tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-77312159869939742882011-11-14T11:28:17.478-05:00Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.comBlogger2391100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-61403996654904690332011-04-14T12:50:00.000-04:002011-04-14T12:50:52.782-04:00

Why hello there! Bet you thought I wasn't around anymore, eh? Well I am, and I'm here to tell you good news! I have a brand new website! Up until now, my domain name just redirected you to my Blogger site but now, my domain Second Surf is actually a website! Pretty cool, eh? What I'm most proud of is that I've done it all by myself! ~well, mostly....with a lot of help from my amazingly

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-14240285780335956582011-03-25T16:31:00.004-04:002011-03-25T17:50:32.115-04:00

my ghetto metal smithing set up. ceramic tile, paver, worn out tweezers and home made earth-friendly pickle all on my kitchen range.Today, in Art Studio on the Cheap we're talking about a cheap torch setup.Yesterday, one of my jewelry peeps posted a funny update on Facebook about her fear of soldering. I commented with a reference to Stephanie Lee's Homesteader's metal class and semiprecious

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-81254454841846320282011-03-21T18:08:00.002-04:002011-03-21T18:56:17.989-04:00

dream big. a painting from last year....BE prepared for a large dose of brain vomit here.....and proceed with caution....As you may or may not have noticed, I've been scarce around these parts lately. I'd apologize but I have no intention of misleading you by posting crap in an effort to get you to visit just because I blog everyday. I've been hunkering down and doing a lot of thinking....The

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-54841921996773249162011-03-15T16:52:00.000-04:002011-03-15T16:52:49.621-04:00

I just wanted to thank everyone for helping support the auctions I held for Bead Soup Blog Party. Whether you bid on the auctions, helped by spreading the word, and just left me words of encouragement, I am truly grateful.Thanks to the generosity of two very special people, I was able to donate $50 to Beads of Courage! Your jewelry is in the mail!According to the Beads of Courage website, that is

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-72337862608432764332011-03-01T09:05:00.005-05:002011-03-01T09:30:01.352-05:00

be-loved by pleasebestill on EtsyI just wanted to say THANK YOU for all of the most wonderful comments on my bead soup. It really warms my heart to read all of the nice comments! I'm still hopping and leaving comments as I'm able but I'm far from being finished. I wanted to make sure to spend quality time reading everyone's posts and making an informed comment, so if I haven't visited you yet, I

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-60607211746139730712011-02-28T00:05:00.001-05:002011-02-28T00:05:00.477-05:00

Oooooh!I'm back and on time! (Thanks m.d. It was a big boost for me!)This weeks mission (if you choose to accept it):PATIENCE. I've been reflecting on patience a lot this week. My own patience and lack thereof.Other's patience and lack thereof.And it led me to some pause for reflection.....As an example, I drive like a complete granny. And my partner does as well. While we were out recently, a

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-63520002426044961742011-02-26T13:05:00.000-05:002011-02-26T13:37:40.119-05:00

make sure you read to the bottom of this! there's a giveaway and some auctions involved..... Welcome to the 3rd Bead Soup Blog Party! What is a Bead Soup Blog Party? Each beader was paired up with another jewelry designer and tasked with sending the following: ~ A focal ~ A special clasp (not just a lobster claw) Some coordinating spacers or beads Using the focal and the clasp was mandatory,

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com63tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-31859455939776452972011-02-25T14:08:00.003-05:002011-02-26T13:38:58.723-05:00

I wanted to spell this out in a bit of detail beforehand TO GET YOU ALL EXCITED....Tomorrow is the Bead Soup Blog Party and I'm doing a giveaway...but not just any giveaway....it will be for a good cause. You'll see my gluttony tomorrow.... but I got DOUBLE SOUP from my partner Diana of Suburban Girl Studios and I want to pass along the love and good karma....So I will be giving away 2 or more

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-1448332498556526322011-02-25T12:32:00.002-05:002011-02-25T12:37:43.303-05:00

Details of my work from last year's Bead Soup Blog PartyTomorrow is Bead Soup Blog Party!!!! Are you ready?I'm....working on it.......and so here is a little test to make sure y'all can hop on pop....I don't have a teaser for you...so you'll just have to come back and see!1.  Lori Anderson, Pretty Things2. Kitty Durmaj, Perles and Life 3.  Michelle Heim, Life In the Bead Lane 4.  Lisa Petrillo,

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-1504454567093676392011-02-23T18:18:00.003-05:002011-02-23T18:49:33.063-05:00

Ooooooh.... So I totally dropped the ball this week, eh?I had a good reason, I promise...I'm on a tight deadline for all my posts...I post as I'm able and I post for Monday Militia basically on Sunday night and I had some {good} interferences so that is why I'm late....I was doing this....This is my much loved nephew whom I love with my whole heart!ummm, and we got to spend time at the beach!!!!

