tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40613321548800070892024-03-14T05:50:54.010+11:00IncalescoErikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.comBlogger115125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-38044756840603320872011-01-07T18:33:00.007+11:002011-01-07T18:49:25.435+11:00Time and EnergyMy jewellery has been very much neglected of late. I rarely have the time to work on jewellery, and if I do have some time, I NEVER have the energy.<br /><br />Today is one of those rare days where all the elements aligned...<br /><br />I had some inspiration, I have been working on the designs for these two pieces for a while so I knew exactly what I wanted to achieve and how I planned on doing it. Having a plan is great as no time is wasted, and by tag teaming two pieces I can spend every moment being productive.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TSbDohTgrTI/AAAAAAAAAsM/Y-LNJRj2wEY/s1600/IMG_9809_3_1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559345890937842994" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TSbDohTgrTI/AAAAAAAAAsM/Y-LNJRj2wEY/s400/IMG_9809_3_1.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TSbDwV0pTVI/AAAAAAAAAsU/63sMzV_KEhg/s1600/IMG_9804_2_1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559346025294548306" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TSbDwV0pTVI/AAAAAAAAAsU/63sMzV_KEhg/s400/IMG_9804_2_1.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />More uncommonly, I had time! Fridays are normally a flurry of activity with play dates and errands, however today was a free day. Miss 10 months had a nice long sleep in mum and dad's bed (I don't know why but this little lady has the best sleeps in a queen sized bed). And my hubby had the day off too so he was about to keep Mr 3 busy.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TSbD2b0SFUI/AAAAAAAAAsc/-h0ChjnIT8I/s1600/IMG_9802_1_1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559346129982854466" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 299px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TSbD2b0SFUI/AAAAAAAAAsc/-h0ChjnIT8I/s400/IMG_9802_1_1.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />And most rare of all, I had some energy! Just some mind you, once the afternoon heat really kicked in I had to call it a day, which is why these are works in progress rather than completed pieces. But I think seeing them come together will give me the energy to continue on.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TSbD8f-uPQI/AAAAAAAAAsk/fHZN8kAt9_I/s1600/IMG_9813_4_1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559346234179599618" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 299px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TSbD8f-uPQI/AAAAAAAAAsk/fHZN8kAt9_I/s400/IMG_9813_4_1.JPG" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TSbECMxT-gI/AAAAAAAAAss/xIORfxkUmww/s1600/IMG_9815_5_1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559346332102294018" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 299px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TSbECMxT-gI/AAAAAAAAAss/xIORfxkUmww/s400/IMG_9815_5_1.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />I have a whole stash of stones ready and waiting, I hope this momentum continues ;)Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-1974677187863647112010-10-15T10:45:00.005+11:002010-10-15T11:10:19.090+11:00Salvage OperationThings don't always go to plan, sometimes they melt or collapse or just aren't quite right.<br /><br />Last year I was working on a <a href="http://incalesco.blogspot.com/2009/09/taking-shape.html">ring with a princess cut amethyst</a>, everything was going perfectly... until... late in the afternoon in a rush to get finished I was too impatient and cracked the stone while trying get it to drop into the setting.<br /><br />Yes we have these setbacks, and while it is very disappointing, all is not lost. If you can still salvage the piece it is a wonderful thing. In this case the ring and setting were fine, so it was just a matter of waiting until I bought new stones and trying to source another stone to fit.<br /><br />Fast forward to a year later and I had cause to place an order for gemstones. Luckily I remembered to check the princess cut stones of aproximately 5mm square.<br /><br />So finally... the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/57960599/sterling-silver-peridot-knife-edge-ring">Knife Edge Ring</a> gets to see the light of day, with a lovely princess cut peridot.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TLeb3O8XoMI/AAAAAAAAAsA/KzA8XOOdPG0/s1600/IMG_9168a_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 377px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TLeb3O8XoMI/AAAAAAAAAsA/KzA8XOOdPG0/s400/IMG_9168a_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5528058440826986690" /></a>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-83420151565663780592010-09-17T10:17:00.004+10:002010-10-15T11:01:50.173+11:00Techniques and Technicians - Wire WrappingWire wrapping is a technique that involves the use of tools such as pliers, mandrels, vices and hammers to bend, twist, bind and forge. The intricate patterns and shapes are achieved without the use of solder.<br /><br />I am drawn to the rather romantic and ornate designs that people achieve with this technique. As with other jewellery techniques, people who practise wire wrapping develop their own distinctive styles achieving varied and unique results.<br /><br />Three of my fellow jewellery artists on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> have kindly shared with me some info about their creative process using wire wrapping.<br /><br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/angelene">Angelene</a></strong><br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49747696/earrings-wire-wrapped-sterling-silver"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.152465768.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 322px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.152465768.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />I love wire wrapping. It's mesmerising. The feeling when a large piece has been completed is one of achievement (and sore fingers!). My wrapping style definitely reflects my personality - measured, careful and meticulous. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/36689234/earrings-handmade-sterling-silver-high"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.110098553.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 327px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.110098553.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />I first started wrapping unhammered wire for a pair of long drop earrings - because I hadn't hammered the wire first it was not hard enough and so after wrapping the whole length it bent, and ruined the pair of earrings. An expensive mistake that I haven't repeated! Gradually my wrapping has become more precise, and I can wrap in small spaces (such as the top of a loop of a wrapped briolette gem) which gives a neat but detailed finish to my work.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/33265710/luxe-wire-wrapped-tourmaline-and"><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.98309302.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 322px;" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.98309302.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br /><br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/rivergum">RiverGum Jewellery</a></strong><br /><br />I discovered beading one afternoon when my niece arrived from Perth with a few beads, headpins and ear wires. I then did a short two-hour course at the local bead shop learning how to shape eye pins and link beads together to form a necklace and earrings. <br /><br />I was hooked right from the beginning. That was 7 years ago! <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/55557427/chocolate-brown-bronzite-pendant"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.171900365.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 573px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.171900365.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />I actually don’t remember where I saw wire wrapping for the first time but I learnt my basic techniques from various tutorials on the net and in books and magazines. I soon left them behind as I developed my own style.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/50390230/tiger-eye-pendant-by-rivergum-jewellery"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.154615669.