tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66420822266316066782024-02-19T07:18:26.575-08:00Nicola NatlandNicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-34622456975733450632015-05-01T17:45:00.000-07:002015-05-04T14:02:04.157-07:00Off on a tangent...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
The last few months I have been re-exploring the world of leather and I have been working hard on designing and making a bag that will hold a phone, credit card/cash, keys and of course, mustn't forget the lippy! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2RM3f-Cyi9fT_qTeZ7N8oEsZl8-b0VR2fKZyXfxsr2S90Va9_E4p27FL6qsYrwZYiD5lqizrH8YkevUBezHZe4J6Fm1nt0xKVCMiqhXjsXrEpyCM6ossWhPfrFeMsTGU_xklyp6XhsAi/s1600/bag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="584" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgs2RM3f-Cyi9fT_qTeZ7N8oEsZl8-b0VR2fKZyXfxsr2S90Va9_E4p27FL6qsYrwZYiD5lqizrH8YkevUBezHZe4J6Fm1nt0xKVCMiqhXjsXrEpyCM6ossWhPfrFeMsTGU_xklyp6XhsAi/s1600/bag.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small; text-align: start;">The bags/purses are veg-tanned leather and sewn by hand.</span></td></tr>
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The idea came about because I couldn't get hold of my daughter, who was out on her scooter and she wasn't where she was supposed to be... terrifying moment for any parent. Breathe... Anyhow, after ageing over 10 years in just 10 minutes... I realised that I needed to find a way for her to always safely carry her phone with her. I have to say that there are limited options to do this when you are scooting on your scooter! It had to be lightweight and have a versatile crossover strap that could easily be adjusted. I realised pretty quickly that this would work perfectly for me too! A small bag that would carry the essentials, that looks great and would improve with age.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu10ExUCS70xcufi4P0QNSmC0DJETk0P0UST2dL0YUjc-tqqpPyNwDQ8Q9mQrgSpVPbHcXeM1eNFynQZeYcK5B3mtWag7-St9Awj1gwns6uqx7XiOmN8DH8kqTD78Uyho3mNU6ASO9VlTU/s1600/catbag.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="510" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhu10ExUCS70xcufi4P0QNSmC0DJETk0P0UST2dL0YUjc-tqqpPyNwDQ8Q9mQrgSpVPbHcXeM1eNFynQZeYcK5B3mtWag7-St9Awj1gwns6uqx7XiOmN8DH8kqTD78Uyho3mNU6ASO9VlTU/s1600/catbag.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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My daughter's bag is nearly finished. Just need to attach the straps and condition the leather and she is good to go...<br />
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I will be listing the "Scooter" bag in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/nicolanatland?ref=hdr_shop_menu" target="_blank">shop</a> very soon and they will be made to order.<br />
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<br />Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-18567997081177068242015-02-24T12:30:00.000-08:002015-02-24T12:30:04.280-08:00Eye, eye...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
Ok... I think that I must have set a personal record. No posts in months and then two in two days. The planets must be lined up just right. Anyway, I thought I would share what is on my workbench today. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3hmjw2eQr7WFdk6p1zID0qN3evXShHD9an5t4_E11RVl1iNOA2Us7-AHoWgdZ1cjCWSngnnVpprNdSIB042SRY11Ep_ePetznjFhdodAq0ZX2fn5GcbVdo0MvpIWBGp97wutYaTZTMlW4/s1600/IMG_5616.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3hmjw2eQr7WFdk6p1zID0qN3evXShHD9an5t4_E11RVl1iNOA2Us7-AHoWgdZ1cjCWSngnnVpprNdSIB042SRY11Ep_ePetznjFhdodAq0ZX2fn5GcbVdo0MvpIWBGp97wutYaTZTMlW4/s1600/IMG_5616.jpg" height="640" width="504" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">These are going to be made into brooches.</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">Eyes, lots of eyes! I am not sure when set me off but I do love the idea of protection from the "Evil Eye." I think that there are times in life when we could do with an little extra bit of protection - not necessarily from evil but from negativity. I think that when we wear charms or amulets it is a little like getting a super power. What I had in my mind for this bracelet was that wearing it gave you a sort of Wonder Woman moment - I loved her bracelets which were able to absorb or deflect anything harmful coming her way. When wearing this bracelet you do not need to wear big blue knickers and sound effects are optional - POW! </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwatImxLw1XynLnkzwsxk4IR4n9xwOttw0oJDE7hjmCvRIBwN1Wrcqy8mCKAntnr5zoMxJOvT05TZI-CgeKqPj-c1CSXqQCnm9pVri9hoJp1ed-amL8Dw9zMsUF2R7RvEKPbxwahBqfM0i/s1600/IMG_5622.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwatImxLw1XynLnkzwsxk4IR4n9xwOttw0oJDE7hjmCvRIBwN1Wrcqy8mCKAntnr5zoMxJOvT05TZI-CgeKqPj-c1CSXqQCnm9pVri9hoJp1ed-amL8Dw9zMsUF2R7RvEKPbxwahBqfM0i/s1600/IMG_5622.JPG" height="490" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">When wearing this bracelet sound effects are optional - POW!<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="text-align: justify;">This bracelet is made out of leather which I carved, stamped, dyed and painted. The eye is attached to the band with sterling silver rivets.</span><br />
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<br />Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-72832752702802121512015-02-23T12:00:00.000-08:002015-02-23T12:00:16.985-08:00Well at last...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXu1hsk8w5yMogNKFmOoRgNgqHx3rYQA2HB3TjoxTm6LJlcyglZ8xU0z7OlZPkE-tU3H-Ai7P7bhtRriLjMNtfskmnHrcHyPvne_oAwFDVstZucydAOHEsZiL4aHF0HBdAIhqG7mGfSLPh/s1600/GIVEAWAY+bracelet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXu1hsk8w5yMogNKFmOoRgNgqHx3rYQA2HB3TjoxTm6LJlcyglZ8xU0z7OlZPkE-tU3H-Ai7P7bhtRriLjMNtfskmnHrcHyPvne_oAwFDVstZucydAOHEsZiL4aHF0HBdAIhqG7mGfSLPh/s1600/GIVEAWAY+bracelet.jpg" height="640" width="598" /></a></div>
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Gosh, I don't know where nearly a year has gone! I guess that I am not very good at this blogging thing! Anyway, I'm back with a bang and have lots of things to share. I have been having fun with my leather and sterling silver word bracelets and I have decided to have a giveaway. Whoop!<br />
All you need to do it head over to my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicola-Natland/363310550366410?ref=tn_tnmn" target="_blank">Facebook page</a> and let me know in the comment section what your favourite inspirational word is and you could be lucky the lucky person that wins a leather and sterling silver bracelet with your very own word on it. Once I get to 100 page likes I will have my daughter - who is going to be practising her penmanship - pull the winners name out of her cat hat. So please like and share people!Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-60256791191604882312014-04-14T13:11:00.001-07:002014-04-14T13:11:53.386-07:00Attention!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Well, that was a little dramatic! Just wanted to let you know that the medals are polished and are all lined up ready to go! I have just listed several of them in my Etsy shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/nicolanatland" target="_blank">here</a>. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz4lIY0eiKaoRNfDz5TKbPK9FXxXy4Qzk2y4IHi2pPOLzyCWFvluUSOZzQcv2-lJM7oNvki3RdZ-Y2DOZ0m9zJZ_V-9xwicZnDVly2r7AXTcxhsxmTb4p8rTlkffs4yKEsMp-ZmKOjlGhC/s1600/IMG_4222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz4lIY0eiKaoRNfDz5TKbPK9FXxXy4Qzk2y4IHi2pPOLzyCWFvluUSOZzQcv2-lJM7oNvki3RdZ-Y2DOZ0m9zJZ_V-9xwicZnDVly2r7AXTcxhsxmTb4p8rTlkffs4yKEsMp-ZmKOjlGhC/s1600/IMG_4222.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;">So if you deserve a medal or know someone that does look no further!</span></div>
Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-28751160043046207732014-04-04T12:44:00.001-07:002014-04-04T12:44:26.165-07:00Today I am polishing my medals...<div style="text-align: justify;">
