Tuesday, March 27, 2012

Exclusive Celebrity Gift Bag to Tom Cruise

Who loves gifts... Celebrities do.  I am thrilled to say that I have sent off three of my Chainmaille creations to be included in an exclusive Celebrity Gift Bag to actor Tom Cruise and his family.  This opportunity wouldn't be possible without my membership with The Artisan Group.  I am so utterly grateful for them and all the support and talented artists that I've been learning from.


So the Gifts will be delivered to the Cruise Family in April... and this is what I've sent


For Katie Holmes:
Chainmaille Banded Bracelet Watch


For Tom Cruise:
3in1 Half Persian Chainmaille Bracelet in Stainless Steel

and for Suri Cruise:



I've also did a couple of Press Releases online... Check them out on the links below:

Online PR Media 

Now to continue working on those MTV Movie Awards Swag Bag gifts....
  Penny Cheng

Monday, March 26, 2012

Meet Carolyn Moran of Care More Creations - Featured Artist

Jewelry techniques... Most jewelry designers I know go through a stage where they experiment and try various techniques (or skills) before deciding on what they want to settle on. Some do Metalsmithing, some do that crazy playing with fire and glass called Lampworking, or there's Polymer Clay (grown up version of playdoh), or even stick to all things Crystals and Stones.  There's probably more.. I just can't think of others right now.

I've dabbled in most techniques, took a course here or there, but my love is still Chainmaille... Nothing beats getting what seems to be miles of wire, coiling it with a power drill and cutting them up to make those itty bitty rings, then connecting them one at a time.  People have told me it's amazing how patient I am to do this... Yes, I have patience for it.  People have asked since I play with wire why not do some Wire Wrapped Jewelry.  With that.. I look at them straight in the eye and say... I have absolutely no patience to do that.. my wire wrapping looks like a complete mess.

So with all that being said.. I am thrilled to introduce you to Carolyn Moran, Wire Wrapped Jewelry Artist extraordinaire!  Carolyn is the owner of Care More Creations and fellow member of The Artisan Group.  Carolyn's work in Wire Wrapped Natural Gemstone Jewelry is breathtaking.  Now here's a person with patience!


How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
I never realized my love for creating jewelry until I discovered a cute little bead shop about 4 years ago. The owner was creating a pendant using a jasper stone and wire. I was in awe and decided to give it a try. I bought my supplies that day from her and experimented for a few weeks making pendants for me, my family and friends. I really haven't stopped making them since.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
I remember that first piece I made...I still have it in my jewelry box to remind me where I started! The reason I never attempted to sell it is because it is a special piece of coral that I found while on my honeymoon while walking on a beach in Belize. Many times I have picked it up, thinking I should re-wrap it to my current style, but every time I end up putting it back in it's resting place. It is more symbolic to me than just any piece of jewelry.
Pendant - Peach Snakeskin Jasper
Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
The entire process is so much fun. The first step is the hunt for the perfect gemstones via two of my favorite pastimes...shopping and nature walks! I enjoy supporting various local and online bead and rock shops and have so much fun browsing. It is also very rewarding to discover Mother Nature's beautiful natural jewels, whether along a walk while home in Alaska or on the beaches of Belize where I spend some time in the winter. Each individual gemstone then inspires my design. The color of the wire, the curves and swirls of the wire setting and the little baubles I add enhance each stone's personality. The stone "talks" to me. My creative process guarantees that the customer will have truly unique, one-of-a kind jewelry.

