KAL with Alix- Camouflage Scarf

Good Morning,

Today's blog is brief as we begin to Knit-A-Long With Alix, from the Alchemists Vessel. 

This project is a scarf, appropriate for men or women.  This is my very first item that I will knit and add for sale to the shop.

"Camouflage"

I will be using Bernat Softee Chunky Ombre Yarn in 20944 "Dad's Scarf", 11 stitches to the inch, on size US 11 Needles.  Here I have wound the first skein into a ball instead of the skein and label they come in.  This is a nice soft acrylic yarn that will hold up to heavy wear and  you can throw it in the washing machine.



Please excuse the other materials on the table, we are busy at the shop and never just craft one thing at a time.  The other materials are for making Chain Maille, and the class Satin Crystal Weave Bracelet project we offer at the shop.


The colors are a deep green, black, dark grey, olive green and a bright grey color that almost looks white against the darker contrast of the other colors.  The yarn reminds a great deal of Camouflage.

 

The pattern is a simple short row work and turn with wrapped stitches forming a interesting decorative loop in the triangles created by this pattern.

Materials

Bernat Softee Chunky 20944 "Dad's Scarf" (11 stitches to the inch)
3 Balls (77 yards / 70 m - 2.80 oz / 80g) "Ombre" yarn (wt. 6)
Size 11 US needles (8.0 mm)
Tapestry needle
Gauge: 11sts x 14 rows = 4" (10cm)
You may choose a yarn that appeals to you.

K = Knit
P =Purl
WS = Wrap Stitch*

Pattern Note:  
To work a *Wrapped Stitch:
Knit the number of stitches listed in the row
Slip the next stitch Purlwise to the Right Hand Needle
Bring your yarn to the front of the work
Slip the stitch back to the Left Hand Needle
Turn your work
Bring the Yarn to the Front of your work (you just wrapped the stitch)
Slip the first stitch on the Left Hand needle to the Right Needle
Purl to the end of the row


To Work the wrapped stitches in pattern:
Knit to the Wrapped Stitch
Slip the stitch to the Right Hand needle without knitting it
Slide the tip of the left hand needle into the Horizontal bar (formed around the stitch by bringing the yarn to the front and then back of your work).  With the wrap on the needle, slide the LEFT HAND needle through the first stitch on the right hand needle and Knit the stitch.

Short Row Scarf Pattern

C/O 20 sts.

K rows 1 and 2 (this will give you a nice foundation to begin).
Row 3 - K 16, WS, Turn
Rows 4, 6, 8, 10 Purl to the end of row
Row 5 - K 12, WS, Turn
Row 7 - K 8, WS, Turn
Row 9 - K4, WS, Turn
Row 11 - K to the end of the row, picking up all wrapped stitches
(First Triangle Complete)
Row 12 - K 4, WS, Turn
Rows - 13, 15, 17, 19 Purl to end of row
Row 14 - K 4, pick up WS, K3, WS, Turn
Row 16 - K 8, pick up WS, K3, WS, Turn
Row 18 - K 12, pick up WS, K3, WS, Turn
Row 20 - K 16, pick up WS, K to end of Row.
(Second Triangle Complete)

Continue working these 20 Rows for the entire length of your Scarf.

Progress pictures coming.  Next Wednesday we will look at progress and continuing to knit with a second ball / skein.

The cool thing about this pattern is that it looks the same on both sides and the alternating triangles give it a nice textured feel and look.  One will be Stockinette the other Garter Stitch, not only is it a nice texture, it helps to define the pattern and makes the triangles pop.

Because my ball was knotted and not wound right towards the inside I am missing a good 12 yards of yarn, so your length of scarf after you finish the first ball may be longer than the progress pictures, that is OK.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

Up Coming Classes and Events at Little Shop of Artists

Good Morning,

Happy Friday to one and all.

Today we will be briefly discussing the classes taught by Alixandra Browning of The Alchemists Vessel and Blackbird Metalworks.

Alixandra is the Independent Contracted Jewelry Instructor for Boise's local Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store located at 1085 Milwaukee, Boise.

