Brown Dog Studio

Open House this Week...Winner...New Give-away

2012-01-23T13:32:00.003-06:00

Wowee! So much to share this week!

First, very importantly, the studio Open House...
Friday Jan 27 (10-3 and 5-8) and Saturday Jan 28 (11-4)

I have SO many great new pretties available for shopping...I looked at what I had, told myself I had enough...and MADE MORE (and I'm not done, oh no I'm not)! glitter, bronze, dotties, wrapped glass, valentines...
Plus, I will have a table of studio-clean-up...I worked at clearing out excess studio stuff over my vacation, and have an assortment of vintage/antique items I was using for displays, scrapbooking items, PAPER, stamps, stickers galore and more crafty good stuff!

I am scheduling Private Trunk Shows for Wed 25th and Thurs 26th, by appointment only...contact me at lo4sr@juno.com if you would like to come with some friends :)

Next...this week's give-away...One lucky-ducky random winner will have her choice of one of my dottie patina charms...I have shamrocks, hearts, crosses, stars, peace signs...choose one. Leave a comment on this post, or pop over to the studio Facebook Page and leave a comment. I will choose a random winner after the give-away closes at 4pm on Friday.

Last week's give-away winner...Maeg. She won the sweet little bronze heart charm. I'll pop that into the mail as soon as she contacts me :)

first give-away for 2012...bronze heart

2012-01-16T15:37:00.003-06:00

Let the ParTy begin...in the studio!
I'll have lots of new jewelry coming up to show you for the studio Open House (Jan 27-28),

and bronze bits are some of the highlights...

I'm going back to weekly give-aways in the studio.

Up for grabs this week is this sweet little bronze heart. It measures about 12x15 mm, and looks absolutely precious by itself, or mixed among other charms of all sorts of mixed metals! I'm showing it with one of my new bronze chains, but you're trying for the charm, itself.

For your chance to be the lucky-ducky who wins the charm, you must comment here or on the studio Facebook page. You will get an additional entry if you share the Facebook post (and let me know about it :)

The winner (picked randomly) will be announced on Friday so she can contact me with where to mail her pretty little heart!

Remember that I have ready made necklaces and more being offered on the "available silver and glass" page of the studio blog (you can find the link HERE or among the listings of my blog header). Just e-mail me if you find something you want to purchase...details on that page.

...back to whistling in the studio :)

trying something new...

2012-01-13T13:58:00.002-06:00

Because I feel like a LucKy GiRl!

A new year seems to bring out the "gotta make some changes" in me.

I'm wanting to make the studio better for you, me (and my family)...

plus, it's just fun to try something new!

So...I'm looking for a way to offer some ready-made pretties when the studio isn't open. You can always place orders via e-mail. Just know that your order will take a few weeks, you can't rush ART! It will generally be ready in time for an upcoming show, or to go in the mail at the end of those 2 weeks. In order for me to spend quality-time with my tools and GET STUFF DONE (really!?), I don't check e-mails multiple times a day or schedule drop-in shopping. I'm going to continue making private shopping and trunk shows available by appointment on announced days leading up to Open Houses...You'll have to watch the blog or FB for those updates :)

On a first-claim basis...Photos of items (with price) ready for purchase will be added to the "Available glass and silver" page which is found right under my header (I'll also be listing them on studio FB page). I'll add details to the photos and IF any changes can be made to the item, if there are multiples of the item or if it is One-of-a-kind.

E-mail me to claim it. This is the key...you're welcome to comment on the photo or "Like" it on FB (in fact, I'd LOVE that!), but the E-mail is how I'll know to contact you. You'll be able to pay via mail or paypal (I'll have to send you an invoice).

I'm sure I'll have to tweak this along the way...but here it goes (bring out trumpets!)

"find your sparkle" glass charm, wrapped black patina (sterling) pale blue drop and dottie patina star on 30 inch gun metal ball chain...$45

One of a kind bracelet...red heart glass bead, sterling components, hand-cast silver "love" bead...$35

"lucky girl" long skinny glass charm, dottie patina shamrock, sterling wrapped green drop charm on 30 inch gun metal black chain...$45...the chain can be changed out to silver color or upgraded to sterling.

One of a kind leather cord bracelet, sterling components, forged sterling heart, copper tube bead, gorgeous glass heart bead...$30

bead ball bracelet with pink floral drop, bronze cupcake and one of my last confetti beads...$29

1 1/2 inch wide green leather FAITH cuff. Copper FAITH and closure which reads "blessed"...$35

medium brown "COURAGE" leather and sterling cuff, one inch wide. Closure is shown above...one of my limited supply of vintage glass crystal buttons...$35

Sterling charm keeper with sterling silver cross (faith), hope and heart (love), on 30 inch NON sterling chain...$49...chain can be upgraded to sterling at additional charge.

vintage clear glass crystals soldered into earring drops...hanging from sterling ear wires...$30

"tickled pink" long skinny dottie charm (with tiny cutie pink bead), dottie patina heart and wrapped black patina amethyst drop on 30 inch chain...$46...chain can be upgraded at additional charge.

sterling heart, tiny (1/2 inch) round dottie glass charm with vintage rhinestone, vintage key on 30 inch chain...$38

***note***I have one of these tiny rhinestone charms and wear it ALL the time...I LOVE it!

3/4 inch clear glass square charm with silver rhinestone "C" (I have other initials available or will make them if they are not in stock, and will sell them upon request at the same cost, $15 each), with HEAVY 18 inch bead ball with one medium clip (new item in studio!)...necklace $27

One inch dottie sequin flower box in aqua...$15

In the future, these will be on the page I indicated...You can e-mail me at lo4sr@juno.com to request any of these pretties or to order custom goodies...

Postage for any GLASS items will be in a priority box...$5.20

NON-glass items can be shipped in a bubble mailer...$3

Multiple items can be shipped together, I'll have to tell you when it gets too heavy for these rates.

I think I need a cuppa coffee, and then off to create :)

getting back into the studio...schedule

2012-01-09T19:36:00.007-06:00

...the kids are back in school

...I'm finishing up some much-needed "catch-up time" for some non-studio crafting...some knitting, woodwork, so much baking that I may not be able to look at another cookie for at least a month (um, probably won't last!), and board games with the kiddos

...I have a GROWING list of fun projects I want to work on in the studio...

It's time to get back to work before the list gets TOO long :)

And...get back to all of you who have made my time in the studio feel less like work and more like a gift. I'm HONORED to share your sweetest memories...the joy of newborn babies for mommy/grandma necklaces, celebrations of family and friendship, the always unique artwork of growing children, as well as memory pieces for those we love and miss. Thank you to all who have trusted me to make fun/silly/meaningful jewelry for you, or to be shared with those you love. YOU are why I open my studio, cart my pretties to shows, and share my darling daughter, Lucy. Here's to 2012 and all the fun we're going to have in the studio!

Fun combo necklaces
Pretty silver

wide-band custom rings...and MORE!

I plan to start the orders that have come in over the past few weeks.

I'm also working out a way to have jewelry available for order, even when the studio isn't open for day-to-day drop-ins.

AND...I'm announcing the first studio Open House for 2012!

Friday January 27th 10-3 and 5-8
Saturday January 28th 11-4

I will also be adding shows to the sidebar, as I receive dates.
I can't WaiT! (now to get my torch space cleaned off!)

getting ready for Stop and Shop!

2011-12-14T15:06:00.000-06:00

Today it's all about new leather cuffs...

I was down to a sad little half-dozen leather cuffs, and when I started working, it got a bit out of hand :)

I LOVE this green...my "believe" cuff is in green...

You have to see the closure on the "courage" cuff...vintage crystal button...I made some charms out of a few of them, too.

VERY wide Faith and Lucky Girl cuffs!

Come see me for the Studio Stop and Shop...these cuffs will be available, as well as the gorgeous mixed metals I posted yesterday.
Friday Dec 16 (10-3 and 5-8) and Saturday Dec 17 (10-5)...last pre-Christmas shopping and order pick-ups :)

more photos for Stop and Shop

2011-12-13T18:46:00.002-06:00

Today's photos showcase mixed metals. All of these will be available at the Stop and Shop, running Friday Dec 16 (10-3 and 5-8) and Saturday Dec 17 (10-5).
bronze angel heart with sterling "love" bead and limited edition confetti bead

vintage key, star dottie, copper heart and sunny yellow confetti bead

vintage key (LOVE the shape of this one!), eiffel tower silver AND one of my new sterling-wrapped "herkimer diamonds"...below shows it from another view...

I'll be posting more photos tomorrow...and may have a few surprises left for Friday and Saturday!

Getting Ready for Stop and Shop Friday and Saturday...

2011-12-12T16:39:00.003-06:00

This Friday and Saturday (Dec 16 and 17) will be the final days of the season for shopping in the studio.
I have everyone's orders ready for pick-up, as well as a studio brimming with fun ready-to-gift (or keep) pretties.
I played with some silver and glass over the past week, in addition to my orders...
a new WIDE silver band, as requested by Deb...a fun take on bird bands...this one's mine!

and a few pieces of junk-to-treasure...license plate initials...this is what I have...unless you bring me plates, I cannot take special requests for letters or colors of letters. My studio cannot hold any more collections ;P

Come see me Friday 10-3 and 5-8 and Saturday 10-5...let's hope for better weather this time around! More photos tomorrow!

Getting ready for Stop and Shop next week :)

2011-12-08T16:52:00.004-06:00

Wowee...I am AHEAD of schedule for getting all of my special orders ready for mailing and the Stop and Shop.

Which means...I get to make some NEW pretties just in time for those shopping days:
Fri Dec 16, 10-3, 5-9 AND Sat Dec 17, 10-4

I plan to start posting daily photos, beginning on Sunday!

Back to work...I need a latté!

Photos Day 4...Studio Open House continues Friday and Saturday

2011-12-01T07:15:00.001-06:00

More photos...
If you've missed what I've been sharing this week...

Day 1 Day2 Day3

Bottle o'treasure with a special topper!

a few views of fun necklace combos...including vintage key, dottie heart and vintage chandalier crystal

I filled in lots of area schools...if you come from Omaha to shop, just ask me to pull out the Omaha schools for you to see!

The Open House will continue tomorrow...

Friday Dec 2 (10-3 and 5-9) and Saturday Dec 3 (10-6)

I'll have extra help during all of my hours to make the shopping experience extra-delightful :)

e-mail me if you need studio address!

Day 3 of Open House sneak-peeks

2011-11-29T20:54:00.005-06:00

This week I've been adding photos and other tidbits about the Studio Open House, which begins TOMORROW, Wed Nov 30 (5-9) and continues Friday and Saturday.
If you missed the first 2 days, here they are:
Day 1 Day 2

Today I have a variety of what I've been working on in studio, leading up to this show...

I get to feed my creative self when I'm making my one-of-a-kind fairies...this one is inspired by a special friend...she knows who she is :) However, my family will probably give me this title (or I'll give it to myself!) on at least one night of the open house!

More of the gorgeous bronze I've been working with...it's the answer to this silver girl's version of gold...all antique-y and perfect to mix with other metals. TONS of anagram letters in several styles...all made from vintage pieces of games...I love to think about the families that enjoyed these letters in another era!

Finally, I decided to do something fun...my earring inventory and my sweet-and-low charms (beadies hanging from the bottom of charm) are on sale for this show. This doesn't include my brand new Christmas sweets or the new-vintage crystal earrings I made just for the show. I want to make new charms, and decided these would make super-duper gifties!

Finally #2...

I decided to make some fun give-aways...just for the Open House!

Rather than offer something to "first ? shoppers" (that defeats the purpose of my show, I think!), I'm randomly marking pages in my receipt book. If you get one of those receipts, you'll get a random gift from my basket. I hope to give ALL of them away, and if needed, I'll make more for the following days of the show!

It's all about the FUN, don't you think?

