Tag Archives: one-woman-show

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Updates and Such

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Hello Lovers of Lovlies and Learning!

I do realize that it seems to take forever between Blog Posts. On average, I am teaching twice a week and have pretties to make, my stores to tend to and other business affairs to handle and as we know… I am a one woman show.  I love you all, I promise :)

I did update my calendar this morning with new dates . . . check it!

Newsletter notes:  I took last week off.  I didn’t mean to take the entire week off from all things Magyk . . . but then there were tax *things* . . . and I’ll just say that I am glad that it’s over for the time being.

Question of the week: ”Since PMC is torch fired (generally) can bottleglass be used as a gem stone? Specifically, sea tumbled beachglass of which I have buckets. I know that its melting point is fairly low if the piece is of an older vintage that’s why you could throw an old Coke bottle in a fire ring at the beach and end up with a slumpy blob.  Anyway, I have some small gem sized bits that have been tumbled so much they look like gems themselves- spectacular. – Jen F.

Answer: Dear Jen (and others thinking about this idea), Please do not torch fire glass. You are right when you indicate that glass has a low melting point, and more importantly a low heat tolerance and fracture point. It can sit in a bonfire and melt because it is contained in the heat. Glass generally shatters when hit with high heat and exposed to cooler temps, which is what occurs when doing any torch firing. That’s called ‘thermal shock’. Anytime we metal clay artists use glass/ceramic in our work, it is recommended that we kiln fire. So – check out a bead store or glass store in your area and see if they have a kiln and will fire your work for you. If you don’t have luck with that, bring your work to me and I will kiln fire it for you. Be aware that in my recent test firing of beach glass, it changed color . . . from a lovely sea foam green to yellow. I will be test firing again, to see if a lower temp might prevent this, however, I fired at 1170, which is lower than traditional firing.  I will keep you all posted and if you want me to kiln fire for you, know that there are never guarantees.

Have a question about metal clay/firing/gems/making things?  E-Ask me and it will go in next weeks newsletter.  If I don’t know the answer, I will also find it and provide the resource where I got it. Thank you Jen for being the first to jump in! You may also submit a joke :)

Metal Clay Learnin’

Sunday, April 28 - AT CRAFTED – 3p to 6pm •  The mini-intro class is $70 and includes 3 hours of instruction and play time, 18 grams of clay, assorted clay supplies, a gemstone, a take-home sheet and loaner tools. You will walk away with a finished piece, your left-over clay and resources to purchase more supplies. I also offer ‘lifetime’ tutoring and a money-back guarantee. Follow my directives and if you hate your experience when it is over, I am happy to give you, your class fee back.  You can even keep your left-over clay.

Registration closes Sunday – April 21 at 6pm.  Use the link below to make payment and you are registered! I will confirm for all registrants as I receive notice from PayPal:

https://www.paypal.com/cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_s-xclick&hosted_button_id=4LXHS67CYMT56

What people have said about classes:

“This was sooooo much fun!” -Rain C.

“I can’t believe I created a piece of jewelry!” – Xaver P.

“OH MY GOODNESS! Look what I did!” -Deb F.

“This was really fun and I look forward to more classes!” -Esther Y.

“Delia has a great personality that makes learning fun.” -Iris S.

“I felt like I was taught by a real expert.” – Dawn S.

Coming Up in other locations:

• Mark The Date  PMC Certification – Level 1 - June 8 & 9 in Long Beach.  In two days we create 4 pieces covering many skills.  More in-depth forming, stone setting, ring making, bead making, carving, syringe work and more.  After you complete all the projects, you’ll be tired, excited and Certified as an Artisan.  This makes you a big deal and able to qualify at many metal clay suppliers for a discount on materials :) It is not for the faint of heart and it is expensive, however, since I have done all three Level Certifications, I can say it was worth every penny. Go here to see sample projects, a full class description and to register: http://bit.ly/YSxcbT

• In May, I’ll be teaching a four week Introduction-Intermediate Metal Clay Class at Glendale College – there are 8 spots open. We will cover A LOT in 4 weeks.  Go here: http://bit.ly/14OcNtL

Joke:  “What was T-Rex’s favorite number?”

“ATE!”

Be well . . . 

crane

It’s Been A Roller Coaster Ride!

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******CAUTION: vulnerability here ******

Top Five DON’TS
. . . when someone reaches out for financial help.

