Janel Dudley Beads

Particpating in the Bead Soup Blog Party!

2012-01-16T15:00:00.000-08:00

I am excited to announce that I got lucky and was randomly chosen for a spot in Lori Anderson's Bead Soup Blog Party!

My partner for the Bead Soup Blog party is Cathie Carroll!

I just love her Smile, Breathe and Go Slowly- Sari Silk Mixed Media Poetry Cuff! A wearable reminder to take it easy in a hectic life.

She also does Batik paintings, here is Wheelies I, Batik on Paper
shown with Wheelies II. She used such fun colors and movements in these wrapped canvas.

I got all of my bead soup ingredients together and will be shipping them out soon. I can't wait to see what Cathie and everyone else in the Bead Soup Blog Party makes! Stay tuned!

Time for changes and free shipping

2012-01-05T16:05:00.000-08:00

Ah the New Year is here! When everything feels just about the same but fresh starts and resolutions are a hint in the air. Well... maybe not a fresh start or even resolutions, but how about some changes? And new beads?! I mean who doesn't like new beads right?

To start off I will no longer be doing 10% off for return customers, but to try and make up for it I will be offering FREE USPS 1st class shipping for US and Canada. I hope everyone is cool with that.

Also, I have been feeling a bit dissatisfied with my bead photos, I will be working on re-shooting pictures while adding new beads.

I will be switching from my little light box to a set up similar to this one on Handmadeology. Getting better photos is a challenge but the natural light looks so much better. Of course, I'm still learning.

Now time for some new eye-candy! Camouflaged Lampwork Big Hole Beads.

Happy New Year to you and yours!

We have a winner!

2011-12-16T11:25:00.000-08:00

Finally! We have a winner for my most recent giveaway!

The winners for my giveaways have always been picked my my cool cat Maynard. The way we do it is, I write all the names of the people who commented on the giveaway onto a piece of paper.

Next I crumple them up and throw them.

Traditionally he will fetch one and bring it back to me, but being a cat he only does what he chooses. He did a lot of laying around, so I thought it would be brilliant to scatter them around him and hope he would finally pick one. Silly me.

He would have fun rolling around in them, then feign interest and walk towards me to do cute poses and rub his head up on the camera.

Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, he picked one out. Even though he didn't bring it to me it still counts!

Drum roll please..................

!!!!Char F, you are the winner!!!!
!!!!!Raaaaar yaaaayy!!!!!! The crowd goes wild!!

Thank you to all that commented on the giveaway. Maynard and I had fun and I hope you did too. Happy Holidays to you all!

Tis the Season to be Giving - Giveaway!

2011-12-08T11:30:00.000-08:00

It's the season for gift giving! I am giving away this pair of lampwork glass bead earrings. The beads and the sterling silver fish-hook earrings are made by yours truly.

Rules to win - There really are no rules, just leave a comment below.

Winner will be randomly picked December the 15th by my cool cat Maynard. Good luck everyone!

Holiday Weekend Sale

2011-11-27T09:53:00.001-08:00

I have also jumped on the Sale bandwagon. It seems like almost everyone and their moms are having a sale, that's a cool thing right? I mean, who doesn't enjoy saving money while spending it?

Get 30% Off in MY ETSY no coupon code needed.

Returning customers get an extra 10% Off their orders, take advantage of this while you can, I will no longer be doing the return customer discount after the new year begins.

Happy Holidays to you all, hope you are all well and happy!

-Janel

2011-11-16T10:06:00.001-08:00

Just a quick post. I've had manzanita on the brain. Can you tell? Here's a Manzanita Tree bead I made just the other day.

Of course I had to make a treasury for such occasion. The title Manzanita seemed quite fitting. Thanks for looking!

Re-opened my Etsy!

2011-10-26T08:48:00.000-07:00

I finally re-opened my Etsy! After taking a long break since we recently moved, I am finally able to start making beads again!! It's all been quite exciting, the best part is I'm melting glass again! Upon re-opening I've sold a couple beads, have had some requests and have been included in an eyeball treasury.

Also, to help celebrate, I am having a SALE. Use coupon code REOPEN for sale to apply.

Click Here

Returning customers always get an additional 10% off! (10% refund will be made through Paypal.)

Now let's take a looksie at that eyeball treasury!

I'm Watching YOU...by stoneandbone

That was a long vacation.

2011-05-31T13:18:00.000-07:00

I want to thank everyone for their patience while my Etsy was in vacation mode. We had recently moved to another state and I had full intentions on re-opening my Etsy in the middle of April, but due to unforeseen circumstances my "vacation" was prolonged.

After finally finding a place to call home, I was excited to re-open and get back to work online. Stressfully, I admit we are now in a financial pickle and I have to get back to work in the "real" world. Please don't worry though, during this time I will still be making beads, but more on the enlightened side of things! Once I am able make an income again I will be re-opening my Etsy with exciting and new beads!

Again, thank you all for your patience and I hope you are all feeling well and happy!
:) Janel

Whoohoo!!

2011-03-01T08:17:00.000-08:00

I'm so excited!! This morning I found out that I won the Beads of Courage GTT Cricket torch! And it's PURPLE!!!!! Whoohoo!

The coolest thing about this is that over 13,000 lampwork beads were sent in for BOC! If you are interested in donating your lampwork beads or would like to donate $$ get more info on the Beads of Courage website!

101 beads for BOC!

2011-02-22T08:03:00.000-08:00

Today I'm shipping out 101 beads to Beads of Courage! Beads of Courage is a program for children with serious illnesses, helping them through their steps to recovery!

For the month of February Studio Marcy is having a great incentive to get more lampworkers to send in beads! You can Win a GTT Cricket Torch! There's only a few days left so hustle up!!

Lampworkers aren't the only ones that can help though! You can Go Shopping or Donate Now on the BOC website. You can get all the info you need by clicking on the info tabs at the top of the page.

Here's what I'm sending! I hope these create smiles on their little faces!!

My Etsy on Vacation

2011-02-19T16:29:00.001-08:00

I'll be putting my Etsy on Vacation Mode for a couple months since my husband and I are moving out of state. I'm hoping to re-open mid April if all goes well. I can still check convos and emails so if you need to contact me don't hesitate!

Thank you and cross your fingers for us!

XD Janel

Announcing the winner!

2011-02-14T15:52:00.001-08:00

It's time to announce the winner of the Glow in the Dark Eyeball Skeleton Key!

For those of you who are new to my giveaways, this is how it's done...

..I write everyone's name on a piece of paper and cut them up...

..then each piece of paper gets wadded up.. and thrown!

Then my super cool and fun kitty cat, Maynard, goes and picks one out...

..and brings it to me so we can see who it is!

The winner is.... CRYSTAL!!!
Congratulations Crystal! I will be contacting you!

Even though his job was done, Maynard insisted on playing a game of tug-of-war! He's so cute!

Thanks for playing everyone!
Happy Valentines Day!

Glow Glass Treasury!

2011-02-14T08:02:00.000-08:00

One of my beads was included in a sweet treasury, Glow Glass Artists Treasury I curated by the glow glass, mix master GlowJoe himself! Check out all the glowing eye candy others have made with Glow Glass!

Happy Valentines Day everyone and thanks for looking!

Vote! Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge

2011-02-12T07:16:00.000-08:00

All of the entries for the most recent Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge are really cool! I know just how tough it's going to be to vote for "That Special Bead."

Voting poll is on the right of the Fire Divas blog.

Our first entry is a beautiful necklace featuring a bead by Ashlyn Design and some stunning wire work:

Entry #1

Designer Info: Scott Bjorge. Gallery
Designer's Description: As we enter the heart of winter it is nice to think of our beautiful Spring gardens to escape the cold and snow. This lovely focal bead by Ashlyn Design inspires that feeling with it's blend of an array of lovely colors. Designed with a sterling silver 's' hook accented with two more beads from Ashlyn Design brought around to the front to become part of the design.

Our second entry is also an "eye catching" necklace featuring an eye bead by Holly's Folly and natural and metallic beads.

Entry #2

Designer Info: Michelle Plumb Gallery Contact: maplumb1 {at} wowway (dot) com
Designer's Description: Eye of Horus necklace, with focal by Holly Dare of Holly’s Folly and eye murrini from Janel Dudley Beads. I’m fascinated by ancient Egyptian history, so this bead called me immediately. The necklace was made with Holly’s Eye of Horus focal, graduated lapis lazuli rondelles, turquoise rounds and gold-plated rounds. Fit for a Pharaoh!

Entry #3 is rich with silver and glass baubles from Janel Dudley Beads

Entry #3

Designer Info: Mary Elam / Stella's Blossoms
Designer's Description: Boro Blues is inspired by the beautiful blue fire within each of these lovely beads by Janel Dudley. The brilliant shades of blue and aqua truly radiate goodness from within. Each Boro bead is accented with Bali Sterling silver beadcaps. I've included my favorite Bail sterling silver focal bead in a unique oval shape to compliment the design. Swarovski crystals add extra sparkle. A thai silver toggle closure is included.