See you this week :)

..."must-haves" sneak-peeks day 2

2011-11-28T18:39:00.004-06:00

Click HERE to see photos from day #1 must-haves (as in "Sarah must be having fun in the studio!")
Playing with chandelier crystals...I'll have more to show off tomorrow, but I used this one to make a large charm/ornament with one of our Paris-pics. This would look GREAT on a black chain with some added bling!

I spent most of today getting the studio ready for the Open House, preview Wednesday evening from 5-9...

Tomorrow I'll let you know about some giftie-give-aways I thought up for the show!

Day One of Open House sneak-peeks...

2011-11-27T17:07:00.001-06:00

I promised photos of Open House "must-haves"...
These are all about BliNg and shiny...

Vintage-look rhinestone boxes...some with dotties

A set of rhinestone initial pendants...I made most letters. When these run out they'll have to be custom orders.

Teeny-tiny rhinestone rounds...with dotties. I claimed a blue glitter one for myself...Lucy's looking at a pink one.

Stay tuned tomorrow for the next "must-haves"
from the studio.
Remember, the Open House begins Wednesday evening
November 30, from 5-9

...Millard South on Saturday!

2011-11-25T18:59:00.002-06:00

Let's hope for no ice tomorrow...
because Lucy and I want to be in Omaha at the Millard South show! (Sat Nov 26, 9-4)

All sorts of wonderful pretties, our last trip to Omaha for the season...

And then, next week...THE Open House...

Starting Sunday, look for daily "must-haves," as in, "Sarah must have been having fun in the studio!"

Where is Sarah at Southwood?

2011-11-18T20:23:00.002-06:00

Well, I am EASY to find at Southwood Lutheran (4oth WAY South, past the SuperTarget), tomorrow Saturday November 19 from 9-4.

If you enter on the MAIN level, I am right at the entrance, to the left, literally at the front door! If you come in at the lower level, you have to go upstairs.

I will have all of my charms, and some silver, new bronze, and brand new patina dotties...clovers, peace signs, hearts, stars and some winter snowflakes and candycanes...FUN!

Last 2 shows before Open House...

2011-11-17T07:00:00.002-06:00

You can find me at Southwood Lutheran this Saturday, November 19 from 9-4...
There's always an air of suspense...where will I be set up?
because I just won't know until I go for my set-up time Friday evening...and this show has quite the spread!

BUT...just like last year, I'll hop back on my blog and the studio FB page Friday evening to give you the best directions to my spot :)
I'll have lovely new silver...
And more patina-ed dotties...just added...lucky clovers, hearts (and some WONDERFUL surprises!)

Next weekend I'm in Omaha at Millard South, for my last Omaha show of the season.
Then...Open House...Wed Nov 30 (5-9), Fri Dec 2 (10-3, 5-9), Sat Dec 3 (10-5)...last chance to order for Christmas.

I still have MANY time slots available for private trunk shows in the studio, on Nov 28 and 29. To come during those times, you must reserve it for you and your family/friends. 5-12 attendees, please :) I will be opening up availability to everyone else in an invite tomorrow.

At St. Mark's with NEW pretties...

2011-11-10T14:55:00.004-06:00

I will be at St. Mark's on Saturday (November 12) from 9-4, with most everything from the studio, and I've been BUSY!
Lucy will be at St. John's, with a limited, hand-selected inventory.
I have MANY special orders that I am bringing along with me. If you do not hear from me today (Thursday), and you are waiting on a special order, feel free to e-mail me at: Lo4sr@juno.com
I've been busily adding pretties to my collection of charms for the upcoming weeks. These are a few of MANY...some patina with dotties, especially for the season!

As we get closer to Christmas gift-giving, a reminder about orders...
Orders may be placed...
via craft shows (St. Mark's, Southwood, Millard South)
The studio Open House (Wed Nov 30...5-9, Fri Dec 2...10-3 and 5-9, and Sat Dec 3...10-5)
OR during SCHEDULED private trunk shows, Mon Nov 28 and Tues Nov 29 (there are still times available HERE).

All orders from these times will be ready for pick-up, along with additional shopping, during the studio Stop and Shop, Dec 16 and 17. I will not be able to accomodate any rush orders or drop-ins for shopping or pick-up, or I won't have time to get all of the pretties made...and that would not be good!
I'm planning a repeat of last year's studio shut down following the Stop and Shop...time for ME to get the Long-household in the Christmas spirit :)
Can't wait to see you!!!

Girl's Night Out...Thursday evening!

2011-11-02T18:49:00.002-05:00

I've had an event listed on my blog, on postcards, and I didn't give a lot of explanations, because it is my FIRST TIME doing this event and I didn't know all of the details...

Girl's Night Out takes place tomorrow evening, Thursday November 3 from 6-8:30
at the Latvian Hall at 32nd and Mohawk (curiously, this is just down the street from 2 of my past events at Nelly's Nest and The Goods!).

Here are some details...wine, hors d'oeuvres, and PRIZES!!!

Plus, a chance to come and shop with ME ;P
(but wine, food and prizes, just saying!)

After that, your next chance to shop/visit with me will be at the St. Mark's show, November 12th.

...at Faith Lutheran on Saturday...and info about Private Trunk Shows

2011-10-28T14:20:00.005-05:00

I will be at Faith Lutheran on Saturday, Oct 29 from 9-4. I have SO many lovelies, including more chalkboards, new little "erase" boards, remaining Halloween, and a smattering of Christmas.

...and LOTS and LOTS of orders ready for pick-up. Check your e-mails tonight if I had something I promised to get to you for this show :)

I will not have any shows NEXT weekend (Nov 5th)...a lovely family weekend is planned.

...but I will be appearing at the Girl's Night Out Boutique, Thursday November 3rd, from 6-8:30. The boutique will be held at the Latvian Church at 33rd and Mohawk, in Lincoln, and then I will be in 2 locations Saturday November 12th, with the help of the lovely Lucy and my sister, Emily.

***Very FUN studio news***
I just finalized dates and hours for the studio Open House, first weekend in December...
...AND the openings for Private Trunk Shows, leading up to the Open House.
I will fill those times via e-mail on a first come basis. You can find those hours and details by clicking HERE.

Heart give-away for Norris and The Goods shows this weekend

2011-10-21T17:08:00.002-05:00

I have cute little heart gift boxes to give away with purchases of $20 or more at my two shows this weekend (until the supply runs out)...
You just have to say you HEART my blog or Facebook ;P
Find me at Norris...Saturday Oct 22 from 9-4
The Goods...33rd and B Streets...Sunday Oct 23 from 1-4

You can read the previous post to hear more about Kaydra's shop, full of lovely vintage items and also see Janelle next door at Nelly's Nest after you come visit me...Kaydra is opening up especially to show off all that's new in the studio, and lots of her fall decorations (and more).

just DoTtiE...AND the THREE shows I'm doing this Week!

2011-10-19T16:54:00.005-05:00

...for Halloween!

...and tiny little halloween guys...I LOVE this spider! (but I don't like the real ones, oh-no!)

...and silver (and bronze) baby dots. These are NEW, NEW, NEW...and I love them!

I'm wearing mine on a 16 inch sterling ball chain, along with an ensemble of silver and glass on a 30 inch chain.

I sold my first set of these at my studio show, and made up a few more sets for my next shows...which include...
St. Robert's in Omaha...Thursday Oct 20, from 5-9...Loved this show last year, and this year I added a helper and an extra big space. Omaha gals, if you order at this show, your pretties will be ready to mail or at the Millard South show November 26.

Norris...Saturday October 22, from 9-4...this is a great show. I'm HOPING to do a bit of shopping at Norris...I have extra help :)

The Goods (33rd and B Streets, in the old bike shop, but MUCH cuter now!)...Sunday October 23, from 1-4. Owner Kaydra is opening up for ME, and so that you can shop her cute selection, too. Her shop is full of FUN, eclectic decor and furnishings. I've been known to snap up some vintage flashcards or a repurposed chalkboard. Janelle of Nelly's Nest plans to be open next door, for you primitive lovers.

I hope you'll come find me at some of my upcoming shows. With all of my out-and-about time, I'm not opening up the studio to shopping, until the December Open House and Private Trunk Shows.

New...from old!

2011-10-13T09:55:00.004-05:00

Once every few months I look at a growing pile of silver boo-boos...the "Jack" you ordered was "Jake," I mis-counted how many letters could fit on a line, I'm tired of that ring...

I start thinking about the possibilities of that little tin filling with unwanted names, quotes and dates...

This week, in the midst of EVerYThinG I needed to do to get ready for a whirlwind of FIVE shows in 2 weeks...I had a fun little idea. And a creative girl needs to play with fire every now and then ;P

It was a lovely day on my porch, and play with fire I did...the result is over a dozen of these new little crosses. They are all different. Some have very distinct segments, some stayed in the flame longer and got that special flame-y look (I'm keeping one of those!), and some received a little gem on the front. I haven't decided if I am going to stamp on any of them or what degree of patina they may receive.
I am bringing ONE to Cathedral today. I'm not sure if any will make it to the Southwest show this Saturday, October 15 (I hope so, but a girl does have to snuggle her family when she gets home from Cathedral the next few evenings!)

...but THESE will!

I have more of the LSW mom charms (and other schools) and ONE each of the dottie hearts for most of the schools.

LOTS of other new pretties will be with me, especially if you weren't able to make it to my open house October 1st.

Can't wait to show these off!

Thank you...thank you...thank you...what, NO PHOTOS?!

2011-10-03T16:19:00.004-05:00

Thank you to everyone who made it to my Fall Open House. It was a wonderful weekend, which is why I made the decision to have it OUTSIDE!!!
I got the best of everything...Lucy and I could enjoy the weather, and I got to visit with so many of you and meet some new wonderful people! (AND...I used a huge hunk of the never-ending roll of orange velvet from a long-ago upholstery project...it's still growing!)
As we were taking the final displays and twinkle lights into the house, I remembered I should have taken photos of my somewhat transformed garage...oh well.

Now I'm getting ready for the next times I'll be out and about in Lincoln...
...5 days at the Cathedral Art Show (Oct 12-16...I'll post times that I plan to BE there, but you can make purchases at any time that the show is open). You can count on the preview night on Wednesday evening, but there is a small entry fee for that night (most of the other times are free for shopping).
...and Saturday October 15 at Lincoln Southwest. I have a LARGE spot that day and will be bringing 4 tables of pretties!

Photos to come :)

Day 4 of photos...Open House starts TOMORROW

2011-09-29T19:59:00.002-05:00

Day 4 of photos for the Open House...a sneak-peek at what I've been making ALL summer...and even more this week...I can't seem to stop ;P
You can look back at MONDAY, TUESDAY and WEDNESDAY photos.

New multi-layered charm keepers
my assortment of bronze and silver charms...I'm liking the mixed metals :)

Bronze for Halloween!

bronze with a dottie black cat, perfect for Fall!

AND...

NEW silhouette charms! This one is shown in bronze...I will also be making these in silver.

...this charm comes from the side view of William in this photo, not Lucy :)

So...the studio will be open tomorrow from 10-3 and 5-8

and Saturday October 1 from 10-4.

My next in-studio dates will be the Christmas Open House and Stop and Shop.

Open House...Photos #3

2011-09-28T14:25:00.003-05:00

In the days leading up to Friday and Saturday's Open House, I've been posting photos of "what's new" in the studio... You can catch up HERE (day1) and HERE (day2).
These were a hit last week at the Millard West show...little chalkboards! Mine is bling-y with some rhinestone sparkles. Add an apple or another teacher-themed glass charm to have THE fave gift for a teacher!

Tomorrow...it was hard to choose, but I'm thinking new BRONZE, including something special for MOMS and for HALLOWEEN!

Open House...Photos #2

2011-09-27T17:55:00.007-05:00

...adding more sneak-peek photos of what you could see at the Fall Studio Open House, Friday and Saturday!

