Unique Beaded Gems

Derbyshire Open Arts 28th - 30th May 2011

2011-05-26T14:24:00.003+01:00

I'm getting very excited as I've been invited by Leabrooks Gallery to take part in their activities for Derbyshire Open Arts weekend. The event is taking place from 28th to 30th May with loads going on. There are five artists taking part in the weekend who will all be demonstrating their skills as well as having some of their work available to purchase.

Dave Turner who is a traditionally trained artist/blacksmith and although he still work using centuries-old techniques the design doesn't have to be. Sometimes a traditional design can look right ... sometimes not. Each piece is designed and made for each customer so that it fits and looks right in its own particular spot. Whether your requirements are a simple hook, a gate, or a huge garden sculpture Dave can create the perfect piece. Here are just a few examples of his work:

Kat Davies is a wildlife artist who specialises in creating beautiful pastel drawings of big cats. Kat has also recently developed a range of handbags that feature her drawings.

Chris Mannering is a self taught artist who has been drawing and painting for as long as he can remember. He initially concentrated on portraits but has explored many media and styles and now works mainly in oils, pencil and ink.

John Connolly aim as a visual artist is to produce contemporary art that can be enjoyed by not just the ‘seasoned art collector’ but anyone who has an appreciation for the aesthetic. His aim as a visual artist is to attract a ‘new audience’ who appreciate his exhilarating, mixed media sea and landscapes which communicate his enthusiasm for the natural world. Look for the quiet understanding - and sometimes the hint of a story - which lie, half hidden, behind his exuberant use of colour.

You will also of course, be able to see me creating some jewellery designs using semi precious gemstones. I will also have some of my work available for sale including:

There will be plenty to see and Leabrooks Gallery also has a fabulous garden to wander around and a great little coffee shop.

Hope to see you there!!

May Madness!!

2011-05-20T09:20:00.001+01:00

As we are all aware life is pretty tough for many of us at the moment!! Cuts going on everywhere and job loses make the news on a daily basis. This means no treats for many of us too! However, I've discovered that there are some fabulous bargains to be had on Folksy. It is possible to spend very little money and still find that special, handmade gift for someone. Do you or someone close to you have a special occasion coming up soon or do you just deserve a special treat for yourselves then why not take a look at Folksy. There are some great gifts available to suit all budgets!

Here is just a small selection:

Bertie Bear by Pud Bears

Green and Purple Striped Cowl by The Crafty Bride

Cranberry Pill Box Hat by Imogen's Imagination

Black Bow Necklace by Rock Princess

Turquoise Earrings by Mrs Jones Handmade Jewellery

Prissy the Pig by Top Sock Drawer

Malachite Sterling Silver Ring by Unique Beaded Gems

There are so many other gorgeous, great priced items but if I showed them all you'd be here for hours!! Here are the links to some more great shops on Folksy that have some fantastically priced items:

Audrey's Cat - Collection of items made from vintage fabrics

Treasure Box - Range of findings for jewellery making

TJS Jewellery - Collection of handmade jewellery made from semi precious stones

Aunty Joan - Gorgeous handmade cards

Lynwoodcrafts - Embroidered accessories and jewellery

RTCraft - Collection of handmade items using lovely fabrics

ChippedTeacups - Handmade jewellery using a variety of materials

Claire Wood Jewellery - Stunning handmade Sterling Silver jewellery set with gemstones

Little Knits - All things knitted including really cute baby items

Cosmic Eden - Unusual handmade jewellery

Trinket Box - Handmade jewellery made from many different materials

Oh Sew Quilt - Distinctive quilted items

Cherry Tree - Ecletic mix of handmade pieces including cards, accessories and textile pieces

Gladys and Albert - Gorgeous handmade teddy bears

Enjoy!!

Big and Bold is Best!!

2011-05-11T12:18:00.001+01:00

Sorry it's been a while since I've done a blog. It's been a very busy few months with some very exciting things happening at Unique Beaded Gems. I attended the Liberty Open Call in April. Although my jewellery didn't get picked for their store, I got some great feedback that has encouraged me to keep going with it! I'm now looking for stockists so if anyone knows of anyone who wants to have their own exclusive range of gemstone jewellery in their stores please do let me know!!

Anyway, it can hardly go without notice that all the celebs seem to be wearing big, statement rings at the moment. Everytime I turn on the TV or look at at a magazine there they are! I decided, therefore, to have a look on Folksy and see what I could find in the way of big rings there. I was disappointed!! Here is just a small selection of what I found:

Yellow Buttercup Ring by Mary Elliott Jewellery

Little Black Bird Ring by Cheap Thrill Seeker

Pure Silver Clown Ring by Precious Jewellery by Karen

Silver Butterfly Ring by Artigiana Jewellery

Finally two of my favourite rings:

Mother of Pearl Sterling Silver Ring by Unique Beaded Gems

Tiger Eye Sterling Silver Statement Ring by Unique Beaded Gems

There is a great range of prices with these pieces so there is a ring suitable for any budget!! Go on, why not give Folksy a look and join the celebs with their statement rings?

Folksy and Etsy Sellers Help Japan!!

2011-03-18T17:27:00.003Z

It's heartbreaking to watch the news and see the devastation that is happening in Japan. The dignity of the people there is incredible! I can't imagine that I would stay so calm in such traumatic circumstances. There are several fabulous sellers on both Folksy and Etsy that are helping to raise money for relief funds by donating some or all of their profits from items sold. Here are just a few of the items that you could purchase and help the Japan relief effort at the same time!

Card by Accidental Vix on Folksy

Bracelet by Flame Haired Jewellery Designs on Folksy

Travels to Japan PDF File by Asking for Trouble on Folksy

Jade Dragon Carved Keyring by Nofkantscurios on Folksy

Ipod Cover by In Paper Clouds on Etsy

Heart and Rabbit Print by Elephant Dancing on Etsy

Blossom Print by Saturated Canary Art on Etsy

Picasso Jasper by Unique Beaded Gems on Etsy

Please do check out both Folksy and Etsy as there are many sellers who are donating to Japan fundraising efforts. This is just a few small selection!!

