UnStrungSisters

Long Time, No See

2010-08-08T07:13:00.008-04:00

We really are very bad bloggers. However, we haven't stopped making jewelry. You can follow us over on Face Book where we post updates several times a week.
http://www.facebook.com/UnStrungSisters

Today's photos are of our new line of torch-fired enamel jewelry. You can check it out at UnStrungSisters and don't forget to join us on Face Book!

New Work

2010-02-03T22:06:00.004-05:00

Well, 2010 seems to be flying by as fast as every other year. We have been busy working on new pieces. Here are some photos of what we have been up to- enjoy!

Happy Bubble Wrap Apprecition Day

2010-01-25T13:23:00.002-05:00

Yes - another thing to celebrate - okay it's a made up holiday but I did find a perfect time waster in honor of our favorite wrap - bubblewrapfun. It is also bubble wraps 50th birthday. Is this the generational dividing line - are you older or younger than Bubble Wrap?

On a serious note we did sell our gift certificate on Hearts for Haiti - as of last night the sales from this site has raised over $16,000 for Doctors Without Borders. They are adding items daily so be sure to check it out - hopefully will find something and it will come with bubble wrap! Happy Monday.

Support for Haiti

2010-01-20T15:04:00.003-05:00

We are proud to be part of this effort to support the people of Haiti via Doctors without Borders. You will receive a $35 gift certificate to UnStrungSisters Etsy shop for only $25. Any items purchased with this Gift Certificate will be shipped free of charge.

You can purchase this gift certificate in the Hearts of Haiti shop on Etsy.

Happy New Year

2009-12-31T13:28:00.004-05:00

A Very Happy New Year
to you and yours,
Amy and Erin,
the UnStrungSisters

One Day - Yipee!

2009-12-24T03:05:00.005-05:00

On the day before Christmas we wish you Peace On Earth. This festive banner can be found at Bekah Jennings - this truly unique shop creates banners that celebrate the joy and beauty of life. We hope you have had fun on this countdown journey with us - we did and hopefully will find a few of these items on the 25th. Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas - Amy & Erin, the UnStrungSisters.

Two Days ...

2009-12-23T15:09:00.003-05:00

This lovely clutch would look great under either of our trees. This Scots Pine Clutch is offered by Red Ruby Rose, if you need a little wow to carry in the crook of your arm you have found your shop.

An Atomic Star

2009-12-22T00:20:00.005-05:00

Three days to go - are you ready? Erin here - for one of our last countdown items I would love this Vintage Atomic Rhinestone Star Burst Brooch from CatseyeVintage. I have a similar pin from that belonged to my Grandmother - I would love a second Brooch to wear on a hat or to leave on a coat. Catseye Vintage has lots of great items so be sure to take a few minutes and browse.

Brrrrr- Keep warm!

2009-12-21T08:01:00.003-05:00

It's chilly here on the east coast! We are continuing our holiday countdown and today's selection is perfect for a steaming cup of coffee, hot cocoa or tea. These hand built mugs are available in beautiful colors and are inscribed with endearing words.

They are made by a cooperative pottery group at JustPotters. They are one of the innovative social enterprises of JustWork Economic Initiative employing individuals with barriers to traditional employment. They assist those facing physical disabilities, mental illness, homelessness and addictions; and also work with refugee claimants and low-income single parents.

What a wonderful enterprise to support and in the process you will have wonderful gifts for just about anyone on your list!

5 Days ....

2009-12-20T12:51:00.004-05:00

Today's pick is for our friends on the East Coast - after a day of shoveling they will need one of these relaxing Therapy Neck and Eye Wraps from Feel Good Essentials. There are lots of choices in this fun shop and you pick your own herbs - so you get just what you want. Picture yourself - you have all your holiday prep done,feet up, with one of these warm wraps around your neck and over your eyes - ah relaxing. We can dream!

6 Days- Keep Track of Your Money!

2009-12-19T14:55:00.003-05:00

Just 6 days to go and here's another great gift idea. RN & TN Studio has bright and funky leather accessories perfect for almost anyone on your list. This wallet -Ferris Wheel- would make the perfect cheery gift. Make sure to check out their shop for lots of other great gifts!

ONE WEEK ....

2009-12-18T11:15:00.003-05:00

Good Morning - Erin, here - Today is the last day of school so the fun will begin about 3:30 this afternoon. It is also time to make a mess in the kitchen - we have Santa cookies to make, pretzels to cover in chocolate, a gingerbread house to construct ... so of course I need an apron. This Coffee Clutch Retro Style Apron is from Cozzy Cottage. I love the festive colors in this apron and I can wear it year-round.

8 days and it's getting a bit chilly!

2009-12-17T16:12:00.003-05:00

Amy here in chilly Virginia. Today we are featuring this lovely Scoodie (Hooded Scarf) by Parvana. The pattern, style and selection of colors are just fabulous! Check out the great designs in Nicole's shop. You are sure to find a great gift for yourself or someone.

Buy Your Wife a Bracelet Day

2009-12-16T12:23:00.004-05:00

Erin today - The Ninth day before Christmas is traditionally "Buy Your Wife a Bracelet Day" - okay, not really, but I could probably convince my husband - okay, not really, but it would be one of those great conversations where he keeps looking at me like I'm completely nuts. This one-of-a-kind bracelet is made by Cosmo's Moon and is titled Concentric squares. The shop title is Earthy, Edgy, Extraordinary Metalsmithing and Jewelry - a perfect description of this fabulous shop. Purchase any item from this shop through the 24th of December and 10% of ALL Cosmo's Moon sales will be donated to the Tucson Community Food Bank.

10 Days- How about art?

2009-12-15T08:52:00.003-05:00

Ten shopping days, I repeat, ten shopping days! No need to panic and buy the first pair of slippers you can find. Just check out our daily shopping suggestions and you will find wonderful handmade gifts for the people on your list.

Today is no exception- we are featuring this art print Twilight: Tree of Life Series #5 by Blenda Studio. The colors are gorgeous and I know I would love to find it under my tree. You will find many incredible items in Blenda's shop - so don't delay! Blenda is shipping everyday through Deceember 23rd so there are no excuses for giving slippers!

11 Days ...

2009-12-14T12:00:00.003-05:00

Hi, Erin here - for today I wish for this fun Car Mobile - on my last visit to Amy she had one in her car and I just loved it. The creator of this unique piece of art is LeahPellegrini. Be sure to check out this colorful shop - Leah had mobiles in every shape and size - I'm sure you can find something you need.

Oh no! Twelve days!

2009-12-13T07:26:00.003-05:00

Amy here to remind you that there are twelve days left to find that perfect handmade gift for someone special in your life! Today's suggestion is a beauty. This Waves of Green Quilted Wall Hanging by Kim's Craft Apple is just stunning. Having quilted for several years I think I am qualified to say that the quilting and stitching embellishment are fabulous! Take a look around Kim's shop for more handmade goodies!

Lucky 13?

2009-12-12T14:14:00.003-05:00

Thirteen days left - will they be lucky? For several retailers it will since I (Erin) need to get shopping! This colorful table runner will really step-up my kitchen table and it will go with everything. Entitled So Many Dots this perfectly fun piece of Art is found at kthrum. This Etsy shop is stunning - be sure to switch gallery mode to truly appreciate the beauty of the felted work.

Two weeks!

2009-12-11T10:16:00.006-05:00

Amy here with another great gift selection to help you with your holiday shopping. Today's idea is great for that special person who loves to cook. (And, if you are lucky, they will invite you over to share the results.)

Urban Cheese Craft sells DIY Cheese Kits for that allow you to make your own fresh cheese! You can do it with their kits that include everything you need but the milk. Make mozzarella, ricotta, goat cheese/chevre, paneer, queso blanco... oh the possibilities!

"Cheese, Gromit, Cheese!" Ooops- did I say that out loud?

