Five Great Gifts For Giving List A 2016

Good Morning,

It's Tuesday and that means five neat gift ideas from those nifty handmade artists around the web.

It was a surprise to find that my friend's shop has closed on The CraftStar, however I have found her at "Scott's Market Place" - another on line venue dedicated to American Made Products.

From:  Yankee Burrow

Red Heart Choker Necklace Titanium Color

If you're looking for the perfect gift for your sweet Valentine, how about this stunning necklace? I used blood red crystal faceted beads and a heart pendant to dress up this pewter choker that I had discovered in a thrift store. This necklace is a great dressy piece for the causal look, or a great casual piece for and elegant look. This choker measure 16" and has an extension chain.

Birdie Crochet (on The CraftStar)

It is unusual that I do not have a product to share, I am experiencing technical difficulties with the site, however, do click through to her shop and see what she has on the shelves.  Adorable crochet Super Heroes, Animals, Movie Characters, Motorcycles, and more.  I wish I could share an item, they are so cool, very unique, and high quality items.  Do stop in and give her items a look see.

From: Shale's

BENJI SHALE DESIGN: SILVER COLOR FRESH WATER PEARL NECKLACE

BENJI SHALE EXCLUSIVE DESIGN: SILVER COLOR FRESH WATER PEARL NECKLACE
This simple design features a strand of semi-round silver color 8x9 MM fresh water pearls 16 1/2" long attached to a sterling silver lobster clasp.

A beautiful 12x12 MM heart shape cubic zirconia with silver frame and CZ removable enhancer.

Length: 16 1/2"
Length can be adjusted to your preferred size.  
We are more than happy for custom orders.  If you'd like something especially made with your favorite semi and semi-precious gemstones, please contact us.
Our one of a kind pieces can be found at Shale's Jewelry in Beverly Hills, California.


From: Jabber Jewels

Butterflies Art #5 Pendant Necklace

Butterflies Art #5 Pendant Necklace

This is one of my own images that I designed.
Set in a 1" silver pendant tray and comes on a 20" sterling silver plated ball chain.

You can adjust the length of the chain by cutting it with a regular pair of scissors to assure a perfect fit.
All of my pendant necklaces are made with quality components.

If you like this image and would like it in a Key Chain, go to this link to order https://www.thecraftstar.com/product_details/190401/key-chain-your-choice-of-image/


 From: Anne Jantz Designs

Children's Book - Olivia Ocelot Comes to the Rescue

 Adventurous, exciting, educational, and filled with Nature’s wonders, “Olivia Ocelot Comes to the Rescue” captures the enchantment of the Rain  Forest, and the tropical beauty of Costa Rica.  Olivia Ocelot’s adventures emphasize the power of the community, and her story celebrates the friendships between some very unique animals.

Olivia Ocelot lives in the Rain Forest in Costa Rica with a lot of other very interesting animals. They all know she is the one to come to if they have a problem, because Olivia Ocelot cares about her friends, and she is a very good detective. In this first episode, Penelope Oropendola, a beautiful bird, comes to Olivia Ocelot for help. Penelope and her group of friends have a big problem. Olivia goes out and visits a lot of her neighbors, and asks them all what they think Penelope Oropendola and the others should do about their dilemma.

She finally gets an answer and helps Penelope and her Oropendola community. Olivia Ocelot  has come to the rescue, and she is very happy. Next, she is summoned by the dangerous and powerful Jason Jaguar, King of the Rain Forest. She goes to see him with great fear and trembling, and the story comes to a happy ending. Olivia Ocelot is very, very happy.


Thank you for stopping in to have a look.  We hope we have encouraged you to take a look at some of these amazingly talented people and perhaps patronize their shops.

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

What's New In The Studio - Two New Items

Good Morning,

Today I would like to share two new items from The Alchemists Vessel.

Gothic Chocolate Necklace - $45.00

 Description:  Your Jewelry Box should be like a Box of Sweets, every time you open it something luscious and wonderful should be waiting for you.  This gorgeous double strand necklace is no exception, and is a simply sumptuous piece.  A confection for your clothes.
Hand strung on Sterling Silver Accu-flex beading wire, 99 Chocolate glass Pearls shimmer with a rich dark brown sheen, interspersed with Fresh Water Pearls from White Lotus Farms, accented with nickle free silver-tone metal set with Amethyst Swarovski crystals.
Approximately 18" long and finished with a easy to hook Clasp.
Arrives boxed ready for gift giving.



Red Queen Chainmaille Necklace Set - $50.00

 Description:
This gorgeous set comes complete with matching earrings.