Men's Valentine Gift Ideas

2011-01-14T09:53:00.001Z

Looking around I realised that there are a lot of suggestions for Valentine gifts for women on the internet. However, the men seem to have been neglected! I have therefore decided to focus this Folksy Friday blog on some gift ideas for the men in our lives. There are some great ideas here. Simply click on the shop link to be taken to details of these great ideas from Folksy sellers!

Circuit Board Pendant by Leopard Print Bee. These can also be adapted into keyrings

Cute Dalmation Card by Aunty Joan's Crafts

Mother of Pearl Cufflinks by Me (Unique Beaded Gems)

Newspaper Yarn Framed Design by Zygotegifts

Recycled Skateboard Belt Buckle by O'Blue Thrashion

Skull and Crossbone Bracelet by JCU Designs

Valentine Card by Paper Kutz

Vintage Brass Watch Pendant by Artisan Silver

Wood and Sodalite Stretch Bracelet by Cosmic Eden

Framed Multi-Fossils by Nofkantscurios

Don't forget the men need some love on the most romantic day of the year too!

Say "I Love You" this Christmas!!

2010-12-03T10:39:00.001Z

I listed this bracelet on Folksy today. I've described it as the perfect way to say "I love you" to someone special this Christmas!!

This got me thinking - what else could I find on Folksy that is also a perfect gift to say "I love you"? When I searched I found lots of lovely things. Here are just a few of the really unusual things I came across.

I Love Ewe by by Giggles Animal Gifts

I'm So in Love with You Canvas by My Pip Squeak

Love Bag by Taurrano

Love Conquers All Cufflinks by Much In a Little

Love You the Mostest Picture by Dotty Doo

Vespa Love by Ialbert

Hope you like my choices! I'm sure someone special to you would love to receive one of these gifts on Christmas morning!!

Folksy Friday

2010-11-26T11:20:00.001Z

I was supposed to be doing a jewellery party for my best friend tonight but due to heavy snow being expected later on today I decided to cancel it! I have a very busy weekend planned with a fair at Chellaston, Derby tomorrow and a jewellery demonstration at Leabrooks Gallery, Somercotes on Sunday! This meant that I would have to drive home tonight, over 100 miles, and the thought of that in the snow and ice was just too scary!!

Anyway, for this blog I have decided to feature snowflake items as this seems to be quite an appropriate theme for today!! All of these stunning items can be found on Folksy, the place for your handmade Christmas gift shopping!!

Snowflakes in a Snowflake Pendant - Precious Jewellery by Karen

Red Snowflake Decoration - Talking Beads

Snowflake and Mouse Card - Lock Stock Boutique

Snowflake Christmas Bunting - Door77

Snowflake Soap - Soap Perfection

Snowflake Scarf - Loves a Good Yarn!

Snowflake Gift Tags - Little Bits of Paper and Sparkle

And of course I couldn't complete a Folksy Friday blog without featuring one of my items! This snowflake obsidian ring is available in both 18x13mm and 25x18mm cabochon.

Unique Beaded Gems

Folksy Christmas Gifts - All Things Blue

2010-11-19T11:23:00.002Z

I wanted to put together some Christmas gift ideas from the items I have found on Folksy. With the weather being so cold the first theme that came to mind was the colour blue - the colour that my fingers are as I'm typing this! There are so many wonderful things on Folksy that it was so difficult to choose. I decided to look for items that had a quirky element to them. Hope you like my choices.

Blue Dinosaur Cushion by Pickles Accessories

Blue Glass Poppy Painting by Rosielee

Blue Knitted Bag by Nofkants Curios

Ceramic Heart Decoration by The Dottery Pottery

Meerkat by Nifty Knits

Sky Blue Pottery Wire Wrapped Ring by Gimme That Thing

Dolphin and Whale Tote Bag by SimJaTa

Fabric Card Wallet by Baggie Aggie Too

Keepsake Box by Floppsie Moppsie

Steampunk Time Traveller A4 Print by Silent Theatre

A couple of offerings from me too:

Lapis, Agate and Sodalite Necklace by Unique Beaded Gems

Lapis Sterling Silver Ring by Unique Beaded Gems

There is such an amazing array of handmade gifts in Folksy in a whole rainbow of colours. You will find great gifts for all of your family and friends. We look forward to welcoming you to a great Christmas shopping experience!!

Tribal Treats!!

2010-11-15T13:58:00.002Z

I had planned to blog again at the end of last week but got distracted by getting organised for a jewellery party I was doing on Saturday night. Glad to say it went well! I'm now going to be busy making and re-stocking both my Folksy shop and website with lots of Christmas present goodies!!

I woke this morning to a beautiful wintry day with loads of frost on the ground. This made me want to list something on Folksy that would make people think of warmer weather! I therefore listed this tribal necklace, inspiring thoughts of far off hot climates!

Having listed this necklace I then had a look around Folksy to see what else I could find that would lead to thoughts of exotic, warm places. I came up with these beauties!! Despite leading our thoughts to hotter days all of these items would make great Christmas presents!!

Geometric patterned vase by Little Wren Pottery

Incense Stick Burner by Touchwood

Sterling Silver Elephant Brooch by Deborah Jones Jewellery

Shoulder Bag by Pip Designs

Tea Light Holders by Treecycle

Tribal Mask Pendant by Rochester Pewter

Please do visit Folksy it's a fabulous place to find all your Christmas presents, decorations and cards. Why go out in this chilly weather when you can get all your Christmas shopping done from the comfort of your own home??!!!

