Video Tutorial - Boho Hoop Earrings from Memory Wire

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Hey There!

Here's a simple tutorial for making Bohemian style hoop earrings. What's different about this one for me is I always try to get the hoops already made up, memory wire wasn't on the radar. Sure would've saved me money and time! Enjoy!




Patrice
https://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Product Review: EuroTool Dual Crimp Pliers

Hey There!

Welcome to another Product review! Today we have a great, indispensable tool for any jewelry maker, Dual Euro Crimpers. These crimpers are made to fit smaller crimp bead sizes! Check it out!
 

 http://jewelrymaking.about.com/od/toolequipmentreviews/a/dual-eurocrimpers.htm


Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Video Tutorial - Intro to Metalworking

Hey There!

Welcome to my Thursday Video Tutorial!

This is a simple metal project that illustrates a few different metal working techniques. I thought this was a novel project idea, but obviously it can be modified for a jewelry design. Pretty cool, huh?



Enjoy!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Product Review: Weldbond- Much More Than Great Glue

 Hi There,

Okay, this is one of my single most favorite craft products, Weldbond. It's like Elmer's on steroids! I use it as a glue and a decoupage medium. But see what a fellow Etsian has to say here as well!

 http://www.crafttestdummies.com/craft-product-reviews/guest-post-introduction-to-weldbond-adhesive/

Enjoy!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Video Tutorial: Make Metal Clay Earrings

Hey There!

Glad to see you back to the Thursday Video Tutorials!

I've learned the basics of making metal clay jewelry, and i just love it! Now, I need a good place to work!

I found this great little video for an easy pair of metal clay earrings. I'm going to try these myself, but I thought I'd share this with you and maybe give you some inspiration!



Enjoy!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Product Review: Olfa Rotary Circle Cutter

Hi There!

I've been cleaning out my mother's house after she entered an assisted living facility this month. I was worried but the place is very nice and all the residents seem healthy and happy. Mom is handling it pretty well, despite my initial misgivings. She's got company and someone to look after her since I'm 800+ miles away. Anyway, she was seamstress/dressmaker for 50 + years and had a ton of fabric (literally). It got me to thinking about the fabric arts. So when I ran across this Olfa Rotary Circle Cutter review I knew it was destiny! Check it out! 

 http://www.craftcritique.com/2011/07/vendor-spotlight-and-giveaway-olfa_9329.html

Enjoy!

Patrice

http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Video Tutorial - Wire Wrapped Bracelet

Hi There!

Okay, here's this great little video on making a simple wire wrapped bracelet. The beads really make or break this design. I made this with group of 6 - 3/4' disks in different colors instead of the beads and it came out great! Don't be afraid to try your own variation! Enjoy!





Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Video Tutorial - How to Make a Fumed Implosion Pendant

Hi There,

Okay, this is the second part of last week's tutorial. This is an advanced glass blowing technique but I just found the whole process fascinating. The music sets a certain tone in this video, too. The resulting pendant is absolutely gorgeous, so stick around!

If you like this one, please let me know by clicking the "Like" button at the bottom of this post. Also, if you would like to see something demonstrated here let me know in the comments box. Well enjoy and thanks for stopping by! And if you really like this, grab my button and tell a friend!





Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Mother and Daughter Shine at ck silver - A BESTeam Feature

 cksilver is the creative blending of mother/daughter team Marilyn and Cindy.  cksilver creates handcrafted sterling silver jewelry enhanced by freshwater pearls, semi-precious stones, and Swarovski crystal. Cindy gets her inspiration from the beauty of nature, while Marilyn really loves silver jewelry. So the result is an amalgamation of inspiration and love.

Here's their beautiful Sweetheart Wire-Wrapped Sterling Silver Pendant. A wonderful gift for someone special.

Any woman would love these Wine Grape Cluster Earrings in Sterling Silver!

Here's my favorite, the Found At Sea Sterling Silver Necklace.

A toast to Champagne Swirl Sterling Silver Earrings!

And here's the PURPLE!  Aren't these Amethyst Dream Sterling Silver Earrings divine!

Be sure to go by their shop and see the beautiful silver items made by this lovely family. And don't forget to drop over to their blog and get a dose of their inspiration.


All the best!


Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Video Tutorial - How to Make a Fumed Implosion Pendant

 Hi There!

