I Heart my Jeweler's Saw

I really love my jeweler's saw...honest!  I know many jewelry makers hate the saw.  It's slow and can be difficult and "sticky" to use with copper and brass sheet.  I used to hate mine until I tore the ligaments in my right wrist.  Even after surgery, I can't use the metal shears without pain....soooooooo I'm getting so proficient with my saw.  And the attractive shelving cushion stuff that I rubber-banded on the handle just makes it easier for my hand and wrist.   lol~~high-tech!   Anyway, Susan Lenart Kazmer has a great video on how to use the jeweler's saw:  http://objectsandelements.com/shop/instructional-videos-br-page-3

I'm so grateful to be able to work on some new pendants.  I call them "cold-connection encouragement pendants" and I'm making a couple for Studio 41 in Benicia, CA.   They're gonna be cool.  I'll keep you updated~~

My New Book is Here!!!!

I just received a book I've been waiting for for almost a year: Making Connections by Susan Lenart Kazmer.
I'm so excited! I just want to take this book and stay home from work for 3 months and make jewelry! In my pajamas, without brushing my hair or teeth and in a permanently hunched over position. LOL! I asked my husband and he said that we owe too much on our house. I HAVE to go to my "day job". Oh poop.

I've loved Susan's jewelry for years. She was in Bead and Button 2003? or 2004? and I was intrigued by her found object jewelry.

I was fortunate enough to take a class with her last April. It covered rivets, staples and the use of plexiglass. The pendant is one I made after her class. It's wild and seems almost Biblical to me. The different gemstones, the antique-looking piece of brass...it was cool to make. I hope that you enjoy it.

Susan Lenart Kazmer inspired pendant

It's done! I love how it turned out and will wear it tomorrow at work. "JOY" and a reminder to rely on Jesus. The cross is at the bottom of the piece and accurately depicts how I so often leave Jesus for last, but can't have true joy without Him.

Back to work after 13 days off...do I remember how to do my job? LOL! Well, it was a great time. My DH is healing so well and feeling strong. He'll start back to work on Tuesday.

Maybe life will be "normal" for a while?!