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-8152836148474039392011-02-17T21:44:00.004-05:002011-02-17T22:08:06.650-05:00

I've been finishing a stack of beads that I made earlier this week and am beginning to upload them to the shop. One of the projects on my to do list has been to find the right background set up that is neutral enough to accommodate several different styles and is also portable. In the past, I've used ceramic tiles, a rusty old white chair, and a worn out table. I never dug the way the photos

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-35364999968750945372011-02-14T17:19:00.004-05:002011-02-14T18:09:42.594-05:00

Sorry, for the late posting. I mean to have these up bright and early Monday morning so they give you a bit to chew on while you're digesting the monday morning coffee and facing your week!So....how did you do this week??? I've already heard that some of you did well but I can't wait for you to dish in detail!ME:I SUCKED ROYALLY. Total fail on my part. Something was seriously off with my mojo

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-24733135126774387592011-02-10T18:46:00.001-05:002011-02-10T18:46:07.609-05:00

...Auctions involve compromise & sometimes, that compromise involves butt cleavage & pit bull t-shirts....but I am a soldier.... And I will prevail!Aloha,b.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-52744335085387364182011-02-07T00:01:00.000-05:002011-02-07T00:01:01.145-05:00

Thank you for all of your positive comments and feedback for the Monday Miltia. It really helped reinforce my feelings that I need to do this thing.I really started this as an exercise for myself and thought it would fun personally to document my progress, even if just for myself. I am really shy by nature. I'm extremely uncomfortable in groups of people I don't know and I think nice thoughts all

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-67452894522695545902011-02-06T07:48:00.003-05:002011-02-06T08:33:32.984-05:00

I've been out of business cards since.....October?And I really want to do a redesign and eventually I'd like to pay someone to do the whole she-bang for me complete with etsy banners, blog headers, avatars, cards, stickers....the whole shebang.So I didn't want to print anymore but it's getting a little ridiculous so I spent Saturday afternoon coming up with something suitable for the interim.I've

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-72370315838653984022011-02-04T13:20:00.001-05:002011-02-04T13:23:28.515-05:00

Lens: Helga VikingFlash: OffFilm: BlacKeys B+W

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-15971470486746238492011-02-03T14:40:00.002-05:002011-02-03T15:57:41.298-05:00

.....because seriously. The lady whose estate this was used to make jewelry & specifically at one point was very into enameling so there was an entire old tool box FULL of copper stampings!!!!!!Man I scored the mother load! I also got a rack of old lace trim...I don't think I'll keep the rack. I don't have the space for it but whoah....all that copper would have set me back mucho dinero.It isn't

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-5932313820566325282011-02-01T18:34:00.008-05:002011-02-01T22:25:31.030-05:00

Lawd have mercy, I've been neglectful in my Bead Soup Blog Party posts....Sooooo, if your not my friend on facebook, then you don't know that my partner is Diana of Suburban Girl Studios! Diana makes gorgeous porcelain components and jewelry!Being a woman of extreme means, I don't often get to buy art beads from other artists so participating in BSBP is really special for me because I get to

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-83486493818517220292011-01-30T22:50:00.010-05:002011-01-31T00:01:53.146-05:00

I've been thinking about ways to focus my energy in a positive way and how, by focusing those energies, they might impact the greater good....So, I've decided to start a weekly focus called:THE MONDAY MILITIAYOUR MISSION: (if you choose to accept it)To positively impact the world by simply following the prompt each week.SPREAD THE WORD:Post the badge on your website. And link here.Or don't and

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-11754859431490977572011-01-30T21:06:00.005-05:002011-01-30T22:05:32.051-05:00

Soooooo..... I'm down 15 lbs. now! Almost halfway!!!!! And it has been a bitching struggle the whole way, I tell ya. I love food and the hardest part has been watching my carbs and moderating my portions because I love me some SECONDS and THIRDS! (I can forgo the dessert any day for some extra mashed taters!)So, my guilty pleasure of each week has been PIZZA NIGHT! I have the blessing of having

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-74357356810615032102011-01-27T16:58:00.006-05:002011-01-27T17:48:27.130-05:00

So, I've been pondering about what to do for a fun tutorial and I was inspired by Malin's little vlogs she's been making. I think it is so fun to hear all the voices of those whose blogs I read everyday, don't you? It just makes it all so personal.So today I had a giant brainstorm. It was such a lovely day and I was reading everyone's blogs that I lurk on about snow days and snow storms that I

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-90050347935033116492011-01-27T07:17:00.003-05:002011-01-27T07:58:04.372-05:00

I let BTW slip by this week. Actually I thought about it yesterday morning while I was making coffee which is what I have been doing the last several weeks but to be quite honest, my table didn't look that much different maybe a little cleaner and I thought I would spare everyone my monotony.So here is the view from this morning which isn't beads, so that's exciting right? Truth is, I've been

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-65651637801598637322011-01-23T21:22:00.002-05:002011-01-23T21:26:57.183-05:00

Feeling grossed out today by all the Steelers posts on my Facebook (because I'm a PA girl) and all of the complete crap that is around us all the time. What we're taught to feel, to think, to follow, to be.....What if we just seized the opportunity each day to follow our own idea of beauty, to spread it, to cultivate our own vision.Amazing.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-45629356270653361912011-01-23T19:59:00.005-05:002011-01-23T20:40:34.431-05:00