Gorgeous Green!

2010-11-09T14:59:00.002Z

Hello again. Another of my favourite festive colours is green. Makes me think of the lovely aroma of pine from a Christmas tree. We always buy a tree with roots and plant it in the garden once the festive season is over to grow. However, last year this plan didn't work as our dog, Ned, who was still a puppy had other ideas. He gradually nibbled at it until it shrivelled up and died. We are hoping this year, now that he is a bit older, he will leave it alone to grow fingers crossed!

I've found these great green items on Folksy today, all listed as part of the daily listings club November Sparks. I think you will agree they are all gorgeous!!

Green and Gold Swallow Brooch by Silk Purse Sow's Ear

Green Resin Earrings by Damselfly Gemma

Mince Pie for Santa Plate by Dottery Pottery

Recycled Wine Bottle Cheeseboard by Blue Daisy Glass

Spice Scented Heart Decoration by Forest Flower

Jade Puffed Heart Earrings by Unique Beaded Gems

Will be back again tomorrow with some more festive colour inspired items from Folksy!! See you then!!

Red Hot Designs!!

2010-11-08T12:26:00.004Z

Well Bonfire Night has come and gone and now it's time to start seriously thinking about Christmas!! Only 46 days to go!!

One of the colours that I really associate with the festive season is red, happens to be one of my favourite colours too! Today I would like to feature some of the fabulous red items that can be found on Folksy. All of these items have been listed as part of the daily listings club, November Sparks.

Just click on the link to be taken to the shops owned by the talented craftspeople who have created these red hot designs!!

Card Wallet created by BaggieAggieToo

Fairy Bag Charm by Miss_Bohemia

Poppy Brooch by NoodleBubble. £2.75 is being donated to the Royal British Legion for each one of these sold!!

Red Cable Hat by All the Cute Things

Robin Christmas Card by Nancy Roxx Design

Santa Hat and Shoes set by NofkantsCurios

Snow Penguin Earrings by Squintessential

Stylish Hat by UniquelyYours

And of course I can't resist showing you one of my red November Sparks listings too:

Red Agate pendant by Me

Hope you have enjoyed looking at my selection of items. There are plenty more great items on Folksy that would make a fabulous contribution to your handmade Christmas, whether it's for gifts, cards or decorations! Please do pay the site a visit!!

Treat Someone Special This Christmas!!

2010-11-03T09:44:00.001Z

Last night I listed a very large cabochon tiger eye ring on Folksy. This got me wondering about what other real statement pieces of jewellery there might be available on Folksy? I have just spent a while having a good look and found some truly amazing pieces!!

Huge 40x30mm tiger eye cabochon Sterling silver ring by me Unique Beaded Gems

Chunky mookaite necklace by Guava Tree

Celtic cuff by Lizzyanthus

Cord knitted necklace by AAlicia

Buttefly ring by Artigiana Jewellery

Turquoise, sterling and Hill Tribe silver bracelet by Anicca Jewellery

Are you looking to really spoil someone this Christmas? If so, any of these pieces would make the most fabulous gift. If I found something like these pieces under the Christmas tree this year, I would be ecstatic!!

There are loads of great gift ideas on Folksy. Please do pay the talented craftspeople on their a visit!!

Great Christmas Shopping Places!!

2010-10-27T13:50:00.001+01:00

Jewellery design has been my full time business since February of this year. I knew that in order to make it work I needed to really "get my name out there". Over the months I have spent a long time researching the different galleries throughout the country, trying to find quality outlets for my jewellery. Christmas is rapidly approaching and the galleries that I have found provide the perfect places to buy those Christmas gifts. I really want to support the handmade industry by sharing some of these great places with you.

In this blog I want to share the outlets with you as well as "show off" some of the items that I have available to purchase from these great places. Within each of these fabulous galleries you will find many great Christmas gifts that have all been handmade by talented artists and craftspeople.

The first gallery I found was Created Gallery in Chesterfield. There is such an amazing mix of handmade goodies, all made by craftspeople from the UK. I am very proud to play a small part in this fabulous gallery. Here is just one of my pieces that you will find there:

The next gallery that I was lucky enough to find is only five minutes away from where I live and is a hidden gem! Leabrooks Gallery in Somercotes, Derbyshire has the most amazing collection of paintings that sit nicely with some stunning pottery and other handmade pieces. They have regular artist exhibitions and also provide a framing service. I have a lot of my pieces in this gallery and regularly do jewellery demonstration days there. I am actually there this weekend 30 and 31st October if you would like to come along. Here is just one of my pieces you will find:

My research then led me to Gallery 52 in Brailsford, Derbyshire. This gallery is set on a small retail outlet and is real "treasure trove of goodies". I am sure you will find the perfect Christmas gift for someone special here as there is such an eclectic mix of pieces from ceramics to a wide variety of jewellery. One of the designs that I am most proud of can be found here:

Things were ticking along nicely by this point but I realised that in order to keep the regular sales coming in I needed to broaden my horizons. I registered with Craft&Design.net and was then able to search through a huge list of galleries around the UK to find some more places suitable for my jewellery. There is such a huge choice so I set certain criteria and was able to cut down the list considerably. I emailed several galleries explaining what I did along with my contact details and some images of my designs. The very same day Patricia from Affinity Fine Arts in Castle Cary contacted me as she had been looking to add gemstone beaded jewellery to the galleries range for a while. I sent some samples and so far my jewellery seems to be gaining a lot of interest at the gallery.

My most recent gallery was found only a few weeks ago when I came across their website, The Hayrack Gallery. I immediately fell in love with the place and knew that I wanted my designs there. It's set in a really cute outlet of little boutique style shops. I contacted Robert, the owner, and took some of my work down to show him. Fortunately, he really liked it so I left some pieces there and then. I have not had any sales there yet but have had lots of interest. I really believe that this gallery is one of the most perfect places to find your Christmas gifts. There is so much to choose from including ceramics, prints, handmade clocks, glass work as well as a wide variety of jewellery. I have left this piece at the gallery as I knew that if I didn't I would want to keep it myself!