Time to Get Serious

2009-12-10T14:13:00.003-05:00

Yikes 10 shipping days before the big day! For today we are featuring this lovely set of Fused Glass Stars by d'Pholk Designs. This lovely studio features not only these stars but also flattened bottles, holiday ornaments , free form bowls and many other beautiful items. Become a FaceBook fan of d'Pholk Designs and you are entered in a monthly glass give-away! A quick click is all it takes.

16 Days - Where Did the Time Go?

2009-12-09T12:18:00.015-05:00

Good morning - today I (Erin) found this perfectly beautiful Stone Canyon Jasper Ring made by Sandi of Sassy Glass Jewelry. I have purchased several sets of lampwork beads from its sister shop (we love sisters of any kind) Sassy Glass Designs.
The lampwork beads I have purchased from Sandi are of the highest work-womanship. I have kept most of Sandi's beads for myself or I used them to make special pieces for my friends. I do have one set of her beads for sale at UnStrungSisters - this lovely Black Lilac Necklace and Earring Set . From my experience Sandi's work is top shelf - take a few moments and browse both of her shops. P.S. Thanks Sandi - I "borrowed" the Christmas Countdown idea from your blog.

17 Days .... Oh, dear

2009-12-08T07:55:00.003-05:00

Don't fret! Amy is here with another great holiday gift selection suggestion!

Today's pick is by Love Art Works and is this fabulous HOUSE OF HOPE - Simple Soul Stamped Tile Wall Hanging. As you can see, I'm continuing to lust after pottery pieces!

There are so many reasons to purchase this piece- let me help you catalog them all:
1. Not all pottery pieces have to be functional- add a few pieces to your wall!
2. This piece is exceptionally cool, has great colors and texture and is handmade.
3. The message of "Hope" is an inspiring one and what better way to remember it each day than this beautiful piece.
4. By purchasing this piece not only are you supporting another great handmade seller but also charity. Kristin of Love Art Works is donating all profits from the sale of this plaque to the American Cancer Society (ACS) for 'etsyprojectembrace'.
5. Kritin tells us "My kiln is run by "Green Wind Power" ♥(yay!)♥! So my pieces are basically re-cycled earth using sustainable/renewable energy to fire them with in order to ensure the maximum longevity of the pottery and the painted design."

So many reasons to buy great handmade gifts. A donation to charity and green wind power too?!- Icing with sprinkles on the cake!

Tea, oh Calming Tea ...

2009-12-07T02:02:00.005-05:00

Well I (Erin) made it through my first cookie exchange (Amy is a veteran host). It was a tremendous amount of work but after seeing the first tray of assorted cookies it was well worth it. The only downside is all the left over cookies I now have - but I am looking forward to a nice cup of tea to accompany the delicious little treats. As luck would have it, I came across this beautiful teapot. Not only a teapot but a fabulous work of art - entitled Shiny Black Donut Teapot is the creation of Pats Pottery . Now until Christmas PatsPottery will upgrade shipping on all USA domestic purchases to Priority Mail for Free!

19 Days!

2009-12-06T08:35:00.003-05:00

Amy here with today's handmade gift suggestion. With only 19 days left to shop it's time to pull out all of the stops! Both Erin and I have funky taste in art and today's choice would fit into either of our homes very well. I have been wanting for a robot from Reclaim2Fame for sometime. BEGGAR - A Remarkably Persuasive Robot Puppy - is one cool piece of assemblage art! Take a look around Will's shop. You will find lots of unique treasures and, maybe, knock a few gifts off your list!

Peace Starts With Me ...

2009-12-05T10:35:00.004-05:00

Good Morning - Erin here - I found this fun Batik Peace Flag by PaulaRice. It is available in several colors, as a sit at my workroom desk I'm thinking this would look great along the top of the wall I stare at when I'm not sure what to type (for this blog, Etsy Listings, e-mail responses, etc). I will have to use this message as my mantra today - I'm hosting a cookie exchange tomorrow and have to finish decorating, figure out my menu, make lots and lots of cookies, and of course clean. Hope your weekend is great.

21 Days - That's Just THREE Weeks!

2009-12-04T08:40:00.005-05:00

Amy here- Breathe deeply! To help ease that feeling of holiday panic we are here to offer another daily gift suggestion.

Anyone who has been in my house knows I have a huge collection of functional pottery. Here's a photo of my china cabinet as proof. What you do not see is that the bottom is crammed full of other pieces as are a few kitchen cabinets! My husband, Logan, accuses me of never having met a hand thrown coffee cup I didn't like (and need to have).

So it should be no surprise that today's selection is a great piece of pottery! Woodland soapdish, by kylieparry is a gorgeous piece. As Kylie says - Pair this little beauty with a bar of handmade soap and you have the perfect gift for just about anyone! I know I'd love to find it under my tree (Logan?- HINT HINT). Make sure to check out her shop for many cute ornaments and other pieces. Kylie is currently offering free shipping- could your holiday shopping get any easier!

If you check out UnStrungSisters you will find this new pair of earrings, Mixed Metal Star Earrings. Twinkle, twinkle little star....

22 Days - It's Getting Salty

2009-12-03T01:25:00.004-05:00

Hi - Erin here - today we explore Etsy Vintage - Every Christmas I have a rather elaborate centerpiece for my dining room table - it features my collection of Christams Salt and Pepper Shakers - I have old and new but love the old. After seeing the centerpiece and watching me move it for a family dinner my father-in-law made a beautiful raised tray for me to easily be able to move my creation without dismantling. When searching for new shakers for my collection I love the mismatched pairs - they go together but are not the same. So, of course, I love this pair of 1950's Santa Salt and Pepper Shakers from Carmen and Ginger. They have so many fun vintage Christmas items - take a walk down memory lane.

23 Shopping Days Left- Don't Panic!

2009-12-02T07:58:00.005-05:00

Amy here with another great gift idea. This Apothecary Jar Moss Terrarium is so cool. You will find this terrarium and many others made by Amy of Greenbriar. (Despite the same first name we are not related;)).

From the description- "Moss grows on the forest floor attached to rocks and bark under trees in nature. This terrarium mimics this environment and is wonderful to study and observe. Give it as a gift and let the fresh green moss brighten any gloomy room or office."

Amy is also offering this special *With every purchase receive a Free Greenbriar Mini Terrarium perfect to give as a stocking stuffer.*

Don't panic- just start shopping! (And, buy handmade if you can!)

Time to Start Getting Serious

2009-12-01T10:34:00.000-05:00

Hello - Erin here - for today's wish list item I went back in time - a trip to the last (first?)pages of our favorite sellers and I re-found SplatGirl. I love this perfectly functional and funky Sling Backpack. I have purchased from splat girl in the past and her work-womanship is excellent. I have put my Clip-on Moo Pocket through the works and it still looks great.

24 Days and Don't Forget to Stuff Those Stockings

2009-11-30T07:48:00.003-05:00

Amy here- Only 24 shopping days to go. Here is a great stocking stuffer idea by one of my favorites, PhizzyChick. I love these Creative Blocks and am always amazed how much detail Georgina can got onto 1 square inch! Make sure to check out Georgina's shop for all sorts of treasures and don't for get to stuff those stockings!

25 Days to Go!

2009-11-29T12:36:00.005-05:00

Hi, Erin here - spent most of yesterday decorating so I thought a festive ornament would be the perfect addition to our countdown. I found this colorful Fused Glass Christmas Tree at Glass Elements. Glass Elements is part of the Black Friday/Cyber Monday Holiday Sale and is offering Buy One (1) Ornament, Get Any One (1) Item (of equal or lesser value) Half Off! Including ornaments, jewelry and even gift cards! What a great deal - you better click on over and check her shop out!

26 Days- Try not to Panic!

2009-11-28T13:08:00.003-05:00

Amy here with another great holiday gift idea. This is the perfect green gift- recyled materials to pamper our feathered friends. ~ Bird Feeder. Recycled street lights ~by Red, Yellow and Blue Ink. Not only is it green but it is a great pop of color for your yard!

Black Friday - the Panic Begins!

2009-11-27T12:56:00.004-05:00

Happy Black Friday - Erin today - For my wish of the day I would love this beautiful hand knitted cowl from Ayca. With winter in the air this perfectly pretty purple cowl will help ward off the chilly weather. Ayca is part of the Etsy Black Friday/Cyber Monday Free World Wide Shipping sale.

