tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-57602212758338492372024-03-05T15:08:52.664-05:00RockBugUpdates about RockBug handmade products and other interesting things.RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-88265373479193440522011-06-23T10:44:00.000-04:002011-06-23T10:44:10.931-04:00A gift guide for the animal lover in your life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>As a pet owner, I love tearing into a present to find that someone has thought of our little guys (or not so little Rockford). I've found some awesome handmade items on ArtFire that would make excellent gifts for that animal lover in your life. So go explore these wonderful studios and find that perfect gift! <br />
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* If your loved one has a rescued pet, help them show him/her off with a nifty <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=3455549">hand stamped rescued tag set</a>. These attach easily to a collar or even a carrier for small pets.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copyright RockBug</td></tr>
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* <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=2136350">A fun and fabulous hat from SpoiledBratzwear</a>: I actually have a SpoiledBrazwear hat for our guinea pig, Kumar. It's really cute and we're lucky that Kumar's a good sport about it. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--10678_product_459477816_thumb_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--10678_product_459477816_thumb_large.jpg" width="226" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SpoiledBrazwear</td></tr>
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* <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=384819">A custom piece of artwork featuring a favorite pet</a>: This would be great for any pet owner. We all love our pets, whether they have fur, feathers or scales. And <a href="http://www.artfire.com/users/CherilynnFineArt">CherilynnFineArt</a> does a little bit of everything.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CherilynnFineArt</td></tr>
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* And don't forget the feline parents out there. A great catnip toy by <a href="http://www.artfire.com/users/FreyasFire">FreyasFire</a> is just the ticket for that cat lover. <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=2634570">You won't find these cute and unique toys in any store.</a> <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">FreyasFire</td></tr>
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* A <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=1188007">Dirty Dog Grooming set by essensu</a> will help keep your loved one's pup smelling great. If your friend/family member has a dog like Rockford who enjoys playing outside, they'll appreciate having some luscious shampoo around.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--10505_product_144616047_thumb_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--10505_product_144616047_thumb_large.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">essensu</td></tr>
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There are so many wonderful items that I had a hard time narrowing it down to just 5. I may have to do a second edition of this one!RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-54168519565677909522011-05-24T09:02:00.002-04:002011-05-24T09:02:56.805-04:00<style>
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<div id="widgetcont" style="background: url(http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/widget-bg-ltall-dark-grey.png) no-repeat; height: 806px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 0 0 0 0; width: 484px;"><div class="title_brown" style="font-weight: bold; padding: 100px 0 5px 0; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925">Cheery yellows</a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--83719_product_1607923774_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--52310_product_1816388340_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--6458_product_1838343033_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--3208_product_1431422179_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--43445_product_634763848_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--38749_product_688556450_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--52498_product_17553258_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--25869_product_1147580639_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--1459_product_1553619905_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--67035_product_1015638261_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--87899_product_1129214764_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--89034_product_233669679_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><br style="clear: both;" /><div style="float: left; padding: 4px 0 0 15px; text-align: left; width: 350px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=19925"><img alt="View This Entire Collection" height="43" src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/view-collection-button.png" style="border: none;" title="View This Entire Collection" width="154" /></a><br />
<a class="title_brown" href="http://www.artfire.com/users/RockBug" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal;" title="Curated By: RockBug">Curated By: RockBug</a></div><div style="float: left; padding: 15px 15px 0 0; text-align: right; width: 85px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/"><img alt="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" height="24" src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/artfire-logo-white.png" style="border: none;" title="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" width="69" /></a><br />
<a class="title_brown" href="http://www.artfire.com/" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold;">ArtFire.com</a></div></div><div style="clear: both; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/supplies">Craft Supplies</a></div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-74998371374366700042011-05-11T16:38:00.000-04:002011-05-11T16:38:38.432-04:00Kumar and I weigh in on the Iris pet carrier<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb_u-FabxK86X9-lcext1dL6arlnWPbrvHuPLMV0eacN6YdYZ8zk3pcDW_8Mn6hoQ4hU4a7wQXndU6ILMnPJ0SwmpsNGfG6MTtwPglp425fSJOS0vyNAbhKgZZsS3LEyAZUb-frIw5t94/s1600/IMG_4920.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjb_u-FabxK86X9-lcext1dL6arlnWPbrvHuPLMV0eacN6YdYZ8zk3pcDW_8Mn6hoQ4hU4a7wQXndU6ILMnPJ0SwmpsNGfG6MTtwPglp425fSJOS0vyNAbhKgZZsS3LEyAZUb-frIw5t94/s320/IMG_4920.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>I recently purchased this Iris carrier for my guinea pigs. After reading all the reviews I could find, I realized that there wasn't a lot of info available for small animal owners.<br />
