Designing-Diva Buzz

Designing-Diva Buzz....we've moved

2009-03-11T07:12:00.003-06:00

Instead of having 3 separate blogs, I've consolidated all my blogs into one...which is a work in progress! Please join me at the new Diva Buzz and feel free to drop a comment!

Don't forget to sign up for the monthly newsletter at Designing-Diva so you are automatically entered in the free drawing held the 15th of every month!!

Thanks

Randi/Dallas Designing-Diva
Adornments for the Mortal Goddess and Her Home: sterling, stone and fused glass jewelry & home decor works
www.Designing-Diva.com

The Never Trust a Man in Alligator Loafers E*vent!

2008-11-03T01:00:00.000-06:00

Designing-Diva is sponsoring a $50 gift online Gift Bag E*vent for Shoe Lovers.....read on to see how you can win over $5k in prizes!!

Online GIFT BAG E*VENT for Shoe Lovers!

Over $5,827 in prizes from the author of the hit dating book Never Trust a Man in Alligator Loafers!

WHO: Celebrity Shoeologist, dating expert, and author of Never Trust a Man in Alligator Loafers Donna Sozio presents her online GIFT BAG E*VENT. Win a personalized shoe portrait, high-heeled art, a VIP Shoe Shopping Party at Il Primo Passo, ShuzSociety.com membership, famous authors, gorgeous jewelry, make-up and more from premiere brand names and vendors like Chinese Laundry, Anne Taintor, Mary Kay, Arbonne, Juicy Jewel, FootPetals, Teva, Kix by Katie… and more! For a complete list of sweepstakes prizes log onto: www.DonnaSozio.com/PRIZES

WHAT: It’s easy to be entered to win. 1. Purchase from Amazon.com Never Trust a Man in Alligator Loafers Nov.3rd –10th 2008. 2. Log onto www.DonnaSozio.com/GIFTBAG 3. Enter your first name, email address, and Amazon.com receipt number. 4. That’s it. You’re entered to win! 5. Winners announced November 30th 2008. Everyone who enters to win also receives over $800 in valuable discounts on their favorite products.

WHEN: The online Alligator Loafers GIFT BAG E*VENT runs 11/03/08 – 11/10/09. Winners announced 11/30/08.

Haunted Bloggy Carnival is Here! Over $2330 in Prizes. International too...

2008-10-27T08:18:00.004-06:00

Woot. It's the last week of October and Halloween is just around the corner. Designing-Diva has sponsored two $25 gift certificates to be given away in the "Haunted Bloggy Carnival" hosted at Bitten by Books & Weird Stuff in My Desk. Want to win some great prizes? Me too!

With permission, I've posted the contest "how to's" and "sponsors" here.....

Welcome to the Wierd Stuff In My Desk Haunted Bloggy Carnival Spooktacular event! The carnival starts at 8:00 am Central time October 27th ALL WEEK and ends on November 2nd at 11:59 pm Pacific time. Comments will be enabled at that time so you won’t be able to post until then.

The winners will be contacted and announced sometime the week of the 3rd. You will have to give us some time to sort through all of the hundreds of entries. Thanks for your patience on this.

Hang on to your seats and keyboards because we have a line up of prize contributions like we have never seen before. Right now we have over $2330.00 in prizes up for grabs!! AND another $3700.00 in prizes at our sister site Bitten By Books! Check those prizes out here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=1526. If we don’t have enough prizes for your blood, remember to visit all of the other participating blogs at the main Bloggy Carnival page here.

Keep checking back here, because the list will GROW eerily larger as more companies join in on the Haunted Blog Carnival fun! If you would like to contribute a prize and promote your products, service, books or business, please email us through our CONTACT FORM.

Now I bet you are wondering just how you can win some of this spectacular loot! There are a TON of ways to win. Do to different states laws you MUST be 18 to enter. You do NOT have to have a blog to participate.

OH!! and if you like discount coupons, be sure to stop by our Discount Code Page!

****************************************************
CONTEST INFO

Readers, here’s how to enter the contest. You can do ONE OR ALL of these things, and each one will give an additional entry and thus MORE chances to win. Check next to each contributors page to see if there are MORE ways you can get chances win.

1. Join the NEW Bitten By Books Community and start a page to talk about all things paranormal fiction! Meet authors, join in on upcoming contests an more! You can have your own blog where you can post about THIS contest (and that gets you an entry). You can start groups and chat in our forums as well as participate in live chat. Best of all it is FREE. Paranormal authors come and start fan page for yourself! Here’s the link! Sign up and join in the fun!
http://bittenbybooks.ning.com/
You get 10 additional entries for joining our community!

2. SUBSCRIBE to our newsletter here on the right hand side of the site. You MUST verify your subscription via the email the site will send you. Unverified subscribers will not be entered into the contest. This option is for new subscribers only.

3. Visit each of the sites who have contributed to our event below and pick ONE favorite item from each store and come post the LINK to that item or the page the items is on here in this post. You can do one or all of the sites, you get an entry for each business you visit and the ONE item link you post here. Try to combine all of your items into one big post. NOTE: Don’t worry if your post doesn’t show up right away or you get an error message, the spam filter on the site will catch it if there are too many links. I will approve your posts so no need to worry, if this happens please don’t post your list multiple times. Check back later in the week to see if it is up.

4. Post this blog post in it’s entirety with a link to our contest on your blog, groups, forums or websites and you will be given FIVE additional entries to win for EACH place you post. You MUST post the links where you have shared the info in one response here in this thread. The more places you post the event, the more entries you get, so spread the word! NOTE: Don’t worry if your post doesn’t show up right away or you get an error message, the spam filter on the site will catch it if there are too many links. I will approve your posts so no need to worry, if this happens please don’t post your list multiple times. Check back later in the week to see if it is up.

5. Make a purchase between 10/27-11/2 from ANY or all of the retailers participating on our page (see list below) and send us a copy of the receipt for your purchase to: racoo.smith @ gmail.com (no spaces) for an additional FIVE entries. You get entries for every purchase you make. Be SURE to put WSIMD Contest Entry in the subject line so it doesn’t get lost in our spam filter. NOT valid on past purchases.

6. Read through the Weird Stuff In My Desk blog and find your favorite product review and come back here and post the LINK to it. One favorite review per contestant please.

7. Add us as your friend on Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/bittenbybooks

8. Add us as your friend on Facebook: http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=614064436

9. Follow us on Twitter: http://twitter.com/BittenbyBooks

Be sure to mention that you are friending us for this contest so we know to enter you! All of our WSIMD updates go through these accounts since we are sister sites. That’s why the links say Bitten by Books. :)

10. Stumble, Digg or share the post with any social networking sites. There is a button right at the end of this post that says “Share” that you can use.

11. Twitter the URL for this event throughout the week: http://weirdstuffinmydesk.com/?p=176

12. Add Weird Stuff In My Desk to your blog roll or links page: http://weirdstuffinmydesk.com if you leave our link up permanently you will always be entered into our contests automatically. Just be sure to stop by each contest we hold and leave the link to where it is.

13. Invite ALL of your friends! If your fiends come and post here and say you sent them, they get TWO entries and you get TWO entries! They have to tell us who you are so we know who to give the entries to. You can invite as many people as you want and get all the extra entries!

Be sure you leave a valid email and your name AND COUNTRY when posting here so we can contact you if you are the winner. We will contact the winners and request your first/last name and a valid email which we will give to the retailer whose prize you have one. It is up to the individual retailers to award your prizes. If we do not hear back from winners within one week of contacting you, you prize will be forfeited and an alternate winner will be chosen. We reserve the right to delete any inappropriate or inflammatory remarks or comments. Bitten by Books is NOT liable for prizes that are not delivered, awarded or lost in the mail. It is the sole responsibility of each contributor to honor their prize obligation.

And last but certainly not least A BIG thank you to our fabulous contributors!!

Here is the list of AMAZING prizes you are trying to win!

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Glutenada - 2 -$65.00 gift certificates to their online store, two winners. Shipping to US and Canada only.
http://glutenada.com/
Glutenada offers the very best in premium, just-like-homemade, gluten-free mixes and creamy, dreamy fudge in a jar - Spoonfudge!

Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb - An AMAZING prize package including: a 12 pack Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb Sugar-Free Raspberry Dark Chocolate bars, a 12-pack Dark Chocolate Sugar-Free ChocoPerfection bars,an autographed copy of paperback book “Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb: My Journey From Flabby Fat To Sensationally Skinny In One Year”. Valued at $106.00. Shipping to US and Canada.
http://www.livinlavidalowcarb.com/
Author of “Livin’ La Vida Low-Carb: My Journey From Flabby Fat To Sensationally Skinny In One Year”
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to Jimmy’s Blog and pick your favorite post, then come back and post a LINK to that post here. Only one choice is necessary.

Bin Hog Designs - 2 each $50.00 gift certificates to their online store, two winners. Worldwide shipping
http://www.binhog.com/
Custom & Personalized luggage handle wraps

Lathers & Lights - $100.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.lathersnlights.com/
Lathers & Lights is dedicated to producing quality skin care products and candles that inspire you to slow down, take a break, and pamper yourself from head to toe. You deserve it!

Beaded Hemp - 5 each $20.00 gift certificates to their online store, five winners. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.beadedhemp.com/
Beaded Hemp carries hand milled soaps, bath & body products, and flameless home fragrance, with over 200 scents to choose from.

Meringue - A $100.00 gift certificate to their online etsy store. Worldwide shipping
http://www.meringueshop.etsy.com/
Hands-free handbags for stylish women

Jessicurl - 4 each $25.00 gift certificates to their online store, four winners. Worldwide shipping.
http://Jessicurl.com
You Have the Right to Remain Curly!

Lathered Up - A $100.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping within the US only.
http://www.latheredup.com/
Lathered Up offers a diverse selection of pure and natural soaps, bath and body products for self-indulgence or wonderful gifts.

Just Right Candles - 5 each $20.00 gift certificates, 5 winners. Worldwide shipping though not included in GC amount.
http://www.justrightcandles.com/
JRC offers you a SAFE wickless alternative to traditional candles. No Flame, No Soot, Just Scent.

Bitten by Books Review Staff - 2 electronic copies of the epic story “Nothing But Red”. This is not a paranormal story, but it is a book with a collection of stories that impacts women worldwide. The review team of BBB would like to spread the word about this important work and encourage each of you to purchase your own print or e-book copy of “Nothing But Red” in support of woman and ultimately humankind. About the book:
“In April 2007, a group of men pulled seventeen-year-old Du’a Khalil Aswad into a mob. They proceeded to stone and beat her to death, a supposed “honor” killing for allegedly falling in love with a man of a different faith. Several camera phones recorded the entire incident from the front row, and videos later surfaced online. One month later, popular filmmaker Joss Whedon expressed his despair and outrage at the misogyny in all cultures on a fan-run blog. “Because it’s no longer enough to be a decent person,” he wrote. “It’s no longer enough to shake our heads and make concerned grimaces at the news. True enlightened activism is the only thing that can save humanity from itself. I’ve always had a bent towards apocalyptic fiction, and I’m beginning to understand why. I look and I see the earth in flames. Her face was nothing but red.” The arts anthology Nothing But Red was conceived as a way to raise both awareness of the issues he spoke of, as well as money for the charity Equality Now.” Buy the book here: http://stores.lulu.com/nothingbutred
If you purchase a copy of this book and send us the reciept, you will get TWENTY additional entries!