Our fourth entry is a double spiral of Swarovski crystals with a hollow heart by Holly's Folly.

Entry #4

Designer Info: Gretchen Coats Etsy Blog Gallery
Designer's Description: This 24" necklace is made up of close to 600 3mm swarovski crystals in a double spiral. The Focal bead is made by Holly of Holly's Folly Glass, and the crystals and seed beads match the blue and pink of the focal bead perfectly! Heart is actually hollow, and upon closer inspection you can see

the smaller beads run through the center of it!

Our fifth and final entry mixes pearls, crystals, pressed glass and seed beads with a floral focal from Holly's Folly .

Entry #5

Designer Info: Helen Aresik / Helen's Atelje
Designer's Description: Romance in pink. This design is based and inspired on the beautiful and wonderful, handmade lampwork bead made by Holly's Folly. When I look at the Focal bead I think of a beautiful garden with pink flowers. I’ve chosen beads and other findings to match the pink and green tones in the focal bead. I made some beaded beads myself with pink beads with a green bead inside, inspired of the deep green color inside the focal bead. I also used chain and findings in sterling silver, some swarovski crystals, freshwater pearls and other glass beads and leaves. The necklace is 80 cm long excl. the pendant, which is 10,5 cm. The focal bead is almost 4 cm long. The bracelet is 21 cm long and the earrings are 3 cm long without the earhook.

Voting: Please vote once on the right side of the Fire Divas blog. Voting poll will be up for one week. Winners will be announced shortly after the polls are closed on the Fire Divas Glass Bead Blog.

Vacation/Moving Sale

2011-02-10T09:56:00.000-08:00

In a few days I will be putting my Etsy on vacation mode for a couple months. My husband and I are moving out of state soon! During this time I will be concentrating on packing, painting and all the other back breaking work that's involved.

I'm having a 30% Off Sale! (Use Coupon Code 30SALE) Returning customers always get an additional 10% off! (10% refund will be
made through Paypal.) Take advantage of the sale while you can!

BTW :) I've also decided if nobody mobs up on my Glow in the Dark Eyeballs Necklace then I will be declaring it mine!!! I just can't help myself!

Treasury by Maybeads!

2011-02-09T07:39:00.000-08:00

Here's Winter Brights from the Fire Divas made by Maybeads! A fun and cheerful treasury to start our day off right!

Maybeads makes the cutest beads that always puts a smile on my face. Here, take a look. I bet you'll start smiling too!

Leon the Love Cat

Green Hippo Large Hole Lampwork Bead

Have a great day everyone!

Treasuries X's 3!

2011-02-07T16:15:00.000-08:00

I found out this morning that my lampwork beads have been included in three treasuries!! Whoohoo! Here they are! Thanks for looking!

NIGHT LIGHT by Gerean

I'm So Ready For Sprouts! by studiololo2

Fire Divas Pretty in Pink! by ahouston

Valentines Giveaway!

2011-02-05T17:32:00.000-08:00

To celebrate Valentines Day I will be giving away this Glow in the Dark Eyeball Skeleton Key necklace!

There's one way to win!

Go to the Fire Divas Etsy page on our blog, pick a favorite and leave a comment about it below! CLICK HERE This changes about once a week for your viewing pleasure!

One entry per person

Sign up ends February 12! Winner will be picked on the 13th and announced on the 14th! Last but most definitely not least, Maynard the worlds coolest cat will be picking the winner! Good luck everybody!

My lucky day!

2011-02-03T16:56:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my luck! I've been featured in a couple more treasuries!

The first one is Love and whimsy at the seashore curated by BellaFrog. I love the look and feel of this, it reminds my of a Spring day at the beach! You know when it's foggy and chilly in the morning then clears/warms up in the afternoon.

The next one is sea blue done by nurlu. A beautiful blue treasury that has some really cool Etsy items! This blue tone is my most favorite color and I really like the Cotton Fabric Headband!

I want to share the love so let's take a look at their shops and find some favorites!

I love this bright and cheerful Valentine, Easter and spring wreath made by Bella Frog. This would cheer up any grouchy person!

I would totally wear this Hand crochet Lariat Scarf made by nurlu. I'm not normally a flower wearing person but I would love to wear this with a gray spaghetti strapped dress!

Thanks for looking!
Janel

In a Etsy Treasury!

2011-02-03T09:24:00.000-08:00

This morning a set of my lampwork beads were added to a beautiful blue treasury on Etsy! Here is "I've Got the Winter Blues" curated by SoapGarden.

Let's take a look at something blue from SoapGarden Here's some Sea Glass Soap. Hey! That's a couple of my favorite things, the sea and of course glass, and I just love the description she added!

Thanks for looking!
Janel

Pre-moving Sale!

2011-02-01T10:58:00.000-08:00

Since I will be moving out of the state I will be putting my Etsy in Vacation Mode in a couple weeks. Now is the time to take advantage of my Pre-moving Sale!

In addition to taking 20% off (coupon code 20PERC) I'm adding FREE SHIPPING! Shipping discount has been applied for your convenience!

A LINK TO MY ETSY!

Thank you for looking!

Two cool blogs!

2011-01-31T09:31:00.000-08:00

Recently I found two cool blogs that are new to me!

The 1st one is By Hand Giveaways. Not only do you get to see/enter the cool giveaways different bloggers/artisans are having, but you can also have your giveaways posted on this blog!

The 2nd is Totally Tutorials. This blog really intrigues me! There are so many great tutorials written by a bunch of talented people! The sewing ones have been catching my eye a lot!

Thanks for looking and have an awesome day everyone!

Sprouts Sunrise is in a Treasury!

2011-01-30T09:19:00.000-08:00

I just found out via Etsy Activity Feed that one of my beads have been included in this garden themed treasury!

s p r o u t by Beadaladee

Have a great Sunday and thanks for looking!

Time for a Sale!

2011-01-28T08:14:00.000-08:00

Take 20% off by using coupon code 20PERC
Remember, returning customers get an additional 10% off!

Here's some new work I've recently added!

Glowing Eyeball - Glow-in-the-Dark Big Hole Bead - Copper Lined and Capped

Eyeball Skeleton Key - Necklace

Eyeball Big Hole Bead - Copper Lined

Thanks for looking and have an awesome weekend!

-Janel

That Special Bead - Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge

2011-01-13T09:10:00.000-08:00

It's time for another Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge! Below is a list of the prizes that can be won and if you need a little bit of inspiration check out our Flickr!

The theme is That Special Bead, let's see those awesome jewelry designs!

Winged heart bead like this one by Lori from http://www.ashlyndesign.etsy.com/

$20 Gift Certificate to janeldudleybeads.etsy.com

$40 Gift Certificate to hollysfolly.com

$15 Gift Certificate to teasebeads.com or teasebeads.artfire.com

$25 Gift Certificate to http://www.arensea.etsy.com/ or http://www.arensea.artfire.com/

A bead donated by Lara from www.lutrick.etsy.com and www.lutrick.artfire.com

A fish like this one by Laurie from www.glassbead.etsy.com

$20 Gift Certificate to http://www.artfire.com/users/BabsBeadsandDesign

$20 Gift Certificate to www.etsy.com/shop/uglyducklingbeads

This set of beads from RiversEdgeGlass

Now the boring stuff:

All submissions must feature Fire Divas' lampwork. We require the name of the Fire Diva who made the beads used in the submitted piece, so if you submit something, please be ready to provide that information.

We will allow one submission per person per contest, and a maximum of two photos per submission. Entries may be submitted here (http://www.flickr.com/groups/firedivachallenge/) for approval, no later than February 10, 2011. No Flickr account? No problem. You can also email your submissions to firedivas @ gmail . com (no spaces). Please include, in the comments section or in your email, the following:
Information about the beads:
Description of the piece:
Inspiration for the piece:
Submissions will not be approved without all of this information.

Fire Divas reserve the right to approve or reject any submissions.

Fire Divas reserve the right to modify or cancel the challenge at any time.

The winners will be determined by an open poll which does not allow multiple votes.

Winner of the Glowing Optical Monstrosity Giveaway!

2011-01-01T15:15:00.000-08:00

It's time to pick a winner for my Glowing Optical Monstrosity Giveaway! My cat Maynard has been waiting patiently to pick a winner!

There were 23 people who signed up and left a comment, thank you everybody!

Every one's name was written on a piece of paper, then cut...

...and crumpled up.

Here's Maynard showing me he's ready...

...then I draw back my arm and throw them across the room!

He's honed in on one...

...and brings it over so we can see who he picked!

It's Eliza from Bead A Little Dream!
Congrats Eliza! I hope you enjoy this necklace!

Maynard has had a blast... he looks hungry for more...

...and looks forward to the next giveaway!

