Fine And Dandy Jewelry's Reveal for the Superstition Blog Hop Sponsored by Paisley Lizard

Friday the 13th is finally here, along with my submission for the Superstition blog hop! A big thank you to my friend, Tammy Adams, of Paisley Lizard here for hosting this blog hop and making the adorable lucky black cats! I was thrilled when Tammy announced that she had made 13 lucky black cats, and would be giving them away to the first 13 people to comment on her blog. I got one! My teenage daughter has been ogling it ever since I got it.

Here's the necklace I made:

It reminds me of a cat stargazing at night. Think of the "Figaro" episode with Sylvester and Elmer Fudd!

I love the pink and black with the shiny gunmetal.

Twelve lucky stars and one on the extender. It's a 20" chain, plus the extension. Very comfortable and lightweight to wear!

Now, for the story behind the creation. I considered many superstitions that would have been fun to incorporate into a piece of jewelry. If I had just the right bit of ladder shaped chain, I would have used it (it's bad luck to walk under a ladder). I had some wood beads (knock on wood for luck), but they didn't go along with my design. I have some crackle beads (step on a crack, break your mother's back), but decided to keep it simple. Of course, I used the black cat. Many people believe it's bad luck for a black cat to cross your path. I mounted this one onto a midnight toned gunmetal filigree that frames it quite nicely. I added 13 (because it's a superstitious number) stars (because people wish on them for luck). They are pink rhodonite star beads, and doesn't the black and pink look pretty together?  You can find the chain at B'sue Boutiques Jewelry Supply as well as the jump rings.

Read this article for 10 superstitions about stars. I never heard of some of these! But I'm sure you've heard or said "Well thank my lucky stars..."

I'm not sure if I will list this in my Etsy shop or keep this one. I might just share it with my daughter! I hate to part with my limited edition kitty. 

This is  the list of participants in the blog hop. Start with Tammy, and then you can skip mine since you've already visited, and go on to Betony's next. I love comments, and so do the other hoppers, so feel free to comment on the pieces they've worked so hard on. Thanks again, Tammy, and thank YOU!

Tammy Adams (Hostess)	http://www.paisleylizard.com/blog/
Renee Hong	http://www.fineanddandyjewelry.blogspot.com
Betony Maiden	http://beadwenches.blogspot.com/
Coral Law	http://abcoraldesign.blogspot.com/
Lee Koopman	http://stregajewellry.wordpress.com
Jeanette Belmont	http://www.onecanvasatatime.com
Shai Williams	http://www.ShaihasRamblings.com
Beth McCord	http://ebbeadandmetalworks.blogspot.com/
Robin Lynne Showstack	http://heartsdesiresjewelryforyou.blogspot.com/
Lori Blanchard	https://alainnjewelry.wordpress.com/
Deb Fortin	http://www.mhotistudio.blogspot.ca
Michelle McCarthy	http://www.fireflydesignstudio.blogspot.com
Maria Rosa Sharrow	http://willowstreetshops.blogspot.com
Kim Dworak	http://cianciblue.blogspot.com/
Divya N	http://www.jewelsofsayuri.com
Karin Grosset Grange	http://ginkgoetcoquelicot.blogspot.fr
Mowse Doyle	http://mowsemadethis.blogspot.com/
Rebecca White	http://morganafeycreations.121hub.com/#sec-blog
Shawneen Fagnani	http://blondespotpinkshoe.blogspot.com/
Catherine King	http://Catherines-musings.blogspot.com
Brook Bock	http://artisticendeavor101.blogspot.com/
Kari Asbury	http://hippiechickjewelrydesign.com/blog
Nan Smith	http://wirednan.blogspot.ca
Carolyn Lawson	http://carolynscreationswa.blogspot.com
Linda Anderson	http://fromTheBeadBoard.blogspot.com
Ann Schroeder	http://www.beadlove.wordpress.com
Melissa Trudinger	https://beadrecipes.wordpress.com/
Kathy Lindemer	http://bay-moon-design.blogspot.com/

Change It Up! Blog Hop Reveal by Fine and Dandy Jewelry, and Sponsored by B'sue Boutiques

Change it Up! The final reveal is finally here!  I decided to create an autumn cornucopia brooch for my entry.  It fits right in with my new Autumn Garden line.  I used this raw brass stamping

from B'sue Boutiques.  It is raw brass, lead and nickel free, and American made from the original die machines.  Pretty, isn't it?  The goal for this challenge was to creatively manipulate the piece in a new way.  Colorize it, cut it, bend it, add patina or enamel, embellish--whatever you like.