5) Ignore them altogether.  It’s OK to say  “I cannot contribute, AND I am pulling for ya.” The person reaching out could probably use those words of encouragement.

4) Judge them harshly. For whatever the reason, the person is in a situation where they need financial support.  It’s OK to ask for more information to inform your decision – don’t assume you really know the whole story and I suggest you ask privately.

3) Share your judgment . . . ever . . . privately or publicly with the person making the request. These requests are not up for public debate and conversation of the social implications.  It’s OK to ignore them if you are judging them harshly – keep it to yourself.  You have NO idea how difficult it may have been for the person to ask for such support.

2) Rebuff the gift. If someone has offered a gift in exchange for your contribution, please consider accepting it. It is the path of their integrity. It’s also OK to allow them more time to create and deliver the gift :)

1) Any of the above . . . can create . . . a sorta cloud o’ ick  floating around in the ‘verse.

Yup, I started with a bunch of don’ts.  Just sayin’ . . . it’s another perspective. I blame no one for my responses, btw. Anyone that knows me, knows that I understand that how I think, affects how I feel :) The negativity was pretty self-inflicted.

The “Don’ts” are as much for me, as they are for anyone that they might resonate for. It is about how I want to create my future relationships.

In the last few weeks, I have experienced a WIDE range of emotions. From shame and isolation and all things in between that, to EXTREME gratitude and a warm-blanky-feeling of love from those that have understood this effort and made a contribution. What a roller coaster ride. I feel a little rough around the edges right now.

Contributions have also come in other forms . . . moral support; sharing the campaign; a purchase from my Etsy store; fixes to my website; reviews of what I am about to post; a word of good cheer; cards; flowers; hugs . . . every little bit has been heartwarming to say the least.

This was a difficult request to make – of people I know, as well as people who are ‘strangers’ – and community, as I see it, and how this panned out, is a WHOLE ‘nother blog post :)

It took two weeks for me to actually make the request. It took another week for me to feel brave enough to share anything about it to my email list.

Money is energy.  Money is a means of exchange.  It is how I keep the lights on, gas in my car, eat food, feed the girlie, pay bills, feed my animals . . . stay in business with new product and materials for teaching AND keep my daughter in a school she has been in for 11 years.

I have ultimately worked something out – I am determined and creative like that.  Devyn will stay in her school, five people will get fairies and a bunch o’ people will get cranes and poppies, (no one wanted a Magyk charm – watz up with that?).

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU . . . for all that you gave, all that I learned from this and mostly for the wealth of closer relationships we have created because I was willing to stand before you in the ‘emperor’s new clothes’ and you greeted me and put a blanket around me.

Thank you for contributing, giving me time on gifts, sharing the postings and demonstrating your love for me and my girl and extraordinary compassion for the circumstance I have created.

Enjoy the cranes and the poppies . Know that these are pieces of meaning . . . adornment of value.  Devyn and I are both proud that you own one – or will own one :)

For those that ignored/judged/were soooooo uncomfortable by the request . . . be well and be happy.  Know that it is likely that I have been where you are and if you ever made such a request and I did not respond, I am truly sorry.  I now know how it feels. I am sorry, that you were made to feel uncomfortable.  It was not my intent.

Energy exchanged is valuable to everyone . . . left unattended it just creates more chaos/white noise in the ‘verse.

Thank you  – again, and again, and again . . . to everyone.

Much love and light,
Delia

Oh GOODNESS

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It’s been a while . . . again! If you are following my blog and you REALLY wanna know what I am up to, I encourage you to “Like” my Facebook page ‘Phoenix Magyk’. You’ll see a link to the right. I update teaching happenings and store happenings, regularly.

I will say there is a post in the works . . . introducing you to a new piece :)

All my best,
Delia

freeparking

Awesomesauceness At The Crafted ‘House’

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• FREE PARKING!  ALL THREE DAYS! that’s a real squeeeeable moment in my book.

• San Pedro’s Taste of the Holidays – this Sunday, November 18 from 6 – 8:30 p.m.
The Chamber of Commerce is hosting their Taste of the Holidays at CRAFTED!  We will be open late until 8-8:30ish.  There will be limited tickets available at the door, and you could always give it a shot. :) Tickets are $40 for non-members… tell ‘em I sent ya *wink* Go HERE: San Pedro Chamber site to get tickets in advance.  I feel certain the Chamber won’t mind and if these extended hours are good for you, come!  Support the Chamber, Crafted and have good food and vino and shop on a Friday evening.

