Metric Conversion Chart for Jewelry Makers

Some people new to gemstones and beading have never come across the metric measuring system often used in jewelry making. Even some of us who have been at it for a long time need help figuring out just how big 11mm is.
Dr Karen Meador made this chart to help with these conversions.

Conversion of Units

25.4 millimeters (mm) = 1 inch

1 millimeter is less than 1/16 inch

To Convert Inches to Millimeters: Multiply Inches x 25.4

To Convert to Millimeters to Inches: Multiply millimeters x .03937

Conversion Chart: Millimeters to Inches

Mm	Inches in Decimals	*Inches in Fractions
1mm	0.04 inches	Less than 1/16 inch
2mm	0.08 inches	Greater than 1/16 inch & less than 1/8 inch
3mm	0.12 inches	Greater than 1/16 inch & less than 1/8 inch
4mm	0.16 inches	Greater than 1/8 and less than 3/16
5mm	0.2 inches	Greater than 3/16 and less than 1/4
6mm	0.24 inches	Greater than 3/16 and less than 1/4
7mm	0.28 inches	Greater than ¼ and less than 5/16
8mm	0.32 inches	Greater than ¼ and less than 5/16
9mm	0.35inches	Greater than 5/16 and less than 3/8
10mm	0.40 inches	Greater than 3/8 and less than 7/16
12mm	0.47 inches	Greater than 7/16 and less than 8/16
14mm	0.55 inches	Greater than ½ and less than 9/16
16mm	0.63 inches	Greater than 5/8 & less than 11/16
18mm	0.71 inches	Greater than 11/16 and less than 3/4

*The third column of this conversion chart is offered to help anyone who thinks more clearly using fractions than using decimals.

Approximate Number of Round Beads on a 16” Strand

2mm	3mm	4mm	6mm	8mm	10mm	12mm
203	136	100	67	50	41	34

Every inch is 25mm so times the number of inches by 25mm and you have how long the strand is in millimeters. Then divide by the width of the bead.

Note: Copied with the permission of:
Karen Meador
Dream Catcher Designs

Winner's Choice Giveaway

Maria Grimes is having a Great Giveaway to celebrate

her 8th year of lampworking! She will make5 lampwork beads for you..

Don't miss out check this out!

 

Click on Maria's name above for more details.

Wonderful colors for fall...

For each season of fashion, the world-renowned authority on color, Pantone, releases a palette of 10 colors (see color trends blog post) that inspires designers and artisans to create the clothes and accessories we all love.  My favorite color this Fall season is Purple Orchid.  I've included some of my designs featuring this color below; all are available now in my Etsy shop.

Carry a Hankie

Life Lessons......

While visiting Mexico many years ago as a teenager, I experienced my first seasonal allergy attack. Caught off guard and unprepared for the sniffles on a tour of the jungle, my Father handed me a fresh hankie and told me to keep it in my backpack/purse.  And so I have.  I keep it in one of the small inner pockets of my purse so it will stay clean and fresh.  I've found many uses for my Hankie; restroom dryer on the fritz...Hankie; sunglasses covered with sea-spray...Hankie; missing blindfold for "pin the tail on the donkey"...Hankie; wipe away tears at my best friends wedding...extra large hankie!

Hankies can say something about yourself. Like the accessories that you wear, and the music that you listen to, your hankie can add individuality to your identity.

Hankies found on Etsy pictured above:

(click description to go to Etsy Shop for more details)

Upper Left: His and Hers Embroidered Bicycle Hankies- Set of 2

Middle Left: Monogrammed Men's Handkerchiefs - Set of 3

Lower Left: Cherries Hand embroidered tattoo hanky

Right: Personalized Wedding Hankerchief

 

Color Trends for Fall 2010

 

The 2010 Fall Color Trends from Pantone, the industry standard on fashion color trends.

My new jewelry design rule is to make use of colors that make you feel good and breathe new life into your wardrobe. Now more than ever is the time to mix new colorful accessories with your classic silhouettes. You’ll be amazed at what a splash of color can do to both your ‘look’ and your ‘outlook.’  I hope to inspire Etsy shoppers by offering vibrant color hues and an array of potential new color combination to make getting dressed more exciting. Click here for the full Pantone Fall Report      

 

Logging my favorites...

