Made By Mary Ann

Give Away WINNER!

2011-03-08T00:35:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Andi from Saltwater Dreams for winning the Flourite Earrings (please send me your email ;-). I hope you love them!

Thanks to everyone who entered!

BLOG GIVE AWAY!

2011-02-25T12:09:00.000-05:00

Hooray, the moment has come where I've reached 100 Google followers and as promised, you can pick ANY jewelry item you want from my etsy shop {click here}. The winner will receive the jewelry of their choice to treasure or give as a gift! All jewelry is made by me from Sterling Silver or 14K Gold Fill with AAA-quality semi-precious gemstones.

How it works:
1. Become a follower (if you're not already) and leave 1 (one) comment with a link to the jewelry you want.
2. Receive an additional entry by becoming a follower of my fashion blog, The Dapper Bun, and leave a 2nd (two) comment letting me know you're a follower.
3. Receive an additional entry by blogging/tweeting/facebooking, etc. this givewaway and leave a 3rd (three) comment letting me know you spread the word.
4. Include your email, as well....thanks!!

Contest closes March 4, 2011 at 12 p.m. Winner will be selected by a random drawing!

Good Luck!

A Cute, Prosh Hair Bow

2010-12-13T23:56:00.001-05:00

After making the skirts for the dance show this weekend, I needed to make some hair pieces! I was inspired by a DIY bow project on Casey's Elegant Musings (another wonderful seamstress who makes gorgeous vintage-inspired outfits and accessories), and decided to make my own from her instructions. This probably isn't a bow you would normally wear out and about, but it works great for a costume or for kids' hair.

Also cross-posted on my fashion blog.

These skirts (at bottom of post) and bows are the reason why I've been slack on the DIY projects lately! :-)

Supplies:
Small amount of fabric
Needle/thread
Scissors/pins
Sewing machine (but this could easily be done by hand)
Barrette

Step 1
Cut out two pieces of fabric, one rectangle measuring 4 inches by 13 inches, and a smaller one measuring 2.5 inches by 3.5 inches.

Step 2
With right sides together, stitch long side of larger rectangle at seam allowance (0.5 inch) leaving an opening in the center (to turn right side out). Trim loose threads/ragged edges.

Step 3
Press open, centering seam.

Step 4
Stitch a V shape into the ends and trim close to stitching.

Step 5
Turn right side out, through center opening, and press.

Step 6
Stitch bow knot at seam allowance (0.5 inch), trim seam, turn and press, centering seam.

Step 7
Place pins at center mark, and 2.5 inches from ends.

Step 8
Fold bow so that the pins towards the outside meet at the center pin. Pin in place and stitch together (on back/seam side).

Step 9
Pinch bow and wrap bow knot around the center, folding over the raw edge and pinning in the back. Stitch in place.

Step 10
Stitch bow to barrette (I removed the innards to make the hand stitching easier).

Step 11
Replace the barrette innards and you're done!

A few more I made

The dancers with fancy skirts and bows!

Blog Give Away Update

2010-12-08T23:08:00.000-05:00

Hello readers! My fashion blog has reached 100 followers and I'm hosting the giveaway right now. Come on over to The Dapper Bun to enter!

This blog isn't far behind; I'll be hosting the same give away here very soon!!

Sneak Peek: Upcoming Give Away!

2010-11-11T14:40:00.000-05:00

Announcement: I'm planning to host a give away once I reach 100 Google followers! :-) This is just in time for the holidays because you'll be able to pick ANY item from my Etsy store for you or for a gift. I can't wait to blog this give away and I think all my readers will really like it! Only 9 more followers to go, let's get on it!

For a sneak peek at the jewelry, visit my Etsy store {here}. I make all jewelry from Sterling Silver and 14K Gold Fill with AAA gemstones.

Happy Halloween 2010!

2010-11-01T15:30:00.003-04:00

I realize I'm a day late, but that's fine! I had a blast this Halloween parading around as my alter-ego with a fun group of ladies!! I threw this costume together last minute - I only went out and bought tan tights. Everything else I already had. ;-) I didn't even have to make anything, except my hair and make-up (cross-linked on my fashion blog for outfit deets).

Retro Vintage Pinup Swimsuit Model

Hair close-up

Fun Ladies!

An Autumn Gown

2010-09-23T14:14:00.000-04:00

I cross-posted this on my fashion blog, you can check it out here, as well!

I used an old pattern, New Look 6401 (view B), and $40 worth of polyester fabric from JoAnn (I'd much prefer silk, but I was on a budget). As I usually have to do with commercial patterns, I took the waist in one size and let the hips out one size, and I also had a weird gaping issue along the neckline which I solved with some pleating at the straps. I hope it doesn't look like a cheap polyester gown. :-)

Super-Duper Easy Hair Flowerette

2010-09-20T10:00:00.002-04:00

I recently posted this tutorial on my fashion blog (where I do most of my posting these days) - click here to check it out. It's a very, very easy way to make a hair accessory out of scrap fabric and a rubber band!

DIY Style: Vintage Ribbon Necklace

2010-08-11T14:50:00.002-04:00

Click here to check out my how-to at my new fashion blog!

Check out my new blog!!

2010-07-29T21:45:00.002-04:00

I started a new blog with more fashion-related and more frequent posts. I'd love for you to check it out and become a follower! :-) Click the image below to redirect!

DIY Style: Ruffle Shoes

2010-07-09T12:01:00.003-04:00

I stumbled across Maegan's How-To Make a Louboutin-Inspired Petal Sandal and loved it! I always appreciate fellow crafty ladies, especially ones who can make something awesome out of almost nothing. Check out her blog; she has lots of interesting projects!!

I made it with a slight modification to the mechanics of the strap, so here's my How-To (refer to Maegan's, as well)! If you enjoy this look, check out my fashion blog!

Inspiration: Louboutin Petal Sandal

Step 1
Gather supplies - I used sheer crepon fabric (apprx. 1/2 yard, it has a little more weight than chiffon), ribbon (apprx. 1/2 yard), scissors, thread, pins/needles, snaps and old strappy sandals.

