited by this and hope it will go well I think it is a fab idea to be able to offer a more affordable option to the Troll bead and Pandora bead systems but which also is compatible with them. For those of you who may be unfamiliar with these systems please google Troll beads, Biagi, Pandora or Chamilia to get an idea! A modern take on the charm bracelet and so easy to swap and change your beads around to match whatever outfit you are wearing.

Post and run .... again

2010-04-10T19:41:00.001+01:00

P1030306
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Sorry just seem to be so darned busy at the moment. I have had time today to play with Jens Pind again in chain maille and something just clicked and I can do it!!! I bought little rings so I could make bracelets for my Belita beads (silver core beads) sadly only my uncored ones fitted so I have ordered some smaller beads and will now be able to offer you a bracelet that you can out your beads on!!! Well soon anyway!

Hope you are all ok
TTFN x

Lily the pink

2010-04-09T22:50:00.001+01:00

Lily the pink
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Just wanted to show you these simply cos I love em.......

Have a fab weekend guys hope the sun shines on you all
TTFN xx

Some sad news....

2010-04-06T19:06:00.002+01:00

Lavender frosties
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Sunday evening I was just about to start a torching when I had a visit from my mum and dad. Sadly my Uncle had died earlier that day. He was the oldest of 3 children with only 11 months between him and my dad and he died following a long ish illness with Progressive Supranuclear Palsy and Picks disease. Sadly we watched my Grandad die of it as well in 2000. Diagnosis can only be confirmed post mortem but we are gutted!

I am not gonna bore you anymore but please google PSP and learn a little about a horrible disease that may affect you or your family one day. I am planning to do a charity run later this year for it more news to follow

My cousin Steve (my uncles eldest son) is running the London Marathon later this month to raise money and awareness. If you want to donate please follow this link. Please do not be offended by my blatant advertising of this donation is purely voluntary and I only highlight is as it is a subject close to my heart.

TTFN xx

Blueberry muffin set

2010-03-30T17:54:00.001+01:00

Blueberry muffin set
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I was in my shed a few days ago and was playing around with a design in my head and on some beads and suddenly thought that I had not made a lariat for some time and this set of beads would work fab as a lariat so I made 10 of these and 2 long handshaped / gravity beads and am going to turn them into jewellery later tonight I hope!

TTFN xx

dichro surprise

2010-03-25T14:39:00.001Z

dichro surprise
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

This has got to be the largest bead I have made to date! I can't find my bloomin calipers but it is approx 30mm across. It is made from Neo Lavendar shift from Bullseye which means that it changes its appearance depending on the type of light it is in. I adore this glass and to make it even more magical there are lines of dichroic stringer wrapped around it and encased so in the sunlight (which there has been a distinct lack of the last 3 days!) it glitters! I struggle to capture that bit for you but have tried my best!

I will make more of these I think but at around 45 mins for this simple bead with very little detail I will not be churning them out by the ton hee hee

TTFN x

Pastel roses

2010-03-22T19:06:00.001Z

pastel roses
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Hoorah I made some beads this weekend and I am quite pleased with them. Click on the photo to the right and you should go to my Flickr album and see what else I managed to make! They should all be up for sale on my website soon provided Mr. Site lets me upload stuff cos it was not working a couple of weeks ago!

I am pleased with how these ones turned out, once again I have etched them simply cos I adore the etched look but if you like these and want them unetched then get in touch and I can sort that out for you no worries!

I am also quite pleased that I have managed to get some decent colours out of my reicenbach multicolour but I need daylight to catch them properly so you are gonna have to wait hee hee hee

TTFN x

Mr. Fisher

2010-03-21T19:08:00.001Z

Mr. Fisher
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

This little guy was in my garden this morning. Savannah was so fascinated with him she kept an eye on him for ages making sure our cat did not get him! He soon found a hiding place where he was safe from cat and child LOL!!!

Another sign that spring is well and truly on its way. The frogs are out of hibernation and the garden plants are coming to life, my clematis has buds on it as does the honeysuckle which I butchered last weekend :o/
It was positively gorgeous in my garden today, the rabbits were cleaned out and allowed to run around for most of the afternoon, the cat could be found on the lawnmower storage box in the glorious sunshine and quite simply life was excellent.

I don't think I have felt this well for quite some time and I intend to make sure that feeling carries on

see you soon
TTFN xx

Another obsession

2010-03-17T19:48:00.001Z

doodles 1
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

As if my life is not full enough already what with work and beads I go and find a new interest. One of the girls on Frit Happens forum introduced us all the "Zentangles" or "zen doodling" Found me a piece of paper and a pen and off I went!!! I think there will be lots more of these. Imogen has all my little ones and she is going to use them to make cards with and she is doodling as well now! Google "Zentangles" if you want more info but don't spend loads of money piece of paper and a pencil will see you well no need for lots of expense!!!

TTFN xx

Green fingers

2010-03-14T16:27:00.002Z

No beads in this post but some general musing. I want an allotment. Now for those of you who know me you are probably laughing very hard right now!!! Sam....a gardener ha ha ha !!!!!! BUT....I have a fairly big garden and it would not be a major biggie to lose some of it to a little plot where I can grow some bits and pieces that I can use in my kitchen! It would be fab for the girls and would help a little with the shopping bill and enough with the "Good Life" jokes!!!

I believe the waiting list for allotments is quite big cos they are very trendy right now and TBH I am not sure I have the time to give an allotment the care it would need but a little plot in my garden is feasible! It was sunny earlier so I have been out and tidied up a bit and successfully pulled down my rotten fence which has now started me thinking that the time is ripe for some serious thought about a veggie plot! The weather is warming up the frost risk is pretty much passed and it will be nice for me to have something to do with the girls!!! They could weed and help keep it clean.

The question now is what to grow....suggestions please very welcome and if anyone knows of a blog or a website that they think may be helpful I would be grateful I need all the help I can get! Off to take some pictures of the garden so if it happens I have some before and after to show you all.

Other news: Happy Mother's Day to all the mum's out there. I hope you have all had a lovely day and been spoiled by your kids. I got a bacon sarnie and tea in bed and a plant and a great big hug which was lovely. Imogen is home tonight so I hope to get another hug later from her.

My new job as junior sister at my local hospital is going very well I am really enjoying it and hope that I am gonna settle in nicely. They are a great bunch and I am proud to be part of the team there.

I am getting into a routine slowly which means that the bead making is slowly coming back on line! I miss getting up to the shedio as often as I did but I am finding that the ideas are flowing a bit better when I do so a happy medium has been struck. I have also made some Belita Beads (my silver core beads for Troll, Pandora and similar bracelet systems) which I hope to core this week so keep an eye out for them.

I have some bits a pieces that have been languishing for a while so I feel a sale may be in the offing soon, watch this space.

Right best be off dinner to cook an all that

TTFN xx

Aquarius

2010-03-07T14:56:00.001Z

Aquarius
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I made this monster last night!!! Made with a base of teal glass and with shards in Triton wrapped round it this positively glows in the sunlight (which there is plenty of today yay!!!)

