It’s taken me a while to get around to this, but I wanted to share with you a commissioned piece I’m particularly proud of.  When my client, Kristin, approached me about making a keepsake necklace for her daughter’s 21^st birthday, I was thrilled and flattered to be chosen to work on such a wonderfully heartfelt and sentimental project.  Once the reality of what I needed to do set in, I have to admit I freaked out just a little bit!

This piece entailed incorporating over 30 different pieces from various family members, which included a watch, a ring, various pins, pendants, charms, and even a pair of pink Barbie glasses.  The materials ranged from plastic and pot metal to sterling silver and 14 karat gold, and represented many different decades.  My challenge was to create an aesthetically pleasing necklace that wasn’t tacky or overly clunky.  I realized right away that I would need to engineer a waterfall necklace, something with which I had no previous experience – but since I’m always up for a challenge, I tackled it head on.

After figuring out the chain structure (which ended up being three tiers), I set about preparing all the materials for inclusion in the necklace.  This meant clipping off hardware, filing and smoothing, wire wrapping, drilling and cementing.  Once the prep work was finished, I laid out the anchor pieces and started assembly.  Once that process started, the work flew along.  My biggest regret is that I didn’t get pictures as I went along.  I was so engrossed in what I was doing that it only occurred to me afterwards!

Kristin presented the necklace to her daughter on her birthday, accompanied by a scrapbook featuring pictures of each of the individual components along with a story from each contributing family member as to the piece they’d contributed.  I thought this was such an inspired and sweet idea.

I’m so glad to share pictures of the necklace, along with a picture of the lovely recipient happily showing off her birthday present.  I feel so honored to have been a part of this project!

Kristin was kind and gracious enough to provide this testimonial:  “I couldn’t be happier with the beautiful and one-of-a-kind treasure in honor of my daughter’s 21st birthday!  After collecting jewelry mementos from a variety of friends and family, I met with Amy to discuss potential design, materials, etc. Amy listened carefully, took great interest in the project, and ultimately designed a necklace that showed her heartfelt dedication to making this piece something my daughter would hold close to her heart forever.  We absolutely love what Amy created and will be finding more pieces and projects for her to creatively and beautifully assemble!”  Thank you for the opportunity, Kristin!  I look forward to working with you again soon.

Yikes.  It’s been a year since I last updated this thing.  Hard to believe, and at the same time not so much.  You know how it goes.  You have the best of intentions, and yet it doesn’t happen.  I hope you will forgive my absence.

So, what’s happened in the meantime?  A whole cavalcade of stuff, some good and some bad.  In the interest of brevity I’ll put aside the bad and focus on the good stuff.  Last year was the year of new shows and ventures to complement some (relatively) old favorites.  What might those be, you ask?  Well, let me share some with you!

Inside the Vault Textile Tours at the Center for Sacramento History
What a fun time!  We had a great crowd in fascinating surroundings, with vintage vendors representing many decades of fashion.  I had great neighbors and lively conversation with some very savvy folks.  In addition, it was awesome getting to see some of the beautiful shoes from the Center’s archives.  I’d love to be a part of their history again.

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Meet Your Maker: A Mini Festival of Bay Area Cultural Innovators
There were some unfortunate logistical issues with this show, but I really enjoyed getting to network and share with some amazing Bay Area artists, and I really appreciated the chance to widen my horizons.  The Bay Area was my first home and always calls to me, so there will be more shows there to come!

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Fall Gypsy Fair at the White Barn – Lincoln

What a blast!  One of the best shows in the area, in a truly gorgeous setting.  Though it was my first time doing this show, my hostess (Gypsy Chic) and fellow vendors couldn’t have been more friendly and welcoming.  There was such a great crowd, and we were extremely lucky that the rain narrowly missed our area, keeping our outdoor setup dry and relatively sunny.  I’m looking forward to this year’s edition!

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Blue Line Arts Holiday Show – Roseville

This show represented such an amazing group of artists, and I’m really glad to have been included.  Some folks I knew from other shows and ventures, but many of them were artists whose art I had previously admired but had never worked with.  It was a pleasure getting to know these wonderfully talented and funny people, and I hope to see them again soon.

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Handmade Holiday Popup – K Street Collective

One of my favorite shows of 2014 was hosted by Rosaura Unangst of Pigment & Parchment, whose hand-lettered work is so fabulous!  I was once again surrounded by amazing local artists who represent the best of what Sacramento has to offer – great talent and even greater hearts.  It’s so much fun to be part of a show that doesn’t feel like work!

Special bonus?  My sweet husband bought me this fantastic painting by Sacramento artist Jim Shepherd that I had been eyeing all day!

Though this was an impromptu show in a temporary spot, I’m hoping there might be future collaborations.  Keep watching!