Step 2
Cut out petal shapes.

Step 3
Measure sandals and cut ribbon accordingly. I sewed snaps onto the ribbon to fold over the T-bar strap of the sandals. I decided it would be easier to sew on the snaps at this point, before the ribbon was covered in confusing petals. Helpful hint: burn the edges of the ribbon with a lighter to prevent fraying.

Step 4
Pin base petals onto ribbon and stitch. Let them pucker/gather a little bit for texture.

Step 5
Continue to stitch on more petals. The fluffier, the better.

Step 6
Snap (or velcro, if you used that) onto shoes.

And there ya go! Please excuse the bruises on my knees, it's performance week and I'm in the theater every night rolling around on my knees! :-(

And Bandit likes to get into the scraps and bite on the material!

Making Simple Earrings in 30 Minutes

2010-06-26T19:10:00.011-04:00

Today I decided to make a project I've been thinking about for a while - simple, easy earrings. I haven't had much time lately to make new jewelry, but these earrings are so easy, I can make them in a few minutes. (These photos aren't awesome, none of my cameras would cooperate with me.)

Supplies (for 1 pair of earrings):

- 3 inches of 20 gauge hard wire (I used Sterling and 14K Gold Fill)

- 4-6 inches of 26 gauge soft wire (sometimes I use 24g and sometimes 28g, depending on the size of the hole drilled into the bead/gem)

- 2 matching gems/beads (I used AAA micro-faceted pink amethyst, AAA micro-faceted crystal quartz, AAA micro-faceted turquoise, and AAA micro-faceted smoky quartz)

Tools:
Round nose pliers (for forming loops)
Chain nose pliers (for squeezing and holding)
Sidecutter pliers (for cutting wire)
Small cup bur (for rounding the cut edge of the wire)

Step 1
I selected my gems and cut my pieces of wire to make 4 pair of earrings.

Step 2
I cut my 3 inch piece of 20 gauge wire in half, so I have two 1.5 in pieces. I used the round nose pliers to curl up the ends and I used the bur tool to soften the sharp edges of the wire that will go into the ear.

Step 3
I curved the wire over a thin pen, to form the loops that go into the ear, and I used the chain nose pliers to bend the wire back at the ends.

Step 4
I used the chain nose pliers to bend a tiny piece of the 26 gauge wire over itself, to form a "stop" so the gemstone won't slide off (a hand-made headpin).

Step 5
I formed a typical wrapped looped, as shown in this tutorial.

Step 6
I opened the loops on the earrings hooks using chain nose pliers, inserted the gemstones, and closed the loops.

After, I did the same exact method with the AAA crystal quartz gems.

Next, I made more earrings hooks (using the same method as above) and did a briolette wrap (this tutorial, except I did a wrapped loop at the top of the briolette instead of a simple loop) with the AAA turquoise and AAA smoky quartz.

And there ya go, I have 4 pair of earrings in barely 3o minutes!

Now, this whole process would take about 10-15 minutes if I used pre-made headpins and earrings hooks, but I like to make those components myself, and it ends up being cheaper for me to produce, as well. Note, these are all AAA quality gemstones with amazing clarity, color, cut and sparkle; this is NOT the stuff you usually find at a local bead store. I searched for quite a while to find gemstones that met my standards at an affordable price. Even though the designs are simple, I think the quality of the gemstones is what sets my hand-made jewelry apart from many of the others I have seen.

Craftiness for my LOST Finale Party

2010-05-25T01:26:00.009-04:00

Here's what I did for the May 23rd LOST Finale! With scissors, paper and double stick tape, I had fun with this project! ;-)

Label PDFs downloaded from this blog. I printed the labels at the local UPS store, mainly because my printer was acting up and some of the labels required larger-than-normal sized paper. Label printing cost me less than $5.

My Kate-inspired party wear.

And finally, my door sign to welcome party guests.

My 1940s Vintage Hairstyle

2010-05-17T14:35:00.012-04:00

I've been trying out vintage hairstyles for about two years, and now that my hair is long enough, I recently tried an elaborate 1940s style with victory rolls. I worked an event last week as a "cigarette/candy girl" and this time, we did NOT have the professional hair stylist. So it was my job to figure this out.

My friend has an awesome book (which I'm getting for my birthday) called Vintage Hairstyling: retro styles with step-by-step techniques. My goal was to mimic the style on the cover of the book at the bottom left side (the blonde chick). I recommend this book for anyone who's interested. My friend Carrie set her curls, and I basically did the same styling technique on both of us.

The event was at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta. Check out the auto exhibit while it's here; the cars are amazing!

Fun Recent Costumed Events

2010-04-28T14:18:00.006-04:00

I've posted a few of these before. Basically, I get paid good $$$ to dress up in a costume and greet people for 1-2 hours (or just stand there, if the costume covers my face). I love these events! So easy and fun, and of course, I LOVE costumes and dressing up! Here's a few pics from recent gigs.

This one was a few weeks ago at the St. Regis Hotel in Buckhead. The theme was Venetian Carnival.

This one was back in February at the High Museum of Art in Atlanta. I'm the black shape on the right, haha. I basically undulated for an hour in one spot on a staircase.

This was back in November at the Ritz Carlton Hotel in Buckhead. The theme was Around the World in 80 Days, and I was a Victorian Lady (along with the chick in blue).

This was last summer at the Georgia Aquarium, my first event! Obviously, we're mermaids! ;-)Lol, the security guards wanted pictures, too.

I did another event at the Aquarium I didn't take photos of because I was in a very aggravating jellyfish costume! :-O

Long Time, No Write!

2010-02-15T15:07:00.002-05:00

I just realized it's mid-February and I haven't posted in quite a while. That would mainly be because I haven't made anything fun lately; like everyone else, real life gets in the way!

