tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33147185005695866982024-02-19T08:03:55.291-08:00Lynn LungerLynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.comBlogger135125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-71138506434100868212012-09-08T10:27:00.001-07:002012-09-08T10:29:13.649-07:00Skull Season - Polymer Clay<div style="padding: 3px; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/7956248782/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8300/7956248782_b7aec559e9.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/7956248782/">Untitled</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div>
Being a polymer clay jewelry artist, I try to avoid producing work that is heavily focused on a single holiday. I don't like having a lot of stock that has a limited 'season' of use.<br /><br />My favorite exception to my rule is my little skull pendants. Skulls appeal to some people year round and they are made in the same way as my little <a href="http://unaodd.blogspot.com/2011/03/polymer-faces-with-acrylic-paint.html">head pendants</a> and are so fun to make.<br /><br />I like to use a minimum of manipulation, preferring to quickly provide just enough detail to - although odd with this subject matter - bring the face to life.Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-2320309632776448612012-08-01T08:13:00.001-07:002012-08-01T09:31:30.720-07:00Using Polymer Clay as Printing Plates<div style="padding: 3px; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/7691456512/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8003/7691456512_2878dacb9b.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/7691456512/">Using Polymer Clay as Printing Plates #polymerclay #printmaking #unaodd #instagram</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div>
My friend Genevieve, of <a href="http://jibbyandjunablog.blogspot.com/">Jibby and Juna</a>, recently jogged my memory. While doing some of her lovely new<a href="http://jibbyandjunablog.blogspot.com/2012/07/the-voices-in-my-head.html"> carved pieces</a> she began to ponder the idea of making prints from the polymer clay pieces. What a natural extension of her beautiful work!<br />
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It reminded me that somewhere in the recesses of my filing cabinet were some explorations I'd made about 10 or so years ago using uncured polymer clay as printing plates. I was doing freelance work for a greeting card company at the time and was going to propose a series of cards based on this style. I don't remember why I didn't pursue it, but it's been pretty much the template for my art experience. Experiment, don't follow through, move on.<br />
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I look forward to seeing where Gen takes her ideas. She seems to work in such a naturally organic way.Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-54340327783733731582012-07-31T06:00:00.001-07:002012-07-31T14:25:30.150-07:00New Tool Alert - Kiln in Firingplace<div style="padding: 3px; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/7683698934/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7137/7683698934_7697ea92a7.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/7683698934/">Firingplace</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div>
I recently took a PMC (precious metal clay) class through <a href="http://www.bananafactory.org/" target="_blank">The Banana Factory</a>, a wonderful local arts program. The class was taught by a very talented and wonderfully generous jewelry artist named <a href="http://cs.uarts.edu/faculty/wendy-schuster" target="_blank">Wendy Schuster</a>. If you are in the Eastern PA region and are ever interested in taking a PMC class, I highly recommend her! A quick Google search brings up many classes she is teaching. <br />
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After Wendy's excellent class I was thrilled with the possibilities of the medium, but was frustrated by the limitations and quality issues of torch firing. Having also taken pottery classes in the past, and having an interest in exploring glass and possibly enamels, I thought it was high time I looked into acquiring a kiln. A quick search on <a href="http://www.ebay.com/" target="_blank">Ebay</a> found one up for auction within an hour's drive - which meant the option to forgo shipping costs, which meant more bargaining power in the auction. When the auction finished it was mine!<br />
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A day later my kiln was home -with much generosity on the part of the seller as well, who threw in some extra PMC and promised to send her tools and cork-clay when they turn up. While the fireplace in my studio is not to code for building actual fires (the firebox is too shallow), it does however, fit the new kiln perfectly!<br />
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The fireplace is now transformed to The Firingplace!Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-77338499323551982312012-05-22T10:24:00.001-07:002012-05-22T10:27:03.531-07:00Sweet Little Color Break - Faceted Wood Crystals<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/7249659092/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7085/7249659092_4618249e3e.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br /><span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/7249659092/">Wood Crystals Closeup #myart #acrylicpaint #wood #faceted #crystal #rainbow #geometric #facets #itswhatido #instagram #unaodd</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>The last two spring days have been gray and rainy, and while that is great for the garden and gives my yard-work sore muscles a rest, it isn't always a boost to the mood.<br /><br />Nothing like a bright rainbow to brighten the day!<br /><br />I have an upcoming show, June 9th, at the Bethlehem, PA Ice Rink on Illick's Mill Road. It will be my first time doing the <a href="http://www.indiemadecraftmarket.com/">indiemade craft market</a> and these little crystals will be made into magnets. <br /><br />Hoping for a sunny day for the show! If you're in the area please drop by!</p>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-34424463533387058492012-03-22T06:25:00.003-07:002012-03-22T06:30:59.280-07:00Ghosts from Machines - Mechanical Textures in Polymer<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/7004540633/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6051/7004540633_473f64a8f3.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/7004540633/">Textures in Clay</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>I really love impressing things into polymer and seeing what the resulting textures say to me. Mostly I work with natural textures - leaves, twigs, feathers, shells, etc...<br />
