DreamBelle Designs

2011-09-02T15:50:00.004-04:00

For whatever reason, blogger lost all of the images on my last three posts. :( So, I had to remove them and now it looks like I haven't posted in almost a year. Adding this post to see if it happens again!

Blog Review: Chance to Win a $20 Gift Certificate for My Etsy Shop

2010-10-16T13:34:00.001-04:00

I'm honored to have my Etsy Shop and jewelry reviewed on this blog: Adorable Etsy Shop: DreamBelle Designs !!! Check it out, for a chance to win a $20 gift certificate for my shop.

I’ve been busy making new items, getting ready for two upcoming home jewelry shows! Here are some new items in my Etsy shop:

If you get a chance check out my new ArtFire Shop! Still have a lot of work to do on it, but it’s slowly coming along. Have a wonderful weekend! :D

All I need is some good red sauce & crusty bread…

2010-08-16T09:43:00.001-04:00

In my former life I was Italian and I spent my childhood days in the kitchen where my sweet Nonna taught my how to make all her special dishes. Well since I don’t really believe in re-incarnation, I bring myself back to reality…where I did spend my childhood days with my German Grandma. Who taught me how to make her special dishes like: spaetzle, fleisch küchen (meat cakes), potato salad, and German red cabbage. As a child I loved being in the kitchen helping out my Mom or anyone else that would let me stand by their side to learn. That resulted in a love for cooking. I enjoy making a big meal for others and watching them chow it down, and then leave me to clean it all up (o.k. I don’t really like that part).
Over the years I have developed a certain fondness for Italian food. Especially red sauce (or as the Italian’s would say “gravy”) with fresh baked crusty bread. I could make an entire meal out of those two things, but my waste line wouldn’t be so forgiving!
I’ve tried many recipes for sauce, some good, some not so good. I’ve taken what I’ve learned and come up with my own recipe that I want to share:
28 oz can whole peeled tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 T onion, minced (optional…still tastes great without it)
¼ tsp. red pepper flakes
1 ½ tsp. sugar
Salt & pepper to taste
3 T olive oil
1 tsp each: fresh chopped oregano & basil
Heat olive oil in a medium sauce pan on medium-high heat, add garlic and onion; cook until fragrant, about 1 -2 minutes. Add the red pepper flakes and the tomatoes. Season with salt & pepper, breaking the tomatoes up as you go. Bring to a boil, add the sugar and reduce the heat to a rapid simmer. Cook, stirring often, until sauce thickens, about 20 minutes. Stir in the fresh herbs.
The longer you cook, the thicker the sauce will be. I use my Braun hand held blender to puree it!

Sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or do like I do and freeze it. I use this sauce on my homemade grilled pizza dough (yum!), for zucchini parmesan and of course dipping crusty bread. Do your kids like sauce but not veggies? Try this trick: chop up a cup of carrots and celery, put them in the oil and saute them until transparent (or mushy) then add the garlic and onions and finish off the recipe. Your kids will get a whole serving of veggies and not even know it!

LiveJournal Tags: gravy,red sauce,crusty bread,pizza,pasta,Italian,recipes,cooking,food

Sharing Saturday…

2010-06-05T16:25:00.002-04:00

I’m cleaning house in my shop, need to make room for so many new items! I’ve added a whole bunch of items to my S-A-L-E section. Here’s a little peak ~



Stop on by and take a look around! Mention this blog post in the notes to seller box and receive 10% off you entire purchase, including sale items! Have a wonderful weekend! xo

Sharing Saturday…Memorial Weekend Sale!

2010-05-29T10:24:00.001-04:00

Letting you all know I’m having a Memorial Weekend Sale ~ 10% OFF your entire purchase ~ now through midnight Monday! Stop on over and take a look around! Wishing everyone a wonderful weekend filled with lots of fun! Here are some new items in my shop:

LiveJournal Tags: jewelry,etsy,zibbet,sterling silver,handcrafted,copper,sale,memorial day

Sharing Saturday…

2010-05-15T09:07:00.001-04:00

I’m going to make an honest effort to post more to my blog. So I thought I’d start a weekly post called “Sharing Saturday”, where I will post new items from my shop and share other great finds!

Here are some new listings in my Etsy Shop! Enjoy and have a great weekend!

LiveJournal Tags: jewelry,handcrafted,hammered metal,sterling silver,brass,copper,handmade,etsy,zibbet,unique,modern,simple

Mother’s Day

2010-05-09T15:48:00.001-04:00

Wishing all the Mom’s out there a wonderful Mother’s Day! May your day be blessed with happiness and joy!

Yesterday I delivered 46 new items to the buy-sell-trade boutique that is carrying my line of jewelry--Nomad. The boutique was inspired by the owner’s online Etsy shop: Le Amor. It’s a quaint little shop one block from Lafayette College. Many awesome finds can be found from new to vintage. Clothing, accessories, shoes, jewelry and more. Some of the clothing that you will find: American Apparel, Ann Taylor, Bebe, Banana Republic, Diesel 7, JCrew, Kenneth Cole and the list goes on and on. Great shop for the local college students. One can choose to sell their items for cash or receive store credit…great deal if you ask me for the starving college kid who’d like something new & fashionable.

If you live in or around the Lehigh Valley you can visit the shop in College Hill at 518 March St.

Here’s a few Etsy sellers featured at Nomad…

Dahling Accessories beautiful eye-catching fabrics, awesome designs all with a vintage flair.