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DISPLAY Holladay

Put together by Unseen Heroes, who are responsible for the GOOD: street food + design market and the DISPLAY retail space, this new venue in Oak Park was small but hopping.  I was so busy I hardly got a chance to take a breath!  Ana Apple, Graphic Anthology and Semi Sweet Press made fantastic neighbors.  We all managed to keep our (relative) sanity and even had a celebrity visit to liven things up!

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What does 2015 bring?  Well, I’m working on some new ideas during this first quarter hibernation period.  I’m figuring out some new designs, possibly some new product lines, and focusing more on doing commissioned work for customers just like you.

So here’s your chance to contribute.  What would you like to see?  Are there products that aren’t being offered that you would like an opportunity to buy?  Are there other materials you would like to see me incorporate?  I’m always up for a challenge.  It keeps me on my toes – and I’m looking forward to 2015 being a year for some serious dancing!

I’ve been asked how I started, and how I get my ideas.  Thanks to my parents, who were antiques dealers once upon a time, I’ve been fascinated with jewelry and antiques as far back as I can remember.  I always wanted cool jewelry, but couldn’t afford it.  So in high school, I started making my own, and had requests from other people to make them jewelry as well.  This provided not only a creative outlet but a way to make some extra money, which was always welcome.

My hobby has continued for years, my techniques and materials have changed, and now it’s morphed into my own business.  I have discarded some things and brought others on board, tweaking and refining as I go.  As for influences, my biggest weakness is and always has been Art Nouveau, whose lines, figural representations and organic forms are simply stunning.  A close second is the romantic jewelry of the Victorian era.

I am completely self-taught.  One of the benefits of being self-taught is that I don’t know that I can’t do something, or that I shouldn’t do something.  This is very liberating.  As I am a natural problem-solver, I always find ways to do the things I want to do.  Thanks to the advent of the Internet, YouTube, and Pinterest, there are millions of tutorials at my disposal.  The biggest problem is deciding what to do when.  I am spoiled for choices, and it’s wonderful – though it can be a bit overwhelming.  I remember going to the library to check out art and jewelry books, which I still do all the time.  I wonder how much different my work would be if I’d had access to the Internet back in the day!

A lot of the people I encounter say how much they love my work, and that they’d never be able to create something like it as they are not creative or artistic.  My reaction is always, “Yes, you are!”  This reaction surprises people.  However, I remind them that humans are inherently creative beings.  Whether you make music, cook, draw, paint, garden, make jewelry, sculpt, whatever it may be, you are creating something that didn’t exist before.

Don’t underestimate the power of belief in yourself.  If you’ve always wanted to try something, try it!  Obtain the best materials you can afford, visit your local library and/or the Internet, and begin at the beginning.  Remember that no one else ever needs to see what you’re doing.  Do it for yourself, first and foremost.  You may eventually discover that that you enjoy sharing with others and being part of a large community of creative people who are helpful, supportive and appreciative.  Even if you don’t, you may discover something about yourself that you didn’t realize – namely that you are creative.  It can be very satisfying and cathartic.

Create in happiness and good health!

One of my favorite things about going to a flea market, estate sale or thrift store is imagining all the possibilities for my finds.  I’m like a kid in a candy shop.  Though I never seem to find quite enough time to do all the projects I envision, it doesn’t stop me from conjuring up new ideas everywhere I go.  Thanks to the advent of Pinterest those ideas have increased exponentially, which can be a blessing or a curse, depending on how you view it!  I have networked with some fabulously interesting people whose pins always keep me inspired and thinking.  Logging on to Pinterest can be a bit like disappearing down a rabbit hole, but it’s a wonderfully colorful and edifying trip.

I’d like to share with you a few of the great repurposing ideas I’ve found on Pinterest over the last couple of years.  None of them are complicated, and many of these utilize everyday objects that you can find at a thrift store, yard sale, etc., if you don’t already have them on hand.  I love to encourage people to look at things from a different perspective, to see new possibilities.  Remember, there’s always more than one way to use something.  Think about what you may have lying around that could use some new life, and don’t be afraid to try something new.

If you’d like to see more, please feel free to follow me on Pinterest.  I’d love to see what you all have found down the rabbit hole!

