The Bead Metaler

Sweet Beads

2012-01-20T08:10:00.000-08:00

Last week I had heard of a new bead store on the west side of town so I thought I should go check it
out for myself and all of you. The store is a small "sweet store" tucked back in a corner of a small strip mall type center. I walked in the door and was greeted with warm smiles and hello's by 2 very nice woman who were working at the bead table. I told them I had just heard about them and that I needed to look around to see what they carried so I could let all my students know about them. We talked about our backgrounds and they were so excited about all the metal classes I teach.
The store is very new and they are still getting their footing on supplies but they carry all the essentials of beadwork. They have all colors of seed beads & fire polish beads along with teardrops, roundels, Preciosa crystals, and all the other basics for beadwork. The store is located on Charleston between Jones and Decatur just about 1 blk away from Heddy's Fabrics on the opposite side of the street. Please stop by and meet these very nice ladies and remember...support your local bead stores ...we can't do without them.
Tell they I sent you.
Sweet Beads
5734 W. Charleston Blvd
Las Vegas, Nv.
Phone: 900-8228
Hours: Closed Mondays
Tues-Sat. 10:00 - 5:00 pm and Sunday open 12:00 - 5:00 pm

The Power Of Blogs

2012-01-06T08:39:00.000-08:00

3 years ago I placed an order via the Internet with a well know artist -I'm not saying who....so don't ask.
After a few months went by and the product didn't arrive I emailed and got no response after another
month passed by and no product ; I emailed again and this time the person did respond and told me I would have my product by that Christmas (3 years ago). Since then I've emailed dozens of times and even broke down and wrote a letter expressing my concerns about the lack of ethics of the company and individual, I even said I didn't want nor needed the product anymore but wanted my money back....no response.
Now 3 years later I am fed up and decided to try one more time. This time I simply wrote:
"If you don't contact me or send my money back I will blog about you ....and not in a good way"
I got a Pay Pal refund that day....ahhhh the power of Blogs.

Balance .....Happy New Year

2011-12-30T11:17:00.000-08:00

2 years ago my New Years resolution was NEVER to have "loose weight" as a resolution ever again so January 2010 I started exercising using my WII aerobics and lost my first 20lbs then I started eating organic ...or as much organic as I could and lost another 15 pounds. I kept my resolution that year because by the beginning of 2011 I had lost the weight and so that was off my plate.... no pun intended. In the beginning of 2011 my New Years resolution was to get fit so January 1st I started going to Zumba and then a strength training class as well as adding Walk it Out on my WII ...I actually gained 5 lbs during year but I'm okay with that. I feel good, I feel fit, my cloths still fit and I feel like I am stronger this year than last and again ...I kept my resolution. It's nearly 2012 and this year my New Years resolution is about putting some balance in my life. I tend to go all out weather it's teaching, creating, dieting, exercising, cupcake making ...you get the idea. I am a Libra after all and my sign is the sign of balance so this year I have decided to try to put more balance in my life, I have just accepted a part time job that will get me out of the house a bit and out of the studio. I am still going to be teaching but will be keeping it to the weekends, I am still going to keep fit with exercising as a matter of fact I should be getting Dance Dance Revolution in the mail this week for my WII, and I will still try to eat as healthly as I can, of course there will be cupcakes but maybe not so many this year. So what is your resolution for 2012???

The Square is here!

2011-12-22T17:03:00.001-08:00

I just got my square in the mail and and now able to accept credit cards in class ...how cool is that?

Etsy Shop Re-opened

2011-11-12T17:47:00.000-08:00

For the last several weeks I have been trying to get my etsy shop up and running again and Finally ...the shop is open once again. Whew! it's pretty time consuming trying to put together colors for everyone.
I will be adding to my shop so please stop by from time to time and see what's new. The next few weeks I will be working getting some of my finished jewelry posted so stay tuned.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/cfmcgraw

Enameling ...my new favorite thing to do

2011-11-03T16:16:00.000-07:00

Check out my new batch of enameled componets.
I just love all the beautiful colors.
Life doesn't get any better when you are creating something you love.

Jiffy Jewelry

2011-11-01T19:21:00.000-07:00

3 projects in 4 hours? That's just crazy..but true

Date: Tuesday November 8th

Time: 10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Fee: $50.00 includes all supplies except the lamp work bead shown in the copper pendant and the neck straps shown in both the necklace projects. Please bring a bead that will fit on 14-ga wire for the copper pendant

This class is always very popular and class size is limited. please contact me to sign up for this class via email: cfmcgraw@cox.net

Students should bring:
Bead mat Chain nose pliers Round nose pliers Wire cutters

Happy Halloween

2011-10-31T09:24:00.000-07:00

Bead Show This month

2011-10-21T16:22:00.001-07:00

Our Bead Show is heading your way! This is YOUR INVITATION.
At this SPECIAL ONE-DAY SALE, we will have:

New stone types, shapes and assortments
An incredible selection of gemstones
Thousands of bead strands
A wide selection of our best-selling items

All customers receive 15 PERCENT OFF our already LOW WHOLESALE PRICES on gemstone and bead strands.
Come see the fun new shapes and sizes!

