Maudies

Challenging Myself

2012-02-29T20:01:00.000-06:00

Ok, my family and several of my friends think I am kinda crazy because of some of my material choices for my jewelry. Well, I decided to challenge myself and have people give me suggestions of ordinary, commonplace items that I would manipulate into jewelry. I am going to give myself a maximum of one week to complete the piece. My own Project Accessory so to speak. I am going to have my first challenge starting this Friday, March 2nd. I put up a post on Facebbok and so far my friends have made several suggestions. This is the list so far:
Toilet paper
Beer bottle caps
Tops from toothpaste tubes
Old jewelry
Buttons
Tee shirts
Empty spool of thread
Tic tac box
Golf tee
Baby's shoe
Broken CD
Circuit board
Old radio parts

Please feel free to add more. I am open to suggestions!

Week one will be Toilet Paper from my friend Lisa. I already have an idea for this so check back Friday and I will start the process. I will add pictures along the way!

See you soon!
Ann

Modern Industrial

2012-02-25T12:41:00.001-06:00

I have been playing again! So many ideas and so little time!

Modern Industrial Ring from Maudies Handcrafted Jewelry

Side View of Maudies Industrial Ring

Maudies Modern Industrial Pendant

Maudies Modern Industrial Pendant Sideview

Using a Christmas Gift

2011-12-27T21:18:00.000-06:00

I was so excited to get a Micro Torch from my wonderful husband. I have been playing most of the day in my studio and finished a couple things. These are a couple things I finished.

I had some heavy sterling wire, a tube and a broken pendant . . . . and Viola!

I am so happy with my first attempt.
After a bit of pounding, rummaging through some "treasures" I made another ring using a penny, sterling wire and ball bearings. I like the esthetic but the best part is that is SPINS!! WooHoo!

I can't wait to get back to it again tomorrow!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T14:35:00.002-06:00

Merry Christmas and I hope that this holiday season has brought you many blessings!

Art Piece

2011-11-25T09:00:00.000-06:00

Okay, I have to say that this is a bit out of the ordinary, or way out but I absolutely love this!
An art piece!

Automotive / Hardware Line ?

2011-11-08T17:53:00.000-06:00

We I have been busy making lots of pretty things and then I went to the hardware store with my husband and found these clips and got some of my "junk" out and came up with these.

I think the fuse necklace might work as a men's chain? Not sure.

Project Accessory

2011-10-28T21:02:00.000-05:00

I just finished watching "Project Accessory". I think it is going to be a good show. I thought it was kind of interesting how some of the designers really struggled with using materials that traditionally are not used for jewelry. It is a bit easier to use precious silver, gold and precious stones to make pretty things than household items. Wonder what will be next?

Heli Earrings

2011-10-25T11:29:00.000-05:00

Well, it is official. I will use pretty much anything in my jewelry designs. My husband flies remote control helicopters and I took some of his used pieces and parts and incorporated a couple pieces into these earrings.

I like these so much, I don't know if I can bear to part with them!

I am also working on a truly one of a kind necklace using shards of handpainted porcelain! You will have to wait to see it!

Maudification Upcycle Get Together

2011-10-21T08:56:00.001-05:00

I was fortunate to have been invited by a small group of ladies to have a Maudies Upcycle party. They brought some of their old broken, unused jewelry and I had a great time "maudifying and upcycling" them into something new for them. It was so much fun.

This is one of the projects. One of the ladies had a broken watch, a pair of earrings, a broken necklace and I had a pin made of tulle.

From this collection of goodies, I maudified those pieces into this pendant!

Perfect for the Indy 500 Racefan!!!

I plan on having more of these, so if you are interested, please contact me! Groups and individuals are welcome to contact me. I will be available at the Speedway Centre for the Arts to do a Maudies Upcyle event or other venue if you prefer. Just give me a shout!

New things!

2011-10-02T12:49:00.000-05:00

Here are some new items I just finished this weekend.

New Lines

2011-09-10T21:14:00.000-05:00

Well I am in the process of making 3 new jewelry lines. This is some of the newest in my Maudification Line. These are in just of few of the ones that I am working on right now.

Update

2011-09-04T22:06:00.000-05:00

It has been a long time since I have paid attention to my blog! I guess it about time to put a new post up. I have been very busy with the Speedway Centre for the Arts. It is our community's program to expand the Arts and it has been very fun. I have met some wonderful people that I had no idea lived so close and were so talented!

I am busy making all kind of jewelry and very happy to say that one of my creations will be in one of upcoming issues of Belle Armoire Jewelry magazine! I am sooo excited. I have always loved the Stampington magazines and never dreamed I would be able to be in one. Check out a bit of the current issue http://www.stampington.com/bellearmoirejewelry.

Here are a few items I just finished up.

I am starting to go back and make styles I have always liked but stopped making for some reason. I love the mixed media pieces and eclectic one of a kind bracelets and necklackes. I have always collected bits of odds and ends and old pieces and parts! I am back to using them again. Getting back to my true style.

Earrings

2011-03-13T13:45:00.000-05:00

I have been in an earring state of mind lately! Here are a few that I am getting ready to list.

When will it be Spring?????

2011-03-08T07:39:00.000-06:00

Okay, I am done with winter, cold weather and clouds. This winter has been pretty hard on everything this year I think. Tons of snow, more ice than I can remember and COLD! Now the temperatures are slower rising but now we are having lots of rain. Thankfully we have not had any personal water issues with flooding but I know that is not the case with so many people.

My latest creations are a reflection of what I have been feeling!!! These are some of the lampwork beads I made yesterday.

And I got in the mood to start some of my purses . . . . .

Or maybe two . . . . . .

I am making one with stripes and one freeform.

Time to Consolidate!

