pinkflamingo61

Zentangle Elephant

2012-01-19T15:51:00.000-05:00

Illustration by Mary Vogel Lozinak
medium: ink

For sale by clicking here.

Our little premmie

2011-12-25T07:59:00.000-05:00

Little Zachary gained 8 ounces.

Knitting cartoon

2011-12-24T07:56:00.000-05:00

Sewing machine art embroidery freestyle

2011-12-23T07:54:00.000-05:00

Playing on my sewing machine yesterday.

Finished drawing Mary Vogel Lozinak

2011-12-01T21:48:00.000-05:00

Watercolor and Sharpie marker.

destash Wednesday! 25% off entire store!

2011-11-30T21:40:00.001-05:00

Use coupon code: 25PERCENT at checkout for discount on order. The entire store is on sale!

http://www.pinkflamingo61.etsy.com

Little Zachary's Birthday

2011-11-29T09:22:00.001-05:00

Little Zachary came into the world yesterday at lunch time. He's fourteen inches long and weighs two pounds, ten ounces. A tiny, little angel.

Happy birthday, Zack!

Your Mom-mom is already in love.

Christmas Shopping Ideas Help the Economy

2011-11-06T08:51:00.002-05:00

Jewelry Brooch by Pinkflamingo61

Christmas 2011 -- Birth of a New Tradition

As the holidays approach, the giant Asian factories are kicking into high gear to provide Americans with monstrous piles of cheaply produced goods -- merchandise that has been produced at the expense of American labor. This year will be different. This year Americans will give the gift of genuine concern for other Americans. There is no longer an excuse that, at gift giving time, nothing can be found that is produced by American hands. Yes there is! It's time to think outside the box, people. Who says a gift needs to fit in a shirt box, wrapped in Chinese produced wrapping paper?

Everyone -- yes EVERYONE gets their hair cut. How about gift certificates from your local American hair salon or barber? Gym membership? It's appropriate for all ages who are thinking about some health improvement. Who wouldn't appreciate getting their car detailed? Small, American owned
Detail shops and car washes would love to sell you a gift certificate or a book of gift certificates. Are you one of those extravagant givers who think nothing of plonking down the Benjamins on a Chinese made flat-screen? Perhaps that grateful gift receiver would like his driveway sealed, or lawn mowed for the summer, or driveway plowed all winter, or games at the local golf course. There are a bazillion owner-run restaurants -- all offering gift certificates. And, if your intended isn't the fancy eatery sort, what about a half dozen breakfasts at the local breakfast joint. Remember, folks this isn't about big National chains -- this is about supporting your home town Americans with their financial lives on the line to keep their doors open.

How many people couldn't use an oil change for their car, truck or motorcycle, done at a shop run by the American working guy?

Thinking about a heartfelt gift for mom? Mom would LOVE the services of a local cleaning lady for a day.

My computer could use a tune-up, and I KNOW I can find some young guy who is struggling to get his repair business up and running. OK, you were looking for something more personal. Local crafts people spin their own wool and knit them into scarves. They make jewelry, and pottery and beautiful wooden boxes.

Plan your holiday outings at local, owner operated restaurants and leave your server a nice tip. And, how about going out to see a play or ballet at your hometown theatre.

Musicians need love too, so find a venue showcasing local bands.

Honestly, people, do you REALLY need to buy another ten thousand Chinese lights for the house? When you buy a five dollar string of light, about fifty cents stays in the community. If you have those kinds of bucks to burn, leave the mailman, trash guy or babysitter a nice BIG tip.

You see, Christmas is no longer about draining American pockets so that China can build another glittering city. Christmas is now about caring about US, encouraging American small businesses to keep plugging away to follow their dreams. And, when we care about other Americans, we care about our communities, and the benefits come back to us in ways we couldn't imagine.

THIS is the new American Christmas tradition.

Forward this to everyone on your mailing list -- post it to discussion
Groups -- throw up a post on Craigslist in the Rants and Raves section in your city -- send it to the editor of your local paper and radio stations, and TV news departments. This is a revolution of caring about each other, and isn't that what Christmas is about?

27% off entire store sale! woot! Happy Birthday Molly

2011-10-31T23:51:00.002-04:00

Happy 27th Birthday Molly! Celebrating my daughter's birthday today.

Happy birthday Molly sale! 27% off in all of my etsy shops! Use coupon code: MOLLY at checkout!!! woot!
http://www.pinkflamingo61.etsy.com
http://www.pinksupply.etsy.com

http://www.pinksewingroom.etsy.com

Sewing notions, Binky Clip for Babies

2011-10-16T14:14:00.000-04:00

This is one of the cutest things in my shop right now. I just love them. Attach to mittens so they don't get lost. Put a ribbon on them and keep the Binky from getting lost. Add to a pair of suspenders for a fun look. I've been using them on my handmade bags. I just love them! You can find them in my shop here: hand clips

Win a Cuttlebug!

2011-10-15T11:20:00.001-04:00

Win a Cuttlebug!!! Here's the link: http://everyday-is-a-holiday.blogspot.com/2011/10/who-wants-to-win-cuttlebug.html

Good luck!

Steampunk brooch- it's Lydia again!

2011-10-15T11:09:00.002-04:00

Lydia spent too much time in the saddle, now she's so bow legged she doesn't think her legs will ever straighten again! OUCH! But she still loves riding the pony!

Alice in Wonderland, Chasing Time

2011-09-23T02:00:00.000-04:00

Gorgeous stone, so much happening in it's depths, it looks like coral under water or a mountain in the distance. Every time I look I can see something else. A vintage rabbit is jumping over an old watch dial. Hanging at the top, inside the dial is a really old diamond or glass? who knows? chip. This is a truly lovely piece and I had trouble trying to get it to show up in a picture how really wonderful the stone is. Chasing Time Brooch.

In The Sewing Room

2011-09-05T21:06:00.004-04:00

I like to have lacy bits and trims displayed around me when I sew. Seeing pretty pieces inspires me, allowing me to grab things spontaneously, as needed, making the outcome unknown when I start a project. This is just the way I create, I'm not a planner, so everything I make is a surprise, even to me, when I'm finished.

Visit my shop, Pink Sewing Room, to see some of the things I've made, unusual and vintage trims and laces. You can never have too many buttons or trims!

The White Rabbit

2011-09-05T04:42:00.000-04:00

Vintage military star, sterling silver and fresh water pearl drops, African turquoise, vintage silver drop below measure pendant. Toy rabbit that has been enameled and heat cured.

Ballerina Ballet Brooch Fairy Angel jewelry

2011-08-31T08:43:00.000-04:00

Ballerina Brooch

Lydia's back to flying again!

2011-08-22T09:13:00.000-04:00

Lydia is out trying on some new wings. She's been perfecting them all year. I think this pair is finally going to get her off the barn roof and up into the stratosphere! WOOT!

Vintage and new mixed for this great brooch. Don't like brooches, just ask and I'll make her into a necklace for you at no extra charge.

Vintage rhinestones, old jewelry, findings from a warehouse in NYC, all repurposed into a new miniature art doll to wear. OOAK- one of a kind piece.

copper,sterling silver,brass,metal,pewter,rhinestone
SRAJD self representing artist jewelry designer.