The implosion technique in glass blowing creates the effect of multi-colored fingers of glass within another piece of clear glass. This video glass blowing tutorial shows how to use this style to make a jewelry pendant. Watch as the glass is shaped over a flame to recreate the fumed implosion technique resulting in a necklace pendant.

This is a more advanced video than I've placed here before, but I found this completely mesmerizing. This young man has talent and skill! (His taste in music ain't bad either.) This is Part 1, the second part will be next week.

Let me know if you like it by clicking the "Like" button at the bottom of this post. And if there's anything you'd like to see demonstrated here, let me know in the comments section. Enjoy and thanks for stopping by!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Amazing Kate at On Behalf Of - Another BESTeam Feature

Kate at On Behalf Of is amazing! She’s amazing because she cares so deeply for humanity that 90 percent of the proceeds from each item in her shop goes to provide clean water in developing countries, free captives from modern day slavers, care for orphans, or provide medical help to victims of HIV. The organizations she supports include Lahash International, Blood Water Mission, Not for Sale Campaign, John M. Perkins Foundation, Shaohannah's Hope and A Beautiful Idea.

“I love seeing the world with my own eyes,” says this resident of St. Louis, “and I'd rather live for others than live for myself. I believe our world system has enabled a small percent of us to live richly, lacking nothing, while the majority of beautiful people lack even the basic necessities in life.”

Although not a professional artist, Kate believes in using beauty to fight against the ugliness in our world. She believes in fighting back against injustice with acts of selfless love.  A truly inspiring yet humble individual, her shop represents the best of what art, life and Etsy are about!

“My heart and the aim of my life is to do what I can in fighting this injustice and helping those in my society to see that,” Kate says. “Now that I have seen, I am responsible… I'm a small girl, but I am pretty determined that not everything about me will be small.”

Amazing, Kate.

Here is one of the items offered on her site. This adorable image is entitled "Do You See Me?" an 8x10 print of an original painting.  Proceeds from this item go to provide care for orphans worldwide through Shaohannah's Hope.

This next colorful image is called "Clean Water Brings Life." This is an original 9x12 mixed canvas done with watercolor, acrylic, and paper. This piece illustrates the difference access to clean water makes. Proceeds go to Blood Water Mission.

Kate took this striking photograph named "Red Dress Altered Photo" at a church meeting in Morogoro, Tanzania. This church helps community members infected or affected by HIV and AIDs. Proceeds from this item go to Lahash International.

This poignantly beautiful work is an 8x10" print of an original mixed media canvas. The inscription reads, "Lespa Fe Viv," a Creole proverb meaning "Hope Makes One Live." Proceeds from this print go to World Vision's Haitian relief efforts through A Beautiful Idea.

Another beautiful , heart-rending image is this piece named Esperanza. This is an 8x10 print of a mixed media canvas. Esperanza is a Spanish word meaning "hope." Proceeds from this lovely piece go to the Not For Sale Campaign. Don't you want to hug her?

Beauty, compassion and charity are a heady mix in a business. On Behalf Of  is a remarkable shop run by a remarkable woman. Kate not only "talks the talk", she "walks the walk." Learn more about Kate, her mission and her scholarly pursuits on her blog at http://artonbehalfof.blogspot.com. I'm inspired! I'm going to help her help others, and buy one of her items. How about you?

If you are an inspired blogger on Etsy, the BESTeam wants you! Join us and see what it's all about!

All the best!


Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Video Tutorial - Make a Peruvian Bracelet

Hey There!

It's Thursday and this week's video tutorial is on how to make a Peruvian bracelet using macrame techniques. Now, if you like this one please besure to click the little like button below the entry. And if there's anything in particular you'd like to see on our Thursday video tutorial session let me know in the comments section of this post! Enjoy and thanks for stopping by!

How to Make a Peruvian Bracelet - The best home videos are here

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

You Are My Sunshine: A Bright Spot in the Day - A BESTeam Feature

When Nina’s two sons were little, this native of the Philippines would sing them to sleep with the timeless chestnut, "You Are My Sunshine." But although the boys are a little old for lullabies now, she carries the tune’s simple prettiness into her shop, aptly titled You Are My Sunshine.

You Are My Sunshine specializes in handmade fabric flower brooches, fabric flower hairpins, rings, earrings, bracelets and statement necklaces in a rainbow of colors to bring sunshine to each day!

