Rebecca Geoffrey

I Have Moved

2012-01-30T07:05:00.000-08:00

I have moved my Blog.You can find new updates and follow my posts here: http://rebeccageoffrey.wordpress.comThank-you for following!

Autumn Work and Play

2011-10-08T11:33:00.000-07:00

Just went to Toronto to Distill Gallery yesterday and brought some new jewels to share. Hopefully these colours will work well with this season. Lots of plums, blues and purples in different shades.
Working this week on items for Made You Look (also in Toronto) and Metalworks, my favorite hometown gallery.
So much to do, so little time before my Sweetie and I head to Vegas and California on the 24th to renew our vows and see the sights! I love this time of year to travel. Being empty nesters, we like that kids are back to school so the attractions are pretty quiet. Don't get me wrong - I like kids, just not on vacations:o) Countdown begins!

Mixed Media

2011-08-22T12:44:00.000-07:00

I love using different materials to create my jewellery. All right, I confess. I have the attention span of a squirrell and I get bored very easily, which is why my work is always in a state of perpetual motion and constant change. Whether or not it is good for sales, I'm not sure but I certainly know it is good for my soul.

That being said, here are a few new pieces I've been working on that marry silver art clay with sterling silver. I love the oxidised look and will be exploring this further. Hope you like them!

New Series of Work

2011-08-04T13:19:00.000-07:00

Here is what I've been working on today - a new line of jewelry made with sterling and fine silver. It's a beautiful combination of materials to work with and here is my first piece finished!

More New Work!

2011-07-22T16:48:00.000-07:00

Hope you all are surviving this heatwave. I've been keeping cool at home in my shop making lots of new jewellery.

Here are a few more pieces that are now for sale at Metalworks in downtown Kingston.

This bracelet at left is sterling silver and faux stone (polymer clay).

Sterling silver and polymer clay bangles

silver and clay pendant

Enjoy your summer and keep cool!!!!

New Work!

2011-07-21T18:47:00.000-07:00

I have been busy in the studio this past week coming up with new designs using polymer clay and silver. Polymer clay is how I began my jewellery making adventure and it has been fun getting back to it. I can't tell you how many things went into the discard pile but I think I am well on my way to a beginning of a new line.

Hope you like what I've started with.

Quebec City

2011-06-29T08:11:00.000-07:00

I have just returned from a fabulous 4-day vacation to one of the most beautiful Canadian cities - Quebec City. It rained every day that we were there, but that did not dampen our spirits or our good times in any way.

Being that Quebec city is also one of the most romantic places to be, it was fitting that my most romantic husband and I celebrated our 10th Anniversary there. From the "Old City" to Ille d'Orleans to Montmorency Falls, every rainy step was a wonder in so many ways. We did a bit of shopping there as well as visiting the many art galleries and artists' shops.

The old part of the city is truly a wonder and definitely gives a better perspective on the history of our country like no other place I've seen.

Standing on the Plains of Abraham and seeing the old Fort as well as the scores of canons sitting exactly where they stood hundreds of years ago is truly awe-inspiring. It is just like going back in time except for the luxury hotels and posting pictures to Facebook with my iPhone :o)

Otherwise, it was just like it!

Wanting to bring home souveniers of our trips, I have started collecting little houses and Scott bought me this whimsical picture by Isabelle Malo, to add to my collection. I love it! It is happy and cheery and just what any corner of my house needs to brighten it. It is also a gift that he gave to me there when he asked me to marry him - again!

Did I say romantic? So our next trip will be to Vegas to renew our vows. So exciting!!!

I also picked up these hand-painted trinket bowls that I love to keep all over the house to hold miscellaneous things.

and this mug that I call the "Perfect Mug" from ceramic artiste, Alexandra Ratte'. It is bright and big and slightly off-center (I think I just described myself :-).

I highly reccomend a trip to Quebec city for anyone that wants to immerse themselves in history, culture and art and is in the mood for a romantic getaway!

Love my Job!!

2011-06-28T12:44:00.000-07:00

As I said in an earlier post, I was fortunate enough to be offered a job at Metalworks which is also where my jewellery is sold in Kingston. I am working part-time there which gives me lots of time to create. I work with a great crew:

Steve Luckwaldt - Master Goldsmith

Vicki Westgate - Jeweller and Manager

Miranda Scott - Goldsmith and Hulahoop Maker

I am very grateful to have such nice people to work with and to learn from.

Custom Order

2011-06-12T07:09:00.000-07:00

The most nerve-wracking and rewarding part of being a jeweller is definitely making items upon request aka the "custom order".