TTFN xx

Little bag

2010-03-04T15:29:00.001Z

P1030202
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I saw a bag like this somewhere on the internet ages ago can't remember where but after fiddling about with the design finally made it last night! I am quite chuffed with it (and yes I am easily pleased LOL). It is completely fab for work as I don't really take much with me although it is quite roomy!

I am going up my shedio tonight to make some beads which I am looking forward to should get loads in next week cos I have 4 early shifts which is great!

Hope you are all well
TTFN xx

Spring time??

2010-03-02T11:37:00.004Z

I may be slightly premature here but the sun is shining it is quite chilly in the shade but in the sunshine it is very pleasant and I am feeling very spring like! The photo above was taken from a google search of "glass daffodils" (of course it has to be glass!!!) and I love this piece and it seemed simply right to show off today.

I have not had much time to bead of late and was hoping to tonight but I have had to swap my shift so hopefully tomorrow night now! Imogen is off in France till Friday so it is just me Tony and Savannah this week, I am missing her loads and strangely enough missing her bickering with Savannah!!! Aren't we odd!!!

I start my new job proper next week hopefully. I am picking my uniform up today and I have shifts for the next 2 weeks. No real change except I am no longer agency and I have more responsibility but the shifts will be the same maybe a few less late shifts so hopefully more beading time in the evenings yay!!! Despite being told by Tony that they may be making redundancies where he works life is good! Money is tight and potentially gonna get worse but I have my health my family and my friends, a job I love a hobby I adore and I am pleased with my lot!!!

TTFN xx

I have been so tardy.....

2010-02-28T19:40:00.002Z

....I have missed a few of the fhfteam member spotlights so a quick catch up is in order

First up is Diane who makes gorgeous ribbons as well as fab beads!

Next is VeeBee with her fab bracelet and some lovely beads.

Third is Lynn Davy who is an awesome seedbeader published regularly in the beading press and who makes simply gorgeous stuff

and finally for the moment is Tracy with her scrummy collection of beads

Please take some time to give some love to each of these talented artists they would love to have you visit

TTFN xx

AND THE WINNER IS......

2010-02-24T21:27:00.002Z

blushing posies!
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

.......... Rebecca Emery who left me a comment on my Facebook link to the blog! Rebecca I will contact you and make your bracelet!

I had 27 people in the draw so thank you so much for taking the time to leave me a comment and thank you for my birthday wishes a few of you left for the upcoming 2nd birthday of Aurorabeadz!

Other news: the beads on the right are available now to buy in my bead shop on my website here and I am hoping for some more bead time tomorrow night! So there will be more soon.

TTFN xx

Prize draw update!!!

2010-02-22T22:13:00.001Z

commission bracelet
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Another example of the kind of bracelet I am offering in my prize draw!!! You have till Wednesday to leave a comment to be in with a chance. See my post for 21st February for more info!!! Go on you know you want to win this!!! Mother's day is coming up why not try to get it for your mum!!! Summer is coming how about a gorgeous summery bracelet for those evenings out! Is there a birthday coming up!!! or simply a treat for you!!! Spread the word leave a comment and you simply never know!!!

TTFN x

PRIZE DRAW!!!

2010-02-21T17:53:00.002Z

pinks bracelet
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

OK I promised a prize draw so here you go. It is the 2nd Birthday of Aurorabeadz in March and I have successfully got over 200 fans of my page on Facebook as well as a good following on my blog. To celebrate all of these things I am offering the winner a bracelet similar to the one shown but in whatever colours you like.
In order to be in with a chance of winning a bracelet similar to this bracelet you simply have to leave me a comment on this blog entry either here on my blog or via my Facebook page. Only comments left in these 2 places will be entered into the draw! To give you all a chance to enter I will close the entries at 9pm Wednesday 24th February and announce the winner shortly after!!!

Thank you all so much for following me for commenting on my posts and for admiring and buying my beads and jewellery.
TTFN xx

Springtime flowers

2010-02-20T20:40:00.001Z

Springtime flowers
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Definitely feeling the springtime thing right now! I walked to work this morning at around 6.45 and it was daylight which is lovely. Added to that the birds were all singing away in the trees and whilst walking into the hospital grounds I walked past a robin proudly showing off his red breast singing his little heart out. It was so lovely and made me feel (despite the bitter cold) that spring is not that far off! Daffodils are poking their heads up through the soil and will soon be in flower. I adore snow but it is so disruptive but you know spring has got to be one of the best seasons!

TTFN xx

Feeling blue

2010-02-19T11:11:00.001Z

Feeling blue
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Not that I have anything to be feeling blue about. These beads are simply scrummy if I do say so myself! Made with a base of transparent aqua encased in clear glass and then with ASK Tribal turquoise dots these beads looked fab glossy but etching them just makes them glow! Have I mentioned I love etching stuff hee hee.

Gotta dash cos I need to get ready for work but these lovelies and 2 other sets will be in my Etsy shop later tonight I hope!

TTFN x

Pinks

2010-02-18T14:31:00.001Z

Pinks
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I had a lovely evening on the torch yesterday and this is one of the sets I made! Very delicate and cute maybe appropriate for the upcoming wedding season!!!

A friend of mine has just popped round and collected some beads off me that she is going to try to sell and a fair she is doing on Saturday! It is at St. Mary's Hall in Whitstable Kent from 10 am - 4pm if you are in the area try to take a look. I am hoping to be able to provide beads for Gill on a regular basis. Thank you Gill for thinking of me and good luck in your venture!

TTFN xx

Waterlilies

2010-02-16T11:12:00.001Z

Waterlilies
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Todays offering is not quite finished I have yet to add something to hang it from a chain with but I am very happy with the patina and wanted to catch it cos I stupidly forgot that if I refire or solder I will lose this!!! MAde from a mould this is button sized but would look awesome suspended from a delicate chain! or maybe it is calling out to be a centrepiece on a bangle! Now there is a challenge for me! Make my first bangle!!!!!

TTFN x

Flower focal

2010-02-15T10:49:00.002Z

Flower focal
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

When you look around at what spring and summer fashion trends are there seem to be quite a few flowers! I like making raised flower beads but have not made any for absolute ages so I decided to make some and the picture above is one of my beads! I ummed and ahhed about making leaves and stems etc but decided on abstract single flowers with different colour petals and am quite pleased how they turned out! I am thinking that some smaller round beads will compliment this long focal very well so I am hoping to get some torch time in this week and make some! I am also wondering about etching!

TTFN x

Heart Pendant

2010-02-14T22:37:00.002Z

Heart Pendant
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

This is my latest creation. Again something I had a dream about!!! I envisaged it being a bit more puffy but I had great fun making it and learned loads. I have also done a different finish and used one of my dremel attachments to give it the brushed look!

I am really chuffed with it and would love to hear what you guys think of it!
TTFN xx

FHFteam spotlight - Jolene

2010-02-08T09:24:00.003Z

The spotlight for the next few days falls on Jolene. Jo has been making beads for about the same amount of time as me but has recently moved into the field of shards, murrini and twisties to compliment her awesome bead making skills. her work can be found here and here go take a look!! Her own handmade murrini feature in the absolutely scrummy beads above that are also made by Jo and are for sale in her Etsy shop!

