tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-364542882024-03-07T20:36:06.543-06:00Mary's Musings ~ On Mosaics, Creativity & Lifewww.maryharrell.comwww.maryharrell.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436446033683176459noreply@blogger.comBlogger48125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-33665867585375408172010-04-03T12:21:00.004-05:002010-04-03T12:28:33.288-05:00What's bright pink with white grout and daisies all over?This cross, of course!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjHrhwGUQIPZXZznjtJxMmUK3xPnHEXO68SL162eSN16yaHuQ7LagnoSZNH8GmJBB8NzI6nRzhpgBNiMkcgsbXL2VoI2rfQrN-NIhviPV_wluX0nohBEsfY2bQEZcZ_3AXe7FI/s1600/IMG_4542.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjHrhwGUQIPZXZznjtJxMmUK3xPnHEXO68SL162eSN16yaHuQ7LagnoSZNH8GmJBB8NzI6nRzhpgBNiMkcgsbXL2VoI2rfQrN-NIhviPV_wluX0nohBEsfY2bQEZcZ_3AXe7FI/s400/IMG_4542.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455963056753535890" border="0" /></a>It is a gift for a baby girl and was designed to "match" her big brother's cross that I made a few years ago:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEh9gIr3c26eJtp-gzxWrVAOaQzBwyL-48WfE9Kn76W_Bpv0bow_YAx655q_YQktR_MzDlnlu5r6aw5LCBQrIpSiNv4afKrquYhdcfPOZ-NT2OiYNQdexir-ot1teMFMk8PVv8/s1600/Bilse+Cross+Smaller.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgEh9gIr3c26eJtp-gzxWrVAOaQzBwyL-48WfE9Kn76W_Bpv0bow_YAx655q_YQktR_MzDlnlu5r6aw5LCBQrIpSiNv4afKrquYhdcfPOZ-NT2OiYNQdexir-ot1teMFMk8PVv8/s400/Bilse+Cross+Smaller.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5455963752567271810" border="0" /></a>Aren't they sweet? I love that they are personalized.<br /><br />Thanks Wendy, and many blessings to the Es. : )<br /><br />In Him,<br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.facebook.com/note_redirect.php?note_id=377043449596&h=7755661b5d4fb82b4e6c5742b6370f98&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.marymakingdesigns.com" target="_blank" title="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">Marymaking Designs</a><br /><br />P.S. Join me on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MarymakingDesigns">Facebook</a>!www.maryharrell.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436446033683176459noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-58729124978953539792010-04-03T11:59:00.004-05:002010-04-03T12:20:58.513-05:00Join Marymaking Designs on Facebook!Did you know you can find Marymaking Designs on Facebook?<br /><br />Click <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MarymakingDesigns">here </a>to check out the Fan Page.<br /><br />Tell your friends, family, cats, dogs, neighbors, etc. too. See you there!<br /><br />In Him,<br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">Marymaking Designs</a>www.maryharrell.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436446033683176459noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-62539238337072499462010-01-12T14:27:00.006-06:002010-01-12T15:33:42.994-06:00Sparkly Cross OrnamentsI've wanted to share cross ornaments with a few of our close friends for a long time, and right before Christmas (nothing like waiting 'till the last minute!), a bag of sparkly tiles caught my eye in my studio. The tiles were an "extra", tucked into an order from a mosaic supplier. I quickly sat them aside, thinking I would never us them. I'm so glad I picked them up and played around with them because I also had the perfect cross ornaments bases to set the tiles in. I love it when things unintentionally fall into place! So fun!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ208z6l-L737isuWsomUnkU2z2AfzMrrbJmqD6Pepn8drCxxcVHOyNSTlyMRs5N9LL2dIooKRMLYybrYbSIo2jCxk3FozoKBRjyOMXRR2GshR2S2OqXfCUjY3dGhnkOfw8bBc/s1600-h/IMG_4494.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 330px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ208z6l-L737isuWsomUnkU2z2AfzMrrbJmqD6Pepn8drCxxcVHOyNSTlyMRs5N9LL2dIooKRMLYybrYbSIo2jCxk3FozoKBRjyOMXRR2GshR2S2OqXfCUjY3dGhnkOfw8bBc/s400/IMG_4494.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425955875631834802" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:85%;">Sparkly Cross Ornaments</span><br /><span style="font-size:85%;">4.5"h x 3.5"w</span><br /></div><br />Here's a close up so you can see the sparkles:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimiljA_W0uVxYO1MtpWtBXkKvZfXTCqX1gz_0iqLpj54CDO4UrpBrNpFlDpa7BDNVd_njk4_hgPVfnwEg-rmW918whfI8aEBrSQwolsl6Sy-rCsNMrcmBuio3ZLcx78ushM87T/s1600-h/IMG_4505.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 266px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimiljA_W0uVxYO1MtpWtBXkKvZfXTCqX1gz_0iqLpj54CDO4UrpBrNpFlDpa7BDNVd_njk4_hgPVfnwEg-rmW918whfI8aEBrSQwolsl6Sy-rCsNMrcmBuio3ZLcx78ushM87T/s400/IMG_4505.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5425957895338299346" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><photo 2=""><span style="font-size:85%;">Ooooooooooh . . . sparkles.</span></photo><br /><photo 2=""></photo></div><photo 2=""><br />The crosses were all very well received, but I think our friends are probably a little biased. ;) I'd love to hear what *you* think. Like 'em? Love 'em? Think they're gawdy? Tell me what you think in the comments. Thanks!<br /><br />In Him,<br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com/">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a><br /><br />Check out my Facebook Fan Page ~ <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MarymakingDesigns">www.facebook.com/MarymakingDesigns</a><br /></photo>www.maryharrell.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436446033683176459noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-68426506597101399042009-11-16T16:26:00.012-06:002009-11-16T20:03:00.169-06:00Molly's First Communion Cross<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJY8nUait678I4dSDwNY7bpEwOT-8lmFj-DYpFpwFNHxt-3QXBRekALlgghej3UDwz1RySpR4YWk8dmh59dbWtjamtX4rQsDFtSohaeGvtJ13vRkdhiERxUrPaB3I5ch2tQX8/s1600/IMG_3946.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 276px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMJY8nUait678I4dSDwNY7bpEwOT-8lmFj-DYpFpwFNHxt-3QXBRekALlgghej3UDwz1RySpR4YWk8dmh59dbWtjamtX4rQsDFtSohaeGvtJ13vRkdhiERxUrPaB3I5ch2tQX8/s400/IMG_3946.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404875710093604066" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Molly's First Communion Cross</span><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:85%;" >Size:</span><span style="font-size:85%;"> Medium Cross Base; 9" x 13"</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;" class="photo photo_center"><div class="caption"><span style="font-size:85%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Materials:</span> Transparent art glass, True blue stained glass, Sapphire crystal beads, Flat glass beads in various colors, White and blue grout, Wood base painted with blue metallic and copper paint.