That Ridiculous Blue Pendant

Actually it's really nice, now that it's finally finished- see?

Available here!

I tried to work out a few different sized filigree pieces for the rounded back. Since it's not a flat back, that was actually a challenge to round over perfectly. A few banged up pieces later, it looks pretty good. Lesson learned- take the stone out, and bang that metal into submission! (carefully and gently, so you don't mar the pattern.)

 Then a manufactured bail was too awkward, and the wrong color. A wirewrap job was nice and tight, but small and insignificant against such a dramatic crystal. So, I put it away, away for another day. It was in my "for sale" box. But, I didn't put it out on my table for sale, and I didn't list it online. See, I was sort of embarrassed by it's awkwardness.

Today, I realized that my shop on Etsy is getting pretty thin, what do I have made already to beef up the inventory? Well, this thing is floating around, but I'm NOT proud of it. Why is that?

So I pulled out some filigree, and tried to add it, and cut it up, and add some more, and cut that off and trim it down..... you know what! I finally like it! I hope the darn thing sells!

Showing the Process-Copper Pipe Pendants- Part 1

It was recommended that I make something to show how much work it takes to make my little pendants. This isn't really a tutorial- just kind of show and tell, in action in the shop

Cutting pipe- about 30 turns goes through the copper pipe.

Some etching went right, but it needs to show up more.

Lined up, like ducks in a row!

Polishing with the Foredom.

20 gauge wires, cut about 3 inches.

This is my butane torch. Not my favorite, I prefer the oxygen, but it needs new lines.

Making headpins.

Painted with fire.

Punching the hole for the bail. takes loads of hand strength.

All of that work- and the copper pipe bezels are just about ready to fill. This was a longer show and tell then I expected! See the finished product here:Pendants

When you Drop a Jar of Peanut Butter

Just in case, the jar isn't attached to it's lids, and you happen to drop a jar of Cashew Butter... remember that a decent amount of Dawn Dish Detergent will break up the grease and renew your clothes and kitchen to it's former glory. It worked on the marble  tiles, old painted cabinets, painted popcorn ceiling, socks and yoga pants. The tee shirt is going through "phase 2 of the washing process again.

(If your kitchen's former glory includes 70's Formica counter tops, That is the previous glory I'm referring, sorry!The Dawn will not upgrade you to modern Formica counters!)

I have no advice if you or your children are uncoordinated, just know you are not alone!