Leo and Junie great jewelry inspired by nature with a vintage look!

Ordinary Mommy hand-cut and hand stitched felt hair pieces and jewelry. So many cute and unique designs to choose from!

Blue Toad Journals of Tremundo amazing journals with a unique design! Featured artisan on HGTV’s “That’s Cool!”

Have a great day! If you have a bit of extra time…check out all the new items in my Etsy Shop!

LiveJournal Tags: handmade,handcrafted,journals,vintage,jewelry,purse,buy,sell,trade,etsy,zibbet

Metalwork Creations

2010-04-11T09:10:00.003-04:00

I’ve been slacking on my blog, there just aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done. I think if I had 36 hours in the day, I might be able to get most of it done. With spring being here, more work has been added. Looking forward to all of the yard work and re-doing my flower beds. They definitely need a make-over.   In the meantime, when I’m not outside playing….I’ve been inside playing around with sterling silver, copper, and brass sheet plate.   I’m excited to work with the sheet and see what new and fun designs I can come up with. Wanted to share some of my latest metalwork creations, now available in my Etsy shop.

Sunshine Award!

2010-03-21T09:55:00.003-04:00

Great things happened yesterday! Celebrated the first day of Spring with wonderful weather. The temperature was 74 degrees, and sunny! I opened all the windows and almost got all of my spring cleaning done. My purple and white winter crocus sprouted into the world, what a pretty site to see! Check out the pictures on my Facebook Fanpage.
More importantly I was delighted to find out I was nominated for the Sunshine Award by Odin's Bead Hall. I am honored, flattered and would like to say a big thank you! Please stop by her Etsy Shop and check out her beautiful jewelry, there is something there for everyone!

For the Sunshine Award the rules are:
1. Place the logo within your blog or post
2. Pass the award on to 12 other bloggers
3. Link the nominees within the post
4. Let the nominees know they have won by commenting on their blog
5. Share the love by linking to the person from whom you received the award

The nominees are:
1. Demure Artistic Designs
2. Dean Designs
3. TJB Designs
4. Fruits Of The Bloom
5. Faerie Moon Creations
6. Fat Bottom Bags
7. The Pine Cone Tea Cup
8. JKA Designs
9. Goody Goody Tutus
10. CinLynn Boutique
11. Lean Dog Pottery
12. Classic Keepsakes

Facebook Give-A-Way!

2010-03-13T22:51:00.002-05:00

The rules of Facebook have changed and you can no longer post give-a-ways, promos, etc….so I am announcing it here with hopes that you all will all help me out. When I reach 350 fans I will be giving away a free pair of earrings. Please spread the word, invite your friends! I’m only 15 fans away, so the give-a-way will be here before you know it! All fans will be entered unless they let me know that they are not interested. This is an easy give-a-way, you have to do nothing if you are a fan. Winner will be drawn by random.org for fairness. Become a FAN! Thanks :-)

Irish Eyes Are Smiling & Spring Is In The Air!!

2010-03-12T21:00:00.001-05:00

FREE SHIPPING BEGINNING AT MIDNIGHT TONIGHT

OFFER Good 3/13 thru MIDNIGHT 3/20! Help me celebrate St. Patty’s Day & the coming of Spring!

I admit it, I’ve been lazy about my blog posts. The winter blues have left me without motivation to write…but don’t think I forgot about you all! The weather here has been fantastic for early March, temps topping out around 63 degrees. So refreshing after a grueling winter full of too much snow! So on that note in honor of St. Patrick’s Day….yep I have a wee bit of Irish in me…and the first day of Spring; I am offering free shipping in my shop starting at Midnight tonight through Midnight~March 20th! Shipping charges will be refunded via PayPal after payment is received. Please stop by and take a look around! Check out some of my new items that are sure to add to your Spring wardrobe:

Enjoy! Please visit my Esty Shop anytime!

Technorati Tags: etsy,handmade,jewelry,spring wardrobe,accessorize,sterling silver,give-a-way,free shipping

Snow, snow, snow….

2010-02-06T12:38:00.001-05:00

I never know if the weather man’s forecast will come true or not. More times than not he’s way off the mark! Well this time he was dead on…forecast: 6-12 inches! We got 10 inches with winds whipping around 25-30 miles per hour. Needless to say the snow always drifts onto my driveway. I think I had about 18 inches that had drifted my way…making clean-up harder. Take a look, it’s so pretty outside and the snow is light as a feather.

Testing Out Windows Live Writer

2010-02-01T23:50:00.001-05:00

Oops…my computer had some issues! I zapped the AC jack on my laptop and my desktop just didn’t want to cooperate at all. It has been making my life difficult to say the least…but alas I am up and running again!! Spanky new laptop and a desktop running in brand new condition, needless to say I am one happy camper. Lost a few days on the internet…so I just wanted to let you all know that I am BACK!!

Where I Do My Designing....

2010-01-20T20:25:00.005-05:00

Are you ever curious as to what other artisans/ designers work areas look like? I am! I wonder are they neat, tidy & organized or messy & disorganized....or maybe they are little bit of both! I think I fall under the last one, neat and tidy...but then watch out disorganization will come quickly. I don't have a studio per se, I only live in a three bedroom house. That leaves a room for me to sleep in, a spare bedroom (for those out-of-town guests...mainly my niece and nephew!) and the other room doubles as my office and studio. Although, I'd like a bigger space, it works for me. This way I design my jewelry and play online at the same time. Ok sometimes I play online more than I design jewelry.

