tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45939314710918423532012-01-11T09:55:16.705-08:00enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.comBlogger891100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-63686918738989753202011-11-09T12:51:00.000-08:002011-12-01T11:42:23.752-08:00

This booklet is a compilation of exchange beads submitted for SE8 – Eighth Silver Color How To and Exchange - on lampworketc forum. With 35 pages, there are over 80 beads with description. Each bead is accompanied by the recipes of glasses used and some have detailed step by step description of how the bead was made (the level of detail is based on how much information the original beadmaker

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-38966411159076722072011-11-01T13:12:00.000-07:002011-12-01T11:42:36.301-08:00

Layering Double Helix striking and reducing silver glass is all the rage right now and I have been caught up in making these shocking pink, magenta and red beads that also shimmer gloriously with iridescence. It’s hard to resist! Trouble tho is that it’s near impossible to tell them apart unless one takes meticulous notes and photograph them as soon as they come out of the kiln. Trust me, I know!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-4520580185103622692011-08-16T12:28:00.001-07:002011-08-16T12:36:02.003-07:00

Once in a while, Double Helix offers an "odd" batch of its regular production silver glass that is . . . I hate to say "better" because it really isn't . . . different. It's also probably because it's "odd" and may not be around for long. Examples are Psyche Light, Aurae Light Gold, and the latest . . . Clio Dark! Can you say LOVE?

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-6152667603520613562011-08-15T13:43:00.000-07:002011-08-15T17:37:05.642-07:00

In addition to the wonderful tinted luster test batches Double Helix had for the ISGB Gathering last month, there were its newest tinted opaques! I had a chance to play with them a bit and here are two beads made with OC472, TH473, OP470 on Opal Yellow and Pink. The top bead also has some Reichenbach 96 pink (the small dots) and the row of dots on the right of the bead is Effetre 253 (it

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-67291900132049110902011-08-03T17:33:00.000-07:002011-08-15T17:34:28.161-07:00

Top on the list of the highlights, hands down, is winning John Kobuki's marble at the Live Auction. After watching the video of its creation during his fantastic presentation - and learning that he had none for sale - I was determined to have it. My meager photography does not do its beauty justice! More highlights to come! :)

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-59588908615337463442011-07-15T14:24:00.001-07:002011-08-15T17:34:08.138-07:00

One of the most anticipated events in our silver glass world is the release of Double Helix's test batches at the annual ISGB conference, The Gathering! This year in Louisville, Kentucky, beadmakers will be in for a treat! In addition to many other test batches, Double Helix will be offering at least eight of its newest Tinted Luster silver glass. Unlike the bling of its popular reducing silver

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-60752131574874365622011-07-01T14:35:00.001-07:002011-07-01T14:35:27.234-07:00

It started with a gift from a very talented lampworker, Suzanne Noordewier (JustMade on Etsy)on her first tutorial Intricate Candy Beads. After finally having a chance to try it out, I was completely hooked. Surface decorated stringer work has never been my friend . . . until now! With Suzanne's intricate candy bead as a springboard, I have leaped into a whole new world of "fabergé-esque" ornate

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-76985333793849237382011-05-13T16:32:00.000-07:002011-05-13T16:42:13.811-07:00

Our second quarterly Murrini Favorites are available on our online store! We have two spring collections - Spring Pink and Spring Watercolor! For those who know me will know that it's Helen's favorites for I have never been a pink girl! :) Helen has been experimenting with different combinations and effects and has narrowed them down to these five after MANY tests and trials! Check them out - I

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-34370146647895707932011-05-11T15:35:00.000-07:002011-06-01T20:00:47.327-07:00

This booklet is a compilation of exchange beads submitted for SE7 – Seventh Silver Color How To and Exchange - on lampworketc forum. There are over 130 beads with description. Each bead is accompanied by the recipes of glasses used and some have detailed step by step description of how the bead was made (the level of detail is based on how much information the original beadmaker shared.)Other

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-10849313833421906392011-05-11T15:10:00.000-07:002011-06-01T20:01:30.620-07:00

This booklet is a compilation of exchange beads submitted for Reactive Twisties 2011 – Reactive Twisty Bead How To and Exchange - on lampworketc forum. There are almost 100 beads with description. Each bead is accompanied by the recipes of glasses used and some have detailed step by step description of how the bead was made (the level of detail is based on how much information the original

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-6016897643128852562011-04-20T09:41:00.000-07:002011-04-20T10:00:44.825-07:00