27 Days and Counting!

2009-11-26T13:09:00.005-05:00

Amy here- Happy Thanksgiving to all! Only 27 days to go and we are putting out another great gift idea. I know I would love to find this under my tree on Christmas. SKETCHES OF A DREAM, Edgy, contemporary stained glass window is by L.A. Glass Studio. Please check out the many wonderful things, large and small, in the L.A. Glass Shop.

28 - I'm Running So Late!

2009-11-25T11:36:00.003-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving Eve - Erin here - in a previous life I used to be organized and would have all my gifts wrapped and mailed by today - this year I've barely started shopping. Well, I obviously need something to brighten my mood - I found it in this whimsical wintery ceramic dish. I love the legs on this dish. This wonderful dish/serving bowl was created by Mary Judy - her shop announcement sums up her shop - "All original, hand-built, one-of-a-kind kooky & colorful ceramics . . ." Looking for a totally unique gift no one else will have - this is your stop.

Under 30 Days!!!!

2009-11-24T21:00:00.001-05:00

I'm feeling a slight chill in the air and would love to have this perfectly pretty felted wool wrap from Vital Temptation. This spectacular wrap was made with the traditional wet felting technique by combining four shades of 100 % Merino soft wool ( Teal, Aqua, Mocha and Rusty Rose ) . This shop is full on beautiful handmade items - take a few moments to look around.

30 Days- I Think I Found Gifts for my Friends!

2009-11-23T23:39:00.005-05:00

For today I am wishing for this gorgeous tile from Kristen Stein Fine Art. The tile is entitled Autumn Fire Tree Landscape - each tile is framed - the cherry frame measures 6x6x0.5 inches and the tile is 4.25 x 4.25 inches. (Don't tell my friends but I think I just found their Christmas gifts.) Be sure to browse she also has over 50 other fine art tiles, beautiful original painting, ACEO trading cards and lots of other fun stuff. As bonus Kristen has noted in her shop announcement that she is part of the Etsy Holiday and Free Shipping Black Friday/Cyber Monday Sale.

31 Days to Go

2009-11-22T08:11:00.007-05:00

Amy here with today's installment of "What we'd like to find under our Christmas Tree". I would love to unwrap this Embroidered Fiber Art Quilt - SPACE SPORES in SEARCH of the PERFECT MARTINI. (The name alone implies we would be fast friends.) The details and hand stitching are amazing. And the colors are perfect for the holidays and year round!

This and many other cool items were made by Victoria Gertenbach of The Silly BooDilly. Please check out her shop- you will also find Fabian there. It appears he and the Space Spore quilt may have had a few successful martini quests!

32 - What To Do?

2009-11-22T02:12:00.005-05:00

Yes, 32 days till the big event! Today I (Erin) am featuring this incredible hand spun yarn from UrbanGypZ. This unique yarn is titled Carnivale and is made from hand painted domestic wool, silk, mohair hand carded with yarn bits and angelina and hand spun into a super bulky single ply yarn. Every holiday season I have a strong need to hand-make a few of gifts (like I don't have enough to do) and I like to mix it up and not always give jewelry . This yarn is the perfect length for a small coat scarf or a fun funky cowl and would be a wonderful find under my tree.

Shop, Shop, Shop

2009-11-21T13:50:00.004-05:00

Erin here - my choice for our continuing countdown is a stunning print from Painting Prints entitled Silhouette. Please take a few moments and browse this shop - the art work is unique, fun and has beautiful detail. I also love the original art work rings . There are lots of forms of hand art - I think these are great. In case you haven't noticed I have a thing for trees.

If you are in the Hampton Roads area (Virginia) don't forget to stop by and say "Hi" to Amy this weekend at the Indian River Christmas Craft Show. The sun is shining here - think I'll go enjoy it.

34 Days to Go and I'm Starting to Freak Myself Out!

2009-11-20T08:36:00.006-05:00

34 Days until Christmas- Yikes! Amy here- (deep breathing). I love posting fabulous ideas for gift giving to our blog and today's post is no exceptions. This Raku Pottery Heart by SweetPaisely is just the piece I need to go over a door in my house. Having filled most of my wall space with cool art I have picked up over the years, I embarked on a journey to put a piece of art above each door in my house. Shopping for small pieces is fun and you can find a great selection of pieces in SweetPaisley's shop.

I'm doing to one last craft show this month and you can find this great Coral Necklace there. If you are local to the Hampton Roads area (southeastern Virginia) stop by and say hi!

Indian River Christmas Craft Show
Indian River High School
1969 Braves Trail,
Chesapeake
Saturday Nov. 21st 10am - 5 pm
Sunday Nov. 22nd 12-4pm

35 Days, 35 Days, 35 Days!

2009-11-19T11:25:00.001-05:00

Erin here - today my husband said he needed a few ideas for Christmas gifts for me. I replied -"you obviously don't read our blog!?!" ... well, now he has lots of ideas - with more to come.

I would love to have this fun Party Girl hanging out with me at home. You will find pages of fabulously funky Metal Sculptures at Frivolous Tendencies. The artists behind these designs use salvaged materials to create their unique sculptures. Take a few moments to browse the shop - I love the movement in the various pieces.

36 Days to Go and the Count Down Continues

2009-11-18T08:10:00.007-05:00

Amy here- continuing our "What we would love to find under our Christmas tree" series. I'd love to find either of these sets of coasters, by PepperSprouts under my tree or in my stocking! I can't decide which set I like better- The Eat, Drink, Be Merry set or the Bird on a Branch set- so I'll just ask for both!

Being a fiber junky the texture of this felt set really appeals to me. And who wouldn't agree with the sentiment!

I love the design motif on this wood set and the way some of it is carved out- very cool!

If you are looking for a gift for that hard to shop for person in your life you can also check out our shop. Our Custom Personalized Key Chains are a popular gift.

37 Days ... I Better Get Shopping!

2009-11-16T16:55:00.009-05:00

Hi - Erin here, for my addition to the wish list I would like these lovely soaps from Morgan Street. I have used Morgan Street soaps in the past and just love them, the hard part is picking the scents. A few years ago I gave the Mini Bundt Cake Soaps to my friends as a Christmas gift (of course I saved one for myself) - these soaps are so realistic you want to take a bite and they last for a long time - I would cut a little slice every few days and leave my shower smelling wonderful. My friends enjoyed theirs too! Oh, I'd also like a soap dish.

38 Days to Go and the Count Down Continues

2009-11-16T06:36:00.007-05:00

Amy here - Continuing on our "What we would love to find under our Christmas tree" series -I'd love to find this great pair of Pumpkin Fingerless Gloves under my tree or in my stocking! You can find them and many other cool pairs at FriendlyBrown on Etsy.

Here is a great item from the UnStrungSisters shop, Chunky Sodalite and Coral Bracelet. Maybe you would like to see this under your tree?

The Count down continues

2009-11-15T12:03:00.001-05:00

Hi Erin here - today's addition to our wish list is from Craftygurll - a lovely set of six multi-color dessert/appetizer plates - of course I would need 4 sets! These pretty little plates would look great at any party. Happy Sunday.

4o Days to Go....

2009-11-14T08:56:00.005-05:00

Amy here - Continuing on our "What we would love to find under our Christmas tree" series -I'd love to find this lovely piece of mixed media art under my tree. This 2 Birds in a Tree set is by Mamapainter. Make sure to check out the bottom photo to see how these pieces can be uniquely arranged.

Maybe you or someone you know might like to find this Turquoise Necklace as a holiday surprise gift! You can find it at UnStrungSisters.com along with lots of other great options for you or your loved ones!

41 days to go ...

2009-11-12T19:24:00.006-05:00

Hi, Erin here - Continuing on our "What we would love to find under our Christmas tree" series -my wish list item for today is from Suzanna Anna and is titled "Imagine all the People Living Life in Peace". This is a set of nine individual prints but is also available in a single 8 x 8 print.