It would be great if you could visit some of these lovely places during your Christmas shopping outings if you are in the area. We should all support the handmade craft industry as much as possible, I believe, and getting some gifts from these lovely places would be a fantastic way to do just that!!

Folksy Friday - Grey is the New Black!

2010-10-22T09:49:00.001+01:00

I don't really follow fashion and my jewellery design tends to follow my own individual style rather than following trends. However, I do keep an eye on what the latest fashion colours are, so that my pieces will combine nicely colour-wise with them. Apparently for Autumn/Winter 2010 "grey is the new black". I have therefore chosen to feature some grey items for my Folksy Friday today.

Just click on the pictures to be taken to the item on Folksy:

The items featured are:

Leather cuff by Cuff Love

Men's Beanie by Crochet Crafts

Larvakite and Obsidian Necklace by Blue Forest Jewellery

Daisy Bag by Quinn Made in Drumnadrochit

Skinny Scarf by Creative Knits

Dove Grey Hair Corsage by Talulahblue

Tweet Hoot Little Grey Owl by The Felt Menagerie

Picasso Jasper and Smoky Quartz Necklace by Unique Beaded Gems

OK so maybe a cute, felt owl doesn't go with items that are discussing fashion but hey you have to forgive me! I came across him when I was doing my search for items and couldn't resist him!! You must agree he is loveable with those sad eyes!!

Folksy Friday

2010-10-15T09:36:00.003+01:00

It's been a busy week and I haven't had a chance to write a blog since last Friday. Here I am again with another Folksy Friday. October, as I am sure many of you are aware is Breast Cancer Awareness month so this week I have decided to focus on some of the lovely pink items that can be found on Folksy.

Bobbin pin set by Crown and Glory

Fingerless gloves by Lemonade and Lamingtons

Flower hairclips by JCU Designs

Fused glass pendant by Blue Daisy Glass

Pink wallet by Leanne Woods Designs

Star pendant by Sprinkles

I also have three pink items in my shop. If anyone buys any of these in the month of October I will donate 15% to Breast Cancer Care!!

Pink Agate, Shell and Keishi Pearl Necklace

Peruvian Pink Opal and Spider Web Jasper Bracelet

Rose Quartz Nugget Sterling Silver Earrings

Breast Cancer Care do a fabulous job. It would be great if you could help their cause in some way either by buying my items or by donating directly to them via their website.

Thanks for reading! See you soon!!

Folksy Friday

2010-10-08T10:12:00.000+01:00

Morning all! Can't believe it's Friday already, where has the week gone?!? It really is an autumn day today so thought I would feature some items from my fellow Folksters that are made in stunning autumn colours.

Here are just a few of the stunning items I have found:

This gorgeous Autumn Glory Cushion is made by Sewflair

I love this Woodland Autumn Scarf by Blue Box Studio

Such practical and simply designed bag by Susina

It was love at first sight when I saw this amazing print by Genevieve Cseh Art

Get wrapped up for the cold autumn with this lovely scarf and hat set by EvaB Designs

What about adding some glamour to your autumn wardrobes with this ncklace made with jasper, agate and snow quartz? This is created by me Unique Beaded Gems

There are so many gorgeous things on Folksy that would make great gifts to yourselves or someone special this autumn. Please do also have a look for some fantastic Christmas gifts too!

Christmas Shopping at Folksy

2010-09-27T12:08:00.000+01:00

I have been reading the posts on Folksy this morning and people have started talking about Christmas shopping. With only three more months to go it is a great idea to "get ahead of the game" and spread the cost of Christmas by starting your shopping now!

There is no better gift to give to someone special than a unique, handmade one. There are so many lovely things on Folksy that would make someone's day if they were to find them under the Christmas tree! I have been searching the site for things that I know those closest to me would love to receive. Here are just a few of the great gift ideas I have found:

What about this fabulous New Mum Gift Collection by Scents-ible Solutions? Perfect for my best friend who has just had a baby!!

My sister loves her luxurious scarves and would absolutely love this gorgeous crushed velvet one by Lisa Steed Davey

My husband loves his gadgets and unusual wood so would be really pleased to receive this great Paper Knife/Letter Opener from Diggi Woodturning

My brother is just kitting out his garden to make it more wildlife friendly so would love this solid wood Bird Box by Wudwerx

There are so many of my female relatives that would love this gorgeous Peacock Diary by Lilly's Night Garden. I think I could be buying several items from this shop!

Of course I have to recommend my own shop where you can get some lovely and totally unique gemstone jewellery. What about some of these lovely earrings? Perfect for your mum, sister, aunt, best friend, grandma or just as a gift to yourself

Remember, this is just a very small selection of the gifts available!! Folksy is a great place to get all your Christmas pressies without the hassle of traipsing the High Street, spending hours queuing!

Have fun with your shopping!!

Folksy Friday

2010-09-17T10:16:00.002+01:00

As you may already know I have been taking part in September Stars. I'm quite impressed with myself as, apart from one day where I got side-tracked going to a bead fair, I have managed to list something every day and I have also sold two items this month.

I am amazed at how much the members of Folksy support each other. I have been featured on a number of fellow Folksters' blogs as well as being supported by others on Twitter. Thank you for making my first month as a member of a listing club so enjoyable. As a way of a thank you I am featuring some of the sellers who have helped me this month on today's Folksy Friday!

