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Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Five Great Gifts To GiveList R14

Good Morning, 

Today's Gift List comes from The Alchemists Vessel shops on Etsy, The CraftStar and a special $10.00 selections available at Handmade Artists.

From The Alchemists Vessel on etsy

Knight Watch Chainmaille Time Piece Wristwatch

Stand sentry to your time. This unique and original limited edition design wristwatch will take its time to lend a bit of sparkle and shine to anything in your wardrobe. Fabulous for the Office, a bit of unique chic with your jeans, or neat evening accessory. Whatever you choose you can't go wrong with this lovely accent.

7-1/2" May be made to desired length.
Face: Stainless Steel, Quartz Movement from Japan
Band: Silver-plated jump rings are linked in the Full Persian Weave accented with Black Matte Czech glass beads.
Clasp: Magnetic Barrel clasp, sometimes called a clever clasp. Magnetic ends click together and the barrel screws down over the ends for a secure closure and nice fit.
Arrives boxed ready for gift giving

 

Psst... use the Etsy Coupon Code: Holiday10 at checkout for a 10% discount on your purchase.  Good through December 10th, 2014.

 

From The Alchemists Vessel on The CraftStar

Ladies Lace Chainmaille Necklace


Lovely, lacy, delicate and feminine.   This gorgeous gold-plated chainmaille collar will add a touch of flair and an air of mystery to any outfit in your wardrobe.  Accented with beautiful Sapphire (Silver-lined) Czech glass beads for a dash of color and sophistication.  One of this Fall's must have colors, the deep rich blue will compliment you.  Jazz up that tailored office suit, or pretty date night dress, goes great with your favorite top and comfy jeans.  Martching earrings are included.

Makes a terrific September Birthday gift.  Perfect for Film or Event attire, Cos-play, Role-play, SCA, LARP or other costume needs.  Surprise a "Game of Thrones" or History Channel's "Vikings" fan with a bit of Maille.

16.5" total length.  Handcrafted from 20g 14Kt Gold-plated (over brass) wire, hand spunon a 5mm mandrel, cut and woven in the European 4-in-1 pattern for a pretty and delicate lacy look.  Finished with a 14Kt Gold-plated Toggle clasp.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

*This item may be made in a variety of Czech Glass bead colors and to desired length.  Please contact the shop with your request.  Let us help you design that special piece that is all your own.

 Turquoise Chainmaille Earrings
These lovely and feminine earrings are appropriate for women of all ages, teens to Grandma will love these adorable flower-like genuine gemstone earrings.  Makes a great accessory for fancy dress occasions or your favorite jeans and a t-shirt. Lightweight and comfortable for all day wear.

Turquoise is the traditional birthstone for December, and some cultural beliefs connect it with the Sky.

Perfect for Fantasy Film or Event attire, Cos-play, S.C.A. (Society for Creative Anachronism), L.A.R.P. (Live Action Role Playing) participants, Game of Thrones, Vikings fans or other costuming needs.

Handcrafted from silver-plated (over brass) jump rings, woven in the Byzantine (also called Romanov) pattern.  accented with nicely matched 6mm genuine Turquoise beads.  Finished with matching Fish Hook Style ear wires.

Arrives Boxed, ready for gift giving.

Also currently available in Jet, Amethyst and Chrysocolla and Rhodonite.  Fun Fact:  Rhodonite is the official stone for the state of Oregon, USA.


From The Alchemists Vessel on Handmade Artists

Abundance Pendant Blue Rice in a Glass Bottle


Rice is a symbol of abundance, luck, and plenty.  Thrown at weddings for generations it is intended as wishes for all good things for the Happy Couple.   Invite abundance into your life with this pretty little glass bottle full of hand dyed rice grains.

The rice is hand dyed a beautiful vibrant blue and this is a fun and unique pendant.

Gunmetal tone chain, glass bottle is sealed with a genine cork stopper, and filled with rice.  Chain measures 18", bottle is just shy of 1/2" from cork to bottom.

Arrives boxed ready for gift giving.

Available in Plum, Blue and Red.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  In hope encouragement to see what else maybe on the shelves strikes you.