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I do have a deviation from the natural that gives me a lot of enjoyment. I like to salvage and scavenge small bits of man-made materials. Some times it's mechanical - like gears and flywheels, knobs and keys. Other times it's just scraps that have nice shapes - like pen caps, dosing syringes, bread bag ties and hang tags. Anything being discarded gets inspected first for texture possibilities.<br />
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Usually when I start impressing I instinctively make faces. They have become their own little line of pendants that I call "Ghosts from Machines".</p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLBvBpdj9zLvjlFWqhHNThdEDLuEj1MUZ8SShejgtbbrOfNCVgUfwQdqm1SQ9-JGoCfpII0HcMKpmy7NNPT-h0_T3PEdYqSNJUObQQCqjF8ER1EmRluGrrskqZrSRANFvuMVTB12iwsH9/s1600/il_fullxfull.252945917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJLBvBpdj9zLvjlFWqhHNThdEDLuEj1MUZ8SShejgtbbrOfNCVgUfwQdqm1SQ9-JGoCfpII0HcMKpmy7NNPT-h0_T3PEdYqSNJUObQQCqjF8ER1EmRluGrrskqZrSRANFvuMVTB12iwsH9/s400/il_fullxfull.252945917.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK-xGgblBoA3wnVMWlCPZKi93WzWwWAsE3HLSwX1Frru5nyhizcO4x3HQNKHdAbbkMLB09gK1fayTtZec54wj0w53mUasXX87mLVeXyDhn93Cig0a11VRM2qAW6nHuNypMws3raeFtqqyI/s1600/il_fullxfull.253888014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK-xGgblBoA3wnVMWlCPZKi93WzWwWAsE3HLSwX1Frru5nyhizcO4x3HQNKHdAbbkMLB09gK1fayTtZec54wj0w53mUasXX87mLVeXyDhn93Cig0a11VRM2qAW6nHuNypMws3raeFtqqyI/s400/il_fullxfull.253888014.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheimJTIOd9YpBkzcLevD8LCDChwWj4txpuWtyvDQ2JbXjmpr1IF3-sd02dqv1Uegmf7DxpY1XAccMZDJxID47npAPV18ipGP28Z8rmQb115AJOfx08ApHdDophs8eHFZDhyryJlaInB4gR/s1600/il_fullxfull.253960013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheimJTIOd9YpBkzcLevD8LCDChwWj4txpuWtyvDQ2JbXjmpr1IF3-sd02dqv1Uegmf7DxpY1XAccMZDJxID47npAPV18ipGP28Z8rmQb115AJOfx08ApHdDophs8eHFZDhyryJlaInB4gR/s400/il_fullxfull.253960013.jpg" /></a></div>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-66495580481203324552012-03-21T12:14:00.002-07:002012-03-21T17:51:02.749-07:00Tutorial -Making my 'ugly' molds for my Rustic Nature Polymer Clay PendantsI have had a number of inquiries into my methods of making my deep molds for my Rustic Nature Polymer Clay Pendants. First, I will admit that my molds are rather homely, which is one of the reasons why I haven't attempted to sell the finished molds. I believe a pourable mold making product would make a much nicer looking mold, but my first attempt at a pourable product gave me molds that were softer and mushier than I liked so I will be looking into some other pourable products in the near future.<br />
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Meanwhile, here is my mold-making/pendant making system. Ugly, but sturdy.<br />
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In the prototype stage you will need polymer clay - I use up old early Sculpey stock for my originals. Early Sculpey is really not strong enough for serious jewelry work, but is great for making prototypes. <br />
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A clay rolling tool - I use a section of an old metal arrow shaft. <br />
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A pair of even thickness shims to act as your clay thickness guides - Some people use playing cards, matboard etc... Mine are just strips of 1/4 inch plywood. <br />
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A clay scraper.<br />
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Xacto, or other sharp pointed blade. <br />
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Leaves from your garden.<br />
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A selection of shape templates - I cut mine from heavy stock plastic, like the kind used in binders. Clear stock is nice as you can see the placement of the template on the leaves.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuztztexvcO2ZuYKGkuHvSK9qy05jT3JwbBKLtIjaPqeZHfa_ywkI8DtORtzQp3INvqvAZjqjEukie53cZtuM0KT_6oDCjzIa_l7b3I9ulAPEZEVetWnVQAozcSBSkHZuR9bfvsH2dpdhp/s1600/moldtute1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuztztexvcO2ZuYKGkuHvSK9qy05jT3JwbBKLtIjaPqeZHfa_ywkI8DtORtzQp3INvqvAZjqjEukie53cZtuM0KT_6oDCjzIa_l7b3I9ulAPEZEVetWnVQAozcSBSkHZuR9bfvsH2dpdhp/s400/moldtute1.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Roll your conditioned clay to the desired thickness - I like mine thicker since I like to drill my beading hole from side to side. Roll your leaf gently into the flattened clay.<br />
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Place the template over the leaf and cut around the template with the Xacto blade. Cut through the leaf and stem. Make sure your blade is sharp so it doesn't 'drag' on the stem and distort the clay. A small up and down 'sawing' motion when you reach the leaf helps too, rather than a pulling cut.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimw8YMFyOyBkYw_DciFHKnGyUg-eee8_nXGSo8P3M81YHOQL69aBV-ZF5CjMKRZgAQ1tuABq0aVOorHCxATpswvfZHgdFOj_zUJOyWuMx1KAWb3B-LEuxh9jFrJZUtXQhj_Wh_du0pLz-i/s1600/moldtute2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimw8YMFyOyBkYw_DciFHKnGyUg-eee8_nXGSo8P3M81YHOQL69aBV-ZF5CjMKRZgAQ1tuABq0aVOorHCxATpswvfZHgdFOj_zUJOyWuMx1KAWb3B-LEuxh9jFrJZUtXQhj_Wh_du0pLz-i/s400/moldtute2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Cure the clay and do any edge finishing/sanding until the piece is the desired finish quality.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mP62y-HlTdT1ZkR8s3sdv-35FRfzFupTDgv-jZzD5Ix9uCgi4AJnLK0u-XgEQrDdb42SI48CNkVH36Eq743RfY_XpkG3Y1cH7-l_3Oz7umg6AoaudGfxFwKTvcewdGlS93oKxLMmRSv1/s1600/moldtute3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mP62y-HlTdT1ZkR8s3sdv-35FRfzFupTDgv-jZzD5Ix9uCgi4AJnLK0u-XgEQrDdb42SI48CNkVH36Eq743RfY_XpkG3Y1cH7-l_3Oz7umg6AoaudGfxFwKTvcewdGlS93oKxLMmRSv1/s400/moldtute3.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Now that you are ready to make molds you will need your completed prototypes.<br />
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The mold making product of your choice - I like <a href="http://amazingmoldputty.com/">Amazing Mold Putty</a> but have also used <a href="http://www.townsendatelier.com/store/index.php">Townsend Atelier's</a> product <a href="http://www.townsendatelier.com/store/knead_a_mold.php">Knead-a-Mold®</a><br />