Button Cards created by Astrid's Garden

Perfume Bottle (refillable) Bag Charm by Damselfly Gemma

Card Kit for Kids by Dottie's Designs

Gothic Blood Lust Red Faceted Filigree Ring by Miss Bohemia

Hand Knitted and Crocheted Handbag by Nofkantscurios

Purple Agate Fairy Necklace by Whimsical Wren Jewellery

Turned Birch Trinket Dish by Diggi Woodturning

Fluffles Bath/Shower Set by Fluffles

Agate, Jasper and Carnelian Necklace by me - Unique Beaded Gems

Crocheted Hat, Scarf and Fingerless Gloves by Lemonade and Lamingtons

There are so many others but if I was to show items from them all, this blog would be pages long! Thank you so much to all my fabulous Folksters!!

Folksy Friday

2010-09-10T08:18:00.001+01:00

I have an amazing brother, who this week, has agreed to invest some money in my jewellery business that will hopefully allow me to expand it! My house has had a feeling of Dragon's Den about it this week! To celebrate my brother's generosity I have decided to give this week's Folksy Friday a dragon theme. I spent quite some time choosing from the amazing selection of items on Folksy. Here are just a few of the lovely things I found.

This lovely bag made by Hanami can be used for a variety of uses and I just loved the fact that it is a little bit different.

How cute is this birthday card made by My Crafty Heaven? It's so bright and cheerful I just fell in love with the sad eyes!

How amazing is this character? The craftsmenship that has gone into this fabulous creation by Feyth just blew me away!

I was really impressed with the detail in this stunning vase made by SpiderKat Designs. This would look fabulous on any sideboard!

The amount of work that must have gone into creating this incredible framed patchwork is just amazing! You must have so much patience Starryskies?

This lovely bracelet really caught my eye as it contains one of my favourite gemstones - dragon vein agate, it's just fabulous. This piece created by Kokokelli also has a matching necklace and earrings set.

Hope you have enjoyed viewing my selection this week! See you again soon!!

September Stars

2010-09-04T12:14:00.002+01:00

I didn't get chance to join in with Folksy Friday yesterday as I was out all day visiting my best friend and her new son! He's gorgeous!! I am therefore doing this quick blog to share with you some of the gorgeous items my fellow Folksy members have listed as part of September Stars. There are so many lovely things been listed over the past few days. These are just a few of my favourites.

A lovely Blossom Cuff by Little Dragon Jewellery

Really cosy handwarmer by Creative Knits

This gorgeous gemstone headband created by Ickle Imogen

This stunning peacock card has been made by Lilly's Night Garden

Colourful and practical bag by Milly Moo and Jessica Too

Mookaite and red tiger eye necklace created by me from Unique Beaded Gems

I love this ring holder created by Pants and Paper

This stunning crocheted lace chamois is created by The Crafty Bride

I think you will all agree that there are many talented people on Folksy. How about paying us all a visit and get some of your Christmas shopping done early?

Folksy Friday

2010-08-27T08:27:00.003+01:00

One of my closest friends gave birth to a gorgeous baby boy on Wednesday of this week! To celebrate I decided to give my Folksy Friday this week, a baby theme. All of these lovely things are currently available:

Gorgeous handmade cards made by Hig Hig Hooray.

This cute baby girl card has been handmade by Fiona's Crafts.

This lovely, quilted blanket has been created by Margosha.

Want a personalised sleep suit then look no further than Catty Designs.

How cute is this set for a premature baby made by Sweetpea Family?

This is just a very small selection of the items that can be found at Folksy. All items are handmade with love by very talented designers and crafters. Please pay them a visit!!

Did you Know you Can Buy on Facebook?

2010-08-19T12:35:00.014+01:00

There seems to be an awful lot of blogs around at the moment about Facebook. Many include how to set up a business or fan page, how to publish your page etc. I have decided to take a slightly different slant with this blog!

There was a report in the news recently that there are something like half a billion users of Facebook in the world. That is a huge potential audience for a crafter such as myself and according to statistics around half of these will sign in on any given day! However, it still seems that many people do not realise that they can actually shop on Facebook!

Christmas is not that far away, I know, doesn't seem possible whilst we still have some semblance of summer, but it will creep up on us before we know it! Many of us end up taking a trip to the High Street and spend a fortune on parking etc for the privilege to buy all their Christmas gifts. How great to be able to sign into Facebook and find items that you can buy from the comfort of your own home! No parking to pay, no queuing for hours, just stress free shopping!!

Many of my fellow crafters on Facebook also offer special features such as discounts or low, even free, postage on their items for fans of their page. Some will also do regular giveaways or competitions for fans. It's really simple to become a fan of these people, just visit their page and click "Like". This simple thing could give you the opportunity to get great, more often than not, quality handmade items, at a fraction of what you would pay for mass produced gifts on the High Street.

There are other benefits too of shopping on Facebook. Once you become a fan of someone you have the opportunity of building a relationship with them before purchasing if you want to. You can comment on their wall posts, ask question about their items or even get a bespoke item made. You can also interact with other fans as well including asking them about their experiences of purchasing from this particular seller. Getting this peace of mind is not something you would get by shopping with a faceless organisation!

Here are just some of the places to find great quality items on Facebook:

These stunning lampwork and sterling silver earrings are created by Erika Price Designs. All fans receive 10% discount on prices. Please visit the Facebook shop at: http://www.facebook.com/ErikaPriceDesigns?v=app_135607783795

This amazing Celtic Lovers Plaque has been created by Gelert Design. Once there are enough fans of this page, there will be giveaways and competitions open to all fans. Get "liking" to be in with a chance of winning. Please visit the Facebook shop at: www.facebook.com/gelertdesign

Gorgeous stud seashell earrings made from natural shells and ethnic style beads created by Kellas Creative Wishes. All fans receive low postage costs on any goods they purchase. Please visit the Facebook shop here:
http://www.facebook.com/KellasCreativeWishes

Handmade flower pendant made from aluminium and recycled plastic created by Surf Jewels. Fans of this page receive free p&p right across the UK! Please visit the Facebook shop at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Surf-Jewels/75443957589?v=app_135607783795&ref=ts

