Seeking new design ideas

Hi all (or maybe I am just talking to myself here),
As I step back into the studio this week, I found myself wanting to branch out.
Any ideas?

New year, new designs, new adventures...

So, 2010 has been a strange and life-changing year. But sometimes, we all need a big change to stir us up. I avoided the studio for 6 months, but once I got back in there, I started ramping up my techniques and learning new ones. I took a couple classes in PMC (fun, if a little tricky) and branched into some piercework with some tutelage from erin at Dragonfly Beads. I am really pleased with these new skills as well as a greater confidience in what I am making. One of my favorite pieces of the year (besides the 2 already featured on the blog):

It has not been a banner year for sales, but I am hopeful that my increased skill combined with a little more online presence will kick start a new year of sharing my art!

Support Local Artisans

Christmas is a few short days away and most of my friends are in a shoppong frenzy. Unfortunately, most of us are going to big box stores and giving them our hard-earned money. Now is the time to really show support to local aristans and designers.

You will find items at places like Etsy and Art Fire that you would never find at Wal-mart or even Target. Artwork, clothing, jewelry and yummy delicacies are unique, usually one-of-a-kind and helping an artist express his or her creativity.

As an artist, I, of course, especially want you to shop this way. Funky Monkey Beads is having two special features this holiday season: free shipping through the end of the year and 10% off your entire purchase with the coupon code FRIENDS.

Local delivery available through Christmas :)