Eiriel's Eclectics

Closed Blog...

2012-01-09T18:06:00.003Z

Hi everyone,

I haven't updated in over a year, and I think it's fair to say that this blog is dead. I'm leaving it up for those who still want access to the tutorial, but if you're waiting for new info then you should probably give it up :)
Brief update:
I've moved the DC and am applying for PhD places. Sadly, I no longer have the time to devote to jewellery making, though I do still accept commissions.

Thank you for all your support and encouragement :)

Megan

I'm still here...

2010-11-11T16:47:00.001Z

Honest.
I have not been eaten by killer bees, eloped with my tutor or anything like that. I'm just -really- busy.
I spent the summer in the USA ,which was awesome and may prompt an actual, detailed blog at some point. Then again, it may not.
I was working at a summer camp and teaching kids how to make jewellery, including a bit of chainmaille, which was fairly awesome.Since I got back I've started back at uni. I'm doing a 1 year research masters which will (hopefully) lead into a PhD. I'm also:
* working part time at a candy shop
* running a proofreading business (reasonable rates - note me :P)* editing erotic fiction for Filament magazine
* running the university's Gilbert and Sullivan society
* having a social life

Sadly, this all leaves very little time for art/jewellery. I'm doing bits and pieces and will hopefully have some photos up at (or before) Christmas, but nothing major will be happening around here for a while :(

I am still taking commissions, so get in touch if you need anything :)

Off to the States

2010-06-15T07:56:00.004+01:00

Morning!

Well, I'm flying to America today at 2pm. I'm going to be working at a summer camp in NY state, teaching jewellery and silversmithing.
Yay!

...I'm mildly terrified.But excited.
It'll be fiiine once I get there, it's just the getting there part! I'm not a very good flyer :/ hopefully I can sleep through the journey though.

So there'll probably be another couple of months of few blog posts from me :(
(my excuse for the past few months is that I've been revising for my finals. I get my results next week!)

So, to tide you over, I've a few photos of a recently completed commission. Sterling silver and freshwater pearls. They're to be bridesmaid presents from a couple who are getting married in November :)

The Most Amazing Year Thus Far

2010-03-31T23:14:00.005+01:00

Yes, I am inclined to be a tad dramatic at times.
But it's true! This year has been really, really great. And it's only March :)

That's the main reason why I haven't written recently. There's so many exciting things going on that I just haven't had the time.
Academic news first.
I had a meeting with my dissertation supervisor in February (I think) and he told me he wants to try and publish it. And that I should really apply to do postgrad work. Now, I've always wanted to do a PhD but put it off for various reasons. Alasdair telling me that I -should- gave me the kick I needed to apply for an MPhil (hopefully I can use that as the first year of a PhD). Only hitch was that I was planning on moving in with my partner in a different city. So, I rang him that evening and told him (he was thrilled) and he's now looking for work in Birmingham :D So not only do I get to stay in the city I love, but the man I love will be joining me!
I've been accepted onto the MPhil programme too, as long as I get a 2:2 or higher. Shouldn't be an issue :)
Publishing news.
I am the new fiction editor for Filament magazine! I applied a few weeks ago, got shortlisted and had to do a few tasks and the editor emailed me and said I'd got the job if I wanted it. Seeing as I'd be going into publishing if I wasn't continuing with education, this is possibly the most perfect arrangement. I'm enjoying it hugely and feel so proud that I'm contributing to such a great publication.
Ladies, if you haven't read it yet, I strongly suggest you order yourself a copy. They can be ordered from the website :)

What else...

Oh yes! My amazing boyfriend and a variety of friends organised a suprise birthday for me! When I walked in and saw them my first instinct was to try and run away - I ran for the door and it's only because Tom's bigger than me that I didn't make it. He kind of blocked the way.
So yes, that was immense fun.
I have a placement at an American Summer Camp for June-August! I get to teach children how to make various pieces of jewellery, which will be loooots of fun.
Funfunfun.

And for now, that's it. I'm spending the Easter doing lots of revision - I've only got 2 exams, but they're in early May and they're quite important :)
Will try and drop by again soooooon!

Beef Stew Recipe!

2010-02-12T22:36:00.002Z

Beef stew is one of my favourite meals to make. It's delicious, easy to make and very filling. Plus you can put about ANYTHING in it.
My recipe is slightly different every time, but this time the ingredients included:

Diced beef
Chorizo sausage
Mushrooms
Courgette
Red pepper
Shallots (or onions)
Garlic
Red wine
Vegetable stock
Butter
Olive oil
Tomato puree

Sadly there are no measurements - I don't tend to use them :/ If you decide on how much beef you want to use then you should be able to just estimate the rest of the ingredients.

Pre-heat the oven to gas mark 3 (or thereabouts).
Put a small amount of butter and olive oil in whatever pan/casserole dish you're using and heat it up the hob. Cook the garlic and shallots (or onions) until soft, then add the beef, chorizo, assorted vegetables, red wine and stock. Simmer on the hob for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables have gone soft.
Add salt, pepper, a small amount of tomato puree and whatever herbs you like using. Bung the whole lot in the oven until the beef has gone all soft and tender - mine's usually in for 2-3 hours :)
Serve up with mash and enjoy!

This was the first time I used chorizo and I think it worked really well - but make sure you only use a small amount. A lot would overwhelm the other flavours! The vegetables listed can be substituted for whatever you like in your stew - carrots, parsnips and sweet potatos all work well.

Enjoy!

Gilbert and Sullivan

2010-02-10T17:40:00.003Z

Afternoon!

Today has been a bit...disjointed. Lecture was fun (Greek Sexuality, always good for a bit of a giggle), swimming was also good but I just don't feel like I've got anything done!

Specifically in regards to the University's Gilbert and Sullivan Society. We're well under way with rehearsals for our next production, 'The Mikado', but we still don't have a comic baritone.
For those who don't know their G&S, the comic baritone part is a fairly major one. It also looks like a lot of fun to play :D But we just haven't had anyone interested in playing it come and audition. Or even tell us that they're interested.
It's led to myself and Siz trying to work out what we'll do if we can't find anyone. We can't write the part out - it's far too important and we'd lose most of the amusing parts. The best suggestion we've come up with is too change it into a spoken part only. So have a normal actor play Ko-Ko (comic baritone character) and recite the songs as if they were poetry or something similar. We'd have issues with and duets/trios, but at least we'd have the character there.

Can you think of any other options?

Circles, Circles Everywhere

2010-01-29T21:50:00.004Z

Evening!

Today has been a day of highs and lows. My lecture this morning was amusing as always, added to by the fact that my lecturer told me I'm allowed to write a commentary on the use of Classics in Terry Pratchett's 'Discworld' novels as one of my assessments. How awesome is that?

Then I got home and my boyfriend called a couple of hours later. We live about 3 hours apart and he works full-time so we really only get to see each other at the weekends. I've been looking forward to seeing him all week, but when he called he told me that his car has broken again so he's pretty much stranded at his parent's house :(
Boo!

Went for a swim, sat in the sauna for a bit and picked up some post from my next-door neighbour...joy of joys, it was the necklace mandrel I bought a couple of days ago!

I've had some pretty interesting necklace designs floating round in my sketchbook for a while now and this means I can finally put them into practise :D Spent half of the evening soldering silver circles together and the other half eating pizza with my housemates at watching the IT Crowd (UK comedy about IT guys...fairly funny!).

Despite the upset of not seeing Tom, I'm looking forward to the weekend. I have a Gilbert and Sullivan rehearsal from 10am-2pm tomorrow (next production is the Mikado :D), then my bestest friend Alana is coming to stay the night and I might even be seeing Alex, who I get to see about twice a year.
Oh and there's a barndance after church on Sunday :D What's not to like?

Have an excellent weekend, I'll catch up with you soon!

Valentine's Day Designs!

2010-01-27T21:27:00.004Z

To be honest, I'm not really one for Valentine's Day. It's fun and all, but for some reason it's never especially appealed to me.

I do get a thrill when I get the post in the morning though. My mum always sends us Valentine's cards with little chocolates in them :) She's been doing it since before we left home...actually, since I was in primary school. We'd used to come down for breakfast in the morning and there would be a card waiting on the table for each of us next to our breakfast bowls.
Every year, they're signed with a big '?' in bright green ink. My mum always writes in green :)

So I guess I do enjoy Valentine's Day :)

I made a couple of simple designs especially for Valentine's, I showed you the basic pendants in my last post. They're now finished and listed on Etsy!

What do you think?

Simple Silver Rings

2010-01-26T17:21:00.004Z

Evening all!

I tweeted a while ago about the fact that I bought myself some soldering equipment and that I'd made some pretty rings.
Well, I finally have some free time so I can actually show you!

They're just simple circles of silver that've been hammered flat. One is polished to a high shine, one is matted and one has been oxidised and then polished back so it's shiny too.
Hurrah!

Also here's a sneak peak at my Valentine's designs:

They'll be on thin silver chain with pearls and flower charms hanging off them. Hopefully I'll have those finished in the next day or two so they can be on Etsy in time for Valentine's Day.