Our strands are tagged at retail. Wholesale is 1/2 that price. You get an extra 15% off the wholesale price!
Also stock up on some of our most popular findings, crystals, tools, books and stringing supplies (at wholesale, same as our website/catalog).

Free admission! -- This email is your invitation to this INVITATION-ONLY SHOW.

We're selling at wholesale, so bring your state resale number. (Otherwise, pay tax.)

Never seen one of our shows? Take a virtual tour.

Las Vegas, NV, Friday, October 28th, Noon - 4 PM
Henderson Convention Center
200 S. Water St.
Henderson, NV. 89015
(702) 267-2171
Free Parking!
Directions: I-215 becomes Lake Mead (NV -146) - right on S Water St.

Class Reveal

2011-10-11T10:23:00.000-07:00

I love enameling...thats all I want to do in life right now.

Who said I can't do creepy?

2011-10-03T19:37:00.000-07:00

New copper class for October, great project for newbies to get started into the wonderful world of copper. Learn how to use a jewelers saw, rivet and design this creepy Halloween pendant - class fee includes everything needed to create this project. Please contact me if you would like to sign up for this class. Class Day:Sat. Oct. 15th Class fee:$45.00

OMG!! The Best Class Ever

2011-09-29T18:47:00.000-07:00

I just thought I would give a little tease until I get some pictures of my class work. These are all the amazing colors of enamels we used in class ....it was the BEST class I have ever taken!!

To Be Continued......

Bead Shack is re-opening!

2011-08-30T18:46:00.000-07:00

This is an email I received today, thought you all might be interested.

Dear Colleen,

Thank you so much for supporting The Bead Shack!

The response of our Bead Club members was touching

and overwhelming. Because of wonderful people like you,

we are going to give it another try and will be there for you again.

Please come by and say hi and let us know that you really do want

us to be a part of the beading community. We look forward to your

support so we can continue to meet your needs to advance your

creativity for beading. We missed the friendship, joy and caring

that you brought to The Bead Shack.

We officially open on Friday, September 2nd.

Watch for emails from us about new roving discounts

for Bead Club members and special events, such as

Amanda Edwards teaching a new project/class and more.

Hope to see you soon!!

Sincerely,

All of Us at The Bead Shack

Barbara Lewis Bead Give away

2011-08-08T09:08:00.000-07:00

Bead Giveaway!

Let's have a little fun! If you were here a few days ago, you saw my video of some pieces I had made with a technique I discovered in the studio. It is so easy to make a rivet with heat instead of a hammer! So now that amazon.com has the "Look Inside" feature activated for my book, you'll be able to see how it's done!

Here's what you have to do ... visit Amazon (just click on the link above), take a "Look Inside", click on the "Liked" button, post the contest on your blog and become a follower ... if you aren't already. :-) But don't forget to come back here and leave a comment on my blog so I can enter you in the drawing. We'll be announcing the winner next Tuesday at this time!

I love giving gifts ... and thank you in advance for helping me to get the word out about my book. :-)

Back To Vegas

2011-07-02T08:22:00.000-07:00

ART AND SOUL 2012
Please don't say you never heard because now you know .... Mark your calendars for next year's Art & Soul back at the lovely Green Valley Ranch. Keep an eye on the Art & Soul Web site to find out when they open registration, there is a link to this site on my blog -top right "special events".

That’s right all of you Art & Soulers… mixed media maniacs… traveling art gypsys… you asked for it and we’re giving it to you. That’s right…

We’re goin’ to Vegas!

We’ll be returning to the lovely Green Valley Ranch Resort in Henderson, Nevada once again. So, mark your calendars for June 14-18, 2012 — and we’ll be sure and keep you up to date on the workshop offerings and all that good stuff. Stay tuned! P.S. Don’t forget — whatever happens at Mixed Media Art Retreats in Vegas, stays in Vegas. Woohoo!

Have a safe 4th of July

2011-06-30T13:29:00.000-07:00

It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived. — George S. Patton

Coming in July

2011-06-28T20:54:00.000-07:00

Bead Show-Open To The Public

2011-05-31T09:59:00.000-07:00

Friday June 3 - 10:00 - 6:00 pm Saturday10- 6:00 pm
Sunday 10-5:00pm
Palace Station

Newest Student

2011-05-15T11:30:00.000-07:00

In Yesterday class I taught a basic form folded bracelet and everyone one of them turned out so different and ALL of them were just spectacular. This particular bracelet was made by my newest student, Sharon Palac. Great Job Sharon & we are all so happy to have you join us.

Sneek Peek - May Classes

2011-04-29T17:33:00.000-07:00

Schedule Your MRI Now

2011-03-18T08:56:00.000-07:00

Starting April 1st - Monthly Referral Incentive Program
How does it work?

Refer a new student to The Bead Metaler Studios & make sure you give your referral your name.
Once the new student has taken their first class you will receive credit for the same amount they spend on their class fee.