2011-03-07T08:39:00.000-06:00

Life is so hectic and busy for everyone these days and our family is no exception. I have decided at least for one part of my life, I am going to consolidate! Social media is such a great thing but WOW if can take up so much time and effort! Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Blogs!!! Phew! I give up. I am not doing them very well. SO . . . . . . . . . . . . my idea is to concentrate on my blog. I have left this totally alone for a long time and it needs attention!

I am so fortunate to have my jewelry in two shops. One is Salon Noveaute in Plainfield Indiana, http://www.salonnouveaute.com/

and the other is Autumn Whispers in Mooresville, Indiana, http://www.autumn-whispers.com/retailer/store_templates/shell_id_1.asp?storeID=38C5EB850FEC4969BF31F4739360469D

I am also selling my lampwork beads on Etsy. I am going to try Ebay too.

I have been knitting a bit also. My niece just had a baby and has a 4 year old daughter so I made the baby some knitted animals and the 4 year old a doll with a dress.

Today is a day for creating! So off I go.

The Shoe Collection is Complete!

2010-09-22T19:57:00.000-05:00

Well I have finished up the horseshoe project for my friend. She said she needed some shoes decorated! They are all finished now!

So Proud!!!

2010-09-21T13:52:00.000-05:00

I am so proud and excited! A friend of mine I met through cyberspace told me about a Trash to Treasure contest on Facebook from Happy Mango Beads, . I revamped one of my necklaces and entered it. SO many great designers had entered the contest. There were several categories and one grand prize winner. I am happy to announce that I won the Heavy Metal category! YEAH!!!! so excited! If you would like to vote for the People's Choice, ck it out here: http://www.facebook.com/HappyMangoBeads#!/photo.php?pid=6702144&id=76049058528&ref=fbx_album&fbid=477074193528 I would love your vote!!!

I have made several trash to treasure pieces in my time and am having so much fun with them, I plan on making many more! I think I will call the line "Maudifications"!

I am also working on a "Maudification" for my friend! Not finished yet but in the works!

My Niece's Wedding

2010-08-08T12:09:00.002-05:00

My niece got married last night and the ceremony was absolutely beautiful! She asked me at make her earrings for her bridesmaids and I was so honored to do that for her. She came up with what she wanted and I just created her vision.

Here are a couple of my other nieces wearing them! Aren't the girls beautiful? I will post a pic of the bride soon!

It was so fun to make these and I know I will make more, just just different beads and colors. All the bridesmaids told me that they were so excited to have jewelry that they could wear everyday, not just on fancy occasions.

I think doing custom bridal sets is probably one of my favorite things to do. Whether they are all identical or a coordinated set, they are so fun to make. It also gives me a great sense of satisfaction to be able to help share in a bride and groom's special day.

Special Gift from a Friend!

2010-07-10T12:40:00.000-05:00

Through my jewelry and lampwork beads I have had the good fortune to meet some wonderfully talented artists and a few have become someone I can call a friend. This is the case with Holly McCoin. I meet Holly at a bead store several years ago and now I am happy to say she is my friend. She is a very talented fiber artist. Both of our birthdays are in July and she surprised me with an early birthday present. To say the least I was shocked to receive such a beautiful gift. I had to share it with all of you.

And here it is, my Maudies Bag!

This is the back:

Her details are amazing! It is so much prettier in person than what I am able to photograph but here are some close ups.

She is selling purses on Etsy at www.etsy.com/shop/holly8 . I am proud to say this fabulously talented woman is my friend.

Starry Night Earrings

2010-06-15T20:01:00.000-05:00

I have met such wonderful talented people through my beads on etsy and Twitter! I wanted to share these gorgeous earrings that were created by Kym of Heavenly Creations. She has set off these beads and made them divine!

I happen to just love these! Check out all of Kym's other Heavenly Creations at http://www.etsy.com/shop/HeavenlyCreationsPgh

Feature on Heavenly Creations Blog

2010-06-01T10:12:00.000-05:00

I have met such wonderful and talented people through my beads and jewelry. Many of them I have become acquainted with through Twitter and in the Blog world as well as those in the "real" world. All of them treasures. A wonderfully talented jewelry designer who sells her creations at her Etsy store, has featured my lampwork on her blog! I am so honored!

Please take a minute and check out her blog at http://heavenlycreationspgh.blogspot.com/2010/05/fabulosity-maudies.html.

Then make sure to visit her etsy shop at http://www.etsy.com/shop/HeavenlyCreationsPgh. She makes divine jewelry!

Special Necklace for Myself

2010-05-29T21:38:00.000-05:00

My husband had gave me this watch which was made from a gold coin and was a special family piece. He asked that I made something with it since it didn't work anymore. I have had it for quite awhile but did not quite know what to do with it until today! What do you think?

I had to add a lampwork bead of mine and all sorts of great things! I am very happy with how it turned out. I think I will do more of this type of jewelry and see what happens.

What do you think about my Shoes?

2010-04-30T15:21:00.000-05:00

Well I mentioned previously that I was asked to do something with some shoes. I wasn't told what kind of shoes just that a friend was bringing some to me along with a picture of something she had seen.

At first, I was thinking regular shoes that you walk in. I have seen people do me amazing work decorating a pair of pumps or totally transforming Converse. That was not at all what I have been asked to use.

Low and behold I was given a bag of HORSESHOES! And this is my first decorated shoe!

This particular horseshoe is very old. It came out of barn in Maine. I have some newer ones that are smaller and I have some ideas for those which are a bit different from this one.

Just goes to show you that ANYTHING can be changed into something new with some wire and beads!

A Little Bit of Steam Punk

2010-04-20T20:27:00.000-05:00

A good friend asked me to make her sister a necklace that had watch parts on it. So Steam Punk it is!

I have made several small pieces over the years and just love them. Each is special and unique.