42 days and counting

2009-11-12T09:29:00.004-05:00

Amy here ~ We are continuing our countdown to Christmas and highlighting an item each day that we would love to find under our Christmas tree. I'll start my list with this beautiful stained glass piece, The Revival, by Pamela Angus. Check out her Etsy shop for more gorgeous items!

Here is a new necklace that you might like to find as a surprise for you this holiday season. It is our Colorful Pearl Cluster Necklace and it is a classic beauty with a contemporary flair!

The Count Down Begins ...

2009-11-11T12:25:00.001-05:00

Since the big day is only 43 days away we have decided to post an Etsy found item a day that we would love to see waiting for us under our tree Christmas morning.

Our first wish comes from Michelle Prosek - a Hand Carved and Fused Glass Tile - titled Enoki Twist. This lovely glass tile is hand carved, fused and hand shaped to make it a one of a kind unique piece of art. Michelle's shop is a real wow - take time to browse - her Night Lights are also great.

Thanks ...

2009-11-06T16:42:00.003-05:00

Erin here -
We would like to thank Elizabeth Caldwell Illustration and Designs for featuring us on her blog! Be sure to check out her up and coming Etsy shop - ecdesign. Since Amy added a picture of her dog in the previous posting I thought I would add one of mine. Lola is a chocolate lab/standard poodle mix. We tell everyone she got the best of both personalities and the worst of both looks! And yes for those of you who are wondering - as my hair is growing back it is looking just like Lola's. I have to laugh because I think the dogs Amy and I chose really do reflect our personalities. We hope you have a great weekend.

Craft Shows

2009-11-02T08:40:00.005-05:00

Amy here- I'll be doing to two craft shows this month. If you are local to the Hampton Roads area (southeastern Virginia) stop by and say hi!

Santa’s Stocking

Old Fashion Craft Bazaar

Kempsville Recreation Center

800 Monmouth Lane, Virginia Beach

Saturday Nov. 7^th 9am – 5 pm

Sunday Nov. 8^th 11 am -5 pm

Indian River

Christmas Craft Show

Indian River High School

1969 Braves Trail, Chesapeake

Saturday Nov. 21^st 10am - 5 pm
Sunday Nov. 22nd 12-4pm

Couldn't resist adding a photo of my dog:).

Rings

2009-10-19T12:43:00.003-04:00

Amy here- I fired up the torch and hammered some metal this weekend. Here are a group of rings that I made. Back to work for me- the beads are calling my name!

Working and working!

2009-10-13T18:26:00.005-04:00

Busy, busy, busy! And, more new work to share. Here are a few items you may still see in our Etsy shop. ~Amy

Sinful Cinnabar Choker Style Necklace

This choker is simple and stunning! You can also find matching pieces in our shop: Sinful Cinnabar Bracelet and Sinful Cinnabar Earrings.

Black Spinel O Necklace

I have a variation of this black spinel necklace that I have been wearing and have been asked by more than a few people if I will be making another for our shop- so here it is! This micro- faceted black spinel is hard to come by and I love it! This necklace goes great with this next pair of earrings.

Simply Silver O Earrings

I had fun with my torch and hammer making the textured fine silver rings for these earrings.

Crazy Lace Agate Necklace

This one is for all of the purple lovers in the world- it has all of the shades!

Harmony Necklace in Olive

This is another color variation added to our long and lush Harmony Necklace line. The colors on this are an amazing array of gorgeous greens.

Bluest of Blue Agate Slice Necklace

Show off your fun and funky side with this great piece. The color is amazing!

More new pieces to come- so stay tuned!

That Crazy Busy Life!

2009-09-26T10:32:00.004-04:00

Yes- we are crazy busy here too! It's just that time of year. So, today- just so you know we haven't forgotten about our blog followers- we're sharing a few photos of new work.

This last photo is just for fun- captured on my new digital SLR in our backyard.~ Amy

Goodbye to some Good Buys!

2009-08-28T10:33:00.008-04:00

It is that time of year again! The UnStrungSisters are saying Goodbye to some of our jewelry. However, you have the chance to say Hello to some Good Buys! Check out our Good Buys sections which is filled with marked down jewelry. We are reducing the prices in our Good Buys section daily. Come back each day to see the new lower prices and new items that may be added. See something you like- do not wait or the item may be gone the next time you check!

If you would like to save some money on shipping, we will happily hold your purchases until the end of our sale so you can shop daily. Once the sale is over (or you tell us you want your jewelry) we will calculate the shipping as if you had made one purchase (for domestic/ Canada shipments $1.95 for the first item and $0.25 for each additional item OR for international shipments $2.85 for the first item and $0.85 for each additional item). We will then combine the shipping charges you paid over the many, many purchases you are likely to make and refund the difference to you. Of course, we can only do this if we ship it all at once to one address. Confused? Join the club:). Or, ask us a question and we will be happy to try to answer your questions.

Happy Shopping!

Amy & Erin- The UnStrungSisters

http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5150929&section_id=6367599

Transformations

2009-08-22T13:25:00.009-04:00

It really is incredible to think that after two short weeks in a chrysalis a caterpillar transforms itself into a butterfly! Amazing really- think how handy that skill might be for us mere humans....

My Swallowtail adventures are coming to a close. My many chrysalides have dwindled in numbers as day after day butterflies emerge. Our first gal showed up on Wednesday morning two weeks ago. I promptly named her Tuesday (clearly I did not had enough coffee and was confused). Tuesday was followed by a butterfly a day until Sunday, when three emerged. We named them Sunday, Sunday and Sunday.

Since then we have had butterflies everyday, except two. They almost always emerge in the morning, although we did have one tardy fellow come out after dark. He was our sixth butterfly that day. He was named Saturday just like his siblings Saturday, Saturday Saturday.. well you get the picture.

As the transformation nears completion the chrysalides start to turn from an opaque green or brown to a translucent covering. You can see the wing pattern through the sides. Keeping my camera handy I was able to get a few shots of this guy just as he started crawling out.

They look a bit scary when they first emerge as their wings are all scrunched up. If you ever raise caterpillar or take care of a chrysalis it is important for the newly emerged butterfly to have something vertical to climb on. They like the underside of inclined sticks the best. This position helps them as they pump fluid from their swollen thoraxes to their wings to help them unfurl. The fluid and gravity do the trick in about 2 short minutes. Sadly, we had a couple of tragedies. Without gravity their wings become a floppy mess and they start to shred as they try to crawl around. I had read somewhere that the kindest way to put a butterfly out of it's misery was to put it in the freezer. That was a sad task I performed twice:(

While their wings are unfurling and drying they amuse themselves with their proboscis. They uncurl it and recurl it, over and over. It's really pretty cute and I can just imagine what they are thinking. "Wow, this butterfly thing is pretty cool but what in the world is stuck to my face?!"

These butterflies are all my babies. They are Eastern Swallowtails and I captured their photos with my new digital SLR:).

With about 10 chrysalides left, I have to say I'm about over it for this year.

I have one monarch butterfly caterpillar that I brought inside and he should be about ready to form his chrysalis soon and then my caterpillar days will be over this year. Every time I see a Swallowtail in the yard I know it's Monday or some other day of the week saying hello to me!

What is the plural of Chysalis?

2009-08-12T22:35:00.008-04:00

Chrysalises is grammatically correct but I can't say that without feeling like I'm lisping! Chrysalides is also correct and makes me sound much more like a nature geek~ which, lately, I kind of like. Here is a shot of my numerous Swallowtail chrysalides.

Okay, I realize there is something inherently creepy about the sheer number of butterfly chrysalides here (they even wiggle sometimes!). But I choose to just see the butterfly potential here.

It is kind of cool when they are ready to shed their caterpillar skin for the last time and show off their chrysalis. They make themselves a little strap to keep from falling off the stick. Below are before and after shots.

Finally, my last baby caterpillar is almost ready to form his chysalis~ sniff. I must say that I am kind of relieved though. You wouldn't believe how much these little guys eat! I have almost picked my herb pot clean of parsley. The dill and fennel are long gone. And, as much as I love my creepy critters I'm not heading to the grocery store to buy parsley, dill or fennel!