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My little ones travel quite a bit as some of my vets are pretty far away. So I'm always concerned about their safety and comfort. The lid that can be opened completely was especially appealing to me. Kumar took this out for a spin during his last trip to the vet. Here's what we found:<br />
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Ventilation: I checked the ventilation several times throughout the day and it was quite good. However, we were traveling in a car, making things a bit easier to control. Traveling with guinea pigs in warm weather can get very tricky, you should always take precautions.<br />
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Space: 19.2 X 13 X 12.2 inches There's more than enough room for 1 guinea pig, 2 if they get along well. Kumar had enough room to walk around and plow through his hay throughout the trip.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01bbwY9c6bXId8P9hXB2jURJzEJEiu4AQCYn-fnElr8_ncjUem6-qjHSg-CSNeTkxm4m_agmKnfVelVwVQNGiGUeSCtLFLhfaB7FVYXZHximr6ej-fPE6cXO5W8wQJlRWA3zGrHdUG6Q/s1600/IMG_4918.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj01bbwY9c6bXId8P9hXB2jURJzEJEiu4AQCYn-fnElr8_ncjUem6-qjHSg-CSNeTkxm4m_agmKnfVelVwVQNGiGUeSCtLFLhfaB7FVYXZHximr6ej-fPE6cXO5W8wQJlRWA3zGrHdUG6Q/s320/IMG_4918.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Construction/Security: The plastic seems pretty durable. The handles are more sturdy than I expected. The main latches aren't as heavy as I would like but they seem to hold up well. It's deep enough that even when Kumar stood up, he couldn't reach the top.<br />
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Ease of use: This carrier is very easy to use. The main lid made it easy to get Kumar in and out. The smaller lid on the left is great for checking in on him and the little cubby hole on the right is nice for taking notes to the vet. I also like that since it's all plastic, you can clean it easily.<br />
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Comfort: Kumar was very comfortable and content but he's also an experienced traveler. I had to toss the little piece of carpet that came with the carrier though. I lined ours with a little fleece pad that I had on hand.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRPGVrhDmnT58AkdIhJl2_u_gpqDU8a74a2y3-op3FpYd3TDEsSEvnjCBmE3N9zK3dM006pNturWMGyy3KYDrJvwj9UGtULK-CFD_ixTpb-tx5pWR_sJ13RcdEw0cSEZVv2EvUuPxI64/s1600/IMG_4915.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguRPGVrhDmnT58AkdIhJl2_u_gpqDU8a74a2y3-op3FpYd3TDEsSEvnjCBmE3N9zK3dM006pNturWMGyy3KYDrJvwj9UGtULK-CFD_ixTpb-tx5pWR_sJ13RcdEw0cSEZVv2EvUuPxI64/s320/IMG_4915.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>Overall: I like this carrier, for our needs. It's spacious without being difficult to carry and maneuver. If you're looking for a carrier for your cavy or other small pet, you might want to check this one out. Shop around for the best price though, I found ours for $20 online.RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-71153229575081917892011-05-04T19:39:00.000-04:002011-05-04T19:39:17.904-04:00My journey to a Kindle<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5WJW3BaosqHUg674jh_7_UxbU01F4TOXnTSs1hmUtTAcki9UwW_eQUZfwMurMMpZFLooQwTFgiP4EFLvr2lTqI7o-4k9GKqdeeY04HIVCSXJmf2oFbpSkjOxQ31JwH-h9Hh9PHMjz0g/s1600/IMG_4912.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo5WJW3BaosqHUg674jh_7_UxbU01F4TOXnTSs1hmUtTAcki9UwW_eQUZfwMurMMpZFLooQwTFgiP4EFLvr2lTqI7o-4k9GKqdeeY04HIVCSXJmf2oFbpSkjOxQ31JwH-h9Hh9PHMjz0g/s320/IMG_4912.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
I was reluctant to buy an e-reader. I love paper books; the smell, the experience of picking one out in the library or bookstore and even the wonderful *shhhp* sound of a page turning. I enjoy the thrill of tearing into the mail when I find a used book that I've requested on paperbackswap.com. Each book seems to have a personality of its own and a life that I'm now a part of. <br />
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My family and I pitched in to get my mother a NOOK as a gift and shortly thereafter, I started to envy her constant access to books. Also, I'd noticed that the price of paper books were quite high and becoming a hindrance to my reading. Something had to give, so began my journey into researching e-reader devices.<br />
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After considering features, prices and the ongoing costs of e-books, I decided on the Kindle Wi-Fi. The transition hasn't been nearly as difficult as I thought it would be. I still get lost in the stories I read and I don't miss turning the pages as much as I thought I would. And I love checking out the free list when I can. Sometimes I hit the lottery and find a great book or discover a new author that I like. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZH9oEpwVgTtByym4e9rzRwM7EvwEHGs_6GfarVRJYs4tU-UDBNdxabbN4jyyS0Wfavm32ANoiQw_11LwAi40iQlLUmU4nNGvVdYkwHyBN1bTwSN9Tr9cV2ec3l5YNSJZs9wgvqhgd6fA/s1600/IMG_4903.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="278" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZH9oEpwVgTtByym4e9rzRwM7EvwEHGs_6GfarVRJYs4tU-UDBNdxabbN4jyyS0Wfavm32ANoiQw_11LwAi40iQlLUmU4nNGvVdYkwHyBN1bTwSN9Tr9cV2ec3l5YNSJZs9wgvqhgd6fA/s320/IMG_4903.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> I bought this nifty cover from ByNanasHands on ArtFire. She has a great selection <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&sc_id=116983&seller_id=11427&op=new">here</a>.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>I still read quite a few paper books but I no longer pay for them. If there's a book I just can't wait for, I'll download it. Otherwise, I put it on my wish list on the swap site. <br />