This is the third installment of a ongoing log of my favorite things. Once a month I will post a favorite. It might be a person, or a place, or even a event. Hopefully it will help you get to know me a little better. I'd love your comments and I hope to make some connections through our mutual enjoyment of these treasures.

The Chicago Style Hot Dog... 

  The periodic table of Vienna Chicago Style Hot Dog.

The "Chicago Style" hot dog got its start from street cart hot dog vendors during the hard times of the Great Depression. Money was scarce, but business was booming for these entrepreneurs who offered a delicious hot meal on a bun for only a nickel. The famous Chicago Style Hot Dog was born! They'd start with a Vienna Beef hot dog, nestle it in a steamed poppy seed bun and cover it with a wonderful combination of toppings: yellow mustard, bright green relish, fresh chopped onions, juicy red tomato wedges, a kosher-style pickle spear, a couple of spicy sport peppers and finally, a dash of celery salt. This unique hot dog creation with a "salad on top" and its memorable interplay of hot and cold, crisp and soft, sharp and smooth, became America's original fast food and a true Chicago institution.

Fall Earring Preview

http://www.etsy.com/shop/LorisGlassworks

Fall is my favorite season, so I'm updating my Etsy shop with new items in fall colors. The items above are some of my recent designs. Take a peek and let me know what you think. All items are currently available in my Etsy shop and ready for immediate delivery.

Where are my Keys…….?

I’m constantly searching for my keys that have migrated to the bottom of my purse. I think many students also have this problem with their keys, lost inside their backpack. To help with this problem I made several key minders that will hook to the purse or tote, yet keep the keys securely inside the bag. Take a look and let me know what you think. The beads are my handmade lampwork. Available in my Etsy shop.

Happy Friday....

Most Friday's my husband I go to a little cantina for dinner and margaritas. It’s our way of releasing the tensions of the work week. The restaurant is called Bone Garden Cantina and it has a Day of the Dead theme. The art work and sculpture created by the owner Michael is fabulous, take a peek:

 http://www.bonegardencantina.com/

From pre Columbian times, El Día de los Muertos, the Day of the Dead has been celebrated in Mexico, and other Latin countries. This is a very special ritual, since it is the day in which the living remember their departed relatives.  Sometimes, when people of other cultures hear for the first time about the celebration of the Day of the Dead, they mistakenly think it must be: gruesome, terrifying, scary, ugly and sad. Nothing further from the truth, Day of the Dead is a beautiful ritual in which Mexicans happily and lovingly remember their loved relatives that have died. 

Bone Garden Cantina is one of our favorite places to relax, the food is fabulous and the staff is top notch.  I love their Chili Rellenos, they are the best in Atlanta. Stop by sometime; I'm sure you won't be disappointed!

 

Hello Neighbor...

Shopping locally has become more and more popular, as consumers want to support local businesses. Etsy buyers can do this by utilizing the “Shop Local” feature on the home page. “Shop Local” shows the 100 most recently updated shops for a location. You can search for artists in your country, your state or even your own town. Who knows, you may find that a great talent lives right down the street from you!

Shopping local also has great benefits:

• the environmental impact is reduced
• you reinvest money in your own community 
• you will support a local small business owner
• chances are you will get great customer service
• lower shipping cost (I love to save money!)

  
Please check your Etsy shop right now and make sure your “Location” is not blank. Buyers like knowing where you’re from. Your location helps personalize your shop a bit, and you will show up in any “Shop Local” searches that buyers might do for your geographic area.

If you are not familiar with this Etsy search – take a peek at ‘Shop Local’. 

Some of my favorites using "Shop Local" - Atlanta, GA:

Upper Left: New Washcloth Sock Cupcakes
Upper Right:  Half Apron in IKEA Fabric
Lower Left:  Bright Green, Pink, and Turquoise Daisy Twirl Skirt
Lower Right:  PEACOCK Beaded Charm Bracelet Handmade Altered Art

Search and you will find...anything!