Happy New Year everybody!

Have you ever seen a Doxie Nurse?

2010-12-22T13:44:00.000-08:00

One of the ladies I work with recently graduated from nursing school. She also has a Doxie, "Pretzel" that she is just crazy about!

So it only seemed fitting to ask my friend and fellow Fire Diva, Lauren at Maybeads, if she could make a Doxie Nurse. Lauren makes THE cutest critter beads!

Not only was she able to make the coolest Doxie Nurse ever, she also gifted me one of her owls! This tiny little pleasure is no more than 10x8mm, the intricacy of her beads is mind blowing!

Birthday Sale!

2010-12-21T15:55:00.000-08:00

It's my Birthday on Wednesday! In honor of my special day I will be having a sale in my Etsy!

Get 32% Off orders of $32 or more! 12/21-12/23

Use coupon code: BDAY32

Remember coupon is for orders of $32 or more!
Cost of shipping is separate and will not be added to make order amount eligible.

Thanks for looking!
Happy Holidays to you all!
Happy Birthday to me!
;) Janel

I got the Fire Divas Bead of the Day!

2010-12-20T17:38:00.000-08:00

One of my beads was chosen for the Fire Divas Bead of the Day! I am so excited!! I've had such a great day today and this was the icing on my cake! You can get the icing for your cake, (10% Off) of this Changing Seasons Tree if it's purchased with in 24 hours of the post!

You can also get an additional 10% off if you are a repeat customer! Just add a "Returning Customer" comment in notes for buyer on Paypal.

The Fire Divas have a Bead of the Day promo. What this means for you is, Monday through Fridays, on the Fire Divas Blog, there is a Bead of the Day that is chosen and more than likely there will be a promo along with it!

Click on this link to see the list! THIS LINK!

Sent some beads to Beads of Courage

2010-12-19T19:21:00.000-08:00

I recently sent some beads to Beads of Courage! I'm so exited! I finally felt like I had enough saved up to send out!

Here's 30 crystal shaped ones...

...and 20 glow in the dark ones!

If you are a lampworker and would like to send some beads to Beads of Courage, get into the loop by reading up in the Lampwork Etc. forum by clicking here!

Featured in an Eyeball Treasury!

2010-12-09T08:48:00.000-08:00

One of my glow in the dark eyeball beads in in this super cool EYE OF THE BEHOLDER!! treasury curated by AndTheSignSays

I love this treasury and found it hard to pick a favorite but if I could I would get the Eyeball knit hat and Eye Love You Tinted Iris Pillow!

Thanks for looking everybody and thank you AndTheSignSays for making such an awesome treasury!

Glowing Optical Monstrosity - Giveaway!

2010-12-06T15:45:00.000-08:00

I recently created an optical monstrosity! Some may even call it an eyesore. Whatever you may call it, it can be yours if you like it!

This lampwork bead has an earthy base and 25 glowing handpulled millefiori eyeballs. It is approximately 38x25mm or 1.5x1 inches. It's HUGE!

The choker is made with 12 strands of black hemp twine and is 13 inches long, 7mm or 5/16in. thick with a 5 in. braided tail to be able to make it a tad longer if need be.

There's one way to win!

Go to the Fire Divas Etsy page on our blog, pick a favorite and leave a comment about it below! CLICK HERE This changes about once a week for your viewing pleasure!

One entry per person

Sign up ends December 31

(Up to $5.00 shipping cost will be covered, if it is greater than $5 winner will have to pay for the rest. I'm sorry if this sounds harsh, but it can be really expensive to send stuff to Australia.)

Winner will be picked by my cool cat Maynard! Good luck everybody!

*Edited to mention that everyone can enter and the winner is more than welcome to do what ever they want with it, gift it or cut the bead out and use it for a creation of your own! No worries!

Black Friday/Cyber Monday Weekend Sale!

2010-11-25T17:56:00.000-08:00

Save $$$ on lampwork beads! During the Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale!! (11/25-11/29)

Get 20% Off in my Etsy! Click Here!!

Remember to use coupon code: 20PERCENTOFF

Happy Holidays!!!

See list below for Fire Divas that are participating in the Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale!!

1) Holly - 20% off my shop http://Hollysfolly.com/ or Artfire shop http://www.artfire.com/users/HollysFollyGlass or my Etsy http://www.etsy.com/shop/HollysFollyGlass - use coupon code THANKFUL upon check out. Addition savings for fans.

2) Lori - 10% off my Etsy http://www.ashlyndesign.etsy.com/ and ArtFire http://www.artfire.com/users/AshlynDesign shops from Friday to Monday

3) Kathleen -10% off http://www.etsy.com/shop/UglyDucklingBeads

4.)Sonja-10% off http://www.etsy.com/shop/SilverRiverGlassWork and http://www.artfire.com/users/SilverRiverGlassWorks

5) - Lara - 10% off at Artfire and Etsy + free shipping
http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&%3Bseller_id=22129
and http://www.etsy.com/shop/Lutrick

6) Janel 20% off at Etsy from Thursday to Monday http://www.etsy.com/shop/JanelDudleyBeads

7) Patrice - 20% off my ArtFire shop: http://www.artfire.com/users/shepherdcreations : Use coupon "FIREDIVASTHANKSGIVING2010"

8)Barb - 15% off on my AF shop from Friday-monday http://www.artfire.com/users/riversedgeglass

9) Melanie - 20% off on ArtFire http://arensea.artfire.com/ or Etsy http://arensea.etsy.com/

10)Amy 20% off on ArtFire shop coupon code TURKEY: http://www.artfire.com/users/AmySimsDesigns

11) Theresa - Free shipping on all items in my Artfire shop until Monday:http://www.artfire.com/users/teasebeads

12) Lea - 20% off my Artfire http://www.artfire.com/users/LAJewelryDesignsand Etsy http://www.etsy.com/shop/LAJewelryDesigns from Friday to Monday - use coupon code HAPPYTHANKSGIVING upon check out.

13) Karen - Friday - Monday, 10% off in both shops, http://www.etsy.com/shop/giapet and http://www.artfire.com/users/Fire-n-Sand

Lunar treasury!

2010-11-18T07:26:00.000-08:00

One of my beads has been included in this Surface of the Moon treasury made by lotuspad! I think it looks awesome!

Cast your vote! Fire Divas Monthly Bead Challenge

2010-11-17T17:22:00.000-08:00

Tis the season to be voting! The Fire Divas are having a monthly bead challenge! The theme is Christmas/Hanukkah, it only takes a second. Voting is on the right, pick one, scroll down and cast your vote! Happy Holidays and get your bead on!

CLICK HERE TO VOTE

Entry 1
Entry 2
Entry 3
Entry 4
Entry 5
Entry 6
Entry 7
Entry 8
Entry 9

In a Fire Divas Treasury!

2010-11-14T18:21:00.000-08:00

I was recently included in this Fire Divas treasury curated by UglyDucklingBeads !

To see the treasury in all of it's beautiful beady glory CLICK HERE!

Glowing Treasury!

2010-10-24T14:25:00.000-07:00

Today one of my beads was included in this Glow in the Dark Wonders Treasury curated by cindylouwho2. It's so much fun to see all of the different handmade glow in the dark stuff on Etsy! I'm honored to be included in such a fun treasury!

Since your here, head over to cindylouwho2 and check out her many beautiful handmade treasures!

Winner of the Giveaway!

2010-10-21T07:48:00.000-07:00

Thank you for all the comments that everyone left in my most recent bead giveaway! Since everyone was a fan on my Facebook page they all got 2 chances for winning.

The winner will be picked by my trusty and playful assistant, Maynard! After all the names were written on pieces of paper, I crumple them up, and throw them. Maynard then picks a winner and brings it back to me!

Let's begin!

...and the winner is.... Lauren from Maybeads!!!!! A fellow Fire Diva and lampwork buddy! She makes the cutest critter beads!

Thanks again everyone and thank you Maynard for your cooperation! Here's a look at the bead that Lauren won!

Bead Giveaway!

2010-10-12T16:32:00.000-07:00

I haven't had a bead giveaway for awhile, so I figured it was about time!

It measures at 27mm long, 19mm wide and 14mm thick. It has a flattened bi-cone base made with River Rock and Silver Leaf. The design is made with a silver reactive color and one of my hand pulled millefiori's.

Below is a side view so help get a better feel for the bead.

There are two ways to win!

1. Leave a comment below!

2. If you are a fan of my Facebook Fanpage (please mention in comment if you are a fan)

All names will be written on a slip of paper, crumpled up, and thrown. Then my helper, Maynard, will pick the winner!

Winner will be chosen some time next week! Good luck everybody!!

Beads for a Cure with the Fire Divas!

2010-10-08T08:03:00.000-07:00

I'm so proud to be a part of The Fire Divas! Not only are they a great group of ladies but these talented glass bead makers are always doing something fun and exciting! Here's a look at what's going on with the group right now....

