LISA PETERS ART

30 days goes by really fast - Happy Holidays!

2011-12-28T10:01:00.001-05:00

This morning I sat down at the computer and thought it was about time I checked out my blog since the Cyber Give-A-Way - Wouldn't ya know it? A month exactly-I don't think I will ever be a professional blogger! First of all I would like to congratulate Julie Vasquez on winning the Cyber Week Give-A-Way! Yay Julie! I hope you like everything, thank you and big Thank you to the 70 other wonderful people for participating! I believe that is a record for readers of my blog (not that I blame you..most of the time people show up here and hear crickets) Let's see if I can get motivated and do another for um, Valentines Day!

Yesterday I was so surprised to see a wonderful blog post by the Amazing Grace Danel of GraceBeading. Please check out her blog post "fa la la la la LPA" My friends are my heart and Grace is a real big chunk of it! xoxo Gracie..

her blog post reminded me that I should not need a reminder, to remember to blog..

Raku & Beaded Ring by Grace Danel

Speaking of being mentioned in a blog - check out Sabine Lippert's Try-To-Be-better Blog - She certainly made my Raku Cabochon look a whole lot better than I thought it would ever look - WOW nice going Sabine! and of course Carol Dean Sharpe is always doing something amazing for Beaders everywhere - check out her Blog Hop post and see how she shared the love with a kit inspired by an LPA cabochon!

Sabine Lippert's - Dragon Head

Sharing the Love - Blog Hop Kit by Carol Dean Sharpe

I hope everyone had a blast celebrating the Holiday's! This year was especially relaxed and Hank and I even found time to go to the country and celebrate the last few hours of Christmas in front of the fire watching..what else? Christmas Vacation -- We were so lucky there wasn't too much snow on the ground -what a difference from last year!

In The Country - day after Christmas -nice to be outdoors!

So, How did I spend my December? As volunteer, bead shopper, and celebrating - that's a pretty good way I'd say. Early on was the Bergen County Volunteer Association Heart of Gold Gala and a good time was had by all! The Gala was a success and I am pretty excited that my donation turned out to be a profitable one for the volunteer center.. If you ever have an event and need a Beatles Cover Band.. check out Beatlemagic - They were awesome!

Me and Andy Warhol - "Portrait"

Porcelain LPA Blackbird Pendants on Silks for the Giving Tree

a few days later I got the chance to meet up with Jennifer Chaslow Van Benschoten from Van Beads the Beading Daily online editor at Interweave for some Bead Shopping in NYC! We had a great time and I cannot wait to do it again.. (wait, I did a few days later with my mom Toho and M & J Trimmings -- heaven on earth!) You just can't get enough of these places.. now, what to do with my purchases???? Recently Jennifer sent me a photograph of a new collar she created.. Just take a look and see for yourself how talented this gal is!

There's Jenn! Look at all those beads!

"Arianna" Bead Embroidered Collar

Mid December The Bead & Glass Boutique in Pitman, NJ had an online Designers Challenge using LPA Components. Photographs of the entries can be seen here: Online Designers Challenge. I want to thank everyone for their participation in the event - even though I could not vote on a winner, personally I believe you are all winners for deciding to take the time and participate in a challenge especially during the holiday season! I want to Thank Amy Blevins, owner of Bead & Glass for her constant support and "pimp-istry" of LPA components to her customers and in her own work. She offers amazing classes in her bead store in South Jersey and I cannot wait until the Grand Opening of her new location in the next few months. Best of luck to you AMY! Congratulations to the Winner of the challenge Andra Weber.

1st place winner in the Bead & Glass Online Designers Challenge - Andra Weber
Andra said about her piece:

"My original kit consisted of the Lisa Peters Cab, five teal blue ceramic donuts and two copper findings. I chose not to use the copper findings in my necklace. I used the following additional materials: 8 triangle, 6 8mm round, 3 tubes ceramic beads which matched the donuts. Also dark brown delicas, size 11 and 8 matt opaque ceylon beige seed beads, size 6 teal blue seed beads, fireline, E600 glue, brown cording, and animal print suede on the back of the pendant."

Not only does Amy host wonderful challenges using LPA components - but she teaches with them and uses them in her work. Check it out:

by Amy Blevins - Owner, Bead & Glass Boutique

December also brings one of the most important days of the year... Mom's Birthday ;) We had a wonderful afternoon at Thalia in the city celebrating -- she gets younger and younger every year I am sure of it!

I leave you with a few photo memories of some happy times December brought to my life and I wish for you only good times with lots of love and most of all Happy Creating in 2012! Lisa

Mom at Thalia celebrating her __ Birthday!

Macy's Window

Me and JJ having Holiday Cocktails (and lots of laughs)

Recently someone mentioned Absinthe to me - I just happen to have a bottle and made a toast to them ;)

My Beautiful Ring from Bora Handcrafted Jewelry (who I cannot believe doesn't have a website, grrr)

my beautiful holiday gift (created by Lorelei) from the talented and very loving Carol Dean - <3

GORGEOUS Beaded Rope Necklace by Linda Roberts featuring an LPA Tube Bead

Amazing mixture of Kumihimo, Seed Beads & Raku by Dantes Spirit

Beautiful Copper and LPA Raku Bracelet by Melinda Orr Designs

NOT TO WORRY.. more donuts coming - I promise ;)

CYBER MONDAY - I am finally getting over here and giving something away!

2011-11-28T15:05:00.000-05:00

Hello Everyone!

I am sure you have all been hitting the stores and taking advantage of the great sales out there! I have not been pushing anything in my shop, even though I have had a sale going on since Thanksgiving Day! If you missed it, not to worry.. I am keeping my coupon code active another few days! The Coupon Code GIVETHANKS will get you 20% your entire order + one free mystery bead or button until Thursday! I am planning on listing more items this afternoon and on Tuesday! If you do not allready know my shop is: lisapetersART on etsy

But here is more exciting news....

I am having a Give-A-Way and the winner will be chosen by "randomness" on Friday, December 2nd. And since I am so bad at these - participating in this will be pretty easy. All you have to do is comment below and I will use Random.org on Friday to choose the winner. As a courtesy I do ask, if you have the time... a little pimping of my giveaway on your blog or facebook page would be awesome! Here is a photo of the items I am giving away *** PLUS *** a $25 Lisa Peters ART Gift Certificate to use in my Etsy shop! So beads + Gift Certificate just for leaving a comment below!

3 Buttons, 1 Flower Disc & 1 Believe "shard" type Pendant
PLUS a $25 LPA on Etsy Gift Certificate
GOOD LUCK!

So, there it is my CYBER MONDAY Give Away! Good Luck! and please if you are not all ready a fan on LPA on Facebook... please like my page - I am there more than I am here ;)

Happy Shopping and Happy Creating,

and don't forget to BUY HANDMADE!

Lisa

I am headed for Pitman....

2011-11-11T01:30:00.000-05:00

Pitman, New Jersey for the weekend for the

Bead & Glass Boutique - Lisa Peters ART weekend trunk show starting Friday evening until Sunday! Yay!

Would love to see you there!

Here is what Bead & Glass Boutique has to say about this weekend's events:

Lisa Peters Art Trunk Show starts this Friday night at 6pm !

Join us for Free - Friday Night Beader's Club! We'll be working away on our projects and you get first choice of the Beaders Challenge Kits!

Are you signed up?

Trunk Show = Nov 11-12-13 only - be sure to visit for a great selection of Lisa's newest designs.

They're FRESH from the kiln - this week !

(and that's no lie, I just finished firing my last batch this moment!)

Call us at 856-827-0000 to reserve your space for Friday

Bead & Glass Boutique is located at:

36 S. Broadway, Pitman, NJ 08071

For more information Check out the Bead & Glass Website or FACEBOOK page

Happy Creating!

Lisa

Huge Handmade Component Sale from 11 Artists & $550 in Giveaways!

2011-10-25T18:36:00.002-04:00

Huge Handmade Component Sale from 11 Artists & $550 in Giveaways!

This amazing group of designers
specialize in handmade jewelry components and findings. Take advantage of our sale this

Wednesday - Friday
October 26-28
just in time for holiday shows & gift designs ~

You can still enter for the
HUGE Giveaway CLICK HERE

to enter and see all the wonderful pieces!

Each designer is offering a free gift with purchase & discount

this Wed-Fri ~ Many of these designers rarely offer sales ~ A great opportunity!
Don't miss it!

1. Melinda Orr	2. Kristi Bowman Design	3. MarlasMud	4. Marie-Noel Voyer-Cramp	5. SueBeads
6. Starry Road Studio - ktotten	7. Artisan Accents by Staci Louise	8. Marsha Neal Studio	9. Regina Boger	10. Lisa Peters ART

Here are the artists, the sale and gifts they are offering:

Click on the pictures above to visit their stores!
Be sure to visit each of their blogs ~ We have some new additions so be sure to
FOLLOW AND COMMENT TO BE ENTERED TO WIN!

1. Melinda Orr Designs ~ 15% off entire store (Use coupon code EARLYBIRD15)

Free gift ~ a sampling of copper ear wires, rivets, textured charms and copper cleaning pad~
Visit her blog to comment to win

2. Kristi Bowman Designs ~ 15% off entire store (use coupon code EARLYBIRD15)

Also 15% off her Artfire store

Visit her blog to comment to win

3. Marla's Mud ~ 25% off entire store (use coupon code EARLYBIRD25)

Free gift ~ Goodie bag $20 with $50 purchase & goodie bag & free shipping over $75
Visit her blog to comment to win

4. SKYE JEWELS ~ 10% off entire store (use coupon code EARLYBIRD10)

Free Gift ~ surprise!
Visit her blog to comment to win

5. Sue Beads ~ 15% off entire store (use coupon code EARLYBIRD15)

Free Gift ~ Free pair of handcrafted ear wires in brass or copper with earring pairs
Visit her blog to comment to win

6. Starry Road Studio ~15% off entire store (use coupon code EARLYBIRD15)

Free Gift ~ Free ceramic charm for orders over $25
Visit her blog to comment to win

7. Staci Louise ~ 15% off entire store (use coupon code EARLYBIRD15)

Free Gift ~ surprise bead mix
Visit her blog to comment to win

8. Marsha Neal Studio ~ 20% off entire store (use coupon code EARLYBIRD20)

Special Gift ~ orders over $100 (after discount) receive a $15 gift certificate
Every item purchased during the sale gets you entered to win a $50 gift certificate

Extra $50 gift certificate to blog commentors ~

Visit her blog to comment to win

9. Fired Up Ladies ~ 25% off entire store (use coupon code EARLYBIRD25)

Free Gift ~ A surprise bead with your order

Special Gift ~ To the first 5 that spend over $50 an additional $20 gift certificate
Visit her blog to comment to win

10. Lisa Peters Art ~ 20% off entire store (use coupon code EARLYBIRD20)

Free Gift ~ Surprise bead or button with your order
Visit her blog to comment to win

Here's a little treasury sampling from Kristi Bowman Designs ~ thanks Kristi!

EARLYBIRD Deisgner Sales Event & Giveaway

2011-10-21T21:40:00.000-04:00

Component Designer Sales Event starts October 26-28, 2011 -- And wouldn't ya know it this spectacular event just happens to take place on my birthday and my wedding anniversary celebrating 21years of marriage!!! Since my age is waaaay to high a number for a discount (LOL) I would like to offer you 20% discounted shopping in my Etsy store by using the coupon code EARLYBIRD20 and a FREE SURPRISE BEAD or BUTTON with every order (no minimum purchase required)

Please check out my Etsy shop lisapetersART - do some shopping and then click on the photo above to take you other component designers participating in this sale and to find out how to qualify for the $400 giveaway!

I will be adding new items to my store daily - so keep checking!

Good Luck!

and as always, Happy Creating!

Lisa

The End

2011-09-27T12:47:00.000-04:00

Yes, its Me and a Mako Shark- which is typical in Montauk!

My post is titled "the end" as it marks the end of summer but also where we enjoyed the last of our summer vacation days in the East End of Long Island in the only place referred to as The End, Montauk, NY. I have been vacationing in Montauk since I was 0. My mother and grandparents went for years prior to my birth and we spent a few weeks in the summer there growing up until my grandfather passed away 10 years ago. It was hard to go back in the first few years since his passing and since next year my grandmother (nani) turns 90 we decided it was time....

Over the years on weekends Hank and I were guests in the Hamptons I always made him promise that we would sneak away and go to Montauk for a few hours..and thankfully he always kept his promise, though I do not think he could ever understand how important those short trips were for me. I also do not think he ever got a true sense of the place just by taking a ride to the point and back and maybe stopping for fritters and beer.. Since our family vacations usually took place during the work week or at odd times before Hank made his own schedule, Hank usually did not come with us and I am so glad he finally got at chance this year - luckily I believe he is hooked and I am now pretty sure I might not have to be the one to ask first next time to go there.. He is absolutely in love with the place and my work is done.. LOL.

For those of you who know the area.. we stayed at Gurney's ( a switch from our regular place next door The Panoramic View Inn) We were under the impression it changed over to residences only, but that might not be the case..so we may be back at the Salt Sea next summer. My family switched from Gurney's in 1968 to the Panoramic because they did not allow children and I am very glad they did so.. Those summers at the Panoramic made more wonderful memories for me than any other. One of those wonderful memories are referred to here by Frank Bennardo in a song inspired by the most innocent teenage encounters in this very magical place. (pls scroll down to #4 on that link)

Ahhh Gurney's..what can I say about Gurney's? Well other than our amazing accommodations, The Quarter Deck..a 3 bedroom cottage on the beach -- (doesn't get better than that as far as gurney's is concerned) Gurney's is a sort of Time Capsule. It has been there for 85 years (this being their 85th year celebration) and there is alot of it that, well, was still here. I remember when it had its first major renovation..when it became one of the most famous Spa Resorts to hit NY!! I had my 1st massage there when I was 12 years old and my grandparents took me there to recover from my sinus surgery when I was 16--it was that special... ;) but, without being too verbally critical I am going to say.. it is no wonder, the secret rumor is Gurney's is up for sale. I am torn between my love for a place, memories, being with family for a proper -objective critique, but I wouldn't book another appt. any time soon..that being said...Monte.. you did a great job, RIP...


Ben, Hank, Mom and Nani - Quarter Deck

This time also marks another end for us., the end of the life of a very dear friend and Hank's best friend since he was 16 years old, Kevin. Kevin, 49yrs passed away last week and I think the timing of this vacation was perfect so that Hank could stare out into that beautiful ocean and have quiet time thinking about all the fun he and Kevin used to have together. Kevin was one of the kindest people I have ever met - who I am pretty sure never said a negative thing about anyone.. (in my presence at least) and for the 23 years I was lucky enough to know him was always extremely polite and respectful to me, regardless if Hank and I were having a "good day or a bad day". We will really, really miss him.

So, with that I wish you Happy Creating as usual with a spin, I wish you Happy Creating Memories..with friends and family -- and if you ever have the chance to create them in Montauk.. please invite me along.

Lisa

Some interesting links for those of you interested in seeing more about Montauk
Montauk Rocks
The Fall Run
The Montauk Lighthouse (the 4th oldest, in operation Light in the US)

A great way to spend a rainy Friday .......BEADFEST

2011-08-20T21:05:00.000-04:00

Friday morning Hank and I set out for our day trip to Philly to go to Bead Fest. Other than some really annoying traffic the ride was uneventful and we arrived around 1pm. Believe the Interweave Website when they tell you that the address of the Expo center and your GPS will not agree..ours took us a longer way than expected but ..whatever., it is-what it is in 2011 as far as directions anywhere. I was never really any good at reading a map anyway so I am just happy when I actually arrive at a my destination at all.

I was really happy to see great friends and get a chance to see the show as a "civilian" which really means, without the butterflies and anxiety that come with doing a show. We met with Amy Blevins from Bead and Glass Boutique in Pitman, NJ and had alot of fun browsing. We spent alot of time with Barbara Lewis and I was so bummed I had left her book in the car as I would have loved for her to sign it for me.. She filled in alot of technical blanks about enameling for Hank and I believe he is on his way to finally use the hundreds of copper pieces we bought 2 years ago when we decided we wanted to enamel.. (can you tell I am a little behind in my work?) I am really looking forward to creating using enamel now that she has put some of my concerns in perspective. Barbara is a wonderful teacher and I highly recommend her book and taking one of her classes if you can..

Yvonne Irwin from My Elements

Hank Holding a LPA Cabochon kit by Bead My Love

Barbara Lewis - Painting with Fire

Me, Hank and Amy Blevins - Bead & Glass Boutique

Nancy Schindler

Amy and I discovered a booth that really got our attention and I am sorry to say I never got a chance to do the last 2 rows or any of the side rooms but it was a wonderful day nonetheless. At the end of the show we had dinner locally and made it back for the Meet The Teachers Reception which was also wonderful. It was there that I got a chance to chat with Nancy Schindler and she and Hankster finally got a chance to meet! It was wonderful until the subject of Face Down Tuesday came up and the rest is history.

Hank and Nancy - Conspirator & Co-Conspirator of "Crystalgate"

Hank and Stephanie Dixon-Designer and Swarovski Ambassador

Hank, Stephanie Dixon and her beautiful Swarovski covered Card Holder

Hank who did not know about the card holder

Its all fun and games until someone breaks the beads:(


He is very sorry :( - Hank is holding Swarovski JET AB ss32 crystals)

there will be no more planking at Meet The Teachers Bead Fest..... until Next year......

as always I wish you Happy Creating,
and Careful Planking...

Lisa

It's not all about beads....... (well, it is..but sometimes we need to talk about something else)

2011-08-14T15:20:00.000-04:00

This morning we slept late because of all the work we have been doing with the D.Y.I Bathroom Renovation and we just did not have the enthusiasm to "jump right up" and start in again....it's going to take us long enough so a little light reading and TV wasn't going to hurt any. I was flipping through the channels and stopped to watch Rocco Di Spirito's - Rocco's Dinner Party and started to think about how much fun I used to have when I cooked every night. I know I have been extremely busy lately and just haven't had the time but I never thought of cooking for Hank, family or friends as a chore-it was always something I looked forward to. I taught myself how to cook..when I met Hank, probably because all he did was eat and no matter what I made he always loved it. Whether that was the truth or not, he appreciated every meal as if it were his first or last and I don't think there is a better feeling than having something you create appreciated by the ones you love. So for the last 20 years whether it was something quick or something that took all day to prepare he has always acted like it was the best in the world.. (he is reminding me now, there was that one time I made the carrot soup which did not only taste bad --he is deathly allergic to carrots) Oops.