• Small Business Saturday – NOVEMBER 24 – ALL DAY
www.craftedportla.com/sbs
Between Black Friday and Cyber Monday is Small Business Saturday, a day for eco- and socially-conscious holiday shopping in support of the small, local businesses like us, that are the engines of the nation’s economy.  We represent more than 100 local, independent artisans under one roof, with the perfect gifts for absolutely anyone! The Phoenix Magyk store will be *closed* on Friday 11/23.  Clay Magyk will be open and managed by Laura Moore of Billy’s A Bad Kitty, one of the great artists that shares her work.  I will be there Saturday and Sunday 11/24

There are more great things coming!  Stay Tuned.

freeparkingfreeparkingfreeparkingfreeparking!

 

top10

Top 10 of Things

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I am a Dave Letterman fan.  I don’t generally go to bed until I’ve seen the top ten for the evening :)   So inspired I was by the segment, one day I sat down and created a Top Ten Reasons to take a Metal Clay Arts Class:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

So you can probably guess?  I’ve come up with a new one for your consideration:

Top 10 Reasons to Buy Handcrafted Goodness

10) You love handmade goods.

9) Your item is unique and not mass-manufactured.

8) You were able to have a relaxed buying experience.

7) Handmade everything can be customized to you – ask your artist!

6) Your purchase is cooler than anything you’ve seen in a “big box” store

5) Your gift to yourself or someone else will last much longer!

4) Your purchase allowed the artist to buy something *they* needed.

3) You can tell you friends/loved ones that the item you bought was handcrafted.

2) Your purchase is “go green” with little or no waste on the part of the artist.

1) You made a new friend in the artist you purchased from.  They know more about what you like and need and you can order from them FOREVER!

This is still a ‘work in progress’.  Your feedback would be appreciated :)

My shop and home are full of handcrafted beauty that I use everyday.  My tools are stowed in artisan created pottery.  I buy T-shirts for myself and my daughter that are crafted by artisans I know. I have an extensive collection of jewelry and pins that are made by artists.

My top reason for buying handmade is knowing the difference it makes in the life of the artist I have purchased from AND I own beautiful art!  I relate to the idea of this being one’s ‘chosen career’ and what sort of challenges we face.

So as we head into holiday shopping “season” – give a pause – consider the advantages of buying handmade. Consider the experience of shopping in a space like Crafted at the Port of Los Angeles or a local arts fair versus a mall *gasp*. I’d appreciate it if you bought handmade and I know ALL the other artists in the world would appreciate it too!

Be well!

Go make something!

Go find something handcrafted!

Alejandro The Mouse - riding in his automobile

The Adventures of This Mad-Artist

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Not angry, – “mad” as in slightly nuts.  However in my own defense, I would say that my eccentricity makes me all the more a better artist – LOL – right?

My car suffered a near fatal fail last week on the way home from my Crafted stores . . . Friday night . . . on the freeway! To say the least it was anxiety producing.

The adventure was really kinda funny – at first.  I had a passenger, which made it a lot less stressful.  I was in contact with my mechanic, which made it a lot less stressful.

After stopping in various parts of LA about 8 times, to allow the car to calm itself and try again for the journey home – when I reached a safe place to land – I cried.

I didn’t cry because I felt helpless, or scared that I was going to get us both killed OR that my car was broken and in the mad rush of my mind, I was thinking “how am I gonna pay for THIS?!”  No, I cried because the highway patrol officer scared the hell out of me when he yelled at me through his speaker – for the WHOLE WORLD TO HEAR.

On the last leg of the journey to get the car off the freeway, I was on the phone with the mechanic, and trying to get a hold of a tow-truck driver.  Out of no where, there is a bright light shinning in the car. I realize there is a helicopter overhead and clearly it’s a police one.  The mechanic says, “What’s that?” I say, “A helicopter”, he says “Get off the freeway!”.

