Wedding Rings

Anne Marie and Rob are going to be married on May 23rd. They commissioned me to make their wedding bands (an honor that I will not soon forget) and I decided to take some pictures of the process.

I started out with half round wire for the rings, 6ga for Robs, and 10ga for Anne Marie's. I cut a length that gives me a little play room in case I mess up with the stamping...which did happen on Anne Marie's (10ga is tiny to stamp on, especially wobbly half round wire).

For stamping and general manipulation of the metal, it needed to be annealed first. This process makes the silver molecules loose so that they will take a stamping much easier than if this step is skipped. I actually had to anneal these rings many more times throughout the process.

I stamped on a hockey puck (from my nephews bar mitzvah...don't tell him!) so I didn't mar the outside of the wire too much. The wire gets a little funky when you stamp it. This looks awful, but no worries, it all works out in the end.

After I got the insides of the rings stamped with the inscriptions, I use my ring mandrel to eyeball the length of wire I need for the size of ring I want, and saw it away. Then I formed the bands around the mandrel to get them sort of roundish so that I can solder them closed.

I shape the bands as much as I can turning the cut ends in to form somewhat of a straight edge to get ready to solder. The 10ga was easy, but the 6ga definitely needed some more annealing. I couldn't even move it anymore from the position it is in the photo above, even with leverage! So annealing I go again...

After the soldering, there are some solder spots/pools left on the metal, I have to file that off, inside and out. I also filed into the edges on the inside, making the rings very smooth, and comfortable for always and forever wear.

Here is my fancy ring mandrel, isn't she pretty? I use a rawhide hammer to make the ring a circle and then to size the ring, hammering the ring down, turning the mandrel all the time until it is at the correct size I desire.

Now it's time to sand, sand, sand...and then polish. My mandrel has sizing grooves that leave little marks on the inside of the rings, not to mention all the other accidental tool marks from the forming. I start with #80 sanding paper, and work my way down to #30 finishing paper. In sandpaper terms, that might be 320 grit to 600 grit.


It's a lot of work sanding the inside and outside by hand, but the results are wonderful. When the finish is desired, it's time to polish. I am using tripoli to polish these rings to a mirror shine, inside and out.



Here they are finished.


These were really fun to make, I hope to be asked again!

Paws New England Charity Concert

Band Gig has another charity concert tonight!
This time it's for Paws New England

Once again, I have made a donation to the cause for the raffle. This little dogbone necklace...so cute!

Doors open at 7:30pm $10 donation at the door.

Anticipation

Scott in Brooklyn?

Me in Paris?

One more guess!

I love sparkly shiny things!

A walk through Walpole

Rusty and I took a long walk today through East Walpole, into Walpole and back again. We walked through Bird Park (Francis William Park) and all the way to Plimpton Street. We actually made it almost to Main Street, but I got scared and turned back because Plimpton Street is not a street for walking, I found out. Very narrow, no sidewalk, but what really made me turn back was a super friendly black Chow Chow dog not chained in his unfenced yard who bounded over to say 'hi' while I kept saying 'no' trying to pull Rusty away from him (can't be too careful!). It was a nice day for a walk, very sunny but nice and cool. I did find my dream house on Plimpton Street though (in my dreams).

Bird Park is blooming like crazy, a lovely time to stroll through.



We had a wonderful walk, I googled our route when I got home and we did about a 5 mile loop. Rusty was actually walking almost behind me the last 1/4 mile...he was done! This is what a worn out dog looks like.

Look at those eyes, he is just exhausted!

Julie borrowed my car for tonight, so perhaps I will take Rusty on an even longer walk tomorrow to pick up the car at the Gallery. It's nice to have a worn out dog...especially one that is usually barking at you for attention.

1000 Markets

1000 markets is a selling venue that is juried and fabulous. There are wonderful things to be seen and bought here, please browse around!

I just found out that I was accepted, and I am so happy! Please check out my shop there, and if you are so inclined, buy something! Haaahhaa!

It's late, they approved me moments ago, so forgive me for my overexcitability, please!

I can't believe that I got in! Yay!!!!

Rusty has a new hobby!

Jape played some agility games with Rusty today while Suzanne and I watched. Apparently Rusty really likes jumping!

Some activities he was not so interested in, particularly the frisbee...

I think he had a fantastic time playing in the backyard with Jape. Rusty came home with his own hula hoop, so we may practice some tomorrow in the backyard.
He liked jumping the stationary rake, too.

Alright, it took over 1 1/2 hours to upload less than 2 minutes of video. Gha!

Old Cemetery

So, yes... I have been amongst the missing, I know it. I apologize to the few readers who have been wondering when and if I would ever post another bit of nonsense, mainly Suzanne and Kim...LOL!

Anyhoo, to celebrate my return, here are some pictures of a cemetery I have recently discovered.

I pulled over and walked around for a bit the other day. It was an incredibly sunny day! I think I need to go exploring more on an overcast day, or when the sun is not so high in the sky.