For yesterday's photos and Open House details, click HERE

I only have one of each of these for this show...will I have to make MORE?!!! tiny, brightly-colored initials
woodland creatures...I love these
Lucy told me to make some zebra!
tiny type!

Tomorrow...something different, even though I have SO MANY new glass charms to show off...I'm thinking "teacher gift," but I have one of these (Hmmm...what IS it?)

Fall Studio Show this week...watch daily!

2011-09-26T15:56:00.005-05:00

(large antiqued initial dotties)

I have been busily making charms all summer...and saving LOTS of them for my fall open house!

The studio will be open:

Friday September 30 from 10-3 and 5-8

Saturday October 1 from 10-4

Postcards were mailed out last week.

If you have never been to my studio, you may e-mail me for the location:

lo4sr@juno.com

I will be posting sneak-peek photos all week, to show off some of the new glass and mixed metals charms that have been waiting on my workbench.

Plus, I'll have extra goodies to tuck into your bag with your purchase this weekend.

I can't WAIT to see you :)

Millard West...and mermaids

2011-09-23T08:42:00.003-05:00

Lisa asked me to post some photos of mermaid charms...

most of these mermaids are a combination of artwork by Lucy and me (the bitty is from a book)
Come find us at Millard West tomorrow, Saturday September 24 from 9-4...we'll be in Wildcat II, the second gym, in our usual spot :)

Brown Dog Field Trip...Kansas (very long post with Open House info at end!)

2011-09-18T14:03:00.008-05:00

My BirThDaY request was to attend an Arts/Crafts fair in Kansas this past weekend. Not to show my wares...just shop! Honestly, the main attraction was a little vintage show I had somehow stumbled across when I was checking out a fab local shed sale...and I just.had.to.GO!

I made it to the Vintage Soiree, and hubby (did I mention that he drove and encouraged me to BUY, BUY, BUY!?) watched me coo over crib side rails and swoon over a chippy newell post! I was lamenting that I hadn't made it to the opening day of the sale, but still found some of the items on my WISH list, and then some :)
...and the prices were wonderful!
If you click HERE you will go to some photos of that sale, provided by blogger Kimberlee who writes "The Driveway of Life."

We then headed, all of 2 blocks to the Arts and Crafts sale...a lovely event, full of LOTS of crafting and GREAT food.

We made our way through...
...a cheeseburger prepared by the Fire and Rescue guys.
...caramel apple slices served up for a school fundraiser.
...roasted nuts.
...AND a cherry-lemonade that was shaken before our very eyes by one of the members of the local high school band (that was for you, Lucy, my clarinet-player!)...delish!

I'm making my selection from the mega-lemon!
showing off the oh-so-sweet concoction (we shared it, or I might have been too sugared to shop!)
I'll admit it...I was a bit disappointed to not find more vintage items, but trying to just enjoy the day with hubby...and then we took Kimberlee's suggestion and headed to Marion, Kansas...destination The Barn/The Mill...

SUCCESS! Not only did we locate our intended antique shop (it's really 3 VERY large buildings), but the little (?) town was FULL of them! I'm just guessing that it was a small town. Honestly? I was too busy pointing out places for Todd to park so I could shop!

The store-front shop we'd made the trip for was unlike anything we've seen in the antique world. Most antique shops of this size are a jumbled amassment of ecclectic items, separated into individual dealer booths. A lot of the search is just that...searching!
This very LARGE store, however, was section after section of neatly arranged...whatever you're looking for.

I think the woman in front of me in line bought nearly every jar of buttons (all found on one shelf, with all of the sewing/millinery items).

Then we made our way about 10 blocks (if you go across the railroad tracks, you've gone too far!) to the Barn/Mill.
Todd didn't take photos of the interiors of these 2 buildings, also NEATLY arranged architectural elements and hardware and larger pieces. But also the 4 HUGE rows of the rusty and cool outdoor items...a whole section of wagon wheels, galvanized metal and more.

Not as many, or as quality photos as I would have liked. We ended up having to use Todd's camera because we'd mistakenly inserted a 16MB card (do those even exist anymore!?).

So, WOW. Good trip-not so good photos.

I'll be rested in time for my fall shows, which begin THIS SATURDAY...

Millard West, September 24, 9-4 (I'm in Wildcat II Gym)

then...STUDIO OPEN HOUSE

Friday Sept 30 (10-3, 5-8), Sat Oct 1 (10-4)

(if you've never been to the studio, or have just forgotten where I am, e-mail me for the address!)

I'm sending out postcards this week, of all of my fall dates, including the dates of the 2-part Christmas Open House (shop/order and shop/pick-up). Further updates, reminder for the Christmas show will come via e-mail or can be found on my blog (no Christmas postcard).

I won't be having Thursday Open Studio Hours this Fall, and I am trying to coordinate most of my in-studio Private Trunk Shows with Open House dates...

so, I have hours available Wed Sept 28 and Thurs Sept 29, as well as Monday Oct 3 for you and groups of 5 or more friends. You must contact me to get these on the calendar :)

I think that's all...next week, I am planning to post photos daily of some of the SurPrisEs I've been working on all summer and keeping for the fall shows...very fun!

Final Saturday at Piedmont Market

2011-09-07T12:58:00.003-05:00

My new Dotties were in high-demand during the show at Nelly's Nest. I sold out of the cross and other symbols, and almost all of the Fall/Halloween charms I had brought with me. I've made more and will have them with me this week (Sept 10), at the Piedmont Market!
As promised, I'll have another fun addition to my charms and jewelry...a SALE

This week I am bringing along a VERY LARGE basket of sale charms of all sorts...$5 each. This does not mean that all of my charms are on sale, but these sale charms only make a few appearances a year. They won't be for sale again until the studio Garage Sale next summer!

This will be the final Saturday of the Piedmont Market. I'll be joining my market friends from 8-noon (Cotner and A Streets...about 50th Street)...let's hope for GlORioUS weather.

...unlike last Saturday, which was nice and cool, but prone to rain showers. The THREE brave souls who shopped with me had fabulous odds for winning the $10 studio gift certificate (to be used in September or October). They also should have received their little polishing pad, but the rain commotion means that Staci and Sharon will be getting theirs THIS week (happily they placed orders, so I'll just tuck them in for them!).

AMY was the lucky-ducky winner of the drawing. E-mail me, Amy to claim your gift.

Upcoming appearances after this Saturday...
Millard West...Sept 24 (9-4)
Studio Open House...Friday Sept 30-Saturday Oct 1.

2 Weeks left of Brown Dog at Piedmont

2011-09-02T20:53:00.006-05:00

YES...I will be at the Piedmont Market for the next 2 Saturdays (Sept 3 and 10th).

I will be planning to take some fun items, and have different special gifties to go with your purchase both days.

I'll then take a week off.
Saturday September 24 will be Omaha at Millard West.
THEN...the studio open house will be September 29-October 1, hours to be decided :)

After much dedication to my regular Open Studio on Thursdays, I've decided that they just don't work with my schedule right now. I'm out and about so much that trying to get my studio back in order for Thursdays and then re-packing for weekend shows is taking away from time I need to work on pretties. So...PLEASE find me when I'm out and about, because I LOVE to see all of you!

Nelly's Nest last weekend was so much fun...I had my camera, ready to take photos, and then didn't.

My excuses...
...visiting with YOU and all of the great antiques dealers (and shopping).
...eating delightful baked goods from Mary Helen (she's at the Piedmont Market, too).
...more SHOPPING ( I got some LOVELY flashcards and a cool mailbox, and MORE!!!).
...having the blue grass band, Burnt Biskits, play right in front of my tent.

BUT...Janelle posted some fabulous photos on her blog (click), and some of them were of Lucy and me, our jewelry and there's even one of Janelle wearing the necklace she bought from me...

If you can believe it I sold EVERY ONE OF THEM on Saturday...so I made more this week! I'll have them at Piedmont tomorrow, you might NEED one ;)

Nelly's Nest on Saturday

2011-08-25T15:13:00.002-05:00

You can find me this Saturday, August 27th, at Nelly's Nest Harvest Gathering...9-5 at 33rd and B Street. I have LOTS of charms, silver, including some new BRONZE and silver! I'm mixed in with lots of fun antiques, and am bringing some of my own antiques to pass along for sale :)

Can't wait to see you!

french fairy tales...

2011-08-19T15:06:00.003-05:00

I will be at Piedmont Market tomorrow, Saturday August 20, from 8-noon...

I will have new charms with me, including these adorable images from a French children's book of fairy tales... Blanche Neige, les 3 cochons, boucle d'or et les 3 ours...

Next Saturday, my first BIG show for Fall (can you believe it!?). I've been invited to be part of Nelly's Nest Harvest Gathering. It takes place on Saturday August 27th, from 9-5.

Nelly's Nest is located at 33rd and B, and is full of the cutest primitives and MORE. Her neighbor, The Goods will be celebrating her grand opening...SHE has GREAT vintage pieces...I've shopped both shops and hope to get there early to lay claim to some goodies...watch out! There will be other invited antiques dealers, but I think I'm the sole jewelry gal :)

I will have my new designs for Fall...some FUN surprises! Come join me :)

No Studio Hours this week...

2011-08-08T07:55:00.002-05:00

I won't be having any regular studio hours this week. Kids' last full week home.

I will be at Piedmont on Saturday August 20 from 8-noon and then at the Nelly's Nest Harvest Show August 27 from 9-5...excited about that date because I'll be bringing along some of my antiques/vintage items as displays and for sale!

I hope to start showing photos of my charms/silver I've been making for Fall shows (I'll have my first open house date for September posted late this week!).

Studio News...

2011-07-31T17:52:00.003-05:00

Time to visit the studio this week...

Open Thursday hours extended this week
(August 4)...10-4, 6-8.

Piedmont Market...Saturday August 6... 8-noon!

I've been busily making fun charms to show off...pics to follow :)

Studio Hours this week...

2011-07-19T07:19:00.002-05:00

I am opening up the studio THIS Thursday (July 21) from 10-4 and then 5-8. Great time to look at all of the new pretties in the studio and chat with me about orders. I plan the same hours for Thursday August 4...orders from this Thursday should be finished in time for August 4 :)

Otherwise, I will be taking a break from Studio Thursdays for the rest of August, and will see how they fit into my fall schedule...I'm somewhere almost every Saturday, and just need to find a really easy packing system!

What's New...

2011-07-14T08:28:00.002-05:00

I have a week off from Piedmont...I'll be back NEXT Saturday, July 23 from 8-noon.

I am having studio hours today (what FABULOUS new goodies are to be had!) from 10-2, and then NEXT WEEK...

I plan to have a LONG open studio block from 10-4 and then 5-8 on Thursday July 21. This is that great time to shop the studio this month :)

I've been thinking about studio times and will be temporarily discontinuing the regular Thursday hours following July, but having a long day/evening once a month in addition to the many Saturdays I'm out and about. I'll still be scheduling private trunk shows.

Saturday at Piedmont...something NEW!

2011-07-08T18:43:00.003-05:00

At last...I finished the countless bitties I've planned for fall shows...my fingers are V-E-R-Y tired, but this should be fun to look through! I have a loose schedule for my next few weeks of charm prep, including some much-needed time to play with silver and some new designs.

I have something fun to show you...

Thinking up a name for this new design...you can see it tomorrow...I'll be wearing it at the Piedmont Market. If you come to the market, you can ask why I'm wearing N43 ;P

Lucy and I will be there from 8-noon...right off of Cotner and A Streets.

Come see us :)

Next week I'll be posting my new schedule...look for it and some photos!

Saturday at Piedmont...what's new

2011-06-28T15:31:00.002-05:00

I've decided to add this Saturday to my Piedmont dates...come see me from 8-noon at the Piedmont Market, located at Cotner and A Streets...
Some VERY fun Patriotic glass charms...and more of these!

