1) Fine Silver (.999 silver) begins as a clay/putty that can be rolled, smoothed, and pressed into any shape you’d like.
2) Firing the silver hardens the material, but be careful because firing is a very delicate process and can actually melt the silver clay.
3) Upon firing the silver clay, it turns its natural color, which is white, not silver. The silver clay does not receive its silvery shine and luster until its been brushed.
	4) Patina is actually a chemical process, like developing the silver grains on a film stock. Patina is a liquid tarnish that can make your pendant look aged (and quite beautiful).
5) Alex Teller, one of our experienced instructors from the class, says about making silver pendants, “With all the right tools and materials, you can pretty much do this from your kitchen”.

So, for those of you wanting to learn to make your own silver jewelry, or for those of you that are just curious to see how it’s done, be sure to sign up for Linda Thibodeaux and Alex Teller’s Silver Clay Pop Shop. It’s one enjoyable (and informative) experience!

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Sign up to receive email notifications of new classes, or view upcoming class information on our Events Page.

Learn Something New at Silver Clay Pop Shop! is a post from: HandMadeGalleriesLABlog.com

Helena Rose was there to complete another whimsical and colorful painting.

Judith Santillan and Wendy Wolfenden of Family Momentos were there to share with us their wine and cheese and their extraordinary display of photo/scrapbooks.

Even Amy Masor came out to work on her beautiful jewelry; necklaces, earrings, and bracelets.

It was a magical evening and everyone went home feeling jolly and full of food and drink. We host an artist party every third month. Be sure to look out for the next one coming in September.  You won’t want to miss it! In the meantime, enjoy the pictures.

Summer Artist Extravaganza! is a post from: HandMadeGalleriesLABlog.com

A month ago a friend nominated us in the “Love A Local Business” contest. (If you haven’t already voted you can do that here.) We were honored and thought we’d give it a try. What a month! Daily we’ve seen comments pour in full of love and support from our local community. And while it is a national contest and we may not win the big prize – we won something more dear to our hearts – all of your kind words.

HUNDREDS of you have taken the time to not only click your vote but to write a little comment about how you appreciate Handmade Galleries as a store, as a part of the community, as artists, as people… There’s no need for me to go on – I’ll just share what YOU wrote.

Thank you all for your support and your love. Please know that we have gratitude for you beyond what mere words can ever express.

~ Andy

P.S. If you haven’t voted already, please do it now here!
P.P.S. Also, to keep in touch, LIKE our Facebook page here.

FROM THE FANS OF HANDMADE:
(June 2011)

This is my go-to spot whenever I need to find a thoughtful gift. Excellent selection, friendly staff, and community support of local artists make this a special place!
-lalulustar

I have loved this place since I discovered it years ago. It’s a treasure for gifts for those you love. Unique, handcrafted, well-loved, stunning. There is something for everyone. And the employees are, without fail, truly delightful.
-krin

This is an amazing business supporting local artists and giving back so much to the community with all of their wonderful workshops.
-marvaluss1611

I absolutely adore this store. There’s a wide variety of incredibly talented artistans & crafters with wares of every kind. THE best place to find a unique, thoughtful gift for a friend, family member or loved one. Love the communal, friendly vibe.
-KareCreative

It is always exciting to enter this store. The inventory is ever-changing and the physical environment is constantly improving. Staff is pleasant and helpful and seem to enjoy their work. This is a well-run business and deserves winning. A+ vote.
-Shirley Temple

I love Handmade Galleries because they have great things and an extremely lovely staff! It is the perfect place to find a unique gift for just about anybody. I NEVER leave the store empty handed! Spend a little or a lot — it’s all good!
-Lisaridd

Love handmade galleries! A treasure in the area!
-lovehandmade

LOVE this place!!!!! Besides cool, imaginative, funky, & fun things to see & buy, they also have classes!!!!! This local business is great!
-Ky Ly

This is the *only* place I go to buy a gift. It’s local, it’s cool, unique, creative and very friendly! There’s something special for everybody! Lovely place, lovely products, lovely people.
-Gizi

With the gentrification of businesses everywhere it is wonderful to have a store that promotes individual artists within one location. I have to say this is one of my favor shopping spots. The staff is always friendly and knowledgeable.
-Sheila

Love a Local Business Gratitude 4 U is a post from: HandMadeGalleriesLABlog.com

• Recipe Journal
• Wine Journal
• Book Journal
• Film Journal
• Music Journal
• Wellness Journal
• Travel Journal
• Style Journal
• Gardening Journal
• Dog Journal
• Cat Journal
• Baby Journal

Check out this video for a peek into the Wellness Journal!  Oh, and don’t forget to stop by Handmade and pick one up for yourself.  What’s your passion?  Cats? Travel? Gardening?  Wine?

Moleskin’s Legendary Journals – Now in Passionate! is a post from: HandMadeGalleriesLABlog.com

“Our mission is to educate and reconnect the world to the ancient wisdom and healing properties of crystals. Energy Muse is a conscious lifestyle brand providing tools of empowerment, inspiration and hope. Each piece combines energy and intention which create a desired outcome. We believe that every one of us is a healer, teacher and messenger. Every one of us has our unique story. Energy Muse jewelry serves as a tool to help you tap into your inner power and manifest your desires. The time to change the world is now. It is up to every one of us. We are the people we’ve been waiting for.

” – Energy Muse Website

So, who’s wearing Energy Muse?  None other than Usher, Heidi Klum, Phil Jackson, Channing Tatum, Brittany Spears, and more!

Check out Energy Muse’s website to learn more about this life-changing jewelry.

We now carry Energy Muse Jewelry! is a post from: HandMadeGalleriesLABlog.com