Example:
You refer your new friend to me and they sign up for a $45.00 metal class and take the class on April 5th.
You will have 30 days from April 5th to use your credit of $45.00
The rules are simple:
This is a use it or loose it credit with no roll over credits allowed
Credit is not transferable with no exceptions
MRI's are good for NEW students only.

Pick up some business cards next time you are in class and start getting your classes for free!

Cup Cake Fun

2011-03-13T10:29:00.000-07:00

Most everyone knows that I make and teach jewelry classes in Las Vegas but once in awhile you have to step out of your comfort zone and do something new and for me ...crazy. I have a very good friend who is an expert scrapbook maker and so for her birthday this year one of her gifts I gave her was this cupcake made of paper and paper flowers. The cupcake has a secret hiding place for a gift card, I just love secrets don't you?

Art And Soul- Las Vegas

2011-03-03T06:56:00.000-08:00

Art and Soul is here in Las Vegas this week for the second year in a row, and word of mouth is that it won't be coming back due to low attendance. I don't know if that is Art and Soul's fault for not advertising enough, or Las Vegas's fault for not advertising enough or our fault for knowing about it and not taking advantage of all it has to offer.
This was my second Las Vegas Art and Soul and I went to Portland Art And Soul Last year and had so much fun each year.
This year I took 2 classes, the first was a Sally Jean class in Soldering for Virgins, I was a little disappointed in that class due to the
over booking - there were just way too many students in that class ...36 to be exact. The project I made or am still making I should say is a 3 piece pendant that has a photo of my parents cutting their wedding cake over 60 years ago on one side and on the other is a paragraph of one of my mother's original poems and two other 2- sided little soldered pieces one says Home/Keepsake and the other says Tender/Love."

The second class was actually suppose to be with the fantastic teacher Robert Dancik in working with Faux Bone but a day before the classes started I got email saying that he came down with the H1N1 flu virus and would not be able to travel at all and so I ended up changing to a class with Sherri Habb and it was an etching class without using all the dangerous, messy chemicals ...It was an awesome class for a few reasons ....1. My friend Jerry took the class with me 2. Sherri Habb is a wonderful instructor and 3. I met so many nice people in that class. By the way you might want to go check out my "Cool Stuff" page to see how this etching system works.

Lessons learned? Sign up for classes when they come to Las Vegas or we will be left out and ....GET A FLU SHOT people.
Feel better Robert I really missed taking a class with you this year.

Wishing you peace in 2011

2011-01-01T14:51:00.000-08:00

2010-12-15T22:17:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas!

Bead Metaler Patterns

2010-09-01T16:03:00.000-07:00

Don't you just hate it when you find a bead pattern in a magazine and you can't figure out what the heck you are suppose to do? Lets face it, some of them expect you to be mind readers. Wouldn't it be great to be able to take all the classes that you wanted to when you wanted to? I know that there are times that you just can't make the class on the date I have it scheduled, or maybe you live out of town? I do sell all my patterns for $20.00 a pattern. My patterns take me hours to write thats because I take step-by-step digital photos so you are able to follow them easy.
If you ever see a project that I have taught that you would like to purchase, just email me at: cfmcgraw@cox.net, tell me what the project was and how you would like me to get it to you, U.S. mail or email, as soon as I have a pay pal payment I will send it off to you.

Wholesale shows

2010-08-13T17:59:00.000-07:00

I have been so slowed to get this information to you but yes this week was the week of the G.L.D.A. show at the Mirage and the Gift show at the Las Vegas Convention center. The shows are great but you do need to have a business license and tax I.D. to get into them. These show both come to Las Vegas twice a year and worth going to. Here is just a little information on both of them. I went to both the G.L.D.A. show on Monday and then tackled the ASD show on Wed. great prices!! lots and lots and lots of walkiing.

The Gem & Lapidary Dealers Association would like to welcome you to the 2010 G.L.D.A. Las Vegas Gem & Jewelry Show at the Mirage Hotel and Casino. Over 300 booths will be fully stocked to sell one of a kind jewelry creations, estate jewelry, diamonds, semi precious stones, gold, pearls, beads and so much more! Exhibitors from every corner of the world are participating this year including many overseas direct source dealers as well as a large selection of fine U.S. Gem & Jewelry companies.

What is ASD?
Since 1961, ASD has been bringing buyers and sellers together to create the most dynamic B2B merchandise marketplace in the industry. Whether you're looking for value merchandise, apparel, style & beauty accessories, home décor, gift or jewelry, ASD has a show to meet your needs.
VALUE & VARIETY
Encompassing the Upper & Lower Levels of the Las Vegas Convention Center, Value & Variety is the place to go for the best VALUES on apparel, convenience items, household and outdoor goods, electronics, military & personal security merchandise and SO much more. The selection of merchandise will impress you, the prices will delight you.

STYLE & BEAUTY
Located in the Upper Level of the Sands Expo Center, Style & Beauty features the latest in affordable fashion accessories, health and beauty aids, and travel accessories.

JEWELRY
Now, adjacent to Style & Beauty on the Sands Expo Center Upper Level, ASD Jewelry caters to the buyer who is looking for supreme quality on fashion and fine jewelry to sell at a pricepoint that consumers will be happy with and make an impact on your bottom line.

