There are some very good reasons to keep up with Holly's Friends Country Crafts in all its formats, and one of the most important is that there is about to be a special offer on Facebook. Come along and 'like' the page www.facebook.com/hollysfriendscountrycrafts, and keep up to date with regular updates of new pieces available, shows and events that I'm attending, and of course those exclusive special offers!!
Here's where you can find me:
www.hollysfriends.co.uk
www.facebook.com/hollysfriendscountrycrafts
and of course here www.hollysfriends.blogspot.co.uk
Thank you for being one of Holly's Friends :-)
Lots of love
Rebecca xx
Tuesday, 28 August 2012
Thursday, 23 August 2012
September Birthstone Jewellery - Sapphire
Sapphire is one of the three gemstones traditionally classified as 'Precious', alongside Diamond and Ruby. In fact, Sapphire and Ruby are the same material, Corundum, but Ruby is always red, whereas Sapphire spans a wide colour range from reddish orange through to purple, depending on the other elements it contains. Clear or 'white' Sapphires are nearly always synthetic, or 'created' in a lab.
The most popular colour is blue, and some of the worlds largest and most famous Sapphires are also blue. The St Edward's Sapphire is set into the cross at the top of the Imperial Crown (pictured right), part of the Crown Jewels of England. The Star of India is the largest blue Sapphire at 536 carats, and was donated to the American Museum of Natural History...it was stolen in 1964 by infamous jewellery thief (surfer, artist, musician and various other 'occupations') Jack Murphy (Murph the Surf), but recovered two months later from a foot locker in Miami.
The Black Star of Queensland is 733 carats, it was discovered by a 14 year old boy in 1935, and used as a doorstop until 1948!!
Sapphires are mined in Thailand, Sri-Lanka, Burma, India, Australia, America, Tanzania, Cambodia and Madagascar, though Burma and Kashmir are now producing very little material.
Most Sapphires are heat treated to improve the colour. Stones are subjected to temperatures between 1700 and 1800 degrees Celsius for several hours. Beryllium can also be added during heating to reduce the blue tones in yellowish stones, making them appear a more brilliant yellow-orange.
As well as being September's birthstone, Sapphires have long been believed to symbolise truth, sincerity and faithfulness in relationships, and bring peace, joy and wisdom to the owner and wearer.
To see my range of Sapphire and 925 Sterling Silver jewellery, please click the link below:
http://hollysfriends.co.uk/products/jewellery/birthstones/
The most popular colour is blue, and some of the worlds largest and most famous Sapphires are also blue. The St Edward's Sapphire is set into the cross at the top of the Imperial Crown (pictured right), part of the Crown Jewels of England. The Star of India is the largest blue Sapphire at 536 carats, and was donated to the American Museum of Natural History...it was stolen in 1964 by infamous jewellery thief (surfer, artist, musician and various other 'occupations') Jack Murphy (Murph the Surf), but recovered two months later from a foot locker in Miami.The Black Star of Queensland is 733 carats, it was discovered by a 14 year old boy in 1935, and used as a doorstop until 1948!!
Sapphires are mined in Thailand, Sri-Lanka, Burma, India, Australia, America, Tanzania, Cambodia and Madagascar, though Burma and Kashmir are now producing very little material.
Most Sapphires are heat treated to improve the colour. Stones are subjected to temperatures between 1700 and 1800 degrees Celsius for several hours. Beryllium can also be added during heating to reduce the blue tones in yellowish stones, making them appear a more brilliant yellow-orange.
As well as being September's birthstone, Sapphires have long been believed to symbolise truth, sincerity and faithfulness in relationships, and bring peace, joy and wisdom to the owner and wearer.To see my range of Sapphire and 925 Sterling Silver jewellery, please click the link below:
http://hollysfriends.co.uk/products/jewellery/birthstones/
Wednesday, 22 August 2012
Shamballa Style hits Holly's Friends Country Crafts
Shamballa bracelets are so much fun!
