Irene Muldoon - For Lovingly Handcrafted Jewellery

TIME OUT

2008-05-18T16:40:00.000-07:00

Just letting everyone know that I am taking a time out from my blog at present. I have been away on holidays and having returned, find myself needing to sort out some "time" issues.
Till then, thanks for stopping by...

Mothers Day/National Thanksgiving Day

2008-04-11T17:45:00.000-07:00

As National Thanksgiving Day falls on the same day as Mothers Day this year it is the perfect opportunity to get an extra special gift for that wonderful mother/friend in your life. If you are thinking jewellery for a gift, think ww w.irenemuldoon.etsy.com and you could go into the draw to win a $50 gift voucher.
All purchases made between now and Mother's Day (10th April) will go into the draw and each item purchased counts for 1 entry. Please keep in mind that if you are in another part of the world (other than Australia), postage will take approx. 7-10 workings days to get to you. So if you are thinking of getting something for that amazing mother of yours, please do so before May 1st.

A happy day to you and Happy Shopping!

Let it Flow

2008-04-10T17:53:00.000-07:00

Happy days are here again as creations begin to flow from my fingers. I enjoyed an evening of creating last night, and then found a spot for more this morning. Having the time to bead without distraction helps to renew the love that I have for this art.

Now all you have to wait for is their photo shoots. I hope to get them snapped up and ready to go by tomorrow (however, I won't promise anything yet).

Keep an eye out...they are coming :)

Poem for the Positive

2008-04-06T16:12:00.000-07:00

There are thousands to tell you it cannot be done,
The are thousands to prophesy failure;
Ther are thousands to to point out to you, one by one,
The dangers that await to assail you.
But just buckle in with a bt of a grin,
Just take off your coat and go to it;
Just start to sing as you tackle the thing,
That cannot be done and you'll do it.
~ Edgar Guest

Featured!

2008-03-26T03:20:00.000-07:00

Today my "photography 101" article was featured at http://kinichiriver.blogspot.com/ . Actually, the feature was the reason I wrote the article (seen with an extra intro below), and I found after having written it I just couldn't wait to have it up. Yes, that's right everyone, you did see it HERE first :)

My many thanks to Heather for the opportunity and great write up. She's a great egg (and her creations are marvellous too). This is my favourite of her "unsold" sock friends http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=9940708

The Set-Up

2008-03-17T17:39:00.000-07:00

For a look behind the scenes at how simply photos (like those shown below) can be achieved, here is a piccie of my actual photography area. With my book, piece of glass, and 10c sheets of paper (and of course a great daylight lamp), my photos are now 100% more classy.How it works :
I turn on my lamp and lay down my piece on the glass after the removal of the green box (due to its reflection in the glass), take my shots of black then move to the 10c sheets.
I simply lean the sheets again my blue box (which happens to be a storage shelf for my beads), return the green box to its proper position, hang the earrings on its twig and snap shot no. 2
The final step is to crop my pictures in photoshop and edit them slightly if extremely necessary (which more often than not thankfully is not needed). Done.

Photography 101

2008-03-16T16:41:00.000-07:00

Photography is, in its own right, an art.
The time, trial, and technical process that are involved in its being perfected are ongoing and must truly be a labour of love.
For many of us selling on the internet though, this is not an option. In amongst daily activities, family and work, time is short and of the essence.
Yet we know the importance of great photography. Those eye catching images that inspire and instill a desire for the product on offer.
So, how does one reach a level of professionalism in their photography without years of experience and training?
Well, here I hope to give you a few pointers that will head you off in the right direction and ultimately see you nearer the goal you wish to reach.

From this….

To this…
In just 4 simple steps.

STEP 1. Determine how you want your photo’s to look.
For me, I was after a classy, upmarket kind of look that would give the appearance of elegance and richness without being over the top.
Once this thought was established, I began looking for ideas on how this may be achieved. I browsed through several different fields on google images, such as bridal, fashion, boutique and designer jewellery. The variety of photo’s helped me to identify the kind images my eyes were drawn to and the ones I would like to have as my own. In my case it was the ones with a black reflective background that caught me eye. Then I came to the question of how to achieve this look…

STEP 2. Think outside the square.
I wanted to put this idea into motion as soon as possible. Shopping for materials would have taken a far too long to get around to and the $$’s weren’t really there to spend. So I started to look around for things on hand that would suit my purposes. It’s amazing what you discover when you begin to think outside the square.
A piece of glass is a wonderful “reflector” and a black, leather bound book produces a great textured background. Put the two together and I have my black reflective background, with a texture that makes it my own.

