A few things to share

I’m enjoying one of those days in which I didn’t over-schedule.  This is what the lazy days of summer are all about…we enjoyed a stroll off the beaten path of a nearby lake, and wandered into a clearing in the woods.  My sons and I enjoyed a lunch amidst ants, butterflies and even a snake.  Yes, my oldest spied a snake curled along a long stick next to the stream.  For more summer fun, tonight we are going with a group of little boys to watch a local minor league baseball game.

Here’s a new design I created last week.  I’ve had these beautiful, organic beads from Kim at Nightingale Gallery.  I wanted to make wire links that would complement their handcrafted uniqueness. 🙂  I used heavy sterling silver wire and created uneven coils.  I just love coiling wire.  The second picture shows how the piece looks after it was oxidized, creating a nice darkened patina.

Before I sign off I wanted to share another favorite pastime.  One thing that keeps me up late at night is visiting my favorite indie design blogs.  I’ll admit I’ve entered the blog craze and have quite a few book marked.  As many of you know, the indie design movement really celebrates crafters, artists, and designers who create all kinds of handmade goodies.  I would like to support these fellow crafters and highlight their work here from time to time.  If you would like to get your daily dose of design, and find out who’s who and what they’re creating, I’ll point you in the right direction.  For starters, hop over to Nole Style and Beauty Indulgence to read about great finds in fashion and design.  Amaya has a fun blog to read and a great website relaunching soon.  Next be sure to check out Indie Fixx.  You’ll be sure to discover something great when you read Jen’s reviews. 

I just have to share a major source for handmade treasures, for those of you who may not be familiar with it: Etsy!  Etsy is an online community “built by artists for artists” where you can find anything you could ever want.  All handcrafted.  This site has grown at an incredible rate since I first discovered it over a year ago.  Stop by to find clothing, toys, jewelry, paper goods, purses, art, and a whole lot more. 🙂  Many of the indie design blogs feature their Etsy favorites.   Stop by and find your own!