Sneak Peek - New Jewelry for Twist Show

Join me on Friday, May 6th and Saturday, May 7th in Northampton, Mass for Twist. It's going to be an uh-may-zing show! Here's a sneak peek at the new necklaces I'll be premiering there.

Esther-onomy

Victory Lap & A Dazzling Display of Sportsmanship

vintage bicycle head badge necklaces

Spring Carnival

 If you're in the Northampton area, swing by!

Something Old, Something New - A Tale of Two Necklaces (Part 2)

(continued from Part 1)

Once at home with my box o' jewelry from Allie and Abby, I spread everything out on my table and started to play. The first necklace I got to work on was Allie's.

All of Allie's original pieces from our initial meet up.

Allie gave me a great variety of materials to work with. She wanted me to construct a multiple strand necklace using as many pieces of her jewelry as possible. I asked her which pieces were the "must haves" since there was a lot to choose from. She chose her bird brooch, a silver flower brooch, and a white enameled chain. The chain was interspersed with gold barrel links, that she hilariously described as very "Mrs. Roper." She wanted me to remove those gold links and reconnect the chain into one continual piece. Allie also liked the white daisies on her gold mesh bracelet and wanted to see if they could be removed and incorporated into the final necklace. Her pieces held so much potential and charm.

Sorry Mrs. Roper...

Having the bird brooch and silver brooch as the two main pieces to flank each side was a great start. Loops were fastened to each brooch for chains and Thom (my oh-so-creative and helpful husband) un-soldered the daisies from the mesh bracelet for me. I fastened them to the silver floral brooch for added interest. I added some of my own silver toned chains to drape across the front.

A mix of Allie's jewelry and mine. Gold daisy bracelet, white chain, floral silver brooch, and bird brooch were used in the final piece.

Several gold "Mrs. Roper" barrel connectors were removed from the white chain. The two silver chains neighboring the white one were also used.



Bird brooch with some chains attached.



Silver flower brooch with daisies attached.

During the whole process, I emailed Allie with updated pics for feedback and to make sure I was going in the right direction. At one point, we decided the necklace needed a little more color, so I ordered a vintage red enameled chain online. Allie also mentioned liking rosary chains around the neck, so I took her blue beaded necklace, removed the beads from the string, and wired them together in a rosary chain. 

First draft of the necklace before the red enamel chain and blue rosary chains were added. Dig the blue twist tie closure? 

After a few more revisions, we set a time to meet up for a final fitting and to add the clasp. We chose the IKEA cafeteria in New Haven. Allie was a real trooper coming in that day, with a relentless cold. It was great seeing her after all our emails and I was anxious for her to see the nearly completed piece. Soon after sitting down, Allie noticed that we were both wearing very similar scalloped Bakelite bracelets from the 40's (hers was off white...mine was green). We couldn't help but be amazed by the coincidence!


Wonder Twin powers activate! Form of...a Bakelite bangle!

 I forgot to bring one important thing on my trip...a mirror. We improvised by using my camera. Allie would hold up the necklace, I would snap a picture, and she would look at the pic (and repeat). Sure, sure I know what you're all thinking: "You're in IKEA! Go grab a mirror!" Of course we didn't think of it at the time but I have to say that our creative solution provided us with a few laughs.


One of our mirror shots in the cafeteria.

 With Allie's input, we tweaked a few things. The red enamel chain was draped the front of the necklace and the rosary was attached to wrap around one side of the necklace. Since the handmade rosary chain was so delicate, it was anchored to a silver toned strand for support. It was so nice to have an extra set of hands across the table to help me manipulate this complex piece and only took a few attempts to get the chain lengths correct. Once happy with the final composition, I added the clasp and it was finally done. Allie looked amazing draped in her new necklace! We took advantage of the cool backdrops at IKEA and snapped some shots of her in different living rooms.


Allie looking gorgeous in her Scandinavian surroundings.



Completed piece with red chain and blue rosary chain up the right side.

Being my first personalized upcycling project, I had no idea what to expect when I began. From start to finish, I enjoyed working with meaningful heirlooms and getting to know the amazing women behind them. Allie's final necklace linked pieces of her past with the person she is today. As we parted ways, I felt proud to have played a role in creating a new family treasure and having connected to a new friend.

(read here for part 3)

Love, Love, Love: Bicycle Head Badges

If you asked my grandfather or dad what they loved to do most on the weekends when I was growing up, they would have unanimously replied: bike riding. Both of them belonged to local touring groups. My grandfather ran a bike club when he taught high school ages ago, and many of his students grew up to be bicycle enthusiasts and professional riders. If my grandfather and dad weren't riding, they were fixing bikes.