I recently received a custom order through Made You Look for a lady who wanted a pendant made from a logo of their organization. It was to be a gift for the well-loved and admired recipient, who was retiring after many years of service. Right - no pressure!

I happily accepted hoping that I could rise to the occassion and create something worthy of the recipient and lovely enough so that she could wear it often.

I was given a short window of time to make it as I was also finishing up another custom order, starting my new job and getting jewellery ready to show to Distill Gallery in Toronto for the first time. When it rains - it pours! All good though as everything got finished on time and successfully.

I finished the pendant after many emails and telephone conversations and Fed-Exed it early Thursday morning. I waited patiently, wondering if the piece was a hit or miss. Really nervous as this had been my largest commission to date and I so wanted to hit the mark.

I received the phone call I was waiting for and she was thrilled with the pendant and thanked me over and over. The biggest weight was lifted from my shoulders and I could now look forward to the next one. Happy Days!

Moving Ahead

2011-06-10T07:55:00.000-07:00

It`s been awhile since I blogged. Thanks to all of you who have checked back here regularly. I really appreciate it.

I`ve kept busy finishing up my Summer 2011 line and happily started a new job at Metalworks, where my work is also available for sale. Yes, it is very nice to work at the same place that carries your jewellery. It`s fun to learn from everyone who works there and it`s great to bounce off ideas with each other. Being a studio jeweller, doesn`t provide a lot of opportunity to get immediate feedback or helpful suggestions, so that is really great.

I have recently hooked up with Distill Gallery in the historic Distillery District area of Toronto and they are now selling my work as well as Made You Look in Toronto. So, needless to say, my days have been very full.

I have, however been letting certain things in my life get a little left behind such as de-cluttering the garage, finishing painting the downstairs rooms and of course all of the yardwork and deck spruce-up needs to be attended to. So, needless to say, I have no shortage of work.

Design has begun (on paper) of my Fall-Winter Line and it is coming along nicely. As my metalsmithing

skills have improved, I think my designs are getting much better. I love comparing my work today from even a year ago to see how far it`s come.
I might even be collaborating with my son, Patrick, who is an up-and-coming artist for a new line of tribal - inspired jewellery. Can't wait to see what comes of that!

One-of-a-Kind Show Toronto

2011-04-04T06:10:00.000-07:00

Had a fabulous time yesterday in Toronto at the One-of-a-Kind Show with my good friend Trisha.
So many artists with really innovative work! I especially enjoyed the work of Alison Terp, Michele Rose, Rudy Kehkla and Sharon Nowlan along with many others. I came back with a great deal of inspiration and lots of ideas for my own artwork.

Earrings!

2011-04-04T05:51:00.000-07:00

Now available at Metalworks in beautiful downtown Kingston!

New Shapes!

2011-03-18T06:22:00.000-07:00

Just deciding on colour today for some new pendants and earrings I made yesterday. I've been stuck on greens and blues lately. Hmmm...what to do?

New Designs

2011-03-16T07:28:00.000-07:00

These are just a few of the finished Floral designs I've been working on and finally finishing.

Wildlife Weekend

2011-03-14T17:11:00.000-07:00

I'm just getting around to posting these shots of our Sunday drive, this past wekend. As you can see, the wildlife was out in full force and it was great to see.

Just Another Glamorous Day in the Workshop!

2011-03-14T16:31:00.000-07:00

Hard to tell if I'm going in to surgery or actually getting some work done. The cute plastic shower cap is not entirely necessary - just to protect clean hair from tripoli and rouge. So cute - NOT!

Textured Painting

2011-03-12T12:29:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know I make jewellery, but I wanted to try my hand at Paul Bozzo's cool textured painting technique. See his videos in previous post. I have a long way to go but I have to tell ya - this is really fun!!

I can't wait to experiment with more colours and different textures.

Texturing with joint compound

1st layer of colour

Textured Painting by Bozzo Art

2011-03-05T17:39:00.000-08:00

Bozzo Art I am absolutely going to try this!

Cool Textured Painting by Bozzo Art

2011-03-05T17:37:00.000-08:00

Check out his blog! Bozzo Art

Photo Shoot

2011-02-25T18:23:00.000-08:00

Had a great photo session with Hillary today. she just makes my jewellery sparkle and I always know I will walk away with great photos.

Here are just a few:

Inspiration

2011-02-22T05:40:00.000-08:00

In the midst of the February doldrums I am trying to imagine, design and fabricate my new Spring 2011 line of jewelry. I am in need of a gallery hop or some fantastic magazines with bold colours and interesting shapes for inspiration. I love reading and getting inspiration from home decor magazines. I find that the colours and design of fabric and furniture really inspires me.

