RavenWorks Studio

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2011-04-06T11:31:00.001-04:00

Even though I'm a jewelry maker, I find that I tend to wear my favorite jewelry pieces all the time.

One of these pieces of jewelry is a pair of earrings that I didn't even create. These silver raven shaped earrings are simple, silver, high quality craftsmanship and go with everything. And they're ravens. So duh.

Does anyone else have a piece of jewelry they wear all the time? Please feel free to post photos

Long Time, No Blog

2011-01-12T14:12:00.006-05:00

When life gets crazy, certain hings tend to fall along the wayside. Unfortunately, one of the first things to fall off my planet is blogging.

This past year has has been full of changes, especially for me as a jewelry artist. I've had a lot of success's, especially over this summer, and it's given me the confidence I've needed to try to make RavenWorks my full-time endeavor.

There's been a lot of learning, and there's a lot of learning to go. I've learned how to better perfect my art, how to present my work, how to sell, etc. Now I have to learn how to promote, grow my customer base, and a million other things, such as doing taxes for my business this year for the first time.

I'm hoping that I can use this blog as a platform to share some of my experiences and hopefully help other people along the road to doing their art full time. I also hope to be able to get feedback from people as well. Oh, and laughing at myself now and again is always good.

So bear with me as I get this rusty blog train on track once again. I promise it will be worth it.

New Creations

2009-08-03T12:53:00.003-04:00

Once again, my passion for stones and crystals has emerged. As I learn more about their metaphysical properties, I'm also new colors and combinations of stones, and of course, new wire designs.

I'm also pushing myself to keep my Etsy shop updated, and participate in chat, and other promotional avenues. My jewelry deserves to be seen, and hopefully, loved. Be sure to check out all of the great new stuff......

Gettin' Crafty With It

2009-07-20T20:37:00.002-04:00

As I continue to be out of work, I continue to push myself with my jewelry creation. I've also committed myself to several craft shows for this coming season, something I didn't allow myself to do last year. I'm excited, and hoping this push to be committed to my jewelry making will bring around some good things.

I'll be posting pictures of new creations. Wish me luck!

Working, Working, Working

2009-07-07T12:17:00.004-04:00

Well, haven't posted in some time, but now that I'm out of work, I should have more time on my hands.

I've been working hard on listing new items in my Etsy shop, and I think it's looking good. I've also joined Twitter (ravenworkstudio) and I hope to make some new connections there. I may even set up an Artfire and 1000 Markets account now that I have the time.

So, I'm on the crafty move. I hope I can get some things happening soon :)

Great Finds!

2009-05-07T10:56:00.000-04:00

The gem show was amazing. I was so overwhelmed with all of the incredible stones, crystals and gems it was ridiculous. I made some great buys. My only regret was that I didn't have more money to spend. Luckily though, I discovered some new gems to love.

So, time to get my jewelry making behind into gear for the craft fair season. Good times.

Rock And Gem Show

2009-04-30T12:56:00.005-04:00

This Saturday I'm going to my very first rock and gem show, and I'm so excited, it's ridiculous. I'm already dreaming of all of the great finds I'll pick up there, and pre-cringing at the money I'm sure to spend.

I really hope to find some really brightly colored crystals. I've seen some pieces lately using different shades of tourmoline and quarzt that make me ache with jealousy:

Aren't those stones just stunning? I hope to capture a few similar beauties this weekend. Wish me luck!

Ch-Ch-Changes!

2009-04-17T15:50:00.002-04:00

Well, my new found passion for creating fabulous dog clothes creations and jewelry has finally found a way to resolve its self.

I've established a new blog and a new website, and really a whole new entity for my doggie lovelies called Devine Dog Designs. Please take a look when I finally get them rolling a bit :)

So, I can now go back to devoting this blog to my jewelry, as originally intended. However, I'm very excited about my new project. This way I can switch on and off between the two and not get completely burnt out on just one. Considering craft fair season begins soon, this is a good thing, and should help to keep the creative juices flowing.

Another Dog Project

2009-03-23T20:19:00.004-04:00

So, continuing in my dog centric craftiness, I made a cute little dress for our new puppy Vixen from a fantastic pattern I bought off off http://petitepuppypatterns.com/Site/Home-1.html

So adorable, and the pattern is so versatile. Unfortunately I got the pattern a little to small, as Vixie is her pudgy puppy stage, and she's still growing. Today I got the pattern for the next size up, and I can't wait to make some more dresses out of all of the fun fabric I bought!

Veering Off

2009-03-18T13:25:00.005-04:00

Once again I'm in jewelry burn out mode after doing the last art show. So, I've been giving my brain a bit of a rest from jewelry creation.

In the meantime, I've been working on some items for my doggies. Once I perfect them, I hope to be able to market them to other people with small dogs.

A small sample. The orange knit sweater:

Right now it's pretty basic, but I'm working on it. Eventually, it will evolve into something more impressive.