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 573px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.154615669.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />It took a long time to understand the wire itself – the descriptive words of gauge, hardness, square and half round etc, were like a foreign language to begin with. <br /><br />And now it seems intuitive. First I choose a gemstone to work with and an idea begins to evolve. Instinctively I decide which wire to use – half hard or dead soft. I love the feel of the wire in my hands. It’s almost as if it forms itself rather than me deciding the look I want. I love the adrenalin rush as the piece begins to take shape and I wonder if it will come together in the end. Some of my best work has been when I needed to resurrect what I thought was a disaster! <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49695023/fire-and-energy-pendant-fire-agate-gold"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.152287233.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 609px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.152287233.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />And of course there is the joy at the end when a customer is drawn to a piece, reads about the particular gemstone and exclaims “that’s just what I need in my life right now!”<br /><br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/realisationcreations">Realisation Creations</a></strong><br /><br />I loved using wire the minute I started experimenting with it. My first wire wrapped pieces were extremely simple, but as I started to push myself creatively, I started realising that instead of beads being the components, and the wire just being the connective material, that wire wrapped with beads could form an independent component. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/38687062/necklace-sterling-silver-oxidised"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.116556320.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 494px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.116556320.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />I love the texture created when using wire - whether wrapping over another gauge of wire, or creating teensy charms - it's fascinating to me that such an industrial plain looking material can be converted to something so tactile! <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/31462415/necklace-clearance-chalcedony-freshwater"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.92238733.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 555px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.92238733.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />I suppose my style of jewellery is quite Victoriana, and a little bit gothic. My love of Tim Burton, period dramas, and historical fiction certainly leads me in that direction! But I am a little like a hummingbird, flitting from genre to genre in search of inspiration. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49389143/earrings-sterling-silver-oxidised-opal"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.173310000.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 604px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.173310000.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-21995248122217398762010-09-10T17:03:00.008+10:002010-09-10T17:14:05.162+10:00This is not a cooking blog...But who would be able to resist sharing such cuteness? For his third birthday our son got some cooking utensils and silicon cake tins from his Aunty Relle and her In-Laws. I think he looks super gorgeous in his apron and hat!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYia9HKoI/AAAAAAAAAr4/PaQ5BBmMGA8/s1600/IMG_8945_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 301px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYia9HKoI/AAAAAAAAAr4/PaQ5BBmMGA8/s400/IMG_8945_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515177304554678914" /></a><br />And "Granny's little sister Aunty 'ron" (Veron) gave me a baking book that she had bought for herself, but thought might get a bit more use at my house. So today we made old fashioned gingerbread.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYe6w4-jI/AAAAAAAAArw/hvZ47jS0IgQ/s1600/IMG_8949_2_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYe6w4-jI/AAAAAAAAArw/hvZ47jS0IgQ/s400/IMG_8949_2_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515177244373875250" /></a><br />Mr 3 loved stirring and pouring and turning off my electric mixer. Turning it on however is a bit scarey ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYbh5lBXI/AAAAAAAAAro/l44oIxQmkeQ/s1600/IMG_8950_3_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYbh5lBXI/AAAAAAAAAro/l44oIxQmkeQ/s400/IMG_8950_3_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515177186159822194" /></a><br />He loved using his spoon and 'spatchla' to stir and scrape.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYYnQhiCI/AAAAAAAAArg/1QSv2Q2AbC8/s1600/IMG_8954_4_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYYnQhiCI/AAAAAAAAArg/1QSv2Q2AbC8/s400/IMG_8954_4_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515177136058632226" /></a><br />The recipe made quite a lot, in hindsight I should have halved it. As well as gingerbread men we made 12 gingerbread stars and a gingerbread bear.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYVVbxDQI/AAAAAAAAArY/s__QnxAMAWw/s1600/IMG_8955_5_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYVVbxDQI/AAAAAAAAArY/s__QnxAMAWw/s400/IMG_8955_5_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515177079734340866" /></a><br />I had to guess a bit with the timing as they were all different sizes, after 15 minutes instead of the documented 25 I thought everything looked about right.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYR43-_4I/AAAAAAAAArQ/rhM4TJljc0k/s1600/IMG_8957_6_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TInYR43-_4I/AAAAAAAAArQ/rhM4TJljc0k/s400/IMG_8957_6_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515177020528459650" /></a><br />Sadly the gingerbread bear fell apart when I was taking him out of his cake tin. So we ate him warm and he was delicious!Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-64175404077680774732010-09-10T14:07:00.010+10:002010-09-10T14:25:49.270+10:00It's Shaun the Sheep!As you get older birthdays become less and less of a big deal. Luckily I have a couple of kids to live vicariously through ;)<br /><br />Every year I look forward to J's birthday, normally selecting which cake I will make him well in advance. Now he is a bit older of course I have to let him have a say too.<br /><br />This year I got the ABC Kids Cakebook from the bookclub at work, so for his third birthday (just before we went on holiday) we selected Shaun the Sheep. <br /><br />It looked simple enough, get some soft icing and dye it black. Hmmm, seems it made me black long before it did the icing, oh well...<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvdkVIw1I/AAAAAAAAArI/_rFQfebPUhA/s1600/003_DSCF0849_1_1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515132141195281234" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvdkVIw1I/AAAAAAAAArI/_rFQfebPUhA/s400/003_DSCF0849_1_1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Finally the icing turned black, after about half a bottle of black food colouring and I was ready to shape my body parts.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvaYm-l1I/AAAAAAAAArA/GaaIZFEsv-Y/s1600/007_DSCF0858_2_1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515132086509279058" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvaYm-l1I/AAAAAAAAArA/GaaIZFEsv-Y/s400/007_DSCF0858_2_1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />The completed Shaun cake required 2 cakes so I decided to make one plain and one chocolate. Time to cut out the body.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvXGQ8ttI/AAAAAAAAAq4/r6zDhBoz_Ds/s1600/008_DSCF0859_3_1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515132030045435602" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvXGQ8ttI/AAAAAAAAAq4/r6zDhBoz_Ds/s400/008_DSCF0859_3_1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />As all big kids know, the icing is the best part of the cake. This cake requires meringue icing. Yummmmmmmmmmy!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvT1fcWDI/AAAAAAAAAqw/DglGrNlBXuE/s1600/011_DSCF0862_4_1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515131974003218482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvT1fcWDI/AAAAAAAAAqw/DglGrNlBXuE/s400/011_DSCF0862_4_1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />As the meringue icing doesn't keep long I had to make it just before the party. Assembly always takes longer than expected, got him made just in time. Not a bad effort hey?