</span></div></div><br />This beautiful cross has been a long time in the making. Molly's mom, a former client, contacted me several months ago about making a special cross for Molly's First Communion. Two years ago, I made a First Communion cross for Molly's sister, Grace (click <a href="http://www.facebook.com/note_redirect.php?note_id=174843694596&h=ca94f89c39be3cd8eecc371096879b1c&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com%2Fimagelib%2Fsitebuilder%2Fmisc%2Fshow_image.html%3Flinkedwidth%3Dactual%26linkpath%3Dhttp%3A%2F%2Fcheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com%2Fsitebuildercontent%2Fsitebuilderpictures%2Fdsc00240-1.jpg%26target%3Dtlx_new" target="_blank" title="http://cheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com/imagelib/sitebuilder/misc/show_image.html?linkedwidth=actual&linkpath=http://cheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com/sitebuildercontent/sitebuilderpictures/dsc00240-1.jpg&target=tlx_new"> here</a> to see Grace's cross), so I was thrilled to have the opportunity to create another special cross for their family.<br /><br />My client wanted the design to be bright and fun. She also wanted the cross to be similar to - but not matching - Grace's and have stars in the background. I think we accomplished that! I found some awesome flat beads, and the design came together quickly. I painted the base of the cross metallic blue and scattered hand-painted copper stars throughout the background. I used clear glass so the stars would show through the glass.<br /><br />I have such a love / hate relationship with clear glass. I love that it gives me flexibility: I can paint the base of the cross and whatever I paint shows through. Amazing possibilities. (Two other examples of this technique are my Everlasting Covenant (see it<a href="http://www.facebook.com/note_redirect.php?note_id=174843694596&h=7d99692b0ccb51e963fc5ddd1346a980&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com%2Fid42.html" target="_blank" title="http://cheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com/id42.html"> here</a>) and Calm My Anxious Heart (see it <a href="http://www.facebook.com/note_redirect.php?note_id=174843694596&h=b05b35ae4403c605ab0acfb23ef63b41&url=http%3A%2F%2Fcheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com%2Fid55.html" target="_blank" title="http://cheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com/id55.html"> here</a>) crosses.) But clear glass also requires absolute perfection in cutting. Glass tends to fracture when not cut perfectly. These fractures are hidden in the glass in non-transparent glass but, with clear glass, any fractures in the glass are obvious when placed on the base. Therefore, my cuts have to be exact; using my nippers to help "fudge" a cut is not an option. The good news is that results are always more than worth it. <span style="font-weight: bold;"></span><br /><br />The cross is grouted in two different colors ~ blue in the heart and white in the background. I’m out of practice on two color grouting and was a bit concerned about how it would go. The process is tricky and, if it’s not done just right, you can end up with a huge mess instead of a beautiful cross. All of the beads complicated things even further. Luckily, the grouting process went smoothly, and I’m so glad I went for it. Here’s a closeup that shows the different grout colors:<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;" class="photo photo_center"><div class="photo_img"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpblesPzggg7pOcFHkhMh7W18sWR0zrzyHcq8j2T96vNdRipwrKzXqoSsYcmdkRKLQh8k8WlSq4yu2gjXX1ZjRSuQdaAeBAETXfMm_z5XUePpCHRsyaIvMGx02rUspjn4XtPNa/s1600/IMG_3950.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 245px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpblesPzggg7pOcFHkhMh7W18sWR0zrzyHcq8j2T96vNdRipwrKzXqoSsYcmdkRKLQh8k8WlSq4yu2gjXX1ZjRSuQdaAeBAETXfMm_z5XUePpCHRsyaIvMGx02rUspjn4XtPNa/s320/IMG_3950.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5404873869681385266" border="0" /></a></div><div style="font-weight: bold;" class="caption">Molly's Cross ~ Close up</div></div><br /><br />To my client, thanks for giving the opportunity to create this mosaic cross for Molly, and thanks for your patience. I wish Molly so much happiness and joy!<br /><br />In Him,<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.maryharrell.com/" target="_blank" title="http://www.maryharrell.com">Marymaking Designs</a><br /><br />Join my Facebook Fan page <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MarymakingDesigns">here</a>.www.maryharrell.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436446033683176459noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-728798449865318092009-03-27T09:18:00.005-05:002009-03-31T19:39:12.814-05:00Anniversary CrossI'm excited to share my newest mosaic cross:<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-LlSmWONVgW_Gr-3izzEjxVcfO633mE7D0-zZJK2JQMOwvjocXiZH6V-tQwqBWo5sEKHpJknU1kXS262G7lPUJdp_10GLCJiCb_FHt2BD6ixR5BaE-tvI9MynmAry7m6fuNo9/s1600-h/IMG_2325.JPG"><br /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_t8slLHdME49dKcOejrFSE7anqo4ZFzfm0oC3FrgT2_5WYQeNRuJLD3Z91fv2esFP7xGbGZVxqCLtPnIcSDsq6A08zp6KEyV41Wq_Z8jitqJYG_ONn-_sA_Cnqw6KaEC3F9wA/s1600-h/IMG_2418-1.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 268px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_t8slLHdME49dKcOejrFSE7anqo4ZFzfm0oC3FrgT2_5WYQeNRuJLD3Z91fv2esFP7xGbGZVxqCLtPnIcSDsq6A08zp6KEyV41Wq_Z8jitqJYG_ONn-_sA_Cnqw6KaEC3F9wA/s400/IMG_2418-1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5317981286715182178" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The technicalities:</span> This mosaic cross was made on my small cross base (roughly 7.5" x 10"). I used aqua iridescent and deep red stained glass as well as beautiful, sapphire blue glass beads. The cross was finished with bright, white grout.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The juicy details: </span>This mosaic cross is chock-full of great symbolism. My client ordered the cross as an anniversary gift for her husband . . . so the heart symbolizes their love. The "C" is the first initial of their last name. Even the color scheme has meaning as their wedding colors were aqua, sapphire blue and deep red. I just love it when a cross takes on so much special meaning!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The tricky part:</span> For some reason, I have the masochistic tendency to design a cross before I fully figure out how to execute the design. This cross is no exception. I thought a line of beads around the outside of the heart as well as a beaded initial inside the heart would be lovely. (And it is!) I suggested these design elements to my client, and she agreed. What I did not fully think through was how I was going to grout the cross without getting grout in the small and curving bead lines. <br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">The process:</span> I have used similar beaded design elements in my mosaic crosses many times, so I've created a quasi-process for grouting in this situation. At the risk of boring y'all, here are some pictures and a quick explanation of the process:<br /><br />1. Ready to be grouted.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvGjfSnIy62CJM_MuwG5AG7LAuj37GWGi3_CF-ipKvnMc0LipqeEGRV2rO5xVrPzJZnrp98jXmvQ5dgrnqIfs3YF8UJyTlRsvDu7tLesHweHNNxN7ZBWeqb8LsEZsX-NJDVPg/s1600-h/IMG_2325.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 134px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAvGjfSnIy62CJM_MuwG5AG7LAuj37GWGi3_CF-ipKvnMc0LipqeEGRV2rO5xVrPzJZnrp98jXmvQ5dgrnqIfs3YF8UJyTlRsvDu7tLesHweHNNxN7ZBWeqb8LsEZsX-NJDVPg/s200/IMG_2325.