The word Shamballa comes from Buddhist philosophy, and is the name of a mythical land of enlightenment, peace and harmony (shame it's only mythical!). They were popular with followers of Buddhism, and also Yoga and meditation practitioners, but quickly found their way into the world of mainstream fashion.
I loved the look, but when I saw the price of them on the High Street and internet, I thought 'No, I don't think so'.
I then found a source of brilliant resin Shamballa style beads, which are encrusted with glittery crystals. They are in a gorgeous range of colours, from elegant classics to zesty brights. Making the bracelets is so much fun, and the sliding 'clasp' knot makes them incredibly easy to put on and take off by yourself.
I like to mix in some other gemstones with the resin beads. All the bracelets have at least two genuine Hematite rounds, which form part of the fastening. Some include Shell Pearl, and some have genuine Howlite stars.
The threading material I've used is a lovely soft, supple nylon cord. There are no metal parts at all, and as they are 'one size fits all' they are the perfect gift, as you have no size or allergy issues to worry about.
The style is so simple and easy, it looks fab worn with anything from cool casuals to sharp business suits.
To get the full Shamballa experience, I have also created a range of Shamballa earrings which coorinate perfectly with the bracelets.
To view the range, follow this link:
http://hollysfriends.co.uk/products/jewellery/shamballa/
The word Shamballa comes from Buddhist philosophy, and is the name of a mythical land of enlightenment, peace and harmony (shame it's only mythical!). They were popular with followers of Buddhism, and also Yoga and meditation practitioners, but quickly found their way into the world of mainstream fashion.
I loved the look, but when I saw the price of them on the High Street and internet, I thought 'No, I don't think so'.
I then found a source of brilliant resin Shamballa style beads, which are encrusted with glittery crystals. They are in a gorgeous range of colours, from elegant classics to zesty brights. Making the bracelets is so much fun, and the sliding 'clasp' knot makes them incredibly easy to put on and take off by yourself.
I like to mix in some other gemstones with the resin beads. All the bracelets have at least two genuine Hematite rounds, which form part of the fastening. Some include Shell Pearl, and some have genuine Howlite stars.The threading material I've used is a lovely soft, supple nylon cord. There are no metal parts at all, and as they are 'one size fits all' they are the perfect gift, as you have no size or allergy issues to worry about.
The style is so simple and easy, it looks fab worn with anything from cool casuals to sharp business suits.To get the full Shamballa experience, I have also created a range of Shamballa earrings which coorinate perfectly with the bracelets.
To view the range, follow this link:
http://hollysfriends.co.uk/products/jewellery/shamballa/
Tuesday, 21 August 2012
August Birthstone Jewellery - Peridot
Apologies, I'm a bit late with the August Birthstone jewellery update on here, but there is still time to purchase gifts for the latter part of the month.
August's Birthstone is Peridot. Peridot is quite unusual in that it occurs in only one colour, green, ranging from yellowish green, to olive. The intensity of colour depends upon the level of iron it contains, and man has found no way of improving it's colour unlike many other gemstones. It comes from the Olivine group of gems, which are quite common in volcanic material and interestingly, meteorites. Having said that, gem quality Peridot is actually very rare.
The oldest deposit, mined for 3500 years is on the volcanic island of Zabargad, in the Red Sea off Egypt, and legend has it that Peridot was a favourite gemstone of Cleopatra, though she may have thought they were Emeralds at the time. Napoleon Bonaparte also gave Josaphine Peridots to express his undying love and admiration for her, but obviously this was before he had their marriage annulled!!
Find Periot combined with Peridot Jasper and other gemstones here:
http://hollysfriends.co.uk/products/jewellery/birthstones/
August's Birthstone is Peridot. Peridot is quite unusual in that it occurs in only one colour, green, ranging from yellowish green, to olive. The intensity of colour depends upon the level of iron it contains, and man has found no way of improving it's colour unlike many other gemstones. It comes from the Olivine group of gems, which are quite common in volcanic material and interestingly, meteorites. Having said that, gem quality Peridot is actually very rare.