What inspires you?

Florals for Spring!!

2011-02-10T08:07:00.000-08:00

Here is a small preview of my 2011 Spring Collection. Lots of bright, happy florals and there are lots more to come as soon as I finish sanding and buffing. My hands are a mess but my pendants look great!

Spring Blossoms!

2011-01-20T06:51:00.000-08:00

I have been working on these new bezels to fill with resin. I know it's a little early for spring flowers but I cannot wait any longer so I decided to make my own. I am going to fill them tonight so I should have a finished product in a few days. I'll keep you posted!

Maboue

2011-01-20T06:40:00.000-08:00

I am loving this Montreal artist, Soleil Fleming, that specializes in exquisite porcelain jewellery. Her style is simple, elegant and understated - exactly what I like!

She goes by the business name of Maboue and her Flickr and Etsy sites have lots more eye candy to peruse.

New Pendants!

2011-01-14T12:55:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the delay in between posts but I am recovering from the Nasty flu as I have aptly named it. Hope you didn't have it.
Working on some new Spring-inspired pieces - wishful thinking I'm sure! I am hoping to create some floral and nature-inspired pieces as well as some more bold, colorful jewellery too.

New Year - Learned Lessons and New Beginnings

2011-01-06T17:19:00.000-08:00

Well, another year is over and time to send my scrap silver to the refiner's. It has been a busy year, starting with a decision to invest more effort into my jewellery business and really buckle down, buy new equipment and learn some new skills.

After a slow start, I gained some momentum and finished off the year much more successfully than anticipated. I have learned so much in 2010 and am grateful for everyone that was kind enough to give me advice and so much valuable information that I needed.

I have to give a special thank-you to the three newest galleries that are representing me;

Gallery Art Plus in Belleville,

Agnes Etherington Art Centre in Kingston and

Metalworks, also in Kingston

Metalworks, in particular has been instrumental in looking at my work through a finer lens and helping me to become a better metalsmith. I hope to take more classes and continue on the same path this year.

I am very excited to find out what the new year has in store for me and my family and business and I guess the one thing that is constantly in the back of my mind (along with the cobwebs :-) is that nobody is going to come knocking on my door unless I first hit the pavement and knock on a few doors myself first. I don't know why every year that I am so surprised and delighted to find this is true. The trick for me is to get over any insecurities I may have and just be bold and confident and approach new business opportunities as if I had done this 100 times before. Every new business experience this year has been wonderful and unique and has helped me grow as a business woman, artist and person.

Thank-you and Happy New Year!

Winter Swans

2010-12-23T09:04:00.000-08:00

These are a set of swans we were lucky to see on their way to somewhere warmer, on a drive along Lake Ontario last weekend. I love how they are synchronized.

Cookies!!

2010-12-21T07:13:00.000-08:00

Finally finished my Christmas cookies! Now time to do last-minute gift search and then settle in for some relaxation.
Hope all your holidays are full of peace, good company and a few cookies here and there!

Great Jewellery!

2010-12-15T07:21:00.000-08:00

Check out Miranda's blog and her stunning jewellery which you can purchase at Metalworks along with mine (plug, plug :).

She is a terrific metalsmith and I hear she will be updating her blog more frequently, so check in with her and see what she's up to!

She also has a flickr site as well.

Cookies!

2010-12-11T06:33:00.000-08:00

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas!

Challenge

2010-12-10T07:22:00.000-08:00

This was a custom order I completed for a client and just heard back that she loved it. I always hold my breath a little (ok, a lot!). This was mostly her design translated through my hands and a handful of emails and I am so relieved that she liked it!

Custom orders are tricky. I agonize over them but this particular one was a good lesson for me because I had never created a cuff bracelet like this. Definitely a good lesson in problem solving and a confidence-booster in realizing a finished product that the customer is pleased with.

2010-12-09T06:30:00.000-08:00

I'm working on some new resin and crushed glass pieces. It is so much fun to experiment with new materials and find out their possibilities and limitations. As messy as glass is, it does work extremely well. They still have to be sanded and finished but I see a whole new line opening up with lots of possibilities!

2010-12-06T06:36:00.000-08:00

So it's not a Partridge in a Pear tree but I'll take three pigeons in a maple with my morning coffee anyday!

Also, guess this squirrel doesn't want to miss those bits at the bottom of his feeder...squrirrel bum - lol!

Lovely Day!