Step into something powerful, regal, and understated with this lovely, light weight, chainmaille necklace.  Perfect for a night out on the town, rock concerts, special occasions, or a neat pop of color at the office.  Change the bead color for a fabulous bridal accessory.  Great for SCA, LARP, Cos-Play, Film / TV costuming needs, Fantasy Roll Playing or an evening in with your D&D Group.

Sterling Silver plated (over brass) wire has been hand-spun, cut and linked together in the European 4-in-1 pattern. Adorned with beautiful Czech glass silver beads in Ruby, and finished with a matching Heart-shaped Toggle clasp.

Customizable in a variety of Czech Glass Bead Colors.

Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

You may find these and more wonderful items on line with us at  
The Alchemists Vessel on The CraftStar

You may also find us on the web and social media sites, just follow the link below.  Please be kind enough to give us a Like on Facebook, or Follow is on Twitter.

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 Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

New Items - Three Necklaces

Good Morning,

Today we are showing off three of the new items currently available at The Alchemists Vessel.

Moors Malachite Azurite and Sterling Silver Necklace Set

Sterling Silver Chain, Triskelion (triple swirl) links, and Malachite with Azurite beads invoke a feeling of Ireland's emerald green and misty Moors. Matching earrings are included.  This is a One Of A Kind set.

20" total length, Sterling Silver Triskelions interrupt and link the gorgeous Malachite and Azurite beads bead joined to the chain.
Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.

Orient Express Genuine Jade and Freshwater Pearls Necklace

Grab your train case and your favorite Agatha Christie Novel we're taking the Orient Express. There is something mysterious about Jade and Pearls, and this necklace is no exception.  Matching earrings are included.

Jade is thought to connect with energy of the body and allows it flow between the jewelry piece and the wearer.  In Asian cultures, people often give a gift of a jade piece they wear all the time. They believe that the jade has become part of them and by giving it to a family member or friend, they are giving a part of themselves.

Pearls are connected with the elements in Asian cultures and an origin myth says they are Dragon's tears.  Usually worn only by royalty, pearls are believed to connect one to the divine.  They are a symbol of peace and purity.

Suspended from Sterling Silver chain, genuine deep green Nephrite Jade (from British Columbia) and Freshwater Pearls are threaded and connected with handmade Sterling Silver headpins and jump rings.  Spring Clasp closure, may be replaced with Lobster Claw Clasp at no additional charge.
Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.
*Freshwater Pearls - A grade, from White Lotus Farms.

Diana Sterling Silver and Genuine Amethyst Necklace

18" long this sumptuous Amethyst necklace is just right for any goddess or Queen of the Castle.  Amethyst is the Birthstone for February, and is associated with the Greek Goddess Diana.  Matching earrings come with this piece.
Sterling Silver chain has been connected with genuine Amethyst beads on sterling silver wire, accented with sterling silver caps and spacer beads.  Finished with a Sterling Silver Lobster Claw Clasp, may be changed to a spring clasp at no additional charge.
Arrives boxed, ready for gift giving.
Sold as a set.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

Five Gift Ideas from Etsy

Good Morning, 

Tuesday arrives wet and a little dreary, but that is all right.  Idaho could use the rain.

Today I have five gift ideas for you from the shops on Etsy and a new one or two to check out!

Here is a brand new shop and an interesting artist.

From:  Emily Andrews

Dream Factory Photo Collage Print

Description: A high resolution print of a photo collage I did using images from multiple sources such as magazines and old newspapers on a TV tray. The Dream Factory sequence is one of my scenes of surrealism and was made to inspire imaginative thoughts where the possibilities are endless. The print is 8in x 12in and is printed on glossy photo paper.
Other sizes are available for every print. 


From:  StaRsbyDi

Black and White Pearl Necklace with Black Resin Rose Flower Pendant

Description:  Black and White Pearl Necklace with Resin Rose Flower Pendant, Necklace and Earring Set.
I handmade this lovely necklace with ivory glass pearls. The beautiful pendant is made of a black resin rose set on a non-tarnish fine silver-plated metal base. I finished the necklace with a silver plated lobster clasp.

-The necklace measures approx. 45.5cm (17.91'') from one end to the other in a straight line.
The pendant is 3.5cm (1.38'') long and the resin rose measures 3cm (1.18'').

-The earring will fall 3.3cm (1.30 inches) from your piercing. I handcraft this beautiful pair using black resin rose flowers, set on silver plated ear posts. I wire wrapped the roses and pearls with silver plated wire.

This pretty set will brighten up any outfit and it is a perfect gift for a woman.