Here take a look (psst...it's looking pretty neat & tidy right now):

Now look what happens when my creative mind opens up....woosh! I think an explosion may have occured...LOL!!

Well I hope you all enjoyed checking out my little designer space. Have a great weekend, we're half-way there!

Awesome Give-a-way by Twillypop!

2010-01-18T21:52:00.001-05:00

Check out this awesome give-a-way by Twillypop....such pretty items in her Etsy Shop. Why not take a look around...take your time....browse a bit and when you've decided please enter her give-a-way!
Contest ends on January 24th at 6 p.m.....so go run along...you know you want to enter! :-)

Here's one of my favorites!

Sweetheart & Tweethearts Etsy Treasury

2010-01-16T20:33:00.005-05:00

I'm so excited, I was lucky enough to snag a Treasury today on Etsy. I've included some wonderful people I've met throughout my Etsy and Twitter journey! I have so many more that I wanted to include, but you only get so many spaces...so I'll catch the rest of you on the next treasury! Below the photo, I've listed the shops so you can check them out! Wonderful artisans and people! ENJOY!

Shop listings are left to right starting with the top row:

My Attics Treasures

Dean Custom Designs

Jennifer Dickerson Photography

CinLynn Boutique

Demure Artistic Design

Val Vanias Art

GreenStar Jewellry

Wuglyees

Jennifer Lynn Studio

TJB Designs

Glass River Jewelry

Everyday Diamonds

SqueakyBug Specialties

Dutch Felt Art

Classic Keepsakes

88 Links

Favorite Fellow Etsians & Tweethearts...Dean Custom Designs

2010-01-08T22:17:00.009-05:00

Today I'm featuring another favorite fellow Etsian and Twitter friend~~ Dean Custom Designs ! So I bet you want to know what she designs, huh? Well, she designs "Purskeys"....what's a purskey you say? As quoted from her webshop: "- A Purse Charm, Keychain, or Zipper pull!!-" So, you see a purskey has many uses, she'll even customize them for you, change out the the attachment at no extra cost to a lobster claw clasp, keyring or a lanyard. It gets even better, she also makes very pretty earrings and bracelets....want your purskey to match? No problem, custom orders are always welcome! Go ahead, you know you want to visit her shop, you never know...you might find that your purse could use a little bling! ENJOY!! Here are some of my favorites from her Etsy Shop:

Perfect for Valentine's Day!

A little bit of bling and a whole lotta luv!

Great for all occasions, comes with matching bracelet!

Reminds me of a calm day at the beach!

Matching earrings in her shop!

Sold & Relisted!

2010-01-07T23:53:00.001-05:00

Relisted with new photos...pretty little things for your special Valentine! Visit my Etsy Shop!

Favorite Fellow Etsians & Tweethearts...Demure Artistic Designs

2010-01-06T21:01:00.010-05:00

I've decided to share with all of you some of my favorite fellow Etsians & Twitter friends. Today's feature is Demure Artistic Designs. Amazingly creative in a variety of venues: sewing (cozy warm fleece hats & scarves), adorable bags you can take anywhere, treasure pouches to hold all of your pretties, awesome chainmaille bracelets, pretty pretty earrings and necklace and my favorite...her message in a bottle! She is passionate about her designs and each every piece is created to invoke a "feeling~expression~reaction" in the buyer. <--I stole that line from her webshop profile! :-) You can visit her second Etsy shop Mystic Messages for personalized "message in the bottle" items. Here are some of her fantastic creations! Why not take a look around her shop, you're sure to find something you will like. Here are some of my favorites from her shops! ENJOY!

2010-01-01T11:55:00.000-05:00

In honor of the New Year I'm having a sale! 15% off all items in my Etsy Shop until Midnight January 3rd! Stop on over and take a look around. Lots of nice items for your Valentine Sweetheart! Wishing everyone a Happy New Year...may you all have good health, happiness, peace and many moments of pure joy!

DreamBelle Designs on Etsy!

Treasury Feature

2009-12-30T19:45:00.001-05:00

A big shout out and thank you to Val Vanias Art for featuring my earrings in her very pretty treasury! Please check out her Etsy Shop, she does some amazing one-of-kind artwork and jewelry.

Earring Give-a-way Winner

2009-12-24T10:46:00.005-05:00

Chosen by random.org and the winner of my earring give-a-way is Twillypop (Sara). She also has an Etsy shop that can be viewed here: Twillypop and her awesome blog can be read here: Twillypop Blog. Thank you to all the others that entered! May you all have a wonderful holiday and a joyous New Year!

These are the earrings I gave away! Made just for Twillypop!! Gold wash pink Czech glass super faceted beads paired with handmade rosy copper bead pins and hand forged sterling silver ear wires!

Earring Give-A-Way...

2009-12-08T21:49:00.005-05:00

I'm feeling a bit generous this holiday season. Not sure why, because I'm anxious for the year to end...it hasn't been the best of years for my family or myself....way toooo many sad moments...with family and friends lost and gone forever. But...I am still grateful that I have a good life and better than some, so I take these moments, cherish them and make my best attempt to move on. I know there are many good things to come in the future...I live each day as though it were my last, I tell those in my life how much I love them as many times as I can...for I know that in the flash of an instant they can be taken away from you. You cannot tell someone how you feel about them after they are gone....so please take the time now to tell those that you love and care for--what your feeling are...your heart will be uplifted and it will not matter the outcome, because you put it out there...you will have a huge smile on your face! SOoooooo....on that note, my give-a-way is dedicated to my sister-in-law~~Kelly~~she was taken from my family suddenly and tragically on October 4, 2009. She was only 37 and left behind a 4 year old and 7 year old. She was a great Mom & wife and was the kindest, most giving person that I know...will never be forgotten and always cherished.