You may find and follow or bookmark and favorite at any of the links below.


The hand sidebar menu links will whisk you were you wish to go in an instant.  Don't forget that you can shop directly from this blog as well.  Just click the Shop Square Market tab at the top of this page, and give the page a moment to load.

Monday, September 29, 2014

Holidays At The Alchemsits Vessel

Good Morning,

Today's post is brief as we give a quick tip or two for ordering your gifts this Holiday Season.

The Alchemists Vessel shop on Etsy will be closing down after the last item has been scheduled for renewal.  I believe the date is December 27th, 2014.  There will be special deals for blog readers as we get closer to Christmas.



Shops on The CraftStar and Handmade Artists will remain open and new items are being added slowly but surely.

Handmade items take time.  If you would like to order a custom piece, or change the length, add beads or gemstones to an existing shop item, or request a new design, please have your order requests or questions to us no later than November 15th, 2014.

All Ready-To-Wear orders can be guaranteed delivery before Christmas if ordered on or before December 10th, 2014.  The Alchemists Vessel cannot guarantee delivery of items ordered after December 10th, 2014.

Bookmark, Favorite or come back often and see what we have going on.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Featured Artist: bra-Zing!

Good Morning.

The Handmade Artists blog ring has ended for now.  Today I would like to introduce you to a new artist, Bethan Davies of The CraftStar also owns, operates and creates the The bra-Zing.


Alix, what the heck is a Bra-Zing?  It is a neat things ladies, they put the fun in functional.

What Bethan says about these cute, functional and fashionable accessories.

It's a bra-volution! Welcome to the braZing! Sassy or classy in seconds. All bra wearing women know that the most comfiest of our bras, are our most worn out. With too many wash cycles under their straps, the whites are grey, the blacks are faded .... but hey! - they're our most comfortable bra and like a favorite teddy bear, we don't want to say goodbye. Now you don't have to! The bra-Zing will re-vitalize your bra into colors, patters, designs, you had never imagined possible! Seeing a girl wear a pretty tank top with straggly bra straps showing is not appealing. What IS appealing, and "peel" is key here .. is bra strap covers that match every outfit you have, with a 20 second change-up. All you do is peel away the adhesive covering on the back of your bra-Zing and press it to your existing bra strap. Bingo. And ... bras are EXPENSIVE. The bra-Zings are NOT. You can get 3 "new bras" for the price of one regular one. How's that for a bra-volution? Made in Los Angeles, and worn around the world ... it's always summer somewhere, right? We have created different sizes: lengths and widths to fit ANY bra wearing woman.

Let's have a peek at what it is and what they look like.


The bra-Zing! Orange Dragonflies 16"

Orange with turquoise and cream dragonflies on a cream backing.

The total width of this bra-Zing is 5/8" wide.

This listing is for a pair of 16" bra-Zings.
How To Find the Right bra-Zing For Your Shape and Style
We all come in different shapes and sizes ... and so do The bra-Zings.
We have created a selection of braZings that will fit any bra wearing woman!
You can choose from 14", 16" and 20" braZings.  The 14" are great for regular tank tops and dresses.  The 16" are perfect for lower cut clothing and the 20" suits razor back designs.
We have also made the collection in different widths ... while any braZing will fit any bra, you can choose from skinny versions (for the slight figure), medium (for average size), and wide (for the fuller figure and nursing bras.)
Skinny:  5/8",
Medium: 3/4", 7/8"
Wide: 1", 1 1/2"
The braZings couldn't be easier to use!  They literally take 5 seconds to adhere to your existing bra strap.  We have found them easier to put on when the bra is off.  You simply remove the adhesive cover paper, and press the braZing to the bra strap.  Hold it in place for a few seconds, along the length of the braZing, to make sure it adequately sticks.
The braZings are also reusable!  You can wear them several (many) times on the same bra, or if you want to transfer to another, just use another piece of our adhesive and repeat the process.
We have tested the durability and adhesiveness of The braZings through and through.  We've carried heavy bags over our shoulders, we've worn them 2 weeks in a row, we've slept in them ... and The braZing stays in place throughout it all.
As you would with any fine lingerie, The braZings should be handwashed, and can be used over and over.
They are SO user friendly!   In fact, they couldn't be any easier to use!  The bra-Zings are so supple and the strip adherent so strong, people won't know the bra-Zing isn't your actual bra strap!  They sit that well.
Join the bra-volution and love your braZings!