Pan-roasted balsamic veggies from one of my dinners this weekSo....I'm using the blog to help me stay true to my healthy eating, weight-loss plan. If it gets to aggravating you, feel free to skip these posts. I did good for the most part this past week. (read a side track to southern-style dinner and another dinner at Carrabba's sprinkled in there) My weight loss has slowed way down, due to the

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-65327712294124553722011-01-20T17:05:00.003-05:002011-01-20T17:25:10.096-05:00

I've uploaded a few new pieces to the Erudite Collection and there's still more to come but I sort of lost my steam today. I have about 6 more sets/pieces photographed and ready to edit and list and another batch waiting to be faceted/finished/polished/drilled/photographed/listed.Onto some randomness:*As much as I love them, the carved nuggets are a b*itch to facet. It is killer on my hands so I

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-68206777033672657802011-01-19T21:15:00.001-05:002011-01-19T21:15:25.908-05:00

Words I needed to hear today.Aloha,b.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-20816044848086949042011-01-19T07:18:00.001-05:002011-01-19T07:18:40.889-05:00

This is the aftermath of several days of heavy production.This is my worky-work table. You know the one where all the dirty work takes place. This is a bunch of poly nuggets waiting for faceting.I'm hoping that the photos aren't all wonky this week posting from blogpress. Apparently, it is a common issue but not one that affects everyone....so I'm experimenting with something.Aloha,b.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-218713613998874862011-01-18T16:27:00.004-05:002011-01-18T17:30:21.448-05:00

the photo where you go, "how the F$*@! did my ass get so big????I wanted to share this story of mine because some of you may find it inspiring:DISCLAIMER: This is a tale about being comfortable in one's own skin. Finding the weight that is comfortable to me. I have seen women of 280 lbs and 180 lbs. and less that I would be happy to live in their bodies because they were at the weight that exuded

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-81595557999590427442011-01-15T07:08:00.008-05:002011-01-15T07:43:08.567-05:00

I just love it when happy customers send me photos of my beads all grown up and out of the nest. A few came in recently and I thought I would share them with you....Erica made this lovely necklace with one of my Joy tabs! I'm not currently producing the joy tabs, but if you want one, feel free to email or convo me and I can whip one up.Lettie from For Giving Works made a couple of gorgeous

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-44221533948479641502011-01-14T12:29:00.001-05:002011-01-19T07:21:26.620-05:00

Just trying out the BlogPress app I downloaded for my phone.Can't figure out how to de-wonkify the photo....,if you click on it you can see it unpixelated. Here is what I scored last night at the auction. Most people there don't want big boxes of broken vintage jewelry... but I'm not most people :)

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-27550017295598533052011-01-12T13:44:00.003-05:002011-01-12T14:35:20.173-05:00

fly pendants and hairpins, beads waiting for sanding, heart charmsHave you checked out the fun little exercise that Heather Powers of Humblebeads has started? I have to limit the amount of swaps, activities etc. I participate in because....well, because there are so many and I am easily distracted. But this one seemed easy and a nice activity to see what goes on on my bead table (and other

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-78867164158187850322011-01-11T16:52:00.004-05:002011-01-11T17:22:57.429-05:00

new speckled eggs available in the etsy shopGoing through my stuff in my constant desire to purge and simplfy, I found some projects from my metals classes in college. I took several metals classes, as electives, after discovering that a drawing minor would eat up any opportunity to do something other than draw.It is actually fairly fortuitous that I came to these classes late in my college

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-34105086097654152572011-01-09T15:15:00.003-05:002011-01-09T15:36:44.939-05:00

one my my many glass palettes.Well, now we should all be in the swing of 2011 and I am at it as well, cleaning and reorganizing the studio and office (and the house!). After several long car rides and an impromptu trip to the ER (herrroooo kidney stone, where did you come from???) I am in full swing and ready to meet 2011 head on.I have a love/hate relationship with the craft store. While there

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-31010595403049087322011-01-02T07:55:00.005-05:002011-01-02T19:43:19.115-05:00

Herroooo 2011, when did you sneak up on us?Did you all have an amazing holiday season? I hope so!I did.and now for 2011....2010 was a good year for me. Nothing huge and earth shattering happened but it was all the little things adding up to make the year feel full, accomplished, fun, and amazing. As I reflect about 2010 and I look forward to 2011. I wanted to THANK ALL OF YOU for your support.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-6440541294241115902010-12-15T18:01:00.004-05:002010-12-15T18:19:52.807-05:00

a little craftiness that Santa's elves are makingHello Friends... I've been absent once again...but here I am!Thinking about gifting and giving and receiving at this Christmas time (or your own holiday)....This year, I am crafting all of my gifts. Which isn't any different from the last 5 years but there were times in the past, several years, when many of the gifts given and received have been

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-76023856385319758212010-11-26T00:12:00.002-05:002010-11-26T00:17:13.766-05:00

GRATITUDE SALE for Friday 11/26- 11/29 Everything in the shop is 25% off!!!!Plus FREE SHIPPING!!!!!HAPPY THANKSGIVING!I AM SO VERY THANKFUL...Use code HOLIDAY2010 at checkout to save!