When you purchase from an SRAJD seller, you are buying directly from and supporting the artist.Thank you for supporting independent artists.

Hot Summer Days

2011-07-28T23:15:00.000-04:00

Hot Summer Days

Curated By: pinkflamingo61

ArtFire.com

Vintage Fashion

Butterfly In The Attic: Happy Camera and Waffle Iron Day!!!!!

2011-06-29T23:55:00.000-04:00

Butterfly In The Attic: Happy Camera and Waffle Iron Day!!!!!: "So I am a little crazy, but it truly is National Camera and Waffle Iron Day today. I feel it is necessary to celebrate such special holiday..."

Just started a new project

2011-06-29T16:12:00.000-04:00

I've only just started this. The glass buttons are gorgeous Czech pressed glass and I have a bowl of turquoise I'm going to add with hand embroidery.

Fun new things in my shop! www.Pinksupply.etsy.com

2011-06-16T00:40:00.000-04:00

I've been adding things everyday for the past two weeks and my store is really full right now. I spent a few months searching for some new things. Everything in my store is something I love. One of the criteria for my store is that I have to want it for myself.

You can find these at Pink Supply my little shop on the internet.

Wild dancing Steampunk style

2011-06-13T16:40:00.000-04:00

Sharing one of my favorite ETSY stores with you!

2011-06-07T13:03:00.000-04:00

The Willow Maiden

Kathy Pendleton Deck

I just love this woman! She's totally nuts and so much fun! Her work is really well done too.

Assemblage artist, artisan jewelry and crazy girl!

Here's a quote off her Facebook Page:

About Kathy	Take time to breathe! I'm somewhat insane but harmless. But creativity boarderlines on insanity anyway. I'm a found objects artist so I am always digging around for stuff. Looking for friends who like to laugh and create. Everyone has creativity in their soul.

If you want a daily giggle, give her a friend request on her Facebook! She gives me a grin just about every day!

Runs With Scissors

Kathy's work is available in her ETSY shop: WillowMaiden

New Treasuries I made on Etsy for Spring.

2011-04-27T14:19:00.000-04:00

Here's a treasury I made this week. I love pink!

This is another I made over the weekend. June Weddings!

The last one is just nice clean greens for Spring!

Please follow the links and leave a message if you like them. xoxoxo Mary

2011-04-21T13:14:00.000-04:00

Mary Vogel Lozinak April 21 at 12:56pm

http://www.pinkflamingo61.etsy.com

http://www.pinksupply.etsy.com

http://www.pinksewingroom.etsy.com

http://www.pinkflamingo61.artfire.com

Work with a large piece of heavy paper, I used water color paper because I had it but you should use anything that's heavy because it will warp a lot otherwise. Even a piece of poster paper from the dollar store works.

I sketched the bird with pencil then went around it and drew shapes for the color, like a circle on the head and circles for the different outlines of color.

I got a couple of old Country Living Magazines, doesn't matter what you use, junk mail works!

I tore the paper, you can cut it but I like the random edges of the paper. Practice ripping by holding the paper in your left hand and tear toward your body with your right hand, then do one with tearing away from your body You'll notice that one way gives you a white edge and the other way gives you color to the edge. Then you can decide which edge you want to show, sometimes the white edge works and others the color is better when you're filling an area of solid color.

I went through the magazines and pulled out all the pages with color on them and made some haphazard stacks on the table around me.

I used rubber cement to do this BUT the smell gives me a headache and it's messy, plus the finished product may be tacky-it took over a month for this to loose the tacky before I could frame it. The best is Elmer's glue poured in a bucket and use a disposable foam brush. Brush some on the paper, attach your pieces, then with the brush put a thin layer of glue over each paper, making sure it's all covered. You can use the brush to push out any wrinkles too. If you get wrinkles while it's drying just run your finger over to push them out. If you get an air pocket that won't push out, pierce it with a pin and push it down. I used pieces that were about 1 to 2 inches diameter because this is a huge piece-it's a full sheet of paper and I wanted to do it in a day.

Fashion magazines have great colors!! Cheaper paper works better because you can really smooth it out.

If your hands get really gunked up wash them, it's worth the time because you aren't spending half of the day removing stuck paper from yourself.

Remember if you want something to pop to put your lightest color next to your darkest color- like around an eye make sure you use a bright white and you can put some tiny cuts of black,blues,purples or deep browns right up against the white. Some things you may want to outline too. Put your picture on the floor and walk away from it often to see if you're getting the color variations and toning that you want. You can't see it if you're on top of it for a long time.

When you're done let it dry completely. Then take a brush and coat the entire picture with a thin layer of white glue. This will protect it and pick up any loose edges you may have missed. Don't hang it in direct sunlight as the sun will bleach your reds right out of the picture. Magazine ink isn't colorfast.

Have fun!! If you have any questions, just hollar! Send me a picture of your finished piece. I love to see what other people are working on.

xoxox Mary

Paper Dolls on Clips

2011-03-30T00:30:00.000-04:00

Alphabet Atc's

2011-03-17T18:20:00.000-04:00

I just started doing the alphabet in ATC format. I have two done, two almost done and 22 to go. Will she finish! Sure she will!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-03-16T23:40:00.000-04:00

atc

2011-02-25T15:06:00.000-05:00

New ATC with movable head, still stays within the required measurements.

Little Chickens ATC and ACEO

2011-02-24T21:35:00.000-05:00

I love drawing chickens and roosters. Here are a couple I made this week. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do.

15% off entire store steampunk jewelry, art,prints, assemblage sculpture and art dolls

2011-02-15T11:51:00.000-05:00

My entire jewelry store is on sale, 15% off! woot!!!!!!!!!! You know that piece you've been dreaming about but thought, maybe later, well it's later! and you get a discount for your patience. Every piece of jewelry comes in a handmade pouch for storing or use it as a gift bag.

Discount code: MARCH 15 put it in the coupon box at checkout. Thanks~!! Mary

wordless wednesday paper doll

2011-02-09T20:16:00.000-05:00

The STeampunk Ball Ink and pencil drawing

2011-01-31T21:57:00.000-05:00

Vintage Valentine~Cherubs in Bronze

2011-01-24T16:26:00.000-05:00

How about looking at Valentines through OLD eyes! Great old bronze pieces to use in a Valentine gift. How about making someone something special that they can keep forever?

Art Supplies and Vacations

2011-01-13T22:01:00.000-05:00

Going on vacation is fun and excititng. What to pack, getting everything done…etc. None of the normal things worry me.

I stress over art supplies. Will I have the right things with me, will I have enough, am I packing too much. I stress over art supplies. Will I have the right things with me, will I have enough, am I packing too much.

What project am I going to work on…..and the racing thoughts continue. Yup, I'm a little obsessed. This trip I decided not to take a luggage full of supplies and one outfit to wear. I packed about twenty markers and a book of paper. It's wonderful. Not heavy and I had something for the plane, riding on buses, in the room at night and moments in between. I did two pictures this week, both need to be finished when I get home-I didn't bring enough markers! but wasn't upset! I just started another picture and know I'll finish them up next week. The perfect project for me. I've been traveling my entire life and this was the best project I ever did on vacation. Small, light and fun. Perfect. After this I won't be traveling with a heavy bag full of ten projects for just in case moments! I should have thought of this thirty years ago!

