Sunday, April 29, 2012

Design!

Designing a blog is totally new to me and I will probably change it a good bit before I settle on something that I think suits me: my jewelry and creative style and my persionality, and also matches my business cards and booth display, so that people will recognize me!  Stay tuned!

Saturday, April 28, 2012

Bracelets!

Well, I never thought I would be saying this, but I love making bracelets!  Bracelets have some unique characteristics and potential that allows for designs that cannot be implemented in a necklace.  And, while a bracelet can be pretty gutsy and make quite a strong statement, they are a more subtle expression of taste and personality - because they usually aren't seen right away, at first glance, like a necklace is.  Additionally, while a bracelet can be bold and outspoken, there is less of it so it speaks more quietly than a necklace.  For people who like jewelry but who don't like to stand out, a bracelet is perfect!

From my perspective, the designer's view: bracelets take fewer beads and other materials and therefore areis less expensive and less time consuming to make than necklaces.  So far I have used only leftovers or beads already on hand and other on-hand materials to make all of my bracelets.  However now that I am so fond of making them I will more than likely actually purchase beads and findings specifically for bracelets.  Pictures will be forthcoming!

Thursday, April 26, 2012

Welcome!

Hello and welcome to my blog.

My name is Jody Lanham and my blog is about my business, Designs by Jody.  I make jewelry of eclectic design (that is I create all kinds of styles and use all kinds of materials).  My two favorite "styles" lean toward the Native American/Southwest with lots of stone, wood, bone, shell, leather and feathers; and the Vintage/Retro thing with lots of antique metals, gemstones and glass, ribbon, chains and charms.

I first started making jewelry as therapy and a relaxation-time activity when I was dealing with some personal issues.  I found that I liked the variety of beads and wires and findings and all the elements of the process of creating a finished piece of jewelry.  The more I worked with it the more I liked doing it and like with anything, the more I did it the better I got!  I am still learning and still improving, but I am at a point where I feel I have come around with a look that people who have seen and purchased my pieces are beginning to recognize.  Is that possible with so many different underlying styles?  Apparently so, I even recognize myself myself!  I do things a certain way, I add a certain touch, I use certain materials and shapes and colors that feel good to me and that I typically like the end results of when my product is finished.



There will be pictures shortly (see above!) but right now I just want to get some information out there so my readers (you!) have an idea of what I and my business are about!  Welcome and thanks for taking a moment...

In my next post (or so) I will share some photos of my work so you can form a sense of my style, see if you like it?  My items are available for sale or for reproduction, and I also do custom work, restoration and repair.

Upcoming Shows and Events:

Artisan Day - May 12, 9-3
Local Roots, S. Walnut St., Wooster OH
Artisans will display and sell locally made artwork such as pottery, felt-decorated soap, knitted apparel, wooden bowls, tote bags, jewelry, decorated gourds and more.  Come see, shop for Mother's Day and pick up some groceries on your way home!

Wooster YMCA Art & Craft Show - May 19   CANCELLED
Wooster YMCA,  Woodland Ave., Wooster OH
The Wooster YMCA Craft Show will feature many handmade artwork and crafts, as well as have lunch and snacks available for sale.

Mohican Traditions Art & Craft Show - May 26
Central Park, downtown Loudonville, OH, 9-4.  Local area artisans and crafters will be selling their wares while the air is filled with the scent of the traditional chicken barbecue.

See more posts for upcoming shows...