Nina comes by the business bug honestly. Her parents had a movie house, a noodles restaurant, a bakery, a catering business, wedding cake decorating business, and several school canteens. They also raised chickens, rabbits and snails, and grew orchids for sale.

As an adult Nina worked in several industries, including sales and real estate. “I enjoy helping people and sharing what I know. That is why I have been in sales for many years and have always found fulfillment in it.”

Since the economic downturn she works at home on her businesses. “Truthfully, working harder than I ever have in my life,” she says.

And here's a lovely example of that hard work.  This Flower Brooch Forgotten Ball Gown with Glass Fringe is recycled from a discarded vintage ball gown and embellished with vintage glass fringe. Great for prom, graduation or that special summer night soiree!

Bubblegum pink cabochons are the core of this bright and pretty Pink Bubblegum Candy Bobby Pin Set. A sweet treat for the bride or bridesmaids in your future!

Mysterious and secret Night seems to linger in this two strand peacock pearl necklace called Into the Night Pearl Necklace With 2 Flower Accents. This versatile pretty sports two detachable rolled shabby roses with black stripes and rhinestones.

This precious Fabric Shabby Roses Painted Glass Button Necklace is graced by a classic hand painted brooch with a "grandmother's button", three delicate shabby chic fabric flowers and hangs from a vintage glass and faux pearl chain. A perfect complement to a light summer frock!

Turquoise is my second favorite color, only beat by purple! These irregularly shaped Vintage Turquoise Blue Glass Earrings are simply stunning! Made from vintage blue cabochons and stainless steel pad posts with rubber backed ear nuts. Great to wear on your balmy summer vacation!

And last but not least my personal favorite, the Fabric Rose Flower Brooch Cool and Fresh Linen. Far from my usual colorful picks, I know. It's the simplicity of the color and fabric combined with the complexity of the design that I find so striking about this brooch! A perfect summer statement!

So be sure to add some brightness to your day and drop by You Are My Sunshine and take a look around! Please also take a trip to her blog, become a fan on Facebook and follow her on Twitter.  And add a little Sunshine to your life!

Speaking of sunshine, are you a bright spot in the blogosphere? If so, BESTeam wants you! We're looking for blogging stars, so check us out and see what we're all about!

All the best!


Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Video Tutorial - Decoupage Technique

 Hi There!

It's Thursday and that means it's Video Tutorial Day! I wasn't sure if this was going to become an ongoing thing, but you guys seem to like it so it's going to continue! Woo hoo!

Now you've probably noticed I've been doing some decoupage pendants lately. So it occurred to me that since decoupage is such a versatile technique, you might find this particular one of interest. So check it out and if you like it, check the little like box down below the entry. And if you have any suggestions for other subjects let me know in the comment box! And thanks for coming by!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Video Tutorial - Wire Wrapping

     Here's a great little video tutorial to make a wire wrapped necklace from CamilleSharon. This is an easy tutorial with great potential for design embellishments!

     Enjoy! And stop by and share your finished work, okay?


Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Sandyvern "Soaps" the Halls of Hogwarts - A BESTeam Feature

Sandy's Handmade Soaps and Things is a great little shop run by Sandyvern! She loves making soap from scratch using the old-fashioned cold process method of combining various oils, butters, and lye in very small batches. After curing for four to six weeks, these luxurious soaps are hand-cut and individually packaged. Sandy also makes molded soaps using a combination of quality goat milk and shea butter bases, and oatmeal and honey bases. Molded soaps are great as party favors or wedding or shower favors.

A native New Englander and a self-taught crafter, Sandyvern was born and raised in Massachusetts, spent her young adulthood in New Hampshire and has been living in Connecticut for the last ten years. She runs a pet sitting business and in between taking care of her customers’ animals she crafts. “I love the mixing of the ingredients and the process of making soap from scratch using the cold process method,” she says. “But I love the artistic details of doing the 'melt and pour' soaps.”

Sandy is person to her own little menagerie including Brandon, a Border Collie/Australian shepherd mix, two cats (Ms. Spencer and Oreo), one ferret (Sammy), two parrotlets (Rory and Logan) and three bearded dragons (Harry Potter, Weasly and Hermione). When she’s not making soap or taking care of animals, Sandy’s either knitting or dabbling in jewelry making.


Speaking of jewelry, here's a special kind just for knitters. Ravenclaw House Stitch Markers a beautiful way to embellish or mark your place!