The oldest deposit, mined for 3500 years is on the volcanic island of Zabargad, in the Red Sea off Egypt, and legend has it that Peridot was a favourite gemstone of Cleopatra, though she may have thought they were Emeralds at the time. Napoleon Bonaparte also gave Josaphine Peridots to express his undying love and admiration for her, but obviously this was before he had their marriage annulled!!
Find Periot combined with Peridot Jasper and other gemstones here:
http://hollysfriends.co.uk/products/jewellery/birthstones/
Friday, 6 July 2012
July Birthstone Jewellery and show update
I'm very excited to say that I have finally made up a pair of earrings from my gorgeous Longido Tanzanian Rubies!!
I am thrilled with them, they are so delicate and classic, and I can't get over the fact that the rich raspberry colour is completely natural. They haven't undergone any form of heat treatment or dyeing process to enhance it. Mother nature is truely amazing.
I've teamed these precious (yes, PRECIOUS!) faceted gemstones with beautiful, near round, ivory pearls and 925 Sterling Silver.
They will be appearing on www.hollysfriends.co.uk very shortly, available to purchase for £25.00 plus p&p.
Rubies and pearls for £25.00 - does it get any better than that?
I hope you love them as much as I do.
PS. The Summer Fete and Craft Fayre went really well. I was feeling a bit poorly, but met some lovely people, and there are a lot of people walking around wearing my Shamballa bracelets and earrings now :-)
Rebecca x
I am thrilled with them, they are so delicate and classic, and I can't get over the fact that the rich raspberry colour is completely natural. They haven't undergone any form of heat treatment or dyeing process to enhance it. Mother nature is truely amazing.I've teamed these precious (yes, PRECIOUS!) faceted gemstones with beautiful, near round, ivory pearls and 925 Sterling Silver.
They will be appearing on www.hollysfriends.co.uk very shortly, available to purchase for £25.00 plus p&p.
Rubies and pearls for £25.00 - does it get any better than that?
I hope you love them as much as I do.
PS. The Summer Fete and Craft Fayre went really well. I was feeling a bit poorly, but met some lovely people, and there are a lot of people walking around wearing my Shamballa bracelets and earrings now :-)
Rebecca x
Sunday, 24 June 2012
Charing Village Fete and Craft Fayre 2012
This year I have booked a stall for the Craft Fayre at the Village Fete. It takes place on Saturday 30th June (less than a week away now), and I will be located in the Church Barn.
I am both excited and nervous, what if I don't have enough stock? Or worse, what if I don't sell anything??
This is only the second year for the Craft Fayre, and I have no idea how well attended it was last year. I'm keeping my fingers firmly crossed.
Wish me luck
Rebecca xx
I am both excited and nervous, what if I don't have enough stock? Or worse, what if I don't sell anything??
This is only the second year for the Craft Fayre, and I have no idea how well attended it was last year. I'm keeping my fingers firmly crossed.
Wish me luck
Rebecca xx
Thursday, 7 June 2012
1000 Page Views and Gift Vouchers
Two very exciting things have happened today at Holly's Friends...
1) This little blog has reached and exceeded 1000 Page Views - thank you all so much for your support xx
2) I am just adding a new product to www.hollysfriends.co.uk - Gift Vouchers!
a fantastic option if you're really not sure what gift to treat someone to. They are available in £10, £20 and £50 denominations, and P&P is free.
I can also enclose a handmade gift card for an additional £2.50.
Please visit the website for full details and terms and conditions.
Enjoy!
Rebecca xx
1) This little blog has reached and exceeded 1000 Page Views - thank you all so much for your support xx
2) I am just adding a new product to www.hollysfriends.co.uk - Gift Vouchers!
a fantastic option if you're really not sure what gift to treat someone to. They are available in £10, £20 and £50 denominations, and P&P is free.
I can also enclose a handmade gift card for an additional £2.50.
Please visit the website for full details and terms and conditions.
Enjoy!