My result is this: (click on photos to view them larger © Fine and Dandy Jewelry by Renee Hong)

Cornucopia Brooch for my Autumn Garden Line, fall 2015 by Fine and Dandy Jewelry.

I'm going to add better photos by Saturday.  I ran out of light.  I should know better, as a photographer; but these are better than nothing!

The filigree is rolled into a cornucopia.  I will try to show a different angle with more pics later.

In the B'sue Boutiques Creative Group on Facebook, we've been talking a lot lately about "caging," a technique involving "sewing" things onto a filigree backing with fine wire.  You can add beads, pearls, buttons, rhinestones, whatever you like.  This was a popular look in the legendary Miriam Haskell's jewelry line. I thought I'd give it a try.  I manipulated the filigree into the shape of a cornucopia...sort of.  I hope that's what you see.  I asked my 16 year old and my 9 year old what they thought it was...it took a bit of prompting ("thing Thanksgiving!"), but they guessed it!  What could be better to add to a cornucopia than these fun  Carmen Miranda fruit beads from B'sue Boutiques!

Yes, they are plastic.  But they make the cutest little dangles.  I made some fun Day of the Dead jewelry from the once; it sold immediately!

I added some of my favorite India glass leaves, just wired right around the attached bails and they added a pop of color and some weight, since the plastic beads are very light.  In addition, I used some absolutely gorgeous Czech glass flower button style beads.  You can get them here and also here. The India glass comes in different colors; translucent and opaque. I love the whole selection

There's a touch of re-purposed silk sari ribbon there, in pretty autumn colors. I find that adding just a small piece of ribbon or lace to an otherwise "hard" piece can give an aura of romance and prettiness that is the perfect finishing touch.  My cornucopia is now brimming with fruit, flowers, leaves and the pretty green/purple ribbon.  How did I get the nice fall colors on the brass, you ask?  I used alcohol inks, blending until they looked the way I wanted them to.  This stamping has a lot of texture, so a mix of colors works well.

I admit, there is one last step to complete this brooch.  Brooches are said to be the "in" thing this fall 2015.  I just sold a brooch today.  So, what I need to do to finish this is add the pin back.  I have one ready to go, it has 3 holes on the back. I tried wiring it on.  It just didn't happen to turn out the way I wanted yet, so that is going to be finished up soon.  I am moving next week, so it may have to wait just a bit.

I learned a lot making this brooch; this is the first time I really tried caging other than adding some pearls to a pendant once.  It isn't perfect, but it looks nice; the wire is very thin and blends perfectly with the tones of the "cornucopia" as it's copper. It was kinda relaxing.  I have some more projects in mind for later.

I am going to come back and add some other photos with better lighting later today, maybe Saturday. Time was running short on me with the upcoming move and LIFE. : )  I sure am thankful to be a part of this group that B'sue got together. It's like a cornucopia of blessings being associated with Brenda Sue and all the wonderful members of the Creative Group.  Please take a look at the other entries in this blog hop below.  I can't wait to get back from my morning appointments tomorrow and start hopping!  Thank you for visiting.  Please leave a comment if you'd like; I'd appreciate it!

FIRST UP, OUR SPONSOR:

Brenda Sue Lansdowne
Jewelry Making Outside the Box

the rest of the Change it Up! BLOG HOP PARTICIPANTS:

