Getting Started - Health and Posture at the Jewelry Table

How many hours...? And then what happens?

I decided to write this short article on some simple reminders about body and posture while at the jewelry table. We all know that eventually, the joy and passion of jewelry creation will work it's way from the beading table over to the computer desk. We love to share, blog, learn more and then sell our work which means you can bet on it, that you will be here too.

I bring this topic up because I found I had some aches and pains after long projects.
Time to change some things up and not let that get out of control.

Some tips:

1. When working with wire wrapping, you will find that your hands and wrists fatigue. It's logical if you think about the motion of hands and wrists while using pliers, holding wire firm, pulling wire, etc. If your arms are not conditioned, you may ache in the forearms, back and shoulders as though you've played tennis the day before.

• Make sure to plan your projects in such a way that you have time in between to rest and stretch your hands, legs, back, arms...
• Use helpful techniques to assist you in keeping wire together to relieve some hand tension. Use tape, banding wires, twist ties, clamps, etc. where you can and where appropriate for your project.
• If IT HURTS or is an unnatural body motion when you are wrapping your wire, chances are you are making it harder on yourself then it should be. Don't take unnatural bends or motions into your posture. Set your piece down. Pick it up in such a way that you can make the bends and wraps without contorting yourself. I mention this because in the beginning, I found I didn't want to 'let the wire go' for fear I would lose control over it. Learn to put it down if you feel aching in your movements or if your movements are unnatural.

2. After sitting at the jewelry table for hours and most of the time, with a slight bend forward... you might find that your lower back, shoulders and neck begin to ache.

• Stop and stretch. Most if the time, just being aware to do that will keep you well and muscle knot free.
• Make sure you are sitting in a proper chair that gives you back and even arm rest support and that is appropriate height for your table or desk. Use what is comfortable for you, but don't sit for hours making jewelry on things such as a tall stool. This might bring you higher above the table than you should be and cause you to bend forward farther than is good for your back.
• Replacing your chair with a body ball appropriate to your weight and height might be a way to strengthen back and lower back muscles and posture. Certainly check with your doc or health person to ensure it's right for you, but it's something I did long ago. Body balls are about $40.00 at the local sports shop.

3. Keep water near you. Sometimes, four or five hours will pass and I won't notice. If you keep a nice neon color water bottle there next to you, at least you'll remember to keep hydrated.

4. Give your eyes a break and treat them well... work in proper light, work at appropriate distances to your projects, use magnifier, jewelry lamps for really small wire. Or just in general. There are some 'head lamps' that might be useful to you.

5. VENTILATE yourself properly if you are working with products such as Liver of Sulpher, adhesives, stains, etc...

Be well in your Art and enjoy!

Getting Started - Jewelry Measurement, Helpful Charts

When you're working with jewelry, you're working in MM (millimeters) most of the time. What the heck is a millimeter and why do you need to know? It's a unit of measure that is important if you are looking to sell your jewelry. Plus learning the lingo doesn't hurt if you're shopping for custom or handmade jewelry and need to visualize the size of a stone or wire. MM most often speaks to the 'size' of the stone or cabochon. Gauge is speaking about the 'thickness' of wire.

In Gauges, the SMALLER the number, the thicker the wire.
The 'LARGER' the number, the thinner the wire.

Keep that in your perfectly twisted memory. :))
MM and gemstone sizes do not work this way. The larger the number, the larger the size.

• Wire comes as 'Dead Soft', 'Half Hard' and 'Hard'.
• Use Dead Soft wires for wire wrapping.  Wire hardens as you work with it. Use Half hard or Hard wires for things such as findings or jump rings where more strength is needed in a single bend or loop.
• Wire also comes round, half round, square, twisted, imprinted with design.
• Wire also comes 'bare' (no anti-tarnish coating), or comes coated to prevent the development of a patina.  Bare wire, can be oxidized (antiqued) but coated wire will not take to oxidation.

~click the images to enlarge
Chart from rings-things.com



How does one measure a MM? I would recommend that you get the inexpensive, no frills, uncomplicated brass Caliper.  They are about $6 or $10 from the local hobby/jewelry store or online.

These are what I use for measure in addition to standard rulers, over the counter grid paper and my eyeballs.

Enjoy - I hope this helps.

  

These images are can be found pinned on my Pinterest board:
Wire Jewelry Patterns, Information and Tutorials

Getting Started - Tools for Making Wire Wrapped and Beaded Jewelry

What tools do *I* use? Lindstrom's RX ergonomic tools. They cost a bit more then the pliers and cutters you might find at the local hobby store, but... I have to say that if you're going to do wire for the long haul, then it's worth the investment. I got my tools a couple of pieces at a time and over time, have tried several of their jewelry pliers and cutters. I have to say... they are my faves for sure. They've outlasted anything else I've tried from local shops and trust me... I give the tools a run for their money. I'm hardly delicate when I'm intent on bending or cutting wire. I expect the tools to do most of the muscle work and so I use them that way, saving my precious wrists and hands as much as I can.