(getting back to Rocco's Dinner Party) So, as we were watching the show he asked me if I would know what to make if I was a contestant and I honestly could not think of anything..and it kinda pissed me off. I tried., I thought about all my "never fail recipes" (which are not recipes at all..I have never used a recipe or repeated a recipe that I can think of other than a simple dressing or sauce) and honestly could not come up with anything that I could feel confident about in a show like that.. So, he (Hank) challenged me.. The episode we were watching was called "the fashion forward challenge" and the contestants had to create a "couture and a ready-to-wear finished dish using the same ingredients. Hank told me to use whatever we had in the house and do the same.. (he was not allowed to exit the bedroom while I was cooking.) Basically we were trying anything NOT to go back to work in the bathroom and this gave us a reason not to.

So I walked into the kitchen and then right back outside to the garden - grabbed two beautiful green tomatoes. One being totally green and one being a little pink and green and decided I was going to make A version of Fried Green Tomatoes for my ready to wear...Hmm, now what was my couture going to be?? Since this was breakfast of course eggs popped into my head but now how to make it "fancy"??... and I immediately thought of Eggs Benedict. At that moment my dish was decided.

So, what is this mountain of goodness? Well, first let me say this would be perfect if I did not serve it over toast.. that is too much food for regular people. Hank is not regular people so sometimes here it is not Quality over Quantity it is Quality AND Quantity.. but toast was the mistake-not a terrible mistake, but for company-leave it out or not..it's a personal choice. Maybe go with small toast triangles or something.. OK. SO this is my Fried Green Tomatoes with Poached Eggs with Spicy Mayo and Corn Relish. The Eggs over the Fried Tomatoes visually for me was "Eggs Benedict" the spicy mayo was my "Hollandaise" For Color I added the Corn Relish #1. because it was a gift and #2 I adore corn relish #3. It made it look really pretty!

And my "recipe as follows" ( I don't read directions well and I don't write them well.. u can figure it out) There is no time to rest when making this... I am doing everything at once so clear space in the kitchen!

1. Start Boiling your water for poaching eggs

This was the first time I poached an egg the "right way". I have poached them in egg cups and silicone floatation devices but I honestly do not know why I never just poached them them this way..it's easy. I used a Medium size Enamel Sauce Pan and used the "vortex" method of poaching. I added some white vinegar to my water.
2. Readied my pan for frying (I also do not fry so this was a first..I used a shallow stone omelet pan with canola oil)
3. put a baking dish in the oven to keep tomatoes warm while waiting for the others to fry and some paper towels out to soak up excess oil.

I cut thick slices (about 3 per) of Green Tomatoes
Dipped them in an egg wash first (2 eggs lightly whisked with a fork)
Dredged them in Corn Meal & White Flour with S & P ( I used coarse corn meal because that is all I have, but I think the medium or fine would be better.. I am not sure...mine was fine)
Drop one at a time in hot oil, fry well on both sides. I do not check for any sort of "done-ness of the tomato..I just use the corn meal as my guide.
Lay on Paper Towels until any excess oil is absorbed then place in warm oven
Repeat over and over until they are all done.

Sauce: In a blender I combined Mayo, Thin Hot & Sweet Pickled Pepper Slices (just a few) some capers and blend. If the mixture is too thick, thin it out with a smidgen of milk or water or whatever. Pour into small bowl and fold in Green Relish or diced pickles or whatever you like. ** I added lavender flowers to this mixture..which I love...to add another dimension to the vinegary & spicy peppers/relish... only about 5-6 florets which as far as flavor is concerned-didn't come through, but about 2-3 times I got a really beautiful whiff of lavender while eating which was really nice.**

Poach 2 Eggs at a time per dish. Crack 2 eggs and place them in 2 different ramekins then Take your Wisk and in a circular motion create a center vortex in your boiling water. Pour your egg into the center of the vortex, then (this is tricky) take the next ramekin of egg and pour it into the boiling water sort of/kind of near the other but not too close.. and dont touch them.. leave them be at a rolling boil for approx. 3 mins. When 3 mins has ended (I didn't time it, it just felt like 3 minutes) I removed them gently from the water with a strainer/ladle whatever you use and just set down on a wood carving board. The were perfect I tell ya..

Layer all this yummy goodness they way they do on TV ;) and top with corn relish if you have a friend who gave you one as a gift!! Thank You Keith from Shangri-La!

Veggies from our (SMALL-Urban) Garden in June

Summer Food...........

Hank finally learned how to grill properly by watching Create TV's Primal Grill with Steven Raichlen. At the lake we only have the channels available through the converter thingie..and we have become addicted to watching Create TV. One of our favorite shows is Primal Grill with Steven Raichlen and it was only after watching about 10 shows in a row on rainy afternoon that Hank even realized we had a "still-in-box" Weber Grill in our shed, brand new-never used. He realized this after he said to me " Can we go purchase the small Weber Grill that he used on the show"? and I gave him that look... that look that makes him stop and think before asking the next question...then I pointed towards the shed. He gets that look alot.. so he knows. I love this little Weber, BTW.. no need for a big, fancy grill at the lake..that's for sure.

Slow Cooked Ribs that I marinated for 24 hours in a nice little Secret Bourbon Marinade I thought up that day.. yum!

It doesn't matter what you are cooking, where you are cooking it or how you are cooking it. I honestly think that if you are not making your food from your soul and thinking about the ones you love while doing so that it will not deliver. Ingredients are key and those that come from our own gardens even better..

Now, that I have procrastinated long enough...It is time to get back to the renovation --the sooner it gets done the quicker I can get back to BEADS..and stop talking about all this food ;)

Til then, I bid you Happy Cooking AND Happy Creating....


Paella!

Choc. Martini's


Fresh WILD Berries from the house in the mountains!

Mangia!

Well Rested!

2011-07-11T10:54:00.001-04:00

It is so nice to wake up after a long nights sleep and finally feel well rested. I know this will not last long but for me, it's been years since I have felt this way and I am fully aware of how run down I am and how I must make a conscious effort to take care of myself! There is still much to do to make changes in my "world" but last week was a great start! ( I am leaving Hank out because this is my blog and because you will see enough of him in the photo's to follow! LOL) But he feels the same way!

We had a wonderful 4th of July celebration in the country with family with one absolutely fabulous day and one gross rainy one! We have a leaky skylight at our new place which sits 18 feet above where Grandma likes to sleep.. I wish you could see an instant replay of Hank and I watching the skylight and staring down at Nani from our loft bedroom praying it did not begin to rain on her at 5am Sunday morning! Its on our To-Do-List...I promise.

Ben, Nani and Mom having lunch on the porch!

Yes, this is a Maple Bacon Hot Fudge Sundae and it was really good!

We arrived at our place on Lake Ontario at 1am and it was "still there"..which may sound odd to you but for us just seeing that it survived the NY/Canadian Lake Effect Winters is a plus...The fact that everything was still on the walls was another plus as the winds can shimmy and shake our place like we never imagined it could! And after a few hours of unpacking people, food and kitties we slept and slept and slept... Actually it felt so good to sleep., we decided that this should be the main focus of our vacation and happy to say that it was. We did get a chance to take out the boat and surprise-surprise it actually ran after two years sitting in the barn! We went for bike rides, took out our peddle/paddle boat <--- (I never know which one it actually is..) saw old friends and thoroughly enjoyed our relax-cation!

Hank - Waving from what is left of the LAST of the Dock at Shangri La

My View of the Bike Ride!

Lake Ontario at Pt. Peninsula, NY - The place of many good memories for us since 1997

Harpin' Hank on the Guitar floating behind Cherry Island
(he can't do much since his bike accident, but he can still play music for me!)

So, Well Rested I am back now, getting ready to organize and start re-listing in my ETSY Shop. This Friday however I will be at the Bead & Glass Boutique for a trunk show and would love it if you would stop by if you are from the area! Please click on the link for more information! TRUNK SHOW, Friday July 15th!

Hope to be blogging again soon!
Happy Creating,
Lisa

Yes, there was one photo of me! LOL.. just to prove I was there!

Back from Baltimore.... what's next?

2011-06-27T19:33:00.000-04:00

This weekend I was an exhibitor at the Best Bead Show in Hunt Valley, Maryland. It was so much fun to be with Joan of Joan Miller Porcelain and Alice of Succulent Glass! We had alot of laughs that filled in the quiet times at the show. Alice was a great hostess and it was so wonderful to stay at her home this weekend and I thank her and her husband Scott for their generosity and for the wonderful surprise Scott had waiting for us when we got home on Saturday night..... an Xbox Kinect. What I had anticipated to be a cup of tea and head straight for my bedroom turned into hours of fun and lots of laughs. Though I did not participate in as many events as Alice and Joan I am happy to say I represented Jersey well in the Boxing category. I have a wonderful video but I am not allowed to show it and have been told if I do, this could be my last blog post... so, since you would miss me.. I am keep that one for myself. ;) Beaders... this game is certainly going to get you moving to make up for all the time we are sedentary doing what we love...its fun, but its healthy too!

My Booth at Best Bead in Baltimore with Joan Miller on left in her booth!

Have you heard of SILVERSILK? Well, as a jewelry maker I think you better get yourself some because this stuff is awesome! I was first introduced to Silversilk 2 years ago at a bead show in NYC. It was there that I met Becky Lemek Machinski (who is the nicest person, ever!!!!) who showed me this great product and though I had no idea what to do with it I totally dug all the great things she was doing with it. This year at the Baltimore show Becky decided to use it with one of my porcelain domed cabs and we totally loved the result. I wish I had a better photo of the piece she made but maybe with some coaxing she will send one to me-I did take a quickie pic using my cell of the piece she made for me using the same technique (glue, silversilk in 8 needle flat copper, a LPA Domed Porcelain Cab & Flower Mini, a lucite flower and a copper bead & copper findings) Anyway, for all you beaders who love my cabs but do not bead weave or bead embroidery...if you can use glue, you can make the nicest bezels and necklaces using Silversilk..it comes in a variety of colors and I think I bought all of them!! Just remember for the domed cabs you have to use the FLAT Silversilk chain which comes in different width, photo shows: 8 Needle Flat (4.8mm)... looking at the website, I do not see any examples of it.. so over the next few days I am going to try to get some pictures for you to see. Have no fear... its getting easier to use cabs everyday! I also think covering the back of the cab in a coordinating fabric would be awesome.

SILVERSILK Premium Knitted Copper Wire, LPA Porcelain Domed Cab & Flower Mini, Lucite & Copper Findings

Becky from SILVERSILK

So, other than gardening all day today I think I am going to un pack and try to make some sense of this messy house! Til next time I leave you with some photo's from the show and wish you Happy Creating!

Andrew Thornton, some random shopper in the back and Me

Rashan Jones and Me (learning how to use my new phone)

Lisa

I was home for a bit...now I am outta here again!

2011-06-23T08:57:00.000-04:00

This Friday, Saturday and Sunday I will be at the BEST BEAD SHOW BALTIMORE which takes place at the Hunt Valley Marriott in Hunt Valley, Maryland. Click here for more information: BEST BEAD SHOW

Hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!
Happy Creating!
Lisa

Favorite things heard at the show: OMG, I love your work & You're from Jersey, aren't you?

2011-06-14T10:51:00.000-04:00

I thought I would sleep late today..and I couldn't or didn't or wouldn't...not sure which..I am just happy to be home. The Bead and Button Show is wonderful but the ride home is killer and I am glad that I only have to do this once a year. The adrenaline is there on the way to the show but leaves the moment the show is over and that means the ride home is powered by just me..and "just me" was exhausted, but all is okay and I am here safe and sound.

The garden has doubled in size in just one week and Lulu has decided that she liked it better when it was just she and Hankster because when I got into bed last night Lulu jumped on Hanks chest with her head on his cheek and started speaking to him with her back to me.... I am now, the other woman in my own home. Buddee cannot be bothered with anything and loves whoever-is-holding-the-food-bowl-at-the-moment, most. I missed all three of them terribly while I was away.

The show was wonderful! I want to Thank each and every one of you for coming to visit me, for your generous purchases and for your genuine interest in my beads. I am completely overwhelmed by the love and friendship bestowed upon me these last few days and I hope that what I feel for you comes through loud and clear and translates well from this very happy Jersey Girl!
Favorite things I heard at the show #1. OMG I love your work #2 You're from Jersey, aren't you? They seemed to come one after the other..first being directed at the beads (thank goodness) and 2nd being distracted by me or mom saying something afterward...Jersey Girls aren't all Shore Towns and hairspray, ya know ;) Though I was never one for hairspray I did have my share of fun "down the shore" but that is not where I learned how to make beads..that's for sure. I am so glad you like my new designs. I was a bit worried when I cut back so drastically on the Raku to show more of the dark stoneware but now I am very happy I did. I cannot wait to see what you have made with them so please be sure to send some photo's my way. A few exciting things happened at the show and I look forward to sharing them with you as they unfold.
I will blog more about the show and post some photo's but today I just wanted this to be about saying "Hello" and " I am home, this is how I am feeling"...

I have scheduled a little "me time" this afternoon for a long overdue facial and a massage...after letting myself go so much the last 2 1/2 years, after fertility treatments, the spinal surgery and all that came before and after it - it is time I get myself back into shape if I want to continue doing in a way that I feel comfortable and does not make me take my health for granted as I have done in the past...it's time I got my a** in gear. Though certain things we cannot prevent from happening, some of our problems as beaders come from living a sedentary lifestyle and loving a craft so much that we put it before ourselves and I am going to try to find a way for me to balance the two so that I can continue doing what I love....I am not one to post progress on things like this.. so I am going to try and see how things go.. starting with some pampering.. ASAP! ;)

Missing the daily beady hugs I have gotten used to over the last week I wish you happy creating,
Lisa

Bead and Button Show here I come........

2011-06-05T18:29:00.000-04:00

Ceramic Butterfly Charms

Well it is that time of year again.. The Bead and Button show is now taking place in Milwaukee and I will be arriving there on Tuesday to begin set up for the Bead Show which begins on Thursday evening til' Sunday. For those of you going to the show for the first time, I am booth 1213 Lisa Peters ART which is the far right wall once you enter the exhibit hall.

My beads are finally packed in their jewelry cases, which was the first time I could exhale in many, many weeks of manic-bead-creating and now the very arduous task of packing the car I leave to Hank. I hate that part so I am glad he does it for me. Mom and I leave Tuesday morning at 6am (we hope) and we driving straight through, all 14-16 hours of it, so wish us luck. If you need me you can shoot me an email which I will check on Wednesday morning after I leave or feel free to send me an email to my phone if you would like to get together or if you can't find my booth at the show. Either way I would love to hear from you!

There is a cute article here on Surviving the show that I just found while searching the floor plan...

So what did I make? Well, If you are a Fan on My Facebook Page you can find a Preview Album here: Bead and Button Preview Album or in an album I have posted on my Flickr account. (Same photo's both albums) here are just a few pics..

Assorted Stoneware Components


Ceramic Owl Pendants

Assorted Stoneware Cabochons

Raku Jumbo Cabochons

SHOPPERS GOING TO THE SHOW: For those of you who have been shopping with me at the show you know by now the one problem that I have is overloaded bead trays. It is the only thing that I have tried to change but for some reason, whatever the reason be it psychological, geographical, logistical or a combination of all of those things.. it is - what it is. Have patience... Cabochons will be on one side of my table and beads & buttons on the other. I will have many trays behind the booth (mostly cabochons) if you are a "Cabby" you know where the "Cabby Chair is" have a seat and you can look through all of those trays. If you need something in particular.. ASK ME., if you want to know if I have more of what you just found.. ASK ME. I am taking credit cards, checks and preferably cash. I am open to billing via Pay Pal if you are an established customer and would also prefer that to credit cards. Atthe bottom of this blog post is a coupon for you to print out and bring to the show to use towards your purchase. Please add your name and email on the back for my mailing list if you would like to.

NOT ATTENDING B&B: I hope one day you can make the show but completely understand how difficult it is to go. Lets face it - its an expensive trip if you are not local and there is just so much to buy it can be very overwhelming. I am offering for those of you who cannot make the trip a coupon code for my Etsy Store which will be in effect from June 7th-14th, 2011. The Coupon Code is: BeadButton and can be used as many times as you would like during those days for 20% your total order! (this cannot be combined with any other discount code) In July I will start packing the D*Stash store with lots of goodies..stay tuned for that announcement on my facebook wall.

I look forward to seeing my beady friends from all around the world!! Lets have a great show and a fabulous time! For those of you who cannot make the show this year -- you are in my thoughts and you will certainly be missed...

as always I wish you happy creating......

see ya soon

TRUNK SHOW TODAY at Beads Mosaic in Nanuet

2011-05-11T01:52:00.000-04:00

Hello Everyone!

I just wanted to let you know that I will be at the Beads Mosaic bead shop in Nanuet, NY on Wednesday, May 11th. The Store will be open from 12pm-8pm. You may also Visit Beads Mosaic on Facebook ! Here's the info (taken from the stores announcement):

Wednesday, May 11th 12 - 8 pm

Share our love and passion for creating beautiful adornments with beads! Demonstrations, refreshments and special promotions & discounts await you at our exclusive bead boutique, Beads Mosaic. One day only!

Special Guests!!

LISA PETERS ART – Raku, Stoneware, Porcelain, pendants and beads

BETH BOTAK – Vintage Brass with a contemporary twist from Kabela Design

DOTTIE HOESCHEN- Unique Polymer Clay beads and pendants from Stonebash Creative Designs

MAUREEN "REENIE" OLIVETTO- Pearl knotting demonstrations from the creator of the Easy Knotter

Trunk Show Offers & Promotions!!

#1: Get a 10% discount off your total order (excluding Sterling silver)
#2: Pick-a-Gift: Attendees can pick their prize from our Mosaic bowl. Win a gift certificate, 10% off next purchase or gift basket item.
(Offers #1 & #2 good on May 11th only)

Additional Offer!!