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319452694483682274" border="0" /></a><br />2. I masked off the beads with painter's tape to try to keep the grout away from the beads.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9atSN4_1xVXWRAu2-OxQ4fUpuljNfKBfsfTbvgWcvPssoaTvZae_9nYJg_ZBs1c_18-xHjpmSaFfrWzXeOmJESxS-fZXs9MP7S-rVCburPAkPlngYBPodXzt6Hm-iQZye4D-f/s1600-h/IMG_2329.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 176px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9atSN4_1xVXWRAu2-OxQ4fUpuljNfKBfsfTbvgWcvPssoaTvZae_9nYJg_ZBs1c_18-xHjpmSaFfrWzXeOmJESxS-fZXs9MP7S-rVCburPAkPlngYBPodXzt6Hm-iQZye4D-f/s200/IMG_2329.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319453357053076706" border="0" /></a><br />3. Then grouted inside the heart . . .<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJaow_E7vSeIQSBT-k6OnVWLptEIe-vhjjxQV-mgMrYq3bPomm-HGoBzUrdXFLJZCPgkLZESYevRlzfx2dfz0kEyxdYzmh0fxjv36bZmZC1yIJwTrtm9SLpIbjvVWud2eHNAM/s1600-h/IMG_2330.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 191px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBJaow_E7vSeIQSBT-k6OnVWLptEIe-vhjjxQV-mgMrYq3bPomm-HGoBzUrdXFLJZCPgkLZESYevRlzfx2dfz0kEyxdYzmh0fxjv36bZmZC1yIJwTrtm9SLpIbjvVWud2eHNAM/s200/IMG_2330.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319454049319185554" border="0" /></a><br />4. Cleaned the grout with the tape still on but forgot to take a picture! I did take one once I removed the tape. Sorry for the blurry pic. My camera didn't want to focus!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQtdXNPltImcmVCE7pdu0TUvUlHbut4v5w8oyY3qeazbKtjNE9GdmPY8czqGA_ogTHQmEVMoDJ3uT3aAkaielSEOe2BoJBZLhxnrwQzk1S97KhTk4m6I5JhhwjCrHVRB4ahVJ5/s1600-h/IMG_2331.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 194px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQtdXNPltImcmVCE7pdu0TUvUlHbut4v5w8oyY3qeazbKtjNE9GdmPY8czqGA_ogTHQmEVMoDJ3uT3aAkaielSEOe2BoJBZLhxnrwQzk1S97KhTk4m6I5JhhwjCrHVRB4ahVJ5/s200/IMG_2331.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319463789902907234" border="0" /></a><br />5. Grouted the rest of the cross. I covered the outside beads with tape again . . . although this picture shows the beads after this tape was removed.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMZkRd1rYp5ZTjeQGWzS4TCZPs_WGh8MKPIlpAAxYjDq7b-dHPfRg5O0mcASINj3aSUoaX5d0S6i7L7sTtH2I0deaTMJGSjsIWPiNX_hEBcIPGW50QRQq88UfhDQ7vY7EdBYFB/s1600-h/IMG_2341.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 198px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiMZkRd1rYp5ZTjeQGWzS4TCZPs_WGh8MKPIlpAAxYjDq7b-dHPfRg5O0mcASINj3aSUoaX5d0S6i7L7sTtH2I0deaTMJGSjsIWPiNX_hEBcIPGW50QRQq88UfhDQ7vY7EdBYFB/s200/IMG_2341.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319467447537331970" border="0" /></a><br />6. This is where things get dicey. Inevitably, no matter how careful I am, grout gets in the bead lines. It's a bit hard to make out in the picture above but the biggest problem area was in the lower left part of the heart. Even after I cleaned everything, there was too much grout left in the bead line. Obviously, my masking method is far from foolproof! <br /><br />I ended up pulling up about 6 of the beads, cleaning the area under and around the beads, repainting this area and then carefully, relaying the beads. This picture was taken right after I removed the beads:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTFwZ2-s8kOpvmbXj6au96gMHexLtjsLnreNHX2NfSqY0_vh0lnUR42WmMnbmdO-Udmg0tlgItv8uX4tmAltYgbkJXKwbepmLKUiL3P1X6xY8Or6zSJoWLU1Zs4EnPCvnnkZBm/s1600-h/IMG_2342.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 190px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTFwZ2-s8kOpvmbXj6au96gMHexLtjsLnreNHX2NfSqY0_vh0lnUR42WmMnbmdO-Udmg0tlgItv8uX4tmAltYgbkJXKwbepmLKUiL3P1X6xY8Or6zSJoWLU1Zs4EnPCvnnkZBm/s200/IMG_2342.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319469565351145186" border="0" /></a><br />7. It's definitely an exercise in patience! But the results are always worth it. Or at least I like to think so. The final product:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKvqhjabd2NiYOF9ay_sc6i1DIidOqSHqQRuH5fxOrdpAGKo3xTACCPGD-Gca5upYiKt2T-pEBgbzfdkHGDCAwgoeGMNjFiL0F5bDW-odYomF_Oy9ya7kcNoFxfSh87qlrcUe/s1600-h/IMG_2423.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 146px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYKvqhjabd2NiYOF9ay_sc6i1DIidOqSHqQRuH5fxOrdpAGKo3xTACCPGD-Gca5upYiKt2T-pEBgbzfdkHGDCAwgoeGMNjFiL0F5bDW-odYomF_Oy9ya7kcNoFxfSh87qlrcUe/s200/IMG_2423.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319470508763510930" border="0" /></a><br />Thanks so much to L and her husband for their patience and trust. I hope you enjoy your beautiful cross for years to come!<br /><br />In Him,<br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.maryharrell.com/">www.maryharrell.com</a>www.maryharrell.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436446033683176459noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-77921553239608948282008-12-01T16:14:00.007-06:002008-12-01T20:13:04.305-06:00Back at itSo . . . it's been almost 6 months since I last posted. Let's just say that the Stone Yoga plaque (see post below) sucked my will to mosaic on many levels. After finishing the plaque, I threw my cutters, nippers and Weldbond into the studio and didn't touch them until this past weekend. In the meantime, I've been busy playing lawyer and being the Mom Taxi. I'm blessed that way.<br /><br />Anyway ~ about my latest mosaics. I made my first Junior League ornament in 2003. Since then, my client has ordered JL ornaments several times. She told me today that she gives them to officers of the organization, and the 2008 batch will go to the executive officers. I incorporated the Junior League logo into the ornaments' design and handcut each piece of glass. Yep, even those teeny tiny, vertical pieces. I have the gash on my finger to prove it.<br /><br />The ornaments are approximately 4 inches tall, are made of red and white stained glass and grouted in white. Here they are:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiggTTbShXPQiLPV4QFtcRWsVQSfLCAn2DLSUnXw8yU2KK9Ev6qcnXNrRUzkMBHdp0IcLAquV7uklLcPfXz1uJt_IZILLoGEhhMRaYJXWQ-B3AoEJZVsCyHfc-s53rnPuuSBn3n/s1600-h/IMG_1717.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 244px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiggTTbShXPQiLPV4QFtcRWsVQSfLCAn2DLSUnXw8yU2KK9Ev6qcnXNrRUzkMBHdp0IcLAquV7uklLcPfXz1uJt_IZILLoGEhhMRaYJXWQ-B3AoEJZVsCyHfc-s53rnPuuSBn3n/s400/IMG_1717.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275008567021221346" border="0" /></a><br />And a close up:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDA97y-5KfOiY1UD3HoWsy4iAh9iFqtDVONPoaBpHmPUSS68j2x3VuohH1EoS_07ZW8RxX4jtM0rYY82eenXu1nQ1fXJyAHdmivKAdwfeNkoaO0PYYpolZKnLhIjfrZ7qSlri2/s1600-h/IMG_1718.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 249px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDA97y-5KfOiY1UD3HoWsy4iAh9iFqtDVONPoaBpHmPUSS68j2x3VuohH1EoS_07ZW8RxX4jtM0rYY82eenXu1nQ1fXJyAHdmivKAdwfeNkoaO0PYYpolZKnLhIjfrZ7qSlri2/s400/IMG_1718.