I would have never even known this cemetery existed had I not decided to change my route because of construction. It's quite lovely, on a hill (although the pictures don't show that well) and very small. I don't even know what the proper name of this cemetery is, but I think it is a non-conjoined part of Sharon Memorial Park.

Just beautiful!

Some new shows

I have added some new shows to my list this summer.



Thursday, June 4th
5pm - 9pm
JP First Thursdays
The Lawn at Curtis Hall
20 South Street, Jamaica Plain

Sunday, June 14th
Boston Handmade at SEOM
SOWA
10am - 4pm
540 Harrison Ave,
Boston, MA

Thursday, July 2nd
5pm - 9pm
JP First Thursdays
The Lawn at Curtis Hall
20 South Street, Jamaica Plain



Hope to see you there!

Native American Hand Puppet

I made this hand puppet in 3rd or 4th grade.

This is the only artwork from Elementary school that I was able to keep over the years. My family moved from Los Angeles to Boston in 1978, and we literally packed a suitcase and moved to Grandmas house. We did not 'pack up the house' we were told to only take what was most important to us (if it fit into a suitcase). Somehow, this hand puppet was important to me.

I made her with my own hands, and I have kept her safe now for over 34 years. Her necklace has seen better days, her dress is a bit tattered, and she shows her age with her cracked face, but to me she is beautiful and I am proud that she hasn't fallen apart after all these years.

She is surely not my first art/craft, but she is the oldest one still in my possession. I love her.

Crystal on Martha!

Boston Handmade member Crystal Hanehan of VintagebyCrystal will be on The Martha Stewart Show tomorrow! Airing here in Boston on Fox 25 at 10am...check your local listings!

I'm really excited to see her segment! She will be demonstrating this needle felted nest for Martha's 'Easter Crafts' inspired show.

Deep breaths Crystal, I'm sure you'll do great!

Stressful times

In this troubling economy, many people are losing their jobs.

My jobs are safe because I don't have a steady full time job, I have my hands in many small time efforts that fill my day and give me many small paychecks that amount to a fair pay that I am comfortable with. If I lose one job, I will still have a couple. If I lose two jobs, I will have more time to make more jewelry to sell. I feel lucky in that I am not a slave to any one of my part time jobs. And I feel lucky to have a husband who supports me in every one of my small time efforts, and in the long run, a pension that will take care of us in old age.

Ramble aside....one of my part time jobs is being assistant to a wonderful man who deals with people's retirement funds, 401(k)s and annuities. I have been feeling his stress every time one of his highly paid clients loses his/her job and it has been affecting my overall happy attitude. I haven't posted much to my blog as the market has taken a dive with the Bears pushing down as hard as they can. This likely won't change for years. There will be upswings and down swings, but over all, this won't be over for quite some time I fear.

When the Bulls strap on their harnesses and are ready to pull us up and out of this financial mess I'm sure to have a cheerier attitude. I'd love to be posting happy thoughts, but this is on my mind at this moment, so there you go.

Come on Bulls, we're ready for you!

A few of my favorite Boston Handmade things.

Being a member of such a talented group of artisans and craft people can have it's advantages. I have the first look at some of the most wonderful new items, and sometimes...they are gifts!

During the annual meeting in January, we exchanged gifts as a group. I was lucky enough to score two of these wonderful coasters from Lucie Wicker which have become a staple on my coffee table ever since. Hubby and I love them!


During the BH Downtown store's run, I had purchased an eyeglass case from Elizabeth Brennick designs which I have put to use as more than just an eyeglass case. I use it to hold the faceplate for my radio when I park in Boston, and when I am not parking in Boston...eyeglass case it is!


I also bought a painted wooded brooch from Wellerwishes (my sister, Kathy) which I wear all the time and love so much! Her pieces evoke a long lost imaginary magical time. So whimsical and colorful!



Since I first discovered Mimi Kirchner's dolls...yes, when I first joined Boston Handmade, I have longed to own one of her dolls. Lucky for me, she had these magnets for sale of her masculine tattoo men who now grace the front of my refrigerator. Someday I will own a real Mimi doll, but until then, I get to look at images of these beautiful tattooed men...


I am a huge fan of Breton Bleu Studios, I am lucky enough to own a few of her original paintings. I'm a huge fan! My favorite is a mini painting of a marsh that reminds me of Prince Edward Island...even tho I know that it was either from the coast of Massachusetts or of France. Here are a few together.

What are your favorite Boston Handmade items?

More Dog

A Sleeping Dog is a Good Dog

Happy Valentine's Day

Scott gave me roses.

Pretty, red, fragrant roses...

What'd you get?

Be Mine on Friday Feb. 6th!

Another great Boston Handmade exhibit!
Stop by for a visit and a wonderful shopping experience!