Bauble Bath - One Holiday Gift basket valued at $75.00 with 3 scrubs (Candy Cane, Sugar Plum, Gingerbread). We three Kings bauble set (3 scented with Frankincense and Myrh). Holiday Candy Bauble set ( 8 mini baubles in a variety of “candy” fragrances ), Snowmen and Penguin bath melts. 2 soaps in cinnamon and Honey almond and 3 Lip Balms. Shipping to the US and Canada.
http://baublebath.com/
Thick Creamy scrubs as well as bath bombs in indulgent fragrances.

The Ivy Keep - 3 each $25.00 (Canadian) gift certificates. Three winners, shipping to US, Canada and most international countries.
http://www.ivykeep.com/
Everyone has the right to affordable luxuries: beautifully crafted handmade soaps to rejuvenate your body, gourmet loose leaf teas and exotic flavored teas from around the world to rejuvenate your spirits and luscious hot cocoa treats to pamper and relax you.

Moody Bee Beeswax Lip Balm - One prize package of 15 lip balms shipped to anywhere in Canada or the US - perfect for Christmas! Valued at $65.00
http://www.moodybee.com/
All natural beeswax lip balm made by a Canadian beekeeper

Brenna Lyons - Brenna is offering PDF copies of every e-book release she has in 2009 to one winner (approx $50 value) and one signed print book of choice to a second winner (approx $15 value). Shipping to US and Canada only.
http://www.brennalyons.com/
“Brenna writes milieu-heavy dark fantasy, science fiction and horror books, straight genre through erotic romance; all winners of Brenna’s materials should be age 18 or over.”
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to Brenna’s site and pick any book you would like to read, then come back here and post a LINK to that book. Only one book choice is necessary.

The Blue Raven Tea Co. - 3 each $20.00 gift certificates to their online store, three winners. Shipping to the US and Canada.
http://blueraventea.com
Let us delight you with our irresistible and fragrant teas. Every cup is a journey.

Crater Lake Company - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store.
http://www.craterlakecompany.com
Crater Lake Company specializes in providing all the luxurious necessities to transform the bathing experience into a joyful treat and soothing retreat. With a discerning eye to detail for the ingredients we use, a keen nose for unique fragrances and a finger on the pulse of the market, we are pleased to present a palette of superior products in a fun and exciting way so that you can create your own work of art in your bath!

A Woman with Scents - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://awomanwithscents.com/
Scented soy candles and artisan soaps.

Bad Girlz Bath Co. - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. US shipping only.
http://badgirlzbath.com/
“We’re the Passionate bath & body company. Check us out. We’re NOT your mothers bath & body shop, We’re Lot’s more Fun!!”

Overall Beauty - A prize package including 4 mineral eye shadows colors and one blush. $50.00 value. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.overallbeauty.com/catalog/index.php?cPath=77
Offering pure natural mineral eye shadows and blushes we all can enjoy.

Kettlepot Soap - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping to US and Canada.
http://www.kettlepotsoap.com/
There’s something magical about Kettlepot Soap! Natural, handcrafted products for skin care.

Ugly Duckling Designs - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.theuglyducklingdesigns.com/
We offer richly scented, hand poured candles, tarts and primitive designs.

TarotByArwen - Consultation with professional Tarot consultant, Stephanie Arwen Lynch, president of the American Tarot Association. Valued at $50.00.
http://tarotbyarwen.com
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to Arwen’s Blog and pick your favorite post, then come back and post a LINK to that post here. Only one choice is necessary.

Destiny’s Creations - 2 each $25.00 Gift Certificates to their online store. Two winners. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.shopdestinyscreations.com/
Handmade one of a kind art jewelry with fine silver, gemstones, and artisan lampwork beads. A modern mix of Victorian and romantic jewelry.

Ginger’s Garden - A gift basket with handmade soaps and skin care worth $50.00 with your choice of fragrance. Shipping to the US only.
http://www.gingersgarden.com/
Come visit Ginger’s Garden for handmade soaps, skin and body care, gift baskets, toiletries, Zodiac Perfume blends, sculpted soap flowers and more.

Bovine Bubbles and Hogwash - 2 - $25.00 gift certificates to their online store. Two winners. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.bovinebubbles.com/
Uddlerly the best darned handmade products under the sun!

Lily Gulch Soaps - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Free shipping with this gift certificate.
http://www.lilygulchsoaps.com/
Handmade 100% natural cold process soaps, unique bath & body products and natural bath accessories.

Broken Teepee Designs - A $50.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping included with this prize.
http://www.brokenteepeedesigns.com/
Beautiful beaded jewelry made in Montana

Pampertini - $25.00 Gift Certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.pampertini.com/
We offer a variety of pampering items for you to enjoy, whether you are a shower person or love to indulge in a tub of bubbles, come by for some ONE STOP SHOPPING fun!

Delightfully Wed - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Free shipping in the US with this gift certificate.
http://www.delightfullywed.com/
Visit us for your bridal shower, wedding, baby shower, party or birthday party accessories, favors and supplies. We specialize in western-themed items and handcrafted western Christmas ornaments.

Candles and Woodcrafts - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store with free shipping in the US with this gift certificate.
http://www.candlesandwoodcrafts.com/
We provide a wide array of items from wooden soap molds and displays to wax tarts, finished woodcrafts, clocks, lighted holiday items….way to much to mention in one line so come on over and take a look!

Snowberry Creek - A gift certificate good for one Snowberry Creek Sampler box with free shipping in the US. Valued at $22.95
http://www.snowberrycreek.com/
A box full of luxurious, fragrant samples and full-sized items for your pampering pleasure!
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to the Snoweberry Creek site, find the past e-tailers page and pick any company that contributed to their box, then come back here and post a LINK to that company. Only one choice is necessary.

Chunky Butt Candle & Bath Co. - A $30.00 gift certificate to their online store.
http://www.chunkybuttcandles.com/
We specialize in wickless soy candles, soy melts, and bath and body.

Lindsay’s Candles & Stuff - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping to the US and Canada.
http://www.lindsayscandles.com/
Wonderfully pampering handcrafted candles, soaps and bath & body products.

Jojoelle - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.jojoelle.com/
Quality bath and body products available in over 400 scents!

Robed in Fantasy - 1 Custom Made Pirate Shirt Value $22.00. Worldwide shipping.
http://stores.ebay.com/Robed-In-Fantasy
Robed in Fantasy. Magical creations from the realm of imagination. We specialize in medieval reenactment/live action role play clothing, gothic inspired clothing, gowns, wedding attire and costumes. If you can imagine it, we should be able to make it. We offer custom and ready-made garments.

Sidhe Na Daire - One set of custom-made costume horns or cat ears. Valued at $15.00. US shipping only.
http://www.sidhenadaire.com/promoTM.htm
Celebrate the Launch of Danielle Ackley-McPhail’s Long-Awaited novel Tomorrow’s Memories, the sequel to Yesterday’s Dreams. Also, see webpage for details on how you could win a replica Scottish Claymore.
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to the Sidhe Na Daire site, find the book page and pick any book you would like to read, then come back here and post a LINK to that book. Only one book choice is necessary.

Out Of The Box Sampler - 2 each sampler boxes to two winners. Valued at $20.00 each. Shipping to the US included in prize.
http://www.outoftheboxsampler.com/
We cater to finding you the best etailers in the business, all in ONE box.
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to the Out of the Box Sampler site, find the In the Box page and pick any company that contributed to their box, then come back here and post a LINK to that company. Only one choice is necessary.

Spa Secrets - A $30.00 certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://spasecrets.net/
Spa Secrets offers an amazing collection of luxurious bath and body, skincare, and aromatherapy products for your home spa needs.

Flying Needle Gallery - A $20.00 gift certificate to their online store. US shipping only.
http://flyingneedlegallery.com/
Gifts for the Body & Home

Designing-Diva Boutique - A $25.00 gift certificate for their online store. Worldwide shipping
http://www.designing-diva.com/
Artisan handcrafted silver and fused glass jewelry and home decor adornments for mortal goddesses everywhere!

Lemming Central - 1 Sampler box. Valued at $20.00. US shipping only.
http://www.lemmingcentral.com/
Lemming Central is the place for E-tailers to promote their products, so the consumers can find them! You will find all sorts of great new bath & body products, candles, tarts and even tea! Feed your addiction!
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to the Lemming Central site, find the Sampler page and pick any company that contributed to their box, then come back here and post a LINK to that company. Only one choice is necessary.

Things That Make Scents - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Shipping to the US and Canada
http://www.thingsthatmakescents.com/
Things That Make Scents is a Jersey Shore-based candle manufacturer offering superior customer service and a diverse menu of all-natural soy wax candles and scented wax bears. With many scents available, you are sure to find a favorite! Carrying candle accessories, gift baskets, jewelry and great gift items, its your one stop shop for your gift giving needs!

Manic Trout - A $25.00 gift certificate to their online store. Worldwide shipping.
http://www.manictrout.com/
Manic Trout has a wide array of baubles and bracelets that will add a funky finesse to your next outfit.

C.A.Milson - 5 e-books of his novel, The Chosen. 5 winners. Valued at $30.00
http://authorcamilson.blogspot.com/
*** For an additional contest entry to win go to Chris’ Blog and pick your favorite post, then come back and post a LINK to that post here. Only one choice is necessary.

The Pear Project - A $10.00 gift certificate to their online site. US shipping only.
http://www.thepearproject.com/
The Pear Project is an online boutique that brings Artisan Goods for Everyday Life from a variety of artists and craftspeople. We specialize in bags & purses, jewelry, fine art, paper goods & household items.

Labradorite Ring Featured on See Pretty Things

2008-10-26T12:32:00.005-06:00

Thanks to Kimmie Smith recently featured my labradorite ring on See Pretty Things. Kimmie and I connected socially on Twitter. Kimmie has a passion for fashion! In addition to being a contributing editor, she is also the designer of Kitten Couture which includes jewelry and clothing.

See Pretty Things covers all things that are handbags, jewelry, scarves and much more. See Pretty Things was chosen as "Best Accessory Blog 2006" by Accessorie Magazine in its December issue.

The Story That is Changing the World.......

2008-10-21T17:50:00.008-05:00

Invisible Children

Invisible Children United is an organization developed solely for the purpose of helping children in Uganda, Africa. In 2003, three young filmmakers set out to Uganda for a story not knowing how it would change their lives. What they discovered shocked and inspired them to make a difference.

Motivated by the unseen war in Northern Uganda, Invisible Children was created with a singular mission:
To use the power of stories to change lives around the world.

The children of Uganda are both the weapons and the victims. Imagine if our children (yes, your child) did not have clean water, a toilet to use, books, paper or even a pencil. This is where Invisible Children is changing lives and providing Uganda with hope through educational scholarships, mentorship and the rebuilding of secondary institutions.

Carroll High School is hosting the 2nd annual fashion show to raise money for the nonprofit group, Invisible Children. Designing-Diva has donated jewelry for the Silent Auction with a retail value of $100 for the event. Even if you can't attend, please consider making a tax deductible donation to bring hope to the children of Northern Uganda.