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5275009569734475730" border="0" /></a><br />I am so glad I picked up my glass cutters and started mosaicing again. Guess what I learned? I really enjoy mosaicing (well ~ maybe not the slicing my finger with a piece of glass part of mosaicing). Go figure. I'm looking forward to finishing a few other long-standing orders over the next few weeks. If I'm still working on something for you, get ready: your lucky day just might be drawing nigh. Ha!<br /><br />Be sure to check back. I'll try to post a little more often.<br /><br />In Him,<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.maryharrell.com/">www.maryharrell.com</a>www.maryharrell.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436446033683176459noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-27210400182056161932008-06-04T22:13:00.002-05:002008-06-04T22:17:58.920-05:00Stone Yoga PlaqueI'll be back to share more about my latest piece of artwork . . . but here's the pic.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2daWRqJt85ppTS87FadYMecnoXq0fsuemoS1B_aeKv7rrEFoPGnEZuB7fsBBMaWkCDkEBmmbXhxRunsSBONXA7_AGLegAUABeAqUNZ8EKfQ9D-QutiB2suE2rVKtQD3mosDgI/s1600-h/IMG_0163.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2daWRqJt85ppTS87FadYMecnoXq0fsuemoS1B_aeKv7rrEFoPGnEZuB7fsBBMaWkCDkEBmmbXhxRunsSBONXA7_AGLegAUABeAqUNZ8EKfQ9D-QutiB2suE2rVKtQD3mosDgI/s320/IMG_0163.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5208231162626141730" border="0" /></a><br />In Him ~<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.maryharrell.com">www.maryharrell.com</a>www.maryharrell.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436446033683176459noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-28316409129151094852008-04-11T13:34:00.004-05:002008-04-11T15:29:31.384-05:00O Girl!My last entry was about boy crosses so it's only fitting that this entry is about a baby girl cross. . . a pink beaded daisy cross to be exact! It was ordered by a new client who actually found me through this blog. See! Proof that I'm not just talking to myself. Ha!<br /><br />I <span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">really </span>love my beaded daisy crosses (I think I say this about each of my mosaic crosses, don't I?! But it's really true!) They just make me smile.<br /><br />The process to make a beaded daisy cross is more complicated than a "regular" cross but it's so much fun to watch it all come together. The beads add the perfect, unique touch and iridescence of the beads really makes the daisy stand out. I'm pretty sure I've posted pictures of previous beaded daisy crosses but here's the one I just finished. No two are ever alike anyway!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9dhZRAHKqmCwqqrJG1bvl_0N97aOqAWpGa98bUf1903Jyi9bfzNOowOWlBKV9_KloXxF7E3uu69BeZ2Qb2rrHt9wyvgGSEVCeGGrgNGkYCuvi31irqW05dUYyQB9TZ7VyHOo/s1600-h/DSC01473.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic9dhZRAHKqmCwqqrJG1bvl_0N97aOqAWpGa98bUf1903Jyi9bfzNOowOWlBKV9_KloXxF7E3uu69BeZ2Qb2rrHt9wyvgGSEVCeGGrgNGkYCuvi31irqW05dUYyQB9TZ7VyHOo/s320/DSC01473.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5188086163279536578" border="0" /></a>I'll add my typical "this picture is horrible" disclaimer. Really, I need to invest in a new camera. The 3.2 megapixel Sony Cybershot has seen better days and I'd really be able to give y'all a better idea of how gorgeous my mosaic crosses truly are. Maybe soon . . .<br /><br />I hope your weekend is full of things that make you smile. : )<br /><br />In Him,<br />Marywww.maryharrell.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436446033683176459noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-59011118484577820962008-03-31T15:43:00.004-05:002008-04-02T11:05:59.249-05:00O Boy! O Boy! O Boy!My latest custom order ~ 3 crosses for baby boys.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh46oD6_ma508IYonGaJ9UkXf0Bnzz6DOEOSq6Yf7RTeYKuPlbzlQ3CIrklgr2pkv3GeYU5_kLImu7wgS4o9N8hBMTFiUjsJlxP6Zus0Jf2rkwxWtyTM_RyMvAm8osxGfoEfBKu/s1600-h/DSC01370.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh46oD6_ma508IYonGaJ9UkXf0Bnzz6DOEOSq6Yf7RTeYKuPlbzlQ3CIrklgr2pkv3GeYU5_kLImu7wgS4o9N8hBMTFiUjsJlxP6Zus0Jf2rkwxWtyTM_RyMvAm8osxGfoEfBKu/s320/DSC01370.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5184679014509670546" border="0" /></a><br />These mosaic crosses were created on my 4" x 6" cross base. They each have a navy blue border, a heart tile and a light blue background. I love that, even though they are similar, each cross is unique.<br /><br />I pray that these crosses will be a blessing to the sweet little boys for years and years to come. <br /><br />In Him,<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com/">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>www.maryharrell.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436446033683176459noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-71684188518793384272008-03-22T15:11:00.003-05:002008-03-22T20:12:07.024-05:00Ornaments . . . in March?I completed a custom order this week . . . 5 mosaic dove ornaments. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v322/cheekymonkeymom/DSC01228.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v322/cheekymonkeymom/DSC01228.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a>Yep ~ Christmas ornaments in March. These doves were custom ordered by a wonderful, extremely patient client. I have had the pleasure of working with her to create a custom mosaic cross, angel ornaments and now dove ornaments. She is thinking about ordering cross ornaments for this Christmas and I'm looking forward to hearing what she has in mind.<br /><br />I make a limited number of ornaments every year. I enjoy making them but they are time consuming because of their small size. It can be tricky and time consuming to cut tiny pieces of glass to fit onto the small surfaces. I usually spend more time on an ornament than I do on a 4" x 6" cross. Crazy but true.<br /><br />I have only made one other dove ornament and I used white iridescent glass. One of my goals is to create ornaments for a Chrismon tree using all white iridescent glass and a white dove will definitely be included. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v322/cheekymonkeymom/DoveOrnament.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v322/cheekymonkeymom/DoveOrnament.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Another ornament that I'll include on the Chrismon tree is a cross. I made this one, using silver mirror Krinkle glass, for my mom for Christmas last year. This isn't the greatest picture but the ornament was so pretty on the tree. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v322/cheekymonkeymom/DSC01094.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v322/cheekymonkeymom/DSC01094.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />And ~ of course ~ I make lots and lots of angel ornaments. You can see the different types of angels and find out more info about them on the <a href="http://cheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com/id37.html">Angels page </a>of my website.