But I will continue to create and post when I get a bit more time! ;-)

30% Off At Delicafiné

2009-12-05T12:15:00.002-05:00

Enter code holiday09 to receive 30% off your purchase, now through 12/31/09!

Shopping Event at Urban Cottage

2009-11-24T19:10:00.003-05:00

Urban Cottage in Atlanta, GA, will be hosting a holiday shopping event on Thursday, December 3rd, 6:30 - 9:30pm. Looks like it will be fun and my fashionable cummerbunds will be one of the top 15 pick!

(Click invite to view larger)

A Vintage Look for Halloween!

2009-11-07T16:35:00.004-05:00

This vintage look ended up being totally last minute. I fixed my hair and makeup in preparation for my fairy costume, but about 10 minutes before I was supposed to leave, I changed my mind. I threw together these bits and pieces from my closet. I was very pleased with the result - if I had more time, I would've painted my nails red and gone the seamed-stockings route. Sorry this picture quality isn't fab; one of my digital cameras broke and the one I replaced it with isn't nearly as good. ;-(

Pictured with a friend - we didn't plan our outfits, hah

Leaf Earrings Available

2009-10-21T15:17:00.003-04:00

I've had several requests for these! I don't currently have them listed on my website or etsy site, but if anyone is interested in the Signature Leaf Earrings, just contact me. The Sterling is $32 and the 14K GF is $34. The Oktoberfest 20% discount is still available through the end of October!

Delicafiné Oktober Special!

2009-10-03T01:08:00.004-04:00

From now until Halloween (10/31/09), receive 20% off
your purchase total at Delicafiné!

Enter code: oktoberfest at check-out!!

Appliqué Headband with Millinery Netting

2009-09-12T23:12:00.009-04:00

See original post and follow-up post for reference.

Here, I'm making a headband with appliqué using similar techniques from the previous tutorials, and incorporating a "rosette" made from black millinery netting (birdcage veiling).

Supplies:
Headband
Appliqué
Millinery Netting (I used black Russian netting this time)
Thread and Needle
Felt (optional)
Glue (I use stinky E6000, I bought a new tube with a pointy tip)

Step 1 - Glue the ribbon to the outside of the headband (I used velvet ribbon for this headband). Set aside.

Step 2 - Cut a piece of millinery netting. This is 17 inches long and 2.5 inches wide.

Step 3 - Thread needle and tie a knot at one end of the raw (cut) edge of millinery netting. Weave thread in and out of each hole.

Step 4 - Continue weaving the thread to the end of the netting, and gather gently.

Step 5 - Here, I overlapped the ends of the netting and stitched the sides shut.

Step 6 - After cutting a small circle of felt that was a little bit smaller than my appliqué, I stitched the gathered millinery edges to the felt for reinforcement.

Step 7 - Switching to thread that matched the appliqué, I sewed the appliqué to the felt, sandwiching the netting in between.

Back view

Step 8 - See Step 2 and Step 5 of original post for finishing the inside, but note that I did not leave an opening with this project.

Step 9 - Glue appliqué and netting to headband at desired location!

Another Appliqué Headband

2009-09-11T13:38:00.007-04:00

Made using the same technique described in the prior post. I love how sparkly this one is!

(Click photos to see larger)

How To Make A Headband with Appliqué

2009-08-28T18:28:00.009-04:00

Latest project - cute headband with beaded/rhinestone appliqué! Click pictures to enlarge.

Supplies:
Headband
Appliqué
Felt (optional)
Glue (I use stinky E6000, I bought a new tube with a pointy tip)

Step 1 - Gather supplies (of course, a cute bunny is helpful! ;-)

Step 2 - I cut a strip of felt 1/4" wide to line the inside of the headband. This isn't necessary, but I wanted a "finished" look and thought it might add some cushioning.

Step 3 - Cut a section of felt that's just a little bit smaller than the appliqué.

Step 4 - Glue the ribbon to the outside of the headband (I used velvet ribbon for this headband).

Step 5 - Glue the felt strip to the inside of the headband (I left an opening to reduce bulk).

Step 6 - Glue the appliqué onto the outside of the headband, positioning to desired location. I used bobby pins to help hold it in place while the glue dried.

Step 7 - Glue the felt section onto the back of the appliqué, sandwiching the headband in between the felt and the appliqué.

And you're done! Let dry! Have fun!

Sidenote: My Love of Vintage (costume related)!

2009-08-27T00:45:00.005-04:00

I got to work a gig tonight as a vintage Candy Girl...complete with Pro hair and airbrushed make-up (Toni Acey)! I loved it!

Weekend in NYC

2009-08-24T22:24:00.004-04:00

Love the shopping, of course!

I stumbled upon a Marie Hayden headband at Henri Bendel and had to buy it! Using that as inspiration, I trekked to M&J Trims and bought some fabulous rhinestone beaded appliqués to make my own cute headbands! Will post photos of this project soon! ;-)

Delicafiné on Etsy

2009-08-10T16:08:00.003-04:00

I decided to finally list some items on Etsy. I haven't done it before since I have my own website (www.delicafine.com), but I decided to try out Etsy and see how it goes!

Kraftwork Tonight!

2009-08-06T14:32:00.004-04:00

That's where I'll be! Come check it out if you're in the ATL area! ;-)

Details and Directions: http://youngbloodgallery.com/index.php

Snacks and Cocktails, too!!

My initial set-up

Pics with my mom

A rearranged set-up

Inexpensive Jewelry Display!

2009-07-31T23:55:00.005-04:00

Here's an idea for an inexpensive jewelry display. I like unique things and didn't want to order stock busts and racks like most people have, so here's what I put together! Total cost was about $35.

Supplies:

Two 10 x 13 inch frames (on sale for $7.50 each)
Two easels ($4 each)
Cork tiles (on sale for $5 for a pack of 4)
Scrapbook sheets ($2 each)
Pushpins ($5 [I had to buy a bucket!])