Fashion Show
Where: Carroll High School
(1501 W. Southlake Blvd., Southlake • TX 76092)
Date: November 9, 2008
Time: 2-5 pm
Cost: Family Tickets, $50
Adults, $20
Children, $10
Why: Fashion Show for Invisible Children, FREE food, most excellent entertainment, an amazing band and so much more......

~Randi
P.S. You can learn more how these film makers are changing the world one story at a time here....

Breast Cancer Awareness Give Away from Chic Shopper Chick

2008-10-20T22:49:00.006-05:00

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month and you would literally have to be living in a vacuum not to realize it. Every where you go , you see pink products & pink awareness ribbons with a portion of the proceeds going to breast cancer research and public awareness campaigns.

Chic Shopper Chick is doing something a little differently ....she's having a give away for a Pink Dyson vacuum.

If you've never seen a Dyson, they are amazing. My husband lovingly touches it at Costco every time we shop because he is so amazed by the engineering & design. Wonder if he would love it enough to use it after we bought it?! I shouldn't torture myself with these questions!

This contest ends at 11:59 pm CST on October 31st, 2008.

Psst! Want to Win an Every Little Counts tee.........

2008-10-20T15:48:00.006-05:00

Jessica at Funky Finds is having another fabulous give away. This week, you have the chance to win a Romance Romance Romance tee from Every Little Counts' tee collection. Having won twice already, I wonder if I'm pushing my luck really wishing to win this one too.....aah...a girl can dream!

What you need to know: Giveaway ends at Midnight CST October 23 so click on over to Funky Finds to learn how you can win a tee from Every Little Counts.

Monday Musings

2008-10-20T13:49:00.004-05:00

Monday is always a crazy day for me because I need to play catch up from weekend orders. I'm happy to say that I got everything I needed to do and have time to spare before I need to pick up the kids from school. Woot!

Anything is possible if you have enough nerve.---J.K. Rowling

Inspired by this quote today, I have created two pitches to some very competitive catalog and magazines. I have my toes and fingers crossed that I make it past the submission desk!

Here are the jewelry designs that I submitted for consideration:

9 to 5, Hammered Sterling Earrings

Sparkling Quartz & Onyx Earrings

Riveted Pink Jade Bead Ring (adjustable)

One of A Kind Fused Glass Pendants

2008-10-18T00:01:00.000-05:00

I have to admit I love experimenting. Guess it all goes back to my geeky clinical scientist days! Warm glass is such a rewarding medium......check out just a few of my one of a kind experiments! I like experimenting with color and shape to create unique designs; chocolate and pastel pink triangles are tack fused together and accented with aqua, pink and clear bits of leftover glass. What a cool funky look.....
This next design is bit more sleek and chic. Hey, I'm a poet and didn't even know it. Did I just say that.....I can hear your groans, ya know! ;-) Vanilla art glass is the base and pink and black streaker glass are added in different directions to add interest. A sterling plated bail has been adhered with an industrial adhesive (with the design above and below).
Aqua blue and irridized clear glass come together beautifully in this next design. A sterling jump ring will allow you to wear it on any necklace/cord you already own. Simple clean design that can be worn everyday as a signature style piece. Just love it!
All of these pendants are super affordable ($15-$20) which is awesome for a unique handcrafted jewelry design. Please check back often as I will be adding new pendant designs daily for the upcoming holidays.

Hostess Gift Idea-Azul Fused Glass Cocktail Coasters

2008-10-17T10:52:00.005-05:00

The Deckard family is already starting to receive Holiday party invites and it isn't even November yet. Eek. Will last year's dress still fit after my thyroid went "bonkers"?!! I think I just might need to support the economy and shop for a new cocktail dress!

My mother drilled hostess etiquette into me as a young adult...always bring something to show your appreciation.

What better way to show your appreciation by not leaving stains on the host's fine wood furniture with a fused glass cocktail coaster!

Who wouldn't love to receive these gorgeous azul glass coasters as a gift?

Mark Your Calendars for Upcoming Retail Shows

2008-10-16T09:56:00.003-05:00

Grab your calendar, turn to the month of November.......and mark these dates if you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area.

Sunday November 9th: 13th annual Coppell Holiday House from 10 am -430 pm
This event is held at the Coppell High School and proceeds from the event help fund Project Graduation (alcohol and drug free ).

Saturday November 22nd: 1st Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash from 3-10 pm
This event will be held at the Sons of Hermann Hall (SOHH) in Dallas. Over 40 vendors will be selling their handmade goods. Please come out and jingle -support indie business's and buy handmade!

Stop on by my booth and say hi!

October Jewelry Winner

2008-10-15T12:10:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Julia Stewart of Dallas, TX. She was this month's free jewelry drawing winner.

Get your chance to win free jewelry every month by being a confirmed newsletter subscriber....sign up to get e-mail updates from Designing-Diva today!

~Randi
P.S.
Check out all the cool handmade items you will be able to purchase at the 1st ever Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash.

Cyber Thanks & Congratulations

2008-10-15T08:31:00.004-05:00

I just wanted to personally thank all my family and friends who voted for me. Although I did not win the Spirited Woman video contest , it does not change anything! I am still a fun and spirited woman and honored to have been chosen as a finalist!

I would like to thank Nancy Mills of The Spirited Woman for hosting such an inspiring contest. It was really fun to make the video and I enjoyed watching women from around the globe show their spirit!

Congratulations to CJ, Janet and Wendy (and to all the fantastic women who showed how fun and spirited they truly are!).

Have a fabulous day,

Randi
P.S.
Are you signed up for the Diva newsletter ? If you are a confirmed subscriber, you will be automatically entered in the FREE monthly drawing on the 15th of every month.

Still time to save 20%

2008-10-13T10:13:00.004-05:00

The kids are enjoying Columbus Day. They got to sleep in and are still in their pjs eating pancakes and maple syrup.

The kids are back at school tomorrow and Fall break is officially over.

You still have time to take advantage of the Designing-Diva Fall break sale......you can save 20% on any purchase with discount code: Fallbreak20

Don't wait too long because the discount ends tomorrow at noon CST!

Fall Pumpkins

2008-10-08T10:26:00.003-05:00

In our family, we make an annual trip to the Pumpkin Patch in Flower Mound but couldn't resist taking a quick photo ( BTW ...what did I ever do before I could snap a pic with my phone) whilst scouting out paint colors at Home Depot.

I love fall and miss living in Alberta this time of year because the River Valley explodes with color as the leaves change colors.....but I don't miss the freezing winters. BRR. I get cold just thinking about it!

Hmm, all these pumpkins have got me thinking I need to whip up a spicy Pumpkin pie.

~Randi
P.S. I'm 1 of 7 semi-finalists in the Spirited Women Video Contest.Don't forget to vote for me, Randi-Sue before Oct 13th !

Vote for Randi-Sue......

2008-10-07T20:11:00.002-05:00

Ok, here's a little shameless self promotion from my alter ego the tiara crown wearing Dallas Designing-Diva. I recently entered the Spirited Woman Video Contest and would you believe I'm 1 of 7 finalists. Yeah!

Please help me win by Voting for Randi-Sue and telling your friends & family to vote to. Voting ends October 13th and the winner will be announced October 14th!

Is this exciting or what?!

~Thanks,

Randi-Sue

Take a peek at the Working Girl jewelry collection

2008-10-03T12:14:00.004-05:00

It's official I can't keep a secret when it comes to new jewelry/decor designs or collections. I am always just so excited to share what I've been doing in the studio and today I'm inviting you to take a peek at the Working Girl jewelry collection.

This collection was designed for the 9 to 5 working girl who has a professional image to maintain but still wants to express her style.
Jewelry in the Working Girl collection is contemporary, chic and classic that also does overtime by being fashionable to wear for a night out with the girls too!

The collection incorporates limited edition and original designs.....and this is just the beginning for the accessory choices for the 9 to 5 working girl! Let me know what you think by leaving a comment or dropping me a line at ARTIST at DESIGNING-DIVA dot COM.

If you live in the DFW metroplex, you can see the collection at the CCE Craft Fair and Gift Market tomorrow from 10 am-4pm. I will be a vendor in the gym and would love to share the latest works from the studio.

Have a fabulous weekend!

~Randi
P.S. Make sure you sign up for the Diva 411 e- newsletter that is sent out 1-2x/month because you will have a entered for a chance to win free jewelry on October 15th....and I'm thinking for October, I will have a design from the Working Girl collection as the give away!

Productive times.....

2008-10-02T09:58:00.004-05:00

The week is flying by. It is Thursday already and I am in creative mode so I can have new pretties to show off at the Craft Fair & Gift Market this Saturday.

As I type, I can hear the hum of my kiln as it is in the process of fusing a 4 piece glass coaster set. I am just loving creating small home decor items because it is an inexpensive fun and easy way to add color to any room in the house! For the decorator challenged (like me), this is really appealing.

I admit that I'm a bit of a hoarder and have a few fused glass pendants and stones that I have not taken to shows because I've grown attached to them. I made a personal goal to pick one of my favorite items per week from my "I don't want to sell stash" and create something new from it so I can let it go to a good home.

Here is the necklace, Rainbow Dream, that I created from one of my all time favorite fused glass pendants...accented with keshi pearls and round garnet beads.
I can't wait to show this necklace off at the Craft Fair & Gift Market this Saturday and hopefully let it go to a good home! ;)

Gotta go and create a few more pieces that have been percolating in my mind....

Have a fabulous day,

Randi

What? It's October 1st already......

2008-10-01T08:10:00.003-05:00

Well, I don't know about you but September just flew by and I can't believe it is October 1st already!

Many things are happening behind the scenes at Designing-Diva that will be rolled out asap. I'm looking forward to revealing the new shopping cart that has a search function for customers as well as some other really cool features. I still need a few good testers....if you're interested, please drop me an e-mail at shoppingtester AT designing-diva DOT com.

October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month . I will be donating $10/per Think Pink awareness bracelet sold plus an additional 5% on any sales from an awareness bracelet to the Susan G Komen foundation through the month of October. Since breast cancer awareness color is pink, I will also donate 10% of any jewelry items sold that use the color pink.

I've partnered with two new indie boutiques : Smashing Darling and Shopaholics TV. I do hope that you will check out my jewelry designs at these new venues plus all the other fabulous indie designers!

Through Monday October 6th (noon CST), you can save 15% off the jewelry in my Smashing Darling boutique by entering the following code: SMBsd15

If you live in the DFW metroplex, I will be a vendor in the gym at the 5th annual Cottonwood Creek Elementary Craft Fair and Gift Market this Saturday October 4th from 10am -4pm.

Have a great Wednesday!

~Randi

Shout out to Bleeding Espresso

2008-09-30T15:16:00.000-05:00

I was absolutely tickled when I got the "Google Alert" for Designing-Diva in my in-box today.

Michelle Fabio who runs the blog Bleeding Espresso, wrote a great post on 5 ways to raise awareness for Ovarian Cancer through jewelry and she picked my Shining Light pendant as one of the 5!