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Measuring spoon - I like 1/2 tsp size.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3tyzPxyqS0KswzBq0LUw7U8Pb37u0xOhLoaXkDW4lZollsN-CprQSwE9xThbSniP2KAa_aXRmbm2UULzyxWO1AQ5RMftsQBdssF0Lsw9GmYFVcmARt-xv5Pz0CODW-sGtdxvokIelI4MN/s1600/moldtute4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3tyzPxyqS0KswzBq0LUw7U8Pb37u0xOhLoaXkDW4lZollsN-CprQSwE9xThbSniP2KAa_aXRmbm2UULzyxWO1AQ5RMftsQBdssF0Lsw9GmYFVcmARt-xv5Pz0CODW-sGtdxvokIelI4MN/s400/moldtute4.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Measure out two equals scoops of the molding product. Amazing Mold Putty comes in Part A and Part B. Usually the two parts are different colors and you knead them together until a consistent color is reached. I work in small quantities since the molding material tends to set up rather quickly. If you mix too much it will set before you can work with it all. I have also discovered through trial and error that trying to push an object into a large blob of the molding material creates a blurred/multiplied image.<br />
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Once blended evenly, and working quickly, flatten out your blob to the approximate dimensions of the 'face' of the piece, but not too thin. At least 3/16 inch thick, 4mm. Starting at one end of the piece and pressing in a gentle forward-moving fan pattern, ease the putty across the face and into the impressions. A flat application tends to trap air which will leave bubble marks on your mold.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpa3geQW6nOklKI2YeI7ykQqqKlZy7Ekfp_UtDnRNF1iiVCUxTYsEFONnrVkjKct-AmysBCBqjbririlWidMEWTmNZbbYM7A7doTzikSkMCRwVUeSeKn0qkc7cZEdK3mcaxpRvyCBh4mgj/s1600/moldtute5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpa3geQW6nOklKI2YeI7ykQqqKlZy7Ekfp_UtDnRNF1iiVCUxTYsEFONnrVkjKct-AmysBCBqjbririlWidMEWTmNZbbYM7A7doTzikSkMCRwVUeSeKn0qkc7cZEdK3mcaxpRvyCBh4mgj/s400/moldtute5.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Wrap the remaining mold material around the edges - I like to give the corners a little pinch as well. Silicone mold material sticks to itself so my next step is to build up the mold. Mix another blob and give the bottom another layer of thickness to make the mold a little more sturdy. I continue to mix material and wrap the edges and sides, trying to stay as even as I can with the top of the prototype. Trim the top edges with a blade if desired. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQiBYDvrWAS4Bic7T71CwJuZiPbEMEDTG93wYm5LSicbhxqHLCiv7t0ZWrxxdGxul9rt70dlmz6iywT9y6tGC02_IjY9UVfABTCIyfK3ZsiBVr0-9Fx7PyAyfqUk5GReFOQUl8ZsxkeEi/s1600/moldtute6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWQiBYDvrWAS4Bic7T71CwJuZiPbEMEDTG93wYm5LSicbhxqHLCiv7t0ZWrxxdGxul9rt70dlmz6iywT9y6tGC02_IjY9UVfABTCIyfK3ZsiBVr0-9Fx7PyAyfqUk5GReFOQUl8ZsxkeEi/s400/moldtute6.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Now you have a finished mold and are ready to make some replicas.<br />
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You will need your finished molds.<br />
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Conditioned polymer clay.<br />
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A flat-ended tool for pushing the clay into the mold - I just use the end of my Xacto knife.<br />
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Clay scraper.<br />
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Freezer - I like to pop my clay into the freezer for a few minutes. You can then pop the clay out of the mold and use the same mold to do a new piece, making many replicas before curing. <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvdxKQzAyytopQo37ghJY4YMy9EwJbhX7H8khqSIj3CSNFNYe-GCsh8AR4bGLFZHxOW8wW-tZSRe1X8dTtPSooBSqtZZdjoNuBef93C8TGQJlneCGrXW3rNtrMYzrhHf7ZkiMFWrw4Jsy7/s1600/moldtute7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="200" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvdxKQzAyytopQo37ghJY4YMy9EwJbhX7H8khqSIj3CSNFNYe-GCsh8AR4bGLFZHxOW8wW-tZSRe1X8dTtPSooBSqtZZdjoNuBef93C8TGQJlneCGrXW3rNtrMYzrhHf7ZkiMFWrw4Jsy7/s400/moldtute7.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Shape a piece of your conditioned clay into a piece approximately the size and shape as your mold, but slightly thicker than the mold is deep. When you put the piece in the mold it will bulge out of the opening a little. Taking a flat-ended object, gently push the clay into the mold. You are trying to make sure that the clay is forced into all of the recesses in the mold. You can leave the surface textured if you like, or trim off top with a clay scraper and smooth the clay. Place in freezer for about 5-10 minutes, then un-mold by gently flexing the edges and putting light pressure on the bottom of the mold.<br />
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Clean up the edges before or after curing. Cure the clay as per product instructions and finish as you prefer. I paint mine with heat-setting acrylic paint and sand lightly to give a rustic finish.<br />
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Let me know if you give the tutorial a try, and I'd love to see what you make with it!Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-27162514663786318852012-03-14T18:31:00.003-07:002012-03-15T07:09:47.101-07:00Golly Bard Love<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6837331628/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7194/6837331628_e6459c8504.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6837331628/">Kaida and Golly Bard Pieces</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>A most splendid Christmas Gift from my husband!<br />
<br />
I have long admired the wonderful watercolors of Holly Ward Bimba, watercolor-artist -fantastic, of the <a href="http://www.etsy.com/?ref=si_home">Etsy</a> shop <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/GollyBard">Golly Bard</a>. She has quite a lovely <a href="http://gollybard.blogspot.com/">blog</a> as well! <br />
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Her subject matter is dear to my heart and her style pleasing to my eye. <br />
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Birds and eggs and nests...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMnS-uxEJi1_TMYTt8kaii3S9mlREKkRFnqV1FLwiP89CvJhOyXg4L1AyxfvrejaKAAN8dHrBj-UFSfrdPlVd9j2iVtDtrOyP3FOmvDSO_KiKwSqJO9WNHBHQWeRLh8gtmjHQijIvd4q6_/s1600/il_fullxfull.277929477.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="314" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMnS-uxEJi1_TMYTt8kaii3S9mlREKkRFnqV1FLwiP89CvJhOyXg4L1AyxfvrejaKAAN8dHrBj-UFSfrdPlVd9j2iVtDtrOyP3FOmvDSO_KiKwSqJO9WNHBHQWeRLh8gtmjHQijIvd4q6_/s400/il_fullxfull.277929477.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Twigs and roots and blossoms...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihgUedhzN-LfhN7NRU9FfbHhKbgZvRvGmw6N89FLRtKcdhEpoSUr8aT2MtVWBIvnc5ov-TxiQeZ67ji9ytCpQzNuR9sCpIThasUGJ4F1TI-twruwwhD5EKbS1Sr24b1M9GkU_ggwog2rO/s1600/il_fullxfull.229951856.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgihgUedhzN-LfhN7NRU9FfbHhKbgZvRvGmw6N89FLRtKcdhEpoSUr8aT2MtVWBIvnc5ov-TxiQeZ67ji9ytCpQzNuR9sCpIThasUGJ4F1TI-twruwwhD5EKbS1Sr24b1M9GkU_ggwog2rO/s400/il_fullxfull.229951856.