2010-12-03T15:56:00.000-08:00

We went for a wonderful drive to Prince Edward County today and stopped in Bloomfield at the fabulous FAD Gallery. Beautiful, functional art, fine art and loads of gorgeous jewellery is what this place is all about! I especially liked the encaustic work by Tanya Kirouac. Breathtaking, actually. Michael was a great help!

Definitely stop by if you are in the neighbourhood or need a gift for a special person. So much to choose from and all one-of-a-kind!

Metalworks

2010-11-26T16:47:00.000-08:00

If you are planning some downtown Christmas shopping this season, stop by Metalworks for some fabulous one-of-a-kind jewellery including this piece and alot more from moi!

Metalworks is located at 352 King Street in Kingston, across from City Hall.

Exhaust System

2010-11-19T17:57:00.000-08:00

I was working in my little studio with no ventilation except for an open window above my soldering area,and now, thanks to my handy Father-in-Law, I have a wonderful exhaust system that removes all the noxious fumes from the air and my lungs!

I am always curious to see other benches, studios and work areas. What does yours look like and what do you do for ventilation

New Galleries!!

2010-11-12T18:43:00.000-08:00

I have been so busy in the last few weeks trying to finish some custom orders and getting ready to show my work to two new galleries.
I am so happy to say that my hard work paid off and my efforts were well received.
I am now being represented in Kingston by Metalworks and by Gallery Art Plus in Belleville, Ontario. I am so pleased and exhausted!
A great big thanks to both galleries for accepting me so warmly and to my understanding husband who has supported me for the last ten years in trying to carve out a little niche for myself to belong.

♥♥♥

Rings!

2010-11-11T06:47:00.000-08:00

I have had so much fun creating these rings for my collection!

There are more to finish and photograph though so I'd better get to it!

10,000 Views!!!!

2010-11-01T05:50:00.001-07:00

Thanks for coming!!!

Busy Day!

2010-10-27T19:52:00.000-07:00

messy bench!

I had a wonderfully busy day today, starting with about 4 hours working at my bench making new jewellery and an afternoon class at Beadapalooza, the local bead store where I teach basic beading, wirework and beadweaving techniques.

Behind the counter is Trina, the owner and good friend.

Autumn Days

2010-10-22T17:45:00.000-07:00

Taking a break from my bench today to enjoy the prettiest autumn afternoon driving through Prince Edward County near Picton, Ontario with my Sweetheart. I would have taken more pics if not for singing at the top of my lungs to 70`s hits for most of the ride. Yes, my poor husband!

We also stopped at a fantastic art gallery in Belleville - Gallery Art Plus

Wonderful day!

New Pendants

2010-10-14T12:47:00.000-07:00

Working on some new pendants for my shop!

Autumn Leaves

2010-09-30T08:58:00.000-07:00

With my favorite season comes my new favorite pendants! I just finished these this morning and had to post them. I think they will be a staple in my jewellery repetoire. More colours to come!

Hammered Silver

2010-09-23T11:15:00.000-07:00

I have been working on this hammered fine silver bracelet all afternoon. There is something very organic and satisfying about fusing silver as opposed to soldering. I think I might do a few more of these.

New Bezels!

2010-09-21T17:44:00.000-07:00

After having been asked so many times, I am finally offering some sterling silver bezels for sale in my Etsy shop for artists working with resin, concrete, clay or felt and can't find unique bezels or are not sure how to make their own.

I will still be offering different finished jewellery of my own as well. I thought there might be some interest in them. Hope you enjoy them!

Textile Shop

2010-09-14T20:29:00.000-07:00

Not quite finished our vacation but wanted to pass on a link to the most fabulous shop on Granville Island in Vancouver, BC.
It is a textile shop called MAIWA that carries an amazing assortment of textile products, including paints, resists, yarns and the best wood block carvings that could also be used with polymer clay or a thousand other materials.
Thanks to my most wonderful husband, who followed me patiently as I explored every nook and cranny of Granville Island for hours!
What a guy!!

On Vacation

2010-09-08T09:35:00.000-07:00

I am on vacation with my husband for the next little while in beautiful British Columbia, Canada.

We are riding the Peak to Peak Gondola today between Whistler and Blackcomb mountains. Hopefully I'll live to tell about the experience! Just kidding.

Three Houses

2010-08-17T07:24:00.001-07:00

house, dog-house, townhouse
sterling silver and resin pendants

Fall Colours

2010-08-12T10:06:00.000-07:00

Getting closer to my favorite time of year and working on a new colour pallette for my resin jewellery. I was up late last night coming up with new shades to work with.