Anyway, the washing has just finished so I have to gooo!
Will be back later in the week :)

Circus Tricks

2010-01-20T17:23:00.006Z

Just a quick one today, I'm cooking chicken casserole for a friend tonight so can't stay long!

I'm applying to BUNAC for the summer (they organise counsellors for American summer camps) and the guy who interviewed me suggested I send a film showing that I can, in fact, juggle.

I did some filming on Monday at circus and then sat and put a short film together last night.
Some opinions on it would be very much appreciated...do I look like the kind of person you'd hire to care for small children?

Snow Day!

2010-01-07T16:47:00.008Z

If you live in the UK, you'll have noticed the snow.

If you haven't, I assume you're living in a hole. Or possibly an institution of some kind.

For those NOT in the UK, we've had snow! More snow that for 30 years or so. Certainly more snow than I've ever seen :D It's about 10 cm in our garden and I've been having SO MUCH FUN!
Went out for a walk yesterday with my little sister and my mum and we basically acted like children for an hour or so. Including snow angels! I've never made a snow angel before.

And I took photos :) Pretty, pretty photos. I won't bore you with them all, but if you wish to bore yourself please take a look on Flickr!

Admittedly, the snow isn't all good. England seems to grind to a halt when we have more than a couple of flakes, this much means out world explodes. I personally love it, but I don't really want to go anywhere other than for a walk in the woods. And my step-dad can actually walk across the fields to work, so it doesn't affect us too much.
We all ventured out to the cinema on Wednesday evening (Avatar again, SO WORTH IT!). It took about an hour longer than usual each way and on the way home we had to get out and push the car up a hill. Doesn't sound too great, but it was actually a lot of fun :)
Not sure if I'll make it to Birmingham for uni on Monday, but what the hey. Just gives me extra time to work :)

Finished Dress!

2010-01-07T16:31:00.005Z

Evening all!

You may remember that a while ago I showed you photos of a dress I was in the process of making.
Well, I finished it before Christmas and wore it to my brother and sister's 21st birthday party :) Really pleased with how it turned out (less pleased with photos of myself, but you can't have everything!) and it fits like a dream. One of the perks of making your own clothes, I suppose!

Anyway. The pattern is a vintage 1950s, the fabric is a linen/cotton mix that's supposed to be for curtains. Brass buttons and I side-zip.

Took...more hours to make than I care to mention :)
(added the 2nd image because I HAD to show you how cool my shoes are! Even though you can't see them very well :()

Long Time No Speak :)

2010-01-03T20:32:00.003Z

Well, good evening!

It's been a while, but I'm still here!

I hope you all had a restful and enjoyable Christmas and that you've recovered from your New Year celebrations :D
I've had an excellent couple of weeks, although sadly real-life must resume tomorrow as I have uni work to do before term starts on Monday.

Couple of film recommendations for you - Avatar and Sherlock Holmes are both excellent.
Avatar is (obviously) beautiful, but the plot isn't half bad either. If you can afford it I would strongly encourage you to see it in 3D, it's well worth the extra expense.
Sherlock Holmes is just a really fun, well-shot and well-scripted film. Jude Law and Robert Downey Jnr. both give terrific performances. I had some initial doubts about this one due to the heavy influence on magic early on - anyone who knows anything about Holmes knows full well that magic really doesn't figure largely. My faith was restored halfway though when I guessed a couple of things, so overall it was very enjoyable.
(Please note: do not be put off by me guessing parts of the plot. This happens A LOT. I seem unable to just watch a film, I have to analyse it as I go along and try to see where the writers are leading the audience astray!)

Out of the Christmas money my Dad and Grandmother gave me I've purchased some fun bits of equipment which now means I can (gasp!) drill holes and polish metal to a respectable shine, as well as make rings. Hurrah! I will be having fun with those in the next month of so, photos will be forthcoming :)

I still owe a tutorial for the tutorial exchange programme (http://totallytutorials.blogspot.com/), hopefully I'll actually be able to finish that soon. Been having some slight problems with the design I originally had in mind, so it will need some reworking :)

Before I go, here are some photos of a neck-piece I made a while ago. I can across this amazing Etsy shop last year (http://www.etsy.com/shop/lilianasterfield) and thought that something similar would be an excellent use for my late Grandfather's silk ties. I rescued them from his house as they were going to be thrown away. He was an impeccably dressed man and I wanted to keep his beautiful ties so I could remember him.

Giveaway Winners!

2009-12-10T17:12:00.003Z

Drumroll, please!

...
...
...

3rd Prize of £5 or $10 off anything in my Etsy shop goes to Sandra!

2nd Prize of any pair of earrings currently in my shop goes to Stephanie!

1st Prize of the lovely aluminium, pearl and vintage glass necklace goes to Janet!

*round of applause*

Congratulations ti the lucky winners and thank you to everyone who took part :)

As a thank you to everyone who took part when you spend over $10 in my Etsy shop, you will receive one free pair of earrings. Simply let me know what pair you'd like in the 'message to seller' box and I'll post them to you along with your purchase!

Apologies and Fancy Dress

2009-12-10T10:21:00.004Z

Firstly, apologies for the delay in announcing the winners. I finally handed in the 3rd chapter draft of my dissertation, so I celebrated by taking the afternoon/evening off and watching films with friends.

The winners will be announces this afternoon, once I get home from uni. Sooo....probably around 3-4pm GMT. Hurrah!

It was the last Cirus meeting of the term on Monday, so we went out for a curry. This being circus, there was a fancy dress theme. ANY fictional character. It was so hard to think of a costume that involved minimal effort (mostly with my hair) but in the end a friend from Gilbert and Sullivan suggested Cruella De Ville, from 101 Dalmations.

Perfect! I didn't have to do anything strenuous with my hair and I managed to find some dalmation print fabric at the market. I did end up being 1.5 hours late for the circus session, but I was in plenty of time for the actual food. Hurrah!

Other characters included Link (from Zelda), Princess Mononoke, Minnie Mouse, a Smurf (complete with blue latex arms) and the Cheshire Cat. As ever, it was lots and lots of fun.

Giveaway - Last Day!

2009-12-08T13:33:00.002Z

Afternoon all!

Just a quick one, the giveaway ends at midnight tonight, GMT!
You officially have 10 and a half hours to enter the giveaway, or to send me links for extra entries!

Good luck, everyone!

Winter Giveaway Up and Running!

2009-11-25T19:02:00.003Z

First Prize:

A gorgeous aluminium chain necklace embellished with pearls and vintage chandelier glass, worth $33 or £20.

Second Prize:
ANY pair of earrings from my shop!

Third Prize is £5 or $10 off anything in my Etsy shop.

Any of these prizes would be perfect gifts for someone at Christmas, or just as a present to yourself :)

'How can I win these fantastic prizes?!', I hear you ask? Simple! The first entry is given for simply emailing me. That's it! You can, however, obtain more entries simply by doing one or more of the following:

1. Tweet about me on Twitter.
2. Blog about me.
3. Mention me on your Facebook status update.
4. Feature me in your Deviantart journal.

In order to qualify for these bonus entries you MUST put a link to either:
1. my blog
2. my Etsy shop ( http://www.eiriel.etsy.com )
3. my Facebook fanpage ( http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=285100344&ref=profile#/pages/Birmingham/Eiriels-Eclectics/119458250659?ref=mf ).

Preferably all three :P

Once you've done any/all of these, drop me a line at saidar(at)gmail.com linking me to your blog, twitter account, deviantart or facebook page so I can check you're not being naughty and trying to cheat :P

The closing date for this is Tuesday the 7th of December and I will use random.org to find the winner!

If you need clarification on any of this, please comment or email me and I'll get back to you :)

Prettty New Earrings!

2009-11-24T20:18:00.005Z

Made and listed this evening, in a bizarre fit of activity!
Lots and lots of uni work done today as well, I managed to finish the 1st draft of my 2nd dissertation chapter.

Anyway, have some pretty earrings to look at :)

http://www.eiriel.etsy.com

Quick Update and Pretty Sewing Photos!

2009-11-17T22:02:00.006Z

Evening all!
I have a spare few minutes this evening, so I thought I'd give you a bit of an update.
Life is, as ever, busy. Lots of dissertation work, lots of lecture reading and (oddly for me) lots of social contact. Bizarre...

Spent reading week at home, which was fun. For those who don't know, reading week is, supposedly, a week for reading. Science students tend to scowl at arts students because it's essentially a week of freeeedom that they don't get. They never believe us when we say we actually do -work- during our week off. Seriously! I do. Lots of work.
And...
well...
sewing.

Sewing is work, yes?

I is making a dress. A pretty dress, from a vintage 1950s fabric pattern and some gorgeous curtain fabric. Pretty!
:D
There will hopefully be more photos after next weekend, I only have access to a sewing machine when I'm at my parent's house so progress is somewhat sporadic. I'm planning on wearing it at my boyfriend's work-christmas-party-thing.

