Showing posts with label book. Show all posts
Showing posts with label book. Show all posts

Tuesday, April 22, 2014

Five Great Gifts To GiveList D-14

Good Morning,

Today I am going to share five unique items from Sue's Arts on Etsy.  Sue is also the captain of "Road To Success" a group or team of artists / sellers that also have shops on Etsy.

Sue's Arts

Silver ring, bow ring, adjustable ring, metal ring

Gorgeously beautiful and unique adjustable rings in silver.

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME

DELIVERED IN A GIFT BAG

 

Pin, brooch, Angel pin, Angel brooch, vintage brooch, antique pin, cameo brooch, cameo pin, custom jewelry

Beautiful, elegant and charming brooch in antique bronze with pearl bead and Swarovski crystals.

Size is about 11/2"x11/4".

DELIVERED IN A GIFT BAG

CUSTOM ORDERS ALWAYS WELCOME

 

Pocket size Book of Psalms - Tehillim in Hebrew,Tehillim keychain,Book of Psalms keychain, Leather keychain,Judaica keychain,Hebrew keychain

This small edition printed book of Psalms is the perfect size to carry on you at all times, great to hang on baby’s crib or stroller, in your car or on your keychain.

The Book of Psalms (Tehillim, תְהִלִּים, or "praises"), its original meaning as a song or chant, commonly referred to simply as Psalms. The Book contains 150 hymns, divided into five files, when the end of each file appears in a 'signature' that is kind of a festive finish.

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME

Natural Dendritic Agate gem charms in sterling silver, sterling silver charm, natural stone charm, silver charm, stone pendant

Gorgeously beautiful, elegant, charming one of a kind 11/2" natural Agate gem with 100% solid .925 silver.

Chain is 18" long sterling silver.

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME

DELIVERED IN A GIFT BAG

 

Beautiful Victorian cameo in antique copper

Truly unique and one of a kind, elegant and sophisticated piece of jewelry which is designed to complement any outfit. Suitable for day and casual wear as well as evening and formal wear.

About 18" long. Size can be adjusted per request at no extra charge.

CUSTOM ORDERS WELCOME

DELIVERED IN A GIFT BAG

Suzan ♥

 

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  We hope we have inspired and encouraged you to take a look at what else Sue has in her shop.

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

 

Thursday, January 10, 2013

In My Studio New Chainmaille Ring

Good Morning,

With the holidays over, and things almost back to the norm here I finally had an opportunity to sit down and make something.  It had to be a quick project, something I could complete inside a couple of hours.  This ring will be included in the projects for the E-Book "In Chains" currently in progress.

The solution was a Mini Maille Ring.  It didn't start out as one, but during the process of weaving, it insisted that it be small and round, and I had no other choice but to join the ends and create the small circle of maille.

This ring comes in two sizes of jump rings and has many variations.  It can be beaded, made in a variety of metals, and customizable in your ring size.

Simple, stunning and sturdy these rings are not meant to be worn during heavy lifting or hard work with your hands, but treated properly they can last life time.

Sample Ring:  US size 7-1/2 to 8 average ring size for most folks.
18 gauge Sterling Silver plated wire.  There is no elastic or clasp, the ring slips over your finger and fits comfortably.  It has a silky smooth feel against the skin and makes an attractive ornament.





















The completed ring sits on a ring mandrel.

The finished ring, there is no stop or start, the band is joined in pattern and left as it is.  

 The ring like any other is a simple circle, instead of a solid strip of metal interlocked rings have been woven together.



















Very pretty when worn.  A lovely decoration and perfect for those that like the look of maille but do not wish to wear a large piece.

Available in Sterling Silver Plated, Silver, Gold Tone, Copper, Merlin's Gold, and antiqued Copper and Bronze.  18 or 20 gauge wires, plain or beaded styles in single or double ring weaves.  Single ring weave shown in this post. 

*Precious Metals are available by request only.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

Wednesday, January 2, 2013

In My Studio - In Chains

Happy New Year!