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Fancifully filled bottles hold macabre collections...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrw59yXNQXaFJa0uBF1SqeO3N3cAV-EGst-AYKyPTyfZtl_nahbjk1tIboyYg0kgZsK0x617fIs0hqT22-EBlcX4utpZvaW-egCTIX88uOCHvdvrnurj-W5D7WEDdujpV_i_WK7Yhg0jt/s1600/il_fullxfull.267708579.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="301" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhPrw59yXNQXaFJa0uBF1SqeO3N3cAV-EGst-AYKyPTyfZtl_nahbjk1tIboyYg0kgZsK0x617fIs0hqT22-EBlcX4utpZvaW-egCTIX88uOCHvdvrnurj-W5D7WEDdujpV_i_WK7Yhg0jt/s400/il_fullxfull.267708579.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Crazily-long-legged bugs contort and twist. Decorated with Holly's signature patterns.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfdS9iE6HSyFy2cwOQ3XREjMUbTHCBes6pA0xH8xDcLv9u_oSYxGty35-gYFaK3bToEw2e2wnz1gyHtS0IyOhu-edxZjMH_n6aixPaAVSR4FFAUQDWYB88FNAJT7mX7sWovy9MFB9P_DQq/s1600/il_fullxfull.291450265.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="309" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfdS9iE6HSyFy2cwOQ3XREjMUbTHCBes6pA0xH8xDcLv9u_oSYxGty35-gYFaK3bToEw2e2wnz1gyHtS0IyOhu-edxZjMH_n6aixPaAVSR4FFAUQDWYB88FNAJT7mX7sWovy9MFB9P_DQq/s400/il_fullxfull.291450265.jpg" /></a></div><br />
What a wonderful Christmas surprise to find not one Golly Bard painting, but THREE! Of course I immediately wanted to write to Holly and thank her for doing such beautiful work, but then I thought it would be so much nicer to frame the pieces first and then post a photo. <br />
<br />
Time passes.... <br />
<br />
Of course such lovely pieces needed to have custom frames, and that took some planning. Then the frames were ordered and they took a few weeks to arrive. Oh yes, I needed to cut mats and actually frame the pieces! I could have waited until they were hung, but I still need eye-hooks and picture framing wire... and you can see how this goes. I thought the time was well overdue - so thank you Holly, for the beautiful work that you do! Thank you Glenny, for bringing such beautiful pieces into our home, and for choosing so well from my favorites! <br />
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Kaida agrees too! :^)</p>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-83833703659865907812012-02-09T12:13:00.001-08:002012-02-11T10:55:04.440-08:00Working with Your Weaknesses<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6847903539/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7067/6847903539_205e1fc695.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6847903539/"></a> originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>As an artist I have struggled with many different weaknesses in my work, as I am sure most artists do. Until now I've been comfortable with my weaknesses, even complacent... explaining it as 'just the way I work'. Recently I have been working to change a lot of things in my life and the way I work and what I produce is one of these things.<br />
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I have identified at least two weaknesses, but I'm sure there's a ton more just waiting for me to recognize them!<br />
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The first one is my intense desire to experiment and try different techniques. In the process I usually produce a large quantity of examples that end up unused and taking up lots of space in boxes and baggies. The reason is both a mix of lessening interest as another idea takes root and a hesitation to put more time and energy into something when I don't receive immediate success in terms of sales and artistic recognition. The end result has been frustration as I ultimately see others embrace the same technique - taking it to levels of success that leave me feeling like I cheated myself and missed out on opportunities.<br />
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My second weakness has been my tendency to use my pieces as single, unconnected elements. I've been content to string a single bead or pendant on a cord or chain and call it my love of simplicity. While I still do enjoy a great element standing on it's own, I have also been forced to admit that I don't feel that combining various elements into a cohesive, strong statement has been a strength of mine. Once I start adding diverse elements everything starts to look and feel awkward to me. I admire artists like my good friend <a href="http://jibbyandjunablog.blogspot.com/">Genevieve Williamson</a> for their ability to create strong, evocative pieces that appear deceptively simple, yet require a very perceptive sensitive vision, and a sophisticated sense of weight, balance, proportion, color, texture...on and on. <br />
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The piece in the middle is a new exploration...an embracing of diverse elements created over the span of two years. Is it successful? Maybe not fully. What I am happy about is the fact that I'm struggling to bring the disparate elements in my life together to make a more cohesive, harmonious whole. It won't always be perfectly balanced or successful, but it certainly is feeling more 'together'.</p>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-42888060849411353522012-01-19T10:40:00.001-08:002012-01-19T10:42:46.875-08:00Thinking of Spring...<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6726658799/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6726658799_7fe0bb400f.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6726658799/">Polymer Clay Pendants and Earrings</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>...or the seed catalogs are piling up, and blossoming polymer is helping me get through the gray days.<br />
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So far this winter, 20 seed company catalogs have piled up in my studio. I used to be seriously addicted to seed starting every year for my garden. In previous years I would have been poring over the catalogs for weeks by this time. I may even have had an order or two in.<br />
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Which brings me to my current situation. Years of enthusiastic seed starting have left me with a large zip-lock bag full of extra seeds. They fill a whole crisper drawer in my fridge, and have for years. Last year I made a huge effort to scatter sow many of the easy growing flower varieties. As a result I had a huge cutting garden of zinnias, cosmos and calendulas. I still have a large quantity of seeds however, and wrestle with the temptation to order more. Of course I need to at least pick up some zinnias since I adored them last year and now I have no more zinnia seeds!<br />