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-7312442380220814352010-11-22T20:25:00.006-05:002010-11-22T20:44:08.029-05:00

There is FREE WORLDWIDE STANDARD SHIPPING in the shop now through the end of the year! I'll also be offering some special coupon codes for the holiday so check back later in the week for that!Now on to some of the updates.....Grow Egg CharmsTriple hole key focalTriple hole lace focalSacred Key Necklaces for the Erudite CollectionWhisper Collection - Word Charms Cork StudsGo here to see all of

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-64932009862952602282010-11-12T13:29:00.005-05:002010-11-12T14:01:19.741-05:00

Hi Friends!I'm bringing you a fun tutorial! Be nice to me because I haven't done too many and my workspace doesn't have the best lighting for pretty, pretty pictures, although it IS functional.Making earring cards doesn't have to mean being a professional graphic designer or having them professionally printed, although that would happen in a perfect world with limitless resources. Sometimes, you

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-13034579875070196382010-11-08T00:01:00.000-05:002010-11-08T00:01:02.818-05:00

This is love: to fly toward a secret sky, to cause a hundred veils to fall each moment. First to let go of life. Finally, to take a step without feet. ~RumiI love you for your funny faces and the way you make me laugh.I love the wrinkles around your eyes.and I love the way you look at me...To my sweet love on his last birthday before the big 4-0....I love you....without question.with my whole

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-68696347780034724582010-11-07T15:31:00.003-05:002010-11-07T15:55:01.935-05:00

available hereHey! How do you like how I cleaned the place up? I've been wanting to do a redesign for awhile and while this is not permanent either, it sort of fits the bill for what I'm doing right now. Eventually I'm working towards a cohesive branded website but until that happens...this is going to do it. I'd been using a free blogger template that I found on the internets but it wrote out a

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-69766885234886377062010-10-28T18:19:00.003-04:002010-10-28T18:29:43.299-04:00

Are y'all on Facebook? Then I am inviting you to like secondsurf.com down there on my sidebar. And if we're reasonably friendly, then ask to be my personal friend....here. Don't worry if you don't actually know me...just let me know how you know me in that whole add a personal message thing. like from my blog or Etsy or whatever. I do keep it sort of private though, so don't be offended if I

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-41129348798285598472010-10-28T16:33:00.010-04:002010-10-28T17:07:42.200-04:00

You know what I realized? When I don't put the word giveaway in the blog title, I get a lot fewer comments...no worries, the odds are better for those of you who did comment!Hey, also, I'm not giving away 2 sets of owls but 4! I found 2 more sets in my to be polished bowl so y'all are in serious luck.And your comments?They were all so rad and so, so kind, and I couldn't choose...So...I went

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-53348982022960239992010-10-28T13:42:00.004-04:002010-10-28T15:04:56.983-04:00

The old school groundhog kiln used to fire famous NC potterythe broom maker, who explain the difference between corn brooms, and using different kinds of corn and sorghum to make brooms.the cotton baler.As most of you realize, my birthday was this past weekend. It worked out that friends gave us tickets to this sort of exclusive primitive village event that just happened to be on my birthday.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-69674994054760713532010-10-28T12:40:00.005-04:002010-10-28T12:56:32.202-04:00

A more involved piece with a bird of my own and a charm I ordered from moreskyjewelsnuggets in earrings!nuggets with lots of old keys I picked up while junking in PA when I was home laststamped pieces in polymer and the bezel technique from Stephanie Lee's bookAs you all can probably tell, my mojo has been a little absent lately, but it's back BABY. and I've updated the shop. I'm also thrilled to

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-25816739049731722892010-10-26T18:09:00.002-04:002010-10-26T18:19:34.966-04:00

Stopping now to realize the fact....We all have feelings and conscience and obligations and so many other things but...what....do.we.do.when we're overwhelmed?There's people dying all over the world. Hunger, war, etc. but we're all human and we all have problems........just a thought.Keep Breathing.by Ingrid Michaelson.The storm is coming but I don't mindPeople are dying, I close my blindsAll

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-91353228955431100542010-10-23T00:01:00.000-04:002010-10-23T00:01:02.166-04:00

How high is the water mama? 32 feet and rising.... Okay, you're going to have to read on to the end, because I'm giving stuffs away so pay attention....Today, I'm 32 years young. Whew. I'm in that really odd phase where I know I'm young but I'm totally starting to feel that whole departure from youth. Well, it's been happening gradually for the last 5 or so years but I don't get Justin Bieber,

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com18tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-56644077872535526412010-10-22T20:16:00.000-04:002010-10-22T20:16:12.571-04:00

books always sustain me along my journey, here are a few favorites that I return to again and again....I would like to thank all of you who left such encouraging and empathetic comments on my last post. They are so special to me and really went a long way....So, I've been doing a little here and there type of stuff. Experimenting, making a few things for small orders, getting household stuff in

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-41278312552352105772010-10-11T18:00:00.000-04:002010-10-11T18:01:29.415-04:00

Do not worry about your originality. You could not get rid of it even if you wanted to. ~Robert HenriYou want to know what I did today?Of course you do.No?Well, too bad, I'm gonna tell you because I need to get it off my chest.Earlier in the week, I found another seller on Etsy selling beads similar to mine. They weren't exact copies but they were close enough that I took a wee little peek at

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-89548095160928296462010-10-09T14:32:00.001-04:002010-10-09T14:36:32.775-04:00

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-66813812145645159432010-10-07T15:29:00.002-04:002010-10-07T15:32:05.523-04:00

Swoon and make my heart all afluster...from the first time I heard it about 15 years ago....My love affair with this song was reunited when The Killers recently covered it....Enjoy the original. Love it in all of it abstract silly 80's goodness....