These colours all work well together and are much warmer and muted than my summer pallette. Hopefully (fingers crossed!) they will work well with my newest jewellery.

What are your favorite Autumn hues?

2010-08-11T05:56:00.000-07:00

Just made up a batch of new Bullseye pendants. they will each be filled with two different colours of resin. Colourful and fun to wear. They should be posted for sale sometime next week.

Welcome to the Neighbourhood!

2010-07-26T05:49:00.001-07:00

I am not finished these pendants yet but was excited to show them to you because they are turning out just so darn cute! Doorknobs and little accents need to be finished still - I should have added as the resin was still setting but didn't :o)
This will be a whole new line with many designs to come. We have the Birdhouse, Doghouse, Townhouse and regular House, I can't wait to finish more! O.k....back to work!

Made You Look

2010-07-25T04:56:00.000-07:00

Oops, almost forgot to give an update on my Made You Look business venture.

I brought up 61 pieces of my new resin and silver line and I came back home with zero items. Yes! The lovely Sarah took every one for her store and I was so pleased! I honestly didn't expect everything to go!

Actually it was all I had so far, so I am in the process of making more.

Everyone needs a victory now and then... :o)

Welcome to the Neighbourhood!

2010-07-22T09:25:00.000-07:00

I have been working on these new house bezels today. They are so much fun to make. I can't wait to clean them up and get some color into them!

Nerves of Silver

2010-07-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

It is always nerve wracking to show a new jewellery line to a boutique. But alas, if one wants to sell anything, it is one of those things that must be done. So...I am off tomorrow to Made You Look once again in Toronto and another boutique called Beadle.

Luckily I have already met Sarah, the owner of Made You Look and she is one of those people that puts you automatically at ease as well as being a metalsmith and business owner, she definitely understands the plight and process.

Here are my new business cards that I've just designed this morning (yes, I always leave at least 3 things until the last minute! - I think I love the adrenaline rush :o)

Here are a few things I'm taking along with me:

Color Story

2010-07-12T07:02:00.001-07:00

I love doing a series based on one to three colors. Here is the beginning of a plum/purple color story. I think these colors are great for any season, don't you?

Busy, busy, busy!

2010-07-12T06:51:00.000-07:00

As you can see by my messy workbench, I have been in production mode. It is best for me to strike when the iron is hot because inspiration does not always present itself when needed.
Here are some bangles which have been really popular all lined up like little soldiers in a row. The grey stuff is clay which I wrap around the bezels to avoid leakage (in case you were wondering).

Finally done!

2010-07-05T18:07:00.001-07:00

These look much better now that they've been sanded. My fingers are bleeding but the pendants look great. It is so nice to see an idea realized and be satisfied with it. Not all pieces go so nicely.

On to the next design! Earrings, I believe.

In Progress

2010-07-02T13:26:00.001-07:00

Here are some pendants and bracelets that I am waiting to harden or cure. Very messy and not very attractive - yet! I will have them finished by Monday and then you can see the difference.
Until then, have you seen this Geninne's Art Blog yet? If you haven't, check it out! It is full of inspiration from a very talented illustrator.

2010-07-02T12:10:00.000-07:00

Here are a few new items I've been working on. I especially enjoy the Pop-Dots bangles! Lots of fun for the summertime. Thank-you to everyone that has been enquiring about where they can purchase my new silver and resin jewellery. I will be uploading these to my Etsy shop as well as my own website. Thanks everyone!

New Website

2010-06-13T06:28:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to let you know that I have been working on a new website to host all of the various places that you can find me on the web and to put my resin and silver jewelry all in one place. It is still a work in progress (as is everything :D) so please be patient as I add all the elements to it.

The web URL is http://rebeccageoffrey.com . There is a contacts page that you can sign up for and I will send you special updates and news of sales and discount offers.

Please tell me what you think and feel free to offer any suggestions for a better sight. Remember it is still "in progress".

Bezels in Progress

2010-06-11T15:51:00.000-07:00

Here are some new floral bezels I have just about finished and are awaiting their final polishing. I just need to decide the colours for the resin inside. Any ideas?

2010-06-09T14:20:00.000-07:00

Finally this line is coming together! Although they look quite simple, it's taken some time to get exactly what I wanted. Actually it is still a work in progress but I think I have more of what I was trying to capture. More to come!

Bubbles in Resin and Silver

2010-06-08T08:34:00.000-07:00

Here is a preview of some new pendants I've finished recently. I am in the middle of creating this new line of silver and resin.

Thank-you!