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Until I decide what to do on the seed starting front I've been satisfying my desire for color, flowers, and foliage by working with some bright, custom-mixed polymer colors. <br />
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I'm loving <a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/pantone/index.aspx">Pantone's</a> Color of the Year for 2012, <a href="http://www.pantone.com/pages/MYP_mypantone/mypInfo.aspx?ca=75&pg=20946">Tangerine Tango</a>, so I started there with my own blended tangerine orange, then worked on some colors that I felt coordinated.<br />
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I'm feeling spring already!</p>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-75082056118520017962012-01-10T11:37:00.001-08:002012-01-10T11:41:05.103-08:00Small Steps<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6670510059/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6670510059_fb68d87254.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6670510059/">Making Earwires</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>When one is deep in a rut it sometimes helps to remember that small steps will eventually help one climb out.<br />
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It's been a dry spell creatively for me for quite a while and I really was feeling little or no enthusiasm for jewelry-making. It was a rambling, blog-reading trek one day that landed me at <a href="http://vickiorion.blogspot.com/">Orion Designs Blog</a> and Vicki Potter's <a href="http://vickiorion.blogspot.com/2008/05/earwire-tutorial.html">Earwire Tutorial</a>. Suddenly I felt a spark! I can do that!<br />
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Although I took jewelry classes in college, I have not utilized any of my metal-working skills since. It's a small step, but I decided to start thinking in basics again. Thanks to Vicki's great tutorial I purchased sterling wire, a bench block, and a chasing hammer. I just finished my fourth pair and am already brainstorming what I will make to hang from my new earwires! Thank you Vicki!</p>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-64460027165436207802011-09-29T12:42:00.001-07:002011-09-29T12:53:02.571-07:00Sneak Peek - Autumn Blooms in Polymer<div style="padding: 3px; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6195548859/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6167/6195548859_d1d72ff41e.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6195548859/">Polymer Flower Pendants </a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div>
I am a complete sucker for bead shows. Last weekend was no exception and I spent almost too much money on little 10 mm long <a href="http://www.eurekacrystalbeads.com/index.php?cPath=637_644_690">dagger beads</a> from <a href="http://www.eurekacrystalbeads.com/index.php">Eureka Crystal Beads</a>. They looked like they'd make the perfect leaves for little flowers and immediately an idea came to mind.<br /><br />A day playing around and I had a bouquet of early Autumn blooms in hand! :^)Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-74528381704646418142011-09-27T15:07:00.001-07:002011-09-27T15:10:40.753-07:00Sweet Little Color Break -POW!<div style="padding: 3px; text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6189413011/" title="photo sharing"><img alt="" src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6152/6189413011_b6f59a7d5e.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6189413011/">Anemones #flower #instagram #unaodd #anemones</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div>
Japanese anemones are in bloom now. They spread somewhat aggressively in the garden but I forgive them every autumn when their delicate, fluttery petals, intriguing wiry stems and tutu-collared centers enchant.<br />
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Welcome autumn!Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-11490452735279558142011-09-01T09:54:00.000-07:002011-09-01T09:54:31.747-07:00PESTO!The mid-to-late-summer garden is one of my favorite times. Who can resist vine-ripe tomatoes still warm from the sun, or cheery zinnia blossoms?<br />
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Another seasonal favorite is <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basil">basil, Ocimum basilicum</a>. So easy to grow from seeds that I just scatter a seed packet and rake it in. A few months later an overly bountiful and wonderfully fragrant basil crop demands harvest and preserving. An extremely tasty and simple way to preserve basil is to make a pulverized mix of basil leaves and olive oil that is known as pesto.<br />
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Incorporating a few other tasty ingredients, my pesto recipe is excellent as a pasta topping, toasted bread spread, or condiment. My method of storage is freezing. Due to the oil in the mix it thaws quickly and it easily brings a taste of summer to the winter table.<br />
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Ingredients:<br />
1/4 cup pine nuts<br />
3 cloves garlic, peel and lightly crush -I find it easiest to do this simultaneously by crushing lightly with the broad side of a knife blade. The skins will fall off.<br />
2 cups packed basil leaves<br />
1 tsp kosher salt<br />
black pepper to your taste<br />
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil<br />
1/2 cup grated hard cheese of your choice -Parmesan, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Grana Padano etc...<br />
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Wash, dry, and pack 2 cups of fresh basil leaves.<br />
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Toast the pine nuts lightly in a 450˚ oven, or in a skillet on the stove and stir if needed. Pine nuts brown/burn quickly so watch carefully!<br />
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Place first five ingredients in a food processor and pulse until coarsely combined.<br />
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With processor running, drizzle in olive oil. Add cheese and blend until just incorporated.<br />
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I spoon pesto into freezer bags and freeze for up to one year, although it never lasts that long. ;^)<br />