<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvQvfnogI/AAAAAAAAAqo/5BEymIvzQ_8/s1600/018_IMG_8522_5_1.JPG"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515131920853737986" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 400px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 300px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvQvfnogI/AAAAAAAAAqo/5BEymIvzQ_8/s400/018_IMG_8522_5_1.JPG" border="0" /></a><br />Shaun was a big hit and our "big" 3 year old was very pleased with him.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvKK9RPtI/AAAAAAAAAqY/aQoSqmcXoKw/s1600/077_DSCF0906_2_1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515131807966772946" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvKK9RPtI/AAAAAAAAAqY/aQoSqmcXoKw/s400/077_DSCF0906_2_1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Sadly the problem with character cakes is you have to cut them up and eat them! Hmmm seems a bit wrong LOL....<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvNlD9gVI/AAAAAAAAAqg/3cltB9-WYLE/s1600/085_DSCF0913_1_1.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5515131866513768786" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 300px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 400px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TImvNlD9gVI/AAAAAAAAAqg/3cltB9-WYLE/s400/085_DSCF0913_1_1.jpg" border="0" /></a><br />Just under 6 months until A's first birthday, perhaps just a little too early to select her cake.Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-37549850266596747502010-08-13T16:38:00.007+10:002010-08-13T16:47:09.918+10:00Mini MasterchefI got a call from Daycare the other day saying that as of next week they want to move my son to the pre-kinder room. While we were talking the carer mentioned that he had invited everyone to <em>the blue house</em> (our house) and when asked what they would do there he replied "Bake cookies".<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGTobnmotSI/AAAAAAAAApw/9-c8QJKYAiA/s1600/IMG_8481_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGTobnmotSI/AAAAAAAAApw/9-c8QJKYAiA/s400/IMG_8481_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504780205738734882" /></a><br />Most fridays I bake something with my son, often it is for a playdate, but other times it's just because. I figure by making our own cookies I have more control over ingredients, additives (the dreaded numbers) and can hide other healthy bits and pieces in them too. And aside from all that, it's a fun activity for both of us!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGTofHQg7HI/AAAAAAAAAp4/HHamGmh0UsA/s1600/IMG_8482_2_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGTofHQg7HI/AAAAAAAAAp4/HHamGmh0UsA/s400/IMG_8482_2_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504780265775492210" /></a><br />Today we made oat and coconut crisps. We decided to be a bit decadent and put a dark chocolate bud on each one.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGTolbqV7kI/AAAAAAAAAqA/e2Me6KYsU8w/s1600/IMG_8486_4_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGTolbqV7kI/AAAAAAAAAqA/e2Me6KYsU8w/s400/IMG_8486_4_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504780374331747906" /></a><br />The end result, ok they look like eggs! But they taste delicious!<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGToqf3BR8I/AAAAAAAAAqI/eVAM7JNgmow/s1600/IMG_8487_5_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGToqf3BR8I/AAAAAAAAAqI/eVAM7JNgmow/s400/IMG_8487_5_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504780461358008258" /></a>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-9973402713920916242010-08-11T15:31:00.005+10:002010-08-11T15:40:06.371+10:00Chase the sunLast week I showed you my new <a href="http://incalesco.blogspot.com/2010/08/taste-of-tropics.html">frangipani earrings</a> which were a precursor to a special order.<br /><br />Today I am happy to be able to show you <em>the main event</em> so to speak.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGI25R4YCiI/AAAAAAAAApY/Qq2HLRazEP4/s1600/IMG_8453_3_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 325px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGI25R4YCiI/AAAAAAAAApY/Qq2HLRazEP4/s400/IMG_8453_3_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504022052280470050" /></a><br />I still find it incredibly difficult to capture the true beauty of such stones, I think they are much more fabulous in real life.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGI3CUWaAsI/AAAAAAAAApg/ulxo0dZEXnM/s1600/IMG_8447_2_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 358px; height: 377px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGI3CUWaAsI/AAAAAAAAApg/ulxo0dZEXnM/s400/IMG_8447_2_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504022207562121922" /></a><br />These frangipani earrings with claw set peony pink topaz are already on their way to a good home. But if you are interested in a custom creation of your own don't hesitate to contact me.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGI3KHZc7vI/AAAAAAAAApo/l1IR9GRHJWs/s1600/IMG_8443_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 364px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGI3KHZc7vI/AAAAAAAAApo/l1IR9GRHJWs/s400/IMG_8443_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5504022341524188914" /></a>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-34702044452301485142010-08-10T16:13:00.004+10:002010-08-10T16:52:01.986+10:00Techniques and Technicians - EnamelingI have been nurturing an idea of a series of posts exploring some of my favourite jewellery techniques and technicians.<br /><br /><em>Techniques: A practical method or art applied to some particular task<br /><br />Technicians: Someone known for high skill in some intellectual or artistic technique</em><br /><br />As a lover of all things colourful I thought a nice place to start would be enameling. Enameling is the art of fusing glass to metal, used in combination with other jewellery techniques the possibilities of enamel seem limitless. One of my favourite books on enamling is The Art of Enameling by Linda Darty.<br /><br />Three of my fellow jewellery artists on <a href="http://www.etsy.com/">Etsy</a> who also have a love of enamel have kindly shared with me some info about their creative process using enamel.<br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/jewelrybynatsuko">Jewelry by Natsuko</a></strong><br /><br />I began making jewelry over 10 years ago. From bead stringing to pearl knotting, wire wrapping… I tried many different techniques. But it was always with beads that I bought from somewhere. I wanted make beads and focal myself. I wanted my jewelry to be truly *ME* So I took polymer clay class at local art center. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/53053593/enamel-poppy-glamour-ring-autumn"><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.164044154.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 322px;" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.164044154.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />While it was fun to make stuff with polymer clay, I felt it really wasn’t for me. It’s just so hard to make finished product look nice & professional. So I moved onto enameling class and I was hooked! Why? I’d have say that because enameling gives you an instant graphication. And possibility of color combinations is endless. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49082066/emerald-leaf-handmade-enamel-necklace"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.150243552.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 322px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.150243552.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />I never run out of new color combination that I want to try. And because enameling is applied over metal, I can enjoy the shapes & texture of the metal too! Although you can do many things with enameling, my focus is to make jewelry. And now I am taking a metal smith class to seek new ways to incorporate my enamel pieces into jewelry. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/44540500/poppy-bouquet-on-silver-ring-necklace"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.136512268.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 322px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.136512268.