September's and October's Classes include

"Crystal Crochet Water Bracelet" This is made with wire and beads
"Satin Crystal Weave Bracelet"  This is made with satin cording and as many colors as you like, samples use black and white cording (available to see in store).

How about these cute Medallion Earrings, just in time for the Holidays.  Change up the colors and they can be Stars, Snowflakes, Webs, just about anything you can imagine.  Just in time for Halloween these are made in fun Fall colors!

Come on in and learn how and you, too, can hand-make your Christmas presents this year!

We also offer classes at Little Shop of Artists.

These are cute, simple fun and only cost about $10.00 to make (depending on where you purchase your supplies).

Memory Wire Bracelets with Glass Bi-cone beads, these can be designed with any single color or as many colors as you like, simple to make, shiny to wear!

We also teach a variety of intermediate and advanced jewelry techniques, including Illusion jewelry and Chainmaille classes.

We also teach a variety of craft classes from knitting and crocheting to fun ways to alter or jazz up your wardrobe.

Please stop by the shop and have a look.  Sign up for class, or bring us your broken or tired  jewelry in need or repair or an update and let us help you create a special something all your own and fall in love with your jewelry again.

Like the blog?  Give it a follow won't you?
Please remember to Like Us on Face Book:
Little Shop of Artists
Website

Store Location:

Little Shop of Artits
6713 Fairview Ave., Suite B
Boise, ID 83704
(Behind A-1 Video Game Exchange, in the lot)

Linkapolooza 2 - Social Media Sites

Good Morning,

Today we deviate a little and change up the day's Featured Artist with places where you can feature your own art or others or your site, band, brand, or what have you.  Many of these may be found to the right, click on the icon or button to check them out.

rebelmouse - This is a cool one stop, sign up and forget it site.  Rather like Pintrest, it is a page of just the things you choose to have post on the site.  The great thing about rebelmouse is that you can connect it to all your favorite Facebook pages, as well as Twitter, Linkedin, Instagram, Google +, Flickr and others.  Post on a Facebook page, and it automatically posts to your rebelmouse page.  Tweeted something did you?  It will post automatically to your rebelmouse page.  You don't have to click OK or do anything else, post it once and rebelmouse will take care of the rest.  It is also free, and yes they have paid upgrades, too.


Twitter- I know I don't have to explain Twitter.  For the longest time I refused to have an account, I thought it was silly. However as a marketing tool, it does have its perks.  Short snippets of information can be sent out and reach your market quickly.  Made something new, having a sale, want to share a new venture?  A short sentence and a hash-tag # topic or a directed tweet @ someone, you can reach a whole new audience.  You may also tweet pictures and videos.  Quick simple way to advertize your art, services, sales, brand, music, or whatever.

linkedin:   Since I first joined, they have changed the way they do things on the site.  Not a bad site, but there is little interaction unless someone wants to connect with you and grow their "Professional Network".  Linked in used to connect directly to a blog or page, they no longer offer that and instead want you to go post over there.  However, they have made it possible to post pictures, upgrade your projects, and get connected with more people, if you are into social networking, there are groups available to join, and tailored to your specific profession.

Maven: Is a professional consultations and networking site.  The idea here is to get connected with other professionals, as well as connect with people that might be looking for services.  You may click this link http://www.maven.co/join/HhnkQNkF and check it out for yourselves.  Their pages make more sense than any brief explanation I try here.


Other sites to check out:
Delicious
It's Better Handmade
On Fire For Handmade 
The Craft Star


Thank you for stopping in and having a look.  In hope that one of these may be of use or beneficial to you.

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

Monday Miscellany: Classes, News and a Link or Two

Good Morning,

The work week begins, I hope all had a relaxing weekend.


New classes begin at Jo-Ann's for May and June, don't forget parents, this is a great way to entertain the kids and teach them a fun skill.  There are classes geared for teens, as well as kids the projects are simple and require no prior knowledge or skill to attend.  Check out your local Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Stores.  If you're in Boise,  classes are held at the 1085 N. Milwaukee, across the street from Home Depot.

There is always Jewelry 101, $35.00 2-1/2 session
Hone your skills, learn a new one, or come on in and talk to an expert about the piece you're working on or would like to create.

