The Handmade Corner

Giveaway for July 2020

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 10:34:00 +0000

Another fun giveaway I wanted to share with you from "Closet of Ange" on Instagram:

Win this set of 4 wash cloths for the kitchen. Handmade from 100% cotton.

Hurry this giveaway is almost over!

Participating is easy:

1. Follow Closet of Ange (if you are already a follower, please skip this step);

2. Like or Heart the post;

3. Write in one word, or a few words about why you like a clean kitchen;

4. Tag someone (to tag use the "@" symbol along with their Instagram name without any spaces. Example: @closetofange.

Have fun! Who knows, you may be our next winner.

**Closet of Ange runs a monthly giveaway, eligible to Canadian and USA residents.**

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Tue, 28 Apr 2020 11:47:00 +0000

Giveaway Link Click Here

I wanted to share this giveaway with everyone.

Lovely, Mother of Pearl Necklace in gold up for grabs. Ends May 31st, 2020.

4 Easy Steps to Get into the Draw:

1. Follow ClosetofAnge

2. Heart the post

3. Comment on why you love spring

4. Tag a friend.

(to tag a friend, you use the @with their instagram name.

Have fun and keep safe!

Large Button Cowl For Men or Women

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Fri, 07 Feb 2020 20:19:00 +0000

I'm in love with these large button cowl/scarves!! They are a unisex style. The wooden buttons are the perfect color brown to compliment the rustic feel of these handmade scarves. I found these beautiful buttons on Amazon for a really good price. You can get them here.

*Please note that when you make a purchase via a link from my blog post, I may be receiving compensation for bragging about a product. I only brag about products I love or use which are of the highest quality.

I sell these scarves for $30. Order yours today. You can order one via my Etsy shop.

Choices of colors are: Brown, Charcoal, Light Grey, Mint Green, Wine, Blue.

Scroll to the bottom to see how the scarf fits with a coat or jacket.

I Made Some Boot Cuffs

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Fri, 31 Jan 2020 17:26:00 +0000

I find when I wear skirts in the winter, my legs get cold between my boot and my skirt. The solution I came up with was making a pair of "boot cuffs". Of course boot cuffs are awesome with leggings and skinny jeans too!!

My first attempt was with a chunky yarn... I didn't like the finished look of the cuff because I found it to be too "chunky" for my chicken legs (the cuff is nice though, just not suitable for me). Since this was only a test, I didn't make two; I only crocheted one to see what it would like on me. See the difference between the chunky yarn and the 4-ply below:

I thought a 4-ply yarn would be more delicate looking and I was right. It looks way better for my leg size.

How did I make these?

Any 4-ply yarn, a size 5.5 hook, scissors and a wide-eye needle.

Make a chain of 23 stitches (or however wide you want your cuff);

Single crochet in the second chain from the hook (into the back loop of the stitch only- this is what makes the ribbed effect and it also makes it stretchy);

Single crochet each stitch in the back loop, chain 1 at the end of your work, turn and repeat until you have your desired size;

When you've reached your desired size, slip stitch the seam (this will make a nice almost invisible seam);

With your last slip stitch, chain 1, and single crochet all around the opening, slip stitch at the end.

To make your little frilly, scalloped finish:

Begin with 5 double crochet stitches in one stitch, single crochet in the next and alternate all the way around. Slip stitch at the end and tie off (make sure you leave enough tail to weave in).

Finished!

Button Scarf For Hubby

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Mon, 13 Jan 2020 20:53:00 +0000

My husband wanted me to make him a scarf with buttons. I chose this lovely, acrylic/wool blend, roving yarn in this gorgeous cobalt blue color. This scarf can be worn 2 ways: first it can be worn by buttoning the two lower buttons which gives you a looser fit around the neck as he is wearing it in the above picture, or with the extra button, you can also wear it so that it covers your neck more. See pictures below to see what I mean.

I personally am loving this scarf!! Do you want to replicate this look, find the yarn here, and the large wooden buttons I purchased them here.

*My blog contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase via these links, I may be compensated. Please note: I only brag about items I have researched or I have purchased myself. Than You!