Gryffindor values courage, bravery, loyalty, nerve and chivalry. Its mascot is the lion, and its colours are scarlet and gold. This Gryffindor House Soap is made of a shea butter base soap, colored a light red (of course!) and scented with a Blue Bonnets.

Ravenclaw, Gryffindor and now owls? Holy Hogwarts, Harry! Am I sensing a THEME here?? :-) This Owl Soap could be modeled on Hedwig! All of these items are perfect for the Harry Potter fans in your life from age eight to eighty.

Aromatherapy, anyone? These Pink Grapefruit Bath Bombs are the ultimate fizzy luxury at the end of a hard day! Throw them in your bath or shower and luxuriate in the lavender scent! Great gift for anyone who likes to pamper themselves. Or, to give someone YOU want to pamper!

These Pastel Pink Jolly Rancher Earrings really resemble the little hard candy treats! They're made from frosted square beads and various Czech glass beads in pastel pink with surgical steel fish hooks. They're so lovely! Perfect for a new graduate, bride or bridesmaid!

I've saved the best for last! (Drum roll, please.) My favorite is the Watermelon Soap Popsicle! I honestly don't believe I could even stand to get these scrumptious-looking little morsels wet! They are just too cute! But for those of you who have better sense, soapsicles are a great way to get kids in the bathtub and an even better way to keep them in there. Each soapsicle the size of a standard popsicle and made from a gentle, vegan-friendly glycerin soap base. Each soapsicle comes shrink wrapped and decorated with a ribbon.

Whether you're a Harry Potter fan or not, you can certainly find something to love in Sandyvern's shop! Please take a flue trip over to her blog at http://theadventuresofsandyvern.blogspot.com/ and get a glimpse of her inspiration!

And speaking of inspiration, are you an inspired blogger on Etsy? Well, WE WANT YOU! The BESTeam is looking for inspired bloggers to join our ranks! So stop by and see what we have to offer!

All the best!


Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Sooooo, Whatcha' Watchin'?

Okay, so I admit I'm a fan of SciFi and Fantasy, have been since long before the genre became popular. For the longest time I couldn't share my interests because the best storytelling was in books and getting people out of their comfort zone is no easy task.

But these days, there are so many really well done sf&f shows and movies that I can finally share! Here's a peek at my latest guilty pleasure, Game of Thrones! Politics intrigue murder, sex and magic intertwine in this George R.R. Martin plot! Here's a recap of the story.

The Story So Far: Episodes 1-6

Any other fans out there?

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com
https://designsbymayanna.com

Video Tutorial - Basics of Metal Stamping

Here's a little video on the basics of metal stamping. It's a great way to create personalized and unique metal jewelry.

If you like this video, please click the like button at the bottom of this entry. If there is anything you would like to see covered, just let me know in the comments section. Thanks for stopping by and enjoy!



Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Button, Button

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Pecanieregirl: "Sew" Much Fun! - A BESTeam Feature

Pecanieregirl runs Gramme's House on Etsy, a shop that has a little of everything. For the sweet babies, infants and toddlers in your life, there are dresses, little boy's jon-jons, bibs, ribbons, hair bows, and diaper bags. Looking for a gift for an adult, check out her key fobs, badge holders, koozies, purse organizers, and tissue holders. The shop offers monogramming, personalization, appliqué and custom designs.

Pecanieregirl, a mother and grandmother, works her creative magic in a small community in southern Louisiana called Livonia. A trained and practicing hospice nurse, she gives her professional and compassionate attention to those who need her most.

“I learned to sew from my older sister years ago,” says Pecanieregirl, “and sewed quite a bit when my children were younger. I have recently started sewing and machine embroidery again, and am now hopelessly hooked.” Besides spending time with her family, sewing is her favorite pastime. “I love making boutique style dresses, baby items and even have my hand in digital and paper scrapbooking."

This Set of 2 Personalized Bibs with zoo animals appliques - Mix or match  would make a great shower gift for the expectant mom on your list!

Any LSU fans on your list? Here's a great little LSU Mini keyfob just to wish them well!

Take the little ones in your life to "Infinity and Beyond" with Buzz, Woody and this Personalized Toy Story Kindermat cover with attached pillowcase!

Momma and baby will be stylin' with this fabulous Personalized Diaper Bag - Zebra design. Are you SURE this is for diapers?!!