Projects for May and June 

Jewelry 102 - Leather Crystal Knotted Necklace - $30.00, 2 hours.
Learn to Knot Cord, Braid leather cords, Make and Attach dangles.

Jewelry 201 - Crimp and Ribbon Necklace - $30.00, 2 hours.
Learn to use End Crimps, Attach dangles to a chain.

Jewelry 202 -  Crystal Weave Bracelet - $30.00, 2 hours
Learn to Weave a design, Follow a pattern, how to use Rondelles (A bead shape).

All Jewelry classes are lead by Alixandra Browning of The Alchemists Vessel.  You may sign up by visiting or calling Jo-Ann's.  Material List will be available at time of sign up.  Jo-Ann's requires that all classes be attended by at least three people.  This would be great fun for a group, team or troop.


Everything at The Alchemists Vessel or Blackbird Metalworks is handcrafted from start to finish.  I would like to share with you a portion of a Super Secret Project.  This is called Moss or Mossy Agate.  This cabochon was hand cut, and processed by John Rasmussen of Rasmussen Gems and Jewellery, LLC.   It will be mounted in a ring shank and sent back across the US for a very special present.  He did an excellent job bringing out the lovely mossy inclusions on the surface of the stone, I think it looks like a tree and a bird or butterfly.  Then again I have a very active imagination.

ANNOUNCEMENT: 

I am excited and happy to announce that the building for Little Shop of Artists is available once again!  Watch this blog for more details.  The artists and myself are looking forward to moving in and setting up the wares.  As soon as we are in and organized all will be invited to the Grand Opening Event.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

Thursday Random Post

Good Morning,

The Blog Ring is on hiatus for a couple of weeks and I have no one to feature today.

Instead, I have done the unthinkable and signed up for a twitter account.  It may not last long signing up was extremely annoying, and the site itself is awful.  Not intuitive and frustrating at best.

If you would like to follow, add to a list, or grow your own list of followers (I will follow you in return) you can now connect with the Alchemists Vessel via twitter.

Tweet to:  @AlixAlchemy

Follow us: @AlixAlchemy 

Don't forget to check out the side bar menus for links!

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.

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

Studio News Ring - Ring

Happy Wednesday!

The week is almost over, and it has been a busy last couple of days.

This morning I would like to share the latest listing for a new ring,  at Blackbird Metalworks, as well as sharing one of the Jo-Ann's Class projects that you can learn to make when you sign up for the Brochure Jewelry Making or the Trend Classes lead by Alixandra of The Alchemsits Vessel and Blackbird Metalworks.

Sky - Sterling Silver and Genuine Turquoise Ring

This pretty little ring has a genuine Natural Turquoise cabochon, hand set with sterling silver bezel strip and .5mm twisted gallery wire, shank is sterling silver and hand soldered to the cabochon setting.  A size US 6-1/2, this is a feminine and very attractive little accent ring.

The stone is not cracked, it has been left in it's natural shape and state, instead of being shaped, filled or polished with resin, it has been set just as it was.

The ring below is made from 20g Sterling Silver plated and 24 kt dyed copper jewelry wire and was made using a variety of glass beads.

Jo-Ann's has cancelled this class, being as it almost the end of February, but fear not, Trend classes and private lessons can be arranged by contacting Jo-Ann Fabric and Crafts for Trend and Brochure classes, or contacting The Alchemists Vessel for your group, party or private lessons.

"Blue Belle" Ring - Instructions by Spotted Canary School

Clockwise from Left - "Blue Belle" class project.  Red Bi-cone Bead, Green Bi-cone Bead, Glass Pearl beads in Gray, and Brown.

"Blue Belle" Ring

Red Bi-cone Bead - Option

Glass Pearl Bead, Gray - Option

Gold wire and Glass Pearl, Brown

Super simple to make.  Cute, and can be made to match your mood, or your outfit.

Check out what other classes are available on line or visit your local Jo-Ann's.

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.

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

Links, Promotions, Classes

Happy Friday,

The weekend is here, and I am looking forward to it.