Mary Deis
The Rose Sword
http://theroseswordmdeis.blogspot.com/
Jann Tague
Clever Designs
https://janntague.wordpress.com/
Lori Beekman
B.Accessorized
https://baccessorized.wordpress.com/
Renee Hong
Fine and Dandy Jewelry
http://www.fineanddandyjewelry.blogspot.com/
Cynthia Wainscott
Exotic Peru Jewelry
http://exoticperujewelry.blogspot.com/
Dana Hickey
Magpie Approved
http://magpieapproved.blogspot.com/
Mary Beth Quigley-Spiker
Q Settings
https://qsettings.wordpress.com/
Karen Eaton
KJewelry Creations
http://kjewelrycreations1.blogspot.com/
Shari Gardner
SLG Jewelry Designs
https://slgdesigns.wordpress.com/
Alison Huie
Ally's Baubles
http://allysbaubles.blogspot.com/
Pamela Anger
Novegatti Designs
http://www.novegattidesigns.blogspot.com/
Carole Carlson
Beadsophisticate
https://beadsophisticate.wordpress.com/
Cindy Peterson
Howling Dog Jewelry
https://howlingdogjewelry.wordpress.com/
Marcia Tuzzolino
Aurora Designs
http://auroradesignsjewelryblog.me/
Charlotte Smothers
Sea Horse Ranch Life
http://seahorseranch.blogspot.com/
Catherine Shattuck
Victorian Rose Boutique
https://vrbrose.wordpress.com/
Kelly Wymer
Winged Wisdom Enchantments
https://wingedwisdomenchantments.wordpress.com/
Clare Wells Nemeth
Papercrafting Magic
http://papercraftingmagic.blogspot.com/
Erin Whitacre
Shattered Time
https://shatteredtimejewelry.wordpress.com/
Lynda O'Mara
Lomara Creative
http://www.lomaracreative.com/
Ginger Hammond
Lynn Leigh Designs
https://lynnleighdesigns.wordpress.com/
Ingrid Anderson
Lilis Gems Artisan Jewelry
https://lilisgems.wordpress.com/
Deb Beechy
Beetique
http://www.beetique56.blogspot.com
Harry Wood
Oscar Crow
http://oscarcrow.blogspot.com/
Delyssa Maxwell
Past Time Fancies
https://pasttimefancies.wordpress.com/
Paula Gaskill
Lovely Layla Bugs
http://lovelylaylabugjewels.weebly.com/blog
Irene Hoffman
Heart's Dezire by Irene
https://heartsdezirebyirene.wordpress.com/
Alexandra Sefton
Imaginary Jewelry and Altered Art
http://wilywolverine.blogspot.com/
Leslie Carver
Adorn Divine Designs
http://adorndivinedesigns.blogspot.com/

Fine and Dandy Jewelry Announces the Winner of the August Social Media Share Contest!

Every month I have a contest.  There are several ways to participate:

1. Post a photo of your order in an Etsy review
2. Post it on Instagram and tag #JewelryFineAndDandy or @texasrose73
3. Tweet it and tag @reneeelainehong
4. Post it on my Fine and Dandy Jewelry and Art Facebook Page

I use a random number generator and choose one winner each month, who receives a $20 credit to spend at https://www.etsy.com/shop/JewelryFineAndDandy

Congratulations, C.A.!  Thanks for playing, and enjoy!

Thank you to Create The Cut graphic design for the template used above.

YOU could win next month!

And don't forget:  the 500th order in my Etsy shop is FREE!

It's getting really close. See details here: http://fineanddandyjewelry.blogspot.com/2015/08/a-contest-to-celebrate-my-upcoming.html

My Lucky Black Cat Arrived for the Superstition Blog Hop, Sponsored by Paisley Lizard!

I got my Lucky Black Cat for the Superstition Blog Hop, and I've been wanting to show you!  Fine and Dandy Jewelry (aka me, Renee Hong) will be making a piece of jewelry with this focal and posting on Friday the 13th...how much fun is that?  I was one of the first 13 people to comment on Tammy's blog, and won this polymer clay piece.  She still has a few of these left; they are limited edition, so don't delay if you'd like one. Thank you, Tammy--I love it!

My "Lucky Black Cat" polymer clay cabochon by Tammy Adams of Paisley Lizard. It's a limited edition handmade piece for the Superstition blog hop on Friday the 13th in November!

Don't you love Tammy's badge?  And all those fantastic kitties! 

The challenge for this blog hop is to design a piece of jewelry using the Lucky Black Cat, incorporating a superstition into your design.  Some that come to mind are:  Don't walk under a ladder, If a black cat crosses your path it's bad luck, Spilling salt is unlucky, Stepping on a crack breaks your mother's back (!)...I think you get the idea.  I'll be researching and choosing one for my jewelry piece, to be revealed in November.  I can't wait to see what all the other talented artists make, as well.  For a full list of participants, click the badge on the right column of my blog to read more about it!

Have a great day! ~ Renee

A Contest to Celebrate my Upcoming 500th Etsy Sale at JewelryFineAndDandy--You could win big!

I am coming up on an important milestone.  It may seem small to some of you, but to me it reflects growth in my jewelry design and creation business.  I would like to celebrate by rewarding you, my customers with a special thank you--because without you, this would not be possible!

That's right, the 500th order in my Etsy shop will be FREE!  I will refund your purchase amount up to $100.  That is after any coupons, and does not include the low flat rate shipping.  I am getting close and anticipate reaching this goal in September 2015; so if you are in the mood to do some early holiday shopping, you could WIN BIG!  This milestone is only for the sales I've made on Etsy and not at local shows or boutiques.  Considering the fact that I only had 114 sales in my first six years on Etsy, and over 300 since the start of 2014, I want to share my recent success with you!