Rebecca xx
Thursday, 10 May 2012
UK Handmade
I've just discovered UK Handmade. It's an online magazine for UK crafters, and also people who love to buy handmade pieces.
http://ukhandmade.co.uk/selling
They've got a great online community too. It's wonderful to here that there are shops dedicated to selling handmade pieces from UK artists and designers. So many shops seem to stock the same generic giftware, it's a breath of fresh air to find that even in these times of belt-tightening, people still value true craftsmanship.
For this reason, I'd like to say a huge thank you to my lovely customers, past, present and future. Without you I would be nothing...well, I'd be an avid crafter/designer with a house full to the brim of my work :-)
http://ukhandmade.co.uk/selling
They've got a great online community too. It's wonderful to here that there are shops dedicated to selling handmade pieces from UK artists and designers. So many shops seem to stock the same generic giftware, it's a breath of fresh air to find that even in these times of belt-tightening, people still value true craftsmanship.
For this reason, I'd like to say a huge thank you to my lovely customers, past, present and future. Without you I would be nothing...well, I'd be an avid crafter/designer with a house full to the brim of my work :-)
Monday, 30 April 2012
Jewellery and Cupcakes
It was the Garden Society Spring Show a couple of weeks ago, and one of the home crafts classes was 'Decorated Cupcakes'. Last time this class came up, the comment from the judge was that my decoration was "a little OTT". To my mind, that is the whole point of cupcakes, but there you go! My entry came in 2nd.
Taking this comment on board and, determined to improve on the last performance, I produced three of these....
The cupcake itself is chocolate chip, with white chocolate 'cheesecake' icing, decorated with three sugarpaste roses and leaves, and pink glitter flakes...they came in 2nd again. Oh well, there is always next time, and they still tasted devine!
I've also been making lots more jewellery. I've invested quite heavily in a big selection of genuine gemstones, and opening the packages is exhilarating to say the least. I have found that if I only have one strand of something, I find it hard to cut into it (I admit I also have this 'problem' with Scrapbooking papers).
One of my favourite new aquisitions is Watermelon Tourmaline. I've bougth two strands which have obviously been taken from the central part of the formation, as it doesn't display the green 'skin' that gives Watermelon Tourmaline it's name. The luscious, warm apricot tone is perfect for this season. I have already teamed it with pearl in this set...
and am excited to see what else it will work with.
Taking this comment on board and, determined to improve on the last performance, I produced three of these....
The cupcake itself is chocolate chip, with white chocolate 'cheesecake' icing, decorated with three sugarpaste roses and leaves, and pink glitter flakes...they came in 2nd again. Oh well, there is always next time, and they still tasted devine!
I've also been making lots more jewellery. I've invested quite heavily in a big selection of genuine gemstones, and opening the packages is exhilarating to say the least. I have found that if I only have one strand of something, I find it hard to cut into it (I admit I also have this 'problem' with Scrapbooking papers).
One of my favourite new aquisitions is Watermelon Tourmaline. I've bougth two strands which have obviously been taken from the central part of the formation, as it doesn't display the green 'skin' that gives Watermelon Tourmaline it's name. The luscious, warm apricot tone is perfect for this season. I have already teamed it with pearl in this set...
and am excited to see what else it will work with.
Tuesday, 10 April 2012
Spring Jewellery pieces
The fashion magazines are full of ice cream colours at the moment, they are really hot for Spring/Summer 2012, so I've used that as inspiration for my new jewellery pieces.
Rose Quartz Stretchy Bracelet with Mother of Pearl Star charm £9.50
Rose Quartz and Glass Pearl Stretchy Cuff bracelet £9.50
Rose Quartz Stretchy Bracelet Trio, with removeable watch charm with pink face. There are endless ways to wear this little set, here are just a few possibilities....£19.00
Rose Quartz Stretchy Bracelet with Mother of Pearl Star charm £9.50
Rose Quartz and Glass Pearl Stretchy Cuff bracelet £9.50
Friday, 23 March 2012
A Special Commission for Bobbie and Liz
Today is the big day for Bobbie and Liz, and I was recently commissioned to make them a wedding gift by the lovely Bernie.
We collaborated, and decided on a personalised version of one of my twiggy heart wreaths. Here's how it turned out...