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I've already saved money with my Kindle. The e-book versions are usually cheaper than the paper ones, plus I have access to loads of free books. So if you're considering an e-reader but are afraid that you'll miss paper books, it's not that bad, I promise. RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-52248273538434334262011-04-07T15:19:00.000-04:002011-04-07T15:19:46.401-04:00Featuring JoyciesJemsI really enjoyed exploring <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=98164&op=new&body=1">JoyciesJems</a> handmade jewelry studio. Her beautiful lampwork beads immediately caught my eye. This <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=2791308">sterling silver glass lampwork bracelet</a> is a wonderful example of her work. She has a great eye for colors and it shows in this piece.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--120000--90718_product_297253718_thumb_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="249" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--120000--90718_product_297253718_thumb_large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">On her <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=98164&op=new&body=2">bio</a> page, she includes lots of info on how her jewelry and beads are made. It really gives you a sense of how much work goes into each of her pieces. Joyce finds inspiration in the mountains and sea around her. I love reading about what inspires other artisans, it makes their work so much more personal. </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">She offers international shipping, so even though JoyciesJems is located in Australia, we can all purchase her gorgeous creations. </div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">So go check out <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=98164&op=new&body=1">JoyciesJems</a>, you won't be disappointed.</div><div class="p1"><br />
</div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-2880519012224737072011-03-17T13:28:00.000-04:002011-03-17T13:28:20.235-04:00Featuring Ellymm on ArtFireAnother member of the You Can Sell It Guild, <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=78952&op=new&body=1">Ellymm,</a> has a unique mixture of items in her studio. One thing that jumped out at me, while I was exploring her studio, was her energy. It seems that she's up for just about anything!<br />
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Her <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&sc_id=135643&seller_id=78952&op=new">beaded necklaces</a> are gorgeous and eye catching. If earrings are more your style, she has a variety of those too. These 2 sets really stood out to me, <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=1632908">black with silver wire work earrings</a> and <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=1632904">gold wire wrapped earrings. </a><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--71523_product_369326967_thumb_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--71523_product_369326967_thumb_large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
I especially love her <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&sc_id=109625&seller_id=78952&op=new">Vintage Jewelry</a> section. This vintage <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=2114172">Gold Fish Brooch</a> from the 50's, is one of my favorite items from Ellymm's studio. <br />
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So drop by Ellymm and have fun exploring all the fun items that she offers.RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-19808802158691944442011-03-09T11:59:00.000-05:002011-03-09T11:59:13.217-05:00ArtBySunfire on ArtFire<style type="text/css">
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<div class="p1">This week's featured artisan is <a href="http://www.artfire.com/users/artbysunfire">ArtBySunfire</a>. I had so much fun exploring her studio. She offers unique and useful items. And who couldn't use a little help staying organized? </div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--72987_product_1860948182_thumb_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--72987_product_1860948182_thumb_large.jpg" width="233" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2">These <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&sc_id=93730&seller_id=80416&op=new">Recipe Card Boxes</a> are so lovely that you can feel confident displaying them out on your kitchen counter. I usually keep my old beat up one stashed away in a cabinet. And one of my favorite items, an <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=2701089">Index Card Planner</a>, will help keep your life in order when things get hectic. I love the little dividers, they allow you flip to what you need immediately.</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">While checking out her items and getting to know her a bit through her bio page, I could tell that she really enjoys her work. I love it when an artisan truly loves what they do and it shines through in her creations. So go check out <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=80416&op=new&body=1">ArtBySunfire</a>, I bet you'll find something to help make life a bit more fun.</div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-1247960390311357932011-02-22T14:06:00.000-05:002011-02-22T14:06:15.902-05:00FantasyClay on ArtFireThis fabulous artisan on ArtFire has something for everyone. One of my favorite things about <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=33297&op=new&body=1">FantasyClay</a> is that her polymer clay sculptures are so much fun. She has a wonderfully unique take on critters, trolls, fairies and all her other creations. Looking at her gallery of past work blows me away. She has made everything from a custom wedding cake topper to an adorable green baby witch. <br />
<div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">Every time I look at this beautiful <a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&op=listing&product_id=1802776">Fish in Green River Reeds Open Polymer Clay Sculpture </a>, I see something new and different. You can really tell how much work went into this piece. I love all the attention to detail.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--25869_product_600100149_6_thumb_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="307" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--25869_product_600100149_6_thumb_large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="p1"><br />
</div><div class="p2"><br />
</div><div class="p1">So mosey on over to her studio and remember, she welcomes custom orders! </div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-23964810562088960622011-02-15T17:23:00.000-05:002011-02-15T17:23:42.089-05:00Creations by members of the You Can Sell It guild<style>
#widgetcont p{ padding:0; margin:0; } .title_brown, .title_brown a, .title_brown a:link, .title_brown a:active, .title_brown a:visited, .title_brown a:hover { color:#dfa754; font-weight:bold; }</p><p>.title_charc, .title_charc a, .title_charc a:link, .title_charc a:active, .title_charc a:visited, .title_charc a:hover { color:#333333; font-weight:bold; }
</style><br />