Here are some of the newest items I've added to my shop. Something here could be yours for free, if yours is the 500th order!

18k matte gold Celtic Heart expandable charm bangle and earrings set, 2 available. Makes a great gift!

Birdcage mixed media necklace and earrings set, you've got to take a closer look at this one!

Dragonfly Necklace and earrings set with hand colored patina, Amethyst stones, Amazonite stones, vintage glitter beads and crystal...just lovely!

I LOVE this Paris inspired French charm locket necklace.  Eiffel tower image is surrounded with vintage rhinestones, charms, pearls, and even a locket! Je T'aime charm and C'est la vie postcard charms add romance. And who can resist that luscious gingerbread patina vintage chain?!

Hey, if you prefer silver to brass, here's another for you!  It has an I love you postcard charm, Bon Voyage charm, L'Arc de Triomphe charm, Oui, a clock, a rose, and of course a C'est la vie tag.  Lovely rhinestones encircle the postcard style Eiffel tower image.

Is it Halloween yet?  I've got bats in all colors and styles ready to fly out your way!

 I also have an ongoing social media monthly contest.  Post a photo of your order (tag me) within 30 days to Twitter, Instagram, my Facebook page or on an Etsy review and you are entered to win a $20 gift certificate to my Etsy shop. Details are in my Etsy shop at https://www.etsy.com/shop/JewelryFineAndDandy

Good luck!

Renee

Fine and Dandy Jewelry is joining the Change It Up Blog Hog in September sponsored by B'sue Boutiques

The theme is going to be "Vintage Flair" which sounds right up my alley!

Isn't that cute?  And isn't this true about so many things in life?  For this blog hop, we are give the choice of 4 different components.  You may use one or all, but the goal is to use it differently than usual. Cut it up, flip it, colorize it...make it your own.  These are the pieces to choose from, and are available at http://www.bsueboutiques.com by Brenda Sue (B'sue) Lansdowne, who is sponsoring this blog hop!

I can't say which one or ones I am using; however I placed my order early and already have what I'm going to use!

It's been awhile since I posted.  Fact is, I've been pretty busy with my new Finding Your Direction Line from the Build a Line Challenge back in the spring.  I've had great success with my compass themed jewelry.  I also had a secondary line spin off of that one, featuring the hand stamped jewelry.  Here's some of the pieces I made:

The bible verse cuffs have no compass, but turned out beautifully and led me to make Father's Day key chains with bible verses.  I had some custom orders with REALLY inspiring stories behind the gift they were ordering!  The last photo was a custom order I made for a lady and three of her best friends; they got matching "Follow Your Dreams" key chains and necklaces.

And then, all this stamping and stuff led me to another great idea for these beauties below.  The crystals are real natural faceted crystal, and they throw rainbows all over the place.  The main piece is a Victorian style luggage tag that I've stamped and added patina to.  I'm going to have to keep Grace.  What a beauty.  Not only do I enjoy the idea of wearing the affirmation close to my heart, but the crystal has energizing properties.  And who can't use more energy?

I even got a custom order for a necklace with custom stamping for a customer's first 5K race.  And I'm really loving the stories behind custom orders!

So, I'll be updating again soon with some other projects I've been making.  As I've been working on compass themed pieces and pondering the idea of travel, I had a little mini revelation about how to categorize my shop.  I won't tell you now, but look for news on that to come soon.

Thanks for visiting, and I hope to see you at the blog hop next month!

Renee

Build a Line Master Class Blog Hop from B'sue Boutiques, Renee Hong of Fine and Dandy Jewelry, The Finale!

Is This the End, or Just the Beginning?

Wow, it's hard to believe that three months has passed since the beginning of this class and blog hop!  All 50+ participants in this Build a Line Master Class have been hard at work on their lines, sharing ideas, asking questions, learning new techniques, and having fun in the process!  Our wonderful teacher, Brenda Sue Lansdowne of B'sue Boutiques has challenged us to grow and step out of our comfort zones.  She has been sharing wonderful nuggets of wisdom gathered from her own successful line.  So here at Fine and Dandy Jewelry and Art, I've been working on my "Finding Your Direction" line, to be revealed in this, the final installment of this blog hop! It may be the end of the class and hop, but definitely just the beginning of our lines.  I almost gave up at one point when life hit me hard, but Brenda Sue encouraged me to go on...so I hit that hammer hard on some more pieces and went to work!  NOTE:  I may adjust the prices slightly...so check the Etsy shop later for definitive prices.

