This year marks two decades of lampworking for me and I absolutely love what I do. Watch out if you get me talking about glass... I may never stop!

Lately though, I feel my work has grown in a different direction. This picture is called "Shore Me Up"... for years I thought I needed something/someone to lean on - but my confidence in my work has grown and I realize I can do it. (sell face to face at shows)

Many of my recent sets are overwhelmingly ALMOST complete to the point you just add a clasp and it's a necklace. I had called these sets SNW (string N wear) to designate this. In November there came a necklace series that had a small herd of 1/2" beads, a dozen 3/8", and appx 25 thin disks. Priced separately this necklace would've been outrageous - a little over $300. I had them on my site for $165. NOW.. I do realize that it is not so easy to sell finished items online - we all have the desire to touch and try on... so.

This week, after the flurry of the holidays, I spent my torch days - instead - putting the final touches on an application to participate in a fine arts juried show. YOU HAVE NO IDEA what a hurdle this is for me - why? Well - when I've always been on this side of the monitor - you all come here each week and pour over the goodies I've put up. I rarely hear anything negative - yeah that's the nice thing about being web based - if people don't like my work - they just leave.

My wise friend Jane had said "make your own findings it'll give your work a certain distinction". So, I have for years... but last week I embarked on making sterling silver chain... as I was unable to find it in the style & weight I wanted... then I spent time designing custom clasps for the chain... I'm loving this... what did I have to lose?

So - the rub, for me, had been standing behind a table while people pour over what I have to offer. I don't cringe at my pricing anymore... I know that the quality is there - and more often than not - my pricing is pretty reasonable for artisan handmade lampwork beads & finished pieces. As my confidence grew, my fear lessened.... that.is.just.so.cool.

If this goes well, (keep your fingers crossed, as the jury is out right now on the applications). - I may be coming to a town near you!! OMG. smiles - Jill

PS - no, I'm not breaking up with you - just explaining what's going on. I'll have certain things here for you, as always - but the finished pieces may be held back. Let me know what you think of this.... as I'm not a mind reader. : )