I am doing a little housekeeping today. I am busy polishing these tiny medals before I take some photos for my shop. I think that we all deserve a medal for something - don't you?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEeAnX6SBfFACM7H6EJQ3d4Oq20IAS_lHfHUlYynkdZiCpPek3ESyjEHOUhPyIDlg4OuahylsxEnUkHSIEONAZyC5UnCrG9ZMzj7zaTfIBKqTOOPVXRhW32e-EL-6y3lxY8QZ8QtyoQsxC/s1600/IMG_8707.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEeAnX6SBfFACM7H6EJQ3d4Oq20IAS_lHfHUlYynkdZiCpPek3ESyjEHOUhPyIDlg4OuahylsxEnUkHSIEONAZyC5UnCrG9ZMzj7zaTfIBKqTOOPVXRhW32e-EL-6y3lxY8QZ8QtyoQsxC/s1600/IMG_8707.jpg" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-48511552154299187052014-03-06T11:20:00.000-08:002014-03-06T11:20:22.397-08:00What's on my workbench today...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnldED1bhlWH75StekqC6ZUgIC8hAeuTrCBApPgY8uri2LH3WU1JO5qAHLHjNwouD9jHxUMCycJm0Xh_tJDiqFPwh1w_HWyUSlD_hyphenhyphenmmITs2D5ThKiTOe6GCYZJMBarF-X-PnrID46afI/s1600/IMG_8361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBnldED1bhlWH75StekqC6ZUgIC8hAeuTrCBApPgY8uri2LH3WU1JO5qAHLHjNwouD9jHxUMCycJm0Xh_tJDiqFPwh1w_HWyUSlD_hyphenhyphenmmITs2D5ThKiTOe6GCYZJMBarF-X-PnrID46afI/s1600/IMG_8361.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Finishing off a commissioned bangle and making another LUCKY STAR necklace.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoHfHOwABlVuIIKtkPvqRxZbhYglsWW7cg3mEL-AOYNU9I4oezgfxevxMRsI8SvYsgM1ksvv1LKmiKWJvKokS3hDcdElMefGgQSDM2rXwRJ9IrH6BW5577htr_PWB1VcD99gWpkVcbA0yO/s1600/IMG_3965.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoHfHOwABlVuIIKtkPvqRxZbhYglsWW7cg3mEL-AOYNU9I4oezgfxevxMRsI8SvYsgM1ksvv1LKmiKWJvKokS3hDcdElMefGgQSDM2rXwRJ9IrH6BW5577htr_PWB1VcD99gWpkVcbA0yO/s1600/IMG_3965.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This piece is available in my <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/nicolanatland" target="_blank">Etsy</a> shop.</td></tr>
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<br />Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-70997828762378133712014-03-05T16:17:00.003-08:002014-03-06T10:10:00.563-08:00Be Amazing...<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have been busy working on some new ideas and a new direction with my jewelry. I am a strong believer in how positive affirmations can enhance our lives and decided to make some jewelry that would reflect that.</div>
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The first piece that I made had the affirmation BE AMAZING. I think that we could all benefit by being reminded that it is within our power to be amazing on a daily basis. When I make a piece of jewelry I usually make a sample piece that I will wear for several days to make sure that it sits correctly, that it is comfortable and also to see if it provokes a reaction. What was very noticeable was that the BE AMAZING necklace seemed to promote positive behaviour in the people that I was interacting with. Now I know this sounds very "hocus pocus" and more than a little "woo woo" but I think that when you have a BE AMAZING message beaming out from your chest area people take notice!</div>
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I am busy working on several other affirmation pieces and will post more photos soon. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlCK74QAcoAFrMJNDXDvb0XwsUiIviL0EIjusfXI2PYe6tknFF0FoiybZasWwwZVfmYfpwzaHVWno3P7VnBqgyV96lRZTRZXPUuCzZdTclMGiod2QoZVETaI2_2__0WdCWr9eIhY-Avvat/s1600/IMG_3952.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlCK74QAcoAFrMJNDXDvb0XwsUiIviL0EIjusfXI2PYe6tknFF0FoiybZasWwwZVfmYfpwzaHVWno3P7VnBqgyV96lRZTRZXPUuCzZdTclMGiod2QoZVETaI2_2__0WdCWr9eIhY-Avvat/s1600/IMG_3952.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;">This is available to buy in my </span><a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/nicolanatland" style="font-size: medium; text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Etsy</a><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;"> shop.</span></td></tr>
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Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-87843743687875036822013-10-20T15:30:00.001-07:002014-01-26T12:09:32.896-08:00Halloween Craft - Not so "Scary Spider"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTao3B9X8QFzSzb1UP8VXDbXK_aNaAqoUDpYdCosYP0-x8X8RtKbdJ8JCY_kHPGsSp3XSN0SdHTzyubk6Cyoi9HF67DX3llzEcfQRbDs6tPJ_WqlA_MvCf2lbMiqb2RWZPBByf1xCeomjp/s1600/Hall.+Craft1+26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTao3B9X8QFzSzb1UP8VXDbXK_aNaAqoUDpYdCosYP0-x8X8RtKbdJ8JCY_kHPGsSp3XSN0SdHTzyubk6Cyoi9HF67DX3llzEcfQRbDs6tPJ_WqlA_MvCf2lbMiqb2RWZPBByf1xCeomjp/s640/Hall.+Craft1+26.jpg" height="436" width="640" /></a></div>
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OK - time for another craft! I volunteered to come up with a craft for the Halloween party for my daughter's class and it has kind of evolved, and I am now doing the craft for all of 4th Grade! No pressure then? I am finding that as my daughter is growing up it is getting harder it is to come up with a craft that is not too babyish and also that appeals to boys and girls. After racking my brain this is what I came up with. I have to say it makes me smile every time I look at it.</div>
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You will need:</div>
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<li>1 1/2 foot piece of foam pipe insulation </li>
<li>Duct tape. I used black and you will need a 6" strip</li>
<li>18 lengths of 19" tulle. It is 6" wide and comes on a roll.</li>
<li>10 chenille straws</li>
<li>2 ping pong balls</li>
<li>2 x 3/4" round stickers</li>
<li>2 pieces of white card stock - approx. 2 x 3"</li>
<li>Double sided tape</li>
<li>strong cotton</li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86fCahfxhLQxID0HC0A-BzVKplidowt9MTjtjMQJKp2jHlVntv5Bw8UX3dlupomkE6XxBAwxDd9XtqjF-qpiMsgJ1IfNOt-Ton42lHOH0eAirWiDzAmICAJEHRbnvI2QRMII1N7MjBmxs/s1600/PM1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj86fCahfxhLQxID0HC0A-BzVKplidowt9MTjtjMQJKp2jHlVntv5Bw8UX3dlupomkE6XxBAwxDd9XtqjF-qpiMsgJ1IfNOt-Ton42lHOH0eAirWiDzAmICAJEHRbnvI2QRMII1N7MjBmxs/s640/PM1.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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The foam pipe insulation comes in 6ft lengths and you will find it in the plumbing section of the hardware store. My original plan was to use foam wreaths but they are so expensive. So I went ahead and made my own. All you need is a piece of the pipe and a strip of duct tape. I got four pieces from one 6ft piece. Join the ends together and then wrap with the duct tape.</div>
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Then cut approximately 18 pieces of tulle about 19" long. I say approximately because there are different thickness of tulle. (I love the thicker tulle but it does cost more and as I was making 80, I wanted to keep the cost down.) Fold the length of tulle in half and the loop end goes underneath the ring, then bring the 2 ends over the ring and go through the loop and pull.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgyfNr4QtBs9q6aeNLClDNGNLwUXQR2y6YFAdZTgKq_muhHhkaXr9hUpla3Of9-7emH593B-SqaHkmGDK2JVDhXH6yO2wQsY1ZnFEgM5BaM74MwtMzi7cD2FG-ebaAxNHctuTUjRp5akhu/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage2tulle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgyfNr4QtBs9q6aeNLClDNGNLwUXQR2y6YFAdZTgKq_muhHhkaXr9hUpla3Of9-7emH593B-SqaHkmGDK2JVDhXH6yO2wQsY1ZnFEgM5BaM74MwtMzi7cD2FG-ebaAxNHctuTUjRp5akhu/s640/PicMonkey+Collage2tulle.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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Continue around the ring.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVq8Uvs_Pelr9r2V9aBU3hNTIEin3LgAAD1835GzF_5fYqqmot3m1jeE0F4vtrgpXcQNT87Z4-e2snM2MiLq2nn7RM7x9Ruy3HIU-RXp_GTL5yocK7D0qX8LjsvK_il_DiAEt8-Cl_-gUE/s1600/PicMonkey+Collage3tulle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVq8Uvs_Pelr9r2V9aBU3hNTIEin3LgAAD1835GzF_5fYqqmot3m1jeE0F4vtrgpXcQNT87Z4-e2snM2MiLq2nn7RM7x9Ruy3HIU-RXp_GTL5yocK7D0qX8LjsvK_il_DiAEt8-Cl_-gUE/s640/PicMonkey+Collage3tulle.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