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-75910553207057450892010-10-07T14:17:00.003-04:002010-10-07T14:29:05.656-04:00

an old sketch drawing....Remember this post? Yeah, well I'm still struggling with keeping up with commenting. I try but I hate Google Reader, I like Feed Demon except it makes it really annoying to comment, and I have two separate gmail addresses that make it difficult to use the Blogger reader with my surfing priorities....So, just to let you know, if I'm following you, I'm still reading, I'm

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-4533083549031630972010-10-07T12:45:00.007-04:002010-10-07T13:32:50.298-04:00

My thought and creative processes have been very fragmented lately. And, trust me, they don't need any help in that matter in the first place. After the busy-ness of the last several months, I have been feeling completely tapped out.I've been in this wild, wonderful creative journey long enough to realize the importance of being gentle with myself, with my creative spirit and my sensitive nature.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-34759978926273437132010-10-04T13:55:00.006-04:002010-10-04T14:10:55.171-04:00

The wedding jewelry I was working on became a reality this past weekend when the actual wedding happened so now it is safe to post pictures of the jewelry!Laura & Justin ♥I made the bridesmaids' jewelry, a set of earrings with a bracelet. If you refer back to this post, you can see the sketches and some of the examples I made for her to choose from.The original sketchesThe bride chose the fifth

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-71186908946277920902010-09-26T17:45:00.005-04:002010-10-04T13:23:03.244-04:00

It's been awhile, no?Here's my little break in photos.....Sweet Antique Quarter ring from Old Money Corp.Sweeet old cowboy boots purchased at a local consignment storeRandom cat showing up to stay...A short hike....Sweet kisses from the newest member of the family....that's my bro (daddy) in the background...A packed house at Indie Craft Parade

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-39170791702553498942010-09-08T07:02:00.003-04:002010-09-08T07:07:54.907-04:00

What?! Only 48 hours until Indie Craft Parade! I'm well on my way to being prepared but still running around like a chicken with my head cut off. Please stop by and say HI if you're in the Greenville, SC area on Friday or Saturday! I'll be in booth 51!

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-2469391069264320152010-08-29T18:22:00.003-04:002010-08-29T18:31:20.628-04:00

Lori & I are giving away beads! As the send off to our little Cup of Soup idea for the month of August, I'm giving away a set of beads from the Whisper Collection. Go now to Lori's blog and check 'em out to enter!Super excited about next month at Pretty Things. Another artist will be teaming up with Lori for a new challenge....yay! Go to the shop and pick up your own whisper beads if you feel

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-19519727130439941672010-08-27T11:57:00.004-04:002010-08-27T12:25:57.401-04:00

Oooooh, I had a massive lightbulb moment today. And maybe I'm not too smart, but I thought it was a pretty groovy idea.I'm preparing for the upcoming Indie Craft Parade and I was thinking about payment methods. I do not do enough craft fairs yet to warrant the expense of a credit card machine and many small fairs and outdoor events don't have power available to plug them in...even if you have the

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-72227091416424326902010-08-22T17:56:00.008-04:002010-08-27T17:46:33.800-04:00

So I haven't blogged much about food lately. So today is the day! Me & the mister have been practicing more vegetarian meals. Mostly for our meager budget. And also because since I would like to eat more veggies & encourage the mister to do so as well. We can afford some meat but I would prefer to avoid the overly processed factory farmed meats that are available at our local grocer within our

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-26945012238701685762010-08-22T15:21:00.005-04:002010-08-22T16:56:55.377-04:00

I'm a day or two behind posting this, so bear with me because I have lots to say and this is going to be a whirlwind, so grab a cup of coffee or tea or vino and sit down and buckle up....I've been so busy over here in my little corner of the globe. Making, making, making. I was stoked to not only be in the Etsy Finds last week and that is in the middle of me making my new Erudite Collection as

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-58084668237422573262010-08-17T13:12:00.004-04:002010-08-17T13:59:26.941-04:00

erudite er′yo̵̅o̅ dīt′adjhaving or showing extensive scholarship; learned[from Latin ērudītus, from ērudīre to polish, from ex-1 + rudis unpolished, rough]The new Erudite Collection is a collection of rough hand-faceted polymer clay pieces fashioned into wearables. I was really inspired by Diane Hawkey's faceted ceramic nuggets that she sent me in the Bead Soup Party and before that time, I had

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-933362852577371132010-08-11T16:36:00.002-04:002010-08-11T16:39:27.908-04:00

I working on some posts but in the mean time....Enjoy this tidbit...I love this song...I think it is such an ephemeral piece of what make the Beatles so great. And you all know I'm all about the ephemeral quality of things....