Doddle Drawing making Pictures = fun!

2011-01-08T20:17:00.001-05:00

I love drawing more than anything I do. It relaxes me. It excites me. It absorbs me. I can do it without thinking. It fills in empty moments. It takes up whole days.

I love markers, easy, quick, and no set up or clean up. Great colors. Just fun!

Antique Kellog's French Tailoring Tool

2011-01-03T12:58:00.000-05:00

People say they don't make things like they used to and everyone rolls their eyes, however! This is the most beautiful tool.

It's smooth, the wood has such beautiful color, the metal hinges, wonderful graphics….do you hear the awe in my voice?

I just love old things. I can't help it, when I pick them up and feel them it just makes my blood rush!

I'm not going to say a lot about this piece, just let you feast on the photographs!

Vintage Hardware and Found Object Hunting

2011-01-02T12:33:00.000-05:00

Using vintage hardware in your work adds history, with great textures and patinas that you don't get with new things while giving new life to beautiful things that would have ended up in a dump and lost forever.

Anything with words, faces or numbers I can't resist. They have to be salvaged, brought home to wait for the right project to use them in.

VINTAGE,OLD
CAST WOMAN FACE DECORATION.
CAST BRONZE

Old keys, any size are another passion. I've been saving them since I was a child.

Lydia's Revenge the continuing story of Lydia's adventure into Steampunk Aviation

2010-12-25T12:35:00.000-05:00

Lydia has the music playing on the victrola, a fast paced tune to keep up her speed as she swiftly sets the last gears in place.

Lydia's Revenge
Lydia was fascinated by these crazy flying machines, she couldn't keep her mind on the house work. She'd been working on this motor since everyone left this morning, trying to get done so she could make them dinner on their return. It was only a matter of time now before she could step out to the barn, spread her wings, then step from the roof, confident they will hold her weight, allowing her to soar with the wind.

Steampunk brooch or can be adjusted into a pendant and necklace.

Steampunk Convention is coming to Philadelphia! WOOT!

2010-12-23T08:41:00.000-05:00

Come out and see me-I'll be a vendor !! Updates coming!

Steampunk Bee Brooch

2010-12-16T12:58:00.000-05:00

Just finished this brooch. My friend gave me a blank of her slumped glass which I used under the bee. The glass is beautiful. She layers different colors with foils and stamped images giving the final piece strong feeling of depth and sparkle. The CLIMAX tag at the top is from the late 1800's, it's a tin tobacco tag, used with the tobacco plugs as the label. This brand always gives me a giggle and shows up in several of my designs. Mixing antique, vintage and new is my favorite blend, I've been collecting little pieces of whatever for so long I have quite a stash to pull from. I'm an obsessive gather-er and assemble-er!

My blog selected for top 50 antique log list!

2010-12-08T19:36:00.000-05:00

An email came today announcing my blog is in a list of top 50 antique related blogs. To see the complete list and why they were chosen you can go to this link: http://www.guidetoartschools.com/library/best-antiques-blogs#Top

Pinkflamingo61 is number 36. I'm pretty happy with that!

After each blog they have a brief reason for the choice. Check out the list you may find a new favorite.

Here's what they had to say about my blog: Pink Flamingo 61 Pink Flamingo 61. "Found object jewelry" is becoming a huge and booming trend; this site helps to make it a bit more accessible.

Source: http://www.guidetoartschools.com/library/best-antiques-blogs#Top#ixzz17ZMJNP1Y

2010-11-29T00:02:00.003-05:00

Lydia Goofed Again!

2010-11-17T22:29:00.000-05:00

Lydia is freaking out! She's definitely done it this time. Not sure what went wrong with the formula but something didn't come through when she hit the transport button. Do you think her body and legs are dancing somewhere else right now? It's really late and she better figure this one out before her husband wakes up and catches her! Blast-must be the math again!

Princess Diana Engagement Ring Little William is Getting Married

2010-11-17T12:57:00.001-05:00

My husband bought me the same ring, just a tad smaller though. Ha! We got married at the same time and had babies at the same time. Unfortunately she never got to see her babies grow up. How sad to not be apart of your child's life. I've had this ring for 27 years. YIKES!!! I've hardly worn it, I'm an artist and my hands are always in messes so hand jewelry just isn't an option most days.

Little William grew up to be so handsome and is getting married. I think the world once again is ready for a fairy tale with all the horrible things we see on the news everyday. How romantic and sentimental to give his wife to be a ring that was his mother's? I think completely romantic. He's sharing his love of his mother and his love of his fiance, combining them, the two great loves of his life.

Now we all get to gather around the television again as another romantic, princess story unfolds. I think we're all hoping for a better outcome this time. Gather those comfy chairs over to the television and lets share a peek into the world of princesses. Too bad there is no dragon!

Gypsy Purple: Creative Find: Mary Vogel Lozinak..............

2010-11-10T23:35:00.000-05:00

Gypsy Purple: Creative Find: Mary Vogel Lozinak..............

A small obsession in the sewing room.

2010-10-23T14:34:00.000-04:00

As I walk down the hall, I glance into the joy of my sewing room. The sun bouncing through a beaded collar. I'm lost. No work is getting done this morning. The room has cast it's spell, time slows as my breathing relaxes. The rest of the day is spinning past, yet time in this most magical place stands still and allows me to follow creative desire where it will lead.

Baskets of colored threads line a shelf. Spools of vintage ribbons stacked by color. Drawers full of carefully stored millinery stems, some so tiny and delicate it's satisfying to just gaze within. Old, complicated laces pinned to mannequins. Fabrics stacked on open shelves, organized by color, with lace, ribbons, buttons and trims piled on top. Each pile carefully chosen to someday use with the fabrics. Rows of large antique jars full of tiny parts-embellishments for projects, bits of ribbons to exquisite to waste, Frozen Charlotte dolls peeking out of the glass, surrounded by color and textures. Huge baskets with buttons categorized by color, at least thirty pounds of buttons. Antique scissors and other tools from all around the world tucked into every wooden box or jar.

I think it's time to admit to an addiction that consumes me. I love the look, the feel in my hands, the faded, muted or tattered textiles, tools, EVERYTHING to do with woman's work of times past. At one point I remember reading that woman's work was a lost part of American life. This may have been true for a time but I think there is something, maybe deep in our DNA that connects us to our generations of mothers past, that drives us today to continue to sew, knit, embroider, quilt and the many other hand traditions.

There may be a new spin on designs and materials that we can readily access, but the simple process of pushing a sharp tool through a piece of fabric is still the same, still satisfying.