So I start the car, have my friend make the call to our ride, that we are getting off the freeway, and in my rear view, I see the lights.  At this point, I realize something BAD must be happening. At a medium rate of speed, there is a HP cruiser weaving about the freeway lanes…ya know, like a traffic break.  I am on the shoulder, doing about 20mph, JUST trying to get to the next exit.  He stops, I keep plugging along, he YELLS “STOP”!  I stop.  He pronounces that I must stay 300 ft. behind the flashing lights, so I start to back up.  He YELLS again “STOP!” and THEN he says “Think about the other people, IT’S NOT ALL ABOUT YOU!”

At this point, I am feeling well beyond anxious and I’ve already had a convo with the ‘verse about “what are you telling me? Oh I know, get the car looked at sooner rather than later.”

He moves on, I wait and then plug along to the next off ramp. Of course civilization was to the left, not the right.

We make it to a gas station.  I think I just parked in the middle of a gas lane.  Our ride arrives – my estranged husband – I open the car door and out I pour in a flood of tears.  “What did he meeeeeeean, ‘It’s not all about you’.  I am thinking of other people, I’m thinking of the passenger I’ve been entrusted with and getting her home (the daughter of a dear friend), and I’m thinking about MY daughter who is home alone, waiting for me and hungry . . . I’m already racing with ‘how will I get her to school’ . . . I’m thinking about the customer I am spose to meet with on Saturday and how inconvenient it will be if she comes in and I am not there and ‘OH goodness, where is her number?’

My friend got home, my daughter got food.  At 10:45 I had no ride for the next morning. At 11:00, I had two rides. By Saturday afternoon I’d managed rides, to and from Skirball for my class on Sunday.

By Monday afternoon, I managed to get to the grocery store, the bank, and get my daughter to and from school all three days.  Monday was a school holiday – thank Zeus!

I have since decided that the YELL on the part of the highway patrol mean-man – was kinda cool.

So why share all this? To say out loud, how incredibly grateful I am for the folk I have in my life.

Many thanks to Suzanne Colucci – getting me to and from Crafted on Saturday; Adrienne Spellman – offering to come from Perris to get me to Crafted; Kristen Gluckman – being a ride ‘broker’ and loading me up to get me home from Skirball (from Santa Monica), Robin Foley – getting me TO Skirball, helping me unload and getting me coffee and breakfast; Pam Raymer-Lea – getting me to the bank, grocery store and post office; Blake Traister – coming to pick Emily and I up and giving me a hug, even though; Les Bohem, Mandy Boesche, Wendi Mittleman – getting Devon to and from school.  Special thanks to Dr. “Hercules” Steve – fixing the Pegasus Two; and Emily Hannah for being the bravest and most patient passenger EVER!  I love you all very much!  Thank you for your generosity and going above and beyond for a friend!

What does any of this have to do with teaching or things I make – A BUNCH!

It’s challenge enough to consider how I will accomplish some tasks in my life without a car.  Holy cow, I have walked out the door three times to go buy polishing pads… and DOH!  Not having a car messes with my rituals a great deal.  Add to that, reaching out, asking for help and needing to rely on others for their support – SUPER SCARY. Yet without that support, I would not have been able to be present for a customer on Saturday or teach on Sunday and Zeus knows, a week home with the girlie would have been unpleasant :) .

And more good news – I have been so diligent about remaining centered in the face of all events – there hasn’t been quite the buuuuzzzzzz of anxiety across my shoulders – as there used to be :) .

Not driving Devon to and from school has given me a whole extra hour in my day – although I miss it a little.

I’ve saved money on gas!

I’ve had the opportunity to really talk with friends that I don’t get to, in the hubbub of day to day!

I’ve had time to do more work this week and you just know  it is infused with the energy of gratitude and awareness.

A year ago, I might have declared this to be the ‘worse week EVER’. Today, I would declare this week, a SPLENDID one! It’s all good at the Phoenix Magyk desk.

Now – take a moment to think about what is good in your world, and GO MAKE SOMETHING! And if you haven’t seen these new rings, come see ‘em at Crafted this weekend! The first image is Alejandro the Mouse, here is his story:

The other image is of Reversal of Fortune.  Having grown weary of the chase, Max the Mouse created this clever cage for Caldwell the Cat. Max is quite clever and strong considering his small stature.

There are also new vessels that I finished last week and two more on the bench to be fired this afternoon.  As things are working out, the car will be ready in time for me to get to Otis.  We’re playing with hollow forms and glass tonight!

Much love and peace,

Delia

 

LifeF

OH HAI!