All Lampwork, Unicorne & Kazuri Beads
Buy one, get one at ½ price.
(Offer good from May 7th to 14th)

Hope to see you there!!! I am going to bring some pieces that I created for Bead and Button in Milwaukee!

Glazing the Beads and other stuff........

2011-05-03T06:25:00.000-04:00

I am not going to mention how many days are left until the Bead and Button Show.. It gives me too much anxiety! But its soon!

I wanted to let you all know that I am participating the Bead Mosaic Trunk Show on May 11th. It was really fun when I did it in November and look forward to going back next week. Check out their website for the address. (Its in NY) and hope to see you there.

For those of you shopping on etsy, Lisa Peters ART is continuing the Thank Goodness it's Friday Sale... for 20% your entire purchase. Just enter the LPATGIF Coupon Code at the end of your order.

OK, that's it folks.. back to glazing!

about 33 days left and about 90 days worth of work to do...........

2011-04-27T12:22:00.000-04:00

You will probably see this post on many Bead and Button vendor blogs and facebook status's. It is such an anxious time for all of us and it is hard to enjoy the ride as much as I would like to! I have three days left working in wet clay and then the glazing begins. Has anyone seen my Raku kiln? I dunno where I left it last -- its been THAT Long.

I probably wont get on here much to blog before I go so I would like everyone to know that Lisa Peters ART will be in booth 1213 at the convention center for the Bead and Button Show 2011 along with mom and lots of beads that I hope you will love! I will also try to get a coupon that you can print out to bring with you to the show! If anyone is going and would like to meet up for a drink or coffee, please email me

If you entered the Bead Dreams competition and were not accepted this year, I have a facebook fan page called "Didn't make it into Bead Dreams, but still WINNERS!" It is a place for you to show the pieces you made for the contest and to inspire discussion about them. Please read the page Bio once you join.

It is a very odd time here at LPA Studio...lots of work, lots of distractions, my mind racing in many different directions regarding clay, glazes and designs and how I can balance all the things that life is throwing at me.. So if I miss an email or I am late in a reply I apologize. Email me again and have just a bit of patience as it is hard to check my computer with clay and glaze filled fingers! If you are currently waiting for a response for a previous email -- please shoot me another -

I hope all is well in your world and as always Happy Creating!

Lisa

Spring Ahead My Foot!

2011-03-23T15:46:00.000-04:00

I changed my blog colors to reflect a nice springy - green and maybe Mother Nature will take the hint!   We were doing okay there for a few days and then snow! Today we were promised 8" or more., but all I see is rain so maybe it is not coming after all...though I do feel for my fellow NJ'ians out west, rumor has it they received what they were promised!

The anxiety is starting and I am now trying to organize my thoughts and my materials for the upcoming Bead and Button Show in June. The last few days I said I was going to start working in RAKU clay but just when I was about to open the box the Dark Brown Stoneware starting calling my name. I am highly addicted to playing with different clays when I should be trying to perfect one -- but that's not going to happen in my studio..you can be sure of it! I am as attention deficit as they come when you start talkin clay..as soon as I fall in love with one -- I am on to the other..but enough psychoanalysis for today..   All I know is I see alot of versatility during the next few months.

Etsy will not take a total back seat to this and I am trying to list 2 days a week and ship on Friday's. The rest will be dedicated to creating in the studio and for those of you who know my routine, watching Netflix movies and documentaries!

I don't think I have anything coming up - publication-wise, if I do., please let me know.   I do believe I will be doing another Trunk Show at Beads Mosaic-Nanuet in May and other than that there is nothing on the calendar for right now! That will probably change shortly.

So I leave you with this unexciting blog post for today - maybe I will have something a little more exciting to say next week!

Happy Creating!
and please check out the ETSY shop.. lots of new listings went up this morning and more to come this evening!

Lisa

A Celebration of Life

2011-03-02T20:35:00.001-05:00

I just realized what day it was...things were not adding up as I was trying to Rush Order the Memorial Cards for Grandpa P's "Celebration of Life Ceremony" and why the person on the other end of the phone was not as anxious as I was... Its Wednesday, not Thursday silly.   Hank said I should have just asked him, he would have told me... I do believe after all these years he is polishing his sarcasm skills -- {{with a very approving nod}} "way to go hankster"! ;) I believe he gets it from me.

Berks Bead Bazaar is a wonderful bead show - more like a reunion of friends who are beaders with the show part as an added bonus! We laugh and laugh and laugh during the slow times <--- need I say more? It started with a bang though! Anxious Beaders waiting in line to get in is always a good sign and the pace lasted most of Saturday... which was encouraging., but Sunday was slow to say the least. I have to say..any other time I would be thinking about the business of beads but at Berks I do not. I love the show, I love the people.. I spend the weekend with my Mom, Step Dad Ben and of course Hankster.   Friday we drive up without Ben who usually meets up with us Saturday evening and then the boys go off and do their own thing on Sunday.   This Saturday night we had the pleasure of dining in at "The Inn", lucky us... but Hey, what's not to love about a crab-stuffed-pretzel?

Sad News came earlier in the day that Grandpa Peters, my paternal grandfather had passed away at his home surrounded by his daughter (my aunt) and his wife (my grandmother). I am so happy that I spent most of Friday with him, before I left for the show. As a family we did think he had a few more days, if not weeks still in him., but after the most miraculous last few weeks of recovery which baffled all the doctors, Grandpa could no longer "hold the line" and decided it was time to go. A Celebration of Life ceremony will be held on his behalf this Saturday at the Church where I was baptized 43 years ago, by the same minister who is graciously flying in to preside over the service.   I will cherish the last 2 months with him offering a hand to hold when it was needed-by both of us.   Rest in Peace Grandpa.

I think the rest of this week will be spent looking at old photographs and reading about all the wonderful accomplishments attributed to Grandpa and then after this weekend I shall go back to being Lisa from LPA who clogs up the servers with power listings on etsy.. I miss that.

For those of you who missed the 2 hours of listing I did Tuesday night, please check out Lisa Peters Art on Etsy... there are some really cool cabs there just waiting for you!

Stay well and as always,
Happy Creating!

Berks Bead Bazaar Here I (we) come!

2011-02-24T14:19:00.001-05:00

Its strange how bead shows are how I gauge when-to-do-what. Berks Bead Bazaar in Reading is the first show I do each year. It tells me that Bead and Button is just moments away! (GULP) Usually by this time I have blown the dust off my Raku Kiln and fired a few loads, only to realize once again I did not fix the ceramic shell on my kiln or that I forgot to buy a new pyrometer like I promised myself I would the year before and the year before that, and the year before that.. but Mother Nature can take the blame this year that there is no new Raku for Berks.. which is just fine because it allowed me to play with other clays and glazes., but it is strange for me since I love it so much. There is always a little pang in the tummy when customers walk up and say "I have been waiting for your Raku since I saw you here last year"... ouch., that hurts! ;) but fear not, there is some cool stuff in inventory that made me click my heels a little this week..hope you like it too! Mom will be with me and maybe another surprise guest!

Here are some photo's of some of the new pieces I am bringing with me and for a better view please check out my Flickr site directly.

If you are planning on attending the show you may also print out the coupon for $10 off your $75 or more purchase!

For those of you not going to the show I will begin listing in both etsy shops starting next week! New Inventory in Lisa Peters ART and some inventory I am moving out and odd lots in Lisa Peters Destash. Stay Tuned!

Hope to see you!
Til' next time
Happy Creating!

¡España, aquí vengo!

2011-02-06T09:48:00.000-05:00

Soy muy emocionado decir que me estoy yendo para España esta tarde para reunirse el Lorelei fabuloso estupendo...oh, excuse me...I am very excited to say that I am leaving for Spain this evening to meet up with the super fabulous Lorelei to enjoy a week of bead shopping, food, jewelry admiring, food, wine, food, museums, food, galleries, food and more! (no, I do not speak Spanish..lol -- thank you Babel Fish) I speak an awful combination of Italian-English-Spanish, which our friends from the Dominican Republic jokingly refer to as Spanitalish... It will be at the mercy of the Spaniards who I encounter to try to translate what it is I am in need of...but basically it will always be three things beads, food or wine..and since I am Happily married, there is no fourth..but hubby says..If I happen to run into Benicio while I am there, to use my best judgment and he will turn a blind eye upon my return... Hey, Qué sucede en España - estancias en España. ( I know Benicio is from PR, but my 2 celebrity crushes are Puerto Rican and Cuban, so lets just pretend, OK?)

It was decided just yesterday - very last minute because the illness of a very close family member (if you are on my facebook page, you will know who) and after a discussion with my family and the realization that this person is stable, at least for the next few days then I felt that it was ok for me to go.. I spend most every day at the hospital or preparing for the next show this month - so I have not really been corresponding with most of my friends and customers....just too much to do in one day.. so please accept my apologies..once again... the last year has not been a good one as far as situations like this are concerned.. thank you for always sticking by me!

as far as the beads are concerned....

Getting ready for the next show has been with a great deal of frustration. With all this snow I am really sad to say I will not have any NEW Inventory of RAKU fired items for Berks Bead Bazaar . Berks is where I usually show the first customers my new RAKU and other inventory for the start of the new year.. but this year - Raku items will have to wait until the snow melts.. So if you are a Berks Guest and you are interested in going to Baltimore in June, that is where I will be showing my items next. So my schedule so far is:

Of Course, there will always be ETSY! and after this trip..I am pretty sure, I will be etsy'ing most of the day!

¡Lorelei aquí vengo, mantengo la sangría fría hasta que consigo allí!

Happy Creating Everyone

If you need me, I'm Textable!

Lisa

SNOW! STRINGING! and HANK?

2011-01-11T10:02:00.000-05:00

People who have to go "somewhere" for work everyday please skip ahead because I know I would not feel this way if I worked outside my home studio...but.... YAY, its going to snow tonight! ;)

Hank has to drive into New York City everyday and then ride his bicycle to each of his clients throughout the day! So, if anyone is going to be angry at my first statement it will be my husband! He used to ride his bicycle over the George Washington Bridge with me dropping him off and picking him up daily but if you can believe it the prices for parking have DROPPED in the last year due to the poor economy and hopefully more people taking mass transit.. SO at least for now, since he is not permitted to bring a bicycle on a transit bus he can park for under $20/day. I am not sure why I began my blog post with that - maybe out of guilt for the poor guy since I am usually very, very excited when it snows and he gets kinda depressed! Tonight is going to be a big one!

I find I create better when there is snow or rain outside..acting as my therapist please leave your answers as to why in my comments! LOL

For the last few days I have been creating new pieces in stoneware..I am almost finished with a 25lbs bag of it so I know I am bulking up my inventory..but with what I am not sure. I like everything I am making just fine but nothing is curling my toes.. I think it could be because I changed clays. I very rarely create with white or porcelain clays but I decided to do that for 2011.. If I become comfortable working with something I feel I need to change it or my work is always the same.. maybe that's a good thing..but something inside me does not want that to be the case..so off I go, working with something totally new. YIKES. Hank and I have also taken a few days out to play with copper and enamels. The results have either been amazing or disastrous - not much in between.. and Amazing didn't come often! We are not well prepared, skipping steps and do not have all the proper tools in place that we need.. so that might explain some of it., but have to experiment in order to get a feel for the medium because we have lots of cool idea's..

STRINGING MAGAZINE Winter 2010! Have you picked up your copy today? I think Stringing really looks great this issue! I feel that the photography of their finished pieces look great and magazine has a nice variety of work in it. I am super impressed by the talented many out there who are contributing! Way to go! The "Beads to Buy" Section has graciously included 3 of my Ceramic "sayings" pieces.. A Dream Pendant & Cabochon and a Believe Shank which was very exciting to see! but overall I found the issue to be very inspiring. I am honored to be a part of it!

Right now I am going back into the studio to get some pieces prepared as the deadline for BEADS 2011 is quickly approaching. I fear that this year I may not be able to submit as many varieties as I usually do. Sigh :(

Hope you are all happily creating and I'll see ya over at the book! If you haven't stopped by the Beads of Clay Blog yet please take a moment to read the Spotlight Artist for Jan 2011 (<-- me) and have a fabulous day!

New Post for 2011....

2011-01-04T09:27:00.000-05:00

Since I am so bad at blogging, check out: Beads of Clay - I am the Spotlight Artist for Jan!

Is November really almost over?

2010-11-29T20:08:00.000-05:00

WOW, I was just trying to figure out my schedule for next month when I realized in 2 days it will be...

As some of you may or may not know I have been very busy with personal things the last month and a half and have not really been active in any of my online groups or my filling my online stores as I usually would be..especially this time of year when that is all that anyone is doing.

The weekend of the Wonderful Soft Flex Bead Show in NYC my Great Aunt had taken ill and was brought to the hospital for a serious medical condition that no one thought would prove to be as fatal as it did and after spending almost 10 days by her side she finally passed and we were devastated. I grew up with my Great Aunt as much a part of my life as my grandmother and mother and it was a very sad time for all of us. Shortly after we began the task of taking care of her belongings & her place of residence which took almost three weeks, working very long days to do so that it was done quickly but with respect. I was basically put in charge of everything, which I did so willingly & with much love and a very heavy heart.. but everything else in my life had to be put on hold while it was being done.

Before I knew it, Hank had his shoulder operation, and Thanksgiving was almost here and I could not believe how much time had passed since I had felt like I'd even held a bead in my hand! If it was not for the Fabulous Trunk Show at Bead Mosaic in Nanuet, I may have gotten a paper route and called it quits! (kidding) Things are finally getting back to normal and I want you all to know that I was so touched by your wonderful emails and messages. I apologize for not answering any of them as I was completely overwhelmed..and when I tell you I have not answered any of them.. I have NOT. I hope you can forgive me as I did it as a way to maintain the level of anxiety I would have suffered had I answered them in a rushed or hurried fashion, perhaps not expressing things exactly how I would like to therefore causing more stress and anxiety. Its just my way of coping. I hope to be able to answer each of you in the next few weeks.

I am very happy to say that I did get back to the business of Beads a little on Friday and alot today! If you would like to see what new things were listed in my Etsy Shop please click on this link: Lisa Peters ART Etsy. If you would like to see what products are on Serious SALE today please click on this link: Lisa Peters DeStash. and if that isn't enough by using the Coupon Code: CyberMonday in any of my Etsy Shops you will receive and additional 10% off your entire order. It doesn't end there! Lisa Peters on BIG CARTEL also is having a huge sale on any item in the store. By using the Coupon Code: THANKS you will receive 25% off your order total! How's that for a comeback? I will begin getting back into the groove of daily listings and start opening those jewelry cases filled with beady-goodies for you to use!

I hope things are going to be calm for the next few weeks. I could use a little calm. Soon it will be time for me to get back into the studio to begin creating for 2011 and I am looking forward to doing so with a clear head and lots of wonderful ideas that have been swimming around in there even though I was not able to let them out due to my situation.. Ya never know, pain brought forth some phenomenal designs last year.. Maybe I can channel all the emotions I have been feeling the last 2 months into something meaningful for all of us to see.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving,
Happy Creating,
Lisa

Come See Me

2010-10-06T17:44:00.000-04:00

I never know when I am going to write a blog post so thinking ahead....

Please come see me Oct 15,16,17, 2010 at The Fashion Institute of Technology Campus Conference Center / John E. Reeves Great Hall Entrance on West 28th Street between 7th & 8th Ave in New York, NY 10001.. In a nutshell, I will be in the city that weekend doing the www.softflexcompany.com show! Check out their website for more information!

Until then you will always find me on ETSY, Etsy D Stash and BIG CARTEL.. and can ya believe it, I opened an artfire shop but I didn't put anything in it yet... How about Tiles and Mosaic or Multi-Media Art pieces only??? That's a thought!

Hope everyone is happily creating..
Oh and Erin Prais-Hintz of Tesori Trovati Jewelry told me that one of HER designs featuring one of MY designs is going to be in Bead Style that's on shelves now! I haven't seen it yet, if you have... check it out!

Ok, thats it for now..

My First Day of School

2010-09-20T11:54:00.000-04:00

or so it feels like................

Well, Fall is here..not officially but my nose tells me so! It really smells like Fall outside. This weekend I closed my little place on Lake Ontario and I feel like I just opened it up for summer, needless to say I didn't really spend much time there this year. Our property (we do not stay on our own property, we have a small seasonal place about 3 miles away on the same road) has been for sale for almost 2 years now and for the first time I am really getting antsy about moving things along. PLEASE SOMEONE BUY IT! I have lowered my price so much I am practically paying you!

5+ Build-able-Lake-Front Acres S.Shore Road, Three Mile Bay NY

There I have gone and done it - I have hit a new low.. I blogged about my property for sale! Well, since I have jumped in head first.. if you know anyone looking for gorgeous property on Lake Ontario.. email me! and I will personally conference you in to my agent!

Anyway, I'm back to my first day of school <------ feeling that is! Its quiet outside ( i like that) Hank's work schedule totally changes.. Mid July his clients start dropping off..heading off to their summer homes until the Holiday weekend brings them back to the city in September..by August he has one or two clients here and there and is always home with me and we get a good amount of work done.. but now he is back to the hideous George Washington Bridge traffic every morning and I can tell he also had that "first day of school look on his face-worse than me"! I cannot believe it, as I type this some nut job is blowing leaves.. there can only be 10 if that on the ground.. Do they really have to pollute the earth with the gas powered blower to move around 10 leaves? This is a total pet peeve of mine and the timing is just perfect for my blog post. Grrr.

Back to smiles.. anyway.. in a nutshell.. FALL IS HERE! Lets get back to the studio and start creating some fabulous things!

** IMPORTANT ** I was supposed to be a vendor at the Northern Virginia Bead Society Show this weekend in Virginia! But I am not going. I just can't carry my jewelry cases.. way to heavy and I do not want to hurt myself after having surgery in August. I was looking forward to driving and staying with Joan Miller & Alice St. Germain.. but plans have changed and I wish them a fabulous show!

Til next time,

Lisa

I am cheating on Etsy..

2010-09-16T14:55:00.001-04:00

but the affair may be a fleeting one!

Hello Everyone! I know it is always so long in between blog posts but... hey, someone has to make the beads, right?

Recent posts by Lorelei Eurto and Nancy Schindler regarding the web based store BIG CARTEL prompted me to think about a new venue for selling my work. Not that I really ever had a problem with ETSY and I really enjoy being a part of the ETSY family but I thought a new venue without the costs of etsy might be a fun change.