Here's the link to their site for information:
http://www.lindstromtools.us/products/bead-and-jewelry-arts


When I first started making wire jewlery, I did like everyone else does... went to the local Hobby Lobby, got the 'jewelry making kit' for around $30.00 and went to town learning. That's a great start, but once you fall in love with wire art, you'll want to invest in some better tools. Like any serious hobby, it's best to invest in your body's comfort and well being. That makes the jewelry project all the better and when you're not concerned with hand or wrist fatigue... your project will be even more spectacular when finished.

From their site:

Lindstrom Rx plier

The result of 150 years of making the world's leading cutters and pliers.

We have put all our experience, technical expertise and ergonomic know-how into the successful Rx plier series. Take a close look at the Rx plier, try it out and then compare it to all competitors on the market. The Rx plier will always come out on top!

1. Finely finished. High degree of symmetry, even under magnification.
2. Rounded shape makes it easy to rotate to find the correct working angle.
3. Cushioned, high-friction surface. Always comfortable and steady in your hand.
4. Return spring automatically opens Rx pliers. You always have your fingers in place to do the job.
5. Easy to adjust, three-position spring. Provides different resistance and grip widths.
   
6. Unique spring design. Reduces fatigue over time in intensive use.
7. Long, wide handles. Distribute and minimize pressure points.
8. Light weight. Easy to maneuver and position.
9. Springs are easily replaced. Tool stocking and replacement costs are reduced.
10. ESD safe.

Here is my little collection of Lindstrom tools... along with some other tools that are important when mangling wire. I have a wonderful collection of non-Lindstrom tools also, which I purchased from the local hobby store or from one of my fave online suppliers. All will work well for you when you keep in mind, the comfort of your body machine.

Now for the beginner... what basic tools do you need to start? Here's what I recommend:

• Flat nose jewelry plier
• Chain nose
• Round nose
• Jewelry wire cutters
• A jewelry file
• A ruler
• I'm missing an image of my nylon jaw pliers... a must for straightening wires.

Here's a link to a pair at Michael's...

You should be able to accomplish most wire and bead projects with these. Over time, you'll most likely look to add to your collection based on what you prefer to make.













Updated: A girlfriend of mine just told me about Wubbers! They sound just as wonderful as the Lindstrom but not as expensive. I can't speak on them because I don't own a pair, but here is a link to her post on them. I think the next time I need a new pair of pliers I'll be looking into Wubber also.
 Thanks Jamie! CreationsbyJae

Enjoy!

www.wubbers.com







updated 5/19/2014

New Wire Wrapped Earrings in Gold Fill and Sterling Silver, Now in Etsy!

Holler Daze are coming... (rolls over giggling!) ~
I had a ball creating these as they're a 'new style' for me and I think I love them! The tiny wire wrapping, coiling I think they call it, is a very popular technique these days as it should be! I personally love it and am set to learn more about how to wrap this way. So much to learn, so short on wire! Ikes! I managed to get these finished and am in the works to find more wire and put a few new pieces together. These are in my Etsy store now so please SHOP to your hearts content! :)

Something to think on during the holiday months....

What to do with 'left over' jewelry??? Or jewelry that didn't sell in the year?

Q. What happened to all my 'old' earring styles and pendants from last year?

A. Well, like every November... my left over pretties go directly to the Child Protection Services Christmas auction. My good friend is a Saint and puts this auction on every year to raise money for the needy kids (she's like Mrs. Santa Clause). ;)

Her mission is to get people, businesses and friends, to donate items to the auction so that oodles of money can be raised for the kids. It's always ALWAYS, my pleasure to give her pieces at the end of my year. It makes me feel really good that my little work, my designs, my effort, contributes to the well being of these children. Thanks to Jacqueline! ....for all her amazing energy and effort.... and for allowing people like me, to give with the labor of our love. She can raise by far more money for those children in that auction with my pieces, then I could ever give her directly in cash. It's a blessing to me.

It's a win, win situation also because in addition to the warm and fuzzy love that goes on when giving your jewelry away to good causes... you can also get a nifty tax deduction thank you letter. It's wonderful to give. :)

I work as a software tech for a non-profit organization and am always trying to give with my time or artwork in some way. I would recommend that rather then getting a buck or two reselling old beads that you don't want or can't use.... take a minute, string them up into something cute anyway and GIVE them to the local non-profit fund raisers or auctions. Your left over beads will be worth much more then a buck or two this way. Much more in appreciation and love. Not to mention your business card can be attached to each donated piece. Great way to market your name and show your heart.

It never escapes me, that for every beautiful gemstone I use, there was someone's back breaking effort to get that stone 'out of the mountain' or earth... Many Someones...

I honor that by not forgetting where they came from... and by trying to give back in a positive way ... what I don't use. Remember that if you are working with Natural products... they came out of our Earth.

Hear with your EAR th
Share with your e ART h
Love with your HEART...
What is precious from our EARTH

Smiles!