Finished Adult Messy Bun, Ponytail Hat

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Thu, 09 Jan 2020 14:30:00 +0000

I finished the adult-size, messy bun/ponytail hat in black with an oversized flower. I'm loving this hat!!

Notes about making this hat: Instead of only using the elastic in the circle, I also added a chain which I slip-stitched into a loop (I thought this might be a good idea in case the elastic ever broke).

Another thing I did, was use a chainless double crochet stitch when I did the slipstitch with each new row (this makes an almost invisible seam).

I doubled my yarn (I used two skeins of 4 ply yarn, which makes the hat stiffer and a bit heavier).

My flower is oversized with 7 petals (I love the fullness of 7 petals as opposed to only 5).

I just purchased this amazing book on how to crochet different stitches. You will enjoy the many photographs and clear instructions. Enjoy!

Working On Adult Messy Bun Hat

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Wed, 01 Jan 2020 17:24:00 +0000

I made a cute, messy bun hat for my granddaughter which turned out to be perfect for her mounds of curly hair! Of course, she makes everything look cute in my eyes (lol). Now, I'm working on an adult size messy bun (ponytail) hat in an adult size S/M. Here is what I got so far. It's going well. I will be done shortly and will add a lovely crochet flower to the side to give it that glamorous look!

I'll post the pattern when I'm done. Please take a moment to click on the FOLLOW button (up on the right of the page. If you love DIY and handmade, you will love the Handmade-Korner!

Here is the one I made for my granddaughter (below).

Rustic Rings His and Hers

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Mon, 30 Dec 2019 12:16:00 +0000

These, rustic copper bands are hammered to a beautiful finish and then layered with a rich brown patina and sealed for a lasting finish. I make these rings out of re-purposed copper pipe.

It's interesting to completely transform an object into something else, to re-invent it and make it into wearable art.

Although copper does not look great on my skin tone, I love working with that metal; it reacts beautifully to the torch and it's so versatile! Plus, it looks amazing with silver.

One of the techniques that blows my mind is "torch painting".

In the future, I will write a post all about the process. It's fascinating and mesmerizing all at once!

These rustic bands sell as a set. You can get them via my online store here.

Crying Eye Pendant, Custom Order

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Mon, 23 Dec 2019 12:00:00 +0000

A customer sent me the picture below of a crying eye (eye with tear) and asked if I could replicate the design for his girlfriend.

Below, you can see my design from this original photograph (with my personal touch).

First, I made a sketch with the measurements needed for the pendant.

Second, I chose sterling silver and solid silver as my preferred metals because that's what I had on hand.

Third, I chose a lavender color cz stone for the tear (as was required by the customer).

Initially we wanted to use a piece of beach glass as the tear drop but my sea glass pieces were too big for this project (and I didn't want to have to cut a piece of glass for it was just too small to handle).

In my original design, I had the idea of using PMC silver clay, which is a precious metal clay (a wonderful product because you can work it like clay then fire it in the kiln so that it burns off the clay and you're left with a solid piece of sterling silver or pure silver depending on the clay type you use). Actually, you can also purchase this clay in less precious metals like copper, bronze, and of course you can also get it in PMC (precious metal) gold. I've never used any other clays other than the PMC3 silver and the Art Clay 950. Although silver clay is available on Amazon.ca I noticed the others are only available on the Amazon.com site.

If you are like me, and love to learn about new techniques, then you will enjoy learning about how to use silver clays with this how to book (it's worth knowing what you're doing because this clay can be tricky). Here are a few good books from the Amazon.com site

*My blog contains affiliate links, which means that when you make a purchase via these links, the company may compensate me for promoting their products. I only promote products I use or that I know are of the best quality. Thank You.

What happened to my initial idea of using PMC3 Silver, you might ask? Well, I did the entire pendant with the exception of the bail and everything looked beautiful (I was quite proud of myself especially since I was using the Clay 950 for the first time).

After removing it from the kiln, I was giving it a good polish to get the metal to glisten like it should, and it looked amazing. I knew the client would be very pleased!

And then, to my horror, during the last shining, the pendant got caught in the polishing bit, twisted, under the pressure of the Foredom machine, broke into pieces that were flung across my studio (I have yet to find one of the pieces)!