I have the privilege of having some very talented friends and acquaintances.  Seriously.  They challenge me and spur me on, and they’re nice folks, to boot.  I’d like to highlight a few of them at a time.  Check ‘em out.  You’ll thank me.  🙂

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Something Borrowed:  Amy offers a fantastic array of vintage clothing, as well as her own edgy handmade jewelry.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tousled Dolly:  Emily creates gorgeous heirloom quality jewelry from repurposed materials.  Yum.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Ana Apple Designs:  Ana makes very cool, eco-friendly threads for the whole family.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

She’s Craftyyy:  Tracy repurposes all kinds of vintage goodies, including fabric, buttons and jewelry, to make fun accessories.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Freights: Robin and Lorenzo make an amazing team, creating very cool bags, journals and prints from Lorenzo’s original photos of his favorite subject, trains.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

POPcycle Creamery:  Rachel whips up the most wonderful gourmet ice cream with locally-sourced organic ingredients.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Refined Pallet:  There’s nothing Jef can’t make, including book safes, razor handles, shaving brushes, pens and other accessories.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Dabchick Vintage Gems:  Stacey is a wizard with vintage jewelry and findings, creating new pieces worthy of a princess.

Thanks for reading!  Keep an eye out for more talented folks in the near future!

My favorite season is here, but apparently someone forgot to tell Mother Nature.  Here in Sacramento we’re near 100 degrees.  Yikes.  I’m really looking forward to the changing leaves and the crisp mornings of fall – not to mention sweaters and boots.  C’mon already!  I’ve been pinning fall outfits to Pinterest in anticipation…

I was very flattered and excited to get a full-page spread in the August 2012 issue of Sacramento Magazine.  They were covering the GOOD: street food + design market, and chose to feature a picture of my booth at the June show.  The only drawback is that they didn’t include my shop name.  Oh well, I can’t complain.  I was honestly thrilled just to be included.  Check out the article below for the details.

 

 

 

 

The beginning of September saw the last of the First Fridays at the Fountains events for 2012.  While I love participating in that series of shows, it was a particularly grueling series this year, with the unbearable heat.  Or maybe I’m just getting old.  Nah, it couldn’t be that.  It’s definitely the heat.

September also saw my first venture into selling at the Sacramento Antique Faire.  It was a hot but fun day.  Just wish I hadn’t been fending off a cold!  My neighbors were very kind and helpful, and thankfully my good friend Mary was there to commiserate with me, so the day went quickly.  Though I don’t think I’ll be doing any more outdoor events this year, I’m definitely planning to sign up for the Faire again next year.  I will of course keep you all updated.

As of last week, my original designs are featured in two new retail stores, Article Consignment Boutique and La Fem Sophistique.  I’m happy to have established a relationship with the lovely Abe and Valerie at Article, as well as Sandi at La Fem Sophistique, all of whom are really supportive and helpful people to work with, who really care about taking care of artists in their local community.  Thanks to all of you for giving me such a wonderful opportunity to connect with so many great people!

I’m continuing the GOOD:  street food and design market through November, and I’m also looking forward to participating in their holiday bazaar the first weekend of December.  It should be a blast!

I’m solidifying my holiday calendar, and waiting with bated breath to find out if I was accepted for Renegade San Francisco’s Holiday Market in December.  I have another week to wait, and I’m getting antsy.  If I’m accepted, that will be the largest show I’ve ever done – and I know from being an attendee what fun it is.  Please think good thoughts for me, folks.  I’d really appreciate it!

In the meantime, you can find me at the GOOD: street food + design market this Sunday, October 7^th.  I look forward to seeing you there!

I’m often asked where I find things.  The short answer:  EVERYWHERE.  I frequent local thrift stores, estate sales, flea markets, and garage sales.  I’m always on the lookout for things of interest.  My focus tends to be jewelry, handbags and accessories, small home décor, original artwork, and books; however, I try to keep my mind open.  I like to find pieces for which there are alternate possibilities.  Since I grew up the child of two part-time antique dealers, I guess I come by it naturally!

I do my best to become acquainted with my favorite sellers.  As a result, they keep their eyes open for things I might like, as well as giving me good deals.  It always helps to be friendly and flexible.  If you have a smart phone, bring it with you to sales, and use it to look up items to get an idea of their price ranges and collectability.  This can be invaluable!

Whatever piece you’re considering, always look for quality.  And whatever you buy, make sure it’s something you like.  That way if you’re stuck with it, you can at least enjoy it.  You’re also more likely to know more about the things you like, which gives you an advantage when buying them.  An informed purchase is always preferable to a nasty surprise when you get home.

Click here for my checklist of essential things to bring when junking.  Now, down to brass tacks.  The four major sources of my purchases are:

ESTATE SALES

Estate sales can be a great way to pick up a variety of items.  You can find everything from high-end appliances to jewelry to vintage clothing to gardening equipment.  You name it, it can be found.  My suggestion is to sign up for estate sale companies’ e-mail lists so you get the heads-up when sales are posted.  Many companies offer preview days that are only available to those on the e-mail list.  Being on this list will allow you priority access to the sales, so you can get in before all the good stuff is gone.  Most times the companies will give discounts as the sale goes on.  For example, if it’s a three-day sale, the first day will have the highest prices.  On successive days the prices will be discounted.  The final day, most companies will offer 50% or more off the original prices, and at the end of the sale they will often have items at box-lot prices (say $5 a box) or even free.  Don’t be afraid to dig!  That’s often how you find the good stuff.