RED: Earth / Smell : "I am"
Root chakra, First chakra - lies between the rectum and the genital area. Activity, energy, stamina, joy in living, sexuality, love

Qualities: Full acceptance of life on earth, survival, power to achieve goals, vitality, grounding, satisfaction, material security, stability, primal trust, stillness, courage.

Hooray! A light bulb.
See what bending good wire can do for you?

And finally.. the earring of Purple!

Passion in Purple Amethyst, Sterling Silver, Beaded Bracelet

This little bracelet was so much fun to make but wow... did it take a while. :) Don't they all?

When I found these AAA quality Amethyst briolette beads ... I just had to have them! They are soooo lovely and especially with the Labradorite and Hematite accents. I find these colors go really well together and are soothing to me. I made it 8 inches long on sterling silver chain. I used a sterling clasp, sterling accent beads and headpins also.

My current mood is in the Purples and violets. Check out my Chakra post for information on color energy.

I'm going to take the extra time and try to make a few more of these (I went on a briolette buying spree a while back and picked up a few strands of various fave stones). I have some great Aquamarine and Spinel that I can't wait to wire up!
I splurged and they're all AAA quality and just stunning. These bracelets just take many hours of finger mangle, but they end up worth the whole effort.

I love the way it feels on my wrist too.. I'm such a girl. (winks at you)
But, they're fun to wear... elegant, feminine and even a little mischievous.

I'm working on the earrings but they're not done yet. In the meantime, this is also listed in my Etsy shop if I can dare tempt you... ;)

Click the images to enlarge them.

VIOLET: Thought : "I understand"
Crown chakra, Seventh chakra - located at the top of the head. Purity, sincerity, clarity, truth, perfection, enlightenment, understanding. Qualities: Perfection, integration / unity with the omnipresent, divine wisdom and purpose, universal consciousness, bliss, understanding, enlightenment.

Terrific Turquoise and Shell Beaded Dangles Bracelet

Yet another finger numbing project, but I love the color of turquoise and golden browns together... why? I dunno, but just look at this bracelet! It's wonderful! Natural, casual, fun. Just the way I love to be. :)

This is 7 inches long, using the most delicious turquoise and shell beads, sterling silver chain, clasp, accent beads and headpins. Earrings are coming! I'm in a bracelet mood the past couple of days so until I get into the ears mood... this will have to tempt you enough.

Click on the image to enlarge.

Delightful Dangles Beaded Wire Chandelier Earrings

Sometimes a girl just wants to whip out a pair of beautiful earrings! So I did. :) These are beaded on gold vermile with bright and wonderful Peridot stones, labradorite chips and gold fill ear wire. I used gold fill wire in the attachment of the stones also. Sometimes it's hard to find applications for really really tiny beads but this was a perfect way to use them I thought. Earrings are a great place for those wonderful tiny stones that might escape attention when strung on a bracelet or necklace with other larger stones.

I put AAA Iolite briolettes in the centers which I thought filled these delightful dangles up with more eye catching color. They're WONDERFUL on the ears.

I had a 'tiny treasures' mood once so I picked up all these wonderful strands of 3mm gemstones and have been itching to use them.

I hope you enjoy these.

VIOLET: Thought : "I understand"
Crown chakra, Seventh chakra - located at the top of the head. Purity, sincerity, clarity, truth, perfection, enlightenment, understanding

Qualities: Perfection, integration / unity with the omnipresent, divine wisdom and purpose, universal consciousness, bliss, understanding, enlightenment.

GREEN: Air / Touch : "I love"
Heart chakra, Fourth chakra - lies in the middle of the chest. Warmheartedness, friendship, openness, freedom, harmony, peace, empathy, self renewal.

Qualities: Unconditional / divine love and harmony, forgiveness, healing, compassion, understanding, transformation, warmth, sharing, sincerity, devotion, selflessness.

Kool Kyanite Wire Wrapped Earring Ideas...

To bead a perfect earring is to be a Goddess. *winks*
I love Kyanite and it fails me not, when I make ANYTHING Kyanite, it sells. These are all gone, but I wanted to share a simple and wear with all design for earrings. I wanted to make some nice quality, everyday earrings that carry a subtle 'spectacular' about them, somewhat quick to make and something that I knew would sell. Let's be truthful... we love to make jewelry but how else do we support our bead habits if we don't sell our work!

If you're looking for great sellers and easy making, quality earrings, give Kyanite a shot. Everyone loves it not only for it's beauty, but also for it's energy.

Click to enlarge the image.

BLUE: Ether / Sound : "I speak"
Throat chakra, Fifth chakra - lies at the base of the throat. Faithfulness, loyalty, openness, freedom (light blues), responsibility and respect for others (dark blues)

Qualities: Free / creative self expression, communication, inspiration, confidence, integrity, wisdom, truth, freedom, Independence, access to subtler levels of being.

Chakras Rocks Color and Stone Meanings

What's a Chakra?
Chakras are energy centers that run up the center of the body (normally shown up the spine) to the top of the head or what is called the 'crown chakra'. The chakra link the subtle, electromagnetic inner bodies to the physical body. There are seven major chakras. There is also an Earth chakra below the feet, a higher heart chakra just above the heart and the higher crown chakra just above the head.