Ok...enough mushy stuff, now on to the rules...

I want to put a smile on your face! I love making people happy!
Sign-up and follow my blog (you must follow in order to be entered)
Enter a comment on what you cherish, treasure or are most proud of in life? Or something that has happened to change your life for the better.
Pretty simple rule...huh?
Winner will be chosen by http://www.random.org/ on 12/23/09
I will read your comments and comment back but I have no control over who wins....but I do wish you all the best of luck!
thank you for participating!

Ahh...I feel better now...one lucky winner will receive a pair of earrings of my choice! Wishing you all a Happy Holiday! Be safe and enjoy the New Year!

Treasury Feature

2009-12-01T20:36:00.007-05:00

A big thanks to That 70's Shoppe for featuring my necklace in her treasury: In The Red! Beautiful items!

Black Friday - Cyber Monday FREE SHIPPING

2009-11-27T03:04:00.001-05:00

I'm offering FREE SHIPPING on all orders placed on Black Friday through Cyber Monday. Offer good until 11:59 on 11/30.......in my Etsy Shop! Get your shopping done early! Tempting preview...ENJOY! Happy shopping, hope you all get the best deals in town.

TIP--Handmade Tools

2009-11-17T18:24:00.000-05:00

I posted before about the cost of tools for jewelry making , so I made some of my own. Like I said in my last post, I still like to find household objects that will work for me. I had in my mind that I wanted something very sturdy and solid to make earring hoops and large soldered rings. I searched around and came up with nothing, well not really....there was always the broom stick. But I couldn't find a variety of sizes. So off to Home Depot I went. I purchased four larger dowel rods in the following sizes: 7/8 inch, 1 inch, 1.25 inches, 1.5 inches, all in hard oak. Cost about $12!! I came home and sawed off a 9 inch piece...drilled a large hole to accomodate up to 10 gauge wire for use with wire wrapping for rings. Here's what the dowels look like:

So far they are working out great, I just put them in my bench vice and start wrapping and hammering! Here's a sneak peak at what I made, to be listed in my Etsy Shop soon!

Not bad for not using conventional tools~hope you enjoyed this post and it will be useful to you or someone you know! Have a great day!

Funny video I found on you tube

2009-11-16T13:25:00.003-05:00

I was just browsing YouTube and came across this funny video...thought I'd share it with you all! What Cats Really Think of Us When We Are Talking To Them! LOL...I'm guilty of talking to my three cats this way...and I'm sure they think I'm nuts. Enjoy!

Marvelous Monday...well only because I had the day off!!

2009-11-10T00:30:00.002-05:00

I was blessed to have today off...the weather was unseasonably warm for November! Temps in the high 60's, sunny and not a cloud in the sky...just perfect. I spent the majority of my day indoors, taking photos. I get my best shots when the sun is shining and the natural light filters in through the windows. So, although I would have rather traversed the land today, I am so happy that I got all my jewelry photos taken. Now the long process of uploading and listing. Will save a few for each day! I'd love to have at least 100 items in my shop before the holiday season arrives. Here's two fresh listings for you all to enjoy! Hoping to post my "featured facebook fan #4" in the next few days...all depends on how the day goes!

Pia: Deep purple quartz is snuggled next to a gorgeous iridescent coppery purple rondelle, the focal pendant hangs from an antiqued flower chain!

Simplistic: Vintage acrylic grey nugget bead, perfect for everyday wear, goes with everything...very simple!

Featured Facebook Fans...#3 Sister Jewelry

2009-11-07T22:21:00.003-05:00

Whoa...I am so far behind this week, I feel like I'm paddling backwards and I'm never going to catch up! I wanted to post this earlier this week, but totally ran out of time. I haven't made any new designs this week because I've been so busy at my full-time job that I've been exhausted after coming home, and have had little time for anything else. I had a "girls" day with my adorable 7 year old niece today...(who's now sleeping soundly...ahhh!) and I now have a moment to relax and get up-to-date with my blog.

So as promised here is my featured facebook fan #3--SisterJewelry. You can find her designs on Artfire! She is Member & Sponsor of SRAJD (Self-Representing Artist Jewelry Designer). Her passion is watches, necklaces and bracelets. I've chosen a few items that I like to show off for this unique jewelry designer.

Black Onyx with two-toned watch face! Perfect for all your wardrobe needs, very versatile.

Pink & Black lampwork beads with swarovski crystals

Please visit SisterJewelry on Artfire! That's all for this post, ENJOY! May the rest of your weekend be joyful and happy!

Weekend Designs

2009-11-03T18:56:00.002-05:00

Weekend designs....updating my shop, getting ready for the upcoming holiday season! More designs to come...stay tuned! Tomorrow I plan to post my next Featured Facebook fan #3.

Fantastic Friday...or so it should be! I'm still laughing over this one....