I have another interesting commission I am working on but it is taking me a bit of time to figure out exactly what I am doing. I will post a picture when I am finished. I will tell you that it has something to do with Shoes! Hummmm. What could it be!

Baby Knits!

2010-04-18T11:27:00.000-05:00

I love to knit baby things! They are so cute, quick to knit and they are worn by sweet little angels who I love to hold. One of my friends just had a baby this weekend! YEAH!!! She had a little boy and another friend is a photographer who wanted some photo props. Here is what I made for baby Max.

A sweet little hat!

This is a papoose that the baby is put in to have their picture taken!

As much as I love little baby boys, little baby girls are have much more frills so I made a girlie version also.

Love to add flowers to hats!

Another version of the papoose!

I also had to make these sweet little booties!

Now I need to find a little baby girl!

Coral Reef is Coming Along

2010-04-11T20:46:00.000-05:00

Saturday a group of us from the Crochet Guild got together and started putting the reef together so we can have an idea of what we are doing for the Indiana State Museum. Right now we have over 600 pieces of coral that has been made by people from all over the state. Libraries are getting involved, girl scout troups, fiber groups and any crocheter who is willing to help. We still need more but I think we will get enough.

We covered baskets with batting and felt than added the crocheted coral pieces. The result was so exciting! I am amazed by the creativity of the people involved. Besides the coral, we have crocheted fish, shells, sharks, anemones, jellyfish and lots more!

This is such a small part of what the entire reef will be like! Can't wait to see this amazing community creation when it is finished!

Custom Order Lampwork

2010-04-10T09:22:00.000-05:00

Thought I would share some of my Signature Beads that I made for a friend as a custom order. She makes the most wonderful felted purses. I am trying to get her to put them on Etsy and let the world have access to her beautiful work. Her name is Holly and if you every see a "It's A Holly" purse, that is her.
Anyway she needed some lime green and hot pink lampwork to go on her latest creation. Here is what I came up with and I will post her bag when she is finished.

Magnola In Bloom

2010-04-06T10:33:00.000-05:00

My neighbor has a beautiful Magnola tree that is in full bloom. Yesterday right before a thunderstorm went through, I ran out to grab a few pictures. I am not a photographer but I really like these and wanted to share them.

My Constant Companion

2010-04-05T13:15:00.000-05:00

We have three dogs, yes, three. We have had a little black pomeranian and a black minature dachschund for the past few years and were completely happy with our little pups. Well, this past September an abandoned 9 week old Boxer puppy came into our lives. He had no tags, chip or collar. His belly was bloated from eating out of trash cans and he had a few little patches of puppy mange. After some TLC, good food and some meds, I am happy to say he is still with us and is a fabulous dog.

The pomeranian (Bentley) has always been "my" dog. He lays close by me most of the time. The dachschund (Daisy) is the "diva", in charge, and is my husband's constant companion. The new boxer (Ducati, Duke for short) has fit in wonderfully. The curious thing is Duke is now with me ALL the time. He follows me into my glass studio and watches from the doorway while I make my beads. He lays at my feet while I am at my desk. He sits on the floor by the couch if I am reading or watching TV. He is in the kitchen while I am cooking. Everywhere I go, there he is! So I was thinking about a blog post and you guessed it, there he was looking at me so I decided to share a cute picture of my Boxer buddy!

Isn't he just adorable!!! Don't know how anyone could have let him go, but we are grateful they did!

Twitter

2010-03-22T11:20:00.000-05:00

I have been trying to grow my lampwork bead business so in February I decided to do my Bead giveaway. I signed up several months ago for a Twitter account. I looked around, sent a couple tweets and then was done with it. I thought, this is not for me, I don't get it, etc. But how was I going to get the word out about my giveaway? So..... I tried Twitter again. Well it has been about a month now and I am so happy I gave it another chance! I have meet such wonderful, talented, nice people. Most are so helpful and generous with their support and knowledge. I was able to give 12 people some of my beads and many have send me pictures of their wonderful creations using my beads. I could not have been happier and will do it again!

I am selling my beads on Etsy and have found a great community of artisans that use Twitter also. called World Wide Etsy Sellers. Please visit http://www.worldwideetsysellers.blogspot.com/ to see about this group of artists!

Now I am getting traffic to my Facebook Fan Page also! More to come on that.

I am so thankful for having the opportunity to associate with a group of like minded people who are up beat, funny, supportive, creative and above all talented. So if anyone out there is not on Twitter, I strongly suggest you try it. It isn't for everyone but it definitely for me.

Thanks to all of you out there in Twitterland!

Lampwork Giveaway Designs from the Winners!

2010-03-07T15:04:00.049-06:00

The lampwork beads have been sent to the winners and now I have started receiving pictures of the beautiful jewelry the talented artists have made.

The talented jewelry designer from Ck Silver made these earrings with her lampwork beads. I really like the larger wire loop on the bottom.

You can find more of her sterling silver jewelry for anytime and anyplace at http://www.etsy.com/shop/cksilver

This fabulous fob was created by TJB Designs. Not only did she made the fob, she make her own tansels, yes you read that correctly, she makes her tansels!

You can find more of her work at
http://tjbdesigns.etsy.com

The talented jewelry designer from MAB Jewelry made this pretty necklace and also posted a bit about my giveaway on her blog.

Her blog is http://www.mabjewelry.blogspot.com/
Check out her etsy shop and blog at http://www.etsy.com/shop/MABjewelry

This necklace was created by the wonderful jewelry designer at CinLynn Boutique. She has really showcased the beads. Thanks and great job!

You can find more of her pretties at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/CinLynnBoutique

This "Rain Forest" necklace was created by the talented Weebeader. I think she did a wonderful job with this!

You can find more of her lovely work at http://www.etsy.com/shop/weebeader

These beautiful earrings are the work of Jennifer Lynn Studios. She has done a lovely job of accenting the orange colors with the copper.

