Ever Evolving, Just Love the New Pieces

I have been very busy working on all of the new techniques I learned with Tanya Veit of AAE Glass (aaeglass.com) this past January. I did take a couple weeks off to have me knee replaced, rehab went well needed to get back to the "cave" asap. 

Of the 5 new techniques I at first loved the "Picasso" style pieces, they look a bit like stained glass. Small pieces of dichroic glass fused, etched, shaped, fire polished and mounted on a decorative bail.

However, I have really grown to enjoy making the layered scenery pieces. These are very time consuming but well worth the effort. The process is four layers which requires; 5 firings, cut, shaped, fire polished and the addition of a decal, the finished product is amazing.

Next blog I will discuss the other techniques. I am finding it difficult to go back to the way I fired pieces before. I am really excited to see how well they sell at the shows.

Stay Tuned,
Deby

Preparing for Shows

Since I have decided or rather told to have knee replacement surgery the push for me to get new pieces made is even stronger. This weekend I started 15 pieces with 2 different processes; 6 Picasso style, 5 scenery pieces and 4 etched dichro. These should be done later this week. The Picasso and the etched pieces will be done tomorrow, the scene pieces have at least one more trip to the kiln.

My surgery is scheduled for March 20th and my first show is Hessler Street Fair exactly 2 month later. I'm hoping to be able to negotiate the stairs 2 weeks after surgery so I can get back to the cave. I won't be able to go back to work for at least 4 weeks. We moved my office downstairs so hopefully I'll get the thumbs up to go back by late April.

So that's what I'm up to now, preparing for Hessler and my knee surgery.

Stay tuned for new pictures as mom gets them done!

Stay Happy,
Deby

Deby's Designs Fused Glass Art - 2012 is My Year

I have started the year on a new quest for better and more artistic pieces. I took a class in January with Tanya Viet of AAE Glass ( aaeglass.com ) in Cape Coral Florida which has proven to be the jump start I needed. I have purchased a tile saw and upgraded my kiln to a programmable style and I love it. Everything I have done in the past was just practice for what I am starting to develop now. I look at glass differently and have discovered that there are endless possibilities to what I can create, my imagination and designs are limitless.

So now with my new enthusiasm for my art I will be blogging and bragging more so indulge me it will be a fun and fascinating journey.  

Here is a couple of pics of what I am doing:

Picasso Etched Dichroic Pendant

Scenery in Glass

Etched Dichroic Tree Pendant

Fusible Paint Heart Pendant

 New items posted weekly, please enjoy - I do!
Deby

Shows are fun and sometimes even profitable

If I make a bad choice doing a show that I am clearly not going to make much money I try to make the most of out.When you are given lemons, make lemonade - when a craft show gives you lemons, I make friends and contacts. I was told by a wise friend that if you are asked how you are doing at a show... always say fantastic no matter how good or bad sales are. Keep 'em guessing and keep it positive.

I had the best time with a lot of grand old dames (they called themselves that) this past weekend and actually made a bit of money. I honestly think it was because was positive and made everyone around me smile and laugh. I will be back next year just to see my grand old friends!

Next Saturday is Basket of Treasures at the Westlake High School and I am looking forward to putting a few more bucks in my pocket and hopefully make some new friends. My niece Olivia will be with me for the first time, I am hoping she takes to it and can help me from time to time.

Just bought the molds I need for coasters and candle holders and hope to start experimenting with them next weekend. Loving the new kiln, it does a super job!

Seriously considering going to the Glass Expo in Vegas next year, classes are really expensive but I think I would take away a lot of great information. We have friends there to my husband will have things to do while I learn new things, AND we can write it off... bonus.

All the best,
Deby

New and Improved Deby's Designs

2012 will be a year of changes, no more beaded items except for earrings. I am wanting to separate myself from all of the "beaders" and become more of an artist. Not that there is anything wrong with that, but anyone can string beads. I will miss it, but I will keep doing earrings, they are popular and my customers expect me to have them.
 
I just bought a new kiln, it is bigger and better so I am going to start making tiles, coasters and candle holders.

Shows abound.... I wasn't going to do "craft" shows this fall but I have found a couple where I should do well. Here is the list (check out my website for dates and addresses); 23rd Annual Harvest Holiday Craft show, Basket of Treasures, Fall into the Holidays Craft Show and Laurel School Holiday Art Festival. 

I have also been accepted as an artist for the Holden Arboretum's "Natures Harvest" show now through the end of December.

That's all for now, will try to blog weekly as long as I have something
interesting to report.

Glass is where it's at!
Deby

 

Busy in the Cave!!

Been a slow couple weeks as far as the shows go so I've been in the glass cave and the bead room creating new pieces. Custom monogram pendants are available in 2 sizes and 3 colors (red, white & black), check out my website or my Etsy.

