My work space….

I have a studio in the garage, with amazing light (provided by 2 skylights) but no heat! I worked in there yesterday, it was about 45 degrees. I call it the dirty area. I solder, pickle, buff, fire the 2 kilns, trim clay, make lampwork beads, and generally make a mess!  Some of my favorite tools are seen here:
My pencil torch, hand held butane torch, my third hand, a small forming block and hammer, lighting gizmo,  box of sanding discs, bracelet mandrel.  I tried soldering a frame to hold a piece of bronze clay, some sterling, some metal clay. It took a while but worked.

A cold spring….

It’s almost Easter and the snow is still blowing! I’m ready for spring. This week I will be applying to summer arts festivals. I’m trying to find the best venues and not do too many in a row. Last summer I did 3 back-to-back shows in August–wow! Also back to the wheel to throw more pots for our upcoming spring sale. This hand built piece has been out in the weather for over 4 years now–as soon as warmer weather hits, it will be trickling water, and the plants behind it will be green.  I call it the “water feature”.

Saying Goodbye to Jewel

Isn’t amazing how attached you can get to your animal?  We had to put our beloved cat, Jewel, to sleep 2 weeks ago today.  She was a talker, a cuddler, a back warmer. In my studio, she would wedge herself in my chair behind my back.  Our other cat, Scooter, has been very needy & talking a lot these 2 weeks.  He even got into the trash the other day. We all miss her.  Here’s to Jewel!