We collaborated, and decided on a personalised version of one of my twiggy heart wreaths. Here's how it turned out...
Bobbie said this:
Our amazing wedding gift from the most lovely woman! Thank you soooo much Bernie....we absolutely adore it...it's such a gorgeous, thoughtful gift! Can't thank you enough! Xxxx
Bernie said this:
So pleased you like it! :) I had the idea, but all the credit should go to Becki Reynolds (Pumpkin Becki from the Viine), she turned my idea into reality. If you want to see the other fantastic things she makes go to Holly's Friends Country Crafts. Not long go to now :) Hope you both have a fantastic day. Looking forward to hearing all about it and seeing your photos! xx
Liz said this:
Thanks Becki, it really is beautiful..xxx Thank you Bernie, such a thoughtful and original present...it,will be treasured..xxxx
...and I said this:
I am so happy that you both like this :-)). Wishing you a super wedding day and an even better marriage xx
Monday, 5 March 2012
Precious and 'Treat Yourself' Jewellery
I've spent most of this weekend photographing all the new jewellery pieces I've been making, for the website.
I've added a new section heading for 'Precious' gemstone jewellery, yes that's Precious gemstones!! And there are now lots of individual pieces of jewellery, that will coordinate with things you might already have, or of course, with others in the collection. Some of these individual pieces are such an amazing price, that while you're buying a gift for someone else, you could also easily afford to 'treat yourself'.
Here are some photos of the new items you'll find at www.hollysfriends.co.uk/products/jewellery
Cute bracelets...
This one is garnet and Mother of pearl stars on a charm bracelet with silver plated heart toggle clasp.
...and this one is pure mono-chrome magic. Silver on black glass beads, on a stretchy bracelet with sweet charms.
Semi Precious gemstone necklaces:
Hematite heaven! A mix of stars, rounds, rice beads and rainbow magnetic on tiara work make this a stunningly dimensional piece.
Peridot Jasper, Peridot chips and silver plated stardust beads for a touch of sparkle
And the showstopper! Rose Quartz, Amethyst, Pearl and a Tibetan Silver floral clasp make up this timeless collar necklace.
Semi Precious gemstone earrings available at silly prices!! My little gift to you...
Beautiful Pearl and Semi Precious earrings on Solid 925 Sterling Silver - more than just a little bit bridal!!
You're seeing pearl with Rose Quartz, pearl with Garnet and pearl with Amethyst.
..and Pearl with Emeralds - yes, real Precious gemstones from Holly's Friends.
I've added a new section heading for 'Precious' gemstone jewellery, yes that's Precious gemstones!! And there are now lots of individual pieces of jewellery, that will coordinate with things you might already have, or of course, with others in the collection. Some of these individual pieces are such an amazing price, that while you're buying a gift for someone else, you could also easily afford to 'treat yourself'.
Here are some photos of the new items you'll find at www.hollysfriends.co.uk/products/jewellery
Cute bracelets...This one is garnet and Mother of pearl stars on a charm bracelet with silver plated heart toggle clasp.
Semi Precious gemstone necklaces:
Hematite heaven! A mix of stars, rounds, rice beads and rainbow magnetic on tiara work make this a stunningly dimensional piece.
Peridot Jasper, Peridot chips and silver plated stardust beads for a touch of sparkle
Semi Precious gemstone earrings available at silly prices!! My little gift to you...
Beautiful Pearl and Semi Precious earrings on Solid 925 Sterling Silver - more than just a little bit bridal!!
You're seeing pearl with Rose Quartz, pearl with Garnet and pearl with Amethyst.
..and Pearl with Emeralds - yes, real Precious gemstones from Holly's Friends.
There is so much more to see at www.hollysfriends.co.uk. Please pop in and have a look, and if you don't see what you want, don't be afraid to ask.
Lots of Love
Rebecca xx
Sunday, 26 February 2012
Launching the Mother's Day gift range
Let's face it, I've got lots of lovely things that you could get your mum for Mother's Day, but I have also created a range of stuffed lavender hearts just for the occasion. Here are some pictures to whet your appetite, they are all on the website www.hollysfriends.co.uk/products/occasions/mothers .