<br /><br />Until next time ~<br /><br />In Him,<br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">www.marymakingdesigns.com </a><a href="http://cheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com/id37.html"></a>www.maryharrell.comhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/18436446033683176459noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-70941820794246130562008-02-28T14:03:00.003-06:002008-02-28T14:22:19.192-06:00Big House Cross ~ Part 1I want to share an exciting new cross that I'm about to start working on. In two weeks, my church (<a href="http://www.christ-umc.org/">www.christ-umc.org</a>) is getting ready to open its brand new sanctuary. Once the services are moved to the new sanctuary, the entire old sanctuary building will be used for children's ministries. There are lots of exciting things planned for the kids . . . but probably the most exciting is Big House.<br /><br />Big House is the name of the new Children's Worship service for Kindergarteners - 6th graders. The service will be structured similar to the basic adult service . . . except be geared toward kids. So . . . more upbeat . . . more singing . . . more visual interaction . . . but still in a respectful, worship-oriented setting. How cool is that? I think it's exceptionally cool and I know the kids (including my own little monkeys) are going to LOVE it.<br /><br />I'm really excited and feel very blessed to have been asked to design a special cross for Big House. The cross will sit on the altar and be an ever present visual reminder of God's love and grace for the kids. I'm still working on the design so I can't share exactly what the cross is going to look like. But I can tell you that it's going to be BIG (probably about 2.5' tall) and vertical (sit in a stand). It predominantly will be jewel tones and I'm thinking of using a lot of mirror glass. As of right now, the design will be more free-flow than a true, structured design . . . but all of that could change as God hasn't really told me what He wants yet. Or maybe I just haven't listened. I have that problem sometimes. HA!<br /><br />Either way, it's clearly a work in progress and I plan to share the progress with you. The first thing I need to do is have my dad build the base for the cross. I hope to have this by mid-March. In the meantime, I'm going to work on the design and find the perfect glass to use. Stay tuned for the updates . . .<br /><br />In Him,<br />MaryUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-17885431465935171072008-02-22T13:27:00.003-06:002008-02-22T13:39:09.028-06:00New CrossesJust a quick post to share two new crosses. The crosses are gorgeous but the really cool thing about them is that they were ordered by somebody who received one of my crosses as a gift. I always love the opportunity to hear what people think about their cross . . . and I *especially* love the opportunity to create crosses for them to give as gifts. It's such a blessing to me!<br /><br />Without further ado, here they are. The design is the same for both ~ red pieced hearts with a caramel background on my smallest (4" x 6") cross base. They are grouted in Bone.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj64cgRggovBGUZxEeMyes5oM7lUzc652wXiDDwMkPAF44ZeFmPo7jQJtjwWjejJb6xhRTknHw0tG2R0HgZ5CvU22vrOtsyPmltB4c6k6p9loOBHXmz5_OMcd8Uxto3uIk8VSkCgg/s1600-h/Smallest+crosses+%7E+Newton+pieced+red+hearts+with+caramel+background-1.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj64cgRggovBGUZxEeMyes5oM7lUzc652wXiDDwMkPAF44ZeFmPo7jQJtjwWjejJb6xhRTknHw0tG2R0HgZ5CvU22vrOtsyPmltB4c6k6p9loOBHXmz5_OMcd8Uxto3uIk8VSkCgg/s400/Smallest+crosses+%7E+Newton+pieced+red+hearts+with+caramel+background-1.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5169891056979252898" border="0" /></a>Be sure to stay tuned for my next post about the exciting, BIG cross I'm designing and making for Big House!<br /><br />In Him<br />MaryUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-46112015885348222492008-02-17T18:05:00.003-06:002008-02-17T18:11:36.168-06:00Back by popular demand . . . or something like thatOK ~ so it's been a really, really, really long time since I last blogged. I wish I had exciting stories from a big adventure to share but alas, I can really only blame my fairly tame life for keeping me from my blog. Somehow, in the midst of raising 3 small monkeys, practicing law and handling whatever else life throws at you, the blog fell by the wayside. <br /><br />The good news is that I am still mosaicing. Not quite as much as before but I could never give it up. So ~ it's my February 17th resolution to start blogging again and share my artwork with you. I hope you'll enjoy it as much as I know I will.<br /><br />In Him,<br />MaryUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-69088768704543420172007-04-29T19:58:00.000-05:002007-04-29T20:01:23.716-05:00Electric Heart ~ RevisitedI have no idea how I forgot to say this in my last post about Electric Heart. I think I'm losing my mind.<br /><br />The cross was donated to the local chapter of the American Cancer Society. It was auctioned off at their Cattle Baron's Ball last night and the winning bid was $100. Not too shabby. <br /><br />I'm blessed to be able to be a part of wonderful fundraising events.<br /><br />In Him ~<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-33659946695907228212007-04-26T15:03:00.000-05:002007-04-26T15:34:54.293-05:00Electric HeartHere it is ~ the mosaic cross that I mentioned in my last entry.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ZGL6HXwjjrQIPcgs5jHL-8wnk_DtwSF9QPgFb0orfKD1xg38iXebnCF6_IVNtIYsTPgMRiqtzlbMKhyphenhyphenCTwKwZnRomDPxTILLbfIYixR3XXuthx4Iq1PQyNxF3vfWE-XjNyS4og/s1600-h/Edited~Electric-Heart.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6ZGL6HXwjjrQIPcgs5jHL-8wnk_DtwSF9QPgFb0orfKD1xg38iXebnCF6_IVNtIYsTPgMRiqtzlbMKhyphenhyphenCTwKwZnRomDPxTILLbfIYixR3XXuthx4Iq1PQyNxF3vfWE-XjNyS4og/s400/Edited~Electric-Heart.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5057830303801602978" border="0" /></a>As I mentioned, it's quite a departure from my previous crosses. I hesitate to say that though because it's also very true to my style and the direction of my artwork. For instance, it incorporates beads and intricately cut transparent glass like several of my previous mosaic crosses.<br /><br />But it is also more dramatic than most of my other artwork. I have also never made a larger mosaic cross that is predominantly black. I'd love to hear what you think. Please feel free to leave a comment.<br /><br />A little bit about the design process. The inspiration for the design is the beautiful fused glass, asymmetrical heart featured in the center of the cross. The heart was created by artist Jean West. I painted the base of the cross black to showcase the heart. The black background really sets off the beautiful iridescent features throughout the heart. Not that you can tell any of this from the picture . . . I worked so hard to try to get a good picture and this was the best I could do. You'll just have to take my word that the actual piece is much more "electrifying" (get it?!) than the picture above. Here's a detail shot that gives you a little better feel for the real thing:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2HoyN5jD5C0bHADjupswLdK9cjbiRoWdibu7T3LeKjEbwMFnOjQi0DEcCn0ffv-0aCWerEHkmYplvSDTMW8A5YUvBVWND3HFv-NFHN7n48-nl7wr3iRPfEbSAsF6mLRuceztmw/s1600-h/DSC00173-2.