It's Breast Cancer Awareness Month! During all of October the Fire Divas are doing our part in trying to raise awareness and money for this worthy cause.

Keep your eyes open Monday-Friday as our Glass Bead of the Day will be featuring lots of pink beads - our way of reminding you to think pink during Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

Viking Knit w/ Pink Batik Bead by EmaKaye

The Fire Divas listed below have chosen to donate portions of our bead and jewelry sales to help out.. Each shop has discounts noted since some of us may have taken a step further and are donating a percentage from ALL sales.

With your help, we can raise awareness and funds through lampwork beads!

*Note.. previous Bead of the Day discounts will not apply unless otherwise noted in shop announcements or listings.

Pink Playthings / HollysFollyGlass

HollysFollyGlass - 20% to Susan G Komen for the Cure http://hollysfolly.com/ and http://www.artfire.com/users/HollysFollyGlass

UglyDucklingBeads - 25% to Susan G Komen Race for the Cure http://www.etsy.com/shop/UglyDucklingBeads

Teasebeads - 15% to Susan G Komen Race for the Cure http://www.teasebeads.com/ and http://www.artfire.com/users/teasebeads

JanelDudleyBeads - All proceeds of pink beads to Susan G Komen Race for the Cure http://www.etsy.com/shop/JanelDudleyBeads

AshlynDesign - 20% to Susan G Komen Race for the Cure for any pink bead sales http://www.artfire.com/users/AshlynDesign

LAJewelryDesigns - 20% to Susan G Komen Race for the Cure http://www.artfire.com/users/LAJewelryDesigns

ahouston - 25% will be donated to Susan G Komen Race for the Cure for any pink bead sales and goddess beads (everything in the "PINK" section of my shop) http://www.etsy.com/shop/ahouston

spawnofflame - Everything in PINK section of Artfire shop. 25% to Living Beyond Breast Cancer http://spawnofflame.artfire.com/

IcarusBeads - From Artfire Shop - 20 % to Susan G Komen Race for the Cure http://www.artfire.com/users/IcarusBeads

EmaKaye - Any pink beads in the Etsy shop - 20 % to Susan G Komen Race for the Cure http://emakaye.etsy.com/

Lutrick 20% of all ArtFire sales to National Breast Cancer Foundation http://www.artfire.com/users/Lutrick

SilverRiverGlassWorks - 20% off pink beads to Susan G Komen Race for the Cure http://www.artfire.com/users/SilverRiverGlassWorks

Shepherd Creations - 20% to of Artfire and BOD to Komen for the Cure http://www.artfire.com/users/shepherdcreations

We will link to this post from a logo on the right for you to refer back to during the month. Thank you for helping us fight this disease!

Pink Leopard by Ashlyn Design

Remembering to Remember

2010-10-01T18:15:00.000-07:00

Today I'm reminded of the importance of remembering. It is so important to remember to fill obligations. Between work, bills, family, friends, road trips, a sick cat and a lot of birthdays, it's hard to remember to get everything done! So there's no way I'm going to forget to do some fun, bloggy and beady ones!

My first one is to remember to fill my obligation for the ABS Blog Carnival, and this months topic is....can you guess? Yep, that's right! Remembrance!

The Art Bead Scene Blog Carnival is written by a bunch of talented jewelry and bead designers with Cindy Gimbrone leading the way.

There are two groups, each one covering every other month and then sharing June and December

I've come so far, being able to remember to write my Blog Carnival post, that even though I'm a couple days late from the deadline, I'm not going to let that stand in my way accomplishing another one of my obligations to these great beady bloggers!

My second one is Jennifer Cameron's Art Charm Swap. There are ten talented beady artist joining in on the fun! Each one sending in 10 handmade charms and of course with the patient and gracious Jennifer Cameron organizing it all!

Jennifer Cameron
Paige
Ema
Susan
Amy
Kristie
Nan
Lauren
Loretta
Janel

Even though I've had 2 months full of remembrance and not enough doing, tonight is the night I will be having some fun finishing up my art charms so I can send them out tomorrow!

Last but not least, my third obligation to fill is to remember to blog about a very special group of ladies, The Fire Divas ! An online and fantastically diverse group of lampwork bead designers who I am happy to be a part of!

The admin selflessly put in countless hours to organize fun and exciting things for the group and beady type people to do.

Our most recent is the Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge. Only three people have joined so far, making the chance of winning some awesome lampwork beads easier. The deadline is October 15, 2010 so the rush to remember to enter you jewelry design in on!

If you have some Fire Divas beads or finished jewelry with Fire Divas beads you still have a couple weeks to enter!

Get those entries in!

Share some of your obligations, accomplishments or goals that you have remembered!
I'd love to hear!

A new treasury!

2010-09-19T09:18:00.000-07:00

I haven't currated a treasury for months.
Here's a fresh one made just this morning!

Earthy Tones in Lampwork Beads - By the Fire Divas Team

Thanks for looking!

New Glow-in-the Dark Beads

2010-09-12T06:22:00.000-07:00

I've recently been working on glow-in-the-dark beads! I'm really excited with the outcome! Here's a peep of the latest!

Glowing Quint Iris Eyeball

Glowing Eyeballs BHB

I'm also currently working on another project..here's a sneak peek!

Curious about where to find Glow-in-the-Dark glass?

This glass is hand pulled by Glow Joe, you can find a huge variety of rods at Sundance Art Glass or check out his hand crushed frits in his Etsy!

Glow-in-the-Dark Picture Tips

2010-09-06T17:34:00.000-07:00

There's been a couple request from different people on how to take a picture of a glow-in-the-dark bead in the dark. Here's my husband Dan explaining...

My method for taking pictures of glow-in-the-dark beads.

We are using a Nikon D40 digital SLR with an 18-55mm lens. Almost any camera with a fully manual mode will work. You will need to manually adjust your Focus, Shutter Speed, and ISO. You will also need a camera stand to ensure nothing moves. A remote shutter button or a delayed shot are very useful as well.

Controlling your light is the first thing. The room we use has a big window that lets in a lot of light, so most of these shots are done at night. We have a photo tent with 3 lamps, one on each side and one above. You need to have the bright lights both for your first shot and to charge the glow-glass in the beads. Our lights all share the same surge protector so there is only one switch to kill all the lights.

If possible, set your camera to fully auto, with manual focus. And take a couple of reference shots. You need to make sure the shot looks good under light before you start taking pictures in the dark. Take note of your camera settings from the best looking picture and switch it over to manual mode.

I then turn off the lights and take my first “shot in the dark”. If it is too dark, increase the Shutter Speed until it is visible. Increasing your ISO to a higher setting will help, but the pictures can tend to get grainy at higher ISO settings. Try to find a balance between Shutter Speed and ISO.

The shots I have here both have the same Focal length and Aperture. The difference is the ISO 200 vs 1600, and Shutter Speed 1/40' vs 7.1'. Your settings are going to be different depending on your camera, lighting conditions, and personal preference. All I can say is make a small change, take another shot and see what it does. I work by the trial and error method.

.....thank you so much Dan! You are the sweetest man evah!!

If you have any questions post them below!

The Fire Divas Challenge you!

2010-08-19T17:05:00.000-07:00

Hold on to your seats folks! The Fire Divas are having their next Quarterly Jewelry Challenge!

More than $215 in lampwork bead prizes have been donated!

The theme is "The Holiday Season" let's see what you can do! Need some inspiration? Check out the Fire Divas Flickr!

Rules and prizes are listed below.

Have fun, create, win beads!

http://www.twoglassyladies.ca/

http://www.etsy.com/shop/JanelDudleyBeads

http://www.arensea.etsy.com/

http://www.teasebeads.artfire.com/

http://www.artfire.com/users/BabsBeadsandDesign

http://www.lajewelrydesigns.etsy.com/

http://www.hollysfolly.com/

http://www.lutrick.artfire.com/

Owl bead from http://www.maybeads.etsy.com/

http://www.emakaye.etsy.com/

http://www.beadygirlbeads.etsy.com/

Now for the details:

All submissions must feature Fire Divas' lampwork. We require the name of the Fire Diva who made the beads used in the submitted piece, so if you submit something, please be ready to provide that information.

We will allow one submission per person per contest, and a maximum of two photos per submission. Entries may be submitted here (http://www.flickr.com/groups/firedivachallenge/) for approval, no later than October 15, 2010. Please include, in the comments section, the following:
Information about the beads:
Description of the piece:
Inspiration for the piece:
Submissions will not be approved without all of this information.

Fire Divas reserve the right to approve or reject any submissions.

Fire Divas reserve the right to modify or cancel the challenge at any time.

The winners will be determined by an open poll which does not allow multiple votes.

Let's go vote!

2010-08-17T19:35:00.000-07:00

It's that time again! The Fire Divas are having a monthly bead challenge! The theme is "Joy" Cast your vote by CLICKING HERE and voting on the right!