My grandfather's basement was a meeting place for his local rider friends to custom make wheels or oil up a chain. Rows of wheels and frames hung from the ceiling and deflated bike tubes were found in every corner of the room. Everything seemed to be dingy and sticky. Spare parts littered the floor, spilled on top of an old ping pong table, and the mix of cigarette smoke and grease gave it an old factory smell.

I have fond memories of zipping through Connecticut country roads with my grandfather and dad. I can recall taking an especially long ride with them atop the banana seat on my one-speed Huffy Pinwheel decorated with E.T. stickers. The best part was stopping for a celebratory Yoo Hoo and chicken fried potato before heading home.


My grandfather and dad had great dreams of me becoming a professional bike rider. For my 16th birthday, they proudly presented me with a custom-made touring bike. After the initial disappointment of it NOT being a car, I learned to appreciate the workmanship and love put into my gift and ended up using it for years to come. Though I didn't grow up to love bikes as much as the patriarchs in my family, I was certainly around the gears and grease enough to feel that cycling was really part of my life. It's no wonder that a bicycle part found its way into my work.

Last summer, I was thrifting with my friend Grace at Goodwill and we were both peering through the jewelry case for treasures. While scanning the shelves, I totally overlooked a great find. Grace called me over to point out an interesting looking metal badge. I was about 3 inches long, was stamped out of brass, and had the name "Dunelt" on it. Once removed from the case, Grace pointed out the possibility in the piece. It's funny because I didn't even realize what it was used for until I went home and did a search online. It was an old head badge, used to display the brand of the bike on the front of its frame.

Tour de Chance Necklace

I carefully flattened out the curve of the badge. The three screw holes provided perfect spots to add the necklace chain and a dangling tassel. I found complimentary vintage chains and a tassel from deconstructed necklaces and a few accent beads from a broken bracelet. The piece came together quite intuitively and I ended up naming it, "Tour de Chance." After a few weeks up on Etsy, the necklace road off to a loving home. 

Since then, I have been on the lookout for more head badges. I am in the process of upcycling a unique collection of them into one-of-a-kind necklaces. They range in age (1930's-current) and country of origin (Japan, Sweden, France, Germany, US). My favorite is a Marathon head badge from Sweden with an embossed running man, gorgeous green paint, and elaborate cut outs. There's another one coming in the mail soon that has "Perfekt deLuxe" written on it. Love! The badges are as light as air and create a great focal point for a necklace. 

near perfekt

When I'm done, I'll certainly sit back and enjoy a Yoo-Hoo in honor of grandpa and dad. To see the completed pieces, pedal on over to these upcoming shows:

Friday and Saturday, May 6th & 7th – Twist – Northampton, MA

Saturday, May 21st – Shop the Archway – DUMBO – Brooklyn, NY

Sunday, June 26th - Smith Street Sunday Fun Day - Brooklyn, NY

Saturday, July 9, August 6, August 13 - Greenway Open Markets - Boston, MA

Love, Love, Love: Markets of New York City

If I had my way, I would spend every free weekend wandering through markets. The sight of handmade goods and used treasures, the smell of local foods, and the buzz of bargains-to-be-had get me jumping out of bed long before the caffeine kicks in. Being a Connecticut gal, I usually stick locally to the Elephant's Trunk in New Milford or Stormville Flea Market just over the border in New York. My market horizons broadened thanks to a gem of a book called Markets of New York City: A Guide to the Best Artisan, Farmer, Food, and Flea Markets by Karen Seiger. 

 Everything you ever needed to know...

Upon first glance, you will notice the book is perfect "pick me up and go" size which is ideal for both impromptu trips and planned excursions. Peel open the pages and you will see vivid photographs that really capture the uniqueness of markets and the colors and textures of otherworldly wares and foods. From boxes of vibrant Bakelite bangles to close ups of neatly stacked farm fresh produce, her photographs jump off the page and evoke that "please touch" feel of the market. Karen has traveled the globe visiting markets and she has used her experienced eye to find the best of the best markets in New York City.

Markets of New York kept me company at my recent trunk show.

