I admit it I have become the worst blogger I know. Not only does it seem as though my posting is hit or miss but my posts have become contrite to me - often times sounding more like an ad or class announcement than anything interesting. That said it is time to tidy up a bit. While you see my blog as it is I am busy behind the scenes formulating a new plan, a new look and redefining my voice. For now I leave with a bit a blingy beauty - I will back soon!
My favorite time of year is upon us and that means creating on a whole new level is happening in the studio. While my head becomes filled with visions of Regency Era balls, ball gowns and gloved fingertips my creative spirit kicks into high gear. I can think of no better way to ring in the season than a Rue Romantique blog hop.
This year I am filling my studio tree with my Rue Romantique bezels. Chock full of a bit of bling, ribbon and of course pearl chain. My tree is sure to delight as well as ring in a bit of Victorian and Regency cheer.
I am also thrilled to share with you a new bundle offered by Interweave which features complete how to on the Christmas ornaments shown above, my new book, my DVD and everything you need to create a selection of handmade ornaments.
Be sure to hop over to the ICE Resin Desgin Teams Blogs as you will not want to miss the incredible work the ICE Resin® Team of Designers has created!
I can honestly tell you that I am completely enthralled by the Pure Michigan commercials - I find that they speak to me on a level that touches my heart. Perhaps it is the line "we loose ourselves in the fog of every day life and drift away from what matters" or better yet "the perfect summer has a voice" whatever it is these delightful ads that touch a deep part of my heart.
I am happy to share I will be experiencing my own dose of Pure Michigan in August as I will be traveling to Smitten Dust where I will teaching from the 16th to the 19th. I am absolutely over the moon about this trip as my dear friends Jen and Kari so enjoyed there time teaching for Dusty and the wonderful ladies this spring. Not to mention I have heard from many that I absolutely must visit the ice cream store next door.
Here is a wee preview of what I will be teaching - please be sure to visit the Smitten Dust for all the details as well as registration information.
Secret Journey - Upcycled Journal August 16th 9-4
Adorned Relics - August 16th 6-9
Glamour and Grunged Etched and Soldered August 17th 9-4
House Full of Grace August 18th 10-3
Romancing the Quilt August 19th 10-4
If I owned a pair of super sonic roller skates life would perhaps be easier however I do believe it would not be as much FUN! In an effort to not sound uber Waldo - as in where is.....I thought I would type a quick where I will be as I have been a bit remiss about doing so.
So here it is where I will be the next 6 months.....
Create Chicago - August 21st - 24th
| Adorned Relics: Embedding Objects Into Faux Mercury Glass (3-hour) by Kristen Robinson |
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| Date: Thursday, August 22 Time: 6:00pm-9:00pm |
Price: $85.00 Materials Fee: $20.00 |
Technique: Mixed Media Jewelry Skill: All Levels |
| We all need a wee bit of subtle glamour nestled within the bounty of our treasure boxes, treasures embedded in faux mercury glass are just the thing. Gorgeous layers of luscious silver surround an embedded object in each of the five pieces we will be creating in class. The piece the sits upon delicate filigree that enhances the depth of the centerpiece while embedded rhinestones surround the unique pendant. Students Should Bring: a cookie sheet, items they wish to place into the faux mercury glass such as rhinestone jewelry, findings, etched metal, coins, and buttons. Please do not bring anything plastic. |
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| House Full of Grace: Mixed Media Wooden Houses (6-hour) by Kristen Robinson |
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| Date: Friday, August 23 Time: 9:00am-4:00pm |
Price: $149.00 Materials Fee: $22.00 |
Technique: Collage & Assemblage Skill: All Levels |
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| Wooden houses are transformed from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Sacred hearts created from paper clay act as the centerpiece to these delightful narratives. Students will create three houses composed of layers of paint, shading, wax, resin, text, found objects and buttons. One house will have a sacred heart as the centerpiece while the other two will be created from molds of objects students bring with them to class. Each house will truly be an individual narrative. Students Should Bring: Found Objects to make molds with (no larger than 1 1/2" w x 2 1/2" h and 3"x3" for the Largest House), paper, fabric, text, buttons, jewelry parts, anything you wish to incorporate into your houses, Acrylic Paint to coordinate with your desired palette (neutral colors will be provided), Scissors, paint brushes, container for water to rinse brush. Optional: Silicone Craft Sheet |
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| The Beauty of Etched and Layered: Etched Bracelet (6-hour) by Kristen Robinson |
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| Date: Saturday, August 24 Time: 9:00am-4:00pm |
Price: $149.00 Materials Fee: $20.00 |
Technique: Mixed Media Jewelry Skill: All Levels |
| A simple metal filigree bezel is truly more than that; with the help of a bracelet mandrel, metal, etching solution and constructed chain a work of beauty is born. In class we will be constructing a filigree bezel cuff bracelet that is filled with resin and layered with metal filigrees. We will then move on to construct chain in class as well as a simple clasp. Everything is provided in the kit all you need to bring are a few tools. Students Should Bring: Wire cutters, Jewelry Round Nose Pliers, Jewelry Flat Nose Pliers, Scissors, Plastic sandwich containerOptional: If You Do Not Wish To Share Those Provided In Class-Jeweler's Saw with #2 Blade, Bench Pin, Rawhide Mallet, Bracelet Mandrel |
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Art and Soul Portland October 3rd - October 6th
Saturday October 5th 9:00 - 3:00
In no way do landscapes need to be created in the same sense in which we view them. I feel there are truly no rules when it comes to art, especially mixed media art. There is always great room for our artistic side to shine and flourish within the layers of beauty we create. Whatever story you may wish to tell layers of paint, texture, images and ephemera allow for a bounty of creativity and expression.
