Truly Tribal

 So, you'll notice a few things have changed around here.
First, I gave the 'ol blog a bit of an update for a cleaner look.

Then, I went on to sit down and see what this Pinterest thing is all about.
Yep, I joined Pinterest.

I blame that website for my next obsession.

All things Tribal.
I mean, I was already halfway there with all the seed beads and embroidery and stones and what not.
Why not jump off the deep end?

Let me tell you, it's been fun searching for textiles and patterns and shapes and browsing through recent fashion trends and then bringing it all back in to influence what I create with my hands.


I couldn't resist the lure of this chunky faux bone bead and it's multiple holes.

I cut a few lengths of copper wire and threaded each through the holes and then hammered away to create texture. 

And then, because that wasn't enough along the rustic lines, I wove copper wire and seed beads between each hammered and patinated copper paddle. 

The resulting pendant is large and substantial and is hanging from two long strands of beads. 

I call it The Heart's Shield and it's in the shop right now.

 My second trip down the tribal road is a new one for me. 

Yes, I've been embroidering for quite some time now, but never on this scale. 

This cuff measures almost 2" in width.

 I wanted it to look like feathers fanning out from the center stone and I chose an almost monochromatic color palette so as not to overwhelm you (did I mention it was huge?)

I'm in love with the colors, it reminds me of the desert, canyons, the southwest, woven Native American blankets and the desert crawlies so abundant in them there hills.

It's also in the shop.

Now, I'm off to hunt down dinner.