January 2, 2013 is here and with it a new opportunity to encourage your creativity or just show you something pretty.

Today I have a special sneak-peek at a project that will be well a year into the making.  Last year, I received an "invitation" to use an on-line publishing service for my blog.   Yes, that's right you can actually turn your blog into a paper page book that can be printed on demand.  Self-publishing, basically, but it was nice to see some one paying attention.

After some thought and a lot of cheering from friends, I gave in and began a new blog that I am in hope of turning into a book.  Of course the finished project will  look nothing like the blog, but the contents will be basically transferred over, and "type-set" into a book format, with the text and pictures.

Today only, twelve hours, from now until 7:00 p.m. this evening, IN CHAINS is available to the public for a one time preview of the work in progress, it is not complete, and there will be many changes and photo replacements.  Comments are disabled!  If you would like to make a comment, add a suggestion or just have a question, please feel free to contact us at alchemsitsvessel@gmail.com.  Please remember to use "In Chains" in the Subject.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a joyful and prosperous new year.

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Featured Artist: Lil' Bit Sassy

Good Morning,

Thursday is here and with the day of the week comes the featured artist.

Handmade Artists Shop Owner: Lil' Bit Sassy





BIO: 
I live in Meadville, PA and love to make items that are useful as well as fun. This is why I enjoy making baby and children items so much! I can use my imagination to come up with unique things that babies and children will love to play with.

I come from a rather large family so this is where most of my inspiration comes from. I am always making things for my family and a great many ideas have been their suggestions.

Along with sewing, I also love to cross stitch, read and ride on our motorcycle.


But what does she make?  You name it, she'll make it.  Baby Bibs, and burp clothes, blankets, cases and covers for your electronics, purses, totes, banners, hair accessories, there are fabricated items on hand, and she accepts custom orders as well.  Got a Natal need, check out Lil' Bit Sassy.  My goodness her list does go on!  Whew! 

What little girl wouldn't go bonkers over this adorable Personalized Kitty Tee, with their name on it.

Kitty Personalized Shirt

Kitty Personalized Shirt
Kitty Personalized ShirtKitty Personalized Shirt

Product Details: This adorable shirt features a cute kitty that's similar to Hello Kitty and is perfect for a little girl. Your name choice is included on the shirt. Shirt shown is only available in size 4T. If you need another size shirt just let me know (will probably be a solid color T-shirt--not style shown). 

* Machine appliqued * * Kitty face is flannel * * No limit on name size *

Not everything she makes is for the little ones.

This is one of my favorite items, and it is a BOOK COVER, not a Kindle, not a Nook cover.  Nope, a real-honest-to-gosh-paper-pages-book cover.  It rocks, and it comes with its own bookmark sewn right in.  How cool is that?  (She's has more designs / fabrics in stock too!)

Flying Skulls Book Cover

Flying Skulls Book Cover
Flying Skulls Book Cover

Product Details:  These book covers are the perfect item for the reader who likes to keep their books clean and damage free--or who just likes to keep what they're reading private :) Covers fit a standard paperback book. Larger sizes can be made upon request.

* Made from cotton fabric. * Padded on front and back so it feels nice and soft.  * Will fit even the thickest book. * Slips easily onto the book's front and back covers.  * Matching ribbon attached so you don't have to worry about a bookmark!*  * Measures approx. 7 1/2" high x 10" wide.

Or how about making your next party memorable with these cute Cup Cake Toppers, kids or adult party, weddings, showers, you name it, she has a topper for it.  These are cute and would work well for your little Monster's next Birthday.

Monster Cupcake Toppers

Monster Cupcake Toppers
Monster Cupcake ToppersMonster Cupcake Toppers

Product Details:  Toppers are made when ordered so please allow at least 7-10 business days turnaround after ordered. If you need more than four sets or an odd quantity, please contact me and I will set up a special listing for you.