And, here's the fleece I've been crafting:

So far I'm happy to have figured out a few basic patterns. They're solid and ready to be awesome. Wish me, and my dogs, luck :)

Yeah for Animals!

2009-03-04T14:53:00.003-05:00

Recently, I was really bummed out when I found out I was not selected to join the Etsy Wire Artisans Guild. I thought my wire skills had finally developed to the point of being considered at least pretty good, so this was a bit of a blow to the 'ol fragile ego.

So, imagine my surprise when I got a message from someone who had seen my Etsy site and said she loved my work. And that she managed a local art studio. And would like me to come teach wire working! I was so elated I could hardly speak. After meeting her this weekend, it seem like it's going to be a go, and I'll actually be teaching people to do wire working. My ego was restored a bit.

I also have an art show on Friday featuring my new animal designs (which is why many of them aren't listed in my Etsy shop yet). I hope it goes well and I sell at least a few pieces.

And here's the piece that caught the eye of the studio manager, and one of the pieces from my new animal line:

I love the animal pieces. They're just so much fun to create, and people really respond to them. I just hope they do well at my show. We'll see!

Finally- She's Done!

2009-02-19T19:32:00.004-05:00

Finally, I decided how to string my fabulous mermaid gal:

I did a simple chain with tiny shell accents. I didn't want to do anything too complex, as I didn't want to take away from the mermaid herself. I think she came out great (even if the pictures aren't spectacular). I even made my lazy self list her on my Etsy site. Yeah!

Vacation Time

2009-02-15T17:30:00.002-05:00

This week is February vacation for the kids and my parents have taken them to Vermont for the week, leaving me and my husband home alone. Yipee!

So, with some free time on my hands this week, I've vowed to do some serious crafting. Today I went to the craft store and got some new beads, clasp and findings to inspire me to get started. I'm hoping to have some pieces completed and listed on my Etsy site by the week. Here's to some good craftin'!

The Mermaid

2009-02-01T10:26:00.005-05:00

I've been doing my best to keep busy lately, especially with my new animal forms. My most recent work is an enchanting mermaid:

She's taken a lot of work, especially the scales in the tail, as each one is studded with a tiny seed bead. In her heart lays a piece of the ocean, a small shell I collected this summer on the beach, and then hand drilled especially for this piece. I'm very happy with how she turned out.

Now the only thing that remains to do is to figure out the best way to string her as a pendant. Hopefully she'll be finished and listed on Etsy by the end of this week.

Ode to the Wire Artisans Guild

2009-01-14T16:35:00.002-05:00

Oh you lovely wire queens,

All your works are simply dreams.

Each piece made with such skill

For your talents I would kill.

Oh Wire Artisans Guild,

I pray your ranks aren't filled

That among the chosen few,

You'll let me slide in too.

If my application you deny,

I fear I'll surely cry.

So don't shun me artists awsome,

When in your guild I'll surely blossom.

*The Wire Artisans Guild of Etsy is currently accepting applications for ten open spots. I've got my fingers crossed!*

Something New

2009-01-09T21:18:00.003-05:00

As I said in my New Year's post, I've had a few new ideas brewing. This is the latest:

I just listed this guy on Etsy, and it's the first listing in a new series of animal items I'm working on. I did a few basic pieces as gifts for Christmas, and in the piece above, I took it a step further, incorporating weave and stones within the piece.

I'm very excited about these new animal pieces, and I hope they go over well.

Off and Running!

2009-01-05T11:57:00.004-05:00

That's right, I'm already working on kicking my New Year's craft resolutions into high gear. Yesterday I spent HOURS taking photos, editing photos, working on my website, and putting up two new listings on Etsy. I hope to do some more today, but I feel like I'm finally on the right track.

If you have the time, please take a peek at my new website www.ravenworksstudio.com , and tell me what you think about the format, photos etc. Any feedback is greatly appreciated!

Crafty Resolutions

2008-12-31T14:43:00.003-05:00

All right, it's that time- time to make some serious craft resolutions for 2009! My resolutions are all based on kicking my crafty butt into high gear and taking my jewelry business to the level. Here's what I have in mind:

1.) Back on the Etsy Train- I was actually starting to make some real progress with Etsy when I let it all fall apart. I haven't listed anything in ages, or promoted in a million years. This year, I'm determined to list often, and promote, promote, promote!

2.) Pimp My Blog- This means posting far more often, and once again, promoting, promoting, promoting.

3.) Line Up more Craft Shows for '09- Now that I've gotten to know some of the bigger and better craft shows in the area, I'm going to make sure I get out there more in '09. Craft shows may be a lot of work, but usually they're well worth the investment.

4.) Get the Website Going- My website is pretty much non-existent at the moment. I need to get it looking good and get it functional.

5.) Create, Create, Create!- Most importantly, it's time to get working. I need more items. if I'm going to achieve all of my goals. I need to create new things and develop new techniques. Time to get busy!

Happy New Years!