1. Purchase components

2. Disassemble frame

3. Trace frame backing onto cardboard

4. Glue cork board (I had previously cut before taking picture) to cardboard

5. Because the cork tiles are 12 x 12, and the frame is 10 x 13, I had to patch in a small piece

6. Tracing onto the decorative paper

7. Gluing the decorative paper (same issue with it being 12 x 12 and having to patch in a piece)

8. Pop board back into frame and fold down metal bits (there wasn't any room left for the original frame back)

9. Set into easels and arrange pushpins and jewelry onto display!

KreativKlutter ;-)

Craft Market in 1 week

2009-07-30T14:32:00.005-04:00

I was chosen to participate in Atlanta's Indie Craft Experience Kraftwork. Now I have a week to get everything ready! If you're in the Atlanta area, I hope to see you there!

Kraftwork

… the next Kraftwork is August 6th…

Kraftwork is the ATL’s monthly indie craft market hosted by Young Blood Gallery & Boutique and the Indie Craft Experience. Each month features a showcase of crafters, snacks, cocktails and good times!

Woodland Fairy Costume

2009-07-26T14:21:00.004-04:00

This was fun to make - I especially enjoyed making the wings.

Total Cost: $100

Gold Dress (from H&M): $35
Supplies for Tutu Apron skirt, wings, hair ornaments, purse (not pictured): $50
Brown Velvet Chinese mary jane shoes: $15 (including shipping)

Wings are made from brown twig-wrapped floral wire, with eyelash yarn wrapped all over. Also on wings are flowers, gold sequins and a bird.

Tutu skirt is made from 3 gathered layers of tulle - bottom layer is dark green and dark brown; middle layer is light green, maroon, and rose; top layer is champagne. It wraps on like an apron (all the way around the waist) and has long ties that wrap back around to the front.

Hair Ornament

2009-07-22T23:12:00.006-04:00

I made this little guy really quick this afternoon to go with a costume, but I thought it was cute enough to stick on the blog! Simply made from scraps of tulle, a faux flower, Swarovski crystals, a rubber band, and some thread, of course. I think it would look cute as a bracelet, too! ;-)

What do you think? How much would you expect to pay for something like this?

Belts in Shop!

2009-07-19T11:51:00.004-04:00

If you're in the Atlanta area, check out my cummerbunds at Urban Cottage in VaHi - 998 N Highland Ave NE, Atlanta, GA 30306.

Congratulations!

2009-07-16T13:04:00.004-04:00

Veronika is the winner of the Signature Leaf Pendant! I certainly hope you enjoy it! Give me a few days to make yours in gold, and I'll be sending it your way.

And if you really loved the pendant but didn't win, it's available for purchase on my website for $20 (Sterling) and $22 (14K GF).

A nice collection of names for an old-fashioned drawing! ;-)

Jewelry Give-Away!

2009-07-01T16:46:00.017-04:00

The very popular Signature Leaf Pendant is the prize! I've been wearing the Gold one frequently and I love it! It looks cute on a simple 18" chain, or layered with other pendants in a more elaborate fashion.

One winner will be randomly chosen on 7/16/09! Details below photo.

What do you have to do?

1. Become Made By Mary Ann blog follower and
2. Leave a comment telling me where you will wear the pendant and if you prefer Sterling Silver or 14K Gold Fill.

Make sure to complete Step 1 :::AND::: Step 2 for valid entry! Good Luck!! ;-)

See, I'm wearing mine here! ;-)

SleepSack #2

2009-06-30T15:12:00.004-04:00

Here's pictures of a second SleepSack I made for another friend's baby shower. I didn't have time to do custom appliqués, so this cute li'l lamb was store-bought and hand stitched on.

Here's the first one I made. Differences in construction included using single-fold bias tape binding at neck and shoulders this time. This was easier and cut down on bulk, and I lowered the arm seams about a half inch or so.

Blog Feature!

2009-06-26T17:22:00.003-04:00

Thanks to Lorraine at Style Envy, my jewelry is featured on their site!

http://www.styleenvy.com/Featured-Story/Delicafine.html

"The Fashionable Cummerbund" is here!

2009-06-24T20:59:00.005-04:00

6 of them, actually! I made these for Urban Cottage and will be dropping them off on Friday!

Blog Mention!

2009-06-21T00:44:00.001-04:00

I had forgotten to put this on my blog! Thanks to Bethany, here's a mention from April '09!

http://budgetbride.tumblr.com/post/92565289/diy-birdcage-veil

Blog Mention!

2009-06-19T14:15:00.004-04:00

Thanks to Mallory for the post! You can see me on her blog!

http://www.missmalaprop.com/2009/06/jewelry-jewelry-everywhere/

Off-Topic

2009-06-19T11:43:00.005-04:00

I realize this isn't about jewelry, or sewing, or crafting in general, but another important aspect of my life is dance! The contemporary dance company I'm in, SIDEWAYS, had their annual repertory concert last week and Atlanta's Creative Loafing photographer, TL Pixley, came out to take photos. Here's a fabulous shot of Nathan!

Delicafiné Is Officially Open!

2009-06-18T16:34:00.005-04:00

That's right, it's finally, officially open! Enter code grand for 25% off your order total (valid until 6/30/09)!

www.delicafine.com

Preview Sale at Delicafiné!

2009-06-11T14:03:00.005-04:00

I'm open and there is a Preview Sale until the grand opening next week! Enter code: preview at checkout to get 35% off your order!

www.delicafine.com

I'm in the Burda ModenMagazine June '09 issue!!!

2009-06-09T12:55:00.006-04:00

Yes, I made it in, how fun!! They featured my yellow blouse on page 101. Too bad I can't read it because it's in German, but it's a fabulous looking magazine, AND it has patterns in the back!

Click here for my blog post on said blouse.

My friend Paul says the article translation is: A dress for all occasions. Where is there any such thing? The discreetly elegant, incontestably tasteful, comfortable and wearable dress for every opportunity, which also still holds another hint of glamour? Answer: Recently, one is available on BurdaStyle - in the form of Elaine May’s "Coffee date dress" pattern. Completely creative minds continue still another step further and restyle the dress to a jacket!