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I know, I know!  It’s been a bit of time since I made a “real” blog post.

Honestly, I’d like to have the habit of a weekly blog post fully in place. However, we can see, that I am sometimes time-challenged.  I do update Facebook daily, so if you want to track what’s happening “Like” my Facebook page.  For every 10 “Likes” I am giving away a “Magyk” charm.

So I split the post up, so you can decide which interests you more!

ALL ABOUT TEACHING  *click here*

ALL ABOUT THE STORES *click here*

 

teaching

All About Teaching!

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I am a metal clay arts instructor.

What is metal clay?  In brief, it is fine metal particles, combined with an organic clay binder.  This material can be handled like modeling clay and you can create anything you want. After it is dry, you fire it in a kiln or with a torch, and VOILA! A creation of your desire.

I am a Level 3 Certified Artisan through PMC Connection and a Level 1 Certification Instructor. I’ve been teaching since 2008 and I love that part of my life.

The summer is over (although it remains hot).  My experiences at teaching venues, was as varied as the artists I had the privilege to teach.  I learned a great deal and had a great time.

My fall teaching schedule is in full swing until mid-December.  I am teaching week 4 at Otis College tomorrow night. I had a cancellation at Glendale for a 2 week advanced series.  “Secret Spaces” at Glendale is still open.

What is “Secret Spaces”?

Secret Spaces

Vessels hold, contain and protect treasures of all sorts.  In this three-part class you will learn how to use a unique armature for creating a container with a lift lid. Students will need to bring a votive candle.

We will talk about hinges and other kinds of vessels.

Go HERE to register.

I still have classes coming up.  Check out my calendar for the dates and locations.

At Crafted, if you don’t know, I have a mini-class almost every Sunday.  November classes will focus on holiday gift giving projects :) .  I am also excited for the possibility of a bigger class space.  While the demonstration are up by the front doors is more spacious, it is filled with people and my sense has been that it would be too ‘busy’.  The Crafted team has indicated that a classroom space is on the slate for Phase 2.

Here are some pictures of happy Artists that took a class at Crafted.

 

Jasmine

 

Shannon and Sue

 

 

 

 

Xavier

 

BuyHandmadeFehu

Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Sailor . . . Artist?

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This has been ringing in my head for a week or so.  There are several versions of this old rhyme:

“The most common modern version is:
Tinker, Tailor,
Soldier, Sailor,
Rich Man, Poor Man,
Beggar Man, Thief.[1]The most common American version is:
Rich Man, Poor Man,
Beggar Man, Thief,
Doctor, Lawyer, (or “Merchant”)
Indian Chief. [1]http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tinker,_Tailor

Yes, I’m a Wikipedia fan.  One can find some accurate information . . . and I digress a little.

Why? Because, really, I chose to be an artist.  Just like the person who chooses to be a “tinker” (whatever that is) or a tailor or a soldier or a sailor.  Being an artist is my chosen path.  I suppose it is especially resonant in light of the things I have heard, since announcing this choice.  Things like:

“Really?”
“Why not a real job?”
“Are you any good at that?”
“Perhaps you could get a part-time job in a jewelry store?”
“Have you thought about waitressing?”
“You’re so lucky that you get to ‘play’ all day?”

So, you guessed it, I feel compelled to answer:

YES!  Really!  Being an artist makes my heart sing on most days and my work IS my contribution to a more loving planet.

Just what exactly IS a “real job”? Do you have any idea what I do all day?

YES!  I am good at THIS. As most prominently evidenced by the sales I have made and the evaluations from the classes I teach.

No, [dad], I am not going to work in a jewelry store, for a number of reasons, top on the list is my unwillingness to support a system that sells over-priced, over-hyped, mass manufactured jewelry [not inclusive of small shops with artisans that hand create each piece].

Why yes, I’ve thought about waitressing, grocery clerking, secretarial work, and did work for a time at The Container Store.

I stopped my traditional, educational pursuits several times to be more available to my children and due to some financial constraints.  I have no formal degree and am thereby considered unemployable for higher pay positions.

I have physical issues that create challenges even in the work I do now, however, I have greater flexibility.

I raise a teenage daughter involved in school and dance, which means a fair amount of driving, and requires the flex-hours I have created with my work – sort of flex-hours :) .