Looking Ahead

2008-12-22T11:21:00.002-05:00

The holidays are fast approaching, and I'm glad that they're almost over. The Christmas craft shows are done, the custom orders completed, and all of my gifts, handmade with love, are ready to be opened.

With a little down-time, I've been able to get creative and branch out by learning a few new techniques, and experimenting with some designs that have been idling in my brain. Some have worked out really well, and I can't wait until I can show them off on my Etsy site and my home site.

All ready I'm looking ahead to what I'll be doing this year when it comes to crafts. My knitting continues to develop. I'm working with beading, and developing some great things with wire work. I get so excited just thinking about all of the projects I have lined up to tackle in the new year.

My main focus this year will be working on listing on Etsy once again, and working on my own website. I've been horribly lazy when it comes to photographing and listing my items.

Has anyone else got any crafty New Year's resolutions they're pondering?

Happy Holidays!

2008-12-09T14:37:00.002-05:00

I'm finally feeling the holiday love in the craft department! Yeah! I just had a holiday craft show that went spectacular, with another one this Saturday, and the custom orders have been rolling in. Just by bringing some jewelry in to work today, I managed to make enough to cover my Christmas tree. Good Times.

I'm hoping to get my new website up and hopping in time to catch the holiday rush. I know it won't be as fancy as the last one, but I just couldn't afford the hosting any more. Ah well.

So, how is everyone elses holiday craftiness going?

Holiday Buzz

2008-11-20T09:28:00.002-05:00

The holidays are such a great time to be artist/crafter. I love knowing that the gifts that I create for my friends and family will be one-of-a-kind and strait from my heart and my hands.

The holidays also mean a (hopefully) busy time for those of us who sell our artistic wares. This year especially, people seem more inclined to buy handmade gifts. I like to think it's because with such a lousy economy, we're being more conscious of spending our money with our neighbors, rather than corporations that are running their own companies into the ground and expecting us to bail them out. But who knows.

I'm glad that things have picked up on my end, and I'm excitedly preparing for two upcoming craft shows. What are you doing in your crafty world this holiday season?

Back On The Horse

2008-11-05T13:43:00.002-05:00

After a very prolonged creativity/productivity block, I'm finally starting to get back up to speed with my jewelry making, while still progressing with some new knitting projects.

Now that I've reestablished my contact with the first shop my jewelry is carried at, I'm already buried in FOUR commission pieces! What a way to dive in face first. I"m pretty nervous, but they sound like smaller jobs, so I'm praying it won't be too overwhelming.

The other shop that my jewelry just recently got into has sold one of my pieces, and the owner is offering to give me private lesson time if I'll work a few hours on Saturdays leading up to Christmas. Since this man is my original silversmithing instructor, and he's super talented, I'm VERY excited. This is a great way to pick up some new skills and get moving again.

What really got me moving though, was spending a day making jewelry with my mom. She came up from Vermont to visit for the weekend, and we spent some time shopping for jewelry supplies (which I hadn't done in ages) and then putting together some jewelry. Since she is a real novice, I got to help her with some basic skills, and her excitement and enthusiasm was contagious. I've caught the creativity bug once again!

Inspiration

2008-10-17T14:38:00.004-04:00

In the midst of my recent (and still ongoing) severely long jewelry creativity-block, I rediscovered knitting. I did a few simple things that were quick, easy, and extremely relaxing. Knitting has been a good way to keep my craftiness going, my hands moving, and my creativity from completely stagnating.

During this time, I also got myself a new puppy:

Isn't he a doll?

Anyways, one of the many things my new puppy has given me, is creative inspiration. I'm taking my knitting to a whole new level by attempting to knit doggie sweaters (I'll let you all know how that turns out). Not only that, but he's given me a lot of inspiration in the direction of my jewelry as well. He's really made me think about what other people are passionate about, what moves them.

So, what is your biggest source of creativity?

Artist vs. Crafter

2008-09-15T16:38:00.013-04:00

I did a local craft show a week or so back, and ended up running into a situation that I had never thought I'd have to deal with.

My craft buddy and I had just finished setting up our tent in the drizzling rain, so I made my way over to the welcome tent where they were having free coffee and muffins. As I poured myself a warm, wonderful cup of coffee, I heard the woman next to me complaining loudly to the art fair organizers.

"I didn't know there would be jewelry makers here. You just didn't make that clear in any of the literature you sent me. If I had known there would be jewelry makers here, we probably never would have done this show. I don't think it's fair that my husband's $4,000 paintings should have to be next to a booth selling $14 dollar earrings!"

Trying not to choke on my coffee, I calmly looked at the woman and said:

"Excuse me, I actually happen to be a jewelry artist with a booth here. I just wanted to say that I am an artist, and some of my smallest pieces take hours to complete. It took me years to develop my techniques, just like your husband, I'm sure. And, obviously I managed to find the jewelry category on the registration form, so if you couldn't find it, you must not have been looking very hard."