Behind the Scenes

Raw brass blanks, patina, and a mini compass from B'sue Boutiques. I hand-stamped the messages.

After the stamping, hole punching, patina and buffing.

 So, those raw brass blanks were hand stamped, aged with a chemical patina, shined up a bit, and embellished with various things, all including compasses.  I learned to tape down my blanks with masking tape before stamping.  They aren't perfectly aligned, which is fine with me since they fit the look I'm going for:  handmade and not mass-produced.  I did a slightly different buffing technique on the two bracelets here than I used on the key-chain below.  I like the bracelet finish better. 

Finished Bracelet, Proverbs 3:6 "In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths."

"Steer by the Compass of Your Soul" Brooch.  The rope edged wreath from B'sue adds to the nautical feel.

This "Follow Your Heart" key-chain has a small rustic hammered heart charm, since I felt it needed a heart somewhere and the design didn't look right trying to mount the compass onto a heart shaped finding.  And I think it would be convenient to have a compass on your key-chain, no?

Compass Necklace in Ebony Matte Black Brass and Brass Ox on a heavy Rolo Chain.  Also available on a black ball chain.

Flower Compass Bracelet, this one has a more feminine touch to a line that is mostly unisex.  A different flower can be used in place of this one, as well. 

At the top pricing tier, a hand stamped and hand hammered heart.  "Follow Your Heart" and a compass are the main focal of this simple necklace, with a hand for embellishment and a brass ox 20" chain and lobster clasp. 

Mainstay entry level compass studs, a matching silverware adjustable ring; and brass steampunk style compass dangle earrings with a matching adjustable ring.  This is the bottom pricing tier.

What's Next?

My plans are to continue to add pieces that coordinate, since I have a cohesive look going.  Many of these pieces are unisex.  I plan to add more bible verses, inspirational quotes, even personalized names and initials if there's a request for it.  I intend to add some decoupaged cuffs, as well.  But I feel that starting with three necklaces, a brooch, a key chain, two bracelets, two pairs of earrings, and two rings is a good variety.  I intend to get these into my Etsy shop as soon as possible, but if you just can't wait for something, drop me a line!  And please, please take a look at the artists' blogs linked below.  These ladies have all worked SO hard!  Come back and visit to see what's new, like my facebook page, and check out my Etsy shop if you'd be so kind!  I would appreciate comments if you don't mind...I've tried to make it as easy as possible to do so.  Thank you so much for accompanying me on this journey.  And a BIG thank you to B'sue at www.bsueboutiques.com without whom none of this would be possible!

Oh, I didn't want to leave you hanging without at least one personal picture:

Snow Day in Texas!  We went to the park and enjoyed ourselves for a bit!  The baby doesn't look too happy, though...LOL

Brenda Sue Lansdowne
Jewelry Making Outside the Box
Marcia Tuzzolino
Aurora Designs
Jann Tague
Clever Designs by Jann
Judy King
Apt to Wander Studio
Linzi Alford
Magpie in the Sky, Spoil Heap Tales
Cynthia Wainscott
Exotic Peru
Carole Carlson
Beadsophisticate
Lynn Stinten
Dragonzwench
Marica Zammit
Bead Lovelies
Catherine Shattuck
VRBrose
Michaele Collie
The Vintage Gem
Mary Craig
Jewelry Alchemy
Lee Koopman
Strega Jewelry
Erin Whitacre
Shattered Time Jewelry
Monica Casady
MJCasady Copper Works
Leila West
Leila Nicole Designs
Cindy Peterson
Howling Dog Jewelry
Leila Belcher
Leila Bee Designs
Gloria Allen
Wings and Beads
Pamela Anger
Novegatti Designs
Tammy Adams
Paisley Lizard
Lynda O'Mara
LOmara Creative
Elizabeth Hildreth
MadScientistsDesigns
Dana Hickey
Wind Dancer Studios
Janet Calardo
Jan Lea Designs
Maria Clark
Sweet Willow Designs
Lori Beekman
B. Accessorized
Jennifer Kroeger
Relic Charm
Amy Jorgensen
Hoarder's Corner
Robin Reed
Artistry: Handcrafted Bead Designs
Ingrid Anderson
Lilis Gems
Louise O'Shields
Desire Divine Jewels
Susan Killam
Killam Creative
Mary Katherine Deis
The Rose Sword: Artisan and Vintage Collectible Jewelry
Nike Bottalico
Nike Bottalico
Susan Bowerman
Woodside Wireworks
Kristy Le
Kristy Le Trendy Jewelry Designs
Jan Peters
Stylized Vintage
Mitzie Crider
Needful Luxuries Occasional Blog
Gina Hockett
Freestyle Elements
Linda Anderson
From the Bead Board
Alexandra Sefton
Imaginary Jewelry and Altered Art
Melida Boman
The Journey of Pens and Things
Teresa Shurter
TreeZ's Treasurs
Melissa Latimer
Smithed Up
Renee Hong <<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<<YOU ARE HERE!
Fine and Dandy Jewelry and Art
Nadine Edris
Moondance Jewelry
Lori Meyer
Parisienne Girl
Jennifer Merrill Williams
Artists of All Stripes
Denise Lussier Poirier
Jewelry by Denise
Renee Allen
Small Stuff Design
Autumn Adams
Autumn Dawns
Elizabeth Owens
1996 Shabby Lane
Kat BarronMiller
Midnight Kat Productions Art Jewelry
Sandra Ballard
Mama San's Mojo
Coral Law
ab:coraldesign