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You need to make a hole in each of the ping pong balls. (You can also use practice golf balls - I prefer these, but again to keep the cost down I used ping pong balls.) I used my soldering pick, but a small screwdriver would work fine. Just make sure that you make a small hole - otherwise, your eyes will not stay up.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwGQpe2E2IFOIzf69tjhuPhQGc__fv4r8Gtpqvq22nHB3xxAsj3eNnc5gG6DsF3o1y0omgUy8zJjNzY442CWaqwV43QGcIfsTxAbZMZmgjhhXui1dxsxmaV-pmr9S0HGbQHIqMBkyxf00/s1600/PicMonkey+Collageeyeshole.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVwGQpe2E2IFOIzf69tjhuPhQGc__fv4r8Gtpqvq22nHB3xxAsj3eNnc5gG6DsF3o1y0omgUy8zJjNzY442CWaqwV43QGcIfsTxAbZMZmgjhhXui1dxsxmaV-pmr9S0HGbQHIqMBkyxf00/s640/PicMonkey+Collageeyeshole.jpg" height="211" width="640" /></a></div>
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Poke your chenille straws about 1/2" through the holes and set aside. For the iris part of the spider's eye, I decided that for the kids it would be easiest to color two 3/4" round stickers and then stick them on the ping pong balls. If you have more time then you could paint directly onto the ping pong balls. </div>
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I hole punched a hole into each of the stickers and then slip the sticker over the end of the chenille straw and fold the straw over to make a pupil. On the back of the eyeball, I bent the straw a little so that the ping pong ball did not slip down the straw. Then wrap the ends of the chenille straws around the foam ring and wrap the end a couple of times around the straw to secure.</div>
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Take the 8 remaining chenille straws and place them around each side of the ring. Secure in place just like the eyes. Then bend the straws and give your spider knees and feet.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht27kxCn1gw96tfV-2sawZiPoG3H6x3Wu2fV-t06G_retIjXb4_yJa2_24q3mJOBlicRb9jiDYc83ri7vYee8CuKtJJN-ImL8QF7aHWnYTGJz2r47Yx-GCS73B3DWcs37iscDHH8MC7LNP/s1600/PicMonkey+Collagelegs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht27kxCn1gw96tfV-2sawZiPoG3H6x3Wu2fV-t06G_retIjXb4_yJa2_24q3mJOBlicRb9jiDYc83ri7vYee8CuKtJJN-ImL8QF7aHWnYTGJz2r47Yx-GCS73B3DWcs37iscDHH8MC7LNP/s640/PicMonkey+Collagelegs.jpg" height="160" width="640" /></a></div>
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At this stage attach the cotton thread. I used a 12" length of strong thread doubled it over and put a knot in the end. I then secured it between the eyes using the same method as I did with the tulle. I found it helpful to do this before I stuck on the teeth.</div>
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For the teeth I used 2 pieces of card stock, but you could use foam sheet and I stuck a piece of double sided tape on the top and then drew and cut out the teeth. Stick on to the back of the ring. Now is the time, if you think that your spider is looking a little bit too hairy, you can give it a little trim. A few little snips with your scissors and you can cut off any extra long pieces of tulle.</div>
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You are finished. Go hang it on your door. Ta-dah! </div>
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Double the fun!</div>
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If you use, please link back to me. Thanks so much.</div>
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p.s. If you "<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicola-Natland/363310550366410" target="_blank">like</a>" me on<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicola-Natland/363310550366410" target="_blank"> Facebook</a>. I will "love" you back.</div>
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p.p.s. You can also "<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/nicolanatland/" target="_blank">follow me</a>" on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/nicolanatland/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>.</div>
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</script>Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-36385970637788868272013-02-10T22:05:00.003-08:002013-02-18T09:01:32.782-08:00Valentine's Day Craft...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I volunteered to help with my daughter's 3rd Grade Valentine's Day party and I was struggling to come up with a craft that would keep both the boys and girls happy. I thought it would be a nice idea for them to make a gift for their Mothers or another very special grown up. I went to Michaels to get some inspiration and was a little disappointed with their offerings. As I wandered around I found these hearts tucked away at the back of the store and they were cheap - always a bonus - and I got the idea to make them into a key chain. I think it is so nice to get a gift from your child with their handwriting on it. So one side of the heart will be decorated either in glitter or with sparkly gems and the other side will have a little message written in sharpie. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">If you would like to show me some love - please LIKE my page on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/pages/Nicola-Natland/363310550366410" target="_blank">Facebook</a> and follow me on <a href="http://pinterest.com/nicolanatland" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> - seriously, I know this is kinda like a first date and you don't have to love me but just one small tiny "like" - what harm can it do? Thank you - Nic xo</span></div>
Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-46002671335313343152013-02-04T13:18:00.001-08:002013-02-04T13:18:57.045-08:00A Strange Urge...<div style="text-align: justify;">
For some bizarre reason I have had a strange urge to paint a sea gull. Yes, I know they changed the name to gull but I just can't help myself - it just doesn't sound right to me to call it just a gull. Seems kind of lonely without the sea part. Anyway, I don't paint - well I do, but walls, ceilings and the woodwork. I have tried to paint in the past but I am just not very good at it. When I was up in LA last week and got to go to Dick Blick's I picked up a few paints and a small canvas. This Saturday I took the time to have a go and I have to say that I am pleasantly surprised with how it is going. </div>
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It looks like a bird which is a great start - I hope to finish it off this week. I have confessed to my husband that I hadn't given him the whole story with regards to painting a seagull. He knew that I wanted to paint a seagull but not that I actually wanted to paint a GIANT seagull - on a minimum of a five foot by five foot canvas! To be fair he handled it quite well - then I told him that I also had an urge to paint a pigeon - a GIANT pigeon! </div>
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This month I will also get back to jewelry making - have a few ideas knocking around which I am itching to get started on. </div>
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Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-27259897866055802912013-01-28T22:04:00.000-08:002013-01-28T22:09:38.210-08:00Hand sewing leather...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="text-align: justify;">I have had fun over the weekend making a leather cell phone holder. It is not quite finished yet as my original idea was to have a detachable strap but </span><a href="http://www.tandyleatherfactory.com/" style="text-align: justify;" target="_blank">Tandy Leather</a><span style="text-align: justify;"> was totally sold out of the smaller size clips that I wanted. I still need to do some work on the closure strap but I am happy with how it is turning out.</span></div>