VIOLET: Thought : "I understand"
Crown chakra, Seventh chakra - located at the top of the head. Purity, sincerity, clarity, truth, perfection, enlightenment, understanding

Qualities: Perfection, integration / unity with the omnipresent, divine wisdom and purpose, universal consciousness, bliss, understanding, enlightenment.

• Musical Keynote: B (Ohm)
• Glands: PINEAL : controls cerebrum, right brain, central nervous system, right eye.
• Gemstones: Alexandrite, Amethyst, Clear Quartz, Diamond, Selenite
• Aromas: Lotus, Olibanum, Rose, Spruse
  

INDIGO: Light : "I see"
Forehead or 'third eye' chakra, Sixth chakra - lies above the top of the nose, center of the forehead. Insight, spirituality, transformation, determination, peace and devotion.

Qualities: Inner vision, intuition, insight, clairvoyance, imagination, extrasensory perception, idealism, concentration, peace of mind, projection of will, manifestation.

• Musical Keynote: A, Ee
• Glands: PITUITARY : endocrine system, left brain, left eye, nose, ears, sinuses, areas of the nervous system.
• Gemstones: Azurite, Calcite, Lapis Lazuli, Sodalite, Quartz
• Aromas: Jasmine, Mint, Mugwort, Star anise
  

BLUE: Ether / Sound : "I speak"
Throat chakra, Fifth chakra - lies at the base of the throat. Faithfulness, loyalty, openness, freedom (light blues), responsibility and respect for others (dark blues)

Qualities: Free / creative self expression, communication, inspiration, confidence, integrity, wisdom, truth, freedom, Independence, access to subtler levels of being.

• Musical Keynote: G, Eh
• Glands: THYROID : controls jaw, neck, throat, voice, airways, upper lungs, nape of neck, arms.
• Gemstones: Aquamarine, Blue Sapphire, Chalcedony, Turquoise
• Aromas: Benzoin, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Sage
  

GREEN: Air / Touch : "I love"
Heart chakra, Fourth chakra - lies in the middle of the chest. Warmheartedness, friendship, openness, freedom, harmony, peace, empathy, self renewal.

Qualities: Unconditional / divine love and harmony, forgiveness, healing, compassion, understanding, transformation, warmth, sharing, sincerity, devotion, selflessness.

• Musical Keynote: F, Ah
• Glands: THYMUS : heart, blood circulation, immune system, lower lungs, rib cage, skin, upper back, hands.
• Gemstones: Emerald, Green Jade, Kunzite, Rose Quartz, Tourmaline.
• Aromas: Majoram, Orris root, Rose oil, Yarrow
  

YELLOW: Fire / Sight : "I do"
Navel or Solar Plexus chakra, Third chakra - lies above the navel below the chest.
Optimism, cheerfulness, success, generosity, satisfaction

Qualities: Personal power, social identity, influence, authority, self-control, energy, will, peace, radiance, joy, inner harmony, acceptance of self, strength, action, vitality.

• Musical Keystone: E, O(top)
• Glands: PANCREAS: Liver, digestive system, stomach, spleen, gall bladder, autonomic nervous system, lower back and muscles.
• Gemstones: Amber, Citrine, Tiger's eye, Topaz, Yellow Sapphire
• Aromas: Bergamot, Carnation, Lavendar, Rosemary.
  

ORANGE: Water / Taste : "I feel"
Sacral chakra, Second chakra - lies above the pubic bone, between the navel and genitals. Vitality, ambition, fertility, erotic feelings

Qualities: Primal feelings, sexuality, desire, sensuality, procreation, pleasure, awe, enthusiasm, relationships, union with nature, openness to others, personal creativity.

• Musical Keystone: D, O(home)
• Glands:REPRODUCTIVE ORGANS: Pelvic area, sex organs, potency, fluid functions, kidneys, bladder.
• Gemstones: Carnelian, Coral, Gold Calcite, Moonstone.
• Aromas: Damiana, Gardenia, Sandalwood, Ylang-Ylang.
  

RED: Earth / Smell : "I am"
Root chakra, First chakra - lies between the rectum and the genital area. Activity, energy, stamina, joy in living, sexuality, love

Qualities: Full acceptance of life on earth, survival, power to achieve goals, vitality, grounding, satisfaction, material security, stability, primal trust, stillness, courage.

• Musical Keystone: C, U(ooh)
• Glands: ADRENAL : solid parts spinal column, bones, teeth, nails. Anus, rectum, colon, prostrate gland, blood and building of cells.
• Gemstones: Agate, Bloodstone, Hematite, Red Coral, Red Garnet, Ruby
• Aromas: Cedar, Clove, Pepper

Stars and Stones, The Zodiac and Stones

* image sources:
http://www.library.cornell.edu/africana/Writing_Systems/zodiac-1.jpg
http://www.wiki.com
And I forgot where I found the third one - was just 'here'. Sorry if not sourced, but it's not 'mine', so I thank the owner for the lending. :)



Capricorn (December 22 - January 20)

• Onyx - increase wisdom and serenity.
• Malachite - become aware of unconscious wishes, dreams and feelings.
• Tourmaline - achieve wealth and fame.
• Agate - feel safe and relaxed.
• Other Capricorn stones - Black pearl, Moss Agate, Rock Crystals, Diamonds, Jasper, Obsidian, Smoky Quartz, Sapphire, Citrine.