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thesourhour">The Sour Hour</a></strong><br /><br />Inna Peck : The Sour Hour : Reversible Enamel Jewelry<br /><br />I am from Ukraine, and have a BA in Printmaking and Fiber Art. Having a background in printmaking and an interest in Jewelry and metalworking, I took a screen printing enamel class and the teacher really set me up with a good understanding of how to utilize processes and layering techniques to achieve a range of effects. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thesourhour"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGDz7nbicII/AAAAAAAAApQ/fpNzNJ9IkYc/s1600/get_convo_image.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TGDz7nbicII/AAAAAAAAApQ/fpNzNJ9IkYc/s400/get_convo_image.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5503666950169063554" /></a></a><br />I am really new to glass, so I I am still trying to learn its capabilities and limitation through taking flame working and fusing classes. With my jewelry I try to use and layer patterns that reference traditional folk art designs but have a contemporary simplicity. I recently received two separate scholarships, one in engraving , and one in glass. I imagine that both of them will significantly change and improve my approach in the near future. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/45086002/reversible-enamel-pendant"><a href="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_430xN.138341035.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 287px;" src="http://ny-image3.etsy.com/il_430xN.138341035.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />Currently my work is primarily opaque glass, but in the near future I hope to incorporate more engraving, transparent enamels and more complex shapes.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/45086794/reversible-enamel-pendant"><a href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.138343352.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 287px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com/il_430xN.138343352.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br /><br /><strong><a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/rmdjewellery">RMD jewellery</a></strong><br /><br />I discovered jewellery making a few years ago when my daughter started school, initially I was self taught in beaded jewellery making with a desire to move into metalworking. In 2008 I started attending workshops and weekend classes on silver smithing. In 2009 I attended a Goldsmith School in Brisbane one night a week and am currently continuing that training one full day at a Goldsmith School in Sydney since we moved here in Dec. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/52736423/earrings-copper-enamel-square-drop"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.162463677.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 430px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.162463677.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />I discovered enamelling in Dec last year when I was looking at ways to add colour to my jewellery without the cost of stones, I was and still am, fairly hesitant to buy and set expensive stones as a beginner. I came across an article on torch firing enamel and found a great Aussie site that sold enamels in small quantities, enough for a trial of torch firing. I spent nearly 4 months testing and trialling torch firing enamels before successfully creating a gorgeously simple <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49324483/earrings-sterling-silver-kiln-fired ">pair of drop earrings</a> and from there the obsession began. A few months ago I purchased a microwave kiln which mimics the behaviour of a larger kiln but on a small scale. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49323905/earrings-studs-copper-square-kiln-fired"><a href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.151056001.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 430px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com/il_430xN.151056001.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />I love working with metal and adding colour. Watching the enamels glow when they melt and seeing the lovely effects that can be achieved, each piece is an enigma and no matter how many times you work with a design or a colour, enamels always surprise you with their results. I love that, makes each piece, even the repeated designs, unique in their own way. <br /><br /><a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/50161404/necklace-copper-kiln-fired-enamel"><a href="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.153847386.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 430px;" src="http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_430xN.153847386.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a></a><br />Aussie readers can check out Rachel's newer work at Shop Handmade in Canberra and Incub8r in Brisbane.<br /><br /><em>Thanks to Natsuko, Inna and Rachel for taking the time to share their enamel experiences with me, so that I could share them with you...</em>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-90168896567029039962010-08-05T17:38:00.005+10:002010-08-05T17:51:26.017+10:00The right lightSince opening <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Incalesco">my Etsy store</a> I have gradually improved my photo technique using my little Canon point-and-shoot, some indirect natural light and either a sheet of pearly white card left over from making our wedding invitations, or a piece of wood from our wood shed.<br /><br />But sometimes the light is just not right for photos, and I am so very impatient.<br /><br />For some time the photos of my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/36196163/sterling-silver-orange-enamel-daisy">orange daisy patch earrings</a> have bugged me. Well forever in fact. I finished them too late on a Sunday, and I just wanted to get them photographed and listed, otherwise it would be days before I'd get another opportunity. However I don't think my haste really did me or my earrings any favours, in fact I think it made the earrings look quite terrible. This is the original listing here:<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFpsdRo8oRI/AAAAAAAAApA/REVwOwWlL18/s1600/daisy_patch_old.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 375px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFpsdRo8oRI/AAAAAAAAApA/REVwOwWlL18/s400/daisy_patch_old.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501829144993636626" /></a><br />So last weekend while photographing some <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/52792905/sterling-silver-white-frangipani-post">new earrings</a> I decided to re-do the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/36196163/sterling-silver-orange-enamel-daisy">orange daisy patch earrings</a> to show them in a "better light". I expected them to come up much better, but even I was shocked by how much a reshoot has improved the whole look of this listing:<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFpsjkF-7mI/AAAAAAAAApI/A0DVRr1LYmo/s1600/daisy_patch_new.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 368px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFpsjkF-7mI/AAAAAAAAApI/A0DVRr1LYmo/s400/daisy_patch_new.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5501829253026475618" /></a><br />Perhaps next time I'll be more patient... But I wouldn't bet on it ;)Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-49915779993335273712010-08-01T15:57:00.008+10:002010-08-01T16:30:23.222+10:00Taste of the tropicsI have a custom order for a pair of earrings. The brief was very broad, the customer chose the stones and said "make whatever you think will suit the stones". This sort of free reign is pretty rare, but I guess the reason she asked me to do this in the first place is because she likes my style of jewellery.<br /><br />The stones in question are two beautiful vibrant peony pink topaz. The colours are warm and summery and made me think of my favourite flowers, the frangipani. So out came the sketch pad, and after a few scribbles a design began to emerge.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFUM-r8KDPI/AAAAAAAAAoY/A5GBqiG2z7Y/s1600/2010_07_31_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 277px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFUM-r8KDPI/AAAAAAAAAoY/A5GBqiG2z7Y/s400/2010_07_31_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500316790989393138" /></a><br />I transcribed my frangipani template onto the silver and started to pierce them out by hand. As you can see I am cutting out four frangipanis, two for my custom order and two as a pair of plain frangipanis to list in my store. <br /><br />I left the 4 joined together at first as a larger piece is easier to work with. I punched guides which I would use for the drill holes, the guide marks guide the drill and stop it from skipping on the surface. As you can see from the photo where I am drilling, having the larger piece to work with is a much safer option, a small individual flower may come loose in my hand and spin up the drill bit or get thrown somewhere.