Okay, this is just too freaking cool! Check out this Little girls diaper cover - Bloomers - CAMO Diva! Get over it guys, camo's now a (baby) girl's best friend.

This Personalized Pencil Box in your choice of color vinyl makes a great gift for school-aged kids. It's also a great little knick-knick or storage box for anyone on your list!

Whew! What a great selection of personalized items! And you can find so much more at her shop on Etsy! She has a wonderful blog so stop by and join. Also, become a fan of hers on Facebook! Be sure to do some shopping at Gramme's House, where there is always "sew" much fun!!!

And speaking of fun, do love to blog and have a shop on Etsy? If so, join the BESTeam and see what fun is REALLY all about!

All the best!


Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Video Tutorial - How to Drill Metal to Make Jewelry

Hey There!

     I've found another video tutorial on how to drill metal for jewelry making from Wonder How To. Pretty straightforward but shows a couple of techniques.


                               

Learn How to drill into metal to make jewelry. For more Jewelry How-To Videos & Articles, visit WonderHowTo.

      Some more basics of making jewelry. Hope you like it!

     Don't forget to leave a comment if you like it, (or not)! :-)




Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Creative Passion at Creativity Bugs - Another BESTeam Feature

The Creativity Bugs are two sisters (Sandy and Sue) who have a passion for crafting. For these two making gifts for family and friends has now turned into a business venture. Their Etsy store includes paper crafts and gifts, handmade cards, paper craft kits and supplies, holiday gifts, doll clothing and accessories, plus a whole lot more.

The sisters are avid crafters who began at a very early age. The love of crafting was inherited from their mom, who loving taught her daughters how to make something special out of next to nothing.

Creativity Bug Sue is a crafty crafter whose first projects included potholders made with string loops, doll furniture made from recycled cereal boxes and plastic containers, and vases made from old bottles covered with masking tape and inks. Not surprising her first Brownie badge earned was for arts & crafts.

Creativity Bug Sandy is a crafter, artist, and seamstress. Art classes in high school broadened her horizons, gave her a flare for color and design and a desire to turn trash into treasures. No one has a better knack for finding diamonds in the rough at garage sales and thrift stores and turning them into unique gifts.

Say "hello" to someone special with this Blue, Green, and Turquoise Hummingbird Hello Card. It's a lovely 3D card to send "just because" any time of year.

This Blue Green Yellow Flower Achieve Blank Card is a sensational gift for the new graduate! It inspires the loftiest goals in anyone!

This luscious Creme Brule scented candle with butterflies is a sure fire hit with any lady on your list! Makes a wonderful gift for teacher, housewarming, friendship, and birthday.

This adorable little owl thank you - blank card is blank inside for you to handwrite a special personalized note to the recipient. A great way to say "thanks" for that graduation gift!

Spring is here, which means summer is not too far behind! Get those feet ready for sandal weather and bare footing with the softening effects of foot salts.This Soothing Foot Salts with Decorative Red Flower Gift Tag is 2 ounces of scented bliss!

Creativity Bugs is another family-owned business on Etsy, stop by and see all they have to offer! You can also find the sisters on their blog or become a devoted fan on Facebook.


Speaking of devoted, are you devoted to blogging? If that's true then WE WANT YOU! Join the BESTeam and find out what we have to offer!

All the best!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Here's a Sneak Peek at the Newest Attractions at Designs by M'Ayanna

I've been a speculative fiction addict for more than 40 years. I was into Heinlein, Tolkien and P. K. Dick back in the days when they were considered down right weird. Now they are more than acceptable, they're fashionable. This is due in no small part to today's fascination  with the industrial revolution and the fascinating possibilites represented by that era. The influence of science fiction writers from the late 19th century like Wells and Verne is still alive today in steam punk fashion and lifestyle. I'm putting my own spin on the style as part of my New Vintage collection.

Skeleton keys are a big part of the steam punk look. This 3 inch brass key embellishment is combined with 25mm antique brass wheel elements, red and clear faceted glass rounds and hung from an oval linked antique brass chain. I think it's a cool, rather elegant piece and great for dress or casual wear!

Look for it and more new items at Designs by M'Ayanna!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Giveaway from Designs by M'Ayanna at Blue Butterfly Vintage!

Hey There!