The next show is the Olmsted Festival of the Arts on August 14th, from 10 - 4. Check out the link below for details: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Olmsted-Festival-of-the-Arts/121647741239965?v=info&sk=info

My next show is in North Canton Ohio, the 15th Annual North Canton Main Street Festival on August 20th & 21st, see the link for more details.  http://www.northcantonchamber.org/2011festivalschedule.htm

I will post September shows later, it is going to be my busiest month ever!!

I have also become a member of SRAJD which I am learning more about. 

 
 Don't Worry, Bead Happy!
Deby

Willoughby Artsfest

Tomorrow is the 20th Annual Willoughby (OH) Artsfest, I had applied for a couple years and finally got in this year, very excited. http://www.willoughbyareachamber.com/artsfest.html. The weather is going to be hot but nice and there are several watering holes and shops to duck into to get cooled off.

My next show is the North Olmsted (OH) Arts & Crafts Festival at the Frostville Museum grounds on Cedar Point Rd in the Cleveland Metroparks on August 14 from 10-5.  And the North Canton (OH) Main Street Festival on August 20 & 21, mom and dad will be in for this one!!!

Please check out my website and "like" us on Facebook.


Live, Love, Bead!
Deby

May the Shows Begin!!!

Count down to Hessler Street Fair, May 21 & 22 from 11:00 'til dusk both days. http://www.hesslerstreetfair.org/hna.html/ This is the event not to miss, it is so much fun and there is something for everyone. Lots of local artists, area musicians and awesome food.

I have lots of new pieces and cannot wait to set up and sell ,sell, sell!! Mention my blog and get $5 off a $20+ sale. I also have a $10 sale on over 50 items; pendants, earrings and pins.

Next show May 28th, Berea MayFest at Coe Lake (Berea, OH), details to follow.

Do it because you love it!!

Deby

Networking and Asking Questions

I have found that talking to other artists is the best way to improve and expand my horizons. I find it rather interesting how we all want to help each other succeed even though we are competing for the
same customers. Just this week I have reached across many miles, Queensland to be exact, and found a very interesting and wonderful glass artist. I also exchanged ideas with another glass artist that is quite successful on Etsy and she shared a lot with me to help improve my exposure. These are a couple of the reasons why I love what I do and enjoy sharing it with anyone that I can.

Do What You Love... Love What You Do!!

All the Best,

Deby

Busy Gearing Up for 2011 Shows

So far I am 5/5 on the shows and waiting for another 10+ responses, I have my tentative schedule listed on the website debysdeigns.net. May is already set up to be my busiest to date! I have decided to test my limits from east (Port Clinton) to west (Willoughby) and north (Hessler St.) to south (Medina) and all points in between. My mom had a mini show in Florida earlier this month with marginal success.

The wire wrapping has finally been tested and I would say not too bad for just getting started. So far I have done three pieces this several more to come.

My mom has been hard at work as usual, she actually works harder than I do taking pictures, refining pictures and monitoring both the website and the Etsy shop debysdesigns.etsy.com.

I am on my way to see mom and dad for a much needed week vacation next month. The plan is NO jewelry, but I highly doubt that will happen. LOL

That's it for now - make it a great day!
Deby

Happy New Year!!! from the Glass Cave.

So I am ready to have a great 2011 both personal and business. I started Weight Watchers on Monday and look forward to a healthier me this year. Tried out the new grinder and it is ready to help me create some new pretties.

Best news is Mom and I (mostly Mom) have begun work on the new website (debysdesigns.net). Trying to get everything in place for an online store and all the information you could want on what I am up to.

Show apps have already started to filter in so new pieces and pics need to be done asap. Was shocked to hear that the HUGE St. John Westshore show was canceled for this year due to construction. I was sure that this was my year to be accepted - LOL.

Not much else to report, I will send more info from the "cave" next week, perhaps even a picture or 2.

Wishing you health and wealth for 2011.

Deby

Happy Holiday's from Deby's Designs

It has been a while since I sent a blog - busy, busy, busy. With getting ready for the holidays and taking care of family, time just gets away from me. Santa Mom came through with an awesome grinder that I can't wait to play with, new designs to come. My plan is to include wire wrapping with my glass cabs/pendants to add a special touch to make them even more unique.

I want to thank my friends for their support and continued interest in my jewelry, it means a lot to me. A special thanks to my mom for all that she does for me and that is A LOT. I wouldn't have my website or Etsy shop without her, LOVE YOU TONS MOM!

Speaking of websites, I have decided to do away with Etsy and ArtFire and go strictly with my own online store through my website; debysdesigns.net. It isn't set up yet but will be soon, I'll keep you posted.

I hope you all have a wonderful Holiday Season and a fantastic 2011!!!

All the Best!
Deby



Winding Down for 2010

Can't believe I only have one more show left for this year, kinda ready for the break. I do need to make more snowmen and santas they have been quite popular. I am teaching a class on glass ornaments November 26th at GRB ( http://www.grandriverbeads.com/ ) sign up online, by phone or in person.