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFUNCzUUaoI/AAAAAAAAAog/SHrYAOkRxZM/s1600/Collages_2_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 277px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFUNCzUUaoI/AAAAAAAAAog/SHrYAOkRxZM/s400/Collages_2_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500316861689260674" /></a><br />After drilling the holes I have to insert the saw blade individually into each hole of the template to cut out the inner sections. I am then ready to finish cutting each flower. Some imagination is still required here to envisage the finished earrings. I showed my son and asked if they looked like flowers and he said "nup!"<br /><br />After smoothing up the edges and giving the surface an emery I stamped each earring 925 for sterling silver. At this point is was also important to invert two of the flowers in order to pair them up. Then I shaped the flowers by forging with a hammer and also tweaking with some tapered round pliers.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFUNGQpD5iI/AAAAAAAAAoo/1R0I5N9h-TI/s1600/IMG_8276_9_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFUNGQpD5iI/AAAAAAAAAoo/1R0I5N9h-TI/s400/IMG_8276_9_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500316921100494370" /></a><br />Finally it was time to insert the posts, which I had balled up the ends of and solder them in place. The the earrings were carefully cleanned up and annealed and rubbed back lightly with pumice a number of times to achieve a soft pearly white fine silver finish. <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFUNLb7zLMI/AAAAAAAAAow/5DzQZOMVaSk/s1600/IMG_8320_2_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 327px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFUNLb7zLMI/AAAAAAAAAow/5DzQZOMVaSk/s400/IMG_8320_2_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500317010031226050" /></a><br />The <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/52792905/sterling-silver-white-frangipani-post">frangipani studs</a> are now available in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Incalesco">Etsy store</a>.<br /><br />Don't forget to come back next week to see the completed custom order frangipani earrings. And for my customer, I hope you enjoyed your sneak peak!<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFUSlgjPJNI/AAAAAAAAAo4/kFBkmO45UrM/s1600/IMG_8324_3_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 393px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFUSlgjPJNI/AAAAAAAAAo4/kFBkmO45UrM/s400/IMG_8324_3_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5500322955505116370" /></a>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-71940783559580256642010-07-29T13:50:00.005+10:002010-07-29T14:20:44.351+10:00Look with your handsToday I'm thinking about texture. I have been watching my baby girl use her sense of touch to learn about the world around her. Things made for baby a very geared towards tactile sensations.<br /><br />I'm a sucker for texture, we used to joke and say "look with your eyes, not with your hands". I'm one of those people that while admiring a colleagues new shirt I can't resist a quick feel of the fabric, luckily so far that has not seen me being hauled into HR for harrassment.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFD_raqy6DI/AAAAAAAAAoI/4qThMhqNfjE/s1600/IMG_3450_2_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFD_raqy6DI/AAAAAAAAAoI/4qThMhqNfjE/s400/IMG_3450_2_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499176266377652274" /></a><br /><br />Who can resist the soft downy fuzz of a babies head? Or maybe you like the feeling of hands that often see a hard days work? What about the sleek coolness of a reptiles skin, or perhaps the cool crispy feeling of freshly mown grass. Back when I was at school and walking home in the summer there was one house in particular that as I walked past I'd always take off my shoes to feel the perfectly manicured lawn beneath my feet, the owner was an elderly ex-greenskeeper.<br /><br />Texture is a big consideration when making jewellery too. Finishes are not just for the eyes, they evoke a mood or a feeling, lets call it a vibe!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFD_x0rgiRI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/gC1mcHLkY_k/s1600/IMG_3498_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TFD_x0rgiRI/AAAAAAAAAoQ/gC1mcHLkY_k/s400/IMG_3498_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5499176376439179538" /></a><br /><br />I am working on a pair of frangipani earrings at the moment for a special order. Frangipanis are my favourite flower, I have been thinking about the soft, thick decadence of the petals and how to achieve that feeling from silver. If I get it right, no matter how dismal the day the wearer will have visions of the tropics.Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-22214823029530331102010-07-22T16:13:00.007+10:002010-07-22T16:27:46.422+10:00Look what I made! A blast from the pastI made a special discovery in the bottom of Amber's closet this afternoon, a discovery that resulted in me doing the strangest activity... Ironing! Anyone who knows me well will be amazed that I knew where to find the iron and remembered how to work it ;)<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TEfjv9pu3zI/AAAAAAAAAno/YbTf-OZg9vI/s1600/IMG_8149_3_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 207px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TEfjv9pu3zI/AAAAAAAAAno/YbTf-OZg9vI/s400/IMG_8149_3_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496612283371937586" /></a><br />Over 15 years ago during HSC textiles and design at school I made a little girls sundress. I remember now that I had hung it in the cupboard before I had Jasper, it must have fallen from the hanger and lay forgotten in the bottom of the cupboard.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TEfj3KuRSZI/AAAAAAAAAnw/fb6kctONlqw/s1600/IMG_8144_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TEfj3KuRSZI/AAAAAAAAAnw/fb6kctONlqw/s400/IMG_8144_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496612407139715474" /></a><br />I was so pleased with this dress, I tie dyed the fabric, hand smocked the design, and even hand scalloped the hem (that was an insane task which took an immensely long time and resulted in many hand cramps). At the time I thought there was absolutely NO WAY I would ever let a child wear this after all the effort, for fear of it getting ruined.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TEfj8RDjBtI/AAAAAAAAAn4/8efZgjb84Pg/s1600/IMG_8146_2_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TEfj8RDjBtI/AAAAAAAAAn4/8efZgjb84Pg/s400/IMG_8146_2_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496612494738917074" /></a><br />But now I am looking forward to seeing my baby girl wear it. Would be a shame for all that effort to go unseen.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TEfkCck0KuI/AAAAAAAAAoA/b5BLwGVebZE/s1600/IMG_8151_4_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 231px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TEfkCck0KuI/AAAAAAAAAoA/b5BLwGVebZE/s400/IMG_8151_4_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5496612600910457570" /></a><br />I think it is a size 3, so will be a while yet before she will fit into it. This time I will have to hang it more securely, otherwise next time I find it she may have outgrown it!Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-20571451152287979002010-07-16T16:44:00.003+10:002010-07-16T16:51:52.904+10:00The earth whaleOne of the joys of having young children is being able to experience their "firsts" with them. Just this weekend our 4 month old daughter rolled over for the first time, and boy didn't she think she was clever.<br /><br />Our son also had a first, while "helping" me weed the garden he found his first ever earth worm. He raced inside to show Dad, "Look, I found an earth whale!".<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TEABHQXXqJI/AAAAAAAAAnY/O_kyNbadiX8/s1600/IMG_8093_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TEABHQXXqJI/AAAAAAAAAnY/O_kyNbadiX8/s400/IMG_8093_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5494392769555703954" /></a><br />His enthusiasm and interest is so refreshing, and makes me look at the world from a whole new perspective. I wonder what we'll discover this weekend?Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-51468895161113223642010-07-01T14:38:00.007+10:002010-07-22T16:49:02.978+10:00Fleur de Sel Caramel... With a Celtic twistWe're a bit cup-caked out in this house, so this week I decided to try my hand at something special, Fleur de Sel Caramel.<br /><br />Fleur de Sel, flower of salt, is a French sea salt. Here's where I cheated a little using an organic Celtic sea salt. Figured I should at least see if I could successfully make caramels before racing out to buy gourmet salt that I may never use again. And would anyone really be able to tell the difference?<br /><br />My parents are partners in a <a href="http://www.alburycatering.com.au/">catering equipment company</a> so last week I got my mum to post me a candy thermometer. I also have honeycomb on my "to-do" list so I figured it will come in handy.<br /><br />I have used the recipe I found <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Fleur-de-Sel-Caramels-230778">here on epicurious</a>, there was a lot of feedback so I figured it was well tried and tested.<br /><br />I followed the recipe to the tee and hey presto, the result looked and smelled like caramel! A little taste test from the spoon I had used to stir the mixture also suggested I may have done alright. I sprinkled a little extra sea salt on top, to make it look pretty and for a bit more zing.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCwgZcXYD6I/AAAAAAAAAnA/ZRgMvfgggJM/s1600/IMG_8026_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 345px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCwgZcXYD6I/AAAAAAAAAnA/ZRgMvfgggJM/s400/IMG_8026_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488797667340849058" /></a><br />Next time however I'd use a smaller pan to get a deeper caramel. Nothing wrong with the thin caramels, just thought they'd be a nicer shape if they were thicker.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCwglyk_0TI/AAAAAAAAAnI/jfl9CSMbfFE/s1600/IMG_8027_2_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 258px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCwglyk_0TI/AAAAAAAAAnI/jfl9CSMbfFE/s400/IMG_8027_2_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488797879461990706" /></a><br />The required two hours for cooling is not quite complete, but hey I'm impatient, so it was taste test time.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCwgrYVt8DI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/WgUZAuvMvkM/s1600/IMG_8028_3_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 313px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCwgrYVt8DI/AAAAAAAAAnQ/WgUZAuvMvkM/s400/IMG_8028_3_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5488797975497797682" /></a><br />Mmmmm, good.......Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-50561730183934622552010-06-27T19:11:00.006+10:002010-06-27T19:38:37.302+10:00My creative spaceI gave my creative space (aka the workshop) an "I wish it was Spring" clean today. It is so much nicer to have my tools tidy and sorted, and much more efficient.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCccCr9gV0I/AAAAAAAAAm4/6pv2Aw_4tjw/s1600/IMG_8016_2_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCccCr9gV0I/AAAAAAAAAm4/6pv2Aw_4tjw/s400/IMG_8016_2_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487385503460251458" /></a><br />I also got a bit of work done on some copper earrings. The copper has been shaped in a swage block. I then marked out where I would cut and countersunk holes for the earring posts. Each earring was then cut using my hand saw and the sterling silver earring posts soldered in place.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCcX5GBda9I/AAAAAAAAAmo/MovdKpxOhWA/s1600/IMG_8012_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCcX5GBda9I/AAAAAAAAAmo/MovdKpxOhWA/s400/IMG_8012_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487380940610956242" /></a><br />I have then cleaned up the earrings and annealed 3 times as I intended to enamel them and wanted to ensure there was no movement left in the metal. <br /><br />As I have three pairs I have decided on hunter green (which is a nice rich Kermit the Frog sort of green), grape (which is the same as the purple colour on my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/34492902/sterling-silver-purple-pink-enamel-black">black forest ring</a>)<br />and black.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCcX_70O2MI/AAAAAAAAAmw/_nzQ2plno2I/s1600/IMG_8017_3_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCcX_70O2MI/AAAAAAAAAmw/_nzQ2plno2I/s400/IMG_8017_3_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5487381058130204866" /></a><br />I have started to enamel them, next weekend is cleanup time.Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-21464860590270507112010-06-25T10:27:00.005+10:002010-07-22T16:49:02.980+10:00More for us...Sadly our regular Friday play date has been cancelled for the third week in a row. The "joy" of winter illnesses, rarely a week goes by where both families are illness free.<br /><br />On the upside, I guess that means more Orange and Poppy Seed Cup Cakes for us!<br /><br />Going....<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCP4mz3u2jI/AAAAAAAAAmI/ND8te4rxmfU/s1600/IMG_7965_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCP4mz3u2jI/AAAAAAAAAmI/ND8te4rxmfU/s400/IMG_7965_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486502116710079026" /></a><br />Going....<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCP4sCWk--I/AAAAAAAAAmQ/a47nYI-1jU4/s1600/IMG_7966_2_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCP4sCWk--I/AAAAAAAAAmQ/a47nYI-1jU4/s400/IMG_7966_2_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486502206496898018" /></a><br /><br />Gone!<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCP4wE1LqDI/AAAAAAAAAmY/LUK2jDehr6A/s1600/IMG_7968_3_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCP4wE1LqDI/AAAAAAAAAmY/LUK2jDehr6A/s400/IMG_7968_3_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486502275881609266" /></a>Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-49051088094733625762010-06-24T15:39:00.006+10:002010-06-24T16:18:17.799+10:00The next big thing... I mean ringMy next big ring project is very big indeed, 6.3 carats in fact!<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCL34yCLkzI/AAAAAAAAAlw/fcFer4pvFto/s1600/IMG_7705_3_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCL34yCLkzI/AAAAAAAAAlw/fcFer4pvFto/s400/IMG_7705_3_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486219850966340402" /></a><br />I actually started work on the setting for this gorgeous cushion cut purple and yellow Amatrine a couple of weeks ago. But the result was a bit too flimsy and not what I had envisaged for this fabulous stone.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCL4AUojUsI/AAAAAAAAAl4/DFPKWS7DsdY/s1600/IMG_7703_2_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCL4AUojUsI/AAAAAAAAAl4/DFPKWS7DsdY/s400/IMG_7703_2_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486219980513170114" /></a><br />So it was back to the drawing board, or in my case the sketch book, to better resolve the design.<br /><br />The idea is still developing, so not sure if I will start on this one just yet or give the ideas another week to stew. Either way, I hope to have a fabulous extravagent cocktail ring featuring this gorgeous stone to show you in the not too distant future.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCL4IQYLnXI/AAAAAAAAAmA/5ppZ5c_857A/s1600/IMG_7700_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TCL4IQYLnXI/AAAAAAAAAmA/5ppZ5c_857A/s400/IMG_7700_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486220116809719154" /></a><br />In the meantime I hope to make a couple of pairs of fun enamel studs this weekend. Looking at what colours are dominating my Etsy store right now, and in the interests of diversity, I'm thinking green and black this time. Or maybe black and white... What colours would you like to see more of?Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-57834423452989318122010-06-20T17:28:00.007+10:002010-06-20T17:44:38.729+10:00The peppermint crisp journeyIt was all the way back in <a href="http://incalesco.blogspot.com/2009/10/peppermint-crisp-new-work-in-progress.html">October 2009</a> that I first started work on the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49807784/sterling-silver-green-tourmaline">peppermint crisp ring</a>.<br /><br />It took me a long time to decide how I wanted to make the setting. I had in my head how I wanted it to look from above, but how to achieve that...?