This class will have a shorter lunch break in order to give instructors time to set up for the Vendor Show.
Using painting techniques, texturing and added embellishments I will walk you through classic techniques with a twist. Image transfers, wax, resin and more will not only build the foundation of our pieces but lend a hand in the telling of our tale. We will spend a good amount of time creating backgrounds, adding collage and a wee bit of journaling. The class kit includes supplies to complete three landscapes.
$15 Supply Kit Includes
Canvas Paper
Chip Board
Sheet Music
Wax
Ledger Paper
Ribbon
Buttons
Filigrees – Brass and Silver
Needle
Embroidery Floss
Use of Paint
Use of Gel Medium
Use of Texture Paste
Rubber Stamps to Share
Students Should Bring
Acyrlic Paint to Coordinate with your desired palette (neutral colors will be provided)– I prefer EcoGreen Crafts Paint as it is non toxic (great for enclosed spaces)
Paintbrushes Small to Medium
Watercolor Crayons (just a few to match your palette)
Imagery of your Choice
Scraps of Paper
Pencil & Eraser
White Journaling Pen
Paint Palette
Ribbon
Scraps of Material
Found Objects you wish to incorporate such as keys, lace, buttons etc
Anything you wish to incorporate into your piece
Cloth to wipe away paint
Glamour and Grunged - Ruth Rae and Kristen Robinson |
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9:00 - 4:30, Thursday - Oct 3Join Ruth Rae and Kristen Robinson on an exploration of etching and resin with a dollop of flood soldering. A simple cuff is transformed into a virtual masterpiece with the addition of resin charms (students will create in class) as well as a wee bit of flood soldering and a splash of color and beads. Techniques that will be taught are applicable to an array of jewelry projects as well as other mixed media creations. During the first half of class we begin our resin journey; filling an array of bezels as well as objects students wish to bring to class (such as small metal findings etc), using a no fail method to do so. The second half of our day will be all about etching we will cover not only the proper process but also disposal and safety. A dollop of flood soldering completes each masterpiece; a perfect statement meant to leave others talking. $45 Kit Includes 1 Brass Cuffs 2 Bezels ICE Resin® 2 Filigrees Clip Art Rhinestones Solder Copper Tape Steel Wool Beads and Crystals |
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Upgrade Option $20 Additional cuff, wire, beads and crystals
Students Must Bring Round Nose Pliers Wire Cutters Flat Nose Pliers 1 Small plastic container with lid sandwich size Rubber stamps and Black Staz On Ink (we will have some to share as well) Black sharpie marker suitable tip size for writing and or drawing Eye protection Ball peen hammer
Instructors Will Bring to Share with the Class Drill and Drill Bits Baking Soda Staz On Ink Stamps to Share Heat Guns Bench Blocks Hammers Acetone Clip Art Rawhide Hammers Soldering Irons Flux Solder
Optional Items if you do not wish to share: Butane torch, rawhide hammer if not wishing to utilize those brought for the class to share, assorted beads and crystals (4-10mm) to adorn cuff if different color desired.
Sacred Houses October 4th 9:00 - 4:30
Little wooden houses are transformed from the ordinary to the extraordinary. Sacred hearts and other objects (that we will cast in class) created from paper clay act as the centerpiece to these delightful narratives.