TTFN xx

My first spinner ring

2010-02-07T18:01:00.002Z

My first spinner ring
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Having nearly got a spinner ring just before Christmas and then deciding I could make my own I have finally got round to giving it a go! This is my first attempt and there is a bit of a problem with the soldering (which split slightly when I flared the edges out) but overall I am quite pleased! It turned out to be the size I wanted it to be which is good and I am pleased with the hammered look! Gonna play with this design I think

TTFN xx

FHFteam spotlight - Josephine

2010-02-07T11:03:00.003Z

Please take a look at the wonderful work of Josephine which can be found here she is our current spotlight artist and does some absolutely gorgeous work.

TTFN xx

FHFteam spotlight - Jeannie Gems

2010-02-02T11:01:00.002Z

Please go take a look at Jeannie Gems on Etsy here The photo above is one of her creations and it is gorgeous and there are loads more things like that!!!

I love the kiln fairies

2010-02-01T18:52:00.001Z

light emerald green and shards
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Blimey my photographic skills still need some refining but I think this picture is clear enough for you to see the scrumminess these beads have to offer! I love making these beads and using the shards to get the different effects and I have to say these particular chards are my absolute fav! I have also got the hang of making round beads without using my marble marver! So considering the fact that I thought that last nights journey to the shedio was a waste of time I have been pleasantly surprised by what the kiln fairies left me.

Click on the picture to go to my Flickr album and see what else I made. They will all be up on my website tomorrow morning for sale!

TTFN xx

Sunshine award

2010-01-31T19:46:00.002Z

Thank you so much to these following for nominating me for the Sunshine award:

There are rules that I am supposed to follow but this award has really been around so I would like to choose some people that have not had the exposure that this may afford them so for now simply thank you for thinking of me and linking to my blog. I have linked back to you and hopefully you will get new followers from it.

TTFN xxx

Life's a peach

2010-01-28T21:46:00.001Z

Life's a peach
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

You know when you make something and you think it looks completely gorgeous then you go and see other peoples work and look at your own and think hmm...... well I just did that! Don't worry I am not gonna get all "my beads are not good enough..." but I wonder if I will ever make something complex!

This set and the other set I just put on Flickr called Bullseye twister were the result of 2 hours beading today and I am very happy with them! The photos are not fab cos they were taken indoors with naff lighting I hope for a little sun tomorrow morning so I can take some proper piccies. These will be available on my website to sell by lunchtime!

TTFN xx

Silver metal clay pendants

2010-01-27T16:59:00.001Z

P1030118
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I made these a couple of weeks ago but had not got round to finishing them so today I soldered the rings on the flower and the small pendant and then tumbled them. After tumbling I dipped them all in liver of sulphur and then rubbed them with a silver cleaning cloth.

I am very pleased with these I love the way the liver of sulphur has coloured them. I would love to hear what you think of them as well

TTFN xx

FHFteam spotlight - Trudi of Glittering Prize

2010-01-26T23:18:00.003Z

Striking Eye
Originally uploaded by Glittering Prize - Trudi

This is the totally stunning "Striking Eye" bead from Trudi of Glittering Prize which can be found here and she is the focus of the current FHFteam spotlight!

TTFN x

Pink swirls

2010-01-25T12:01:00.001Z

P1030046
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

It is typical isn't it? I get my mojo back and I am working almost full time and get little time on the torch! Grr........ Should not moan cos I am very content with life at the moment. I am totally loving being a nurse again and have applied for a full time job and I am loving that I have mojo again despite not being in my shedio for the last week. I am not going to get stressed by it things will settle and I will get back into a routine and you guys get the anticipation effect.... hee hee. What will she produce next?

I have just had my delivery of new frits from Val Cox so expect some more fritty swirly beads from me and I am awaiting an order from the USA soon with some Bullseye odds and more coe 96 glass for my fritty beads! You can just bet your bottom dollar that that little package is stuck in customs :o( still it will be worth the wait.

MY huge order from Cool Tools has also arrived so I have some new things for my silver metal clay. Speaking of that I have 3 pendants nearly completed which I hope to finish off this week and post on my website so keep your eyes peeled.

Right I have to go get ready for another shift. Have a good Monday guys and see you soon

TTFN xx

FHFteam spotlight - Les (Flame Born Beads)

2010-01-24T11:05:00.004Z

The next spotlight is on a lovely lady called Les her beautiful work can be found here. The photo above is directly from Les's online website and is one of the gorgeous sets of beads she has on offer as well as some more whimisical and unusual beads. Please go and have a look and you never know what goodies you may find.

TTFN xx

Pinks bracelet

2010-01-20T11:32:00.001Z

pinks bracelet
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

This was a commission for a friend who wanted a bracelet in pinks and purple. The beads are all handmade by me and accompanied with swarovski crystal bicones and I cut all the jump rings myself as well and made the simple 2 - in - 2 chain . I am very pleased with this, it is lovely to wear and sits comfortably on the wrist! I hope my client likes it as well!!!

Other news: some places are apparently having a return to the snow today! Nothing here at the mo which I am very pleased about. What....I hear you cry I thought you liked snow! Well I do but I had a little accident on Monday when I fell down my stairs and I am a little battered and bruised (although not as much as I thought I would be!) but stepping out on snow and ice simply does not appeal right now!!! I hope it is not to bad where you guys are.

TTFN xx

FHFteam spotlight

2010-01-19T15:36:00.002Z

Land or sea scape?
Originally uploaded by caraj316

This scrummy bead is by Jo who is the current featured artist on our facebook fan page. Read more about Jo here www.jobaileydesigns.co.uk

TTFN xx

FHFTeam member spotlight - Ruth and Andy

2010-01-15T09:32:00.004Z

As a member of the FHFteam on Etsy we all work together to promote each others work and this is a new venture. Each week we are going to feature a member of the Etsy team and help to promote them on our FHFteam on Facebook page!

From today until the 18th January it is the turn of Ruth and Andy, husband and wife team. The picture you see above is taken from their Etsy shop and I think it is simply divine and there are loads more like that. They also have a blog here so please go take a look, add them to your favourites read their blog and enjoy the glassiness!

TTFN xx

Pink swirl focal

2010-01-14T12:02:00.002Z

P1030048
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I am not generally a focal bead person despite the fact that I love them a lot! I simply find it quite challenging to get enough glass together to get a decent size bead! So I am very pleased with this little beauty! Made with clear glass and some of Val Cox's scrummy pink frit! and a little swirl on each side this is truly a lovely focal bead! And there are little round beads to match! (you can see them in my Flickr album here) I hope to get them up on my website to sell on saturday as I am working all day Sunday! I am also hoping to get another day on the torch tomorrow but I fear that I am brewing a cold! My eyes are so heavy I want to sleep and my nose is tingling does not bode well I am sure! Lets see what happens eh but for now I am having another torch day tomorrow!