Figs:

So, I thought I’d put my “you can find anything on Etsy ” theory to the test by focusing on my favorite natural sweet snack (at the same time trying to stay on track with my diet). While it took a little more time to find just the right pieces, Etsy once again proves that no matter what you’re looking for, with a little searching, they can always offer some inspiring finds.

Left:   Juicy Fig Moisture Rich Goat Milk 3.5 oz Bath Bomb

Top Right:   Decadent Fig Jam

Middle Right:   Fig and Brown Sugar Goat's Milk Soap

Bottom Right:   A Felt Mission Fig Leaf

Gem of the Gods....

Turquoise has long been one of my favorite semi-precious gems.  I wore a simple turquoise necklace for many years while in High School and College.  In every class picture I have my favorite necklace on.  To celebrate my 30 year (unbelievable) class reunion I crafted a small Turquoise collection and listed the items on Etsy.  Within hours of listing, one of the items sold and two others have had a lot of views.  It seems to be my lucky charm!

Turquoise Facts and Fancy:

Fact: Turquoise is a hydrous copper aluminum sulfate found in every color of blue, greenish blue or deep green. The rich blues are due to the abundance of copper while green turquoise has more aluminum. It has been mined from at least 6000 BC by early Egyptians. Its history also includes beautiful ornamental creations by Native Americans and Persians.

Fancy: In the Orient, a turquoise ring was worn as a protector against all things evil. The Indians of Mexico and the Southwestern United States used turquoise to guard burial sites. To the prehistoric Indian, turquoise, worn on the body or used in ceremonies, always signified the god of the sky alive in the earth.

Fact: It is found in Arizona and New Mexico, USA; Australia; Iran; Afghanistan and other places in the Middle East.

Fancy: Turquoise is believed to relax the mind and relieve mental tensions, calming the emotions and easing stress.

Caring For Your Turquoise Jewelry:
• Natural turquoise should be kept away from exposure to chemicals, cosmetics, oils, perfume, high heat and natural sunlight as these can all cause changes in its color.
• Store your turquoise jewelry separate from other pieces as it may scratch.
• Should your turquoise piece need cleaning use warm water and a soft cloth. Be sure to thoroughly dry your turquoise before storing it.

Logging my favorites...

This is the second installment of a ongoing log of my favorite things. Once a month I will post a favorite. It might be a person, or a place, or even a event. Hopefully it will help you get to know me a little better. I'd love your comments and I hope to make some connections through our mutual enjoyment of these treasures.

Cumberland Island, GA

My greatest and most lasting memory of the Island is its ability to change me in just a few hours. It is my place of transformation. Whether sitting on the beach gazing out to sea, probing around the edges of the marsh as fiddler crabs scurry for cover, or simply walking down one of the many tree lined roads of the Island, I am changed. It is this intangible quality that seems to be the most important benefit which Cumberland Island holds for me. This spiritual quality is what, year after year, I seek and find comfort in. The most consistent message delivered by those who know Cumberland best is one of being "touched" by the Island and being somehow affected by all the natural, cultural, and historical values of this extraordinary place. It is my safe haven, my place of rest, and my favorite camping destination.

Stand Out in a Crowd...

How many business cards have you received in the last year and how many do you still remember? I’m learning that business cards should look professional but still have flair to them. That means not having too much going on as far as graphics while still being attractive. My business card is an extension of my work and I want to be able to market myself the right way. Here are some tips I’ve learned while researching business cards:

• Only choose the best paper for your business cards. Thicker heavier paper is better as it looks more expensive and professional.

• Use colorful printing; prices have dropped, it does not cost much more than standard two color cards.

• Use a tagline that will quickly let the person know what your product/skill is.

• Put a picture on your business card. Studies have shown that people are more likely to hold on to a Business card with a photo on it. It could be your picture, a picture of your product, or a combination of both. Picture cards get attention!

• Do not use a premade business card design called templates. The more people who use these templates, the more your card starts to look like everybody else’s. You want to have a business card that stands out, not one that gets lost in the crowd.

