Summertime design fun

Hi everyone!

This month, I'm taking some time to play around with some media and try a few new things that have been on my mind.

One of the things I've wanted to try is weaving.  I love the big wall hangings, but I wanted to try making some woven hangings small enough to wear.

Here's my first try.  I attached some hemp cord to a twig, taped it down to my work surface and wove some recycled sari yarn through it.

I like the unstructured look to it, but if I want to do more weaving, I think I'll have to make or buy a loom and learn a bit more about weaving.

I think I'll add something over the weaving, like this brass dragonfly that I colored with alcohol inks.

Then, I'll attach a cord or chain to wear it or just hang it up with some twine.  I'm definitely going to try some more of these.

Also on my long list of things to try this summer:  more copper jewelry with hammering and stamping, etching copper, enameling and mixed media jewelry.  We'll see what I am able to fit in between design work and grandkids!

What are trying this summer?  I hope you are taking some time to try new things and just play a little without thinking too much about the end result!  Enjoy!

Pretty Palettes: Boho Inspired

Hi folks!

Today I'm playing along with the challenge on Halcraft blog.  This month's Pretty Palettes inspiration is boho.  It's a fun, eclectic style that mixes textures, bright colors and patterns.

Here are the beads that Erin Prais-Hintz selected for this month:

I was able to pick up a few of these strands pictured above, but unfortunately, the dragonfly strands were already gone.

That's what happens when you come late to a "buy one-get one free" sale!  But, don't worry, I made up for it with a few other strands!

Here are the earrings that I created:

Turquoise and Coral Boho Earrings

I love the turquoise and coral combination.  I added some sari ribbon for a little interest, and I had the perfect turquoise Picasso finish discs to pick up the greenish-blue of the carved wood.  These carved wood circles are light enough for easy wear.

I added in the brown and white floral beads to create the necklace along with some large tan wrapped beads for a few challenges ago.  I found a little dragonfly charm to dangle at the bottom.  Copper ball chain and a copper clasp complete the necklace.

Boho-Style Necklace

Here's another view:

I really like this boho style.  It's reminiscent of my younger days for one thing!  And, it's a fun, freestyle, eclectic style that is great for summertime. 

Thanks for the fun challenge, Erin!

Keep creating!
Terry