This one is very pretty and would be wonderful for a fancy dress.

The bra-Zing! Burgundy Organza Rosette 16"

Burgundy organza rosette on a burgundy backing.

The total width of this bra-Zing is 1 1/2" wide.

This listing is for a pair of 16" bra-Zings.
How To Find the Right bra-Zing For Your Shape and Style
We all come in different shapes and sizes ... and so do The bra-Zings.
We have created a selection of braZings that will fit any bra wearing woman!
You can choose from 14", 16" and 20" braZings.  The 14" are great for regular tank tops and dresses.  The 16" are perfect for lower cut clothing and the 20" suits razor back designs.
We have also made the collection in different widths ... while any braZing will fit any bra, you can choose from skinny versions (for the slight figure), medium (for average size), and wide (for the fuller figure and nursing bras.)
Skinny:  5/8",
Medium: 3/4", 7/8"
Wide: 1", 1 1/2"
The braZings couldn't be easier to use!  They literally take 5 seconds to adhere to your existing bra strap.  We have found them easier to put on when the bra is off.  You simply remove the adhesive cover paper, and press the braZing to the bra strap.  Hold it in place for a few seconds, along the length of the braZing, to make sure it adequately sticks.
The braZings are also reusable!  You can wear them several (many) times on the same bra, or if you want to transfer to another, just use another piece of our adhesive and repeat the process.
We have tested the durability and adhesiveness of The braZings through and through.  We've carried heavy bags over our shoulders, we've worn them 2 weeks in a row, we've slept in them ... and The braZing stays in place throughout it all.
As you would with any fine lingerie, The braZings should be handwashed, and can be used over and over.
They are SO user friendly!   In fact, they couldn't be any easier to use!  The bra-Zings are so supple and the strip adherent so strong, people won't know the bra-Zing isn't your actual bra strap!  They sit that well.
Join the bra-volution and love your braZings!

There is also an instructional video that shows you how to use your bra-Zing.






You can find and follow The CraftStar or The bra-Zing at the links below.

Google +


Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

New At The Studio

Good Morning,

Today we have a new item or two to share with you, the return of an old favorite and a little bit of news.  In no particular order, let's have a little news first.

The Alchemist Vessel is happy and excited to announce that the application for Self-Representing Artists in Jewelry Design or SRAJD has been accepted.  Details will be received on October 6th or 7th, and we will share what we can here.  

Ladies Lace Chainmaille Collar


Lovely, lacy, delicate and feminine.   This gorgeous gold-plated chainmaille collar will add a touch of flair and an air of mystery to any outfit in your wardrobe.  Accented with beautiful Sapphire (Silver-lined) Czech glass beads for a dash of color and sophistication.  One of this Fall's must have colors, the deep rich blue will compliment you.  Jazz up that tailored office suit, or pretty date night dress, goes great with your favorite top and comfy jeans.  Matching earrings are included.

Makes a terrific September Birthday gift.  Perfect for Film or Event attire, Cos-play, Role-play, SCA, LARP or other costume needs.  Surprise a "Game of Thrones" or History Channel's "Vikings" fan with a bit of Maille.

16.5" total length.  Handcrafted from 20g 14Kt Gold-plated (over brass) wire, hand spun on a 5mm mandrel, cut and woven in the European 4-in-1 pattern for a pretty and delicate lacy look.  Finished with a 14Kt Gold-plated Toggle clasp.

My Stars Sterling Silver Earrings

 
Sterling silver shines and sparkles as this wonderful pair of earrings.  Astronomers, Astrologists, and aspiring Astronauts will love these starry earrings.  Bight, shiny, beautiful.
Sterling Silver wire has been hand forged and fully soldered into the pretty little 1" Hoops.  Tiny sterling silver star charms hang from one or two link lengths of chain for a little swing.  Suspended from Sterling Silver Fish Hook style ear wires.
Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.
Only one pair available!

