Birds and Bees

For over a decade Kerri at kerribeads on etsy has been honing her glass crafting skills, and the results I see today are breathtaking. Each of her tiny treasures is a unique work of art, desirable for any collector. I think it's incredible how much color and detail she puts into every animal and insect. Her artistic beads are sure to be the eye-catching focal point for any jewelry design. She also enjoys sharing her love of working with glass and put together a variety of very detailed tutorials designed for intermediate to advanced lampworkers, but they are sure to inspire beginners to continue in their skill building.

If you are an owl collector, definitely don't miss the owl babies found in the Focal Bead Gallery on her very informative website. Kerri also crafted a striking collection of amphora vessels featuring more of her creative designs. The dragon fly seems perfectly proportioned and aligned to guard its precious consignment. Be inspired by the creations of jewelry designers using her amazing beads in the Designer's Gallery.

If she has not taken her show on the road, or teaching, Kerri is enjoying creative time in her Canadian studio. She ships internationally and can be found on Facebook. Contact her if you are interested in a wholesale order or having her teach a class at your location. Keep an eye on this artist. She is continuing to explore the boundaries of her chosen medium, and you won't want to miss her latest creations!

Wooden Petals

Here is an eco friendly shop that truly takes recycling to heart with stunning results. Unwanted wood is given a second life at AccentsandPetals on ArtFire. They create gorgeous flowers by carefully shaving rescued wood for each wonderful petal. I have fond memories of my grand dad out in the barn with curlicues coming from his hand plane. They can make a wide variety of flowers, so if you don't see your favorite, send them a photo and they will work botanical magic.

I am amazed by the splendor of their floral creations. The zinnias sport the dried center of a real flower for special effect. They have a line of flowers made from leaves that have been fossilized; a process of preservation giving them a very long lifetime. You will also find colorful spiral flowers that would make perfect table accents. I upcycle old maps into gift tags, but this inventive shop decoupages them into one-of-a-kind jewelry.

These exotic beauties bloom in the Philippines and are shipped internationally. You can visit them on Facebook and find their other shop on zibbet. More examples of possible bouquets, pomanders, centerpieces, corsages, and boutonnieres are found on their blog. A tutorial on building your own bouquet from an assortment of their flowers looks easy to follow, and allows you to add a personal touch. They are willing and able to make your special requests, just contact them with your ideas.