Pre-Opening Predicted This Week!

2009-06-08T12:33:00.001-04:00

I'm expecting to soft open the site this Thursday, 6/11. Grand opening will be the following week!!

Finally, a home run!

2009-06-05T19:03:00.003-04:00

Good grief, I've done a lot of photography experimentation! And here's the edited, cropped fruits of my labor! I'm using the same pictures in the prior post for comparison purposes.

Unedited Test Shots

2009-06-04T01:58:00.011-04:00

I've never done quite so much photography experimentation with the jewelry before. I had a set formula and stuck to it. But now, with such fantabulous AAA stones to showcase, I need to step up the quality of the photography! I think I've been doing test shots for like a month now, lol, but perhaps I've finally found a new formula. Here's a few straight out of the camera (unedited, uncropped, click picture to see details). My subject for tonight was earrings.

Also, my dad hooked me up with his old camera, which is much better than the camera I was using beforehand!

Test Shots 3

2009-05-13T23:43:00.003-04:00

Okay more test shots posts...the below pictures look good, but I was having some issues with other photos. Trying a new technique here.

More Test Shots

2009-05-09T01:38:00.008-04:00

This time I made a light box set-up (example picture) and downloaded PhotoShop. Here's my first test shots!

I see that the white background didn't get all the way white, haha. Need to fix that. And I think the jewels may have too sharp of a contrast? But regardless, it's a step in the right direction!

Sneak Peek and Test Shots!

2009-05-07T19:04:00.004-04:00

For the past couple of days, I've been working on test shots for the new site! I generally take pictures outdoors and since I've moved to a new location since the last time all jewelry was photographed and uploaded, I wanted to do a few tests. I think they turned out well!

Sterling and Carnelian Earrings

Sterling and Iolite Necklace

14K GF and Andalusite Necklace

14K GF and Peridot Earrings

Logo Reworked

2009-05-04T15:13:00.004-04:00

Because of a few snags, I had Irene change the logo just slightly. Mostly, it was making the leaves a bit darker and rearranging them just a little bit. I think this version is more clear!

New Jewelry Design Concept!

2009-03-31T22:44:00.003-04:00

I'm excited about the new collection - I've started on it and I think the pieces look great. The design concept for '09 is: simple, understated designs to showcase amazing gems!

I'm hoping to get everything out in a few weeks!

Updates!

2009-03-24T16:24:00.005-04:00

I'd like to announce that Made By Mary Ann jewelry is re-branding and getting a new image, logo, name, and url! I'm excited to unveil the changes soon. I think they will reflect the style of the jewelry much better! Stay tuned! ;-)

Here's a sneak peek at the new logo! ;-) I told you, lots of changes!!!

The gems are finally here!

2009-03-17T16:00:00.011-04:00

And sooo amazing! These are AAA quality gemstones - absolutely beautiful! I can't wait to create new jewelry with these. This is over 2,000 carats of gems! ;-) (Of course, the photos don't do them justice!)
The package came in fabric that was stitched together and sealed with wax! That was quite interesting.

(Left to right) - Pink Amethyst, Rose Quartz, Multi Spinel, Rubilite Garnet, Carnelian, Sunstone, Lemon Quartz, Scapolite, Green Amethyst, Peridot, Flourite, Turquoise, Iolite, Black Spinel, Smoky Quartz, Andalusite, Bi-color Quartz, Crystal Quartz

Here's all the gems outside of the treasure box (still in paper).

Of course, Bandit has to get into everything!!!

New Jewelry coming one of these days....i promise!

2009-03-13T20:17:00.002-04:00

I recently ordered tons of beautiful gems in anticipation to create my Spring '09 collection, but they're traveling to me internationally and it's taking quite a while! My Spring collection may turn into a Summer collection! ;-)

Regardless, I'm excited to make new things soon. I check the mail everyday with big hopes! ;-)

A magazine possibility?

2009-03-08T12:41:00.003-04:00

A German fashion sewing magazine, BurdaModen, emailed me that they were interested in featuring my yellow blouse in their June issue. That would be cool! They asked for me to email pics, so Nate and I took these on Saturday. I hope they like them!

Another Dress

2009-03-07T17:07:00.005-05:00

The ruffle and skirt of this one are from a free pattern on the BurdaStyle website. The bodice and sleeves are the same from the yellow blouse listed below. Bodice is lined, invisible side zipper. Fabric was $4/yard on clearance at JoAnn. And I was wearing make-up so I didn't crop my head out of the pictures, haha!

New Blouse, Old Pattern

2009-03-01T01:09:00.011-05:00

This yellow shirt is my latest sewing project. The ruffle and placement is from a free pattern on the BurdaStyle website. I redrafted the bodice from one of my mom's 1970s patterns (Butterick 5048)! And the sleeves were shortened and redrafted into "puff" sleeves from another pattern (Butterick 6768). All in all, I redrafted and combined 3 different patterns to make this shirt. Fabric is a voile-like cotton and the bodice and peplum are lined, invisible side zipper. I'm very pleased with the way it came out.

I used this vintage pattern for the bodice and peplum - the view of the lady with the lovely 70s 'fro.

First bodice mock-up in muslin (neckline was too narrow)

Redrafted neckline. The first puff sleeve (right) was too big.
The second puff sleeve (left) was closer to what I was wanting.

Image of the first puff sleeve I drafted (came out too big).
Lined bodice (back view)
Lined bodice (front view)

Sewing the ruffle in place

Bodice before sleeve installation

The Baby Sleep Sack!

2009-02-21T17:04:00.008-05:00

I decided to make a cute gift for my friend who's having a baby, instead of buying off the registry. Who doesn't love a hand-made, personalized gift? I asked another friend of mine who has a baby for suggestions. She suggested the SleepSack, which is more or less a zip-up blanket for the baby to wear (cheer for SB). My friend has 2 small, white, fluffy, barky dogs (some kind of Maltese mix, I think), so I thought it would be super cute to appliqué images of them onto the SleepSack!! Anyways, enough text, let's see the pics! The green light-weight fleece looks like a different color in every picture.