Some great new designs for Nebraska charms...these will be showing up for some other charms, as well

My studio hours on Thursday will be from 10-2, but I will be ducking out for a few minutes around noon to pick someone up from a summer activity. If I'm not here when you come by, it should just be a brief wait :)

This week and Benson re-cap...

2011-06-21T15:36:00.002-05:00

Here's what's coming THIS week...
Thursday studio hours, 10-2
Piedmont Market...Saturday June 25 (8-noon)

Last week...very fun week. In addition to my studio hours and working on my studio want-list, Lucy and I spent Saturday at the Benson Summerfest in Omaha. A very SOGGY start (thank goodness we brought the canopy!) turned into a wonderful day. Not too hot, lots of interesting art, and lots of new visitors to the studio.

One of the sweet surprises, Erin, an artist who was offering free sketches in her booth. Lucy and I took turns visiting, and asked her to add in the Brown Dog. Look for this little drawing to be framed in the studio! Erin was so fun to work with...I have a non-studio project I hope to commission later this summer! Head over to her site, e-customcards to see her original, personalized cards. I'll bet you'll think of someone (or many) who would love to get one of these cards :)

I have a handful of requests on the workbench. Fun mix of silver and photos and other interest. I am continuing to work on bitties...I have a growing PILE of new cute little glass charms of all types. One request I get over and over...number charms. I have been making these by special order in glass and silver. I have a few made for purchase in a small variety of numbers. My current offerings are in silver, bitties and small glass bubbles.

So...for this week's give-away (wow, lucky, dedicated YOU, who read to the end of this entry!), what NUMBER would you be wearing...hmmm...number of children, a significant number, your child's (children's) jersey number, your age? Post your response here, or on the studio Facebook page to be randomly chosen for your number choice on a 1/2 inch silver disk. I'll announce the winner next Monday!

Have a great week, and come find me at the Piedmont Market on Saturday!

What's new this week?

2011-06-15T15:24:00.003-05:00

I've been working on CHARMS this week...I have a lovely list of "want-to's" that I'm working through, until I get distracted with another fun idea in the studio ;)

Before I show off a bit of the NEW...remember
Studio hours this week...Thurs 10-2
Benson Summerfest in Omaha...this Saturday, June 18, from 9-5
I'll be back at Piedmont NEXT Saturday (June 25)

Now...Enjoy :)

These are some of the colorful bubbles I worked on last week...

These are a FEW of the new Bubble Drops...I started out with about 20 in mind...um I stopped at nearly 100...but OH-so FUN! (and more on the way!)

A start of this week's bitties...oh my! I'm embarassed to say how many I have planned.

I started playing with dotties and patina...and couldn't stop!

I even added the special finish to some of the nearly 500 SALE art charms I had for the studio sale. These religious art charms will remain on sale in the studio for $5 each, until they are gone.

I'll post more new pretties NEXT week...wish me lots of time for my ideas.

Studio Garage Sale...and winner!

2011-06-06T19:00:00.002-05:00

This week is the studio Garage Sale...that means NO Long-family cast-offs, only charms, jewelry, and studio supplies are being offered.

I've already sorted out over 200 charms to go home for $5 each. These are charms I'm sorting out to make room for LOTS of new pretties.

I also have some necklaces, bracelets, dangles and MORE that are being cleared out of the studio.

There will also be some sterling offerings that will be discounted before they become SCRAP so that I can re-make them into something else.

I have a small number of metal charms that are names I either mis-spelled or made a few of them as examples. If YOU need this name, word... what a match!

HOURS...Wed June 8 (6-9...this time is only being offered to those reading the blog, you lucky-ducky!)
Thurs June 9 (10-5)
NO FRIDAY...Whew! Lucy and I need a break :)
Sat June 11 (10-4)

Normally I hold this outdoors and also offer access to the rest of the studio, but if it's as hot as it was today (!) I'll rearrange the studio to accomodate the event.

If you need directions to the studio, please e-mail me.

Amber is the winner of the latest give-away for her choice of bitty glass charm. Contact me, Amber to claim your pretty charm.

Brown Dog Garage Sale...NO Piedmont on Saturday

2011-06-03T18:50:00.005-05:00

It's the BIG one...the ONE time a year that I have any kind of sale in the studio!

I'm busily pulling out sale charms...ones I'm tired of looking at at show after show, but they're GREAT if you haven't been looking at them too long (sometimes a FEW shows is too long for me!)

I also have some bracelet/necklace styles that I'm done with...

Toying with a few sterling items at a slight discount before I send them off for scrap :)

Hours and dates for this sale (I'll post more details on Monday, and if you're on my list, you'll get an e-mail, but...blog followers get one surprise detail!)

Wed June 8, 6-9 (you'll only know about this preview if you've read the blog or FB)
Thurs June 9, 10-5 (I'm extending Thursday studio hours)
Saturday June 11, 10-4 (no Friday, Lucy and I need a break WHEW! and no Piedmont)

Also, I'm not going to Piedmont tomorrow. I need more time to sort through the studio for sale items for YOU!

This week's project...

2011-05-31T19:47:00.003-05:00

Working through the studio summer list of to-do's...

...finished lots of pretty religious charms last week.

...this week I worked on a few odds and ends...still looking for more occupational ideas to add for the summer.
I really focused on maps and places this week. I added in bunches of new destinations, and found a wonderful, colorful map I'll be using often...

Next week I plan to begin working on the proof sheets I made up for bitties and bubbles...I may be making them in my sleep if I get all of them onto the workbench.

But...I'm still open to ideas for my favorite tiny charms...

For this give-away...

What word or cute little image would you like to add to your charm bunch?

I may already have it, or it may be one that makes me think..."hmmm..."

I'll pick one random winner and make you your bitty or bubble suggestion. Remember that only a small word or 2 or a tiny image fit on these cutie-wootie glass charms.

The comments can be added here or on the studio Facebook page, and the name of the winner will be posted next Monday.

Remember that I'll have studio hours on Thursday from 10-2 and will be at Piedmont this Saturday from 8-noon.

I'm headed to Piedmont

2011-05-28T07:13:00.001-05:00

I WILL be at Piedmont from 8-noon today...the sun is supposed to come out by 9, and I have the luxury of my van to set things in or out as the weather changes...come see me.

LOTS of new maps...cities...some cute little city/state drops!
(photo to be added today)

this week...

2011-05-24T12:01:00.003-05:00

I'm working on LOTS of new glass charms (these are from antique holy cards I brought home from Paris), which means I'm...

taking inventory
making lists (what needs to be made this summer?!)
playing with all of the pretty images/cards I brought back from France
making the studio VERY messy, a process that will last all summer!

I should have some photos to post on Friday...sunlight permitting :)

I've also been working on updating all of my upcoming shows, including the planned 2-3 Saturdays a month at the Piedmont Market. Plan to come see me this Saturday, May 28, from 8-noon...if it's raining, check my blog for an update.

I have an almost finalized list for Fall shows, too. Those will start popping up on the sidebar of the blog. And...one summer Omaha show...Benson Summerfest, Sat June 18th.

Good Friends...

2011-05-17T20:22:00.002-05:00

Remember last month when I asked for submissions...

A good friend...

Well, they're ready :) I have 2 dozen original art charms made just for almost ANY kind of special friend you have. I make each of these uniquely...each little collage is cut, pasted, glittered and painted. Even if I make another similar "good friend," she cannot be exactly the same.

These will be available for the FIRST TIME on Thursday of this week, during studio hours, which will be slightly changed to accomodate kids' school schedule...

Thursday May 19, 10-1:30

I also have LOTS of special orders ready for everyone. Just about everything is ready from the Open House pick-up date orders. You should be receiving e-mails tomorrow if your order is finished.

I'll also be available at the Piedmont Market this Saturday, from 8-noon.
This is my chance to tell you about my Market plans...I will plan out my 2ce monthly dates to have available on-line next week, just in case you want to know how often we can chitty-chat. Those dates are contingent on rain, etc, (mostly RAIN!).

So...the BEST way to not be disappointed is just like the studio hours...check my blog before you make special plans to see me.

But THIS Saturday, I'll have the van there...hope there are other vendors to coffee with ;P
Come see me...

Give-away winner and new VIDEO!

2011-05-13T19:12:00.005-05:00

I am so excited...

I've wondered how to show you a bit of how I work in the studio. It's not neat and pretty, and there's many a day I end up with a band-aid (or 2) on a finger...the family doesn't even ask anymore ;P

Forward to my meetings with Lisa of Lilybird Design. She did a photo shoot of the studio, and ME last month and brought over a wonderful compilation of what goes on during "a day in the life". I absolutely LOVE what she came up with...even letting you see my messy workbench!

I hope you can get a sense of what goes into making pretties for you...and how much I love being able to do it!

MY VIDEO

(i wanted to have the video show here, but it just won't work, thus the delay with this post. Click above on "my video" and you can see it on Vimeo...it's worth the trip, and I'll keep working at getting it here!)

Feel free to comment on my happy little video :)

For the give-away winner...Mary commented on Facebook, and wins the fun bracelet combo. If Mary would like to pick it up in person from the studio, she also receives a fun Brown Dog handmade bar of lavendar soap. Contact me Mary so we can arrange for you to claim your pretties.
Next week...I'm thinking "old friend, new friend, GOOD friend" for the studio theme.

Bringing a bit of Paris to the Studio...

2011-05-09T17:27:00.002-05:00

Paris was wonderful, but one of the BEST parts (romance, family-time, food, sites, history aside ;P ) was imagining what I could bring back to use in the studio!

When arranging this trip for our anniverary, Todd actually encouraged me to plan for the famous French flea markets. He reminded me to take along some jewelry for photographs...what a hubby! (did you notice my new blog header he had made for my return post-trip!? but I'm gushing...) One fun idea I had when planning the trip was making this bracelet.

I stamped several mini-Eiffel towers onto sterling, and wore this bracelet on our trip up the Tour Eiffel! A few of the charms are spoken for...Lucy and myself, my goddaughter who LOVES Paris. The rest will find their way into some pieces I've sketched out for this summer, along with some other fun items I brought back!

I would like to have a Paris-themed give-away this week. Please comment here on the blog, or on the studio Facebook page. Let me know about a memorable place you've travelled, where you HOPE to travel, or just say "Hi" or "Welcome back".

One random winner will receive their own mini-Eiffel, a 1/2 inch sterling initial charm, and her choice of colorful beadies on a ball chain bracelet. I'll announce the winner on Friday. If you live near enough to claim it in person, you can also enjoy a Brown Dog bar of lavendar soap.

I missed everyone, and am getting busy with new pretties to share with you.

Here was another photo-opportunity, too good to pass up...

"Mother of the family" chocolates...

Open Thursday and Friday!!!

2011-05-04T09:00:00.000-05:00

The "secret's" out! Here's where we were for the past 8 days...Paris for our 20th anniversary (with the kids!). Wonderful time shopping, walking, eating, cafes...I'll have so many more photos to share, especially of the PARIS FLEA MARKETS!!! This photo is a hint about next week's give-away...check back Monday for details...But very important...

Don't forget that I have open studio hours:

Thursday May 5, 10-3 and 5-8
Friday May 6, 10-3

I'll have everything available for SHOPPING, and Mother's Day orders are READY for pick-up.

Forget to order something special for Mom? Ne t'en fais pas! (not to worry!)...
...many ready mommy items
..."gift-is-on-the-way" cards if you'd like to order something NOW, to be available SOON...AND you'll have a card to give :)

...ooh-la-la!

2011-05-01T08:30:00.000-05:00

Sacred Art Show Friday and Saturday...

2011-04-27T08:30:00.000-05:00

I've sent a glass case of my religious jewelry to be part of the Sacred Art Show (click HERE for details) this weekend, at the Blessed John Center (37th and Sheridan, next to the Cathedral).

These items will be available for sale, but if you need the "Sarah-touch" to make your necklace/bracelet just-right, you can bring it to me NEXT weekend, to my open studio hours, Thursday May 5 (10-3 and 5-8) or Friday May 6 (10-3).