Then... while aimlessly wandering my yard the other day I found more babies! This time I found monarch butterfly "1st instar" caterpillars on my milk weed! I just know they are grandchildren of my very first monarch, Tootsie Roll!

One more caterpillar tale. Okay, really, this is the last part. I found my dog trying to eat this strange looking guy! (BTW- Dogs will eat anything- that's why you should never let them lick your face!) At first, I thought he was a different variety of swallowtail but after close inspection (the little pointy thing on his butt gave him away) I determined he is a sphinx moth caterpillar. Even though he is really cool I set him free. It seems I've become a butterfly caterpillar snob!

~Amy- the nature geek~

Summertime Science

2009-08-09T08:08:00.003-04:00

Amy here- My kids think I've brought caterpillars into their lives over many summers because I'm trying to give them a science lesson. The truth is that I just think they are cool. We are constantly pulling out our Audubon Field Guides trying to identify cool beetles or freaky skinks.

Early in the summer, a large mixed herb planter that I picked up at a garden center held many (and I mean many) surprises for us. One day we noticed some caterpillars eating the fennel. The next day there were no less than 10. The planter was on my deck and, sadly, a bird could not believe it's luck and picked them all off one day. After a few more days we had more caterpillars though (and they kept coming). I decided to save these from the fate of their earlier siblings (cousins?) and brought them inside in a large plastic jar. In the photo below there are probably about 15-20 cater pillars in the jar.

After they hatch the are teeny tiny.

Having raised Painted Lady's and Monarch caterpillars we knew it was pretty easy to keep caterpillars alive. All they want is food. They eat and sleep for about 2 weeks until they get to about the size of the 'pillar in the photo at the top of the page.

After a bit of research we determined that we had Anise Swallowtail caterpillars. They are somewhat picky eaters liking fennel, parsley, dill and anise (and a couple of other plants I can't seem to find around here.

More caterpillar craziness to come!

We're on Vacation -As You Might Have Guessed

2009-07-24T18:11:00.003-04:00

Our lack of blogging has been conspicuous. As summer vacation started so did our ability to keep up with the blog. So here is an update and then a formal declaration that we are "On Vacation".

I packed our bags and the kids and I headed off to Washington State to visit Erin and her family. An effortless day of flying left us tired but glad to be here. Erin is slowly recovering from her surgery and so is thankful for all of your thoughts, prayers and well wishes. So, here we are ready to kick back for a few weeks. (You may have noticed that we even put our Etsy shop in vacation mode!) Have a great summer! ~Amy

Miscellany Moment

2009-06-12T07:26:00.004-04:00

Amy here with a few quick updates. Our Personalized Key Chain was featured in Tidewater Parent. The article, by Kristen De Deyn Kirk, featured gift ideas for Father's Day. Thanks for the feature Kristen!

If you are in Chesapeake tomorrow stop by Natural Elements Spa and say hello. I will be their first featured artist of the month and will have my wares set up in their movement studio from 10-5 PM.

Moose on the Loose

2009-06-08T13:09:00.005-04:00

Erin here-

Last Saturday night we had the pictured visitor roaming through our neighborhood. The excitement in the air rivaled the first sighting of the ice cream truck. The Fish and Game wardens had their work cut out for them as they were trying to herd the moose back to the river while dealing with all the moose gawkers. (We live about a half mile from the Little Spokane River.) In the de-brief the day after everyone had to laugh at how many people were home and that this was the most excitement any of us had seen in weeks!

Creative Outlet

2009-06-01T18:54:00.003-04:00

Amy here- I've been having fun using the tools and techniques I picked up at Art and Soul. Thanks to my class with Lisa Kaus I was able to make this little piece of art for my friend Linda who passed over to the dark side. Welcome Linda!

Here's a look at the work-in-progress. The base is a 5 x 7" canvas panel from Dick Blick.

I love to learn new techniques!

Keep on Keeping On

2009-05-28T08:11:00.001-04:00

Amy here with an update. Erin continues to do well. She has completed her last 'big' chemo session yesterday and will continue Herceptin treatments for the next year. The Chemo knocks her off her feet for about a week. If you know Erin, it is hard for her to slow down. However, the regular pattern of treatment allows her to predict when and for how long she will be feeling tired or dealing with some of the various side effects. Overall, her spirits are high and she continues to be buoyed by the well-wishes and care from her friends and family. So, please keep them coming!

Erin does get a chuckle at how obsessed I can be by certain things. Our UnStrungSisters shop has been on Etsy for 2 years (Happy Birthday to us). During that time I have have been hoping to see one of our items make it to the home page of Etsy. The home page changes ever few hours and features member created treasuries. These treasuries are a group of items that members can put together and they last a couple of days. If you would like to shop Etsy is a different way try clicking on the treasuries link and you will find a huge list of treasuries in various themes.

Our Custom Copper Message Pendant was featured in a great treasury on May 3rd and made it to the home page with this treasury, curated by CurlyGirlCrochet. Thanks for the feature Jodie!

The Good Side of Cancer

2009-05-21T17:31:00.000-04:00

Erin here-

As I keep telling everyone I'm am just overwhelmed by the support from my family and friends. Those of us who are Moms know it's hard to let stuff be about you. I thought I'd share a few of the neat things that have happened the last few months. At my very first Chemo treatment my merry band of neighbors had a gift bag waiting for me - snacks, books, slippers - it was wonderful. Every treatment since I've had a bag of goodies waiting for me. My husband Reinhard has been able to go to just about every treatment with me so I do share with him. The mail has provided several fun surprise packages(cookies, lotions, books) - always fun.

Several of the lovely ladies in "The Number One Ladies Book Club" know me well enough to know I will ask for help when I need it but they still wanted me to know I was in their thoughts - I was given a vase that had buttons, beads and marbles in it?!!!? They informed each one represents a prayer that has been said for me. I am so tickled when I open my front door and find "an envelope of prayers" to add to the beautiful vase.

The Spokane Race for the Cure was on one of my bad weekends so I did not have the energy to attend. But because of my friends Natalie, Greg and Lisa I have great bragging rights - my shirt came in third - well, Greg wearing my shirt came in third! The Friday before the race there was a knock on my door and in came the merry band wearing black racing jerseys. Greg had organized 15 racers to wear a shirt with my name on it (pictured below - modeled by my daughter Kenna). Greg finished the 5k in 16 minutes and 41 seconds - my shirt was flying!

Stay tuned - part two will be coming soon...

Art & Soul - Day 2

2009-05-17T07:44:00.008-04:00

Amy here-
My last blog update covered my first day at Art and Soul. My last class was Be Still My Beating Heart with Lisa Kaus. This class was so fun and liberating. Lisa was inspiring and taught us many creative techniques to add interest, depth and texture to your art. We were able to use many products I had never tried and created a very cool piece of art. Here are a few pieces of Lisa's work.

And Lisa- our wonderful instructor who insisted we color outside the lines!

My work-in-progress and finished piece.

The Art and Soul organizers had a retail store on-site that was unbelievable! Oh, the cool art products! This picture does not do it justice since it is less than half of the room!

Art & Soul- First Day

2009-05-01T21:17:00.007-04:00

Amy here- It's official... I'm a virgin no more! After taking Sally Jean Alexander's Soldering for Virgins class today at Art & Soul I can consider myself a blooming solderer (okay- solderer sounds weird but soldering wench is worse).

Here are a few photos of my day and my creation.

Sally Jean made the day fun and had us all inspired and soldering our hearts out.

Below is on of Sally Jean's bracelets.

My work in progress.

My finished bracelet and a few close-up photos. I'm hooked and as with many things I do- I am jumping in with both feet! BTW- the last photo keeps rotating 90 degrees every time I try to upload it. So, to compensate, tip your head to the right until your right ear touches your right shoulder to get an accurate view. (Then apply a heating pad to your neck.)

I used some very cool supplies I picked up from PhizzyChick. I love her work and her supplies made my bracelet so fun!