When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?
When I started creating wire wrapped pendants, I followed instructions from a couple tutorials that I found online. I bought a few books as well. As time went on I discovered ways to individualize each piece, instead of the same cookie-cutter style that I did my first few months. I started to let the stone determine everything. That is what makes my pendants so much fun to create. I don't know how each one is going to turn out until I am finally satisfied with it. I have always been attracted to calming swirls and blending of colors in a natural balance and rhythm. Bringing this softness to the hard element of stones, along with the shiny element of wire brings a passion out in my personality where I can create truly unique jewelry that are feminine, yet dramatic.
Mabe Pearl Shell Pendant
What inspires you creatively?
I live in Alaska, and my natural setting really inspires me. I love nature! I live in a log cabin along the Kenai River and it is an everyday occurance to see wandering moose, soaring eagles, splashing salmon, humbling mountains and even an occasional bear and her cubs. Also my love of fashion inspires me. I am not particularly a "bling" girl. I love natural stones and sometimes it is difficult to find just the right jewelry to wear with my simple wardrobe. As a business owner, I try to create natural jewelry to appeal to different tastes, in different colors, sizes and styles. My family also inspires me. Their constant support and love keeps my life in check and balance.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
I never had big goals when I first started. My business definitely started out as a hobbie, but when my family and friends nudged me into selling them, it became more of a challenge. Taking that initial leap into the Etsy world was exciting, and since then I haven't looked back. I find it very motivating to be self-employed and successful. To actually be considered an artisan on a national level, and not just to family and friends is also rewarding. When Valerie Guerrero, founder of The Artisan Group asked me to join, I was incredibly honored. Becoming part of this fabulous team of fellow, like-minded artisans and business owners is probably the most rewarding achievement of all. I have learned so much, not only about my craft and business, but also myself. Being a member of The Artisan Group has definitely given me the confidence to take my shop to a whole new level, and having a team that cheers each other on is truly amazing.
Gold Filigree Wire Necklace
Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
I have so many favorite artists...too many to mention. But my absolute favorite artists are those who truly have talent, whether God-given or trained in their skill. They are an inspiration. I admire those who can create unique item from scratch, and not just assemble a product with store-bought supplies. I also admire those crafters with a keen eye for color, balance and what is trending at the moment.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
In the future I would love the notariety on a more national level and get more exposure for my jewelry. I am so excited to be included in The MTV Movie Awards gift lounge presented by GBK Productions. As a member of The Artisan Group my wire wrapped pendants will be included in 100 swag bags distributed to celebrities, along with a couple pendants on display during the event It is going to be an amazing journey. I also would like to branch out into the wholesale market.

What do you do in your spare time?
I love spending time with my family and friends. My husband and I enjoy fishing and the great outdoors. My daughter and granddaughter are my pride and joy, and any time I can spend watching them succeed and grow and be happy...well, it doesn't get any better! I also enjoy the quiet moments of lone time when I can read, reflect or just relax.
Black Agate Onyx Earrings
If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
I currently have online shops in both Etsy (http://www.caremore.etsy.com) and Artfire (http://www.caremore.artfire.com) Right now I also exclusively sell by jewelry in the legendary Rojo Lounge in Belize. I have occasionally sold at craft shows, which I find a lot of fun.

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
I am sure we can all agree...way too much time on the business side! Making is so much more fun than selling. I would say that it is roughly 50/50 because I am presently taking some extra time to learn the marketing end of it. It is very overwhelming, but hopefully soon I will be able to grasp it all, and utilize it to gain enough popularity so that the jewelry starts to sell itself. Then I can spend less time marketing and more time creating.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
There is so much that I have learned over the past 4 years. I would say my best advice is to create a business plan, learn as much as you can about marketing and make sure you are up for the challenge. Because being an artist is a passion, but selling your work is a whole different ballgame, especially if you are on your own with no marketing help. Also, brand yourself from the beginning with a cohesive "feel" throughout your business labels. I wish I would have....the hundreds and hundreds of old "ugly" business cards I have stored in my closet are proof!
*****
Thank you so much Carolyn for letting us get to know you a little better.  Be sure to visit Carolyn's sites:


*****


Penny Cheng

Monday, March 19, 2012

Meet Peggy Paliotta of Starlet Glam Bath & Body - Featured Artist

Bath Products... We all need them as we all use them.  But did you know that most commercial based bath products are not that good for you. With skin sensitivities and allergies to chemicals, it's really great to know that there are alternatives.

Today I would like to introduce Peggy Paliotta of Starlet Glam Bath and Body, a fellow member of The Artisan Group, Peggy's products are 100% Natural and Free from detergents, SLS and sulfates, are Vegan Friendly and my personal favorite... Not Tested On Animals.    