Rarely a day goes by that I don't at some point thread a needle or wrap a yarn around a my finger. When I see an old tool or pattern I have to save it, give it a home in my room.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/59705660/vintage-pink-tape-measure-sewing-tool

My Mini Social Experiment Part 1 of 2

2010-10-20T00:01:00.000-04:00

I'm letting my daughter write my blog today. Here she is:

I'm ready to delete my facebook account lol...seriously...facebook can be soooo destructive on so many levels to the users and the onlookers etc...

The kid that offed himself "due to facebook"...that's a little extreme...but I think it's become a platform that is a little too much of an open book...and yes I'm guilty of having one at the moment...but I was trying it out as a sort of "social experiment"; to see how deep one could fall down the rabbit hole, before turning back...

The sheer fact of foursquare alone...if I wasn't out of town and didn't have fb locked...that could be a downright bloody nightmare waiting to happen to ANYONE lol...or am I just being paranoid Molly again? :)

I don't remember where it was that I saw it the other day...but someone had written a joke like...It used to be "...can I have your number..." and now it's "...do you have Facebook?" It really does seem to take out the whole "getting to know someone" factor as well as kill the chance at having meaningful conversation with someone.

People just post or blast everything in their personal life on status updates down to updates like "Dude, I so just farted really loud!" - yes you people KNOW who you are lol..(Did you know there's actually a website out there people can go to where they can post pictures of their bowel movements each day and compare them to others and decipher what it looks like or means with the pictures - OMG!!!!! LOL...to the extreme of a complete narrative of their day...so then when you get on the phone with someone, you are more or less discussing..."Hey I saw on your facebook..." or "What did you mean by .... on your facebook...?" lol...

It's at the point where we have become so involved with blasting our checkins and status updates and photos to the world through facebook, and twitter, and foursquare, and myspace, etc etc etc...that I think we are actually losing human to human contact and interaction. The same thing goes with text messaging. People are more likely it seems to tell you how they "REALLY FEEL" over a text message, rather than having the courage to say it over the phone, let alone god forbig omg - YOUR FACE! haha. I'm almost wondering if there are people out there that are meeting people online, having "relationships" (if that's what you want to call them), and then breaking up over text or facebook or an email without ever actually meeting the person in person.

Personally...I think facebook is a great way to express yourself and leave a piece of yourself on the internet. However, with that said...I literally meant a piece - not your entire self as an open book. It takes the fun out of getting to know someone and leaves the lines of communication grainy and fuzzy. I know when I was in high school people used to say I was totally outgoing online and so quiet in person....which goes to prove my theory of having guts behind an iphone or a computer screen. Eye contact can make a world of difference and also give you more insight into whether the person is true or not.

You can be knee deep in PMS rage and bitchiness with tears flash flooding down your blotchy face, but post a fb status that you're "...sitting on the Jersey Shore enjoying the beautiful sun with the girls..." and load that status up with a bunch of smiley faces or "Emoji Icons" and people will actually think you are happy when they are stalking your fb status. Or someone can text you and tick you off and instead of dealing with the situation, you can say "It's fine or I'm fine" and again load up with Emoji Icons and the person on the receiving end would never know otherwise. It may seem like a quick easy fix and a great way to hide your emotions, but if people want lasting relationships or friendships in their life...at some point they are going to have to come out from behind their iphones and computer screens and actually share a real cup of coffee with a person.

At any rate...if people keep up this way...on an extreme level...the population would start to decline because you can't make babies with an iphone in your hand or by cybering with someone on the internet lol...trust me people - the real thing is a LOT better lol...(disclaimer: only if you are of a mature age and in a committed loving, trusting, healthy, relationship and of sound mind and have the wisdom to know the consequences of your actions and the knowledge and responsibility to use protection - blah blah blah lol - sorry for the birds and the bees talk, but I realized not everyone on my facebook is 18 years or older lol).

P.S. I'm all about unwinding and catching up on other people's lives or snooping on gossip...but what are we actually gaining from posting and reading about people we haven't even seen in 10 years and most likely didn't even socialize with in high school or elementary school for that matter??? I'm almost curious if we are losing IQ points by reading these fragments on an hourly basis. Does your day really feel incomplete unless you check the twitter status of Ashton Kutcher before you get out of bed and go to bed each day? Does it really make you feel that much better to add a friend just to see if they got ugly since high school? Okay, well maybe that does...but hopefully you guys get my drift. :)

More to come later....

Fairies

2010-10-08T13:40:00.000-04:00

An antique bronze clock bezel and glass were just begging for something fun to be placed inside. My friend and I were out antiquing one day and we found two little Brownie Fairies. We both wanted them, so we compromised, each of us got one. He's wearing the funniest clothes, complete with a FEZ hat! On his belt I've attached an old watch gear. Behind are lovely filigree brass wings, to help him flit around, doing his best to cause mischief! Little Brownies are known for the mischief they get into! I've trapped him under glass to keep the mayhem (chaos) under control. Only when you're ready to keep him in line, may you open the glass door and let him wander~! but be forewarned! they do get into things. An antique clock gear is behind him upon a collage of papers from magazines, and an old children's book. The words "In the Air" are back there too, to remind you to keep him under control. A transparent watch face with a vintage glass watch crystal, with the tag still attached, is floating above him, warning you to keep his time free strictly governed. Nestled in the case is an old watchmaker's glass vial, with cork, and the number 147 on the tag. That's how many tricks he has up his sleeve. Inside is a teeny, tiny, little watch hand. This is not attached to the assemblage, allowing you the chance to roll a piece of paper, with a secret wish, inside the canister. There is also a bit of room for another little addition of your own. Just keep in mind he's very powerful, so be careful what you allow him to have access.

Wordless Wednesday Miniature Art Quilts- little art dolls

2010-10-07T00:02:00.000-04:00

Gift Tag Swap

2010-10-01T00:47:00.000-04:00

Every Thursday for four or five years a group of my friends and I have been meeting for coffee at a local restaurant. Every week people show up for breakfast, a chat and sharing our art. It shocks me sometimes that an invitation to a few woman to meet me there turned out to be an ongoing event for this long. We started out with a few ladies and now some weeks there are over twenty woman. Fortunately for the restaurant this doesn't happen every week. Usually there are at least a dozen of us. Many of us have it on our calendar and schedule around it.

It's so important in my busy life to have a small amount of time set aside just for chatting with friends, no pressure. We just sit and laugh. That's really important to me. We're always rushing through our days keeping up with our list of obligations, but come Thursday morning we seem to keep finding the time to get to the shop to visit for an hour.

Last week we decided to do a gift tag swap. It wasn't mandatory, only those that wished to participate could. Today I got a stack handed in, there's still two weeks until they have to be in for the trade. I started an album where I keep posting pictures of finished tags as I receive them. We're supposed to make four and we'll get four back from the swap. I've become addicted to making them in my spare time. Every time I get in the car and my husband is driving I start scribbling a new one.

In two weeks when we have all of the tags I put all of them up for everyone to see.

Making story jewelry

2010-09-18T11:54:00.000-04:00

I love making jewelry with a story. They don't come together right away, you have to search out each element, details count. When it's finished you feel like you did something; I get bored just string beads, there has to be a bit of a challenge or I'm bored.