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-35048683238890279522010-08-06T18:15:00.002-04:002010-08-06T18:35:16.314-04:00

This is really more of a question out into the ethos to my beading friends. I finally have the need to ream some of my beads. I don't own a reamer....(I know, what?) What can I say, I'm minimalist.Actually, I need to ream some freshwater pearls. Has anyone tried to do this with a tiny drill bit on their rotary tool or flex shaft? I have bits that are smaller than a reamer.It is going to explode

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-75740154828668885742010-08-06T07:05:00.003-04:002010-08-06T07:23:23.250-04:00

You might remember a while back I participated in the Bead Soup Party hosted by Lori Anderson. After the Party was over, Lori wanted to keep the magic going! She arranged to purchase some beads from me sight unseen to stretch herself creatively and she has just posted up some of her creations! Be sure to hop on over there and see!They are all so beautiful! Some of the beads she used were

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-10861852624814896542010-08-05T15:08:00.005-04:002010-08-05T15:20:13.345-04:00

We can not do great things. We can only do little things with great love.- Mother TeresaA exotic and lovely wildflower brought to me by my love.I almost felt guilty because when he came bearing the small lovely bloom, it was so strange and such a bright green, I glanced at it and said, "Where did you find that plastic flower? It's really cool!"He said,"No, it's real! I found it in a field for you

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-68523386563037924222010-08-05T14:14:00.008-04:002010-08-05T16:57:46.280-04:00

Hello all!Well, all of the updating that I hoped to do this week has fallen a bit by the wayside given the heat and well, life...But I did add two new regular additions to the Breeze Collection today.Originally, I made this pendant as a one of a kind and it was the touchstone for the entire Breeze Collection. The lovely customer bought the necklace and loved it so much that she has requested a

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-24068609340564826062010-08-05T07:59:00.002-04:002010-08-05T08:03:12.942-04:00

There's only one grab bag left in the shop! Want to snag it while there is FREE SHIPPING?

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-51775135600086504092010-08-03T20:24:00.008-04:002010-08-11T17:59:32.768-04:00

Just thought I would show you what I've been working on lately... a WEDDING!I made an initial inspiration sketch-up of the photos the bride sent to me of her dress, potential floral scheme and some other inspiration...in the initial sketch up there was a wedding dress, but I can't put that out there, you know!I will tell you...it's a beach wedding. The groom and his party will be wearing baby

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-37838473403598759112010-08-02T17:17:00.003-04:002010-08-03T17:57:06.913-04:00

feldman by keri smith on FlickrI really don't know why I haven't visited Keri Smith's blog and website until now...I just never made it there. All you artsy-fartsy peeps out there will probably recognize Keri as the author behind such paradigm shifting work such as Wreck this Journal and How to be an Explorer of the World. As an honest review, I find her books to be sort of a novelty to me. I've

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-16183053164860178642010-08-02T16:32:00.002-04:002010-08-02T16:57:40.240-04:00

So, along with my new found blogging vigor, I've decided to employ some new (to me) technology. Before, I had been using my Blogger Dashboard to follow all of my blog subscriptions. But, in an effort to think outside my own box, which might seem like DUH to others, I am trying out Google Reader to manage all my blog subscriptions. I can't tell you why I haven't tried it until now and I can't tell

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-30084470355113583302010-08-02T12:20:00.005-04:002010-08-02T12:42:51.840-04:00

I want to thank everyone for their comments on my blogging post. It really means a lot to me that my post struck a chord with so many people. I've continued to think about this, spurred on by your comments and the posts that so many of you have made on your own that have caused me to examine my own blogging habits. Part of my reexamination of my blogging habits involves analyzing the blogs I love

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-68804660683968131252010-08-02T10:42:00.003-04:002010-08-02T10:51:16.861-04:00

Hey y'all! I'm just stopping in to let you know there is FREE SHIPPING all this week in the shop, through next Sunday evening. I'm prepping for Indie Craft Parade in a little over the month, plus a visit home to see the family and I want to clear out some of the old inventory and raise a little more fundage for my trip. Also, the bead grabs that are in the shop are all that I'll be selling for

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-2611726959494749082010-07-30T16:04:00.002-04:002010-07-30T16:13:47.944-04:00

I already posted this video before. But I wanted to reiterate the lyrics. They are so good....I hear the crying of the hungryIn the deserts where they're wanderingHear them crying out for Heaven's ownBenevolence upon themHear destructive power prevailingI hear fools falsely hailingTo the crooked wits of tyrants when they callI hear them all (3 times)I hear the sounds of tearing pagesAnd the roar

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-25735973735860681492010-07-30T14:35:00.005-04:002010-07-30T15:19:50.339-04:00

Hello. My name is Barbara and I started this blog to promote my business.But that isn't the only reason. I've been thinking a lot about social media lately. And intention. And why I choose to follow people on their blogs or their Twitter or Facebook. A lot of it is just that. social promotion. But I realized that I've ended up following a lot of people just BECAUSE...not because they inspire me