I am honored to be invited to participate in this PISMO Gallery's prestigious event in May. This will be the first time my work is featured at a gallery and I am both excited and intimidated to be shown alongside some amazing artists!Lampworked glass bead pendant with a crochet necklaceBig-hole Leaves series lampworked glass bead with a crochet necklaceBig-hole barrel-shape lampworked glass bead

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-36750106712954648152011-04-18T17:55:00.000-07:002011-04-18T21:49:57.926-07:00

And no, I am not talking about 3/16" / 5mm-hole beads for Pandora style bracelet or my Ginormous Capped and Cored Series which also only have 3/16" hole!It started with just 5/8". I had fun incorporating my Leaves Series using the large-hole mandrel. I put it on one of our crochet necklaces and will probably send this in for the Bead Invitational at Pismo Gallery.After making a few more,I got

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-63820802726088028472011-04-15T11:01:00.000-07:002011-04-26T12:49:32.934-07:00

If you are interested in seeing what many of the Double Helix murrinis from its February mix look like applied, I have put the following together. I apologize in advance that some of the images are slightly blurry but they should still give you a good idea. I also want to point out that I haven't extracted the full potential of many and will be playing with them more. There are some I haven't

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-640365986274693192011-04-06T17:03:00.000-07:002011-04-06T17:12:52.528-07:00

In my last post, I showed the quarter-size butterfly murrini for my paperweight along with some smaller ones for my beads. I finally had a chance to use them! Two of my Ginormous Capped and Cored series with the wee butterflies! Both made with Double Helix test batches.Many of my students and customers are always surprised when they actually see my beads in person for they are usually bigger than

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-35547231156794051832011-03-09T17:52:00.000-08:002011-04-05T18:21:17.580-07:00

It was last November at the B.A.B.E. show at the Oakland Convention Center where Toni Lutman, Pam Killingsworth, my sister and I had our tables within the same pod. The topic of taking a class with Loren Stump came up. Loren had started offering "semi-private" classes for group up to four students instead of the normal eight. For $200 more, we got to have more one-on-one with Loren, it was an

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-61796605365190000532011-01-19T12:02:00.000-08:002011-01-21T12:33:03.575-08:00

We have had requests for murrini collections with a handful of the same murrini chips for making sets, etc. Thus we are launching our murrini favorites winter 2010/11 collections! There are two collections at the moment - reducing and striking - and we are working on two regular ones that will be available shortly.$12 for each pack containing five chips of five of our favorite murrini recipes.

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-70526329581372828742010-12-01T15:47:00.000-08:002011-01-04T15:33:14.649-08:00

We are delighted to let you know that SE6 is available less than two months after SE5 is launched! SE6 is in a more manageable size at 54 pages yet it's as packed with great information on working with silver glass as its predecessors!This booklet is a compilation of exchange beads submitted for SE6 – Sixth Silver Color How To and Exchange - on lampworketc forum. There are over 130 beads with

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-16833464746896610862010-10-07T10:12:00.000-07:002010-11-23T15:16:16.175-08:00

The long-awaited SE5 is now available! At 95 pages plus cover, SE5 is our biggest e-book yet! As usual, it's packed with great information on working with silver glass and will surely inspire you to try different glass combinations and/or techniques.This booklet is a compilation of exchange beads submitted for SE5 – Fifth Silver Color How To and Exchange - on lampworketc forum. There are over 250

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-29952716425599223012010-10-01T14:45:00.000-07:002010-10-09T20:45:46.653-07:00

We are gearing up for the BABE (Bay Area Bead Extravaganza) show and a private jewelry show in November. But instead of busy producing more of my Flora and Fauna Series, or my Ginormous Capped & Cored focal beads, I have been playing with something new! To say that I am addicted to making these truly ginormous hollow beads is an understatement. ;) These beads go as large as over 40mm in diameter!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-31652655182156507592010-09-03T16:33:00.000-07:002010-09-03T16:55:31.655-07:00

Some of these will be available when Kalypso releases on Monday, 6 September, on Double Helix's site!OK-381OK381 with Double Helix murriniHE-379OX-376XX-386ES-404 "is a catalyst color. This test batch does nothing on it's own but when combined with a reduction color it strikes automatically!"OX-380For more pictures of test batches, check out my earlier post! CLICK!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-10259608615507200082010-09-01T16:00:00.000-07:002010-10-19T10:20:35.981-07:00

Double Helix Kalypso will be released on 6 September! We were lucky to have picked up some pre-release at the ISGB Gathering. Kalypso is based on the test batches KA-356. Like Ekho, it's both striking and reducing. We love the many different effects we can get with Kalypso depending on how we work the glass as well as what we use it with!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-26657221456700945822010-07-22T15:08:00.000-07:002010-07-22T15:15:58.836-07:00

