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Featured Shop: FromLemonsToLemonade

Today we are featuring a shop you may recognize from a previous post (Hooked!)! Since that post, I have been fortunate enough to be in almost daily contact with Alex, owner of FromLemonsToLemonade. Thankfully, this shop agreed to be the ‘guinea pig’ of the Paste-Up featured shop section, and we are sure you’ll love reading interview!

Without further ado:

1. Give us a little background about yourself
I am a “retired” teacher (I have been teaching middle school Spanish for the past three years) and I recently quit my job to move to Barcelona and spend a year exploring. I am leaving in September and I plan to teach English as a second language and hopefully continue to make and sell jewelry over seas.

2. What do you do apart from designing/crafting?

I think hobbies are a great way for people to gain insight into themselves and to grow as individuals. I try to spend as much time as possible doing the things I love to do. I would say my top three hobbies (besides jewelry) are yoga, traveling and photography. I am a certified yoga instructor but have not started teaching yet. Right now I practice a lot and look forward to sharing the gift of yoga with others. I am also very grateful that I have the opportunity to spend a year in Europe. I always look for unique materials from around the world to use in my designs, so look out for some new stuff on my etsy site in the fall!

3. How long have you been designing?

I started playing around with beads in high school (about 10 years ago). I didn’t know any real techniques; I just loved how calm and tranquil my mind became when I was creating something. Within the last year I started taking classes and learning about the different tools and materials and that opened up a whole new world for me. Making jewelry is very therapeutic for me and has helped me cope with some challenging moments and big transitions in my life. I also love knowing that people are wearing and enjoying what I make.

4. What is your most recent design?

I just bought a book on beading with cabochons, so I am trying that out right now. But my most recent finished piece is a bracelet made from sterling silver wire that turned out to be very pretty and delicate. I included a picture so you can see the design. I am still working out some of the kinks but you will probably see a new and improved version of it on my etsy site soon.

5. How do you prepare yourself to create?

Mostly I have to be moved to create something. Those moments come kind of at random and when they do, I just go with the flow. I am inspired by so many things that I see and experience, so when I get an idea for a piece I can’t wait to sit down and try it out!

6. How much time do you spend in the studio on a day-to-day basis?

It’s hard for me to know exactly because when I am working on something I get lost in it and lose track of time. But I would say anywhere from two to four hours from start to finish.

7. How has your business changed in the last year?

It only just started a few months ago, so it has been a fun journey both personally and artistically. I originally opened my store because a few friends suggested it and I figured it would be a good way to track my progress and share my work with people. But I have sold a few pieces and then people get compliments on it and tell their friends about my shop. It’s super exciting when someone I don’t know buys my jewelry: very validating and rewarding.

8. Is your work available from a source other than Etsy?

Not at the moment, unless you are one of my guinea pigs. Once I move to Spain I am hoping to start selling my jewelry in the markets there. If I make it to that point I will let you know!

9. Tell us a random fact about yourself.

I love to sneeze. Is that weird? I thought everyone did, but when I told my friend she was shocked. I find it to be a wonderful release. I always feel great after a good sneeze. ☺

10. Pirates or ninjas? Why?

Ninjas. I like the mystery of the mask.

-Alex, FromLemonsToLemonade

Be sure to visit the shop, if you haven’t already, and pick up one of the wonderful pieces available! I can vouch for quality of product and excellent service, so what are you waiting for!?

-Rachel

www.suffix.etsy.com

Another way to see the world.

I have always loved long exposure pictures. They capture a scene that can not be seen by the plain eye. I especially love the vivid colors that sometimes arise, and the ability to see a progression through time. I recently revisited this site that i ran across about a year ago and thought that i would share some of my favorite pictures from it with you guys! 

Patrick Smith

Mohammed Al-Naser

Agus Sutanto

Tyler Westcott

Te-Wei Liu

Andreas Nellas

Broddi Siguroarson

To check out more of these amazing photos go to (http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2Jf3Cy/www.abduzeedo.com/29-amazing-long-exposure-pictures)

-Christy 

Utensils of Design

A new friend recently acquainted me with the advantages of using both a knife and a fork to eat every meal. As I watched him use his knife to gently herd bits of vegetables onto his fork, he boasted about how efficient the system was, how little food he spilled, and how refined his table manners appeared to the casual onlooker. He made it look easy—it’s not. Days later, I tried the new method out for myself and failed miserably. I was not greeted by docile herds of peas arriving at my fork, instead the knife catapulted them into my lap, across the table, and to various other locations. Granted, this friend had experienced what I consider ‘flatware boot-camp’ (two years spent in northern europe, how incredibly genteel ;) and I was a mere amateur.