She's a quiet woman, goes about her life, but in the dead of night, dressed in a little black dress, heeled boots and a scarf around her hair she places the necklace around her neck. Everything she needs is hanging from the chain. They're small, but they work. Who would suspect a stylish woman with a chunky necklace? The discs containing the files placed in full view, a small Lugar with three bullets, several smaller guns, each with one bullet, the key to locker at the station....some of the things she'll need to complete the mission.

Assemblage necklace with an old miniature Lugar gun, vintage pearls, charms, vintage watch parts, old skeleton key, vintage blue drop. Please view the pics for all the fun stashed on this charmed story necklace.

Good Customer Service is as Important as Your Product!

2010-09-15T19:58:00.000-04:00

Treat your customer like Royalty! Customer service is the number one most important part of my business. If I make my customer unhappy, I don't make sales, even if I have great product in the store.
Here's another list of ways to make your online store more successful. Earlier this week I started this series with a post titled: HOW TO SELL ON ETSY: http://pinkflamingo61.blogspot.com/2009/04/how-to-sell-on-etsy.html

CUSTOMER SERVICE:

1. OBVIOUS! Always be friendly.

2. Be sincere. Don't lie or build something up to make it seem like more than it is. You'll always get caught and how embarrassing that would be.

3. Be prompt.

a. Answer questions promptly. If you don't know the answer, send a convo acknowledging the question , let them know you will search an answer and get back to them. THEN GET BACK TO THEM. By making the reply, they know you received the question and will give you time to find the answer. Doing the research will also let your customer feel valued and reinforce your bond- you may even learn something new along the way!

b. Mail promptly, people want instant gratification; get that package in the mail ASAP! The package shows up fast, excited customer, excited customers leave great feedback and shop with you again.

4. Get to know your customers. People want to be part of the group, remember 4th grade recess! Know their names, what their interests are, if they shopped with you before. Being remembered lets them see you valued them as a person. The whole point of shopping with an independent artist is to be personal. If they just want to line up and be a number they can go to Walmart or Target.

5. Do some homework. When a customer comes to your shop learn something about them. This is where you get a chance to make a connection with them. Visit their shop. Look at their profile. Read it. Look at their feedback. What have they bought in the past? This tells you about their interests. Go to their favorites and see what they like. Now you have a better understanding of the person, a place to spring from. Think like the perfect hostess at a party. She introduces two people with a little blurb, example: John, this is Mary; she's an artist and lives in Philadelphia. Now John has a conversational starting place with Mary and not just Hi, how's the weather.

6. At the time of purchase, send a quick convo or email if you have access to it, letting the buyer know you received their order and will get it out to them. Thank them for the order. Besides being polite, you are once again putting your name in front of them, setting it more firmly into their memory.

She's a Rock Star!

2010-08-30T14:20:00.000-04:00

Guitar makes you laugh and it makes you cry....remember that old Bread song from the 70's yikes, am I that old????
NECKLACE!! HOWEVER!! If you want me to make this into a brooch for you please ask and I'll change it over free of charge.

Steampunk Rocker Girl. Moves and dances as you move and dance. Arms, legs, skirt and guitar all move. You can move and position her hands on the guitar or play the guitar or just throw it over her shoulder.

Fun, rockin' piece for any musician in your life or just for you!

Musing of an immature person

2010-08-30T14:13:00.001-04:00

First before you read this, realize you are reading the thoughts of an emotionally and intellectually immature person. Yup! I still giggle at fart jokes and anything potty related. I guess I'm still waiting for the maturity to kick in.

So, I was watching a show the other night on tv about setting your farts on fire. It was a myth busters type of show. They wanted to prove/disprove the ass flame events we've all heard the frat boys participate in.

First, you need to produce methane to make a flame. Not all farts, only one in four!! actually produce methane. Imagine that? Someone collected samples-and you thought you had a messed up job!!! I guess that rates up there with the arm pit sniffers!

They did a "study" of what makes methane. Four guys-of course, girls fart but not in public!! One had red meat, one vegetarian meal, beans (of course!!) and I forget what the fourth guy ate. Then they went behind a screen-with a back light so we could enjoy the silhouette, where the subject drops their drawers, bends over, farts-yes, with sound effects, into a vacuum tube. The collection was then tested for gas identification.

The meat eater-no methane

The BEAN EATER-no methane and less odor! Just bigger noise!! It is the musical fruit! ha-see, immature..

The salad eater-vegetarian, he stunk and made methane. The only one of the four that had a really foul odor and made the gas. They figured that we weren't meant to eat all of this grass and it was harder to digest. The salad eater was the only one able to start a fire with their butt.

Now-my theory, being a vegetarian is bad for the atmosphere. Little holes in the ozone from methane gas. Each time a vegetarian farts they're sending off offensive smells and gases into the world and aiding in the global warming.

Steaks for everyone!

PS-this is just silly thinking aloud, keep eating those greens!

SEWING SUPPLY POUCH

2010-08-23T19:55:00.000-04:00

Handmade sewing pouch. Carry your tools, ribbons, needles or whatever in the case. I also use these to carry makeup in my handbag and travel bag. You can carry art supplies, jewelry or anything else that you want to gather together in a shabby, romantic roll.

*****************************************************************************************NOTE!!!!!!! Items pictured inside the pouch are NOT included in the sale. They are there for illustrative purposes, example of ways to use.
**************************************************************************************** ++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
If you'd like to see additional pictures of this pouch you can visit the photo album on my fan page: http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=197422&id=136372288780
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Measures: 21x 6 inches
11 pockets

Fabric with cotton batting lined flap. I've put some pins and a safety pin in there. The batting makes it easy to slide pins through.

Layers of new and vintage laces and trims embellish the inside and out with photo transfers on the front and inside the needle flap.

Brown with pink polka dotted grosgrain ribbon tie the bundle together.

A large crochet circle on the front is cut from an old doily my mother in law made about forty years ago.

On the outside of the fabric, needle flap is a button/pin back with a pair of scissors printed on it. Put there just for fun. Across the front at the top are the words: PLAYING WITH MARBLES which I cut from the edge of a piece of fabric. It was the name of the fabric and I thought it was fun so it's recycled here.

Steampunk Brain Drain

2010-08-23T08:32:00.000-04:00

Daily tasks just drain your brain, by placing her head in the Brain Rejuvenation Helmet, Audrey is able to continue with her day. With all the new found energy she's ready to climax! She can do multiple orgasmic activities now- shopping, junking, dancing, party and play! The CLIMAX tin tag is from the late 1800's~a true antique. It's a tobacco tag for plug tobacco. A vintage glass watch crystal and old watch maker's brass parts box make up her helmet. Inside, a beautiful pewter face and multiple watch parts.

Grandbabies

2010-07-26T22:44:00.000-04:00

Little Mr. Magoo

There's something about a grandbaby that is different. When the door opens and I see the little face of my grandson I just fill up with happiness and love. He's only four months, doesn't talk to me, he does grin and giggle at me. That's probably one of the reasons I'm enjoying him so much. He can't talk and complain yet! I can sit with him for hours, watching him coo, sleep, giggle or just have him in the room with me. This is a new kind of love for me. I love a lot of people, deeply and thoroughly, but this guy has brought a whole new love into my life.