Thank you Michelle! I truly hope that we can make a difference by furthering research and eventually have an early detection method for Ovarian cancer so that women's lives may be saved and family tragedies averted!

Win a $500 gift certificate to Shop at Smashing Darling

2008-09-29T20:30:00.003-05:00

Smashing Darling has paired up with SheFinds for a Freebie Friday give away. You have the opportunity to win a Smashing Darling $500 shopping spree . Smashing Darling stocks a seemingly endless collection of jewelry, clothes and all kinds of accessories from independent designers (just like me!) you definitely won't see in the mall! There is quite literally something (actually, a whole lot of things for everyone).

Don't wait you only have until this Friday, Oct. 3rd.

Join me this Saturday at the CCE PTO Fall Craft Fair and Gift Market

2008-09-28T23:43:00.002-05:00

I will have a booth located in the gym at the 5th annual Cottonwood Creek Elementary PTO Fall Craft Fair & Gift Market this Saturday.

CCE
615 Minyard
Coppell, TX
(east of N. Coppell Rd between Sandy Lake and Parkway)

Saturday, October 4th

10am-4pm

The 5th grade will be selling baked goods, lunch items and raffle tickets.

Hope to see you there!

Unexpected design opportunity........

2008-09-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Well, today I have an unexpected design opportunity. ;)

The 6" square plate that I was fusing in the kiln "cracked" and slipped down the sides of the mold. Thank goodness my mold and kiln shelf are coated with kiln powder (glass release)!!

At first it made me so sad, because I really liked the design.....but now I have the chance to make it into something even better. The cool thing about glass is you can just "fuse" it again and no harm done! :)

I haven't had a fused glass oops in a while .......just reminded me I still have lots to learn about this amazing medium.

Agave Azul

2008-09-26T23:25:00.003-05:00

This month the Bunco Babes didn't have a host so we ventured out and made a public appearance at the Agave Azul: Mexican Kitchen -Tequila Bar. Check out our colorful "agave margaritas".

We all thoroughly enjoyed our meals. Presentation was fab and taste was fantastic!

If you are in the DFW area, stop on by historic downtown Carrollton and treat your taste buds to yummy drinks and food.

Got Sushi......

2008-09-25T12:47:00.004-05:00

I am so happy with the way this sushi plate turned out. I got a new ceramic mold and prepped it with kiln wash (prevents glass from sticking).

I used two layers of glass-an olive green and black Mardi Gras (frit and streamer) from Bullseye. I added three green aventurine stringers.

This plate went through 2 fusings and I used the flip and fire method for a crisp look.

This 6" square plate is colorful and would look fab as wall art too (when not in use !).

If you would like to purchase, head on over to the Dallas Designing-Diva's Etsy shop. I'm in the process of redesigning my shopping cart so it is not on the regular e-commerce site!

Check out Why Randi-Sue is a Spirited Woman

2008-09-24T22:22:00.003-05:00

Yeah, my You-tube video entry is currently on the front page of The Spirited Woman on the right hand side.

Are you ready to rock the world and have the chance to win prizes? Grab your digital cameras, flip videos, iphones, whatever...deadline is September 30th!

SPIRITED WOMAN is sponsoring its first ever video contest. Yeah! Enter your 2-minute or less video, and you'll have a chance to WIN a $100 first prize, the Spirited Woman Video Award, a one-hour astrology reading with famed astrologer Susan Miller, a $250 Emerita gift basket, and some very special prizes.

The goal of the video contest is for spirited women from all over the planet to show your "spirit to the world" and to answer the question, "Why am I a Spirited Woman?" or put another way, "Why do you feel that YOU are a Spirited Woman?"

We're looking for you to show your enthusiasm, unstoppability, zest for life, personality, sense of adventure, creativity, and to be inventive. We want you To HAVE FUN and to EXPRESS YOUR SPIRITED WOMAN SELF. All levels and ages are welcome!!

Jingle Bash-call for entries

2008-09-23T11:04:00.003-05:00

Live in the DFW? Sell handcrafted goods? Why not join me and other artists at the Etsy Dallas Jingle Bash....

Important:
- Booths are $60 each
- App Fee is an additional $10 (non-refundable)
- Deadline to apply and pay is October 3rd

Request an application by sending an e-mail to jinglebash AT yahoo DOT com .

Note: We are about full of jewelry vendors, although we are accepting apps from any handmade artists and crafters and will jury each applicant equally.

Notifications of acceptance will go out the week of October 13th!

Short on Artwork or Photography......

2008-09-19T08:00:00.000-05:00

Are your walls looking a little bare because your short on artwork or photography? Hop on over to Funky Finds and enter the September Funky Giveaway. You'll have a chance to win artwork and photography from some very talented artists starting Sept 24th-30th.

Embarqadero-Shop Local, Shop Handmade

2008-09-18T08:00:00.000-05:00

Heads up DFW! You have a new place to shop locally for handcrafted goods in NE Dallas. Colleen & Scott Goodrich recently had the grand opening for the Embarqadero.

Embarqadero
10346 Ferguson
Dallas, TX 75228
NE Corner by CVS
phone: 214-328-GIFT (4438)

I met Colleen through a Shecky's show and I'm sure glad she kept my business card. When she opened Embarqadero, I received an invitation to the Grand Opening and had the opportunity to meet with her to discuss including my work in the shop.

I was tickled to see a dichroic glass pendant "reinvented" in one of her beautiful necklace designs that she had for sale. I was having "green envy moments" when she shared some of her amazing finds in her stash that haven't made it into a completed jewelry design yet.

Her husband ,Scott, creates wood and leather crafted goods with amazing detail to workmanship.

Grab a friend and shop local handmade goods. The Embarqadero has the following hours:

Hours:
Tuesday 12-6
Wednesday 10-6
Thursday 10-6
Friday 12-6
Saturday 10-6

Plus, you can catch them at the Middlefaire in Hillsboro, TX Sept 27 & 28 and Oct 4 & 5th.

Jewelry for the Spirited Woman

2008-09-17T17:00:00.000-05:00

Want to win an original vibrantly colored fused dichroic glass pendant on a gemstone necklace (red coral, sodalite, carnelian, malachite and crystal quartz) with a handcrafted sterling silver clasp ?
Enter the Spirited Woman video contest where 3 lucky winners will get an original necklace like this from Designing-Diva plus so much more.....grab your girlfriends, your video camera and have some fun! Don't wait too long because the contest end September 30th!

Check out why I'm a Spirited Woman....

Alternative Jewelry Metals...

2008-09-17T06:04:00.001-05:00

I just received the October 2008 issue of Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist magazine and the theme for this issue is "Alternative Jewelry Metals".

There are several designs featured using palladium. Palladium (Pd) is a member of the platinum group. It is 95% pure, naturally white, hard or harder than platinum and it's hypoallergenic!

It is also a bargain if you want to work with a "white precious metal"....today platinum is over $1700/oz but palladium is just over $380/oz!!

Stainless steel was another featured metal. Stainless steel is very affordable and can be found easily by making a trip to an industrial surplus supply store to find an abundance of components. This metal is great for the designer and the customer because it doesn't rust /tarnish!

One of my favorite Etsy sellers, Timothy Adam Designs, creates the most amazing jewelry from stainless steel.

Scroll down to see this amazing Ruby Ball ring by Abrasha (18k gold, stainless steel and synthetic ruby ball). Or how about this stunning stainless steel necklace by Unzicker Design.

Of course, there are plenty of "green" designers who are using recycled alternative metals like Boris Bally who has made De-Sign brooches using recycled aluminum traffic signs!

As always, I was inspired by other artists and had a chance to connect whilst flipping through the pages of the magazine!

September's Drawing Jewelry Winner

2008-09-16T10:40:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Hil'Lesha of Newburgh, Indiana....she is this month's winner of the free jewelry drawing .

The next drawing will be held October 15th. No purchase is necessary to win. You are automatically entered by signing up for the Designing-Diva's newsletter and confirming your subscription!

Garden Fresh Pasta & more from Patty Gironda, host of Home At Last

2008-09-15T08:00:00.001-05:00

Patty Gironda is the talented host behind the Atlanta based show, Home At Last. Sharing her love for fine food and travel, Patty has enthralled viewers with her recipes and stories for over 12 years.

I had the privilege of connecting with Patty on a project to bring her vision of artful wine stoppers to life.

At the time, Home at Last was only available in the Atlanta region so I never got to see Patty in action. That's all changed now! Check out the first episode of a new season right on the web and learn how to make a delicious fresh garden pasta!

Don't forget to tell your friends about your newest friend "in the kitchen" , Patty Gironda, host of Home At Last!

Get Your Golden Ticket

2008-09-14T13:43:00.004-05:00

The Cottonwood Creek Elementary PTO is holding their 5th annual Fall Craft Fair & Gift Market on Saturday, October 4th from 10am -4pm:

Address: 615 Minyard, Coppell, TX
Admission: $2 per adult
Click on the above image then print golden ticket, put "Designing-Diva" in the vendor name for FREE admission plus I have the opportunity to get my booth fee back!

Hope to see you there!

Tricked Out Lips courtesy of My Lip Stuff and Funky Finds

2008-09-13T08:37:00.000-05:00

I was lucky last month (again!) and won a $25 gift certificate from My Lip Stuff because I had entered the FREE monthly giveaway over at Funky Finds.

My Lip Stuff offers over 400 flavors of natural lip balm and other bath and body products. My daughter and I had a blast surfing the site and choosing our favorites. In the end, we ended up with quite the stash (as pictured) because their prices are super duper reasonable (lip balms start at just $2):

Initial balm- S (strawberry flavor) ...a gift for my BFF, Sharrie ;)
Coconut Butter stick
Key Lime Pie Lip Balm...I figured there would be less calories this way!
Banana Split Lip Balm
Bubblegum Lip Balm
Sweet Mood Balm
ANIMALS ARE NOT ENTERTAINMENT special edition Charity Lip Balm
Hallowiener Lip Balm
Vanilla Ice Cream Gloss
Initial Balm C....cake flavored for daughter's teacher, Mrs C
plus a "mystery" lip balm flavor was included

We received our order quickly and got a great magnet for the fridge too. I highly recommend their products and these would be fantastic stocking stuffers! Uggh, did I just mention the Christmas holidays in September!

Brittney and I have been enjoying our new products and have been proudly showing off our "tricked out lips"!

Thanks to My Lips Stuff for sponsoring the giveaway at Funky Finds!!

Gemstone Meanings & Custom Necklace

2008-09-12T11:19:00.004-05:00

A portion of my business comes from custom requests from customers. This necklace was a request from Maria who lives in Malaysia who found Designing-Diva on the internet!

Using gemstone meanings to select the "colors", I assisted Maria to create a meaningful personalized sterling silver necklace.

Going from right to left (starting with the orange bead at the top), here are the semi-precious gemstones used...

Orange-carnelian
Yellow-citrine
White-white moonstone
Pink-rose quartz
Red-Red jasper
Black-onyx
Purple-amethyst
Violet-charoite
Blue-amazonite
Green-malachite

My girlfriend's loved the design so much that I have been flooded with birthday requests.....