I had no time to be emotional, no time to panic, nor to give up. The pendant was a surprise gift and my client was counting on me. He was on his way to pick up the pendant the very same day. I had to use my plan B (yes, I most of the time have a plan B with this type of project).

I took a breath, gathered what I needed to construct the eye (using silver .999 sheet and sterling .925 heavy gauge wire) and got to work.

To my relief, in no time, the eye came together quite nicely; I was satisfied with the overall look.

After cleaning and polishing it up, I added the cz stone and placed it in the jewelry box ready for pick-up.

Results: Happy client and a very happy recipient, the girlfriend!

Quote: Patience, persistence and perspiration make an unbeatable combination for success!

Professional Finish To Handmade Hats

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Fri, 20 Dec 2019 13:13:00 +0000

I found these awesome, little pyrographed, wooden tags with the word "Handmade" on them. I absolutely love them! They will add a professional finish to my handmade knit and crochet projects.

What do you think? You can find these tags here.

Shop some of my hats here.

*I promote affiliate links so that if you click on them to make a purchase, I could be compensated by the company. Thank You for supporting me.

A Happy Customer "Ponytail Hat"

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Thu, 19 Dec 2019 10:47:00 +0000

My first attempt at a ponytail hat and it was a success! I added a flower because let's face it, this little girl is a "DIVA", and a plain hat just won't do. She loved the hat (which is a big deal because she's got style and she is quite particular as to what she decides to wear). My ponytail hat (messy bun hat) passed the "Diva Test." Hooray!

I'm a happy grandma!

If you want to order a hat, leave a message in the message box and I will custom make you one via my Etsy shop.

Neck Warmers For My Girls

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Tue, 17 Dec 2019 15:57:00 +0000

Decided to make a few neck warmers for my girls. I love the turquoise, teal, squiggly yarn; it's so soft! It's another lovely yarn by Red Heart. You can find it here on Amazon (delivered right to your door). I used a very simple crochet stitch to make the cowl (neck warmer). It's a bit tricky because the yarn is so bumpy that it makes it difficult to know where your stitches are, but eventually I found a way by using my fingers to feel the stitch instead of relying on my eyes alone.

*I promote affiliate links on my blog, this means I may receive compensation when you click through and make a purchase via those links. Thank You.

The dark pink one is made of this super soft, velvety yarn (it's nice and think). You can find this velvety yarn here on Amazon. To make this neck warmer, I started with a chain (the width I wanted the cowl to be and then I crocheted in the back loop (when you do this, you get that lovely ribbed effect that looks just like knitting but way faster). I basically make a rectangle, joined both ends and then crocheted the seam closed. I used a large hook for crocheting this cowl, hook US #8. I got mine here for a good price.

Crochet Ponytail Hat or Messy Bun Hat

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Sat, 14 Dec 2019 12:37:00 +0000

My granddaughter wanted a ponytail hat or messy bun hat. Since she's a real little "Diva", I decided to add a large flower to make the hat a bit more glamorous!

I achieved this look by combining a lovely grey yarn with a white yarn. I love how the specks of white comes through just enough to create a lovely pattern throughout.

You can replicate this look with these yarns, here on Amazon.

*I may receive compensation when you make a purchase via the link you click through. Thank You for your support.

New Fluffy, Soft Hat With Lots of Style!

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Sat, 07 Dec 2019 14:40:00 +0000

I discovered this super soft and fluffy yarn by Hygge (you can find it on Amazon)! It's a beautiful, acrylic yarn with a nice weight to it. I love this yarn! I made this adorable, fluffy hat in pink and grey which is more like a "Beanie Hat." The light, silvery-grey color really brings this hat to life!

*By the way, when you purchase from the link I post, I may be compensated. Thank You.

I'm Addicted to Knitting and Crocheting!

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Wed, 04 Dec 2019 14:21:00 +0000

What do you do when it's time to unwind with hubby? Why not watch a bit of Netflix together. Sure. Except, I get bored when I watch tv. So, I would usually download some puzzles on my device and multi-task while keeping my husband company.