I have been, in my lifetime, a secretary, a restaurant hostess, a waitress (that was kinda funny.  If you meet me, ask me about a full tray of six breakfasts, on top of six construction workers) and other assorted “jobs”. I’ve also been a manager and a preschool director.

I have a philosophy about making a living in this world: Do what you love and you will be a well-rounded, centered, happy human, AND the world will be a better place.

There is a great book called “The Element”, written by Ken Robinson, you can find it here: http://amzn.com/0670020478.  The essence of his book:

“The element is the point at which natural talent meets personal passion. When people arrive at the element, they feel most themselves and most inspired and achieve at their highest levels.”

He talks in the book about the people who LOVE math, science, writing, waitressing, teaching, grocery bagging – honest, there are people that love those things.  These are not always ‘the job I’m doing until something better comes along’ – this IS the something better! Ummm I hate math and honestly, if I had the physical stamina at 52 to stand all day, I might consider grocery bagging.  I do like organizing things.

So, I AM doing what I LOVE and what I am good at.

YES!  I am fortunate that have the opportunity to ‘play’ . . . practice and perfect my craft . . . make pretty things for you to have. That isn’t what I do all day in my busy town.

I have marketing to do, and inventory, and bookkeeping and planning, and driving AND I am a (virtually) single parent, so I am also, cooking and cleaning, and planning and marketing, and driving and bookkeeping :) .

None of that was a complaint, by the way.

It is what IT is and I have made my choices and overall I LOVE what I do.

Don’t get me wrong.  It’s not all love and roses and mega sales by any means. I feel challenged when someone steps into my booth and remarks solely about the lighting I have used, or the mirror I have or the sign on my wall, oh and the branches on the wall I use to hang my work. I appreciate that there are those that see the creativite that I am, in how I present myself.

There is the occasional “Oh you’re work is awesome!” which I fully appreciate also – honest. An even better demonstration of your appreciation of my work, would be if you bought it :) . LOL

So I’m gonna say it now.

This IS how I make a living.  The sales of my work is not only the means to make more, it is also the opportunity to call the repairman when the washer breaks, or the plumber when the drains are way past Drano help, or the pittance I pay to my sweet gardener (because my lawnmower got stolen); or the chance to pay off bills, the occasional movie, a trip to the hair dresser, a new leotard and tap shoes for my daughter, an occasional leg-up to my son, new pants (oh how I could use new pants), a new tire for the car and goodness me, an oil change . . . all of the same things that everyone else wants or needs in their lives with the income from the work that they do.

You’ve heard a lot about “Buy Handmade” I am sure (I’ve posted a lot).  There is a lot of prose out there that virtually beats up the potential customer.  I hope you don’t see what I have written, and have that impression.  I just want to make it clear:

THIS IS MY REAL JOB!

While some may resent me because I do what I love for a living . . . I would only ask – why aren’t you doing what you love?  Is there a way for you to work it out? Or somehow, are we all ‘sentenced’ by some invisible force to do things we don’t like, because that is what we are supposed to do. I think we all know people who are sooooooo unhappy – because they are not living the life they want to live.

I am not always happy . . . and that’s an inside job. I can tell you, that when I drive to the Port, the traffic never bothers me . . . it just is.  When I drive to the dentist, the traffic makes me CRAZY! Think about that a minute.

So I think I said all that to say, just like anyone that works any where, I am not independently wealthy and being an artist is my ‘job’.  For everyone that has said in the last three months “I  hope you make it” – I intend to – and could use your purchases to help me do that.

Oh and about my prices.  Some say they are high (they don’t buy) others say “I need to have this!” so they do.  My prices are my prices and they are based on the cost of materials and some labor . . . that labor of love.

When you see a price on a piece in my shop, please consider the following:  I am a one-woman-show, everything you see is made/assembled by me (there are no elves or underpaid workers).   While I do not make my own chains, jump rings or clasps . . . I DO create each ‘focal’.  I carefully consider what Chinese Chop seems it should be made and what stone should go with it and I roll out metal clay and create each Rune, Chop, Geometric piece . . . each shard of ceramic is picked from a collection I have of vintage cups, bowls and plates (the blue and white ones are “English Scenery” from Wood and Sons, circa 1950).  Each piece of dichroic glass is creatively considered. I think, I make, I sand and finish each piece. I might spend hours re-doing a patina until I feel it is just right with those beautiful teals and purples.