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Whilst sewing away - hand sewing the leather is pretty labour intensive I enjoyed listening to <a href="http://passengermusic.com/" target="_blank">Passenger</a>. I love Mike Rosenberg's voice - he sounds like no one else.</div>
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/RBumgq5yVrA?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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My husband had a meeting in LA today - I was his car pool buddy and I got to have a little fun in the process. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix_WK3CAiauGclTR6VfW_cuqxjVrbJF5tubYpk29niVegU7ERvVZC8KoTX09cEWkfjFncIUkBtaQk9GY_ofZzOoI3KBMlxmF4f_n30QJqlMo-gAa2adWyU0gfeot2i8o2IE1LHP8uMCOZC/s1600/cool+sign.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEix_WK3CAiauGclTR6VfW_cuqxjVrbJF5tubYpk29niVegU7ERvVZC8KoTX09cEWkfjFncIUkBtaQk9GY_ofZzOoI3KBMlxmF4f_n30QJqlMo-gAa2adWyU0gfeot2i8o2IE1LHP8uMCOZC/s640/cool+sign.jpg" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small; text-align: justify;"> I love this old sign on Ventura Blvd.</span></td></tr>
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I also managed to get to visit <a href="http://www.dickblick.com/" target="_blank">Dick Blick</a> while we were up in LA. I have wanted to visit this store for so long. <br />
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Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-82418876733929190322013-01-23T12:36:00.000-08:002013-01-23T12:36:25.315-08:00Now is the time...<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
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<span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">With it being the New Year I have decided that 2013 will be the year of experimentation. O</span><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">ver the years </span><span style="text-align: -webkit-auto;">I have stockpiled several ideas that I would like to try but have never had the time to indulge myself - instead I have concentrated on my jewelry making. So, I have decided - now is the time... </span></div>
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I have been experimenting with paint on leather. I wanted to see what works and whether the paint would react with the leather and would it stay put. I painted both sides of a really nice black leather and I am really pleased with the results. When folded there is a small amount of cracking but I have read that if you flex the leather as is dries that this can be minimised.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZS2ANOLvGkZwBv-doLb2rhKMiVwl5ZdON3mc2Hi4ZlL8dtjnDs9kBSFfC1xcTTS9f6iRCIjNSIsrU8w7aEavl1PY_Wo3WcWLQ-tQ4l6MzrjQG-v2cGxfYbGYURgOkvCemWobzczYUDL6Q/s1600/paintingleather2.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZS2ANOLvGkZwBv-doLb2rhKMiVwl5ZdON3mc2Hi4ZlL8dtjnDs9kBSFfC1xcTTS9f6iRCIjNSIsrU8w7aEavl1PY_Wo3WcWLQ-tQ4l6MzrjQG-v2cGxfYbGYURgOkvCemWobzczYUDL6Q/s640/paintingleather2.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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I also painted this tan leather which I had dyed myself. The white paint yellowed quite a bit so I will try adding another coat and see how that does. I am a little worried about the cracking. Has anyone had any success with painting on leather? What paint did you use? Would love to know! </div>
<br />Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-29303957155725502582012-11-27T22:37:00.001-08:002012-11-27T22:37:19.214-08:00Nearly finished...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Very happy with this necklace - which is just about finished. I just need to figure out an adjustable slider so the necklace can be worn at several lengths.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitGIjmpyhWF9iM0zPr6tiG4EtYJ178LuyPohUl7HgOFQv9pixn-gR4Av5QFWVluwuPdPamPPWumxiVCSz_xeFe-xpJHk9jM-M55LgdA2eJZcs7hYPrPafsjgG5PX54fCqCAx-VIOU8hNXJ/s1600/IMG_4008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitGIjmpyhWF9iM0zPr6tiG4EtYJ178LuyPohUl7HgOFQv9pixn-gR4Av5QFWVluwuPdPamPPWumxiVCSz_xeFe-xpJHk9jM-M55LgdA2eJZcs7hYPrPafsjgG5PX54fCqCAx-VIOU8hNXJ/s640/IMG_4008.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
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This next piece can be worn as either a bracelet which wraps several times or as a necklace. </div>
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I have so much on my workbench to complete for Friday. I hope that the creative juices keep flowing and that they flow quickly and that I manage to stay on task. Grasshopper mind and all that!Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-80789945809405926482012-11-19T20:29:00.003-08:002012-11-19T20:29:55.764-08:00What's on my work bench...<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68CHfXIbZCoBchZ6cfFa7TYwpQQye70Xsl7B2qgTDQYoi0MMV1iDipijfvGktRN0ZOnve06SYgsO1hWd5RIlORbR3j34M7uzj3etY7MWrUK4au4of3oxHpfh9cpWjQPar0uYqDc2cdmjp/s1600/IMG_3864.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="478" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj68CHfXIbZCoBchZ6cfFa7TYwpQQye70Xsl7B2qgTDQYoi0MMV1iDipijfvGktRN0ZOnve06SYgsO1hWd5RIlORbR3j34M7uzj3etY7MWrUK4au4of3oxHpfh9cpWjQPar0uYqDc2cdmjp/s640/IMG_3864.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Semi precious stones and sterling silver</td></tr>
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Just a hint of what is on my work bench at the moment. Earrings waiting to be completed and a necklace which is nearly finished. Have lots of things that need to be finished off - I have completion anxiety! Too funny - I crack myself up! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Dpb69gmpzqBy252qvMSluLRLjFA4D40cWMvtC5jlEQ971so-OEIvxsxcYYBWjdNJn9n_5KG1a8KdqgH-zN3HFQmraX165DLJCOrFFPfqejEVrhP819ENHGZUXdGmUxhdNTC9a3lN9bq-/s1600/IMG_3865.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Dpb69gmpzqBy252qvMSluLRLjFA4D40cWMvtC5jlEQ971so-OEIvxsxcYYBWjdNJn9n_5KG1a8KdqgH-zN3HFQmraX165DLJCOrFFPfqejEVrhP819ENHGZUXdGmUxhdNTC9a3lN9bq-/s640/IMG_3865.jpg" width="478" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sterling silver heart that I cast and semi precious stones and crystal faceted beads<br /><br /></td></tr>
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Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-57900211071449972532012-11-14T19:31:00.001-08:002012-11-15T09:45:35.282-08:00A cautionary tale...<div style="text-align: justify;">
OK - this post is not for the faint of heart or if you are squeamish. But, I thought that I would post this so I could possibly prevent this happening to someone else. Last Sunday after breakfast and whilst still in my jim jams I decided that it would be a great idea to saw some tiny rivets before getting myself ready to go to the Anthropologie Holiday Workshop. I had been on the wait list and they called the night before to say they had a space - so I was excited! The plan was to quickly saw 6 rivets - that was the plan! As I did not have a huge amount of time, I held the handy dandy tube cutting jig in my hand - 6 tiny rivets, no problem - was my thought. What happened was my saw blade snapped and embedded itself into my finger. Initially, I could not work out whether I had completely sawn down into my finger and it took me a few deep breathing moments to work out what had happened. I was still attached to my saw frame at this point! After my hubby released me I decided that it would be a "good" idea for him to hold onto the end and pull it out - he did ask me if I wanted something to bite down on! After two unsuccessful tries - ouch - I realised that we would be off to Urgent Care to get it removed. By the way, it's really hard to undress and dress with a saw blade sticking out of the end of your finger. Just saying!</div>