DESCRIPTION:
* Come in a set of 12*
* Made with card stock and 4" candy sticks*
* Toppers are 2" in diameter. Images are 1"*
* Cannot change images in any way.*


There are a lot of other really cool things in her shop, or you can check out her in-stock fabrics here and start creating something customized just for you.

You can also follow her on these sites, too:
Website  You can also order directly from there as well.

We hope we have inspired you to take a look or pass the information on to expectant parents or others.

Thank you so much for stopping in and having a look.

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

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

In My Studio - A Book and Kit Review

Happy Wednesday,

Book Review

I really enjoy learning something new, whether it be a technique, or information about a new material, or a new artist.  Today I would like share a review on Rebecca Mojica's book Chained.  If you are unfamiliar with her name, she is the owner of Blue Buddha Boutique, one of the web's and Chicago's premiere Chainmaille and Supplies Store.  I also purchased a kit and instructions last month and received them yesterday morning.  Links to the book, site, and materials can be found at the end of this post.

Although the book is not new, I looked forward to it with high expectation of honing my skills and acquiring new patterns.  This woman can link a jump ring!  I opened with book with great anticipation, only to find to my dismay, that not only did I know the weaves illustrated, and some of the patterns and variations I had already figured out on my own simply playing around.  Well bummer! Thought I.

However, as I read from cover to cover (yes, I read the whole thing in a sitting),  I discovered that this is a fabulous book for beginners or those that might like to venture into the variations of the weaves as a challenge for intermediate or advanced maillers.

Her explanation on jump rings, opening, closing them, and pliers position, is simply the best I have ever read, and I have read a lot of chainmaille books!  Believe it or not there are a few out there, not all good.  The pictures are clear and well done, some of the text is not well thought out as it is very light and extremely hard to read on occasion, but that could also be a factor of my age.  The projects are pretty and presented in a straight forward manner that is easy to understand, jargon and terms are used, but also explained in such a way that it is easily picked up.  Best of all included in the Glossary / Index is a an conversion chart and a chart of all the ring sizes used in the book's projects.  You may also purchase the exact materials if you so choose from the shop, so your project will look exactly like the book's when finished.

If you are thinking about venturing into maille for a hobby or you would like to hone those skills, I highly recommend Chained.


Kit Review - The project below is not in the book and sold separately.

Celtic Star Kit - Blue Buddha Boutique

Celtic Star Pendant Kit

I did not spin and cut these rings myself.  This beautiful piece, although hand woven, is purchased as a pre-assembled kit that you can purchase in any number of colors.  The instructions for the weaves are also sold separately from the kits, so keep that in mind when ordering.  I ordered my kit in the colorway "Sky".

The instructions are well written, clear, concise, and easy to follow.  Accompanied by step by step color pictures to help you as you weave the pattern.  The project is simple and went fairly quickly.   Incidentals like a bail and sample rings were enclosed as well, a nice addition.  There are also several blank stars on the instruction sheet which you can color with pencils to design your pallet before re-ordering or ordering your project's materials. 

However; I was disappointed to find that the kit was not complete.  Perhaps this was an over site, but the finishing or "tiny" rings that the instructions called for were not included with the kit.  Rats!  I substituted my own silver plated rings which sort of match the Aluminum ones from kit, not a biggie, but kind of a drag.

The jump rings in the kit are lovely, the colors are deep, bright and the kit allows for some designing of your own.   I would suggest ordering the three colors option in all the same color or pallet.  The kit is packaged to allow you create one Star in the color they have given you the most of.  The "Large" silver aluminum rings are 16 gauge and they fight back!  Good pliers are definitely required for making this piece.

Although the kit includes about 200 rings total, there is enough to make two stars, had they included two more "Large" rings, I could have made a third.  This leaves you extra rings to do something else with, but what?  Not quite enough to make a complete piece, but enough that if you mess up, you don't have to worry about extra material, which is nice.