<div id="widgetcont" style="background: url(http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/widget-bg-ltall-white.png) no-repeat; height: 806px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 0 0 0 0; width: 484px;"><div class="title_charc" style="font-weight: bold; padding: 100px 0 5px 0; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241">Fun critters</a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/25869_product_241041586_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--71523_product_369326967_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--61982_product_210047789_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--83719_product_1781820523_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--89034_product_1896844157_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--57867_product_940065676_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--69016_product_1857252222_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--86346_product_234417844_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--83412_product_1607976859_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--52310_product_1859285748_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--3208_product_498580907_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0; padding: 10px 0 0 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--13391_product_1657300227_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: none; margin: 0; padding: 0;" /></a></div><br style="clear: both;" /><div style="float: left; padding: 4px 0 0 15px; text-align: left; width: 350px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=14241"><img alt="View This Entire Collection" height="43" src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/view-collection-button.png" style="border: none;" title="View This Entire Collection" width="154" /></a><br />
<a class="title_charc" href="http://www.artfire.com/users/RockBug" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal;" title="Curated By: RockBug">Curated By: RockBug</a></div><div style="float: left; padding: 15px 15px 0 0; text-align: right; width: 85px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/"><img alt="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" height="24" src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/artfire-logo-dark.png" style="border: none;" title="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" width="69" /></a><br />
<a class="title_charc" href="http://www.artfire.com/" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold;">ArtFire.com</a></div></div><div style="clear: both; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/design">Indie Design</a></div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-72001806630924508542011-01-17T15:45:00.000-05:002011-01-17T15:45:26.003-05:00Misadventures in hand stamping #2<div style="font-family: Helvetica;">My most recent misadventure in hand stamping was oxidizing sterling silver stamped tags and pendants. I quickly learned that while oxidized silver looks fabulous, it also highlights any "flaws". I was upset that my creations weren't coming out perfectly. In my frustration, I realized that I needed to look at this from a customer's perspective. After all, I love wearing hand stamped jewelry and that's what inspired me start learning it myself. One of the things I love the most is the uniqueness of every letter and symbol. </div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">So keeping this in mind I had to let go of the idea of making something perfect. I eventually learned that what I was originally looking at as a flaw is actually the lovely uniqueness of hand stamping. Now I choose to have fun and make beautiful things. </div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">This is one of the first pieces I oxidized.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUR5zaxeomdQUC9ifESkpDw52CbRjrSnhjcXcCW9O9nI1UkhyxVsxyOzpw6CW767NufJ_jeBahQbkrSCietwGo1fo87pBfOAcuuZjhVCubi6yB8CabkvZ9hyphenhyphenP3tj9brcZYVXQkQTJTKvs/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUR5zaxeomdQUC9ifESkpDw52CbRjrSnhjcXcCW9O9nI1UkhyxVsxyOzpw6CW767NufJ_jeBahQbkrSCietwGo1fo87pBfOAcuuZjhVCubi6yB8CabkvZ9hyphenhyphenP3tj9brcZYVXQkQTJTKvs/s320/photo.JPG" width="95" /></a></div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-28751599791155533762010-12-09T17:18:00.000-05:002010-12-09T17:18:05.671-05:00Are you making a long drive this year?I drive down to VA around the holidays every year to visit family. Because I travel with our pup, Rockford, and a few of our special needs guinea pigs, I make an extensive kit (in addition to the car kit), just in case. I include everything from food and water to heated blankets and a list of pet friendly hotels along the route.<br />
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I hope the weather will be more cooperative this year. We ended up in a nasty snowstorm last year. Once I made it to my family's home, it was beautiful to watch the snow fall. However, it was not so enjoyable on the roads. I've been making this trip 3 times a year, for 9 years and every drive is different. <br />
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If any of you are making a long drive this year, be careful out there. And if you see a crazy lady in a teeny car, loaded with a dog, a few guinea pigs, and jewelry supplies, wave and say "hi"! <br />
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Here's Fiona to wish you a happy holiday season.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD32yNdea2FLU1HtVNcETN98hML6pa7ys1nO4eZXJ6GSwKTBjLF47NwU30LNXtgaC8njxTJV-iGIU6STTXYFVLxTWO0dHzMRQQYec0pqqJtN5tUzdgkYwoEy1ijMQ6_gmpxepQjusDN48/s1600/IMG_4004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="190" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgD32yNdea2FLU1HtVNcETN98hML6pa7ys1nO4eZXJ6GSwKTBjLF47NwU30LNXtgaC8njxTJV-iGIU6STTXYFVLxTWO0dHzMRQQYec0pqqJtN5tUzdgkYwoEy1ijMQ6_gmpxepQjusDN48/s320/IMG_4004.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-82847032127074943902010-11-19T13:08:00.000-05:002010-11-19T13:08:33.766-05:00Great deals to be found on ArtFire!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So you're gearing up for the holidays and starting your shopping or maybe just you just love a good deal. Everyone wants to find great gifts at great prices, right? Well, RockBug is having a studio wide sale and everything is 10% off! If you have a beloved pet, animal lover or even someone who just enjoys unique and fun items, check us out. <a href="http://rockbug.artfire.com/">RockBug on ArtFire</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--69016_product_1953652429_thumb_large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--69016_product_1953652429_thumb_large.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Now if RockBug just isn't your style, I'm certain that you can find the perfect gift with one of the other fantastic artisans on ArtFire. Just click on the "Holiday Shopping Deals" banner to start browsing all the wonderful sale items available. Or you can click on this link and jump right in! <a href="http://holidaydeals.artfire.com/modules.php?name=categories&op=targeted&query=holidaydeals">Holiday Shopping Deals</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-2909557540803928012010-11-09T10:46:00.000-05:002010-11-09T10:46:30.657-05:00Gift IdeasIf you're like me, you're already gearing up for the holidays. Here's a collection I put together to help you get started. I love red and this collection has gifts in all price ranges. These wonderful items are made by the members of the You Can Sell It guild. <br />