Things to remember:

• Show up early (as the lines can get long) and be quiet and respectful of the neighbors
• Bring small bills so you can negotiate a better price
• Bring your own bags, boxes and newspapers to pack up your purchases
• Wear a crossbody bag/backpack/fanny pack so you can keep your hands free while you’re looking
• Ask to plug in electrical items to be sure they work
• Group items together for a better price

Links

http://www.estatesales.net/

http://www.estatesales.org/

http://www.craigslist.org

 

 

THRIFT STORES

I’ve spent many, many hours in thrift stores, digging through bins and perusing shelves in search of all kinds of goodies.  The staff at my favorite stores know me, and are always willing to give me a better deal if I ask nicely!  Search online for the thrift stores in your area, then find out their schedules for putting out new merchandise, as well as any discounts they may offer.  Many will offer discounts on certain tag colors or items on certain days.  Find out if they have a loyalty program and sign up for it.  Thrift Town (my local favorite) has a card that they punch every time you spend $10.  Once it’s full, you get $10 off your next purchase.  I’ve managed to get some fantastic deals this way.  They also send me e-mails letting me know about upcoming sales.

Thanks to the many hours I’ve spent at thrift stores, I’ve found authentic Coach purses for anywhere from $1.99 to $5.99, midcentury vintage collectibles from 99 cents, original watercolors, sketches and other artwork from 99 cents, and gold jewelry as cheap as $1.99.

Things to remember:

• Ask to plug in electrical items to be sure they work
• If you like an item but not the price, wait a few weeks, as many stores start discounting items after they’ve been around for a while
• If something doesn’t have a tag, but you really want it, ask a manager for a price

Links

http://www.thethriftshopper.com/

http://www.goodwill.org/

http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/pubs/thrift/thrftck.html  (Thrift store safety checklist published by U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission)

 

 

FLEA MARKETS

Some folks hate flea markets.  I don’t happen to be one of them.  I love the hunt, as I’m sure many of you do as well.  Sure, there can be a glut of imported plastic gewgaws and knickknacks, but all it takes is that one booth that makes the trip worthwhile.  Get to know your favorite vendors.  Often they are regulars, and will be more than happy to give return customers a better deal.  As with thrift stores, there are some flea market vendors who know me and save stuff for me.

I’ve seen some disparaging comments about flea market vendors on sites such as Yelp, claiming they are ripoff artists and less than desirable folks.  My experience has been just the opposite – but then I know where to look, and I can spot the people selling stolen goods and garbage from a mile away.  The people I deal with are kind, hardworking people who are trying their best to support their families.

Things to remember:

• Go early so you can avoid the hot weather and the crowds
• Bring a notepad and paper to take note of booth numbers and items you are interested in, especially if they are heavy and should be picked up last
• Bring small bills so you can negotiate a better price
• Bring your own bags, boxes and newspapers to pack up your purchases
• Wear a crossbody bag/backpack/fanny pack so you can keep your hands free while you’re looking
• Ask to plug in electrical items to be sure they work
• Group items together for a better price

Links

http://www.fleaportal.com/default.aspx

http://www.fleamarketsamerica.com/

http://www.greatfleamarket.com/

http://www.keysfleamarket.com/

http://www.findafleamarket.com/

http://www.collectors.org/FM/

 

 

YARD/GARAGE/RUMMAGE SALES

You can get some incredible deals at these sales.  I’ve been amazed at how low people’s prices can be – as well as how overpriced some people’s items are (I swear some folks want retail prices!).  One of my favorite purchases was a bolt of vintage Hawaiian bark cloth I got for $5 and sold for nearly $100 in my Etsy shop.

Things to remember:

• Show up early, but not before the sale starts – arriving early will not earn you points with sellers!
• Bring small bills so you can negotiate a better price
• Bring your own bags, boxes and newspapers to pack up your purchases
• Wear a crossbody bag/backpack/fanny pack so you can keep your hands free while you’re looking
• Ask to plug in electrical items to be sure they work
• Group items together for a better price
• If you see an item you like, but the price is too high, leave your contact info (a business card works great) so that the sellers can contact you if the item doesn’t sell

Links

http://www.gsalr.com (My favorite – features trip planning software that allows you to plan your route)

http://www.craigslist.org

http://www.metroyards.com

http://www.yardies.com/

http://www.yardsalesearch.com/

http://www.garagesalestracker.com/

http://www.garagesalefinder.com/

http://www.garagesales.com/

http://www.127sale.com/ (World’s longest yard sale, in Tennessee)

 

 

Other links that may be of interest:

 

http://www.booksalefinder.com

www.yardsalequeen.com