Glass Challenge Entry

2010-08-12T08:39:00.000-07:00

I recently entered the Glass Challenge sponsored by Mountain Glass Arts. To see the entries or to go and vote CLICK HERE! If your a glass artist there's still time to get your entry in!!!!

Here's the Glow in the Dark Choker I entered in the challenge!

Thank for looking and thanks for voting!!

Tri-Iris Eyeball Tut

2010-08-05T13:48:00.000-07:00

To start off I'd like to mention that this tut does not cover how to make your own millefiori/murrini canes, nor does it cover how to apply them. The reason being is there are tuts already out there that cover how to do these techniques! Some are free and some you have to pay for, none the less, look around online, you'll find them! If you are interested in buying some of mine they can be found HERE!

I'd also like to say that at first I was going to sell this tut in my Etsy but after some thought I decided to share this with the world for free! This is my way of saying thank you to all of the lampworkers and artist who have shared their techniques and gifted me their tuts for free! With out their kindness and generosity I wouldn't have been able to make my eyeball beads!!

Ok with all that said, let's begin!

This tut is geared for the experienced lampworker, please be safe whenever working with hot and/or sharp things! I know this is a given but I just had to get it out!

Things you need:

Tungsten pick
Dental tool
Hand marver
Tweezers
Mandrel
Hot plate

(The dental tool is used more for a smaller flattening surface by using the handle, it seems to give me a bit more control since I can see what's going on with the millefiori's. The marver is listed since most lampworkers would have this tool.)

Here's an example of my trusty dental pick in action!

Colors Needed - 104 coe

Fossil (Effetre)
Oxblood (TAG, Trautman Art Glass)
Intense Black 1mm stringer (Effetre)
clear (a very clear,clear)

Millefiori
made with silver glass
(4x4mm-6x8mm)
(Really, you can use whatever size you want, just depends on how big or small you are making your beads!)

I recommend using Fossil since it is a somewhat stiffer light color and doesn't run as bad as other Ivory toned colors. The one I've been using is the Medium Fossil but the light and dark are just fine too! Also, Lace Agate is another color that is very similar to Fossil. The Oxblood is a wonderful color since it doesn't spread and web like most black colors do, this color also tends to make silver glass sing!

Before you start you bead make sure you have your mille's pre-heating on the hot plate.

1. Make a base bead of Fossil

2. Roll on marver to even and flatten

3. Add 3 dots of Oxblood, slowly melt in

(Here's where I start using the dental pick handle as a mini marver)

4. Flatten with dental tool handle

5. Slowly melt in dots almost all the way into base bead, may need to repeat step 4 a couple times

6.With tweezers add 1 pre-heated milli per oxblood dot

7.Melt mille till tips are rounded out

8.While mille is hot, plunge with tungsten pick, one mille at a time.

9. Melt mille until rounded out again and there is no dimple

10. Melt and flatten until mille's are almost melted into the base bead

Repeat steps 9 &10 a couple of times, this will also give you a better chance to bring all lines together in center of the mille's

11. Add 1 tiny dot of Intense Black onto the center of each mille, the tinier the better, intense black likes to spread so feel free to make your dots smaller than the ones shown in the next picture

12.Heat dot and flatten with dental tool, melt in but do not let Intense black spread too much before step 14

13. Reduce or strike, depending on what kind of silver glass you are using

14. Add big dots of clear on each mille, about the same amount of the oxblood, mille, and Intense Black together.

15. Melt clear and flatten, repeat many times

16. Melt bead until rounded or a desired shape. (You may like the results with the clear raised in bulbous fashion, it looks pretty cool.)

17. Flame anneal and pop into kiln!

Feel free to do whatever you would like with your eye beads. Sell them, gift them, or make jewelry with them, but please, please don't mass produce them by using slave labor!!!!

I hope your eye beads bring you smiles, laughter, joy and protection!

To see some more results, check out some eyeballs made by my friend and fellow Fire Diva, Holly!!! Click Here!

Thank you,
Janel Dudley
SRA #D-81
My Etsy

Etsy Anniversary!

2010-07-29T15:03:00.000-07:00

I'm celebrating 2 years on August 2nd! For this special occasion I will be having a sale!

!!!FREE SHIPPING and 20% OFF!!!

Shipping has already been discounted and the 20% will be refunded via Paypal.

Clearance items not included in 20% off!!

Thanks for looking!

Creative Exploration

2010-07-28T07:43:00.000-07:00

The topic for this months ABS Blog Carnival is Exploration. Which is fantastic because I've recently done some creative exploration!

While finishing up a special piece I was trying to decide what clasp to use. Not just any clasp would do though, it had to be just as special.

Right around the same time one of my fellow Fire Divas released a very helpful tutorial. Wire Wrapping Basics by Theresa Ehlers.

With the help of Theresa's tut I was able to create the perfect clasp!

But the creative exploration didn't stop there.... I also made a pair of earrings that are %100 made by myself, well short of pulling the wire. I was so excited to break out some new tools I've slowly been stashing! This creative exploration has inspired me to another level!

Time to Celebrate Christmas in July with the Fire Divas!

2010-07-15T12:13:00.000-07:00

Some of the Fire Divas are participating in the online Christmas in July Sale on Etsy!!! Get your beads and free shipping!

Click on the links below or search for tags "fire divas" "Christmasinjuly" or "CIJ"

Let's celebrate!!!

Emakaye - Free Shipping

LAJewelryDesigns - Free Shipping

HollysFollyGlass - 10% off and Free Shipping
Send convo before in order to get discount.

AshlynDesign - Free Shipping

Lutrick - Free Shipping

JanelDudleyBeads - Free Shipping

Some of the Fire Divas are also participating in the Twelve Days Of Christmas In July Sale on Artfire.

Click on the links below or search for tags "fire divas" and "TDOCIJ" or "Christmas in July" on Artfire.

HollysFollyGlass - 10% off and Free shipping

LAJewelryDesigns - Free Shipping

Lutrick - Free Shipping

Etched Crystals

2010-07-14T09:37:00.000-07:00

I recently made a set of crystals using Mikes Brass for Glass Fancy Crystal Press! I just love this shape! The colors used are TAG Tibet 102989 and River Rock and silver leaf stringers!

I decided to etch this set and I'm so glad I did!

Here's a before and after!

Just listed in my Etsy!

I got a puppy!

2010-07-13T06:40:00.000-07:00

One of my Fire Diva friends, Lauren at Maybeads makes the cutest animals! Dogs, cats, frogs, turtles, penguins, and the list goes on!

There was a particular puppy I made a favorite, one day I noticed that the pup wasn't in her Etsy anymore. Even though I was kinda sad I would never see it again, I was happy that it had found a home!

To my surprise it found a home with me! Maybeads sent it as a gift!!! YAY!!! In no time I wire wrapped it into a pendant and hung it on some cord!

Thank you so much Lauren!!!! I can't wait to take this lil pup with me wherever I go!

Just a few days left!

2010-07-12T09:03:00.000-07:00

A few more lovelies made by the Fire Divas, just a bit more inspiration to get you going before the July 15th deadline!! Just a few days left! Let's see what you've made with Fire Divas beads!

Don't these earrings from Lara Lutrick make you think of summer fun???

The cool copper wire really sets off the neutral florals and vintage pewter in this necklace by TeaseBeads.

This pendant from EmaK Designs captures the feel of the ocean:

Flowers are the theme captured in glass and wire in this pendant from HollysFollyGlass.

Pendants, Rings, Bracelets, Necklaces, Anklets, Lariats... all are welcome in the Fire Divas Jewelry Challenge. Just get them in soon! Deadline 7/15/10.

Rules and Contest Info are HERE.

Glowing Hemp Choker

2010-07-08T07:56:00.000-07:00

I finally finished a custom choker for a friend last night! Yes folks! That's glowing glass! The hemp used is white and neutral with turquoise metallic thread in it! The stitch is a 8 string "tube" stitch.

I'm really happy with how this piece came out! So happy I want one for myself!

The glow glass is hand pulled by Glow Joe! CLICK HERE!

Fire Divas - Inspiration for our jewerly challenge!

2010-07-06T14:00:00.000-07:00

With the deadline on July 15th coming up, you've all got 10 more days to get your jewelry creations entered! We thought we would show you a little inspiration to get you going on those entries!

Below are some examples the Divas made up to inspire you. These pieces are just lovely but are ineligible to win those fabulous prizes because this contest is all about you and what you can make with Fire Divas Beads!

This first piece is by Lori of Ashlyn Design. It's called "Ode to Chihuly." I see all kinds of summer flowers in this.

And don't you just think of beaches looking at this Silver Glass Choker by Janel Dudley Beads?

Here, a paler blue was used with copper and glass for a beach feel. This piece is by Sonja of Silver River Glasswork.