Cutting out the doggie paper patterns and positioning

Cutting out the doggie face
Laying the doggie faces onto the fleece
Doggie faces sewn (appliqué) onto fleece
Boy doggie face (yes, I even trimmed the "hair" around the eyes/nose/mouth ;-)
Girl doggie face
Finished product with appliqués, zip up front, tag
All wrapped up, ready to ship!

Sewing Projects lined up!

2009-02-08T14:45:00.006-05:00

I've been doing some sewing recently and have several projects lined up! I discovered some decent clearance rack fabric, as well. Since I want to wear more casual dresses, I decided to make more this year, instead of buying them.

Here's the first dress of '09. This was a tiny free pattern from a user on the BurdaStyle website. I did a few modifications in the bodice and skirt. Fabric was $2/yard on clearance!

Recently, I was in Express and saw a satin, zebra-print woman's cummerbund and thought it was very cute, and very easy to make. I found a free cummerbund pattern on BurdaStyle and modified it a bit.

New things I bought at Paper Source

2009-01-27T16:47:00.006-05:00

I've been eyeing the heat embosser for a while and finally picked it up (a mere $24). This is a neat card-making tool - basically you stamp an image onto paper, sprinkle the embossing powder onto the image (shake off the excess), and then apply the heat embosser tool (like a hairdryer) for about a minute or so. What happens is the embossing powder melts, forming a glossy, raised image. Nate says, "That looks professional!"

Flat-card set, 5 different designs, 2 of each

Heat-embossed design

Angled to show detail - creates a glossy, raised surface

Tone on tone embossed detail

Wow! Special Offer!

2009-01-17T17:41:00.005-05:00

OMG! All my jewelry is on sale - trying to clear out the inventory and make way for new things in '09. Items are up to 66% off, and blog readers can take an ADDITIONAL 35% OFF their order total by typing in code special4 at check-out! WOW!! Offer valid until 1/31/09.

www.madebymaryann.com

Made By Mary Ann has been featured on Talent Database!

2008-12-17T10:00:00.005-05:00

I've been featured on the Fashion Portal homepage of the Talent Database. Check me out!

Special Promotion!

2008-11-24T22:33:00.007-05:00

Now through the end of the year (12/31), blog readers can get 30% off their order total by entering special3 code at check-out!

Go to www.madebymaryann.com to take advantage of this offer!

Vintage Dress #2, Butterick's "Walk-Away" Dress

2008-11-20T22:54:00.006-05:00

These two dresses are for an upcoming performance. This particular dress pattern is from 1952 and is one of Butterick's Retro patterns, number 4790. According to Butterick's history:

"During the 1950's, Butterick experienced a phenomenon it had not known since the 'Garibaldi Suit' of the late 1860's. It was pattern 6015, and it was dubbed the 'walk-away' dress, because it was so easy you could "Start it after breakfast... walk-away in it for luncheon!" It's simple yet flattering wrap design and easy construction were what made it so popular. Sales of the pattern were so great, that at one point manufacturing of all other patterns ceased, and only the 'walk-away' dress was produced until all back-orders for this dress could be filled."

While the construction of the pattern was very easy, as expected, the fit took a bit of effort, just as many other sewers seem to have experienced. Since I put a petticoat underneath the layers, I used a piece of elastic across my back at the bust darts to connect the contrasting solid front instead of connecting it lower at the waist. All other modifications were minor things here and there to accommodate fit. The front material is a crepe-like fabric and the back and skirt pieces are cotton. It's bound in gold bias tape.

Vintage Dress is Here!

2008-11-06T19:13:00.008-05:00

Okay, this has been my most recent project. This dress was made from 1954 Vintage Vogue Pattern 2960. I bought the ivory and gold metallic brocade fabric at JoAnn's (which was a bit aggravating to sew with). I also made bound buttonholes and covered the buttons in the same fabric as the dress. This was my first time making bound buttonholes and found the process to be easy once you get all the marks in the right place - the fabric was aggravating, though, because it was a bit thick and very apt to fray. Anyways, I'm pleased with the finished product and might add some Swarovski crystal flatbacks to the buttons.

Pictured with full petticoat and vintage gloves

Pictured with my grandma's mink stole

Some progress in pictures

Ironing darts in bodice

I made a lining for the dress bodice; the pattern only called for facings
Sewing pleats in one section (of four) of the skirt
Turning the bound buttonhole facings to the inside of the bodice
Front of bodice before completing buttonholes
Sewing (and serging) bodice to skirt

New Homepage Image!

2008-11-06T16:25:00.003-05:00

This turned out better than I thought it would! Check it out in full context!!

www.madebymaryann.com

Working on a vintage project

2008-10-21T18:52:00.002-04:00

I purchased several vintage patterns and I'm making a dress from one of them. It's a 1954 Vogue pattern and the fabric will be cream and gold. Will post pics and progress soon!

The "BunnieBag" Redesigned...

2008-10-04T22:17:00.011-04:00

So the BunnieBag had to be remanufactured - due to a small design flaw. Let's just say that cute little hole I thought a cute little bunny could stick its head through to peep out of....well, that hole turned into a frantic, scratching, biting, attempted bunny escape route on the way to the vet's office! Now, with a mesh panel and no escape route, I hope the bunny will appreciate this better. It was easy enough to rip into and replace the panel with the head hole for a mesh panel.

Here I am, peeking out the mesh part!

These photos from the "original" bag, hehe (I luv the little cotton tail!)

This interesting project.....

2008-09-30T21:08:00.007-04:00

So I've been working on this interesting project for a local artist. He makes these quilts using appliqué techniques from photographs - it's all very neat and interesting. Anyways, I've been making one of the quilts from the material he provided and here's the process in pictures. It's taken me almost 19 hours from start to finish.