Today I wanted to share the upcoming classes that are available through Jo-Ann Fabric and Crafts Store, here in Boise, ID. Located at 1085 N. Milwaukee, (208) 323-5373.  Jewelry classes are taught in the downstairs classroom.  (Across the street from Home Depot). 

February's Classes are still available and range from $30.00 to $35.00 per person.  Two hour sessions are offered, and include; instruction, a field trip through the store, a ten minute break, and time for questions, plus you get a lovely handmade project to take home with you.

Like Swarovski Crystal elements, but don't like the retail price?  Jo-Ann's has lots of glass bead alternatives that come in the right sizes and look just as pretty in your finished piece.

This month as well as next, classes feature Swarovski Crystals elements in 6mm Bi-cone shaped beads.

Jewelry Basics is not required to take any of the project classes.  If you would like to try it without committing to an entire project, the 2-1/2 session includes, an overview of Tools and Techniques, a field trip through the store, and a completed project to take home at the end of class.  *Some tools are provided during class time.  We ask students arrive with two pairs of pliers and material to complete the class.  If you would like to wait until class time to purchase your project needs that is also fine.  We'll even ring you up at the counter right next to the classroom.

Jewelry 101 - 2-1/2 hr. Session - $35.00 This class is offered every month.

These projects vary by month, but beginning, intermediate and advanced classes are offered every month.

February

Jewelry 102 - 2 hr. Session - $30.00 

Triple Twist Bracelet 

(Instructor's Sample)

Jewelry 103 -  2 hr. Session - $30.00

Blue Belle Earrings and Ring Set. 

(This is my personal favorite this month).

Jewelry 201 - 2 hr. Session - $30.00

Crystal Fringe Pendant

March - April

Jewelry 101 - $35.00

Jewelry 102 - 2 hr. Session - $30.00

Crystal Ring Earrings

Jewlery 201 - 2 hr. Session - $30.00

Floating Crystal Wrap Bracelet (Illusion Jewelry).

All of the above classes are lead by Alixandra Browning, owner / designer of The Alchemists Vessel.  Class instructions and materials lists are provided by Spotted Canary School.

Don't feel like taking any of the above the classes but would like something new, different and challenging?

May and June will be beginning Chainmaille and other Jewelry Projects given through Little Shop of Artists, meeting at Bella's Grove, or Jo-Ann's Upstairs Classroom.

All class materials and tools will be handed out prior to class.  Students are expected to come with an open mind, relaxed hands, and a desire to create.  Curious?  Sit in's are always welcome, contact The Alchemists Vessel for details.

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.

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

Announcements Feb 01, 2013

Good Morning,


Pleased to announce that I have completed the written portion of my course for Certified Jewelry Design and Repair Technician.  I currently hold a 95 average. Waiting for homework projects to be marked as completed and returned along with my Certification papers.  I am thrilled to be through the course and now the waiting begins. I will not see an actual Certificate until June or July, when all the processes have been gone through, including and not limited to skill assessment with one of the larger Retailer Jewelers.

The Alchemists Vessel and Blackbird Metalworks will be closed from February 7th to 11th, and returning on the 12th.  Entrepreneurs need rest and relaxation as well.  Although it isn't all rest and relaxation, work will be done as well.  The blog will have scheduled posts, but I am unsure if they will actually post when scheduled to do so.

Those of you that may be looking for me at February's Flea Market, I am not sure if I have a space this month or not, I have not received the form from Spectra Productions, the "hosts" of the Market, for booth space or payment. I apologize in advance if you attend and I am not there.

Thank you for stopping by and having a read.

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

Friday - Shameless Self Promotions

Good Morning,

Friday is here and so is the weekend!  This morning's entry isn't very long, but there are a couple things that I thought might be interesting.

Those of you that follow along are more than likely aware that I have had a Chainmaille Ring, and variation of a maille weave, accepted on the site M.A.I.L., I am also pleased to announce that they have also accepted my Tutor / Instructor Listing.   I am excited and in hope of students.

In anticipation of finishing my class projects, I have opened a new section of The Alchemists Vessel, Metalworks.  There are items for sale including this very pretty hand cast ring.

