Just in the nick of time, I finished my charms for the ArtBLISS charm swap.   I just love the traditions that go along with art retreats.  If you’ve ever been to one, you’ll know that trading is a big part of the subculture.  I was indoctrinated when I met  a very artistic science teacher named Maureen at Art and Soul in 2009.  Luckily she’s coming down from NY (yeah!) and organized a charm swap for our event.  To celebrate Fall, a leaf theme was chosen.

I made a bunch of origami cups, little pouches for my charms.  I got this idea when I received earrings that I had ordered from Sandra over at Preserve Jewelry Studio.  She makes such gorgeous earrings, like these and sends them in handmade paper envelopes.  She shared her tips with me on how to make them, and double-sided is good.

Well I have to admit my first charm idea just didn’t work out.  When I showed them to my husband, he said, “What are they supposed to be?”  “Leaves.”  So then I turned to my familiar friend –wire- and just made some crystal wire-wrapped beads and added a brass leaf stamping.  I oxidized them and even tumbled them for a bit.  I admit they kinda look like one-winged insects or something….but they’ll have to do.

The next time I stop in, I hope to be reporting right from the Inaugural Event!  Will be in touch soon –