Quickie Big Cartel Logo for Lisa Peters ART Beads Shop

I wrote to Nancy and she was kind enough to express her feelings about the site and I told it was something I was going to think about. Well after a few hours I did and opened up my Lisa Peters ART on Big Cartel yesterday afternoon. I saved some of my favorite pieces throughout the year and decided that I would open that store with those. Crystalline Glazes are something I really love and are very difficult to do correctly... especially on a flat surface like a cabochon as they like to "drip" downward, but after a few let downs in the kiln I ended up with a handful of beauties and my favorite was my first to be listed. I am so proud that the amazing Carol Dean Sharpe of SandFibers ended up with that one in her "stash" as much as I am proud that she was the first to purchase from my new shop... She has ALWAYS had my bead-making-back!   I've had a few sales since the new shop opened and I thank everyone for all the positive feedback they have given me on the new store.

Big Cartel may not be the venue for me and I am going to use the next few weeks as a trial. I love the idea of having another shop and expanding my customer base, however, I find that the tools on etsy are conducive to my "type" of selling.   Lots of OOAK Items.   I have to copy and paste and enter alot of information in Big Cartel when I have grown to absolutely adore the Etsy Hack program by Greasemonkey for Firefox. My whole world changed when I added that program and it made it possible for me to sell similar items but were not close enough to be called copies or to be placed in a more-than-one-of inventory. I am finding that I have to list my more expensive items in Big Cartel to make the extra time spent worth it. But that's okay...this may work out in my favor. All is just too early to make any final decisions and I am going to enjoy and learn as I go. I am sure I am NOT using Big Cartel to it's fullest potential right now and maybe when I do my feelings will change.

What's Coming? Recently I was given a book from 1909 about interpreting Dreams.   I am using that book and the words from it as a source of my inspiration for my new items. I have a mini kiln load half filled now and I am looking forward to getting back in the studio and to start creating more new pieces. Stay tuned for that.   I have been working on a new glaze formula for my next batch that I hope looks as I imagine it to look and fires without causing me too many headaches. (please cross your collective fingers for me!)

After Surgery: My neck is feeling much better and I have more range of motion than I have had in a very long time which is wonderful.. The pins and needles and numbness are still present in my right hand and arm but I am hopeful that even that will disappear in the next few months. If it does not, then at least I can say I tried and will continue to create regardless. It will take a lot more than a little spinal oopsy to keep me away from the clay I promise!

*A girlfriend of mine has been getting some slack from a new pair of VERY BIG Sunglasses that she purchased recently. Last night we met for a snack & a cocktail (or 2) and I wanted to show my support for her and her fashion forward move! She forgot to wear hers, but I brought mine along! It was nice to get out and play since being out of commission for the last few weeks.

Cell Pic taken yesterday evening of me wearing my grandmothers glasses from the 70's - everything is back in style !

Til next time I leave you with a photograph of the first item to be listed on Big Cartel and Sold to the wonderful Carol Dean! I hope to create more that look like this in the future!

Happy Creating,
Til Next Time,
Lisa

restless leg & artist syndrome?

2010-08-26T11:49:00.000-04:00

Well I know why I am restless..but these legs, WOW! Driving me crazy!

It will be 2 weeks since my cervical spine surgery and I think I feel worse now than I did last week. I was supposed to do 4 15 minute walks a day..well, I didn't and at night I have the worse restless leg syndrome EVER! ( poor hank is back on the couch!) So this morning as shitty as I felt I started my 1st of 4, 15 minute walks... except I walked for about 25 minutes... Hank scheduled a spa appointment for me this afternoon for some reflexology and then a pedi so that should make me feel alot better. I thought I was going to go insane these last few nights.. I guess my body is telling me.. get your ass off the couch and start moving. Staples are being removed Friday morning so it's about time things start getting back to normal.

I have been pretty well behaved when it comes to internet shopping lately but Interweave had a cart filled with selections I have been adding over the last few months and I decided to have them shipped - I received them a few days ago and I am "iffy" with my choices.

Beginners Guide To Needle Felting by Susanna Wallis

Elements of Style- Knit + Crochet Jewelry with Wire, Fiber, Felt & Beads by Rosemary Hill

FABRiCATE by Susan Wasinger

200 Braids to twist, knot, loop or weave by Jacqui Carey

Paper & Metal Leaf Lamination: A Mixed media Approoac with Cloth by Claire Benn, Jane Dunnewold & Leslie Morgan

Bags with paper & stitch Innovative Surface Techniques for Embellishing Bags by Isobell Hall

Cloth Paper Scissors Workshop "Art Journaling" Pages in Stages (DVD)

Most importantly I want to support Interweave so I ordered them from their site, but I have to say I would have paid alot less through Amazon. I guess every now and then we have to do our part to support the companies that back artisans, artisan made, etc.. but next time Amazon's getting my order and then when I have sold alot of Cabochons I can place another with Interweave. I have not watched the DVD yet (that order was placed by accident, I do not DO books on DVD or E-books) and I have been flipping though the pages of the others. The one that I really wanted was the 200 Braids to twist, knot, loop or weave by Jacqui Carey. I love the way fiber looks knotted with my pieces but I confess I am not an "instruction-type-of-gal". I follow idea's in books by looking at them and very rarely read what the author has written.. here I think I will have some trouble with that. All the books are OK, but if I had it to do all over again I would have left off the Needle Felting & Elements of Style books. Personally, one of my favorite books ever regarding altered media is Paper, Metal & Stitch by Maggie Grey and Jane Wild .

I love to read these books when I am in the car driving the 6 hours to the Lake but when I am creating I never refer to a book - it must come from within. Books help me discover new products but other than a recipe for a certain medium books stay on the shelf when its time to create... which by the way I have not done in a long, long time! Better get movin.

There's a bag of clay Hank dragged into the bedroom a few nights ago.. he put a TV table and folding chair next to it.. I have made 7 beads.. I think it is time I get back over there and make some more..I am getting pretty antsy..

Happy Creating Everyone!

Finally...

2010-08-10T17:24:00.000-04:00

It's finally here.. the moment we have been waiting for.. or at least the moment I have been anxiously trying to get to for the last year. My Surgery is Thursday, August 12 at Weill Cornell in NYC. I hope that all is successful and I get back to work as quick as possible. I am not going anywhere.. chances are I will be back home on the couch checking my email/facebook instead of in my studio doing the same (<-- still wonders why spell check highlights facebook ) ... its just a simple matter of geography but there is no way I will be out of touch.. it's impossible at this point. LPA.. is still open for business for existing inventory.. any custom orders or new items..well, that is kind of up-in-the-air for now, but you know me.. I got a lot of stuff.. So just ask. I doubt I will be up and around until next week, but if you need something please let me know. Check out my website for a million ways to reach me. I was going to close my etsy shops..but that seems a little ridiculous.. the less changes I make to my daily routine the better.. What do you think?

Crossing fingers that I can feel mine soon.....
Much love,
Lisa

I went away to Bermuda and didn't tell anyone!

2010-07-22T19:22:00.000-04:00

Oops! I snuck away to Bermuda with Mom and Grandma -- did ya miss me? Well I am back now and I have started listing items in my Etsy Shop. Come on over and check it out!

Hope you are all having a wonderful summer and I look forward to seeing you here on the blog or over at "The Book" ;)

I had a dream.. and in it, The Bead Fairy came to me and said.............

2010-06-23T10:36:00.000-04:00

You must do the Best Bead Show in Baltimore, Maryland this weekend....so I am...

Check it out everyone!
I will be there with my usual goodies and a whole bunch of brand new silk ribbons!

ARTISTS: You are so talented, so different - its cool to be among you

2010-06-19T13:27:00.001-04:00

I believe this morning I took my first deep breath after the shock that is Bead and Button (show). The first few days after coming home you are still in the "zone" and then after a few personal appt's and telephone calls to non beady friends and family you begin to realize where you are. HOME.   I slept late, I made a good breakfast, not an I-dont-have-any-time-or-counter-space-left-breakfast...because I am getting ready for a show. We sat down together, at a table, civilized, though unkempt and talked. I actually heard what Hank was saying instead of watching his lips move and thinking... "did I pack my rectangle cabochons in the jewelry case or is it in the shoe box of extra's?" I drank all of my coffee.   We discussed some new product I picked up at the show and then sat down and used it for a bit and made some funky new molds for bead making... because we wanted to not because we had to..   Hank and I have a special project that we will announce when the time is right.. (no, Im not pregnant :( ) so we are doing our best to prepare for that.   Yesterday it was decided that I would be having minimal surgery on my cervical spine so that this awful problem that has been with me since last August can be put to rest (for a little while).    It is not a cure, but it is what I need for now and I am 100% satisfied with the Dr and the procedure and so is Hank. You will have to do without me for about 6 weeks (awww, can ya handle it? Please say no! :) but after-wards I believe I will be happy physically once again.   I have a "diet" that I do when I am about to have surgery (I hate the word diet., but it is a diet of sorts) so that my levels are in check and the process of recovery is easier, for me. So I started that this morning.. hmm, its been 45 minutes and I'm doing ok..so far-so good! LOL I will keep you posted on events as they unfold.

This morning I was looking through my contacts on Flickr. My Goodness, sometimes I just can't believe the talent I see from all the creative people out there. It was not like this years ago, it just wasn't. Though the internet has brought us all together, I still believe the products and inspiration were not getting to alot of people who are using their creative energies now, in the most fabulous way!   There is alot of product on the market yet I find myself still very interested in those works that are simple and done with found objects and media-though I must have those products (just in case)

I am a poser of sorts lately. I have a studio filled from floor to ceiling of hoarded medium. Seriously, you have no idea. I know alot of people say that.. but seriously, you have no idea what the heck I have.. Hank and I always joke and say "Wow, look at this place.. our kid would have had some Harvard education..." LOL (insert any expensive college of your choice in place of Harvard) So, Anyway, I am a poser... because I don't use it, I only use ceramic lately.. So I would like to make a loose-goal of incorporating more mixed media works into my schedule this year (was that my goal last year??) and I really do hope that happens. I miss it.

So, that's what I have to say this morning. This blog post was inspired by my husband Hank who I found fabricating a skull & chain link "bumper" for his new pimped out golf cart by the sound of electric current kicking on and off and the glow of a MIG welder coming under the door in his work shop.   This is ART.

   Art is everywhere.. Mom's who are making the perfect Barbie Cake for their daughters birthday party - you are creating ART, Men and Women who are in their garages sanding the fender of their custom motorcycle - you are creating ART.. I hope the image of ARTIST is changing for people who when they HEAR the word do not just, SEE an image of an old Frenchman dabbing oil onto a canvas with shaky hand and baguette crumbs in his beard.   Its you too.

With much love on this beautiful day,
I leave you with..... The Hankster..

Bead and Button Show 2010

2010-06-15T15:08:00.002-04:00

The Drive that normally takes about 15 hours took us a little longer. I am not sure if I am driving slower, taking more breaks or Milwaukee has moved further away. I had forgotten how much longer the drive is after Chicago and my excitement quickly turned when I realized I had a few more hours to go. But then we finally made it. The Ramada, The creepiest hotel Downtown has to offer and it was all ours for the next few days! Yay! I wont go into detail about how much sleep we had the 1st, 2nd or 4th days or how much smoke wafted into our non smoking room on our non smoking floor or how everything was wet and gross but after spending my third year there I just may consider another hotel... what do you think? Good Idea?

The Show was fabulous! I met so many new customers and so many dear friends. It was truly amazing to see faces of Facebook Friends and put their voices to their posts! (I apologize Miss Atherton for not giving you the wonderful Scottish accent you always deserved!) The Hugs were contagious, the smiles were genuine and the mutual appreciation delivered in large doses! I am sorry I cannot mention everyone here in my blog, but you know who you are! My memory doesn't really start to kick back into action until at least 3 days in New Jersey, when it knows it 's safe to come out and play!

I was glad to be able to leave my booth in spurts. (Thank you Mom) I do not know how you do it as "pure shoppers". As a vendor I usually look for things to improve my work but this year I was acquiring some new products so that Hank and I can begin our new Mixed Media project together, one we have been thinking about for a while now. I do not think there was any booth that did not have something I wanted (NEEDED). The product out there is truly amazing. I have some secrets in store for my next batch of inventory.. so stay tuned.

Each year as a gift to Mom for working so hard for me she is allowed to pick anything from any artisan bead maker. This year she was lucky enough to pick a gorgeous giant Marble from Kevin O'Grady who everyone knows as a glass artist and teacher at B & B. Prior to that purchase she and I were first drawn to a brand new addition to Bead and Button, a Glass Artist by the name of Rodney Andrews. His work is amazing. There were some glass beads (GIANT ONES) that I knew were different than anything I had seen up until now and had to inquire about them. The process for making them was truly intriguing to me (someone who knows NOTHING about glass) and I'm sure impressed even the old timer's. (B & B old-timers, not OLD Timers.. LOL) He also had a line of glass beads made into bracelets and other pieces for jewelry and mom had to pick one of his for a present as well. It was her first purchase, prior to her marble and he just had to make it smaller for her because her wrist is the size of my finger. I would love it if you checked out his website and his work. I can tell you he was one of the nicest people I have met at the show and truly an inspiration to talk to you about process and love of the art-form. Perhaps ladies-looking-for-cabs can find one of his as a source of inspiration for their next piece! If you do tell him Lisa Peters sent ya! He's a sweetheart & I know you will love whatever piece you choose!

I decided to take my camera and take some photo's of the Bead Dreams cabinets! WOW, was I ever surprised to see a LPA Cab inside Sherry Serafini's "Road Warrior". I saw the piece first and fell in love with it immediately! Only then did I realize there was an LPA rusty crusty inside of it! Congrats to my BOC Family members Vlad & Kremena from Golem Design Studio and Joan Miller for winning ribbons in the handmade beads/button category and thumbs up to my BAO sister Naftali (Janice Abarbanel) for a piece made of Polymer beads (not sure what category that was.. sorry) . There were some really gorgeous pieces in the Metal Clay area as well..that was super impressive!

There is so much more to blog about but there is a beautiful sunny day outside waiting for me to take advantage of it. I have been in the house for so long that I can't spend another minute without a visit to the garden.

Will write more later!
Thank you everyone for making B & B 2010 a total success!
Lisa

Bead and Button Show - It's finally Here!

2010-06-08T00:18:00.007-04:00

In Just a few more hours I leave for the Bead and Button Show in Milwaukee, WI! I cannot believe how much stuff I have -- I thought I would get better at this and it seems as though I am getting more and more unorganized! Here I am, 12:20am doing laundry and have not even sent out a blast email to my customers! I figure if you are going, you know I'm there! Right? Right? Um, right :O uh oh!

So for those of you who are interested I am in Booth 1213 and will be there all week! Just for stopping by my blog I have a special for ya. Here is a coupon good for $5 off your purchase of $50 or more at my table! (at the bottom of this blog post or also available on my Facebook FAN Page!) Just print the coupon and bring it with you!

I will try very hard to keep my booth organized and pretty -- but simple when it comes to my beads is not one of my strong points! Please tell me if you are looking for anything in particular because I have so much stuff that will be stashed behind the curtain (literally.. there is a curtain and behind it is where I stash stuff! ) or under the table! Just make yourself at home behind my booth and take your time!

So here we go again! I look forward to seeing you all and Look forward to meeting some of you for the first time. I will have my computer with me so I can check emails at night when I get back to my room, so please send me a message if you need something! Driving in 10-9-8-7-6-5-4-3-2-

One More Week......

2010-06-01T18:56:00.002-04:00

One more week to go until the Bead and Button Show. It's been a very strange week. Usually I am amped up and have such anxiety. My work is never done on time and I am firing until the wee hours of the night before I leave. This year it was all finished by May 21st. My house is semi-clean and my beads are packed and ready to go. I even went away this weekend. It's a very strange feeling.

I do have some work to do., a few loads of Overglaze and Lustre firings but those are just "extra".. I know I'm missing something BIG. What did I forget? Can anyone tell me? ;)

I have been adding some listings to the D*stash shop little by little and very happy to see that is getting some activity! I am also really pleased to see what my customers are doing with the D*stashed items! (almost made me not want to D*stash them!) LOL!

So its a strange feeling having time on my hands right now..
Had to blog about it!

Lisa

My Blog is Awful

2010-05-26T07:43:00.004-04:00

I am usually very good at setting these things up. Lately I have not had the time to update my blog or my website. Everything looks so boring! Its on my list..

Today I am going to try to upload to my D*stash shop on etsy with items available around noon!
Stay tuned..

Innovative Beads and Fiber Arts Expo at Manhattan Center

2010-05-15T11:18:00.011-04:00

SAVE THE DATE! Hey Everyone! If you are in the area or can make it to the city on May, 21, 22 and 23 (that's next weekend) Please take some time to visit the

Innovative Beads and Fiber Arts Expo at
Manhattan Center

SAVE THE DATE!

Hey Everyone! If you are in the area or can make it to the city on May, 21, 22 and 23 (that's next weekend) Please take some time to visit the

Innovative Beads and Fiber Arts Expo at
Manhattan Center
which is located at 311- West 34th Street in NYC!
The Times for the show are as follows:
Friday, May 21: 2:00pm-6:00pm
Saturday, May 22: 10:00am-6:00pm
Sunday, May 23: 11:00am-4:00pm

I will be there with all my Ceramic Goodies. Stoneware, Porcelain and Raku!

On Saturday, I will not be in attendance at the show. I have a Baby Shower to go to for someone who is very near and dear to me which cannot be missed! My mother, Dona and My husband Hank will be side by side managing LPA for the day (gulp) My mom kind of knows its ceramic but other than that save your questions for me! If there is a question that needs answering right away both Husband and Mother are under instruction to call me or text me for the answer...if not, leave them a message with your number and I will call you the following day!

I will be posting a discount coupon for use at the show on my blog and my facebook fan page so stay tuned for that!

If you need more information on how to get to the show you can find travel info for both Parking and Public Transportation by visiting the shows main web site at www.InnovativeShows.com

If that isn't enough to get you there... Come see the worlds LONGEST NECKLACE! Yes, they are making the worlds longest necklace and working under the guidelines of The Guinness Book of World Records. The Money raised from this will be used to help fund specialized art therapy beading programs at hospitals and cancer centers across the country.