How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
Growing up, I was always involved in Arts & Crafts. I dabbled in Painting, Graphic Design, Hat Making, Jewelry Design (Polymer Clay). While I enjoyed each craft I felt something was missing. One day I discovered a DIY lip balm article that peaked my interest. The web site also sold soapmaking supplies such as various soap bases and fragrances. Bath & Body products have always been an addiction for me so I knew this would become my passion!

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
My first soap experience was making bars with a base called soap noodles. They had to be cooked in a crock pot. While it was fun it didn't turn out as expected. Some batches became burnt and fragrances dissipated.
Valentine Fuchia Pink Pin Up Girl
Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
My creative process varies depending on what products I'm making. For the most part it begins with fragrance, recipe ingredients, color and sometimes a theme name. I love the challenge of having several projects going on at once.

When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?
My craft began with glycerine soaps only. I grew an interest to incorporate a line of Bath and Body Products. My collection now includes Body Butters with Shimmer, Body Creams, Sugar Scrubs, Whipped Cream Soaps, Body Balms, Milk Bath Fizz, Perfume Oils, Specialty Soaps, Lip Balm Shimmer and Mineral Lip Tints.
Goat Milk Bath Fizz
What inspires you creatively?
Creating new products, fragrances, theme names and designing my labels. I draw inspiration from Old Hollywood Glamour. I love the famous Bombshells and Burlesque Queens of that era.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
In addition to acquiring wholesale accounts, and selling my products at one of the top 5 Gift Shops in L.A. (Handmade Galleries), I'm so excited to be a member of The Artisan Group! It's such an inspiration to interact and support other talented artisans who are just as passionate about their craft as I am. The opportunity to gift celebrities and donate to charities is the perfect addition to help grow my business!
Marshmallow Confection Lip Balm
Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
Talented members of The Artisan Group as well as the E.F.O.E (Eclectic Friends of Etsy) Team I'm a member of. They both feel like family.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
I'm so excited to announce that Starlet Glam will be represented by The Artisan Group at The MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge in June. Talk about a Glam opportunity! Our Bath & Body products will be gifted to 100 celebrities. Products will include Sugar Scrubs: Almond Cookie and White Truffle Raspberry. Body Creams: Iced Lemon Biscotti, Pink Grapefruit, Red Velvet Cake and Vanilla Champagne. Alo included will be coordinating lip balm shimmers.

A few other goals I have would be to rent a kiosk/cart space at our popular mall; or to open up my own retail store.
White Truffle Raspberry Sugar Scrub
What do you do in your spare time?
I love hanging out with family and friends, my cat, traveling, shopping, listening to music and going to rock concerts. I'm a Rocker chic!

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
I'm selling my products in my Etsy shop http://www.starletglambathbody.com as well as Studio B Salon & Beauty Boutique, RI and Handmade Galleries in L.A. I also do several juried craft shows throughout the year.
Almond Cookie Perfume Oil
If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
I normally spend more time creating. But I try to include a few days per week for the business side.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
I would say if you're passionate about your craft to give it a shot. It's a good idea to join groups or forums that relate to your craft where you'll have a lot of opportunities to learn and meet others.
*****
Thank you Peggy for taking time to tell us more about you.  Be sure to visit Peggy at her sites and check out all her wonderful products.


*****
Penny Cheng

Tuesday, March 13, 2012

Meet Shara Danziger of Confections by Shara's Paperie - Featured Artist

One thing about me is that I like to see my name in printed on something.  Sounds rather vain, but with my name, it's hard to find anything that I can use, especially when it comes to stationery products.  However with technology today and some creative vision, we now have the option to get our name printed on practically anything.

With that being said, meet Shara Danzinger, the creative force behind Confections by Shara's Paperie. A fellow member of The Artisan Group,  Personalization is Shara's middle name... well not really, but if you want your name on something, Shara is the gal to go to.  From your stationery (such as notepads, labels, invitations) all the way to some really neat gift ideas (drink coasters, plates, pillow cases, IPad cases), Shara's shop is a place to check out.