GIFT & TOY
Looking for incredibly priced, margin building gift, toy & novelty merchandise that allows you to wow your customers and make a profit? Then, start at the Lower Level of the Sands Expo Center because ASD Gift & Toy has everything the savvy gift retailer needs for success!

Before & After

2010-07-02T14:36:00.000-07:00

I know, I know it's been a very long time since I posted on this blog. So much going on around here I haven't really had a chance to much of anything. One thing I did do the other day was to take 5 min. out of my day to play with my cool Jool Tool...you know my little milkshake maker that was the post before this one. Well I am really happy with the results, remember I only spent 5 min. polishing this ring and I really don't even know what I am doing yet ....can you imagine when I get this thing mastered?
The first ring is what it looked like right out of the tumbler, I really didn't do too much work in the clean up stage before I tumbled it. The second ring is after spending just 5 min. polishing it with the Jool Tool. VERY COOL, don't you think?

Jool Tool

2010-04-17T10:32:00.001-07:00

Okay ....can life get any better? Check out my newest toy, I call it my milkshake maker. I mean honestly it kinda looks like one and it does just about everything under the sun when it comes to polishing jewelry and stones. Its called the "Jool Tool" and if you want to see it in action click on the "Cool Stuff" button at the top of this page to see a short video.

Faux Bone

2010-04-03T09:38:00.000-07:00

How cool is this? Last week my sister and I took a day off and just Played. I love this product sold by Robert Danick, it's super easy to work with and there are so many things you can do to it and with it. Check out his website to see more cool stuff you can do with it.
http://www.robertdancik.com/dancik

It's good to be Irish

2010-03-15T17:00:00.001-07:00

Art & Soul Riches

2010-02-25T09:10:00.001-08:00

I have just spent 2 amazing days taking part in the Art & Soul classes here in Las Vegas in the Bally's/Paris Hotel. I was so lucky to have the opportunity to learn from 2 very talented and creative minds; Richard Salley & Robert Dancik.

Robert's Class was learning the art of using concrete in jewelry making. At first thought you might think ... concrete wouldn't that be really heavy? but that is just not the case. Here is the piece I made in class using a frozen Charolette I had found on Ebay.

Richard's class was a beautiful copper hinged locket. The photo inside is one of my Grandmother's Wedding photo, I love this piece.

Both classes were great, relaxing and so creative. Thanks to both Richard and Robert for sharing so much of themselves.

Don't miss the Art & Soul in Portland Oregon in October ... both these guys will be teaching.

MY FUNNY VALENTINE

2010-02-13T17:20:00.000-08:00

I know, I know ... most woman want flowers, candy or jewelry for Valentines Day ... Nope not me; I love to get tools and this year my husband bought me a great little Rolling Mill. A rolling mill is used for a lot of things some of them are to change the gauge of metals or to make wire or to pattern metals. If you want to see it in action go to my "Cool Stuff" page on this blog.
Thank you honey! I love you and I love my new rolling mill. Happy Valentines Day.

2010-02-06T11:08:00.000-08:00

Check out my new copper & Dichoric cuff bracelet. Susan Philpot is an amazing local glass artist here in Las Vegas, my class last week was making the copper cuff with the copper bezel. Her glass worked so well with my cuff I just couldn't resist. For more information on Susan's work check out her blog.
http://catsmeowjewelry.blogspot.com/

Art & Soul Retreat In Las Vegas

2010-01-20T13:05:00.000-08:00

February 21-24, 2010
at Bally's/Paris
Vendor Show Saturday 20th!
check the activities page for exciting info

Registration is now open!

www.artandsoulretreat.com/

Fusing Glass class 1& 2

2009-11-08T16:14:00.000-08:00

I just took my second glass fusing class last weekend and slowly I might be learning a thing or two. I can really appreciate Betty and Susan's work so much more. I knew they were both really talented but never really understood the process, I have a long way to go before I can even get close to what they do.

Isn't she sweet?

2009-10-29T12:31:00.000-07:00

Check out my beautiful new doll all handcrafted by my good friend June. Her work is just so incredible, for a closer look at the detail, click on the photos. Thanks so much June I just love her!

My first fusing class

2009-10-08T12:50:00.000-07:00

Check it out!! I took my very first fusing class a few weeks ago and just picked up my finished pieces today. I made a few fused pendants and look at these .... I made a set of 4 fused dishes. I love them ... I know they are not perfect but I had a great day learning something so totally out of my "box". Can't wait to take my next class in November.

Look what we've been making in class

2009-08-31T14:59:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to show off some of the work done by students.
The necklace was designed and created by Margaret Bell. She made the
Silver Art Clay Heart and charm as well as a few of the components.
Margaret is a glass artist ... but everything she makes is beautiful.

Check it out!! How cute is this Ring made by Jerry Buckler. The ring was made in the Silver Art Clay class given last week.
Jerry did an outstanding job on this ring. She pick the perfect bold bead for this spinner Ring and it really reflects the person she is ... fun fun fun!! Great job Jerry.

