free shipping at my etsy shop

Now until December 19th, I am offering free shipping in the United States to all items purchased from my etsy shop. http://www.rachelsthings.com/

Don't forget the holidays are upon us!

very special gift

Every time I wear my charm bracelet made with charms created by my fellow Etsy Metal Clay artists, from all over the world people notice.  It is truly an exceptional piece.  Now, you too can own one.  We had a charm swap and each made enough charms for a bracelet from each and two extra charms to make two additional bracelets to auction of and raise money for charity.  The first of these bracelets is being actioned right now on EBay to benefit Autism Speaks,  If you want a very special bracelet for yourself or a gift please bid for a chance to own this very special piece

.http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=320612944730&_rdc=1

emc charm swap

The wonderful group of artists that I am a part of (etsy metal clay team) recently had a charm swap.  22 artists participated and each of us created 24 identical charms (or close to identical) made from any kind of metal clay.  The swap means that each of us got each others charms and we have enough left to make 2 additional bracelets which will be auctioned off for charity.
When I received my package of charms I was overwhelmed at the talented group that I was a part of.  Each charm showcases the artists spirit and unique technique. I wanted to make a bracelet that reflected the handmade charms.  Luckily, Catherine Witherell, posted a great tutorial on the emc blog so I followed the directions and made this fine silver fused link bracelet.  I made it exactly like the tutorial except I used heavier 16 gauge wire.  I really loved the way it turned out.  It looks great with all the charms. 

I loved the look so much I decided to make more chain so that I could them attach the bracelet to it and turn it into a necklace.

a charmed life

I am so happy and honored to be participating in the emc team, Etsy Metal Clay, charm swap.  If you don't already know, the emc team is a group of extremely talented etsy artists who specialize in working in metal clay.  I was juried into the group last year.  The artists lend support to one another by promoting our shops and also exchanging ideas, techniques and resources.
For the charm swap we were required to make 24 identical charms, 22 to exchange with the other artists, and 2 additional charms that will be made into bracelets that the group auctions off for charity.  Honestly, the last bracelet that was made (a year ago) was incredible and really priceless.  The charms  had to be in metal clay, silver or you could use bronze, copper or a combination.

So here is what I came up with.  They are not identical, but pretty close.  They are silver.  I decided to make a 3 dimensional charm since I love to construct my pieces.  I just send the box of charms off,  and I should get a box back next month with 22 different charms from all over the world.  I can't wait to see all the different techniques and points of view.  I might make a bracelet out of it, or maybe a charm necklace.  Oh, by the way, this one will not be for sale!