Congratulations to our Blogging for Blood Cancer Winner

2008-08-22T10:45:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to Connie Tucker of Grande Prairie, TX who won 5 pairs of sterling silver earrings with a retail value of $125 in our sponsored contest , Blogging for Blood Cancer:

camouflage jasper and green crystals
fused glass sticks
serpentine and olivine jade with onyx
pink freshwater pearl and lampwork glass beads
caramel freshwater pearl and japser

August's Jewelry Drawing Winner

2008-08-16T08:37:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Lisa Jackson of Dallas, TX who is this month's jewelry drawing winner.

You can win jewelry too, just by subscribing to the Designing Diva's newsletter! Subscribe now and.....

Receive a 10% off coupon (can be used immediately)

Entered in our FREE* monthly drawing -held the 15th of every month

Invitation to Online Jewelry Trunk Shows

Preview New Designs

Learn about our daily sale at Steal My Baubles

Exclusive sale offers every month

Learn about Diva Bucks and more..

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

2008-08-15T11:40:00.004-05:00

I put my heart and soul into every piece of jewelry I make but this one is even more personal as I'm touched by my Bunco sisters' and their mom's valiant fight against Ovarian cancer.

Here is the inspiration behind the design:
The pendant was design with a teal glass base to represent the offical color of the OCRF. The circle patterned dichroic glass has two meanings: the first is the circle represents the O for ovarian and the second is each circle represents a woman who faces this disease . The clear cubic zirconium is a clear bright shining ray of light that brings hope in their time of need.

September is National Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and I've created an 2008 limited edition fused glass jewelry pendant, Shining Light, that will be available through December 15, 2008.

15% of the sale proceeds will be donated to the Ovarian Cancer Research Fund (OCRF) by December 31, 2008.

Blogging for Blood Cancer

2008-08-07T10:31:00.004-05:00

I was recently approached by Lois to help with the 1st annual "Blogging for Blood Cancer". I jumped on board and donated 5 pairs of sterling earrings with a value of $25 to be used as give-aways for this worthy cause.

Leukemia strikes close to home for me as this disease has fatally struck male members of the family on my maternal grandmother's side.

The first annual “Blogging for Blood Cancer” event will take place from August 11-18, 2008. This first time event will bring bloggers from across the United States together to raise awareness for The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and its mission to cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families.

The event is being hosted by Goodies for Mom in conjunction with the Friends of Heroes (FOH) National Light The Night Team .

If you are a blogger too, you can help too! All bloggers participating will have the opportunity to be entered to win prizes donated by event sponsors by leaving a Mr. Linky link on the Goodies for Mom post for the event. The event post will go up on August 11, 2008 at 8:00am. Even if you do not have a blog, visitors to the Goodies for Mom and Friends of Heroes blogs during the week will also have opportunities to win as they learn more about the importance of LLS’s research and patient services in the fight against blood cancer.

Pink Druzy Dream-original ring design available

2008-08-04T06:00:00.001-05:00

It seems that I have "rings" and the "color pink" on the brain.....my last design was a riveted pink jade ring. If you are drawn to the color pink, this may be the bling that gets your heart racing!
This original ring features an "organic" shaped pink cobalto calcite druzy ( can also be spelled drusy) semi-precious gemstone. I fell in love with this particular stone because the top is not flat and it's irregularity adds interest to the design IMHO!

It was a bit of a challenge to set the stone as a result and I left the bezel a bit roughed up to give it an "ancient relic" feel.

The overlapping band is hand hammered sterling sheet 1/2" wide and has three irregular "S" shapes cut out. It is available in a size 7. I don't think this one will last long.....you can buy this ring here.

I do have more pink cobalto calcite druzy so if you would like a custom ring or pendant feel free to contact me.

August Celebrations-National Girlfriend's, Sister's and Best Friend's Day

2008-07-30T08:00:00.000-05:00

Check out the newest riveted pink jade ring design that I created to honor my friends who are the family that I choose....

"I do not wish to treat friendships daintily, but with the roughest courage. When they are real, they are not glass threads or frost-work, but the solidest thing we know."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson

Did you know that there is a lot to celebrate in August?

August 1st is National Girlfriend's Day
August 3rd is Sister's Day
August 15th is Best Friend's Day

I am grateful for all my dear friends who are the "sisters" that I choose for family who have shared laughter, time and sorrow with me. Who else considers chocolate a food group to be cherished with morning coffee but the very dearest of friends?!

Join Me at the Organic Fashion Show presented by Texas Discovery Gardens

2008-07-26T08:00:00.000-05:00

Mark your calendar...
Tue, Aug 5, 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm

$20; $25 at door

Want to know more about the green fashion industry and how you can help the environment when you shop?

Enjoy an evening of fine organic fashion, entertainment, talks and an organic market at Texas Discovery Gardens! Your ticket includes complimentary hors d'oeuvres, wine and a gift bag.

Make it a friend's night out and support the Gardens at the same time!

I will have a small table of "eco friendly" jewelry using recycled and renewable resources. 15% of the proceeds will be donated to the Texas Discovery Gardens plus you will have the chance to bid on the Silent Auction item that I am donating.

You can find buy your ticket online here.......

Show Pony Show

2008-07-25T08:19:00.000-05:00

Shop Handmade, Shop Local
August 17th at the Show Pony Show

While I will not be selling my jewelry and glass art at this event, I do hope you will stop by and support other local artists including some of our very own Etsy Dallas members!

There will be a progressive craft and a limited number of goodie bags.

So, mark your calendars and tell your friends !

Thanks to Etsy Dallas & Kessler Craftsman

2008-07-24T11:23:00.003-05:00

Yeah, Larry Pile aka Kessler Craftsman, recently did a member spotlight of little ol' moi on Etsy Dallas.

Thank you for your kind words....it means so much coming from a fellow glass artisan!

Blue Talisman-an Aqua Aura Quartz pendant

2008-07-21T06:25:00.001-05:00

I was drawn to this shimmery blue crystal at the rock store the other day. It is an aqua aura crystal.

For those of you who are not familiar with this crystal it is produced by taking a natural quartz crystal and permanently bonding vaporized finely powdered pure gold.

I designed a thick sterling and fine silver girdle for the crystal and used 26 gauge to wire wrap a white freshwater button pearl and a brick shaped rainbow moonstone bead. The girdle has been "roughed up" to match the look of the "roughly faceted" crystal.

(Energies: Power, Healing, Love, Protection )

With the sterling jump ring the Blue Talisman pendant is almost 2 inches long and ~ 3/4 inches wide. This is an one of a kind pendant with complimentary aqua colored suede. Don't miss out on this one!

Jewelry for A Cause

2008-07-18T09:52:00.003-05:00

Since Designing-Diva became a reality, I have supported the Susan G Komen foundation's and breast cancer with sales from my swarovski beaded awareness bracelets. Last year, a limited edition necklace design was created to support ovarian cancer research as well.

Both of these causes are important to me not just because I am a woman but because I personally know many courageous women who are struggling with these diseases and some who have lost. I want to honor these women by helping raise funds for research.

Cynthia Brown of Gift-A-Licious has given me another opportunity to do so and I'm very excited about this venture. I will be donating jewelry for 5 gift bags for a concert that will benefit breast cancer awareness and the St. Anne Home for Mentally Challenged Women. The fundraising concert will be held on October 25th at Eastern Kentucky University and the main attraction is Dolly Parton.

Here is how my jewelry donation to the gift bag will help ...

A gift bag presented to Dolly as a thank you for performing
another will be auctioned off to benefit breast cancer awareness and the St. Anne Home for Mentally Challenged Women
one will be presented to Dolly to auction off for her Imagination Library charity
two will be used as magazine giveaways, etc (great PR for these causes to raise awareness)

You can check out current E-bay auctions like this that are making a difference right now... http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=170239952473&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=007 and http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&rd=1&item=170239952982&ssPageName=STRK:MEWA:IT&ih=007)

Not to give too much away but my 2008 limited edition jewelry designs that are in the works will be "spiritually" based for both breast and ovarian cancer. Both designs will be available for purchase next month. Make sure you are signed up for the Diva's newsletter so you don't miss out.

I encourage you to support whatever you are passion about it....no matter if it is time or pennies....it does all make a difference!

Have a fabulous weekend!
~Randi

Plushies,Softies and Toys-July Giveaway from Funky Finds

2008-07-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

Ok, I may be in my thirties but I'm still a huge fan of "stuffed" animals/characters/creatures. I never was a "doll" girl but boy did I have a stuffed animal collection.

That's why I'm just tickled that this month's give away at Funky Finds includes plushies, softies and toys for my inner child! ^-^

Check out all the cool stuff that will be given away in July!

Feel the Need to Buy Some Beads for your Stash ?

2008-07-14T11:36:00.002-05:00

^{Make plans to spend a day this summer shopping for great beads , register to win great door prizes every hour. Free admission and classes also taught throughout the weekend. See you all there.}

^9th Annual

Ft. Worth Bead Market

All the Beads you Need

July 19, 20 2008

Sat. 10-5, Sun. 10-4

Admission Free Public Welcome

Retail & Wholesale Beading Classes

BEADS AND JEWLERY

Vintage Beads, Pearls,Clasps, Swarovski, Glass, Gemstones,

Silver, Lampwork, PMC, Jewelry, Books, Fibers,

Seed Beads, Tools, Indonesian Beads & more

Will Rogers Memorial Complex,

Amon Carter Exhibit Hall

3400 Burnett Tandy Dr.

Ft. Worth, Texas 76107

Directions: Go Montgomery Street exit off I-30 take a right

to the 3rd light - turn right onto Lancaster Ave. and then turn right

into the first parking lot entrance. The building is at the end

of the parking lot on the left. BIG Horse statue in front.

www.thebeadmarket.net

I Heart Funky Finds

2008-07-14T11:12:00.005-05:00

Jessica of Funky Finds has been a huge supporter of independent crafters and artists from around the globe. Not only does she highlight artists and crafters from around the world, she has a monthly give-away too.

Behind the scenes Jessica has been one busy girl, Funky Finds has recently added Funky Town which is a place for designers to post events, specials, images and more!

And now I get the honor of being a part of The Shops at Funky Finds! If you are an artist or designer, this is a painless way to get your goods in front of the public's eye! And if you love to support indie's like me, check it out!

Destashing & Overstocks on Steal My Baubles

2008-07-09T08:00:00.000-05:00

One of my major projects this summer is overhauling my website with an updated shopping cart that has search features (for price,materials used, etc), best-seller list, just added, etc....I'm not quite ready to pull my hair out but summer isn't over yet! hee hee

My second project which is even more overdue is organizing and putting my stash/overstocks on sale. I've created many jewelry designs that I love but just didn't fit into a particular collection. I will be utilizing my blog, Steal My Baubles, to highlight these jewelry designs.

Many of the designs are one-of-a-kinds so I highly recommend checking back daily or subscribing to the feed via e-mail (you get an e-mail when there is a new post).

The "destash and overstock" items will be priced just above wholesale so I can recoup my material costs with very reasonable flat rate shipping (worldwide). You can rest assured that your jewelry purchase still comes with the Diva guarantee and will come in it's own packaging just in case it's for a gift( yes, treating yourself is allowed).

So, help this jewelry designer with her "mock up designs", "overstocks" and "stash" by checking out Steal My Baubles daily!