A'Kasha Jewerly - Portland Oregon

2009-08-31T14:51:00.000-07:00

Each time I go to Portland to visit my family I take a class from Steve Smith at A'Kasha Jewelry.
Steve is the owner of the store as well as a Gemologist and Jeweler. This visit he taught me how
to electroplate metals. If you are ever in the Portland area stop in and say "hi" and check out what
classes he is teaching.

A'Kasha Jewelry
12602 SW Farmington Rd
Beaverton, Or 97005
503-643-5101

Art & Soul Las Vegas 2010

2009-08-25T11:16:00.001-07:00

Exciting LAS VEGAS!!

February 21-24,2010
at Bally's/Paris

Registration is now open!

Art & Soul is a paper, fabric, jewelry and fiber arts art retreat taught by internationally recognized instructors. We are thrilled to bring such a wide variety of skills and artistic talent together for a 6th year!

Choose from dozens of mixed media workshops taught by internationally recognized instructors—designed to energize your creative spirit and reveal the secrets of your soul.

Work and play with a multitude of media—from thrift store finds to
tempered glass, vintage photos to polymer clay, beeswax to horsehair, fabrics to water colors and more….

Crackle, quilt, bead, chart, fold, mold, carve, paint, collage, weave, sew and more….

Create a tiara, a shrine, a journal, a vision, a necklace, a masterpiece, a pillow, a shadow box, a memory, a quest and more….

Check it out:
http://www.artandsoulretreat.com

Bullet Ring

2009-08-11T17:02:00.000-07:00

Thought I would share a photo of the ring I made my husband as a gift for our anniversary this year. I made him this new ring; this is an actual bullet casing from his 357 gun. I guess you could say "I made his day".
If you would like to see what the woman's style bullet ring looks like; go check it out on my classes blog.

Hope

2009-07-20T16:46:00.000-07:00

This is for all my new found friends on Wild Earth, Zap Live and Hornby Island. I knew not one thing about eagles before I started watching the Hornby nest, through all of you all I have learned so much about these amazing birds. The other day the camera was down and I went to my studio and made this necklace to remember these past few months watching our little Hope. Thank you for all the information and laughs while lurking or participating in the chats. She will be fledging in the next few days and then what will we do?

2nd Year In a Row

2009-07-13T17:12:00.000-07:00

Do you want all the best patterns out of Bead & Button magazine but don't want to buy all the issues?? Each year Bead & Button picks the best projects of the year and puts them into one really nice hard back book and guess who made it in for the 2nd year?? It's really a great way to have all the best projects at your fingertips ... get a copy of your own; it's on sale now at all the bookstores.

Taa-Dah!!!

2009-07-03T15:49:00.001-07:00

All the pages of my blog are now open. That doesn't mean they are finished in any way; I will be adding to them weekly.
I hope the new format will help you find whatever you are looking for faster.
This first page, is my main blog & it will keep you updated on general Beadmetaler stuff.
The classes page will be dedicated to all past and present classes. I had a request to put the supply lists with the class schedule and I think the new format is really great. If you click on the button at the bottom of the slide show while it is in motion you will bring the project photos to full view, I think this will be most helpful when trying to figure out where I am using certain beads.
My jewelry page will be a big undertaking, I am going to try to put as many photos of jewelry as I can .... think of it as your inspiration page.
Currently on the shopping page I have my Esty site and Art Fire site listed and will be adding to them as soon as I can get around to it.
Cool Stuff page is where I will share all the "cool stuff" I have found or stuff we have used in class. I will also have the vendors and the links to them on the right hand side of this page.
Last but not least is my personal blog: La-dee-dah- day - keep in touch with what I am doing when I am not creating jewelry.

Getting My Act Together

2009-06-22T15:06:00.001-07:00

Last week I was looking at my blog and thought to myself... hmmm, this has lost the look and continuity of what I wanted and what I wanted people to see when they logged into my blog.
I thought about how if I saw this format on someone else's blog I would think ...."what a mish-mash"; so I started brainstorming about how I could keep things more organized and share information about the classes and important jewelry stuff but also keep the personal touch of who I am as well ......after all; so many of you spend a lot of time in my home and I want you to feel comfortable and know who I am besides "The Beadmetaler". It will take me a bit of time to get it all together and I know you will all be very patient with me while I work to pull it together. So for now you will see just a small change in my blog. If you notice I now have 5 different links at the top of my screen. Classes, Jewelry, Shop, Cool Stuff and Blog. These will eventually be working links, I have these areas closed off while they are under construction and will let you know as I open each one of them.

How to use crimp beads and wire guardian's

2009-06-14T18:14:00.000-07:00

Friday Night- Concert Night

2009-06-12T07:49:00.001-07:00

Anybody who knows me would know that I LOVE music, anybody who knows me really well knows I love the old standards done by just about anyone. Friday night Greg and I went downtown to the Golden Nugget to see Steve Tyrell, he is playing for 3 nights only and is using Gordy Brown's show room, (another person I can't wait to see). I first learned about Steve Tyrell over 10 years ago. I was living in So. California and I was out antique shopping .... you know how they are always playing the old music in those stores? Well I was shopping and singing along having myself a "la-dee-dah-day" when the store owner saw me and said .... If you like this music you are going to love Steve Tyrell, the next day I went to the music store and bought his CD ... she was right I loved it from the first time I heard his voice. I play it so much in class, it's the perfect music to bead by. The first 2 songs on my blog will give you a little taste of his sound. Enyoy!!!