There will be FREE DEMO 'S:
Polymer Clay
Crocheted beaded scarves and preemie hats
Seed Beads...their multiple uses
Incorporating Metals in Jewelry Design
Buying and Caring for Pearls
Embroidering KISS Pillows
Trends in Crochet Design

You may also (using the link provided above) register for classes in the following:
Basic Beading
Pearl and Wire Bracelet w.matching Ring
Cyrstal Loops Bracelet
Beading around a cabochon
Peyote Delica & Swarovski Ring
Swarovski Puffy Heart
Swarovski Reversible Donut
Make Polymer Beads
Exotic Dreams Necklace
Turkish Flat Bead Crochet Bracelet
Fifties Flowers Embroidered Needle Work
and much more!

Its the first FIBER and BEAD Show Innovative has ever put together -- and the first show in NYC..
This is really going to be fabulous!
Its one block from Penn Station... so anyone who lives anywhere near a train station has NO EXCUSE not to come

Would love to see you there!
Email me if you have any questions or concerns regarding LISA PETERS ART Designs and this show!

Some samples of my new work

MOTHERS DAY WEEKEND SALE!

2010-05-08T12:37:00.004-04:00

HAPPY MOTHERS DAY EVERYONE!
(That includes all you single Dads, loving grandparents or precious Aunts and Uncles who are being a "mom" to someone you cherish dearly!) Hmm, I wonder if my cats bought me anything?

TODAY at 1pm I launch my Lisa Peters D*Stash Shop on Etsy! YAY

Please take advantage of all the sales on items I am D*stashing!!!!

I would also like you to know that my regular Lisa Peters ART Etsy Shop is offering Free Shipping and 20% off any item in the shop! (Please mention that in the notes to seller)

So Have a ball and have a Wonderful Mothers Day! All of you!

xoxo
Lisa

Save The Date!

2010-04-28T13:59:00.005-04:00

Hi Everyone!
I just wanted to let you know about my next show! May 21,22 and 23, 2010 in New York City! Yay, I don't have to pay for hotel... I'm so happy! I will not be at the show personally on May 22 from 12pm on. I have a personal event that I have to attend. I will be there on Friday and Sunday!

My Mother (Dona) and My Husband (Hank) will be there on Saturday alone (GULP), so if you have any questions you need to ask me or if you have to discuss my product or process you will have to try to see me on Friday or Sunday or please email me. If there are any questions that you need answered on the spot have them call me!

Closer to the date I will be emailing a coupon to use at my booth lisa peters ART.

Stay tuned,
Lisa

I'm still Here!

2010-04-07T20:54:00.003-04:00

I'm still here. I know I have not blogged in a while but you know what happens when I start creating.. I close the doors, dim the lights, turn off the phone, cancel the paper... well, basically I try to be as much of a hermit as possible..
I realized I have not blogged in a long time so I wanted to share with you the wonderful Etsy Feedback Poem Jennifer Ledford of Tocadora Leather left on my Feedback page. I love it! Thank you Jennifer!

Time and again I return to the place
The enchanted glade of texture and glaze
Where beauty abounds and fills me wonder
And quickly divides me and my money asunder

I find stunning cabochons, pendants, and beads
And all of the buttons my leatherwork needs
I just have to have them! I purchase with haste!
Yes, when Lisa is listing, I wear my game face.

I’ve built up a stash, and they’ve traveled with me
From El Paso, Texas to this fine southern city.
Every day I steal time, to touch them and play
These miniature artworks, created from clay.

I put them on leather, I wrap them in wire
I’ll string them with beads for all to admire
I’ll sell them and ship them with wistful goodbyes
So I’ll have more money to score the next prize!

Lisa, oh Lisa, her work’s outta sight
Who else’s listings a frenzy incite
Where it’s artist ’gainst artist in pure buying lust
And the gleeful victor facebooks “Eat my Dust!”?

I’m so glad to know her, It’s truly a pleasure
As artist AND person, Lisa’s a treasure.
I honor her wisdom, her humor, and courage.
And I am so proud to be in her entourage.

Yes. Entourage doesn’t rhyme with courage…
but I’m taking some license cause it looked so darn cool. ;D

Confessions of Bead Maker

2010-03-19T08:52:00.003-04:00

Hi, My name is lisa peters and I am a bead maker and I just don't feel like making another bead today.. LOL!

I think I go through this every year. I am supposed to be neck high in greenware (unfired ceramic) getting ready for my two big shows in May and June and I'm just not ready yet. Which means once again when I finally do get ready I will be rushing around, working 20 hour days and telling friends, "Oh, no this weekend is no good for me I'm working".

I'm checking in (blogging) and want you to know that I purchased a large amount of the most fab Bohemian Glass beads ever! The reason I chose these beads in particular is because they go with my raku perfectly.. I actually squealed when I saw them.. and I don't really "squeal" ;) So, here we go with another promise that I might come through with. I am planning on making some sets with My Raku, Bohemian Glass & Enamel that match.. all you have to do is have the stringing materials to finish it off. Hank (my husband) was with me because he will be helping me with this particular endeavor with the cutting of copper and enameling and he really liked the beads too.. more than, "yes, I like them cause your my wife and you like them" it was a genuine thumbs up for the beads! So stay tuned! I think you may like them too!

So, Im going to be listing on Etsy once/twice week til I get my inventory done for the The Innovative Beads & Fiber Arts Expo in NYC in May and then the ever popular (drum roll please) Bead and Button Show in June. Lets hope I can open a bag of clay soon and make something with it. Its not easy. Every time I do it for some reason it feels like the first time. Maybe thats the way its supposed to be (for me)

Hope everyone is enjoying the start of spring..
and Im over on Facebook if you need me!
Lisa

Getting Ready for My Next Show!

2010-02-13T23:29:00.003-05:00

I am sitting here in my "sunroom" (my new studio, since my studio has become too jam packed full of projects to work in) which is also the dinning room...Once again, Hank and I are eating dinner on our snack tables in front of the TV... Translated, in this house, that means ITS SHOWTIME! He (we) lose yet another few weeks to sacrificing comfort and civilized behavior to all that is BEAD.

Anyway, I sit here and listen to the click, click, click of a kiln in the garage that is firing up bisque for me to begin glazing on Monday for Berks Bead Bazaar in Wyomissing, PA, backspacing characters typed on this page by Lulu's furry paws who has just about had enough of this divided attention cra- and is through with clay work and trips to England.. I'm throwing her over my shoulder and patting her gently, typing with both hands - as if she is attached to me by velcro.. I tell her just a few minutes longer until I finish this blog..she is purring so loud I can hardly hear the click of the kiln's fuse box anymore.

I have no clue what I have made with the last 50lbs of clay... For some reason everything is changing. I have made NO Raku Pendants (can you believe it?) I have made more stoneware triangles than anyone will ever have use for. My favorite clay tools have gone missing and I'm working small <--- yes, you read correctly.... small

It gets better... I scheduled a Bead show in NYC for the week prior to B & B... I mean... who does that? I have to be my mind.. I'm sure it will all work out just fine.. I just wanted to let you all know I am fully aware of how things are changing.. and I hope you like the new things I have made.. Glazing begins on Monday...and then only a little over a week before the Berks show.. Chances are I will not be able to glaze it all - so for everyone coming to Berks, your guess is as good as mine on what I am going to have on the table!

England was fabulous. I loved it! I will write more about it in the future.. right now I have to break down my work area and prepare it for the next step. I just wanted to take a few moments to say HI and Invite you to Berks Bead Bazaar Saturday & Sunday, Feb 27-28, 2010
10 AM to 5 PM at The Inn at Reading, 1040 Park Road, Reading PA. My Facebook FAN Page will have special coupons to use at the show - so if you are not a fan, please become one TODAY!

BIG SMILES

2010-01-09T12:01:00.002-05:00

Its funny how something like "feedback" can make someone smile! Feedback is so important to those of us who sell online and etsy sellers/buyers can get rather creative! I wanted to share with everyone some feedback that made me tear up a little. I love it. Thank you Jennifer from Tocadora Leather for this beautiful "feedback-poem" it really made my day! Please check out Jennifer's Etsy Shop for a look at her amazing leather cuffs!

I never thought I’d see the day
That I would salivate for clay
But then I went and lost my heart
To the gorgeousness of Lisa’s Art!

Pendants and Buttons so divine
I want to make them mine all mine!
Tiny treasures in glorious glazes
Draw me into shopping crazes!

Lurking, pouncing, drooling, buying
Lisa’s lovelies leave me sighing
Don’t wanna share, and can’t resist
I’m spending cash hand over fist!

Be it raku or carved stoneware
She crafts each piece with love and care
Unveiling them on facebook & Flickr
Booty goes to the fastest clicker!

Oh Lisa, goddess of pottery thou
Rise to applause and take your bow
I wish you joy and all success
For you and your artwork are THE BEST!

HAPPY NEW YEARS

2009-12-31T12:03:00.002-05:00

Happy New Years Everyone

Its been a great year. Filled with ups and downs and I guess that's just the way I like it. Some things can not be prevented, neck pains, INfertility, hospital visits, Dr's bills but they have never overshadowed my love for my craft. As crazy as it seems alot of wonderful new pieces were created out of changing my style to suit my newest ailment and to reflect the ridiculous side effects of prescription drugs & not the good kind, sigh :( I'm happy to say that though I am not cured yet I never gave in (up?) I hope that 2010 brings an end to this but if not, Shit Happens and In my opinion its the only way to look at it. We can either wallow in it or realize THIS IS it..and make the best of it. Its something I have believed in my whole life and I'm pretty sure most of the time its how lived it... and of course, a pity party thrown in every once in a while, just for humility's sake.. ;)

All of you have helped me in good & bad times with your encouraging words, your beautiful emails and all the love and support you have shown. The attention you have given me through each phase of this very creative year is priceless and means the world to me. (did I say creative? I meant crazy) :)

The addition of Facebook, despite its negative attention from people who do not use it the way we (I) do I believe has also brought us closer in a way I never could have imagined before. I love being able to wake up, have coffee and go to Facebook and greet everyone. Its virtual but somehow we made it very real...which I believe was once a thing of science fiction. I don't think they showed THIS SIDE of the Future at Disney 30 years ago..

I hope each of you find what it is you are looking for to make your life more complete in 2010, I hope that I can be a positive part of that, whatever it is. I wish you good health and much happiness and a most creative year ahead.

With much love and gratitude,
Happy New Year

Lisa

AND THE WINNER IS.......

2009-12-01T10:05:00.005-05:00

MARY LOU HOLVENSTOT from Time2Cre8!!!

Conratulations Mary Lou on winning the Black Friday-Cyber Monday Lisa Peters ART Blog Give A Way! Mary Lou will receive $100 worth of LPA Goodies and a selection of LPA Stash to have fun with! I do hope you love everything I send you Mary Lou!

You can see more of Mary Lou's work by visiting the following websites:

Time2Cre8 on Etsy
Time2Cre8 on 1000 Markets
Time2Cre8 's Blog
Time2Cre8 's Facebook Fan Page

The Fun isn't over yet! I am having another Blog Give A Way every week until Jan 1, 2010. It will be for a specific Item which I will post here on my blog and on my facebook fan page. I am still offering FREE Shipping over at Etsy and will be posting new items this afternoon! see ya there!

Til Then,
Happy Creating
Lisa

(Photo Above: Mary Lou's Autumn Bloom Beadwoven Necklace with Porcelain Pendant by LPA which is available for sale now in Mary Lou's etsy shop)

I AM HAVING A BLACK FRIDAY BLOG GIVEAWAY

2009-11-18T16:04:00.016-05:00

First I want to say to everyone HAPPY THANKSGIVING! I am posting this a little early so that as many people as possible have a chance to participate. Next Friday is the so called "Black Friday" where people rush the stores and get the good sales. I know some of you cannot get out to the stores for this event and I know a lot of people are having a rough time this year. So I took a few moments and tried to come up with a way that I could show my appreciation and Give Thanks to all of you for being the wonderful support you have been, my old friends and new!

I am so grateful for all the wonderful people I have "met" on the internet and in person at shows & classes. I never thought my creative soul-mates were just a click away! As an artist there are times when we feel closed off from the rest of the world because we can lose hours, days, whole weeks and months dedicated to a single project or many little projects as far as bead making is concerned. Its nice to know that when I look up for a moment at the screen next to me there you are! Not only have you shown interest in my work but you have shown concern for me personally when physically all isn't working as it should. Who knew I could be so lucky! So, with that said...

MY BLACK FRIDAY BLOG GIVEAWAY is............................ a surprise-I can't show ya! But what I will tell you is, The winner will receive $100 worth of Lisa Peters ART assorted beads, buttons, pendants and cabochons as well as some of my studio stash that is not ceramic related! I am a hoarde---- I mean collector of many beautiful things and would like to share a small bit of those things with you! I am hoping that with these things and some of your own you can put together some handmade gifts to share this holiday season or give yourself a gift and make lovely things for you to enjoy! My only wish is that it brings a smile to you! So again, $100 worth of LPA Goodies and on top of that a whole bunch of great Studio Stash.

So, by leaving a comment on my blog a random generator "thingie "from random.org will calculate a number that corresponds with the order in which you left your blog comment. To make it fun - I would like everyone to answer the following ridiculous question. How would you use Lisa Peters ART pieces to save the world? I will randomly choose some of your answers to use in my advertisements on Etsy and on My Facebook Fan Page. You do not have to, I do not think the random generator will show favoritism! :) If not tell me what types of pieces you are interested in working with from LPA. I show and tell most of the time on flickr, so take a few moments and have a look-see!

Good Luck! The Reader Comment Option has been turned off until The Blog Giveaway begins Black Friday, November 27th, 2009 at approx. 12:00am EST until Monday Evening, November 30th, 2009 at approx. 11:59pm EST. The winner will be notified on my blog on Tuesday, December 1, 2009! I will not comment back to any of you until after the giveaway so that I do not interfere with the sequence., but will hang out over at LPA on Facebook anxiously awaiting your comments! BTW, I would love it if you stopped by my FACEBOOK Fan Page and became a fan! Until then I will be listing items on etsy that will have their own special deals as well! Etsy shoppers will be offered FREE SHIPPING on any orders placed in my etsy shop on Friday, November 27th - so if you can't get out to the stores that day feel confident that you will find something to create with at lisapetersART's etsy store and you wont have to pay to get it to you!

Don't forget to check out the BAO IOTW (Bead Art Originals, Item of the Week) and the BAO Color Mosaic for Winter White & Gold Items from your favorite BAO Sellers!

I Thank You for making 2009 a wonderful year!
Much love from my home to yours,
Lisa Peters

LOOKING BACK ON THE LAST FEW MONTHS

2009-11-13T11:02:00.005-05:00

I do not blog as much as I would like to and when I do I kind of like the post to be able to last a few weeks because I never know when I am going to do it again. First, I want to thank all of my customers who have been purchasing items lightening fast from my etsy shop. It pleases me so much that you are all interested in what I have been creating.

This morning a customer sent me a lovely email that expressed how much she liked all the pieces she recently bought from me and also asked me about my pain and did it affect the work I had been doing. It something I have been thinking about alot lately as I photograph my pieces and put them up on etsy. Yes, I think my pain really affected my work but in a positive way.

When I first started to lose feeling in my hand the Dr's put me on some really high doses of anti seizure medication. It made me very hyper, though it was supposed to make me drowsy. When I was at the lake I couldn't participate in alot of the things I normally do and I had so much energy so I brought my clay with me to waters edge and carved beads. The first time I didn't have my normal tools so I used an old manicure set I had picked up at a garage sale years prior. When I realized I really didnt want to use a manicure set that I had picked up a garage sale, for obvious reasons..ick - I didn't have the heart to toss it..recycle, recycle..blah, blah, blah.. So there was my set of tools. Hmm, what to make the holes with? Well, I never used those skewers, so perfect tool for bead holes! And off I went a few rocks, seed pods, shells, and leaves later there were these great beads. Each one must have taken forever, but it didn't matter..my hands were not idle so I was happy and I also allowed myself to slow down and just take in the water, the sounds of nature, yet still be with everyone else. I took this home with me. Because of the pain and loss of strength in my arm, the slab roller and any really extreme movements were out of the question. So I really took my time and nurtured each piece. On good days I produced more, on bad days I carved, and carved and carved. I carved the fronts, the backs, places that no one would even look at..but I was diggin it :) When it came time for the Soft Flex Show in NY I had alot of new stuff I was really proud of and alot of pieces that had a really deep emotional connection with me. So yes, without a doubt the pain in my arm has affected my work.. when the pain goes away I know this is the path I want to continue on.

The Silent Title of the work for that show was made up by my husband Hank. He would sit with me as I created & practice his guitar & again while I was glazing. He noticed the change in my work & that I was using glaze as a wash, and sometimes not using glaze at all and said, "It appears as though this time you are letting the clay speak for itself". So the pieces with minimal glaze will now be from a series called "Letting The Clay Speak for Itself" Go Job Hank!

So I am scheduled for the epidural next Friday, The 20th of November and I'm keeping my fingers crossed this one helps me, if only for a little while.. I'll take it! I also urge you to become a fan on my facebook page. I am doing my best to update that page a few times during the day. I will be showcasing customers who use LPA pieces with links to their shops, etc. The link is on the right side of my blog.

Til next time,
Happy creating
Lisa

Its November?

2009-11-02T13:59:00.003-05:00

I cannot believe its November all ready? Is it me or is everything just going waaaaayyyy to fast!??

I am finally getting around to photographing and listing inventory that was created for the Soft Flex show on etsy and flickr. I want to thank all of you who have been acquiring pieces almost daily since last week.. I CANNOT WAIT to see whatcha y'all are making!

For customers who have been waiting for certain items please email me and remind me. For those of you who have allready done this, please do it again (just kidding) I have posted alot of available inventory on my flickr page (If you have a PRO account, please add a note to anything you want-if not please email me, we will figure it out somehow) For those of you waiting for custom orders I have either emailed you, am going to email you to will photograph the thing you are waiting for very soon. (soon meaning, within the week!)

So whats next for lisa peters ART?

Glaze Experiments, Enamel and Electroforming..