Students will create three houses composed of layers of paint, shading, wax, resin, text, found objects and buttons. One house will have a scared heart as the centerpiece while the other two will be created from molds of objects students bring with them to class. Each house will truly be an individual narrative.
$35 Kit payable to instructor at beginning of classIncludes
3 Wooden Houses
Sacred Heart (Completed to Work With)
Paper Clay
Molding Putty
Foam Brushes
Vintage Sheet Music
ICE Resin®
Thread
Buttons
Metal Stampings
2 Bezels
Buttons
Students Must Bring
Found Objects that we will mold (no larger than 1 ½” x 1 ½”)
Jewelry Parts
Text
Acyrlic Paint to Coordinate with your desired palette (neutral colors will be provided)
Scissors
Optional – Silicone Craft Sheet
Seaside Soiree November 1st - 3rd Del Mar California
Her Hearts Treasure
Delightful layers of faux mecury glass become the perfect place to embedd a vintage crown. Rhinestones, beads, ribbon and other lovely elements come together creating a masterpiece meant to be worn on any occasion.
Spellbound November 7th - 10th Pasadena California
Photos by Martha Schuster of I See The Moon Photography
Queen Victoria's Bracelet
Friday 8:00 am
Saturday 8:00 am
Layers of ICED Enamels, Silver Tattered Mica and ICE Resin® create the perfect centerpiece for an enameled heart (which we will create in class). All of these divine elements are nestled nicely within the confines of a Rue Romantique Victorian bezel that has been manipulated with a mandrel and hammered into a cuff. Strands of chain and beads complete this unique and stunning piece.
In class I will walk you through the process of enameling charms, using ICED Enamels to create faux flood soldering, as well as shaping and hammering your bezels into cuffs. Wire wrapping as well as chain construction will also be covered. Everyone will leave class with a completed bracelet!
Supplies Provided: Kit includes everything you need, however if you would like to add your own elements please feel free to bring them with you to incorporate into your piece.
Supplies Needed:
Basic three-piece jewelry tool set (wire cutters, flat nose and barrel nose).
“Rue Romantique” Enameled Necklace: Friday- 3pm, Saturday 4:30pm
Layers of beauty abound in this charming necklace. From rhinestone filled Rue Romantique Bezels to ICED Enameled and blinged up charms, the temptations are endless. Pearls, crystals, charms and faceted beads create somewhat of a fairy tale that will surely attract attention while at the same time speak volumes of classic beauty.
In class I will guide you through the process of using ICED Enamel® as well as filling bezels with rhinestones and ICE Resin™. We will then move on to assembling our piece, which will include wire wrapping, creating eternity loops and altering silk ribbon.
Supplies Provided: Kit includes everything you need to create the project as shown. If you would like to add your own elements, please feel free to bring them with you to incorporate into your piece.
Supplies Needed:
Basic three-piece jewelry tool set (wire cutters, flat nose pliers and barrel nose pliers).
For some reason I cannot seem to stop listening to James Blunt; it is the soundtrack of my life upon returning home from Create. Perhaps it was his lulling voice echoing within my ears as I was carried through the sky that reminded me of the beauty that comes through his music. For the last three days I have spent a countless amount of time playing and replaying the same songs all of which I never tire of.
California was chock full of great moments. After my dear Ruthie collected me and my large bags from the airport, we made our way to Stampington. It is always like going home when I walk through the doors as truly it is where it all began for me. Jen was working away on her amazing Workshop feature (I can tell you it is going to be wonderful), while I spent a delightful time with Jana as her temporary office mate typing an article that was due that day.
As we journeyed to the hotel I could not help but get a wee bit excited; soon I would be seeing old friends and sharing moments with new ones. I am not sure what to call it as excitement seems to small of a word to label such a grand experience - note to self find an eloquent word that relays my feelings of joy!
Each time I teach I find myself so incredibly filled - filled with memories of kind moments spent with amazing students, filled with a renewed sense of self, filled with a rejuvenated creativity and filled with the desire to continue on this amazing journey.
Wednesday I taught one of my favorite classes "Sacred Houses" not only do I cover the process of making molds and then filling with amazing products but I facilitate as wonderful artists put together their story; one that literally comes to life often on its own. To say the day was great would be an understatement. I cannot thank all of you enough for spending your time with me.
Wednesday evening I ran away from the hotel away from home and spent it with my sister and her family. I would be lying if I told you it was easy to get out of the car and return to reality Thursday evening. I miss them all so much!