Live Eagle cam (takes time to load)

2009-06-08T19:00:00.001-07:00

This is so cool .... This little eagle was born about a month ago, if you watch throughout the day you will be able to see the mother come home to the nest to feed him

Saturday Night -Concert Night

2009-05-31T08:59:00.000-07:00

Last night we went down to the Hard Rock and saw Santana .... all I can say is "WOW" Great music, great show, great night! go see for yourself.

June Classes

2009-05-30T12:42:00.000-07:00

You might be a redneck if you get one of these for Father's Day

2009-05-26T18:57:00.000-07:00

There's no place like home

2009-05-16T13:24:00.000-07:00

Today our Art Group had a charm exchange, the theme was "The Wizzard Of OZ". I can't believe how creative these ladies are.... I think this was our best exchange yet. Thanks everyone for my beautiful charms.
Click on the picture to see the details of these charms.

2009-05-13T07:53:00.000-07:00

I took this picture at the Lake last weekend, for some reason there were hundreds of Lady Bugs there and my Granddaughter just loved them.

Mother's Day Surprise!!!

2009-05-11T15:42:00.000-07:00

My doorbell rang at about 8:00 a.m. on Saturday Morning and I thought .... Yeah flowers from the Grandsons!!! I went to the door to answer and I didn't see anyone there so I was thinking .... hummmmm I guess the guy must have just left the flowers on the patio so I looked down out of the window and there they were ...... MY SON, MY DAUGHTER-IN-LAW AND MY GRANDDAUGHTER stooping down; hiding to surprise me when I finally opened the door. What a great surprise!!!! I would have never guessed they would have driven out to surprise me.
We had so much fun making jewelry, going to the lake and then of course we took Kaitlyn to Circus Circus. What a great weekend .... Thanks guys!!!

May Classes

2009-04-30T16:49:00.001-07:00

Susan Boyle ... wished I could sing like her

2009-04-15T13:14:00.000-07:00

I was watching the news last night and they were talking about a 47 year old woman by the name of Susan Boyle who
was on the British show, Britian's got talent. It is basically the same show we get here called America's got talent.
When this woman walked on stage and started talking to Simon everyone was laughing at her, the way she talked, the
things she said and yes ... the way she looked but ..... this woman can sing. Go to Utube and type in her name
Susan Boyle and watch her performance ..... she is an amazing singer. Utube has it set up so the clip can't be downloaded.

Check this out.

2009-04-13T14:56:00.001-07:00

Turn off my juke box on the right hand side of my blog and watch this amazing video.

For all the crafty ones .... I dedicate this to you!

2009-04-09T18:52:00.000-07:00

Turn off the juke box on the right hand side before play this video and sit back and get ready to laugh!

Aloha

2009-04-02T13:38:00.000-07:00

Last week our 12 year old Grandson Oliver was here visiting from Hawaii. Oliver and grandpa went Kayaking at Meade last week and worked hard the next few days planting a vegetable garden in the back yard.

April Classes

2009-03-30T15:26:00.001-07:00

March Madness

2009-03-26T10:53:00.000-07:00

I feel so lucky to have a job I absolutely love and to be able to provide a safe, fun place where people can come together, be themselves and to create beautiful jewelry. Yesterday was open bead day and we also celebrated 3 birthdays (they were feeling very ROYAL ... check out the headwear they brought with them). We had a total of 15 ladies show up to work on projects and to help these ladies celebrate the beginning of another great year...... happy birthday to Jackie, Pat & Colleen.

Empty Bowls

2009-03-21T15:42:00.000-07:00

Today was the 9th annual Empty Bowls charity event held in Henderson. What a great idea this is ... art students/clay artists from Las Vegas work hard to throw thousands of ceramic bowls. This event is open to the public, this was my first year to go and I can tell you it won't be my last time. You first walk into the room where 6 foot tables are in a line with hundreds of beautiful hand made bowls. You can pick as many as you like, each bowl is $12.00 then you take your empty bowl to the soup line where you have your choice of homemade soup and bread. This event also had a silent auction and a live auction and all the money goes to the Catholic Charity for the soup kitchen to feed the homeless here in Las Vegas. Thanks Tanya for telling me about this event!!

Got A Wig Jig and don't know how to use it???

2009-03-18T19:06:00.000-07:00

Girls night out

2009-03-14T09:03:00.001-07:00

Last night some of the girls and I went out dancing and had a blast.
Peter Jung dropped in to help us out with this one. Thanks Peter

Try JibJab Sendables® eCards today!

Ireland

2009-03-05T16:41:00.001-08:00

Greg and I had an opportunity to go to Dublin Ireland when we lived overseas and just fell in love with it. It is so green and everywhere you look you would think .... I have seen that postcard. The people are warm and friendly and it is a trip I will never forget. Eva Cassidy has a beautiful voice and in celebration of St. Patricks day this month I wanted to share it. Enjoy!!