The pen casing you may have seen in my shop? That was created by me, and it took two days to get it “right”.  The mini-coffee cup . . . that was really a two-year process of love and care, joy and failure, frustration and completion.

The rings I make . . . oooooh . . . don’t get me started on the rings :) .  Not only do I create each whimsical ring, having considered it’s theme, the media I will add to it – but I see them as mini-sculptures AND I promise, if you take care of it, they won’t fall apart.  While they are not an everyday wearable ring, they ARE works of art with a story that you can enjoy and share . . . AND if something happens, I’ll do whatever I can to fix it for you.  Ask me the story behind each ring, they all have one.

So the next time you look at any handmade item, consider that someone spent maybe hours, maybe days to bring that to you. THIS IS a real job.

I am oh-so-grateful to share my passion with you all and I hope it brings you joy and for those that have purchased – Thank you!  And my car thanks you for it’s new shoe. And for those just able to admire . . . Thank you!

Stop by Crafted and say Hello!

All my best,

Delia

Now . . . Go make something . . . you know you want to!

courtesy of Ashley, Crafted Staffer :)

I Think My Phone Is Wine Soaked

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Friday night at Crafted, we had our Etsy Craft Party. Spearheaded by KC Sears, fellow shop owner -Make, Shop, Live - and carried forth by Crafted staff and BUNCH of vendor-volunteers who decorated . . . we had a fun-filled evening of make and takes, demonstrations, good food, great music, and awesome visitors. Check out Crafted’s site for pictures.

I’m not what I would consider a ‘crafty’ person. When I think of crafts, I think of the talented people that do awesome things with yarn and thread and paper and glue and tacks and things.  I tried knitting, crocheting and did needle point when I was a child. I don’t paint, I cannot draw worth a darn – just ask metal clay artists that have taken my classes – and frankly glitter and glue confound me.  I suppose if you consider my fine silver jewelry creations a craft, I fit in there somewhere. And I don’t mean that with any sense of arrogance. I really admire the people I know who can craft in that way.  My good friend Rain Hannah of Honey and Ollie spins her own yarn and is a genius at knitting and crocheting AND she can create a gemstone necklace like no one’s business. She is truly a well rounded artist, where as I consider myself a one trick pony.

A million years ago, I was the chairperson of an event at my children’s school.  It was called the World Market and it was a “crafty” event. Parents and children worked  for a couple of months making handmade goods to sell at the market. The highlight of preparations was “Craft Days” on the campus. One of those days was during school hours and each group of students was facilitated through a project.  These projects, no matter how well done (or not), were big sellers. The other Craft Days were done on the campus on a Saturday.  Encouraging widespread community involvement, we gathered at the campus and folk could sit at various stations and make a project.

Why I was EVER the chairperson of such an event, I will never know. I will tell you that I really panicked about Craft Days.  Most parents were savvy enough that for the in-school projects, we were all set.  One year, I actually came up with a good idea – decoupaged treasure boxes – it was a sticky mess, and the 5th and 6th graders had a good time. Me? I did have a good time and remained in fairly good spirits although I left there with paper and Modge Podge stuck to a good percentage of my body.

I chaired this event for three years.  After extraneous effort at knitting scarves and learning to decorate tiles for coasters, from the internet, I finally found a book.  This book of crafts was really my kinda book and I knew it the minute I saw the title: “The Big-Ass Book of Crafts”.  This book changed my life in numerous ways.

At the time it was a gift from the ‘verse that was sure to save me from glue.  I was able to share this book with fellow parents and spread the good cheer of 150 different kinds of projects, many of which contain NO glue and NO glitter – well there is glue . . . but NO GLITTER.

So I have my book and it was a great confidence builder for me.

I have since abandoned chairing any more events.  As my daughter heads into her 10th grade year and my son has graduated, I’ve done 17 years of events at this school, so I am taking an extended hiatus J  The book was tucked away until about two years ago.

I volunteered to create something for the previously aforementioned event and needed an idea.  I had been working as an artist for a while, however in my medium, I couldn’t figure out a donation that was cost effective for me.

I poured through the book and found something to do – I picked bath salts.  I got some help from a friend and we made several bottles.

In the process of sifting through the book, I was transfixed on several sections wherein the artist used Loteria cards/art to decorate things and make some really great works of art.

