iKandies has a new website!

New iKandies.com website has launched!

iKandies has just released a new website!  It's still located at www.ikandies.com, only the webhost has changed.  What's new about this website?

Using Duda's Responsive Web Design, iKandies has created a website to look and react correctly on any device used to access it, whether it be a desktop, a tablet or a smartphone. Responsive web design does more than show the same content on a different sized screen. It adds functionality and removes unnecessary content based on the viewing device.

Why are we excited about the new website?  More and more people are "going mobile" by using smartphones and tablets.  Not only are they handy to carry but also easy to use.  Our responsive site makes a user's mobile website experience much easier!  



Here's a sample of how the pages may look depending on your device.    On the Smartphone view on the left, the menu is shifted to the upper right corner and content is lined up vertically to fit within the screen.

The Tablet view on the right more closely resembles the view seen when navigating the site with a desktop computer. 


Whether you choose to view the site with a desktop computer, Smartphone or Tablet, the same functionality exists for all devices.


The site is also platform friendly. This means that it is viewable on an Windows, Apple or Android device.

Try it out today.  Click on the link - iKandies Unique Custom Jewelry - to view our new website and let us know what you think!

iKandies and Glass Fusing!

iKandies tried something new over the weekend: glass fusing!  A local glass studio, Akron Glass Works, began the annual offering of glass fusing and glass blowing workshops.  At the last minute, iKandies decided to sign up for a glass fusing class, and we're glad we did!

Pistol Grip Glass Cutter

We thought glass fusing involved using a torch so we were surprised to learn the process is done in a kiln.  Layers of glass are heated to a temperature from 1100 to 1700 degrees and as the glass reaches a molten state, the pieces are fused together. Since not all glass expands or contracts at the same rate, the glass must be compatible. We learned about the coefficient of expansion - COE - or the rate at which glass expands when heated. To prevent the glass from cracking during the cool down process, he COE of the glass being used must be the same. We also learned about some new tools like running pliers - a tool used to break glass by hand along a scored line made on the glass and a pistol grip cutter which is used to score the glass before breaking it into pieces.



  

Glass pieces, copper foil and tools

Then we discussed patterns, cutting the glass and positioning it on our base piece.  We were shown how to layer the glass and add decorative features such as copper foil, glass frit (crushed glass) and glass stringers (long string like pieces of glass).

Running Pliers used to snap off scored glass

Scoring the glass wasn't hard, but cutting anything other than a simple shape was!  So we stuck with a simple design: a tree made with fall colors.



 

Positioning the glass

We chose transparent glass so that we could layer copper foil between some of the leaves and the base glass.  Then we applied glue to tack the pieces in place before firing the project in a kiln.  The kiln is a large floor model that is heated to 1480 degrees in order to fuse the glass properly.




Ready for the Kiln

We learned about glass slumping or allowing the glass to heat and then "slump" into a prepared mold while in the kiln.  The molds are made of clay or stainless steel.






The finished product!  



Beauty Beneath the Ground

When iKandies first began to bead, we stuck to glass - Czech glass, Swarovski crystals, seed beads - components that can be found at a local craft store.  But soon we became enthralled with gemstones, especially after our first trip to the annual Bead and Button Show in Milwaukee.  There we discovered vendor after vendor displaying gemstones we never dreamed existed. Each year we found something new, and 2012 was no different. Bronze Infused Purple Turquoise - now that was a sight to behold.

Gemstones are just rocks, minerals or organic material that have been cut and polished so that they may be used for ornamental purposes. They generally fall into two categories: precious gemstones like diamonds, rubies and emeralds, or semi-precious like lapis lazuli and amethyst.  Organic material such as pearls and petrified wood are often classified as a gemstone, too.

Earlier last year iKandies visited the Petrified Forest in Arizona and brought home several pieces of petrified wood from the souvenir shop. Since petrified wood is composed mostly of crystallized minerals, they closely resemble rocks.  Smaller pieces of polished petrified wood can be used in jewelry designs in place of other stones, as shown in the image to the right.