TTFN xx

New Years Day

2010-01-13T17:55:00.002Z

P1020996
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Tony, Savannah and I went for a walk New Years Day there had been a couple of snow showers and more were threatening so we decided to go for a bracing walk along Margate beach and along the promenade to Garlinge where my parents live! The picture you can see here was the sight that greeted us along the seafront shortly before a hefty snow shower hit us! At this moment things were calm and it was quite pleasant walking along then the wind picked up and it snowed very heavily for about 20 minutes!

I love this picture I am not a very good photographer usually but I am quite pleased with this. There are a couple more in my flickr album if you want to have a look !

On the bead front I have had a good day today making beadies. The kiln is ramping down now so I guess I will have to wait till the morning to see what I have waiting for me in there. I am actually hoping to get some time in on Friday as well which will be really nice! My parcel from USA has arrived at last as well, I gotta pay £20 customs charges before I can pick it up so I should have that tomorrow! All very exciting!!!

TTFN xx

Light emerald frosties

2010-01-10T10:05:00.002Z

Light emerald frosties
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I thought frosted beads were appropriate for the current weather conditions across the UK. I have to say things have massively improved in Margate today there is very little evidence of snow and at the moment it is actually raining. I do know that things were quite bad yesterday in Sandwich, Deal and Folkestone, Dover way but here in Margate nothing, de nada, zilch.
Part of me is pleased cos I can send the girls to school tomorrow as they will reopen but I am quite sad not to have had the opportunity to go out and play in it with the girls. I have got some photos of them playing in it which I will upload later hopefully but I did not get the chance to go out in it with them properly!
These beads will be listed on my website later today as well as some more jewellery on my Etsy site sneak previews can be found on my Flickr album here
Stay warm, keep safe
TTFN xx

Earrings

2010-01-06T15:40:00.002Z

Earrings
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Here is (or should that be here are!!!) one of the 2 pairs of heart earrings that I have just finished. The hearts are made from art clay silver and I have soldered sterling silver posts onto the back for pierced ears. I am very pleased with these and will be offering them for sale soon.
Watch this space
TTFN xx

Fritty swirls

2010-01-05T22:42:00.002Z

fritty swirls
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Some of todays goodies for your delectation. I love making these beads they are simple but look stunning. The colour combinations are endless. I have ordered more frit and will be making more along this theme.

I hope you are all ok where you are, we are currently waiting for the arrival of the forecast snow but I have a feeling that is going to move right past us on this little corner of East Kent, typical!!!! Mind you I kinda hope so cos I need to work and if it snows the schools will shut and life will grind to a halt for a while!!!

Right best be off see you soon
TTFN xx

I am back xx

2010-01-04T08:45:00.001Z

Turquoise and ivory set
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Happy New Year to you all I hope you had a lovely Christmas and New Year. Mine was very pleasant thank you, spent some quality time with the family and just chilled for a couple of weeks. I did do some agency work over the Christmas hols but not a huge amount!

I am also very pleased to announce that I am getting back into my shedio and making beads. Not a huge amount of beads but a few sets nonetheless. These beads you can see here will be available to buy in my shop later today along with a few others and I am listing some jewellery in my Etsy shop as well!
TTFN xx

Happy New Year

2009-12-30T18:32:00.003Z

I know I am a day early but I am working a night shift tonight and have a party tomorrow evening so I am not sure if I will get to the computer or not!

It is that time of year when we like to reflect on things done and not done and set goals for ourselves for the coming 12 months!

For those of you who follow my blog you will know I have had a bit of a rough ride this year. Leaving the security of my university job was a massive step but essential for my health and well being. I took 6 months out and got myself well again and am feeling fairly ok now! For the last 2 months I have been doing agency work as a nurse at my local hospital and have surprised myself with how much I am enjoying it. My initial thoughts were to make a go of the jewellery business and whilst that is still something I am striving to do reality has bitten and I need to be earning a regular decent wage which with the best will in the world the jewellery business is not able to provide me currently.

So my goals for this year are as follows:

1) continue to work in the hospital to ensure a regular decent wage (no more eating food at my parents cos I can't afford to buy my own!!!)

2) find the balance between working as a nurse and making jewellery ( this is gonna be tricky as I am working shifts again but where there is a will there is a way

3) save up enough money to do my level 1 silver metal clay certification

4) be happy and well and a decent mum to my kids and a good wife to Tony.

Maybe that 4th item should be 1st in my list as this is the ultimate aim of my life. I did not write it in priority order but as things came to me. I am smiling now as this is classic of my mind I really should learn to put myself first a bit more and stop pressuring myself so much.

I am off now to see what I wrote last New Year (and to go to work shortly) so I will leave you all with hearty good wishes for a Happy New Year. May 2010 bring you everything you want, health, happiness and with a bit of luck some relaxation from money worries!

Here is to 2010........cheers xx

TTFN xx

Asymmetrical lariat

2009-12-23T14:18:00.001Z

Asymmetrical lariat
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Is this my second post today???My memory is awful LOL. Anyway I wanted to share this with you. I have been practising my soldering over the last week or so and made a chain of 8 links in 1.5mm silver wire. I have been playing with these 8 joined links for a couple of days to see what I may make with them and my initial idea was a bracelet. I included the glass beads into the design but could not think of a clasp to finish the piece so I was left with 8 links and no real design. I then thought of my favourite necklace - the lariat...and wondered if I could make an asymmetrical lariat and ta dah here is the result.

What do you think??
TTFN xx

Earrings

2009-12-22T22:11:00.001Z

Earrings
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I have been practising my soldering skills and am quite happy with what I am able to do now! These were the matching earrings for the lentil pendant I made. As you know I love the pendant so I have kept it for myself but I am very happy with these as well so they will be up for sale in the New Year once my shops reopen.
I am going to get into my shedio tomorrow as well as I have a few orders for beads that are not urgent. I am actually looking forward to making some beads, will have to see what I can make.

Anyway must be off I have a few more presents to wrap and I need to do some kind of inventory to see what else I need for the festive season.
What are your plans for the holidays? Wherever you are and whatever you are doing I wish you a peaceful Christmas and best wishes for 2010. I am sure I will blog before then but just in case LOL.

TTFN xx

Beads and Beyond tutorial

2009-12-21T20:04:00.003Z

I mentioned a little while back that I thought I had a tutorial in this month's Beads and Beyond....well I do. It is a bumper silver metal clay special and I have a fantastic flower necklace with purple pearls in it. I must hunt a picture out now and put it up here to show you. This is my 4th tutorial and I have also done 2 readers challenges so this year has been fab for getting myself known in that arena. I hope to continue in 2010.

Belita Beads

2009-12-19T17:20:00.001Z

Megan
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

One of my collections of beads has gone quiet lately. I was making quite a few of these for a while but sales tapered right off. I was going to re launch this year but even in the sale I simply could not shift the last few of my Belita beads. I am not sure what to do now with them. As I have not been making them lately my success rate is fairly poor the last 4 I tried to core all broke :o( So anyway one of the things I am thinking about over Christmas is do I carry on making these or shall I leave it to others who make gorgeous ones! I think I know the answer but I do have a few of these for sale still. They are 4mm cores so fit the Troll bead system feel free to shout me to see what I have and they are only £10 each!
TTFN xx

A bird on the hand....

