Happy New Year, okay so I'm just a little late. Thought I would share this little heart necklace I made out of fine silver, pearls, abalone and smokey quartz. 

Would be perfect as a Valentine gift for that special someone.

I did my usual holiday making for presents last year which prevented me from doing a lot of jewelry or even art but I was able to play with all my oils to make lotion and lip balm. Lots of fun.

I've been organizing my studio ...yes it was one of my resolutions to get completed, and have been getting really frustrated with my lack of space to store things. I still have a huge bag of yarn that needs to go somewhere and I've yet to find an appropriate place.

I did start a new on-line art class with Tamara LaPorte called Life Book 2013. There is an amazing group of artists/teachers this year and I just couldn't let it pass without playing. Hopefully, I'll feel more confident soon to post some pictures of what I have learned/accomplished. 

On another note, I do have a few new classes posted on the Shipwreck Beads site so if you want to learn how to make some simple findings, a gem tree or my new hammered pendant be sure to check it out. 
http://www.shipwreckbeads.com/catalog/Classes/Wire-Working-Classes/

It all started with my on-line presence for my jewelry designs several years ago and that site is still up and running with galleries and info about where to find me but now I have grown to much more than just jewelry so it is time for a change. This is ME, Dana James Designs and here you will find a little bit of everything I do for fun and to make money so that I can have more fun. You'll be able to find my jewelry designs as well as my art which takes many forms from watercolor, acrylic, mixed media, journaling and sculpture.

I welcome you to look around, check out the various links on the home page and if you are looking for tutorials, I have those as well and they will be posted soon.

Buddy says hi and he hopes you'll come back real soon.