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<style>
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</style><div id="widgetcont" style="background: url("http://www.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/widget-bg-ltall-dark-grey.png") no-repeat scroll 0% 0% transparent; height: 806px; margin: 0pt auto; padding: 0pt; width: 484px;"><div class="title_brown" style="font-weight: bold; padding: 100px 0pt 5px; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284">Gifts in red</a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--72987_product_750216060_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--38749_product_13213321_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--40010_product_1192262175_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/3208_product_976148403_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--79246_product_366487468_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--47472_product_1283480497_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--25652_product_1454039420_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--69016_product_384208655_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--86120_product_1668073859_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--77785_product_1846538238_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--25869_product_1621426899_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img src="http://www.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--82400_product_23994218_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><br style="clear: both;" /><div style="float: left; padding: 4px 0pt 0pt 15px; text-align: left; width: 350px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=7284"><img alt="View This Entire Collection" height="43" src="http://www.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/view-collection-button.png" style="border: medium none;" title="View This Entire Collection" width="154" /></a><br />
<a class="title_brown" href="http://www.artfire.com/users/RockBug" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal;" title="Curated By: RockBug">Curated By: RockBug</a></div><div style="float: left; padding: 15px 15px 0pt 0pt; text-align: right; width: 85px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/"><img alt="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" height="24" src="http://www.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/artfire-logo-white.png" style="border: medium none;" title="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" width="69" /></a><br />
<a class="title_brown" href="http://www.artfire.com/" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold;">ArtFire.com</a></div></div><div style="clear: both; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=gift_hub">Handmade Gifts</a></div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-59585028196089325442010-10-22T16:24:00.000-04:002010-10-22T16:24:20.298-04:00The power of the break.I think we're all feeling the pressure to get our sites and studios ready for the shopping season. I know quite a few of us are practically living in our workspaces right now. This is my first real holiday season and I'm working hard to have a nice variety of items listed. I'm also shooting for that 100 items threshold. It's a lot of work but I know it'll be worth it in the long run. It's certainly a balancing act to get regular orders done as well as the additional items. I'm having a blast with the fast pace though!<br />
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After my regular job, I stay pretty busy with RockBug work. I've been forcing myself to take breaks for about 45 minutes at a time though. It's enough time for me to watch a favorite tv show or get in a little reading. It helps me recharge a bit. It's especially helpful after I lay something out that I'm just not sure about. I was totally stuck on a bracelet and was ready to give up on my design idea and when I came back to it, I figured out how to make it work. So the lesson I've learned? Don't underestimate the power of the break!<br />
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Here's my most recent piece, I love the colors!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPaaVly2d4s3PGyp54CzRi6vexrjBXLAdpERWjULPgPD712Smt7ukIi54b2ok-3iQJsMQj2JWF0puvAuh7LClIKeKaOb3khddicDaaZ21hvw3OnYoFDgbxrO3-HQ0Q2AmOmRABKn3kA4/s1600/IMG_3306.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyPaaVly2d4s3PGyp54CzRi6vexrjBXLAdpERWjULPgPD712Smt7ukIi54b2ok-3iQJsMQj2JWF0puvAuh7LClIKeKaOb3khddicDaaZ21hvw3OnYoFDgbxrO3-HQ0Q2AmOmRABKn3kA4/s320/IMG_3306.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-3134662662659818972010-10-07T14:21:00.000-04:002010-10-07T14:21:43.329-04:00Recharging...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqtZmdpqVrAqt3XivtSdkp0XNBICftlDT7fapcsI-mgHuvQG2iOczAAlZE-docYWrEr73Gcfqev4VglL-_8In-k37_r47cg06Qm5yXEAlfxOq-OhlMhHLhCeBhycUsT_2BnBIC1s5m-c/s1600/IMG_2934.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBqtZmdpqVrAqt3XivtSdkp0XNBICftlDT7fapcsI-mgHuvQG2iOczAAlZE-docYWrEr73Gcfqev4VglL-_8In-k37_r47cg06Qm5yXEAlfxOq-OhlMhHLhCeBhycUsT_2BnBIC1s5m-c/s320/IMG_2934.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
If you're looking for inspiration, you'd be hard pressed to find a better source than the natural beauty of the Northeast, this time of year. We recently spent some time taking it in while hiking in a state park and camping. Obviously, I had some fun with the camera too.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWndekZ3TKdd3PMeBcByORpqwcPznhGEAxetvkz3Aa4NJWTJh68t3S8jiwZ-r497NmnCwJYCj1QZRwMo6dI9ZRvJvW0WBIOEIXr7YsHGhaSW95gM2sVDRymtbuY0lqQZhARFAkNkVp_w/s1600/IMG_2948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgBWndekZ3TKdd3PMeBcByORpqwcPznhGEAxetvkz3Aa4NJWTJh68t3S8jiwZ-r497NmnCwJYCj1QZRwMo6dI9ZRvJvW0WBIOEIXr7YsHGhaSW95gM2sVDRymtbuY0lqQZhARFAkNkVp_w/s320/IMG_2948.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Before this trip, my idea of "roughing it" was not having sweetener for my morning tea. I certainly have some perspective now. The temperatures were a little uncomfortable at night, at around 35 degrees. It was a bit chilly. Needless to say, the campfire was a welcomed source of warmth. The meals also tasted a little better after a long day of hiking. <br />