2009-12-16T10:12:00.001Z

Bird Ring
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

....many of you will have seen this little guy already as I have been showing him off loads lately. I originally soldered him to some 1mm wire to see if that would work and it did but the 1mm wire was not suitable to wear as a ring.
The ring he is sitting on now is a silver metal clay ring I made some time ago (my first and to date only attempt at making a ring I hasten to add). it was a bit out of shape so I have tidied it up as much as I can and then soldered the little guy to it. Whilst I was soldering he sat back a bit so his beak is up in the air but actually I prefer this to how I was going to have him so I left him there.

He is now proudly sitting on my ring finger of my right hand is is very comfortable. I can see a range of these after Christmas but I need to practice ring making first.

Other news: I have shut my Etsy shop and my website for 3 weeks until 4th January 2010. Things have been so hectic with the silver clay jewellery that I have not made any beads for a few weeks and also my mojo is off so I thought a few weeks off would recharge the ole batteries. I am still around tho so feel free to chat to me on email, through here or on Facebook!

TTFN xx

Lentil pendant

2009-12-14T21:52:00.001Z

Lentil pendant
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Here is a little something else I have been working on! I made this silver metal clay lentil and then placed it in liver of sulphur to antique it. I love it so much I have decided to keep it for myself and I have hung it from my macrame choker which has an interchangeable bail on it so I can wear different pendants according to my outfit.

TTFN xx

Robin

2009-12-10T12:26:00.001Z

Robin
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

So my bead mojo is still somewhat lacking but no such problem in the silver clay department.

This little guy is inspired by my friends Christmas decorations she has doves in cages trailing from her banisters and I thought I could make that! Or something like it! So here is my bird. He still needs a bit of finishing but I am very pleased with him! I don't think I am gonna make a cage but I think I will solder a ring to his back and string him from a necklace!

What do you think?? I hope all your Christmas plans a re going well. I think I may have finished the girls presents but you never know what you may stumble across.

Oh and finally before I go to work I think I have a tutorial in this months Beads and Beyond! I will get it tomorrow so can let you know then if I have or not ;o)

TTFN xx

You won't get customers if you don't advertise!!

2009-12-05T09:44:00.004Z

Yesterday I did a market in Margate Old Town. It is supposed to be a 3 day market and last night coincided with the turning on of Margate Christmas lights. This has cost me £50 for 3 days and yesterday I made £20 and apart from one other lady I was the only person to make a sale. Why is this??? Because it was really poorly advertised. There are posters around and I saw some posters at Imogen's school but there was nothing in the local press I even checked last night in case I had missed it.

Please don't get angry with me and think I am putting down the guys I worked with yesterday because I am most definitely not. They are a great bunch, enthusiastic and keen to promote Margate Old Town but at a higher level they are being let down. There was a torchlight procession last night with 2 local schools being involved and I knew nothing about it. There were fireworks and carols with the Salvation Army. I knew nothing about it. There was a mini market with local craftspeople selling their art and craft. I only knew about it cos I was involved.

The torchlight procession was lovely so nice to see all the kids dressed with christmassy LED lights all over them. This has happened for the last 4 or 5 years maybe more and I have lived here all my life (nearly 40 years) and I KNEW NOTHING ABOUT IT. You would have thought that even by osmosis it would have got around the Thanet grapevine is a wonderful beast but not with this little snippet! Everyone moans about Margate says that there is nothing going on well last night there was and how many people were there??? I know for a fact that people stumbling across the market probably totalled a maximum of 100 if we were lucky.

How to advertise? I am no expert but there are some very simple and free things that can be done to raise the profile of someone or something. I should know I have done it with my own business!

1) Facebook fan page
2) Twitter
3) Blog
4) Join forums on the internet and promote yourself.
5) Local radio may promote you

No money involved in any of these and not a great drain on time a group can quite happily work these things together and raise profile instantly.

Come on Margate sort it out and stop being so apathetic.

BTW I am back at the market today from 11 til about 1.30 so come along if you mention my blog you can have a 10% discount on all your purchases.

TTFN xx

Christmas Sparkle

2009-12-03T12:01:00.001Z

Christmas Sparkle
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I made these last year and called them Christmas Sparkle cos they remind me of baubles that you hang on the tree. I am hoping for some torch time tonight so I will make some more of these I think! Very festive
TTFN xx

Rose lentils

2009-11-29T22:37:00.002Z

Rose lentils a
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

My mojo has returned and I am very happy. I made 3 sets last night and this is a close up of one of the sets! They can all be found for sale on my website here

Other news: I am quite busy putting shifts in at the hospital to earn some money and get us back on the straight and narrow! Thankfully I am getting plenty of work so that is good!

From a jewellery perspective things are quite busy as well what with everyone getting ready for Christams. I had a jewellery party on Friday but you will never believe what I did............I left my box of jewellery at home. It was an hour long round trip to get them and as many of the guests had not arrived I decided not to bother. We are going to do it in the New Year now! Honestly I could not believe it!!!

TTFN xx

I made some beadies yay!!!

2009-11-28T22:11:00.002Z

So finally after an almost 3 week sabattical and very little going on in the lampworking department I am pleased to announce that Molly mojo decided to come home! She has had a well earned break and the creative juices are now flowing free. The only thing missing now is time but I am happy to grab whatever few minutes I can to make beads again and I can tell you I am one happy bunny.

Pictures soon the kiln is still hot so won't be till tomorrow!

TTFN xx

Singing the blues

2009-11-22T18:57:00.002Z

singing the blues
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Despite thinking all I can make is boring ole beads I managed to make these on friday and I really like them. Once again simple small but incredibly neat and totally useable in one or more pieces of jewellery (at least I think so!)

These are now for sale on my website here

TTFN x

Rain, Rain go away

2009-11-20T09:25:00.002Z

I know we needed some decent rain but why this much this quickly!!!

I am fairly lucky down here in the south we seem to have missed most of the water dropping from the sky but I have forum friends up in the Lake District and after watching Sky News this morning am quite scared for them!

Life as normal for me today I am having a shedio day (hoorah!) but these people their life is on hold! The waters are high and their lives are being seriously disrupted and in a lot of cases are actually at risk.

My thoughts are with you all at this time and I simply wish there was something more practical I could do. To those of you up that way please stay safe

TTFN xx

Meh!!!

2009-11-16T11:44:00.004Z

So for the first time in over a week I think, I finally have some shedio time. I dip my mandrels turn on the kiln come indoors for a cuppa and some toast and at 10.30 off I go up my shedio! 1 hour later..... I give up! I can't make a round bead today my puckers are decidely dodgy, naff sharp edges and when I try to correct them I get lopsided beads!!! Grrrr.......OK make some nugget beads I have an order for and chill. Make 6 of them quite happily go back to round beads. Nope.... not happening..... so I think make small dotty beads. Start to pull stringer and think whats the point they don't sell...... so gave up for today!

Turned off the oxycon and propane, skipped segment on my kiln and it is now ramping down with 3 round beads (2 of which are not even worth the fugly box) and 6 nugget beads for an order! Meh!!!!!