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You cannot really tell from the photo but it is down to my knuckle! So, 3 x-rays, 1 tetanus shot and 3 injections in my finger to numb it later and a discussion whether it would be best to pull or push - went with the pull even though the blade would saw through my finger as it was pulled out as the Doctor was worried about the blade snapping in my finger - it was out! Yeah. so one more x-ray to check there was nothing left behind and I was on my way home!</div>
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So back to the rest of my day - I called Anthropolgie and they very kindly moved me to a later class and I dashed over there only to realise that I couldn't take part as my finger was still totally numb and I was probably not safe to use the glue gun! Actually I am not safe to use a glue gun at the best of times! I think that the humble glue gun could be quiet easily be used as an instrument of torture.</div>
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So after 1 week on yucky antibiotics and a pain in my arm from the tetanus I have learnt my lesson. Always clamp! Always, always, always - no exceptions! You have been warned!</div>
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This was the piece that I was working on - hmmm...!</div>
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<br />Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-73704838891550717002012-11-05T16:42:00.000-08:002012-11-05T16:42:25.196-08:00The Halloween Grinch...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My birthday falls on Halloween - which, when I lived in England was not a problem. But, Halloween is so huge in the United States that I think that like people born on Christmas Day (other than Jesus!) I must start to have a half birthday. Or be more like my brother who always has a birthday week!<br />
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O.K. enough of my moaning - as a family we actually had a fantastic Halloween. The community where we live is one of the best places for kids to trick or treat safely and my daughter a.k.a. Cat Vampire Girl had a blast. On the Sunday before Halloween we had a Pumpkin Patch at school, on Monday I did a craft party with my daughter and five of her friends, on Halloween during the day we had a party at school, we carved pumpkins in the afternoon and then we trick or treated until 9:00pm. </div>
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Don't you just love these cupcakes - Frankenweenies! As you can probably tell despite my Grinchiness that I really do throw myself into the Halloween spirit. So until next year - "I am Dracula, blah, blah, blah!" </div>
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<br />Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-27216334380246483922012-10-16T15:16:00.000-07:002012-10-16T15:16:01.058-07:00Today I am listening to this...<div style="text-align: justify;">
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I was reading a lovely blog -<a href="http://awelltraveledwoman.com/" target="_blank"> a well traveled woman</a> by Becka, a very inspirational young woman. </div>
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It was here that I came across <a href="http://mattcorby.com.au/" target="_blank">Matt Corby</a>'s music. I am loving this. Oh, I am working - really!</div>
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Disclaimer - should mention that there is a rather bad swear word in the lyrics - but I guess sometimes only a bad swear word will do! Anyway, you have been warned! Enjoy! </div>
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I think the the acoustic version of this is even better. Brilliant. <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="allowfullscreen" frameborder="0" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/BczjTVe16xc?rel=0" width="560"></iframe>Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-74624436845842453152012-10-15T19:59:00.002-07:002012-10-15T19:59:32.872-07:00Good intentions...<div style="text-align: justify;">
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Wow - well there went summer and all my good intentions! Thank you for those of you that continued to check my blog - that was very kind and very patient of you and I will do my best not to be so utterly rubbish ever again! Promise! </div>
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A British Summer and my daughter's rainy day activity.</div>
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Summer was so busy - a visit to England - for 3 weeks and it rained every day except one - which was boiling hot! I had packed for summer - wasn't thinking - obviously! - and we were feeling a little damp. But, we made the best of it and had a great time - it was lovely to see our family and friends. </div>
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The summer flew by and we had lots of sunny days once we were back in California. </div>
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We took lots of walks and spent a lot of time at the pool cooling down.</div>
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What took up most of the time this summer was adjusting to having a new puppy! She is super cute but we really underestimated how time consuming and restrictive a new puppy would be! She has totally turned our life upside down. We are over the worst I think (hope!) and spending a lot of time trying to </div>
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convince her that she is a Golden Retriever - not a sled dog! </div>
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Now it is back down to work - lots of making to do...</div>
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Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-5208619960308402792012-06-22T10:17:00.000-07:002012-06-22T10:17:14.092-07:00I am seeing stars!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is what I cast this week - it was like holding a handful of pirate treasure. This photo was taken as I was starting to clean them up - I really could do with minions. I gave myself a disastrous manicure with the buffing machine!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhksI8GxNd4ir0ej0hUxf_EwxKjWlqq7r8cPnndJEnHpj06rruSMDx67AQ02AZX43fFE94cYPrC6xUd0Ha8QfrbXhyphenhyphenirsFV0lYSQQPPR9k6bVZxvPCC5LQCK6uZq6XN7L9h9VFS9Gviz_0U/s1600/IMG_3008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhksI8GxNd4ir0ej0hUxf_EwxKjWlqq7r8cPnndJEnHpj06rruSMDx67AQ02AZX43fFE94cYPrC6xUd0Ha8QfrbXhyphenhyphenirsFV0lYSQQPPR9k6bVZxvPCC5LQCK6uZq6XN7L9h9VFS9Gviz_0U/s400/IMG_3008.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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This weekend John will put up the second of the Berlin pendants from <a href="https://www.17thandriggs.com/" target="_blank">17th and Riggs</a>. We also took delivery of our ten new dining chairs. They are the <a href="http://www.emeco.net/product/navychair.html" target="_blank">Navy chairs</a> from <a href="http://www.emeco.net/" target="_blank">Emeco</a>. It was very exciting to get home after a day at the studio and have 5 big boxes so beautifully packaged waiting for me. We just have to get a dining table made now - it has to be narrower and longer than our current table. I really wanted to get a burnt orange formica table made, very mid century modern - but they have discontinued the colour that I like. So maybe it will just have to be white, which will be fine.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv9qdijMHA7J2UVKEdRtFX77WPuc_RyDY4eKa4e4XdVS_fDmAGVy6sJlXimMX_q-BtH0AjJ_RVM3jrGif9BFs8vJDNvG2HSks7RK1IDDTbNh2X_oEsCq_6RaTkJ6ICrAoNPlTmwGCkhlkN/s1600/IMG_3011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv9qdijMHA7J2UVKEdRtFX77WPuc_RyDY4eKa4e4XdVS_fDmAGVy6sJlXimMX_q-BtH0AjJ_RVM3jrGif9BFs8vJDNvG2HSks7RK1IDDTbNh2X_oEsCq_6RaTkJ6ICrAoNPlTmwGCkhlkN/s400/IMG_3011.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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I thought I would share how my day progressed yesterday. Although, I have my bench set up, </div>
