It Can Be Easy, Being Green July 2, 2009

I met someone who gave me a new perspective. At the Allentown Festival in one of the most historic Buffalo neighborhoods a few weeks ago, my husband and I were strolling around. Or should I say shuffling? It was packed with people out to browse from and buy original art and craft. As we were about to wrap up our day and head back to the car, I came across a woman in one of the last booths. “Clementiny Clothing”, the banner read. I immediately recognized handmade clothing, and then she mentioned that it was all repurposed fabric or clothing. Fabulous! It was also incredibly well-made. We chatted for a while about Etsy, and other sell-online sites such as Dawanda and Artfire. We discussed marketing yourself and the importance of handing out business cards. We hit it off, and I knew this girl was someone I wanted to be friends with.

Once I got home, I looked her up on Facebook. Sure enough, there she was. A few days later, she posted pics of new (vintage) fabric, which included something in chartreuse! I was smitten- and asked if she would trade a dress for some jewelry. Being into the idea of barter, she agreed, and the rest was history! Here is the dress in her Etsy shop: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27049178

Not only does her style rock, but she is one of the few artisans I know to exclusively use repurposed/recycled/vintage materials! Lots of us Etsians use some of these things; but to incorporate more is a goal for many. I have been inspired by Clementiny’s funky look, fabulous taste, and sense of community! You will be seeing more sustainable and repurposed items from me in the coming months- thanks Kari!

Here is just one example: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=27069721 Made with vintage Swarovski crystals from a customer’s mom’s set. What do you have lying in your jewelry box? If it’s broken, I may be able to repair it, or give it new life, integrated with other beads. Email me at info@danasaylordesigns.com for details!

New Life for Old Jewelry! October 8, 2008

I’ve recently been lucky enough to receive some gorgeous vintage beads and jewelry in the mail from customers who wanted to see broken pieces restrung and old beads incorporated into new designs.

This is what my New Life for Old Jewelry program is all about!  For only a $5 labor charge (per strand), plus the cost of materials, you can refresh a beautiful older piece and make it wearable today!  This is a great option if you have lots of broken jewelry lying around or have recently inherited some of your mom’s vintage pieces and don’t really know what to do with them.  I even had a customer send me a huge box of items to keep, and I restrung four other pieces for her FREE, in exchange!  Even if your piece of jewelry is more recent, I’m happy to do repairs and updates.  Just contact me via phone (315-525-7474) or send me a convo through my Etsy shop.  I may ask for photos of the jewelry before you mail it to me, just to be sure it’s something I can help you with.  

Have a great fall, and enjoy all the offerings of the season!

Bold & Graphic March 21, 2008

I have been creating new items for my Summer 2008 collection (I know, what’s summer?). I’ve decided to call the collection “Bold & Graphic”. Right now, the bright colors of the 80’s – agh! – have snuck back into the stores, but also, interestingly enough, they have been combined with graphic prints and geometric shapes reminiscent of the Art Deco period. Art Deco just happens to be my very favorite historical period; I love the fact that women were beginning to define their own freedoms, I love the architecture, and of course, the jewelry. You, my lucky blog reader, are about to get a sneak peek at a few pieces from the new collection…prepare yourself mentally.

New Life for Old Jewelry February 22, 2008

I have been asked since I began making jewelry, “Can you fix my old broken necklace?”, or “What can I do with these loose beads that have been in my jewelry box forever?” And I have responded by evaluating the piece, or the beads, and basically giving a consultation on how it can be remade or revamped. Since this seems to be in high demand, and everyone has an old broken necklace lying around, I am now offering it as one of my main services.Dana Saylor Designs will now offer a Jewelry Clinic whenever there is a trunk show or event in public. I may even just have an open night where it is the main event. In order to gauge interest, I will be sending out an email to my customer base. Please let me know whether you need something worked on! I am willing to incorporate old (including antique) pieces into new designs, restring a necklace, or fix basic problems. I am unable to solder or weld, or reset stones, but most any other issue can be addressed. Check out my website for more details at: www.danasaylordesigns.com . Thanks!