Fine Living,Recipes & More with Patty Gironda the host of Home At Last

2008-07-08T06:00:00.000-05:00

I recently did some custom work through my Etsy shop for Patty Gironda. She is the host of the Atlanta based show, Home At Last! . Patty was in the process of adding a line of wine corks made from turned wood with fused glass and vintage Lucite cabochons. I had the pleasure of creating fused glass cabochons for her new line. What an exciting project to work on.

Since the show is Atlanta based, we can't catch it here in the Big D but the website now has some great features including printable recipes and streaming episodes ! Yeah,yeah....now I can catch the talented Patty on my computer!

Home At Last! offers other shopping experiences for fine living like the Robust Morning Blend Coffee. Mmm. There is nothing like waking up to the smell of a fresh pot of "special" brewed coffee! I'm on the last of my Columbian that my brother-in-law brought back from his S. America trip so I will let you be checking out the special blend soon!

Make sure to check Home At Last! often for stories, streaming shows and more beautiful products from around the world and don't be shy.....tell your friends and family too!

Custom Wedding Jewelry-Pearls & Crystals

2008-07-03T06:00:00.001-05:00

The inspiration for this wedding jewelry is this fantastic printed grey and pink dress. The wedding is going to be small and casual. I wanted to create a design that would look fab with this dress but could still be worn everyday.

The colors for this jewelry were pulled from the print-grey and pink. I used irridescent grey coin pearls and two kins of crystals (pink bicone swarovski and faceted grey czech crystals). I used a fine sterling chain to separate the "pearl and crystal". It helps pop the design and doesn't overwhelm. I want the jewelry to compliment the dress NOT scream for attention.

If you are looking for custom jewelry (wedding or NOT), please feel free to contact me using the form on the website. I will work with your budget and a variety of materials to accomplish the look you desire.

Thanks to Miss Serendipitist for Reviewing Glass Rock Candy

2008-07-02T06:00:00.000-05:00

Whitney of Miss Serendipitist (find unexpected wonders) recently reviewed one of my fused glass pendants from the Glass Rock Candy collection. Thanks!

She has truly found some unexpected wonders....you will want to bookmark her blog and her finds!

Awareness Jewelry Colors & Meanings-ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome) added

2008-06-25T08:00:00.000-05:00

The awareness color meanings has been updated.

Nancy Henson was kind enough to contact and let me know that blue can be used for ME/CFS (myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome). Thanks for helping me keep this updated Nancy!

I've had the honor and privilege to NOT only create awareness bracelets but custom jewelry using the metaphysical healing properties of stones for customers the special people in their lives. It is very rewarding to hear back from customers and gift recipients on how much they enjoy and are comforted by the jewelry that I have created.
I recently had a digital mammogram and grateful when I got the "normal" result back! Designing-Diva has supported a number of women's health issues including breast and ovarian cancer. I was happy to help out Lisa Patton of Hill Country Swings when she contacted me for a silent auction donation for the Cattleman for Cancer Research event held in Bastrop, TX in October. If you live in Texas and would like to help out or attend the event, you can visit the above link for more information!

Classic Pearls-To Knot or Not ?

2008-06-24T08:47:00.006-05:00

With freshwater pearls in abundance, you will see a variety of techniques used to string them. At one time, pearls were only strung on silk but now with fine gauge silver and similar stringing materials a girl has more options for her classic look!

This is one of my favorite classic designs that I've made this past year. Blue grey coin freshwater pearls have grey czech crystals on either side and are strung on hand knotted black silk to hold the pearl and crystals in place.

If you've ever wanted a string of heirloom hand knotted pearls, check out this wonderful knotting tutorial by Fusion Beads which shows you step by step how you can create your own Jackie O inspired style!

If you are looking for hand knotted freshwater pearl necklaces for your bridal party or just because you want a classic look in your jewelry box, please contact me for custom jewelry work. I think you will be surprised at how affordable this can be done with swarovski or freshwater pearls (prices start at $50 for 16 inch sterling silver component designs).

Custom Jewelry Work: Commissioned Inspired by SG-1 Necklace

2008-06-23T06:00:00.000-05:00

I recently had the pleasure of doing custom work on a design inspired by this necklace from an episode of SG-1.

We were under a pretty tight deadline considering we had to source the stone and I had to "test" out materials for the side elbows (from wood, bone and horn).

A local lapidary, Donald of Nature's Gallery, became my hero when he custom cut a slab of lapis so I could get started on the focal point of the design.

I highly recommend his lapidary services. This custom cab was a beauty at ~2.5 inches long and an inch wide. The pyrite in the specimen made this cab shimmer in the light. Just gorgeous.

After experimenting with bone, wood and horn, I choose black horn to make the elbow joints of the design for a number of reasons. It was the color I desired, lightweight, easy to grind, drill and polish, durable enough to hold the weight of the focal design.

The birthday girl was kind enough to share a picture of herself wearing her present and I just love the way it turned out and so did she (thank goodness! ).

I was really touched that she took the time to thank me for helping her husband create a custom piece of jewelry for her.
If you are looking for custom jewelry work, contact me at ARTIST AT DESIGNING-DIVA DOT COM to discuss making your dreams a reality!

P.S.
Check out this cool music video for season 10 of the SG-1.

Check out the Fused Glass Jewelry Overstock Sale All this Week

2008-06-17T12:11:00.002-05:00

I have an overstock of glass cabochons/pendants in a few designs and will be sharing them this week on sale on my other blog, Steal My Baubles.

If you are a jewelry artist/designer and would like to use the cabochons in one of your own designs, contact me at ARTIST at DESIGNING-DIVA dot COM for bulk pricing.

Summer To Do List

2008-06-16T10:21:00.002-05:00

Summer is "spring cleaning" time for my business and especially my website.

The website is in desperate need of an "overhaul". For shopping ease, I'm looking into Zen Cart. Now, I'm fairly technical savvy and can use Dreamweaver with ease but the "php" is a whole new learning curve. If you know anyone who is a Zen Cart whiz who might be interested in "exchange services", I would love to talk to them to save on the hair pulling! :)

As a small business owner, I value my customer feedback and if there is anything you notice on the website, Designing-Diva, that is annoying or could be done better, just drop me a line!

As I overhaul and add new designs, I will be reducing prices on overstock and older items so stay tuned or better yet subscribe to the the Diva's 411 newsletter.

Recharge & Renew plus 1st Summer Sale

2008-06-06T08:39:00.003-05:00

I'm off to East Texas with my family to recharge and renew for a glorious week of camping and fishing. I'm taking my sketchbook and ready to be inspired for some new designs.

While I'm gone, take advantage of the Summer Sale......save 20% on ALL orders when you enter discount voucher code, Summer20, at check out. Shop Designing-Diva now for jewelry or art glass decor!

I will be back on the 13th and all in stock items will ship out on the 16th of June. Any items that need to be made, will be shipped by the 18th (if for some reason, I need to order in materials rest assured I will contact you immediately to alert you of the delay).

Thanks!

America's Best Lost Recipe-Waukau (Berry Pancake)

2008-05-31T10:27:00.005-05:00

OMG, my BFF shared a recipe from her new cookbook, America's Best Lost Recipes, called Waukau(berry pancakes) which is a cross between a pancake and a cobbler.

This is a great brunch recipe and with Father's Day coming up you just might want to whip this up for your family! This was so awesome-puffy and caramelized and all that yummy fresh fruit that is in season right now! :)

Waukau-Berry Pancake

Ingredients:
1 cup all purpose flour
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup milk
1 large egg
1/2 tsp vanilla extract
4 tbsps unsalted butter
2 cups fresh berries (any combo of rasperberries,
blueberries,blackberries or sliced strawberries)
3/4 cup sugar

1. Adjust an oven rack to the lower middle portion and preheat oven to 375.
2. Whisk flour and salt in a medium bowl.
3. In a small bowl, whisk the milk, egg and vanilla.
4. Make a well in the flour/salt mixture and add the milk mixture.
Whisk until combined (there may a few lumps).
5. Melt butter in a 12 inch OVEN PROOF skillet. Pour batter into
center of skillet and let it level.
6. Add your berries in the middle of the batter ensuring an ~ 1 inch
border around the edges.
7. Sprinkle sugar on the berries and avoid the 1 inch border around the edges.
8. Bake until the edges are puffed and deep golden brown (~ 50-60 minutes).
9. Transfer to a serving plate and serve hot.

Reversible Blue Banded Agate Sterling Pendant

2008-05-29T23:00:00.004-05:00

The May 2008 Lapidary Journal Jewelry Artist magazine had an amazing Kentucky agate that I was just drooling over (see current cover to the right)....when I quickly flipped the page to read the artist's design notes, I had a "lightbulb" moment.

John Leeds demonstrated how you can use jump rings tacked to a bezel for an open back. While he used "half" jump rings and an actual bezel, I was inspired to use the jump ring idea. I created large jump rings from round sterling wire and soldered them together using the outer edges of the slice as my guide.

I didn't use a bezel but created "prong settings" with round sterling silver wire so that my slice can be worn either way....yep, it is reversible.

With the "prongs" you see the banding more and the open back lets light through this fairly thin slice (4mm).

The bail was created from fine silver bezel wire that was wrapped around a tear shaped mandrel several times.

I just love the way it turned out!

Blue Volcano-Original Sterling Pendant

2008-05-28T22:58:00.002-05:00

This original sterling silver pendant was created with a blue star sapphire that has really nice rays.

My husband, John, picked this six-rayed blue star after scouring the wholesale section at the recent Gem Show in Dallas. This is a "belated" Mother's Day gift for his mom as I've been way busy with shows and orders. The stone is a fitting choice since she has 6 kids (one for each ray).

The backplate of the pendant of was hand stamped and aged with liver of sulfur.I was going for something that looks mythical from an era past.

This precious little pendant will be mailed to her tomorrow. I sure hope she likes it. :)

Free Family Event this Sunday at Fair Park in Dallas-Cultural Day in the Gardens

2008-05-28T22:20:00.004-05:00

Texas Discovery Gardens at Fair Park is hosting a FREE family event this Sunday, June 1st from 1-6pm at Fair Park in Dallas.

Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the free performances all afternoon. Check out crafts and booths from a variety of cultures.

I will be hosting a small table at this event with 15% of the proceeds benefiting the Texas Discovery Gardens.

Hope to see you there!

May's Free Jewelry Winners

2008-05-27T08:30:00.003-05:00

This month, Designing-Diva drew two winners for the free monthly jewelry drawing:

Sara of Wylie, Texas
Sarah Wilson of Dallas, Texas

Congratulations ladies. Your free jewelry will be mailed out today.

Sign up for the jewelry newsletter because the next drawing will be on June 15th! NO purchase necessary....just be an ACTIVE newsletter subscriber ! :)

Etsy Dallas Hearts Oak Cliff People

2008-05-23T09:08:00.004-05:00

The indie crafty loving is still rocking from the Etsy Dallas Beer-B-Q held this past Sunday at Larry Pile's, Kessler Craftsman, home, yard and studio with a lovely write up by Oak Cliff People.