We all have em and today is officially my bad day! Picture above courtesy of Google image search for "bad day" !!!

Hope your Monday is way better than mine! :o)

TTFN xx

Nightmare before Christmas

2009-11-15T17:30:00.002Z

NBC lock shock and barrel
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I am still practicing with my polymer plates and making stamps for use in my silver metal clay. A friend was totally impressed with my Jack Skeleton pendants I made a couple of weeks ago and asked me if I could make a set of the characters from NBC. So I did. I have learned quite a lot whilst making the stamps and also about using the stamps and sadly the finished pieces were not quite what she had envisaged (or me for that matter) but it is fine as I learnt a lot, expensive lesson but worthwhile.

2 of the charms have little "splits" in them so I cannot sell them but Imogen has bagged them for herself bless her but Oogie Boogie and Lock Shock and Barrel (shown here) will be on sale later today in my website. Just gotta finish them off with holes and a bit of a polish up!

Hope you have all had a restful weekend and not too damaged by yesterdays strong winds and torrential rain! See you soon
TTFN xx

Magdalena

2009-11-13T10:03:00.002Z

Magdalena
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Another necklace to share with you guys! This is my focal bead and one of my hammered silver rings with a gorgeous ribbon by Diane at Sowzere.

The jewellery party went well sold a few bits and will hopefully get a couple of orders for fingerprint jewellery. And on that note today is the final day for orders for fingerprint jewellery at Savannah's school fair. I have 2 orders for the day so far and 2 orders at different times from the advert so not a bad response at all I think. I did have hopes of being absolutely flooded with requests but in hindsight that was a little naive. It is all about advertising and I did make a huge faux pas with the order form and information. I completely forgot to add my website address doh!!! Will take loads of business cards and leaflets to the fair with me to make up for that and there will be plenty of time for orders to be completed before Christmas.

Right best be off, Savannah is home cos she was ill last night so my shedio day has disappeared but I am finally going to get the stamps made for my art clay pendants! Photos later xx

TTFNxx

Quiet waters

2009-11-12T16:53:00.002Z

Quiet waters
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I have a jewellery party tonight, the first one not held in my own home!!! Eek! But the host is a friend so it should be fine! Anyway I have spent the afternoon madly making jewellery and this piece is one of the bits I have made!

The large beads were made by me last night and there are some of my mini spacer beads in there as well. 72 swarovski crystals and 36 small silver spacers finish the piece off and boy does it look awesome in the light! It really twinkles ;o)

TTFN xx

Hollow beads

2009-11-09T11:31:00.002Z

goldstone hollow a
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I first made hollow beads about 18 months ago but simply could not get their shape right. I thought I would have another go and if you follow my blog you will know that I have made a few that I am happy with and have sold! This is last nights bead, amethyst with goldstone stringer and I love it! Do I say that a lot ?... sorry but I am very happy with the way this bead turned out! It is going up on my Etsy shop shortly and there are more views of it there for you to gaze upon ;o)

TTFN xx

Rose shards bead set

2009-11-08T16:56:00.002Z

rose shards b
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Believe it or not the base colour for these beads was rose pink but the reactive glass shards I have laid down on top have fumed it and this absolutely gorgeous divine colour occurs! I have made more of these today I love them

TTFN xx

Teal delight hollow

2009-11-05T20:16:00.002Z

Teal delight hollow
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I am not sure that this picture does this bead any sort of justice but anyway here it is! I am sooooo proud of this bead and it's 3 little siblings! (see my Flickr album for a picture of the family group!!). I have to admit to thinking about selling my beadmaking gear on Monday evening whilst in my shedio. I simply (and I am not saying this for sympathy merely an observation of my state of mind at that point!) do not think that my beads cut the mustard. I do have some regular customers and to those people I say a massive thank you and no I am not quitting but I think I may have reached a point where I am not sure how to develop my beads further. I also want to thank everyone who has ever bought beads or jewellery off of me thank you a million times over. Each sale is as fab as though it were the first ...I love it that people like my work and want to buy it!

The answer, I think, lies in getting some more tuition but that involves money and right now things are harder than they have ever been and that is no word of a lie! But when I browse around other peoples beads I feel that my beads are merely ordinary! Nothing special at all, good puckers generally a good shape but nothing special. I have no imagination to work out how to experiment!!! I am in awe of so many different people's work and honestly cannot ever see my work being as awesome as some of these people! Humph!!!!!

Right moan over I am still making beads cos I took these ones out and love them! I guess we shall see what others make of them when they go up for sale on Sunday night.

I have not made it to my shedio today as planned cos my blessed car was on a flat this morning so my fantastic dad helped me out but took much of the morning up then I had to do the school run and get Imogen to the dentist as her brace had broken! And this evening my mojo has gone on shore leave so I think I will leave it till tomorrow. I have an order to fill which I will do and now the strikes are off (for the mo) the post should be easing gradually!

Are you having any fireworks this year? We are not as I literally do not have the money to watch it go up in flames like that so we resort to watching other peoples from the house! I guess it is warmer eh! always try to find something positive ;o)

Anyway must be off I am making stamps tonight for my silver metal clay so hopefully there will be little earrings etc coming out very soon

If you are having fireworks please be safe and enjoy
TTFN xx

oops how rude of me.

2009-11-02T09:16:00.002Z

I am so sorry I forgot to say a huge thank you to those of you who left comments for my little snowman prize draw. It is so nice to get comments from people and I do enjoy reading them and interacting with you all! I am real LOL!!!

A complete change in the weather again today the sun is shining and you would never believe how much rain fell yesterday that means Savannah and I can go for a little walk up the town to post some orders and mooch around for a while!

Tomorrow is quite a big day for me. As many of you are aware I quit my job as a university lecturer back in the summer and in May I applied for the nursing agency NHS Professionals. Well it has all finally gone through and tomorrow is my first booked agency shift at my local hospital. I am a nurse and have been for the past ....blimey almost 16 years but I have been teaching for the past 7 so donning a uniform and working with patients is going to be a little wierd to say the least. Not a completely new experience as part of my role as a lecturer was to stay clinically credible etc and I like to think I have been able to maintain a finger on the pulse of nursing so to speak. I did a shift with my sister a couple of weeks ago unpaid just to get me back into it and I really enjoyed it. It is good to be back with patients I have missed that!

The plan is to do 2 or 3 shifts a week but to still focus on my beads and jewellery business so I do not really anticipate it affecting things very much. The beauty of the agency is that I can do what I want when I want and it fits around my children, my husband and the business all of which are incredibly important to me and I have fought to get back over these last 6 months!

Wish me luck and I will speak soon
TTFN xx

And the winner is ....

2009-11-01T17:58:00.002Z

.... Sharon. I have left a message for you on your blog. Congratulations.

The good news is that I am making these to order if you wish I will be putting it on my website tonight!