The Artsy Farsty Lady huffed a bit and left the tent. I quickly apologized to the registration ladies if I had seemed out of line. I told them that I just couldn't keep quiet. They assured me that I was in the right, and I scurried back to my booth with my hot coffee.

Later that morning, I realized Artsy Fartsy Lady and her husband had there booth only one over form ours. I couldn't help but watch Artsy Fartsy Lady throughout the day as she tried to hawk her husband's overpriced paintings in her filthy, cut-off, denim shorts and grungy tank top. I couldn't help thinking that she could really benefit from a $14 pair of earrings....

So, my question to my fellow jewelry makers is, do you consider yourself to be artists? I know I do, but I see a lot of people labeling jewelry design as strictly craft. What do you think?

Riverbank Art Festival This Weekend

2008-09-02T18:00:00.002-04:00

RavenWorks will be at the Riverbank Art Festival this Saturday, in Westbrook Maine. Please come and visit! There should be lots of great local artists, food and general goodness for all.

My name is even featured on this blog! I'm very excited :

Also, RavenWorks may be mentioned in an article in tomorrow's local paper in regards to the art festival. I'll be sure to share if there's a mention :)

Craftin Burn Out

2008-08-27T13:24:00.002-04:00

Every so often, I hit a major crafting wall. All of the sudden my brain is empty of creativity, and I can't force my hands to do what I want them to.

This has happened to me recently with my wire work. All of the sudden, the thought of weaving any wire is daunting, and my stones just aren't calling to me. I can't seem to get the energy together to even think about doing a craft show.

Perhaps it's the urge to enjoy the last few lazy days of summer that keeps me from putting my nose to the creative grindstone. Perhaps I'm just lazy. Who knows.

In the meantime, I've been knitting some winter hats, just to keep my hands busy, and my craftiness flowing, even if it's minimally. What do you do to help get yourself over a crafting roadblock?

I've Been Tagged With Love!

2008-08-15T13:27:00.010-04:00

I've been tagged by BeaderJojo over at Unique You to help spread the bloggy love!
I'd like to tag LWGodsil's Jadis Jewelry, MaryLou's Art (Ad)Venture, and The Best of DIY. Spread the love crafty people :)

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Stone Souls- Lapis Lazuli

2008-07-30T08:51:00.007-04:00

The next stone featured in my Stone Souls series is Lapis Lazuli.

Blue Empress www.ravenworksstudio.com

Lapis Lazuli is a stone with a very colorful history. It's rich blue color has always made it an attractive stone to feature in jewelry, and has been used in such since prehistoric times. Later on, it's vivid blues were used as a paint, and to color cloth.

Lapis is a highly spiritual stone, and is used often in meditations or any any activities that connect to spirituality or the divine. This is also a stone that promotes peace and serenity. This makes it a good stone to foster harmony and friendship in all relations.

In terms of healing the body, Lapis is most often said to help boost the immune system, to help with conditions of the throat and provide aid with insomnia.

First Boston Show Down

2008-07-21T15:52:00.002-04:00

My best friend and I did our first Boston South End Open Market for this season this past Sunday. It was great to be back in Boston, and despite the crazy heat and humidity, the crowd was steady.

We were really surprised to discover that the number of vendors was almost half of what it was last year. I'm not sure why the number was paired down so much, but it didn't seem to deter the people walking through.

Unfortunately, toward the end of the day, we were hit with a hurricane-like storm, that threw thunder and lightning around our heads, and drenched us and all of our jewelry, while we frantically bailed water from the top of our tent to keep it from collapsing. Our neighbor's tent did end up collapsing, and several vendors had merchandise ruined by the rain.

Despite the tragic end to our day, we're looking forward to our next trip to Boston on August 3rd. We'll be keeping our fingers crossed for no rain.

Stone Souls- Amber

2008-07-14T15:33:00.009-04:00

Even though Amber is not a stone, I still think it's a predominant jewelry element with a lot of great metaphysical properties. With that said, I bring you Amber as the next instalment in my "Stone Souls" series:

"Suspended" www.ravenworksstudio.com

Amber is resinated tree sap, which usually contains small bugs, or bits of plants, preserved eternally in the honey colored material. Amber is pretty easy to find, and is used often in jewelry design. The warm earthy colors, go well with both silver an gold.

Because Amber is derived directly from trees, it is a "stone" that has strong connections to the earth, and gives it powerful grounding properties. Amber is also a powerful cleanser and healer, absorbing negative energies and transmuting it into positive healing energy. This applies to mental health as well, as its warm energy promotes stability and a positive demeanor.

For healing, Amber works best with the throat in particular, as well as ailments dealing with the stomach, spleen, kidneys, bladder, liver, gallbladder and joints.

Stone Souls- Snowflake Obsidian

2008-07-07T14:39:00.007-04:00

The second stone I'd like to highlight in my "Stone Souls" series is Snowflake Obsidian:

"As The Fallen Snow" Pendant www.ravenworksstudio.com

Snowflake Obsidian is another well known, and well used stone, and is easily obtained all over the world.