2009-10-30T23:05:00.001-04:00

TGIF...I'm going to say it again TGIF!!! It's been a long week at work, busy, stressful and just down right long... The week started out pretty good and then progessed to umm let's say undesirable. By hump day (known as Wednesday for those of you who don't know that "hump day" is not derogratory....it means the middle of the week, i.e. the hump ....he he!) I had had it. I walked out of work, got in my car, turned the key...and lo and behold..."click, click, click"...nothing. Effing car wouldn't start, not something I wanted to deal with after a long day, all I wanted to do was go to the gym, get a good workout, come home, shower, eat something and r-e-l-a-x!

Well it wasn't to be...called AAA, the tow-truck dude was rude and mean to me! Hmmpff...why?? he jumped my car, it started and he said "does your car always die when you let off the gas"...Umm, NO!!! Him: "well you might as well drive it home." I told him I don't think so, take it to the dealer. His response, "not without an address." Yikes, dude can't I just give you directions??? him: "I have GPS, need an address"....umm, ok $#&*(%!!! I quickly learned how to use VZ navigator, provided the address and he was off.

My dear friend took me to get a rental car, and as luck would have it...."NO" rental cars available. By this time I'm ready to cry--so not like me, but I was tired and stressed. So my friend says to the Enterprise dude (ED) "what about that truck that lady just droppped off?" Enterprise dude "oh sure, I can give her that" Friend: "And you'll give it to her for the price of car, since you don't have one?" ED: "sure..$50.99/ day" Me: eyes popping out of my head, I've never driven a pick-up truck. ED dude says I'll be fine handling it since I drive a Grand Cherokee.....yeah o.k. buddy! So out we go to the truck, in the mean-time tow truck man, turns the corner with my car..."umm why are you turning here?" Oh I see why, you are towing another car behind you...my friend says "do you think your car will make it to the dealer or will it be sold for parts?"....LOL, I don't even care at this point, crankiness is deep within me!

So I get in the truck...now let me tell you this is a BIG A$$ TRUCK....Chevy Silverado, double cab 4 door, 4 x 4....he he!! and I can't get the thing to move. So I saunter back into the rental joint, and meekly ask "can you back this truck out for me, please....I can't seem to get the emergency brake off" <--pathetic female. Well the Enterprise dude, has trouble too...I no longer feel like an ass. Finally I get this big a$$ truck moving...and I finally have realized why men like to drive pick-up trucks...people get out of your way and you get what is know as "truck balls"...he he! I couldn't stop laughing at the thought of me driving this pick-up truck all nite and it continued into the next day...I'm posting a pic here for all of you to enjoy!

Thankfully I only drove 40 miles in that truck, for a tune of $83 dollars, yee gads!! expensive rental!!...and am happily driving my own Grand Cherokee once again that cost very little to repair in comparison. Somebody is definitely on my side...but I'm still chuckling over the pick-up truck...he he!

Featured Facebook Fans...#2 BoutiqueJulie

2009-10-28T20:50:00.006-04:00

Today's post is for my featured facebook fan #2 BoutiqueJulie. This unique Etsy seller believes that sending a card says you care, but sending a unique handmade card says you care more. Her cards are made of high quality materials and most of all with love....all in a non-smoking environment. Her creations are one-of-kind and aren't re-created, so if you see something you like, you should snag it up while you can. She creates cards for all occasions: thank you, thinking of you, holidays, birthdays, frames and so much more. Her prices are very reasonable, in fact better than your local Hallmark store...and remember one of kind and created with love. I recommend visiting her shop frequently as she is always updating with new designs. I've chosen three of my favorite designs that I want to share with all of you.

Autumn The Season of Friendship: Perfect for the fall season, the wonderful colors of fall are Yellow, Orange, Rust, Mustard, Coral, Green and Browns (per her webshop!). A wonderful depiction of this fall season. I have a particular fondness for fall, basically because of the colors. Think that's why I really like this card. In this collection you get two cards, I think it's a great steal deal!

Merci (Thank you): What better way to say thank you than with this cute card. I'm partial to brown kraft paper, I think it sends the message of being green and natural--something I strive to do! Hearts, flowers and a little bee comprise this adorable thank you card. It's also the perfect size 4.25 x 4.25 inches, just enough room to write your special message.

Thanksgiving Turkey Thank You: Now that Halloween is coming to pass, what's up next (oh by the way she still has Halloween cards available, why not stock up for next year?) .......Thanksgiving!! This oh so cute thank you card is the perfect little note to give to your hostess for a fantastic Turkey Day dinner. If I had someone to buy this for, I definitely would...but unfortunately (or fortunately for my family) I do T-day dinner! Check out the description in BoutiqueJulie's shop for this card...she makes it sound edible...YUM!

Well, that's all for this post, please visit BoutiqueJulie for many more amazing cards and frames. I wish her the best with her shop, may she be successful and make others happy with her unique designs!

Latest Creations

2009-10-27T20:47:00.006-04:00

I so wanted to write about another of my new Facebook fans, but just don't have the mindset tonight. I plan on doing it tomorrow night! Instead I thought I would post something simple...like the home made light box I created! I had read several articles online on how to create your own and then got some great tips from GlassRiverJewel on Twitter!

I went to Walmart and purchased the following:

1. White Flat Sheet (twin)--$4.00

2. 16 x 16 inch box--$2.98

3. Poster Board--$0.98

4. 2 goose neck lamps--$7.44 (couldn't use these because I didn't have the correct size bulb...ugh) But I had previously purchased clip-on lights from Home Depot for $5.98 a piece and used them and it seemed to work out well. I have 75 watt bulbs in them.