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I work day after day in an office setting. Spending a little time in the great outdoors really recharged me creatively. I came home and immediately finished this piece. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-QQYY7iiXIEYexi73fBtR1Y-7juwG-6VnBImuaTCd068rDxJ1AQtdGMBfCmoJ3vZTxlSOVfL-MOnQ6SwcBFUXmJlUDxuH372wmUlt_XjF2mtdKXEmoM1ovV__BFl_T8GuHKza3QklYI/s1600/IMG_2981.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjN-QQYY7iiXIEYexi73fBtR1Y-7juwG-6VnBImuaTCd068rDxJ1AQtdGMBfCmoJ3vZTxlSOVfL-MOnQ6SwcBFUXmJlUDxuH372wmUlt_XjF2mtdKXEmoM1ovV__BFl_T8GuHKza3QklYI/s320/IMG_2981.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-72179248413399911412010-09-27T12:03:00.000-04:002010-09-27T12:03:39.907-04:00$5.95 Deal on ArtFireTime is running out for you to secure a <a href="http://www.artfire.com/groupdeal">$5.95 per month Pro account</a>. The deadline for signup is October 1st. If you've been considering getting on this great deal, now is the time. If you're a Pro already, there's nothing to lose. I was already a pro when this deal was announced, so it was just about saving money for me. And that's always a good thing, right?<br />
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If you're a basic studio or an artisan looking for a new venue, give a try! My favorite Pro tool is the ability to make categories. It really cleans up your studio and allows your customers to browse in an efficient way. Another great feature for those of you who love FaceBook, is the ArtFire Kiosk. You just add it your business page and viola!, folks can browse your studio without ever leaving FaceBook.<br />
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Now I've only scratched the surface here. Come on over and check it out for yourself. ArtFire is all about helping artisans to do what we love. RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-2024073911803235012010-09-22T10:53:00.000-04:002010-09-22T10:53:37.141-04:00Pit Bull LoveAs an owner of one of these special guys, I love finding new artisans who create unique Pit Bull pieces. <br />
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margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=2541"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--61160_product_1426851336_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=2541"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--71334_product_59213282_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=2541"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/9500_product_675242631_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=2541"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--72251_product_1267568376_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=2541"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--10276_product_1192702617_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=2541"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/24486_product_489969626_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=2541"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--80331_product_2084026924_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=2541"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/16844_product_464627710_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=2541"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/19027_product_1228641464_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><div style="float: left; height: 140px; margin: 0pt; padding: 10px 0pt 0pt 15.5px; text-align: center; width: 140px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=2541"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/30453_product_1017973032_thumb_crop.jpg" style="border: medium none; margin: 0pt; padding: 0pt;" /></a></div><br style="clear: both;" /><div style="float: left; padding: 4px 0pt 0pt 15px; text-align: left; width: 350px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=2541"><img alt="View This Entire Collection" height="43" src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/view-collection-button.png" style="border: medium none;" title="View This Entire Collection" width="154" /></a><br />
<a class="title_brown" href="http://www.artfire.com/users/RockBug" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: normal;" title="Curated By: RockBug">Curated By: RockBug</a></div><div style="float: left; padding: 15px 15px 0pt 0pt; text-align: right; width: 85px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/"><img alt="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" height="24" src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/artfire-logo-white.png" style="border: medium none;" title="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" width="69" /></a><br />
<a class="title_brown" href="http://www.artfire.com/" style="font-size: 11px; font-weight: bold;">ArtFire.com</a></div></div><div style="clear: both; font-size: 12px; font-weight: bold; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/fine_art-Photography/2/88/0/0/0/0">Fine Art Photography</a></div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-78692803555075538402010-09-15T21:18:00.000-04:002010-09-15T21:18:50.932-04:00Inspiration of the new seasonAs the evenings grow chilly and the days shorten, I find myself gearing up for fall and winter. I also notice that the jewelry pieces I'm creating are inspired by the changing leaves outside. You can certainly see these colors in recent bracelets. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGL6UKomcFVffZk7yWUNqSSTKfUxJX02kjrDD-s-Aa7AdSp3fkUqtBJSqk56vPGaBQ_lzQ-7VJWJ0QSDYbGiHe3OdNbt0_XlPcy4Bc1XaiGI7zu0FujhHptZaJW0i0GUKFp4m-rcbReAU/s1600/IMG_2658.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGL6UKomcFVffZk7yWUNqSSTKfUxJX02kjrDD-s-Aa7AdSp3fkUqtBJSqk56vPGaBQ_lzQ-7VJWJ0QSDYbGiHe3OdNbt0_XlPcy4Bc1XaiGI7zu0FujhHptZaJW0i0GUKFp4m-rcbReAU/s320/IMG_2658.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I'm sure you can tell that I prefer the colder weather. I just love bundling up and taking Rockford for long walks. The world just seems more peaceful during these walks. This picture was taken on such a walk last year.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmvpFHb_2fu1v-19NRdodtQEawGKKMqG0vOfIb1Ei4tJzlN8-1a5-phNKh4dyCjyOXKvlxVo-Ta1COmWmqXzVuDFC43L0zhzIZ_sac6Y54Ngc_YksP72qewZiXqDEBqH-wVVbj8sfjLbs/s1600/IMG_0887.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmvpFHb_2fu1v-19NRdodtQEawGKKMqG0vOfIb1Ei4tJzlN8-1a5-phNKh4dyCjyOXKvlxVo-Ta1COmWmqXzVuDFC43L0zhzIZ_sac6Y54Ngc_YksP72qewZiXqDEBqH-wVVbj8sfjLbs/s320/IMG_0887.JPG" /></a></div><br />