Metaphysically, Snowflake Obsidian falls under the sign of Sagittarius. It is a stone of purity that balances the mind body and spirit. Snowflake Obsidian steers the wearer away from bad frames of mind, and stressful mental patterns. It also helps the wearer to recognize the value of their mistakes. Snowflake Obsidian is also calming and soothing.

For healing purposes, Snowflake Obsidian works best with the skeletal and circulatory systems.

Stone Souls- Amethyst

2008-06-29T14:57:00.013-04:00

Lately I've become very interested in individual stones and there mataphysical meanings the more and more I work with them. Stones have a lot of influence of their wearer, and I wanted to be able to share my findings.

The first stone I'd like to explore is: Amethyst

www.ravenworksstudio.com

AMETHYST-

Amethyst is a very common stone used in jewelry making. It comes in several lovely shades of purple, and is mined in several different countries. It's a beautiful and an affordable stone, which makes it appealing to both jewelry makers and jewelry buyers.

Metaphysically speaking, Amethyst is a very "mental" stone, both stimulating, and calming as needed by the wearer. It is especially good at protecting its wearer from negative energy, and has even been said to have a sobering effect, which makes it useful if you are trying to overcome any type of addiction.

Amethyst is also a very spiritual stone, connecting one to the more divine energies. In this vein, it also helps the wearer to remember and interpret their dreams, and to have more intense visualization. Placed under your pillow, it can aid with insomnia or nightmares.

New Website!

2008-06-28T09:51:00.000-04:00

I've just created a new website for my fine jewelry work. I'm so excited I can't stand it! Please take a look at www.ravenworksstudio.com

While I've enjoyed using Etsy, I just don't think it's the right forum for my fine jewelry work now that it's really come to the next level. Plus, between the Etsy fees, and the PayPal fees, it just makes sense to put more high end work on a separate site.

So, after waiting and eon for my loving sister to create me a website, I decided to bite the bullet and create my own site through www.ArtSpan.com. It was really easy, and I love the way it's turned out. The fees are reasonable, and so far, so good.

I will continue to keep my "craftier" items on Etsy, because I do love the community, and the site in general. But, for the finer silver work, it's my own site from now on. Don't forget to visit! www.ravenworksstudio.com

Summer Show Dates Confirmed

2008-03-05T11:15:00.001-05:00

Summer may seem far away, but I've already been lining up some great craft show dates. I'm happy to say I've now had confirmation on seval dates for some great shows.

OLD PORT FESTIVAL- Portland, ME- June 1st
RavenWorks will have a booth at the Old Port Fesival this year, in the section reserved especially for Maine crafters. This is the first year they're doing this, so we're very excited to be participating in promoting Maine crafters. If you're going to be in the area, please come visit us from 11am-5pm.

South End Open Market- Boston, MA
RavenWorks was a vendor at the Boston South End Open Market, and enjoyed it so much we've signed up to do several spots there again this year. We will be at the Market on July 20, August 3, August 17, September 7, and Semptember 21. The market hours are 8 am- 4 pm. Hope to see you there!

Sea Glass

2008-02-17T16:37:00.000-05:00

Since we're firmly in the heart of winter now, I've found dipping into my collection of sea glass more and more. It reminds me of combing the beaches with the kids, tasting the saltwater, and basking in the sun.

Recently I've created these three necklaces:

I'm sure matching bracelets and earrings will emerge soon. It's all a matter of sorting through the wonderfully smooth pieces and finding the right sizes, the right feel. Until then, I'm pleased with the necklaces that are getting done.

I have yet to dip into the new jewelry supplies, but I'm sure I will soon. Right now there are just too many ideas bubbling around.

New Supply Shopping!

2008-02-07T14:37:00.000-05:00

Well, my doll making day didn't end up happening. It's a shame, but my doll making partener did swing by some really cool new patterns for me to contemplate.

My most exciting news right now, is that thanks to my tax refund, I was able to indulge in some new jewelry making supplies that I've been coveting FOREVER. I can't wait to play with them, and make some really new jewelry.

Though I won't share all of great new supply finds, I will spill one, since she is a fellow Etsian, and a supremely talented artist. The name of her shop is Caliente Art Glass, and can be found at www.boobie beads.etsy.com or on her blog at www.calienteglass.com. If you love amazing, handmade glass beads, be sure to check her out. Her work is fabulous, and ever since I recieved my first beads from her, I've been absolutly salivating to buy more.

So, for now I will be checking the mail box like an excited puppy until my new goodies arive. Then it's play time!

Art Dolls

2008-02-02T09:49:00.001-05:00

For a while now I've been studying the craft of doll making. I've purused sites of other artists, poured over patterns, and read ever book I can get my hands on. It's become my newest craft obsession, but one I"ve been hesitant to jump into.