Easy Summer Art Project for Kids

2010-07-23T17:02:00.000-04:00

When it's too hot or raining this summer, give the kids an art project to work on at the kitchen table. Rather than have them sit in front of the television or video games get their creative brains rolling.

I did this project with a group of children in my summer art camp. The age range was from six to eleven years old and they all came out with a great result.

You'll need two sheets of paper, one larger than the other. Crayons, colored pencils, magic markers or oil pastels. A pair of scissors. Glue stick.

We used colored paper for our background and white computer paper for our design. The smaller paper should be several inches smaller than the large paper, this will allow you to spread your cut sheet without going over the edge.

Have them bubble print their name across the smaller paper. Outline the letters in black, this will make them pop out. Do a repetitive design inside the letters. Take a drinking glass and have them trace circles all over the background. Using different colors in each space fill the entire page with crayon (or material of choice). Color so it's dark, press the crayons and go over it until it' s totally filled in and bright.

When the picture is finished, turn the sheet over and number across the back, 1, 2, 3 etc up to whatever number you can fit. Use the scissors to cut the sheet between each number. It will be easier to reassemble if you put numbers on each piece.

The larger piece of paper is going to be the background for the cut picture. Lay out the pieces across the larger sheet so they all fit, leaving space between each piece. Move them around until you have a pleasing layout. Use the glue stick to glue each piece to the back paper. Leave your pieces laid out and just lift one piece at a time so they all end up in the right position.

Your finished picture will look great and it's easy to do.

Sewing Therapy

2010-07-23T00:04:00.000-04:00

Hand sewn fabric cuff.

I don't sew clothes. I don't mend seams, reattach buttons, shorten pants or any other excuse I used to convince my husband to buy me a machine. We didn't have a lot of money so it was easy to convince him what a great idea this would be-a true investment! Well...I've never made a single mend or new garment on the thing. Actually this is my third sewing machine I now use.

Miniature Art Quilt with Clay face.

If you could calculate how many times I worked my way through a problem, relaxed myself when I was feeling tense, was thrilled by the few hours I could grab to create just for the sake of creating, well I think you would say my machines have been a wonderful investment. I don't go to therapy, I go in my sewing room, push fabric under the needle while my tension seeps away.

Most of the things I make I sell. This is a wonderful gift, I get to do what I like and make a living at it. Once you start selling your work, it becomes just that, work. My sewing is still my last pure joy, no profit to be calculated-good thing! I'd be bankrupt in a month!-no time schedule to meet, all of the decisions are just for me. I choose the fabrics and trims that make me happy, not what I think will sell.

It's really important when you work at your passion to save a piece of it just for yourself. What used to be your outlet is now your job. You could end up without a quiet space where you can retreat. I've saved my sewing room just for me. I sell the occasional art doll, tote bag, but the rest is just fun.

I love searching for the perfect embellishment, collecting old buttons and lace, doll clothes patterns from the 1930's and 40's, vintage sewing tools, notions, spools.....

My machine has paid for itself over many times through the years. I can face just about anything after an hour of Singer Therapy.

Sample board of art quilts.

Alice's Rabbit

2010-07-22T22:48:00.000-04:00

Alice's Rabbit! He's running for a date. Off with their head! is hanging above him and a vintage skeleton key.

An evening in Paris

2010-07-13T00:31:00.001-04:00

ONE NIGHT IN PARIS ,1918, she only had this moment in time, but she will remember...... This very vintage brass locket has great patina. On the outside is a wonderful woman assembled of vintage and new parts, an old rhinestone, vintage watch face and lots of little details, but wait until you open the locket to see what treasure is held within!! A beautiful face and a Paris clock face with Remember 1918 penned in her own hand! How fun is this? Reminds me of those old romance novels we read as young girls.

wordless Wednesday Alice in Wonderland

2010-06-30T10:14:00.000-04:00

Wordless Wednesday

2010-06-23T08:36:00.000-04:00

Green Earth Friendly Transportation

2010-05-18T08:31:00.000-04:00

Steampunk Bicycle Necklace Going Green is a priority for Louise. She sold her car and bought a bicycle. It's a steel frame with no emmissions! How great is that? The bummer is those rainy days but she's still working on that problem. Large bicycle pendant made of steel>? not sure, it's very old and lost like it is die cut. I think it was part of an old sign. The metal tag- EMMISSIONS- is vintage, from an old control panel. Dangled from the bicycle is a drop of new and old beads. Vintage china with flowers in yellow, and a pretty yellow and pearl flower. The chain measures approximately 18 inches with a lobster closure.

Steampunk artisan necklace Brain Rejuvenation Helmet

2010-05-18T08:25:00.000-04:00

Daily tasks just drain your brain, by placing her head in the Brain Rejuvenation Helmet, Audrey is able to continue with her day.

Trash to Treasure My Illumination Garden

2010-05-05T15:16:00.001-04:00

My husband is an electrical contractor, the supplier of over sized street lamp bulbs. When the men change the bulbs in the parking lot light standards they throw the old bulbs in the trash. I was on a job one day and saw them, of course being me I was horrified and told each man that they had to bring them back to the shop for me. These have been turned into bugs, beaded and strung for decorations and now I have a few in an old soda crate in my garden. I just love really big and really small things.

Everybody loves a hussy!

2010-04-21T21:45:00.000-04:00

Hussy's are having all the fun!!!

Vintage Chandelier crystal flower necklace.

2010-04-20T22:11:00.000-04:00

Vintage leaded glass, faceted crystals and a large glass flower from an old chandelier come together in a new necklace with a history.

Robot Love

2010-04-18T12:43:00.000-04:00

Robot number: MZ 142/1 Ready for all household services. MZ cleans all surfaces, disinfects and polishes. Specializing in floors, windows and bathrooms. Needs recharging every three years, recharge crystals are sold separately. Please view manuel for reorder information. The new MZ series also does kitchen chores while cleaning the rest of your space. Glass front allows you to view the meal while it is heating. Satellite dish connected to MZ's head allows you to control him from anywhere, his range of reception is approximately 10,000 air miles presently. Upgrades are available in owner's manuel. Measures: 1 1/4 x 2 1/2 inches WARNING: Be careful around cats! They tend to disappear when MZ is on the job. Working on glitch.

The Bee Keepers Secret

2010-04-12T21:49:00.000-04:00

The Bee Keeper's Secret Steampunk necklace

Galileo's Pendulum

2010-04-12T21:46:00.000-04:00

Does Martha live at my house? Reusable Swiffer Covers

2010-04-12T21:38:00.000-04:00

Okay, I had a Martha moment today and made a pile of reusable covers for my Swiffer. I got tired of buying boxes of these things. I have hardwood floors and tile, I go through tons of these things-especially with my giant Oatie dog! I'm so domesticated today. HA!