When I was asked to donate a piece for the ISGB Gathering Live Auction, I decided to create my popular sterling silver asymmetical necklace. The debate was deciding between making a blue/green one or a magenta pink one. Double Helix's newest silver glass, Kalypso, won out!Introducing "Opulence"

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-80857861025273975942010-07-02T13:57:00.000-07:002010-10-19T10:21:56.327-07:00

For those of you who are attending the ISGB Gathering at Rochester, NY, end of this month, make sure you stop by the Double Helix booth as soon as Technical Vendors open at 10am on Thursday to take advantage of these amazing test batches!If you know me, you know I have a thing for "chartreuse!" To say that I am in love is an understatement.Five test batches, encased in various clear, are shown

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-44144225112560489472010-03-26T17:53:00.000-07:002010-09-01T16:09:08.918-07:00

I have always loved murrinis and used to purchase them when I first started applying them on my beads for my own was not up to standard. After many trials and errors, my own murrinis finally were acceptable. Moreover, I found the process completely addicting! I love coming up with different color combinations as well as glass reactions. I realize that I have more murrini chips than I can possibly

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-40351619062945457172010-03-16T21:33:00.000-07:002010-03-16T21:47:03.971-07:00

There is a lot of confusion as to what size mandrels and what size sterling silver tubing to get to core beads that will fit Pandora/Biagi bracelets, a very popular European jewelry that's taking American by storm! Many lampworkers, myself included, are making sterling silver cored (and sometimes capped!) beads that fit these wonderful bracelets and necklaces. Visit our Etsy store for some of our

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-45771262392717833022010-03-09T14:15:00.000-08:002010-03-09T14:25:02.157-08:00

It has been almost a year since our last blown vessel was sold on our Etsy store, and we are ready to restock! One is up right now and the rest will soon be. We love these wee hand blown vessels for they are hollow inside. Each comes with a cork so you may put in your favorite perfume or essential oil, add a chain and you have a beautiful pendant. All of our vessels contain silver glass so expect

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-90909638551429345602010-02-25T17:07:00.001-08:002010-02-26T07:37:48.631-08:00

Getting ready to head up to Arrow Springs (2.5-hour drive from San Francisco) for my Silver Glass Workshop this weekend. Since I have been delinquent in updating our blog, I would like to share some new beads before taking off.A couple of silver cored beads for Pandora bracelets - LOVE the newest Double Helix test batches!More from our Flora Series, most with our own murrinis:

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-29626535389015835522010-02-10T15:45:00.000-08:002010-02-10T15:53:12.445-08:00

Double Helix is releasing Clio on 15 February. Clio is the text batches CL-360 and CL-361. . . a silver glass that yields luscious purple, magenta and pinks!CL-360CL-361on Opal Yellow

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-78487488490278902332010-02-03T16:58:00.000-08:002010-02-03T17:10:02.410-08:00

After playing with enamel for the past three months, I am happy to say that it will remain one of my favorite materials to be used on my beads! I love to share this journey with you! Mind you, this is just a check point - there are much more to be explored and learned! Some of you may remember these first few beads:Starting out gingerly . . . only on a clear base bead, just testing out colors!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-53815507512486616892010-01-19T15:45:00.000-08:002011-02-01T15:54:28.325-08:00

Have your stash of silver glass put away not knowing what to do with them? Ever wonder what base glass to use with silver glass? Want to know what effects you should be able to get with Double Helix Aurae or Reichenbach 104 Silver Brown (as well as many others)? Love to have the tips to how to work them? SE4 is loaded with information that will help!- 80 pages plus cover- over 200 beads with

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-74840641335410207102010-01-15T12:11:00.000-08:002010-01-15T12:26:03.689-08:00

We have been busy stocking our two Etsy stores! We plan on putting a few new listings per day during the work week so check back often!These fun and shimmery earrings at our Etsy jewelry store . . .This yummy set is currently on our Etsy bead store:We couldn't decide where these ones belong so they are current on our Etsy bead store too . . . but perhaps should be on the jewelry store? lol!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-9164310236990939052010-01-14T15:03:00.000-08:002010-01-19T16:03:51.250-08:00

All made with Double Helix reducing silver glass - both regular production ones as well as test and odd batches - and encased with Aether Clear (except for two)! Most will find their way to our Etsy store within the next month.

