Just listed!!

This vintage glass cabochon necklace was just listed in my Zibbet store at http://zibbet.com/FacetsbyKathryn.

Cleaning Copper and Brass

When I do shows I am often asked, "How can I keep copper or brass shiny?" or "How can I clean copper or brass. There are many commercial products on the market to do this, but many kitchens already contain foodsafe, non toxic methods to clean these metals. Here are some of my favorites.

Equal parts salt and vinegar or salt and lemon juice

Mix together and put piece in.

Remove item from solution and wash in warm soapy water.

Dry thoroughly

You can use also soy sauce. I save the little packets you get with chinese food and put them in a small bowl.

Lastly, Mary a close friend I do shows with swears by ketchup.

All of the above methods are safe and can be put down the drain after use. Happy cleaning!

What is Zibbet?

At the end of last year I joined Zibbet, the latest entry into selling venues online. Even though I have not had any sales I really am liking this site. It is beautiful and easy to navigate as a seller. As most new sites that are in the beta stage they have many kinks to work out. Communication with the owners brings a quick personal response. It is growing and I am a premium seller who is committed to helping to make it grow.

Just finished this white vintage glass and sterling necklace yesterday. Features a pressed glass cabochon from the 1940's from Japan. I will be listing it in my Etsy store today.

Studio Reorganization

Ok, I've been working on getting my studio cleaned up and organized during the winter months. This included many trips to the dumpster and some serious cleaning. My studio shares my basement with the washer and dryer plus storage in in and every spot that is available. Finally got some shots of both the studio and how I organized my work area and supplies. Here is a before and after look at what my huge box of sterling, copper and brass wire and sheet looked like before and after the reorganization.

Before Shots

After Reorganization

Sterling Storage

Brass and Copper Storage

I'm in Craftgawker!!

I currently have six(6) photos that have been accepted on craftgawker. If you don't know about this site, check out the beautiful photos submitted by crafters and artist. Only the best get selected. Check them out at http://www.craftgawker.com/

All six of these items are currently available in my etsy store at http://www.facetsbykathryn.etsy.com/

TGIF, Fall Colors - American Beauty

Just listed today in my Etsy store. Sky blue simulated cabochon on a half round sterling band.
http://facetsbykathryn.etsy.com/

Here is my next shop item that coordinates with the Hot Fall Colors for 2010.

Red Jasper ring set in split sterling band, also available in my shop.

Have a happy weekend everysone!!

Just Finished, So Proud!!

I just finished these two rings and I am so pleased at how they came out! I've always loved turquoise and my new favorite stone is ocean jasper in all it's various colors. I have some more ocean jasper cabs to be made in to other pieces also. These two rings were just posted to my Etsy store.

http://facetsbykathryn.etsy.com/

Turquoise

Ocean Jasper

"The hazy, cloudless skies of Indian Summer. Leaves scurrying down the street before the wind. The cold shiver from an arctic blast. Indian Summer. The last warmth of the sun. Chilly mornings and glorious warm afternoons. The Harvest Moon. The Hunter's Moon. The Rainy Season. Dry corn stalks clattering in the wind. The touch of frost on grass and window pane. The smell of burning leaves."- Keith C. Heidorn

The next of the Fall Colors series - American Beauty