This necklace is made from agate flowers, tiger skin quartz and malachite by me! I offer 10% discount to all of my fans. Please visit my Facebook shop at: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Unique-Beaded-Gems/263472909436?v=app_135607783795&ref=ts

This stunning heliotrope flower fairy has been created Miss Mary Elliott. Mary offers 10% discount to all fans. Please visit her Facebook shop at: http://www.facebook.com/MissMaryElliott?v=app_135607783795

This really cute wooden bracelet has been created by Bizzie Lizzies Jewellery. Please do visit her at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Bizzie-Lizzies-Jewellery/111251792258253?ref=ts

This gorgeous handmade card has been created by Laura from Cards and Candles for All Occasions. Please do visit her shop at http://www.facebook.com/pages/Stoke-On-Trent-United-Kingdom/Cards-And-Candles-For-All-Occasions/113482312019654?v=wall&ref=ts

This stunning Sami style bracelet with Sterling silver beads has been created by Kay from Hamespun. Please visit her Facebook shop at
http://www.facebook.com/Hamespun?v=app_135607783795&ref=ts">http://www.facebook.com/Hamespun?v=app_135607783795&ref=ts

There are loads of different shops on Facebook where you can find all sorts of amazing handmade items. Please do think about investigating some of these before heading off to your High Street.

Happy shopping!!

Men's Jewellery Update

2010-08-19T12:14:00.002+01:00

Well here are the first few pieces of my new men's collection:

Tiger eye and hemalyke stretch bracelet priced at £10 in my Folksy shop: http://www.folksy.com/items/692649-Men-s-Stretch-Bracelet?shop=yes

Pale brown carved horn beads stretch bracelet priced at £7.50 in my Folksy shop: http://www.folksy.com/items/714477-Men-s-Carved-Horn-Bracelet?shop=yes

White and black carved horn beads mixed with wood rondelle beads. This bracelet has been sold (priced at £8.50) but I would be happy to create a similar design for you. Please feel free to contact me at: jwalters@uniquebeadedgems.co.uk

There are more pieces coming soon including some gorgeous paua shell cufflinks! Watch this space!!

Fantastic Few Weeks!

2010-08-16T15:43:00.001+01:00

I really needed to share my excitement with you all! I have just had the most amazing few weeks! It feels that finally word is beginning to spread about my jewellery and I am making great sales at craft fairs as well as in my galleries. I have been doing this full time since February and have had a few very tough months were I was wondering whether it was really worth continuing but suddenly it seems to be taking off!!

Here are just a few of the items I have sold in recent weeks:

Agate, lapis, aventurine and howlite necklace

A pearl rope made with an unusual combination of coloured cultured freshwater pearls

I sold this bracelet on Saturday at my jewellery demonstration at Leabrooks Gallery. It's made from green/orange agate, aventurine and pearls. However, the lady that wanted it is not a fan of pearls so I took these out and replaced them with the jade ones she wanted. She was really pleased!

Red tiger eye leaf charm bracelet

Aquamarine and citrine charm bracelet

Yellow turquoise and jade earrings

Tiger eye, agate and shell necklace

and finally....

Leopardskin jasper sterling silver ring that was made to order for a fellow Folksy seller.

Please do have a look at her shop too! She is a very talented milliner who has created some amazing designs.

http://www.folksy.com/shops/imogensimagination
http://www.folksy.com/shops/ickleimogen

Thank you so much to all of those who have bought my pieces. You have no idea how cheerful it has made me! Long may the sales continue!!

Men's Jewellery

2010-07-30T13:38:00.000+01:00

Two posts in one day, what is going on!! Anyway I just popped back to make an announcement!!

I have decided to branch out and do a range of men's jewellery after being asked about it on a number of occasions recently!

Ideas I have are:

Tooth shaped beads on leather thong
Surfer style necklaces
Rings set with gemstone cabochons
Bracelets - woven leather with beads, stretch wooden bracelets etc etc
Cufflinks - different designs set with cabochons of your choice

and...........anything else that is required!!

If there is something specific you would like, please don't hesitate to contact me!!

jwalters@uniquebeadedgems.co.uk

Jo x

Folksy Friday

2010-07-30T09:46:00.000+01:00

I wanted to get involved with Folksy Friday for the first time but struggled to come up with ideas of what to feature. I am quite into horoscopes etc so decided to make my topic the star sign of Leo (July 23 to August 23) and all things associated with it!

Here are some of the gorgeous items I found (http://www.folksy.com/)

Wee Lion has joined the Wild Beasties range! He stands approximately 4cm high and is entirely from polymer clay, with black onyx beads for eyes. Because Wee Lions are individually handmade, each one is a little different.
http://www.folksy.com/shops/QuernusCrafts

This beautiful clock is hand-painted and features a friendly little lion. The clock is made from a high quality wood and contains a Quartz mechanism. The clock requires one AA batteries. Clock measures approximately 23 cm / 9 inches.
http://www.folksy.com/shops/Withhugsandkisses

A 5x7 inch card with an appliqued felt lion design. The lion's mane is padded for a lovely 3D effect.
http://www.folksy.com/shops/traceychorley

Leo Traditional Birthstone - Peridot
Sparkly green Peridot Chips, White Jade Chips and smooth marbled Chrysoprase ovals in shades of yellow and pale green are threaded on memory wire. The bracelet is tipped with two faceted Opalite beads; at one end is a handmade Sterling Silver 'button' and at the other a Chrysoprase bead and White Jade Chip 'dangle'.
http://www.folksy.com/shops/Jewelchipps

Hand made sterling silver earrings with 3mm peridot beads and karen hill tribe square beads.
http://www.folksy.com/shops/KinsbourneBeads

This is just a small taster of the gorgeous handmade items that you can find created by many talented crafters! Have a great Friday!! See you again I hope!!