*This style is also available in your favorite Gemstone bead.   Let us know what you'd like and we'll make a pair just for you.

The holidays are fast approaching, and we would like to gently remind you that quality handmade goods take time to create.  If you are planning on buying handmade this holiday season (and I hope you are), please put your order in early.  The Alchemists Vessel will be accepting orders through December 10th, 2014, for Christmas.  After that date there is no guarantee that your item will arrive in time.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Tuesday, September 23, 2014

Five Great Gifts To Give List Q14

Hello,

Today we have five random items from five great shops on The CraftStar.  From warm winter quilts to personalized outdoor decor, and Halloween needs, for gift giving or your own treat. 

Surya Quilts

58 x 58 Handmade Red, White and Black Floral Block Quilt

Thank you to everyone who supports small business and handmade items.
Everything is made in a smoke free pet loving environment.
This quilt measures 58 x 58. It is a perfect lap size quilt.
The blocks include floral and geometric patterns on the fabric.
It is framed with a gray and white dot fabric and a larger solid red border.
The back fabric is a bold floral pattern fabric.
Binding is the same as the backing fabric.
Batting is 100% polyester for a lightweight yet warm blanket.
Black and white buttons accent the blocks.
The quilt has been pre washed and is machine washable.

 

From:  Yankee Burrow

Autumn colors crochet shawlette

This crochet shawlette is made in the south bay pattern from Lion Brand Yarn. A shawlette is simply a small shawl, just enough to cover your shoulder. It is also the perfect size for a young girl. I chose a beautiful acrylic, mohair, wool blend yarn in a verigated shades of autumn, which came out in almost perfect rows of color. I edged this with rust fun fur for an added bit of elegance. This shawlette measures 36.5 inches wide and then draped 19 inches at it's longest point.

 

From: Designs by Tiffany

Personalized Initial Autumn Wreath

18 inch orange painted wreath with initial of your choice. All the gorgeous colors of fall! Includes fall sparkle leaves, florals, a butterfly and pumpkins. The initial is painted orange and glittered. Add some beauty to your front door! :)

 

From: Floozees Doozees

Vampire Coffin Bat New Black Cotton Tote Bag Party Events Gifts Halloween

My 100% cotton tote bags are a great way to keep books, notebooks, important papers and other useful tools close at hand. Very multi purpose, unique & cool ! PLEASE NOTE: Designs are on ONE SIDE ONLY. If you want the design on both sides there is an additional $3.00 fee. Please e-mail me with any questions BEFORE you order to insure availability. Fabric/Style:12-ounce cotton twill; cotton web handles. Measures 14w x 14h x 3d.

 

From:  Inspired By Karma

Zombie Potion Necklaces


Be prepared for the zombie apocalypse this Halloween with these are cute and fun zombie potion necklaces.  
Great for kids and adults alike.  Two varieties to choose from: Zombie Virus, so you can infect those less fortunate ghouls, or Zombie Repellant, to ward off those pesky zombies.  
Each bottle is filled fine orange glitter, and then glue shut (for safety).  
Cord length can be customized, please note that in comments when checking out.  


Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  In hope inspiration has struck for making a visit to these shops and their goodies.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

 



Monday, September 22, 2014

Fall Fashion 2014

Good Morning,

Autumn is right around the corner and this morning we take a brief look at what's new for the Fall Fashion season.

Color:  Color is important, even if it's a soft neutral beige, colors can change your mood, brighten a room, or make one feel  empowered or energized.

This years colors are deep rich jewel tones in greens, blues and purples.  Radiant Orchid was Pantone's color of the year, for Fall they have accented and matched it with more earthy tones.














This Fall's doos are all about the braid.   There are some very neat ways to braid your hair, and lots and lots of how to's on line.

























Accessories are a great way to add that fashionable pop of color if you don't want to commit to a loud jacket or bright dress.