(photos taken at different times during the day, thus the different lighting)

Original photo I was working from

The back of the quilt - looks like a topographical map

Could this be any cuter? Introducing the "BunnieBag"

2008-09-19T23:34:00.006-04:00

I recently made a bag (pet carrier) for my new bunny! I found a pattern at the store and majorly manipulated it (added a zipper, re-patterned the sides, made new handles, added a pocket to the outside). Anyways, it's so cute!! It kinda looks like a Vera Bradley bag, lol.

Brown fabric with colored paw prints, and fabric with green and white polka dots

The inside (lining)

The bag in construction
Before the lining is installed

Look how cute I am! (Bandit in his bag)

The new category is...

2008-08-19T16:15:00.001-04:00

....Under $20! That's right; this is a category of items that are all $20 or less. "Perfect for anyone who needs an inexpensive graduation gift for a niece, or maybe you have lots of relatives to buy gifts for at Christmas-time? Or perhaps you just want simple, hand-crafted jewelry at a great price...whatever your reason, check out these items!"

Surprise Coming Soon!

2008-08-14T00:35:00.002-04:00

I'm adding a new product category! Details will be revealed soon! Stay tuned :-)

Two New Bracelets!

2008-08-07T19:59:00.006-04:00

Here's the second new one! It's from the Saffron collection - jewelry made with oxblood red Italian coral I purchased while in Italy. This one is made by forming loops in 26g wire, inserting it through certain holes in the chain, and looping it off. Time consuming, yes - but it's relatively easy to do! It kinda reminds me of hand-knotted beads; it has a very nice drape and snake-like feel to it.

Finally, a new bracelet!

2008-08-06T17:13:00.004-04:00

I don't usually make many bracelets, for the main reason that they don't sell as well as earrings and necklaces. However, I do make them sometimes. Here's a new pretty one! This one combines a chunkier 14K GF hammered cable chain with a Peruvian blue opal, a bronze freshwater pearl, and 2 aquamarine rondels (at clasp).

Peridot - August's Birthstone

2008-08-05T17:19:00.005-04:00

And here's some cute petite Peridot and Sterling earrings for the August birthstone ladies! Wow, only $35!

Website Updates/Changes

2008-08-05T16:40:00.003-04:00

I've made a minor, cosmetic change to the website - adding rounded corners to the thumbnails. It doesn't change the functionality at all. I kinda like it; seems like it looks a bit more "designer." Lemon Quartz earrings shown.

Example: Old thumbnail

Example: New thumbnail

Recent Drawing Winner!

2008-08-03T16:56:00.003-04:00

Congrats to Joan Buttram for winning the Summer 2008 Drawing!

For more information on the next drawing, click here!

New Stuff On The Way!

2008-07-31T17:31:00.004-04:00

How exciting.....after a looong time of searching for better suppliers, I've finally found one with a ton of variety at good prices! I'm really excited about the new supplies I'm getting; I think they'll inspire new creative things! Check back for more info in the coming weeks! :-)

I make a lot of earrings....

2008-07-30T16:08:00.005-04:00

....I guess because they're easy, simple and not too time-consuming. Here's a new pair :-)

Sterling, Black Pearl and Smoky Quartz

All Things Crafty....

2008-07-23T18:39:00.010-04:00

I swear, I love paper. Paper, and fabric and jewelry; I would so be into the scrap booking thing, but I've purposely avoided getting involved in yet another time-consuming (and cash consuming!) hobby!

Anyways, Paper Source - check it out. I LOVE Paper Source. I went here constantly when I lived in Boston. Fortunately for me (but not for my pocketbook), 2 of the jobs I had in Boston were right by the Paper Source store. They've got coordinating paper and matching accessories in about every color you can think of - and all the envelope and card sizes are standardized into easy-to-figure out methods. I ordered a bunch of stuff from them for our wedding announcements and celebration invitations. Today, I am making some thank-you notes with leftover paper and new paper I recently ordered.

The coolest part - I ordered the envelope making kit and envelope liner kit. Yup, I have been eying those since I lived in Boston, and finally, 3 years later, bought the stuff. So, I'm going to post some pictures of fun, easy stuff I put together.

Three different coordinating papers, and 4-bar size envelope with liner I made.

Laying out the envelope template on paper

You can see through the template if you want to line up certain images, just trace around the edges

The cut-out envelope

I put double-stick tape near the edges

Envelope with 4-bar flat card and cream paper overlay (I "embunched" the corners)

Two envelopes, one with the liner, and the other envelope I made (and blurred out recipients address)

A couple of liners I did

A couple of envelopes I did, with silk ribbon-attached flat cards

Interesting Earrings

2008-07-22T15:37:00.007-04:00

These earrings are new and interesting.....it's basically sterling or 14K GF wires wrapped through and around a ball of beads. A neat kind of organic, free-form look. The first pair are the August 1, 2008 drawing prize item (green teardrop pearls) and the second pair are from the Saffron collection (coral beads). The green pearl ones remind me of drawings on those molecular chemistry charts from high school.....lol.

Special Promotion!

2008-07-17T18:12:00.003-04:00

Readers of this blog can get 25% off their order through the end of August '08 by typing in code special2 at checkout!!

www.madebymaryann.com

Check me out at....

2008-07-03T18:04:00.001-04:00

New Jewelry Collection coming soon!

2008-06-26T19:43:00.007-04:00

I've started making jewelry with the Italian coral - a necklace so far! It's made with 14K GF and a few gold stardust beads. Not quite sure what to name the collection yet; perhaps Paprika or Saffron. I think it's going to be a cool collection!

Just added some earrings....