This week has so far been spent (apart from working) making 21st birthday presents for the twins! Somehow, they're going to be 21 in Thursday. Very strange. Photos of the presents will be appearing early next week...if I post them now the little minxes are likely to find them.

Brother bought a tarantula. Not sure how I feel about this. If I find a shed tarantula exoskeleton on my pillow, I will be less than impressed.

Oh, there will most likely be photos of the night out on Thursday. I'm off out to York to see Erin (female half of the twins), which will involve afternoon tea (we are British, after all), then cocktails in the evening followed by dancing. Excitement, I haven't been dancing since Spain :D I've planned my outfit and everything! Gorgeous purple/blue silk dress plus by black boots. I love them, they've got a 4" heel. Stunning :D

Anyhoo, must go now. Have to be up early to get to town before my lecture starts! Have a lovely evening :)

Strawberry and White Chocolate Muffins

2009-10-24T20:14:00.003+01:00

Something you may not know about me is that I LOVE to bake. I rarely find the time, but it's one of my favourite things to do. I generally enjoy cooking, but there's something special about baking :) It tends to get reserved for the weekends and my partner always enjoys helping. He generally does useful things like make sure the mixtures tastes good and testing any chocolate we're using. And he licks the bowl clean afterwards ^^

Today's recipe was strawberry and white chocolate muffins! Very delicious and you can pretend that they're healthy because they have fruit in them! It's just a basic muffic recipe that's been modified slightly. Instead of fruit/chocolate you can always use ginger and nutmeg - a highly recommended combination for the winter months!

Ingredients:
250ml milk
125ml oil
1 large egg
300g self raising flour
150g caster sugar
170g chocolate
170g berries
(the last two can be increased/decreased according to taste!)

Makes 12

Preheat the oven to 170oC/gas mark 3. Place 12 paper cake cases into a muffin tray.

Cut your strawberries into quarters and put 12 pieces to one side. These will be used to decorate the muffins :) Crush the chocolate into small pieces. My partner's favoured method is bashing it against the closest wall.

Whisk the milk, oil and egg together in small mixing bowl. You don't have to use an electric whisk, especially if (like me!) you don't have one. I made do with a fork and it worked perfectly well.
Sieve the flour into another bowl and add the sugar, chocolate and berries to it. Combine with a large wooden spoon. Or, you know, a small one. Whatever works for you.
Stir in the milk, oil and egg mix, a little bit at a time until the mixture is nice and gloopy! (Yes, 'gloopy' is a technical term).
Split the mixture evenly between the cake cases and place a piece of strawberry on top of each one.

Cook for roughly 25 minutes - to test, press the top of the muffin down lightly. If your finger squishes through it, they're not done yet! They should feel firm and slightly springy.

Leave to cool slightly and enjoy!

Sadly no photo. Will try and take one before they all get eaten!

Winter Giveaway - What Prize Do You Want?

2009-10-12T08:34:00.002+01:00

Right, as Christmas is fast approaching I decided I'd better keep my promise about another giveaway! I am fairly stumped for ideas though - what do you guys want to see on offer?!

My most pressing questions are:
1. What kind of jewellery you want - necklace, bracelet, earrings etc.
2. What material? Last time it was pearls - I'm happy to go with pearls again but equally I can do chainmaille, chandelier glass or a mixture.
3. Something from the shop (http://www.eiriel.etsy.com) or something created especially for the giveaway?

Seriously, I'd LOVE some feedback on this.
For those of you who don't know how giveaways work, please see the info on my last one here:
http://eirielseclectics.blogspot.com/2009/08/giveaway.html

And here's some photos of possible prizes :)

Pearl and Silver Chain

2009-10-07T22:39:00.003+01:00

Just a quick one today, guys! A photo of a newly finished commission - a delicate silver necklace with tiny white pearls. I'm pleased with this one and will be making more! It really suits the customer as well. She's a friend of my mum's and she's a small, delicate kind of a person. I hope she likes...

I've spent this evening uploading the audiobook of 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows' to an ipod...sending it to my baby sister (she's in Cambodia for a year) as her Christmas present. There's 20 cds but it's actually not taking that long. I'm about halfway though :)

Anyway, I must go to bed now. Going to try and go swimming at uni early tomorrow as I need to start getting more exercise!

Progress Being Made!

2009-10-06T21:36:00.002+01:00

Evening everyone!

It's been a busy, busy few weeks. I mentioned a while ago that I moved back up to Birmingham for the start of the new university term...things have settled down a lot and there's kind of a routine going now.
Lectures are up and running and they're mostly interesting. Not so glad about the Roman history side of the course, but given one of my other modules is basically on 'Xena: Warrior Princess' I don't feel like I can complain! Seriously, I've been told to watch the first episode as preparation for my lecture this week.
How lucky am I?

Societies have started again too, circus was really full on the first session. Numbers will go down over the term, but it's always good to see lots of new faces! Rehersals are starting for the first Gilbert and Sullivan production of term...hopefully it'll go ok. I'm supposed to be playing viola for it, though I haven't had any music yet. I'm sure it'll be fine...
Oh, and I'm going to church for the first time in a ages. It's good, a young congregation as it's at the university chaplaincy and there are some fantastic hymns.

Anyway.
That's the joy at the moment!

Funfunfun :) I've got a fair few jewellery design ideas in my head at the moment and when I have time I will make them and show you all!

And then I shall take over the world.
Bwahahaha!

Ok, so I lied

2009-09-29T12:43:00.003+01:00

And didn't update on Sunday.

I had a good reason though! Relationship issues arose on Friday and by the time Sunday rolled round I just wanted to sleep. So I did :)

Uni is now back in full swing - I had my first seminar on Monday that went far too fast and I had a dissertation meeting with my supervisor today, which was both very confusing and very useful. Society activity is also back with a vengence. The first meeting of circus was packed, it's always good to see so many new faces :) Then I actually -went- to anime and manga, like I was meaning to for the majority of last year. I think part of today's tiredness is due to an overload of social activity.

This evening we have our first official fire spinning gig of the year! Hurrah! Not paid, but they're providing fuel which means we don't loose money on it :) I'm so looking forward to it, it's been a whole week since I got to play with fire! I'll try and get some photos for you :)

Ooooh and yesterday I finally managed to get a Treasury spot! :D I've been trying for weeks but have never quite managed it. So here it is, my 'Pearls Before Swine' treasury:
http://www.etsy.com/treasury_list.php?room_id=84726

Anyway. I must go and find some lunch. And possibly make some kind of decision in regards to my dissertation title and chapter headings :/ Wish me luck!

Full post on Sunday...promise!

2009-09-25T10:31:00.002+01:00

Morning all!
Apologies for the lack of activity recently, I've been busy getting settled back into uni life (meaning not getting anywhere near enough sleep...) and so have neglected business and blog!

Yesterday was spent at the societies fair on campus where I tried very hard not to scare the freshers too much whilst on the fetish society stall. As ever, we attracted many, many weird looks but we got about 10 new members and 60 people on the mailing list. We're hoping for some more today! We're also aiming to beat our record of 'people tied up at freshers' - currently standing at 18 over the two days. We got 17 yesterday, so I have high hopes!

Also had a committee meeting for the gilbert and sullivan society (light opera) which was good fun, can't wait for that to kick off :D

And now I have seminar preparation to do. Expect a proper post on sunday :)

Bad Day :(

2009-09-21T18:27:00.002+01:00

Apologies for not having been very active. I spend Friday and Saturday moving all my stuff back up to uni in Birmingham and then what was left of the weekend was designated 'boyfriend time'.

So. I'm back in student accomodation...and it's already cold :( It's a better house than last year, despite already having given some of my housemates carbon monoxide poisoning, but it's just not a real home. I love spending time at my parent's house, it feels so much more real than this one! Have been floating quite aimlessly today. Went to the library to do some work only to discover upon arriving that I'd lost one of the earrings I finished making this morning. They're relatively inexpensive, but I was so proud and now I have to make another :( Unless, of course, someone finds it and hands it in. Alas, it's a 20 minute walk from my house to campus and I have no idea at what point I lost it!

I managed to list a new necklace/bracelet set today :) And actually, I listed one on thursday that I don't think I told you about :)
Mulberry pearls:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31046763
Mint green pearls:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31300443

I'm simply too sleepy to give you pictures, but please do have a look. They're very pretty and reasonably priced :)

There is some sunshine on the horizon! A friend has just sent me a text to ask if I'm up for the pub tonight. Most definately yes! That has cheered me up somewhat :)

I spent some of this morning going through a new pricing method for my jewellery. It's a commonly used one and in contrast to my usual 'guess what someone would pay' method, it takes into account things like wages and overheads. The issue is, the figures I'm getting out of this seem grossely inflated to me :/ I shall have to revise this and see what I can come up with!

Ok, I now need food. I skipped lunch (not a wise move, considering my current state of mind) and my stomach thinks my throat's been cut!

Jewellery Subscriptions - Feedback Appreciated!