GREAT FIND

2009-03-02T07:15:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I went to Bass Pro shop to try to find an alternative to the 8lb Power Pro since it is almost impossible to find anywhere on line anymore. I ran across the Stealth Camo Braid .... a really great find. It is the same braided line as the Power Pro but the nice thing is it is a blend of green, brown and tan color. I bought it in the 8lb and 10lb and brought it home to test out. I used the 8lb on a project I am currently working on .... It's really nice. I found the 8lb to be a bit thinner than that of the 8lb Power Pro but thicker than the 6lb. I think it might become my new favorite beading thread.

March Classes

2009-02-26T16:11:00.001-08:00

For Susan ..... Telluride

2009-02-19T16:32:00.000-08:00

I love this song by Tim McGraw and always think of my friend Susan who has a place in Telluride.
Wonder if she hobb knobs with the Cruises???

Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-14T07:37:00.000-08:00

Can YOU find the strength???

2009-02-05T09:08:00.000-08:00

Valentine Charm Exchange

2009-02-04T08:20:00.000-08:00

Last night was the group Valentine Charm Exchange and the theme was "Romance" The charms were just out of this world. Everyone one of them were done with so much thought and care. I love them all and all who made them. I made a special bracelet with Silver Art Clay with the word "CREATE" just for this charm exchange. A few of the charms were a little to big but I am in the process of making a charm necklace out of them. For a larger view; click on the picture.

Feb. Classes

2009-02-01T15:29:00.001-08:00

Portland Trip

2009-02-01T15:20:00.001-08:00

I am back from Portland and had a GREAT visit with my family. This is my niece, Peyton ... a beauty isn't she??
She has a little sister, Rylee ... what a doll!! and the family dog Rosco, I really wanted to bring Rosco home with me but Peyton wouldn't have it.
Peyton taught me how to play her dad's WII game ... what a hoot, I haven't laughed that hard for ever.
Peyton is so good at these games she put me to shame.

2009-01-23T07:45:00.000-08:00

Off to Portalnd Oregon tomorrow to spend time with my niece Erin and her family and my sister Dennie. My sister and I are going to play with the new Bronze Clay and take a class in hot & cold enameling on copper .... too much fun.
Just hope the snow will hold off while I am there.

Laughlin Rock and Gem Show

2009-01-17T14:50:00.000-08:00

Whew ..... where did the year go??? I just noticed that I have written anything since Christmas.
Well Greg's son Ben and his girlfriend were visiting from Hawaii and we took them to the Rock & Gem show in Laughlin.
It is the 5th year for the show and it is pretty good if you are into cutting and polishing your own rocks. The show is actually at the Avi Resort just about 10 min past the Laughlin strip.
If you get a chance get down there, the trip is an easy 1.5 hour drive.

January classes

2008-12-31T14:32:00.001-08:00

Double click on slide show for better viewing

CowGirl Christmas

2008-12-22T09:08:00.000-08:00

Our Son and his family were here visiting this weekend and Grandma couldn't resist the pink boots and hat and yes... a pink pony that we left home.

Let It Snow ... Let It Snow.... Let it Snow

2008-12-18T16:18:00.001-08:00

Christmas Exchange 2008

2008-12-16T14:32:00.001-08:00

Colleen's Angels

2008-12-15T15:52:00.000-08:00

What a blast we had in class today, I just had to share some of angels that were made .... great job "Angels"!!

Christmas Exchange -2008

2008-12-14T18:43:00.000-08:00

Saturday was the 2008 Christmas Exchange. Everyone did an outstanding job on all
the hand made gifts. I was lucky enough to get 3 beautiful soldered pieces from Ronna.
Thank you Ronna, I love them and will treasure them.

A Great Big "Thanks" to Margaret and Peter for opening up their BEAUTIFUL .... did I
say BEAUTIFUL???? home to all us crazy girls. The lunch was outstanding and you
just can't find better help than the "house boy" that day. Hey do you rent him out???

Thanks again you two.

Merry Christmas

2008-12-04T19:26:00.000-08:00

Send your own ElfYourself eCards

Kaitlyn shopping

2008-12-01T19:41:00.001-08:00

I just had to give equal time to my granddaughter Kaitlyn, this was her big shopping day outing .

The Newest Jeweler in the Family

2008-12-01T13:44:00.000-08:00

Our newest Jeweler in the family. Kaleb was hard at work .... he made 6 projects and his mom made 3

Thanksgiving Kayaking

2008-12-01T08:01:00.000-08:00

Our grandson Kaleb went for his first solo kayaking trip with his "Granddad" over Thanksgiving

Dec. Classes

2008-11-25T17:42:00.001-08:00

Bead Show

2008-11-11T16:59:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder about the Bead Show in December at Cashman Field. Click on the Image to get the details on dates and times.
Hope to see you all there.

November 08 Classes

2008-11-02T07:48:00.001-08:00

Happy Halloween

2008-10-30T12:57:00.001-07:00

I just couldn't resist showing off this picture of my two youngest grandchildren.
Click on the photo to see a larger view.