Build a Line Master Class Blog Hop from B'Sue Boutiques, Renee Hong of Fine and Dandy Jewelry, Part Two

Greetings from the greater Fort Worth, Texas area!

I took this photo of Fort Worth from a helicopter.  They removed the door for me so I could get great shots.  Thanks, Epic Helicopter!

Wow, it seems like only yesterday since the last series in our blog hop, brought to us and taught by our wonderful hostess Brenda Sue (aka B'sue) Lansdowne.  I wouldn't be hanging in here without her encouragement, as well as some Alka Seltzer Plus, which allowed me to sleep more than four hours for the first time in over a week.  I've had some laryngitis and related problems for over a week, and it's really knocked me for a loop.  Add a head cold on top, and I'm going to need the compasses from my Finding Your Direction Line to lead me to the doctor!  I'm so glad I can shop online at www.bsueboutiques.com anytime from home, and access our Master Class via Facebook using my online voice, since I have a limited physical voice at the moment!

Last hop, each artist revealed their long-awaited theme for their line.  I had so much fun hopping  from one blog to the next, oohing and ahhing over their exciting ideas and beautifully designed blogs. I found myself laughing out loud more than once at the great sense of humor and personality that came across through their conversational style.  Many of the authors drew me in with their wonderful tales of real life stories that inspired their lines, and wonderful photos!  We truly have a talented bunch!

We've been talking a lot about challenges we are facing in building the lines, a pyramid structure of pricing (no, we're not talking Amway or the likes here), paying attention to jewelry and color trends, and overall cohesiveness.  We're improving our blogging and technology skills, skills of our craft, and business acumen.  It's a journey of self-discovery, as we learn what we are truly capable of.  Perfect for my Finding Your Direction theme!

While I wish I had more photos of finished pieces to show, as I had planned, being sick after the last blog hop and again right before this one has really limited me.  These images are some things that I will be using on the bottom tier of my line, however:

A ring that I've previously made and sold, that I can easily reproduce for the lower priced end of my line.

While the simple studs sell better, some people like a little extra added to the design. Options, right?!

There's no way I will leave out my best sellers.

This is perfect, because these items are small accessories that are too small to customize with a stamped direction message or quote, and by eliminating the hand-stamping, it keeps the price affordable.  They will still be fully coordinating with the middle and upper tiered items of bracelets, cuffs, and necklaces, that DO have custom stamped or decoupaged messages.

So, visit our many talented artists below, to see what they've been busy doing!  See you March 20th!

 Build a Line Master Class from B'sue Boutiques list of participants:

Marcia Tuzzolino
Aurora Designs
Jann Tague
Clever Designs by Jann
Judy King
Apt to Wander Studio
Linzi Alford
Magpie in the Sky, Spoil Heap Tales
Cynthia Wainscott
Exotic Peru
Carole Carlson
Beadsophisticate
Lynn Stinten
Dragonzwench
Marica Zammit
Bead Lovelies
Catherine Shattuck
VRBrose
Michaele Collie
The Vintage Gem
Mary Craig
Jewelry Alchemy
Lee Koopman
Strega Jewelry
Erin Whitacre
Shattered Time Jewelry
Monica Casady
MJCasady Copper Works
Leila West
Leila Nicole Designs
Cindy Peterson
Howling Dog Jewelry
Leila Belcher
Leila Bee Designs
Gloria Allen
Wings and Beads
Pamela Anger
Novegatti Designs
Tammy Adams
Paisley Lizard
Lynda O'Mara
LOmara Creative
Elizabeth Hildreth
MadScientistsDesigns
Dana Hickey
Wind Dancer Studios
Janet Calardo
Jan Lea Designs
Maria Clark
Sweet Willow Designs
Lori Beekman
B. Accessorized
Jennifer Kroeger
Relic Charm
Amy Jorgensen
Hoarder's Corner
Robin Reed
Artistry: Handcrafted Bead Designs
Ingrid Anderson
Lilis Gems
Louise O'Shields
Desire Divine Jewels
Susan Killam
Killam Creative
Mary Katherine Deis
The Rose Sword: Artisan and Vintage Collectible Jewelry
Nike Bottalico
Nike Bottalico
Susan Bowerman
Woodside Wireworks
Kristy Le
Kristy Le Trendy Jewelry Designs
Jan Peters
Stylized Vintage
Mitzie Crider
Needful Luxuries Occasional Blog
Gina Hockett
Freestyle Elements
Linda Anderson
From the Bead Board
Alexandra Sefton
Imaginary Jewelry and Altered Art
Melida Boman
The Journey of Pens and Things
Teresa Shurter
TreeZ's Treasurs
Melissa Latimer
Smithed Up
Renee Hong
Fine and Dandy Jewelry and Art
Nadine Edris
Moondance Jewelry
Lori Meyer
Parisienne Girl
Jennifer Merrill Williams
Artists of All Stripes
Denise Lussier Poirier
Jewelry by Denise
Renee Allen
Small Stuff Design
Autumn Adams
Autumn Dawns
Elizabeth Owens
1996 Shabby Lane
Kat BarronMiller
Midnight Kat Productions Art Jewelry
Sandra Ballard
Mama San's Mojo
Coral Law
ab:coraldesign

Build A Line Challenge from B'sue Boutiques, Renee Hong of Fine And Dandy Jewelry, Part One

What's Build a Line?

Welcome!  I’m Renee Hong, of Fine and Dandy Jewelry and Art.  I am so honored to have been accepted into the Build a Line Challenge from B’sue Boutiques!  This is the first in a series of the blog hop, where I get to introduce myself and what I’ll be doing during this Master Class challenge.  Be sure to check back for the next two posts, which will be on February 20, and March 20.  All 57 participants will be creating a line of jewelry individually, while cheering each other on and learning what works (or doesn’t).  The final result will be a cohesive line, with at least five pieces per artist.  We’ve all chosen a particular theme, and B’sue has ensured minimal overlap. 

Who is B'sue, and what's her boutique have to do with this challenge?

Brenda Sue Lansdowne is the organizer of the Build a Line Master Class, and the owner of B'sue Boutiques in East Palesinte, Ohio, United States.  In fact, her shop is less than an hour away from where I grew up in Southwestern Pennsylvania.  Little did I know that someone so close would have such a big impact on my life.  I have never met a vendor or supplier more generous, humble and in touch with her customers anywhere.  B'sue has been making jewelry for years, had her own VERY successful line, and now runs a family operated jewelry component supply company AND does teaching workshops.  Learn more here:  http://www.bsueboutiques.com/

A little about me:

So now, enter my workshop--a great combination of IKEA furniture, window light, a plant, an occasional cat or child, and the Good Stuff from B’Sue boutiques!

The scrapbook paper is great for taking photos.  I often work with trays, so that I can move my materials out of my young daughter's reach.

A bunch of partly finished pieces, which are now complete and in my Etsy shop for sale!

I love adding color and patina to metal.  Here I decoupaged a great image from Piddix, and colored these B'sue components with inks and paints, which she also carries.  The end result was a lovely cuff bracelet.  By the way, I love using paper plates for this kind of work.  I'll keep using them until I accidentally set one on fire with a heat gun, or something.

I am also a photographer, and take and edit all my own photos.

I'm sentimental.  This little dish was found in my Grandmother's basement. She gave it to me many years ago.  I dream of where my German ancestors may have gotten it, as I work out of it.  The dish in the other photo above was given to me by her also.  The glass used to belong to my grandparents, too.  I drank many a root beer float and sweet iced tea from it growing up.  Green's my favorite color!  Nowadays, it's used mostly for water. The red pliers were given to me off of my stepfather's jewelry bench.  I use them more than anything!