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-57572464978204694482010-01-07T18:47:00.000-08:002010-01-07T18:52:28.131-08:00

We are happy to start the new year listing more frequently on our online stores! Some new goodies . . . Mossy Green OK-326 And last but not least, a BHB version of our Abyss Series, Akea

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-59592682644973139572010-01-07T15:17:00.000-08:002010-01-07T19:07:39.426-08:00

There have been a lot of discussion on grammar and the English language lately which prompted me to search for this email I received years ago. I wish I knew who the original author of this was so I could give proper credit to him/her.1) The bandage was wound around the wound.2) The farm was used to produce produce.3) The dump was so full that it had to refuse more refuse.4) We must polish the

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-81554840943863584172010-01-05T17:14:00.000-08:002010-10-19T10:21:17.574-07:00

To say that I am in love is to put it mildly. Just when I thought Ekho was the BESTEST silver glass ever made, Double Helix released its Aether Clear (the best clear EVER made) and along with it, a bunch of odd/test batches based on its NE323 and NE325 color shifting series.I plan on capping and coring these for our Ginormous BHBs series but ran out of 1/2" sterling silver discs! These will not

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-35974030627220206052010-01-05T17:11:00.000-08:002010-10-19T10:22:22.731-07:00

Just like their predecessor NE325, I tend to get mostly golden yellows from this CE series.CE-352 – blue/purple color shifting glass with a strong lusterCE-352G - green/pink color shifting glass with a strong luster

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-77602919412410378082010-01-05T17:09:00.001-08:002010-10-19T10:27:58.766-07:00

I find the CL series to be very similar - all gorgeous!CL-359 – blue green/pink purple color shifting glass. Strong luster can transmit ruby tones. Slowest self striking in the CL seriesCL-360 – blue gree/pink purple color shifting glass. Strong luster can transmit ruby tones. Self striking.CL-361 - blue gree/pink purple color shifting glass. Strong luster can transmit ruby tones. Fastest self

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-14807722146752282072010-01-05T16:53:00.000-08:002010-10-19T10:23:09.557-07:00

KA-356 – opaque green/pink color shifting glassReduce slightly, encased in Aether ClearReduce heavily, encased in Aether ClearStrike, reduce slightly, encased in Aether ClearKA-357 - light green/orange pink color shifting glassOne more pink and the other more orange . . . will play more to find out how to obtain each!KA-357

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-22729006392307475572009-12-21T17:39:00.000-08:002011-10-13T09:49:56.093-07:00

I wrote this reply to a question posted on the ISGB forum on how to use TE-317 shards from Double Helix, thought I would share this on my blog as well. This is just a basic intro . . . there are many other ways to play with shards that reduce, strike or both reduce and strike . . . experiment and enjoy!• Make a base bead• Pick up a piece of shard with your tweezers and wave one edge in and out of

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-36689424365728437952009-12-18T15:13:00.001-08:002009-12-18T15:28:24.384-08:00

In yesterday's post, we shared how we came about making our own line of high-quality leather jewelry. Today, we want to show you the culprits - our capped and cored beads. All of our sterling silver cored beads fit the popular European style Pandora, Biagi and Troll bracelets but this series of ginormous capped and cored focals are definitely way too big for bracelets. These are to be strung on a

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-12885281869141059132009-12-17T10:39:00.000-08:002009-12-17T11:00:40.914-08:00

We tried to purchase premium-quality interchangeable leather cord jewelry for our sterling silver cored (and capped) beads. When we couldn't find any that met our high standard, we decided the only way to offer such pieces was to make them ourselves.We researched and tried various different sterling silver end caps, clasps and leather, and finally came up with this line of double-clasp,

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-50779144442298779012009-12-16T11:44:00.001-08:002010-02-03T16:58:00.272-08:00

Now that I am a wee bit more comfortable with working with enamels . . . I decided to use them with my favorite . . . silver glass! A good friend also suggested I should try different bead shapes, thus my going back to the more elegant bicone shapes.These wonderful murrinis are by Renee Wiggins and John Rizzi.

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-81246890331716050112009-12-01T14:15:00.001-08:002009-12-01T14:17:52.531-08:00

Still having fun playing with enamels. Hope to list some that are still available next week on our Etsy store!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-87384135401037395172009-12-01T14:05:00.001-08:002009-12-01T14:15:11.449-08:00

We apologize for the long absence! November was a very busy month for us - I (Hayley) taught a silver glass workshop with the Smoky Mountain Firecrackers in Tennessee, then we had the BABE (Bay Area Bead Extravaganza) the second weekend in Oakland. That was followed immediately by a private jewelry show. Finally this coming weekend, I will be teaching another silver glass workshop at Arrow

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-77210779140798723862009-10-21T17:50:00.000-07:002009-10-21T18:11:03.823-07:00

I have wanted to play more with enamel and finally had a chance to this past weekend. These are just some test beads . . . still learning how the materials react. Now the big question: to etch or not to etch? These remind me of Japanese brush paintings! ;-)

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-77091777167022577992009-09-15T11:33:00.000-07:002009-09-15T11:36:00.799-07:00

Something simple . . .