<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TB3FztU_3qI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/FYEOVXzOC1A/s1600/IMG_6324_2_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 250px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TB3FztU_3qI/AAAAAAAAAlQ/FYEOVXzOC1A/s400/IMG_6324_2_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484757413338799778" /></a><br />So I went ahead and make the ring and the first half of the setting with the V shaped base. Then I tinkered, and I filed, and I uhmed and ahhed. I put it away and worked on other pieces. Then I'd take it out, look at it, and put it away again.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TB3F6YcHHbI/AAAAAAAAAlY/l_tpcUirLrM/s1600/IMG_6326_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TB3F6YcHHbI/AAAAAAAAAlY/l_tpcUirLrM/s400/IMG_6326_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484757527990574514" /></a><br />Then some time a few months ago I started to formulate an idea. I decided to drill through either side of the ring shank beside the V setting and push two pieces of wire through, these would support the stone from either side. I contemplated this idea for some time.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TB3GBrf33MI/AAAAAAAAAlg/L4910j4iGBA/s1600/IMG_7828_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 382px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TB3GBrf33MI/AAAAAAAAAlg/L4910j4iGBA/s400/IMG_7828_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484757653365710018" /></a><br />Last weekend I started work on a new piece. I was in such a hurry to finish something, anything! I rushed ahead without fully thinking through my design and the setting collapsed while I was soldering it. It was then I decided I had thought about the peppermint crisp for long enough. It was time for action!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TB3GHIqcfKI/AAAAAAAAAlo/q-GCWEtVeZs/s1600/IMG_7836_2_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 323px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TB3GHIqcfKI/AAAAAAAAAlo/q-GCWEtVeZs/s400/IMG_7836_2_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5484757747094027426" /></a><br /><br />The <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/49807784/sterling-silver-green-tourmaline">peppermint crisp ring</a> is finished! And it is available now in my <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/Incalesco">Etsy store</a>.Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-34431946907190288992010-06-17T15:00:00.005+10:002010-07-22T16:49:17.151+10:00WARNING - Do not lick your monitor!It's a miserable windy rainy day, the dishes are mounting, there is washing to be hung out, so what do I do? I bake! Carrot and Cardamom Cupcakes.... Mmmmmmm.....<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBmuIjaXJMI/AAAAAAAAAk4/LgG2hS7KH1Q/s1600/IMG_7725_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBmuIjaXJMI/AAAAAAAAAk4/LgG2hS7KH1Q/s400/IMG_7725_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483605483268285634" /></a><br />My Aunty bought me a gorgeous little book called Cupcake Heaven by Susannah Blake. I love to flick through and drool over the recipes and decide which ones to make next, trying to limit myself to one batch per week!<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBmuNtwaruI/AAAAAAAAAlA/HOoP7V4qRME/s1600/IMG_7728_2_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 301px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBmuNtwaruI/AAAAAAAAAlA/HOoP7V4qRME/s400/IMG_7728_2_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483605571944492770" /></a><br />Ok, I know you will be tempted to lick your monitor, and rightly so, these Carrot and Cardamom cupcakes are yummy!<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBmuSdjBwFI/AAAAAAAAAlI/OGbPLDjFHQU/s1600/IMG_7729_3_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBmuSdjBwFI/AAAAAAAAAlI/OGbPLDjFHQU/s400/IMG_7729_3_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5483605653492711506" /></a><br />Perhaps I should eat another one to check they all taste as good?Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-13464898826148886712010-06-14T17:32:00.009+10:002010-06-14T17:57:25.415+10:00The Light in WinterEver since I was little I have loved lights. My parents were regularly loading us into the car and driving up high hills to show me the city lights. May go some way to explaining my love of sparkly shiny things ;)<br /><br />This weekend we decided to take the kids to Federation Square to see <a href="http://www.fedsquare.com/index.cfm?pageID=373">The Light in Winter</a>. A month long event with different activites on daily.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBXesRwP4HI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/bIJ3Xwa52KM/s1600/IMG_7636_crop_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 343px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBXesRwP4HI/AAAAAAAAAkQ/bIJ3Xwa52KM/s400/IMG_7636_crop_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482532973654827122" /></a><br />On the way we got to take in a personal favourite of mine, the ferris wheel at <a href="http://www.thatsmelbourne.com.au/Placestogo/ParksandGardens/AllParksandGardens/Pages/4433.aspx">Birrarung Marr</a> which is lit up beautifully at night.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBXe09GQkEI/AAAAAAAAAkY/UcA-DY0vn2s/s1600/IMG_7643_3_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBXe09GQkEI/AAAAAAAAAkY/UcA-DY0vn2s/s400/IMG_7643_3_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482533122728824898" /></a><br />While we waited for the sun to set we enjoyed a hot chocolate and the little man did some exploring.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBXe6zPpOqI/AAAAAAAAAkg/aElkHxgKGE4/s1600/IMG_7654_2_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBXe6zPpOqI/AAAAAAAAAkg/aElkHxgKGE4/s400/IMG_7654_2_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482533223163050658" /></a><br />The centre piece of the Light in Winter is called <a href="http://www.fedsquare.com/index.cfm?pageID=469">Solar Equation</a>, apparently people can use their iPhones or other iDevice to alter the patterns on the surface, we were content just to view it as other people did the techo stuff.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBXfBnH1ErI/AAAAAAAAAko/nNVUlDq8TQM/s1600/IMG_7674_5_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBXfBnH1ErI/AAAAAAAAAko/nNVUlDq8TQM/s400/IMG_7674_5_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482533340168131250" /></a><br />Last night there was also a Mexican Salute with music and dancing, however it was a bit hard to photgraph with our little cannon point and shoot.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBXfG3LQ-bI/AAAAAAAAAkw/_Oiv8viqI-Y/s1600/IMG_7694_4_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBXfG3LQ-bI/AAAAAAAAAkw/_Oiv8viqI-Y/s400/IMG_7694_4_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5482533430376855986" /></a><br /><br />It was a nice night out, and we were home in time to put the kids to bed by 8:30pm!Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-12795102137244981262010-06-12T17:41:00.008+10:002010-06-12T17:54:09.229+10:00Autumn inspiration<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBM7hrtA7TI/AAAAAAAAAjg/dAPQKjXswMU/s1600/IMG_7627_2_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBM7hrtA7TI/AAAAAAAAAjg/dAPQKjXswMU/s400/IMG_7627_2_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481790621293276466" /></a><br />Ok, so technically it is winter now, but our beautiful little Japanese Maple in the backyard is still wearing it's autumn colours with pride.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBM7o3UPSuI/AAAAAAAAAjo/Fy47zpv0GKE/s1600/IMG_7626_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBM7o3UPSuI/AAAAAAAAAjo/Fy47zpv0GKE/s400/IMG_7626_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481790744669670114" /></a><br />It just looks so bright and happy, I never tire of looking at it.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBM7wBiC47I/AAAAAAAAAjw/ymjdt-ZnOKc/s1600/IMG_7629_3_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBM7wBiC47I/AAAAAAAAAjw/ymjdt-ZnOKc/s400/IMG_7629_3_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481790867671016370" /></a><br />To top it off it was a beautiful sunny day, and my mokume gane & fire opal ring is on its way to a new home in the USA.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBM9BtY7VLI/AAAAAAAAAkA/LcrZoK2xWZM/s1600/IMG_5964_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBM9BtY7VLI/AAAAAAAAAkA/LcrZoK2xWZM/s400/IMG_5964_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481792271013336242" /></a><br />And finally I got to spend a little time in the workshop. My peppermint crisp ring is very close to completion, I just need to finish the setting and then set the ring and polish it up. Here's a sneak peak with the stone just sitting in the incomplete setting.