The photos above are literally,"postcards from the edge". When I made these reservations it didn't look like the hotel was THIS close to the ocean. IT WAS! . The evening that we walked into this second story room and I walked out on to the balcony, I about had a heart attack. But, after 3 days of sun and storm, I actually got use to it. I was hanging off the balcony taking pictures and sitting out there watching the sunset. I have reached another level in my acceptance of this monstrous, body of water.
This is the Best Western Shelter Cove Lodge in Pismo Beach. I would give it 5 stars for the view alone.
THE WORKSHOP
I don't even know where to begin. We had so much fun and we learned so many new skills and techniques. Our fearless leaders are both wonderful jewelry designers who really knew how to teach us the basic skills of PMC(precious metal clay), etching 101 and cold connections( wiring, riveting and attaching one piece to another. Now I know the difference between round-nose and a needle-nose pliers; what Ferric Cloride is; and what you do with a ball pien hammer. I feel like a well informed beginner and I'm inspired to learn more.
The workshop was all day Saturday and Sunday. We worked on making charms Saturday and etching metal on Sunday. Riki and Diana served us a wonderful lunch that fortified us for the intense work that ensued. We really worked hard and each day brought us a huge sense of accomplishment. As you can see, I didn't take many photos of the class because I was too busy working on
THESE...
The small silver charms are made with PMC clay and fired in a small kiln. The brass plating went through an etching process that is amazing to watch and can be cut up to use in all kinds of jewelry pieces. I will be making a couple of necklaces and a charm bracelet with these pieces, adding some of my own found objects and old jewelry to create a one of a kind work of art that will be worn with all the memories of this weekend and a wonderful workshop that made friendships between 2 women and a whole new group of creative jewelry makers.
Our thanks to Riki Schumacher(www.RikiJewelry.blogspot.com) and Diana Frey(www.dianafrey.blogspot.com). You two are AWESOME..., and if you want to see what true artists Riki and Diana are take a look..., they both have featured articles in the new issue of Belle Armoire Jewelry magazine. Check it out!
More photos of our trip tomorrow....
That view is incredible. I'm sure I could sit there till long after the sun had set. And your jewelry pieces are beautiful! The charms and buttons are very interesting. I'm so jealous :) Are you thinking of looking for more advanced classes next?
ReplyDeleteOK... I know that you have photos of the necklaces and charm bracelet that you made and I am biting at the bit to see them. Being the 61 year old woman that I am though I will try to act my age and sit here calmly waiting until you unveil your creations.
ReplyDeleteWho am I kidding.....? lol
BTW, beautiful ocean view.
Connie, it was so great to see you and Lisa again. It meant so much to Diana and me that you two chose to take our class. We loved having you both in it. You did a great job, I'm proud of you. FYI, that gold colored metal is brass! But you know that! Isn't it beautiful. Take great care, and please come see us again, any ole time! Hugs, Riki
ReplyDeleteI have been terrible at keeping up with people lately, but I see you are having the time of your life!
ReplyDeleteGorgeous 'Post card from the edge girl'!