Enjoy! Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-5988691266136173722011-08-11T17:54:00.001-07:002011-08-11T17:56:43.606-07:00Flowers<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6033598428/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6135/6033598428_0e07f472c9.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/6033598428/">Son's Painting</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>Painted by my 7 year-old. Make some time to enjoy what is quietly beautiful around you!</p>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-85561159751125630122011-07-28T10:08:00.001-07:002011-07-28T10:10:15.922-07:00Olo, Newest Wooden Man<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/5985149686/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6010/5985149686_bbc6391b9a.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/5985149686/">Olo, Newest Wooden Man</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>The newest addition to my wood figure 'obsession' is also photographed with my new photography addiction. (I recently upgraded to an iphone and quickly discovered the joy of apps, specifically <a href="http://instagr.am/">instagrams</a>!) <br />
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Here's Olo, named by my daughter. Photographed as an instagram.</p>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-78517992793826338072011-07-25T19:27:00.001-07:002011-07-25T19:29:19.212-07:00Sweet Little Color Break - Zinnia<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/5976601602/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6146/5976601602_4042c2fcb5.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/5976601602/">Zinnia</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>A sweet zinnia from my garden. Played around in Photoshop a little. I just love zinnias and finally planted them again after not getting around to it for a few years. <br />
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I sowed a mix of several packets in an informal cutting garden. Some of my favorite varieties are "Persian Carpet" and "Cut and Come Again".<br />
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Love!</p>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-38955033635958495592011-07-25T14:32:00.000-07:002011-07-25T14:32:22.960-07:00Black Spanish Radish<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajpvx04bM1WLw6t6J3YYqlXoUpCDYvkfhiLA8w2-rAEpPNOcteJmWG0ef1Fs8Q7LBqjqt8PVwMnvf0U3RVED46gVpy3O7Pj0H2Yu2FMghYVqX35gg-mfTGjj0yD6KLOogDzQJhfZvD24p/s1600/IMG_7660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjajpvx04bM1WLw6t6J3YYqlXoUpCDYvkfhiLA8w2-rAEpPNOcteJmWG0ef1Fs8Q7LBqjqt8PVwMnvf0U3RVED46gVpy3O7Pj0H2Yu2FMghYVqX35gg-mfTGjj0yD6KLOogDzQJhfZvD24p/s400/IMG_7660.jpg" /></a></div>Many years ago I traded some of my garden seeds in an online seed swap. One of the seeds I received as a bonus from the swapper was for an heirloom called Black Spanish Radish.<br />
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Since I hadn't requested the seeds and my gardening plate was pretty full they were put into my 'maybe later' bag, which I store in my refrigerator crisper. Every year I would start seed shopping in late January and buy/acquire my new seeds, make my lists of what I wanted to grow, write up my germination plans and start sowing in March or April. Many packets of seeds kept getting bumped to the 'maybe later' bag and as luck would have it this year ended up being the 'use up the maybe later bag' year.<br />
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Last night we made a Black Spanish Radish Slaw/Salad using some other vegetables from our garden, our neighbor's garden, and what else we had on hand. Amounts are somewhat fly-by-the-seat-of-your-pantsish as we usually wing it on our recipes. We also believe in seasoning to taste so we highly recommend adding herbs or seasoning to make this to YOUR taste.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlBcyTRJvEhi1nYDrUjYi1Cpi6qP91W2KVfgSpl-urdUKJnxRjDWc3sGiO1Mp131TTTloyYyx64KfXtsnDDzsk2e1IczTvq8OhBwn7JblulnZz7e91HfkhpyKrhwtDXpPUv3ihHt5A0J_/s1600/IMG_7670.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="387" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqlBcyTRJvEhi1nYDrUjYi1Cpi6qP91W2KVfgSpl-urdUKJnxRjDWc3sGiO1Mp131TTTloyYyx64KfXtsnDDzsk2e1IczTvq8OhBwn7JblulnZz7e91HfkhpyKrhwtDXpPUv3ihHt5A0J_/s400/IMG_7670.jpg" /></a></div>Black Spanish Radish Slaw/Salad<br />
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2 medium black Spanish radishes -peeled and shredded <br />
1 large cucumber -peeled, de-seeded and cubed<br />
1/2 c carrot rounds -thinly sliced (I used a mandoline)<br />
1/2 c red bell pepper -julienned<br />
2 scallion/green onions -thinly sliced<br />
1 c sour cream -a little more or less is fine<br />
1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar<br />
1-2 Tbsp Dijon mustard<br />
salt and pepper to taste<br />
other spices/herbs as to taste<br />
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Combine all and chill. Served here as lunch with a few fresh green pea pods and a sprinkling of black salt. Also good layered open-face on dense brown German bread with hard-boiled egg slices and some Havarti cheese.Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-76153357039688224532011-07-08T16:10:00.000-07:002011-07-08T16:11:09.225-07:00New Tool Alert - Foredom Flex ShaftMy trusty little Dremel has been chugging along for the last 15 years or so. It came with a flex shaft attachment, but I never really found it comfortable to use - too stiff. I've done all my work holding the main body of the tool. I replaced the motor brushes once and now the tool is making similar straining noises, slowing down, and not working at variable speed - it holds just one speed.<br />
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Between the age of the Dremel, the problems it's having and personally being tired of the weight of the tool I've decided to upgrade. <br />
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Here's the newest addition to the studio...... my new Foredom Flex Shaft SR-2272. It has a variable speed foot control and a runs so smoothly! The flex shaft is very comfortable and seems much more flexible than the Dremel. I'm so excited I cleaned and organized the workspace - almost like I'm trying to impress. :^)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIIr388r7-izhtq435LuXQyc_RxCmpxij5ZbxziDQBrf5Q5f5Jpei7Y2qsp5E6vfdCLepUG5KgFLxBi-UY3-KtutwtmfYKUJWxTocTuU_9jHp3IgGDXY4kZxED20-BE-eS5G1HqTm8Qac0/s1600/IMG_6400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="352" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIIr388r7-izhtq435LuXQyc_RxCmpxij5ZbxziDQBrf5Q5f5Jpei7Y2qsp5E6vfdCLepUG5KgFLxBi-UY3-KtutwtmfYKUJWxTocTuU_9jHp3IgGDXY4kZxED20-BE-eS5G1HqTm8Qac0/s400/IMG_6400.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCdm9faoa4t9-vqs55YXFW-Tg_aFJ1qcPdEzKaV1fIZlVz1X6gd00QLTRAuIJA6BPcIZs1GmILt8o4pUbRqzTzd1_hdv5aNhu2zIq6MPuudeFwfs9Odb8-I9QptZyW3LrV1Xz6g8YhXlJr/s1600/IMG_6404.