 

Helpers and Such

I used to do local shows, as you can see in one of my last posts.  Unfortunately, it was from 2013, when I did 8 local shows.  Fortunately I have lots of help, as you'll see in the next few pictures, because I've been busy:

Our daughter, born in December.

But busy is good!  I promise to be more generous with posts this year.  So, meet some of my helpers: 

Duchess, my toddler's guardian angel and my assistant.  I love my rescue kitty!

My wonderful husband, and another of my children.  She's also a jewelry lover!  See those muscles?  That's how we did those 8 shows...

Surviving the summer heat in 2013 at Pop Up Market.  My oldest daughter loves to set up my booth. My middle son always has a smile ready and loves to help with his little sister!

So, when do we find out what your line is about?

Now, what you've all been waiting for: my chosen theme for the Fine and Dandy Jewelry line  (insert drumroll here)

I took this photo at my Fine and Dandy Jewelry work table today.  This will become a piece in my line, read more below...

"Finding Your Direction"

My life has taken many twists and turns in the past few years.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/196279459/compass-earrings-tiny-mini-compass?ref=shop_home_feat_1

But one thing that has helped me remain constant, besides my faith in God, is having a creative outlet, and someone to support and believe in me.  Interestingly enough, I decided to add a cute little (simple) pair of mini compass stud earrings to my shop, which became popular.  (you can order some using the link with the photo...but come back and finish the hop!)  I decided to build my line around "finding your direction."  Steampunk supplies, but as I told B'sue during the application process, not necessarily steampunk style.  The heart on my workbench, hammered and beaten, but not broken, will emerge as a piece in my line over the course of this challenge.  Stay tuned!  See you on February 20!

The other artists in this hop, many who have become my friends, and many I will get to know better:

Brenda Sue Lansdowne, B'sue Boutiques
Jewelry Making Outside the Box
Marcia Tuzzolino
Aurora Designs
Jann Tague
Clever Designs by Jann
Judy King
Apt to Wander Studio
Linzi Alford
Magpie in the Sky, Spoil Heap Tales
Cynthia Wainscott
Exotic Peru
Carole Carlson
Beadsophisticate
Lynn Stinten
Dragonzwench
Marica Zammit
Bead Lovelies
Catherine Shattuck
VRBrose
Michaele Collie
The Vintage Gem
Mary Craig
Jewelry Alchemy
Lee Koopman
Strega Jewelry
Erin Whitacre
Shattered Time Jewelry
Monica Casady
MJCasady Copper Works
Leila West
Leila Nicole Designs
Cindy Peterson
Howling Dog Jewelry
Leila Belcher
Leila Bee Designs
Gloria Allen
Wings and Beads
Pamela Anger
Novegatti Designs
Tammy Adams
Paisley Lizard
Lynda O'Mara
LOmara Creative
Elizabeth Hildreth
MadScientistsDesigns
Dana Hickey
Wind Dancer Studios
Janet Calardo
Jan Lea Designs
Maria Clark
Sweet Willow Designs
Lori Beekman
B. Accessorized
Jennifer Kroeger
Relic Charm
Amy Jorgensen
Hoarder's Corner
Robin Reed
Artistry: Handcrafted Bead Designs
Ingrid Anderson
Lilis Gems
Louise O'Shields
Desire Divine Jewels
Susan Killam
Killam Creative
Mary Katherine Deis
The Rose Sword: Artisan and Vintage Collectible Jewelry
Nike Bottalico
Nike Bottalico
Susan Bowerman
Woodside Wireworks
Kristy Le
Kristy Le Trendy Jewelry Designs
Jan Peters
Stylized Vintage
Mitzie Crider
Needful Luxuries Occasional Blog
Gina Hockett
Freestyle Elements
Linda Anderson
From the Bead Board
Alexandra Sefton
Imaginary Jewelry and Altered Art
Melida Boman
The Journey of Pens and Things
Teresa Shurter
TreeZ's Treasurs
Melissa Latimer
Smithed Up
Renee Hong
Fine and Dandy Jewelry and Art
Nadine Edris
Moondance Jewelry
Lori Meyer
Parisienne Girl
Jennifer Merrill Williams
Artists of All Stripes
Denise Lussier Poirier
Jewelry by Denise
Renee Allen
Small Stuff Design
Autumn Adams
Autumn Dawns
Elizabeth Owens
1996 Shabby Lane
Kat BarronMiller
Midnight Kat Productions Art Jewelry
Sandra Ballard
Mama San's Mojo
Coral Law
ab:coraldesign