STEP 3. Experiment.
Now, I wanted the black background because it would tie in nicely with my store banner (see shop front), but we all know not everything looks good on black.
So, to remedy that, I experimented with different coloured papers (which set me back 10c a sheet), this time without the glass. The outcome was a second more descriptive shot that could achieve the richer/or not so rich feel depending on the piece I was shooting.

STEP 4. Mess around.
Once the look is determined, the area prepared and you are ready to start taking pictures, it’s time to mess around.
There’s a lot of talk about cameras and all the doodads to look for, but I have found my MACRO (the little flower) and LIGHT SETTING to be the 2 best features. Flick through your “free” manual to find where these are on your camera then, mess around. They say practise makes perfect, and I think this applies to digital cameras as well. Test out the extra features you have and mess around until you find the ones that will get you taking those fabulous shots that you want.

To see more altered shots please visit www.irenemuldoon.etsy.com

Etsy Store Make-Over

2008-03-14T01:47:00.000-07:00

I am currently working on a new series of articles to walk you through the process of my "Etsy Store Make-Over". Some helpful tips will be found for sellers, and some interesting details about the "Etsy Life" will be open to readers everywhere.
First up is about my new photography. This will be posted soon, so be sure to keep your eyes pealed! I hope you enjoyed the ride...

Reconstruction SALE!

2008-02-27T17:16:00.000-08:00

My store is currently undergoing a face-lift. So to help the process move speedily along I am having a 30% off everything sale. See in store for more details www.irenemuldoon.etsy.com

It's Time To...

2008-02-24T15:48:00.000-08:00

It's that time of year where you look over your work, your ideas and your goals, where you've been and what you've done and where you want to be. So I'm taking some time to review and revise and hopefully will come back with some articles worth reading.
If there is anything you would like to know more about in the jewellery world, post your question here and I will do my best to answer them.
A sneak peak at what you can hope to see in the near future :

Vermeil : What it is and why I use it
Gemstones : Helping you to recognize which stones are which
Earring Styles : What different designs are called and how to know which will best suit your face

Till then...

Marvellous Minerals!

2008-02-10T15:26:00.000-08:00

Have you been looking for cosmetics that don't take hours to apply, leave your skin in better condition than it was to start with and are reasonably priced? Then look no further than http://www.divinenaturecosmetics.com/ The wonderful ladies at divine nature have really nailed this "mineral make-up". With easy application, fabulous coverage and no side effects, it's a wonder everyone isn't using it. For me personally, it was love at first use. I'm very much a "live-in-the-skin-you-have" kinda girl. Too lazy to spend hours working out how to apply all the levels of make-up and feeling "made up" when it was on. Therefore it only came out at weddings or very very special events. However, when I tried a "sample kit" from divinenature of their mineral makeup I found the application so smooth and easy, and the coverage so light and effective that I new I could handle this sort of stuff. As for my blemish prone skin, I found there were no nasty "side effects". Blemishes weren't breaking out everywhere the next day and I couldn't almost say they were looking better (however I still wish to trial this a little more before saying anything definite). So although I still love the skin I'm in, this mineral makeup is a great help when your headed out and really want to look your best. But don't take my word for it...try it yourself! I'm sure you won't be dissapointed :)

Missed :(

2008-02-08T04:43:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately I didn't end up making it to Adelaide. The sad news is, is that I missed my flight due to rainy whether, a slight detour and road works on the way to the airport. My flight was off the ground before I even reached the terminal and we had left a good half an hour earlier just to be safe. Alas, it was not meant to be.
So the good news is new items are being added as often as I am able to get them up, more pieces are being created inbetween times and my work area is also looking much better! So I'll look to the bright side and keep on keeping on. I hope you like the newbies!

Off to Adelaide

2008-02-03T18:51:00.000-08:00

Well, I'm off for a week to Adelaide at the kind invitation of an oldish friend. Some of my new work is finally up, but there will be a lull whilst I'm away. However, there are some creations still waiting for their photo shoots and I'll have them done and up shortly after I return. Farwell for now and I'll see you again after the 11th.
See you later...

NEW

2008-01-28T15:25:00.000-08:00

New beads arrived last week that are a little different from the "usual" and I was actually able to get in and use some of them last night. The results were rather pleasing, however the weather today is not so. The clouds have returned (after a gorgeously sunny day yesterday) and there is some "spotting" of rain, which means you will have to wait just a little longer for the jewels to appear on my site.
Keep an eye out though...they are coming soon...

Happy New Year!

2007-12-31T17:49:00.000-08:00

A blessed new year to all readers here at my blog! I'm currently clearing out as much of my "old" stock as possible by discounting all items up to 50%. So drop on by and grab yourself a bargain while they last. I'm extending the sale for one more week whilst I get the new items ready to list, but after that it will be all over-red-rover.
Have a marvellous week and we'll see you soon...