So, one day, I thought I would make better use of my time by actually making practical things I could share with family and friends and also sell in my Etsy shop. Now, I have a hidden bin next to the sofa where I keep my goodies and materials at an arm's length; ready to explore a new project at any time.

Here area a few projects I've done recently:

Check out those faux racoon-fur pompoms! I love them because they snap on so that you can easily unsnap for washing the hat without ruining the pompom. My favorite pompom style too!! I got them here on amazon. There are different colors to choose from.

Of course, you could make your own pompoms too. That's what I did for a few of the hats in this post. For a beautiful, puffy pompom every time, I used this really simple, pompom maker.

You can purchase my hats and my cowls from my Etsy shop here.

The two following hats are made for those who brave the cold. The thick, double brim will keep your ears nice and toasty! Plus the hats are made a genuine wool mix (there is nothing like natural fibers).
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Minimalist Circle Ring

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Tue, 06 Aug 2019 14:38:00 +0000

Part of my new "Circles" collection. Watch out for more new pieces from this collection.

Circles collection is handcrafted from Sterling Silver .925.

Buy this ring from my Etsy shop here.

New Ring -- Part of My New Wedding Band Collection / Nouvelle Bague-- Partie De Ma Nouvelle Collection Bague de Mariage

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Sat, 13 Jul 2019 17:14:00 +0000

My latest ring design, the 1st of many to come is handcrafted

in .925 sterling silver and hand textured for a very organic and unique look.

The textured top contrasts with the high polished sides and inside contour of the ring.

This 2x4-mm ring is thick, solid and very comfortable.

Perfect ring for a thumb ring as well!

This beautiful ring will not disappoint!!

Click Here to purchase via my Etsy shop

Take advantage of free shipping to the US and within Canada.

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Cette nouvelle bague que je viens de finir, va faire partie de ma nouvelle collection de bague pour mariage. Ces bagues sont unisexes. Chaque bague est fabriquée dans mon atelier avec de l’argent sterling .925 et texturée à la main.

Elle est aussi superbe comme une bague pour le pouce.

Elle mesure 2x4-mm et est très solide et confortable.

Cliquez Ici Pour Acheter Cette Bague.

Earrings / Boucles d'Oreilles

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Tue, 30 Apr 2019 16:52:00 +0000

I have compiled some earring designs I have made over the years into this one post. The earrings are handmade in my studio with quality metals such as sterling silver 925, 14-kgf, and pure copper. I handmade all of my ear wires and o-rings. Most of the beads and stones are natural gemstones, cultured pearls or crystals.

*If you want to order a pair of my earrings, please leave a comment in the comment box at the end of the post.

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J’ai compilé plusieurs photographies de boucles d’oreilles que j’ai fabriquées au fil des années. Je fabrique toutes les parties de la boucle d’oreille en studio. Dans mes designs, j’utilise les pierres naturelles, les perles de cultures et du crystal. Les métaux de qualité qui sont utilisés, sont l’argent sterling 925, le double d’or 14-carats, et le cuivre pur.

Si vous désirez passer une commande, veuillez me laisser un mot dans la boite à commentaires à la fin de cet article.

Finished Copper Pick Bracelet

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Mon, 25 Dec 2017 12:38:00 +0000

So here is a picture of my finished, pick bracelet on 1.0 mm black leather cord. Very unique piece indeed! I decided to go with the slipknot instead of a clasp because I find it just looked really nice this way. Plus, it can fit a variety of sizes.

In my previous blog post, I wrote about I hoped to be able to achieve a mirror finish. I looked it up online and followed instructions and it came out pretty good. I'm happy with the finish product!

The pick bracelet is an awesome gift idea for the guitar player. You can purchase this bracelet from my website Bayside Wire Designs

Geometric, Copper Guitar Pick Bracelet (in progress)

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 18:30:00 +0000

I'm working on a unisex bracelet with a copper pick as the focal. I cut out the pick from a larger piece of copper (you can find various sizes copper sheet on Amazon).

In order to not obstruct the look of the pick, I decided that its direction should be slightly on a diagonal (notice the holes drilled for attaching the bracelet).