How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
I am a graphic designer and always have been…I just didn’t know what it was called when I was a kid. I was always in love with color, fonts, patterns and layouts.

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
I don’t remember the first design that I ever did, though I think my mom does! The first product that I designed was very exciting and I did that when I was about 9 and got my hands on paint your own pottery. Spent what seemed like forever choosing the colors and the pattern.
Personalized IPhone Case
Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
My process really can be described as just jumping in with both feet. My best work is done when I pick up the pencil or start on the computer and go. When I attempt to be organized and methodical with my designs I am never as happy with the end result.

When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?
 My work now is much more complex and sophisticated then when I started my company about 7.5 years ago. As the company has grown my skills have grown with it which has been a great experience. Though I have to admit that now I cringe at some of the early stuff.

Personalized Pillow Case
What inspires you creatively?
I get inspired by just about anything. That sounds silly, but if I see a pretty color in a dress my mind will start whirling where I can use that color. If I happen to come across some old wallpaper with an intricate pattern that is a great starting point for a new pattern for me. Basically the world around me is full of everything that inspires me; color, pattern, texture so it is just a matter of looking.

Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work? 
My goals around my work are centered around growing the company. It has been very exciting to be in a position to find new products and then create designs and patterns to put on them.

 Children's Invitations
Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why? 
My favorite artist has always been Monet. I remember going to the museum with my grandmother when I was a child and her introducing me to his work. While I am a graphic designer, not a painter, his work is just so beautiful that I can always find something new and thrilling when I look at it.

What do you do in your spare time?
I admit that spare time is hard to come by between the business, the kids and the husband. But I do love to just hang out with my kids and the husband and just have family down time.

Personalized Address Labels
If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
All my work is sold through my online website at www.shopconfections.com

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side? 
This question depends on the week! We also do many custom projects for clients which I love so that takes up creative time. On a “regular” week I would say it is about 40% creative and 50% business.

Personalized Melamine Plates
What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
Of course love what you do and be ready to devote everything to it. This is not something that you can commit to fully if you would rather be doing something else.
*****
Thank you so much Shara!  Be sure to visit Shara at these sites:


*****


Penny Cheng

Thursday, March 8, 2012

Meet Stephanie Rountree of EdenSong Essentials Skin Care - Featured Artist

Today's Featured Artist is Stephanie Rountree of EdenSong Essentials.  A fellow member of The Artisan Group, Stephanie's Organic Skin Care Products are 100% Chemical Preservative Free, and is always food grade edible... very cool...
How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
My passion (read: obsession) began when I became pregnant with my first child in the 70s, and I went into overdrive about everything I consumed, including what my skin absorbed. I had an "ahha" moment asking myself, "What is my skin eating?"

Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
Yes, it was a simple cocoa butter formulation for my "ever-increasing" belly during my pregnancy! lol
Empress Elixir Anti Aging Serum


Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
It starts with the "need" -- my need or a client's need - and I dive into research to determine the proper carrier oils/butters, herbs and essential oils that will make the improvements for the particular need.

When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?
I started with carrier oils, butters, herbs and essentials oils and pretty much stuck to them, with some variations with extracts, but I haven't changed much from the basics. I've tried alternatives and each time have come back to the basics, which really, REALLY work. :)

What inspires you creatively?
My clients! They tell me what they need and it makes me want to be better!
Silk Suga' Body Scrub
Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
Most recently my products are being displayed at the 2012 GBK Academy Awards/Oscars Luxury Gift Lounge in association with The Artisan Group and they are being distributed to 100 of the celebrities. I was also part of an international Monoi de Tahiti contest and among the 81 finalists.

As excited as I am about the above goals, creating products that really work and making my clients happy are truly my most important goals. :) On that note, I'd like to share one of my favorite stories about how one of my products was created. Throughout the years I've had serious issues with shooting legs pains during my menstrual cycle. About 10 years ago, I'd had enough and went into "chemistry mode" and came up with my current formula. I applied my new formula to my legs. I didn't notice anything . . . at all . . . until about 30 minutes later, and it was SO obvious, I got up and did a dance~! I had NO PAIN! lol YA~! Thus, the name . . No PainYa! Silly, perhaps, but it worked AND still works!!!