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I don't have a clean space yet to complete my pieces. But that's what dining tables are for - right?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjed5zDlLrhcpwWgCQszFOK3lXyUPKOhYcjX6gho7hrSBFfRVYnzHRUUpMI9SOrsgAUEr0sCXNZItQn0UQh7b89YN4Z9mxCDPVAFo06v5wx9yUkldlNM4Buld8lJDX_93dQGDQvCETfNtV3/s1600/IMG_3012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjed5zDlLrhcpwWgCQszFOK3lXyUPKOhYcjX6gho7hrSBFfRVYnzHRUUpMI9SOrsgAUEr0sCXNZItQn0UQh7b89YN4Z9mxCDPVAFo06v5wx9yUkldlNM4Buld8lJDX_93dQGDQvCETfNtV3/s400/IMG_3012.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This is what it looked like just a short while later and below is a photo of the chaos at its peak!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihrn-5YFQBORqUZu847WKFrChQdtpTBTybh-F0SSlcxgVxbcyMf-3oSjRXloO5je3JV5SIvCZ0Rf6xO7oNcjs-VMBh3G22cENjpCMShRFyC1eFjg_F4Jl5wUXaXgKhTWcl93Td3KHb4yLW/s1600/IMG_3014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihrn-5YFQBORqUZu847WKFrChQdtpTBTybh-F0SSlcxgVxbcyMf-3oSjRXloO5je3JV5SIvCZ0Rf6xO7oNcjs-VMBh3G22cENjpCMShRFyC1eFjg_F4Jl5wUXaXgKhTWcl93Td3KHb4yLW/s400/IMG_3014.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Anyway, I got a lot done and below are the fruits of my labour. </div>
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It is a little more conservative than my usual larger pieces but not everyone likes big! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9vw1JtOH1A0yKVkhiZOgBS7oNyEy3vnzy0vtpfyJ_pnlQN91NuzmeiNTRydeo8sIqfqdOQqWISZH0JqYPdyh2kEFcx-VksErN2d7d4kdsBSUr864zuEMpUFjtWzlR13OY41QOpthuK1TB/s1600/IMG_3017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9vw1JtOH1A0yKVkhiZOgBS7oNyEy3vnzy0vtpfyJ_pnlQN91NuzmeiNTRydeo8sIqfqdOQqWISZH0JqYPdyh2kEFcx-VksErN2d7d4kdsBSUr864zuEMpUFjtWzlR13OY41QOpthuK1TB/s400/IMG_3017.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Star pendant with turquoise beads and fresh water pearl</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjVFuG-qPYj3XSx2QIlq0JgoluHfaxbcw63S-OXNC5ZsuaI9oNE-KQcj3nIANGmqiTURfedvEr6xQRh2vTY9NX1xod31-7pj2IdVSEhOe2xBjnHVoF4rVvRjrdtDmzqdR5-SfYtFMYbEX/s1600/IMG_3021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggjVFuG-qPYj3XSx2QIlq0JgoluHfaxbcw63S-OXNC5ZsuaI9oNE-KQcj3nIANGmqiTURfedvEr6xQRh2vTY9NX1xod31-7pj2IdVSEhOe2xBjnHVoF4rVvRjrdtDmzqdR5-SfYtFMYbEX/s400/IMG_3021.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Star bracelets with aqua marine beads and a freshwater pearl.<br />Flower bracelet with African glass trade beads, turquoise and a fresh water pearl.</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhurR7CvpN5CIjW_OqA6lsypgq-JpitI_jvQFDtnmT4-63Vz8iRr5O5u1scezsgI11GoUtAWcr9SsL93RH94qBYhl5czFLG2H4B2BZdw33ZsEkHN1vC3vXL8OOTPhb2yIOCcENFsXlUuWpo/s1600/IMG_3024.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhurR7CvpN5CIjW_OqA6lsypgq-JpitI_jvQFDtnmT4-63Vz8iRr5O5u1scezsgI11GoUtAWcr9SsL93RH94qBYhl5czFLG2H4B2BZdw33ZsEkHN1vC3vXL8OOTPhb2yIOCcENFsXlUuWpo/s400/IMG_3024.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>
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This pendant is a work in progress and I am just working on how to space the dangles </div>
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so that you see them all once the piece is being worn. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6f0_05DHKNjlNWRAOhmnTBIHbcGgqzJ4EsHePr2ayIhY0-F9bXTzrMQNc0R8RT4OWS77BUpR6SW6y_bz6_5Yiv0eYeE2kAhc1ZHnvhD77cM0pSGqtz8eBown3gv5LSVUsGQSqHM8mhqqi/s1600/IMG_3031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6f0_05DHKNjlNWRAOhmnTBIHbcGgqzJ4EsHePr2ayIhY0-F9bXTzrMQNc0R8RT4OWS77BUpR6SW6y_bz6_5Yiv0eYeE2kAhc1ZHnvhD77cM0pSGqtz8eBown3gv5LSVUsGQSqHM8mhqqi/s400/IMG_3031.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sterling silver, turquoise, aqua marine and fresh water pearl.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMubeC2GnDexRDddb_rPJT59G9lXtG0YgU6m44lUKqk7_eHbs7z4VSbxfnzrNWMBzDveEt3E1HgLCMDEjx37I0oPnHVMtSQazW0G1Z7fhsynKn_OTZ-CuBv6wdtZbx75Z8OtPYf-WhBokf/s1600/IMG_3027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="315" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMubeC2GnDexRDddb_rPJT59G9lXtG0YgU6m44lUKqk7_eHbs7z4VSbxfnzrNWMBzDveEt3E1HgLCMDEjx37I0oPnHVMtSQazW0G1Z7fhsynKn_OTZ-CuBv6wdtZbx75Z8OtPYf-WhBokf/s400/IMG_3027.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Colored copper with textured copper discs and sterling ear wires.</td></tr>
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All in all a productive week. I am off to England next week and will do my best to post when I can and will keep you updated with my travels.</div>Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-15406680024672114282012-06-16T22:50:00.000-07:002012-06-16T22:50:11.140-07:00Is it a dress or a shower curtain?<div style="text-align: justify;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVefZ1GYzAOLVAZLzasByr9BI3fuAc_FhqkCgWxPRXCQ0Zyd58A4oen93gluGBW3p6wCUW5M48AUxw71fzuxaRsNNCIWFeTP2vHKLy50FJpy8QQt6qv6kUeezSAlFZGUnHmDJ2CwSiH15G/s1600/shops_gypsyden_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVefZ1GYzAOLVAZLzasByr9BI3fuAc_FhqkCgWxPRXCQ0Zyd58A4oen93gluGBW3p6wCUW5M48AUxw71fzuxaRsNNCIWFeTP2vHKLy50FJpy8QQt6qv6kUeezSAlFZGUnHmDJ2CwSiH15G/s640/shops_gypsyden_2.jpg" width="640" /></a><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Times, 'Times New Roman', serif;"></span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">I went for lunch today at the <a href="http://www.gypsyden.com/" target="_blank">Gypsy Den</a> at <a href="http://thelab.com/" target="_blank">The LAB</a> - the antimall in Costa Mesa. I love it there! This is what they say about themselves - "<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #231f20; line-height: 21px;">The LAB, recycled from a night vision goggle factory, began its journey to combat retail monotony almost 20 years ago. In the midst of Orange County’s suburbia and perfectly planted palm trees, we recognized a need for a homey, indoor-outdoor hang out with shops and restaurants geared for the young at heart, and not offered in every mall on every corner. The “LAB” stands for “Little American Business” and that’s what we are, and what we continue to support." Yeah, The LAB! </span>While I was there I came across this fab little book. How super is this book - I surely must be able to do two things a day!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCvZBXICNS9tBd_Gv48TQrOBiIw96gFp4wdOPSlqU40WpgR72nW8blqieJUQhsWQGEgJKTymEsIRTeeeW16ikOMb2D1jsjhyphenhyphenMLdFGmg-QYATMZ4AjD2gVLP7puHwk4RupwUyxpHMOYwIQ/s1600/IMG_2955.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMCvZBXICNS9tBd_Gv48TQrOBiIw96gFp4wdOPSlqU40WpgR72nW8blqieJUQhsWQGEgJKTymEsIRTeeeW16ikOMb2D1jsjhyphenhyphenMLdFGmg-QYATMZ4AjD2gVLP7puHwk4RupwUyxpHMOYwIQ/s640/IMG_2955.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh83r2xbamuggriWJM53sWJ00GQovz_v6FOnZenrc5sJ1WGoZSd5chsxqZKamtRhPiwHN_vglle-qe47YdlxnM97MKmytNRlfSVKRs-Q4zcoRUv5_VUW9rUsEsBtvhORVi961mic0ZPOn3r/s1600/IMG_2959.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh83r2xbamuggriWJM53sWJ00GQovz_v6FOnZenrc5sJ1WGoZSd5chsxqZKamtRhPiwHN_vglle-qe47YdlxnM97MKmytNRlfSVKRs-Q4zcoRUv5_VUW9rUsEsBtvhORVi961mic0ZPOn3r/s640/IMG_2959.jpg" width="476" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is so me!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsOeo-Zmk_Uz7phYkuXLnfIh9sHtveX5AzI6RvCxLKM1ft1Z1yZ5FobcmJUveDZZz2q6RogaedE0uvlJ9WebjxVOQM-6742VY_RIkkJ0AmSaGQRp4Z6GE3Gn4kH93tG08DR2FANFnuwWPh/s1600/thumb.php.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="339" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsOeo-Zmk_Uz7phYkuXLnfIh9sHtveX5AzI6RvCxLKM1ft1Z1yZ5FobcmJUveDZZz2q6RogaedE0uvlJ9WebjxVOQM-6742VY_RIkkJ0AmSaGQRp4Z6GE3Gn4kH93tG08DR2FANFnuwWPh/s640/thumb.php.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My photo didn't work - but this it what the LAB looks like.</td></tr>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">So, woke up today and I had a mission. Last night I decided to make a new dress - out of a shower curtain - as you do! I was unable to find my pattern (my garage really needs to be on the list) so I cut around one I had made earlier. I was a bit scared as I have a love/hate relationship with sewing machine - if it is behaving, happy days - but it just randomly misbehaves and drives me crazy.</span></div>