I’ve learned that if I want to use good business etiquette and good marketing then I need to start handing out more of my business cards. This will help me to conduct my business in a much more professional and efficient manner. There is nothing easier or more profitable than using business cards in my marketing strategy.

Hot or Not?

I’m learning that just because I think my product is great doesn’t mean others will. Some of my favorite jewelry designs which I assumed would sell ‘instantly’ didn’t sell at all. I found it very helpful to look up Etsy shops selling similar products and see how they are selling. It was a good exercise in price and product comparison. Taking a look at what we have in common and what is different or unique to each shop. I have sold quite a few items, but it is taking some time for people to “find me”. I’m starting a new marketing approach by: 

•  Handing out business cards
• Making fliers and posting them wherever I can
• Networking on Facebook and Twitter
• Listing or relisting at least one product each day
• Giving my jewelry as gifts and donations, with my business card
• Posting more often about my store/designs on this blog

Etsy is a great place for selling your handmade products and it is a wonderful way to make money from home doing something you enjoy.

Whew…it’s HOT outside….

Glen Falls near Highlands, NC

The weather is stifling here in middle Georgia. I'm staying inside today to try and stay cool today. 

Here’s a list of small measures you can take in lieu of cranking up the air conditioning:

-Take a quick, cool water shower (if you have long hair like me, this is the best possible means I’ve found of cooling off in a hurry).

-Keep yourself hydrated, dehydration increases your heart rate which will warm you up and contribute to your overall discomfort.

-Keep the kitchen cool by grilling outdoors, blending up cold soups like gazpacho, and eating cold pasta or egg salads.  Eating lighter on hot days will limit the amount of energy (heat) you generate digesting a big meal.

-Make use of public swimming areas, whether that’s the ocean, a lake, a creek, or a mountain stream. Georgia and North Carolina are overflowing with wonderful clear clean streams, Glen Falls pictured above,  is just one of my favorite 'cool' spots.

-Pull your hair up into a floppy hat when outdoors. It provides shade and sun protection.

-Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothing. Light colors will help deflect the sun rays away from you.

-Make every attempt to avoid outdoor activities during the hottest hours of the day.  I work on my blog, design a new piece of jewelry for my Etsy shop, or research new lampwork techniques in the cool house when the heat is overwhelming (like today).

-Got any tips for cooling off? I’d love to hear about them.  Stay cool!

Who are you?

When listing your Etsy item, descriptions don’t need to be long, but they are more attention-grabbing if you include a bit of uniqueness or a human touch. One reason buyers enjoy handmade items is because of the connection with the artist. A description that reads like a scientific list of components doesn’t create a connection. A short line or two sharing your inspiration for the piece, or perhaps what you like about it, or perhaps just a conversational tone can do a lot to add a personal feel.

Two examples of bad descriptions (in my opinion) found on Etsy:

1. Would this listing encourage you to buy a pendant from the seller? A bit too impersonal and clinical in description.

“Approx. size: 1 3/8" (35 mm) in length
the price is for the pendant pictured.
THE BEAD PROCESS:
- Individually hand-crafted
- Dried and then smoothed with a sponge
- Bisque fired to about 1850 degrees F (1000 C)
- Glazed with about 3 coats of glaze
- Fired again to about to 2200 degrees F (1240 C)”

2. Would this listing encourage you to buy a bookmark from the seller? Where did the birch bark come from? Did the seller craft these? What is the size?

“Set of 3 Birch Bark bookmarks. Tied with recycled ribbon on top. One of the bookmarks has several pinecones woodburned onto it. The second one is just a plain bookmark. The third has a pack basket woodburned”

Two examples of good descriptions (in my opinion) found on Etsy:

1. This description gives a little history and a nice description of the necklace.

“In ancient times jasper was thought to drive away evil spirits. This necklace is a stunning collection of picture jasper chips, round and rectangular jasper beads, accented with matte onyx. They are circled around a gorgeous 2” picture jasper pendant. The necklace measures 21" long and closes with a Nouveau Swirl toggle of natural brass. This is a gorgeous piece that connects and grounds us to the beautiful world around us. Pair this piece with my appaloosa earrings.”

