Rather than take a daily approach to reporting about Tucson, I thought I'd talk about the various activities. In Part 1 I wrote about the CREATE YOUR STYLE IN TUCSON event from a visual/first impression point of view. Now I want to tell you all about the workshops and demonstrations.
41 Workshops were taught by 23 teachers over the 4 day period. These teachers come from all points of the U.S. Some are Swarovski veterans, others were here for the first time. Many, but not all, were Swarovski Ambassadors. All are talented designers. The selection process is vigorous, and begins almost one year before the event. Techniques run the gamut from beginner, like Kellie Defries Crystal Business Card Case, to intermediate: Shelley Nybakke's Bling Me Up Bracelet to advanced: Diane Hertzler's Safiya Bracelet.
Stringing, weaving, glueing, wire work, crochet, and soldering were all covered. Necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings were made, and even scarves, business card cases and flip flops were made or made more sparkling with CRYSTALLIZED™ – Swarovski Elements
Additionally, a wide variety of demonstrations were held. I had great fun demo'ing my Crystal Sticks, and showing folks how to twist the crystals and wire really tight and evenly. Val Hirata made a fantastic twisted crystal accent for an orchid bridal bouquet.
So many more demos were held. Take a look at this slide show for some great inspirations: http://www.create-your-style.com/Content.Node/events-and-stores/events/Tucson-Demonstration-Schedule-2010.pdf
One of my best memories of Tucson 2010 has to be Nick Regine's Ferido Workshop. Ferido is a fun product that allows you to pave set crystal chatons into an amazing array of jewelry findings. You mix the 2-part epoxy "dough", shape it into your desired findings, and then add the crystals. We made some really fun bling rings that looked good even though we were all beginners! I even wore mine out that night and I've worn it 3 times since...always attracting attention!
Our Kellie DeFries working her Ferido magic. Sometimes the workshops can really get a bit silly!
Workshops are more than just learning experiences. They are about making new friends, and making memories with old friends.
Part 3....shopping!
Sparkles and smiles, Diane