Aquarius (January 21 - February 19)

• Turquoise - counteract and moderate mood swings.
• Aquamarine - achive unity and psychological integration.
• Labradorite - strengthens intuition and helps realize goals.
• Topaz - leads to self realization. Image: http://www.library.cornell
  
• Other Aquarius stones - Amazonite, Falcon's eye, Fluorite, Malachite, Jade, Chalcedony, Diamonds, Moonstone, Opal, Onyx, Tourmaline

Pisces (February 20 - March 20)

• Amethyst - gives strength and courage to the heart and mind.
• Opal - brings harmony and happiness in life.
• Fluorite - aids in complex understanding of life situations.
• Sugilite - strengthens self control.
• Other Pisces stones - Garnet, Agate, Diamond, Jade, Carnelian, Rose Quartz, Citrine.

Aries (March 21 - April 20)

• Ruby - Helps restore sight in regards to goals. Fosters intuition and creativity.
• Garnet - increases self confidence and supports positive undertakings.
• Jasper - symbolizes will power, promotes energy.
• Kyanite - helps dissolve energy blocks and aids in mediation.
• Other Aries stones - Diamonds, Hematite, Amethyst

Taurus (April 21 - May 20)

• Rhodochrosite - promotes positive self-image and spontaneous expression.
• Rose Quartz - promotes peace of mind and clear thinking.
• Agate - strengthens thoughtful characteristics.
• Aventurine - brings patience and tranquility.
• Other Taurus stones - Zircon, Diamonds, Malachite, Emerald, Obsidian, Citrine.

Gemini (May 21 - June 21)

• Amber - gives peace in search of new territories.
• Citrine - provides emotional clarity and spiritual insights.
• Carnelian - supports spiritual vitality and helps aid on focus.
• Yellow Sapphire - helps with plans and goals.
• Other Gemini stones - Aquamarine, Rock Crystals, Chalcedony, Tiger's eye, Turquoise.

Cancer (June 22 - July 22)

• Emerald - provides stability and alleviates mood swings.
• Moonstone - Keeps focus and helps when facing 'reality'.
• Aventurine - peace in heart and mind.
• Jade - gives confidence to trust in feelings and intuition.
• Other Cancer stones - Pearl, Opal, Aventurine, Chalcedony, Carnelian, Rhodochrosite

Leo (July 23 - August 23)

• Rock Crystal - gives strength and inner composure. Intensifies positive vibrations.
• Larimar - aids in resolving old problems and leads to new ways of thinking.
• Diamonds - aids in clear thinking and true leadership in personal and professional endeavors.
• Topaz - lucky stone, fosters honesty, sincerity and fairness.
• Other Leo stones - Onyx, Citrine, Garnet, Peridot, Selenite, Tiger's eye, Tourmaline.

Virgo (August 24 - September 23)

• Tiger's Eye - helps aid in decision making, security in choices.
• Jasper - fosters odesty and self-restraint, strengthens sense of reality and connection.
• Citrine - self confidence, individuality and lucky.
• Carnelian - promotes social awareness, positive energy and inspiration.
• Other Virgo stones - Hematite, Jade, Lapis Lazuli, Opal, Ruby, Sodalite

Libra (September 24 - October 23)

• Smoky Quartz - protective, helps concentration and can bring new ideas, balance.
• Jade - vitality and health, intensifies flow of energy and promotes harmony.
• Aquamarine - brings free thinking, spirituality and clarity.
• Tourmaline - emits peace, balance and inner harmony.
• Other Libra stones - Malachite, Turquoise, Diamonds, Carnelian, Obsidian.

Scorpio (October 24 - November 22)

• Hematite - helps with patience and peace of mind.
• Coral - brings joy, energy and sensuality.
• Fluorite - promotes intellectual development, harmonizes positive and negative energy.
• Spinel - promotes determination, helps realize goals and self worth.
• Other Scorpio stones - Garnet, Agate, Jade, Malachite, Ruby, Tourmaline.

Sagittarius (November 23 - December 21)

• Lapis Lazuli - helps realize aspirations and plans.
• Herkimer Diamond - promotes clear thinking and self esteem, openness and free expression.
• Spinel - fosters perseverance and endurance.
• Aventurine - enhances positive energy and qualities.
• Other Sagittarius stones - Sodalite, Zircon, Topaz, Moonstone, Opal, Rose Quartz, Troumaline, Amethyst.