Go ahead and read the article titled, Artistic Community Puts Its Talents On Display
Etsy Dallas hosts neighborly trunk show to display residents’ and craftsmans’ creative side

Speaking of Art , the 500 INC is putting on Art Fest this weekend at Fair Park (previously the venue has been in Addison) and once again the talented Mr Larry Pile,Kessler Craftsman, will be showing off his work so don't forget your pocket book! Here is a link to a list of all the artists who will be showcasing their talents!

May Funky Finds Give-Away

2008-05-21T10:19:00.002-05:00

Coming soon: May 25-31st

Bookmark Funky Finds if you haven't already because May's Giveaway includes Games, Scrapbooking , Sewing and more!

Last month, I won uber cool prints from the Plywerk Guys that are hanging in my studio. It might just be you that is picked to be a WINNER this month!

Etsy Dallas Beer-B-Q written up by Kera

2008-05-20T08:06:00.003-05:00

Yeah. More PR for Etsy Dallas and the awesome Beer-B-Q we put on this past Sunday!

Etsy Dallas' First Beer-B-Q had a nice little write up on the Kera Blog. Lydia Regalado got a great shot of several people having fun at the Make & Take table at the event.

Thanks for coming on out and giving Etsy Dallas a shout out in the Arts & Culture section!

Etsy Dallas Beer-B-Q-Awesome Tunes, Food & Shopping Galore

2008-05-19T10:57:00.004-05:00

Etsy Dallas put on a rockin' Beer-B-Q with delish food & drinks by grillman extraordinaire Dylan Dowdy, tunes by DJ Modchap and Garrett Heinrichs band, plus who can forget the rice tricks by Magic the Magician.

With almost 30 of the Etsy Dallas members scattered throughout our host and leadership team member, Larry's (Kessler Craftsman) house, yard and studio. Thanks to James of One up Designs who created reusable vinyl signs to help everyone find the event.

The 25 goodie bags we made up were gone in very short order and were loaded with tons of cool handmade products from members and gracious donations from The House of Dang! and Armhole .

We had enough donations to do NOT one but 4 FREE raffle giveaways which was a huge hit with the folks that stopped on by to check us out and hang out and listen to some tunes!

The Make and Take It table was headed up by the Crafy Diva, Carrie of Atom In ,was a huge hit with kids and adults and it was great to see all the cool things that people made.

Thanks to all the volunteers who helped with load-in, set up and clean-up including a shout out to Constanza of Knit Sisters and Abby of Pulp Reality!

The whole leadership team did a fabulous job and should receive a huge kudos for all their time and effort to make this such an amazing event:

Brenda of B.Liscious
Carrie of Atom In - the Make-n-Take booth diva!
Larry of Kessler Craftsman
Mandi of Scribble Scrabble
Pam of Pamela Michelle
Randi of Designing Diva
Stephanie of Tefi Designs

Plus all the Etsy Dallas members who showed up with their amazing wares:

Alicia Colina-Ashby - cigar box home goods
Bending Light Studio - photography, prints
ebraunnagel - bags, purses
Freeforged - fine metal jewelry
HipHazel - ceramicware
Honeydew Baby - hair bows, kids' clothes
HOUNDMADE - dog accessories
Karma Crochet - crocheted housewares, blankets
Kathy D. Keith - photo cards, art, and more
Little Cookie - kanzashi hair accessories, plushies, bags
Memopause - notebook necklaces
Miamaria - purses, aprons
Modest Ambition - crocheted clothes and accessories
Sadie's Things - antiqued brass jewelry
SugarLoveHoney - blankets, tutus, baby clothes
The Carpenter Collection - beaded jewelry
The Plaid Mushroom - Lip balms & key chains
TP Design - paintings, home décor, cards
XY Factory - baby goods, maternity clothes

Little Sunshine Plate & Etsy Dallas Beer-B-Q Reminder

2008-05-16T11:30:00.003-05:00

I just created a little bit of sunshine with this happy yellow small decorative dish. Of course, I just had to do something to jazz it up so added little streaks of black for interest on the four corners.

I will have a few decorative fused glass home decor items & accents plus a limited line of jewelry at the Etsy Dallas Beer B-B-Q this Sunday.

Where: 1027 N. Windomere, Dallas 75208 CLICK HERE FOR A MAP
When: Sunday, May 18th
Time: 11am-5pm
Music by: DJ Modchap and the Garrett Heinrichs Band

If you are in the Oak Cliff area, make sure you stop by early while we still have beer and food plus you will get a chance to snag one of our goodie bags and enter the raffle! And hey, it's all FREE so you can spend more on your purchased directly from Dallas indie artists like me! :)

Pumpkin Art Glass Dish

2008-05-14T11:14:00.004-05:00

I swear I need to go buy a lottery ticket today. I just won another drawing. This time it was for five glass sheets from my local glass store, Art Glass Decor.

I created a small accent dish which is great for candles, soaps , condiments or jewelry from this gorgeous light pumpkin striker glass and added little licorice streaks in the corner for interest.

I may be putting this one in the raffle for the upcoming Etsy Dallas Beer-B-Q that is this Sunday. I'm really drawn to this color so not sure if it or another decorative plate will make it into the raffle bag!

Belated Thanks to Funky Finds & Plywerk Guys

2008-05-14T11:07:00.005-05:00

I recently won a home decor item from Funky Finds monthly giveaway. Yeah.

My photo does not do these flower prints from the Plywerk Guys justice!

I am a huge orchid fan and these prints are hanging in my studio and make me smile every time I look at them!

Glass Rock Candy collection a huge hit at Shecky's GNO in Dallas

2008-05-08T08:58:00.004-05:00

The Glass Rock Candy Collection that I revealed to the general public was a hit at the Shecky's GNO event in Dallas on Tuesday.

Phew. It is always so nerve wracking putting so much energy into creating a collection and then having to wait on the public's reaction!

I got to share my passion for creating fused glass & metal smithed jewelry that lets your personality shine through! Plus, I got to chat with a lot of people and talk about the private trunk shows and make it (fused glass parties) that I do in the area.

So, thank you Dallas for such a warm reception!

Tomorrow, I will be in Houston for the SOLD OUT Shecky's GNO event. I am really excited as this is the first Shecky's event in the city.

It is always fun to road trip and do a new venue and meet new customers.

The collection will be available to the general public by the end of May ( if you are signed up for the Diva's newsletter you would have already had a sneak preview! ).

Join Me at Shecky's Girl Night Out in Dallas & Houston

2008-05-04T14:49:00.004-05:00

Join me at Shecky's Girls Night Out this week!

I'll be at the Dallas event May 6th and Houston event May 9th.

The new fused glass jewelry collection, Glass Rock Candy, will be revealed to the general public (at last!).

Hope to see you there!

Gemstone shopping anyone?

2008-05-01T22:32:00.002-05:00

Woohoo.....it's back the International Gem & Jewelry Show runs May 2-4 at Dallas Market Hall (Main Hall)!

2200 Stemmons Freeway
Dallas, TX 75207

Hours: Fri. 12pm-6pm
Sat. 10am-6pm
Sun. 11am-5pm

I'm looking for some unique gemstone cabs for pendants and rings....hopefully, I can find more druzy, labradorite, larimar, moonstone, etc.......it's like being a kid in a candy store only a lot more money exchanges hands! hee hee

I'm an April Giveaway Winner at Funky Finds

2008-05-01T22:19:00.005-05:00

WOOHOO....this month I was chosen as one of Funky Finds winners for the April Funky Giveaway!

April's theme for the giveaway was home decor & housewares. I was lucky enough to win 2 Floral Plywerk Framed Pieces from the Plywerk Guys!

Stay tuned and I will post a picture of my new wall art! :)

Shout out for TP Design

2008-04-30T10:43:00.003-05:00

I just had to give a fellow Etsy Dallas Street Team member, Tamara of TP Design, a shout out for creating such a wonderful new graphic design to promote my new Glass Rock Candy Collection that will be unveiled at Shecky's Girls Night Out in Dallas on May 6th and Houston on May 9th. Hope to see you and your BFF's there....

Can't make it to the Dallas or Houston event? Make sure you sign up for the Diva's e-mail newsletter to get your sneak peak at the collection, be entered in the Diva's FREE monthly jewelry drawing (yep, that's right it is GRATIS which means NO purchase necessary), and of course subscriber only specials delivered right to your inbox!

Buy Fused Art Glass by the Designing- Diva at Auntie's Beads May Trunk Show

2008-04-30T07:34:00.003-05:00

I am so excited....yesterday I dropped off 5 different fused glass art bead & cabochon designs for the May 2008 online Trunk Show at Auntie's Beads.

Check it out!

Free Mother's Day Countdown

2008-04-28T19:58:00.004-05:00

Get your free images to be used for Mother's Day cards , collage or mixed media projects by stopping by daily starting May 1st at the Free Mother's Day Countdown.

The pink tulip will be the 1st downloadable image without the number of course! :)

Bookmark the site and remember to visit May 1st to get your free images and countdown to Mother's Day!

25% off Retirement Beads

2008-04-28T08:12:00.003-05:00

Do you create jewelry too? Is your bead & finding stash getting a little low? Why not check out Auntie's Beads Retirement Beads that are now 25% off. I love Swarovski crystals and they have a few colors that I need so I get a price break....yeah! :)

Auntie's Beads is one of my favorite local places to get supplies. Plus, there is free shipping within the US ( no min. order required!).

I'm Famous....well Wickedly Chic Reader of the Week famous!!

2008-04-27T11:15:00.002-05:00

I'm a Reader of the Week at Wickedly Chic this week and got to mention some of my favorite online and off shopping sites in the N. Texas area.

Thanks to Liz for letting me share!

Fused Glass Design Notes-Tack vs Full Fuse

2008-04-26T21:40:00.000-05:00

Glass is a versatile medium and once you become "one" with the glass ("May the Force" be with you & all that jazz) and your kiln, you can do some amazing things.

I have been experimenting with drawing on glass using glass paste and a syringe. I create my glass paste using CMC, glass powder and distilled water.

If I tack fuse, the drawing has more of a 3D effect/embossed effect (as seen on the left). If I increase the temperature, the drawing actually melts into the glass it is sitting on so if you run your finger over the piece it is smooth (as seen on the right).

Believe it or not, these two tiles were cut the same size but the one on the right has shrunk and has more rounded edges. If I had held the one on the right longer at the full fuse temperature, I could have actually made the square tile into a circular shape.

I'm perfecting my writing & drawing skills in glass using various size needle tips on glass so that I can add some really fun fused glass pendants and art glass decor items including magnet sets because we all need art for the fridge! So, check back often or better yet sign up for the newsletter so you get in on the FREE jewelry drawing every month (next one is May 15th) and get notices of new designs and sales before the general public!

Congratulations to Kessler Craftsman

2008-04-26T20:34:00.002-05:00

A little birdie told me that one of our very own Etsy Dallas members, Larry Pile aka Kessler Craftsman, got a write up in the Oak Cliff News entitled, Artisan Creates Vibrant Visions.

Congratulation to Larry and his art!

Hair Accessory Junky-Get your Fix At Fiddleheads by Tefi

2008-04-24T08:45:00.005-05:00

I admit that I'm a hair accessory junkie! I love to wear my longer hair up especially in the Texas summer heat. I was absolutely tickled to find these cheeky felted olive wooden hair accessories. Now, if I only had a martini ....but gosh darn it it is only 9am in the morning!