Recently, the hubby and I decided to have a new kitchen installed and when it came to selecting a counter top, we went with granite.  This meant a trip to a local granite warehouse and showroom, Mont Granite, and was that an experience! Hundreds of granite slabs from around the world were lined up and we were shown how to select the one we wanted. The colors ranged from white, greys and blacks to shades of green, pink and orange. The pink and orange combinations reminded us of the southwest, while the greens made us think of rolling hills.  On display in the showroom were examples of how granite can be used, in the kitchen, bathroom, on walls, outside by a grill, and on the floor.  Also, the company has some very artistic composites on display the showroom.  The image to the left is an artist's interpretation of mixing various sizes of petrified wood and back lighting it. The company also showed how a piece like this could be used in the home.  


Of course during our time at Mont Granite, I kept thinking of all the chips and pieces of granite that are discarded during the cutting and finishing process and how they could be used in jewelry designs.  Hopefully someone else close to the granite quarries has thought of this too, and they aren't going to waste!


No matter what your view of "rocks" may have been, we hope this blog post has shown you the beauty that is buried beneath the ground.

Get Ready for 2012 Colors!

Here at iKandies we LOVE color!  So we've consulted the Pantone color website to see what colors are in store for 2012.  We found that the color of the year is Tangerine Tango. 

This color is described on Pantone's website as a " a spirited reddish orange" which provides "the energy boost we need to recharge and move forward."

Orange has become a more popular color in fashion over the past few years, not only in clothing but also in cosmetics.  Tangerine Tango can be used as a complementary color for blue or green eyes. 

Pantone's color report for Spring 2012 includes Tangerine Tango, Solar Power, Cabaret, Bellflower, and Sodalite Blue.  These neon colors mix with the soft pastel shades of Cockatoo, Sweet Lilac, Starfish, Driftwood and Margarita.  You can see all of these colors on Pantone's website.

Pantone is known as the originator of a color system that identifies, matches and communicates colors to solve problems that often occur when producing accurate color matches.  Pantone is known world wide for their color matching system not only in the fashion industry but also in digital technology.

iKandies has been inspired by it's investigation of Pantone's color system.  While browsing a bead supplier's website recently, we found a Czech glass and seed bead mix that includes colors similar to Tangerine Tango.  The order has been placed with Auntie's Beads and we're anxiously awaiting delivery so we can begin creating our first design for spring!  

Tell us what you think of this bead mix!

iKandies- Have us Repair Your Jewelry or Design a Custom Piece for You

The designers at iKandies have had requests to repair jewelry pieces that we have not designed, and we have always been happy to do our best to transform your items back to their original condition.  These repairs have included lengthening necklaces, repairing clasps, restringing, and even redesigning older pieces.  What is involved in these kind of repairs?

First, photos are taken of your item and an inspection is made to ascertain what repairs are needed.  If replacement parts are required, we make a diligent search to find the closest duplicate to the part to be replaced. The item is careful disassembled and laid out on a jewelry mat. In most cases we use Accu-Flex 49 strand Beading Wire or Berkley Fireline braided cord to restring an item.  Sterling silver components are replaced with sterling silver parts while plated metal components are replaced with plated metal parts. Similarly, we replace crystals, glass, pearls, and metal beads with the same type of component.  

If an item is to be redesigned, we will discuss your vision for your piece and answer any questions you have about changes you would like made. 

Amonite and Potato Chip Shell Necklace

If after the initial inspection we find we are unable to repair your jewelry piece, it will be returned to you in the same condition in which it was received.

Prices will be quoted after photos and the inspection have been made and before we proceed with any repairs.  Rates are based on time and materials, and a flat $5.00 rate is added for shipping for most items. Shipping insurance may be added upon request. 

Additionally, we have created beautiful custom pieces that have been requested to match specific outfits or for special occasions. Customers who have sent us photos and asked us to recreate the piece for them are not only pleased with the results but surprised at how well we are able to duplicate the jewelry piece in the photo.

If you would like a quote for first class repairs or a custom jewelry piece designed just for you, please contact iKandies at kkrizzy@hotmail.com.

