Dare I say it...

Spring has sprung...I don't know if it is just me but spring feels pretty intoxicating right now. It has been a particularly cold and grey spring. So working in the yard this morning..there were birds making nests, buds coming out and life all around just happy to...BE ALIVE! It's beautiful! How does this have anything to do with making beads and glass?...inspiration I suppose...and a little bit of absolutely nothing. I hope everyone is having a great day. 

Treasures from the kiln

So the frit beads came out great! The frit is fun because it often takes on a little life of its own based on the body of the bead, heat and amount of time in the flame. Each bead and the reactions are unique...like a snow flake...not that I want to say the s word. 

I was contacted by an amazingly talented ceramic artist to donate an item for a fundraiser at Buffalo State (details to follow). It is for the Japan Society of Buffalo towards relief from the recent events in Japan.   I am flattered to be able to participate and excited to put efforts towards a good cause. Now starts the brain storming ideas for what to create...it is a challenge and a great opportunity and I want to design a piece specifically for this cause. 

So more dremeling tonight..followed by some luxurious late night grocery shopping at sweet Wegmans (sola!!!)

Frit, Frit, Frit!

I didn't even wait to get out of my pajamas to make beads this morning. I had dipped my mandrels last night and I couldn't wait to get out there.

This is my favorite frit and I was pretty frit happy this morning. I can't wait to see them tonight. Hop Hop Hop Happy Easter!

Great morning inspiration!

I made this piece late last night when it was quiet in the house. I love this sandstone colored disc bead and have been hanging on to it for awhile..I think it found a nice little home hanging out with all those goodies.

Finally a little bit of spring broke through which made for a great run in the woods (with some great company).  A must for this long weekend is a full kiln! I am out of oxygen but full on inspiration. Time to haul my huge tank out for a newbie and fire up the torch.  

More than just a custom piece...

I know it will reach her door and she will wonder who sent it. She will open the packaging, hear the crinkle of the tissue paper and feel the texture on the wrapping.  She will peel back the layers and then her eyes will meet the piece.

She will then know it was designed for her and sent as a message from far away.  It spent time in my hands as leather, glass and metals were toiled together but I was simply the messenger forming words, feelings and thoughts into a tangible element.

Sometimes making a custom piece is so much more than an order.

                                        "Love knows not distance; it hath no continent; its eyes are for the stars.”
                                                                                                                              Gilbert Parker