Another day full of creativity and gifts of inspiration. Each of the ladies who honored me with their time had an amazing story to tell. And while a journal is so very personal it is also so incredibly inspirational to see what each person creates and how they plan to use their personal pieces down the road. Thank you to each one of you who gifted me with your time and stories.
The week was definitely wonderful, full of moments with dear friends, new memories and a renewed desire to take in each moment of this incredible journey.
reach n (1) the action or act of reaching (2) an individual part of a progression or journey
There is a little voice within me that it is not so little. This voice is loud enough at times I think it actually escapes my soul. This voice is the voice that is constantly telling me to "REACH". Reach high, reach for your hopes, reach for your dreams, reach out your hand to those who need you, reach to the clouds and capture that in which you want.
Go out and reach today! Reach for that one thing that you desire, reach for that friend or loved one, reach for a stranger in need, reach as far as wide and as far as you possibly can for it is when we cease to reach we stop the journey.
I am so very thrilled to be part of Spellbound once again. To say this event is divine is quite the understatement. Each and every detail is filled with classic beauty. Shea and Debbie go above an beyond to create an event that is truly a destination of fun and delight. One could not forget to mention the Langham Hotel with its exqusite beauty and history it is the perfect venue for this amazing event.
Last year I taught one of favorite techniques - using flood soldering to simulate mercury glass. This year I take things up a notch with two new classes with projects that are exclusive to the Spellbound Event with my new line Rue Romantique and the new ICED Enamels by ICE Resin® - not only will everyone learn new and exciting techniques but each student will walk away with a completed piece to wear!
“Queen Victoria’s” Bracelet: Friday- 8am, Saturday- 8am
ICED Enamels, Silver Tattered Mica and ICE Resin® create the perfect centerpiece for an enameled heart (which we will create in class). All of these divine elements are nestled nicely within the confines of a Rue Romantique Victorian bezel that has been manipulated with a mandrel and hammered into a cuff. Stands of chain and beads complete this unique and stunning piece.
In class Kristen will walk you through the process of enameling charms, using ICED Enamels to create faux flood soldering, as well as shaping and hammering your bezels into cuffs. Wire wrapping as well as chain construction will also be covered. Everyone will leave class with a completed bracelet!
Supplies Provided: Kit includes everything you need, however if you would like to add your own elements please feel free to bring them with you to incorporate into your piece.
Supplies Needed:
Basic three-piece jewelry tool set (wire cutters, flat nose and barrel nose).
“Rue Romantique” Enameled Necklace: Friday- 11:30am, Saturday 4:30pm
Layers of beauty abound in this charming necklace. From rhinestone filled Rue Romantique Bezels to ICED Enameled and blinged up charms, the temptations are endless. Pearls, crystals, charms and faceted beads create somewhat of a fairy tale that will surely attract attention while at the same time speak volumes of classic beauty.
In class Kristen will guide you through the process of using ICED Enamels as well as filling bezels with rhinestones and ICE Resin™. We will then move on to assembling our piece, which will include wire wrapping, creating eternity loops and altering silk ribbon.
Supplies Provided: Kit includes everything you need to create the project as shown. If you would like to add your own elements, please feel free to bring them with you to incorporate into your piece.
Supplies Needed:
Basic three-piece jewelry tool set (wire cutters, flat nose pliers and barrel nose pliers).
I work early this morning (as I generally do), however this morning I woke with this deep need to share what is within my heart. I know within all of us lies the truest form of love. A love so pure, so divine so engaging that all is as it should be within the world. This love is much like that of a child, laden with nurturing, true caring with a large dollop of an acute desire to truly listen. This is the kind of love that I strive to share. The kind of love where I am able to give 100% of myself creatively while remaining inspiring and encouraging.
I am beyond blessed to have the opportunity to share my art, my thoughts and my dreams with the world via the classroom, writing and media. These words are for all of you; for it is you who consistently touch my life and inspire me to continue sharing my art and my words and my heart. It is the moments that you all share with me that I am truly fulfilled and assured this path is the one I am to walk.
I grew up blessed with three wonderful Grandmothers - paternal, maternal and a Great Granmother. All of these women inspired me, mentored me and perhaps best of all loved me unconditionally. When I think about the lessons I learned from them through the years I find my eyes well with tears. From the most domestic of chores like cooking to exciting adventures in creativity I was and still am continuously honored to be influenced by each of them.