Be Mine
The 2nd Annual Boston Handmade Valentine Show

Friday, February 6 ~ 5pm to 9pm
450 Harrison Avenue ~ Gallery #31 ~ 31 Thayer Street

South End, Boston, MA - Boston Handmade announces the 2nd Annual Be Mine Valentine Show featuring hand crafted Valentines and gifts for friends, family, and lovers, to be held on Friday, February 6th, from 5-9pm at 450 Harrison Avenue. Sponsored in part by GTI Properties and the individual members of Boston Handmade, this one-night-only event coincides with the First Friday open studios and gallery receptions in the SoWa arts district of Boston's South End.

Twenty local artists, artisans and craftspeople will be exhibiting their one-of-a-kind and limited edition works at Be Mine, which is the 2009 Boston Handmade debut after their successful 2008 Downtown Crossing holiday gallery. This special Valentine event includes live acoustic music by Peter Paulousky and new exhibitor designs created especially for the winter season and Valentine's Day.

I hope to see you all there!

Winter Blahs

Apparently I have a serious case of the winter doldrums.

Gina's Guitar Pick

I made this guitar pick pendant for Gina as a thank you present.
It's the one on the right (the one on the left is for a donation I spoke of below)


Gina sent Scott meli-melo's for Christmas. I can't find anywhere to order them here in the US or online for that matter. Need I say more?

I also really want to see if Gina reads my blog.

Rock! for "Music Drives Us"

It's time for another BandGig concert featuring musicians in the program of all ages and musical styles. These special concerts always benefit a cause and this time it is for Ernie Boch, Jr's Music Drives Us Program.


This Saturday night, January 17th, The Elks club in Norwood, MA will be host to this concert benefiting music programs throughout Massachusetts. There will be raffles with lots of great products and services, and a very special raffle of two Floor seat Celtics tickets (which should command a pretty penny!) The winner and a guest will be able to watch the players wipe the sweat from their brow, and may even get moistened by accident (that's how good the seats are)!

Once again, I am donating an item of handmade jewelry. This time, I made a sterling silver pendant in the shape of a guitar pick with "BAND GIG" stamped in, with a chain so the lucky winner will never be caught without a pick again! My pendant will be included in a basket of other Rockin' goodies...here is a sneak peek...

If a 'Rockin' Basket' is not your thing, there will also be baskets themed with 'Pamper Yourself', 'High Fashion', 'Living Italian' and 'A Night In and Out'.

Please come out to the Elks club on Saturday night for a great concert and an awesome cause!

Starving Artists?

This is one place that I will not be going to on Sunday.

Starving Artist Group

This comes around every now and then...although I think mostly in the spring time.
They show their artwork at local hotels in the area and you can buy "an original" painting for $7-$49. Nothing over $50 is one of their sayings. I am not a fan at all!

This makes me crazy in fact.

I don't know about you, but I am an art collector, and this sort of thing makes me really angry! I know how these paintings are produced, and it is not pretty. The canvas rolls down a factory line. There are multiple artists who paint their little sections on the canvas and it can even be re-rolled so that the artist paints the same tree on the canvas (just in a different place).

This gives 'Starving Artists' a whole new meaning. These artists are getting paid peanuts for their efforts. The final artist down the factory line is instructed to sign the painting with a well known last (western) name, like Smith, or Jones. The people who paint these paintings don't even know the English language. I am sorry, I just saw a commercial for this nonsense and I am riled up by it.

Please don't ever buy any art from a starving artists sale! You are not buying art! You are buying sweatshop forced art.


Vent over.

Ann's Palette Knife Pin

Ann Gorbett who is a very talented palette knife artist, commissioned me to make her a pin in the likeness of the tool that she uses the most....a palette knife.

This request was a real compliment to me since I had commissioned Ann to paint my sisters and I from a copy of a photograph last August. I am a huge fan of her paintings!

Here are the pictures that she sent me of her knife.


This is the finished pin in sterling silver.



I think it came out wonderfully, and I hope she loves it! Well, I know she loves the front, but she hasn't seen the pin parts on the back yet, so I hope she loves those. She is not only a great artist, but a patient human being. :)

New Year, New Etsy shop!

It's a new year, and time for new endeavors!

I have opened a new Etsy shop with vintage jewelry and jewelry components. Most of the vintage jewelry that will be featured in my new shop is courtesy of my friend Jape's mother and animal advocate extraordinaire.

Please check out my new shop findingrosetta where 50% of all profits from sales will be donated to the Neponset Valley Humane Society.

Here is a sneak peek of what you will find at findingrosetta
Vintage flower brooch

Vintage telephone cuff links

And a vintage brooch that has already sold...thanks Kathy!

Although its fun for me to take pictures and list items, my main goal here is to make some money for the Neponset Valley Humane Society. So please take a look and see if there is anything you like, even if you like it to just take it apart and make something else with it. Because that is fun, too!

Happy New Year!

Here's to champagne and wontons!

Cheers to 2009!