What's going on in the studio?

Key, Keys, Keys!

When I get an idea in my head, there is no stopping me!  Right now I am obsessed with making key style pendants.  These are my newest additions.

I have also added a new Lotus pendant to my ever growing collection of flowers.  I started making this blossom about a year ago but only offered it in my shop when one was made.  It is now available as a made to order item. Let's see how it does!!!

Spring Cleaning  

I know some metal artists participate in challenges such as "Ring a Day".  I would love to do that but there is not enough time in a day, week or month to devote the energy needed to come up with designs for a new ring EVERYDAY.  I also can't see myself creating so many pieces that may never find a new home but the plastic container I keep them in! 

On that note, one doesn't have to participate in a challenge to have excess rings and pendants. I think all jewelry artists/Metalsmiths, have pieces they have made tucked away in  baggies titled, "NEED TO LIST ON ETSY", or "NEED TO RE-PHOTOGRAPH"! 

It may have taken me 2 years but I final am starting to clean out those baggies and get these pieces out for public viewing!  Visit my "Is this Ring Your Size" section of Hapa Girls and get Free Shipping !

Change up your packaging presentation

When running your own handmade business, I feel the artist should stay as true to handmade as possible. After all, if a customer wanted something more commercial looking why not go to a big brand name store. 

I have always used commercially printed "Thank you" cards with all of my orders. I love the style of the card I use and they fit within my budget.  However, after using these cards for sometime now I would like to hand make my own.  Sounds crazy doesn't it? Seeing that I am so busy with being a Mom, homemaker and running a small jewelry business.

I have decided to start off small by first carving out my own Cherry Blossom stamp.  I think it gives my handmade products a bit of a personal touch.

I have yet to perfect the appearance of the stamp but feel it looks pretty nice! 

Recently I purchased a Letterpress kit for my Cuttlebug.  My next step will be to transform my design into a letterpress plate so I can letterpress my own note cards with this kit.  I am excited to try this new tool out and will blog about the results!!

Collaborating with other Etsy Artists can be fun -

Especially when it's your sister!

At Urban Corner you'll find beautifully hand wrapped leather bracelet decorated with Swarvoski crystals and Rhinestones.  Now you'll be able to purchase bracelets with my sterling silver and copper cherry blossoms.  I have customized my cherry blossoms to fit her leather wraps, not only as a decorative piece, but as a closure.

Have a peek into her shop and request a custom order.  I put my order in for a Triple leather wrap with these gorgeous 6mm red Agate beads.  I can't wait to share it with everyone!

Unlock the month of May

with a handmade key by Hapa Girls!

 

Each key is hand fabricated and stamped with my signature. Now available on Etsy!!