Directions:

I cut off one set of the closure flaps and then assembled the box and sealed with packing tape. I then took a yard stick and traced a two inch boarder around three sides, and cut them out with a box cutter. Next, cut the bed sheet to 14.5 x 14.5 inches, ironed to get the wrinkles out and then taped them to each open area. Cut the poster board to just shy of 16 inches wide, taped to the back of the box (at the top) and let it curve toward the front. The poster board helps to deflect the light, and you can still used your own platforms. Turn the lights on and start snapping away.

Here's a picture of the box:

Here is the picture I took on the first try...not bad, huh?

Featured Facebook Fans...#1 Tiny Treasures

2009-10-26T20:37:00.017-04:00

I've made a promise to my most recent Facebook fans that I would feature their shops on my blog. So that's what I am going to doing over the next few days, or however long it takes me!

I'm so happy to feature these fans and believe it's got multiple benefits:

1. Supporting and promoting other artisan shops...as I truly want us all to succeed....AND I really love checking out other's creative styles and abilities. There are so many amazing artisans that at times it's overwhelming.
2. I'm connecting with some really neat people and I love getting to know new people!
3. Hey...I'll admit it, I want more facebook fans!...can't blame me, huh?

Well now on to the good stuff. My first featured artist is Tiny Treasures, she has been part of the Etsy world since December 2008. She takes vintage jewelry and upcycles it, making new and unique jewelry, creating new memories...that simply put are like Tiny Treasures.

If you are new to the world of being "green" and aren't aware of what upcycling is, I've provided a link to wikipedia for a more in depth explanation. But basically it's taking the old and making something new-- how's that for an elementary explanation?? he he... I personally think the idea of upcycling is great, and probably should look into my own jewelry box and see what Tiny Treasures I could put to good use or pass on...

I've picked out three tiny treasures that I really like...all are available in her shop and very reasonably priced! Please visit her shop and show your support: Tiny Treasures on Etsy!

GOLD NEST: The picture says it all, no explanation needed. I love gold and silver combined together has a very classy look!

BLACK FLOWER & PEARLS: nothing says classy and elegant more so than black paired with pearls!! Every girls needs a set of pearls....

WISH: adorable and cute, perfect for everyday or as a gift for that crazy teenager in your life! The best part, she can make this necklace in other words: dream, love, live, faith, hope, angel, and luck...something for everyone!

Well that's all for this featured FB Fan and fellow Etsian...I do wish her the best and may her shop be prosperous and make others happy!

Newly Listed..

2009-10-25T20:01:00.015-04:00

It's been a very busy weekend, cleaning house, yardwork, designing new creations and of course...updating my Etsy Shop! I'm trying to get ready for the upcoming holiday and get as many new items posted as possible. Working full-time and with everything else going on in my life, this process has been slow. I still struggle with the photography aspect. Seems I only get good photos with natural lighting. For every ten photos I take, I might get two good ones...whoa is me! I'll keep trying even though it's giving me a pain in the neck and back (literally). On that note I thought I'd share with some of the new items I've listed!

Newest Creations Now Listed In My Etsy Shop

2009-10-19T20:45:00.008-04:00

Here's are my latest creations now listed in my Etsy Shop. I now have 43 listings and am trying to work my way up to 100! I'd like to reach my goal by mid-november. Looking for Facebook fans, click here to become a fan: DreamBelle Designs on Facebook.

There is no denying it...

2009-10-13T21:53:00.001-04:00

Fall is definitely here...baby it's getting cold outside, the weatherman has forecasted the temps to be in the high 40's here in the East over the next few days....Brrrr! Cloudy, rainy and dreary. The dampness will only make the temp feel even colder. When the weather turns like that I like to surround myself in warmth and comfort. I think of hot chocolate, english tea, fleece, scarves, mittens, blankets, a roaring fire, and a good book...and of course my cats snuggled up next to me. I've found some great comfort items on Etsy...

Great looking beret in my favorite color green from Pixiebell. I think that Berets look great on everyone, whether you have short or long hair! I happen to have long curly hair and tend not to blow dry my hair, so I tuck my hair up into a cute Beret and off I go...keeps my curls tight and frizz free. You can find this adorable beret at Pixiebell's Etsy Shop!

Sometimes a full glove or mitten is just too much! Fingerless mittens/ gloves are so in style for this fall, very versatile and can be worn with just about everything. I chose this pair of "Chunky Wrist Warmers" (that's what she calls them, luv it!) from Morava because of the neutral color. She offers her fingerless gloves in many colors and styles at a reasonable price! Check out this pair of Chunky wrist warmers.

What better way to celebrate fall than with a hot cup of pumpkin spice hot cocoa! The tetoncocoacompany offers a great variety of hot cocoas in flavors that are all tempting to the pallet. Imagine having a cup and curling up near the fire under a warm blanket with a good book...just pure bliss!

The finishing touch to my great Etsy finds for a cold, damp fall day is a cozy warm blanket. Perfect fall colors in this hand knit blanket created by gem43. Described as being soft, silky and warm...but not so much that you will get overheated. Sounds like a couch potato/ book readers dream blanket. It's a generous size at 76 x 84 inches, I think that's big enough to fit on a full size bed?? and definitely great for snuggling under with that special someone!

Well that's all for my comfort finds, have a great evening...keep warm!