New Project Accessory Show Challenges Designers

iKandies received an email the other day from one of its suppliers, Rio Grande, and discovered this company was a supporter of the new Lifetime Channel show, Project Accessory.  In this program, 12 designers will compete by creating one-of-a-kind jewelry, bags, shoes, and other accessories.  Rio Grande not only supplies some of the tools shown on each episode but is also offering a design challenge of its own each week that coordinates with each episode in the show.   The first episode on Project Accessory challenged the designers to create an accessory for jeans and a t- shirt by using objects found in a storage unit.  Rio Grande’s take on the challenge was an Asian-inspired, industrial collage belt.  For a look at the finished product and a list of supplies and tools used to make it, click on this link. You can also signup to be notified of Rio Grande's weekly challenge and contests they'll be holding in conjunction with the TV program.

Fireline is Not Just for Fishing

In the description for the most recent necklace I posted to our Etsy site, I included the product "Fireline" in connection with the spiral stitch used to create the necklace.  If you are a fisherman, you might wonder why in the world we would use Fireline?  If you're not a fisherman, here's a little info on this wonderful product that is a plus to have in your beadbox, especially if you like to do something more elaborate than bead stringing.

Berkley Fireline is part of their "superline" family of polyethylene microfibered fishing line.  Its known for it strength and the fact that there is little stretch.  Colors such as "Crystal" and "Smoke" make the line nearly invisible not only to fish but also when woven into beaded designs.

I discovered the product several years ago when it was suggested in a project I decided to try and I haven't used anything else for my weaving and stitching projects since.  It's thin enough to thread on a needle and can be tied off and hidden anywhere in your project.  It won't break and beads won't wear it down or cause it to fray.  

Some bead supply houses have been stocking it in recent years, but you can also find it a sports shops such as Cabela's or a local bait and tackle shop. (When the girl behind the counter asked me if I knew how to use Fireline the first time I purchased a spool at my local bait shop, was she surprised when I explained I wasn't fishing but beading!)

Give it a try on you next project; you won't be disappointed!  

iKandies is blogging again!

Well, it's been a long time since I posted on iKandies Beads on the Block blog. Been working on our website and Etsy site, and boy, did they need a remake!  Our website, iKandies, has been reduced to just a few informational pages.  A sample of our jewelry designs that are for sale appear on the home page but traffic is being redirected to our Etsy site.  The iKandies site provides information about our company, our designers and our shop policies.  We also feature new designs we've added to the Etsy site. 
   Over 60 items are now available for sale on our Etsy site.  We've added newer, more descriptive photos of our designs.  We are featuring a sale at least once a month and are offering special coupons for first time buyers once they make a purchase. 

Abalone and Sterling Necklace

Fall Acrylic Necklace

Here's a sample of two of our newer listings:






We plan to add new items on a regular basis so please visit  iKandies and our Etsy shop today!

About Our Designers... Jill's Designs

Crochet Hook + Seed Beads = Bead Crochet?


Watermelon Seed Necklace

Crochet with beads?   That's right!  And Jill, one of ikandies' designers and my sister-in-law, has become an expert at it.  She picked up the technique for her "Watermelon Seed Necklace" by watching Karla Shafer of Auntie's Beads demonstrate how to add beads to wire and crochet a simple necklace.  Jill strung Swarovski crystals in greens and pinks on green artistic wire and joined several crocheted stands together to create this piece.

She also learned how to crochet seed beads into a rope-like necklace that gently spirals the length of the rope. Jill used turquoise, black and cream colored seed beads to fashion her "Twisted Turquoise" necklace, shown below:

Twisted Turquoise



Green Wave Bracelet

Jill has found "Karla Cams" on the Auntie's Beads website very helpful in learning other techniques, such as the two-row flat spiral stitch.  She used that to creative this beautiful bracelet in seed beads and crystals:

Jill looks for beads at local stores and various Internet sites but prefers to purchase her beads from Auntie's Beads or Fusion Beads.

Jill has attended the Bead and Button Show in Milwaukee and taken classes in metal working and lampworking.  Here's Jill in her "workshop" dreaming of another project...

The Earring Project

"Whimsical", "fanciful", "fun".  These were all words I heard when I wore a pair of mesh drop earrings to the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show earlier this year.  Debi and I had fun with this recent project!



They are easy to assemble but we found only one vendor who carries the mesh ear drops, Shipwreck Beads.  We sent a picture of the earrings to a local woman's boutique, A Woman's Whimsy, and were asked to send several pairs to be included in the store's merchandise. 