So as we humans at RockBug get ready for the season with Halloween jewelry and totes, the pups also like to stay warm with a fun hoodie. As you can see, Rockford loves to lounge around in his, even after the walk is over.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iQsI3L3eYcZmBz_sq8a2joBgzfHUVB8cEsoamktttOOIdQ7DzUbd9KN3WTVr0iNa8TuCeAJlU0LJkMQqXiXNqQsBqRgb0ObWeJ537ux9AZGvSvys2jobzbAM3ndJvp3cdh8wOkPCopU/s1600/IMG_1229.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4iQsI3L3eYcZmBz_sq8a2joBgzfHUVB8cEsoamktttOOIdQ7DzUbd9KN3WTVr0iNa8TuCeAJlU0LJkMQqXiXNqQsBqRgb0ObWeJ537ux9AZGvSvys2jobzbAM3ndJvp3cdh8wOkPCopU/s320/IMG_1229.JPG" /></a></div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-2124613503538657622010-09-03T09:42:00.000-04:002010-09-03T09:42:59.443-04:00Learning a new basic skillSo I wanted to try my hand at some very basic wire use/wrapping a few weeks ago. Since I'd never touched jewelry wire before, I knew it would take some patience and practice. There are so many gauges (size of the wire) out there and you have to determine which size is best for what you're creating. I bought a variety of wires just to practice with. In the beginning, I won't lie, it wasn't pretty. My main problems were making loops that were consistently the same size and getting the wrappings tight enough.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RMOSsO1hN7E0jfiZmF_h7tMUlUIHoPzyz5Hgp8jPAxhdlmNof5UIdkNi9WEAzGkpdaPo5u33zCZYghglqve26P533SO-bI5clc9OgbHf3JHMK64igb4MzeEzempGw6eqcvlbXTayFuU/s1600/IMG_2732.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4RMOSsO1hN7E0jfiZmF_h7tMUlUIHoPzyz5Hgp8jPAxhdlmNof5UIdkNi9WEAzGkpdaPo5u33zCZYghglqve26P533SO-bI5clc9OgbHf3JHMK64igb4MzeEzempGw6eqcvlbXTayFuU/s320/IMG_2732.JPG" /></a></div><br />
I just created these earrings. You can see that I used the wire to connect the amethyst teardrops to the links. I made the loop big enough that the teardrops could still move a little. They're quite simple but I'm very proud of them. The practice is paying off and my skills are improving. I'm excited to see where I'll be in a few more weeks. Learning even basic wire work is essential, in my opinion, and opens up a whole new world in jewelry making. <br />
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Also, let me say that I have a ton of respect for the very talented wire wrappers out there. A wire wrapped piece is nothing short of a work of art. I've always been impressed by what they create but now I'm totally blown away!RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-42729389493943358672010-08-27T15:08:00.000-04:002010-08-27T15:08:45.367-04:00Misadventures in metal stampingI'm fairly new to metal stamping and still learning, mostly by trial and error. I've found that letters are pretty easy for me but designs on the other hand take some serious practice. After receiving some great design stamps, I started hammering away with terrible results. When I struck the stamp, the steel hammer I was using would bounce like crazy. The tag would go flying across the room. After chasing them down, I saw that most of the stamps weren't showing up and the ones that did were awful. <br />
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I started researching my particular problem. I found out that achieving a proper dead blow is essential to stamping designs. I was clearly using the wrong type of hammer for these stamps. I ordered a 1 pound brass mallet immediately. Here's the one I ordered: <a href="http://www.beaducation.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=101_102&products_id=450&beaduid=lij556okeauj11bso5b61epk97">Beaducation: 1 lb Brass Head Mallet [HAM1]</a><br />
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I noticed a significant difference right away. After a few practice strikes, the designs were coming out much better. Now, I'm busy practicing a confident, straight on swing. I've mastered 3 of the 4 designs now.RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-6202145264998857242010-08-10T16:48:00.000-04:002010-08-10T17:07:31.647-04:00You Can Sell It GuildThe You Can Sell It Guild, YCSI for short, is a great group of artisans on Artfire committed to finding ways to sell our items and get the word out about fellow artisans. With our GuildMaster (FantasyClay) leading the way, we have access to helpful information on a forum and a blog. Being fairly new to the social networking world, I've found it quite helpful to have a place where I can ask questions and get support. <br />
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Here's a fantastic YCSI collection curated by FantasyClay. I think it really shows the diversity within our guild. <br />
<style>#widgetcont p{ padding:0; margin:0; } .title_brown, .title_brown a, .title_brown a:link, .title_brown a:active, .title_brown a:visited, .title_brown a:hover { color:#dfa754; font-weight:bold; }
.title_charc, .title_charc a, .title_charc a:link, .title_charc a:active, .title_charc a:visited, .title_charc a:hover { color:#333333; font-weight:bold; }</style><div id="widgetcont" style="background:url(http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/widget-bg-ltall-light-grey.png) no-repeat; width:484px; height:806px; margin:0 auto; padding:0 0 0 0;"><p class="title_charc" style="font-weight:bold; padding:100px 0 5px 0; text-align:center;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85">You Can Sell It</a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--8191_product_832030924_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--27756_product_1329673611_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--72987_product_625275024_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/9916_product_659304527_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--30000--10107_product_1317667967_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--52310_product_1510432709_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--49184_product_216017101_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/11117_product_1525746832_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--49184_product_895899102_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--60000--38475_product_2054528019_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--73057_product_57308063_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><p style="width:140px; height:140px; text-align:center; float:left; padding:10px 0 0 15.5px; margin:0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img style="padding:0;margin:0;border:none;" src="http://static.artfire.com/admin/product_images/thumbs/--90000--69016_product_1024501018_thumb_crop.jpg" /></a></p><br style="clear:both;" /><p style="width:350px; float:left; text-align:left; padding:4px 0 0 15px;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=collections&op=details&cid=85"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/view-collection-button.png" width="154" height="43" alt="View This Entire Collection" title="View This Entire Collection" style="border:none;" /></a><br /> <a class="title_charc" title="Curated By: FantasyClay" style="font-size:11px; font-weight:normal;" href="http://www.artfire.com/users/FantasyClay">Curated By: FantasyClay</a></p><p style="width:85px; float:left; text-align:right; padding:15px 15px 0 0;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com"><img src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/my_collections/images/artfire-logo-dark.png" width="69" height="24" alt="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" title="Buy and Sell Handmade on ArtFire.com" style="border:none;" /></a><br /><a class="title_charc" style="font-size:11px; font-weight:bold;" href="http://www.artfire.com">ArtFire.com</a></p></div><div style="clear:both; text-align:center; font-size:12px; font-weight:bold;"><a href="http://www.artfire.com/media">Craft Tutorials</a></div><br />