More news later but gotta go and wash up dishes

TTFNxx

Flower brooch

2009-10-30T15:27:00.003Z

Flower brooch
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Mmm...I love to diversify a bit and this is my latest venture! Polymer clay and my Sizzix Big Shot, some leather and suede samples and Bobs' your uncle!!! This simple brooch would be fab worn in loads of different ways! You could clip it to your handbag, or wear if on your scarf or clip it to your wooly hat or simply as a brooch! The possibilities are endless. Like this? it will be available in my Etsy shop later.

Dont' forget to leave a comment about my little snowman to be in with a chance to win! See Yesterdays post!

TTFN xx

Snowman Pendant Prize Draw

2009-10-29T11:59:00.002Z

snowman
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I am not one for whimsical beads but each year around this time I do like to make themed beads. Last year some of you may remember my absolutely hysterically cute but sad angels!! and I have always made snowmen. This year I decided to make the heads only and really concentrate on getting them right! and here is my first one out of the kiln. I am totally lovin him and there are angels too!! More pictures of them later!

Anyway I am quite chuffed with this little guy so I thought you might like a chance to win him! All you have to do is leave me a comment at the end of this post and I will put your name into the draw. I will pick a winner on Sunday evening. (Necklace not included only the pendant is up for grabs!!!)

TTFN xx

Sapphire trio

2009-10-28T18:46:00.002Z

sapphire trio
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Ok so these beads have actually been sold but they are a beautiful example of a very simple range of beads that I do. One large tab bead and 2 smaller round beads. On a simple level these 3 beads will give you a pendant and matching earrings.

There are some beads in this style available on my website to buy and for those of you who don't make jewellery I will happily make them up into a pendant and matching earrings for a small extra cost! These bead sets start at £5 and will make fantastic Christmas presents for the folks in your life
TTFN xx

Pink swirly lentils

2009-10-26T15:56:00.002Z

pink swirly lentils
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I think I may have mentioned that I have discovered polymer clay if not well I have and it is fab stuff. Not entirely dissimilar to art clay but a little trickier to manage as it gets quite sticky. I have been reading around the internet a bit and found some tuts on lentil beads and so I thought I would have a go and here is the result! My first set of 6 lentil beads. They look similar are similar size and if they come up well once cooked then I think I will definitely be putting them up for sale! Thing is I am not sure where to put the holes!!! Logic says side to side but something is wanting to make me put the hole through the middle!!! Mmm....maybe I should make them again and do both!

TTFN xx

Red and black nuggets

2009-10-26T13:26:00.002Z

red and black nuggets
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Here is Monday's scrummy beads for you to gaze upon. I am totally loving these colours and that leads me to something I would like to chat about.

There is very often and huge chasm between what I think will sell and what actually does. I am not moaning not by any stretch of the imagination but I am often bemused. The beads I am showing here are a case in point. Classic colours black and red with the Christmas season coming I think they look totally in place with a gorgeous black dress at a Christmas party yet they have not sold!

I know I only put them up for sale last night but I have just posted 7 lots of beads from orders off the website last night and surprisingly the black and red nuggets were not among them!

Anyway enough of that as long as people like my beads and continue to buy them then I am happy to keep making them and you know what there wil always be the bead or the set that you think will fly off the shelf but actually does not. Tis all part of the quirkiness of having my own business.

Have a lovely Monday
TTFN xx

dilly dilly mark 2

2009-10-25T15:55:00.002Z

dilly dilly mark 2
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

The first version of these that I made sold in less than an hour I think off Etsy. I adore these colours I think the lavenders are gorgeous. Anyway this is version 2 with opaque and transparent lavender and will be availble to buy off my website tonight along with a few other goodies.

What have you been up to this weekend? I have had a very productive time. I discovered Tony has a grinder and I managed to persuade him to buy the spindle to adapt one end to a polisher and OMG what a difference to my silver! I am rearranging my workspace a bit so that has taken up some time today.

This week is half term for the 2 girls so I am not sure how much beading time I will get but I definitely need to make some jewellery as I have a party Friday and the designs for the Ingoldsby Gallery need to be finished my Friday as well.

Have a lovely week guys and don't forget new beadies on my website tonight
TTFN xx

Daily eye candy

2009-10-24T08:05:00.002+01:00

pink and grey
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

Ha ha I have managed to connect my Flickr album to my blog which means that I can show you pictures of my work direct from my album which is quite cool! I know a few of you fedback that you like pictures so here is todays choice.

This little set of beads will be available to buy tomorrow evening when I update my shop. These are made with a base of pearl grey covered with rose and with little pink flowers around. The beads have then been etched (which I do love doing!!!) A very cute and gorgeous little set of beads
Have a fab weekend guys
TTFN xx

Jack

2009-10-23T15:41:00.002+01:00

Jack
Originally uploaded by aurorabeadz

I have bought a kit thats enables me to make stamps that can be used to make jewellery with art clay silver. So I thought I would practise with images of Jack fromm "Nightmare Before Christmas" and here are the results. I am so very chuffed with them. Imogen is wearing the small one as I made it for her and the larger one is currently being discussed!!! It may have a new home xx

Feeling bleurgh...

2009-10-21T10:33:00.005+01:00

I think a dreaded cold may be on it's way!!! I am feeling a bit under the weather and I have the hugest blister on my lip. A leetle run down I fink.....

Anyway I am having a quiet indoors day today, bit of housework to do and I am waiting for a package to arrive. So time to get you all up to speed on my life.

I have some lovely photos of the Big Bead show to show you

This first one is me and Keiara behine our stand before the show opened. I look completely gormless he he. Aren't those stands fab? Keiara's husband made them and they were absolutely perfect I can tell you

This second one is a shot of one of the times our stand looked quite busy.

Keaira and I had a fab day and I have booked again for next year I will give you more details once dates are set etc! I am going to hopefully do more shows tho again watch this space and I will let you know!

Other news: I took one of my jewellery ideas down to the Ingoldsby Gallery in Margate on Sunday to show them as they have asked me to put together a range of jewellery that will be exclusive to them. It went down well so I am now busy making these pieces to have on show for the beginning of November. I am also doing a 3 day Christmas Market in Margate Old Town in December which I am quite excited about.

Savannah's primary school is having a Christmas fair on 28th November and I am having a fingerprint stand there so I busy getting the pre order letters ready to send out to all the mum's and dad's and I am hopeful that this will be well received. I am also donating a prize to the school prize draw but I am not quite sure what that will be yet!

All in all things are looking very good, I just hope this darned cold does not develop.

Anyway must dash, ooh one quick reminder I loaded up loads of new beads onto my website and my Etsy shop last night so please take a look!

TTFN xx

God I sound like an ungrateful cow...

2009-10-18T16:45:00.003+01:00

...why I hear you ask!!

Wellllll.....yesterday was the Big Bead Show and I had a fantastic day. I sold some stuff, I met old friends and I made some new friends but I was slightly disappointed not to have sold a bit more! Thats why I sound ungrateful. I kinda got the impression I was not alone with these feelings...don't get me wrong I will do it again my name is already down for next year because it is not just about the sales on the day it is about getting known and promoting myself and I did sell a fair amount of stuff.

Maybe it is more about me setting goals and making them realistic, maybe I worry to much but I do have bills to pay and 2 children to raise. Maybe I have to high expectations.