(Bags by- Valentino Garavani)














This seasons jewelry has finally gotten rid of those horrible and tacky "Statement" Necklaces and have returned to a more functional and fashion friendly frill.  Currently trending are Gold and Black pieces, Icon or Charm jewelry, Chainmaille bracelets, and Chandelier style earrings that include natural elements such as wood, Druzy gems and raw crystals.



Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.



Thursday, September 18, 2014

Alternatives To The Big Orange E

Good Morning,

The blog ring this round is featuring The Alchemists Vessel, so I thought it would be fun to offer alternatives to shopping at the Big Orange E (etsy).

If you are looking for unique gifts, handmade or eclectic items that cannot be found in a store  you might want to try 

The CraftStar

When you first arrive you will be greeted by a cover page, you can scroll down and check out unique shops, videos, and more.  There is no account necessary, you may sign up for the newsletter, read their blog or simply do a little Windows shopping.  You may also find The Alchemists Vessel shop there as well.


Handmade Artists

If you prefer an intimate shopping experience, try Handmade Artists.  Just as the title implies, this site is dedicated to all things handmade, art, painting, woodworking, glass-work and of course jewelry.   You may also find The Alchemists Vessel shop on site.



If you would like to shop without clicking through, signing up or in and being taken to another window, we have a neat trick.  From the blog click the tab "Shop Square Market" and you will find a shop right here on the blog.  Pick an item and use the Shopping Basket icon to check out. One stop, shopping is done.

So you're addicted to Etsy?  We're going to help with an intervention.  The sites above are easily navigated, friendly, intimate and offer genuine handmade items from the hands of the Shop owner.  Surf through the sea of garbage from China on Etsy, you won't find the personal touch that is so important when shopping for a gift that The CraftStar or Handmade Artists  can offer you.  Many of these shops offer custom design and will work with you to make you the perfect piece.  Why go for the same old boring Department Store shelves when you can be the envy of the party with handmade items that please the eye, delight the heart and amaze the brain.

You may find, follow, like and shop with the Alchemists Vessel at any of the links below or the handy icons on the sidebar menus will whisk you away to the site of choice.

Twitter
Facebook
Official Website ( you may shop there as well)
Handmade Artists
The CraftStar

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

Tuesday, September 16, 2014

Five Great Gifts To Give- List P14

Good Morning,

Today's gifts come from The Road To Success Team Members on Etsy.

From Sue's Arts

leather bracelet, brown leather bracelet

Beautiful all handmade leather bracelet.

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME

DELIVERED IN A GIFT BOX

Suzan ♥ 

 

From:  Jackie Guttuso Designs

Fall art, Leaf art, Archival print, 8 x 10", Oak leaf, Fall leaf collage, Autumn decor, Print of acrylic leaf, Fall decor

This 8 x 10" fall leaf print is an archival reproduction of my original collage.

I printed it on archival Epson Velvet Fine Art paper using archival inks.
The paper is 100% cotton fiber and is textured matte.

It has a white border that can be trimmed if you'd like.
Please indicate in "note to seller" when ordering.

I left it unframed and unmatted so you can match colors to your decor, but you can get an idea of what it might look like matted and framed by viewing the photos above.

 

From: A Polka Dot Life LLC

Cute dog collar red with white polka dots on red webbing with optional Bow , The "Hoosier" collar

 You'll want to put your paws on our versatile 'cute dog collar the "Hoosier", so your pup can dress to impress no matter the occasion. Whether it's for Game DAY, Valentine's DAY, the holiDAYS or Any DAY, this adorable collar with its white polka dots on red ribbon and red webbing is perfect all year round. Add the Bow for the pawfect girl dog look! For a ridiculously cute combination, don't forget the 'Hoosier' leash!

Each dog collar comes with a beautiful cross and an inspirational message.
It's our gift to you and your faithful furry friend!

"Each of us is a blessing to the other."

We want your Poochie to have the right size collar!
Available in Sizes XS-L

Author's Note:*Please see listing for size and other details.

 

From: BlingBlingLadyhk

Black Bridal Clutch with Rhinestones Peacock - Wedding Clutch Bag - Black Satin Formal Evening Purse - Bridesmaids Gifts - Christmas Present

Classic Piece!