While certain art dolls can be wildly abstract, I'm more drawn to the fantasy figures, the ones that look perfectly real, in fantastic costumes. Creating something like that is an intense undertaking, from proper body proportions, to carefully constructed faces, to tiny, detailed costuming.

I have began creating one cloth doll, and have created a few faces out of polymer clay. I've also invested in an air dry clay made specifically for doll making. It's just hard to take the plunge and try to create an entire doll.

Tomorrow, a fellow crafter and doll devotee will join me at my house, and we've agreed to share materials and ideas, and attempt to create some preliminary dolls. My friend is eager to produce a line that can be ready for summer craft shows. I'm not sure if we'lll be ready by then, but I am excited to finally get my hands dirsty and try to piece together an entire doll. I'll be sure to post photos of the process :)

Back Again

2008-01-28T18:20:00.000-05:00

With a new year comes new resolve, new promise, and new hope. This year I'm going to be working harder on my blog and exposure for my work in general. I've recently opened a Flickr account, where I can be found under the name RavenWorksStudio. I've also been listing new items on Etsy, and working to list consistently, and only once a day in order to spread out my listings.

Perhaps the biggest news is that I will be bringing my work to bigger and better shows this year, with far more inventory and a better displays than before.

One of the newest additions to my inventory is beaded rings. Here are samples of my newest ones:

I'm very happy with them, and expect them to evolve as show time approaches for the 2008 season. I'll be sure to post photos as the designs change.

Expect more for 2008. RavenWorks will make it happen :)

Featured Blogger

2007-09-19T13:25:00.001-04:00

In the midst of preparing for my next craft show (next weekend) and trying to ready a new line of products for the holiday season, it's hard to keep up on blogging.

No matter how far behind I may get however, there is one blogger out there who manages to post fantastic articles related to jewelry artists, and who I try to read as often as possible. Please check out The Jewelry Sweet Spot for all of the wonderful jewelry related posts I wish I had the time to write :)

New Listings

2007-09-13T12:56:00.000-04:00

Finally, after quite a long hiatus, I've managed to get some new jewelry listings up on my Etsy site. I'm especially proud of the "Enchantress" pendant.

www.ravenworks.etsy.com

More will be coming along in the next day or two as well, so be sure to keep checking in.

Another Wedding With RavenWorks

2007-08-30T22:33:00.000-04:00

Last month, I was honored to add my creativity to another beautiful wedding.

The groom was an abstract artist, so for the couple's cake, I suggested imitating one of the grooms most popular images- "The Tall Skinny People". In order to make it truly mimic the work, the image was bordered with a brown "frame". The cake itself was a dense lemon cake, with butter cream icing.

I was very pleased with the outcome, and the bride and groom were thrilled.

The other piece I assisted with was the rings. They wanted nice, simple, silver bands. I was happy to oblige.

I love weddings, and nothing thrills me more than being able to take part in making someone's already special day, extra special.

Crafting Burn Out

2007-08-29T11:13:00.000-04:00

As with all things in life, even the most devoted crafter can experience serious burnout. I never thought it would happen to me, becasue crafts are the way I relax and de-stress after a a long hard day of life. Also, since I'm always juggling different mediums, it's easy to change things up and keep it fresh.

However, these past two weeks, I hit a wall. With the Boston craft shows, and putting my items in a new shop, I found that I felt a lot of pressure to produce, produce, produce. I've never felt that pressure before, and it took away from my creative freedom. So, with the craft shows over, and my items firmly in place at Three Ring Circus, I took a two week breather, to relax a bit and take a step back from crafting.

Now, with the pending glass working class I'll be taking, and a new craft show at the end of September, it's time to get the craft mojo flowing once again. Time to dip into the brain and stir up the creativity and get it moving.

I wonder if other crafters hit this same wall? Does anyone else ever get burnt out on what they love? It makes me feel a little crazy to get overwhelmed by something that makes me so happy. If anyone else has ever gotten burnt out on their passion, please share!

New Developments

2007-08-25T13:04:00.000-04:00

A lot of new things have been brewing at RavenWorks :)

RavenWorks Products In A Retail Shop! RavenWorks is proud to announce that several of our jewelry pieces are being carried by the shop Three Ring Circus in South Portland, Maine. This shop carries a wide variety of local artists, and we couldn't be happier about being included with all of that talent.

RavenWorks' Next Craft Show! RavenWorks will be attending the Cornith Apple Festival in Cornith, Maine on Saturday September 28th. We will be sharing a booth with Sacopee Valley Soaps, producer of handmade, artisan soaps that are to die for! As always, we hope to see a good turn out of familiar faces.

New Products! As always, RavenWorks has been stretching the old creative wings, and exploring new mediums. Thanks to a few classes and some small investments in the near future, RavenWorks will be carrying handmade lampwork beads, and other fantastic handcrafted glass items. Be sure to keep your eyes out in mid-October for them to be introduced.

We are always growing, exploring, and inventing.

It's Better When It's Handmade

2007-08-09T15:36:00.000-04:00

This is a great little list over on Etsy Wiki that I thought should be shared.