2009-09-15T23:39:00.004+01:00

I was browsing through the Etsy forums today and came across this listing:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27350876

I thought it was such a good idea that I emailed the owner of the shop, asking if I could do something similar. She said yes, so I have!

So it's with great pleasure that I introduce my jewellery subscriptions! If you buy one, I will send you a piece of jewellery every month, specially handmade for you to your specifications. These are perfect as a present to yourself or for a special friend. If you want one but don't feel you can justify the cost, simply hint to your partner, parents, best friend, music teacher, whoever you think you like to get you such a unique present.
Specifications can include things such as length, materials and colour. Each piece will be beautifully gift wrapped and sent to you in the first week of each month, starting in the month you choose!

They're currently only available in 6 month packages. I can make custom listings as well, if you want a longer or shorter time period!
Necklace of the Month Club: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30988748
Bracelet of the Month Club: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30990424

What do you think? I'd love some feedback on this, especially in regards to the cost. The necklace package it $197 for 6 necklaces, making each necklace roughly $34, whilst the bracelet option is $97, making each bracelet roughly $16. Are these reasonable prices? Too high, too low?

Right, really must go to bed now. Have a good night!

Statement Necklaces And A New Online Shop

2009-09-15T23:05:00.004+01:00

Good evening, everyone!

Last night was a lot of fun - almost everyone got very drunk and we all had lots of fun. I think the alcohol drinkers polished off 2 bottles of champagne and around 5 bottle of white wine during the course of the meal - there were only 6 people drinking!
So yes, lots of fun. I got to wear my lovely new necklace and black patent 'dragon boots', as my friend calls them. They're awesome...alas, no photo.

But enough of this gay banter! Have some necklace photos. Remember the one I was having trouble with? I remade it and I love it :D
Newly listed on Etsy at $60, these necklaces will make people sit up and take notice of you.

Peacock Grey - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30976715
Creamy White - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30976077

For those of you who dislike Etsy, or for those European customers, I now have a DaWanda shop. I don't have all of my stock in there yet, but if there's something particular you'd like me to upload just let me know!
http://en.dawanda.com/shop/Eiriel

Out On The Town

2009-09-14T19:32:00.002+01:00

We had the decision today regarding where they're putting the incinerator. Thankgully they decided against the site opposite my house, but it's still going somewhere and will poison people other than me.
We've won the battle, but the war will be long and stressful!

I made a great new necklace today - remember the necklace I posted about a while ago, asking for help?
Well, I remade it using silver petrol pearls and it looks spectacular with my favourite purple top, grey skinny jeans and patent black stiletto boots. I'll try and get a photo tomorrow, not time tonight as I'm going out for dinner with my parents and some friends :) Will be fun!

Have a good evening, everyone! Expect photos tomorrow.

Mass Burn Incineration and Pretty Dresses

2009-09-12T19:07:00.004+01:00

Good evening, my little cabbages!

Today was quite a big day for my family, specifically my mother.
Since April she has been heavily involved in a campaign group called SAVI - Stop Aylesbury Vale Incineration.
(http://www.besavi.co.uk).

Long story short, our county council is planning on putting a huuuge incinerator in one of the fields across from our house, in order to dispose of waste. They're calling it 'Energy From Waste'...sounds good, doesn't it? Unfortunatly, it sounds less good when you get into the scientific research. Exciting statistics like child cancer rates within 5 miles going up by a large percentage within 4 years of these things being installed.

Aside from the health issues, we have things like environmental pollution, property values, spoling the view. Joy.

Anyway, today we had a large rally to show our displeasure. We met in town and had some speeches, then (making a lot of noise and chanting loudly) we marched our way to the county hall to present our petitions. The national news were there as well as radio stations and newspapers.
We had over 300 people, so many more than we were expecting!

On Monday we get the decision about where this thing is going to be. The fight will go on wherever it is because this technology should not be in use, but things will be a bit more relaxed if they choose somewhere other than our site.

So yes, that went well :)

On to the dresses!
After a long conversation with Lauren (http://www.deargoldenvintage.etsy.com), I decided that the gorgeous rose dress would not fit :(
So, I bought the pinafore dress AND found a dress pattern for a very similar dress on Etsy! I'm going to John Lewis tomorrow to try and find some good fabric :D Can't wait!

It's been so long since I did any dress making, I'm really excited! There will be update photos as well :)

Today has been a pleasant break from jewellery. I think I will have a nice, hot bath after dinner and have an early bed time. Allll good.

Have a good evening!

Oooh I Found Pretties...Buy Something From Me So I Can Buy A Dress!

2009-09-11T20:26:00.010+01:00

Ok, this is the main reason why I shouldn't poke around on Etsy. I find things like this:

I will not give you the links, as I want to buy them before you :P
I will, however, give you the shop link as it is am amazing shop and deserves your attention!
http://www.deargoldenvintage.etsy.com
I found Lauren (the owner) on twitter, she posts regular updates about her shop!
http://twitter.com/deargolden

To put it bluntly, please buy something from my Etsy so I can buy something from hers! I even have some new jewellery for you to buy - a necklace and matching braclet made out of sterling silver chain and pearls!

I spent yesterday evening in the delightful company of three small children. Ages 3, 6 and 9, they were suprisingly good company. We walked the dog, found lots of conkers and ate lots of fruit.
I enjoy babysitting, tis a shame it doesn't happen more often!

I should do another update over the weekend. I'm expecting some nice thick silk so I can restring this necklace - http://eirielseclectics.blogspot.com/2009/09/i-need-opinions-and-im-having-sale.html

And I've just been told that dinner is ready. Hurrah!

Eiriel's Eclectics - Now In A Shop Near You!

2009-09-09T23:15:00.002+01:00

Ok, so probably not in a shop near anyone except me, but in a shop none the less!

I've been telling myself for a while now that I need to go and talk to gift shop owners about stocking some of my work, but I actually went and did it today. I packed a box of my favourite pieces, sat down and decided how much I could charge for wholesale and went into the world of retail. There's a little town down the road from me called Winslow. Pretty, old, picturesque and has about 3 gift shops.
On the drive over I started fantasising to myself about how the shop owner would comment on my necklace (I was wearing my Pearl Ruche) and say how lovely it was so I could say 'oh, well I made it, actually...' and things would go from there. I hate striking up conversations with strangers...I think it's something to do with being British!
I went into the first one and had a nose around and didn't really like it. The owner didn't seem interested in her customers and the stock was all mass made, factory produced stuff.
So I left.
I didn't even go into the next one - I was getting fairly nervous and it seemed to all be clothes. The third one looked beautiful from the outside, so I crept in and had a look.
Sheer heaven!
Lots of different, beautiful creations by several different artists and designers. It was such a comfortable shop and the woman who owned it seemed friendly and apologised for not noticing me right away.
I was just screwing my courage up to ask her 'would you be interested in seeing some samples of my handmade jewellery?' when I heard...
'Oooh, I like your necklace! Where did you get that from?'
With a slight stammer from shock and nerves, the reply came:
'Well, I made it myself, actually. I'm a jewellery designer. I actually came in to see if you'd be interested in stocking some of my pieces on a trial basis. I brought some samples with me, if you'd like to see.'
'Yes, yes I would, actually.'

I was actually shaking by this point, it's a miracle I managed to get my storage box out of my bag! So, I showed her the pieces I'd bought and told her the prices. To my absolute shock, she ended up taking 5 necklaces and 1 bracelet. I have instructions to go back in a few weeks so she can pay me and see more designs!

I cannot believe how easy that seemed to be. I've been worrying about it for weeks, but it happened in just one day! Admittedly, wholesale prices aren't great compared to the retail I can charge on Etsy, but it's still money.
My dream of having my work in the Waddesdon Manor gift shop in time for Christmas seems slightly more attainable now.

I think that's going to keep me smiling for a few weeks :D

Tutorial - Seaglass Symphony Earrings

2009-09-07T22:12:00.020+01:00

Pretentious title? Maybe. But they're pretty and I like classical music, so there :P

Totally Tutorials (http://totallytutorials.blogspot.com/2009/07/get-freebie-create-tutorial.html) runs a tutorial exchange, where suppliers donate free materials to crafters so they can make something pretty. The only stipulation is that the crafter has to make a tutorial, so other people can make pretty things too :D
This is fine with me, I've made tutorials in the past and have enjoyed it, so I got in touch with the lovely Corrie from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6064149 who sent me two beautiful pieces of white seaglass.

As I previously said, I don't generally make earrings. Love them, own them, wear them, don't make. Despite this, I decided to make earrings :)
So, have an earring tutorial.

Starting Out
You will need:
* 2 pieces of pretty, pretty top-drilled seaglass.
* 6 beads, with two of each colour. I'm using 4 pearls (seafoam and moss green) and 2 clear bicone crystal beads. I was originally going to use 2 white pearls as well, but later decided not to.
* 2 silver eyepins.
* 6 silver headpins.
* 2 2" lengths of silver wire, roughly 18ga (or premade ear wires, up to you!).
* Pliers! Flat-nosed, round-nosed and some side-cutters.
* small file.