Handmade Wedding!!

2010-07-12T15:12:00.001+01:00

The wedding season is upon us and this got me thinking about how, in these difficult financial times can we still have a fabulous wedding without having to spend a fortune? I got married eighteen months ago and couldn't believe the price I had to pay for some of the things I really wanted as part of my day! If only I had known then what I know now!!

There are so many craftspeople around who make fabulous, handmade items that are so much less expensive than going for mass produced wedding items. Many of us try to reduce the cost of our wedding but without cutting out the things that make our day special to us. Instead of going to your high street to buy the things you want, why not spend just a bit more time looking for items that will make your day that little bit more special....and unique?!?

Here are just a few of the items that you could buy from many talented people out there! Not only will you have something that no one else has, but you will also be supporting a hardworking craftperson who is spending their precious time making items with love and care just for you!!

Your wedding cake could be made completely unique by having a custom made cake topper. Imagine having miniature versions of you and your partner decorating your cake. These gorgeous designs have been made by Pauline Christiansen of www.wedding-toppers.com

These gorgeous headbands would be perfect for bridesmaids or brides of any age. They are also a lot less expensive than buying from a huge wedding chain store. Check other these and other lovely designs by Amy Hook at http://cirenscall.misi.co.uk

These handmade tiaras are a brand new design made by Tracey from Aunt Trace's Emporium. I could just imagine feeling like a real princess wearing one of these!! You can find them at http://www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Auntie-Traces-Emporium/118788391476167?ref=ts

How perfect as a bridesmaid's gift? These beautiful necklaces made by Fiona Littlewood of Little Dragon Jewellery can be found at http://www.folksy.com/shops/littledragonjewellery?page=1

All of these lovely things would go towards making your day unique and more special!! There are so many more items out there to choose from, this is just a taster of some of the gorgeous goodies you could purchase!!

If you are getting married and have started to plan your "big day" all the best and I hope you enjoy your wedding day as I much as I did mine!! xx

2010-07-02T15:29:00.000+01:00

Why Buy Handmade?

When we live in a world that is going through a financially difficult time why do we insist on remaining as a “throw away culture”? How often do we “grab a bargain” only to throw the item away in a few short months or even weeks? Does it not make more sense to invest our money wisely and buy things that are going to last? If your answer to the final question is “yes” then maybe you should think about buying handmade!!

This country is full of thousands of very talented crafters and artisans who are working hard to make a living from what they love doing. However, many struggle to do this as most of us would still rather go to our high streets and buy mass produced items, that probably thousands of others will also own, than spend just that little bit more on something that has been made with love, care and attention to detail!! Chances are the handmade item will also be completely unique!!

When you buy handmade:

You are buying quality that will probably last a lot longer than most items that you buy on the High Street
The product will have been checked and doubly-checked by the maker to ensure its quality, after all, it’s there reputation and livelihood on the line!
You will get value for money as you are not paying for the “middle men” just the product
You are demonstrating your own “unique style”, not copying thousands of others
The artisan or crafter you are buying from will receive most of the money, it is not going to some huge, faceless company somewhere
You will feel great as you are supporting the artisans and crafters directly

Here are just a few items that have been made by some very talented artisans and crafters that I have come across since starting my handmade jewellery business recently!!

A stunning notice-board made with vintage Laura Ashley material by Em Wallis of Sweet Cotton Threads. (http://www.sweetcottonthreads.co.uk/)

100% Cotton Shopper Tote Bag (approx. 40 x 40 cm) by Anna of Blackcactusinlondon (http://www.etsy.com/shop/blackcactusinlondon)
http://www.etsy.com/listing/49294566/etsy-hand-printed-cotton-shopper-tote)

Super cute tea cosy that is made from double yarn. It fits a medium sized pot (approximately 4 cups). It is hand knitted by Jacky Edwards of Jacksknits (http://www.folksy.com/items/322289-HAND-KNITTED-CUTE-OWL-TEA-COSY?shop=yes)

Gorgeous deep edge canvas painting of sunbathing beach huts. Several different mediums have been used including acrylic, textured paste and water colour, to name a few. Created by Penny Parkin from Christmas Cottage Crafts (http://www.folksy.com/items/613845-Beach-Huts-sunbathing?shop=yes)

Romantic capelet crocheted from 70% mohair yarn, perfect for keeping the chill off at a British summer wedding or for teaming up with a tshirt and jeans for a vintage casual look. It measures 84 x 28cms and has been hand crocheted by Zerin Safa of Candlefloss Created (http://www.folksy.com/items/465337--Misty-Mint-Angel-s-Whisper-Capelet-Mohair?shop=yes)

Hand painted dark pink and yellow batik baby vest to fit a 3 month old (vest length 34cm).This has been hand painted by Cheerymishmash from Cheerymishmash (http://www.folksy.com/items/607429-Little-sweetheart-batik-baby-vest-age-3-months)

This gorgeous chap is Benjamin Bear. There are no others like him!! He has been handcrafted from fleece with felt paw pads and is filled with hollow fibre filling. He is fully jointed and positionable with safety plastic joints. He is 40cms tall when standing and all his clothes have been handmade too. He has been created by Dawn Treacher from Treacher Creatures (http://www.folksy.com/items/614921-Teddy-Bear-Benjamin-Single-Edition)

oh……………….and one of my items too!

Agate, honey jade and tiger skin quartz necklace. The beads are strung on suede and the length can be adjusted by knotting. The total length is 34". All findings on this necklace are Sterling silver. Handcrafted by me, Jo Walters, from Unique Beaded Gems (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Unique-Beaded-Gems/263472909436?v=app_135607783795&ref=ts#!/pages/Unique-Beaded-Gems/263472909436?v=wall&ref=ts)

Catch Up!!

