DD 2012 Spring/Summer Show Schedule

I am getting very excited for the upcoming show season. My first show is the Hessler Street Fair near downtown Cleveland, OH on May 19 & 20, noon to dusk. This will be my fifth year at this show and I absolutely love doing it. 

After Hessler comes the Berea MayFest on May 26th from 10 to 5 at Coe Lake in Berea, OH. 

Then another favorite of mine, the Clifton Arts & Music Festival on June 16th from 10 to 6. The fest is located on Clifton Blvd. in Lakewood, OH between W 117th and W 112th.

Wildwood Fine Arts Festival in Mentor, OH June 24th from 10:30 to 5 at the Wildwood Cultural Center. This is a first time for me at this show, I look forward to a great day.

Another first for me is the Waterloo Arts Fest on June 30th from 11 to 7 in Cleveland's east side neighborhood of Collinwood.

Only one show in July, Willoughby Artsfest on the 21st from 10 to 5 in downtown Willoughby, OH.

Please follow my blog, FaceBook or my website www.debysdesigns.net for my show schedule.


Catch ya later,
Deby

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

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

Two Weeks Until Show Season Starts

 
My first Ohio show for 2011 is in two weeks on May 5th at B & B Appliance located at 6800 Pearl Rd in Middleburg Hts. from 5 p.m.-10 p.m. for a "Ladies Night" event with lots of vendors, giveaways, wine tastings, cooking demonstrations and shopping.


The next show is Gazebo Garden Walk in Downtown Wellington, OH on May 7th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. I have done this show 3 times before, beautiful area and lots of vendors, food and spring plants. Come pick up your Mothers Day gifts, I'll even gift wrap for you! http://www.villageofwellington.com


Check out the websites they are being updated all the time, check out my new piece and show schedule.

 More to Come!!!
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

Deby's Designs 2.0

I have reinvented myself so many times it should be 100.0 instead of 2.0. I was going to just sell my wears through my website but figured more is more and decided to keep Etsy going, it is a great site. So without further delay here is the new and improved Etsy site:

I am offering a 10% discount as well as free shipping throughout the month of March. If you see something you like let me know my shows are fast approaching and it may not be available later!

Also the website debysdesigns.net is fully stocked and ready to go thanks to my moms hours and hours of dedication to perfection. Let us know what you think we are pretty proud of what we have done over the winter. We have added a new line of wedding jewelry and I do custom pieces upon request just drop an  email to debysdesigns@hotmail.com.

I am finally learning how to wire wrap my pendants, been yapping about it for at least a year and tomorrow is the day! Watch for Etsy and FaceBook updates.

All My Best,
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



Gray Day in Cleveland

Today it is very gray and gloomy as it tends to be in Clevleand Ohio in November, at least it isn't snowing...yet.

I was that the clothing store yesterday and noted how much gray/grey was out for this year. My mom even told me that the trends for Fall 2010 are; gray, grape/purple, turquoise and as always black. That being said I must say that one of my better makes is the Gray or Smokey Quartz and Tiger Jasper pieces seen below. There also a pair of earrings very small and subtle.

Last night was spent in the glass cave, just me and Santa. I made some really cute Santa ornaments for my upcoming show and for friends. Tonight it's snowmen, they are already made just need to be fired.

That's all I have for now, take care!

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

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

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

DD had a GREAT week!

Kind of sorry the outdoor shows are over, was just getting into the new tent and display - oh well. The RR Arts fest was a HUGE hit and I sold lots more than I anticipated, sold 2 of my favotire necklaces (below).

Next for me is the Olmsted Falls (OH) Shop Hop on Oct 1-3, I should be at Odd Fellas on Columbia Rd (across from Drug Mart). Haven't determined if I am outside or inside. Then it's off to Florida to see mom and a private party on Nov 7th. And then Basket of Treasures at the Westlake (OH) High School on Nov 13th ( www.westlakejuniorwomensclub.com/treasures.html ).

Well that's all for now, need to make more beaded necklaces, got cleaned out at RR and my friends from Bunco!!!

Deby