Given my incompetence, my ways, for the time being, dictate that a knife is not essential unless enticed to my plate by a steak or bread in need of buttering! LONG LIVE THE FORK!

#1 Miniature Copper Fork Necklace by EnchantedLeaves; $10

Simple and cute, this necklace would make a quirky addition to anyone’s jewelry collection! I was surprised to find this piece after searching through pages of lesser ‘kitchen utensil jewelry’ that seemed only to say “I’m an excellent cook” or “I like cupcakes more than I should.” This necklace is simple enough to state “I like food” and, let’s face it, who doesn’t?! Be sure to stop by EnchantedLeaves for more quirky jewelry (check out the saw earrings, the glass owl pendant, and, if you are interested, the matching spoon necklace!).

#2 Shrimp Fork Ring by SpoonerZ; $20

Can you believe this beauty is fabricated from a shrimp fork?! At first glance, it appears to be a traditional silver ring with interesting lines and overlaps, but upon inspection it becomes so much cooler. I embrace the idea of upcycling materials, and this is certainly a wonderful example! SpoonerZ’s shop is home to gorgeous examples of upcycled jewelry, most made from flatware!

#3 Fork Bracelet by Contrary; $46

Love at first sight! What could be better than taking Grandma’s old flatware and transforming it into a wearable piece of art? I have seen several bracelets similar to this one, but without the graceful curves worked into the tines. I’m sure that before anyone would realize you were wearing a fork, they would notice the beautiful intricacies of the silver. Stunning!

-Rachel

www.suffix.etsy.com

some serious x-acto skills!

I know how hard it is to be exact when cutting out things, especially curves, from working on many many studio projects. And I also know how hard it is to be patient with all the tiny details! This shows me how much skill and patience that this Russian design studio had when making these works of art! They were all 100% hand made out of colored paper. There is not much else to say so have a look and enjoy.

To check out further pictures and process go to (http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/1D7FDz/designerscouch.org/show_news/979/amazing-paper-made-muscians.html)

-Christy 

‘Let them eat cake!’

As expected and promised, my time alone has inspired me thus far! Not only have I begun work on three new jewelry lines, but I have also found time to read, enjoy the garden, and cook my favorite recipes! This afternoon, however, I was feeling rather under the weather and chose instead to watch a movie. Marie Antoinette was offered for free through the cable service, so I sat down and hit play, prepared to drool over 18th century opulence. Drool I did over the costume and design, but over nothing else. The dialogue was forced, the story inaccurate, and the casting choices poor (sorry Kirsten Dunst, you’ll always be a cheerleader to me).

Though I deem the motion picture a waste of nearly 3 hours, it did provide me with a subject for my article today! Marie Antoinette may have met an unfortunate end, but while living she served as a fashion inspiration for thousands, and so she shall again!

#1 Masquerade Necklace by TheQueensDowry; $15

Seeking to add some mystery to your wardrobe? Look no further. The finish and shape of the pendant work together to emphasize vintage charm. This intriguing necklace will be a great addition to any casual outfit! Check out The Queen’s Dowry for other classic, brass jewelry!

#2 The Queen’s Jewels by nouveaumotley; $165

Own a piece of the 1700s! The pendant adorning this beautiful necklace was refurbished from a very antique time piece! Set on a gold chain and surrounded by genuine emeralds, this necklace is sure to please! Nouveau Motley’s shop is home to hundreds of steampunk designs, many containing pieces of history!

#3 Marine Antoinette Acrylic Necklace by UntamedMenagerie; $18

Acrylic pendants have so much to offer: unlimited design possibilities, clean craft, and the potential to pay homage to unforgettable people. I love that UntamedMenagerie chose to avoid the typical, 16th century, cameo portrayal of Marie, and instead captured her unique style. Take a couple minutes and glance around their shop, you won’t be disappointed!

I happen to be watching The Simpsons as I write this, and they just made a reference to Marie Antoinette—-well timed, Fox.

-Rachel

www.suffix.etsy.com

July 23….ALREADY?!

I know I speak for the whole paste-up crew when I apologize for our lack of awesome/informative/cute/artistic postings for the last week or so! I was attending my sister’s wedding, Christy was on a camping trip, and Shawn was having computer problems! Seems like it was a “murphy’s law” sort of week for us all and I, for one, am ready to get back to work!

I’ll have the house to myself next week, so expect Suffix to update! Because that’s how I roll—when my parents leave town, I don’t even consider having a party or trashing the house…no no, my first thought is “what new artistic venture can I start?” :)

But I know you all came to check out beautiful designs and not necessarily hear about my ‘exciting’ plans for the week ahead! I picked these pieces last week, while I was on layover in the Chicago airport, but they remain fresh and beautiful!