From: Sues Arts

Bronze Flower Daisy Ring 

Description:  SOLD SEPARATELY - PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHICH # YOU LIKE.

Gorgeously beautiful and unique rings in antique bronze.

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME

DELIVERED IN A GIFT BAG

Thanks for looking.

From:  I Paint It Pretty

Holiday Ornament Red Sled with Penguins 

 

Description:  This is a hand painted and decorated pine sled with two penguins and an igloo. The penguins are sitting in the snow with presents all around them. The sled is a cheery holiday red with white runners. Glittering snowflakes add some sparkle. This versatile sled can be placed under the tree, hung on the wall, stood in a corner or placed any where you want some holiday color. This sled will become a treasured holiday decoration you'll love for many years. It would also be an exceptional gift to give a loved one.
24 in x 10 in x 2 in

For the sled I used acrylic paint and three coats of varnish to ensure durability. The holly and the snowflakes are glued on. I added a red and gold tie for hanging.

From:  Green Witch Designs (Shelly Moody)

Stitch Markers - Just Like  Mommy's 

Description:  One of the greatest pleasures we get as a knitter, is teaching the skill to the next generation. We love sharing what we know with the younger set. Many of us have young knitters in our own homes. The dilemma we face is, what do we do when they raid our favorite notions? Here is the perfect answer, our Just Like Mommy line of stitch markers. These fun little notions are inexpensive and created with the youngest knitters in mind! The perfect way to give her, or him, the tools they need to keep up with their new favorite hobby! No more worrying about your own favorite markers and hoping they will make it back to you.

These pink with purple heart markers are made of plastic beads, silver plated findings and will fit up to a size US9 needle.
They are pictured here with a size US6 needle.

That is all for today.

Thank you for stoppping in and having a look.

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

 

Five Great Gifts to Give - Etsy Shops

Hello, 

Happy Wednesday.  

Since there isn't much going on in the studio at the moment, and we took a trip with Curiosity to Mars yesterday, and I am instructing classes on Thursday and Saturday, lets take a look at some really lovely things from Etsy shop owners.

We have a couple of new shops for you too.  Tomorrow we have a brand new featured artists and Friday is a mystery, even to me.

From Angs Divine Designs

Blue and Purple Brilliance Bracelet 

Description: You are sure to get noticed with this bracelet!
Made with blue and purple color plated glass gem cut brilliance beads, silver metal corrugated beads and elastic.
Bracelet measures just over 7".

Fall is around the corner and and these fire leafy earrings are just right to brighten up those chilly days ahead. 

Orange and Silver Leaf Dangle Earrings

Description: Beautiful leaf earrings for fall! Made with opal orange firepolished faceted czech glass beads, orange glass gem cut beads, silver metal leaf charms and wire hooks. They measure about 1.50" in length.

From The Dorothy Days

Rose Bobby Pin Hair Clips

Description:  Set of 3 handmade hair grips / bobby pins/ hair slides which look beautiful if worn as a set or individually. All handmade by The Dorothy Days in England.

Each hair slide/ bobby pin is 44 mm long and is on a bronze style pin which adds to the vintage look. The rose is pink and made from resin.

The set comes carded on a handmade stamped gift tag which means it is perfect to give as a gift and is a great alternative to a card.

Would look lovely for a special occassion such as a wedding or equally beautiful for everyday wear. They suit all ages. 

From Sues Arts

Beaded Pearl Bracelet with Flower

Description: Very elegant and classy three row pearl bracelet with a large nave blue and white flower bead.

See matching necklace.

DELIVERED IN A GIFT BAG

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME

Try pairing with this matching necklace.  What an elegant and sophisticated look for a special occasion! 

Beaded Pearl Necklace with Flower

Description: Gorgeously elegant pearl necklace with a large navy blue and white rose.

The pearls are glass and the flower is a Femo bead.

See matching bracelet.

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME

DELIVERED IN A GIFT BAG

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.  

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

Six Great Gifts For Giving

Tuesday, one of my favorite blog days!  I get to check out all the cool stuff and the neat shops to bring you Five nifty items.  Gifts for you, a loved one, special occasions, birthdays or just because you want to show some one you care.  

I can count!  Today I offer an extra Gift to Give, some of these are so wonderful I can't post jut one!  We have two offerings from each shop today.  A returning shop, and some new folks to check out too.

I usually don't gush over items, but these are so cute!  Somebody snap these up before I do!  There are several to choose from, and the hoops are adorable.  Would make a fabulous addition to any Steampunk's jewelry box or Girlie-Girl wardrobe.