I cannot tell you the series of thoughts that occurred, however I can confirm that these sections of the book were the spark . . . yes, inspiration for the Loteria card pendants I now make.  Framed in fine silver, the tiny cards are resin set and the piece is hung on a sterling chain.

Now I realize this is all a very long back-story to why my phone is wine-soaked . . . and I’m getting to it.

Ok, so  . . . who is the ‘Dali Lama’ of crafting great art, that wrote this book?  Why, none other than Mark Montano. AND who showed up at Crafted on Friday night for the Etsy party? Why, none other than Mark Montano! And this brings me to wine on my phone . . .

So, I go to get a glass of wine and as I am walking back to my store, I catch a glimpse of Mr. Montano in what apparently is our ‘green room’. He is tucked away, pawing through his goodie bag in what will be the phase two warehouse.  I see him, I stop and I’m all freaking’ giddy . . . I peak, I stare, I watch.  Good friend Amy Steelman of Dogwood and Poppy, says “Go introduce yourself!” I shake my head . . . she says “Just go in there and say hi!”.  The thought of which prompts me to back up quickly, as I fear her shouting has been overheard and in doing so, I spill wine down my arm and on my phone.

I dash to my store to clean off my hand and consider the foolishness of my giddiness.

About ½ later, I had decided that I would in fact do a demonstration and I am headed to Wood Brain and Meriebabie  to find out when they will be doing make and takes and as I am marching through the warehouse, I round the corner and near knock him over . . . stop dead and mutter something like . . . “oh it’s you” to which he politely replies, “yes, it is me”.  I turned and ran.

Thinking they would be touring our isle any second, I grab my copy of “The Big-Ass Book of Crafts” and my sharpie pen and look at my friend Shirley and say, “He’s coming this way!”.  She laughed at me. I peak out of my stall just in time to realize they are NOT in fact coming this way, so I grab what little self-respect I have left and march over there with my book and pen and in the most timid voice I have ever heard come out of my mouth, squeak “Mr. Montano, will you sign my book?”.  When he asked me my name, I forgot for a second.  He graciously inscribed my book and I was able to mumble the impact his art had on my life and work and to share one of my Loteria pendants with him.

I SQEEEEEEEE back to my store.  I then do the best demonstration I’ve ever done.  Shirley takes pictures, Kristen stops by, the area was full of people! What a fun night . . . .could it get any better?

Why, yes, it could.

I realize I am starving.  I head to the food truck and they are sold out. As I walk back into the building, I see Mr. Montano doing photo ops and trying to shoo away would-be makers at his table. I say, “You just have to run!” and literally grab this man by the arm and drag him off to my booth.  As we are skittering away, I say, “so what do you know about metal clay?” he says “I’ve heard of it, but haven’t tried it” So I say, “lemme give you a pack and some tools to play with and loan you a book and let’s get together for a play date . . .”  Wait, did I just invite myself into Mark Montano’s life for a play date??????? Why yes, my silly self did exactly that!

I had the chance to share my work and explain (ad nauseum, I’m sure), about what an impact his book had made on my life and he posed for a pic with me and expressed an interest in taking a class and wanted to know if I had written a book yet and also shared the name of an artist I should look up.

I chatted with this extraordinary man as if I had known him for years.  He was delightful and inspiring just in his presence.

I turned around and with the help of my friend Shirley, sold 4 custom bracelets. They were the only things I had sold all day, so it was pretty squeeeee. Hello Dash & Dine of San Pedro.

I also saw my friend Ali Zeno, who shared her delightful story of meeting a famous driver and asking him to sign her “ass pad”.  This story made me laugh all night every time I thought of it, and made her husband shake his head in much the same way as he did during the original event.

Also among fabulous things happening, meeting a fine art jeweler that called my coffee cup a “masterpiece”!  I’m still a little stunned. Gary from McCloud Ringworks in Ports O’ Call, called my fine silver coffee cup a “masterpiece”.  I was SUPER touched, proud and excited

My night was complete.  I met Mark Montano, got his autograph in  “The Big-Ass Book of Crafts”, got a picture with him, sold something, had a little wine, shared great laughs with great friends . . . met a ton of new friends and now know that I am a maker of a “masterpiece” :)

Crafted . . . it’s kinda my life now :)

pics to come