Making Bails
For those of you who don't know, bails are the little bits of metal used to attach a pendant to findings when making jewellery.
I used the 2 eyepins for this. First you need to your flat-nosed pliers and make a right angled bend in one of the headpins. To get the correct length, measure it against your sea glass. You want the eye to be just about the top of the glass when the pin is through the hole in the glass.

Once you've done that, thread the eyepin through the hole in the glass - the eye needs to be at the back! Bend the top of the eyepin around the top of the seaglass to get a nice, neat join.

Now, root out your round-nosed pliers and make a loop in the other end of the wire. The size is up to you, but I'd recommend keeping it fairly small.

The next step is to bend the part of the wire you've just curved and mould it to the front of the glass. Congratulations, the bail is now finished!

Prettification
As if the glass wasn't pretty enough already, we're going to add some beads and pearls. Take 3 headpins thread one pearl/bead onto each one. Pick up your trusty flat-nosed pliers, one of the pearl/headpin combos and bend the wire at a right angle, just above the pearl. Then switch to the round-nosed pliers, put the bottom jaw of the pliers under the corner you've just made and bend the excess wire around to create a loop.

Hook this through the eyepin you made earlier, cut off the excess wire with the side-cutters and bend so that it's a clean join.

Hopefully the pictures explain it better than I can!

Rinse and repeat.

And again!

Making Earwires
At this point, you can just attach some pre-made earwires if you wish and leave me to fumble with bits of silver wire.
If you fancy making some of your own, go for it. It's easy and won't take you long!
I'm using 18ga sterling silver wire, but anything from 18 to 22 is usually fine :) You can make earwires using a wire jig, alas, I do not have one. So I'm relying on my trusty round-nosed pliers and a mandril!
Ok, to start, make another loop using the round-nosed pliers! Hurrah! To make sure the earwires are similar it's best to mark the point of the pliers your using.

Next, take the mandril and, starting from the loop, bend the wire round 3/4 of the way.

Make sure it's all level, file the ends so you don't cut yourself when wearing them and tadaaah!

Attach them to the bails on the seaglass and you're all done :)

As ever, I really hope this is helpful and has made sense! Please ask if you have any questions :)

Tutorial Finished :)

2009-09-07T22:00:00.005+01:00

I don't think I mentioned this, but a couple of weeks ago I stumbled across http://totallytutorials.blogspot.com/ and found that an Etsy seller was giving away a selection of seaglass. The only stipulation was that you had to make a tutorial of whatever you made it into.

So, I got in touch with the lovely Corrie from http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6064149 and she sent me some gorgeous pieces of drilled seaglass.

Now, I rarely make earrings. I don't kow why, I love wearing them and I have an extensive collection, but they're just not things I often get inspired to make.

When I opened the envelope last week and saw these two pretty pieces, I just knew that they had to be earrings. They may have made a good pendant, or bracelet charm, but for me they had to be earrings.

So I made these. And it was good.

I'm currently working on the tutorial for them, hopefully it will be up later tonight/tomorrow. Stay tuned :D

I also made a collar to match my crotalus cuff and made another cuff in bronze...these will be photographed and shown tomorrow, as I'm currently tired and my brain hurts!

Hope you all had a good weekend :)

I Need Opinions! (and I'm having a sale until wednesday!)

2009-09-04T11:27:00.007+01:00

Ok, opinions first, people!
I've been struggling with this necklace design for a couple of days, it just doesn't feel quite 'right'. Some thoughts and opinions on it would be very, very much appreciated!

So what do you think? I'm considering putting either some silver chain in or another strand of small pearls, but my mum thinks that would make it too crowded :/
Add more, or leave it as it is?

Now, onto the sale!

In conjunction with the HAFteam's Summer Memories Challenge (http://handmadeartistsforum.com/haf-team/summer-memories-hafteam-challenge/), some team members are also having a sale!

At least 10% off select items through the end of voting on Wednesday, September 9.

You can see a list of participating shops here:
http://handmadeartistsforum.com/forum/index.php/topic,1659.0/topicseen.html

I'm not only offering 10% off 10 stunning pieces of jewellery, I'm offering free shipping as well to all members of my Facebook Fanpage! Take a look (link on the right sidebar), the code is in the top wall post :)
I've included things like my Elegant Orchid Necklace (picture on the left!) as well as some fantastic resin pins and several other necklaces. Go and take a look, you might find a bargin ^~

I also added a couple of bracelets to my Etsy shop yesterday! I've been neglecting my chainmaille recently so sat down yesterday and made a couple of classy pieces out of some left over rings.

Whilst these two beauties aren't in the sale, they've very reasonably priced!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30359705
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30348466

And that's all for now :)
Coming up next week: fun with silver and hopefully a tutorial!

Have a good weekend, everyone!

Mmm delicious chainmaille...

2009-09-04T00:29:00.003+01:00

I have photos for you :)
And not much else, as it's half past midnight here and I need my sleep!

Two pretty chainmaille bracelets to use up some left over rings. May now buy some more and make matching necklaces for these two :D

Bright Byzantine: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30348466

Classy Crotalus: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=30359705

A brief note on the rest of my life: my brother has got me hooked on Fable 2. I'm hoping a weekend in Birmingham with break the spell!

...I don't think it will work :(

Frustration >.<

2009-09-02T20:17:00.003+01:00

Evening all!
I got a fantastic parcel in the post today :D
Yes, yet more pearls. And some lovely spacer beads!
(apologies for the poor photo quality, I've spilt beads aaall over my floor and am too irritated to take a better one!)

So, because of my new shinies I've been making a couple of necklaces. The only problem is, the silk keeps snapping ;_; I got so frustrated with it that I've just taken it all apart and am going to try again tomorrow. It's a shame, I really wanted to have them photogaphed and ready to list tonight.

I did manage to make a great bracelet though - copper and aluminium chainmaille. I'll have a photo of that tomorrow as well :)

Ohoh exciting news, I made two sales today! Totally out of the blue, all of my others have been from people I know or have sold to before.
Woo!

Right, I'm going to tidy my stuff off my bed so I can go to sleep. I'll be back tomorrow with photos and more random rambling :)

We Have A Winner!

2009-08-31T19:53:00.004+01:00

Evening all!

I hope you had a fun weekend. Here in the UK it was a Bank Holiday, so everyone had Monday off work as well. I spent the weekend in Birmingham with my other half, generally lazing in bed, eating trifle and seeing friends. Lots and lots of fun :)

When I arrived back to the land of internet this afternoon, the first thing on my list was drawing a winner for the giveaway!
Without further ado, the winning number given by Random.org was 41. Owner of that winning number is Stephanie, the USA.
Well done to her, the necklace will be in the post tomorrow!

Commiserations to those who didn't win, I promise there will be another giveaway in the run-up to Christmas :)

For those who have not one this time round, I implore you investigate my Etsy shop - http://www.eiriel.etsy.com
I currently have three necklaces in the same style as the giveaway necklace listed at the price of $25 (£15), so help a poor student out and consider buying one ^~

Pink - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29753013

Petrol - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29973690

White - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29973187

Now I do believe it's time for bed. Meeting a friend for lunch tomorrow and would quite like to be coherant!

Family of Four Minus One

2009-08-27T22:46:00.007+01:00

So, my baby sister flew off to Cambodia today for her year working with HIV/AIDs orphans :(

I'm going to miss her, but I'm soooo jealous! My other sister and I will, if we get our acts together, spend a few weeks in South Africa next summer working with monkeys and elephants, but that's so far away :(

Man, all this goodbye stuff makes me emotional and tired. I feel like I could sleep for a week! Before I do, have a couple of Etsy listings :)

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29973187

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29973690

Yes, the white one is almost identical to the giveaway necklace. Just so people can buy one if they don't win ^.~

Oooooh also, for those gamers among you, check out the GuildWars 2 trailer - http://www.guildwars2.com/en/
I'm more excited about that than Diablo III and I have even longer to wait!

Sorry about the formatting on this one, but it's late and I'm too tired to fix it.

Night!

No More Work :(

2009-08-25T19:05:00.002+01:00

So, I had my last shift ever at work yesterday. True, it's only a summer job, but it's been my third year there and I got quite emotional.

For those who don't know, I (was) a care worker at a day center for adults with learning difficulties. It was one of the most difficult, rewarding and unpredictable job I've ever had. Yes, every day had a plan at the beginning of it, but it rarely went as it was supposed to.

I didn't tell any of the clients until right before I left. Those who were able to understand that me leaving today, as I did every other day, did not mean that I would be coming back as I did every morning, said that they would miss me. I appreciated the sentiment, though I doubt some of them would remember me enough to miss me :)

I won't be going back next summer as I'm planning on moving in with my partner, some 3 hours travel away. A bit too much for a commute :D Never mind...next summer will bring the excitement of trying to find a job in publishing :D

HAF Etsy Team Featured Members

2009-08-24T21:08:00.009+01:00

Evening all!

