Using Lots of This n’That


I love using all sorts of things to make lots and lots of little things.  In the new Spring issue of Somerset Life and the premiere issue of Jewelry Affaire you’ll see some examples of my latest addictions.

DSC06055

Here’s a closer look at my projects that you’ll find in Jewelry Affaire using mica.

DSC06067

For each of these necklaces I used vintage drawer hardware as the focal point.   The sparkly center of my bronze-colored necklace is taken from a vintage earring (love how it accidentally fit perfectly.) 

DSC06056

And air-dry clay was used to create these no-fuss heart shapes.  The directions to make both jewelry projects are included in my articles. 

DSC06070

In Somerset Life you’ll see my seasonal dresses using minimal supplies.

DSC06063

DSC06064

Here’s a look at my nature-inspired projects using Q-tips, gauze, dental floss and other medicine cabinet supplies.

DSC06073

Recycling soap boxes and toilet paper rolls into mini-gift packages is fun and inexpensive.

DSC06060

DSC06058

Since we order Chinese take-out regularly we always have extra chopsticks lying around that can be made into jeweled hair accessories.

DSC06065

Here’s a mixed-media collage (on the left) that I made using a vintage hanger, which also makes it easy to display.   For the hanging storage sack (center) I used a striped kitchen towel.  And for my celebration inspired decor (sorry it’s in the back and hard to see) I used simple elements such as vintage letters, ribbon and an embellished tag.

DSC06066

And antique keys…don’t you just love old keys?  I embellished a few of mine using wire and a few things that I had lying around.

DSC06062

Having lots of little things around puts me in a creative mood.   And when I’m feeling creative and full of imagination, I feel good…happy.   How about you – what are the things that spark your imagination?



9 Comments, Comment or Ping

  1. Hi Becky,
    Small tokens like fortune cookie messages that have come true, a four leaf clover, and pressed flowers. It is the little things that mark memorable moments in our lives. They represent personal mementos, that are special only to us and those we love. I love hearts and the numbers 3 and 5 Nature sparks my imagination, most of the time. I love gerbera daisies and how you will find Siamese twin blooms on one stem, I love watching
    ferns unfold in spring time. I have fond memories of picking pussy willows, lady slippers, hiking mountains and glaciers. Nature seems to
    be where most of my inspiration comes from. It is never ending, free and
    makes my mood better, every time. It never ceases to amaze me~

    March 30th, 2010

  2. (P.S.) I loved all your creations or maybe they should be called creARTions. The vintage draw pull necklace is gorgeous and I love the
    recycle/upcycle soap boxes…so pretty!

    March 30th, 2010

  3. Congrats Becky – all such lovely items and beautifully displayed in the magazines.

    March 30th, 2010

  4. Such great projects Becky! I especially love the little seasonal dresses. This is different for you….I must see them!

    March 31st, 2010

  5. I picked up the Somerset Life issue the other day and decided it should have been called Becky’s Life as you had so many wonderful projects inside of it! How do you do it? Coming up with so many creative ideas AND finding the time to implement them all? You are amazing!!

    I haven’t picked up the jewelry mag yet, but will be sure to do so soon. I love mica!

    Thanks so much for sharing your ideas,
    Lisa

    March 31st, 2010

  6. This is magic. You create so many beautiful pieces! You are definitely a joy-scatterer. I am glad to know this beauty. Blessings and light, Amy

    April 1st, 2010

  7. Went back to read and realized you asked a question? 😉 I love fresh flowers in morning light, steam from my coffee making the horizon that amazing light blue. Chipped paint on my porch, old keys, but most of all faeries, faerytales and books. These are a few of my favorite things to think about when I create. Blessings dear one. This is fun.

    April 1st, 2010

  8. Amy, it sounds like you enjoy the simple things in life…me too. And I can tell that you are also a dreamer – thank you for sharing. The imagination is a wonderful place to explore – keep having fun!

    April 1st, 2010

  9. Dear becky…
    i am so over the moon excited for you to have not one but two articles floating out around there right now. how exciting and deserved.
    i guess i know which magazines i am going to get at barnes and noble this week.
    can.t wait.
    you are an inspiration.
    loves.
    c

    April 6th, 2010

Reply to “Using Lots of This n’That”