My little girlie side could not resist the super cute pink and black kitty fabric button ponytail hair accessory. Now, I just have to hide it from my daughter as she is a cat fanatic!

Now, don't be jealous....you can get your fix of super cute and cheeky hair accessories from one of Etsy Dallas's super fab crafty girls shop, Fiddleheads by Tefi.

New Art Glass Decor Design: Fused Glass Business Card Holder

2008-04-23T09:06:00.008-05:00

I've just added a new fused glass business card holder design that I hope you'll love! I've created my own mold using Kaiser Lee Board so this is a Diva Art Glass Original!

It is ~ 3 3/4 x 4 3/4 inches and can be made in a variety of colors and options (more than one color and frit decoration).

As each is business card holder is cut by hand, please allow for slight variations in the glass when it slumps.

I used Bullseye 90 COE Streakies Royal Purple, Powder Blue Opal to create the design shown. My husband loved it so much he snagged it for the office!

The introductory price (through the end of May) will be $16.50+ shipping/handling. After June 1st, the price will be $19.95 .

Please allow up to 2 weeks for your order to be filled in case your glass color choice has to be ordered. In most cases, your item will be shipped within 3 business days of your order. Contact me if you have any questions prior to ordering.

Etsy Dallas Treasury by Memopause

2008-04-23T08:30:00.005-05:00

Yeah, one of our Etsy Dallas Street Team members, Memopause, managed to snag an Etsy Treasury today and I'm included too! Happy Day!

Make sure you check it out and visit all the great & talented crafty Etsy Dallas members highlighted and leave your comments too!

If the Etsy Treasury has expired, you can always click through the links below to see the crafty talent that was highlighted:

Fiddleheads by Tefi has a really cool felted hair clip

Sur Le Mer Japanese Lamp by KesslerCraftsman
An etched wood necklace by Pamela Michelle
Vintage Romance Earrings by Ashley Hope
A reversible pillow by Ebraunnagel
Blue print by Bliscious Photography
Honey Pots lip glaze by Moons Harvest
Pink Vertigo Beaded Pen by Scribbles
Swirly Tail Copper Kitty Earrings by Rustique Art
Newspaper Inspired Fused Glass Cabochons by moi, Dallas Designing Diva
Three Green Dot Collar by Houndmade
Striped Sock Monster by Poisoned Creations

Oak Cliff Earth Day 2008 recap

2008-04-21T11:47:00.003-05:00

A little windy but warm day and the Oak Cliff Earth Day was a huge success yesterday. Had the pleasure of meeting new artists and hanging out with some of the Etsy Dallas Street team:

Brenda - B.Liscious
Christy - Julep 115
Kim & Jacky - Texas Tarts
Mandi - Scribbles Beaded Pens
Pam - Pamela Michelle
Stephanie - Tefi Designs
Tamara - TP Design
Tara - Tara to the T

I loved where the artists got to setup. It was very cozy and so great to be outdoors. Met lots of people in the community and got to hand out fliers and get the word out for the May 18th Etsy Dallas Beer-B-Q!

I'm bummed because my camera lost it's charge and I never got to take pics of the other Etsy Dallas team members & their products . : ( I was electronically challenged!!!

Now, I'm back to work in the jewelry studio furiously cutting, fusing and grinding glass to get the new Spring-Summer "Glass Rock Candy" collection ready for the Shecky's GNO Dallas & Houston shows. I still have a few FREE general admission tickets to giveaway for these events. Contact me if you would like one (please note that these do NOT include the deluxe Shecky's goodie bag).

Limited Edition Jewelry Design for Mothers Day

2008-04-18T12:43:00.002-05:00

JUST ADDED-"I Heart"
A Limited Edition Fused Glass Jewelry Set for Mother's Day
(you get to customize the bail & necklace)

TGIF & Trunk Show Reminders

2008-04-18T09:30:00.002-05:00

Phew. Another busy week in the jewelry studio filling retail and wholesale orders..... aka the Mother's Day rush! :)

Just a reminder of the upcoming trunk shows I have over the next month. I'm really excited about showing off my new Spring/Summer collection, "Glass Rock Candy" at Shecky's ; it will be a great way to get feedback about the direction I need to go with my collections. I will continue to do original and limited edition styles because that is where my true passion is....in the details!

Oak Cliff Earth Day 2008 this Sunday at historical Oak Cliff Park

Shecky's GNO in Dallas on May 6th ( contact me at artist AT Designing-Diva DOT com for free general admission tickets for this or the Houston event....I only have a few left!)

Shecky's GNO in Houston on May 9th

Etsy Dallas Beer-B-Q Extravaganza on May 18th

April's Winner Gets this Fused Glass Jewelry

2008-04-17T09:31:00.003-05:00

Here is a picture of what Genette the free monthly drawing jewelry winner will be receiving in the mail--an aqua fused glass pendant with a sterling dangle on an oversized (10mm) jump ring.
Hope Genette likes it! :)

Oak Cliff Earth Day this Saturday

2008-04-17T09:21:00.001-05:00

Put those recyclables down, hop on the DART rail, and mosey on over to the 2nd annual Oak Cliff Earth Day Festival at the beautiful and scenic Lake Cliff Park. Learn about composting, get gardening tips, check out the latest hybrids, enjoy food and family fun...OH! And why not stop by the crafty booths of these Etsy Dallas members:

Brenda - B.Liscious
Christy - Julep 115
Kim & Jacky - Texas Tarts
Mandi - Scribbles Beaded Pens
Pam - Pamela Michelle
Randi - Designing Diva
Stephanie - Tefi Designs
Tara - Tara to the T

When: Sunday, April 20th
Time: 11am - 5pm
Where: Lake Cliff Park
Parking: at Methodist Hospital, 2 blocks away
Map: www.oakcliffearthday.com/where.html
More Info: http://www.oakcliffearthday.com/

original post by Stephanie/tefi designs

Dichroic Jewelry donated to help launch Poetical Justice & Commuter Chronicles

2008-04-16T23:53:00.004-05:00

Recently, Samayah Woods contacted me to help sponsor the launch of two new sites for a May event.
One is Poetical Justice, a social networking site built to aid Artist, Models, Musicians, Designers, and other Entrepreneurs in self promotion to a wide and cosmopolitan audience. The other is Commuter Chronicles a community blogging site where you can share your photos, videos and just vent about your daily commute and travel experiences.

The social networking site looks great and really appealed to my artistic entrepreneur and while I don't commute ....I do remember having to in my previous life as a geeky clinical scientist! I donated promotional items and two dichroic fused glass window pendants and hope the event is a huge success!

Meet another Jewelry Studio helper....

2008-04-16T23:40:00.004-05:00

Here is another jewelry studio helper, our Weimaraner, Tina...but hey wait....why is she sleeping? It's hard work supervising all the flurry with a new Spring/Summer collection and 4 shows in the next 3 weeks!

Blake's Fused Glass Experiment

2008-04-16T14:58:00.002-05:00

Earlier in the week, Blake ran a fused glass experiment in the kiln.....what an amazing artist!

April Winner-Free Monthly Jewelry Drawing

2008-04-16T09:11:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Genette Anderson all the way on the west coast in California who won a fused glass pendant in this month's FREE jewelry drawing. *

The FREE jewelry drawing is held every month on the 15th. NO purchase is necessary to win. You must be a CONFIRMED Designing-Diva newsletter subscriber.

Shecky's Girls Night Out-Dallas & Houston

2008-04-14T00:06:00.002-05:00

The Designing-Diva will be at the Shecky's GNO two events in TX.

Dallas-May 6th

Houston-May 9th

Click on the Shecky's Logo to get your tickets & a FAB goodie bag!

I will be showing off my NEW collection at these two events.
Can't make it ? Make sure you SIGN UP and CONFIRM your Diva 411 newsletter subscription if you haven't already! My newsletter subscribers will get a SNEAK PEEK and a SPECIAL OFFER right before these events!

OH NO, Lions in the Jewelry Studio

2008-04-13T23:42:00.005-05:00

Tomorrow is a Weather Day for the kiddos so their bedtime got a wee bit extended....Woohoo, it was party time in the jewelry studio. Hey, who invited the LIONS???? The kids know they MUST wear shoes/slippers in the studio because of scrap metal and glass that migrate to the floor!!!

These darling slippers belong to our youngest, Sir Blake, who loves to make fused glass experiments when there is room on the kiln shelf. As you can tell he is a little ham who loves to "show off" for the camera! There is a reason we also call him Monkey Boy! :)

His fused glass experiment is with aqua turquoise colored glass, a dark blue dichroic cabochon and some green glass dots he found in my scrap shoe box (aka experiments that didn't turn out quite the way I thought they would!) I'm doing a large run of dichroic window art glass pendants for a custom order.
I can GUARANTEE you that he will wake me up at 7am if NOT earlier to see if we can open up the kiln yet to peek at the design. Glass has to cool slowly and the kiln should not be opened up until it comes to room temperature or you run the risk of thermal shocking the glass (cracks happen!).
I will post a picture tomorrow of his experiment after it comes out of the kiln.

WilsonFest-Silent Auction & Class Basket

2008-04-13T23:32:00.002-05:00

The wonderful thing about being an artistic entrepreneur is that I can set my own hours and be FLEXIBLE. This past week, I helped with my daughter's class basket for the WilsonFest Silent Auction. We put together a DINNER ANGEL-open in case of a DINNER EMERGENCY- and filled it with local dining gift and entertainment cards. Brittney liked it so much she wanted to use her own money to bid on it at the Silent Auction that was held yesterday. She was so torn between bidding at the Silent Auction and buying raffle tickets for the Wilson Ranger Posse (Dads Club) because they had an American Girl Doll. Tough choices.......

Miss Brittney and the Silent Auction Dinner Angel Basket for her 3rd grade class

Dichroic Window Pendants-Fused Art Glass Jewelry

2008-04-13T14:05:00.006-05:00

One of my favorite pendants is the whimsical window fused art glass pendants. Each one ends up being unique and there are infinite ways to incorporate color and texture.

I find working with glass magical. Just look at the setup to create a window art glass pendant. Not very inspiring......until....

....it comes out of the kiln fully fused and annealed. The dichroic glass is just amazing one it fuses. Dichroic glass is a NASA technology where metal oxides are put on glass.Depending which way you turn the glass you will capture different colors as a result of the process of creating dichroic glass (dichro literally means two colors).

Georgia O' Keeffe just says it so eloquently.....it is exactly what my inner artistic voice was SHOUTING as I created these dichroic window pendants.

I found I could say things with color and shapes that I couldn't say any other way.. things I had no words for.
-Georgia O'Keeffe

Mark Your Calendar-You could win a Diva Glass Wine Stopper and so much more

2008-04-13T08:00:00.000-05:00

Jessica at Funky Finds has done it again....major giveaways from some very talented designers/crafters and artists....just like me! :) This month, I've donated a dichroic glass wine bottle stopper plus I have a SPECIAL OFFER for all Funky Finds readers!

Don't forget to mark your calendar to stop on by Funky Finds and enter to win BIG!