The first thing I know I can handle are some new glaze experiments. I have shown some on flickr and sold out of alot of inventory at the Soft Flex show before I had a chance to show you So, it means I can make more with confidence. I believe I can start working on that in about a week or so.

The rest.. well, we will see. The tools are out of the box...there is a start ;)

So, go on over to flickr and take a peek! Would love to know what you think!

Lisa

Im in NYC, come buy some beads! or at least see me!

2009-10-17T07:33:00.002-04:00

Don't have alot of time to blog today! I am off to my show! slept from 8:30pm til 7:30am ! so I am late and almost out the door!

I am here: Softflex Show at FIT

Hope to see you later.. if you mention my blog, I will give you a 5% discount off your total order!

See ya later!

Lisa

Im doing my best here! Trying to get Ready for the Soflex Show!

2009-09-28T11:08:00.003-04:00

Yes, I am doing my best trying to get ready for the show at Fashion Institute of Technology, hosted by Soflex in New York. The Show is in October which I not so recently realized is right around the corner (uh-oh) There is no way I am going to be able to complete what I had hoped to complete for this show but what I am making is so totally different than what I usually make - I hope it makes up for it! The time in the hospital held me back a little and also I am a little slower than usual making the pieces for lack of strength in my right arm. I am pretty my unable to use my slab roller so pendants are taking a bit longer than usual, but what I do find is that I am making the pendants more detailed..so maybe an injury does have its pluses when it comes to clay & creativity! LOL! Everything about my work this time around seems different. Each piece is more deliberate and some totally freaky...I want to meet YOU, whoever you are that acquires a handful of pendants I made on the night I doubled up my med's by accident..They need a "confident" designer to take them to the next level. ;)

I know many of you that read my blog have asked for custom work in the past OR have asked for me to recreate something for you. If you are that person would you mind sending me an email and reminding me what it is!! Also, if you are interested in a certain type of piece that I have not created until now, please also shoot me an email or comment below.. I am up to my tingling elbows in wet clay and now is the time to tell (remind) me! I was successful in recreating the crescent shaped pendant, used by Janice Dickerson and as seen in Creative Jewelry 2009!! I know a few of you were asking me to make one for ya. They are not exact duplicates, but, I think you will be happy! And I also made a few different versions of this so you will have your pick.

For everyone who has asked about me and how I am feeling.. Thank you so much! I really appreciate all the wonderful well wishes I have received from you. I do finally have a diagnosis, which is Double Crush Syndrome. Articles about this can be found here and here . Basically, I will begin treatment (Oct 21) conservatively with injections in the 2 herniated discs and one partially herniated disc (who knew) so thats c5,c6 and c7.. Since I did not respond well to oral or IV steroids for the problem in the hospital or at home - I am apprehensive but hopeful about the injection(s). I will have one and then another under anesthesia at the hospital a few weeks later, closer to the spinal cord if #1 doesn't do its job. They do not treat the carpal tunnel, as far as I know right now, because the injection to treat the herniated disc, may alleviate the hand pain. These are two unrelated incidents, yet, if you do take the time to read the articles above there is a connection. I am sure sitting around making beads doesn't help.. and I am also pretty sure if I was not making beads right now I would probably feel a heck of a lot better! But then YOU need your beads right? (Hows that for a guilt trip!) Just kidding!

So, I am off to the "studio" which is my dining room table, since my real studio is in the path that leads to my husbands workshop..and he is busy working on finishing my DIY Kitchen Remodel..so even beads are not going to let me stand in his way! Again, since I am in the "creating stage, wet clay stage" Now is the time for your emails, comments and suggestions! I welcome them in regards to shape, colors, you name it!

Til then, I wish you Happy Creating!
Lisa

VERSATILITY OF CERAMIC.......TOLD YA SO!

2009-09-14T14:57:00.016-04:00

Today I could not wait to Blog about the wonderful work I am seeing on facebook, flickr and other blogs using my pieces! You gals ROCK! Really you do! I know alot of you also have been asking about my current health situtation and I address that here as well (way at the bottom, LOL!)

The Versatility of Ceramic (One Artists View) was the title of my solo show at the New City Library in NY last April 08 but today the wonderfully talented gals who use my pieces in their work really confirm what I was trying to say. The reason I created that particular exhibit was to show people that CLAY is not just for utilitarian items or for sculpture but for smaller items like beads & buttons that can make a really big impact. Well, today I wanted to show just how much of an impact these artists are making with the little guys! First we have Kristie Roeder, from Artisan Clay...You know Kristie, right? She makes those fabulous Clay Pieces using stoneware and crushed glass. Well Kristie purchased a shank button from my etsy shop and made the cutest embellishment for her purse. I think its totally cool and will copy her idea as soon as I finish my blog post! LOL! I have a bag that needs one of my buttons right away! Then while I was on Facebook for the 100th time today I happened upon two pieces at once from 2 more very special gals, Carol Dean Sharpe from SandFibers and Jennifer Ledford from Tocadora Leather. Two Cuffs done up two totally different ways! Who doesn't love cuffs right? And of course a necklace, but not just any necklace -- two necklaces from Patrizia Tager, Triz Designs..two necklace's that just make my heart skip a beat!

I returned home from a week at the lake last night which followed some really bad few days in the hospital the week before. I have to say I have not really been feeling to well the last few weeks and not getting better as quickly as I would like to report. My very concerned friends have been asking and I have tried my best to respond to each email about whats been going on but I do not know if I did get to everyone's email as I should have and even then not sure I answered every emails questions either..I'm taking some med's I am not really used to, so I will blame everything from now on, on them. LOL! In a nutshell, I have a C5, C6 disc problem that is compressing my spinal cord. The last week in August I lost feeling in my fingers of my right hand and on most days, most of the feeling in my right hand and arm. With my hospital stay and the med's I was pretty sure it would have gone away by now but it has not, so, is it something else? Is it worse than the studies show? Are we missing something? have I not been patient enough? All questions that I hope get answered soon. My next appt is with my Dr's in NY around the 21st of Sept with more tests to follow so maybe then we will have some more answers. I am not a stranger to spinal issues.. I have had my lumbar spine operated on (S1,l5,l4,l3) and have Klippel Feil Syndrome (that means no disc c4 since birth) so lets just say I do pretty good for someone with a kinky spine :) but this particular issue seems to be stumping me a little.. I saw my films -- In my unedcated opinion (no comment) those discs dont seem to be doing what the result is feeling like..so I'm curious and in a heck of a lot of pain! But I am working and dealing..and will keep you all posted! Thank you for all your emails and well wishes when I was in the hospital and your constant support while Im going through whatever it is, this is. Very Big Virtual Hugs to you!

2009-08-18T11:26:00.012-04:00

Creative Jewelry is Right!

Creative Jewelry 2009 featured alot of great designs by alot of wonderful designers! It was alot of fun to play the "I know who made that bead" without peeking at the answers game while looking through the pages.. Do you do that too?

I had recieved a few emails regarding a stoneware piece I created that Jane Dickerson purchased from me a year ago. It was the only one I had ever made of this particular piece (gee, how unlike me) and I was really excited to see how it came out.. I had to rush out an get a copy of the mag and am really pleased with the results! The Stoneware Crescent shape was hard to make, Jane did a fantastic job on Rich Earth, I really love this and the piece that was shown on the opposite page entitled Sleepy Trees was really cool too!

For the customers who did request via email the Crescent Shape Pendant, thank you so much and I should have a handful of them created by this October (cross fingers please!). To my blog followers if you would like a piece like the crescent shown in the magazine please let me know in advance or I will show my progress on Flickr.com & the regular venues!

I am back from the Lake Ontario, picking vegetables from the garden and making lots of soup! When the laundry is done and the Lake Gear all put away I'm getting that clay bag out! I found lots of good textures waiting for me at some garage sales over the weekend and they are just itching to be pushed into some new buttons & beads!

Til Next time!

Time to get back into the ETSY Groove!

2009-07-07T13:09:00.002-04:00

Well, I have no more excuses left. I went to Bead and Button, I had my R & R, my kitchen is not entirely finished but I have a sink and stove..so the time has come. I am officially working again! Last week at the lake was fun because I was with friends and family but seriously folks, enough is enough with the rain. I had a full week of rain, rain and more rain. On the shores of Lake Ontario, 4th of July week -- it's NOT FUN! I did get alot of sleep though.. so why oh why do I still feel tired? The poor boat does not feel loved..hopefully next time it will get some use.

I have started listing items on etsy a little at a time and I am so happy they are getting a positive response! Right now my shop has shank buttons and a few items from my Rusty and Crusty Glaze series. Today I will be listing some more rusty and crusties for your pleasure!!!!

Recently, my dear friend Carol Dean (you all know who she is by now, don't you?) introduced my work to Jennifer Ledford from Tocadora Leather. Wow, Jennifer has really taken leather cuffs to a new level! She has incorporated my beads and buttons into some really awesome pieces. Please use must take a peek! Her work is amazing! Look how Jennifer has incorporated the connector beads into her bracelet-cuffs. I love these!

Well Happy Shopping everyone! If you need anything just give me a holler! and if you are on facebook, stop by and say Hello!

Bead & Button 2009 is over, see ya next year!

2009-06-12T13:14:00.010-04:00

Hello everyone! ( all 3 of you who read my blog! LOL) Bead and Button Show is finally over! The drive to Milwaukee, WI with Mom was not so terrible. The ride lasted 16 hours but that was because Mom likes to drink coffee... alot of coffee, which means, she likes to stop for bathroom breaks ALL THE TIME! It was fine, we left a day early and my set up is very simple so we had alot of extra time to chill out. The show began with a BANG, Thursday Preview night was fabulous and Friday was just as good. Saturday was really slow, slower than I had imagined "slow" would be like at B & B and Sunday only a wee bit better! I love being there so even the slow days are ok, but I would have really loved it to be 4 days of Thursday night repeats! I am going back again next year, I have handed in my contract and that will decide my future at B & B. The show is so fantastic to be a part of and I hope I can continue being a part as long as I can. It was wonderful seeing the winners of the Bead Dreams Competition were some people I knew, especially a BAO sister, Janice from Naftali. It was very sad to see the lack of a variety of materials aside from those mixed in with Seed Beads and especially sad to see almost no representation of buttons. If there was I am sorry I missed it. I sometimes wonder if my next subscription the word Button may disappear entirely as it gets smaller and smaller with each issue.

I had so much fun meeting "in person" Mary Lou Holvenstot from time2cre8.com. She is such a wonderful person to know over the net, and in person just as wonderful! Mom and I were very happy to have Heather Powers from Humblebeads stay with us on Friday night and tell us all about the Bead Cruise and her creations! I believe we have to say things like this nowadays, due to the nature of how we meet so many fascinating people via our computers. I am always describing how much I adore a good friend of mine only to then say, but we have never met face to face. I am happy when I hear that is becoming part of the norm! What did people do before they could meet their creative soul mates from way accross the country or accross the globe?

I displayed beautiful pieces created by Carol Dean Sharpe of SandFibers, Mary Lou Holvenstot from Time2cre8, Grace Danel from Grace Beading and Linda Themer from Textured Turtle. I also brought along Marsha Hedricks, Amazing Porcelain Beads alot of which were featured in Beads 2009! My favorite has to be the jointed teddy bear...if only you could see this piece in person you would just fall in love! The pieces created for the show by the artists I mentioned were such an integral part of my being able to sell my cabochons (large cabochons) that I truly owe them a commission on every sale! Potential buyers, who moved on from trays of pendants to cabs, wondered, "why dont these pieces have bails?" and all I had to do was point and the gasps began. (see photo of MOM) I cannot thank you enough ladies for supporting me in the way you have over the last few months (even years) What is most amazing is how each piece, using the same materials had totally unique outcomes. They were absolutely amazing and I love you all so much for spending the hours that were necessary to complete such wonderful works! Please check out the artists websites, blogs & flickr.com accounts to see these works in all stages of developement and I too will have photographs posted everywhere I can! My dear friend, Linda Themer was going through a very rough time as I was preparing for this show and I wish I could have been more supportive (email/phone call-wise) during this time, as she was very supportive to me when she assisted me in 2008 Bead and Button Show! Thanks for your understanding Linda! and people LOVE your Rusty Turtle Fabric!

To all the people I met this year at B & B for the first time, it was a pleasure to meet you and thank you for your purchases! To all the people who could not attend, I will begin stocking my ETSY shop next week, which I let run out prior to the show so I could have all new inventory! There are a few trunk shows in the works for different parts of the country which I will let you all know about as soon as they are "written in stone" so if you are local you can stop by and see the pieces in person! To B & B Faculty a BIG THANKS for sharing my pieces with your students and vice versa, that is always wonderful to hear that my work gets a thumbs up from "gals in groups". And lastly, Lisa finally bought a little kiln! So custom orders may be do-a-ble! And if I get my way Cone 10 & PMC Metal Clays will be added to the lisapetersART mix as well.. lets see how adventurous I become! Til then, I should be back to blogging next week, please check out Facebook & Flickr for photo updates and Thanks again for your constant encouragement and support - it really means alot! I'm back, Lisa

LISA PETERS ART at Bead & Button Show 2009

2009-06-02T05:09:00.004-04:00

Well Good Morning Friends! The day is finally here. I am picking up Mom and leaving in 2 hours for Bead and Button Show 2009, Milwaukee WI! It has been a really long 2 + months preparing for this show, I always seem to forget how hard it is - but even though alot of hard work and effort went into the preparation for this show, my experimentation with glazes and new designs left me excited to get back to the studio every single day!

For those of you coming to the show, Lisa Peters ART Booth # is 1213, against the far wall. I would love to meet you. Come see my new designs and the beautiful designs of other artists who graciously created pieces, using my focal bead and cabochons for display at the show... You may know some of them Carol Dean Sharpe of SANDFIBERS, MaryLou Holvenstot from TIME2CRE8 and Grace Danel from GRACEBEADING. I will also be carrying Amazing Porcelain Pieces from Ceramic Artist Marsha Hedrick and some Rusty Fabric Samples from Linda Themer of Textured Turtle.

I have so many really cool new pieces -- Last night I uploaded photo's to Flickr.com but Flickr seemed to be having a hiccup -- so I was not able to describe and label all my photographs properly - But I hope you can get an idea of what items are coming to the show. Please check out my flickr site at www.flickr.com/photos/lisapetersart/ and have a peek! The Set can be found by clicking here directly Bead and Button Show 2009

Enjoy the show!

See the rest of ya when I get back!

Lisa

I am not Slacking, I swear!

2009-04-25T12:17:00.002-04:00

Really, I am not slacking.. I am trying my hardest to create funky new things for you guys! :) I have been working around the clock and feel like I am behind which will cause me a great deal of stress Mid-May, right before leaving for Bead and Button. I have created 50 lbs of Raku goodies! Lots of Cabs! and the last 3 days spent working in Light Brown Stoneware -- I hope to get thru this bag of clay and begin porcelain by Monday. Glazing will begin after May 5th..thats when things really get tough (and messy)!

So, since I am not really blogging, have a look-see at who is blogging about me! Its a great honor to be blogged about and I hope one day to return the wonderful favor my customers have shown me with their blog love!

Check out: http://www.kraplap.blogspot.com/ and http://imaginemdd.blogspot.com/2009/04/large-stoneware-beads-on-trend-spirals.html

Til then I am getting my hands dirty! I promise!

OK., so I am NOT a good blogger...shoot me.

2009-04-07T20:19:00.003-04:00

I am so envious of all the great bloggers out there. Make something, photograph it, list it, flickr it and blog about it and when you are done blogging, twitter it. I wish I could do that everyday.. I wish I could read everyone's blogs everyday. There are a few of them that I get emailed to me whenever a new post is written.. I would love it if everyone did that! So much easier!

I finally got my a** in gear today and starting making cabochons. In an effort to be professional for Bead and Button Show in June I made 10 of each design, with some minor variations. Nothing new though - all repeats of designs from March and for me that is torturous! I have no leaves outside for me to make impressions with and my husband wont let me break anything to make good "texture" tools, anymore! LOL! That being said - I am liking what I am making and I think u will too!

The only thing I have to share is a photograph of my Paella, from my Paella Party which took place on Sunday, April 5th. I bought the pan because for some reason I had always wanted one and when Williams and Sonoma had a sale - I bought it. Then coincidently Martha Stewart had a video of her making Paella for her crew (if you haven't seen it yet, check it out -- Martha is hammered on Sangria in the beginning of the video) With some minor alterations my Paella (seafood-less because we had 2 people allergic to shellfish and 3 that can't stand the site of it) was delicious!

Happy Beading everyone..

I will post photo's as soon as I get my first kiln load finished!

lisa

Blogging just to say Hi!

2009-03-23T14:47:00.004-04:00

I am opening up my first 50lbs of clay to begin creating for B & B and just wanted to say Hi! Thats it, nothing more to say until I start getting my hands dirty and see if all the new idea's I have can actually work.. Will keep you posted!

Dream

2009-03-08T12:42:00.004-04:00

The clocks went forward last night, its really warm and muggy outside and you can just feel it inside that Spring is coming! I even purchased my elephant ears and new garden gloves in anticipation! I am opening the door to my studio, letting the old air out and cleaning up a bit so I can clear my mind and workspace to begin creating for B & B. The feeling I had of dread is gone - like I had last year, my first year in Milwaukee..now I look forward to it. I am sure because of the economy sales will be down, but thats ok.. its understandable. I just am happy to show the new pieces I have and introduce the new line of cabs to people who bought from me last year!

I will have many, many new round and tube beads as they were a hit last week at Berks Bead Bazaar in Pa, they went so fast I didn't even realize I had nothing left for the 2nd half of the first day - so beads it is..

I will keep you all posted as I create

Open those windows tonight and let the fresh air in and have Sweet Dreams!

lisa

I got it together in 8 days!