Priced at £4.50 each (plus carrige), they each measure approximately 10cm tall (excluding the ribbon to hang them from), and 9cm across.
I hope you like them.
Lots of Love
Rebecca xx
Priced at £4.50 each (plus carrige), they each measure approximately 10cm tall (excluding the ribbon to hang them from), and 9cm across.
I hope you like them.
Lots of Love
Rebecca xx
Monday, 13 February 2012
Mothering Sunday and lots of new pieces
Valentine's Day is tomorrow, so I'm now focussed on the next event of the calendar - Mothering Sunday, which is Sunday 18th March.
My head is literally teeming with ideas of things I want to make, which is a problem in itself, as I don't quite know where to start!!
So far, I've made some lavender hearts, I'm halfway though some new fairies, and I've finished another ragdoll. These are all on, or soon will be, on the website www.hollysfriends.co.uk, but just to get you in the mood, here are some new piccies...
And here is a little poem about the big day from the wonderful John Hegley:
My head is literally teeming with ideas of things I want to make, which is a problem in itself, as I don't quite know where to start!!
So far, I've made some lavender hearts, I'm halfway though some new fairies, and I've finished another ragdoll. These are all on, or soon will be, on the website www.hollysfriends.co.uk, but just to get you in the mood, here are some new piccies...
And here is a little poem about the big day from the wonderful John Hegley:
Smothering Sunday
To a
wonderful mother
with wrinkly skin,
this card was concocted
by one of your kin.
I hope that you like it
it's specially for you,
I've sprinkled some glitter
on top of some glue.
I don't like the bought ones
I thought you should know,
they're too superficial
and two quid a throw
some of them.
with wrinkly skin,
this card was concocted
by one of your kin.
I hope that you like it
it's specially for you,
I've sprinkled some glitter
on top of some glue.
I don't like the bought ones
I thought you should know,
they're too superficial
and two quid a throw
some of them.
Wednesday, 8 February 2012
Valentines Day Gifts - a word to the wise.
Valentines Day is less than a week away now!! Eeek!!
Pop on to www.hollysfriends.co.uk for some lovely, unique, designer made (and most importantly) everlasting gifts.
Place your order by mid-morning on Saturday, and I'll move heaven and earth to get your delivery to you on or before Tuesday
Lots of love
Rebecca xx
Pop on to www.hollysfriends.co.uk for some lovely, unique, designer made (and most importantly) everlasting gifts.
Place your order by mid-morning on Saturday, and I'll move heaven and earth to get your delivery to you on or before Tuesday
Lots of love
Rebecca xx
Tuesday, 7 February 2012
Exciting News!!!
I've been so overwhelmed by the fabulous responses to my work, that I've decided to have a proper, dedicated website. We've been working on it since Christmas. You'll find all my products there, and I've set up Paypal too, so ordering couldn't be more simple. I am adding new items on a daily basis, so please pop on and have a look, and maybe add www.hollysfriends.co.uk to your favourites!
Lots of love
Rebecca xx
Lots of love
Rebecca xx
Sunday, 29 January 2012
Valentine's Day Gift Ideas
Well...can you believe it? January is nearly over, and it will be Valentine's Day before we know it. Don't get caught out this year and have to woo your loved one with a bag of Mint Imperials from your glovebox (you know that's happened to you before - admit it!)
If you want to give something ever-lasting, thoughtful, unique and Designer made, look no further. Simply click on the Valentine's Ideas tab (above) and see some gorgeous new jewellery pieces I've been creating, as well as some of my classic Country Crafts which are very fitting.
Hope you all have a perfect Valentine's Day
Rebecca xx
If you want to give something ever-lasting, thoughtful, unique and Designer made, look no further. Simply click on the Valentine's Ideas tab (above) and see some gorgeous new jewellery pieces I've been creating, as well as some of my classic Country Crafts which are very fitting.
Hope you all have a perfect Valentine's Day
Rebecca xx
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