My next post will show a photo of the Art & Soul Store! If you love all things art, paper, rubber stamps, paints, inks, epherema, fiber, .... you'll wish you were there! It was wonderful.

Drive By Blogging- Look Out!

2009-04-20T14:09:00.005-04:00

Here's a fast and furious post from Amy!

You can now shop for UnStrungSisters jewelry at Natural Elements Spa. I set up a small display in the spa today. Here's a quick photo. If you've seen me at craft shows you know that the mini-wooden dress forms are my trade-mark!

This weekend it was time for catch-up. I have learned that when I am in the mood to design jewelry I should just go with it and not necessarily assemble it at the same time. So , pleasing combinations of gemstones and accent beads are bagged up together and set aside. When I am too tired to design but feel the need to be productive I assemble. Saturday was an assembling day. Here's what it looks like.

Don't forget to visit me at The Chesapeake Art Show this Saturday and Sunday! It will be held on the grounds of the Portlock Galleries at SoNo (the South Norfolk section of Chesapeake). The Chesapeake Art Show is hosted by the Hope House Foundation. Here's what my tent looks like!

Just around the corner

2009-04-16T15:23:00.005-04:00

Amy here to give you some updates- We've been quite busy in the world of UnStrungSisters and remiss in our blogging.

Erin has made it to the half way point in her course of chemotherapy. See this earlier post from Erin with information on her diagnosis.

I must say, she is doing surprisingly well. In true Erin spirit, she is dealing with this turn of events as an adventure, collecting new friends as quickly as she collects new hats to keep her head warm. After Erin was diagnosed, I made a ring for her with the simple words "Be Strong" similar to the picture below.

Anyone who has spent a little time around Erin knows how generous she is so I wasn't surprised when she requested some more Be Strong rings. She hands them out to people she crosses paths with on her chemo adventure. Anyone who needs a little reminder that they are not alone is the recipient of Erin's generosity. Little do they know that they now have a new friend too. Please keep Erin and her family in your thoughts and prayers.

I have been busy getting ready for the a few upcoming events. I'll be participating in the Chesapeake Art Show on April 25th and 26th. It will be held on the grounds of the Portlock Galleries at SoNo (the South Norfolk section of Chesapeake). The Chesapeake Art Show is hosted by the Hope House Foundation. This will be my second year and I am looking forward to a great show. Please stop by and say hello if you come to the show.

If you also live in the area you can visit the Natural Elements Spa in Chesapeake and shop for UnStrungSisters jewelry. A selection of our jewelry will be for sale and after you have shopped be sure to enjoy a wonderful massage or one of the many other services they offer. I speak from experience when I say their massages are divine!!

Lastly, I have been collecting supplies for a treat for myself. I couldn't resist the chance to take advantage of some wonderful classes being held locally at the Art and Soul Retreat in Hampton, Virginia. The classes I have registered for are Soldering for Virgins: The Whole Sha-Bang with Sally J ean Alexander and Be Still My Beating Heart with Lisa Kaus. Take a few minutes to peruse their web-sites- they are a visual feast- and you can shop!

Happy Spring!

Give me the moon and I'll give you the stars

2009-04-04T10:21:00.004-04:00

or maybe even a flower! Amy here- I have been continuing to have fun with my hammer! The options are really endless. Here are a few of the things I have been working on- enjoy!

Mixed Metal Star and Moon Earrings- heavenly!

Custom Mixed Metal Message Pendant- earthy way to wear the names of loved ones!

Personalized Key Chain- gifts for guys or gals!

Morning Surprise

2009-03-30T08:28:00.004-04:00

Amy here- I woke up this morning to find us featured in two lovely treasuries on Etsy. Salalknits featured our Sea and Earth Anklet in her Girl from the North Country treasury. Did she know that Erin and I grew up in northern New York?

Chic Boutique Jewelry featured our Little Twist Ring us in her Orange You Happy treasury.

Thanks for the features!

My Head is Cold

2009-03-12T23:13:00.003-04:00

Erin here - I was luckily enough to grab a Treasury yesterday and of course I froze as to a title - so I went for the obvious - my head was cold. Of course, why is it cold? Well, I lost my hair - yes, I am going through the joys of Chemo therapy. I found out in January that I have breast cancer. DON'T PUT OFF YOUR MAMMOGRAM. My cancer was found during a routine mammogram - scary fact - it takes 5 to 8 years for cancer cells to get to a depth to be found on a mammogram. DON'T PUT OFF YOUR MAMMOGRAM. If I had put mine off a year I would be in a whole different circumstance and not have a great prognosis. Amy has been steering the reins at UnStrungSisters - I can't thank her enough. While bald may be beautiful you still have a cold head.

To be Part of Such Lovely Company

2009-03-03T20:25:00.003-05:00

Lilysoffering of Etsy featured our Blue Earth Necklace in her gorgeous treasury.

Hammering as therapy

2009-02-17T09:41:00.004-05:00

It's amazing how pounding away with a hammer can take away some of that daily stress! I've been having fun making rings, as I posted previously, and other mixed metal jewelry. Yesterday I cut, hammered, textured, oxidized, tumbled and polished about a dozen rings and the cute pair of petite earrings above. The earrings below were made a few weeks ago. More to come to UnStrungSisters.com soon. ~ Amy~

Still Ringing in the New Year

2009-02-04T07:50:00.010-05:00

There are some new items on UnStrungSisters.com... rings.

I've recently started making rings and find it quite addicting! Thick bands, thin bands, textured, twisted, oxidized... oh the options!

If you see an item that you like in our shop and need it in a different size please contact us.

~ Amy ~

Valentine's Day UnStrungSisters Special

2009-01-31T12:13:00.009-05:00

Time for another UnStrung Special - buy a $20 UnStrungSisters gift certificate and we will add some Valentine Love to it and turn it into a $25 gift certificate. We will also take care of everything - mail the gift certificate in an appropriate card, include your message, and we will include instructions on how to make a purchase on Etsy.

This special starts today and runs through Sunday, February 8, 2009. Need it even faster we can e-mail a copy directly to you or your recipient. How does this work?!? Go to our Etsy Shop - Gift Certificate Section - buy a $20 gift certificate (you pick the style) and in the message to seller add "Happy Valentine's Day" or you can "convo" us after you complete your purchase. We will also need some information from you - the full name of the recipient, who the gift certificate is from, type of card (Valentine, birthday, or everyday), a message for the inside of the card and where you would like us to mail the card and gift certificate. We will be happy to add a "Do Not Open Until ..." to the front of the card.

We do have a few gift certificate rules -
***Gift certificate only valid at UnStrungSisters Etsy shop.***
***Gift certificates bought through this special will expire on February 15, 2010***
***Gift Certificate is not redeemable for cash.***

A Quick Trip Down Memory Lane

2009-01-23T21:39:00.005-05:00

Hi, Erin here -These pretty lampwork beads immediately caught my eye on my very first visit to Sassy Glass Designs and of course they had to be mine - at least until I played with them and decided to pass them on to someone else. (I've blogged about my lampwork bead problem in the past!) The little flowers remind me of a huge Lilac bush in the side yard of the farm Amy and I grew up on - the flowers were such a deep purple they looked black from a distance. I can remember the wonderful fragrance of these delicate little flowers, the joy I felt bringing a bouquet to my teachers and the people who would stop to ask for a small bouquet (there were plenty of blooms - we always gave huge bouquets) or even better a cutting so they could have their own Black Lilac Bush. Thank you Sandi for the great walk down memory lane.

A Little Press, A Lot of Fun

2009-01-21T09:29:00.007-05:00

Amy here- As I mentioned in a previous post I was interviewed for a local newspaper article. The article appeared in The Chesapeake Clipper which is distributed twice a week with the Virginian-Pilot. The focus was how Erin and I are able make our jewelry business, UnStrungSisters.com work despite living on opposite coasts.

Sandra Pennecke is a free-lance writer and made sure my first interview was fun. I turned the camera on Sandra and captured the photo below of her in my craft room.