2009-03-02T12:58:00.007-05:00

Well I DID get it together in 8 days for the Berks Bead Bazaar which took place in Reading, Pa this weekend 2/28-3/1/09! The work was really well received by both new & repeat customers and it was great seeing everyone again. It was wonderful having my Mom there at a show with me for the first time ever and an even bigger surprise having my step dad Ben come down on Saturday and take us out for a great dinner and I believe one too many drinks for me. :) I slept soundly Saturday evening regardless of how uncomfortable my pillow was. Mom is a bookeeping whiz unlike her daughter and were both pleasantly surprised at how much she enjoyed the atmosphere. Mom is not exactly the "creative type" (her words, not mine) and even though she was not sure how all the varieties of beads, findings and accessories come together when its all said and done, she did a very good job at convincing me I could do it for her and picked out some goodies for herself! Lets see if I can do them justice. She did have fun talking to customers about what seems to be everyone's favorite these days -- "Dancing with the Stars" as she is a competition level ballroom dancer and Max? ( I dont watch the show) owns the dance studio where she and Ben dance... so even though she didn't know that much about beads it seems as though there is a common interest in the dancing thing.

I was wonderful meeting Kristie from Artisan Clay for the first time (in person) and being able to chat with her for two days since we were neighbors. She was sandwhiched in between Joan Miller and myself and everyone really loved her glass & stoneware cabochons and beads! I loved seeing all the gorgeous colors of glass up close and have a new appreciation for her work as she told me something I had never considered before about her pieces. That each piece must be perfectly level in the kiln in order for the glass colors to remain separate and even. For anyone that has never loaded a kiln before, let me tell you.. this is NOT an easy task. Kiln Posts and Kiln Shelves are very difficult to get perfectly level each time you fire and an awful lot of work.. so Kristie - I admire your patience in how you fire your work and it was a pleasure meeting you and seeing your pieces in person!

To all the customers that came to my booth and chatted with me - THANK YOU! I so appreciate all the wonderful things you say about my work and the stories we share while you are browsing.
Cant wait to see photo's and hear about all the beautiful things you make with them! Whether I See you at B & B or see you next year I am always available for you here, on the web for anything you need!

taking a snow day - time for a little R & R -- and lots of movie watching!
lisa

Do you smell smoke?

2009-02-24T08:39:00.010-05:00

Well, that would be me.

I have been raku firing for the last few days Sunrise - Sunset. If I had to sum up how its going I would say, AWESOME! I believe that the pieces I have fired have been my best in the few years I have been doing this. Everything seems to be working. My glazes, my reduction. The styles I created this last time around really stand apart from previous firings. I hope everyone is as excited about them as I am when I debut them this weekend at Berks Bed Bazzar in Pa, and next week online on flickr - I am trying to build my inventory for Bead and Button Show so most items will not find their way to etsy, but please do not hesitate to check out flickr and inquire about a piece, YES they will be for sale.

This morning, before my eyes were even open I checked my email and saw a wonderful note from Patrizia Tager, from Triz Design, a bead designer which lead me to a link on her Face Book Pages. I could not believe it when I saw this gorgeous piece that started from a Raku Cabochon Triz picked up from me last year on Etsy. The photo and description are all taken from Triz's Flickr Photostream and are c. Patrizia Tager.

A bead embroidered collar inspired and beaded around one of Lisa Peters’ Art’s ( www.flickr.com/photos/lisapetersart/ ) beautiful handmade raku fired ceramic cabochon and small olivine Swarovski flat back. Bead-embroidered using bronze and grey Czech seed beads, gold-lined and cream-lined grey Japanese seed beads. Embellished using sand opal Swarovski crystals, fresh-water pearls in various shades of grey and cream and Czech fire polished glass beads in different shades and finishes of grey.The back of this collar is lined with grey ultrasuede and the clasp is an antique gold pewter toggle and ring.The collar measures 17” (c. 43 cm). The centrepiece measures 3 ½” (c. 9 cm) at the widest part and 4 ½” (c. 11.5 cm) in length. The side panels measure 1 ½” (c. 3.5 cm) at the widest part and ¾” (c. 1.8 cm) at the narrowest closer to the clasp.This is a handmade original One-of-a-Kind piece of wearable art, never to be repeated again!
Is that not an amazing piece of artistry? Wow.. It certainly inspires me to get back to my studio and begin another day of smoke and fire - Raku'ing more creations for you to have fun with. I will be firing until Wednesday night and then I will begin to organize for: Berks Bead Bazzar. Please come see me if you are local!

For those of you who cannot see me this weekend, I will photograph my inventory on March 3rd and upload to my flickr.com photostream for you to review. If you see anything you like please post a note on the photo OR send me the link to the page (not the photo title) the actual link from your browser so I can easily locate what it is you are interested in.

Til' then - Happy Creating!

Lisa

Uh, Oh - Can I get it together in 8 days?

2009-02-17T09:22:00.004-05:00

In Typical Lisa Fashion - I decided to stay up last night and do more and more and more volunteer work, denying myself much needed rest and somehow found my way to a Bead Artist Friends Website...while admiring the lovely work I decided to look at her show schedule. Oh, how exciting she is doing the same show as me in Mar------- and then I saw it, SHOW DATES..
Somehow, not sure how, but somehow I confused March 28th with Feb 28th..and I have 8 days to create, fire bisque, glaze RAKU & High Fire Pieces, label, price, organize and arrive in Reading, Pa for the Berks Bead Bazzar! BIG GULP! If you are reading this and are coming to Berks..I will need a hug. If you hand me a piece of paper that has HUG printed on it, you get $10.00 off your order of a minimum $75. :) (seriously)

So for those of you who I am in contact with through emails, Facebook, Flickr, Twitter and all the rest - I will be turning into the "RAKU-Monster" in the next few days and I apologize in advance for any unanswered emails, late responses to requests or any messages I may write in my Manic state that ramble on and on and on.....

That being said, what the heck...Borgata - here I come,
I will be home Thursday..

see ya later!

Lisa

Its NOT about the O

2009-01-30T17:54:00.005-05:00

It's Definately about the G.

This is going to be a great week - I can feel it!

2009-01-19T10:26:00.009-05:00

This is going to be a great week! I feel very part of the bead world in every sense!

It started out last week with the wonderful article in Interweave Press' BeadWork Magazine, Lisa Peters BEADMAKER! I have received some wonderful emails from friends and customers regarding the article. I thanked her in my previous blog post, but I want to thank her again -- Thanks Marlene Blessing from Interweave for using me as your Featured BeadMaker in the BeadWork Feb 09' Issue!

This morning I see that "Amazing Grace" is offering 2 items, made with my stoneware shank buttons (lips and flower) for the One World One Heart Blog Event! Check out this wonderful post on Grace Danels, Grace Beadings Blog and then check out One World One Heart Event on their blog as well! (photos: stolen from Grace Beading)

The gals over at Bead Art Originals are doing it again, with their Bead Art Originals Item of the Week! This week I am offering a set of 3 stoneware connector beads, 2 called ugly beads and one rose shaped bead in Fire Opal Pink! Check out the great specials offered by our other members at the Bead Art Originals Blog!

And lastly, wow..I had been worried that this last clay session was not going to click.. but it has -- I am making some really great pieces. And for you Beadweavers out there! Wow..if you like big, I have some awesome BIG Cabs for you to bead around. Please sign up for my mailing list (via my website) or feel free to send me a message or comment to this post and I will add you to the mailing list. Tell me if you are looking for anything in particular so I can always notify you of anything new I have create!

I will be out of town Tuesday and Wednesday (sigh, we sold our beach house at the Jersey Shore..) Bye-Bye Belmar! but will be back on Thursday and ready to fire up some of the great pieces I created last week!

Til then, Happy Creating! Wishing u a fantastic Monday!

I am BeadMaker - Its Official, Beadwork Magazine Said So!

2009-01-17T14:58:00.003-05:00

Hi Everyone,

I was very excited late last night when, Guess Who? Yes, Carol Dean Sharpe of SandFibers wrote me a congratulatory email for the article in Beadwork Magazine about Lisa Peters - BeadMaker! Thanks CD, as usual, is keeping ME on my toes! I was so happy to see it, I didn't know it was out yet!

It was so cool to see! I hope that it introduces my work to a wider audience!

So, today's blog is going to be real short because I am in "real life mode" and cleaning my house (boo, hiss, boo) so, if you get a chance pick up a copy and check it out! Working with Interweave was a pleasure and I love their publications.

Thank you, Marlene Blessing from Interweave Press for chosing me for your BeadMaker for Feb 09!

Lisa

Brrrrr... Its Cold & Snowy Outside

2009-01-15T07:06:00.006-05:00

Doesn't bother me at all though - all I need is clay and some coffee and I am oblivious as usual to the weather outside! I did find my kitty Buddee sleeping on the table this morning, watching the snow fall - laying on my freshly made pendants! I guess he was trying to "hatch them"...

Working with the clay the last few days I did not think anything was clicking, but now that I look at them again, in their dry stage (before the first firing, called Bisque firing) I think I made some cool stuff. My beads (the connector type) are coming out great, the pendants - I am still waiting for the ah-ha moment..but they are ok. I am making alot of non textured pendants so that I can melt alot of glass and copper on them in the Raku Firing. Making them look similar to the fat pendant type beads I was making. Very runny and drippy.. we'll see.

So, off I go back to work. Wanted to say good morning and again, thanks everyone for all the support for the B & B issue. I am over it..what's done is done..I have not given it another thought after their response, except to respond to all you wonderful people for your kind words! And I move on to the next. There is never a lack of injustice's in this world and I am never without my handy soapbox, so..

Til next time, Have a great one! stay warm (to all the locals!)

THANKS EVERYONE, For Trying!

2009-01-13T11:49:00.003-05:00

Hi, I have been getting some wonderful emails by a very supportive network of family and friends! And you my customers are my family and friends! I want to tell you that I really appreciate all the kind words you have sent to me regarding the Bead Dreams issue and I have forwarded those sentiments to the muddy people over at Beads of Clay and Ceramic Arts Forum. Also, to my sisters who work in clay, BOC/CBA/CAF and so on..thank you for standing together on this issue and for all the words of encouragement and of course your very comedic posts on CAF.. especially you Joan T and Lana W., of Off Center Productions

I am very sad to say the Kalmbach has decided to continue to shut out Ceramic Beads in the Handmade Bead or Button Category regardless of our protest. You may read a copy of their response to us at the Bead and Button Show Forum, as well as some of our letters to them. I believe you have to sign in, in order to read them, which is Free.. HERE - I assure you their excuse is lame.

OK.. on to the next, because I cannot let this get in the way of me creating some new stuff! So thats what I have been doing the last few days, creating new STUFF! I said things would start clicking by Sunday and maybe since I am older it takes a few days longer.. LOL!

I did see some really great new pieces by Grace Beading on her blog earlier today - that made me feel alot better! She created more of the pendant/pins using my cabs and beading around them. They are really lovely. Please check out her blog to see what she's been up to! GRACE BEADING

Hope I will have some better news for Tomorrow!
Til then,
Happy Creating!
Lisa

Ceramic Bead Artists could use your help!

2009-01-12T14:09:00.002-05:00

This is a copy of an email I sent out to the Bead Community. I hope that you will join me/us in an effort to right this wrong!

Dear Friends,

I am reaching out to you to ask for your help for the Ceramic Bead & Button Making Community.

Each year Bead and Button Show has a competition called Bead Dreams. In all the years they have been having this contest a Ceramic Bead Artists have won awards in the handmade bead or button category. Last year Bead and Button Magazine/Show did not want to include Ceramic Bead Artists in this competition, even though in the previous year a Ceramic Bead Artist took home 1st Prize and that same year even I had an honorable mention for my Raku Buttons. Our work was photographed for the magazine and stood as equals to all the other bead work of different mediums. Through emails and posts in the forums we reached out to the people in charge and Thank Goodness had that category changed to include Handmade Beads and/or Buttons in which Ceramic artists could enter their work. Happily another Ceramic Bead Artist Took 3rd place last year.

This year we find that again they have shut us out. I am not really sure why. We are major contributors in the world of Artisan Bead Making and I find this decision very unfair. Personally, as a vendor at Bead and Button Show I am very sad that my work is not taken seriously enough to be able to enter this very special competition.

I am reaching out to you and asking if you could send a small letter of protest in regards to this situation to the people in charge at Bead and Button Magazine. The email address is: beaddreams@beadandbutton.com but if you have someone else you are familiar with by all means please bring this to their attention. The person in charge of the Bead and Button Show is Joel Wingelman The Events Marketing Specialist Jwingelman@kalmbach.com and we (Ceramic Bead Artisans) have opened a forum post over at Bead and Button Magazines Show Forum on their webiste. So, you have your options to choose from if you would like to help us right this wrong.

I find that the categories for Bead Dreams is narrowing. Fiber, Ceramic and Mixed Media - All shut out, unless they are used in finished projects. Well, sometimes the beauty of a bead is just that.. The beauty of the bead in itself. In the magazines I subscribe to Cloth, Paper and Scissors, Quilting Arts, Artful Blogging, etc.. Mixed Media is everywhere. It seems as though all Bead and Button wants to show is Lampwork and Bead Weaving.

I am a BIG Supporter of both Lampwork and Bead Weaving. I am a proud member of a group called Bead Art Originals which accepted me into their group because of their interest in my work and our collaborations have been amazing. I have nothing, but the deepest respect for artists working in glass regardless of what form it takes. But for a magazine, to competely shut it self off from the rest of the artisan bead making world and to still carry a name like Bead and Button is completely beyond my comprehension.

So, if you feel the same way about this that I do and you would like to see Ceramic Artists given the same chance as everyone else in the Bead Dreams Competition please contact them using any of the venues mentioned above in this blog.

Thanks everyone for listening

Sometimes I need to vent!

Lisa

Beading Today with lisa peters ART Buttons!

2009-01-09T10:37:00.011-05:00

Guess who is Beading with my Buttons? Grace from Grace Beading is! She is as she puts it "Beading Up A Storm"... If you would like to read Grace's Blog and see how she created these really wonderful Pendant/Pins check out: GraceBeading. I think they look fantastic and I am really, really happy with the end result and when I see my pieces in action! (photos stolen from Grace's Website - Thanks Grace)

When I create pieces I never set out to make buttons or beads that day. I just "make stuff" and I look at their shape and then decide if they are going to be a connector bead or shank button. My interest in collaborating with BeadWeavers has intensified over the last year and I am trying to do my best to create really cool cabochons, thin edges with interesting design or glaze in the center.

Yesterday I took out some clay, the first time in a very long time. I start simple..no tools at first, no texture, just clay manipulation just so "we" can get aquainted once again. Its tough mentally because I want to be at the level I was when I was creating last but I know that it takes a few days before I understand what theme or common denominator this new batch of ceramic will have. I fumble around looking for misplaced tools, that special texture I get my "lizard tails" from (where the heck is that?) and my beloved seashells.. I have a million of them, but there is only one that makes the impression i am looking for. I never know when everything is going to click and the production will begin. Even my "high chair" (bar stool - even with my counter top) is not here, therefore making it very difficult to do certain designs fluidly. By Sunday, if I keep at it, things should be going smooth. (fingers crossed)

If you are local - my work is in a Group Show entitled, H2O, The Water Exhibit at the Art Center of Northern NJ in New Milford, New Jersey. It is a Mixed Media Painting, Acrylic, Resin and Paper in a handmade driftwood frame made by my husband, Hank. It is 17 3/4 X 17 3/4 and I do not have a photograph of it yet, but I will try to get one on Sunday. The opening reception is from 3-5pm. Click here to find out information on the ACNNJ

I will keep you posted, til then don't forget to stop by the Art Bead Scene and check out the January Monthly Challenge for a chance to win some lisa peters ART Prize Beads. There are 6 in total. Good Luck and have a Great Weekend.

Wanna Win Some Lisa Peters ART Beads?

2009-01-07T22:45:00.004-05:00

Heather Powers over at Art Bead Scene has asked me to be a Bead Sponsor this month for the ABS January Challenge. The Challenge is: (taken from Art Bead Scene blog)

For our January challenge I've decided to choose my all time favorite painting, Irises by Vincent Van Gogh. Both my favorite painter and flower all wrapped up into one glorious mix of color and texture! Your entry this month can be inspired by the colors, irises, pattern, whatever you choose to focus on for your creation. Just remember to include at least one art bead in your design. We can't wait to see what you create!

I encourage you to take a look at the ABS Blog and participate in this wonderful challenge.

I will be giving away:
1 Long Raku Fired Tube Bead that has PMC included
2 Raku White Crackle Round Beads
3 Stoneware hearts

Good Luck everyone!

Good Way to Start off the New Year!

2009-01-03T16:43:00.010-05:00

Congratulations Lisa! The email from Allene, from Allene's Beads began, "It was so nice to see your beads in Stringing Magazine" Hmm, that's a pretty curious statement, what does she mean? I am not in Stringing Magazine, Am I? I thought it was a mistake, I know I have some stuff coming up in Feb., but not Dec? So, she checked it out again, "Page 57, The December Issue, a linked piece by Marlene Blessing", she wrote... So I picked up a copy last night & she was right.. I know Marlene did tell me she was working on this, but I must have confused some dates..but I am happy to see it! Thanks Marlene for taking a chance on those freaky little connector stoneware beads!

This morning, again I was very happy to see an email from Mary Lou from Time2Cre8 who apparently is looking for an excuse to buy more beads :) ! She is digging thru her stash and I am super happy to see it I think she did a fabulous job converting a Raku Shank Button into a piece for a very versatile Ndebele Rope Necklace. I think its a gorgeous piece that will be super fabulous for Valentines Day! For more information about this listing check out Mary Lou's Etsy Shop.

So This New Year has started out pretty good so far! On New Years Day, even though we were pretty exhausted, tradition is that we take grandma to AC for a little "light" gambling :) Though we were dragging, we smiled big and made our way around the casino. We lost everything, but just for fun, we took our last $5 and played Sic Bo, a game where any kind of thinking is unecessary. Usually I ask Hank what number he would like me to play, he tells me and then I pick another..but this time I listened. I am happy to say, at 60 to 1 odds, he was right and we left with exactly what we brought with us to gamble. I told him it was all because of his telepathic skill that we won, but secretly I knew it was because Grandma was wearing "The One Armed Bandit" Cuff by Carol Dean Sharpe of SandFibers!

Have a great day everyone!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2008-12-30T18:57:00.011-05:00

Wow, alot of things happened to me in 2008! How bout you?