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-59251564194501473512009-09-10T13:01:00.000-07:002009-09-10T13:06:56.047-07:00

We are offering a new series of smaller focals made with various Double Helix reducing silver glass – Ekho, Aurae, Triton, Psyche, Elektra, as well as many test and odd batches. The results are our shimmering Pearlescent Series on our Etsy store, enVisionSF. The mother-of-pearl of the beads in this series is simply breathtaking. We added special frit on some for extra sparkles and each was topped

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-32694517738435664302009-08-24T18:41:00.001-07:002010-10-19T10:23:59.038-07:00

Upon returning from the ISGB Gathering, work (graphic design) has been very busy (which is a good indication that the economy is on its upswing!) We are almost ready to re-open our Etsy store . . . with these small "treasures." We call them treasures, not because we think that they are precious, but because the combination of Ekho and Aurae - Double Helix's AMAZING silver glass – allow us to

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-22972941229091570252009-08-07T18:20:00.001-07:002009-08-10T18:17:45.485-07:00

The International Society of Glass Beadmakers Gathering is four-day conference with pre and/or post conference workshops. It is held annually at a difference venue in the United States. This year we all congregated in Miami and had a blast.For four days, we had presentations/demonstrations by some of the top lampworkers in the world, shopped in person with suppliers we had only known via online

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-73849823739549173942009-07-13T17:20:00.000-07:002009-08-08T09:04:44.843-07:00

Been busy preparing for the ISGB Gathering Conference and Bead Bazaar which will be in Miami this year. Here are something new I will be bringing!I especially love the tactile feel of these crevices between the silver glass stripes and twisties!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-85867175447353813652009-07-08T13:08:00.000-07:002010-10-19T10:24:16.989-07:00

Double Helix just announced the release official release date of its newest striking AND reducing glass, Ekho!!!! Can't you tell I am excited?!?Here is the announcement:"Ekho will be be released on July 23rd, 2009. We will have some at our booth at the ISGB Gathering in Miami, as well as on our website. Here is the official description and stock photo: 'Ekho reduces and strikes. She retains a

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-20645295257647580142009-07-02T17:49:00.000-07:002010-10-19T10:24:38.495-07:00

We can't remember the last time when we were so addicted to a new glass . . . every time we went to the torch, Ekho was calling (lol!) . . . despite concerted effort to diversify, we can't seem to be able to put this new Double Helix striking and reducing silver glass down!!!Here is one from Helen - you can't believe the range of sparkling colors she got . . . rich magentas, sapphire blues,

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-45531534126079171142009-06-26T17:07:00.000-07:002009-06-30T09:13:47.056-07:00

To say that Helen has been busy is an understatement! Most of use think that she has a rock factory going, lol! Here is the result of her "experiment" using Hadar's Metal Clay in both bronze and copper. When my friend, Aja of Wandering Spirit Designs, decided to take a one-day workshop with Hadar, she wanted to learn all about hinges. Her first project was a tile bracelet and I decided to make

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-62482554992022351852009-06-25T08:58:00.001-07:002011-10-13T09:49:21.415-07:00

It's official! TE-265, the Double Helix test batch we wrote about last month, will be released as its regular production glass under the new name Ekho! We may sound like a broken record for we wrote these words before . . . There isn't anything in the current market quite like Ekho. It both strikes and reduces - and the result is glorious iridescence in hues of the entire color spectrum! From

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-16811824799684442382009-06-15T17:32:00.000-07:002009-06-15T17:41:46.376-07:00

My good friend, Sheryll, got married last week! When I told her that I would make the handles for her cake serving set if she didn't have time, I never thought to ask how large the holes needed to be. Imagine my surprise when the beadable knife and spatula arrives and the steel rod required 3/16" mandrel . . . and the beads almost 4" long!All my 3/16" mandrels are only 12" long! At 4" long and 5/

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-52033745243736691912009-06-04T14:06:00.001-07:002009-06-04T14:10:35.715-07:00

All we can say is . . . thank you, Hadar!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-45365579949460946062009-06-03T12:12:00.000-07:002009-06-04T10:03:01.628-07:00