Find these and more of her designs at http://www.etsy.com/shop/jenniferlynnstudio

This beautiful bracelet was created by the talented artist from Sister Jewelry. She did a fabulous job of bringing out all the colors of these unusual beads.

You can find more of her designs
http://www.artfire.com/users/sisterjewelry.

I will continue to post more designs as I receive them. I am so impressed with the beautiful work these artists have created!

Crochet Reef Project

2010-03-06T07:18:00.002-06:00

Today I am going to meet with the lady who is coordinating the Hyperbolic Crochet Coral Reef project that will be exhibited at the Indiana State Museum this fall. It is so exciting to be a part of this endeavor. I have made several pieces for it and then I decided that I want a "mini" coral reef for myself! And since I am not a very skilled crochetist (is that even a word?) crocheter (probably better, anyway) and I am a lampwork artist, I decided to make some fish to go along with my reef! This is what I have come up with. I think it turned out pretty well.

This picture was taken when the cover had been removed so there is no glare.

Now with the cover on.

Then close ups of my lampwork fish. I just love these little cuties!

Winners

2010-03-01T13:29:00.009-06:00

These are the winners of my first Lampwork Giveaway! Congrats to all of you and I cannot wait to see what you will make with these beads!! Thanks for participating!

Vicki Robinson of Glass River Jewelry #19

Divarouge #12

Palimsessed Accessories #13

CinnLynn Boutique #20

Diane of Weebeader #7

Sister Jewelry #16

Heather An

Jennifer Lynn

Metal Rockss

MAB Jewelry

Tommye of TJB Designs

Devin of OooohShiny

Congratulations to all of you!

GIVEAWAY HAS NOW BEGUN

2010-03-01T07:31:00.000-06:00

My Lampwork Giveaway has officially now begun! Good luck to all and hope you get the ones you want!

LAMPWORK BEAD GIVEAWAY!!!!

2010-02-26T06:48:00.009-06:00

Here are the bead sets that will be given away on Monday!

#1 (no longer available)

#2 (no longer available)

#3 (no longer available)

#4 (no longer available)

#5 (no longer available)

#6 (no longer available)

#7 (no longer available)

#8 (no longer available)

#10 (no longer available)

#11 (no longer available)

#12(no longer available)

#13 (no longer available)

#14 (no longer available)

#15 (no longer available)

#16 (no longer available)

#17 (no longer available)

#18

#19 (no longer available)

#20 (no longer available)

Starting Monday, March 1, 8:00am Eastern time, these beads will be given away to 20 lucky people. If you are a jewelry designer or artist or anyone who would like to use my beads in a creative way, post a comment with the set number you would like and I will send them to you.

Free.

The only thing I ask is that you send me a picture of what you have created with them within 60 days. I will post the pictures on my website giving each artist credit for their work and their contact information.

The beads will be given in the order of receipt of the comments. I will post the recipients and the beads they will receive on the blog. Once this is posted, I will have them send me an email with the address they would like the beads to be delivered to. One set per person please.

I am doing this because I have been making jewelry for several years and recently have really gotten into making lampwork beads and want to put all my focus into them. So, I want to spread the word! Right now my website is a work in progress so I have a few things at my www.etsy.com/shop/maudies. If you have an Etsy store, I will also post your creations in a gallery on my shop with your information.

For those of you that are not familiar with lampwork beads, they are glass beads which I make by melting glass onto a steel rod that is coated with a release. The beads are annealed in a digitally controlled kiln for strength and durability. Then cleaned of all bead release. I hope to post a video of making a bead soon but unfortunately my video camera is not working at this time.

Remember to check back on March 1st!!!!!

Have a creative day! Ann

Lampwork Bead Giveaway Coming Soon!

2010-02-16T20:26:00.005-06:00

I am giving away Lampwork Beads!!!

On March 1, 2010, I will post pictures of 20 sets of my lampwork beads. If you are a jewelry designer or artist or anyone who would like to use my beads in a creative way, post a comment with the set number you would like and I will send them to you.

Free.

Remember to check back on March 1st!!!!!

Have a creative day! Ann

Hyperbolic Crochet

2010-01-15T20:41:00.000-06:00

I have been introduced to a new technique (at least to me) called hyperbolic crochet. It is so fun and you get to create some wild looking things. This is the link that explains all the background of this, complicated math stuff that I could not try to explain if my life depended on it! www.theiff.org We are going to have a hyperbolic coral reef display at the Indiana State Museum this fall. A friend hooked me up with this group of crocheters who are making all the pieces that will make the display. I am hooked on making these and I took some pictures of some of my fish. I think they turned out pretty good.

Remembering

2010-01-12T10:29:00.001-06:00

Today would have been my mom's 92ndt birthday. I think about her everyday but on special days she is more in the forefront of my thoughts. I know she would be so proud of what her grandchildren have accomplished in the past two years she has been gone. What makes me sad is that my children did not get to experience her when she was younger. Since I was a late addition and then I didn't have babies until I was in my thirties, she was late 70s when they were born. I know she is watching over them though. She is with me everyday also. We are so fortunate to still have my dad with us. He is active and involved. Blessed are we.

Knitting

2010-01-05T10:49:00.000-06:00

Since it is so cold outside, I am in the knitting mode. I knitted this fun scarf using pom pom yarn. I thought about doing the entire scarf with it, but changed my mind. I love the yarn that the scarf is made of. Totally my color palette.

I also finished the body of a knitted purse. I put a leather piece through it and put some of my lampwork as accents on the tails. I think it looks pretty good. Now comes the lining. I am not sure if I will line it with jeans or use some fabric. Hummm. I will let you know.