This was a really interesting year I must say. Went to Tuscon to check it out, I did my first big Bead Show, Bead and Button, went on more vacations than I should have, did alot of construction projects on the house, gained 25lbs, renewed alot of old friendships via FaceBook (the newest addiction) and really started to focus on my etsy shop! Alot of personal changes in my life as well, maybe one day I will blog about them but the one thing I am really happy about is eliminating "stuff" from my life. The clothes, the pots and pans, the shoes, the table linens the chachka's..the chachka's.. oh, the many chachka's that had such a hold on me! The cars (he promised) How many cars can one man collect that is not rich and has a house with one garage? Well, if you asked my husband he would say "as many as you can"! We were doing a really, really good job before the Holiday Confusion..lets see if after the basement is finished we can get back on track. When you are married for 18yrs and do not have children - you buy, buy, buy - more, more, more unecessary stuff. And I graciously hand it over to you, Pascack Valley Thrift Shop - who I have been donating to for too many years to have this much stuff left!

The one thing I would like to take back is the 25lbs weight gain! So, starting Monday...NO, I don't diet. I change my eating habits. Diets never work. But changing eating habits and certain foods at certain times, blah-blah-blah do and I will try to start to exercise again. You know that saying about the shoemakers children..well since my husband is in the health & fitness field wouldn't ya figure I starting putting on weight ever since the day I met him! So lets see if I can rid myself of these extra's before Bead and Button in June - That would be nice!

Well , Happy New Year Friends! Thank you for making my year so exciting, with your thoughtful emails and comments to my blog. For your interest in my work and interest in me as a friend! You have all made this year better for me and I thank you, thank you, thank you!

I leave you today, like I did before Christmas with some past New Years Photo's to start the holiday! Much love to you all, Lisa
Grandmother, Hank and Mom 2002

Grandmother, Me and Aunt Adele - 2004

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

2008-12-22T09:38:00.013-05:00

Happy Holidays Everyone! Yesterday was my Moms Birthday-thats her & I in the Black and White Photo in 1970 I believe. I have a confession to make -- I still to this day, LOVE White Christmas Tree's!

Today Hanukkah Begins and Thursday Our Family will be celebrating Christmas! Whatever Holiday you and your loved ones observe I wish it to be a warm, wonderful and special one! They say the bad economy is bringing everyone closer to home this year and if this is true there is a silver lining in every cloud! I am looking forward to having fun, laughing and enjoying the time spent with my family. My brother and sister in law have us for Christmas Eve which is always a great and then I have Christmas Day, here in my home with my husband and my side of the Family. I do hope we can get the construction materials and everything in order so that our guests can see what we have been doing down there, in the dreaded basement we have been working on 24/7 for the last few weeks. We do not have a ceiling yet, but what a great use for all the extra christmas lights we did not have the time to put up around the house! ;) We did not decorate as we usually do for the holiday's - our window is simply a beautiful Red Pointsettia on small pedestal with Gold Backround..Hank and I will put a small table top tree up and decorate with a handful of ornaments but other than that we gave eachother permission to set ourselves free this year of our usual routine and we will get back to it next year, with the addition of a beautifully finished basement!

I have posted some photo's of previous Christmas Holiday's just to get me in the spirit and wish everyone much love and happiness during their Holiday's and a fantastically creative new year ahead of us! I hope to keep you inspired with new works and look forward to seeing all the beautiful things you make with them! Lisa

Our Christmas Window 2006

Grandmother Next to the Tree 2007

The Most Fattening Egg Nog in the World Made by my Mother in Law

Our Christmas Card in 1994 with our Kitty Petie!

Its Snowing, I should be Cleaning and I am just sitting here Admiring

2008-12-19T12:06:00.006-05:00

Hello Everyone, I have been out of My Own Loop, I think. I really used to love Flickr.com and ever since they changed the formatting It is not the same to me, therefore I have not been hanging out there that much lately... Today, as I watch the snow fall and listen to everyone who calls me to complain they can't do this or can't do that and as the TV News Crews scenes of Snow Covered Roads and Snow Plows I secretly wish it would fall and fall and fall as I absolutely LOVE Snow Days.. I am sure if my husband, who is dutifully riding his bicycle from client to client in NYC wearing his Artic-Gear would disagree right now and if I were him, I guess I would too. As I type this I am listening to Mayor Bloomberg, speak to everyone about "how to get around in the snow", with the slightest amount of sarcasm in his voice and thinking I would do the same. ;) Well, back to Flickr.com -- So, today I decided to check out some of my "old flickr stomping grounds" LOL and take a look at what ya'll have been doing and I stopped in to Lisa Peters ART for a bit and revisit some of your work that included a little bit of me. Everyone makes such great things but one piece really caught my eye. My Great Friend Linda Themer, from Textured Turtle made a piece that really spoke to me. She dyes and rusts her own fabric (which I believe she sells on her etsy shop). I love the fact that this piece is round -- and I could spot my tiny little bead dead center which was really cool to see. So, Thanks Linda for making such a great piece and posting it on my Flickr Pool! I also would like to thank everyone else who has taken the time to post photo's using my pieces in their creations on my flickr pool.. I REALLY LOVE TO SEE finished products with my pieces in them and encourage everyone to do so!

I may blog again this afternoon, some snow photo's!

Until then enjoy some of this years collaborations between me & my customers! Pictured below is a Mixed Media Creation by Linda Themer and A Mosaic of Bead Weaving Collaborations between Carol Dean Sharpe of SandFibers and myself.

Just ask me, I am sure I have it!

2008-12-15T08:42:00.004-05:00

I have not been blogging as I should because the dreaded "basement project" is happening, in my home - right now! It feels as though I have been working on my basement for 16 yrs, probably, because I have. I won't go into details, I am sure most of you who follow my blog (can I count you on 1 hand or 2, lol!) know about the floods and this and that..well, we have been doing our best to finally get the job done so I NEVER HAVE TO TALK ABOUT IT AGAIN! I give myself a few hours every day to list on etsy and the rest of the day is painting, sawing, sanding, and renovating the basement.. so excuse #47 this year for not blogging as I should-has been made. Do I dare make it a New Years Resolution. ( I have learned my lesson..don't even bother)

SO anyway, JUST ASK ME - I AM SURE I HAVE IT!

Did you know I have hundreds of buttons and beads here in my studio in packages? All shapes and sizes (even really, really small ones - can you believe it?) all clays and glazes. Leaf, heart, round, square, doggie bones, lips, eyes, more leaves, -- you get the picture right? I prepared them for B & B in packs so I could hang them from my display units & because I created like a crazy person I could not even fit these all in, so they have been here, waiting for YOU..who is waiting for ME, to photograph them.

So, until that time comes, when they are properly photographed, ASK ME. Ask me for a color a shape or tell me what it is you need to finish and I can see if I have something suitable for your project! This is one of 3 boxes... :)

Open Houses? 12 Days of BAO Gift Giving? Black Friday? Cyber Monday? Lions & Tigers & Bears, Oh My!

2008-11-27T23:16:00.005-05:00

I am super proud to be a member of a team that really has their stuff together! They complete me! (lol!) Well I am sure you didn't hear it here first, but just in case you are the Bead Art Originals Street Team are totally in the spirit of giving! First you have to check out the Twelve Days of Gift Giving on the BAO Blog. Its fun, exciting and you get a chance to win a free gift!

And if that isn't enough to keep you going then starting 12:01am, November 28-31, 2008 we are having an OPEN HOUSE! Yes, an Open House and you don't have to go anywhere in order to start shopping! With the price of gas today how can you go wrong shopping for one of a kind, artisan made gifts from the comfort of your own home!

Some of our members will be offering specials during the Open House, including special pricing and free worldwide shipping. Here's the list of participating members and their special offerings. (If you purchase from one of these shops during the Open House weekend, make sure to include the code BAO OPEN HOUSE in the Notes to Seller when you check out.)

Anna (ARoseByName): free shipping
Heather (Humblebeads): free shipping on all orders and a free gift with purchases of $50 or more Carli (Juiceglass): free shipping
Lisa (LisaPetersArt): free surprise gift (at least $5 value) with any purchase over $30 (note that this special is being offered through the end of the year)
Mak (MAKUstudio): free shipping + 10% off purchases over $50 and 15% off purchases over $100
Dee (Malodora): free shipping
Swanee (MistyRidgeBeads): free shipping
Janice (Naftali): free shipping
Melody (SalamanderHouse): free shipping
Carol Dean (SandFibers): free shipping and a set of Sand Fibers coasters ($12 value) with every order
Smadar (SmadarsTreasure): free shipping + 10% off the second item purchased
Sarah (thebeadedlily): free shipping
Darcy (thejadedog): free shipping
MaryLou (time2cre8): free shipping on entire order with the purchase of anything with the "bao team" tag
Lisa (tqbdesigns): free shipping
Triz (triz): free shipping

Have a Wonderful Weekend and Fantastic Shopping Experience!

Stay Tuned!

Lisa

Back Into The FIRE!

2008-11-12T11:56:00.007-05:00

It's been a while since I went "Back into the FIRE". I have been working very dilligently lately getting my Etsy shop to what it should be and I have mentioned here and there on different forums that it has definately paid off. That is one of the reasons I have not fired anything in while. I have created at such a manic pace that I was literally up to my ears in product and no one ever saw what I had made! So, I got out the Trusty Sony (my close up camera) and went to work. A BIG Thank You to my customers and friends who have made recent purchases. I really appreciate it and can't wait to see what you have made! So, Back to "Back into the Fire"

Sunday, my friend Nadine came over to Raku with her fiance' Chip and we all did some glazing and firing together. We also polished off 2 bottles of French wine and other delicious beverages. Nadine had a focus, a Sculpture she had made and many Angels she has created over the last few months, you can check out her Angels at NadineUnsworth.

I however did not have a focus and it was the best feeling. I took out my many tubs of bisque-ware (un-glazed ware) and started to look at the pieces I had been ignoring for some time. "They were too small, they weren't part of a set, they were too hard to glaze", the list goes on and began glazing at a snails pace. I didn't have a show hanging over my head, I wasn't filling an order..I was just glazing, because I felt like it and I really had fun. I used colors I normally would not have and I experimented with funky glaze mixtures as well. I am very pleased with my results AND best of all I made use of some really small pieces (normal for other people, small for me) I have to admit, they are so hard to glaze and really hard to fire. Looking for them afterward in the reduction container is the worst, but I took my time and got through. I have put a good deal of them on etsy the last day or so and alot of them sold allready too! So keep checking back and look what new things I put in my shop every day!

I would also like to ask that everyone say a special prayer for my friend Linda today..an illness has visited a family member and I am praying for their speedy recovery!

Below I have posted some photo's of Nadine from that day & a photo of Nadine's Sculpture.
Have a great day everyone & I am glad I took time to smell the sawdust! Lisa

Artist - Raul Conti of Argentina (and New York)

2008-11-06T13:39:00.004-05:00

Every once in a while I will write a short post about artists whose work I admire and Raul Conti is one of them. Raul is a friend, of my friend, Nadine Unsworth. You may have read about her in my previous posts or seen photographs of her and I at different art shows together. Nadine is not only my friend but we also Raku together from time to time (when she is not carving stone or painting in oils) She introduced me to Conti's work a few years ago, I want to say 2002 or 2003 but I am not sure. She owns one of his smaller works, I believe entitled Sweet Melody, which I have admired on many occasions at her home. About 3 years ago we attended Conti's show at the Argentenian Consulate in NYC and I was absolutely blown away. There is nothing that can compare to seeing his work (paintings) in person. I have never seen light painted in the way he does and to look at his paintings you feel totally embraced by this light. Luminous is the only word I can seem to utter. His Esculptures are also beautiful and I remember spending alot of time standing in front of Maternity 2001. (and eating) I have not been lucky enough to see any of his other works..but I do cherish my signed copy of Raul Conti - Sixty Years of Paintings & Sculptures. This is just a short blog to say, check it out: HIS WEBSITE has just been updated and ready for everyone to see! If he ever shows again in your "neck of the woods" please do yourself a favor and go fall in love with his beautiful paintings.

Do YOU Live in INDIANA?

2008-10-30T14:10:00.004-04:00

Neither do I.

But my friends Linda & Dana do!

I am not having anything special as far as an artist open house this year. I have had them in previous years and they were alot of fun but this year we are taking it easy! I have decided to tell my blogging friends about an open house taking place in Hope, Indiana!

Saturday, November 8th, 2008 from 1pm-5pm

Dana Graham of New Moon Designs

Linda Themer of Textured Turtle

Joan Johnson-Bey & Danielle Reynolds

If anyone visited me at Bead and Button this year they were sure to see the Mosaic Bead Works of Linda Themer as well as the beautiful Lampwork beads, in the Raku Color Palette made by Dana Graham displayed at my booth. Linda's mosaic buttons were juried into this years Bead Dreams 2008! How exciting!

Their open house will have fiber, lampwork, mosaic, art prints & cards, upcycled & recycled wearable art! Definately a one stop shopping event!

For everyone who goes to this wonderful open house - I offer you Free shipping & 10% your purchase of $30 or more in my etsy shop. Linda or Dana will give you the coupon code to mention when you purchase items from my shop. This offer is valid until 12-31-08 and includes all sale and clearance items.

Here is a copy of the invitation & address of the event!

I WAS TAGGED.. I KNOW, I KNOW!

2008-10-22T10:18:00.002-04:00

My Dear Friends Carol Dean Sharpe of SANDFIBERS and Erin Siegel of EVERY HEART CRAFTS Tagged me a few weeks ago and I just hadn't had a chance to do my part (dreading this) Last week I considered it for a moment and didn't know what I wanted to disclose - should it be totally career focused or totally personal and how much personal info do people really give a **** about, especially about me.

This morning I read Grace's (Grace Beading) and I laughed and thought she shared just about the right amount of everything so it inspired me to finally do my own. After a not-so-positive visit with Dr. this morning I needed to laugh at myself and think about what wild things I could share with my very few blog followers, LOL!

DISCLAIMER: With my luck, today is the day a potential customer or publisher will choose to read my blog for the first time., thus wondering where did Lisa Peters, ART go? I needed a break today from the "real world"! Bear with me and come back again soon!

Here goes:

#1. I have a packaging phobia. I throw away all boxes and bags that come with produce, dry goods and even cleaning products. Everything gets stored in glass or plastic containers. Cereal, Rice and all sorts of mixes, toilet paper, jewelry supplies..all in their own individual containers.

#2. I have taken a sexy (but tasteful) photograph, with the Stanley Cup, at the request of a bunch of handsome hockey players - packed like sardines in a Taxi Cab en route to Madison Square Garden. (Glad I did it as the offer may not be coming again any day soon!)

#3. I do not miss being a photographer at all

#4. I had severe spinal pain starting at 16 yrs old, subsequently had spinal surgery when I was 25 years old and also have very moderate Klippel Feil Syndrome ( you cant see it looking at me) I was always very active, very rarely complained about the immense pain I was in and always worked through the pain unless it was unbearable and only until very recently could not understand why everyone wasn't like that

#5. I hate talking on the phone.

#6. I didn't got to Europe, for 3 months, - backpacking with my friends because I wanted to stay home and wait for my boyfriend to call.

#7. I make the best F---- Halloween Costumes, E-V-E-R! :)

OKAY, Finished -- Phewwww!
There were a few things that almost made it in there but I did the Backspace Dance and erased all evidence of them!

Til Next time,
Happy Creating!
Lisa

Where did Last Week go?

2008-10-20T17:29:00.007-04:00

Is it me or are the days just whizzing by?

I had so many plans for last weeks New Blog which has now turned into this weeks New Blog. LOL! I have been working on my Etsy Shop and also cleaning up the studio so that I can begin new projects. I would like to start on some Fiber Projects as the Holiday's grow near but I said that last year too and only managed to make one T-Shirt Quilt for my Cousin that was some years overdue.
Its not really my fault I guess, its not as if I am sitting around watching the tube, though it can be heard in the backround on many occasions where Bravo Channels Project Runway or The Rachel Zoe Project can be heard over the sounds of a boiling pot of something since Hubby and I in an attempt to cut back are having home cooked meals every night. Not that I mind much, I love to cook (an I am a good cook-if I do say so myself) its just sometimes, when your studio is a mess with clay - putting everything down to start a big meal is a little overwhelming. I will get through it just fine! But we have been making Movies, cleaning the attic, still doing construction on the basement, and trying to be active in our friends and families lives...so I give myself a little break in the "work" dept!

I attended the Big Apple's Glass Art & Bead Festival sponsored by Soft Flex Company on Sunday at the request of our Good Friends Nancy Pilgrim from Fantasy Beads and Roanne Keunzler from Roanne Designs. Our Bead & Button Neighbors were in town and we just had to see them! The show was at the Radisson Martinique on Broadway, which was a very pretty place - I wonder what it used to be. The show was small, 2 rooms - I believe 40 vendors with two make and take tables and a room with Soft Flex products. It was a calm atmosphere, very boutique like with lots of gorgeous pieces. Even though we are on a strict budget we just could not help purchasing a gorgeous glass MONSTER bead from Lewis Wilson of Crystal Myths and even though I kept it a secret I did make some fantastic purchases at Beth Botaks new line of Brass Findings from KaBela. (sorry, hubby) Beth has a beautiful line of American Made brass findings that make any creation absolutely incredible. You need to check it out, tell her Lisa Peters sent ya! After the show we had some great Pizza & Beer! Can't wait to see them again - but sad it wont be until June. Sigh :(

I would like to Thank Grace Danel of Grace Beading for blogging about her wonderful piece that included a link to my etsy shop. She certainly did an amazing job of using my Raku Feet Cast Cabs! I am so happy to see the course a piece takes from kiln to finished product!

Well its Monday and a New Week begins! I will do my best to blog more often!

Wishing you all a Creative Week!

YOU'RE INVITED TO THE BAO TRUNK SHOW!

2008-10-08T15:41:00.005-04:00

As a proud member of the Bead Art Originals Street Team I am inviting you to a Trunk Show October 9th at 7:00pm in the Etsy Virtual Labs TREEHOUSE!

I will be offering FREE Shipping on any Item in my shop as well as a surprise gift for anyone who purchases the items that are being spotlighted that evening! I have been filling my shop day by day in preparation for this wonderful event. To see what other Artists will be participating please check out the BLOG at the Bead Art Originals Website for a list.

The best part is everyone who joins in the fun will be eligible to receive a DOOR PRIZE from one of the many talented members of the group! Take A Chance! It might be you!

Hope to see you all!

Lisa Peters