Well Jenn is doing it again. She's hosting a giveaway for my "Squares and Circles" bracelet! Hurry over to get your Chance to Win!

http://bluebutterflyvintage.blogspot.com/2011/05/new-giveaway-designs-by-mayanna.html

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Coming Attraction! Coming Soon to Designs By M'Ayanna on Etsy!

My New Vintage line includes classic styles and classic techniques. One of those classic techniques is decoupage. I learned to do decoupage last year. i honestly though of it as something little old ladies did to keep busy. I never realized what a wonderful way it is to be creative when you are otherwise artfully challenged! So come meet my buddy "Chauncey."

 "Chauncey" is also a steam punk themed pendant done in wood. The artwork is from fellow Etsian LandofEnchantment and has been glued to a wooden domino. The image is embellished with a piece of the inner workings of an antique watch, a red rhinestone and a pale olive green rhinestone. It is covered in 20 coats of of decoupage medium and dipped twice in wood lacquer. The embellishments add a certain something to the dimensionality of the piece. Isn't he handsome?

Coming soon to Etsy!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Preview: Up Next at Designs by M'Ayanna on Etsy

 It's been a Lo-o-o-ong time coming, but the new line is finally here!

Last fall I started a line called "New Vintage." It's my take on the vintage craze with some unique elements and mixed techniques, styles and colors. I found some fabulous raw brass filigree with fresh from the forge patinas and I used one to create this little number.

Okay, can you tell it's a Steam Punk style design? I'm calling these pendants "Pretty in (Steam) Punk." (I twisted up that bail myself, been working on my wire techniques, too! I know I'm supposed to be all artsy and stuff, but I'm having so much fun I'm bouncing in my seat!) It's a cold connected piece fabricated by yours truly! This raw brass pendant is composed of a beautiful 35mm filigree medallion, a 25mm 5-spoke brass gear wheel and a lovely amethyst-colored 5-petal Czech glass flower. It hangs on three lengths of silk embroidery ribbon. My daughter keeps looking at it with puppy dog eyes, so it's definitely got appeal!

Coming soon to Etsy!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Oh, So Lovely! - Bits 'n Beads by Gilliauna: A BESTeam Feature

      If I had to use only one word to describe Bits n Beads by Gilliauna it would be just lovely (okay, maybe two words). She creates exquisite and unique handmade artisan jewelry rich in color and quality including necklaces, earrings, bracelets, eyeglass chains, beaded lanyards, charms, zipper pulls, rosaries and more.

      Like me, Gilliauna loves color. And color and quality are what her shop is all about, her items are all well crafted and beautifully displayed. A testament to her experience and skill, her site holds a myriad of beaded jewelry and gift items that display a remarkable sense of artistic balance, patient craftsmanship and attention to detail.

      Bits n Beads by Gilliauna often uses cleaned, re-purposed and vintage jewelry parts and beads in many of her colorful creations. This helps to help keep waste to a minimum, and shopping for vintage materials at places like the Salvation Army helps the community.

      An artist with over 20 years experience, Gilliauna is a US citizen who lives and works in British Columbia, Canada. Her lovely creations can be seen at craft shows both across the border and in Washington state, as well as a variety of venues on the web.

      Here we have a piece that caught my eye right off. This Agate Dragons Vein Necklace Handmade in Bronze is a really striking piece. Notice the little bronze filigree beadcap at the bottom of the pendant and the little dragons vein bead that dangles at the end of the chain. It's these types of details that make Gilliauna's work truly unique. Great for Mom or Mother of the bride!
 

      These Gold Hoop Earrings, Amethyst Gemstone caught my eye because they're purple, of course. But they are also set to dangle on gold plated "Adik" hoops with a safety hook clasp. Again, it's in the details! A great gift for Mom, a new graduate or something "new" for the bride!

     Here's a bit of colorful whimsy any bookworm or new graduate will adore! This Handmade Beaded Book Charm - Dragonfly's Kiss, a one-of-a-kind silver-plated bookmark, boasts a dragonfly and a two-tone faceted glass bead of green and blue. Useful and pretty to boot!

     With summer just around the corner, what could be more apropos than this adorable Ladybug Love Handmade Charm Bracelet in Red, hm? Bright and cheerful, this charm bracelet was created using red coral beads, glass pearls and wire wrapped red glass beads; with little lampwork ladybugs and a matching silver plated toggle clasp on a silver plated chain. A sweet graduation or birthday gift for some lucky girl!