Photo Shoot...

2011-04-23T08:52:00.003-05:00

So excited about a recent photoshoot, courtesy of Lisa Guerra of Lilybird Design.

The idea was to show my workbench (and ME) during the process of working with both glass and silver.

If you look at the sidebar of this blog, there is a mini slideshow of some of these photos. If you click on the slideshow, the photos will enlarge.

MORE photos to come, showing me with all of my handy-dandy tools! ...oooh the DANGER!

...Open Wednesday April 20 (5-8)

2011-04-18T19:10:00.004-05:00

Remember that I am open this Wednesday evening, from 5-8.

Exciting is the fact that I finished ALL of the custom orders that were placed April 7-9 (and previously!).

You can pick those up, and I'm going to open the studio that evening for some shopping (hooray!) and will have "gift-is-on-the-way" cards available (if you missed my Mother's Day order date!).

Easter and then away on business, so I won't be opening up the studio again until May 5-6, when I'll have MORE extended open studio times.

I'll be unable to answer any requests during that interim, and PLEASE don't plan on my family being able to set out orders in the drop box...just imagine...

"Dad, where does Mom keep the orders?!"
I don't think THAT'S going to happen! I don't want you to be disappointed :)

But I'll be ready with all sorts of new FUN when the studio opens May 5-6 ;P

busy...working in the studio

2011-04-12T10:53:00.002-05:00

After the Mother's Day Open House last weekend, I'm busily filling special orders for everyone who made their requests for gifties...

Remember, your orders will be ready for pick-up Wednesday April 20 (5-8), and then again on Thursday May 5 (10-3 and 5-8) and Friday May 6 (10-3).

I'll be away on business right after Easter until those open May dates, so I won't be answering e-mails, and won't be setting orders out in my drop box...

If you missed the order dates, you can still shop May 5 & 6

...I'll have some pretty "gift is on the way" certificates made to give in lieu of a finished charm :)

Open House starts TODAY!

2011-04-07T11:10:00.006-05:00

Come SHOP and PLACE ORDERS for Mother's Day...

Today, Thursday April 7 (10-2)
Friday April 8 (10-3, 5-8)
Saturday April 9 (10-3)

These will be my Mother's Day ordering dates to finish orders in time for gift-giving...but you can come to SHOP, too!

Studio Open House...

2011-04-04T19:14:00.012-05:00

Wouldn't this be FUN for a Mother's Day gift (0r for YOU!) ?!

The Studio Open House will be this week... I wanted to have PLENTY of time to get all of the gifties done in time for Mother's Day. So here are the hours...

Thursday April 7 (10-2), you know ME, I'll be tweaking my displays and putting out even MORE pretties ;P

Friday April 8 (10-3 and 5-8...I added the bonus evening hours!)

Saturday April 9 (10-3)

LOTS of glass and silver, including the new charm keepers.

This show is also the cut-off date for orders ready in time for Mother's Day...

I will have everything ready for 3 pick-up options...

Wednesday April 20 (5-8)...pick-ups only, no shopping at this time

Thursday May 5 (10-3 & 5-8) and Friday May 6 (10-3) Stop & Shop

Saturday May 7 at Rockbrook Village in Omaha from 10-5 for their Spring Fever Arts and Crafts event!

The studio and our family will be in whirlwind mode from Easter until the May 5/6 Stop & Shop, so I'll be unavailable for any requests or calls (even to put orders in my drop box)...

So...if you are going to be unable to come and pick up your orders, I will be making ONE trip to the post office on April 20th, to make sure your pretties make it in time for gift-giving. Just let me know when you place your order, and we'll take care of those details!

So much is happening in the studio, but I'll share it AFTER this show :) Whew!

Millard West this Saturday...

2011-03-29T16:53:00.007-05:00

Okay...

It's the time I start accepting orders for Mother's Day, and I'm excited to have a show schedule this spring just PERFECT for taking and handing out Mother's Day gifts :)

THIS SATURDAY...April 2, I will be at Millard West from 9-4. I'm in Wildcat II again (second gym), and I believe I have my regular LARGE space. I'm bringing Lucy and Miranda, so it will be a perfect day for shopping and placing your order for Mother's Day if you're an Omaha gal.

I'll be back in Omaha on May 7th for the Rockbrook Village Show, which will be the time your order would be available for pick-up :) A plug for my Studio Open House NEXT week...so far I've listed those hours as Friday April 8 and Saturday April 9, both days 10-3. But I will probably be extending the Friday hours (I'll let you know at the end of this week!). I WILL have evening hours, but haven't decided if I'll break for school pick-up!

These will be my order dates for Mother's Day gifts, as well as SHOPPING. I will have pick-up available, again at my studio...May 5 and 6 (because I'll be in Omaha on Saturday). I will be unable to take any last-minute orders for Mother's Day, due to some FABULOUS-LY fun stuff going on in the studio and Long-household :)

I'll see you at one (or MORE) of my shows over the next few months!

friends...

2011-03-25T16:07:00.002-05:00

There were some fun "friend is" comments this week...if you have more, I STILL want to hear them, but the give-away winners for the 1/2 inch silver disk initials are...

Lisa W (on FB), and not just because your husband mentioned Todd!
Robin K
Lisa (on studio blog)
Shane K
Football and Fried Rice (Love this name!)

I decided to give the silver disk to ALL of you because you put on your thinking caps for me :)
e-mail me so we can get the correct initial for you!

Next Saturday (April 2) I'm in Omaha at Millard West from 9-4, and the following weekend is the Mother's Day open house in studio. So far, the set hours are 10-3 both days...Friday April 8 and Sat April 9. I am hoping to extend those hours, if busy family-life allows :)

Spring...and Give-away...

2011-03-21T10:29:00.009-05:00

***Special Update...I will only be open from 10-12:45 on this Thursday, due to an appointment***

Lucy and I had so many wonderful visitors at Faith Lutheran's craft fair on Saturday. I was able to pass along many special orders and I had MANY spring-y charms go home with happy shoppers...which means...

I need to make MORE!

So, this week's plan is full of flowers, butterflies and glitter...finishing up some silver...

AND...a photo shoot! My friend and photographer-designer, Lisa, will be trying to catch me in action, so that you can catch a glimpse of what goes on in my studio when I'm creating pretties for you.

...is it honest of me to CLEAN the studio before she comes?!

The next studio give-away is going to run until this Friday, March 25...I'd love comments here or on the studio Facebook page...Are you ready to answer this question?

"A good friend is..." (one I already use in the studio..."someone you share your chocolate with")

I'll be picking at least 2 winners...one randomly, as well as one(s) whose quote(s) I use in a charm. Winners will receive a free 1/2 inch silver disk initial charm of their choice. Check back on FRIDAY afternoon to see if you're the winner :)

this give-away has been closed...winners have been announced...see who the lucky-duckies are in Friday's post!

This week...

2011-03-15T19:46:00.003-05:00

I'm working on special orders this week from a private trunk show and the St. Mark's craft fair last weekend. I plan to take these pretties with me to the Faith Lutheran Craft Show this Saturday, March 19th, from 9-4. I'm also working on some fun ideas from my list...those charms that different customers ask..."do you have any...?'

So...this week, you may find some pink piggies, palm trees and playing card charms, among others :)

What charm ideas do YOU have for me? I'd love to hear from you!

I'll also have Thursday hours this week from 10-2. Come make a bracelet or work with me on a special order.

Find me at a show...

2011-03-08T19:01:00.004-06:00

This week you can find me at the St. Mark's craft show in Lincoln, located at 84th and Pioneers. Lucy and I will be there from 9-4, with lots of lovely new charms (oooh the fairies!) and some new necklaces.

♥I have lots of special order charms that can be ready for pick-up at this show :)
If you ordered glass or silver from me over a week ago, yours is ready. If you'd like to make sure...send me an e-mail!

I will be sending out postcards this week for my spring line-up, which as a blog reader, you already have access to :)

The give-away for this week is related to the craft show. The first 5 shoppers who mention my blog will receive a free little extra with their purchase.

I changed the Big Cartel Jewlery

2011-03-01T12:52:00.010-06:00

So...William and Todd both informed me that I sound mob-boss-esque with the whole Big Cartel shop thing going on. I chose this format/shop to add to my site because it wasn't a huge commitment...I really just wanted to showcase a few items each month. If it takes off, maybe I'll look into something else :)

That said, I just added some fun, spring-y, luck o'the Irish jewelry to the BC shop. I'm loving the greens and browns on the page... here they are

"Lucky Girl" leather cuff

Lucky Bracelet (see the cutie copper "lucky" bead?)

TWIRL silver necklace (choose your word/name)

Glitter Shamrock Necklace

Large Bubble Necklace...LOVE these new 1" double-bubbles!!!
If we like these, I plan to add a new line of rounds.

More studio news...I will be in Omaha on this Saturday, March 5th, for the Busy Little Hands Expo and Craft Show. It is at the Westside Community Center (3534 S 108th Street, OMAHA), from 9-3. Omaha friends...If you order glass or silver at this show, I will have it ready for the next time I'm back in Omaha: April 2nd at Millard West.
Looking forward to my first trip to Omaha this year. Then I have to hurry back to take a Bright Lights class that evening with Todd :)
The only other open time for this week is regular Thursday open studio hours, 10-2.

I hope to add a note on Friday, with a give-away for Omaha shoppers on Saturday:)
Lincolnites...you'll have your turn NEXT week when I'm at St. Mark's on March 12th.

...extended hours this week

2011-02-21T18:50:00.002-06:00

...hello :)

I don't have any photos for today, although I've been working on some new charms for this week. You can visit the studio during regular Thursday hours (10-2), or during this month's evening and Saturday hours...Thurs Feb 24 (5-8) and Sat Feb 26 (10-3). Then Lucy and I begin making the rounds of the arts and crafts spring shows. Check out the sidebar for the spring listings. Hours and exact locations for each of those shows will be detailed as they near.

I do have the helpful ordering pages up and running for both SILVER and GLASS. Prices are listed, and those for silver will be updated at some point in March.

For this week's give-away, I will be offering little grab-bags to the first 5 studio shoppers both Thursday evening and Saturday THIS WEEK who mention the blog when I am adding up their pretties.

Can't wait to see you this week!

...weekend and WINNER :)

2011-02-18T14:18:00.002-06:00

This has been a VERY full week, and I have been oh-so busy, which is nice, when I look back and see trays of charms and silver, as well as lovely packages to go to happy shoppers.

The helpful-ordering pages for SILVER and GLASS are up and running with photos and (temporary for the silver) pricing. I think they're already doing their job, which is explaining what I can make and what it LOOKS like. Let me know if you have any suggestions as you look over the pages. Remember, you still have to contact me via e-mail (or even in the studio, if you'd like) to place your order, but now you don't have to use your imagination, there are lots (too many?) of examples!

Will be changing out the Big Cartel shop's monthly items next week...also, remember that I have extended hours for shopping in the studio NEXT WEEK...in addition to my regular Thursday hours, the studio will be open Thursday Feb 24 (5-8) and Saturday Feb 26 (10-3). If I make those hours LONGER than what I've just stated, I'll make an update on the blog's side-bar.

Finally...announcing this week's give-away winner...
Karen H, who commented on the studio Facebook page.
Karen, please e-mail me, and then you will be able to claim your free $12 glass charm through the month of March 2011, by visiting me in the studio or at an away-show...congratulations.

I'll post another give-away on Monday, this one related to the studio hours :)
Have a great weekend!

...studio updates and give-away!

2011-02-14T14:30:00.003-06:00

charms...