2. This description gives the item a human touch and an overall conversational tone to the listing.

“This pendant is just so cute! I hand crafted this little bird from fine silver and then gave him a beautiful little textured wing. Bigger than my other tiny birds, he measures 3.5cm (1 1/2 inches) from beak to tail and 2cm across his tummy. His wing is textured with a really delicate leaf pattern. The pattern has been oxidized to create a dark patina, which I've protected with jeweler’s lacquer. He is made from recycled silver, making him a fantastic environmentally friendly choice. He is hung from a 45cm (16 inch) sterling silver ball chain, and attached to the chain with a very plain petite sterling silver bail.”

A quick word about copying: Copying someone else’s description does not mean you will achieve the same Etsy success. Personal means a reflection of you, not other sellers. Find your own way to present your listings and a way to stand out by doing something different. Good luck and happy selling!

Logging my favorites...Annie Leibovitz

This is the first installment of an ongoing log of my favorite things.  Once a month I will post a favorite.  It might be a person, or a place, or even a event.  Hopefully it will help you get to know me a little better.  I'd love your comments and I hope to make some connections through our mutual enjoyment of these treasures.

Photographs by Annie Leibovitz

Leonardo by photographer Annie Leibovitz

 The Ladies of L.A. (Sharon Stone, Anjelica Houston, Diane Lane) by Annie Leibovitz

Obama Family Portrait by Annie Leibovitz

She is "a photographer of celebrities who has herself become a celebrity." For the past 25 years, no photographer has delivered more photographs of the people we most want to see than Annie Leibovitz.  Her pictures are recognizable for their intense lighting, and above all, for their unique and surprising poses. In magazine spreads and advertising campaigns, Leibovitz has demonstrated that she is a master of projecting the popular culture of our time.

The clock is always ticking!

Time is a precious resource in all types of business.  When it come to managing time when running a partime craft business there never seems to be enough of it.  With marketing, designing, listing, shipping, and so on on my plate time management  is a must. 

• Time Management Tip #1: Make it easy to do your job.

As a jewelry artist, the key to successful time management revolves around creating new items for my shop on Etsy. To make that easier, I decided the expense of a dedicated studio space in our townhouse was well worth it. I juggle a professional project management career and running a small partime business.  My creative time would be far less if I didn’t have a work space set-up all the time.  Whenever I have a few minutes to be creative I can just sit down at the workbench and create without having to drag all the supplies to the kitchen table. My time is spent creating, not setting up a work space. This is how I make it easier to be creative.

• Time Management Tip #2: Break things down into smaller tasks.

I simply cannot predict when and how much time I'll have to work on jewelry.  Because of unpredictable business interruptions and family obligations, I have to do my Esty tasks in small chunks. This allows me some small chance of completing things in one go rather than having whatever it was that I was doing interrupted. I set time for marketing, designing, photographing, listing, shipping, etc. as separate small tasks throughout the week.  I get a feeling of accomplishment when I complete each of the small tasks toward the end goal.

No matter how hard I work at my time management skills, there is always room for improvement. Working from home, having an online business, being on the computer all day, make it way too easy to get distracted and loose my entire day answering emails and convos, chatting on twitter, checking your shop etc, and I am guilty of all these things.  To be successful and make money, I had to learn to buckle down and be productive. I'm still working on this but the steps above have been a step in the right direction...

You don't have to be the schmoozer....

If you are looking to expand your Etsy business by social networking but haven’t been seeing the results you want, keep these four principles in mind:

1.  Networking is about making a connection with people, not making a sale on the spot.
2.  Be your natural self.  People can smell a put-on or sales pitch a mile away.
3.  Look for connections you can make for your new contact.  Focus on being helpful to your new contact rather than focusing on what they could possibly do for you.
4. Prioritize following up.  Set aside time each week to periodically reach out to your contacts to see how they are doing and what you could potentially do to help them.

Networking is about building a strong network; it is not about collecting business cards or making sales. The best networking tips to remember are to be authentic, be professional, and be selfless.