And what is it about pink and green? It reminds me of eating watermelon by the river. I love the knotting Lea of LA Jewelry Designs used in this piece.

Here's that color scheme again in a necklace by Susanne of Bab's Beads. In this case, the flowers yield a romantic feel.

We'll have some more inspiration for you this week so stay tuned!

Rules and Contest Info are HERE.

Happy 4th of July!

2010-07-03T09:29:00.000-07:00

I hope you all have a great weekend with friends and family! Have fun and be careful!

Last of the Orphans for now!

2010-06-30T17:14:00.000-07:00

In the two previous blog postings, HERE and HERE, I was showing off some orphans I had recently listed on Etsy! All orphan sets are now priced at $20!!!!

Last but not least, here are a few more listed just this morning!

Browns

Browns

Browns

That's it for the orphans for now!
I want to say thank you for checking them out!!!
:) Janel

Added Some More Orphans

2010-06-29T14:27:00.000-07:00

Just like I mentioned in today's previous post I am adding more orphans!!

All orphans are now $20 a set!

Thanks for looking! More to come!

Reds

Purples

Blues

Prizes for the Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge!

2010-06-29T08:08:00.000-07:00

Jackpot baby! Here's the prizes are for the Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge! All the details can be found here. Come join us it's a lot of fun!

http://www.lajewelrydesigns.artfire.com/ or http://www.lajewlerydesigns.etsy.com/

http://hollysfolly.com/ or http://www.artfire.com/users/hollysfollyglass

http://www.etsy.com/shop/JanelDudleyBeads

http://arensea.etsy.com/ or http://arensea.artfire.com/

http://www.teasebeads.artfire.com/ or http://www.teasebeads.etsy.com/

http://ahouston.etsy.com/

http://www.artfire.com/users/BabsBeadsandDesign

Good luck to all who enter!!

Adding Some Orphans

2010-06-29T07:49:00.000-07:00

I decided to add some more orphans to my Etsy, but get this! I've also decided to make all of my orphans $20!!

Here's some listed just this morning!

Greens

Blues

Purples

I will also be adding some more later on today!! Have a good day everyone!

Wow! Glowing Glass!

2010-06-17T16:35:00.000-07:00

I had a chance to get my hands on some Glow Glass 104 COE! GLOWING GLASS in 104!!! I was freaking out, just had to have some! This stuff is hand pulled by Glow Joe! I would like to thank the friendly staff at Sundance Art Glass, Michele was very patient and understanding about my craziness!

Of course I had to make some hand pulled millefiori.

A set of spacers I'm working on for a project!

Last but not least, a focal! This one is quite large and fun!

Even though this glass is on the pricey side, it is so worth it! Just check out that GLOW!!!

Summer Challenge with the Fire Divas

2010-06-11T16:55:00.000-07:00

I love the monthly Fire Divas challenges! It's always fun to see what all the different divas enter! This month the theme is Summer! You can vote on the right side of the Fire Divas blog for the next seven days. Now, let's take a peek at this month's entries:

#10

Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge

2010-06-09T07:18:00.000-07:00

Here's your chance to WIN some handmade Lampwork beads made by the Fire Divas, design jewelry and have some fun! Read on for the info...

It's time for the Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge! The theme for this challenge is Summer. What does summer mean to you? Show us with your beautiful jewelry creation featuring Fire Divas' lampwork. Head over to the Flickr site to see many beautiful jewelry pieces made with Fire Divas' lampwork to inspire you! You have the chance to win some incredible prizes from the Fire Divas!

Now for the details:

All submissions must feature Fire Divas' lampwork. We require the name of the Fire Diva who made the beads used in the submitted piece, so if you submit something, please be ready to provide that information.

We will allow one submission per person per contest, and a maximum of two photos per submission. Entries may be submitted here (http://www.flickr.com/groups/firedivachallenge/) for approval, no later than July 15, 2010. Please include, in the comments section, the following:
Information about the beads:
Description of the piece:
Inspiration for the piece:
Submissions will not be approved without all of this information.

Fire Divas reserve the right to approve or reject any submissions.

Fire Divas reserve the right to modify or cancel the challenge at any time.

The winners will be determined by an open poll which does not allow multiple votes.

Ok, go have fun creating, and good luck to all who enter!

Winner of the Sprouts Giveaway!

2010-06-07T08:12:00.000-07:00

It's now time to pick a winner for the Sprouts Giveaway.

I've written everyone's name on a piece of paper

Balled each one up, put them in my hand and then I throw them!

With the assistance of my fetching cat, Maynard....

...the WINNER is LethargicLass! Yay! Congratulations!!

Thank you for playing everyone, I appreciate all of the positive comments that everyone left and Maynard had fun helping pick the winner!

BTW! It's time for a new Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge! Head on over to see what it takes to win some awesome prizes by the Fire Divas!

Bead Giveaway - Sprouts!

2010-06-05T15:13:00.000-07:00

This style of bead was inspired by the ABS Blog Carnival "Growth" topic in April!

Want a "Sprout" of you own? All you have to do is make a comment below! (Make sure I will be able to contact you if you're the winner!)

Winner will be chosen by my cool cat, Maynard, this Sunday night 6/5!

Treasury Jackpot

2010-06-03T17:52:00.000-07:00

I just found out some more of my beads have been featured in a treasury!

This is Weird and Wonderful Glass Beads made by Arensea!

Arensea makes some of the neatest beads! I love the colors and shapes she uses in not only this Tahitian Beach Sari Freeform Focal but in ALL of her beads! Wanna see SEE MORE!?

A key treasury!

2010-06-03T14:33:00.000-07:00

My friend Lauren at Maybeads has featured one of my skeleton keys in her most recent treasury! Can you guess which one is mine?

Where Did I Put My Keys?

To say thank you I'd like to share that Maybeads makes some really cool critter beads! This is Buzz the Space Pug, he's well equipped and ready for lift-off!

Cool new feature on the Fire Divas Blog!

2010-06-03T05:00:00.000-07:00

Something really cool was recently added to the Fire Divas Blog! On the top left you will see an Etsy Fire Divas tab.. (it's ok if you laugh at my "arrows" my feelings will not be hurt!!)

This tab is so cool! It takes you to this...

..which are our favorites from all of the Fire Divas shops on Etsy! A little bit of lampwork from all of us!

One of my beads has been featured!

2010-06-02T20:59:00.000-07:00

One of my fellow Fire Divas, Holly at Holly's Folly Glass has featured one of my most recently listed beads on her blog!! Here she is talking about silvered Ivory!

Thank you so much Holly! Here's my all time favorite from you! Calypso!

June Statement Necklace

2010-06-02T07:40:00.000-07:00

Here's my June Statement necklace for the ABS Blog Carnival!

It took a couple years to save up all these orphans, but the wait was worth it! I added semi precious beads and a whole bunch of sterling silver ballpins/headpins!

Check out the links below to see more statement necklaces made by some really talented jewelry designers who are also having fun with the ABS Blog Carnival!

Nicki's Reef

Mary Harding

Marcie Abney

Kate Clawsons Blog

Sharon's Jewelry Garden

Jen Velasquez

Jeannie's Blog

Islandgirl's Insites

Cindy Gimbrone

Cindy Dolezal Designs Blog

Christine Hansen

Lyn Foley

Fire Divas - May - Bead Challenge Results

2010-05-26T08:38:00.000-07:00

Here's a link to the results for the Fire Divas May Flowers challenge! HERE

I apologize for being late in posting this!

Thanks for voting and hope you all had fun!!!
:) Janel

Fire Divas Treasuries!

2010-05-25T07:33:00.000-07:00

Lately both the main Treasury and Treasury West have been opening more frequently. Not as many people are trying to get them, I'm wondering if it's because of Treasury East. Or maybe the Spring weather is making people more scarce!

I was able to get 2 treasuries yesterday.....

We Melt Glass

We Melt Glass part II

... and of course I had to fill both of them with the awesome lampwork beads made by the Fire Divas!!

Curious about when the Treasuries open next? Check out the Treasury clocks !

That's a lot of Beads!!

2010-05-18T09:17:00.000-07:00

Just got a treasury on the West!

Of course I have to share some pretties made by the Fire Divas!

Have a colorful day everyone!

That's a lot of BEADS!!

Fire Divas monthly challenge May Flowers

2010-05-17T17:15:00.001-07:00

This month's Fire Divas bead challenge theme is May Flowers. A lot of Divas participated in this challenge! Take a look below at all the incredible flower themed beads, then go vote for your favorite on the right side of the Fire Divas blog.

Entry 1

Entry 2

Entry 3

Entry 4

Entry 5

Entry 6

Entry 7

Entry 8

Entry 9

Entry 10

Entry 11

Entry 12

Entry 13

Thanks for voting!!!

Treasury Motherload Weekend!

2010-05-15T09:13:00.000-07:00

Yesterday both treasuries were opening. While looking for Fire Divas beads to feature I noticed that a lot of us have sets. My plan was to get the 1st one and fill it up...