Reasons to buy handmade
From EtsyWiki

* You are purchasing higher quality products, made with love and care by the artisan.

* You are purchasing unique items that are not mass-produced. Even if the same product may be made a thousand times each will be unique in some tiny way.

* Buying handmade supports artists, crafters, designers and small business owners instead of large corporations - if you buy handmade you help someone live their dream.

* When you buy handmade art objects you are also getting a piece of the artist’s soul. Those who value handmade are usually eager to know about the artist that made their piece and they value the skill and passion that went into its creation. Handmade pieces have life, unlike items that are mass-produced by machines and basically untouched by human hands during the creation process.

* You are helping to promote local economies and fair trade. Investment in the creative sector brings a huge boost to the economic, cultural and social vitality of communities.
Handmade products are increasingly being made with recycled materials. This is excellent for the environment.

* You as the buyer vote with your purchase. This offers immediate feedback to the artisan and allows them to gauge which items to further develop. This feedback loop is vital to the handmade entrepreneur.

* Handmade items appeal to trend setters, not trend followers.

* Handmade items can push boundaries - they aren't in thrall to the dictates of the mass market.

* Handmade items can often be custom-made, fit, and colored, to the buyer's specifics or wishes making it even more unique and, often, practical.

All great reasons to buy handmade. That's why I love being a part of Etsy- even when you're shopping, you're contributing to a great community and supporting someone's dream. So keep these points in mind when shopping for gifts. Buy something unique, fun and thoughtful, and make an artist's day :)

Two Craft Shows Down!

2007-08-07T14:47:00.000-04:00

On July 22nd, and then again on August 5th, I sold my crafts at the South End Open Market in Boston. These were my very first craft fair experiences, and I'm very happy to report that both went very well.

The most valuable part for me, was actually getting out there and seeing people examine my jewelry up close and personal, and listening to their comments. It was definitely great to hear all of the positive feedback, and it gave me a great, objective pool from which to draw on for future projects.

So thank you to all of those who visited me and my fellow crafters in Boston. Thank you for teaching me so much about myself and my art. Thank you for supporting the arts in general. I'm hoping to hear from some of the people I met, and sold to, again, and I just can't wait.

First Fair

2007-07-18T10:22:00.000-04:00

On Sunday, July 22nd, I will be selling at my very first craft fair with my good friend BearCat. Thanks to the generous folks at Etsy, we have a space at the Boston Open Air Market, which is an amazing opportunity for a first time show.

I'm a little nervous, but it sounds like we'll have a lot of support from other Etsy crafters who will be there. I've been working hard on creating new pieces to bring with me, including some debut chainmaille jewelry, which looks fabulous!

If you're in the Boston area, please feel free to come and visit. We'll be opening around 8 am. Pray for a sunny day for us :)

The Wedding Cake

2007-07-03T20:33:00.000-04:00

In addition to making jewelry, body products, and other fun crafties, making food is one of my favorite pastimes. Combining my love of food and my love of crafts, I've been dabbling in cake making, more and more.

This week, I made my very first wedding cake, and the first cake I've ever been paid for. I'm very proud. It was a very complicated order, with NO time to spare.

The couple wanted a groom's cake shaped like a crate of explosives, to represent the groom who is an explosives expert in the military. They sent me a single photo, and I tried to control my growing anxiety.

The cake itself was German chocolate with a Bavarian chocolate filling. After hours of working with fondant, a ruler, and a razor blade, I managed to make it look just like the picture. I couldn't have been prouder. Here are the results:

Couldn't be prouder :)

The actual wedding cake was another story. Measuring 14" in diameter, 3" in height for the bottom layer, 12" in diameter, 3" in height for the second layer. The bottom layer was chocolate, with Bavarian chocolate filling, and the top layer was chocolate hazelnut with a raspberry cream filling. The bride wanted a deep peach fondant, with two stars on each layer, and three stars shooting off the top. I didn't have a photo, only a rough sketch and a few emails to work with.

In the end, it came out to be exactly what she described:

Viola! It's a wedding cake. While I'm happy with the result, I'm glad it's over. After two days of straight cake work, I'm ready for a rest :)

The Raven Cane: The Conclusion

2007-05-28T21:28:00.000-04:00

Reducing the raven cane was a nightmare. Once I began applying pressure, the stupid thing wouldn't budge. After much careful pushing and slapping however, it began to move.

As with any cane, as I watched the end become distorted and immediately got nervous. After the massive amount time and materials I invested into this project, I was dying inside to see if the image would be distorted.

Finally, once it was reduced to a reasonable size, I sliced into it. Success! An astounding raven image was embedded in the clay. After experimenting with the slices, I found I could make the image appear in a few different ways. I couldn't have been more satisfied with the results.

Here are the finished slices before baking, buffing and polishing:

Happy Birthday To Me!