Blog Special - Proud to Be ... Bracelet and Necklace

2009-01-19T00:33:00.015-05:00

In honor of our newly elected President, Vice President and all of our newly elected officials everywhere we are offering our Proud to Be ... Bracelet for $6.25 and our Proud to Be ... Necklace for $10.00 - yes, that is half off! Okay, so the price won't stimulate the economy but hopefully it will help stimulate us to become more involved and make sure all of our voices are heard.
To "cash-in" on these savings just add "BLOG SPECIAL" in the comments to sellers - DO NOT PAY - we will send you a revised PayPal invoice (be sure we have your PayPal e-mail address). This special runs through Friday, January 23, 2009 and is limited to one per person.

~*~ E Pluribus Unum ~*~

This is so fun and kind of addicting!

2009-01-16T15:29:00.003-05:00

Amy here- I splurged recently on some metal stamping supplies and had so much fun today trying them out. I made this pendant with my kiddos names stamped on it. I added a few design element stamps, textured the whole thing and buffed it to a nice shine. Look for some new items like this on UnStrungSisters soon.

On another note, I was interviewed about a week and a half ago by a reporter from our local newspaper. The story ran today and covers how Erin and I are able to make UnStrungSisters work despite being on opposite sides of the country. As soon as I can find a link to the story on line I will add it here to our blog.

Hello Little Birds!

2009-01-15T08:44:00.003-05:00

Bird garland made by Amy and 6 YO daughter Sadie.

Cure Your Mid-Winter Blues with Some Color

2009-01-09T08:57:00.005-05:00

It is so nice to have my craft space reconfigured. I can finally take some pictures without shuffling everything around! Need a little color in your life? Check out our new Colorful Pearl Cluster Necklace.

My daughter, Sadie, is enjoying some space at my worktable also. Below is a picture of some thank you notes she made. It warms my heart to see how much she loves to create. We all need crafting buddies after all!

Craft Space Makeover Costs

2009-01-07T11:13:00.004-05:00

Below is the final accounting of my craft space remodel. Luckily, I had a lot of items that I reused in my space and that helped to control costs. Overall, the end result was worth the cost and effort!

Paint (I splurged here on a good brand) $46.19

Stain for table (left over can from kitchen chair project) ----

Misc. Paint Supplies $10.50

Shelves

~new shelving over work table $60.17

~brackets for new shelves $125.16

Total for Shelves $185.33

White 4 shelve cubes $44.08

Light Fixture $57.52

Wood Hollow Core Door (added to the existing for work table) $22.05

Grand Total $363.57

New Efficient, Beautiful Craft Space ..............................................Priceless

Craft Space Makeover SUCCESS!

2009-01-06T12:59:00.013-05:00

Yes! My craft room remodel is complete... and I am SO happy with the results. Please see previous posts in December for the before and in- progress pictures.

The above photo shows my main work area. By installing larger shelving on the walls, I was able to move my bins of sterling silver and gemstone supplies off the table to free up more workspace. The shelves supporting the table (hold over’s from the before time) allow me to store and organize completed jewelry in boxes that are easily accessed. Two desktop organizers help to keep my tools, pens, scissors, and other items nearby.

Here is another view of the same area. The top shelve holds beautiful items that I love but use only sporadically. Colorful ribbons, threads, buttons, dyed silk cocoons, and mulberry bark provide a burst of color up high and I love to look at them. Here and there, I have used mini easels to display fiber art postcards I have made over the years.

The shelves above the left side of the table hold bins of supplies. The metal scroll supports are the perfect place for a dowel rod and hold spools of ribbon, beading wire, and cotton cording- again, all close by. A Christmas themed mini- art quilt, made by me a few years back, adorns the wall above.

Just below the shelves, I have used a magnetic white board for additional storage of small items. By applying magnets to the bottoms of clear-lidded metal tins, these items can be stored vertically freeing up additional space while keeping the items handy and visible.

This picture also shows how I dressed up my table. After applying several coats of celery green wood stain I decoupaged flowers cut from scrapbook paper to the surface. The front edge of the shelves is decoupaged with coordinating striped paper (shown in the top picture). Hand thrown coffee mugs (made by others) that are chipped and can no longer be used in the kitchen hold my pens and scissors.

As I mentioned in a previous post, my new table runs across the whole wall on one side of my small room. On the right side, I have placed my photo box (more on that another day). When not in use it will be slid underneath the table and out of sight. The small chair on that side is where Sadie, my six YO daughter, will have her space to create- we are both pretty excited about that!

The bulletin board, shown above, holds mini UFOs (unfinished objects) and other little pieces that provide me with art and inspiration.

The existing built-in shelves needed little redoing other than a good de-cluttering on my part. They are the perfect place for my art and craft books, small pieces of art I have made or collected, and some supplies. On the wall to the right is a small art quilt I made a few years back. .
To the left of the built-in shelves and pictured above is another art quilt from some time ago.

A white storage cube that I purchased at the craft store provides the perfect place for me to slide trays of work in progress items. Previously these "projects" cluttered up the tabletop. Now I can slide them out of the way when I need to work on something else.

Now that most of the work is behind me I am so glad I tackled this project. My space is bright and inspiring. Being able to decorate it with my own art and art I have purchased from others makes it all the more special! Now it is time to get back to making jewelry! Check in tomorrow for the final accounting of how much my space redo cost.

I Want it All Treasury

2009-01-04T22:20:00.002-05:00

My timing was perfect and I was able to grab a treasury on Etsy. Please check it out on Etsy and each of these talented artists shops as well!

My new Work Table

2009-01-01T18:32:00.005-05:00

Quick update.... I stained my work table a gorgeous celery green. Here it is in place in my craft space.

It was looking a bit plain so I decided to dress it up a bit.

Decorative paper in stripes and floral motifs were applied with good old Modge Podge. It still needs a coat or two of polyurethane and I need to join the two pieces with some hardware. Aaaaah over 9 feet of work table, actually 9.92 feet. That's over 3500 square inches of work area. I'll have better close-up pictures soon.

New Shelves!

2008-12-30T14:20:00.005-05:00

I know- you are thinking- how can someone get so excited about shelves? Well, I am because this is a major factor in making my craft space more flexible and my worktable more spacious. These shelves are positioned over where my worktable will be installed. They are probably the largest part of my expenditure so far also. (When everything is complete I will itemize my room makeover.)

Below the old:

My old shelves were great and a colorful way to display my many jars of beads and little pieces of art I have created. These jars hold mostly glass and wood beads of every style. However, we use mostly gemstones at UnStrungSisters. So, this design was not making the most of the wall space for me.

Somehow, I will build these back into my display because they really brighten the space and inspire me. Plus, I love jars full of craft supplies as you can see. These hold thread, silk ribbon, dyed silk cocoons and buttons.

Tomorrow- my work table- a great low budget solution.

This has got to go....

2008-12-29T13:00:00.010-05:00

An update to my craft room would not be complete without ripping out this huge and ugly ceiling fan fixture. The room is about 9' x 9' and this fixture took up more than its fair share of space while contributing to a claustrophobic environment. Moreover, it really was not functional. When the fan was turned on, there was a wind tunnel effect and blew anything weighing less than half a pound off of my table. Don't even get me started on the small control panel that was in the place of a simple on/off switch! The only thing going for this fixture is that it matched the ugly wall color perfectly!

My new fixture is sleek and stylish and gives me a surprising amount of light. And, thanks to my husband, Logan, it was installed while I was shopping! What more can you ask for?!

You can see some of my new shelving in the background. More on that soon. Amy

Oh- I'm loving this!

2008-12-28T21:20:00.012-05:00

Yesterday and today, I painted away the ugly wall color in my craft room. The old color can be summed up with the name "Always dingy looking taupe" or "Forever dirty looking tan". Really, the possibilities are endless. Comment below with your favorite name for this color.

Blah!

My new color is quite different. Anyone who has seen my current or former home knows that I LOVE color. In my old house, I sweated bullets on an extension ladder to paint our 22-foot high foyer pumpkin orange. In our current home rooms are being made over to suit my need for color. And, I mean the real deal- not a faded shade of a color.

