Reconnecting.....

One of my goals this year has been to get into my acquired supplies and begin to use the things I have or find them new homes. Most of my acquired beads and findings have been obtained second hand at estate sales and auctions, gifted to me by friends who know I make jewelry, or traded among other artists. I decided that this week would be a good time to dip into these supplies and begin to work on a new line of jewelry.

Part of my stash I've been working on sorting, separating, and disassembling in preparation for their new life.

 I've also been taking some of these beads and adjusting them to suit the designs and make them stand out a bit and give them their own unique voice. These large stones have been collaged and sealed with pages from old books.

Some of the supplies needed a new life as they particularly suit my style. I decided to finally take some of my remaining filigree beads and try my hand at a little more torch fire enameling. This is probably my 4th or 5th attempt on my own and I've finally come up with some usable beads.

I'm pleased with my progress on making the headpins. I still need to work out using an opaque white underneath to make more brilliant colors but I also really like the subtle transparency that I'm achieving consistently.

What have you been working on lately? 

Do you delve into your acquired materials to try new things?