You know what I thought about scrapping this post so I did not appear ungrateful and what you don't know is how long this post took me to write cos it made me think loads. I made the decision to quit my job as a lecturer and chose to be a full time lampworker and jewellery designer. Until 2 months ago this was merely a hobby that made me a bit of pin money to keep me in glass and now it is more serious but these things take time and expecting to be rolling in money after 2 months is incredibly unrealistic.

I said it before and I will say it again I am on a journey and so far I am loving it.
TTFN xx

PS Those of you who told me how much better I looked yesterday compared to last year thank you for noticing and for telling me, It makes me realise how much better I actually am and how far I have come. Thank you xxx

The Big Bead Show and some interesting observations!

2009-10-14T18:43:00.005+01:00

Saturday is fast approaching and I am on the final countdown to getting ready for the Big Bead Show. I am really looking forward to it not least cos I will be catching up with old friends and hopefully meeting lots of new ones. I have also had a chance to reflect a little on the past year as it was The Big Bead show last year where I basically debuted myself!!!

What have I achieved this year, well I can now encase beads, my dot placement has come on in leaps and bounds I have got my head around using presses. I have fallen in love with silvered ivory stringer and use it in practically every darn bead ATM ;o)

I have established a business that I continue to promote and since the summer I have been doing this as my full time job. I am having a ball. I feel like my beads have definitely started to grow up a bit and finally I don't feel like a complete newbie. I know I have been torching since July 2007 but I only got some 6 - 8 hours a week if I was lucky. This week so far I have done some 12 hours and it is only Wednesday. I still have so much to learn and some many more skills to master but you know what there is no rush! Yes my beads are simple but you know what I am finally comfortable with that. Many other lampwork artists strive to make complex and beautiful beads with infinite detail and don't get me wrong I want that but people still need simple beads for their pieces of jewellery and right now these people are my market!

My aim for the next 12 months; firstly to get my Art clay / PMC certification and secondly I really want to go on some glass courses to help me to develop these skills more!

Enough of that I have a few beads to show you. The first picture is a sample of the goodies I will be taking with me to the show on saturday. The second picture needs a little more explaination but I will let you look first.

The large pink and white bead is my first attempt at a focal bead with stripes! Much refining needed but a style I like! The 2 dotty beads are an example of what happens when you use incompatible glasses. The base is Bullseye violet striker with clear encasing and then what I thought was Bullseye white dotted around but when I took them out the kiln and cleaned them I realised the glass was cracking around the dots and therefore I had probabaly picked up some Effeter white and not Bullseye! I am normally very good about keeping my different glasses separated but obviously failed here but an interesting thing for you all to see.
The 2 bottom beads are Bullseye French Vanilla with Silvered French Vanilla round them. They were both on the same mandrel and were made with the same rod of French Vanilla and the same stringer so what happened to get 2 very different beads I am unsure! Any suggestions gratefully received.

Right enough blabbering I have beads to price up and earrings to make so must dash! Don't forget to come and say hi to me if you are at Sandown on Saturday I would love to meet you.

Oh and one final thing...the first 10 people to spend over £30 with me you will get a handmade (by me!) mini tote bag with a pair of earrings and a scrummy chocolate in free!! Here is a little preview!

TTFN xx

Teaching

2009-10-11T21:48:00.003+01:00

I spent last Monday with Gill teaching her how to make glass beads and we had a ball. 6 hours of teaching is quite tiring for me and for the student but we covered a fair amount and the picture above are the beads that Gill made and I have sent to her. I do hope she liked them.
I love teaching and if you would like to come along and have a go please feel free to contact me for further information. I do taster sessions and full day teaching so there is soemthing for everyone. What a fab Christmas pressie for someone!
TTFN xx

Eye Candy

2009-10-07T11:55:00.005+01:00

Or at least I hope so!!! I am still getting ready for the Big Bead Show on 17th October. and have been busy on the torch making things of wonder for you to gaze upon and hopefully buy ;o)

There are more to view on my Flickr album here. a couple of them will be up for sale later on through my Etsy shop but things are a little quiet until after the show.

TTFN x

Our little helper

2009-10-04T16:48:00.005+01:00

For those of you who follow me on Facebook you will be aware that I have had some problems with my neighbours. I live in a mid terrace and whilst the walls are pretty good and noise is minimal there is obviously some noise that can be heard.

I have some really attractive paper in my hallway (not) and my hubby decided at the beginning of the week that he could no longer bear to look at it so he is wallpaper stripping must to the disgust of my neighbour who, at 8.30 in the evening was rapping on the wall complaining about the noise and waking my youngest daughter up. The "noise" of the wallpaper stripping had not bothered her at all!!!

Anyway my youngest has delighted in helping her dad out and is often to be found wielding a wallpaper stripper but today found her forte in hoovering!!!

She had us both in stitches mimicking her dad who can often be found hoovering on his hands and knees. This is apparently essential as the nasty woodchip wallpaper gets everywhere and is a tricky little sucker to clean up! I am just pleased to be shot of the nasty flower wallpaper and the purple gloss woodchip above it, bare plaster walls is way more preferable. Now to persuade him that sage green and lemon is scrummy for a hallway!!! Oh and the pink carpet is going as well I feel a nice sage green carpet also!

What is happening for the rest of the week? Well tomorrow I am teaching a new student for the day which I am really looking forward to, she found me as a result of the Art and Craft exhibition so that makes it all worthwhile in my book! Tuesday I am doing a sessional lecture for my friend in my old job and from Wednesday onwards it is all hands to the pump getting stuff made for the Big Bead Show on 17th October. Busy busy busy!!!

Right must be off roast pork for dinner and the spuds need sorting see you soon
TTFN xx

Oops how time flies...

2009-10-02T17:26:00.003+01:00

....I am so sorry it has been over a week since I last posted but I have been soooo busy!

A quick recap since I last blogged...

Last Saturday I went down to Margate Old Town and met some fantastic people who are busy developing Margate's Art Quarter. They had a 2 day market going on and offered me a stall for the Sunday. This was too good an opportunity to miss so on Sunday I did my first market! I had a fab time, met some gorgeous people and am most definitely doing it again. In fact I am doing it in December I will find the link for you later and post a bit more about it!

I met a lady called Janet who is one of the people who runs the Ingoldsby Gallery in Lombard Street in Margate and yesterday I went to meet her to discuss my showing some jewellery there. The outcome of that meeting was that I am going to design some jewellery that will be exclusively available through the Gallery. This will be on show from the end of November onwards.

Wednesday I met up with Keiara and we went over how we are going to put our display together for the Big Bead Show. Eeekkk.....it is only 2 weeks away and I have not got nearly enough stock!
Keiara's husband has come up trumps for us and made some gorgeous display stands and our display is going to look absolutely awesome. The picture above is just a little taster of what I am taking with me!

Next Monday I am doing some tuition which I am really looking forward to, I have a tutorial to finish for Beads and Beyond Magazine as well as the Readers Challenge which I have been asked to do again! So all in all things are verrrryyyyy busy. I am totally loving it thank you everyone for supporting me for buying my beads and just thank you.....

TTFN x