A friend told me about a project she going to be involved in making hyperbolic planes. It is pretty cool way of crochet. I think it can be done in knitting also, but I am going to try this. This is a link to the website that she told me about. http://www.theiff.org/oexhibits/05b.html. I think I am going to do some investigation and see what I can find out!

Back to the Routine

2010-01-04T08:55:00.000-06:00

Well, tomorrow the kids go back to school and I will go back to my routine with a few changes.
There are several things that I know I need to do but just can't seem to get to doing them. This is the time I AM going to change that. I have started a One Year Success Plan so help me get my goals actually down on paper along with motivation and lots of other things. First thing on my list is being at a good weight and being healthy. I worked out this morning and got something out of the freezer for dinner tonight. (Cooking dinner is one of those things that I struggle with! It is really not the cooking itself, it is the figuring out what to cook. My family's usual suggestion is "Whatever you want to fix". Ugh.) Anyway, that is another topic. So cooking more at home is second goal. That is enough for this week I think of those kind of goals. Next, are my business goals. Those are going to take a bit of thinking to actually put those down on paper. So that is going to be my focus today.

I did start on one of my purse ideas last night. I think it is going to turn out pretty nice. I ran out of the pretty thread I was using, so I couldn't finish the "material" but this will give you an idea of what I am thinking. I got a great deal on some beautiful ribbon and wasn't quite sure what I was going to do with it but I knew I would figure out something.

So, I am weaving them together and sewing a random pattern on the plain color square. I wanted to give it some stability and wasn't sure that fusible webbing would be good with all the metallic thread in the ribbon. I have some buckram that I will make the purse form out and line it with a pretty gold fabric that just happens to be a dinner napkin! Well, for now that is my plan but things could change and probably will!

I also have a knitted purse in the process of being completed along with an idea using old Itunes cards. I will post those when they are completed. In the winter time I am much more inclined to do purses and such then in the warm months. Funny, wonder why that is? As you can see, I do need some focus or my creativity will take over, lots of things get started but nothing gets completed! I have so many ideas running through my head that it gets a little crazy sometimes! That is another reason for the goal & success plan! Okay, so off I go! So, I have my coffee, off I go to get goal setting and creating! Here's to harnessing creativity into something productive!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!

2010-01-01T09:26:00.000-06:00

I can't believe it is January 1, 2010. That sounds llike it should be way off in the future, but it is not! It is here now! Today marks a new year of goals for myself personally and professionally. And I can't wait! Today is very cold out but the sun is shining and I am in a warm house with the family I love, so what could be better? Today is my father's 91st birthday. That is an achievement I must say. He and his girlfriend, who is 90 herself, are meeting us for a birthday lunch and then cake and ice cream later. I plan on being as active and alert as my dad is when I am his age.
Well, off I go to get some things done and wish every a very Happy New Year. Be safe, be happy and be prosperous!
Ann

2009 is coming to a close!

2009-12-30T14:46:00.000-06:00

I can hardly believe that 2009 is almost over. It has a been an eventful year, some good, some bad, some sad, some happy. It has been a time of transition both personally and professionally. Next year I am expecting great things to happen! 2010 is going to be a fantastic year for Maudies and my family. I can feel it! There is an energy in the air that you can almost feel! The children both have great things on the horizon for them as do my husband and I.

I am currently clearing out some of my Maudies inventory. Check it out http://www.maudies.net/- 40% off jewelry, scarves and purses! I am serious about finding new homes for some of my creations so I can have more space for the new!

This week between Christmas and New Years is a week I use to get rid of some of my clutter, make goals, think about what I want to create and enjoy family time.

So, my new spring jewelry collection is in the works, I haven't actually made anything yet, but I have some sketches done and my little brain is just full of ideas! I also will be back at my torch in the next couple weeks. Unfortunately the store that sold my lampwork here locally is going to have to shut it's doors next month. They have not faired well in the economic situation. So, I have lots of lampwork beads to use in my designs and to offer other creative types for their jewelry needs! I am in the process of posting them as we speak (or write or read whichever fits)!

I am also toying with an idea. In addition to my jewelry and lampwork which I love, I also have a passion or obsession if you will for purses! I absolutely LOVE them! I have made and sold many knitted ones and some fabric ones. They are very time consuming so I haven't done alot with them but with the new year, comes new ideas. I am going to make a limited edition purse collection of a small number of handbags which are unique and made from a variety of materials. My special project for the year!

All my goals inspired me to get my studio together and fix it up, so that is what I have been doing for the past few days. And to tell you the truth, it has turned out better than I had expected. My studio is in the basement, so light is in short supply. To remedy that situation, I painted a couple walls and cabinets and the difference is huge. I also have nasty carpet from the 70's. Orange and avocado green if you can imagine! Well, now is not the time to recarpet so I bought a pretty area rug to put down and now I just pretend that the yucky carpet is not there. I now have an office area (where I am working right now) and around the corner, my workspace for jewelry, then into another room for my torch and glass work. I am set now!
Mine may not look like those in the Where Women Create magazine, but for now it works for me.

Happy New Year and Happy Creating!
Ann

Rosaries

2009-10-25T09:44:00.003-05:00

Last year I made a couple rosaries for a friend of my father, and have started making them again. I think they are turning out very nicely if I do say so myself.

Season End

2009-10-24T15:10:00.002-05:00

Today was my son's last soccer game of the season. It was cold, muddy, windy and gray! Unfortunately we lost, but they played pretty well. We left this morning at 9:30 am and here it is after 4:00pm and we just got back! Those away games really eat up your day! I am spending the rest of the day in my studio creating!!!! I just got a lot of new goodies yesterday and I am excited to get some things made. I also am so excited about my new logo. A friend of mine has a daughter who is an artist and she designed it for me. I am so pleased. Well off I go!

And here's my new logo!!!! Isn't she fabulous.