The book is broken down into types of markets (Artisan and Flea, Food, and Farmers) and within the chapters you can find markets listed by the boroughs. Karen also features bios of local artisans like one of my faves, Grace Napoleon of Folk Couture (see page 91). Flip through the front for some great general tips on  bargaining, and some valuable do's and don'ts when traveling about the city. If you're new to the world of New York markets or just want to make the most of your time while there, I suggest checking out Karen's multiple market itineraries in the back. This book provides a guided peek into the flavor of each locale and inspiration to explore the great market wilderness.

Folk Couture (featured in Markets of New York) at Craft Boston Spring 2011

I had the pleasure of meeting Karen and her husband James at the Prospect Heights Fair back in March. Practically every weekend they visit markets, and cover events for the Markets of New York website. I got to hear Karen's great story of how a trip to Paris, discovery of a great Paris market guide, and job changes lead to this book and a new direction in her life. Her vast experiences have also lead to her new marketing and communications firm called Sirene MediaWorks, which will be sponsoring the Shop the Archway event for Brooklyn Craft Central coming up on May 21st. Gotta love a self-made gal with endless energy!

Mr. and Mrs. Marketplace

Karen's passion for supporting markets, artisans, and farmers is woven into everything she does and boy, am I thankful she's out there! Our chat at the fair was really a highlight to my day.  Through her support, she made me realize there are others out there who spread love, encourage adventure, and take the "Y" out of DIY. If it's a sunny weekend and you're reading this, STOP and head out to a market! And make sure you check out Karen's book/site on your way out.

Now that you're in the mood for markets, here are a few to come and check out:

Friday and Saturday, May 6th & 7th – Twist – Northampton, MA

Saturday, May 21st – Shop the Archway – DUMBO – Brooklyn, NY
 - Markets of New York is sponsoring the event!

Sunday, June 26th - Smith Street Sunday Fun Day - Brooklyn, NY


Saturday, July 9, August 6, August 13 - Greenway Open Markets - Boston, MA

Something Old, Something New - A Tale of Two Necklaces (Part 1)

Back in December of 2010, I had a table at the Indie Craft Extravaganza in Hamden, Connecticut. It turned out to be a non-stop day, full of enthusiastic customers, interesting wares, and new connections. Shortly after, I was contacted by a friendly gal named Abby who purchased my “Bam! Pow! Zap!” Batman-themed necklace. She emailed me to ask if I would be interested in taking some pieces of her family jewelry and upcycling them into a new piece for her wedding.  She also asked if her friend Allie could join us with some of her special family heirlooms. The email was such a wonderful surprise; I told her I'd love to get together with both of them. 

Bam! Pow! Zap!

The day of the big meet up, I hopped in the car with my camera and a small sketch book and headed toward Starbucks to meet Abby and Allie. I was greeted by two smiling faces and a warm cup of tea. After chatting for a few minutes, and finding we had a lot in common, I felt like I was just hanging out with a bunch of friends I hadn’t seen in a while. Any nervousness that I had about starting up this new project quickly melted away upon meeting these two funny, quirky gals and I felt instantly energized by their creativity and warmth.

Abby's Treasures

The moment Abby and Allie took out their jewelry, I felt a connection to their pieces. Their carefully selected family heirlooms showed me that they too love color and vintage design. They were beautiful pieces I would be proud to have in my own jewelry collection. Each item held special meaning: a mother's birth bracelet, a baby's charm, a whimsical bird brooch and floral bracelet that belonged to a beloved aunt. They held family memories and  anecdotes from the unforgettable women that once wore them. With each family story shared, I could visualize the pieces of the past coming together to form new pieces of jewelry for Allie and Abby.

Allie's Heirlooms

Our gathering was sprinkled with laughter, sharing, and the seeds of new friendship. Over two hours melted in what seemed like minutes. As we parted ways, I felt honored and inspired to be walking away with what would eventually become a wearable family tree and a traveling memorial. 

Read here for part 2!

On the Road - A New Beginning Salon - Eco-Friendly Trunk Show

Saturday was the day after Earth Day - the holiday that most inspires me to upcycle and create. What better day to have an eco-friendly trunk show? In honor of the greenest of green days, A New Beginning Salon and Day Spa in Bethel, CT had a trunk show every Saturday for the month of April featuring local earth-friendly vendors. This spa and salon offers a full array of amazing services for hair, skin, and body. With a relaxing environment, friendly staff, and plenty of earth-friendly Aveda products to go around, it was a great place to showcase my wares.