2010-05-21T08:04:00.000-07:00

Thanks so much to Eve Lynch of Fort Meyers Florida for featuring me on her wonderful blog with such kind words. Her blog, Creative Noncomformity, is a great read to check out.
Thanks again Eve!

Perfect Solution

2010-05-19T15:57:00.000-07:00

I have been making new pendants recently from the silver bezels that I made previously, however...the polymer clay that I have been inserting into the bezels has left me disappointed. Because I have to actually glue the clay in with a two-part epoxy after it has been cured, I was not happy with the final look. Not good enough for sale.

Soooo, I have decided to replace the polymer with resin and I am so pleased with the results! After finishing, it has the look of frosted glass and can be tinted into the yummiest of colors! Perfect for my handmade bezels. Still lots of sanding but not anymore than polymer.

These new pendants wil be up in my Etsy shop by this weekend hopefully.
I've also been working on a new website that will hopefully be up and running sometime in early June.
Lots to do but very exciting!

Pebbles and Waves

2010-04-24T02:30:00.000-07:00

Here are a few new pendant necklaces I've had in the works and finally had a chance to list in my Etsy shop.

I'm making my own toggles now and I think it really adds a nice touch to the overall look of the necklaces. They have a real rustic, organic, beachy feel to them which I really love.

Fresh Leaves for Spring!

2010-04-10T06:53:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love this time of year?
Besides it being my birthday month, I always breathe a sigh of relief when spring finally comes.
Here are some new leaf pendants inspired by the emerging buds outside my window.

Featured!

2010-04-08T04:28:00.000-07:00

A big thanks to the Perlerouge Blog for featuring my pendant yesterday and driving tons of traffic to my blog. Great site if you l♥ve handmade.
Merci! Merci! Merci!

Blog Feature!

2010-04-04T16:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Jenny Comstedt for featuring one of my new pieces on her blog !

Finished Work - finally!

2010-04-04T15:38:00.000-07:00

I am finally putting the finishing touches on some new work. I don't know why it's been taking me so long to finish them but here are a few samples to show you. I really had a great time coming up with these designs and will probably continue to make them available for sale. There are lots more in different stages of completion. Hope you enjoy them!

New Work

2010-03-31T06:58:00.000-07:00

My new bench will sure come in handy for making these new bezels I've come up with. Hmmm...wonder what will go in them?
Is that polymer clay beside them?

New Jewelry Bench!

2010-03-31T06:24:00.000-07:00

As an early birthday gift, my wonderful husband gave me this beautiful jeweller's bench. I cannot wait to actually use it. I have to get a taller chair because it is high. It will probably never be as organized and as neat as it is now so the pictures are for posterity.

Fleur de lis Pendants

2010-03-18T14:54:00.000-07:00

I have been inspired in so many ways by the romantic city of Montreal that I had to pay homage to it in some way.

Here are some new pendants or maybe earrings that I've been working on that hopefully do the trick.

New Work

2010-03-11T12:40:00.000-08:00

I just finished a commission for my friend, Debbie.
Here is a small look at the process of making them.
Next time I will take more pics from the beginning.
The symbols mean water and health and are for Debbie and the girls that just got back from Haiti. I really hope they enjoy them.

Cute!

2010-03-05T11:32:00.000-08:00

I was featured on cuteable.com today! Very cute!http://cuteable.com

Model My Jewelry!!

2010-03-05T06:56:00.000-08:00

After a quick photo session at Beadapalooza yesterday, I now have some great pics for my jewelry.Much thanks to the beautiful Hillary who modelled everything for me. They turned out great as you can see and were the easiest pictures to take because she is virtually flawless - ahhh youth!

New Birdy Pendants

2010-02-28T05:19:00.001-08:00

I made these pendants as a homage to Mothers. They will be in my Etsy shop this week! Yes, I am finally opening back up.
Wish me luck!

Winter Carnival

2010-02-27T12:36:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to be invited to the Montessori school Winter carnival by my friend Trish, which also was a big fundraiser for Help Tammy Help Haiti, which I have been a supporter of for the last few months. I was also asked to donate an auction piece which I painstakingly fretted over for the last few weeks and eventually came up with this:
It is my interpretation of the picture that Tammy sent me of the image that the residents of Cite' Soleil, Port-au-Prince painted on the water tower that Tammy and her colleagues built. The woman, I believe is Tammy and her hair represents the clean water they will now have to sustain themselves. It is sterling silver, hand pierced and polished. The edges are hammered to create a rustic diamond-edge effect. The lucky winner of this auction piece, Debby Doom, who was one of the leading organizers of the event, is presenting this to Tammy as a gift.
I am honored.