We would love to share with you our latest pieces using Hadar's Metal Clay in bronze (not to be confused with Rio's BronzClay which doesn't have the same wonderful working characteristics)! Hadar's clay is so easy to work with and look at the gorgeous patina we got!!!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-81866193848053840192009-06-03T11:27:00.000-07:002009-06-03T12:30:40.476-07:00

I had the amazing opportunity to submit to Thompson Enamel a few pieces of my work using Hadar's copper clay for testing by Bill Helwig. Unfortunately my inexperience with enameling created a few issues - thus only a couple pieces were of acceptable quality to be used. My failure, however, proves to be an excellent learning experience for all of us who may be interested in pursuing enameling with

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-9274542571635788292009-05-19T14:57:00.000-07:002009-05-19T15:06:17.243-07:00

One of the most challenging shapes in beadmaking for me has always been the disc. I love Karolen / Beadabundant's sets and bought a glorious Triton set from her so I may admire the perfectly formed discs in person. No matter how careful I am with the touch down of the glass, I always end up with a tiny bloop of glass sticking out on the mandrel on one side of the hole! I finally asked for help at

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-60643539156258987892009-05-18T16:49:00.000-07:002010-10-19T10:28:56.628-07:00

I have been obsessed with this test batch of Double Helix glass lately. It's the most amazing silver glass EVER, imho. There is nothing in the market quite like it. It both strikes and reduces - and the result is glorious iridescence in hues of the entire color spectrum! AND it retains the mother-of-pearl opalescence under encasement.Can't decide if we will list this on eBay or keep it for our

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-76274372927991842362009-05-18T09:08:00.001-07:002009-05-18T09:24:10.577-07:00

We have decided to start listing on eBay. Two seven-day auctions are up now, ending on Sunday 24 May. Moon Beam - our Leaves Series big-hole bead, we love the amazing mother-of-pearl effect of this Double Helix test batch. Cored with sterling silver tubing custom made to fit Pandora/Biagi style chain.Patterns - five small focals make up this pretty set of patterns and scrollwork. Vetrofond Light

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-13508104461489708262009-05-13T09:22:00.000-07:002009-06-23T17:19:32.756-07:00

The latest striking silver glass hype is all about a COE 96 glass from Gaffer in Auckland, New Zealand, called G109 Chalcedony. Of-course I had to have some! If you are used to COE 104 glass, you will find Gaffer quite a bit stiffer. The workability of the glass is more like Bullseye, which is COE 90. I only had a chance to make a few test beads and found that shaping the ends with a stiff glass

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-34692505600966035212009-05-04T15:08:00.000-07:002009-05-04T15:20:19.673-07:00

My initial anticipated release date for this e-book was late April. Unfortunately while I was gathering my notes on all the beads I wanted to feature in the e-book, I realized that on many of them, I used A LOT of glass that was not readily available. After the thread on lampworketc forum where complaints were launched against tutorial writers using "rare" glass, I have put this e-book project on

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-45363052093073915732009-04-28T16:39:00.000-07:002009-04-28T16:40:05.648-07:00

To enter, you need to be a member of lampworketc forum and have purchased my SWIRL e-book.To thank the support of all my tutorial customers, I would like to give these two beads away - both were made as examples of the gravity swirl techniques using non silver glass for my SWIRL e-book.If you have purchased SWIRL, please enter your full name (for cross referencing purposes) in the thread via the

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-79876880058235586962009-04-26T12:25:00.000-07:002009-04-26T12:46:53.189-07:00

When you turn on your kiln, it will automatically ramp up to the Set Point temperature. If you are batch annealing, this should be set to match room temperature and you will immediately pick a preset program for batch annealing and run that program (ramp up to 950 over 2 hours, etc.)If you are garage annealing, pre-pick the Program you want to run later and set your Set Point to your desired

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-51069916393668010032009-04-17T16:02:00.000-07:002011-10-13T09:50:48.124-07:00

The latest release of these two Double Helix striking silver glass are slightly different in rod form, thus earning the version name "2.1." we have been asked the differences, if any, between the two versions - 2.1 versus 2.Stephanie Bonniwell and I had the opportunity to test them and here are our observations. (For Stephanie's beautiful beads, check out her blog and her Etsy store!)Stephanie:

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-70811656231397229102009-04-15T16:23:00.000-07:002009-04-15T17:00:44.341-07:00

Lydia Muell of Ashton Jewels is one of my favorite and most admired lampworkers. She has five lampworking tutorials and I own all of them! (The latest one, The Painted Rose Bead, was gifted to me by my good friend, Stephanie Bonniwell, another one of my favorite lampworkers!) I loved the ease of purchasing her four tutorials and was directed immediately to an instant download page after my