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-53411131267588591342010-07-30T13:51:00.003-04:002010-07-30T14:18:30.424-04:00

Working on the work. This is a phrase I came to use while I was in pursuit of my degree at SCAD. It is something we used to refer to all the time in the painting department. Are you working on the work? I've since come to find out that this is an educational philosophy, although I don't think this was intended at the time. I came to understand the phrase in my own way to constantly reevaluate the

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-69183877719446189482010-07-28T16:04:00.004-04:002010-07-28T16:29:12.904-04:00

I just love it when my dear sweet customers send me photos of the jewelry they make with my beads! I am in complete awe of their skills! I am continually amazed by all of the collective creativity that is out there in the universe and that I am just a small part of it. How amazingly different all of our talents are!Here is some of the beauty that has come across my path recently:Stephanie of

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-33512241488239869522010-07-22T14:25:00.004-04:002010-07-22T14:44:58.971-04:00

Hi friends! Well, it has been like Grand Central Station here with folks coming and going at all times. Family left last week, then a friend of Mike's is stopping through on her way home after purchasing a VW bus up North. Next, Mike's cousins will be arriving for a visit. Then, more cousins in a few weeks! Whew!I had time this morning to FINALLY update the listings for both the Breeze and

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-35294923721396105822010-07-19T23:00:00.003-04:002010-07-19T23:08:39.242-04:00

A mellow start to the week.... a little Feist, and plenty of old-skool 80's! Be back tomorrow with some meat and potatoes for a post.....

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-41144243987611970972010-07-18T19:26:00.002-04:002010-07-18T20:34:29.186-04:00

A few of my favorites meet my Sunday mood. Enjoy!

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-67153076348771233102010-07-17T16:07:00.004-04:002010-07-17T16:36:51.306-04:00

So I've been developing some new beads lately. I'm trying to get away from stamped images and going towards more original carved pieces, which I then mold, similar to my You were born with wings pendant. But I also want to develop some cohesive collections, that include connectors/links, spacers, charms, and large focals.I started with the Breeze Collection which I'm currently developing and

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-77133820227466810182010-07-17T15:57:00.004-04:002010-07-17T16:07:22.780-04:00

Hi Everyone! What have you been working on this week? Here's a little shot from my sketchbook this week. I'll be back in a little bit to show you what's been going on in the jewelry studio!

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-40602066445978774322010-07-10T13:50:00.006-04:002010-07-10T16:48:55.047-04:00

slow down by thewheatfield on etsyI've really been in a contemplative mood lately. It is a symbiotic thought process really. I live a very simple life by many standards, but I'm always thinking of ways to make my life even more simple. However, sometimes making your life more simple makes it more complicated in other ways. I've been thinking a lot lately about the nature of THINGS, of STUFF.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-29388664410436634102010-07-06T07:38:00.005-04:002010-07-06T07:55:05.787-04:00

Hey friends! Just stopping by to do a few updates. Let's see:1)If you signed up for my giveaway, please check to see if you were a winner. I'm still waiting to hear from 2 of the 3 winners. I will wait through July 9th to hear from the other two, otherwise I will draw again! :(2)I've discontinued a bunch of items in the shop. Owls, birds, and more are GONE for regular purchase! However, I've

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-77928648038035695292010-06-28T06:42:00.003-04:002010-06-28T07:13:29.272-04:00

Hi friends! I had it in my head that I was doing my giveaway this morning and I'm a little behind. When I checked the post I realized I was supposed to do it YESTERDAY morning so I'm even more behind than I thought. Don't worry though, I'll be back later on today to do the reveal of the winner! And I may even have a little something else to give away with it!Stay Tuned!

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-83544631410218504382010-06-24T06:59:00.002-04:002010-06-24T07:08:15.956-04:00

Morning Friends! Don't forget it's not too late to enter to win one of the necklaces I made for Bead Soup Party! And don't forget if youo FB'ed it, or Blogged it to let me know in a separate comment here so you can be entered twice! (If you mention it on Twitter, just @2ndsurf.) Without further adieu, on to Day 6! 60. Carol, Carol Bradley Designs61. Wanda, A Frayed of Fibers62. Diana, Vintage

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-8581522146850961142010-06-23T04:00:00.001-04:002010-06-23T06:19:12.829-04:00

click photo to view largerclick photo to view largerclick photo to view largerclick photo to view largerclick photo to view largerclick photo to view largerMy day has finally arrived. MY turn FINALLY to unveil my blog soup! I hope you all aren't too full from all of the beautiful soup that's already been unveiled!!!As a recap, My partner was Diane Hawkey, and we were quite suited to each other, I

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com62tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-28125090946443750352010-06-22T19:01:00.003-04:002010-06-22T19:16:29.150-04:00

Hello There! I wanted to stop in and share all of bead soupers for day three and four! TOMORROW IS MY BIG DAY! So pop on back here tomorrow and see what I've made and see what might belong to you, if you're a lucky ducky! That's a little sneak peak up there....if you squint real hard like.....Day Three27. Lisa, Alterity28. Dale, Dales' Flights of Fancy29. Melanie, Kookie Designs30.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-3159291812299173462010-06-21T17:41:00.002-04:002010-06-21T17:45:00.567-04:00