#1 Sterling Ring with Orange Button by QuenchMetalWorks; $58

Quench offers a load of beautiful jewelry—all based around buttons! I love the pop of bright color that this ring offers. It may seem intimidating at first, but something this intensely colored could be worn easily with nearly any clothing choice! It would look fabulous with denim (orange and blue complement each other) or as an accent to an otherwise neutral office wardrobe! Check out Quench’s other button rings, as well as their sterling necklaces and earrings.

#2 Yellow Rose and Branches Lariat by gsakowskidesigns; $35

Clever, very clever. This lariat would be perfect to wear with a neutral blouse! I love the idea: take inspiration from nature’s ‘scarf’ and perfect it for the human form. The yellow rose is what really take’s the cake, in my opinion! It provides a pop of color, as well as an asymmetrical design (and we all know how I feel about asymmetry). If you aren’t a fan of this particular color combination, have no fear! This shop offers lariats in nearly any color you can imagine! As well as different styles, lengths, and densities.

#3 ‘Ab Imo Pectore’ Sterling Silver Heart Pendant by melaniefavreau; $60

Love at first sight! ‘Ab imo pectore’ translates to ‘from the bottom of my heart’—a lovely sentiment, perfect for a gift to friends, family, or your significant other! Cut from sterling silver, this is a heart that is sure not to break! I’ve always appreciated artists who choose to use the anatomical structure of a heart instead of the traditional ‘less than three’ style. This pendant has certainly won my heart, and I’m sure yours is not far behind!

Speaking of stealing my heart, I added a dwarf hamster to my menagerie of pets this past week! ‘Wesley’ is possibly the cutest rodent to ever walk the earth ;)

-Rachel

www.suffix.etsy.com

The Rainbow Eucalyptus

I am about to leave for camping and I though that featuring something beautiful in nature would be a great idea for this post. Unfortunately I don’t think I will be have the opportunity to witness any of these beautiful trees where I am headed!

It may appear that this is the work of an artist but this is in fact how this tree grows! This is the only natural eucalyptus tree found in the Northern hemisphere, and i feel like not many people know about its existence!

So what is the tree mainly used for?

To make white paper!!! I can only imagine how many beautiful and interesting pieces this wood could make in someone’s home. And with so many colors and variations in the tree each piece would truly look like a one of a kind.

This huge tree grows up to seventy five meters tall. The colors come from the trees shedding their bark and exposing the under layers of green. The green then turns other colors over time after being exposed starting with blue, orange, purple and then maroon. 

This is such a beautiful tree. Hopefully someday we can harness its full potential and beauty and use it for something other than white paper! A tree with such natural beautiful color in its wood should not be kept from showing it!

See everyone when I get back! and take some time this week to enjoy the natural beauty that can be found in nature, as I also hope to do myself. 

-Christy 

John Kenn: Little Windows, Big World

John Kenn is a super-imaginative awesome pen and ink artist (yes my favorite kind of art, what of it). He’s been featured a lot lately on the interwebs, so I figured I would jump on that wonderful bandwagon and drive it on home.

Creating mystical lands filled with horrible creatures, Kenn uses a grotesque,  yet whimsical style to blow everybody’s minds. I love the scenery, the people, the shadows, the textures etc, but I LOVE LOVE the big hairy, teethy, looming, creeping monsters. Each one seems to fit its own niche perfectly. In a tall window in an ancient mansion are crammed ghosts. Bursting from the waves, overtaking the cliffs, larger-than-life beasts rampage about, frightening the locals (even if they’re just goats).

One aspect I particularly enjoy is the whole “slice of life” concept that seems to be present in all of Kenn’s works. Snapshots of what could be everyday life for the citizens of this imaginary world. Some are frightened by the other-worldly visitors, just as one would fear a bee or a mouse. Others simply coexist, sitting at the bus stop while a bird (or in this case a twenty foot tall behemoth) roams about. Each piece is methodically thought out and executed perfectly. Very minute details are always appreciated by me, and I bounce with glee when I find such intricacies. Wildlife mixes with wildlife, and life goes on.

Fantastic detail and compositional wonder makes Kenn a supremely talented artist. As I’ve stated a few times before, the 50/50 ratio of black to white can be an excellent tool if used correctly. Well guess what, it’s used to 100% awesomeness. A note of surprise I must add, is just how clean the pieces are. You would think with hundreds of pen strokes adding shadow, hair, and other various bits, that the pieces would get a bit cluttered and dirty, but nay! The highlights maintain their place and fight off the shadows when necessary. Who wants a dusty ghost? I sure don’t.

AWESOMMMMMMME CTHULHU!!!!

Links:

Kenn’s Blog: http://johnkenn.blogspot.com/

Kenn’s Featured Post in Escape to Life: http://www.escapeintolife.com/showcase/works-by-john-kenn/

-Shawn-