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBM8Cxgw1KI/AAAAAAAAAj4/wXTNywE-d1s/s1600/IMG_7618_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/TBM8Cxgw1KI/AAAAAAAAAj4/wXTNywE-d1s/s400/IMG_7618_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5481791189788185762" /></a><br />My head is full of ideas for some new pieces, must get them into my sketch book as my baby brain means that those idea may float off to the ether again! Hopefully I will get a bit more time this weekend to do some more.Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-54122004417971208112010-05-24T13:51:00.008+10:002010-05-24T14:03:59.365+10:00Amazing creationThere has been a flurry of activity of late in our garage workshop, but it has been my hubby working out there instead of me. I have been on kid duty while hubby has been building them the most lovely and amazing toy box.<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n5SldWYgI/AAAAAAAAAiw/RawtfdCtC-M/s1600/IMG_7368_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n5SldWYgI/AAAAAAAAAiw/RawtfdCtC-M/s400/IMG_7368_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474680919733723650" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n5eylKHOI/AAAAAAAAAi4/TfxUAtaZp9I/s1600/IMG_7371_2_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n5eylKHOI/AAAAAAAAAi4/TfxUAtaZp9I/s400/IMG_7371_2_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474681129414565090" /></a><br /><br />My contribution was to help upholster the seat (under the watchful eye of Mr 2 1/2), I have never done anything like this before but we were happy with the result.<br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n5riDRPJI/AAAAAAAAAjA/g5o4qBOvvec/s1600/IMG_7372_3_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n5riDRPJI/AAAAAAAAAjA/g5o4qBOvvec/s400/IMG_7372_3_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474681348315757714" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n5wz--bOI/AAAAAAAAAjI/xiN_YMJqA-I/s1600/IMG_7373_4_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n5wz--bOI/AAAAAAAAAjI/xiN_YMJqA-I/s400/IMG_7373_4_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474681439028931810" /></a><br /><br />And the finished result... The most wonderful and unique toy box a couple of kids could ever wish for:<br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n6APBAeHI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/nUqWbeZkpXc/s1600/IMG_7534_2_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n6APBAeHI/AAAAAAAAAjQ/nUqWbeZkpXc/s400/IMG_7534_2_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474681703983249522" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n6FoFSZPI/AAAAAAAAAjY/wJ4opuOkb5E/s1600/IMG_7531_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S_n6FoFSZPI/AAAAAAAAAjY/wJ4opuOkb5E/s400/IMG_7531_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5474681796611433714" /></a><br /><br />Now that this is completed I am hoping to get a little workshop time myself. I have a lovely tourmaline ring that is about 90% finished and a head full of ideas just waiting to be realised.Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-87376135235228877022010-04-27T09:08:00.006+10:002010-07-22T16:49:02.982+10:00Winter warmersThe weather has started to cool and this time of year always finds me flicking through recipe books looking for yummy warm wintery foods. <br /><br />This weekend while out pruning our garden I was inspired by our rosemary 'hedge' and decided to try my hand at some lamb and rosemary pies! YUM!!! I made one family sized pie for dinner and four individual pies, taking care of lunches today plus a couple in the freezer for later. <br /><br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S9YecEQfkkI/AAAAAAAAAig/YQ_3ER3tJAI/s1600/IMG_7398_2_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S9YecEQfkkI/AAAAAAAAAig/YQ_3ER3tJAI/s400/IMG_7398_2_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464588665388765762" /></a><br /><br />They are as delicious as they look, I think next time I might try my hand at some minty lamb pies.<br /><br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S9YejaqLa1I/AAAAAAAAAio/ewWMIUhixoo/s1600/IMG_7397_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S9YejaqLa1I/AAAAAAAAAio/ewWMIUhixoo/s400/IMG_7397_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464588791661161298" /></a><br /><br />With the leftover pastry I adapted an apple and rhubarb pie recipe and made a pear and fig pie, also delicious (even if I do say so myself). Mmmm winter foods, and it's still autumn... At this rate I'm going to be a blimp come spring ;)Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-53291967967247362812010-03-05T18:01:00.005+11:002010-03-05T18:07:46.861+11:00It's a girl!Hi All, as many of you would already know we were expecting our second baby in late Feb. I am very pleased to announce the safe arrival of a baby girl, Amber Monique, on Fri 26th Feb 2010 at a healthy 8lbs 2oz and 49.5cm long.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S5CtRdKWStI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/muM2TRzNbqs/s1600-h/DSCF0404_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S5CtRdKWStI/AAAAAAAAAiQ/muM2TRzNbqs/s400/DSCF0404_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445042464888343250" /></a><br /><br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S5CtXqU66hI/AAAAAAAAAiY/V9LRIS0TGIQ/s1600-h/DSCF0424_2_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S5CtXqU66hI/AAAAAAAAAiY/V9LRIS0TGIQ/s400/DSCF0424_2_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445042571501562386" /></a><br /><br />Big brother Jasper is thrilled with his "Amber baby" and is being a good helper to Mummy.<br /><br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S5CsrArXlNI/AAAAAAAAAiI/vLHEXNr1UgQ/s1600-h/DSCF0559_2_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S5CsrArXlNI/AAAAAAAAAiI/vLHEXNr1UgQ/s400/DSCF0559_2_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5445041804407182546" /></a><br /><br />Things will obviously be a bit quiet on the jewellery front for a while, I will just be working on orders and no new pieces while we enjoy this special time.Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4061332154880007089.post-40569597965526132942010-02-02T20:06:00.005+11:002010-02-02T20:33:20.816+11:00Raid the wood shed!I love using old logs as props, they have so much character and can really offset a silver piece of jewellery. This beautiful specimen was at the Tafe where I studied, I'd love to have something this spectacular at home.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S2fwGOKr-wI/AAAAAAAAAiA/OJiMOO7b05k/s1600-h/wintermoon002_1_1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 267px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S2fwGOKr-wI/AAAAAAAAAiA/OJiMOO7b05k/s400/wintermoon002_1_1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433575465118595842" /></a><br /><br />I have some nice old logs in the wood shed that make good photography props. <br /><br />My original favourite...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image1.etsy.com//il_430xN.71084293.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 425px;" src="http://ny-image1.etsy.com//il_430xN.71084293.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />...got retired after the plumber spilt some blue goo over it. <br /><br />Then I found a new one that had a nice little knot hole...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://ny-image0.etsy.com//il_430xN.118736160.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 430px; height: 356px;" src="http://ny-image0.etsy.com//il_430xN.118736160.jpg" border="0" alt="" /></a><br /><br />...but it met an untimely end at the hands of my hubby weilding an axe...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S2fv3rnsGcI/AAAAAAAAAh4/91W_cQYt4ro/s1600-h/IMG_7035_1_1.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_c1Ysi-hkqLc/S2fv3rnsGcI/AAAAAAAAAh4/91W_cQYt4ro/s400/IMG_7035_1_1.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5433575215326828994" /></a><br /><br />Alas the wood shed is probably not the best place for them. So the moral of my story is, if you do happen to find a nice log in the wood shed, perhaps you should move it somewhere safer! I'm off the examine the survivors to see if there's any 'talent'.Erikahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02593580212792294285noreply@blogger.com4