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-228731982861391122009-04-14T10:04:00.001-07:002011-03-26T17:59:02.732-07:00

This is a three-in-one tutorial for both newer and more experienced lampworkers. Using the techniques on how to make a gravity swirl bead, I will share with you how to shape a perfect bicone AND show you how to work with using both striking and reducing silver glass on a single bead. Please do note that the silver glass part of this tutorial is secondary.For those of you who are not ready for

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-28962395600246431722009-04-14T10:02:00.001-07:002010-10-19T10:31:13.813-07:00

SE3 – Third Silver Color How To e-Booklet- 72 pages- over 180 beads with description- list of silver glass by manufacturers- index for each silver glass used in the booklet- step-by-step instruction on striking silver glass with photos- step-by-step instruction on reducing silver glass with photosThis is the Low-Resolution Version of SE3 – Third Silver Color How To e-Booklet and is for viewing on

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-58704014217476201062009-04-14T09:33:00.002-07:002010-10-19T10:31:29.771-07:00

The Second Silver Color How To e-Booklet- 65 pages- over 170 beads with description- list of silver glass by manufacturers- index for each silver glass used in the bookletThis is the Low-Resolution Version of the Second Silver Color How To e-Booklet and is for viewing on your computer. You may also print one (1) copy of this using your printer at home. No authorization will be given with this

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-41297855281407662892009-04-14T09:33:00.001-07:002010-10-19T10:31:53.992-07:00

The First Silver Color How To e-Booklet:- 30 pages- over 50 beads with description- index for each silver glass used in the e-bookletThis is the first e-booklet and contains less than 1/3 of the amount of beads and description as the other e-booklets. This was included in the CD version of SE2 free of charge but with the release of SE3, it's too complicated for me to keep including on one and not

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-31740816025782912422009-04-08T12:28:00.000-07:002010-01-25T11:42:16.966-08:00

My sister, Helen, and I did this reducing silver glass tutorial. Enjoy!Step 1Start by making a round base bead of Effetre Opal Yellow.Step 2Adjust to a small oxydizing flame by turning down both the propane/natural gas and the oxygen.Step 3Begin by working at the right side of the tip of the flame.Step 4Apply stringer decoration using Double Helix Psyche with the base bead below the flame. The

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-10760334537205833132009-04-06T22:01:00.000-07:002009-04-09T10:41:17.097-07:00

Fab finds from the Fire Divas! Just search Fire Divas on etsy to find even more fabulous fire divas beads.new EtsyNameSpace.Mini(7117524, 'favorites','gallery',5,3).renderIframe();

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-52794034130220066102009-04-05T18:51:00.001-07:002009-04-05T18:55:52.385-07:00

I have seen a lot of beadmakers complain that the colors on their beads going into the kiln are completely different than the colors coming out. Your kiln environment is the culprit.Let’s talk about reducing silver glass first - for that’s an easier solution. If the iridescence on your beads disappear after annealing, you may choose to do one of the following, or both:• your kiln has an oxidizing

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-61445145423873231902009-04-04T11:15:00.000-07:002009-04-04T11:17:07.452-07:00

Pantone Fashion Color Report Fall 2009For the pdf of the full 16-page report, click!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-24724550290609925772009-04-03T14:39:00.001-07:002010-01-25T11:41:30.694-08:00

Stephanie Bonniwell and I did this tutorial on how to work with Luna 2, a striking silver glass made by Double Helix Glassworks.Step 1Start by winding Clear onto the mandrel in a barrel shape with a footprint of about 1.25”/32mm.Step 2Wind Luna 2 on top of Clear, taking care to cover the Clear ends with Luna 2.Step 3Completely encase Clear with Luna 2.Step 4Heat enough to marver the glass into a

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-68147541450866080482009-04-03T11:29:00.000-07:002009-04-03T11:39:46.994-07:00

As a graphic designer, I have been using Pantone colors for decades! I especially love its fashion color reports . . . for inspiration if for nothing else. Here is our first Color 101 entry . . . Pantone Fashion Color Report Spring 2009For the pdf of the full 29-page report, click!

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-27948472344581711122009-04-02T11:01:00.000-07:002009-04-03T09:10:39.691-07:00

A few of us have been taking classes with one of the premier metal clay artists, Hadar Jacobson, for the last few weeks. She is not only amazingly talented, she is also an incredible teacher! Moreover, she developed her own line of bronze and copper clay and she is very generous in sharing her invaluable experience in working with those clays on her blog.