This evening I have a selection of beautiful Etsy shops for you to have a look at. The owners are all members of the HAF Etsy Team (http://handmadeartistsforum.com/forum).
I've picked out a favourite piece from each shop, but I really do recommend you browse every shop. They really are worth it!

First up is Virginia Nin (http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7377690), who's shop has some lovely, stylish jewellery. My favourite is this hand painted resin bracelet.

Next is Unkamen Gifts (http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5339184), a shop containing some stunning chainmaille jewellery. They have a huge selection, it's a real pleasure to browse!

Sister Jewellery (http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5532208) is different again from the previous two jewellers and the shop contains some very dainty watch/bracelet pieces.

My favourite piece from Rose of Sharon Jewellry (http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6234185) is this fantastic pearl and pink jade bracelet. A full, busy piece, it's a fantastic example of what Sharon can do.

Artsy Crafty (http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=47669) makes the cutest clothes for babies and toddlers. Don't have a baby or toddler of your own? Beg, borrow or steal one so you have an excuse to buy something from her shop! Admittedly, a less drastic step would be to buy something for the baby of a friend...

Now, who does not like glitter? Exactly. Everyone likes glitter! Artistic Will have some of the glitteriest artwork I've ever seen. Truely excellent! These would add some shine to any room in your house...not keen on glitter? Then just buy the one :P

Last one of the day is a felt artist who makes some exceptional jewellery, bags, clothes, framed pieces and various other things. Fiber Felter (http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=3812) is possibly my favourite of this weeks shops, I love this handknitted shawl.

And I'm all done for the evening. I'm going to go to bed, as watching the 40 Year Old Virgin is a bit too cringy for me!

Remember, if you haven't already entered my giveaway, the full details are here: http://eirielseclectics.blogspot.com/2009/08/giveaway.html

New Necklaces and a Sad Evening

2009-08-23T22:38:00.002+01:00

Hello everyone.

Firstly I'm just going to say how STAGGERED I am at how many giveaway entries I've had. It's only the third day of the contest and there are currently 40 entries, with a total of 21 people. Thank you all!

I also listed five new necklaces on Etsy tonight!
Pink Pearl Cascade: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29753013 (essentially a pink version of the giveaway necklace)
Seashell Cluster Necklace: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29754416
Spiral Pearl Necklace: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29755108
Pearl Tear Necklace: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29755684 (probably my favourite)
Small Pearl Ruche Necklace: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29756681

Take a look and see what you think, as ever feedback and constructive criticism is welcomed!

Despite all the Etsy goodnes, I'm feeling really quite down tonight. It's a Sunday, which always means a small bit of sadness in the evenings as it's the longest time before I see my partner again. He lives about three hours drive from me, so we really only get to see each other at the weekends. Added to that is the fact that on Thursday, my smallest sister is flying to Cambodia for a whole year. She's working with AIDs orphans and won't be coming home until next August. It's only just hit me...I'm going to miss her so much and she's going so soon.
I keep trying to tell myself that a year isn't -that- long and that when I'm back at uni the time will fly by, but it's not helping much :(

On a more positive note, my dad and his fiancee have set a date for their wedding! September 11th, 2010. Unfortunate I know, not entirely sure who's idea it was. Still, it will be fun! And I get to be a bridesmaid :D

Giveaway!

2009-08-21T15:56:00.007+01:00

Ok, so I've been threatening to do this for a while now and the time has finally come!

I've selected a necklace for first prize, hopefully I've made the right choice. Feel free to tell me if I haven't :P

*drumroll*

Tadaaaa!

This beautiful little necklace is made from stunning ivory and white pearls strung on silk. Radiating out from the center are 25 headpins, with yet more pearls. It fastens with a toggle clasp in a floral design, made from tibetan silver.

2nd prize is £5 or $10 off anything in my Etsy shop.

The retail price for the necklace is £15 or $25 and this is the chance to have it for nothing.

'How?!', I hear you ask? Simple! The first entry is given for simply emailing me. That's it! You can, however, obtain more entries simply by doing one or more of the following:

1. Tweet about me on Twitter.
2. Blog about me.
3. Mention me on your Facebook status update.
4. Feature me in your Deviantart journal.

In order to qualify for these bonus entries you MUST put a link to either:
1. my blog
2. my Etsy shop ( http://www.eiriel.etsy.com )
3. my Facebook fanpage ( http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=285100344&ref=profile#/pages/Birmingham/Eiriels-Eclectics/119458250659?ref=mf ).

Preferably all three :P

Once you've done any/all of these, drop me a line at saidar(at)gmail.com linking me to your blog, twitter account, deviantart or facebook page so I can check you're not being naughty and trying to cheat :P

The closing date for this is Saturday the 29th of August and I will use random.org to find the winner!

If you need clarification on any of this, please comment or email me and I'll get back to you :)

Photos of New, Shiny Things!

2009-08-21T15:44:00.003+01:00

You may remember me muttering something a while ago about waiting for some pearls to arrive. Well, they were waiting for me when I got back from Spain. The following necklaces are what I've made so far...there will be a lot more to come, I got 20 strings of each colour :D

These aren't on Etsy yet as I need to take more photos. And some of them have been sold, so I need to remake them. You will be notified as soon as they're listed :)

Spain, Third Time Lucky.

2009-08-20T23:58:00.006+01:00

Lastly, some mountains. On one of the cooler days we took a drive up into the mountains. The drive itself was horrendous - the journey time was double what it should of been because of the traffic and my sister was in the worst mood and kept arguing with everyone. Not helpful when you're trying to concentrate on driving on a different side of the road to normal.

Eventually we reached the village we were aiming for. It's really pretty - we walked up the hill to the old part of town where the manor house was. The house itself wasn't very impressive. Being British, I'm used to elaborate stately homes with their original decoration and such. This had all been rendered and painted white - it looked so...modern.

There were some small remains of the original castle, which we could walk up to. That was good :)

Right, I am now going to bed. Had a fairly unsuccessful show this evening and I need the sleep!

Tomorrow's update will include photos of the many, many (6, I think) necklaces I made this week. Most excitingly of all, it will include details of the giveaway, namely how to enter and what prizes you can win! Very, very exciting. Or at least, exciting for me.

Night all!

Spain Take 2: Flora and Fauna

2009-08-19T22:11:00.024+01:00

Well, I hope you all found the pictures of my family amusing. Or at least not completely horrendous.

Now I shall bore you with non-people photos!
Bwahahahahaa!

Here we have two lovely hibiscus flowers and a fantastic waterlillie that I was able to catch at full bloom.

More hibiscus photos. I came out of the villa one morning to have a read in the sunshine and notices that this hibiscus was full of ants. It looked so interesting that I had to take a couple of photos.

Animals next :) A very photogenic frog and some fairly blurry terrapins.

Birrrrdies! I went to the Garden of Nations with my mum and step-dad. It's a large park with a pond in the middle and the island in the pond is shaped like Europe, complete with flags and everything. The UK part was covered in shrubs, so we couldn't go on it :( Whoever designed it also over-estimated how far Wales stuck out, but oh well.

In the park, there was quite a large collection of birds, including two peahens with chicks. So, I took photos. There was also the most adorable collection of baby chickens...so I took photos. And a photo of the peacock. And a small bird drinking from a puddle.

Unfortunately, there was also a tank with several large lizards in. I say 'unfortunately' not because I dislike lizards, but because of their living conditions. The tank had nowhere for them to hide, no wood or pools. The poor lizard I took a photo of had it's face pressed up against the glass and a large, red sore on it's chin. None of them looked in very good condition.

And I do believe that is all for today. My apologies for not updating yesterday as planned, I was making a necklace until about 11pm and then I went to bed.

Mountain photos will hopefully be added tomorrow morning!

Spain: The Joy of My Family

2009-08-17T20:52:00.010+01:00

In this post you will have the joy of seeing various amusing photos of my family. Flora/fauna photos will come tomorrow, including photos of some very cute baby chickens.

Don't panic! There will be a select few, the whole load will be put on Flickr for you to browse should the mood take you.

My family are a funny bunch, so it will hopefully be interesting.

The first one is, unfortunately, of me. I promise I am not posing. My partner stole my camera and took a photo when I was looking at the pretty lights when we were in a bar :( The necklace I'm wearing was originally bought by my dad for my mum when they were on holiday in Portugal, looong before they had us children. Mum hasn't worn it for years (I don't think I've ever seen her with it on) and she said I could have it ages ago. It's one of my favourites, made of a shell cut lengthways.
My hair is silly at the moment >.> I've been growing it out and giving it a rest from being dyed a variety of flourescent colours, so it's currently a natural blonde. Sad, but true.

No. 2 is my craaazy brother, Barney and my step-dad, Al. On a pole. Naturally. They weren't as drunk as you'd imagine, oddly enough. Inside every man is a pole-dancer, waiting to emerge! Barney used to have the most gorgeous long, curly blonde hair. He looks like such a thug with it shaved like that...although given that I used to have a very similar hair style I can't really complain!

