Off to California

I had a couple of turquoise stones which were not quite right for earrings - no matching set. I wanted to make something for my sister, who loves turquoise, so I made this fun bangle. It was easier to set the turquoise than I expected. The bangle part is 1.5mm round wire with a clasp at the back. It's now making its way to California to my sister. You could learn how to make one of these yourself by taking one of my classes!

champagne chairs

There is a company called Design Within Reach and they, in their own words "give customers access to the best in modern design – including iconic works that have been in production since the mid-20th century as well as innovative items designed today – and made design within reach." Now, that is all lovely and stuff, but the interesting thing is that they have an annual competition where people are challenged to make a mini chair from a champagne cork. The rules are basically this:

Use any or all of the materials (except glass) from no more than two (2) champagne bottles. Glue is the only permitted adhesive. You are not permitted to use any additional materials – including tape and/or paint.

Of course this kind of thing is like catnip to me and my mom..... mini? creative? challenge? and so.....

These are our chairs: mine is a mini chesterfield chair, with a sort of beat-up look, probably due to scratches from a mini cat. I was most pleased with the tiny 'wheels' on the front legs. (My chair is about 2cm high.)
My mom's is a mini baby high chair, complete with bonus bubbly baby. Here are the photos:

(and here is where you can see all the amazingly creative and fun chairs made for this year's competition - just scroll down on that page.)

Classes at Studio E174 in High Wycombe!

I'm going to be teaching again!!!!!!!!!!!!! 

Classes at Studio E174 in High Wycombe.

Jewellery Making Classes

Be guided through a series of projects progressing to designing and making your own individual silver
jewellery. No experience or artistic skills are necessary. These classes are for both beginners and those with
some experience.

Our classes are small, up to 6 students. Due to small numbers you are guaranteed one-to-one tuition and all
the support you need to translate your ideas into finished pieces.

All our courses provide a range of hand tools and access to equipment. You will be introduced to
the workshop and given full instruction in the use of tools & equipment as the course progresses.

Two ten week courses are available:(minimum 4 students, maximum 6 students)

Thursday 29 January - Thursday 2 April 2015
10:00am - 12:30pm
£230 for 10 weeks

Thursday 29 January - Thursday 2 April 2015
1:30pm - 4:00pm
£230 for 10 weeks

To book, please email machidewaard@gmail.com.