I would like to comment on your blog but can't see the word verification

I would like to comment on your blog however I literally can't see the new versions of blogger's word verification that have two words instead of one and one of the words has a background that I simply can't seem to get right. I'm sorry I'm not downloading an MP3 file to leave a comment and I can't understand what the heck the words are anyway.

I tried seven times tonight to type in the right words without success.  I switched to hear the letters but had to download an MP3 file to get them.  Barely audible on my system.  Something else I noticed on a few blogs is the leave comment box is missing all together on newer posts.

I don't think I'm the only one with this problem so my suggestion is to remove word verification and put moderate comments instead. That said if your blog has both word verification and moderate comments e.g. comment visible after approval please remove the word verification one since only one is necessary.
My vision thanks you!

Crystal Mermaid Crown

I recently made this Mermaid crown adorned with Swarovski crystal elements.

It was one of those projects I envisioned in such a way but, my thick hands had trouble fitting in between the metal frame while being able to fashion the original design.  The other issue was keeping the clay wet enough in some places and little drier in others because as I turned the crown I kept crushing the design.

 

The crown is supposed to look as if it rolled around the ocean floor 

where time and the elements partially covered up the crystals.  

The Swarovski elements are on the pricey side but a Mermaid 

wouldn't wear anything less would she?

It took longer to make then anticipated and in person it looks quite different and unique.

 

This is probably the best photo of the some of the details.

Overall I like it and, have eleven more crowns to make more.  I am thinking of stringing them together to make a long trail of them or maybe I will sell them. I need better photos of it that is for sure.

Thanks so much for stopping by.  I enjoy reading comments so please leave one.

Till next time...

Toriska clutches. Designer Spotlight

Toriska clutch purses from nice and nautical to tropical brights have captured my attention. How fun would this red and white stripe number be with some white jeans or khaki's?

 

When I started my first real job I carried a simple black leather
envelope style clutch. I felt so grown up.

I cannot recall exactly when I abandoned using a clutch daily in
favor of a shoulder bag, but these handmade cuties have me
longing to lighten the load I tote around each day.

Each clutch is handmade by Tori who hails from Philadelphia, PA.

Tori was taught how to sew by her mother as a child but didn't 

really do much with her skills until a few years ago.

Feeling a bit tropical?  This silk tangerine and pink fits the bill.

Making purses began as a hobby and later turned into a business.

Tori's line up ranges from shoulder bags to wallets but her
true love is clutches.

Depending on the style, they take two to over four house to make.

Personally, I was pretty surprised to find  handmade

frame closing, rhinestone silk clutches that can hold more then a lipstick 

and keys so reasonably priced.

 Getting the fabric perfectly into the frame isn't as easy as it looks!

I can see this turquoise dupioni silk being made for bridesmaids

for a seaside wedding. Tori gives discounts for wedding party clutches.

Love the color but don't want the rhinestones?

Tori offers some custom options.

Give a unique bridal shower gift with the brides

initials inside the purse.

While navy and white is my standard go to color and I really like this yet,

I am completely smitten with this happy looking tangerine silk.

....getting daring in my old age.

It's a fun pop of color don't you think?

Spring is just around the corner!

Go on now accessorize, accessorize with a Toriska clutch.

P.S. Toriska sometimes makes napkins rings.

I may have to get these when she gets the fabric back in.

The fine required print.  This is not a paid endorsement or advertisement.
I've been blessed to have my work featured by others.  I'm simply doing the same.
All photos by Tori of Toriska used with permission.