My sons' girlfriend, Jess, was a great help and organized my display for me. Here she is, ready to sell some work for me. Thanks so much Jess!

Metalwork

2010-02-08T08:24:00.000-08:00

Here are a few things I've been working on lately. I seriously have the metalwork bug lately. So much fun to create an object out of sheet silver and wire. Amazing and very satisfying. I'm sure my results will improve over time but I am pretty happy this week. I will be making more of the individual flowers for necklaces. Love them!

New Year - Fresh ideas!

2010-01-13T06:38:00.000-08:00

A new year, a fresh start and a world full of new and exciting possibilities!

This year the focus will be branding and style and some new product lines.

I have invested in a kiln (which should arrive today, with any luck!) and have been experimenting with Silver Art Clay and it has been coming along quite nicely.

Currently my workspace is filled with polymer clay as I have been trying out a new technique (new to me) that the helpful and most talented Leila graciously shared with me. It is a faux fabric or textile technique that is loads of fun and a bit time consuming if you don't have alot of old canes on hand. I still need some practice to improve the design but I am really happy with the concept. Thanks Leila!

I also have three boxes of clay (pottery - porcelain, stoneware and paperclay) that will make it's way into the kiln in the form of jewelry at some point. Hopefully, I will have lots of exciting new things to blog about. I just haven't been very good at it in the last few months. I want to make time at least once a week to update. I must write it into my calendar or it won't happen!

Art Clay Silver

2009-11-26T14:18:00.001-08:00

I know I don't blog often enough but lately it is only because I have been having so much fun with my new Art Clay Silver Kit that my Sweetie got me for Christmas! No Mr. Scrooge here as I even got it a month early :o)

Anyway, here are a few of the things I've made with it. There are lots more and there are so many different possibilities with this stuff, it should keep me busy for awhile.

Dead on Her Feet

2009-11-01T07:18:00.000-08:00

This pic explains exactly how I felt last week. It is my son, Patrick's interpretation of the saying "Dead on Her Feet", which was assigned as one of his projects for second year Graphic Design. He gave it to me this weekend and I love it!

Big Day!

2009-10-31T12:15:00.000-07:00

I haven't blogged for about a week or so because I have been getting ready to show some new pieces to Sarah Hamel from Made You Look Jewellery Studio and Gallery. Not a very big deal to most, but a very big deal to me because although I've sold in boutiques around Kingston, I haven't sold in Toronto, and Made You Look is definitely one of the hottest places to be featured in for a jewelry designer in Toronto.

Sooo, I packed up my wares and off to Toronto we went, hoping every km of the way that they would like my pendants. Because my medium is polymer clay and not the traditional silver, gold or beads, it is always difficult to say whether or not it will be accepted among those circles.

To make a long story short, I met with Sarah at Made You Look and she loved my pendants! She took a whole collection to sell in her store and tripled the asking price that I had suggested for retail!!! I have never had someone appreciate the quality or the value of my work as she did. It was such a huge validation for me. I have been making this stuff for so long that I sometimes wonder if it is worth it and after yesterday, I feel completely validated. She also gave me some great pointers about selling my jewelry and approaching galleries and shops - invaluable!

As I said to my husband Scott, "everyone needs a victory" and my day at Made You Look was certainly one of mine.

Thank-you Sarah and Scott for all your support!

Outstanding Artist - Revonav

2009-10-17T03:49:00.000-07:00

This artist has definitely given me something to aspire to. Revonav, a.k.a. David, is a genius when it comes to marrying polymer clay and sterling silver. What a match! It makes me want to work on my metalsmithing skills much, much more. His interpretations of my favorite medium are unique and innovative. Bravo!

Revonav's Flickr

New Items finished - Finally!

2009-10-14T18:10:00.000-07:00

Some days it is difficult to get focused but finally I've been able to finish off a few things for my Etsy shop. I'm having fun trying out new techniques so bear with me if my forthcoming designs don't always mesh together. What can I say? I like variety :o)

New Stuff

2009-10-08T08:12:00.000-07:00

I've been busy making new stuff but not necessarily finishing them. Here are a few new things I'm uploading to Etsy. There are more steps involved in the resin pendants so I try to have many of them to finish at once.

Step 1: Make the faux-dichro veneers with clay, leaf and inks
Step 2: Condition the clay and make bases for pendants
Step 3: Apply the veneers to the bases
Step 4: Cure/bake pieces for 40min
Step 5: Cool then sand with 400, 600, 800 and 1000 grit sandpaper
Step 6: Buff pieces to a soft shine
Step 7: Prepare resin and apply it to the surface of pendants
Step 8: Wait 48 hrs until the resin hardens
Step 9: Resand with 800 and 1000 grit sandpaper to get off any unwanted resin residue
Step 10: Rebuff pendants and drill holes if needed
Step 11: String pendants and admire your hard work!