My paternal Grandmother (referred to as Grandmere in the Rue Romantique Flip Book), is still living and as active and spirited as ever. Fiercely independent and talented she continues to inspire me in ways I know she is not even aware of. Her strength and caring spirit is a gift to all who meet her and love her. Sharing her is perhaps the best way I know of to honor her. My Valentine to you, on this day of love and caring is a project that is not only wonderful to create but quite approachable to accomplish. A perfect creation to honor one who means so very much.
XOX
Kristen
Grandmere Necklace
Tools and Materials
Photo Clip Art Provided in Rue Flip Book
Adhesive
Craft Mat or Other Non Stick Surface
4 Coin Pearls
8 8mm Grey Pearls – Claire Studio Mix
2 6mm Grey Pearls - Claire Studio Mix
4 8mm Rhinestone Rondelles
Silver Chain Silver Clasp
10 mm Jump Ring
Round Nose Pliers
Wire Cutters
Directions
1. Cut Photo from clip art section of flip book or personal collection.
2. Using bezel template trace oval onto photo. Cut with scissors.
3. Adhere paper to back of bezel with paper safe adhesive
4. Cut rhinestone strand to fit into interior of bezel. Place a small amount of adhesive onto back of rhinestone chain and adhere to top of photo.
5. Mix resin according to provided instructions. Place Bezel onto craft mat and pour resin. Allow to dry for at least 6 hours.
6. Cut 4” of silver wire. With round nose pliers create a loop 1 ½” from the end of the wire. Place the loop through the top bale of the bezel. Wrap the remaining wire around the top of the loop to close. Trim any excess wire.
7. Onto remaining wire place one 10mm coin pearl. Create a second loop and wrap closed.
8. Cut 6” of silver wire. With round nose pliers create loop 2” from the end of the wire, and place through the top loop of the first coin pearl link. Wrap the remaining wire closed and trim excess. Onto the long end of the wire place one 8mm grey pearl, one 8mm rhinestone rondelle, and one 8mm grey pearl. Create a loop with round nose pliers. Wrap remaining wire around loop to close.
9. Repeat step 7-8 Leaving the final top loop open.
10. To the top loop of the last grey pearl link attach 2 strands of silver chain measuring 3” each. Wrap the remaining wire around the loop and close.
11. Cut 4” of silver wire. With round nose pliers create a loop 1 ½” from the end of the wire. Place the loop through the last link(s) of the two strands of silver chain. Wrap the remaining wire around the top of the loop to close. Trim any excess wire.
12. Create a second loop on the adjacent end and place clasp ring through the loop. Wrap remaining wire.
13. Repeat steps 6-12 on the adjacent side, replacing the 10mm jump ring for the silver clasp.
The moment my feet drift back into my safe place - Home - the comfort of what is captures me. I am wrapped in the familiar and held in the arms of familial love. Traveling always offers up such a bounty of amazing moments and adventures; at times I feel as though I am walking through a full feild gathering a basket of wildflowers that slowly spill over the edges of woven reeds - the bounty I collect seems almost unreal.
Each day I am home and away, there is another great lesson to be learned. My days are filled with such an abundance of blessings that I find an internal need to share these blessings with the world, it is a need that is somewhat overwhelming. Finding a common ground with these thoughts is not easy as I spread myself much to thin as it is. As I journeyed home through the billowing clouds from this last trip I found a quiet peace shroud me, I must admit it was a wee bit jolting as I feared for a moment a higher power was preparing me for something scary. However, when I stopped to listen to my heart I realized fear was not locked within the layers but rather happiness. A happiness born from the incredible journey I am traveling.
Perhaps it took a bit of exhaustion to remind me of this happiness as well as reignite my passion for sharing with others. To me there are no better moments with my students and fellow artists than those when an aha moment or huge creative burst occurs. Passion such as this does not wain in life but only grows bigger, rooting itself into the core of who we are and what we wish to be. It is when I return to my day to day life that I become struck by what truly occurred while I was traveling. There were moments that were filled with aha's and wows as well as moments filled with incredible learning and sharing. Moments of meeting new people with the same hope and creativity as I hold within me and moments that I will forever think of.
So while I am home and feeling cocooned in all that I hold dear I am also so filled with a deep thanks for all the time so many of you share with me. Whether the time we have together is in the classroom (virtual included), emails and comments or just a quick hello I cherish each memory that has been created as well as each bit of time you have invested with me. Coming home is wonderful; coming home with a bounty of memories is a treasure.
I am a full time Artist/Writer with my first book Tales of Adornment - Techniques for Creating Romantic Resin Jewelry just hitting the shelves!
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