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When I was in Santa Monica last week I picked up a shower curtain from <a href="http://www.westelm.com/" target="_blank">West Elm</a>. It was in the sale for $14.99, although I just checked their website and online it was $49 reduced to $24.99. Bargain!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiANHMJY7q64814QQn9O080mZZhyphenhyphenka83WYL5bPkBpWovaGf89-Vr5otixZE9C0kWVE8PW3FvTu87nNktlQbVtAQxXEDPtLlqeXlcgF8ezHTsELmLxaRaho8hCSW29SHRaCsElT29biTSr-o/s1600/IMG_2943.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiANHMJY7q64814QQn9O080mZZhyphenhyphenka83WYL5bPkBpWovaGf89-Vr5otixZE9C0kWVE8PW3FvTu87nNktlQbVtAQxXEDPtLlqeXlcgF8ezHTsELmLxaRaho8hCSW29SHRaCsElT29biTSr-o/s640/IMG_2943.jpg" width="476" /></a></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: inherit;">So, hurray! I achieved one thing off my list today. I found it a little tricky trying to make the bias binding - it really challenges my mind trying to piece it all together. So forget those brain training games - just cut up fabric and make long lengths of bias binding. So, guess what I am wearing tomorrow? And I guess that clearing the dining table goes back on the list tomorrow!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyK1G9Vloc9sw0zVMloamVTSRQDN3LjuV-WR5XKM7IqD1oJO8yOSB0zc80ukVs_EA7fe9McjsvHAyh9ELbgTWVw7T9Rta4_txZfr-iaxWOK4_aNoagYIpSTjZE8kF4NYRtE_b0_bdRKR_A/s1600/IMG_2962.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyK1G9Vloc9sw0zVMloamVTSRQDN3LjuV-WR5XKM7IqD1oJO8yOSB0zc80ukVs_EA7fe9McjsvHAyh9ELbgTWVw7T9Rta4_txZfr-iaxWOK4_aNoagYIpSTjZE8kF4NYRtE_b0_bdRKR_A/s640/IMG_2962.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-64382916444047649542012-06-14T09:43:00.000-07:002012-06-15T15:02:35.348-07:00Something old...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
This is one of my older pieces that I thought would be nice to share as I am working on a new flower pendant at the moment. I had a "great" idea that I would make stands for all my jewelry and they would live on the stand and be displayed like a piece of art whilst not being worn. This piece is a silver and amethyst ring. I say that it was a "great" idea because it actually took me longer to make the flower stand than it did to make the piece - doh! - back to the drawing board. I think that the concept is a good one - but I just need to refine it.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE8hPqe76hTBuZYQVSnHgmcrJPtMRjlGXrZ7Z5uqaxAIgjxsQKCO6EdUiXxqhWJzXLgrYP71uzT0z4pOxBaHIKbkPdUy-zE87dW7OEINvJhxeEPeaPbMrfK-4eE3kyWDwPdmw72oF8QpbW/s1600/ringonstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjE8hPqe76hTBuZYQVSnHgmcrJPtMRjlGXrZ7Z5uqaxAIgjxsQKCO6EdUiXxqhWJzXLgrYP71uzT0z4pOxBaHIKbkPdUy-zE87dW7OEINvJhxeEPeaPbMrfK-4eE3kyWDwPdmw72oF8QpbW/s400/ringonstand.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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I had a wonderful time last Friday at the Contemporary Crafts Market in Santa Monica. It is a show that I would like to sell at in the future and thought it would be a good idea to check it out.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioULwFnMYca2AJZESXSn_agpJuDyLWv59NHKlnmpxclyoKU4J3dhbiU40gbFZfd3mbeVjUR8Wib4Ka4BUDtkXPvLkdliCmyzsYOBgCqh7fOQvdV_XPbRk3s13bt-wpWwY0pfgqU6RXmYJ7/s1600/contep.craftmarket.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioULwFnMYca2AJZESXSn_agpJuDyLWv59NHKlnmpxclyoKU4J3dhbiU40gbFZfd3mbeVjUR8Wib4Ka4BUDtkXPvLkdliCmyzsYOBgCqh7fOQvdV_XPbRk3s13bt-wpWwY0pfgqU6RXmYJ7/s320/contep.craftmarket.PNG" width="222" /></a></div>
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I got to meet one of my jewelry heroes - <a href="http://www.kitcarsonjewelry.com/" target="_blank">Kit Carson</a>. I have admired his work for a long time and it was a real honour to talk with him. OK, I admit it - I was a little starstruck! But, hopefully more of this later.</div>
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I have lots of pieces all in various stages of completion and will post them as soon as I have photos. Seem to be staying on task at the moment - which is a miracle!</div>
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<br /></div>Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-400742770252201152012-05-31T14:02:00.000-07:002012-06-05T21:16:42.885-07:00The ring of fire!<div style="text-align: justify;">
Firstly, two posts in one week! I am even scaring myself! OK, the back story: I have been making jewelry for nearly 10 years and I am a fabricator, which means that I take metal sheet or wire, usually silver but sometimes copper and I do a number of things with it which can include sawing, hammering, soldering, texturing, etc, etc! If it is not a good day that might even include biting it - yes, that's what that texture is! OK, not really, but occasionally I will swear at it! For a long time I have been interested in trying out casting but it is not for the faint of heart. Lost wax centrifugal casting has the potential to be very dangerous and you need a skilled teacher to guide you. I lucked out with the wonderful <a href="http://www.indigolights.com/" target="_blank">Sheri Cohen</a> who teaches at the Irvine Fine Arts Center, not only is she a fantastic teacher but she is also an incredible jewelry artist.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUV7MxnXJw4t9Mlfk9QHYDnqaPt-IintXMM88rawrIgxHet2VaPe0Y2KEBa3tfScLvLy8eWggBblzWVwxgLFe2kdRuAOInnLzoHP863OjA0NG6k8NRLznnZ05vbJ1U3ty51dIHEUeDBir6/s1600/centifruge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjUV7MxnXJw4t9Mlfk9QHYDnqaPt-IintXMM88rawrIgxHet2VaPe0Y2KEBa3tfScLvLy8eWggBblzWVwxgLFe2kdRuAOInnLzoHP863OjA0NG6k8NRLznnZ05vbJ1U3ty51dIHEUeDBir6/s400/centifruge.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Centrifuge - a.k.a - the ring of fire!</td></tr>
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This is the centrifuge where you melt the silver. The idea is that you release the wound up centrifuge which spins the molten silver at an incredible speed, which then shoots into the negative space in the flask - the negative space is where your wax was before being burnt out in a kiln. The scariest part of this is getting the flask from the kiln into the centrifuge. This is not easy and is made even more difficult by the fact that are wearing a leather apron, dark glasses and full face shield. On top of this you have to wear oversized gloves and try to to manoeuvre the incredibly hot flask with a pair of tongues! It is like a party game for masochists!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpkzdnR62CpPlIW2586BS8nXBVYkOod0Bcx6meC5rPre6GFJS5dFoekTQAoY_2DFZ8Wbm0ncMV0R6AiLRJFwBbYUqAfJYCPkro97Rblu3vyH-E_lBuwaO2psQ7wefCXskHA8BHShyphenhyphenQ8Fj/s1600/gloves.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYpkzdnR62CpPlIW2586BS8nXBVYkOod0Bcx6meC5rPre6GFJS5dFoekTQAoY_2DFZ8Wbm0ncMV0R6AiLRJFwBbYUqAfJYCPkro97Rblu3vyH-E_lBuwaO2psQ7wefCXskHA8BHShyphenhyphenQ8Fj/s400/gloves.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The protective gloves that you must wear - way to big - but one size fits all!</td></tr>
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I imagine that this process gets less stressful the more times that you do it, which is good, as I am sure that my heart couldn't take it! Anyway, success! All my pieces cast, and no one was hurt in the making of this jewelry. Happy days.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJf9kUSRxY7A_ig8DK_hLozSPJ-6vhLcQKm9pOKBRbXxqxaiZlMFUaen8LF41U5KJjfwvd-UH3oMYEauMTAW4XH-NT07crH0Js41oVdY7qhc4eHdJdmBjxIohNAq59UzKCPGYscAsZQs9/s1600/castpieces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="239" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuJf9kUSRxY7A_ig8DK_hLozSPJ-6vhLcQKm9pOKBRbXxqxaiZlMFUaen8LF41U5KJjfwvd-UH3oMYEauMTAW4XH-NT07crH0Js41oVdY7qhc4eHdJdmBjxIohNAq59UzKCPGYscAsZQs9/s320/castpieces.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fresh from the kiln, needing a good scrub and polish.</td></tr>