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="282" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCdm9faoa4t9-vqs55YXFW-Tg_aFJ1qcPdEzKaV1fIZlVz1X6gd00QLTRAuIJA6BPcIZs1GmILt8o4pUbRqzTzd1_hdv5aNhu2zIq6MPuudeFwfs9Odb8-I9QptZyW3LrV1Xz6g8YhXlJr/s400/IMG_6404.JPG" /></a></div>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-76717260261361122882011-06-29T18:18:00.000-07:002011-06-29T18:18:28.549-07:00New Wooden BustMy newest wood bust arrived yesterday. This one is more realistic (and shinier) than my taste has been running to. Something about the way the hair was carved, the thick neck and the hunched-looking shoulders just endeared him to me. He feels like a cartoon character, but I can't put my finger on the style... maybe a little Kliban.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0t4GFVW_WjxAZRavqc9I01nMw_CUD_vq6xfol_ZXHrhwQovALU35_fOICR4MzoPHCeY1U2t4XCyxlg_f09VyEz0CxaZs9Hlm8jqOiPjjcXdWNdBDSsUJkfA03IEAH3rM4v2ws8sisv-G/s1600/woodman.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="308" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjA0t4GFVW_WjxAZRavqc9I01nMw_CUD_vq6xfol_ZXHrhwQovALU35_fOICR4MzoPHCeY1U2t4XCyxlg_f09VyEz0CxaZs9Hlm8jqOiPjjcXdWNdBDSsUJkfA03IEAH3rM4v2ws8sisv-G/s400/woodman.jpg" /></a></div>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-53041620862101319672011-06-24T17:56:00.001-07:002011-06-29T06:25:11.769-07:00Red Raspberry Reprieve<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/5867680525/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5116/5867680525_efce6fd996.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/5867680525/">Red Raspberries</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>Around ten years ago I was very involved in trading garden plants at plant swaps. I acquired some red raspberry starts and plopped them in the corner of my vegetable garden. For a year or two they grew a little and gave a few berries. They were well behaved and I had high hopes.<br />
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Over the coming years the raspberries launched a full assault. They sent up shoots everywhere and wherever a branch touched the ground it rooted and sent up a new plant. The other downfall was the berries. There never seemed to be a great amount and when they did appear they coincided with the appearance of the Japanese beetles who quickly covered the berries.<br />
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Early this spring I told my husband I was planning on ripping them all out of the garden since they took up too much room and underwhelmed with their fruit. Well they must have been listening - this year I have a bumper crop and the kids have been picking and eating until full! I pulled some out that were going far beyond boundaries and have made an allowance.... they can stay, but will be held to their corner. At least for a few more years. :^)</p>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-67620470571351502542011-06-14T19:08:00.001-07:002011-06-14T19:10:15.294-07:00Sweet Little Color Break - Bracelet Detail<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/5834314657/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3574/5834314657_a6a32f3d2a.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/5834314657/">Bracelet Detail</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>A new cuff bracelet I made last week. It isn't really this red, actually a rather bold, bright orange. The lighting gave it a red cast. I liked the pattern and texture on this piece and while photographing it for listing on Etsy I just kept coming in closer... and closer.<br />
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Makes me happy!</p>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-6328227193786611202011-06-10T07:35:00.000-07:002011-06-10T07:35:21.872-07:00"Turtle in the Road!"That was what I yelled as I drove my children to the bus stop for their last day of school.<br />
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I flashed back to a very sad, hot summer day a long time ago, when I jumped out of my car in a vain attempt to save a turtle stuck in the road. I was standing on the side of the road waiting for one last car to pass before I could run out to grab the turtle..... well - that last car.... I cried for quite a long time.<br />
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<i>This</i> turtle was not going to be left in the road! I stopped and scooped up the turtle who immediately pulled in his (gender verified by herp loving friend) head and hissed. I set him down on the passenger-side floor mat and he immediately started crawling around. The children were so excited and wanted to know what we were going to do with him. At first I said I would take him home and let him go in our garden, but then I remembered the lawn-cutting crew who managed to run over a rabbit last year and I thought not.<br />
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A local park, Monocacy Park, has a nature area - perfect! After the children got on the bus I took him home for some photos.<br />
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The children had a half-day for the last day so after they came home we all went to the park where we let him go. He happily ambled off into the woody underbrush as we said our goodbyes and wished him well.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Vdpb5Ur6eNVA9WqPNKVrs8a4prqCLjyti3y74e8nJ7g6_wUeVt3tjG-EDAyn2eSVCWAMhgfLkHb_f9vs_Zr96RFdjZdZUevCYQjw3_E8vIQ0yRf7n0YVM9AlBHWjC7YmLhj68LKwsomk/s1600/IMG_3419.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="370" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4Vdpb5Ur6eNVA9WqPNKVrs8a4prqCLjyti3y74e8nJ7g6_wUeVt3tjG-EDAyn2eSVCWAMhgfLkHb_f9vs_Zr96RFdjZdZUevCYQjw3_E8vIQ0yRf7n0YVM9AlBHWjC7YmLhj68LKwsomk/s400/IMG_3419.JPG" /></a></div>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-85932601129323583312011-06-08T08:38:00.000-07:002011-06-08T08:58:34.011-07:00ShatteredOne thing that I always take along when I do shows is a sketchbook. Those stretches between customers are a great time for reflection and exploration. The latest show I'm in has been a very fertile ground for sketching - a little thin on customers, but in a very creative setting. There are a number of new ideas I'm looking to explore in the near future. <br />