Fascinators

2008-06-13T17:38:00.006-04:00

These are fun - I made these from feathers, clips, jewels, buttons, etc. According to Wiki: "A fascinator is a headpiece worn on the hair and worn almost exclusively by women. Fascinators are commonly made with feathers, flowers and/or beads. They attach to the hair by a comb, headband, or clip. They are an adornment for formal attire and are an alternative to wearing a hat. They may also be worn at weddings by guests, and also as an alternative to a bridal veil." Now, I love the hats, too, but feel I might look a bit silly. The fascinators, however, are a bit more understated than the hats, and they're easy to make! Here's a few I've made so far:

Feathers with buttons and crystals

Feathers with buttons/crystals. I stripped and shaped these.

This one was really easy. I got the feather puff (already attached to a clip) at Hobby Lobby for $1.99. I added the ornamentation.

This is a new black one, with millinery (Russian) netting, goose biots, and horsehair braid, with some Swarovski crystals as well.

And finally, a pic of me wearing one (with the veiling).

So, Cameos!

2008-06-05T15:13:00.011-04:00

Cameos - one probably thinks of their grandma when seeing one of these. No doubt, cameos have been around for centuries! I picked this little treasure up in Italy. Where we went (Naples and Amalfi Coast area), cameo artisans flourish abundantly! And this is what many tourists (including ourselves) come back with.

I want to draw some attention to the cameo and the process, because it's truly a remarkable, beautiful product. Usually, the ones we see today in jewelry are carved by artisans from shells or agate following ancient and traditional techniques. The shells are first marked with a series of ovals in a process called signing, then cut into oval blanks for the cameo carver. The actual cameo is mainly cut with a metal scraping tool and a number of metal gravers are used. When the details are completed, the shell is then soaked in olive oil, cleaned with soap and water and selectively polished with a hand brush.

Nathan bought this pendant/broach for me in a cameo artist's shop in Ravello, called Camo, Piazza Duomo, 9. A kind, older gentleman named Giorgio (who made a cameo for Hillary Clinton and had photos of other famous people in that had visited his shop) owned the shop and his daughter worked the cash register. They recognized us, as we went in several times, and he even gave us some free items! He showed me his work bench and took us to the back of the shop where he had antique jewelry on display. And the prices for the shell cameos were very reasonable! This one below was somewhere around $50. Of course, we bought some for presents, too. Incidentally, I was stumbling around online and came across a website for a jewelry shop in Chicago that was selling a cameo almost identical looking to mine for $425!

Special Promotion!

2008-06-02T18:08:00.005-04:00

Here we go - the first blog promotion for Made By Mary Ann customers! Readers of this blog can get 25% off their order through the end of June '08 by typing in code special1 at check-out!!

www.madebymaryann.com

Cool Beads!

2008-05-28T13:58:00.006-04:00

I bought these beautiful Italian red coral beads and branches in Italy! They have a very smooth, glass-like texture and make a neat clinking noise. These coral beads were harvested from the Mediterranean waters and the deep red color is very sought after! I'll have fun designing some creations with these!

In addition, I also got a handful of pearls (origination: China and Australia) and small Italian beach shells!

Birdcage Veils, and How To Make One (Part 2)! How To Make A Birdcage Veil!

2008-04-20T11:36:00.058-04:00

Thank you for visiting my Birdcage Veil Tutorial! These instructions have moved to my other blog:

{click here for the tutorial}

and {click here} to go to the blog homepage

Thanks for stopping by and I hope you have a great time making your veil. See you after the jump!

Different view of the veil
Location: Ravello, Amalfi Coast, Italy

Birdcage Veils, and How To Make One (Part 1)! How To Make A Birdcage Veil!

2008-04-20T01:52:00.010-04:00

(To jump to Part 2 with step by step instructions, Click Here!)

Let me start by saying that I love the birdcage veil look! They've been seen on the big screen, worn by Reese Witherspoon during the wedding scene in Sweet Home Alabama, and also by Jessica Alba in the recent Fantastic Four movie. In addition, I noticed Katherine Heigl wearing a BC veil on the cover of those gossip magazines several months ago. They've made a hit in the wedding industry, gaining a lot of popularity for 2008!

Anyways, after deciding this is the kind of veil I want, my next mission was to figure out how I could make it? (Because why would I go the easy way of buying it? No, I like to gather all the possible information I can about it, stress out about it, make it hard on myself, analyze and re-do over and over.....but finally come out with a finish product I'm really proud of!)

My first step was to discover where I could buy this special netting. After looking at a few fabric stores and Hobby Lobby (neither of which had it), I resorted to Googling for an hour or two. At some point in my search, I stumbled upon the word "millinery netting" and knowing that relates to the art of hat-making, I was able to find out more. Finally, I found a couple of websites that will sell this stuff! There's different types of millinery netting, the most commonly used for birdcage veils being French netting and Russian netting. I bought 2 yards each of 3 different types (18" French, 12" French and 9" Russian) from Hats By Leko (there is a $28 dollar minimum). Also, Judith M sells the netting as well. They were each only a few dollars per yard, no big deal.

Next, I looked around at other websites that sell the veils to get ideas. Birdcageveils.com and Unveiledbridaldesigns.com both have great photos and ideas (and reasonable prices, should one decide not to make their own). After I decided on a style I liked, I gathered the other necessary supplies to make one and when I was ready, finally put it together!

Read Part 2 to see my step by step instructions!

I love these hoop earrings!!

2008-04-17T15:59:00.012-04:00

Seriously, I don't know why, but I love these hoops!! They're quick and easy to make, and I really like the way they look. My new fave is the turquoise ones (bottom). They're simple, but because they're made with Swarovski crystals, they have a lot of sparkle! I've sold several pairs now, both to retail and wholesale clients, so I plan on making more! Anyways, you can buy them on my site if you like them! And I can make them in virtually any color, with SS or 14K GF.

(click on image to make it huge)

My First Post!

2008-04-17T14:54:00.008-04:00

So, I've never really been into the blogging thing, but thought it might be fun to post my jewelry thoughts, ideas, finished designs, etc....and maybe a few other fun crafty things I come up with!!

I'll post any upcoming specials and promotions here, as well as other stuff I find interesting. Check back regularly!