Dark Blue Inner / Outer Color


Teal Inner / Outer Color


Chained
Kits
Blue Buddha Boutique 

As many of you know, I have a thing about making things smaller.  I am currently attempting to find a proper AR that will allow me to make this piece in Micro Maille.  Currently these pieces measure 1-1/4" at widest point.

Thank you for stopping by and having a read.  Congratulate yourself and have a cup of coffee and a cookie, you made it to the end of the post.

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

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Three Gifts and Treasuries!

Happy Tuesday,

This morning I am pleased to share with you a new shop on Etsy, and just in time for Back-To-School.  These super cute tote bags are great for Gym, Quick Shopping Trips, Extra Stuff.  Have a look hand made and very pretty.


Description: This is a multi use storage tote with two straps. It is hand painted with purple and white morning glories and lush green leaves and vines. There are black factory stamped butterflies on the tote as well. It is perfect for storing all sorts of things. It's a great place to keep your books or your yarn and craft supplies. It would be a great catch all to leave by the stairs to fill with things you need to bring up. In the office you can use it for files or folders. It would look nice in a guest room filled with linens. It's a storage solution that's too pretty to hide.

This basket came with the butterflies factory stamped. I painted the flowers with acrylic paint mixed with textile medium. Both sides are painted and there is a single flower painted on the back. There is also a factory added tag that you can label if you want.
8 in x 14 in x 6.5 in

Packaged with lots of care and love and will ship 1-2 days after payment is received.
Great effort has gone into accurately describing and photographing products, but please note color representation alters depending on individual screen settings.


Description: This is a OOAK hand painted distressed black messenger bag with bright burgundy and white flowers. It also has a small silver butterfly charm for some extra sparkle. There is a small zippered compartment that would be perfect for keys or money. This is a versatile bag that can be used to carry anything. Its bold beautiful colors make it a unique fashion accessory that you will find yourself coming back to again and again.


I used acrylic paint mixed with a textile medium. It was air cured for 48 hours and then I heat set the paint to ensure longevity. The centers of the flowers are embellished with hand sewn seed beads. I added a butterfly charm to make it unique.
13.75 in x 14 in

If it should need cleaning it can be hand washed and air dried.
Packaged with lots of care and love and will ship 1-2 days after payment is received.
Great effort has gone into accurately describing and photographing products, but please note color representation alters depending on individual screen settings.


Description:  This is a hand painted denim tote bag with a smiling green book worm sitting on a blue book. The worm has blue plastic eyes that move when the bag does. There's a red ribbon bookmark for a dimensional look. What a cool back to school bag. Or a bag to carry your library books, or anything else. No matter what your mood (relaxed, playful, thoughtful) this bag is a versatile accessory that you'll keep coming back to. It's also a great way to add a touch of color and fun to your wardrobe.

I used acrylic paint mixed with a textile medium. It was air cured for 48 hours and then I heat set the paint to ensure longevity. I added a blue googly eyes and a red ribbon to make it truly unique.
13.5 in x 13.5 in x 3.5 in

If it should need cleaning it can be hand washed and air dried.
Packaged with lots of care and love and will ship 1-2 days after payment is received.
Great effort has gone into accurately describing and photographing products, but please note color representation alters depending on individual screen settings.

Treasuries:

What is a Treasury?  It is a collection of sixteen items (sometimes less) taken from different stores on Etsy.  They are complied by Buyers / Sellers and usually consist of a common or main theme.

May treasuries focus on a color, a Season, a particular item or a Holiday.  The one below is "Curated" or created by me.  Although the items are not a click-able link from the blog, you may follow the link to the Treasury itself and have a look.  Etsy has lots and lots, and did I say lots of Treasuries.  Why not try giving one a perusal the next time your shopping.


To find a Treasury to your liking try the many lists and themes on Etsy by clicking HERE.

Thursday, June 14, 2012

Featured Artist: BlueHighways

Good Morning,

Today I have the pleasure of introducing you all to BlueHighways hand bound Journals, from the site Handmade Artists.