From: Sues Arts

Swarovski Crystals Chandelier Earrings

Description:  SOLD SEPARATELY: PLEASE LET ME KNOW WHICH ONE YOU LIKE

♥ CRYSTALS CLEAR or
♥ WHITE PEARLS
♥ CRYSTALS WITH WHITE PEARLS

Amazingly gorgeous, elegant, classy and chick Swarovski crystals chandelier earrings.

Delivered in a gift bag.

Custom orders welcome.

Thanks for looking.

and to go with those fabulous earrings...

Cluster Necklace with Glass Pearls and Swarovski Crystals

Description: Gorgeous cluster necklace created out of Swarovski crystals. Very sparkly, elegant, dressy and unique.

Bow is removable.

Delivered in a gift bag.

Custom orders welcome.

New Shops to Check out!  And are these wire-wrappings cool!  Cobra's and Butterflies and other things!  Oh my!

This is a very clever design, and it really does resemble a Cobra.

From Diana Ir

Lapis Lazuli Cobra Pendant

Description: Beautiful copper wire wrapped cobra snake pendant with a lapis lazuli stone bead.  It is 6.5 cm long and 1.8cm wide. 

This one just fascinates me... How'd she do that????  Reminiscent of Arwen's pendant from Lord of the Rings, is Diana's

Evenstar

 Description: A reinterpretation of the stunning necklace worn by Arwen in LOTR.
 

Copper wire wrapped, with small beads, measuring 6cm long and 3.5cm wide

Alrighty Mad Hatters and other Tea Teetotalers!  These are for you!  Elevenses, High Tea or just a cup because you want one, these English Tea cups are bound to make tea taste better!

From: The Dorothy Days

1950's Meakin Tea Cup Trio Vintage Tea Set

Description: An unusual tea cup trio by Meakin. The set includes a teacup, saucer and cake plate. This set is really beautiful and is in a matte lustre finish which is unusual for teacups. This gives it a lovely silk like feeling to the cup. The motif is a pink flower with a mint green/ blue type colour and green leaves. The motif is also inside the tea cup. The actual shape of the teacup is also unusual for this design.

Very elegant and in great condition. Would be lovely for afternoon tea.

1950's Tea Cup Vintage Tea Set Violet Flower Tea Cup Set

Description: A 1950's teacup trio including teacup, saucer and cake plate.  Made in the 1950's by Duchess.  English Bone China with gilt edges.

Violet/ Viola flowers motif on teacup as well as saucer and cake plate. Very dainty and beautiful. The teacup is footed.

Condition: Mint Condition. Looks as if it has not been used. No cracks, rubbing or chips.

More available on request if you are looking for a pair or a set. Please contact me.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

Studio Time - Class Projects from Jo-Ann Fabrics

Hello and Happy Wednesday!

As many of you know I occasionally have the pleasure of teaching / instructing a class at Jo-Ann's Fabrics, and also involved in the process of getting my own classes started up as well.

Today I thought we would take a brief look at a Jo-Ann's Class Project.  All the materials for these were purchased at Jo-Ann Fabrics, 1085 Milwaukee, Boise, ID.

Dare To Dangle Earrings

Class Session: 1

2 Hours 

Skill Level: 2

Jo-Ann's List of Materials:

Stone Chips bead tube - Quartz Mix

24 Gauge Wire

Ear Wires (Hooks)

Jump Rings

I used 

Stone Chips bead tube - Quartz Mix

22 Gauge Wire (Sterling Silver Plated Copper)

Ear Wires (Hooks)

Jump Rings

 FRONT

Stone Chips are threaded on to a length of wire (Sterling Silver Plated Copper in 22 Gauge).  The wire is twisted back on itself to form a loop, adding one Stone Chip at a time, the bead and wire wrap around the base stones to form a cluster.  Simple, pretty and may be done in any color or selection of Stone Chip Beads.  These are genuine Semi-Precious stones and include, Fluorite, Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Aquamarine, and other varieties of quartz.

BACK

This is a super simple and easy project that makes a cute pair of earrings.  I like this project because it is totally "organic" and very primitive in nature.  The Craft-person decides on stones and designs the earrings as they go along, the wire wraps naturally (where it wants to) around the beads dictated by the bead shape, creating and additional element to the design. Class Space for this project and others are still available.   This Saturday, June 9th,  1:00pm - 3:00pm, Jo-Ann Fabrics will be having an "Open House" classes are 50% Off for in-store registration, and completed projects will be on display!

There will also be other projects on display as well as other instructors and Jo-Ann team members are always there to help!