The Watchmakers Wife

2010-04-03T20:31:00.000-04:00

The Watchmaker's Wife He works day and night making watches for his clients, barely making enough to feed his seven children. He has a good, solid wife and she deserves a beautiful piece of jewelry. He scrimps and saves but everytime he gets some money to buy some gold to make her a piece one of the children needs shoes or the roof begins to leak. While digging through his parts box he found some wonderful junk, things he couldn't use in the expensive watches he sells. The thought came to him to assemble them together for his wife, she would know it was made with love and see the hard work he did for the family through all the tiny parts incorporated in the design. Ingredients: Vintage chain-20 inches long old watch parts, gears, pocket watch case, the number "77" from an old game, Tibetan silver bees, lampwork bead with a sterling silver center, faux pearls and an antique tobacco tag from the late 1800's. It has the number "48" on it. They were used on tobacco plugs to advertise the maker. The watch case is glass on both sides so you can see into it either way, it will always look good even if the pendant flips over while you're wearing it. There are 14 drops hanging from the upper pendant and a beautiful lampwork bead dangle from the chain.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-03-10T17:19:00.000-05:00

Steal My Heart

Snowdrops visiting from my past.

2010-03-06T13:52:00.000-05:00

Twenty three years ago I moved to my new home with our two year old. Wearing her miniature garden gloves, she pushed the bulbs in the soft dirt, looked up, she smiled at her garden under the bedroom window. Now Molly is twenty five and moved to her own home, while each year the little Snowdrops still push up under her bedroom window, then I remember the sweet little smile, looking at me with pride in her job well done.

STEAL MY HEART locket necklace

2010-02-27T01:22:00.000-05:00

Steal My Heart Romance is in the air with hearts and flowers on this charmed necklace. New and vintage pieces combined with altered art charms, vintage faceted glass and watch pieces, with a faux pearl rosary chain. Romantic and elegant. Chain is approximately 18 inches but can be lengthened to 24 inches at no extra charge if you would like a longer necklace.

Lydia is Dancing

2010-02-27T01:17:00.000-05:00

Lydia is dancing and jiggling, excited by her success. She set out to fly, when people thought woman should be birthing babies and sewing. She built her plane and flew it all the way to New York City, now she's celebrating, dressed in a gorgeous new Gold Silk gown. Still nobody has discovered her secret. The continuing story of Lydia. Many more Lydia pieces found in my shop and in my sold section. She's the still not famous Steampunk inventor. You can also follow her story on my blog. YELLOW GREEN AGATE GEMSTONE RONDELLE BEADS Huge Tibetan silver beads in an open puffed bead, filigree style, Some amazing arms and legs floating below. When you dance so will she!

Cowboy Country

2010-01-30T19:51:00.000-05:00

I had so much fun making this guy. He's been on my worktable for a month, I kept waiting for him to tell me what he needed. I finally finished him today when I found that left hand. It was perfect for him to pic a rip.

Big ol' cowboy hat with a gear. Vintage key and token on the back for support. The token says, "NO CASH VALUE" so I guess he's not interested in playing for money, must be doing it for love. The guitar is just too cool, I found it in a box of old jewelry I had sitting in a closet for a year and haven't ever looked in.

CASTLES IN THE AIR

2010-01-20T19:43:00.000-05:00

CASTLES in the air

Descent to the Ocean Floor

2010-01-10T22:29:00.000-05:00

Descent to the Ocean Floor

DESCENT TO THE OCEAN FLOOR Lydia, determined not to weaken, the weight of her suit limiting her movement, but quickening her descent through the dark depths of the Atlantic, was nearing her dream. The X on the map was fast becoming a reality, just one more length of cable and she should be near. An old finial-really heavy and ornate is the base of this necklace. An old piece of furniture hardware captures a brass face and watch gear under a vintage watch crystal. The "X" is an antique, tin, tobacco tag from the late 1800's. Fibers are wound around the top of the finial connecting to a multi-strand chain, vintage beads and old keys. One of the chains is a bluish grey crystal rosary chain. Picasso beads,czech crystal and vintage faux pearls.

AN EVENING AT THE OPERA

2009-12-25T15:00:00.001-05:00

Years ago, a woman wore this stunning rhinestone brooch, before carefully placing it in a fine linen hankie, tucking it away in the back of her drawer. Along side it the key to the gatehouse with the pearl earrings she wore to the opera. The need to hold the memories being stronger than the fear of discovery.

Feeding your artistic soul

2009-12-21T08:44:00.000-05:00

I've been so out of sync with my artist side the past month. I couldn't figure out why I wasn't able to relax or be happy. Of course the pressures of daily life can be part of it, but they're always there, then I realized I've been showing everyone else how to do art and forgot to do my own. With a to-do list a mile long, I sat at the breakfast table, picked up a pencil and a sheet of sketch paper,then began drawing. An hour and a half later the to-do list was still not started, I had the energy to face it. I had forgotten the importance of feeding my soul. My soul needs to be nourished, it's not a hobby, it's a true force within that requires fulfillment or the rest of my life becomes flat. When I'm not fulfilled the people around me suffer too. Now when I look out at the world I see can see the light again.

Random Steampunk Pictures pinkflamingo61

2009-12-21T08:32:00.000-05:00

This past summer a friend of mine and I found these old hinges, they're over 100 plus years old, the paint is wonderful, great design and not too heavy for jewelry. I scrubbed it carefully to keep the paint in tact, then it was covered in several layers of clear sealer. Vintage watch parts, West German crystal in her hands, Czech glass crystal fringe and an art deco piece make up this one of a kind necklace. So shabby, so chic and chippy white, a girls dream necklace.

Steampunk Bicycles for the Ladies

2009-12-21T07:43:00.000-05:00

Vivian was having trouble peddling with her long skirt and she was absolutely forbidden from leaving the house in men's trousers. With a little fiddling she was able to make the bicycle run without her powering it.

Weekend Craft Show

2009-11-16T19:51:00.000-05:00

I think this is going to be my last craft show. Packing,transporting, setting up, closing my online shops....ohmygosh...I'm exhausted. Talking to people, seeing the faces of the new owners of my jewelry~it's all great. THEN...I'm home and I have to put everything away, my house is a mess. I've decided that I'm not doing anymore shows unless it's really an unbelievable show~!

Now for a cool find: I got this display box FREE, yup, that wonderful four letter word beginning in "F". Snagged it on it's way to the dump. It looks a bit empty in the photo- a sign of a successful show! A little scrubbing, pages from a vintage typing manual papered to the wood. My husband got me some LED lights. Oops! I guess this means I'll be back out doing shows again! I think I say this every year after the last show of the season. See you in the spring.

THE TRANSFORMATION OF LYDIA

2009-11-11T15:43:00.000-05:00

LYDIA finally finished the wings, took them to the highest point in Philadelphia, the William Penn statue above city hall. She stepped out on his shoulder, wings in place. Taking a deep breath, raising her arms high and wide above her head, she slowly leaned forward into the wind. Sweeping down among the windowed buildings she knew it was going to work, a breeze coming up Market Street caught her from below, lifting up, up over North Broad street, over the Masonic Temple,still higher. People below pointing and gasping... sweeping around the square coming to rest gracefully on the Eagle statue at John Wanamaker's. A rush ran through her blood, she felt transformed, looking down, the white feathers were no longer connected by wires, but actually growing in beautiful rows up her arms, an arc of downy wings. She was becoming flight. A silver bird with the patina in place, watch gears and parts, a small brass top hat. The number 6 on her chest is an 1800's tin tobacco tag. Part of the chain is made up of an old rosary.