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
No one in particular, but I love checking out other formulators to see what they make, because it always gets my creative juices going.

Any goals for the future you would like to share?
I would love to see my products being used on a large scale around the world!
I would also love to be on Oprah. lol Does that sound silly? Perhaps, but I believe once she tries my products, she will LOVE them and that would be a huge endorsement.
Zit Zapper - Blemish Gel
What do you do in your spare time?
lol - I don't have much spare time. I do a lot a research, which I love to do, but I also love gardening, yoga, photography, bicycling and time with family.

If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
2012 GBK Academy Awards/Oscars Luxury Gift Lounge in association with The Artisan Group and I also have an online store: http://www.edensongskincare.com

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
Most of my time is spent on the creative side, filling orders or researching; however, I have been spending more time marketing lately, so it's about 60/40 at this point.

What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
Be your passion and it will guide you.
*****
Thank you Stephanie!  Be sure to visit Stephanie and check out all her wonderful skin care products at:


*****

Penny Cheng

Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Meet Sarah Struett of Four Black Paws - Featured Artist

Who has pets? Specifically dogs? My best friend growing up was the 4 legged furry kind.  He was a mutt, not sure what breed he was, but he had this weird waterproof fur which was just a chore trying to give him a bath.  My fondest memory of my dog was how he would walk me to school and when school was over, there he was waiting for me to go home.  I never knew what he did during the time in between, until one day, think it was a Saturday,I heard him scratching at the door to be let into the house and he brought home his "girlfriend".

Back then, there wasn't a lot of variety of things you can get for your furry best friend.  Basic primary coloured collars and leashes. Not very exciting to me.

But now we have variety and I'm thrilled to introduce Sarah Struett of Four Black Paws to you today.  A fellow member of The Artisan Group, Sarah's Handmade Dog Collars, Bed Covers and ID Tags are the perfect accessory for your best friend.

How and when did you discover your love for your craft/art?
I have always loved doing arts and crafts; I always felt it was something I was good at. When I was young, my friends and I were always looking for ways to make a buck. I remember making all sorts of crafts to sell in little stands on the side of the road just like lemonade stands. I never really did anything with my love for crafts until December 2010 when I decided to try my hand at makind dog products. At the time I was teaching in a very low socioeconomic area of Southwest Michigan that was so in need of money that they were doing staff cuts in the middle of the year. Since I was a newer teacher, my name was on that list and I knew that if I were to be laid off I wasn't going to sit at home and do nothing. That is when my love for dogs gave me the outlet to help myself. I figured, with all of the money I spend on fancy collars for my dogs, why not make them myself! And that is where things took off.
Drifting Blossom Collar
Do you remember the first piece you ever made?
Honestly, I do remember the first collar I made for Four Black Paws and I still have it becuase to me, it wasn't quality enough to sell.

Every Artist has a creative process, can you explain yours?
Seeing that my inspiration is my dogs, I would have to say that I am constantly thinking about them when I am creating something new. I love finding fun fabrics that will stand out on my black dog but I also search for fabrics that I know will look good on the manliest of dogs. Anything that is unique or a conversation starter will catch my eye (I've had many spontaneous conversations with people about my dogs collar).
Michigan State University Collar
When people start doing their craft/art, they tend to try a lot of different things before settling down to something that resonates with them. How has your work changed since you began?
Over the past year or so, I have tried many different things. At the very beginning, I was trying all different kinds of ways to put my collars together. I went through about 3 or 4 different styles before I found the one that I liked the best. Now that I have that process down, I am adding in different things to expand my line of collars such as adding martingale type collars, thicker collars and collars with a variety of different fabrics. I have also tried my hand at other types of pet products like handstamped ID tags and dog crate covers. In time I may add those things to my line again but they aren't something that excite me to make.