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhE2HoyN5jD5C0bHADjupswLdK9cjbiRoWdibu7T3LeKjEbwMFnOjQi0DEcCn0ffv-0aCWerEHkmYplvSDTMW8A5YUvBVWND3HFv-NFHN7n48-nl7wr3iRPfEbSAsF6mLRuceztmw/s400/DSC00173-2.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5057836162136994738" border="0" /></a><br />Ribbons of iridescent glass are interwoven throughout the heart and I carried these "glass ribbons" onto the cross base with beads. I also placed gold leaf in random places on the background. I then pieced the background in transparent glass so the black and gold leaf would be seen. I grouted in black. <br /><br />A technical note. The adhesive I use (Weldbond) dries clear but is white when you first apply it. It can take days (I've heard even weeks or months?) to turn clear and the Texas humidity doesn't help the process! The moral is that, if you have a deadline to meet, make sure you finish piecing the background in time for the adhesive to turn clear. Or at least, that's what a little birdie told me. ;)<br /><br />Thanks for reading. <br /><br />In Him ~<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com"> www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-41244635461069140342007-04-23T15:38:00.000-05:002007-04-23T15:59:29.484-05:00Latest MosaicsJust a quick "fly-by" post to share my latest mosaics. I'll include a brief description with each picture.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">A Dove Cross</span>. This mosaic was given by my client to a special friend for her birthday. The blue/green transparent and textured background really makes the iridescent white dove "pop." This is the first time I've used the background glass and I am so happy with the result. It's such a calm, peaceful color. The transparency and texture give it a water-like feel. It's very soothing. The cross is on my Small (7.5" x 10") cross base.<br /><br />An interesting tidbit ~ the dove is my most requested cross design. I'll write more about the symbolism and significance of the dove in the future.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinnJM86gxhaOTroMNYnuW_LCognZ0ws0vFxF-qyGPTrBvHWmSjIEeHwVcXno-2PMVECGDEHrQH6P43CHRCQBlESkQLxSkFvNw5R74JL7g0mLo-UgkJphNWc8CuhzOgksJs_uqTGg/s1600-h/Edited~CrossDoveBG.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinnJM86gxhaOTroMNYnuW_LCognZ0ws0vFxF-qyGPTrBvHWmSjIEeHwVcXno-2PMVECGDEHrQH6P43CHRCQBlESkQLxSkFvNw5R74JL7g0mLo-UgkJphNWc8CuhzOgksJs_uqTGg/s400/Edited~CrossDoveBG.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056726463504526066" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pink Handpainted Daisy Heart Cross. </span>A First Communion gift. The background is light, pastel pink. I have the hardest time photographing it. It's softer in person.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCSJ6RdxW44NKpw_7SgOvYJtUYDzHAIaz44fRHYXCXoBOz1GG8f5NQzQQ0EJrnc55R6w-5GAKxBuu-4j7-CfJudWjXn305fj7XDICDc9Ck05uP3TkMGaoLCyruJsokcbiJe3u8g/s1600-h/Edited~CrossSmallestDaisyHe.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpCSJ6RdxW44NKpw_7SgOvYJtUYDzHAIaz44fRHYXCXoBOz1GG8f5NQzQQ0EJrnc55R6w-5GAKxBuu-4j7-CfJudWjXn305fj7XDICDc9Ck05uP3TkMGaoLCyruJsokcbiJe3u8g/s400/Edited~CrossSmallestDaisyHe.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056727696160140034" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Letter "A" with Butterfly. </span>This mosaic will be a baby gift. The colors and butterfly were chosen to match the baby's nursery. My Mosaic Letters are approximately 4" tall.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinj2yDdMc5sRZvM0VK5NGJ0-q4SyCKICH0yERgsgNpP4AZaF_Uhe9zM0Sskldx8E8b5WCkFYz-x28JUda9NX8WFJx6NXvD0kJ9hmVkli890kC21MUbWbpGG8MUK0gcPvCugcE2rw/s1600-h/Edited~LetterA.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEinj2yDdMc5sRZvM0VK5NGJ0-q4SyCKICH0yERgsgNpP4AZaF_Uhe9zM0Sskldx8E8b5WCkFYz-x28JUda9NX8WFJx6NXvD0kJ9hmVkli890kC21MUbWbpGG8MUK0gcPvCugcE2rw/s400/Edited~LetterA.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056728400534776594" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Flared Heart Cross with Brown Border & Iridescent Background. </span>A wedding gift. The cross is made on my Smallest (4" x 6") cross base.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfW95Jf9wLe2Rabaew-umu05ksjylgGfPctaj0WZr3d0Q7OT7pcmVlOblWPjm1t1kEjGDZW7ZVBqaeOwp96WAJ70jP59s17ANLWQHpzDbYJdAJH4DbbxfcClF3-Ibu447B-ZHYA/s1600-h/DSC00144.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGfW95Jf9wLe2Rabaew-umu05ksjylgGfPctaj0WZr3d0Q7OT7pcmVlOblWPjm1t1kEjGDZW7ZVBqaeOwp96WAJ70jP59s17ANLWQHpzDbYJdAJH4DbbxfcClF3-Ibu447B-ZHYA/s400/DSC00144.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056729388377254690" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Apple Cross.</span> This mosaic was commissioned as a graduation gift for my client's friend. I bet you can't guess what profession the friend is entering?! The order also includes custom designed notecards featuring this cross image. The cross is made on my Smallest (4" x 6") cross base.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYe80uJnqgMjONcvgDv2fN0QlE9C43qRSVKm783kWIKV3CfZNGc_CpwgEyb8XdxAPm7MTuoNWMssYf5KWT2r0Lr-tZXEflcE9M97Pj2OG5oeR7N_7bsoe68neTuM7X7yazlq0SQ/s1600-h/Edited~CrossApple.gif"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQYe80uJnqgMjONcvgDv2fN0QlE9C43qRSVKm783kWIKV3CfZNGc_CpwgEyb8XdxAPm7MTuoNWMssYf5KWT2r0Lr-tZXEflcE9M97Pj2OG5oeR7N_7bsoe68neTuM7X7yazlq0SQ/s400/Edited~CrossApple.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5056730251665681202" border="0" /></a>I have also recently finished 2 larger crosses. I'll share 1 of them in my next entry. It's quite a departure from my "norm." I'm anxious to hear what y'all think! Check back soon.<br /><br />In Him ~<br /><br />Mary<a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com/"><br />www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-80832158582393657222007-04-09T09:58:00.000-05:002007-04-09T10:05:50.228-05:00A Belated Happy EasterSorry to go MIA for the last week . . . I'm still trying to recover from surgery (although I'm getting better every day), then my laptop crashed yet again and then my grandmother was admitted to ICU, then Hospice and passed away yesterday morning. As sad as it is for my family, the thought of her living her earthly body behind and rejoicing with her loved ones in Heaven brings a smile to my face. <br /><br />In many ways, I think the days after Easter are more important than the actual day of Easter. Resurrection Day of course is the central focus of Christianity and gives meaning to our faith and beliefs. But what about the days following Easter? When the focus shifts to our actions and how we live out the Resurrection in our daily lives. Is your life any different because Jesus arose from the dead yesterday? What are you doing differently today . . . and tomorrow . . . to ensure that Jesus lives in your life?<br /><br />Wishing you a wonderful week ~<br /><br />In Him,<br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-58424631775244864172007-03-28T11:11:00.000-05:002007-03-28T11:19:13.574-05:00500th Subscriber to my E-NewslettersI'm celebrating this morning because the 500th subscriber was just added to my email newsletter list! It's so amazing that there are 500 people out there who are interested in my artwork. I'm truly blessed.