How to Care for Your Wire Wrapped Jewelry

Updated 2014
The care instructions below are good for all types of jewelry.  The cleaning instructions however, are only intended here to be used for sterling silver jewelry.  Many of my wire jewelry pieces are created with oxidized copper, they are polished to enhance the intricate wire patterns, then a patina sealer is applied to preserve the antique finish.  Using a jewelry cleaner may damage the patina.

The best care you can give your handmade jewelry is to simply NOT wear it when swimming or bathing or during activities that cause perspiration. First things first... the gemstones are NATURAL and therefore can be damaged by chemical reactions. This is why the swimming pool can be so damaging. Chlorine, salt water, perspiration, perfumes... all can cause damage, change of color, staining etc. That's NOT to say, don't wear your jewels to whatever and where ever you want! Just take a moment to realize that a minute or two of care can save your precious pretties from damage and allow you to enjoy them for a long long time. ;)

Some DOs:

* Put your perfume on BEFORE your jewelry. Misting your gemstones and precious metals can damage them over the long run. Besides, if your honey is 'sniffing' behind your ears... it's YOU they want to smell and not the gemstones. ;)

* Store your jewelry in a clean, dry place away from direct sun exposure. Putting your fave earrings on the car dashboard or near a window might cause those pretty gemstones to turn a different color. Putting your jewels in a 'wet or damp' place can cause damage to the metals and stones also.

* After wearing your pretty things out, take them off, wipe them with a clean cloth and store them properly. Either hanging if the wire is 'dangling' like in necklaces or bracelets or in a jewelry drawer laid out. Tangled metal wire on stones can scratch them. Not to mention damage your hand made collectible.

* Here's a fun one... WEAR your silver jewelry! Silver tarnishes and there's not much to do about that, but something you CAN do is enjoy it. Wearing them often will slowly coat the silver with the oils from your skin which will help slow the oxidation process. Wipe your silver with a clean dry cloth and store properly when not wearing. This won't prevent tarnishing totally but will help. Some cleaning recommendations are below.

* Remove your jewelry before you go to bed. Waking up with morning hair is one thing, but can you imagine waking up with knotted gemstone and wire hair! Or heaven forbid... you find the design of your fave earrings imprinted on the side of your cheek! Seriously... wearing your handmade creations to bed can damage them. Take a moment to remove them and at the least, put them on the nightstand.

Keeping your copper jewelry in an airtight bag when you're not wearing them, helps to slow the natural oxidation process.  Most of my copper jewelry, unless stated, has been oxidized and sealed with a professional metal sealant, which protects the finish.

Cleaning your STERLING SILVER handmade collectible jewelry:

I learned much of my wire wrapping techniques from http://www.wire-sculpture.com. They're great to learn from, provide wonderful tutorials and supply great products. I owe Preston and his team a huge smile in gratitude. I hope you enjoy the recipe below. I got it from them, have used it and have found that it works pretty well!

• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon baking soda
• 1 tablespoon dish detergent (powered) Arm and Hammer works great!
• 1 cup water
• 1 piece aluminum foil

1. Heat water in the microwave for 1 or 2 minutes.
2. Cut a piece of aluminum foil that roughly covers the bottom of a small bowl (like a cereal bowl).
3. Pour hot water into bowl. Place salt, soda, and dish washing liquid into bowl. Place jewelry on top of foil and let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse jewelry in cool water and dry jewelry completely with soft cloth. Discard solution after use and make a new batch next time.
4. According to wire-sculpture.com, "this works well for gold-filled, brass, German (nickel) silver, and sterling silver. I have even cleaned jewelry with freshwater pearls, shell cameos and mother of pearl with no problem.".
5. If there is a lot of tarnish or dirt on the piece, you can also use an old, soft toothbrush to give it a soft brushing. Rinse the piece and soak for an additional few minutes.

If you don't want to go through all that and would rather purchase a cleaning product, then I can recommend Jewel Brite (Google it, everyone sells it) The link is here:
http://www.jewelbrite.com/products.html

I've used this personally and it's perfectly safe for most jewelry. From the container:

"Safe for pearls, opals, soft stones, costume jewelry and antique jewelry. Contains no ammonia, acid or alcohol. Biodegradable."

It's not that expensive and worth it if you don't like to fiddle around. This cleans them up really nicely, stones and metals. Google up your stones and make sure that the cleaning method is appropriate.

Wire Wrapped Earring Tutorial: Beginner: 5 Minute Earrings

This is one of my most fave pair of earrings and I make them all the time. You can use any type of shell in a tear drop shape for this wrap. I finally got around to taking images while I worked and thought I'd share this one. I hope you enjoy it! :) click the images to enlarge them. And excuse the condition of my workbench, but hey, I'm a TRUE wire bender... and I have scratches. ;)

Needed:

• Two, 4 inch pieces of 24g, soft, round, sterling silver wire.
• Two shell teardrop beads.
• Round nose pliers
• Wire cutters

Get your round wires threaded through the bead hole until it is about even on both sides and the bead is center the wire.
Bend the wires up with your fingers while hanging on to the bead. bring the wires together and gently squeeze them until they meet.