Last week, I finished over 5 trays of love-ly glass charms...new initials, cute vintage pics, oh-so-many pretties! (and then I had to clean them...NOT my favorite part of the process; what's creative about clean-up? Apparantly Lucy shares my sentiments in the kitchen ;P

I have similar plans for the beginnings of glass charms this week...I'll make proof sheets, cut glass, edge the trays of charms...and have this week's babies ready to solder NEXT week...so many fun ideas, as well as some special orders to have READY in time for next week's extra open hours...Thurs Feb 24 (5-8) and Sat Feb 26 (10-3). I do have a handful of orders from last month's open house, and those will be ready for pick-up during THIS Thursday's 10-2 slot, or waiting for you next week. I'll send out e-mails to all of you.

Did you check out my new helpful ordering pages? The one for GLASS CHARMS is finished, unless I see necessary finishing touches. The page for SILVER is ready, with the exception of pricing...of note, I've been holding onto 2010 silver pricing, but will be raising all of my silver prices when I put in my next order for wire/sheet. My current pricing reflects when silver was less than $16 and ounce, and it's now hovering around $30...ouch! That doesn't mean my prices will double, but most pieces will increase by a few dollars. One of the worst culprits is my spools of sterling chain!

...right now it looks like I have enough silver to get through most of March. We'll see when I get ready for a BIG order! But if you order silver next week, we should be great.

I PROMISED a give-away...yippeee!
I would love to hear your comments about the blog...show dates, my new ordering pages, what you're hoping to order soon, or what shows you're coming to visit me...
So, add your comment to THIS blog entry, or you may comment on the studio FACEBOOK page (or become a NEW fan of the studio FB page...you have to LIKE Brown Dog Studio!).
On Friday, I will pick a random winner from all of the comments, and the lucky-ducky winner will receive a FREE $12 glass charm of her choice, to be redeemed at one of my open times or shows through March 2011. Watch for the winner on Friday, so you can find out if it's YOU!

***THE GIVE-AWAY IS NOW CLOSED***

Oh yes, happy Valentine's Day...think about LoVe, eat a bite (or more) of chocolate, and be SWEET :)

...what's new THIS week :)

2011-02-08T15:54:00.003-06:00

...first...this Thursday's open studio hours are VERY short: 10-11:15 only...I have a very important business tour (and date with my husband; he set it up!) to attend :)

now, back to the studio...always working on more charms...

...but I have so many REALLY GOOD ideas for making the studio (ME) more efficient, so that I can enjoy my creative time. I spent part of last week working on a how-to link for ordering glass charms via e-mail (click HERE or go to heading of the Blog!). This week, I hope to finish a similar page for ordering my silver.

I've been adding dates and shows to the "where can you find me" column of the blog. I still plan to include one evening and some portion of a Saturday each month (until outside shows are in full swing), in addition to my Thursdays. February's dates will be Thursday 24th (5-8) and Saturday 26th (10-3). This will also be the preview dates for a lot of the new pretties that will be on show this Spring, when I'm out and about! I think I've scheduled one show a month in Omaha for March, April and May, which will be GREAT if you are an Omaha gal and want to place orders or just want some new charms and silver.

Finally (?), I'm putting together a montage of me at work in the studio...um, if I can pick any photos of me that I don't want to DELETE...I'm not overly attractive in my fume mask and protective gear!

Look for a give-away NEXT MONDAY :)

adding shows and working on blog!

2011-01-31T17:26:00.002-06:00

This week, I have an impressive list of charms and silver in the works (I've got a LIST!), but my BIG goal is to add all of my upcoming shows to the "Where can you find me" category on the sidebar of the blog. I think that I've chosen all of the shows for outside of the studio, but I'm still putting finishing touches on my calendar for open studio dates...

In addition to "regular" studio hours on Thursdays (just remember to check the blog before you make the trip!), I'm thinking that one evening and one Saturday per month would be perfect. Once more outside shows pop up, I'll have to make those my open Saturdays.

Also...I am going to make special orders more user-friendly.

The best way to order from Brown Dog Studio is to visit me in person, during open hours, a craft/art show, or a Private Trunk Show, BUT...orders have always been available via e-mail. Because there has to be some form of communication to make a special order happen, I won't be having an actual website, but am adding pages to the blog with photos and details in the categories of SiLVER, PhOto ChaRms, and ExIstiNg JeweLry. I hope to have these up and running for helpful ideas within the next few weeks.

I can't wait to hear what you think!

Open House...more details and PHOTOS!

2011-01-27T16:14:00.003-06:00

...remember the open house begins tomorrow at the studio. I'll stay open on Friday from 10-8 (thanks Ruthie for bringing my kiddos home!)

...more NEW initials

...and MORE...+ some fun new hearts...

...AND my newest fairies...the candy HEART fairy! These ladies join their winged-friends in the studio.

I sent e-mails to anyone who had finished orders waiting...

Lisa W...a charm and silver

Gina B...a photo charm

Amie H...charms and silver

Kari...a silver disk

Carrie...2 round photo charms

Debbie...a VERY special fairy

Candy T...a photo charm

Michelle B...some special order goodies

Tanith...VERY special silver and photo charms

Robin...I've already spoken to you :)

Stacey...2 pieces of silver from before Christmas

Margo...a wonderful necklace

Kerry D...your ornaments

If your name isn't here and you're expecting something to be ready...e-mail me lickety-split!

See you Friday 10-8 (I'll be open now for the whole time, and my family will bring me dinner!) and Saturday 10-3.

Open House (smile!)

2011-01-24T17:07:00.003-06:00

You can stop by Friday January 28 (10-3 and 5-8) and Saturday January 29 (10-3). If you've never been to one of the studio shows and need the location, please feel free to e-mail me!
I've been busy over the past 2 weeks...I have so many new pretties in the studio, and the Open House this week will be the first chance to shop for them! Here is a sampling...
...and here's one of several trays ready to be sorted onto the tables! Lots of glitter this time around. I also have oodles of special orders ready to be picked up during the show...I will post all of your names on Thursday so you know for SURE it's ready, but I believe that everyone who had their orders in by last week should be on that list!

shh...a surprise for blog followers (the e-mail invites didn't have this tidbit!)...
The first 10 purchases on both Friday and Saturday who mention "I just LOVE your blog!" receive a lucky-ducky prize with their purchase. I will be including anything from a free glass charm, polishing pads, beadies, and who KNOWS what Lucy and I will put in the little grab bags.

Now I'm off to finish my creations of the day.

adding on-line shopping...

2011-01-17T18:09:00.008-06:00

"My Heart Belongs To & Initial" Necklace

"Loved and Blessed" Necklace

"A Spoonful of Sugar and Spice" Necklace

"My Heart Sparkles" Necklace

"Heart-in-a-Bubble" Bracelet

Big change for this week...I've finally filled my Big Cartel Shop. If you look at the sidebar of the blog, you'll see a link to the shop.

I will be offering 5 items in the shop each month. Most of these items can be purchased multiple times...they won't "sell out" unless I specify that they are in limited supply or one-of-a-kinds :)

You may (A) purchase these pretties on-line. I'll mail single/multiple items via a $5 Priority Mailer. If you choose to (B) make your purchase in-person, you must contact me via e-mail and be able to pay for and pick it up during one of my scheduled open times throughout that month, either most Thursdays (10-2), Open House, or Private Trunk Shows. I plan to reserve use of my front porch drop-box for photos and gift-is-on-the-way cards.

It was quite the decision to narrow my selection to 5 items... ;P

Question...I figured out how to add new header to my blog until I find/create a banner I really like for my studio. I've been playing with seasonal changes. Do you think this works, or should I stick to something more permanent?

NEW in the Studio...

2011-01-10T15:47:00.004-06:00

So excited to be back to creating...although it's very funny that the very day of my scheduled return, my children are home for a snow day!
This post is about how I plan to make the studio work even BETTER this year :)

Some things have worked really well...
•My Schedule on the sidebar...LOVE this! Hope you do too...I'll be adding my spring show dates over the next 2 weeks; I just finalized hours and days for my January Open House.
•Open studio hours...keeping them from 10-2 most Thursdays. I'm no longer asking you to phone or e-mail ahead to make sure I'm here...I'm going to use this blog to keep my hours updated on a weekly basis. PLEASE check the sidebar of my blog to make certain we don't miss each other, just in case I have a sick child or a trip to the dentist (that would be very bad!). Please double-check my blog if there are weather conditions...I won't be able to have my "snow removal team" (husband and son) at my disposal on some early Thursdays!
•Private Trunk Shows...These will be the ONLY times I'll be able to open the studio, outside of my Thursday hours, Open Houses, and outside shows. I schedule these for groups of 5+ family-friends-coworkers. I don't recommend groups larger than 10 because you won't have enough time with me for special orders, and that's the point, right?

Some studio changes...
•I plan to work much more via e-mail, rather than by phone or non-Thursday/non-show-dates drop-ins, to give me more WORKING time!
•ONE EVENING A MONTH in studio. If I'm having an Open House, that's probably my one evening. I'll post these over in my sidebar :)
•In order to keep up with all of my ideas for new pretties in the studio, as well as my regular line-up of special orders, I won't be able to promise items ready more quickly than 2 weeks.
•Giveaways...I LOVE when my nice friends comment on the studio BLOG or Facebook. If you like to do this...keep it up. But not everyone is comfortable adding their comment...so, give-aways will begin again, but will often be a special little something for those who visit me that week, or a surprise shopping day, or something pretty you need to claim at one of my shows over the course of that month.
•New way to shop...I've opened a Big Cartel Shop, with the sole purpose of adding it to the sidebar of my Blog. My thought is to have 5 items available each month. They may be seasonal/special in nature. Some of these items could be customized (as noted), some would be ready to mail, as-is, no changes. The nature of the BC Shop is for me to mail the purchases; great for a gift or you out-of-town friends. But you could also e-mail me (instead of completing the on-line purchase) to pay for/pick it up on Thursday, my show that month, without shipping charges. I hope to choose this month's 5 items by next Monday, but really, the choice is very difficult...hmmm!

here's some of my vacation fun!

2011-01-07T14:28:00.007-06:00

If you know me, you know my love of LISTS...

I'd promised my family a long break from the studio...and it was full of gathering family and friends, lazy mornings, celebrating the Real Gift of Christmas...

But I confess that I had PLANS which included lots of fun, non-studio projects :)

I forgot to take photos of all of the goodies the kids and I made...cake balls (YUM! Only make these when you have LOTS of parties/people to give these to, and preferably a great-Lucy helper), caramel corn (made Christmas Eve, after Mass, the Fam in pjs, waiting to open gifts...I had a last-minute "brilliant idea," which took about 45 minutes, thanks to fellow-blogger Jeanne...her recipe, NOT her idea to pause gift-time!), and both frosted and rootbeer cookies (Anders' fave).

But here's where the pioneer-theme comes into play...none of these are new skills for me, but they've been on the back-burner for awhile.

A huge pot of Caramel-Spice Apple Butter...I panicked when I couldn't find the recipe, but remembered the last time I made it was LAST December with our 4H girls. This is Lucy's favorite.

Anders has been asking for pomegranate jelly for ages...he's now a very happy camper, but it was hard to find just-pomegranate juice this time. I've officially used up all of my reserve jars making these 20+ jars of apple and pom spreads.

The last time I made soap was over 5 years ago, and I've wanted to do this ever since I found my soaping journal last summer. It was sweet to read the careful notes I'd taken, the plans I'd made for future soaps...I decided for this soap adventure to follow the already-taken-path, and made repeat favorites...in the molds, ready to cut...Lavender-castille, heavy on the olive oil ; just poured...Double-mint Wake-up soap! Next in the line-up...White Vanilla and Poppy seed, Warm Vanilla and Oat, and Lemon Flip! (photo actually shows the few remainders of my past soaps; definitely time to make more! The new ones will have to cure for at least a month!)
Finally, knitting...I had promised Anders a pair of felted wool slippers, and lo and behold ! I had enough yarn in my bin to make at least 10 pairs (okay, maybe 20!). His are knit, felted and ready to warm his tootsies, and the first of a new pair for Lucy (she's grown in 3 years!) is on my double-pointed needles. The pre-felted slippers are so funny to see...seriously, they look like a large elf hat. The washer makes the magic, and I hadn't made these since I got my front-loader...the verdict is in...front-loader is even easier!