...then try to get a second one and do the same thing!

But wait there's more! I was also featured in a couple!!

This one, Faces of Glass, was made by a fellow Fire Diva, DorsetHillBeads

Speaking of faces in glass she makes some of the cutest! Check out one of her Littles! This one is Carla, I love her hairdo!

Then last but definitely not least, here's A Moonlit Spring Evening made by CaitlinSainio This treasury is stunning!

She makes some of the coolest crochet imprinted cards!!

Well thanks everyone, that was fun! In case you want to know when the Etsy Treasuries open next, here's a link to the Treasury Clock!

Play on Words Lampwork Challenge is FUUUN!

2010-05-13T17:01:00.000-07:00

I recently joined a group on Facebook called Play On Words Lampwork Challenge! There's a whole bunch of fun beads being made by a bunch of talented lampworkers!

Every week there is a new word or theme, here is my contribution for last weeks "Whoosh"

This weeks the word is "Sinister" here is what I made for that...

I had a total blast making both of these and am really excited to see all of the different words get played on by such a talented bunch!

Exciting News! - Fire Divas - Bead of the Day!

2010-05-12T10:41:00.001-07:00

There's some exciting news about the Bead of the Day on the Fire Divas blog!!

!!SALES!!

To learn more CLICK HERE!

Fire Divas Team Treasury West

2010-05-08T16:50:00.001-07:00

Just got a new Treasury West and wanted to share it with you all!

CLICK HERE to view some of my favorite beads made by the Fire Divas Team!

Expires Tuesday 5/11 5:30am

Dogs Dressing Up

2010-05-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

While I was out and about yesterday I saw the cutest thing! A motorcyclist was pulling a little custom trailer that had his dog in it! The dog was accessorized with a scarf and riding goggles!!

I get a huge smile and some heartfelt laughs out of pups that likes to dress up!

One of my fellow Fire Divas, Lauren at Maybeads
put hats on some of her handmade lampwork pups!

Not only do the hats add that extra special touch but her descriptions are guaranteed to add a smile and heartfelt laugh to your day!

Pug Thug

Francois the French Bull

My 1st Harmonic Heart - using Lydia Muell's Tutorial

2010-04-30T15:35:00.000-07:00

Not long ago I was gifted a tutorial, Harmonic Hearts by Lydia Muell, from my friend Holly!

This was a joyful surprise! I couldn't believe how lucky I was!

Even though it took me almost 3 hours to make my 1st one I had a BLAST and can't wait to try another!

Thank you so much Holly! You are always inspiring me!

Sprouts - Growth

2010-04-28T15:55:00.000-07:00

A week before the "Growth" blog was due for the ABS Blog Carnival, I was in a panic because I still had to come up with an idea of what to write about.

With my mind whirling, I tried to picture what "growth" meant to me.

After a brief mental struggle, an idea for a new style of Art bead grew!

Everybody, these are "Sprouts"!

Thanks to the ABS Blog Carnival the "Growth" topic has done just that! It helped me and my creativity grow!!

Treasury Surprises!

2010-04-28T15:11:00.001-07:00

I just came home to find out that I'm in 2 treasuries!

The first one is this wonderfully diverse treasury made of Fire Divas beads!

Divas on Fire made by Emakaye!

Here is something new that Ema's been doing!

Monarch Butterfly by Emakaye

Sticks and Stones is a beautiful earthy treasury made by Fivelittlegems!

There are the most elaborate beaded pieces of jewelry her shop!

Purple Flower Beaded Necklace on Twisted Wire with Freshwater Pearls and Swarovski Crystals in Emerald Green, Ivory and Antique Gold
by Fivelittlegems

Thank you so much ladies this is such a wonderful surprise!

Results of the Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge!

2010-04-27T17:27:00.000-07:00

There where so many beautiful pieces of jewelry made with the Fire Divas lampwork beads! I had a really tough time voting, I'm sure you all did too!

To see the results CLICK HERE!

Treasuries East and West

2010-04-24T18:20:00.000-07:00

I've been featured in a couple different treasuries!

Here's the Treasury East curated by BrightCircle

Here's something eye catching in BrightCircle's Etsy!

Dragon's Treasure Shimmerstone Necklace

Here's a Treasury West curated by MayBeads a fellow Fire Diva!

She always has something fun and new going on in her Etsy!

Boston Terrier

Surprise Kangaroo

Thank you so much ladies!!

I had fun checking these out, I hope you all did too!

Winner of the Skeleton Key!!

2010-04-22T08:01:00.000-07:00

I wrote everyone's name down on bits of paper and wadded them up.

Maynard had just woke up so he wasn't quite as interested in picking a winner just yet.

It took some coaxing and play to rile him up!

He sniffed at them a bit, then made his decision!

Then he kicked it around a bit until it went under the couch!

Silly Kitty! The winner of the skeleton key is..........

.... ANKLEBITERBEADS!!!! I will be contacting you this morning!!!

Thank you for playing everyone!!! I hope you all have a beautiful day!!

Skeleton Key giveaway!

2010-04-18T09:08:00.000-07:00

Just leave a comment below to win! Make sure there is some way for me to reach you in case you are the winner! Cut off date to enter is this Wednesday, April 21! Winner will be chosen by kitty randomness!

The bead was made using some of my hand pulled millefiori and is 9x14mm

The key is an antique and made with steel. 1.5 in long

The necklace cord is lightly waxed black cotton and has been fashioned to be adjustable in length. 6 3/4in - 13 1/2in

Good luck everyone! Thank you for entering!

Vote for April Showers theme!

2010-04-14T07:55:00.000-07:00

Every month the Fire Divas have a themed challenge! It's always exciting to see what the Divas have entered!

This month's bead challenge theme is April Showers! Take a close look below at the entries, and when you've finally decided on your favorite, vote for it on the right side of your screen. Polls will be open for a week, and then the winner will be announced!

Entry 1:

Entry 2:

Entry 3:

Entry 4:

Entry 5:

Entry 6:

Entry 7:

Entry 8:

Entry 9:

Thanks for voting, and thanks to all the Divas who entered the April Showers Monthly Bead Challenge!

There's still time to enter the Fire Divas Jewelry Challenge

2010-04-13T07:57:00.000-07:00

There have been some beautiful entries for the Fire Divas Jewelry Challenge, here's pieces that have been submitted! Only a few days left till the entry deadline, there's still time for you to submit your jewelry design made with Fire Divas beads! Challenge ends 4/15!

GlassEyeButterfly's charm bracelet incorporates RiversEdgeGlass' lovely beads.

Scoots61 submitted a wonderful wire wrapped pendant necklace with TeaseBead's focal.

Another lovely wire wrapped piece, this one submitted by NightingGayle using beads by Amy Houston.

Rhamesses' lovely submission is made with swarovski crystals and bead from Amy Houston.

Smisuraco made this lovely amethyst and brass piece using a focal from Magikalglassworkss.

ClarindaSmith created this adorable whimsical bracelet with Maybead's focal kitty.

Splumb1us submitted this lovely beaded spiral necklace with a focal bead by LA Jewelry Designs.

If you make jewelry featuring Fire Diva Beads, we would love to see it! There's over $200 in prizes to be won and the deadline is April 15th! Click here for more information.

Pressing Advice

2010-04-09T07:43:00.000-07:00

A couple months ago I bought a brass bead press, after trying it a couple times I got frustrated due to user error. So I didn't use it until my friend and fellow Fire Diva, Holly at Holly'sFollyGlass told me the trick was to press gently!

Her advice was what I needed to get me to try using my press again, and it worked!!

I am now so excited to use it and can't wait to get back up to the shop to use it again! Thank you Holly, yet again you have given me such useful advice!

Family , Friends, Food and Glass!

2010-04-03T06:00:00.000-07:00

This last weekend my honey and I had to go to L.A. for his work. Even though work, smog and nasty traffic was involved, we did get to have some fun!

While we were out there I was going to be able to meet a glassy friend! A fellow Fire Diva , Holly at HollysFollyGlass I adore Holly and I am so glad I finally got to meet her! She's the best!

It only made sense to invite her to join us for lunch at honey's 1st job site!

The first site we had to go to was Xai, an old church that had been renovated into a wonderful tea house and restaurant. I drank a tea called Jasmine Ancient Beauty, it comes from thousand year old trees that are in a protected forest reserve on the Jing Mai Mountains!

The food was delicious! We had ordered the appetizer combo which consisted of Hummus, Baba Ghanoush and Tabouli pomegranate salad!

Here's what desert looked like!

Not only did we have an awesome lunch but Holly gifted me this beautiful handmade lampwork bead that she made! I am so in love with this bead! I really admired how she was able to get such defined cuts into it while still having graciously smooth corners, and the color rocks, too boot!