For my craft space I chose...... purple! Not a color I would have for any other room save my daughter's bedroom nonetheless I am so happy with my choice. I have read that purple inspires creativity. The following is from About.com:

Purple has a special, almost sacred place in nature: lavender, orchid, lilac, and violet flowers are often delicate and considered precious. Because purple is derived from the mixing of a strong warm and strong cool color, it has both warm and cool properties. A purple room can boost a child's imagination or an artist's creativity (hey - I happen to fall into both of these categories most days). Too much purple, like blue, could result in moodiness (a good bottle of red wine or a margarita can solve this problem).

So, love it or hate it.... here is my new craft room in purple. That is Benjamin Moore Hydrangea #1390. More tomorrow on shelving and lighting! When the room is complete, I will share my budget too.

A Clean Slate of Sorts

2008-12-27T09:18:00.016-05:00

Stripped bare.....

A new year is approaching and it is time to organize and renew. I have shared photos of my craft space in previous posts and here it is again. Or, more accurately, as it was.

This photo is a bit old and my jewelry supplies have grown considerably. So I have decided to start over and redesign the space. I'll keep you updated as I go. What led me to this point? Well, keep reading but please heed the warnings below.

The following picture is for Mature audiences only.

It is not for the faint of heart and contains graphic depictions of unspeakable destruction. If you are highly organized, type A or just plain anal the following photo will be quite disturbing to you. It can be described with any of the following: annihilation, decimation, demolition, desolation, devastation, extermination, extinction, havoc, loss, obliteration, ruin, ruination, wastage, wreckage.

You have been warned!

As you can see this set-up is just not working. I have grown into this space like a goldfish to a small bowl. When organized and with no projects underway it is quite workable. Once a project is underway there is little space to move items to use the space for anything else. The above picture was taken recently and is after a two month craft show season, the holiday season, 8 days of company, two straight weeks in December of at least one of my three children sick and home from school (when I need to be wrapping, shopping , cooking and, ahem, cleaning), a birthday for my now 6 YO daughter and the multitude of school parties and activities only known to parents of elementary age children. There are other photos of the room but I can not bring myself to share them.

Check back soon to see how I am progressing.

~Amy~

Priority Mail Upgrade

2008-12-14T15:56:00.003-05:00

*******HOLIDAY SPECIAL *******
Now through December 31, 2008 - for our United States customers - purchase $50.00 or more of jewelry(being shipped to one address) at UnStrungSisters.com and we will automatically UPGRADE your shipping to United States Postal Service Priority Mail for FREE!!!! Not spending $50.00 – we can still send your purchase Priority Mail for an additional $ 3.00 fee (just convo us and we will make a special listing for you). All of items are shipped with-in one business day of your order, see USPS.com for their shipping date delivery guidelines - we are sorry but we cannot guarantee delivery by a specific date. Happy Holidays!

Free Shipping Special

2008-12-06T08:13:00.006-05:00

Free Shipping Through December 13th

Shop UnStrungSisters today through December 13, 2008 and the shipping is on us for all US and Canadian customers. Live elsewhere in the world? We'll reduce your shipping by $1.85 for the first item and $0.25 for each additional item. All you need to do is mention "Blog Special" during checkout or the contact UnStrungSisters link and you will receive this great deal. If you pay during checkout we will refund your Paypal account or you can wait to pay and we will issue a new invoice.

Don't forget - we are happy to ship items directly to your recipient to save you some time!

Wishing you Happy Holidays!

Amy & Erin - the UnStrungSisters

Holiday Shopping UnStrung Style ...

2008-11-26T02:00:00.010-05:00

Here is your chance to sit back, read a book and sip some tea - this is a once a year completely UnStrung Special - buy a $20 UnStrungSisters gift certificate and we will add some Holiday Cheer. We will also take care of everything - mail the gift certificate in an appropriate card, include your message, if the recipient is new to Etsy we will include instructions on how to make a purchase on Etsy and we will magically turn the $20 gift certificate into a $25 gift certificate. This special starts today and runs through next Wednesday, December 3rd, 2008.

All you need to do is go to our Etsy Shop - Gift Certificate Section - buy a $20 gift certificate and in the message to seller add "Happy UnStrung Holidays" or you can "convo" us after you complete your purchase. We will also need the full name of the recipient, who the gift certificate is from, type of card (holiday, birthday, or everyday), message for inside of the card and where you would like us to mail the card and gift certificate. We will be happy to add a "Do Not Open Until ..." to the front of the card.

We do have a few gift certificate rules -

***Gift certificate only valid at UnStrungSisters Etsy shop.***

***Gift certificates bought through this special will expire on December 15, 2009***

***Gift Certificate is not redeemable for cash.***

Can't resist shopping for yourself ... buy a gift certificate with any other items (through December 3rd) and we will include free shipping (refunded back through PayPal). Yes, we are UnStrung.

Wishing you the happiest of Holidays,

Amy and Erin - The UnStrungSisters

Mid Week Special- Free Gift Box with your Order

2008-11-19T20:01:00.003-05:00

Okay- time to get serious about the holidays! Knock some gifts off of your list. We are ready to help by offering free gift boxes with each item you order. Just mention the "Blog Special" and let us know your choice of ribbon. We can make you life even easier by mailing your purchase directly to each recipient (one address per order please). Included will be a gift card with your message. Can it get any easier? Well.... we also offer gift certificates!

O Mid-week Special

2008-11-12T22:33:00.007-05:00

Oh, you really will want some UnStrungSisters O jewerly. Never mind that Erin and I sport a last name that starts with O (we both have clung, in whole or part, to our maiden name).

In honor of the O we are offering our green Jade O Earrings, Lavender Jade O Earrings, Sodalite O Earrings and our Angelite O Necklace as a mid-week special. Purchase any of these items and we will knock 15% off of the price. We can send you a new invoice through Paypal or refund you the 15%. Just mention "Blog" during check out and we will see that you get the deal on any of these items.

Oh yeah! Or in our case O'H. yeah!

Necklaces, Necklaces, Necklaces

2008-11-09T23:00:00.004-05:00

Erin here - Amy and I seem to both be on a necklace phase - so I thought I should feature a few...

Stop by our Necklace Section to see the rest of our necklaces and don't forget to check out our weekly blog special.

Mid-Week Special-Ceramic Jewelry

2008-11-05T12:18:00.005-05:00

The special for this week is a savings of 10% off any of our ceramic jewelry. Mention "Blog Special" during check-out and we will send you a new Paypal invoice. Feel free to check out our "Sold" section. If you see any items there that interested you contact us and we will let you know if we can make another.

In Honor of Our Mother

2008-10-30T18:17:00.004-04:00

This weeks blog special is simple and straight forward - it is our mother's birthday this week - so anything you buy at UnStrungSisters will be 7.2% off through the 5th of November if you include the secret words. What are the secret words??? "Happy Birthday, Margot" - to receive the discount just include those words on your Esty invoice or convo us right after your purchase and we will refund you the 7.2% or send you a revised invoice - your choice. I had typed something really funny here but Amy nixed it. Thanks for stopping by our blog - Erin.

We Know Who You are Special ...

2008-10-23T20:23:00.005-04:00

This week's UnStrungSisters special is $2.50 off any ID Holder just include the words "Blog Special" on your Etsy invoice or convo us right after purchasing and we will refund $2.50 of your payment for any ID Holder right back to your PayPal account !!!! Any of our ID Holders can be made with either a pewter ring, medium clip, or large clip. This special will run from October 23rd through October 28th.

It's not to early to start your holiday shopping!!!

UnStrungSisters Lumpy Bumpy Special

2008-10-14T19:57:00.006-04:00

UnStrungSisters special this week is this lovely pair of Green, Brown and White Lumpy Bumpy Earrings. We will run this special all week (Yes, that's right - through October 20th).

So what is the special??? HALF PRICE - include the words "Blog Special" on your Etsy invoice or convo us right after purchasing and we will refund $6.25 of your payment right back to your PayPal account !!!!