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Having done some <a href="http://unaodd.blogspot.com/2009/12/facets.html">faceting</a> in the past, I began to explore the idea of a shattered faceted piece. This ring is the first prototype and while there are things I like about it, it doesn't quite capture the effect I wanted. The lines are a little thicker than I would like and the division of space a little too regular. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd6IrbBhHgEYWPHVmXBT9WWDUksmzgZwhT6ECKl6OzjnQ3OwJQJpJMxBomrPipI-Nh2vUuRyUMVYbEAD9DJDLp3FcjQ0yKhyphenhyphen9VkXYXQopPbWIAT83YLpIkrG7WTBgo7Ku6DXqtcAEtsLIv/s1600/IMG_3426.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="299" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgd6IrbBhHgEYWPHVmXBT9WWDUksmzgZwhT6ECKl6OzjnQ3OwJQJpJMxBomrPipI-Nh2vUuRyUMVYbEAD9DJDLp3FcjQ0yKhyphenhyphen9VkXYXQopPbWIAT83YLpIkrG7WTBgo7Ku6DXqtcAEtsLIv/s400/IMG_3426.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNndCwJzxlU8YjhxtbqxwFVfDn9OIs7uDIqyuWdGnuneQmSuXN9Hl49unBB8zsH7EZrWqnU_jkKAy3R4-Dw3j036KeGT0BwDx4GUYb1YL4TktCu7GD5Nf3djuk9q2wn4JgquZkw0DqBckt/s1600/IMG_3447.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="284" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNndCwJzxlU8YjhxtbqxwFVfDn9OIs7uDIqyuWdGnuneQmSuXN9Hl49unBB8zsH7EZrWqnU_jkKAy3R4-Dw3j036KeGT0BwDx4GUYb1YL4TktCu7GD5Nf3djuk9q2wn4JgquZkw0DqBckt/s400/IMG_3447.jpg" /></a></div>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-81072770626362151872011-05-30T18:55:00.001-07:002011-05-30T18:58:28.576-07:00Sweet Little Color Break<div style="text-align: left; padding: 3px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/5779071456/" title="photo sharing"><img src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3334/5779071456_727624875a.jpg" style="border: solid 2px #000000;" alt="" /></a><br />
<span style="font-size: 0.8em; margin-top: 0px;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/5779071456/">Peonies</a>, originally uploaded by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/lynn_el/">Lynn_EL/UnaOdd</a>.</span></div><p>Every year I look forward to the peonies blooming in the garden. Some are plants that I started from sections of my parent's plants. They are old, originating with the first owner of their Victorian - probably 60 years old at least. Some are newer plants that I purchased.<br />
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Their scent is heavenly. The fuchsia flowers smell largely like peonies. The medium pink is the variety 'Sarah Bernhardt' and is my favorite. The older varieties don't have as showy of a flower - but the scent!... one smells very strongly of rose and the other - clove/cinnamon!<br />
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This overflowing and gloriously blowsy bouquet is the result of the inevitable rainstorms that flop my peonies every year. They give me a week of justifiably extravagant bouquets.</p>Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3314718500569586698.post-13782686008267098762011-05-19T11:34:00.000-07:002011-05-21T20:24:42.572-07:00Weighting it DownYour show tent that is! When doing an outdoor show with a tent weights are pretty much a necessity. Unless you want your tent to become airborne - possibly ruining your work, other people's work and risking injury to yourself and others, weight your tent!<br />
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There are a lot of options out there for weighting the legs of your tent. Some people purchase tent weight bags or make their own with sand. Others haul empty water cooler bottles that they fill with water. Since I wasn't sure that water would be available I rejected that method. Other people use weight disks from barbell sets, actual barbells and cinder blocks. I wanted something that would go with the look of the tent and was something I could make myself. A quick Google search brought up a fantastic <a href="http://etsymetal.blogspot.com/2009/06/tent-weights-tutorial.html">tent weight tutorial</a> on the <a href="http://etsymetal.blogspot.com/">Etsy Metal Blog</a>.<br />
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I won't try to copy the tutorial here, please visit the links if you'd like to try to make your own. I just thought I'd show a few of my steps and my optional/additional handle method. <br />
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Here is my PVC in capping process, with the 8 inch eye bolt through the drilled cap. This end will be on the bottom when the concrete is poured. Nuts and a washer are threaded on the eye bolt for extra strength when embedded in concrete.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswJ0Gnpfm7iDFuWzWaE_f8FVOB0vOXodocMFt_K_Fvpmbzqs9vl43SfvT6xL4tZxkaM9xI3IElmjNXeHnPzZDGq2VBhp_dYpm0h3ovSbplMtbplVs0IQNXb52LmThwOHW9S_UhUW3ZImi/s1600/IMG_2446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="298" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiswJ0Gnpfm7iDFuWzWaE_f8FVOB0vOXodocMFt_K_Fvpmbzqs9vl43SfvT6xL4tZxkaM9xI3IElmjNXeHnPzZDGq2VBhp_dYpm0h3ovSbplMtbplVs0IQNXb52LmThwOHW9S_UhUW3ZImi/s400/IMG_2446.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Here I have shoveled the Quikrete concrete mix into the tubes and I am waiting for it to set more before I cap the open end.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2BN6XzauQrKEslYOMCVVzkLUop68GCBvDZk_KclgXiFCG0Sdi24Im2yD_LRC243ux-hcGFh6Um3FDNoxY5bvsRa0HosV9H5BABPEddT1QNE1UO4gi2vIbS9jXZNrUVbWyNI46Rnf9sDC2/s1600/IMG_2453.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="353" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2BN6XzauQrKEslYOMCVVzkLUop68GCBvDZk_KclgXiFCG0Sdi24Im2yD_LRC243ux-hcGFh6Um3FDNoxY5bvsRa0HosV9H5BABPEddT1QNE1UO4gi2vIbS9jXZNrUVbWyNI46Rnf9sDC2/s400/IMG_2453.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Here is a finished weight with my optional handle. The Etsy Metal Blog tutorial mentions an option where the handles are screwed on. I really liked the look, but the hardware store didn't have sturdy enough handles (everything is stamped/formed sheet anymore...where is the solid metal?!?). I opted instead to use two large hose clamps and a length of knotted rope.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoCbPtrotaa4iBZ6SZZFZ81XYfaSpCxr9SMVIkCqOrnXS05uMt-z0XvbsFxNOJKDc57xx8aB9H6t3R1kK2QwN4vU9aQS3XTa58Ua_d94UN8JK1hAc1T8x8i-G_h8P_O1ypEpOnc16NDsM/s1600/IMG_2457.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="345" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIoCbPtrotaa4iBZ6SZZFZ81XYfaSpCxr9SMVIkCqOrnXS05uMt-z0XvbsFxNOJKDc57xx8aB9H6t3R1kK2QwN4vU9aQS3XTa58Ua_d94UN8JK1hAc1T8x8i-G_h8P_O1ypEpOnc16NDsM/s400/IMG_2457.JPG" /></a></div><br />
The tent up, and weighted! The weights are approximately 35 pounds/ 16.5 kilos each.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjThnLhmSnFMn2dUMAY28bv1lJoO8E3if4odWp-ooupIlhefJ-4_mFq4Oj8iIW2mhHZeL91K8cRVG3eFo2_ROlvgKBm-i7dJL0A9-pvsSn7UmOJS687-RN4EC4qRXrzv3G0je7OyNHen-XN/s1600/IMG_2466.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjThnLhmSnFMn2dUMAY28bv1lJoO8E3if4odWp-ooupIlhefJ-4_mFq4Oj8iIW2mhHZeL91K8cRVG3eFo2_ROlvgKBm-i7dJL0A9-pvsSn7UmOJS687-RN4EC4qRXrzv3G0je7OyNHen-XN/s400/IMG_2466.jpg" /></a></div><br />
Considering I bought the tent on a Thursday, started shopping for all the weight supplies at 9:00 am Friday, and had the tent up by 10:00 am Saturday I was pretty pleased with the results. Thank you <a href="http://etsymetal.blogspot.com/">Etsy Metal Blog</a>!Lynn Lungerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04572317461703301850noreply@blogger.com3