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-77432040658163594492009-03-31T16:56:00.000-07:002009-04-03T15:02:56.530-07:00

For other Silver Glass 101 entries, look for *Silver glass 101* under *Labels* on the side bar! The Striking SequenceStep 1Work in neutral flame. Heat until translucent – the glass is almost droopy at this point and the surface of the bead actually gets hazy. (see end of this post for an example)Step 2Let cool until the glow is gone (do the under the table test), marvering helps cool the glass

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-48773114835515628832009-03-31T16:42:00.000-07:002009-04-03T15:03:12.188-07:00

I have been trying to answer as many questions regarding silver glass on forums as I can and realize that I should probably have all that information in one location for easy access. . . thus Silver Glass 101 is created. This is the first of many postings on how to work with silver glass, tutorials, annealing, etc. etc. Hope you find it helpful!The Reducing SequenceStep 1Work in a neutral flame.

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-21856956747623271092009-03-31T09:17:00.000-07:002009-03-31T19:21:44.426-07:00

I find that the blogspot template at 660px wide is too narrow for some of my needs. Yet the "stretch" version is too wide especially making reading the text difficult. So I customized it!Here are a few easy steps if you want to change yours too! Don't worry, as long as you know which template you have been using, you can always go back to that template (under Layout > Pick a New Template tab) and

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-16544446397688515602009-03-23T08:25:00.000-07:002009-03-30T17:06:11.406-07:00

Perhaps some of you would like to join us for a weekend of fun!?!Explore the Magic of Silver Glass with HayleyIn this two-day workshop, you will explore the many facets of working with silver glass. For reducing silver glass you will learn how to work with different reduction flames, varying length of reducing time, and changing placements and positions of the bead in the flame, to achieve

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-87470817382107698472009-03-10T20:12:00.000-07:002009-03-10T20:13:17.428-07:00

Some of you know that graphic design is my day job and I have been using Photoshop since shortly after its inception in the late 1980's (now I am showing my age!). About a month ago, I gave a short private lesson to a friend and decided that I should really be teaching a Photoshop Workshop custom tailored for beadmakers and jewelry artists! I love to teach (watch for my upcoming silver glass

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-58243594105939386792009-03-10T20:04:00.000-07:002009-03-23T08:41:41.104-07:00

RequirementsPrior experience with computer programs is highly recommended - essentially you should know more than just getting on the web and reading your email. This is a fast-pace workshop and I'd hate to have you not being able to keep up! It's also important that you have or plan on purchasing Photoshop or Photoshop Elements. If you have a laptop and prefer to use your own program, feel free

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-10429493891903412502009-03-10T18:08:00.001-07:002009-03-10T20:04:19.583-07:00

We are lucky to have been taking a series of workshop with Hadar Jacobson! For those of you who are not familiar with her work, she is truly an amazing artist. Her website, artinsilver, is like an online museum! In addition, she has developed a line of metal clay - bronze and copper - that has superb workability. The best part is that you do NOT have to keep the clay cold! It comes in powder form

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-12152732457481710532009-03-06T17:39:00.000-08:002009-03-30T17:06:46.167-07:00

One of the many reasons I love using silver glass in almost all of my work is because of its unpredictability! The surprise element is what draws me to keep torturing myself time and time with results that don't often meet expectations. Then once in a blue moon (when all the stars are aligned perfectly, I suppose!), something magical happens. This is truly one of those times. When I took this

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-75084785285647334862009-03-04T13:01:00.000-08:002009-03-04T17:56:00.891-08:00

We realize that some of you do not own a good-quality inkjet color printer so we ordered a sample booklet from lulu.com to check its quality. We find it meets our high standards, thus enabling us to offer you this in hard copy printed booklet form!For $43.90 plus shipping, you don't have to purchase the high-res CD and take it to your neighborhood service bureau yourself!http://www.lulu.com/

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-53295463696613197742009-02-24T16:11:00.000-08:002009-02-25T16:22:52.590-08:00

I have been asked often on the “ingredients” in my twisties beads which is what prompted me to decide to put together some of my favorite twisties recipes over the past two years into an e-booklet. I hope to have it completed by next month. I guess being a graphic designer helps this process! My twisites are usually made using five to 10 different glass, with many being silver glass, thus

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4593931471091842353.post-69998479191091679232009-02-24T15:34:00.000-08:002009-04-14T10:48:31.085-07:00

We finally did it! Our very first blog! Perhaps it's because we have something to announce – SE3!~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~|~| SE3 – Third Silver Color How To e-Booklet: - 72 pages - over 180 beads with description - list of silver glass by manufacturers - index for each silver glass used in the booklet - step-by-step instruction on striking silver glass with

enVisionhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13040586307659858401noreply@blogger.com0