This Beautiful Satin Black Bridal Clutch is perfect for special evening and wedding big day !

It is made of Soft Satin Fabric in black color with sparkling Rhinestones Peacock on the front.

* Size: Height 4"/10cm
Width 10"/25cm (Top) & 10"/25cm (Bottom)
Depth 2"/5cm
Rhinestones Peacock size: 2"x2"/5cm x 5cm
* Interior with fully lining fabric
* 2 Detachable silver color metal chain straps (22" & 44" /56cm & 112cm)

Please contact me for custom orders.

Please make sure to go over the Blingblingladyhk boutique policies before placing your order.

Author's Note: Check this out!

 

From: The Alchemists Vessel

Infinity Chainmaille Gemstone Necklace

 

This pretty little chainmaille necklace is just right for the Office, Date Night, or any where you choose. Elegant, sturdy, supple and sinuous.

Perfect for Fantasy Film or Event attire, Cos-play, S.C.A., L.A.R.P, Role-playing costume needs, or Game of Thrones fans.

16" total length including clasp. Handcrafted from 20g Silver-plated and 14Kt gold-plated (over brass) rings, linked in the Full Persian chainmaille weave. Accented with two 8mm genuine Fluorite gemstone beads, in a gorgeous opaque deep purple.

Figure eight as double four
Figure four as half of eight
If you skate, you would be great
If you could make a figure eight
That's a circle that turns around upon itself
Place it on its side and it's a symbol meaning
Infinity . . .

Are you singing along? I though you might be.


Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving. 

 

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  The holiday season is right around the corner, in hope encouragement strikes you to do a little window shopping.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.

 

Tuesday, September 9, 2014

Chainmaille Ring Tutorial

Good Morning,

Tuesdays are usually put aside for Five Gift Ideas from around the web.  I thought I'd change things up a bit today with a short and simple Chainmaille Ring Tutorial.

Materials listed are for the ring below.  Questions and comments are always welcome.

This makes a European 4-in-1 length of chain with "Speed Maille" instructions for 2-in-1 weaving.

Materials:

This super simple ring can be made in a variety of metals.
The tutorial project uses Sterling Silver plated over brass jump rings.
Materials make an average US size 7-1/2 to 8  ring.
AR = 2.94
66 + 1 Sterling Silver plated 18g (1.02mm) 3mm (ID) Jump rings
Open 23 jump rings Close 44 jump rings

 
 1. Place four closed rings on one open ring and close the ring.  
(Here you see two rings added, add two more for a total of four closed rings.)









2. Flip the rings so they lay flat on your work surface.  Like this. 







3. Place two closed rings on one open ring.  (See picture 1)


4.  Slide the open ring down (into) the ring on the bottom, and up (through) the ring on the top.  Close the ring.  

NOTE: It may be easier to weave the open ring through the unit and then add the two closed rings to the open ring, and then close the ring.

Repeat steps three (3) and four (4) until your ring is the required length.  About 2-1/2" long.




Closing the ring:

Slide one open ring down into the bottom ring and up through the top ring.  Form the ring shape around a finger or mandrel so you can hold it steady and bring the opposite side up and around to meet the jump ring.  Slide the jump ring up through the ring on the left and down through the ring on the right.  Close the ring.





Your ring is complete and ready to wear.  



 There is no beginning or end, the circle is continuous.  Amaze your friends with this fun puzzle.  





Makes a very pretty decoration.  Perfect for those that like the look of maille, but do not want to wear a large piece.


Project Note:  For a larger ring continue to follow steps three and four until the desired size is reached.  Check size by measuring around the finger it is to fit, or the correct size on a ring mandrel.  Close the ring as described in the final step of the project.


Material and Project Notes:

AR stands for Aspect Ratio.  This is the number of rings that may fit comfortably or leave enough "wiggle room" when added to another ring.

Wire Gauge:  18g or 1.02mm thick wire.

ID: Interior Diameter - The jump rings were wound on a 3mm mandrel.  The outer diameter of each jump ring is about 6mm. 

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant day.