2007-05-20T18:35:00.000-04:00

Today is my birthday. In the past few years, this has been an event little remarked on, and one I've never made a big deal of. However, I do take this time to look back on another year, evaluate life, and all of that happy, deep stuff.

I'm very satisfied with this past year of my life as far as my crafts are concerned. I've blossomed, learned new skills, and experimented with my creativity. I've grown more in the past year, perhaps more than in any other year in recent memory.

In that vein, I also received some of the best gifts ever this year. Yesterday, my parents came up to visit, and my mom took me to the jewelry supply store and let me pick out several items that I needed and couldn't afford. In the meantime, my dad spent the day building me my very own jewelers bench. Here it is:

I know it's not beautiful, but to me, it's spectacular. The fact that my dad made it for me, and that both of parents actually acknowledge, and respect my creative endeavors, means the world to me.

Happy Birthday ME! Here's to another year packed full of creative goodness.....

The Raven Cane: Part One

2007-05-18T13:35:00.000-04:00

Recently, with the help of some online tutorials, I've been teaching myself to make picture canes out of polymer clay. Happy with my first forays, this week I decided to attempt to make a cane strait from my own brain.

The obvious choice was to make a raven. As intimate as I am with the raven, I thought it would be no problem to piece one together fairly easily. Boy was I wrong.

After spending an entire night focused on just the bird shape, I let it rest. Last night, I began packing my image, and after using 6 packages of clay, I was out, my hands were red, and I was frustrated. The cane was already huge and not even half packed, as shown here:

Today, I took the day off of work to get a few things done. After making a trip to the craft store to pick up more clay, I sat down and spent another 2 hours completing the packing of this cane:

Though it's not completely round, I'm satisfied with it. Now, to let it rest overnight. Tomorrow will begin the reduction process. I'll be keeping my fingers crossed that three days worth of work doesn't turn out to be a mess.

To be continued.....

I'm In a Treasury!

2007-04-20T13:47:00.000-04:00

Thanks to the generosity of a wonderful Etsy artist, one of my pieces has made it into a treasury on Etsy.

Be sure to see my beautiful Sunshine Dragon in the "Polyclay Colorful" Teasury while it lasts:
http://www.etsy.com/treasury.php?id=1177037489948U5027156

Thank you so much Polyclarific!

New Endeavor

2007-04-09T15:12:00.000-04:00

Several years back I bought one of my favorite pieces of jewelry at a craft fair. It's a large, Asian stamp, sandwiched between two pieces of glass, and then soldered around the edges and hung from a black leather cord. A fairly simple piece, it occasioned comment every time I wore it.

Since becoming involved in the Etsy community, I've noticed that these style of pendants, often called "collage" pendants, are immensely popular right now. After seeing all of the fun and unique twists on this style of pendant, I decided to make it my next craft to master.

I have now gathered together the necessary tools, books and advice, and keep waiting for the right moment to plunge in. However, I find myself oddly hesitant. The glass cutting, the molten solder, makes me suddenly shy and nervous. I out it off, day after day, my fun new craft toys sitting on my floor in plastic bags.

I've never been so apprehensive about embarking on a new craft before. Is it fear of failure where so many others are succeeding so well? Is is a simple fear of burning my house down with dripping solder? Perhaps.

This coming weekend however, I'm vowing to take glass, solder, and the various other elements, and make it come together. You'll see. I'll make this craft submit to my yet. Hahahahaha.

Wish me luck. Watch for fire notices in the local paper.

Fresh Ideas Contest

2007-04-03T09:26:00.000-04:00

All right, as Spring begins to finally blossom, so does the urge for new ideas. Since my brain is a little frazzled right now, I need fresh, fun brains to give me new and exciting ideas.

With that in mind, here is the contest:

Please look at my photos at my Etsy shop www.ravenworks.etsy.com Look around at the items, and think of great new creations I could make with my skills. Think I should expand my dragon line in some way? Perhaps you have an idea for a new scent combo for my body products? Maybe there's images you'd really like to see in my new, forth coming line of collage pendants? Bring it on!

The person with the best suggestion will win a wonderful goodie bag from RavenWorks, as well as see their idea put into motion. You can enter as many great ideas as you like. Contest deadline is April 15th.

So come on, inspire me!

The Joy of Etsy

2007-03-30T15:53:00.000-04:00

Be forewarned: Etsy is a site I will mention often. This fabulous site has given me a world of opportunities I never would have had otherwise, both business and personal. But I digress.

For those of you who are not familiar with Etsy.com, it's a beautiful site devoted to the buying and selling of handmade craft items. The items range from pottery, to clothes, to jewelry, and much more. For more details, please read my recent article on Etsy at http://www.associatedcontent.com/article/175663/etsycom_the_ultimate_site_for_handmade.html

Not only is Etsy a cheap way to sell your products to a targeted market, but it's also a great place to get inspiration and advice from other crafters. Their chat feature has become my latest addiction, filled with humorous and supportive crafters sharing life, crafts and all the rest.

Thank you Esty, you are loved :)