What inspires you creatively?
My dogs and my love of dogs are, hands down, my inspiration. Without my dog, Leila, I certainly would not have this business. She is the inspiration behind this company and also behind the name of Four Black Paws (she is a black lab).
Large Elk Antler Dog Chew
Can you tell us about some important goals you have achieved with your work?
I've hit so many milestones already within the past year; many more than I could have even imagined. My first goal was to sell collars and over the past year I have done that successfully at craft shows, fundraisers and online. Speaking of online, my second goal was to get my products out on the internet for consumers to see. My website is not up to where I want it to be but I am happy that I have my Etsy shop to display my products. Another important goal was to sell wholesale. I have had the opportunity a few times to sell wholesale to a few local places. Handmade and made in the USA seems to be important to people these days and I am a huge advocate of supporting local. Lastly, this wasn't a goal of mine but an opportunity that I was so incredibly honored to get. My collars will not only be featured in the press swag bags at The Oscars but they will also be in the celebrity swag bags at the MTV Movie Awards. This is something I could have never imagined back in December 2010 but am so extied about.

Who are some of your favorite artists/crafters and why?
I find inspiration in just about every artist and crafter. Everyone who creates something with their hands has such an incredible talent. When I was young, my Grandma used to take me downtown Chicago to the Art Museum. It never matterd what exhibit we were going to see, I knew I would always love it (and I did!).
Small/Medium Deer Antler Chew
Any goals for the future you would like to share?
My one obvious goal for the future is to expand. I would love to one day have my own shop or even expand nationally. I wouldn't mind being nationally (or internationally) known! I would also really like to get my website up to par.

What do you do in your spare time?
In what spare time that I do have, I really enjoy cooking, creating new things and spending time with my dogs. I show two of my dogs in UKC and AKC events and right now we are training for some performance events.
XLarge Dog Bed Cover 36x24
If you are displaying or selling your craft/art? Where?
Right now I have a few local places who are selling my products. There is a small dog boutique up in South Haven, MI who sells our collars and there will soon be a place right here in St. Joseph, MI selling our collars.

If you sell online or at physical store. How many hours per week to you spend in the creative side versus the business side?
I work full time and do Four Black Paws at night so I would have to say that I spend about one or two hours per night on the business side and another hour or so a night on the creative side. Most of my creativity comes out on the weekend when I have hours of time to spend sewing and creating.
The Triple Threat ID Tag
What advice would you give to someone who want to start out or start a business in their craft/art?
Go for it! The worst thing you could do is do nothing at all. The first few months may not bring anything but if you don't give up, you will see the rewards of your hard work. Also, network, network, network! You never know who you will meet wherever you are.
*****
Thank you so much Sarah!  Be sure to visit Sarah to see and learn more about her wonderful products at:


*****

Penny Cheng

Monday, March 5, 2012

MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge - The Journey So Far

Well it's been almost two months since I've announced that I will be participating at the MTV Movie Awards Gift Lounge presented by GBK Production through my membership with The Artisan Group.  I've been working feverishly coiling and cutting over 10,000 little brass, stainless steel, copper and bronze rings and getting them connected together to make 100 Chainmaille Pendants that will be inside the Celebrity Swag Bags.

So far I am please to say 65 Pendants are made and ready for me to do the final tweaks.  As long as I keep doing my personal quota of five pendants per day, I should be completely done by the end of this month.  However there are other things I need to do such as labeling, packaging, writing out my bio, making sure I have enough business cards.

Dodecahedron Chainmaille Balls
The picture above is a sampling of what I've been doing.  These little chainmaille balls, called Dodecahedron, will be the focus of the pendants I'm making.  It takes 96 little rings to make up one ball, really fun!  I'm not going to post the finished piece quite yet..  Still want it to be a bit of a surprise.... I can tell you the name of these pendants..... Fidget.

I can, however, show you the creation that will be displayed at the table during the event.  It's one of my Signature Chainmaille Tree of Life Decor...

Chainmaille Tree of Life Home Decor

I still haven't given it a name yet... still got some time for that.

So there you go... with some planning and scheduling, I am half way there and will be ready for the big day in June.


Penny Cheng