21 April 2013

Browns Bay Craft Market - 20 April 2013

This was my reduced display for the April market, due to the heavy rain and wind that was forecast for the day. However, it turned out to be lovely and sunny, up until packing up time, when there was a torrential downpour but luckily I managed to stay dry.
 
I have done this market for two months now and sadly it has not been very successful for me in terms of selling. It is such a shame, as I would love to support this local market but I have to consider the best use of my time. Before I found out this local market had started I had made the decision to stop doing markets and concentrate on higher end events and getting work in gallery stores.
 
So, this is what I will focus on. I am already booked to exhibit at Dunkley's Great NZ Craft Show and am making some one-of-a-kind jewellery pieces for the gallery shop at the Lake House Arts Centre.

19 April 2013

UV curing lamp and Magic Glos

The UV curing lamp
For a long time I have deliberated over getting a UV curing lamp, so that I can use Lisa Pavelka's Magic Glos (UV curing resin). As I want to start making some clips and jewellery with photos and other personalised items set under resin, the UV resin is so quick compared to waiting 48hrs for the two part epoxy resins to set. I had read some reviews that said the UV lamps used for curing gel nails did not always work and because I would go for the larger size (to be able to do more or larger pieces in one go), I had put off making the purchase for a while.
 
Anyway, I eventually did and I am pleased to say it works fine. I have only just got round to photographing my first results, which I will be taking to the Browns Bay Craft Market tomorrow.

My first pendants using stamped black polymer clay with
Pearl-Ex mica powders and topped with Magic Glos

For Mother's Day - polymer clay set in silver-plated bezels
with Magic Glos and sterling silver ear wires