Filigree Leaf Motif Sterling Silver Ring

Product Details:

This lovely one of a kind Filigree design Leaf motif ring is hand cast, sanded and polished.  US size 8.  Perfect for nature admirers or those that don't want a large heavy piece on their finger.  Delicate and feminine in appeal, the band is hand-stamped 925.
The ring is slightly domed at the top where the filigree design is located. 
Arrives in a ring box (shown) This ring may not be resized.

Once I have remitted my projects, there will be some re-vamping and re-arranging of the shop, including and not limited too an entirely new shop devoted to Fine Metal and Gemstone jewelry, like the ring above and other items listed in the section.

I would also like to take this opportunity to invite you all to have a look at Handmade Artists, handmadeartists.com.  In the coming months I will be allowing the Etsy Shop to close itself down, when the item listing expire I will not be renewing them.  I will be migrating all of the items to the handmadeartists site.  Etsy has turned away from its original intents and purposes, and I for one am no longer am interested in being involved with the site.  If you are a former customer, or some one that is thinking about shopping with me, please take a moment to look at The Alchemists Vessel on handmadeartists, same great products, same prices, and a safe and secure way to shop on line.  

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

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

Monday Celtic and Dragonscale Weaves

Good Morning,

In hope that many of you spent the weekend doing something pleasant with your children or for yourself, instead of dwelling on the tragedies of last week.

Although there is nothing new in the shop, there are still plenty of beautiful things to look at, or perhaps you still need a gift, Tuesday December 18th will be the last GUARANTEED mail date for your gift to arrive by Christmas.  Order soon.

Today I would like to introduce you to two new weaves, to be available at the end of January, when the new line of Aluminum Chainmaille jewelry is introduced.  Aluminum?  You ask.  This is not the aluminum your beer can is made out of, no indeed not.  This is high quality, natural (silver tone) and anodized aluminum, in absolutely gorgeous colors.   Ranging in a variety of gauges, we would like to begin to purchase our supplies from Blue Buddha Boutique, a Chainmaille Jewelry and Supply company.  Due to some recent changes, equipment failures and several other incidents, I simply need a supplier.

The Celtic Bracelet, shown below in 16 gauge Natural Aluminum and 18 gauge Aqua (Anodized) jump rings, makes a beautiful, shiny and substantial bracelet.  With proper care and feeding, this piece will last a lifetime and longer.  Available in an array of colors and two sizes, super light weight, easy to wear and to care for.  It should be noted that the construction of maille usually does not allow for soldering, so the rings remain "open".  Rough handling, pulling or other stress may cause the rings to come apart.

This is one of my very favorite weaves and I have finally conquered it.  Dragonscale is another version of European 4-in-1, that involves exact size and placement of the jump rings to achieve this scaly appearance.  Simply gorgeous in this Large Size sample, it takes a while to weave.  18 gauge Natural Aluminum and 18gauge Aqua and Purple Rings are placed and linked in this stunning pattern.  The Aqua rings lend this piece an iridescent quality that the photo just does not capture.

Available in an array of metals and anodized colors, and three sizes, Large, Medium and Small, this refers to the size of the rings used and width of the piece, not the length.  Average length is 7-1/4" in length including clasp, longer chains may be made upon request.

These are not for sale because they are mine.

The chart below shows solid anodized aluminum colors that are available for projects, however inventory / count is required before new material may be purchased.  If you are interested in one of these lovely items, please do not hesitate to contact us and we'll be happy to assist you and provide an estimated delivery date as materials are unavailable until after January 7, 2013.

Thank you for stopping by and having a look.

Remember comments, suggestions, and questions are always welcome.

NOTE:  Due to circumstances beyond my control the Brick and Mortar location for the Little Shop of Artists is no longer available at the is time.  We will continue to keep you up to date on our new location or move in date as soon as possible.  (Boy is my face red)

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

Links, Promotions and a New Look

Happy Friday!

Surprise.  Yes, the blog has a new look.  The old template was getting rather boring, and I needed a change, and change can be good.  Freshen and liven things up a little bit.  A links and photo gallery page have also been added.