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As you can see after the cast pieces are cleaned up, worked over on the grinding wheel - there are lots of sharp edges to knock down - and then buffed, a patina added and then a final polish the pieces are looking pretty good. I am pleased with the results. I think that knowing how to cast adds an extra tool to my creative toolbox and I am looking forward to more experimentation.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1e1kHPSswLsdaGoOpwxok-YatzYJFpLikdYe_-xA0qN9ng-kS3h8UBs0sIBDjc9Z5ak3twd4k0BjJylZkB_biMDvLwhPkNGHvLGw_dEjLyrPQ-w0aS3_Uhdt0PXbfmzYF4_5ZzSOjT1QX/s1600/polished+pieces.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1e1kHPSswLsdaGoOpwxok-YatzYJFpLikdYe_-xA0qN9ng-kS3h8UBs0sIBDjc9Z5ak3twd4k0BjJylZkB_biMDvLwhPkNGHvLGw_dEjLyrPQ-w0aS3_Uhdt0PXbfmzYF4_5ZzSOjT1QX/s400/polished+pieces.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The results - they still need a little refining but looking good! </td></tr>
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</div>Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-53284123188568692172012-05-29T18:49:00.000-07:002012-05-29T18:50:46.289-07:00Like a kid in a sweet shop...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2xxTj0WUsTznUAei8EW7_Z6b4MnClHzuTSy9MNyEFDy2wAqflpAI0kDWkNYPJaW4qLR-uICia_AQ6DO90inva2jl5G5H-GaZdqBB_uYZbtc6gauGoJcZ2mPphieK0QNKzh63gJS_69lPd/s1600/IMG_2801.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2xxTj0WUsTznUAei8EW7_Z6b4MnClHzuTSy9MNyEFDy2wAqflpAI0kDWkNYPJaW4qLR-uICia_AQ6DO90inva2jl5G5H-GaZdqBB_uYZbtc6gauGoJcZ2mPphieK0QNKzh63gJS_69lPd/s400/IMG_2801.jpg" width="400" /><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a></div>
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I had a such a great morning in the <a href="http://www.artsupplywarehouse.com/" target="_blank">Art Supply Warehouse</a> in Westminster today. It was so much fun to leisurely walk the aisles and peruse all the loveliness on offer.</div>
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Handmade paper and so many choices.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPeFDZWymhfhI3PTPzBIuHwGju9HQ0bd8vUMdu73nNW9ZKLphwolUUGmHGitM8S9OiJEV3FbQusMtJkKIXi0eXus2nRn9Jh8q1z__dMyft1C667lhnDMZq2SDTHWtz7ztdi-5kmCjNs07D/s1600/IMG_2799.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPeFDZWymhfhI3PTPzBIuHwGju9HQ0bd8vUMdu73nNW9ZKLphwolUUGmHGitM8S9OiJEV3FbQusMtJkKIXi0eXus2nRn9Jh8q1z__dMyft1C667lhnDMZq2SDTHWtz7ztdi-5kmCjNs07D/s400/IMG_2799.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Be still my beating heart!</div>
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Not one... </div>
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but two sides of the aisle chock full of paint brushes!</div>
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Anyway, I am now armed with the supplies that I needed and it is back to work. I am working on a technique where you apply color to metal. I fiddled about with this a few years ago and came across a couple of test samples as I have been slowly (very slowly!) unpacking. My workshop is coming together, although still not functional, but it is a joy to keep discovering things as I unpack. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyphenhyphenkBzNhGKi7MhYZ9_hw-UpST0QYLMF6o7qj22YZ7hXDSnDH_tLPrVpVVW3fUeuFpkGH4AOjiplm8wvJohueGXtWlTL4qTk8WFF91PEZHrDgnY7rgcSa4P6SGjUc1fZr-pUDF9VTptrhz8/s1600/colored+flowers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghyphenhyphenkBzNhGKi7MhYZ9_hw-UpST0QYLMF6o7qj22YZ7hXDSnDH_tLPrVpVVW3fUeuFpkGH4AOjiplm8wvJohueGXtWlTL4qTk8WFF91PEZHrDgnY7rgcSa4P6SGjUc1fZr-pUDF9VTptrhz8/s400/colored+flowers.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-91919548494899841722012-05-03T10:37:00.001-07:002012-05-08T12:25:56.895-07:00Mary Poppins or Truly Scrumptious?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: justify;">
At last, after a year of waiting I have a new bike - it is made by <a href="http://www.electrabike.com/Bikes/amsterdam-bikes-electra" target="_blank">Electra</a> and I just love it! It is so much fun and because of the shape of the bike you really are sat up quiet straight - very much like Mary Poppins or Truly Scrumptious. I didn't stage the flowers - although they do look rather lovely - it is Teacher Appreciation week and I had just raided my mother-in-law's garden! So, what shall I call her - Mary or Truly? Hmmm, big decision! I have a bell, a clip on flower and most importantly of all - a coffee cup holder! What more could a girl want?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6iZGX163fJDKl9ZK69E5iIY7h8OALTNrWJ8b236iwSUq7bnpbjjsFv6v71Zz34q3rDwUojmZk2Y6TWYk9D5apeLFq25lvwXEbXB8Ua4plI1e6Dt1tBy2i9wmo2REtv4lhxngqKr0szdS/s1600/IMG_2641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="476" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhc6iZGX163fJDKl9ZK69E5iIY7h8OALTNrWJ8b236iwSUq7bnpbjjsFv6v71Zz34q3rDwUojmZk2Y6TWYk9D5apeLFq25lvwXEbXB8Ua4plI1e6Dt1tBy2i9wmo2REtv4lhxngqKr0szdS/s640/IMG_2641.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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I have been working - yippee! Here are two pieces that I am working on. This is going to be a new collection called "Mended" - most of us have had to deal with failed relationship, loss, loneliness and sadness - which at the time may feel as if your heart has been ripped apart or at the very least leaves our hearts a little battered and bruised. Mended means to make whole again - to be complete. I think that our life experiences, although tough to deal with at the time make our hearts stronger and make us more beautiful as a person over time. We have more empathy, understanding and compassion for people that may be living through something similar - it makes you a good friend in someones time of need. What I am trying to convey is that though something has been damaged, it can be repaired and become more beautiful in the process. Hopefully will get these pieces finished over the next few days and over to the lovely <a href="http://www.paulahanson.com/" target="_blank">Paula Hanson's boutique</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvVFi91sNl3eXE4wjOtkkITp68evxaFe97ETwWvX1GA0H4xvAeeQet6HWs1TGv1bnkKl2Zwm8LnR5JmKlhmHnpgATLRcpfEi08mxT65QcP8ar0eHzAUsOtY6o_XGWlHLZay0hk9QFTtqa/s1600/IMG_2653.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqvVFi91sNl3eXE4wjOtkkITp68evxaFe97ETwWvX1GA0H4xvAeeQet6HWs1TGv1bnkKl2Zwm8LnR5JmKlhmHnpgATLRcpfEi08mxT65QcP8ar0eHzAUsOtY6o_XGWlHLZay0hk9QFTtqa/s640/IMG_2653.jpg" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6642082226631606678.post-25562380378232962872012-04-23T12:13:00.000-07:002012-04-23T12:13:10.488-07:00This week I am loving "within the rose" by Matthew and the Atlas<div style="text-align: justify;">
I have just realised that for a jewelry artist and metalsmith I have an extraordinary fascination with paper! Kudos to <a href="http://www.neilcoxhill.co.uk/" target="_blank">Neil Coxhill</a> who created this fantastic animation. I am also so in love with Matthew Hegarty's voice! Strange that I move over five thousand miles from the UK to the US only to discover <a href="http://matthewandtheatlas.com/" target="_blank">Matthew and the Atlas</a> who are based in London! All of this I know has nothing to do whatsoever with jewelry! I am working on some fun stuff at the moment and will show you as soon as I can what I have been up to - I am revisiting an idea I had several years ago and have my fingers crossed - not whilst working! - that it is something special. </div>
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Above is the full length animation of "within the rose" by Matthew and the Atlas </div>
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and below is the music video .</div>
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</div>Nicola Natlandhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01603971980920460523noreply@blogger.com0