I don't want to post this because if I do and you win, I will act like a sullen child for weeks. because I want it. so. bad. But hop on over to Denise Yezback Moore's blog and see the awesome-ness she is giving away. Go.Do.It.Now.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-61653918985885401952010-06-21T16:34:00.005-04:002010-06-21T16:41:27.400-04:00

...these. both already sold but view the amazing work of this wordy artist here.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-72224263917159867992010-06-20T20:12:00.003-04:002010-06-20T20:31:25.138-04:00

OK, it has been so HOT here... we are eating late here every night here because of the heat outside and my cooking area is not air conditioned. So, I have been looking for ways to use up grains on hand mixed with the pre-abundance of garden fare. My herb garden is over flowing but my veggies aren't quite ready yet so I'm looking for suitable recipes.So....I came up with an orzo salad. I had some

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-80909053620917293092010-06-20T10:16:00.004-04:002010-06-20T16:49:24.640-04:00

Okay, I'm a couple days behind on posting, especially about Bead Soup Party! Bead Soup Party started yesterday, so get on out there and see what everyone is making, dammit! My part in the party doesn't take place until Wednesday so you'll definitely have to check back then to see what I've created.My partner is Diane Hawkey, and her post is up today!!! Woohoo! Wait until you see the big gorgeous

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-28105156878841712092010-06-15T08:07:00.003-04:002010-06-15T08:11:59.378-04:00

There is a new price on my Bird on Branch rings. After my current inventory is depleted, I will be discontinuing this style. They're at a great price, so pick up one for yourself and a friend. Reduced from $22 to $16.Buy them here.

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-57524872758784618922010-06-12T08:05:00.004-04:002010-06-12T08:13:42.538-04:00

Please stop on over to A Bead A Day, the blog by author and designer, Lisa Crone. She has graciously shared my work in yesterday's post! Lisa is the author of A Bead in Time. Thank you SO much Lisa!

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-27322634299385433112010-06-11T15:55:00.003-04:002010-06-11T16:11:38.286-04:00

paintings still in the works, new earrings in silver that I antiqued on my own and a long owl necklace.Completed pieces and works in progress.... I've been working on some new things this week! Stay tuned!earrings and owls necklace are availabe in the shop

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-75256731340224364122010-06-09T21:37:00.005-04:002010-10-11T17:42:52.008-04:00

popping in to show some new things. all inspired by love ♥Love beyond measure Painting available hereLove is all that matters Necklace available here

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-40130374468375321232010-06-08T18:28:00.002-04:002010-06-08T18:34:15.171-04:00

I finished a lovely trio of custom earrings for a customer today. The bride will be wearing the blue studs for her "something blue" and she ordered coordinating chocolate brown studs in a leaf motif for her bridesmaids. I love the chocolate brown.The blue set in sterling is available in my shop and I also have them in antique brass as well. Sadly, I won't be offering them on a regular basis so

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-73035491268589994482010-06-08T15:13:00.002-04:002010-06-08T15:15:18.808-04:00

Indie Craft Parade from Indie Craft Parade on Vimeo.I'm so excited about this! I've applied and hope to hear whether I'll be participating at the end of June. This is a great little video promoting the event. Great stuff even if you don't plan to make it!

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-54896197616220160752010-06-07T20:41:00.005-04:002010-06-07T21:34:35.783-04:00

canvases prepped for paintingpreliminary sketches ready for paintI'm making a concentrated effort to blog everyday. Yes, I am. Whether it is bland, boring, exciting, fascinating or whatever. I'm making a more ardent attempt to document my life on my blog.And so, being said, the last few days weren't so exciting. I've been making some new thick copper bezels, in simple inspiring words, that are

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-3902146641090949402010-06-06T19:13:00.003-04:002010-06-06T19:31:00.398-04:00

This is such a beautiful song... I appoligize for the video. It has the best audio that I could find on youTube, but the graphics are sorta cheesy. It is a live version.From Lilith Fair, some years ago, featuring The Indigo Girls, Jewel, and Sarah McLachlan.Here are the lyrics, which I love...The water is wide, I can't cross o'er.Neither I have wings to fly.Build me a boat that can carry two,And

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-1020153765269230952010-06-05T08:00:00.001-04:002010-06-06T08:29:38.554-04:00

So, I've been trying to come up with a couple of different craft show setups. My idea is to streamline things into 2 or 3 different setups for different types of shows. One would be a large setup suitable for a big tent show or trade show with lots of props and tables, etc. More often though, I get the opportunity to do a small table setup at a local market or trunk show type of setting where I

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7731215986993974288.post-29352899273986019972010-06-04T08:52:00.004-04:002010-06-04T08:54:31.436-04:00

If you haven't seen this video yet, take a minute and go to the Anthropologie facebook page and watch this video of French artist, Nathalie Lete painting the windows of the 5th ave. Anthro in NYC. So pretty. Wish I could see it in person!

Barbara Bechtelhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01245733527571208892noreply@blogger.com2