It's been fun sharing non-studio news with you...I'll be back to work in the studio on Monday. Look for a few changes on the blog, more frequent updates, especially for Thursday Open Studio Hours, a list of upcoming shows to start appearing, and a NEW way to shop á la Brown Dog.

I'll be ready to see you :)

enjoying some time with family...

2011-01-03T08:17:00.002-06:00

We've been enjoying a lot of family-time in the Long Household during my promised vacation...

...4 hosted Gatherings of family and friends
...lots of lazy mornings (William and Todd are up by 6:30 every morning, despite vacations days, and the rest of us are out of bed by 7:30 or 8, but they are pajama mornings!)
...time spent figuring out the Wii Santa dropped by on Christmas
...fun, fun non-studio craft projects getting finished (I'm planning to post pictures by the end of this week)...think pioneer-worthy, without any of the hardships!

I'll be back in the studio, beginning January 10. I'll start working on orders that I took right before vacation, as well as trying to keep up with all of my NEW ideas. I'll also be posting some new studio hours, the first open house of 2011, and opening up dates for Private Trunk Shows.

Happy New Year to YOU, and more on Friday...

2010-12-14T20:39:00.001-06:00

open this week...

2010-12-14T19:56:00.008-06:00

Holiday Stop & Shop...

Friday Dec 17 (10-7), Saturday Dec 18 (9-noon)

This will be the last opportunity to shop in the studio before Christmas and...all of your orders from the Open House 2 weeks ago (and from before!) will be ready for this show. I'm closing down the studio following the Stop & Shop, until January 10th. I'll be out doing my shopping, making cookies and general Christmas-y celebrating, so I won't be available for any studio-business.

So...in the midst of all of the WONDERFUL orders I'm working on...

I've been cleaning out my beadbox, playing with silver, and other FUN nonsense...come check out all of the new goodies! There are still PLENTY of choices for gifts; Lucy says who am I kidding, we'll have a party if I run out!

I need to take a moment to thank all of you who have made my time in the studio feel less like work and more like a gift. I mean it when I say that I'm HONORED to share your sweetest memories...the joy of newborn babies for mommy/grandma necklaces, celebrations of family and friendship, the always unique artwork of growing children, as well as memory pieces for those we love and miss. Thank you to all who have trusted me to make fun/silly/meaningful jewelry for you, or to be shared with those you love. YOU are why I open my studio, cart my pretties to shows, and share my darling daughter, Lucy.

If you don't pick up your orders this weekend, they will be available on my front porch, beginning Monday Dec 20 from 8-5 through Dec 24, unless it's icy out! I'll post updates on my blog, while I'm drinking my cuppa.

Were you a winner of one of the studio give-aways and never got around to picking up your prize? Remember, that any remaining prizes need to be picked up by the end of the year (this show!)

If you don't make it to this show, have a very, Merry...
I'll look forward to seeing you NEXT year :)

WOW!!!

2010-12-05T20:54:00.004-06:00

Today is about taking a breath after a wonderfully busy studio open house. Thank you to all who visited the studio and asked me to help them create special gifts for others (and sometimes for themselves, too!). I had some new helpers at this show...the goal for me (and Lucy) to be more available to customize your jewelry, while the elves wrote up tickets, etc.

I have my next 2 weeks planned out, ensuring that I can get the OODLES of orders filled in time for the promised dates...the studio Stop & Shop, Friday Dec 17 (10-7) and Saturday Dec 18 (9-noon). The studio will also be set up for last-minute SHOPPING on those dates, and gift certificates will be available, if you missed last weekend's special order deadline :)

If you need to find me before the Stop & Shop, I will be at Scott Middle School on Thursday December 9 (5-9). Hoping I can take Lucy...no homework ;D

Open House photos...

2010-11-30T11:15:00.013-06:00

I have been promising photos...and here's a small sampling of what I've been creating.
"tag-alongs"...name is courtesy of Lucy :) I want to have more finished by Thursday, but will that happen?!

New...silver initials. I'm also making these in a different font in cast silver solder.

a one-of-a-kind cake fork from my Chicago Trip...I also made some "blanks" for personalizing.

This is one of 4 trays I have ready to go (not priced yet!). If necessary, I'll just stick cute little tags in the compartments...they'll be out for Thursday evening!

These are my newest itty-bitty initials. I LOVE them, and I haven't grabbed mine yet!

a "frosty" jane-in-the-box

a sampling of my "bottles of treasure". I have PLANS to finish more of these.

...will I have time to make everything in my sketchbook, will my family eat this week...will I be able to watch William at wrestling tonight without furtively scribbling my to-do list?!

You can have THESE answers, plus shop all of my new pretties and order custom silver and charms, beginning Thursday evening, December 2, from 5-8. The show will continue Friday (10-3 and 5-8) and Saturday (10-4). Remember I'll be closing my studio after those dates, in order to finish special orders in time for the studio Stop and Shop Dec 17-18. If you MUST find me before then (and I know it's possible), I'll be at Scott Middle School Thursday evening Dec 9.

getting ready for open house...day 2!

2010-11-23T19:44:00.004-06:00

Today I put together some much needed Christmas and Nebraska charms.

I also got out the torch to work on some silver...Here's a peek of one of my new melted initials (flanked by some of my favorite new initial designs!).

I will have more silver at this show than I've been able to have at any of the out-and-about shows I've done this fall.

More tomorrow, and if you missed yesterday, you can click HERE.

open house countdown photos...

2010-11-22T16:00:00.007-06:00

I'm busily working on getting postcards ready to mail out tomorrow with Open House details. E-mails will also be sent out. This is the BIG one...that last opportunity to order custom glass and silver as gifts in time for giving.

Today I'll show off a few silver pieces...I'm hoping for better outdoor lighting tomorrow so I can snap NEW photos.
This is one of my new necklace options, available for wearing charms as a necklace...mini-clips dangle from a 30" adjustable chain, spacing your charms for viewing! The necklace begins with 3 mini-clips, but I can add more...it's like a charm bracelet!
This is one of my new "charm-keepers." Different sizes, shapes in copper or silver start as the base for your glass or silver charms. This heart dangles from an adjustable silk cord, but it's also great attached to a silver chain. I'm displaying various 1/2 inch silver and copper pieces on this piece, and remember that while I have some ready for shopping, I also make them especially for you!

Finally, the sterling charm-keeper with clips. I plan to have a handful of these made, because each time I put one on display, it leaves with a happy girl!

Stop by the blog again tomorrow for more busy elf (Sarah) photos!

Find me at Southwood Lutheran...

2010-11-19T21:41:00.003-06:00

literally, find me! I'm DOWNSTAIRS :)

I'm here today (Saturday November 20) from 9-4. Southwood Lutheran is on 40th and just past Yankee Hill Road. Last year I was upstairs...not this time.

So...it's easy if you come in the back door. I'm straight back in the craft room beyond the stairs.

If you're shopping around upstairs, come DOWN the stairs and find me in that back room, before you wind around for the rest of the shopping.

The blog will have photos all of next week, with sneak peeks of what you can find at my upcoming open house. Also, I plan to mail postcards on Tuesday, which opens up the private trunk shows to everyone. So many fun charms and silver. See you soon!

Now it feels like Fall!

2010-11-17T11:08:00.004-06:00

Lucy and I have been in show-mode for over 2 months now, and I've been setting out more and more holiday charms...but really, how can I LOOK at (let alone MAKE) Christmas charms in 70 degree weather!?

But now it's time!

Last week's give-away worked so well, that I'll repeat a version of it this week!
Blog readers get in on a SECRET...come visit me at my show this Saturday, Nov 20 at Southwood Lutheran (40th and Yankee Hill Rd) from 9-4. Be one of the FIRST FIVE SHOPPERS and mention you read my blog, and we'll tuck one of my fave polish pads and a surprise in with your purchase!

I'm busily working in the studio, getting ready for the Christmas Open House. Postcards should go out next week, and all details except my address will be on the blog (if you need the address, e-mail me...I just don't have my address floating all over the WWW!). I still have times available for private trunk shows, and readers have time to schedule before my cards get sent to everyone else.

All orders from now until the Open House (last day for special orders) will be ready at the Christmas Stop and Shop/Pick-up dates, and I won't be able to accomodate any rush orders, so that I can finish everyone's pretties in time :)

I can't wait for you to see all of the new pretties in the studio...I'm saving some JUST for that show...too fun!

trying something NEW...and THIS WEEK

2010-11-10T15:48:00.004-06:00

I so enjoy visiting with everyone who comes to my shows, and this blog is my way of keeping everyone updated on where they can find me and all of the new pretties I'm making...thanks everyone who follows along with me and gives me feedback about the studio, here or in person :)
I've been having drawings for studio-goodies for followers/comments here and on the studio FACEBOOK page...but I haven't gotten much on-line response (I hear all sorts of lovely things in person!), and there have been some unclaimed freebies (click HERE for give-away guidelines!).

NEW IDEA...this week, I will be at St. Mark's craft show (84th and Pioneers, 9-4, no admission). You readers get in on a SECRET....
Just tell me you saw my blog this week, and I'll tuck one of my favorite polishing pads and an additional surprise into the bags of the first 5 sales at my table on Saturday. FUN!!!

So...new this week..."dico-sticks," fill-in initials, bottles of treasure, military love, lots of Christmas, new necklace options!

And...if you love joining in with me on my blog, I LOVE to hear from you ;D

...at St. John's on Saturday and finished orders

2010-11-05T17:32:00.003-05:00

Look for me at St. John's (76th and Vine) tomorrow, Saturday November 6, from 9-4.

I have all of these special orders done...they'll be available tomorrow, or at upcoming shows or Thursday open studio hours...

Jill E.
Margo G.
Jennifer C.
Kate F...your copper cuff :)
Michelle (your M bee)
Shari B (your silver)
Shawn T.
Patti N.
Amy J. (giftie love-handle)
Gina B (I'll look for you in Omaha, but it's DONE!)
Tracy R.
Lorraine
Ann (silver combo)
Jennifer S.
Stacey
Susie
Sharon S (silver/glass racing combo)

Can't wait to start seeing everyone...I'll be having new, new charms every week...look for new initials and Christmas this week!

this week...

2010-11-01T15:25:00.005-05:00

It's November...

That means art/craft shows are in full swing, and I'm preparing for the studio Open House (Dec 2-4) in between shows!

I am opening up the calendar for studio private trunk shows the week leading up to my open house...you may reserve one of these slots for you + 5-10 friends on a first-come basis:
Sunday Nov 28...1pm or 3:30 pm
Monday Nov 29...5pm or 7pm
Tuesday Nov 30...5pm or 7pm
These times are wonderful for special orders and looking through my pretties with your friends. Plan to come without the kiddos because Lucy will be helping with orders :)

This Saturday I'll be at St. John's in Lincoln (76th and Vine Streets), from 9-4. This is the show that has Lucy's vote for #1 sloppy-joes! It's where I buy my honey and dishcloths, too!

I'm in the beginning stages of putting together next year's calendar...any suggestions for places/shows? This week's give-away is for a 1/2 inch silver initial tag. Comment HERE or on the studio FACEBOOK page to be entered in the give-away and then check back on Friday to see if you are the winner!

This week...

2010-10-29T21:07:00.002-05:00

This week I worked busily on special orders and BUBBLES. I also have some fun bits and pieces to show off, as long as they stick around ;O

I am at St. Wenceslaus in Omaha tomorrow, Saturday October 30 from 9-3:30. I plan to have open studio hours on Thursday from 10-2 and then will be at St. John's in Lincoln on Saturday November 6.