Aveda Land

I got to do the trunk show with my favorite green gal - Grace Napoleon of Folk Couture. Grace makes clothes out of clothes (or fashions fashion out of fashion - whichever you prefer). With a creative eye, a love for color and pattern, and a touch of whimsy, Grace creates hand-sewn, dresses, tunics, sweaters, and other fun accessories out of once loved apparel. Her finishing touches of embroidered details, frilly trim, vintage buttons, and perfectly placed patches, give it what I call the "Grace magic." People are always drawn to touch her one-of-a-kind clothes because the playful mix of textures and vintage appeal. 

style and Grace

Gals in Grace's Garments - Craft Boston Spring 2011

At the spa, Grace and I got to meet a lot of nice clients getting primped and polished for the holiday weekend. Everyone left with a relaxed glow and smile after getting their spa and salon services. I have to admit I had a little spa-envy and may have to return for a massage soon. We chatted with the lovely owner Carol (who Grace has known since she started cutting hair at her home ages ago) and Helen (who organizes the events at the spa). You could tell that Carol and Helen are passionate about the three R's and spreading the green message at the salon. It's great to see a local business doing their part to help the earth!

Helen sporting an eco-savy smile.

Karin and Sofia - my favorite models

A visit from some local friends and some new happy customers, rounded off the day nicely and made a day at the spa feel like a day at the spa. Happy Earth Day everyone!

Here is where you can find me next:

Friday and Saturday, May 6th & 7th – Twist – Northampton, MA

Saturday, May 21st – Shop the Archway – DUMBO – Brooklyn, NY

Sunday, June 26th - Smith Street Sunday Fun Day - Brooklyn, NY

Saturday, July 9, August 6, August 13 - Greenway Open Markets - Boston, MA

Love, Love, Love: Crayola Marker Caps

You can tell a lot about a classroom by looking at the floor at the end of a school day. Just visit my second grade class. It's like an archaeological site. A dusty pile of bright orange crumbs is scattered by the door. Someone had cheddar Goldfish crackers and missed the garbage pail at the end of snack time. A crumpled Post-It note is stuck to the leg of a chair with the words "suburban neighborhood - houses and lawns." I betcha we studied book settings that day. A plastic Lego guy is laying on the ground next to a cubby. Looks like someone sneaked a toy into class AGAIN. I can only imagine what the custodians must think about each room (and teacher)at the end of the day.

One item there is never a shortage of is discarded and lost pencil box supplies. Careful where you step or a #2 pencil will send you flying across the room. Leaving purple streaks across the linoleum? You must have a crayon stuck in the tread of your shoe. The crunch underneath your feet can only mean one thing...pencil shavings from a busted up sharpener. Several years ago, one particular supply caught my eye while scanning the classroom floor: Crayola marker caps.

Preferred by teachers AND jewelry designers.

It never occurred to me to make something out of them until I started saving them in a container in class. I told the kiddos to hold onto them whenever their markers dried out. The first thing I noticed was that the colors offered today went far beyond the primary pack that I grew up with. Brights, pastels, neons, and even skin colors started to fill the jar. I found out that our art teacher, Mrs. Yessenow was saving them as well. She of course, had many more since she went through markers at a much faster rate. Stacked up in her large plastic jar, the caps looked like Technicolor ziti or giant hamster pellets for rainbow-colored rodents. 

washed, sorted, drilled, & ready to go

One weekend, I took a bunch home. I sorted them by color and was amazed by the variety. I lined them up in neat rows and got the idea for bracelets. They reminded me of the boldness and chunkiness of vintage Bakelite jewelry. After a good washing, draining, and drying (to remove the kid cooties), I pulled out the drill and got down to business. After much experimenting with different elastics, drill bits, drill speeds, knots, and files, I finally made my first bracelet called it a "REcap" bracelet.

REcap-tivating!

The REcap bracelet has become the number one conversation starter at shows. I display them on a cafeteria tray in homage to elementary schools. I love seeing smiles, "aha" looks of recognition, and people calling their friends over to show them the wackiness. It always amazes me how objects carry such nostalgia for people and these bracelets always gets folks talking about school memories and childhood. And being that the cap hasn't noticeably changed over the years, kids of all ages are drawn to the familiarity of the colors and unforgettable shape.

bracelet buffet

Some artists look above for inspiration, but oftentimes the best ideas are rolling around right under your feet! 

Come have a playdate with your inner-child and try one on in person! You can find me at these upcoming shows:

TOMORROW! Saturday, April 23^rd – New Beginnings Trunk Show with Folk Couture by Grace Napolean – Bethel, CT

Friday and Saturday, May 6th & 7th – Twist – Northampton, MA

Saturday, May 21 – Shop the Archway – DUMBO – Brooklyn, NY