Artfire's Newsletter - Benefits?

Although I'm not too active selling on Artfire, I do have a shop. And because of that, I receive the newsletter.

I was interested to read about their partnership with the Craft and Hobby Association. Wow, what a great idea. This opportunity could help provide their members with an option for insurance, which plagues so many self employed artists and craftspeople. Being an Artfire member gives you a 20% discount off of CHA membership, the first year. There are more benefits too.

Uncommon Goods Supporting CERF

Now through December 31,UncommonGoods will once again donate $1 to CERF+ for every customer “vote” at checkout during its Better to Give campaign. Visit them atwww.uncommongoods.com to see the vast selection of goods they offer.

If you aren't familiar with CERF, they are a non-profit, (Craft Emergency Relief Fund) for self supporting American Artists who need financial help due to emergencies.

This photo isn't the best, but it's one of Uncommon Goods' offerings. It's a DIY Shower Curtain. What fun! You can find it here. I can just picture making one of these with my kids when they were young...and to be honest, I'm still tempted to make one.

Hats off to Uncommon Goods for supporting the artists who provide products for their website. In future blog posts, I'll highlight other groups who support artists during the holidays.

Mosaic High Heel Outdoor Chair

I was cruising through Etsy and happened to find this high heel mosaic chair from LyonsMosaic. I love the reflective materieals plus the pattern. Doesn't really go on my back patio, but gee, it sure screams "fun", doesn't it?

It is only $600 and 40 lbs,. Available for pick up- I'm ready for a field trip to Colorado.

Thomas Straub- Eye Candy

Thomas Straub is a photographer who creatively presents jewelry, fashion and other topics as an artistic still life. Visit his website and look around. Then google him and see more of his work. For some reason I find that his work makes me feel emotion- which to me, takes a photograph from just being that, to an artistic piece. See if you agree and let me know.

Sting Wears Lampwork? Help Figure This One Out...

My friend, Robin Snuttjer sent me this photo of Sting (*sigh*) wearing a bead. She was wondering if we can track down who made it or any details? What a great idea. Who can help?

And while you're at it, if you too are a fan, feel free to post your favorite song. Here is one of my favorites at a James Taylor Tribute concert.

Ha ha, keep laughing...

Glass Rings for Jewelry

I found these handmade glass rings in Venice, Italy when I visited this spring. I think they are a lovely rose colored hue. I bought a lot and now, I think it's actually too many. (this is a huge step for me to admit, for those of you who know me.)

So I'm selling some. And some turquoise and deep periwinkle rings too. Yes, I don't just buy one color, I buy a lot. (and there are more colors that I'm not ready to part with yet too)

But I wanted to show you. I take a chainmaille style jump ring and attach it to an earring finding. It looks lovely that way. (sometimes I embellish it more.) and for the remaining hoop, I attach it to a chain as the centerpiece and voila, I have a simple matching necklace as well.

If you are interested in any of them, I have them for sale in my Studio Marcy Etsy shop. I have enough for multiples, if you want a certain number. They make up quickly for shows and jewelry parties while having the handmade aspect, but simple and goes with everything look as well.