You Have Got to be a Queen to Get away with a HAT like THAT

2009-11-09T21:50:00.000-05:00

You have got to be a Queen to get away with a hat like that.
-Loos, Anita
Gentlemen Prefer Blondes

Isn't she just pure whimsy and fun? She's a rockin' Steamer with a huge top hat and monocle. Layered rings with her face nestled down with a vintage numbered tag from a watch crystal. The brass token she's resting on says "NO CASH VALUE" so I guess she's a bit of a hussy too, giving it away for free!

measures: 2.25 inch pendant on an 18 inch long STERLING SILVER CHAIN with a lobster clasp.

The owl and the pussycat went to sea in a beautiful pea green boat steampunk necklace

2009-11-07T17:04:00.000-05:00

The owl and the pussycat went to sea in a beautiful pea-green boat..... I loved that poem when I was a child. Here's the steampunk version!

2009-11-07T17:01:00.000-05:00

Lydia's Revenge Lydia was fascinated by these crazy flying machines, she couldn't keep her mind on the house work. She'd been working on this motor since everyone left this morning, trying to get done so she could make them dinner on their return. It was only a matter of time now before she could step out to the barn, spread her wings, then step from the roof, confident they will hold her weight, allowing her to soar with the wind. Steampunk Pendant, measures: 2 x 2.5 inches, 24 inch vintage gold colored chain.

Badge of Honor

2009-10-19T04:48:00.000-04:00

Leslie held her head while people ran in all directions. Dr. Vogel's experiment went wildly wrong, causing panic everywhere. She kept people streaming in the right direction, away from the smoke, staying until they all had cleared the building. Rushing back to the laboratory she pulled Dr. Vogel by his lapels down the hall and into the afternoon sun. Her bravery that day won her this badge.

Moth to the Flame

2009-10-15T22:06:00.000-04:00

Moth to the Flame Gossamer wings flickering in the candle glow, spindle legs with cobweb silk hose, the enchanter of men. The chime strikes into the flame. A resplendent mist of luminous gold, she's gone.

Miss Lydia, Mouse Detective

2009-10-09T18:30:00.000-04:00

Miss Lydia is quite the lady. She's ready for Bingo on Saturday night and church on Sunday morning. But! Here's her daytime job: Mouse Detective! She patrols the house and yard for mice, removing all the freeloaders off the property and into the woods. Miss L. is too tender hearted to put them in a trap and hurt them, she just gently picks them up by the tail and moves them on their way. Even while chasing mice she still has that darned crown balanced on her head. She has her vintage badge attached to her chest. This pin is another of my Miss Lydia pins. She has adventures and friends that pop up in my shops occasionally. Be on the lookout for more of her visits.

Time Bandit

2009-10-09T17:49:00.000-04:00

Insidiously the TIME BANDIT will sneak into your brain, imbibe on your thoughts, inhaling moments, casting you in a spell until you will never catch up. Fortunately, I've been able to contain him upon this perch, to keep him in control. Now it's up to you to finish.

Propeller Head

2009-10-05T22:38:00.000-04:00

Propeller Head Lydia was fascinated by these crazy flying machines, she couldn't keep her mind on the house work. How could she iron shirts, when men were attempting to spread their wings among the billowing clouds, outside her kitchen window? After the family was asleep at night, she'd quietly pull the secret wings from their hiding place, carefully sew another feather, each stitch bringing her closer to her dream of flight. It was only a matter of time now before she could step out to the barn, spread her wings, then step from the roof, confident they will hold her weight, allowing her to soar with the wind.

Becoming Mother

2009-09-21T22:23:00.000-04:00

Becoming Mother The moment you become aware there is a life building in your womb you lose your heart, you become a different person. Your heart is no longer your own. Protective, nurturing instincts never known to exist become your life. New and vintage parts come together to create this mother. The heart is placed near her womb~where it now lives. Hope for her child. Pendant measures 2 1/4 x 4 1/4 inches copper chain approximately 20 inches original design, one of a kind jewelry SRAJD self representing artist jewelry designer

Just got my posters for shops, so excited

2009-09-16T19:03:00.000-04:00

I just got my posters for shops that sell my jewelry. I'm so excited, they came out really well and weren't too expensive. Tell me what you think?? Pink

Halloween Steamer

2009-09-16T07:27:00.000-04:00

THIS IS STEAMPUNK! Her top hat is silver soldered with a ton of bling. MARDI GRAS PARTY GIRL is a pin or brooch made from antique, vintage and new materials assembled into this great original pin. Top hat covered in bling, rhinestone flower and rhinestone hair, a vintage pocket watch face, old silver spoon handle and a genuine antique tin tobacco tag on her waist. The Taylor Best Bros. is an antique tin tobacco tag from the late 1800's to the early 1900's. A vintage star button and a tiny skull wand tucked in behind. measures:6x2 inches original design, one of a kind jewelry SRAJD self representing artist jewelry designer Thank you for supporting independent artists.

Vintage Sewing Supplies

2009-09-15T17:30:00.001-04:00

There are never too many pretty things.

ManX Cat Necklace Horse Brasses in Jewelry

2009-08-26T07:41:00.000-04:00

An antique horse brass with the figure of a manx cat- a cat with no tail! Hanging on the brass are beautiful Czech faceted glass beads in the Picasso style. A vintage key is tucked in too. A gorgeous shade of deep woodsy green, vintage seam binding ribbon for the necklace chain. Wrapped along the way are hand spun fibers with an old curtain hook for the closure. This necklace is so feminine I just love it. The colors are neutral so they can be worn any time of the year with just about any outfit. The necklace measures: Ribbon-about 20 inches long The pendant has a 3.5 inch drop approximately.

Brass plaques as ornaments for the harness of cart-horses were first made in the late 18th century; they became very popular in the 1850s, replacing an older style of adornment with ribbons, woollen fringes, and tooled leather. In some areas brasses were still in normal use in the 1920s, and can still be seen at horse-shows and parades (Brears, 1981).

The oldest examples are also the simplest, and seem to be rural imitations of the silver heraldic badges worn by the carriage-horses of the gentry. A wide range of designs soon appeared, some figurative and some geometric; they included crescents and suns, which might be interpreted as lucky symbols, and the horseshoe, an undoubted charm. It is doubtful whether there was deliberate magical intent, since there was apparently no previous English tradition of metal charms on horses. In a general sense, however, anything shiny and eye-catching can protect against the evil eye and witchcraft. Popular writers have latched on to this possibility, creating a feedback which confuses the issue. Nowadays, some country people say horse brasses are merely ornaments, while others say: ‘The reason that metal was put onto the horse's straps was to protect the horse from bad influences; iron was thought to be a good metal for the job’; or, ‘you put…the head piece to protect their head and the breast piece to keep away evil spirits from their heart’; or, ‘horses wore metal on their head and heart to stop witches putting a spell on them’ (Sutton, 1997: 36).