Rings & Things Bead Show

2008-10-21T16:40:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to remind everyone about the Bead Show this Friday
that is coming to town. It is a wholesale show but I have tickets
to get you in this year and then next year they will send your invitation
directly to you. If you need a ticket contact me, I have a few left.

Happy Beading

Bead Healthy Hands

2008-10-11T11:14:00.000-07:00

Most people who work and play with their hands have encountered some pain or problems. Join me Saturday, Nov 1st, with our guest speaker Anne Einsohn; a occupational therapist for 35 years & certified hand therapist of 16 years, for a fun and informational gathering to keep your hands bead happy. She will review basic structure of the hand, common problems frequently experienced by beaders, and ways you can keep your hands comfortable, limber, and strong. Anne will try to address any hand-related questions or concerns you may have. I hope we can share techniques and tools for using our hands more easily.
Space is limited, contact Colleen to sign up today!!
Turn you speakers up and enjoy the show .... our hands are truly amazing!!!

Thank You All

2008-10-03T17:21:00.000-07:00

So, last week was my birthday and boy did I get spoiled.
You all did so much for me and I thank you.
For the massage,(can't wait to get it )thank you Jackie & Pat K.
For the manicure & pedicure & bottle of wine & cute Rizzo wine cork; thank you Pat S.
For the music, movies & Starbucks .... thanks Margaret,Peter,Jeane & Sharon
For the great bracelet manderals, thank you Jerry, Colleen, Debbie & June.
For the cute initial necklace and candle and hand painted pansy vase: Thank you Ronna
For the beautiful beaded letter opener and yummy cake; thank you Susan
For all the wonderful stones to make new stuff; thank you Betty
For the beautiful bag that I know took hours & hours of hard work; thank you Caroline
For the "Love" earrings .... thank you again Jackie
For the new inspiration, Silver Art Clay book and note cards; thank you Amanda
and for my new Quick Change handpiece and drill press; thank you Greg
For one of the best BB'Q lunches I have ever had ... thank you Pat S. for bringing everyone lunch
and last but not least .... thanks Colleen for the super yummy Texas Sheet Cake
I know if my cousin could have fit it in her luggage she would have taken it home.

Oct. Classes - Click on Image for a closer look

2008-09-28T19:49:00.001-07:00

New Silver Vendor

2008-09-27T15:28:00.001-07:00

I found a pretty good vendor for silver clasps and thought I would share it with everyone.
They have no min. and are selling wholesale to anyone. I ordered several pieces last week
to check them out as far as shipping and my ordered arrived in less than a week.

Try them out, I have added them to my favorite vendor list on the right side of the blog.
just scroll down and click on it:
silverenchantments.com

Mini Vacation

2008-09-15T13:15:00.000-07:00

Greg and I took our annual mini vacation to St. George Utah this weekend. It is such a beautiful place, if you haven't gone yet I strongly recommend that you do. We always book tickets to the local theater Tuacahn, it is a great outdoor venue where the red mountains are used as part of the back drop for the plays.

We saw Big River Friday night and then saw Le Misarables on Saturday night, both shows were great.

We also took our folding bikes that we bought about 10 years ago in London and took a couple of nice bike rides. We always get funny looks and questions about our bikes so I thought I would share them with you. They fold up to just about the size of the wheel and fit into a regular size suitcase.

Very cool, click on the photo for a closer look.

Great Deals

2008-09-02T14:55:00.000-07:00

Do you like to try new restaurants and want a good value as well???
I found this site on the Internet that I wanted to share with you.

Click on the link below

Resturants.com

I bought $80.00 worth of gift certificates to our local resturants and only paid $9.30

Normally the gift certificates run $3-$10 but with a labor day sale they were under $2.

What a Deal!!!

The Pat-Nap Caper

2008-08-29T08:56:00.001-07:00

Last night Jackie and I kidnapped Pat K. for an early birthday outing. Pat had told me months ago that she had never seen a play ... well that is all it took for me to get the heist underway.
I picked Pat up and drove her to Sam's Town where she thought we might be playing Bingo and having dinner .... but noooo,
we waited at the Shuttle bus stop when just seconds later the "Creative Cat Mobil" picked us up. Jackie's husband charlie was driving us down to the strip to drop us off at the beautiful Venetian Hotel/Casino. We had dinner and I had to sneak away to pick up our tickets for The Phantom Of The Opera. It was wonderful!!! I think we really surprised Pat and we all enjoyed the show, we all left there humming the music of the night. Took a wild taxi ride back to Sam's Town to pick up my car to get us home.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY PAT ... WE LOVE YOU.

September Classes

2008-08-27T21:48:00.001-07:00

I Win .... AGAIN

2008-08-15T14:23:00.000-07:00

Today Jackie, Pat K. and I went to the Big Bingo room again, I wore my lucky necklace
"Ask, Receive,Believe .... and Jackie made me this great lucky Bingo bracelet ..... don't know
which one is responsible this time but ..... $50.00 richer again....
Thanks Jackie