Rub them out once or so to keep your wire neat and straight after you have them together. Work slowly and deliberately. These are quick, so an extra minute to straighten the wire makes a difference. This is 24 gauge SOFT wire and so bends quite easily. Keeping control over a pair of loose wires makes it more manageable when ready for the pliers. Rubbing the wire out once or twice keeps the tension in it and also 'stiffens' the wire just a bit. Keep that in mind and don't 'over rub' the wire or it becomes a springy mess.


Take your round nose pliers and clamp down on the wires with them as neat and straight as you can get them. The bead 'face' should be facing away from you and the 'side' of the bead should be 'up'. Holding the bead, turn your pliers toward you so that the loose ends bend 'up'. You are making an 'L' shape.

In this position, grab the loose ends with your fingers, letting go of the bead (you have it held by the pliers) and roll the wires around the top of the plier, looping it around and back toward you. You're making a loop around that plier side. See the next image.


After you have your loop, the 'neatest' way to keep it, is to keep the pliers in it. Adjust your grip here if needed and get that loop nice and snug against the pliers. Remember to always maintain 'control' over your wire. If it's feel loosy goosy in your grip, chill out and re-adjust yourself.







Grab the loose ends with your free hand, again wires together and straight and loop around the intersection of wires. Make about three, snug loops going 'down' away from the pliers and toward the bead. Then do three loops back up toward the pliers, layering over the first. I like this affect when using very thing wire because it gives a nice 'substantial' silver top to the earring in a very simple way.



This is what you should have when you're doing wrapping the loose ends. Now using your hands, get your cutters, trim away the ends as close to the loop as you can and to the 'back' side of the earring. Take your flat nose pliers and tuck the sharper tips in the best that you can. Take your time and do gentle tucks. I've slipped with those pliers before tucking ends and have mangled my nice wrap. That wire is soft... always remember to go slow and deliberate (helps reduce unwanted scratches too).

That's it. :) Get a cool sterling silver earring hook, get your earring looped in there, do some cleaning away of finger prints and poof, it's only been 10 minutes and you have a lovely pair of earrings.
Hope you enjoyed this! Thanks for visiting me here.














Email: PerfectlyTwisted@comcast.net
Here's a link to my tutorials only page.

Friends! :) Mochishop.com and ColorTools.com

Hey everyone... I met a new friend tonight and WOW, was I lucky they found me. I wanted to share their website so that you can visit if you get a chance. Their style blog has a lot of great information!
http://www.mochishop.com/style-blog/






==================================
And my girlfriend Ms. C...(big huge hugs and kisses)
Okay everyone, this is a MUST go visit. This is 'magic' information... seriously. Her website is amazing and so are the things she does there! The information is well layed out, well written and things that I can't wait to learn, myself! ColorTools.com

Beneath our awareness, color evokes emotion and action and can affect others and ourselves in ways that often go untapped. ColorTools™ kits teach you the art of color coordinating your wardrobe and cosmetic purchases. You can even use our method to decorate your home and find that perfect color for walls, draperies, furniture and accessories. Stop carrying around fabric swatches that were made from outdated dye lots and lots of cumbersome dangling strings. See how we can help you make an informed color decision.

I can't even say how much I miss hanging out with you! Hugs Lady.

Many hugs to everyone - happy New Year!!!

Thanks for visiting Perfectly Twisted Jewelry!
Please contact me with comments or questions!
IzzyGumbo@comcast.net
PerfectlyTwisted@comcast.net
http://www.PerfectlyTwistedJewelry.com
http://twitter.com/izzygumbo

Blog Award!

Awww! How cool is this! I've never had anyone nominate me for anything, so I'm speechless and very honored that Jamie Elliott, Creations by JAE, nominated me. I've been blessed to have been befriended by the Etsy eSMArts team and couldn't be more proud to be a member along side all of these wonderful and talented Artists.

Please take a moment to visit my friend Jamie! Click the Krativ Blogger badge and it'll take you to her amazing blog where you can visit all of her beautiful jewelry, visit her store items and stop in to pet her wonderful Willie puppy while you're there. Then please also take a minute and visit my sidebar links where you can visit all of the eSMArts team! I proudly display live links to their blogs and posts. Make sure you check out the Etsy team store as well as the individual stores also! Our sales go to making the world a better place.


The rules for passing this award on are:
1. The winner may put this award on their blog
2. Put a link to the person who sent this award to you
3. Nominate 5 blogs
4. Put links to their blogs
5. Leave a message for your nominees

Enjoy! And much love and many well wishes for a prosperous, healthy and blessed New Year!