D'awww. My sister, Erin and her partner James. And Barney's hand. Barney and Erin are twins! Strange but true. When I was doing my Art Foundation, I merged two photos of their faces on photoshop. A bit trite maybe, but it was kind of spooky. All I did was adjust the opacity and they really did merge and look like one person.
James doesn't usually have bright green spots on his nose, I just managed to catch him when the lazers were on. I like lazers :D
Erin's so pretty. She has a bit of a bent nose (she was a very clumsy child) but I think she's really beautiful.

The obligatory MySpace photo. The first time I've actually done one and it was...funny. All three of us burst into hysterical giggles afterwards. Come to think of it...that may have been related to the Moscow Mule and G&Ts.

Anyhoo. The one on the left is my baby sister, Flora. She's actually quite attractive when not pulling faces. She's flying to Cambodia in just over a week to look after AIDs and HIV orphans for a whole YEAR. She can't even come back for Christmas :( I'm going to miss her an awful lot, but I'm jsut so jealous! I'd -love- to do something like that. Kind of wish I'd taken a gap year before Uni, but oh well. Middle is me, pouting in a most uncharacteristic way and on the right is Erin again.

My beautiful, darling Mum. She is the most amazing woman I've ever met and, frankly, looks pretty darn good for her age (50ish). Somehow she raised the four of us by herself, on benefits and I had the happiest childhood I can imagin. Mony was a bit tight, but we had so much fun that none of us really noticed. I have no idea how she did it :)

A smooshy photo of myself and my partner, Tom. He shaved of his goatee-thing, sadly. I really like it (it's ginger!) but he says it takes too much effort :( He's insane and does clever things that involve computers and engineering. I will say no more for fear of boring you with 'I have the most amazing boyfriend EVAR' talk.

Last but not least, a nice photo involving a bridge.

That will be the end of today's broadcast, I hope I have not bored you overly! More photos (and text actually relating to Spain) tomorrow!

I'm Hoooooome :D

2009-08-16T22:15:00.002+01:00

Spain was amazing. The heat was just wonderful, although occasionally a bit too much. And I'm one of the lucky ones who tans instead of burning...I have no idea how my poor boyfriend coped, he's mostly vampire and doesn't get on well with the heat.

There will be more information and photos (and hopefully a video of the cutest baby chickens EVER) on Monday or Tuesday, sadly I can't do a long post today as I have work tomorrow. Got home at 3am this morning, so I need mah sleeps.

Updates this week will include:

1. At least one new piece of jewellery. Finished a new necklace today and I have more planned later in the week as I have a show on Thursday.

2. information on a giveaway I'm planning! Hooray! You will have a chance (if you wish it) to win one of two prizes. First prize is an item of jewellery to be specified once I make my mind up (suggestions welcome, take a gander at my Etsy and let me know!). Second will be a discount code for anything in my Etsy shop.

3. General ramble, photos, videos and such about my time in Spain. Possibly not thrilling, but I hope entertaining!

4. Whatever else I feel like discussing.

A fun-filled blogging week for you all to look forward too! I'm also planning a wire-wrapping tutorial (just the basics) before I go back to university, so stay tuned.

Right, I'm off to cuddle my rat-men before I go to sleep. They were very good for the babysitter, but I missed them!

Hope you all had a good two weeks :)

Last Etsy Listings Before...

2009-07-30T19:27:00.005+01:00

...I sod off to Spain for two weeks!

As my pearls finally arrived I managed to finish a necklace I've been working on for some time.

Listed on Etsy at $50 - http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28571123

I'm off to Spain for two weeks on Saturday and I can't wait! It's the last family holiday before my baby sister (well, she's 18) goes off to Cambodia for a year. She's going to be working in an orphanage for children with HIV and AIDs. It's a bit scary, our smallest one going off to a foreign country for a whole year! I'm very jealous, actually. I'd -love- to do something like that. Sadly I think I'm going to have to content myself with the odd week here abroad until I retire...which is yeeeears away!

So yes, Spain. Party going consists of Mutti, Al (step-dad), my brother Barney, my sister Flora, other sister Erin and her boyfriend James, myself and my partner Tom. We're going to see Al's parent's who moved out there due to health problems and I'm SO EXCITED! Two weeks to enjoy the sunshine and the company of the people I love the best.

I'm not sure how I'll cope without my jewellery making bits and pieces...I've been making roughly two pieces a week for...well, months. Suddenly having no access to supplies is going to be a bit of shock. Although I'll be able to collect sea-glass and shells, so it's not like I'll be having withdrawal symptoms!

Excited Megan :D

Night all, see you in a couple of weeks!

A quick look at my WIP

2009-07-28T22:00:00.004+01:00

Evening all! Just before I pop off to bed I wanted to show you some of my work in progress.

Silver wrapped sea glass, to be made into a pendant and necklace.

Silk orchid for another Elegant Orchid necklace ( http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28381686 )

And now, I'm off to bed :) Going up to Birmingham early tomorrow to pick up some things for Spain (holiday on saturday, hooray!) and some pearls that have -finally- arrived :D

Night all

The Most Beautiful Necklace in the World

2009-07-24T20:13:00.003+01:00

Ok, so the title is a bit...well, conceited.

But tell me that isn't a gorgeous necklace!

Will be on Etsy as soon as I work out how much to charge for it.

A Plethora of New Etsy Listings

2009-07-23T20:49:00.002+01:00

As the title says, today I was busy listing a load of new necklaces on Etsy. One of them sold withing 15 minutes, so I'm happy!

Malachite Tear Necklace: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28230391

Mechanic's Mix Necklace: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28247016

Amethyst Echoes Necklace: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28235270

Flowers of the Sea Necklace: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28233016

Take a look, tell me what you think if you have time :)

In other news, I'm applying for a stall at the York Christmas Craft Market. Hopefully I'll get it...and if I do I'm going to have to build up my stock! Yesterday my mum and sister helped me to pick out a couple of amazing wire work bowls to help display my work. I need to do a few practise stall lay-outs as well, it's been a while!

Right, I'm going to get my man-rats out for a play. They look a bit bored, poor things!

Night all :)

Chandelier Necklaces on Etsy :)

2009-07-21T22:18:00.002+01:00

Just a quick one before I take myself off to bed :)

I've finally got round to listing two of the necklaces I showed you last week, the amethyst and the lapis lazuli one. I'm really pleased with them, take a look and let me know what you think!

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28146717

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=28141088

Night all :)

Swine Flu and Rat Men

2009-07-20T21:52:00.006+01:00

So, I'm currently the only person in the house without swine flu. I feel like a nurse!

My mum's been in bed for about three days, my sister went down yesterday and my step-dad was sent home from work this morning. The fact that I am, as yet, not infected is amazing. I have one of the worst immune systems I've ever come across (I blame having mild ME as a child), but the odds are that I'll get it before the week is out.

The timing is really, really terrible. Erin (sister) is missing her boyfriend's gradutation ceremony tomorrow and she was so excited about going. It's also my parent's tenth wedding anniversary party on saturday and we have friends and family coming over to celebrate. I even bought my fire-poi down from birmingham to fire spin with, so if I'm laid-up in bed I will be highly unimpressed!

I went to Birmingham yesterday evening to pick up some jewellery stuff and came back with lots more than I'd intended. Jewellers' saw, a variety of beads and findings, gelflex, sculpting tools...so I've had another day of making pretty necklaces :) No pictures for you now, but there should be some tomorrow! Although I do need to remember to do some dissertation research this week and not just make jewellery...

Currently sitting in bed whilst my darling man-rats play around my feet. It's so good to have them back! My boyfriend took them for the fortnight when I was doing work experience as I didn't really have time to play with them and I missed them more than expected.

My ratty men as babies:

Ratty men now:

I really don't understand why people don't like domestic rats. They're squishy, cuddly and so very affectionate. Yes, they smell a bit...but they're so adorable!

Ok, bedtime for me.
Night!

The Premio Meme Award

2009-07-19T13:12:00.003+01:00

In a fairly suprising turn of events, a lovely seller (and blogger) from Etsy messaged me to say she'd awarded me the 'Premio Meme Award' for my blog. She can be found here: http://www.thegoldenthimble.blogspot.com/ and I strongly suggest you take a look :)

Apparently I now have to share seven things about myself...so here goes.

1. I read faster than anyone I know.
2. I love baking, but rarely find the time :(
3. The ideal length for my hair is roughly 3/4 of an inch.
4. I am a proud member of the Circus society at university and was last year's president.
5. I play viola!
6. I have 3 beautiful male rats
7. I am a complete ancient history geek.

I now need to bestow this award on seven other blogs. All of these people are interesting writers and have truly amazing Etsy shops!

http://trainersinnightclubs.blogspot.com/
http://allthosethrees.blogspot.com
http://laurabailliedesigns.blogspot.com
http://teaandjewels.blogspot.com/2009/07/afternoon-tea.html
http://boojewels.blogspot.com/2009/07/one-thing-tends-to-lead-to-another.html
http://quercussilver.blogspot.com/
http://cowislandblogspot.blogspot.com/

Seriously, go look!