Other things are also getting a face lift.  The banners and cover photos for sites and pages will be changing as well as some of what The Alchemists Vessel has to offer.

Levity is required on occasion.  I would like to introduce you to my boss, the Design Coordinator, Art Director and Quality Control Department Manager, Miss Nora, The Overseer.

The Overseer.  Making sure I'm doing it right.

Do you know about On Fire for Handmade?  onfireforhandmade.com, is a little like an enormous artisan catalog on the web.  Shops, Treasuries, Contests, Blogs,  and if your an artist the Gift Guide is the place to be seen!  Supporting artisans world wide.

It's Better Handmade, run but the same folks who operate handmadeartist.com and partner with many other sites of like kind around the web including Handmadeology.

About IBH: It’s Better Handmade (IBH) is comprised of crafters and artists in all types of mediums who come together to support each other both personally through growing friendships as well as in business through advice, support, critiques and discussions.  Each member brings different gifts to the table both artistically and business minds and by creating a centralized place for them to come together, each artist can continue to learn and grow in both art and business.

Check them out: itsbetterhadnmade.com

Today I am at the workbench, as you can see above there is neating up to be done.

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

Studio News Jewlery Classes New for the Holidays

Trick or Treat!

I do love the middle of the week, and what more can I say, other than of course I have a treat for you!

I spent yesterday at the work bench, assembling samples for the brand new Jewelry Class projects starting in November and available through December at your local Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store.

Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft Store
1085 Milwaukee
Boise, ID 
208-323-5373 
Instructor: Alixandra Browning of The Alchemists Vessel

Jewelry Making Basics or Jewelry 101 is always offered and includes an overview of supplies, tools and basic jewelry making terms and techniques.  Students take home a project they choose to make during class.  $35.00 for a 2-1/2 hour session.  Includes a field trip through the aisles.

This months projects are pretty and versatile! Simple, fun, fabulous, and  just in time for the Holidays!  Sign up and make presents for your Mom, sister, daughter, Grandmother, or all your girl-friends, in their favorite colors!  Easy and quick these projects have endless possibilities for color combinations!

Jewelry 102

Solar Chic is the first project.  $30.00 for a 2 hour session.  The Class includes both the Earrings and Bracelet.  Project materials are purchased in advance by the student, and tools are provided in the classroom.  In keeping with the Class Instructions and using the suggested materials, and still managing to keep the project unique and different; the goal of the class is to teach the techniques and let the student use their design idea to complete the piece.

Material lists and Class Schedules are provided at time of sign up.  

Suggested materials
Ear Wires
Memory Wire
6mm and 4mm *Bi-cone Beads in your favorite color.
*Project instructions call for Swarovski Crystals in Green (Mix)
Sturdy wire cutters (Memory Wire fights back!)
Round Nose pliers

Solar Chic Earrings

Memory wire and two sizes of Bi-cone shaped glass beads make up this cute and illusion-like pair of earrings.

Solar Chic Matching Bracelet

Memory wire and the same Bi-cone shaped glass beads with an added color or two create this cute, super simple, and very shiny bracelet.

Jewelry 201

I don't design the projects I just make the samples and teach the class, like they tell me.

Bow Tie Necklace - $30.00 for a 2 hour session.

This pretty project has a surprise, not constructed as you think it might be, the double strand is an eye-fetchingly sparkly and charming bit of decoration.  Great for teens, the office, or to match that Holiday outfit!  The Bow Tie may be attached or removed for two different looks.

Suggested Materials:
Silver Chain
4mm *Bi-Cone Beads
*Project instructions call for Swarovski Crystals in Siam
6mm Jump Rings
Head Pins
Lobster Claw Clasp (or choice)
Beading Wire (7 Stand)
Round Nose pliers
Wire Cutters

Silver (white metal) chain is the basis for this piece.  Shown here without the beaded Bow Tie Accent.

Option:

Shown here with the addition of the Bow Tie. 

Detail

Bow Tie accent.  Bow is created with 4mm beads.

This pieces can be made in any color combination or solid color of choice.

Thank you for stopping in and having a look.

The Alchemists Vessel would like to wish you a very Spooky Halloween!