After lunch we had plans to go to a flameworking studio & supply
shop, The Mandrel owned by another fellow Fire Diva, Donna at PrimaDonnaBeads !

It was the first glass supply shop I had ever been to! It's so cool! There was a flameworking class in session, there's about 8 or more torches set up, lot's of lampwork beads, tools and a wide variety of glass! I found some colors I needed and wanted! And you know what? Donna is even cooler than her shop!

After that we went to the beach!

I just had to put my feet in the sand and water! I miss the ocean terribly and wish I could live by it for the rest of my life!

On Sunday my honey and I met up with family and went to a bike race!

After the race we went to our family's house which was just 1 block away from the ocean!

They made us a yummy BBQ dinner!

The next day honey had to work, so Holly and Mabel (her dog) kidnapped me and we went to lunch and did more glass stuff!!

Later that day though we had to head back home. We has such a wonderful time in L.A. thanks to our family, friends, the delicious food and of course, the glass!!

A peek at the current Fire Divas Jewelry Challenge Entries!

2010-04-02T08:38:00.000-07:00

The entries are starting to trickle in to the Fire Divas Spring Jewelry Challenge and exciting entries they are! Come take a peek!

Kathy Dewey submitted these darling earrings made from a pair of Maybeads doggie beads:

Tinybeads2004 made this gradient African Helix necklace with a focal by LA Jewelry Designs.

Beadbell made a lovely copper bracelet featuring the beads of RiversEdgeGlass.

Diane of Earth and Sky Studio made this lovely pearl necklace with a focal by SomethingNew4U.

And KimforBeads made this pretty necklace featuring a focal by Lutrick.

If you make jewelry featuring Fire Diva Beads, we would love to see it! There's over $200 in prizes to be won and the deadline is April 15th! Click here for more information.

Fire Divas - Inspiration!

2010-03-30T08:54:00.000-07:00

This is the second inspiration post for the Fire Divas Quarterly Jewelry Challenge! You can learn more about the challenge here. Now sit back and enjoy!

http://www.etsy.com/shop/lajewelrydesigns

http://www.etsy.com/shop/Lutrick

http://www.etsy.com/shop/anklebiterbeads

http://www.etsy.com/shop/HollysFollyGlass

http://www.artfire.com/users/babsbeadsanddesign

http://www.etsy.com/shop/magikalglassworks

That's just a few of the beautiful things the Divas do with their own beads...but we want to see what you can do with them! Come join our Flickr group and submit your creations today!

Skeleton Keys are so fun!

2010-03-26T09:26:00.000-07:00

I've been having a blast making lampwork beads on skeleton keys! So far I've focused on eyeballs, the iris's are made by pulling millefiori canes. These most recent ones have mille's made with Effetre Silver #1, Effetre Silver #2 and TAG Montuno Opague. Even though they look somewhat alike, the mille's do have their differences!

The bottom 2 are still stuck to the keys, please forgive the bead poo!

They are so much fun!

Here are some skeleton key beads made by some fellow Fire Divas! These are perfect for hanging on chain, cord or ribbon!

HollysFollyGlass

LAJewelryDesigns

Magikal Glassworks

My 2nd Skeleton Key! And more eyeballs!

2010-03-24T16:40:00.001-07:00

I was so excited with my 1st skeleton key that I had to make another eye ball one!

Both the 1st and 2nd were made using the same hand pulled millefiori, each bead has 3 mille's, you just can't see all of them.

The 1st one is unintentionally stuck, and the second one is not.

I have yet to get my hands on some Renaissance Wax so I can coat any keys in order for them to be ready for wear.

I have always been fascinated with glass eyeballs!

Here's a set I made for a personal choker. The irises were made with twisties of glass and they are all encased with clear.

Here's one that I was super happy with!!! The mille's in keys 1 and 2 are the same ones I used in this necklace!

A hemp bracelet!

Earrings!

I think out of all the eyeballs I've made the ones on skeleton keys are my favorite!!

Today I made 3 more keys with a new mille cane I pulled yesterday! Curious about the colors I used? We'll have to wait for them to come out of the kiln tomorrow!

BTW come check out the Fire Divas Jewelry Challenge! Lot's of handmade lampwork beads for prizes!

It's a jungle out there!

2010-03-23T15:57:00.000-07:00

My Fire Diva Round Robin partner this week is Maybeads ! She makes the most adventuresome critter beads out of glass! From hippos to hares, the variety is endless!

Don't let these worrisome eyes fool you...

... Curtis the Compact Hippo has made it to the front page of Etsy! Whoohoo! Go Curtis!

Due to his star stature, his agent, Holly at Holly'sFollyGlass has mentioned his care guidelines!

Whomever adopts him must provide him with a lifetime supply of Green M&Ms and Diet Coke (no ice w/ lemon) and his own bead box lined with blue velvet!!!

Here he is in action! Look at that pose!

The Turtle is the Hare is waiting patienly for Easter so she can deliver some eggs!

Oriel the Orange Owl is sittin pretty in her vibrant orange feathers and psychedelic murrini eyes!

Phinneas the Flying Pig Not only is he on sale, he's practicing his landings in his super hero cape!

I can't wait to see what she makes next!! Every single one of Maybeads beads is an adventure in itself!

BTW! The Fire Divas are having our Quarterly Jewelry Challenge! The theme is Spring!

There's prizes!!! CLICK HERE!

My 1st skeleton key!

2010-03-20T18:25:00.000-07:00

I recently ordered some yummy skeleton keys!

Here is the 1st on I made!

The irises are my own hand pulled millefiori!!

I can't wait to make some more!!

ABS March challenge - I joined!

2010-03-19T08:20:00.000-07:00

Every month the Art Bead Scene blog has a challenge. I was so inspired by this painting, Almond Blossoms by Vincent Van Gogh!

My main inspiration to join though came from my friend and fellow Fire Diva, Holly at Holly'sFollyGlass. Thank you for the push Holly! I had a blast making this art bead and then making a hemp bracelet!

Green Silver Leaf - Come into the light!

2010-03-16T04:00:00.000-07:00

I decided to share some things I found out about TAG Green Silver Leaf! From the start this color was giving me quite the hard time. If you have ever used GSL then you should know what I'm talking about. If you have some GSL this will make you want to bring it into the light!

The 1st one is made with a base of Effetre Intense Black, the squiggly line on it is the GSL, the dots were with a color I can't remember then IB, then GSL, then clear, some dots are just clear over the GSL squiggley.

You can see how some greenish blue is peeking through on the squiggle at the top, as well some nasty browns and really opaque light yellow/green through out. Some of the dots show turquiose, blue and an icky burnt orange color. I think the GSL got over reduced.

The 2nd one is made with Intense Black base, GSL dots, reduced, clear. Again I think the GSL got over reduced.

The 3rd one is made with an silvered Ivory base, Intese Black dots, GSL, light reduction,clear dots. The blues were starting to come out in this one! In a couple places on the GSL dots you can see a dark reddish brown.

The 4th one is a base of TAG Oxblood, GSL dots, not reduced and encased with Reichenbach Crystal Clear.

The 5th is a base of Fossil, dots of Oxblood, GSL, not reduced and encased. In this one you can see a faintness of dark blue/purple and almost some dark pink. (more so in person than in this photo though)

Notes: all GSL applied was in 1.5-2mm stringers (roughly)

This step happens fast, for the dots I would put the tip of the stringer almost into the candles, get really hot till it turns clear, gather a little ball and place.

I'm really excited about how the GSL loves Oxblood, can't wait to play some more!

Thanks for reading this! If you want to leave a comment about GSL please do!

Winners in helping me solving the mystery!!

2010-03-13T16:57:00.000-08:00

I decided to announce the winners of the mystery bead tonight since my little sister will be in town tomorrow for only a few hours, I'm sure you all understand and wont be upset! :)

I really appreciate the help in solving the mystery for me, I enjoyed reading all of the info on this style of bead!

Apparently it's a Kingfisher feather bead from China, very interesting and unique, here's some photo's of Kingfisher birds in Google Images

So there were eight people who left a comment, 2 of which answered correctly and even provided links so these 2 get thrown 1st to see who wins 1st choice! Then out of the other people who left a comment, they get thrown next to determine the 2nd place winner!

Without further adieu and with the help of my trusty winner picker, Maynard...here he is getting ready....

Looks like he's ready to pick the 1st winner!

And the 1st place winner is a fellow Fire Diva, Creek Hiker from Holly'sFollyGlass!

Now here he is picking the 2nd place winner!

Which he decides to....

put into the H2o bowl!! LOL! What a goof!!

And the 2nd place winner is another fellow Fire Diva, Teasebeads!

Congrats ladies!! Thank you everyone for helping and adding comments! I feel very lucky to have such a cool bead in possession, but I don't think I'll be making anything with this one. I think I'll try to keep this one as safe as possible!

Last but not least, thank you Maynard!!! Looks like he's pooped!