Fall Break

2009-10-22T07:04:00.002-05:00

Today is the start of fall break for my kids and it hasn't started off so well. Our seventh grade son did not make the basketball team and he is devastated! He worked so hard and the coach didn't really give him much on why he didn't make the team. He is going through a life lesson stage and it is hard to watch. I just have to make sure that this passes and doesn't linger.

We are going to Bloomington to pick up some glass I ordered and have dinner with our nephew who is attending I.U. Our daughter wants to check out the campus also. It should be a wonderful day. The rain is supposed to hold off until this evening, so we are keeping our fingers crossed!

Christmas is Coming!

2009-10-20T20:32:00.006-05:00

I know, I know. I shouldn't be talking about Christmas yet, for heavens sakes, it is not even Halloween yet. But those of you who make things to sell for the holidays know that we have to start months ahead. I am really behind, but will try to catch up. I wanted to share my latest holiday creation that I took to Sanddollar Beads today.

I am also in the process of making little peppermint candies and light bulbs and trying my hand at snowmen. I usually don't do the holiday beads but they are awfully fun to do.

New Online Store and New Lampwork Vessels

2009-10-19T18:33:00.009-05:00

I have spent quite abit of time today on the computer. I have a new online store http://www.artfire.com/users/Maudies. I am hoping that it is successful. Any comments, concerns, suggestion, etc are greatly appreciated.

I am currently in a vessel making mood with my lampwork. These are my latest.

Look like I am in a BLUE mood also. I guess I didn't realize it until I see them all together. Oh well, I still like them.

Starting New Year Early

2009-10-18T10:26:00.004-05:00

Everyone has New Year's resolutions or at least they talk about them, most don't do much else with them, present company included. I have decided that I am not waiting until the new year to change the way I do some things. One of the things I am going to do is to post on my blog regularly, not every few months. Also I am going to make a few beads each day I am not at my day job, not doing tons once a week or so. I am going to make some jewelry each day I am not at my day job, instead of marathon creating.

Life gets kind of hairy sometimes and I feel that I am losing myself at times. Too many distractions. Ahhh, something shiny. . . . .Follow through has not been my strong point of my life, but I am going to change that. I see my son struggles with that also. Is it nature or nurture? Who knows, don't care, just need to work to resolve it.

Ok so to start off 3 things -- post every day, lampwork & jewelry each day when I am not working at the office. Sounds simple enough.

So today, blog-check, lampwork-check, jewelry-NEXT ON LIST!!!

Well now that I have kicked myself in the bum, I will share some things that are going on in my life.

We have a new addition to our family. It is yet another dog! Now we are up to 3 and have topped out on the animal limit. Daisy, the princess minature dauschund and Bentley, the proud pomeranian have a new roommate named Ducati (Duke, for short). We live close to the Indianapolis 500 and on the weekend of the Moto GP motorcycle race, my husband and kids found a stray 9 week old boxer puppy running around a busy intersection. They brought him home and we tried to find his owner for the week or so but none was found, so . . . . . needless to say, he is now part of our family. I do have to say he is the best puppy we have had so far. When we first got him at 9 weeks he weighed 16lbs, right now he is around 27 lbs at 15 weeks so he is on track to be a big boy!

These were taken right after he came to us. Sorry about the quality, they are a bit blurry. (my husband, the camera guy, would be appalled if he knew I was posting these!) Anyway, better ones to come when I download them to my computer. But this will give you an idea of our new beasty's precious face!

Long Time Gone

2009-10-17T07:56:00.003-05:00

Hello again! Yes, I have been gone a long time but I will be back very soon with a whole new look! I am in the process of making a bunch of changes and posting regularly. I hope to catch up with the bloggers I have lost track of and have ignored all these months. I am so sorry.
Look for me soon!
Ann

Sad but Happy

2009-06-07T17:23:00.002-05:00

I just got home from putting my 16 year old daughter on a plane to London, England!
She will be there for 2 days then off to France for 10 days and then to Italy for the final 5 days then returning home!
I am so happy she has the opportunity to do this but OH MY is this hard! Fortunately I know one of the other parents pretty well and have had almost 9 months to became acquainted with the other students and parents. But this is going to be very, very difficult!
I am left with my 12 year old son (who seems to need constant interaction) and my wonderful husband (who is having an even more difficult time letting his daughter go than I am!)
I will let you know how it goes. I have a feeling that the next 19 days will be like none other!

Another Step in Success

2009-06-01T07:58:00.004-05:00

I know it has been a while since my last post - I am going to get better at this!

As you know, I knit purses, create unique pieces of jewelry and make glass lampwork beads. Well, I am fortunate to say that all three of those endeavors have been going quite well. As of today, (well, technically tomorrow since they are closed Mondays) I will be selling my lampwork beads out of a local bead shop!

They have been gracious enough to give me a case to display and sell my little creations. I am so excited.

There is so much more to do!!! It is amazing how BIG that case is!

I also will be doing a local gallery walk fair in a great small town around here so that should be fun and I have a couple orders for my freeform purses.

I think that God is looking out for me and keeping me occupied since our daughter leaves for Europe in less than a week and will be gone for almost 3 weeks! I am excited for her, but also a little apprehensive. I think it has something to do with control issues and that parent thing!

Well off I go and hope that all is well with everyone out there in bloggerland. I haven't even checked in with anyone else's blogs lately either. Barbra Joan was so sweet and sent me an email to check up on me. Bloggers are great!

Will post again soon!

Mother's Day

2009-05-11T20:30:00.004-05:00

I had a wonderful day. I am so fortunate to have such a wonderful family. I received some beautiful flowers and I got a new wedding ring! It was a very good day.

I do miss my mom & mother-in-law even more on Mother's Day, but I just have to look at my kids to see both of them!

Just had to share the Jungle Cat!