All Over

2007-12-26T20:28:00.001-08:00

Well, Christmas is over for another year. The weeks before were completely filled with extra work, "late" party comers, cooking, cleaning and general preparations. The day was delightful although I was bushed, and the gifts were fabulous.
My "Open House" went really well and I think all that came enjoyed themselves. It ended up lasting nearly a week (rather than just 2 days) as some couldn't make it at the time so rang to drop by later. I sold several pieces and was happy to see them go to people that they suited perfectly! Selling via the net is great, but to see your work on someone that it really suits and to see their delight in the wearing of it is THRILLING!
The New Year looks to hold many new adventures with my business...my own website hopefully being one of them. I have a lot of planning and preparing to do, but I will be sure to update as I go along.
For now though I am making the most of the "cricket and cross-stitch" relaxing moments and look forward to starting up the "work" again soon. A very HAPPY New Year to all! See you then...

Busy Busy

2007-12-09T21:46:00.000-08:00

Many new items are up, many new items are sold, and many new items I hope to create shortly.
Time is slipping quickly by and Christmas is nearly here! It's exciting and I'm loving the preparations, however there is a lot to do.
I have an Open House display this Thursday evening and Friday morning at my house. If anyone is in the Ipswich area and would like to drop by just let me know, and I'll send you the details.
It should be a lovely time and I'm working on the "bits and pieces" now. This does mean that my Etsy shop will be closed (once more), so that no problems are caused by 2 pieces selling at the same time.
I hope to get some more details up about different happenings and such, but time is scarce for such "frivolities" *winks*. Perhaps early in the new year this will happen.
Till next I post...a blessed Christmas to you!

Home again Home again

2007-11-29T23:15:00.000-08:00

Home again from my stall and I think I have finally recovered. I forgot how much effort and preparation goes into these events, but thankfully I got through.

The turn out wasn't as good as expected and the room was smaller too, but the evening was lovely and I did sell a few pieces.

The photo below shows my display along with a few of my mother handmade bags (craftiness runs in the family).

So now that it's over, the new creations are being added to my store. Be sure to stop by and check them out!

It's also the final day for free WORLDWIDE shipping and entering into my $150 Shopping Spree draw. Dont' miss out.

We're Going to the Fair!

2007-11-13T23:51:00.000-08:00

Well, not really the fair, but close enough.

Next week I am to be an honoured guest at the Cambrian Choirs "Christmas Carols and Market" event. It is to take place on the 24th of November and stalls are open from 4:00pm onwards. The caroling starts at seven and with a free sausage sizzle to boot it should be a delightful night!

I shall be one of a few "specialty" stalls, showing off my creations and (hopefully) selling them. My jewellery will be available along with cards (handmade), badges, plants, a bottle stall, books, cakes, jams and pickles, snow cones, fairy floss (yummy!) and coffee.

There is a craft corner for the children, a colouring competition, photo's with Santa (from 5pm) and of course the free sausage sizzle.

Entry is a small Gold Coin Donation and if you're in the area I think it will be well worthwhile to stop on by.

A great opportunity if anyone would like to see my jewels first hand, and just in time for Christmas too! It's all very exciting...now off to do some more creating.

FREE SHIPPING!

2007-11-01T22:36:00.000-07:00

Have fun with your Christmas shopping this year and take advantage of my Free Shipping on ALL items worldwide throughout the month of November.
Why?
1) You KNOW your items will arrive in good time for Christmas
2) It's FREE!!!
3) One and two should be enough :)

Have you seen something you like, but want it in a different colour? would like to special order something for that special someone? Click on the "contact" link via http://www.irenemuldoon.etsy.com/ and I will be in touch A.S.A.P. I am happy to oblige where able.

Or, if you just need some new ideas then keep an eye out for my new items going up soon.

Super Socks!

2007-10-26T20:54:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for unique, colourful fun for your feet, look no further than http://www.supsocks.etsy.com/ . A variety of sizes, styles and colours can be found for both men and women alike and custom orders are more than welcome.

With prompt postage direct from Australia (international shipping is available), you can find that perfect gift this Christmas that has flair and funk for those fun loving individuals.

There's no rockin' these socks off, they make the party!

New

2007-10-19T23:28:00.000-07:00

It's time for new things. New creations, new beads, new ideas and new listings.
My long awaited beads have arrived, new creations have been made, new ideas are brimming and the new listings are going up as quickly as I am able to get them up.
It's been a good week and it's GREAT to be on a roll again. Some new secrets will hopefully be released soon also, but you will have to keep an eye out for those.
So here's to the NEW and a fabulous day to you all!