Highly Recommended!

2009-07-13T21:00:00.003+01:00

Parsy sells some stunning handmade cards and gift tags and she has free postage to the UK for a week on everything in her Etsy shop! (http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=25021)

Some of my favourites of hers are listing below, I really do encourage you to take a look :D

Gift tags showing a little guy holding a flower:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22908670

Greeting card for those who like cake!
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=23897306

A truly stunning piece of hand embroidered art, framed and ready to grace any wall:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22002696

Here's what she has to say about her beautiful products:

"I create cute and quirky card for all occasions, i am able to create custom cards, and add a personal message on any, eg -add a name just let me know if your interested in any of my cards but would like to change somthing about them.

Opened my shop in 2006 then had a 2 year break, re-opened my shop in nov 2008 and am back with new ideas and curious stuff.

i love custom orders!"

Seriously, take a look!

Well, that was a productive weekend!

2009-07-12T19:39:00.013+01:00

I can't remember if I told you this, but I ordered a load of jump rings last week. I got home after a week in London yesterday and got to work!
In the space of 48 hours, I've made 2 man's bracelets, 5 necklaces and 1 chain. As well as the usual bits of sleeping, eating, spending time with my sister/family etc. I feel proud of myself! I've almost run out of aluminium, I've done so much.

Without further ado, have some photos!

Necklace 1.
Fairly simple, this one :) Aluminium sections in a spiral weave, ten links long, joined by two bronze links. The clasp is a swirly tibetan silver hook, one of my favourites :)

Necklaces 2-4

These next 3 are actually the same design, just using different stones :) 2 is with amythyst, 3 is with lapis lazuli and 4 is with dyed flourite. All three necklaces have a base of plain aluminium chain, with silver clasps. The focal points are plastic chandelier drops around 1'' in length and 4 circular drops placed at intervals along the chain. No. 2 is slightly different to the others as it has 2 small, blue plastic leaf beads as well, the others are just stone chips. In fact, the central 3/4 of the chain has either a stone chip or a chandelier drop hanging from it. If you're familiar with chainmaille, it's effectively a half shaggy-loop weave.
I found the chandelier drops at the local market (I LOVE markets) during my lunch break at work. They were still wired in their original format (one drop and I think 3 circular ones) for £1 each. Plus a beautiful glass drop in a similar shape to a fleur-de-lis, which will be used at a later date. Given how well I think these worked, I've just ordered some plain glass drops (same shape as the central ones) from a shop on Etsy (http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5133361), along with some coral beads. No idea what I'll do with the coral, but they were so chunky and beautiful I couldn't resist.
There is another necklace with lapis lazuli, but I'm not posting that as it's not finished!

So yes, these are my new necklaces! I don't know whether to put them all on Etsy or keep some back...I need something to show potential shop people :/

There's another necklace/choker that's been hanging round in my storage boxes for a while as I totally forgot to photograph it last time. It's...different. Completely out of my head because I had some 'o' rings left over from making my Stepping Stone cuff (http://eiriel.deviantart.com/art/Stepping-Stone-cuff-128502062) and my Rubber Spirals necklace (http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27140360), they're pretty much too big for anything else! Made of large rubber 'o' rings looped through each other, joined in the middle with a steel washer. The stretch on it is amazing, it looks really quite small but I can get it over my head with ease! Because of how the rubber is chained together, it also spirals a little bit...I do like it :)
(Etsy listing, only $16! http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27724295)

Only two more photos for you, don't panick! A better photo of the silver and gold chain, but not -that- much better, sadly. Can't remember how much detail I gave you last time, but this is the base for a pearl necklace. Still awaiting the pearls and the pretty headpins I found! Need to buy more headpins, actually.

The other photo is of a simple rubber and aluminium man-bracelet. I made one in a weave called full persian for my brother this morning and wanted to make some more, so I did. Once I've bought some more rubber rings (all my others are the wrong size) I'm going to make some more, including a set of 3. I made this set for my boyfriend for Valentine's day and he really likes them...they're nice and masculine :D
(Etsy listing: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27725340)

And I believe that's all for now!

Working with precious metals

2009-07-11T15:00:00.003+01:00

This is something that makes me feel really excited. I love silver and gold, I love working with them and I adore how they look in a well-designed piece of jewellery. So, for the first time in ages I bought myself some silver and gold jump rings to work with and made a pretty, delicate chain as the foundation for a pearl necklace.

The photos are awful, but I don't like getting the light box out just for one piece. I'm planning a weekend of jewellery making, so hopefully there will be some decent quality photos tomorrow!

Trying to get published?

2009-07-10T18:38:00.004+01:00

So...
you've written the perfect book, you've sent it to your friends and they say it's the next 'Lord of the Rings'.

You want to send it to an agent so they can find you a publisher.

Excellent plan!

One, cardinal rule before you even CONSIDER sending it to any agent.

CHECK YOUR SPELLING. Repeated spelling mistakes are really not the way to win over any agent. If I have to trawl through misspellings of commonly used words, I will give up after the 5th page and go on to someone else's manuscript, in the hope that they know how to use an english dictionary.

Same goes for grammer, actually. If you use an average of 3 commas in every sentence, no-one in the publishing industry will be impressed.

Seriously. Agents do expect basic levels of literacy.

End rant!

Contemplating business

2009-07-09T23:03:00.003+01:00

Evening all!

Another fantastic day at the office, tomorrow I actually get to offer advice to a writer. Good first 50 pages, needs a bit of adjusting and a more suitable agent but he may actually get published.

I spent the evening talking with my dear friend Nicky (who was my babysitter, then my mum's best friend, then our legal guardian and is now just...close, close friend to the whole family) about my Etsy shop and my jewellery in general. Paid work is somewhat unforthcoming at the moment - it's hard for students everywhere and she suggested building up a line of jewellery and approaching local boutiques and gift shops. I think this is a good idea and it just so happens that I ordered a small quantity of silver and gold jump rings yesterday as I need more stock anyway. I'm also awaiting a large pearl order (will post photos when they arrive!), partly why I bought the silver and gold.

It's exciting and scary. I'm going to have to spend a fair bit of money building up stock etc...but I think it will pay off in the end. Etsy is great, but I can't see it being regular, reliable business for a while yet.

Quick look at potential stock for you, I made this set a month or so ago and sold the necklace and bracelet. I want to make something similar, probably in precious metals and without the silver charms. What do you think?

Literary Agency, more interesting than it sounds!

2009-07-07T20:02:00.002+01:00

Sooo...
I decided on a career path a few months ago and managed to get some work experience at a literary agency in London.

It is the most fun I've ever had at work. They actually want me to just sit and read unpublished books then give them my opinion. It could only be better if they delt with scifi/fantasy. As it is, they have some very interesting things for me to read.

Some are awful, some are moderate and a few are good...if needing a few adjustments.

Being around the office is fascinating as well. I get to hear about things like publicity deals for individual authors and get an insight into how the publishing industry works.

I won't get rich doing this, but it will keep my brain occupied!

First three sales, hooray!

2009-07-04T18:25:00.002+01:00

Apparently, this advertising lark pays off :) I made my first three sales yesterday, to a lovely woman called Dee who commissioned me to make a mechanic's mix necklace and cuff a few months ago (http://eiriel.deviantart.com/art/Mechanic-s-Mix-Necklace-104400588).

So yes, I am a happy person. It does mean that I now need to order more jump rings and make more stock...something that I don't really have time for as I'm spending the next two weeks in London on work experience.
There's always the weekend :)

I'm planning another one similar to my vintage dangles neckalce, but in glass and plastic chandelier whatsits. No idea what they're called.

Oh and I've got some pewter token things, they have little cut out pictures and writing saying things like' good for one breakfast in bed', or 'good for one hug'. I think I'll get some steel and make them into a charm bracelet. I love planning new pieces :D

Right, must go and cook dinner. Later!

With any luck I'll keep this blog alive...

2009-07-03T10:59:00.000+01:00

So, I've bitten the bullet and got myself a blog.

I'm -awful- with things like this. Seriously. I try and keep diaries and write in them once a every 6 months, if I remember. I'm going to try and write in this at least twice a week, though next week may be a problem as I'm in London for work experience and may not have my laptop with me :(

Right. The purpose of this was to help in advertising my new Etsy shop, www.eiriel.etsy.com and tell whoever cares to listen about what jewellery I'm making, but, knowing me, I'll end up writing random thigns in it as well. So keep with me, there will be some kind of comedy value!

Speaking of comedy value...I was looking at a list of website URLs last night and the phone rang. I answer the phone and cheerily say 'Megan Lewis dot com!'. There is stunned silence on the other end, I realise what I've said and apologies several times in between fits of the giggles. The phone is passed over to my mother, who informs the person on the other end that I'm insane. It was our plasterer...good job he has a sense of humour!

Right, I'm going to go and sort out some new business cards.
Later!