<br /><br />Because I'm an overachiever and "a lot" is never enough, my goal is to reach 600 subscribers by the end of the year. 100 new subscribers is a big undertaking so I need your help. Please tell your friends, family, coworkers and/or anybody else who might be interested in my artwork to visit my site and/or blog and sign up for my email newsletter. I really appreciate your help and support. My clients rock!<br /><br />Have a fabulous day!<br /><br />In Him ~<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-78525269809866716282007-03-25T15:41:00.000-05:002007-03-25T15:49:09.583-05:00Website Updates ~ Cross Page & GalleriesA quick note to let y'all know I have updated the <a href="http://http://cheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com/id67.html">Cross page</a> and <a href="http://http://cheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com/id79.com">Cross Galleries pages</a> on my website. My hope is that the pages are cleaner, easier to navigate and easier to understand. The pictures have also been recropped and the lighting adjusted so you can see better images of each mosaic cross. I would love to hear your comments on the layout and design of the pages. <br /><br />I still plan to add an individual page for each cross to give you more information, the "story behind the cross" and detail images. I will try to add a few each week so be sure to check <a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">the site</a> often.<br /><br />Thanks for checking out the site and I look forward to hearing from you!<br /><br />In Him ~<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-36248510875346637762007-03-21T15:47:00.000-05:002007-03-21T16:05:43.404-05:00From Guatemala With LoveIt just occurred to me that I haven't posted any new art lately. I haven't been creating as much lately because I've been busy with my <a href="http://www.artbizcoach.com/">art marketing classes</a> and recovering from recent surgery. But I thought y'all might enjoy seeing some of my older mosaic crosses and learning their "stories."<br /><br />This series of 3 identical crosses is titled, "From Guatemala With Love."<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ep0HkoELLUMcoW3e_4GbC7xX_-DVqkRWugzUQ0rlYPQ9I9ebWQZ6k1YzjpsgqgTxaRQOfMjfMRbjq8_PrTapWZAEoEhSkKN8HuMXM9QcCbHu6j9eLXyKWT3gUasqLD_PS9b2KQ/s1600-h/Edited-~-From-Guatemala-Wit.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ep0HkoELLUMcoW3e_4GbC7xX_-DVqkRWugzUQ0rlYPQ9I9ebWQZ6k1YzjpsgqgTxaRQOfMjfMRbjq8_PrTapWZAEoEhSkKN8HuMXM9QcCbHu6j9eLXyKWT3gUasqLD_PS9b2KQ/s400/Edited-~-From-Guatemala-Wit.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5044483448834043874" border="0" /></a> I was asked by my client to create a unique Christmas gift for her children's grandparents. The client has adopted 3 beautiful little girls from Guatemala. She wanted the crosses to reflect the girls' Guatemalan heritage as well as the incredible amount of love the girls have brought into their family. Thus we chose the blue, white and bright yellow color scheme to reflect the colors in the Guatemalan flag. The 3 hearts on each cross symbolize the 3 girls. The ceramic hearts were hand made and painted a bright yellow by one of my wonderful vendors. The client was thrilled with the results and word has it that the grandparents love their unique crosses and their symbolism.<br /><br />These mosaic crosses were completed Fall 2006. They are on flared, small (7.5" x 10") bases.<br /><br />I hope to have new mosaic artwork to share next week.<br /><br />In Him ~<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-73735719663950370672007-03-19T16:04:00.000-05:002007-03-19T20:51:58.349-05:00A Trip Down Memory LaneI've been working on updating the <a href="http://cheekymonkeymom-ivil.tripod.com/id56.html">Cross Galleries </a>on my website to make the pictures sharper and the pages cleaner and easier to navigate. It's a lot (that's for you Lori!) of work given that there are over 100 mosaic cross images displayed on my site.<br /><br />But it's also like visiting with old friends in a comfortable, familiar place. Maybe that sounds odd. Let me explain.<br /><br />I often say, "My crosses are my passion." Clearly, I love everything about creating my crosses (and other artwork too!). I love the symbolism of the cross. I love working with God and my client to create the perfect, unique cross for each client. I love choosing the materials. I love placing the beads, cutting the glass, piecing the design. I even love grouting. And finally, I love the awesome feeling of seeing the design come to fruition.<br /><br />But it's more than that. Long after they have been sent to the client, each cross remains in my soul. I fondly recall each client I worked with, the give and take that goes with creating each unique design, the story behind each cross, what was happening in my life at the time, the completed cross . . . there are so many happy memories and associations with each mosaic cross I am blessed to create.<br /><br />My crosses are an amazing, integral part of me. They are my passion. They bring me joy and awe no matter how many times I revisit their pictures. Not in a conceited way . . . but in a way that I know this is what God wants me to do.<br /><br />May your life be filled with the same kind of passion.<br /><br />In Him,<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com/">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a><br /><br />P.S. The new Cross Galleries on my website should be complete in the next few days. I'll be sure to post and let you know when to check them out!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-19177897955565532912007-03-08T20:20:00.001-06:002007-03-08T20:27:57.660-06:00Just Checking InHave you been anxiously checking and rechecking my blog? Are you worried I have disappeared? Is anybody out there? LOL!<br /><br />I have been spending alot of time focusing on my art marketing class and redesigning my website. My current class has been great and I'm really excited not only about all of the great information but about the wonderful artists I've met. I've received a wealth of knowledge and advice and I'm looking forward to putting it all to good use.<br /><br />You'll also start to notice changes (some subtle, others obvious) on my website. I have a very long list of things to change, add, delete, etc. My hope is to create a tighter, cleaner and easier to navigate site. I also hope to provide better pictures of my artwork. If you have any thoughts on things you'd like to see on the site or other recommendations, please leave me a comment. Heck ~ just leave me a comment and let me know you're out there.<br /><br />Stay tuned . . .<br /><br />In Him ~<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-18412580526209852562007-02-27T16:54:00.000-06:002007-02-27T17:05:38.887-06:00A New Mosaic CrossHere are the pictures:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiouw5bgjH8UK3KcHWWWtdV13WM1TtEfE6BgKKUubob75TmmJQFroKpyjHlm5RF-rdMULbKCl9MaDllKqG9l8LN4ooDk6MM8NaaXdvymgRMq2jn4ux_2nP_c_kII5NX85P6xphsLw/s1600-h/Cross+Smallest+Mille+Cross+Fused+Glass+Andrea+Full.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiouw5bgjH8UK3KcHWWWtdV13WM1TtEfE6BgKKUubob75TmmJQFroKpyjHlm5RF-rdMULbKCl9MaDllKqG9l8LN4ooDk6MM8NaaXdvymgRMq2jn4ux_2nP_c_kII5NX85P6xphsLw/s400/Cross+Smallest+Mille+Cross+Fused+Glass+Andrea+Full.