After many sketches, I finally decided on a pattern where I would fire multiple overlapping layers of enamel with my torch. One thing I love about torch firing on copper is how the copper turns different colors depending on the heat (You can actually "Flame Paint" the sheet with a torch- the results are amazing)!

I have yet to polish the piece; I want the exposed copper parts to have a mirror-like finish... at least that's what I want. If I can attain it is another thing. We shall see!

Getting Picky

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Sat, 21 Oct 2017 17:00:00 +0000

The beginning steps to a guitar pick bracelet-

Wide Copper Spinner Ring

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Sat, 17 Jun 2017 13:22:00 +0000

Here is one of my latest rings: a wide (12-13mm / 4/8"), copper spinner ring with three different silver bands. I'm loving this ring! The copper is finished with a rich, dark patina. You can purchase this ring here.

I recycle copper pipes to make these rings. I love every step of this process! What can I say, I have a thing for rustic, hipster jewelry! See more copper jewelry here.

Tutorials for a Turquoise Bracelet, Necklace and Earrings

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Thu, 25 May 2017 23:00:00 +0000

Did you know that Turquoise is a major trend in jewelry for this summer! The greatest thing about making jewelry is that you can make your very own unique accessories to fit your personal style. Or you may want to make something as a gift. Handmade gifts are always treasured because they're a labor of love!

So here is a great free tutorial- Let yourself be inspired:
Bracelet with Chalk Turquoise Gemstone Beads, Glass Beads and Metal Beads

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Check out my online Store-

Also, I want to let you know that often I promote my own jewelry and other crafts I might design, but my blog also contains affiliate links. That means, if you happen to click through them and make a purchase, I would be compensated for advertising them. Thanks for looking!

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Here is another free tutorial you might enjoy-

Single-Strand Necklace and Earring Set with Cultured Freshwater Pearls, Turquoise Gemstone Beads and Swarovski Crystal. Click here for the tutorial.

Happy Jewelry Making!

Thanks for stopping by!

Sixty Six Bracelets Later

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Wed, 10 May 2017 23:30:00 +0000

I finished the bracelets I talked about in the previous post!   I'll admit it was not easy!   My finger tips have yet to recover from handling the metal and sliding the waxed cord knots.  I've been applying vitamin E oil repeatedly, which is quite soothing.  I hope I don't develop huge calluses on my fingers... well, at least they'll match my unsightly nails!!  The sanding did a terrible number on my nails.  

So, after all that whining, I'll share with you some pictures of what started as basic pieces of metal and cotton string...

...is now this:

I really like the blue, waxed cotton (reminds me of jeans); I just love it!

All of the little bracelets have been neatly tucked away in cute, shiny, gift bags and ready to be shipped.  

Although the project (66 handmade bracelets) was a bit daunting at times, especially when I would need to restart a piece because of an engraving error (this happened quite a few times because of a little mishap with my engraving machine.   Although it set me back a bit, I powered through and was successful in completing the project without being overwhelmed.   And I have to say,  at the end of a project like this, I always feel happy to have given my all.

66 Personalized Bracelets to Make

noreply@blogger.com (Angelica) — Sat, 22 Apr 2017 13:30:00 +0000

I've got a large order of 66 personalized bracelets.  How can I make all those bracelets without being overwhelmed and losing my mind??  One bracelet at a time.  Being constant is the trick for me.  

The first step was to take my template and mark the sizes on my metal and then "cut each one by hand with metal sheers."  I know!!  Who does that?

The strips in the pile you see in the 1st photograph, have all been cut and roughly sanded into shape (I use an electric power tool for that job).  Because I'm using a power tool, the strips get hot! hot! hot!  I cannot hold them without a thick cloth to protect my fingers. 

Also, you'll notice I drilled the holes in the metal strips.  I love drilling the holes!  Because I dip the tip of my bit into beeswax, there is a lovely honey scent in my studio!   Oh!  And check out the wood piece in the top photograph (the bottom left corner).  See the holes?  Those are the holes I leave behind after my drill bit goes through the metal and into the wood.  Better to do that than ruin my table surface!   

My next step is brushing my metal for a nice finish!

I'll keep you posted of my progress!

Thanks for dropping by.  If you enjoyed my post, please share.  