Time Out

2007-10-04T21:26:00.000-07:00

This week has been a little different than others. I've dived into holiday groove a little early all set for the cross-stitch and cricket sessions that generally kick in the day after Christmas.
Perhaps it's the arrival of soaring temperatures and low energy, sweaty palms and little motivation to do much? Whatever it is I've made the most of it and enjoyed each moment.
However, it can't go on. Christmas is sneaking up quickly and there is much to get done in these months aheads. Jewels to make, markets to plan, secret holiday stuff to organize.
The good news is, although my week has held minimal time for creation, it was time well spent. New items will be going up on my site early next week and the arrival of some news beads very soon is going to kick off the "Christmas Creations"!
Be sure to keep an eye out for updates.

Happy Etsyversary

2007-09-20T19:19:00.000-07:00

Today is my ETSYVERSARY! I have now been selling on Etsy for a whole year and, thanks to my FANTASTIC customers, it has been marvellous!

Right now all orders recieve 30% off as part of the celebration.

www.irenemuldoon.etsy.com

At a Loss

2007-09-18T01:34:00.000-07:00

I'm at a loss of what to write but hope I will be inspired soon. My brain is full of many things "beading and business" and they seem to take up a lot of room. Will update soon...

THE Day

2007-09-09T22:31:00.000-07:00

It's often said that your wedding day is THE DAY, and in many ways I guess they are right. It's the day you commit your life to another. It's the day you no longer live for yourself, but for the other. It's the day you've most likely been waiting for a long time. It's the day where two hearts become one.

Well, after receiving some BEAUTIFUL white pearls, I have been inspired to work on some bridal piece's. It's amazing how white just seems like a "brides" colour. Perhaps it's because of the traditional "white bride" and the beautiful fact that is stands for purity. Although it's not always used so much these days, as weddings are not so traditional, I still think that it has, and always will have, a special place in them.

You can find my inspired creations in store at http://www.irenemuldoon.etsy.com/

(more coming soon...)

A "Quality" Designer

2007-09-03T21:53:00.000-07:00

Natalia of www.realisationcreations.etsy.com is definitely a quality jewellery designer. Her work is top notch, her designs inspirational, and her finished product unbelievable.
Her customers praise her work to the sky's with comments such as

"What a gorgeous and beautifully made bracelet! Thanks so much - I LOVE it!"

" This is the bracelet that drew me to your store. I had it saved in favorites for many weeks. It is one of my Etsy favorites now because the stones are of high quality, the color balance is phenomenal, the design is intricate and it fits perfectly, not too loose, not too tight. A+++++++++++++"

"These are beautiful. I am a huge fan of your jewelry and your store."

"Very beautiful... better than I had anticipated. Thank you so much! "

Her work is so wonderful that I was even inspired to buy a pair of her gorgeous earrings for my sister as a gift (and as a jewellery maker, that's a BIG thing). Let me tell you, I was not dissapointed in the fabulous creation that arrived. Even her customer service is first class!

What more can I say, except...get on over and see for yourself. Happy viewing!

I'm In!

2007-09-02T18:32:00.000-07:00

I have entered my first ever competition for a "tutorial" submission at http://www.astralbeads.com/index.aspx . The polls are open for voting and it is up to the public to choose the winner. My entry is about half way down the page (picture shown below). If you would like to take the time to vote for me I would greatly appreciate it! The winning prize of $1000 in beads would be a HUGE blessing for my business.

Thankyou so much for checking it out. I hope you like it!

P.S. I'm not exactly sure where you see the tutorial, it looks like only the final product is shown.

Christmas Comes so Fast

2007-08-31T19:23:00.000-07:00

It's seems like only yesterday that it was January, and 12 months away from Christmas. However, it has raced up again and although there is still some time, you can be sure it will fly by like most of this year already!

Just to add a little extra joy, to this blessed season all purchases at http://www.irenemuldoon.etsy.com/ will go into the draw to win a $150.00 spending Spree!

Each item will count for 1 entry in the draw and the winner will be announced December 1st. So...what are you waiting for?

Note : 1 prize will be issued in total. Winning voucher will be emailed to recipient. Dates are in conjunction with Australian times so please take note of this if you are living internationally from me. Voucher expire 01/12/08. Happy shopping!

Time to Dress Up?

2007-08-31T02:26:00.000-07:00

Looking for that perfect outfit to wear to your formal, evening event or perhaps even your wedding? If you're in the Ipswich area, it is well worth stopping in at Bridal and Formal on the mall. They have a fabulous range of GORGEOUS outfits in their showroom upstairs, and the friendly staff are there to help you find exactly what you are after.
A lovely place to stop and browse, and you never know, you may just find that perfect something while you're there!