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5036351803122285586" border="0" /></a><br />And the detail shot:<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBLozCKpxq_AtKhkqBM3q3XyhAZIT3RIjNt1pONcQdoeFUgA-DK_5CcbPtR3bfutQpp53NfPOzlC9PcmShDVduXbJ9J3eXURaoEtx9_7qXhardiK6ICAo-9neLFUCXQuXtdiMwQ/s1600-h/Cross+Smallest+Mille+Cross+Fused+Glass+Andrea+Detail.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSBLozCKpxq_AtKhkqBM3q3XyhAZIT3RIjNt1pONcQdoeFUgA-DK_5CcbPtR3bfutQpp53NfPOzlC9PcmShDVduXbJ9J3eXURaoEtx9_7qXhardiK6ICAo-9neLFUCXQuXtdiMwQ/s400/Cross+Smallest+Mille+Cross+Fused+Glass+Andrea+Detail.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5036351644208495618" border="0" /></a>The cross is a Grandmother gift ~ a special gift honoring the birth of the recipient's granddaughter. It is on my smallest cross base ~ 4" x 6" ~ and the background is pieced with matte iridescent white glass (it doesn't show up as much in the pictures but it's beautiful!).<br /><br />The flowered cross in the middle was created by a fellow artist Jean West. She specializes in fused glass and incorporates her creations into beautiful jewelry. I was fortunate to meet Jean last Fall at a show in Houston and I spent a few hours in her studio a few weeks ago. Talk about inspiration! She's an amazing person and her artwork is fabulous. You can check out her site at <a href="http://www.jwestbeads.com">www.jwestbeads.com</a> You will definitely be seeing more of her pieces appearing in my artwork.<br /><br />In Him ~<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-8225487092278443742007-02-19T16:57:00.000-06:002007-02-19T17:04:31.132-06:00A Few New MosaicsA few new mosaics to share. Enjoy!<br /><br />A Baptism mosaic cross for a baby boy from his Godparents:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10iyhIv87FZ51XcAQuluVMp-zr9GwiEqssOpz4SheOM2OEc7WTzVaFPcPHPW_yaELvDZPSoapwEmX0fSdTkKM-iIFAT_peYFXiU0B9JPnHJyYWf4Bm_iAuBVjoTkbCqWcxRAcHg/s1600-h/Cross+Smallest+Navy+Cross+Tile+M.+Foster.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg10iyhIv87FZ51XcAQuluVMp-zr9GwiEqssOpz4SheOM2OEc7WTzVaFPcPHPW_yaELvDZPSoapwEmX0fSdTkKM-iIFAT_peYFXiU0B9JPnHJyYWf4Bm_iAuBVjoTkbCqWcxRAcHg/s400/Cross+Smallest+Navy+Cross+Tile+M.+Foster.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5033383954950945730" border="0" /></a><br />Two personalized mosaic angels for siblings . . . just because (and sometimes that's the best reason!):<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPJLMCFuooj4xOFeZXmBNyAvSjfQsRhUZintbi8gOb1Tw6vrQK-3qLin6knnJdwGpuNxfPOB6H4Qr7kz0rP7Zq-wjsm_bdu5Y1jWjOXVuxJEM93jigfD2WR55JVhudC0S0Cfssg/s1600-h/Angel+%7E+Es+Newton.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkPJLMCFuooj4xOFeZXmBNyAvSjfQsRhUZintbi8gOb1Tw6vrQK-3qLin6knnJdwGpuNxfPOB6H4Qr7kz0rP7Zq-wjsm_bdu5Y1jWjOXVuxJEM93jigfD2WR55JVhudC0S0Cfssg/s400/Angel+%7E+Es+Newton.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5033384079504997330" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I've shared this cross before (see Rachael's Cross post) but I took pictures with better lighting and wanted to share again:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3SBEcdkrvHIzQAfEKca5PlQXMmCUn9TwY6hMRDZRNG_X4lqjAik6aQ0UfWAjIjXMQb6SpNuulEnF9ENjvCnF3zJpaZh-K5ysEBm-CRp01yCbWA-g8NrDzX04l-ZafHDfXlhhSw/s1600-h/Cross+Medium+Rachael%27s+Cross+Final.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhB3SBEcdkrvHIzQAfEKca5PlQXMmCUn9TwY6hMRDZRNG_X4lqjAik6aQ0UfWAjIjXMQb6SpNuulEnF9ENjvCnF3zJpaZh-K5ysEBm-CRp01yCbWA-g8NrDzX04l-ZafHDfXlhhSw/s400/Cross+Medium+Rachael%27s+Cross+Final.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5033384225533885410" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Tu7taQOjs4ZPr8Uo7Y37nBCWvUGieNi9DaEaC945GCplfjaCAncQgTCjbjHXWWWoSvp2yzOLRX3zEHzK9Cmapil0G3s7-xurtl80ErGw6SjIrk7BwrkAoj5wgrc111Z67E8D6g/s1600-h/Cross+Medium+Rachael%27s+Cross+Final+Detail.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1Tu7taQOjs4ZPr8Uo7Y37nBCWvUGieNi9DaEaC945GCplfjaCAncQgTCjbjHXWWWoSvp2yzOLRX3zEHzK9Cmapil0G3s7-xurtl80ErGw6SjIrk7BwrkAoj5wgrc111Z67E8D6g/s400/Cross+Medium+Rachael%27s+Cross+Final+Detail.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5033384388742642674" border="0" /></a><br />That's it . . . hope your week started off happy!<br /><br />In Him ~<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com/">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-36454288.post-67480857918831242292007-02-13T20:11:00.000-06:002007-02-13T20:34:56.847-06:00Showing love . . . the mosaic way!I just finished a new mosaic cross and a new mosaic picture frame:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3t-qagG22oq-fPIjOaK8cqferzddGa5InEqbjYkycYD2MYx03Pz9hz8pimXDaHMjreYfHBhRYXJXyFghZ19O0B-xyh6BMaF1GlnCH3wnKZPUN68YqbhypL7_PklMPD0_yIVqGLg/s1600-h/Cross+Custom+Green+Pyrex+C.+Discher.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3t-qagG22oq-fPIjOaK8cqferzddGa5InEqbjYkycYD2MYx03Pz9hz8pimXDaHMjreYfHBhRYXJXyFghZ19O0B-xyh6BMaF1GlnCH3wnKZPUN68YqbhypL7_PklMPD0_yIVqGLg/s400/Cross+Custom+Green+Pyrex+C.+Discher.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5031207440239565794" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg48DRtsfezLZVfltAM-OpUH4KXVeOdhc68xDsYnKuLmvjlYeWDMOpBb3NoOmWpoKQhqOM9p2smwbHNnnJq26fyQS4Pd-WvUuBt35DkAoL9xUuoyL8pbAoUVErQVK-zOUQLpuazYw/s1600-h/Frame+%7E+Pink+Heart+S+Biscoglio.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg48DRtsfezLZVfltAM-OpUH4KXVeOdhc68xDsYnKuLmvjlYeWDMOpBb3NoOmWpoKQhqOM9p2smwbHNnnJq26fyQS4Pd-WvUuBt35DkAoL9xUuoyL8pbAoUVErQVK-zOUQLpuazYw/s400/Frame+%7E+Pink+Heart+S+Biscoglio.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5031207745182243842" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><br />So . . . are you wondering how these mosaics "show love the mosaic way." Well ~ let me share their "stories."<br /><br />Last summer ~ I received a phone call from a client and she told me about a broken Pyrex kitchen bowl she had. She explained that the bowl was very special to her and her husband as it has been in the family for several generations. They were both sick that it had broken and wanted to know if there was anything I could do with it. The cross is the result. As difficult as the Pyrex was to cut and control, my client is thrilled with the cross. It will show their family love for years to come.<br /><br />The mosaic picture frame was commissioned as a Baptism gift. I love the idea of the personalized heart . . . a great way to show love for a beautiful new baby and her family.<br /><br />My artwork is the perfect way to show your love . . . not only at Valentine's Day . . . but year round. Need a wedding, baby or house warming gift? Does your sister or dear friend have a birthday coming up? Are you looking for the perfect gift for a teacher or Sunday School leader? My mosaics are perfect . . . and the really great thing is that they can be customized to suit your needs and/or desires. Who are you going to show your love to?<br /><br />Happy Valentine's Day. I hope that today finds you with a joyful and happy heart!<br /><br />In Him ~<br /><br />Mary<br /><a href="http://www.marymakingdesigns.com">www.marymakingdesigns.com</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0