Next project is wire wrapping my glass pendants, need help from my wire friends for sure. I have asked Santa for a grinder for X-Mas I already have it picked out and on my wish list from Delphi and I have been really good this year! I need to make some fabulous pieces for the juries next year, tired of being rejected from the BIG shows.

Don't forget to check out Etsy for gifts and I am happy to do custom orders as well.


Have a great week!

Last year at MayFest

Deby

Basket of Treasures - 11/13/10 - $5.00 OFF

Really looking forward to Basket of Treasures tomorrow I hear it is one of the better holiday shows in the Cleveland area. The hours are from 9:30 to 4 and I am offering $5.00 off each purchase if you mention my blog or my FB page.

The ornaments have been a HUGE hit and I need to get them to all of the shops next week without fail.

Had a great party at mom's last weekend, I sure do love all of her friends. I have my last show for 2010 St. Raphael's  Shopping Gala in Bay Village on Nov. 30th from 6-9 p.m. (more info as it gets closer) and another party in December.

I do love the shows and selling to the public but I am definitely looking to taking a break. I told mom that we will not be discussing the business at all over X-Mas, just enjoy each others company and relax.

Be Happy!
Deby

debysdesigns.net has some new photos!!!

Mom is back from vacation and back to work on the websites. I asked her to freshen up my website http//:www.debysdesigns.net and *snap* it's done, she has put some fantastic pics on the "Gems & Crystals" page and next is the glass and earrings.




Bronzite, Agate & Swarovski crystal necklace

  

Light green glass pearls with vermeil daisy spacers



Last night I was packing up ornaments to take to FL and some for Eye Candy in Tremont http://www.eyecandy-gallery.com and realized I don't have that many trees made. Needless to say I was in the Glass Cave for a couple hours and made @ 10 more.


Bead Happy!
Deby

59 Days Until Christmas!!

You didn't hear it from me, but it has been Christmas in the Glass Cave for the last couple of weeks. I have had the kiln burning almost every day for the last 10 and have many more to come. Shops are wanting the glass ornaments that I have created only about 1/3 of what I will probably need. Hope you get a few on ArtFire by next month - keep your eyes open. If you see one you MUST have drop me an email and I'll get it out to you. The price point depends on the size @ 3"-5" tall for $12-$18 each and they come with a silver bail for hanging or I can make it into a magnet.

Here is a sneak peek, but keep in mind I am the artsit not a photographer, that I leave up to my mom. :o)


Fanciful Forest




Snazy Snowmen



Fun Snowmen

Many Faces of Santa

 


 




 





          

 

 


 
 


May I be the first to wish you a Happy and Safe Holiday Season!!

Deby

Deby's Designs Glass on Sale

I have decided to put the glass on sale through ArtFire ( http://debysdesign.artfire.com ) through the end of the month, I need to make room for more pieces.

One more week of house/dog sitting and I can get back to the glass/bead cave, I have missed it. I bought some new glass for fall and the holidays I want to get working on.

Thinking about taking some wire wrapping classes to spice up some pieces. I tried the PMC (precious metal clay) and found it too tedious and expensive. I figure I wire wrap a bit with beaded earrings and some of the larger semi-precious stones, how hard can it be.

Going to FL in a couple weeks to see mom and to have a jewelry open house for all of her friends. I can't remember the last time I went down and didn't do something with the business. Mom and I do love to work on it and visit the local bead/glass shops.

Hope we all have a great week - TTFN
Deby

Deby's Designs has Beaded Beauties on Etsy

I have finally gotten my beaded jewelry down to my photographer/mom and she has take some amazing pictures. Check out my Etsy site above for all of the new additions, there will be some added almost daily. Here are a few samples:

I have also lowered prices on the a lot of the glass items, want to make room for more - I miss the glass cave!

Make it a great day!

Deby

Short and Sweet - Deby's Designs Does Beads Too!

When the glass is firing I make beaded jewelry, it's actually where I got my start back in the 70's. I love to designs pieces and create sets of all different colors and sizes. I most enjoy working with semi-precious stones and Swarovski Crystals. In the next few posts I will showcase some of these pretties as my mom photograghs them. They will also be for sale on my Etsy site when we get time to post them!

Regards,
Deby

Holidays are fast approching and DD will be ready

Everyone loves a one of a kind gift that was selected just for them and almost all women I know love jewelry. Please check out my website for upcoming shows and the online stores for great gifts. If you don't see anything please check back, items are being added all the time. Also, send me an email and I can create that perfect piece especially for you.

I'm looking forward to making my holiday glass; spiders, cob webs, pumpkins, black cats, snowmen, stockings and santas. These can be made for jewelry, pins, magnets or ornaments.

DD