A Gardener in the Studio

Soft Peach, Feminine Pearls and Silk Necklace

Triple Strands of Lilac Bronze Pearl Nuggets on a Silk Chain Necklace

Baby Blue Pearls and Silk Long Necklace or Wrap Cuff

I really don't need an excuse to be inspired by or to revel in the beauties of the Spring garden. But I think it seeps into my thinking and creating whether or not it's conscious. So while plants and flowers aren't overt in these new pieces, I think there is something about the sensibility that harks back to the garden: blossoms, blooming branches and the like.

These new pieces were listed in my Etsy shop over the past few days. I continue my unending fascination with any kind of pearl (often thinking of them as buds, blooms, petals and the like) and with using this very strong, American made beading silk thread. I use this silk as a material for crochet because it lends a dainty quality to the look of the pieces--while actually being incredibly strong...stronger, in fact, than some chain and other metal materials I might use.

It's tricky to work with because it is so smooth-almost slippery-but these very qualities also make it the most comfortable material for wearing in my palette right now. The fact that it is a fiber means it can easily be hand washed, a process all of these "Made With Silk" pieces go through after they are made and well before they ever leave my studio.

If you'd like a closer look at these pieces please click the photos...and watch for more pieces in this series to be posted over the next week!! Thank for dropping by and have a great Sunday!