Greeting Cards

2009-05-08T08:04:00.004-05:00

I found these greeeting cards I made back in 1999. I had completely forgotten about them. Thought I would share them. Maybe I will try my hand at doing these again. Now there are so many new products!

This card was made with stamps and colored pencils.

This one was made by freehand drawing leaves with a fine tip marker then filling in the colors on mulberry paper.
The stroller was made from paper I had made and cut out in the stroller shape.

The following two cards were made with magazine pictures, stamps, inks, you name it, then trimmed with copper strips.

Old Items Found

2009-05-04T19:06:00.004-05:00

About 4 years ago, when my parents moved into a retirement village, my husband and I bought their house from them. They were in their late 80's at the time and left everything that wasn't going with them. I wanted to share a few of the items I found back in some cabinets in the basement and in my mom's sewing cabinet.

Been Gone

2009-05-04T06:20:00.003-05:00

Spring is so busy around my house! I have not had time to do much computering at all. It may have to do with my time management skills also, but I am working on those.
I have been busy at my torch making beads, creating new pieces of jewelry, knitting up bags and baby clothes, along with scuttling kids back and forth to all their events, along with working at the dental office. Life is full and we are so fortunate.

Today is going to be a catch up day. I am going to take some pictures to post and visit all the blogs I have ignored for the past month. I am looking forward to seeing all the wonderful things everyone has been up to.

The Latest

2009-04-07T20:59:00.005-05:00

I am back! I have finally caught up after being sick and am so glad that is over! Thanks for the well wishes. You bloggers are great.

I have a new fasination called freeform knitting. I have seen it but wasn't sure how to do it but I ran across a book in a craft store called "Freeformations" by Jenny Dowde and now am hooked. I haven't had much time with it, but I will share what I have done so far.

Been down, but I'm back

2009-03-26T20:41:00.004-05:00

I have been dealing with a kidney infection. Yikes. I had no idea how bad that could be. Glad I am on the road to recovery. I will have new things up soon.

New Lampwork Necklace

2009-03-23T08:41:00.004-05:00

I have been asked to make a couple rosaries lately and that got me thinking. I took some single color beads I had made and created this 3 strand necklace. The beads are all made from different glass and I did not lay the beads out ahead of time. I just started putting things together and I think it came out pretty nice. I think it will look great with a simple white T.

I am also playing around with different ways to display my jewelry. I used a plain vase for this.

My first published piece

2009-03-21T12:14:00.004-05:00

Currently I am fortunate enough to have a project in Bead Unique Magazine, Spring 2009. It is my first project that I have had published and I hope it is not the last.

Life Guidelines for My Children

2009-03-20T07:59:00.000-05:00

When my daughter Victoria was born, I decided to start a list of things I wanted to teach her and share with her and put them into a journal for her when she graduated from high school. She is now coming to the end of her sophomore year and we have a 12 year old son now also and I have not even started that book! So, I got the list out and decided to post it and then start a journal. I have been so inspired by everyone's artwork I have seen. I think I need to finish my list first so I know who big a journal to get. My goal was to have 100, but I think that any number will be fine. I usually am not an even number person anyway, so 87 or 93 might work out just fine! I think I have 80 so far. I will be adding more to the online list as time permits. Please feel free to share any advice on my guidelines or on making the journal. I can use the help.

Sweater

2009-03-18T19:29:00.000-05:00

I am going to attempt to make a sweater for myself! I usually make small knit items that don't really call for a pattern. But I found a pattern and some yarn that is very nice, so I am going to try. I will post pics of my progress!

New Look

2009-03-17T21:08:00.000-05:00

Well, I decided to do a little customizing! Who knows, maybe I will decide to add a music gadget and get crazy.

Refurbished Jewelry & Purses in Progress

2009-03-09T20:02:00.000-05:00

Here is a few items I have been working on.

My friend wanted me to convert a pair of clip earrings

into a necklace and this is what I have come up with.

I am ready for spring and so are my purses! They will be ready soon and hopefully spring will be here soon!

Mom's Painting

2009-03-04T20:14:00.000-06:00

My mom passed away over a year and a half ago and I have really been missing her recently, more than normal. I think about her every day, but for the past few days, it has been making me sad. My mom was very creative and when I was little, she did some oil painting. My father has her favorite one but I was fortunate to find to find one stuck away in a closet after she passed away. It fits perfectly in our kitchen. Every day, I get to see something that she made with her own hands and that has a bit of her in it. I hope that when my children are all grown up and I am gone, they have something that I put a bit of myself in.

Lampwork Beads

2009-03-02T10:47:00.001-06:00

I am sharing another passion of mine, Lampwork bead making. I make glass beads with a torch and glass rods. It is so addicting and fun! It takes total concentration when I sit at my torch, I get totally absorbed in it. Currently I have a lampwork necklace in Bead Unique magazine Spring 2009. I was very fortunate to be included. I am posting some photos of some of my beads.

Cancer Cap

2009-03-01T18:14:00.001-06:00

I have made decision to post more frequently. I have been very sporadic and that is going to end. I enjoy the interactions too much to let it go by the wayside.
So........for the latest........
I started making a very soft hat for a gentleman that is going through chemo right now and is having trouble staying warm. When I started my business several years ago, I named it after my mother-in-law who passed away from ovarian cancer. So this will let me get started helping others who are going through that terrible disease.
I have never knitted with double pointed needles and have had some trouble. If any one has any tips I would greatly appreciate it!.
Anyway, I will let you know how it goes. If anyone has any easy caps patterns, I would be interested in them also.
Off to knit again.

Life is Good!

2009-02-22T21:54:00.000-06:00

I have been so busy lately running around, going to soccer games, meetings, selling jewelry, making purses, posting new items on my website and trying to get some laundry done. We have been crazy busy. I had my father over for dinner tonight and it made realize how good my life is. I am so thankful for all the good things in my life and all my family and friends. I am also so glad to be able to be busy. I wish the same for everyone else.