Here's the YCSI blog, always great information to be found. Be sure to check out our challenges as well.<br />
<a href="http://youcansellit-artfire.blogspot.com/2010/08/new-toy-on-artfire.html">YCSI Blog</a>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-82071176881541815382010-07-29T10:53:00.000-04:002010-07-29T10:53:33.257-04:00Setting aside time to create.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>As someone who has a "regular" day job, I know how hard it is to find time to create. Plus you have all the work of running/co-running a household. It's tough sometimes to walk away from whatever I'm doing around the house to go work on jewelry, etc. Luckily I have a supportive husband who encourages me to "go work when the creative urge strikes" me, while he finishes the chores. <br />
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Still, that's not always enough. So what I've started doing is setting a time that I must stop working around the house, running errands, etc. For me, as a night owl, 11:30 pm is the cut off. Anything after that is my RockBug time. I usually put something on for background noise and get to it. <br />
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I've found that it's easy to put pressure on yourself to create but it just doesn't work that way. Some nights, I sit amongst my supplies and nothing happens. That's ok though! If nothing else, you've set aside time for yourself. When you're new, as I am, you don't want your creations to feel like a chore. I know that my work reflects it when I'm excited about working.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwq_529kDs5gNfxs-oUzCAFZtAEApA7rb1_h-ES86316GPaJ9s-d6Q4I9gdgI8cr9kUvtKdyljjZmJYSvyhYVPECF0_5Z9Lq0UiSUIFXVpoBRhLzDPB1yaNirauksYDQLRUVMgUj-tL0/s1600/IMG_2411.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwwq_529kDs5gNfxs-oUzCAFZtAEApA7rb1_h-ES86316GPaJ9s-d6Q4I9gdgI8cr9kUvtKdyljjZmJYSvyhYVPECF0_5Z9Lq0UiSUIFXVpoBRhLzDPB1yaNirauksYDQLRUVMgUj-tL0/s320/IMG_2411.JPG" /></a></div>The above picture is a piece that I laid out and tweaked a hundred times before finishing it. RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-45702690079096087242010-07-23T12:22:00.000-04:002010-07-23T12:22:22.353-04:00Certified Handmade Artifact<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.artfire.com/modules/Shop/images/certified-handmade-badge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://static.artfire.com/modules/Shop/images/certified-handmade-badge.jpg" /></a></div>I'm excited to announce that after an extensive vetting process, RockBug has been awarded a Certified Handmade Artifact by Artfire. I want to share a little about the process and what it means to me.<br />
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To be eligible for this artifact your studio must contain only handmade items (no supplies, etc.), you must not have not have any disputes or customer complaints, your studio must be complete with policies and a bio. These 2 are the most important requirements, in my opinion: You must provide pictures of your workspace and of works in progress for all categories that you list in and you must provide detailed explanations of how you make your pieces. I think I submitted around 10 photos with my explanations. <br />
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It seemed daunting at first but once it was all done, I felt empowered and confident about my work. This artifact means a lot to me, it proves that I'm willing to go the extra mile to make sure my customers feel confident that my items are made by me. The Artfire community and staff has been a supportive and helpful place for me, especially as a fairly new artisan. I'm proud to be a part of it.RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-31164138020363558812010-07-09T17:40:00.000-04:002010-07-09T17:40:35.699-04:00Boy, it's hot!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksfZFnGzctf8FzF8w9DZznhrAdJzZNplmMOJz84el_7nNOLat6I3flBjfVZrUoAmUzRUSn6mKTGeaaMsBCCsGEbWqNb0A6sL0fF8Wza1pbm7tCPkQtb4pEQYBWu0nkGRYnC5I_AIv76c/s1600/IMG_2288.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksfZFnGzctf8FzF8w9DZznhrAdJzZNplmMOJz84el_7nNOLat6I3flBjfVZrUoAmUzRUSn6mKTGeaaMsBCCsGEbWqNb0A6sL0fF8Wza1pbm7tCPkQtb4pEQYBWu0nkGRYnC5I_AIv76c/s320/IMG_2288.JPG" /></a></div><br />
It's HOT out lately and everyone is feeling it. Even the pigs are sick of the heat and want some cooler weather. Kumar loves to stretch out and nap in a sun beam but we have to block out some of the sun on hot days. I change out their water a few times a day to keep it fresh and cool. We spend a lot of time making sure everyone is comfortable. <br />
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Rockford's trips outside are quicker and we're watching his water intake. It's no fun walking around in 95 degrees. Most days, you can find him sleeping on his chair enjoying the a/c. <br />
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Here's hoping for cooler days! In the meantime, we'll be enjoying some cold cocktails...indoors.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinbubIZDdZmvRqAWNBXoEWOAxCb_-76K34f79rAaSE1azz5mpWAmUqDTSUKTM7r-F2lCHii3SNIJCg2QghS07RbJc_kWtyKuCmKK3tKqrgqEih6z8dGH8y2o2kuRksOMZLNV8qYHmb6-c/s1600/IMG_2275.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinbubIZDdZmvRqAWNBXoEWOAxCb_-76K34f79rAaSE1azz5mpWAmUqDTSUKTM7r-F2lCHii3SNIJCg2QghS07RbJc_kWtyKuCmKK3tKqrgqEih6z8dGH8y2o2kuRksOMZLNV8qYHmb6-c/s320/IMG_2275.JPG" /></a></div>RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5760221275833849237.post-17710194118300387812010-07-06T12:14:00.000-04:002010-07-06T12:14:20.829-04:00Christmas in July sale 7/12-7/25Geesh, seems like all my entries lately are about sales! This one is on Artfire. There will be a sale going on July 12-25 over there. I will have my entire studio 10% during this sale. It's a great chance to get a jump on your holiday shopping while supporting handmade. Click on the ad to the right to visit my studio. <br />
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If you'd like to check some of the other fantastic artisans participating in this event, go to the Artfire "Christmas" trend page. You can search within that trend to find some great deals on some truly unique items. RockBughttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06136110079053048979noreply@blogger.com0