Meet the Team:

• eSMArts Guild
• eSmarts Team Thread
• eSmarts Team Etsy - Come Shop!
• eSmarts Team Blog

And I'm honored to pass this along tooooo.... (I actually pick everyone ;)
http://www.momfuse.com
http://maryannartist.blogspot.com/
http://www.sillybeadbugs.blogspot.com
http://designedfortime.blogspot.com/
http://zurickdesigns.blogspot.com/
http://duchessofwire.blogspot.com/


Thanks for visiting Perfectly Twisted Jewelry!
Please contact me with comments or questions!
Susan aka...
IzzyGumbo@comcast.net
PerfectlyTwisted@comcast.net
http://www.PerfectlyTwistedJewelry.com
http://twitter.com/izzygumbo

Thanks Due

Updated: 1.30.2009 1:55pm

"She also, makes amazing jewelry and can be found in the links...
http://www.jewelrygeeks.com/amequohi"

Now, I have another moment to sit and properly thank Jeanne. Her jewelry is outstanding, like I've mentioned but that's not what I'm writing about. I'm writing about her encouragement of my writing.

Somewhere, deep down below and around my 'pockets', there is a special love. I think I didn't realize how important until recently. I love to write. About anything, all things, nothing, poetry, jokes, rambling... I've been exploring that for a year (poems of mine)

So, here, again in this amazing group of 'Jewelry' Artists... I meet Ms. Amequohi. We have the pleasure to chat a few times and get to knowin' each other. Her encouragement, support, enthusiasm and even her little shmoosing and egging... got me to Smashwords. I've been kind of test driving it for a couple weeks now and I see, for as new as they are, that it's going to be the perfect place for me to 'become my author'. ;) She's opened up a whole new world of 'hope' for me, excitement and just pure joy to know that I can put my 'books' out there somewhere.
Visit Smashwords here if you want a great place to publish your ebooks. At the moment, I don't see that they do 'how to' books, but if you write story or poetry, fiction... its' perfect.
Ms. Amequohi - thank you my friend. xoxo
You help me realize a love.

====================================================
Now, I have time to sit and write something proper about a couple of women. A couple of fine artists and most certainly, two dear friends. First, here are their links.

http://www.jewelrygeeks.com/creationsbyjae
http://creationsbyjae.blogspot.com/
http://www.jewelrygeeks.com/lola_d
http://www.jamilola.blogspot.com/

also, click each image to 'go there'
Ms. Jamie befriended me when my blog was new and introduced me to the Etsy team. I've loved it ever since and am blessed she extended the invitation, I have a huge list of friends linked down the side bar and enjoy sharing in the lives of all these wonderful people. (okay PSST that would be YOU). ;)

Anyway... here I sit on sunny days, rainy days, snowy days and I watch our forum conversations go by while I do my ma(dd)ness...

I try to help some here and there, I make silly most everywhere and I learn, from all of you. And I watch how many endless, selfish less, helpful emails are fired off minute after minute. Some new to the group, some seasoned, some familiar to ourselves in several other places, everyone working hard to help each other enjoy and be successful at our arts.
And... I laugh my head off sometimes because we're all a bunch of delightful nuts! :)

And... I watch Jamie, over and over, write the most thoughtful, informative, instructional emails to share how we can help each other. There are many of you who do this so please know you're not unnoticed, but today, I'm writing to these two 'first friends' of mine who lead me to all of you...

I know I could write about how beautiful Jamie's jewelry is, but I think that's all quite obvious. What I want her to know is how beautiful the rest of her loving and sharing heart is and that those artful efforts of hers are also, loved and appreciated. As much as her jewelry is eye candy :)

And Ms. Lola. Mysterious lady. So many 'yous', so much beauty and so much talent. When I joined Jewelry Geeks I noticed your jewelry images before I even knew how to click. I looked at many galleries, read many comments, and found your wonderful smile there all the time. Small phrases, little hugs, engaged conversations, support, friendship and interest. She was everywhere and I thought, how cool! I'd love to know her. Creative in jewelry art, creative in words, powerful in her 'woman' and all woman at heart. I'm never sure if she's a member of the Etsy team, but it doesn't matter. She's a member of my friendship team and I love her.

Please go visit each of them. Enjoy their amazing art, but know how else they're amazing and say hello. :) Hugs to you all. A delightful team. All delightful artists. And some of the best people I share text with! lol!! xoxo

Please visit yourselves and ourselves at the sidebar! Nice to see you here too.

YES! I am working on jewelry too! Dad and G did bring back a bundle of rocks, so I'm a wrappin'... soon for pics. xo Thanks and love to them!

Oh! And I pretended like I was an author this weekend and so I 'published' my first little ebook! yipps! In the mini.me on the side bar... I.SmashWords.Together If you write or like to read cheesy poetry... go see me! :D Just kidding... It might not all be cheeky, but it is a new 'art' for me, so thanks for any feedback if you do. xo My writing is also in the Mini.Me. Izzy.She be.

I have to thank my friend Jeanne for that! I think she knows what a blessing her encouragement was. And is. xoxo

She also, makes amazing jewelry and can be found in the links... http://www.jewelrygeeks.com/amequohi

Hugs to all - back to my wire!





Thanks for visiting Perfectly Twisted Jewelry!
Please contact me with comments or questions!
IzzyGumbo@comcast.net
PerfectlyTwisted@comcast.net
http://www.PerfectlyTwistedJewelry.com
http://twitter.com/izzygumbo