Tool Time

I have created some new jewelry for some shows that I want to attend.  Unfortunately, both of my shows were cancelled.  I will revel the reason behind the decision in a later post.  Also, the jewelry that I created will be shown at a later date as well.  I have another show coming up and most of my concentration is centered on that show and two future shows.   I have been using the time to reorganize my tools, beads and most of my craft materials.   I miss having all my stuff at my finger tips, but when you are trying to more, less is more and I have a lot of stuff.  

My first reorganization was my tools.   I make is sound like I have this arsenal of tools to make jewelry with, but I have 3 tools that I rely on to make the fantastic jewelry that you see or have seen.  Without them I would be lost.  They fit my hand perfectly and we go together like PB&J.    I was given some other tools by a very dear friend of mine, but when I want to get serious, I get the big 3.  I keep them in a red velvet lined purse I found.  I carry this purse with me to all my shows, parties and events where I might have to adjust or remarks some piece I am displaying.    Let me show what I am talking about.





For some reason , the purse looks pink.

 

This is one side and below is another.  Still looking pink.  What to do?

 

The other side is plain.  I can put some of my findings inside to repair or restyle a piece.

These are the basic tools I use.  Needle nose,  wire cutters, flat nose pliers and just added to my tool kit, crimpers for my crimp beads.



I have been working with the same tools for over 10 years.  They have served me well.  Want to see a jewelry lady go crazy.   Lose or misplace my tools.   Oh, Oh, I can feel the tension building up at the very thought of my tools.  Let me go and check to make sure they are all right.   TaTa y'all.





Oh, I hate to admit it but, ...............

There are times, when the creative process becomes stuck.  I really hate to admit that sometimes, it's just not there.  I have ideas in my head, but getting down to work is well, just about, almost, semi impossible to do.  I lost my work space sometime ago and most of my craft supplies and beads are in the garage.   I hate having to lug my beads in and out.  I use the dining room table as my work space.   Plus, we are in the process of trying to cut down on clutter and move(I am guilty of most of the clutter, but it is good clutter)  Most crafters know, that when you pick up an item, you might not use it then, but it will serve a purpose sometime later, right?  Right!

To make matters worse, I have a show coming up very soon,  and I need to make product.   I see earrings, bracelets and necklaces in my head, swirling around.  I think maybe my get up and go, got up and went(if you happen to see it, send it back home, I miss it).  I work a full time job.  I am at work, itching to get home and start creating.  As soon as I hit the door, all the fight leaves my body.  I cannot hide out on the Internet the whole day.  I cannot go shopping any more.  I've got beads strings that need to be taken apart. I need to sorted and put things into containers.  I need to organize, shuffle and rearrange my stuff, and try to stay focused. 

 OK, I think I am ready to tackle some jewelry now.  I can feel it.  The tidal wave of creative juices flowing.  Oh, just as soon as I finish watching the end of this movie.   It's a start.