I should have LOTS of special orders ready for that show...I'll post names of everyone whose order is done on Friday, so you can check there to see if it's ready...looks like everyone who ordered before and up to Norris should be ready for that show!

reminders...and THANK YOU!

2010-10-22T15:02:00.006-05:00

...so I have zero photos to share today, because...

I was SO very busy at St. Robert's boutique last night!

My word, it was a fabulous show...many, many of my favorite people showed up (all asking about the lovely Lucy, who was home on a school night!), and I met so many new wonderful folks.

But there are so many thank you's to send out...
*To the wonderful, smiling organizers of the boutique...WOW! I even got a goodie-bag!
*To my aunt, who brought me a plate of food and my fave diet cherry pepsi!
*To the sweet Patricia who not only helped me schlep in armloads of goods before the show, but stayed at the end to help finish bringing my items to the car (and she had kiddos at home!)
*To the MANY lovely shoppers who never complained that they had to "take a number" to talk to me (that's not usually the case when I have Lucy with me).

I took an afternoon break today and I'm ready for Norris tomorrow, 9-4 in the gym...see you there!

...mom and grandma

2010-10-21T10:06:00.003-05:00

...so dedicated am I to this week's photo challenge that I was outside in the wet grass getting photos before my trip to Omaha for tonight's appearance at St. Robert's (5-9).
Here is a sampling of what I have ready for grandma charms...remember I can always make special ones for "that special grandma"...

Here are a few for mommies...I get lots of requests for these for Christmas gifts...

Now off to Omaha...hope to see some of your faces tonight :)

...more charms

2010-10-20T16:26:00.002-05:00

These are such sweet little charms...5/8 inch squares, aqua blue on vintage ivory text...

For more of what you'll find in my new charms, scroll back over the past 2 days...can you believe I've posted THREE days in a row now?!

...more Nebraska

2010-10-19T19:50:00.004-05:00

I hope the latest selection of Nebraska charms lasts for a few shows...they get snatched up so quickly! I'm going to add some beads to a handful tomorrow because the ones I had sold out at Southwest. Lots of RED.

I finished more fairies today...I'm keeping them under wraps until you see them at a show ;D

Scroll back one day if you want to look at the INITIALS I posted yesterday.

my goal this week...photos

2010-10-18T15:06:00.005-05:00

My intention this week is to post photos of glass charms I've just added to my collection.

Today...INITIALS! In addition to replacing sparkle-y twinkle letters and bright glitters, the above are some of my BRAND NEW initials. I've taken the liberty of sorting out some "S" charms, for Sarah, of course! You may also notice the silver "S" which is also brand new, and will be joined by other letters of the alphabet over the next few weeks. I have more initials planned for next week, too!

This week...and winner!

2010-10-17T11:01:00.002-05:00

BUSY!

I'm hoping to post daily photos this week, showing samples of the charms I've been working on over the past month...N's, FAIRIES, initials, new words, fall/Halloween, a tiny taste of Christmas, GLITTER...

I will not have Thursday hours this week, as I'm getting ready for the show at St. Robert's in Omaha that evening. And I'll be at Norris on Saturday October 23 (I got a double booth...HOORAY!).

Amy B. is the lucky-ducky winner this week...e-mail me Amy and we'll get your polishing pads to you!

this week...and winner

2010-10-11T07:07:00.002-05:00

The show at Lincoln Southwest was so much fun. Lucky to have sister-Emily come for a few hours so Lucy and I each had time to eat and take quickie-break. I could have used her the whole day, but 3 of us don't really fit behind the tables :) Our part towards the shopping experience... the brown dog (aka Miso) got a new collar with pink flowers and Lucy ordered a gorgeous "L" for her wall.

Very popular...Nebraska "N", fairies, initials, Halloween, bitties, bracelets, MY SILVER, and the new adjustable chains. I had one new chain, put together just that morning, hadn't even priced it or taken a photo yet...I'll have to make a new one! Can't wait to see what I'll finish in the studio over the next two weeks...I have high hopes for lots of initials (new styles), some more fairies, and LOTS OF SILVER. Wish me luck to stay on task...

So here are my details for this week...I don't have a show this Saturday (October 16), but do have TWO slots left for private trunk shows in my studio on that day. You may reserve one by phone or e-mail (make sure I confirm your time!). That's my last Saturday available until after Christmas. I'm still taking reservations for some evenings and Sunday afternoons.

And for last week's winner of the copper cuff, stamped with her quote of choice...Kate F. Contact me, Kate so I can write your name in my winner book and I'll get working on your cuff.

Now for this week...I still have lots of shows left...where do you hope to find me? Comment here or on the studio FACEBOOK page and you could win a 3-pk of my favorite polishing pads. Check back here on Friday to see if you're the winner...I can actually send those in the mail:)

Now...busy, busy, busy! So many ideas...

new in the studio...

2010-10-04T14:34:00.006-05:00

What an amazing show at Millard West...so many friends showed up to see us, and there were lots of new faces.

I brought a very large assortment of pretties, and loved the size/layout of my space. I've been inspired to contact all of my upcoming venues to see if I can duplicate my larger space...I think I've outgrown the normal 8x8 size-limitations :) If it doesn't work for this year, I'll make sure to request it for next year!

I introduced my "like a girl" cuffs over the summer and then saw a special t-shirt while shopping with Lucy last week. Here's my take on it in copper...$22-$25 (remember I can make a custom cuff for YOU!), or I can duplicate it in sterling for $55.

So...what would you "say" on your wrist? Comment here or on the studio FACEBOOK page and I'll pick a random winner for a copper version of the cuff. Check back on Friday to see if you're the lucky-ducky winner, and then contact me to get in my WINNER book!

I'll have more details on Friday about the show at Lincoln Southwest High School, as well as all of the new pretties I'll be bringing to show you :)

winner...and where to find me tomorrow!

2010-10-01T18:20:00.002-05:00

You can find me at Millard West High School tomorrow, Saturday October 2, from 9-4. I have an extra-large space, so I'm bringing more than just charms...new adjustable mini-clip chains, fun new sterling, and SO-MANY new charms, whew!

The fairies...coffee, chocolate (had to make more!), cookie, soda, cupcake, veggie, scrapbooking (new ones), sewing, and NEW...quilting, peanut butter, SHOE, #1 Fan, Garage Sale! I have a few more in the works...too many ideas :)

The winner of the free $12 charm is Shawn, who commented on Facebook. Contact me Shawn, and I'll put you in the Winner book for a future freebie you can redeem the next time you see me!

working on...CHARMS...and GivE-AWaY

2010-09-27T13:40:00.003-05:00

big charms, bitty charms...
Nebraska charms, fairy charms...
school charms (Omaha this week, Lincoln next week!)...
Twinkles and sticks...
Words and glitter...

It seems every time I think I have fun charms ready for my fall shows, I need to fill in more (hooray, but I need something to take to shows!)

I wanted to post the my new "N" charm...red glitter on black...but it sold yesterday at the open house, so I'll slip the photo in later when I finish another one!

I almost forgot to announce this week's give-away...I'm so busy chuckling over some new fairy additions I'm working on this week...shh...they're a secret until my next 2 shows...Millard West (Oct 2) for the Omaha bunch and Lincoln Southwest (Oct 9) for Lincoln gals.

Who in your life is on your charm gift list for this fall? Sister, Aunt Molly, neighbor-Nancy...comment here or on the studio Facebook page and I'll pick a random winner on Friday for a free $12 charm. Check back on Friday to see if you're the winner!

Hope to see some friendly faces at Millard West this Saturday...Lucy and I will be there from 9-4, she's hoping they serve sloppy joes, her fave craft show food!

...you can find me

2010-09-24T21:17:00.005-05:00

Saturday September 25 (10-5) and Sunday 26 (1-5)

I will have new...Nebraska, fairies, Halloween, glitter, LOTS of Sorority charms, new necklaces, including the charm-keepers and mini-clip necklaces...

I will have silver and other fun add-ons for making bracelets and necklaces.

This is my last pre-craft show setting for awhile, a really good time to ask for custom charms and silver!

See you...hoping for a sunny day!

getting ready for Cathedral Art Show...

2010-09-13T21:17:00.008-05:00

Whew...what a fun show in the studio over the weekend. We had fun putting together some special pretties! The good news is that I still have great items to take to my fall shows (I made extras for that reason...)

My focus this week is the Cathedral Art Show, at 3500 Sheridan Blvd. Wednesday evening, September 15 (5:30-8:30) is the preview reception ($5...last year there was wine and cheese). There are different "events" on each day, but here are the hours, and unless you hit a foodie event, the shopping times are free admission...

Thursday 10:30-8:30 (Girl's Night Out from 6-8pm, $10)

Friday 10:30-6:30

Saturday 10:30-6:30 (fashion show with luncheon from 11-1, $10 for luncheon)

Sunday 8:30-3

I plan to be at the show Wednesday evening, most of Thursday and Friday, with the exception of afterschool hours, heading back by 5pm, most of the day on Saturday, and Sunday afternoon. I'm taking a fun assortment of charms, necklaces and bracelets.

I have a surprise engagement next week, and I'll be working in a give-away with that trunk show...more details next Monday...

And now, more tagging...I can't wait to see what all of the other artists bring!

Studio Open House THIS WEEK!

2010-09-06T14:49:00.003-05:00

It's all fun...I've made new silver, so many glass charms I can't count them, and I'm putting finishing touches on my displays...

The Studio Open House runs this Thursday (5-8...I won't be open during the day for regular studio hours, getting ready for the show!), Friday (10-3 and 5-8), and Saturday (10-4). I have a group coming in from Omaha for a private trunk show, as well.

So...for anyone who follows me on this blog or on the studio FACEBOOK page, you have the insider scoop for this week's give-away...

Anyone who comments on this blog or on the studio FB page by Thursday, may come to the open house and ask for their FREE polishing pad with their order. It's only good for this weekend (you can't ask for it at another show, silly!), and you need to say "hi" to me at one of these on-line locations, by Thursday 5pm.

If your want to hear about my Chicago trip, scroll down to the previous entry, and now I'm back to work!

Wow-wee...back from the Windy City!

2010-09-05T18:41:00.007-05:00

Enjoy this photo taken on Todd's camera while we were in Chicago this weekend (it's a little fuzzy, but I can live with that ;)

***re-read edit by Sarah...hopefully everyone who knows me realizes I meant that the PHOTO, not the trip was a bit fuzzy! Oh my!

I "needed" to be working, getting ready for this week's Studio Open House, but I think I REALLY needed some R & R and time with hubby. I also got 2 days with good friend, Shelly, who was the perfect shopping partner...and a really good map reader!
I managed a bit of a "buying trip," hitting one of my favorite vintage shops...look for upcoming rescued silverware jewelry. I did leave behind one PERFECT set of cake forks and server. I think I might have cried if I'd actually cut them up for parts.

So-oo...the first part of this week is all about getting ready for September 9th, 10th and 11th Studio Show...more tomorrow, or check my events list for times. If you aren't getting e-mails or postcards from me, you'll need to e-mail me for location.

Kerry D. is this week's lucky-ducky winner of the 1/2 inch silver initial disk. Contact me Kerry, to get that in my list of to-do's!

Watch tomorrow for a fun give-away for faithful Brown Dog Studio blog watchers!

...getting ready!!!

2010-08-30T17:26:00.002-05:00

Hello...I am using the next week and a half to work on my studio "wish list," those charms, silver, new pieces I've been dreaming about adding in time for the BIG STUDIO OPEN HOUSE next Thursday, Friday and Saturday (September 9, 10, 11).

The past weeks have been filled with glitter, bitties, Halloween, and more. I'm hoping to play with silver for a few days...so many ideas, so little time :)

I'd love to hear from you this week...comment here or on the studio Facebook page to be entered in a random drawing for a 1/2 inch silver initial charm. Check back on SUNDAY to see if you are the winner.

Oooh...I gotta get working...tray of bitties calling my name!