Ever wonder what is on that road less traveled?  Perhaps you travel those little blue lines on a map to someplace different, unique and off the beaten track.  That is what Blue Highways has to offer, different, unique and original hand bound books that are not your average Barnes and Noble aisle find.

Beautiful fabric covers and pages of lined or drawing paper complete the books. I have included five of my favorites below (and it was hard to choose).  Great for sketching, a day at the beach or jotting down your journey in a journal!  This is how people used to blog!

What Blue Highways says about her shop:

Old road maps used to have the back roads printed in blue, they're 
the roads less traveled...those are the ones I prefer. 
Welcome, and travel some Blue Highways with me!
All books, art & writing journals, sketchbooks & albums are made 
with nice thick durable fabric covered covers, they are 
beautifully handbound and have generous page counts.I have a 3 
book maximum on any one fabric design then it will be retired, 
even then each of the 3 will either have different paper or binding 
or both.
An encouragement to buyers; if you don't see something already 
made that you like please contact me so that together we may 
collaborate to make a custom book or journal that is absolutely 
perfect for your tastes and needs. Page counts, fabrics, paper colors, 
binding technique...all up to you.

 Deeply Entwined

Description: Maybe I can explain the odd title on this handbound book (though many are odd I must admit). I was in Charleston, SC not long ago to visit a sweet friend, we went to the aquarium... there were sea turtles with amazing grace swimming right before our eyes...and that's the rest of the story!

Twittering on The Edge




I hope that some of these have inspired you or perhaps caught your attention that you might click through and check out her Shop.

Thank you for stopping by and having a read.

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

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Three Great Gifts To Give Presenting Handmade Artists Site

Good Morning.

Today I would like to feature some truly unique, clever and beautiful, handmade from start finish gift ideas.  All of today's featured gifts are from shops on handmadeartists.com.  A great site to find things handcrafted by some amazing artists and craft-people.  There is no question here about re-sellers, these items are handmade by the shop owner.

Although I invited any and all shop owners to participate, I only received three entries for this weeks blog, so I turn the post over the them.  Hoping to pique your curiosity enough to click the link and have a look see at some of their other offerings as well.  Looking is always free!

Without further ado:


Product Details: This bracelet was handcrafted using brown leather and round green tree agate beads. It sports a shell button for closure and a Peace charm.
It measures approximately 7 1/4 inches


 Product Details: It may be fall but I'm holding on to warmer weather with this gorgeous 6" x 9" book covered in a fabric of red tulips. The colors are shades of scarlet and greens popping on a black background. The red was difficult for me to photograph perfectly, the 4th photo is the actual cover scanned on my scanner and represents the colors a little better.

Inside I have bound 160 pages (front & back) of premium 80# acid free white drawing paper excellent for pencil, colored pencil and charcoal also good for pen and ink, marker and oil pastels. I have them sewn with a hand waxed red cotton thread and ribbon bound them with a 7/8" scarlet grosgrain ribbon. As with all my ribbon bound books, refills can be ordered once the book has been filled, please contact me if you are interested in one - it's simple to replace, I'll be happy to walk you through it.


 Product Details:   Glamorous shabby chic cottage Mosaic Tray. This was a vintage silver plate tray, Silver plate all gone, I sanded it down, primed it, it got a coat of cottage white paint. A lil bit of distress to give it that worn well loved look. I then proceeded to cut up my already damaged fine bone china plate rims and stained glass and filled the inside with this lovely mosaic. Roses and blooms are climbing on this tray like a briar bush in the wild, so romantic.
I then filled the rim with lil pearls and tulle roses all the way around to give it that finished look. A lil arrangement of handmade clay roses in the left corner and this Mosaic tray is brimming with beauty.
The mosaic is grouted in an antique white grout and sealed. I showed it photographed in different light and it can be hung up on the wall too.
It is a footed tray and I tied a pale cream organza ribbon to two of the the feet, tied it in a nice bow and it can hang on your wall..
The colors are the truest on the close ups of the pictures.



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