My Very First Jewelry Making Workshop!

You guys! I’m finally doing it, I’m teaching my very first jewelry making workshop at Mischief in Oakland. I’m excited and nervous (as you can imagine!) I wanted to share about the class here and tell a little bit more about what you can expect. This is a great class for anyone who’s looking to start making metal jewelry. It’s beginner level and I promise you’ll have fun! =)

If you already know this sounds like something for you, then just head on over to the Mischief website to register. There’s only 5 spots left as of typing this! Otherwise, read on for more info about the class. . .

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Making metal jewelry can sometimes seem intimidating. In this 3-hour class I’ll show you that it doesn’t have to be! You’ll learn how to make your own metalwork jewelry using basic techniques with tools that are easy and affordable to come by. You’ll learn the basics of manipulating brass or copper wire into a variety of different shapes (or components), from geometric to more organic. We will then use these shapes to create our own earrings, necklaces, and even bracelets (if you like!) We’ll also go over everything you need to create your own at-home metalwork shop (no torch needed!)

This is an intro level class and no previous experience is needed. We will not be working with a torch.

You will learn:

  • -  how to cut, shape, and hammer out various gauges of wire to create shapes for your jewelry

  • -  different techniques for texturing your work

  • -  a variety of techniques for connecting components together that does not include a torch (this is called “cold connections” in the jewelry making world)

  • -  how to create holes in your designs (for those cold connections!)

  • -  all of the details that will allow you to create a finished piece of jewelry

  • -  a handy way to create your own ear-wires out of basic materials

  • -  AND, lastly, we will go over the tools and equipment you’ll need if you’re looking to set up a jewelry metal workplace of your own at home. (With as little pressure on your wallet as possible!)

You’ll leave this class with your choice of:
- 1 pair of finished earrings and 2 necklaces
OR
- 1 pair of finished earrings, 1 bracelet, and 1 necklace

AND
- your own jewelry polishing cloth

All materials and tools are provided.
Must be at least 18 years of age to take this class.

While it is not absolutely necessary, it is a good idea to tie long hair back and wear closed-toe shoes for this class. Also, clothes that aren’t too precious and are comfortable for working in, are ideal.

That about sums it all up! Feel free to leave a comment here if you have any questions for me. Sign up for the class on the Mischief website. Otherwise I look forward to working with you on November 11th!

Moving Hiatus

Morning my friendly blog-followers! I'm dropping in today just to say that this week is MOVING WEEK! I'm hoping to get everything 100% moved over to my new spot by the end of the week, but we all know how those things can go. Things are going to be a bit quiet around the blog while I get moved and re-settled, while still keeping up with the demands of my late spring/early summer craft fair schedule. By late June/early July I hope to be back with semi-regular posts, and my first giveaway of 2016, so you'll definitely want to pop back over when you can! And you can always check in with this Tangleweed on Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest when you're looking for cat-sillyness, wardrobe inspiration, bits of life ephemera, and of course, new jewelry designs and behind-the-scenes Tangleweeds fun.

A quick run down for those of you I haven't told about my move: I'm moving to Vallejo. Why Vallejo? Because it's one of the few affordable hold-outs in the bay area. My rent is going to be much lower and I'm going to have a space much more suited to where I am at in my life right now (i.e. more space mainly.) Initially I am going to keep my studio in Oakland and most likely work 3 longer days so I'm not having to drive to work 5 days a week. I'm going to see how this goes though, over the next few months, and if I find that I would rather move my work space home, I may consider that, as I have the room for it. I am mot definitely apprehensive about this next chapter, as I'm going to be juggling many different facets of my life. I feel confident that I can do it. . . And I think part of the key to making it work is going to be learning to be flexible about things, and remembering to be present here and now. 

Here's to a new adventure!

(The photo above is from Mission San Francisco Solano in Sonoma. Those poppies were just gorgeous! Jeff and I took a day trip out to Sonoma on Saturday, a rare treat for the two of us to have the same weekend day off.)

Mini Berkeley Adventure

Last Saturday Jeff and I took the day and just sort of winged it. We knew we wanted to just chill out, have some good food, and not have to deal with traffic on the bridge (so SF was out.) We stuck close to home and had a pretty awesome day in Berkeley. We tried out the newish BBQ place, Smoke, on San Pablo, walked through the local plant nursery, hunted through treasures at Omega Salvage, and admired adorable front yards in the resdential neighborhoods near by. 

I seriously lusted after that settee in one of the photos above. If I had the money and space it would have been mine! Oh well, another time, another place, another settee =) And that idea of using old drawers as planters is definitely going to happen in my yard in the near future!

If you've got interesting/inventive gardening ideas for the spring, share them in the comments if you like. Happy Tuesday everyone!

Lake Merritt Weekend

This past weekend was so lovely. I think I spent nearly every waking moment of daylight outside. On Saturday I went to Lake Del Valle with my sister and her kids for a day of sun and swimming. Then, on Sunday, Jeff and I walked around Lake Merritt, explored the gardens there, had lunch at Grand Lake Kitchen and just had a slow-lazy day. Some pictures from Sunday are below.