New A.R.T. Pendants

2009-02-17T20:59:00.000-06:00

Well I am having so much fun making my little pendants from my "junk"! Thought I would share my latest. Hope you like them!

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T09:10:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone has a wonderful Valentine's Day! Mark and I are going to enjoy a special dinner at home made by Victoria & Michael. Perfect! I am looking forward to it. I hope you also have a great day!

I bought a new camera recently to replace mine that was lost and posting some pictures I took. They are of our furry friends that share our home!

Christopher is the Cat, Daisy is the dacshund and Bentley the Pomeranian,

2009-02-10T19:17:00.000-06:00

Some new jewelry pieces I finished yesterday. They are all made from old watches, buttons, keys and some other great things I have collected.

A New Idea

2009-02-09T06:53:00.000-06:00

Things have been a little busy around my house lately but what is new with that? I love going to my children's events and will miss it so very much when they are gone from the house. Luckily I have a few more years before that happens! So for now, I am enjoying the music lessons, sports practices, games, and competitions.

I have been thinking a lot about my parents and in-laws recently. My dad is the only one left and it makes me sad. My parents had me later in life and they grew up in a much different environment that I have. They both lived through the depression without much. Because of that, they saved EVERYTHING and reused EVERYTHING. I think it is interesting how the following generations have become the total opposite and has been THROW AWAY generations. I am a mix of both. I definitely don't keep everything my parents did but I reuse a lot of things. Recycling, reducing waste, and reusing have become an environmental issue (an important one), but now I think people are looking at using things differently more because of economic reasons.

I have been an artist and crafter my entire life. That is just a part of me. Take that and add in my parents, I tend to look at things a little differently than some. For example, I look at an old watch and think about how I can take all the gears out make some interesting jewelry. That plastic display that is frosted on the back can be cut down into panels and a modern looking lampshade is born. My favorite jeans that are worn out and honestly too small would be great for a lining of a purse I was thinking about making with all that great clearance yarn I have downstairs! To tell you the truth sometimes I think it scares my family & friends on how my mind works. Nothing is safe.

So. . . . I have an idea and would like your opinion. I am thinking about writing a book about transforming discard items into great new things. Basically, writing down my ART items I have made and the ones still in my head. Ann's Recycled Treasures (my initials also). I have a small project in Bead Unique magazine currently, so that has given me a boost. It is a great feeling to go into a bookstore and see a magazine on their shelves and open it up and see your name and project in it. This would be a huge step for me.

Any thoughts?

Snowed In

2009-01-28T18:02:00.000-06:00

Well today was all about SNOW! Over 12 inches. My husband got stuck in our driveway so we dug out and stayed home! I took full advantage of the time and completed 2 knit bags.

The rectangular one is a little different from my usual style. I used a pattern from "Great Knitted Gifts" and reworked it a little. I never done a pattern before and it was not near as difficult as I thought. My daughter has claimed this bag and I am very complimented that she wanted it at all!

The second bag was just a quick bag I knitted up in the round, lined it with jeans and added an old belt for the strap. Recycled recycle! Ann's Recycled Treasures!

Stay warm and safe!

Quick Crocheted Scarves

2009-01-26T10:52:00.001-06:00

These scarves are a great way to use up your yarn stash and be as creative as you want with color & texture. They work up very quickly also. I am including instructions but be know that I am not a pattern writer and have a hard time myself following them, but I think I am up to writing these easy ones down.

I use 3 types of yarn, usually a plush thicker yarn for the center and working out into 2 finer yarns. I also use a large crochet hook so they are airy and not tight.

1. Make a loose chain as long as you would your scarf.

2. Single crochet the length of the chain, when you get to the end, continue around single crocheting along the other side of the chain stitches, completing a round.

3. Once you have completed both sides, switch to a different color & smaller yarn. This is were you start to get creative. For this round, double or triple crochet into each stitch, 2-3 times, depending upon your preference.

4. Once the second round is completed, change yarns to a fine soft yarn. (This is where the twisting starts to really shows). Single crochet into each stitch 3-5 times. Once you are back to the beginning, finish and hide your ends.

Each scarf is unique and depends on how much it curls on how many stitches are crocheted.

Another option is to single crochet the second round and on the third round, add 5 single crochets to each stitch. This gives a ruffle effect only to the edges with the full twisting.

I hope you like this.

2009-01-26T09:04:00.000-06:00

Recycled Jewelry

Lampwork bead jewelry

Knit Handbag with recycled jeans as lining and straps

New Endeavor

2009-01-26T08:36:00.000-06:00

I am new to the world of blogging, but finding it very inspirational. I am amazed by some of the creative people out there! I have always made things and worked with my hands. I can't remember when I didn't. I am so fortunate to be married to a great guy who indulges me in my creative endeavors. His mom is where I got the name of my business Maudies. Her middle name was Maude and she taught me how to knit. Here was something that I could take with me while I was waiting at soccer practices, viola lessons, carpools, anywhere. Well, I have been hooked from then on. Since I can't seem to keep my interests in one area, I got into making jewelry, which progressed into making lampwork beads. Now another interest is in progress~
When I was a kid, my father restored antique cars. At that time, to get parts for them, we would go to swap meets and flea markets. Those were not like most of them are now. The vendors had boxes of old rusty tattered & worn treasures! I thought I had found gold when I would find an old wooden box filled with old skeleton keys and who know what else! Recently I have run across some of my old treasures and they have rekindled that love of old & rusty again. I am transforming those now into little pieces of jewelry.

I thought this might be hard for me to write, but obviously it is not. I think this will be a wonderful journaling exercise. I am posting some of my creation and would love to know what you think.

Snow is supposed to be coming late tonight. It is dreary out and cold. Good day for knitting!