So began "The Earring Project".  

We selected several mesh drop finishes, the Swarovski crystals and Czech glass that we would include in each pair and began assembling.  Ten pairs later, we headed out to the store and handed over our wares.

In addition to different finishes, we also came up with two techniques in which to feature our crystals.  In the next image you'll see design #2.  The crystals are threaded on Softflex wire and woven in and out of the mesh drop.  Approximately 50 beads were used for this pair.

To see more of our Mesh Drop earrings, please visit our Etsy site: ikandies Etsy site

Our First ArtFair!

I was just showing a friend some pictures from the University in the Park ArtFair we participated in this past August, and decided to blog about this experience since it was our first artfair.

First we had to decide what pieces of jewelry to display. Then we worked on displaying them, locating a place for piece in the display, designing a tagging system for each piece, setting a fair price.. well, you get the picture.  Debi purchased two louvered bi-fold doors at garage sales and repainted them.    Debi's husband made stands for the doors to keep them from falling over.  We planned to use branches from a cherry tree randomly inserted  between the louvers of the doors to display our necklaces.

We arrived at the artfair site at 6:30am to begin setup of our table and the bi-fold doors.We draped many of our chain necklaces from our Leaf and Flower collections over the branches.  We added a small bare tree on our display table and hung smaller items - bracelets and earrings - from that.  We also had several necklace displays setup to feature a few of our unique designs.

Although the day was hot, there was an occasional breeze that caused  the necklaces to sway as they hung suspended from their respective branches.  This caught the eye of many passersby.  We gave our shoppers the opportunity to try the jewelry on and when we finally made a sale, we were thrilled!



Lovered door displays



We also took the time to walk through the artfair and visit with other vendors.  This gave us a better idea of how to improve our displays and market our jewelry.  Ideas are already percolating for our next artfair.  And believe us, there will be more!!



 

Table top displays

   

                          

Fall Flower Garden

I just posted my latest creation on our Etsy site, "Fall Flower Garden Necklace".  Debi, my sister and one of the ikandies designers, and I saw a similar necklace in a recent issue of Bead and Button Magazine. We hadn't worked much with Lucite, and the flower and leaf combination inspired us.  So we began our search for the perfect Lucite flowers.  The best selections were found on Etsy sites, where we purchased some beautiful hand dyed flowers from Groovy Chick Supplies and leaves from Silk Studio.  We made two necklaces, mine in fall colors and Debi's in purples and blues.  Mom saw Debi's necklace and fell in love with it, so Debi decided to make her a one. We made our purchases from Bellas Beads and More and JJBugs Beads.  Although Bellas Beads and More do not advertise discounts or free items, they added about 10 "free" flowers and leaves to my order.  Groovy Chick Supplies states in the Policy section of their Etsy site that they'll include a few extras in orders over 30 items and they offer to sell larger quantities at a discount.  Be sure to check all these sites if you're looking for high quality Lucite flowers and leaves in translucent and matte finishes!

iKandies' Beads On the Block Posts its First Entry!

Welcome to ikandies' first blog post on Beads on the Block!  Who is ikandies' and why was Beads on the Block created?  ikandies is a website showcasing custom designed jewelry for the discriminating customer looking for truly unique accessories.  Using jewelry components such as Swarovski crystals, pearls, Czech glass, sterling silver, copper, gunmetal, gemstones and more, we have created jewelry that is "not only visually appealing, but also unique."  Our designs include simple bead stringing, bead stitching and weaving, metal working, and wire wrapping.  We have also incorporated unique objects into some of our designs including electro plated "real" leaves, copper washers, sheet metal and watch parts. You can visit our website at ikandies or our Etsy site ikandies Etsy Shop.   We can be reached by email at kkrizzy@hotmail.com

We created this blog for two reasons:

• To help you learn more about us, projects we're working on, classes we're taking to learn new skills, new jewelry components we're experimenting with, and much more. 
• To share with you all the wonderful bead stores we've visited, where to find good bargins when buying beads and supplies, who is selling unique components, and the bead shows you don't want to miss.

Please be patient as we get the ball (or should I say "bead") rolling on this blog!