All of My Best Laid Plans...Gone to the Sniffles

Yes, I finally got caught by the cold that has been visiting my immediate family over the past three to four weeks. So, my jewelry production rate for a Monday is really low BUT I've been spending time reading blogs, etsy forums and taking my fellow crafters advice in joining up and coming craft sites.

Thanks to Divine3Designs for the lead in to MyCraftCorner...a new site which has much to offer. ALSO, for the lead to http://entrecard.com/rr/54056 (for free) which is a blog promotion service.

I'm pretty diverse in my jewelry crafting abilities but there is so much more that I want to learn. I get excited at the opportunities in metalsmithing and last night got psyched up reading (once again) about Art Clay in Sterling Silver and Gold. I actually bought some of the SS and tools a couple of years ago but never took the time to really "learn" how to use it. So, last night I googled for "gold art clay" and "pmc art clay" and actually didn't find much in the way of product but I did find a really great review on eBay with some great tips and a bibliography. On Etsy I was able to find one of the acclaimed and recommended books, Art Clay Silver and Gold by Jackie Trudy, so I bought it.

I cannot give up on my love of solid gold though I know that it's pricey - but with what the average person spends over a lifetime in jewelry, why not keep a few pieces budgeted that will last a lifetime. No slam on fashion jewelry - I am also drawn to that - I just want all of you to look at the affordability of yellow, rose and white gold used in gemstone designs.

Check out my 14K Yellow Gold Bracelet with Swarovski Crystals, Cocoa Brown Akoya Pearls and Smoky Quartz. It's listed for $38.99. Affordable? Let me know what you think.
Until tomorrow...