Other Projects Available - August

"Crystal Life Bracelet" - using Swarovski elements

"Pearls of Time Watch" - using Glass Pearls and a Watch Face

"Pearl" Earrings -using wire and a Glass Pearls to match the Watch.

There is one more pair of earrings that classes will be given for as well.  Come on down and check it out.

Thank you for stopping by.  

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a wonderful Wednesday.

Thursday Feature: How to Wear Pearls

Good Morning,

I thought it might be kind of fun to discuss necklace or chain lengths, what they are called and how to wear them for a particular occasion.

Today's Fashion is a mish-mash mix and match mess! Long gone are the Fabulous Fashions of the 1940's sophisticated, tailored, feminine. So, I could do without the hats.  My favorite attire consists of Jeans and a T-shirt, but there are occasions when I have to dress up and put on the Girl-wear and behave like a lady. Then comes the question of the right accessory to go with that little black dress.

Although these lengths are meant for Pearls, they are a good gauge for chains as well.

Pearl Collars are 12 to 13 inches long, usually made up of three or more pearl strands and lie snugly on the middle of the neck. Very Victorian and luxurious, pearl collars go best with elegant V-neck, boat neck or off the shoulder fashions. Sometimes also called a Wedding or Bride's Collar.

This collar is a bit over done. Pearl collars should a be simple three strand piece. You may also use longer strands of pearls and wrap them to create a two strand collar with a "swag" that drapes the shoulder and collarbone area called the décolletage or décolleté.
 

Chokers are 14 to 16 inches long, and perhaps the most classic and yet versatile of all the single strand pearl lengths. A simple pearl choker can go with virtually any outfit from casual to fancy evening wear, and just about any neckline imaginable. A 16 inch pearl choker necklace is the most popular length for pearl necklaces. 

Princess / Tea Length - 17 to 19 inches long. The princess or Tea length pearl necklace is best suited for crew and high necklines. It also compliments low plunging necklines. A pendant or pearl drop may be added for extra appeal and "oopmh". 18" inch strands are the second most popular length for pearl necklaces.

 

Matinee is 20 to 24 inches long. Longer than the pearl princess necklace, and just a bit shorter than an opera length pearl necklace, the matinee pearl necklace is the right choice for casual or business dress.

 

Opera Length is 28 to 34 inches long. The pearl opera necklace is the queen of all lengths. When worn as a single pearl strand, it is refined and perfect for high or crew necklines. When doubled upon itself, it serves as a versatile two strand pearl choker.

Ropes are 45 inches in length (or longer). Elegance and sensuously sexy, the pearl rope was a favorite of Coco Chanel. For those looking for the complete pearl wardrobe, this length is a must. The rope can be wrapped for a shorter collar and swag look.

These are sometimes tied (knotted) and worn down the back, showing off a slinky backless or strapless dress.

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.  The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant rest of the week!

 

 

New Items In The Shops

Happy Monday Morning!

I trust you all had a relaxing and rejuvenating weekend. 

I had a lot of fun this weekend.  Despite my reservations about teaching for a Corporate Craft Store, things went well.  I enjoyed myself and I think the attendees had a good time as well.  But enough about that, on to what's new!

Elegant
This really is an elegant piece. Silver Plated wire is hand spun and cut in to jump rings, accented with Black Diamond Czech Glass beads (silver lined), in the European 4-in-1 pattern, woven vertically, for a change of pace.  As always this comes in a variety / combination of color and metal choices.  Check out this Wednesday's blog for a complete list of Czech Glass colors currently available, and let us create one for you in your favorite colors.  Custom orders are always welcome.

Detail

Not quite new, but still very pretty and in new Czech Glass bead colors.  These bracelets can be made longer into Choker, Collar or Necklace length chains.  Here they show off Pearl and Clear Silver Lined Czech Glass beads. 


Pearl: Would make a great June Birthday present.

Detail: The beads really are Pearlescent in color.

Silver Lining:  Just that, silver lined, clear Czech Glass beads.  Custom order per buyer's request.  7-1/2" long including clasp.  We can make one in your favorite color, too!

Detail: SOLD

Last up is an Antiqued Copper and Gear Choker / Collar.  There are two versions, interrupted chain (as shown below) and dangle (not shown), on which the gears hang from the chain, also available in Silvertone and Antiqued Bronze.  European 4-in-1 is woven horizontally to create this very pretty lacy look chain.


Copper Collar

Detail: The Gears are sold as jewelry components and have never been used in any machinery to my knowledge.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a pleasant work week.