P.S. They also have a range of cake decorating supplies (if you work in that line).

Something A Little Different

2007-08-10T03:59:00.000-07:00

Cake decorating is another love of mine, although it cannot be indulged in so often as my beading. The goodies came out of the closet last Friday though, when I had an order for the above cake. It was so much fun to get in and use my piping bag again to spot on the "dots" and the few spattered silver cashous matched in nicely with the ribbon.
I was quite happy with the final product, and so was the recipient. A wonderful day spent doing something just a little bit different.

Luscious Lipbalm

2007-08-07T19:08:00.000-07:00

If you LOVE lipbalm as much as I do, then you won't want to pass up a visit to www.ivaart.etsy.com . Here you will find the most WONDERFUL lipbalm ever! It glides smoothly over your lips to moisturize and nourish and it doesn't have that nasty lipbalm flavour, that some of the commercially made ones have.
The flavours contained in them are more like memories that stir in your mind as you apply them. Memories of days past by, of banana milkshakes, chocolate chip cookies, unforgettable raspberry lollies and more.
Iva's lipbalms have definitely become one of my favourites! Why not stop by and try some yourself? I am sure you won't be dissapointed!

Now It's Over

2007-08-07T03:38:00.000-07:00

This last week just gone was spent sick in bed with the flu, being nursed back to health by my angel of a mother. I had no energy in my sore, worn out body and beading was far from my thoughts.
However, as the last few days have begun to see me in better health, my love of the beads has returned and I was again able to put my fingers to work in the process of creating. It was marvellous!
The necklace that came from my efforts is a little different from the norm and I am well pleased with it. The three layers, of quite "eclectic" nature, sit so nicely, and look so lovely in the blue and black colour combo that, if I had something in my wardrobe to match it, I would be VERY tempted to keep it.
Oh, and where are the pictures you ask? Just up! Hope you like it :)

Take a Peek

2007-07-25T00:50:00.000-07:00

Looking for funky felts? Nice knits? Or pretty patchwork? Look no further than CynContemporary http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=32906 . Another amazing Etsy artist, whose service is first class and products are of such high quality and standard that all who stop by are never left dissapointed.
Add a bright spot to your day and stop by for a visit.
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A SMILE for you to share!

2007-07-18T23:31:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for a unique card that will bring a smile to someones day then you need to check out http://sockmonkeycards.etsy.com/. Their originality and delightful design would be a day brightener for anyone, any day of the year. A gorgeous find I just had to share. :)

Quality Designers

2007-07-08T19:27:00.000-07:00

Coming soon...
I'm am nearly set to bring you my first featured "Quality Designer". It will be a real treat! Keep and eye out.

Defining Quality Jewellery

2007-07-02T21:42:00.000-07:00

Just how is quality jewellery defined? What sets one piece apart from another and gives it a quality rating? What are things you can look for next time while shopping for jewellery, to ensure you are buying a quality piece?

Having done some research on the issue of quality and how it is defined by people in general, I have come to find that it consists of three common points.

1) Materials : Quality items (including jewellery) are made of higher end materials which will not deteriorate as quickly over time.
Quality jewellery would consist of materials such as semi or precious gemstones, fresh water pearls, sterling silver or carat gold, swarovski crystals and handcrafted lampwork beads (to name a few).
Natural materials are more often than not better quality than manmade ones.

2) Design : Quality items have a unique design that sets them apart from your "everyday" items.
Be it the colour combo's, the style or the overall co-ordination of a piece, quality items will stand out in a crowd. Many quality items (especially in jewellery) will be one-of-a-kind, or limited edition pieces. This ensures that the wearer will not be seen walking past someone in the street wearing the same thing.

3) Construction : Quality items should be constructed in a way that, when used in accordance with it's function, should not fall apart. The workmanship of a piece should be such that, small parts will not fall off, joins not come undone, and that item will last for many, many years.

To sum up quality must consist of all three things listed above (whether or not it consists of more I am yet to find).

So, the next time you are shopping for quality jewellery ask yourself these three question 1)Is the piece made with quality materials? 2)Is the design unique? and 3)Does the construction of the piece look as if it will stand the test of time? If you can safely answer yes to each question, you can safely say you are buying quality!

New To Blogging

2007-07-01T23:20:00.001-07:00

Here goes! A new attempt at keeping an up-to-date site for what's going on in the designer world of Irene Muldoon. I hope it will be informative and of interest to many. Happy browsing and thanks for stopping by!