Fresh Listings in my Etsy Shop

2009-10-11T20:44:00.006-04:00

I've had a horrible week, full of sadness. Tragedy has once again hit my family, my sister-in-law passed away last sunday...unexpectedly, suddenly and tragically...she was only 37 and left behind a 4 year old and a 7 year old. Although my heart is breaking, my family and myself are on the road to healing. My way of coping is to absorb myself in my jewelry making. Here are some of the items I was able to make today, my attempt at bringing a little bit of sunshine into my life! A big thank you to all those that have loved, supported, prayed and have been there for me throughout this tragic ordeal...I am so blessed.

Antiqued Brass with goldstone and deep burgundy red ceramic beads, choker style necklace.

Deep blue sea earrings, I think you might even be able to see some fish swimming around in there...he he!

A little champagne would be wonderful tonight, unfortunately I have to work tomorrow, so these sweet babies will have to do! Champagne 'n Ice!!

Saturday Inspiration...Simply Charming!

2009-10-03T10:09:00.001-04:00

It's a lazy day here, gloomy outside...just waiting for the rain to come. Occasionally the sun peaks out, giving hope for a beautiful day. But why wait for it...I've created my own sunshine with this simply charming necklace. A little bit rustic, kind of sparkly and perfect for many outfits and occasions! Newly listed in my Etsy Shop.

Simply Charming Necklace

Fantastic Finds on Etsy

2009-09-30T21:31:00.017-04:00

There are so many creative individuals on Etsy....it's overwhelming and amazing! Here's a seller: "Bags by Collette" that I think has some really awesome bags...functional, attractive and can hold just about everything. She doesn't just have bags though....she has wristlets, zip bags and jewelry bags. They are all adorably cute and highly functionaly. The fabric patterns are to die for, it makes you want to buy one of each....Check them out:

One of my favorites...love the brown and aqua (maybe it's teal)...my favorite combination!

Shades of teal, green, brown, off white...jewelry bag...how cute is that??? Love it!!

OK I admit I picked these based on color...flashes of orange/ deep umber, lime green, teal, cream, and black....great looking wristlet!

Does this one need any explanation? Perfect for your ID, credit cards, extra cash or some loose change...all of her items are just waiting to be picked up...check it out!!

New Listings....

2009-09-30T21:26:00.007-04:00

Dainty but simple...the marbled green prehnite compliments the coppery brown wire strip...great for everyday wear!

Creamy green grossular garnet hangs from oxidized handmade brass rings....surrounding a lemon yellow premium Czech glass rondelle...like a cold margarita in the summer time...yummy!

New Items in My Etsy Shop!

2009-09-26T12:19:00.007-04:00

Two new items have been added to my Etsy Shop!

Great for everyday wear, goes with everything...love the sparkle of the golden green pyrite onion briolette. Like a mirror you can see reflections in it.

Beautiful reddish brown carnelian is paired with warm antiqued copper brown ear wires. Anywho, I still have more to add, so keep checking back... Have a great Saturday!

Tip--Homemade Jewelry Tools

2009-09-21T17:13:00.003-04:00

I’m constantly searching for new jewelry tools. Tools to form the wire, hammer it, texturize it, etc… The cost of these tools can really add up after time. I’ve been using household items: wooden spoons, pill bottles, knitting needles, and anything else I can find to give me the shape and size that I want. I own mandrels: round, oval, square; bezels: oval and square, jump ring formers, etc…..but sometimes these items don’t give me what I'm looking for, I seem to always turn to my wooden spoons and knitting needles. It’s difficult to form consistently evenly formed rings around them though, due to not be able to pull the wire tight. Which then lends itself to much fiddling to get them even in the end. Really, who’s got that kind of time? Not me…so I was thinking that I needed a couple of different size dowel rods and I would be set. I picked up a tube of six different size dowel rods (50 dowels total) from Michael’s for $9.99, got a good deal because I had a 40% off coupon. Today, I cut them in half and then drilled holes in them. The smallest dowel is missing, too tiny to drill, but that’s fine I have a jump ring tool the same size!

Just insert the wire into the hole and start winding it around. The hole provides the support to really pull the wire tight and get consistently even rings. There you have it, your own homemade ring mandrels for less than two dollars.

Treasury Listing

2009-09-20T12:04:00.010-04:00

I love the Etsy Treasury List, a lot of thought and creativity goes into making them. I love looking through them and checking out all of the creative people on Etsy. It's amazing to me what people can create. I've had the opportunity to make a Treasury List and loved how it made the seller's day. It's a big deal if you ask me to get in a Treasury. I'm so honored to be in this treasury and I thank Tracey at TCapone Photography for picking my necklace. She has been so kind featuring my items, I cannot thank her enough. Here's the treasury, my necklace is in the top row:

Today is a great day...Big Kudos to Tracey for making it into a Treasury as well! Here's the treasury with a link to her photograph. Her amazing photo is the first one in the second row...check out her photography in her Etsy Shop. She has a great blog that you can find here!

Creation of the Day

2009-09-19T11:08:00.005-04:00

I've been working hard on my Etsy shop, my pictures are improving and I still have so many items to get on there. It's like a full-time job! Here's a favorite necklace of mine...great everyday necklace, goes with everything!

Exciting News...