2010-06-29T16:48:00.001+01:00

Hi all,

It's been a while! It's been such a hectic few weeks and I've not had a chance to get here to write anything for a while!!

In my last post I wrote that I was doing a jewellery demonstration at Leabrooks Gallery in Somercotes, Derbyshire. It was great fun!! Had several visitors and made quite a few sales.

It was great fun laying out my designs for the sale too as for once I had so much space to play with! Even my husband got involved and was surprisingly artistic.

I am organising with the owners of the gallery to do another demonstration and sale in August. I am regularly updating my cabinet of designs at the gallery and doing fairly well on the sales front too!

I have also done a Summer Fayre for the Help Emma Walk campaign (remember I posted that I had designed some earrings). This too was a great day! I finally got to meet Emma and her family!! They are fantastic and so "close knit" it's amazing!! Emma is a great little girl with a lot of spirit and determination. I was proud to be there as one of the supporters of their charity campaign!!

One of the highlights of the day was when a gentleman who had another stall at the Fayre, came over to say hi and was very complimentary about my designs! My dad always said that I had an eye for colour mixing. I thought he was just doing the proud dad thing!! However, this guy said it too. He said he loved the way that I mixed the most unlikely colours but they worked! He particularly liked the pearl rope that I had.

Also later in the day I met a lady who is an image stylist, she too loved my designs, bought a few pieces, and said that she would be in touch with me as she is sure that her clients will love my stuff too!!

All in all a good day and we helped to raise £1000 towards the Help Emma Walk fund!!

I also did a the Country Fair at Melton Mowbray at the weekend. That was a good day too despite the football!! Again, met some lovely people - some who are now hooked on my jewellery lol! I met one lady who really wasn't convinced that one of my big rings would suit her as she has short fingers. However, after trying she agreed it was pretty good! This got me to thinking about how we perceive ourselves and how we choose what we think suits us...sometimes we get it right and other times very wrong!! I am currently doing research into what jewellery designs suit different body shapes etc and will be posting some advice here soon! Gok Wan beware lol!!

Bye for now, see you all soon x

Really starting to take off now!!

2010-05-04T12:36:00.000+01:00

Hi all, since posting my life has been hectic! I've now got my jewellery into three galleries - Created Gallery in Chesterfield, Leabrooks Gallery in Somercotes, Derbyshire and Gallery 52 in Brailsford, nr Ashbourne, Derbyshire. It's starting to sell well too! I've also got several new designs for my spring/summer collection:

I've also made some earrings that I am selling to help the Help Emma Walk campaign. These can be ordered from my website - http://www.uniquebeadedgems.co.uk/. They are available for the bargain price of £6 and £3 will go to the fundraising for Emma. Please visit www.helpemmawalk.co.uk for more details of what they are doing.

This is the purple option made from purple shell and amethyst beads but you can also purchase pink and white ones. Please visit my website to view all the different options.

I am also doing a demonstration of making my jewellery at Leabrooks Gallery, 36 Leabrooks Road, Leabrooks, Somercotes on 12 and 13th June. There will be a 10% discount on all prices on these two days. Please come along!! Would be great to see you all there!!

Created Gallery

2010-03-17T16:01:00.000Z

Result!!

I have had a meeting with a lovely lady who owns the Created Gallery in Chesterfield, Deidre Gage, and she is going to stock some of my designs. They are available for you to view there right now! Here are just few of the pieces you can purchase there :

The ring is sterling silver and has a 25x18mm labradorite cabochon set in it. The necklace in the centre is made from green banded agate, aventurine and carnelian square shaped donut beads. This is all strung on brown silky cord. The other necklace is made from unusually shaped wood jasper donuts, round ocean jasper donuts and large coins of mocca turquoise jasper.

I'm really proud of these designs and Deidre loved them.

Busy Time

2010-03-03T09:03:00.000Z

It's been a busy week for me! The craft fair didn't happen because of the snow! We had another three inches in Derbyshire!! I've been busy finding some craft fairs to stand at and been quite successful although I would advise anyone out there to book early! All the decent fairs seem to get booked up really early! Anyway, I've got several places booked including a stand at Apples and Pears and Crafty Wares on 22nd May in Nottingham, the Melton Mowbray County fair (really excited about this one) and waiting to get details for booking Land Rover Max at Newark showground in July!

I need some advice though, do any of you rent a credit card machine for your bigger events? I'm thinking of doing this as I can't accept credit card payments at present apart from through my website! Can the cost of doing this be justified by the increase in sales? Comments please!

Back soon, got more creating to do today!!

Hello!!

2010-02-20T08:23:00.000Z

Hi all, just started this today so wanted to say hello! Let me introduce myself. My name is Jo Walters and I am a designer of jewellery. You can visit my website at www.uniquebeadedgems.co.uk. I've been making jewellery for about two years as a hobby. I was made redundant a month ago and decided it was time to try and make this hobby into a business.

It's been a busy time updating and improving my website, created a lot more pieces, finding places to sell and marketing the business! Got my first craft fair tomorrow and I'm feeling quite nervous!! What reaction will my designs get? Will I sell anything? Will my display be right? etc etc etc!! If your around in Hartington, Derbyshire tomorrow come and see me!!

All of my jewellery is handmade by me in Derbyshire from semi-precious gemstone beads that I mix with Sterling silver, Bali silver and leather cord. Many of the pieces are statement designs but there are also some quite subtle pieces. I try to use semi precious gemstone beads that are not commonly found on the High Street and make them into designs that are quite different from the norm. I like to mix bead shapes to produce pieces that are unique. Many of my pieces are one off designs but I also do some limited editions.

When I've worked out to add pictures properly I'll add some of my latest designs. I'm not too great at IT but jewellery design, I'm fab!!

I'll be back later to let you know how tomorrow goes. Wish me luck!! x x