      These Frosted Amber Teardrop Earrings, Gold Wire Wrapped are a Gilliauna signature design called "The Elixirs." The glass drops in these earrings have been hand-dipped in clouding solution to create a satin sheen before being set to dangle on delicate matching gold-tone hooks designed by hand for a unique and graceful shape.

    

    As you can see, Bits 'n Beads by Gilliauna is a marvelous place to find well-made, handcrafted jewelry and gifts! She also maintains a wonderful blog with guidance and inspiration for gift shoppers. And be sure to become a fan of hers on Facebook and follow her on Twitter! So many lovely items, so little time!

     Speaking of lovely, do you love to blog? Are you on Etsy? Well, the BESTeam wants you! Stop by and see what lovely things we have to offer!

All the best!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Video Tutorial - Make a Even Peyote Stitch Amulet bag

Hey There!

Okay. you wanted more tutorials, you got 'em! Here's one from digsart on making an even count tubular peyote stitch amulet bag!

Happy beading!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Video Tutorial - Even Peyote Stitch

Hi There!

This is a great video on Even Peyote Stitch from rebartstudio I want to share today. Done with these larger beads you can really see the detail.

This is great for beginners and intermediate beaders!


Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com

Meow! All About Cats Takes the Stage! - A BESTeam Feature

     PUT YOUR HANDS IN THE AIR! Everybody say YEAH!

     All you cool cat lovers rejoice, All About Cats is in the house! Run by Linda, cat lover extraordinaire, All About Cats offers the cutest catnip toys and cat-themed items any kitty (and his/her person) will love!
      A lifelong animal lover, Linda grew up on a small farm in the beautiful state of Vermont. Her mother was a true nature lover and passed that love on to her daughter. She also passed on her penchant for creativity, “I used to love to sit and watch her create things from a bunch of small parts,” Linda recalls.
      These days Linda shares her home with three cats she rescued Jerry, Maggie, and Brady. "My cats love helping me make things," she says. "Thank goodness for lint rollers!"
     Linda loves sewing and painting (she loves to paint on rocks).  And sewing is how she makes all these adorable toys and cat decorated items. Well made and colorful, Linda’s items will make yours a happy cat! Just take a look!


     Say "hello" to Marty The Blue Owl Organic Catnip Bell Cat Toy. Isn't he adorable? Marty is made from blue fleece and his eyes and nose are made from felt. He's filled with potent organic catnip, two bells encased in fleece, and fiberfill. He measures approximately 3" by 3".
 

      Here's an item made for your tabby's person the Cat Print Mini Wallet, Business Card Holder, Gift Card Holder. It's a cat print pouch perfect for credit cards, drivers license, and money. Slip it into your pocket for those times you don't want to carry a purse. Or use it as a business card holder, or give it as a gift with a gift card inside. This 100% cotton pouch has a Velcro closure, and is lined with interfacing.

 

     This is my favorite, Pearl The Purple Mouse Organic Catnip Cat Toy! She's made from light and dark purple fleece. Her eyes are felt and her whiskers are black thread. Polly is stuffed with potent organic catnip, two bells encased in fleece, and fiberfill. She measures about 2" in diameter and her tail is approximately 6" long.

     Another person piece! These Four Large Abstract Fabric Cat Magnets are stunning! All the cats have pink ears. The standing yellow cat has blue eyes and black, olive green and maroon circles on it's body and tail. The brown cat has yellow eyes and green and green and black stripes. The white cat has blue eyes and yellow, blue and black stripes. The sitting yellow cat  has green eyes and green and black stripes. made from 100% cotton with magnets covering the entire back.

     Another purr-fect item for the cat lover in your house. This Cat Print Rag Bag or Plastic Bag Holder is a cute and functional item that will keep your rags or bags organized and out of sight. It has elastic around the top and bottom to keep rags/bags tucked inside. Just hang it by the strap, insert items through the top, and pull items out from the bottom.

     Be sure to stop by Linda's shop and take something cuddly home! You can also visit her blog and make her day by leaving a comment. Or become a friend of Linda's and felines everywhere on Facebook. (Here Kitty! Where'd that darn cat go now?) :-)

   Oh by the way, if you like to blog and are on Etsy, come check out the BESTeam. We'd love to have you join us! Meow!

All the best!

Patrice
http://www.designsbymayanna.etsy.com