That doesn't include photographing, editing, writing descriptions, pricing and loading them up to Etsy!
Very time consuming but hopefully well worth it.

Gálago

2009-09-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

After spending a wonderful 3 days in Montreal with my husband, visiting galleries and taking in the sights, sounds and smells, I have returned renewed and inspired (and also with a terrible cold :o()!
This fabulous artist ~ Gálago ~from Madrid, has also inspired me. Her whimsical brooches and miniature eatery are so clean, well done and beautifully presented.

Check out her Flickr

Blog

and Illustrations

Favorites: Daoine

2009-09-22T03:37:00.001-07:00

Pendientes donuts. P063, originally uploaded by Daoine.

Simple, clean design from Daoine. Love her work!

Inspiration

2009-09-18T05:41:00.000-07:00

In the wee hours of the morning I was up making some stripey canes. I was so inspired by the technique and colour palettes of Dummer and Nichols team from the new Polymer Clay Daily's post yesterday. Although the technique is not the same (I was really half-asleep and just playing), I am still pleased with the results.

I took some old kaleidoscope canes that I had lying around and flattened them and combined them into these. I do love the colours.
Thanks for the inspiration! I am going to keep working on this until I get it right.

Craft Biz

2009-09-17T02:50:00.000-07:00

I stumbled upon this great article from the Biz Box Blog that has excellent information for crafters wanting to break into the retail market with their handmade goods and are not sure where to begin. Great advice, terriffic blog.

I have always thought the biggest obstacle is yourself when trying to penetrate the retail market. Being afraid of getting turned down and not having enough confidence in your product or yourself seem to be the greatest hurdles when I talk to other artists/craftspeople about selling retail or wholesale. What I did was make sure that I had a flawless product, took a deep breath and pretend that I've done it a hundred times before. It seemed to work :-)

Also here is another well-written article from a Posie Gets Cozy . Excellent advice and how-to!

New Stuff!

2009-09-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

I was up very late sanding and buffing last night so that I could add some new things in my shop. These confetti beads sparkle like crazy. I used my dremel to polish them (which I usually don't) but it suits them and makes the silver leaf really PoP!

Inspiration

2009-09-11T17:35:00.000-07:00

My backyard tonight.

Let's Play!

2009-09-11T06:35:00.000-07:00

I've never played around with alcohol inks and gold and silver leaf quite like this before and I've got to tell you, it is so much fun! I've done mokume gane with leaf before but for some reason hesitated to go any further...until now. Here are some examples of some (still tacky) pendants that I made last night using gold leaf, alcohol inks, sanded and then a generous topping of resin to give it that glass-like finish and voila!

I have made some blue and green with silver leaf and some hot pink and orange ones that are awaiting resin. I am so happy I gave myself permission and time to try new techniques.

Craft Gossip

2009-09-09T16:13:00.000-07:00

Check out this nice write-up about my work on Craft Gossip!

http://jewelrymaking.craftgossip.com/inspiration-rebecca-geoffrey/2009/09/09/

Thanks Kate!

Tag Finder Tool

2009-09-08T18:43:00.000-07:00

Take a look at this cool app from Craftweasel.com. Very cooollll.

http://www.craftweasel.com/TagToolQuery.do

Why?

2009-09-08T10:19:00.001-07:00

Why is it that the day you feel most inspired is the day that your house needs cleaning?

New Items in my Shop!!

2009-09-07T12:23:00.000-07:00

I spent yesterday making new pendants and beads and half of today taking pictures, editing, witing descriptions and uploading ~ Whew! I'm wore out!
I hope you think it was worth it :o)

Feedback

2009-09-05T09:18:00.000-07:00

It is always nice to receive positive feedback and I am always happy when someone leaves me a picture of what they made with the beads they purchased as did Claire of Island Inspiration on Etsy. Very nice work and thank-you very much!

Polymer Clay Daily

2009-09-04T17:46:00.000-07:00

I'm blogging a bit late but I just wanted to say that I was featured today on Cynthia Tinapple's wonderful blog - Polymer Clay Daily today. I have been a faithful reader since its' inception and was most humbled by seeing my work presented and narrated so wonderfully. Thank-you so much Cynthia!

New Stuff!!

2009-09-01T09:39:00.000-07:00

Just adding some new items in my Etsy and Artfire shop today. Have a peek!