2009-09-18T19:24:00.005-04:00

Like I said in my previous post, I've met the nicest people on Etsy. This morning I woke up, checked my email and got great news. Tracey Capone Photography is featuring my necklace on her blog as one of her favorite things. I'm so flattered and honored that she picked my necklace to feature. Kudos to Tracey! I had my necklace on the Etsy Jewelry Showcase today and I think as a result of Tracey's posting I sold it! Yah for me! What makes her featuring my necklace on her blog even better is that her family is from the same area where I live...what a small world we live in! Please check out her photography, it's absolutely amazing and beautiful. So I'm partial to flowers, but I think this picture is sooooo beautiful....

Great Finds on Etsy...

2009-09-18T19:11:00.007-04:00

I have met some of the nicest people on Etsy. I truly believe they want all of the sellers on there to succeed, I don't feel a sense of competition. I wanted to share with you my latest favorite. I picked ginaminda's fingerless glove for my Treasury on Etsy. After further exploration of her products decided to buy a pair. Unfortunately my skin reacts very poorly to wool. After conversing with her, she was kind enough to offer to custom make a pair out of Bamboo Silk Yarn. Check out her shop, her items are beautiful and well photographed. Aren't they adorable? Can't wait to receive them...I know they will be wonderful!

Treasury List on Etsy

2009-09-12T16:38:00.003-04:00

I've been trying for weeks to get a Treasury list on Etsy. I haven't been successful, but today I wasn't even trying to get into the treasury and wouldn't ya know....I stumbled in! I randomly pick green items, specifically looking for bright greens. Here's a picture of it! I'm so excited and hope those that I featured are as well.

Lacey Antiqued Brass and Glass . Necklace

2009-09-09T21:09:00.007-04:00

I'm trying to be proactive in promoting my web shop. I've joined Twitter, I'd love it if you followed me: http://twitter.com/dreambelledsgns. In between I've managed to create a new necklace, with the fall coming up, I think of turtle necks. Wouldn't this necklace look awesome with a black t-neck sweater?? Hues of blue, green and gold...combined with antiqued brass chain. Love it...

Design of the Day . Deep Sea Blue Necklace

2009-09-05T18:37:00.005-04:00

It's so beautiful outside, temperature is just right in the low 80's, no humidity---which is awesome for my wildly curly hair! I've been working out in the yard, cleaning up the flower beds and just enjoying the last weeks of summer. I had made this necklace last night and decided to call it Deep Sea Blue...it really reminds me of the deep sea. I combined both brass and copper for a cool effect. I'm really enjoying combining metals, I had been afraid to do so in the past. I will be showcasing my necklaces on Etsy next friday...I'm so excited!! Have a great week, let's hope the wonderful weather stays.

Design of the Day...Inspiration

2009-09-03T22:29:00.005-04:00

Had some extra time tonight so I made these! Strong but sweet...not to mention sexy! They say that hematite is the healing and grounding stone. It strengthens the body and helps with resistance to life's stresses. The stone inspire inner life and helps to keep inward peace...hence the name Inspiration. Wishing everyone a great weekend and a safe & happy holiday!

Rainy Day!

2009-08-28T11:10:00.007-04:00

It's a rainy day here in the East! The temperature is in the mid-60's, damp, humid and very wet. I love rainy days, it gives me an excuse to either: do nothing, read a good book, clean the house, go shopping, or my favorite...create some awesome jewelry. So far today I've managed to do nothing, start cleaning the house and created a new pair of earrings for my Etsy Shop. I'd like to accomplish a few things today: learn to write a better blog, update my shop and clean the house. I'm hoping I'll at least get one of them done, and not become too lazy about the others. Here's my design of the day:

Design of the Day -- Angelite Dream Earrings

2009-08-17T17:03:00.004-04:00

It's a hot summer day here, we are experiencing our first heat wave of the summer. The temperature is in the high 90's with relatively low humidity (thankfully!). So I've spent the better part of my day indoors, enjoying the sunshine behind closed doors. The sky is a beautiful baby blue which was the inspiration for today's earring design.

Earlier today I went out and purchased a "real" tripod in an effort to improve my photographs. Here are the pictures of my new creation, taken on my new tripod. Not bad for a first try, huh?

Summer Rain Earrings, Antiqued

2009-08-16T02:08:00.004-04:00

I love summer time and occasionally enjoy a warm rain shower. These earrings remind of the sky on a warm rainy summer day. A 10 mm soocho jade bead is topped with a flower bead cap, the whole earring was oxidized to enhance an antiqued look!

My Esty Shop is Open for Business!

2009-08-16T01:50:00.000-04:00

I work a full-time job and have no extra time in the day to get a second one. I have been racking my brain for months, trying to figure out a way to make extra money. Then it hit me...I'm talented, creative and have a knack for making things. I bought a book on jewelry making and I was hooked. I made my first pair of earrings and from that moment, I couldn't make enough. I find the art of creating handmade earrings inspiring. I have a fondness for sterling silver, brass and copper. I like to combine them with natural gemstones, glass beads and man-made simulated stones. After working on this project for 3 weeks, I finally got up the courage to post my items online. Well let me tell you, this in of itself is a lot of work. First off I am not a photographer. I've managed to rig up a pretty decent tripod and have figured out the lighting needed to take semi-decent pictures. On that note, that is my next adventure...how to photograph small items. Hey if your in the neighborhood, check out my new Etsy.com shop. Here's the address: www.dreambelledesign.etsy.com

Thanks for visiting. Until next time...never let your dreams die!

DreamBelle Designs

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Newly Listed..

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Exciting News...

Great Finds on Etsy...

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Design of the Day...Inspiration

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