TANK fire + metal

Sweets & Deals at TANK Jewelry & Beads!

2010-12-10T10:53:00.000-05:00

SHOWS

2010-11-16T13:31:00.013-05:00

Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition - THIS WEEKEND!

2010-07-08T15:20:00.002-04:00

Distillery Farmers Market

2010-05-28T13:47:00.004-04:00

I have a confession to make. For any family members reading, you might want to stop now. 'Cause I just don't need the grief!

These cinnamon buns are so unbelievably fantastic, so incredibly good -- that I eat them. On Mondays, all I think about is the following Sunday, when I can buy myself another cinnamon bun and eat it. What's the problem with that? I'm allergic to cinnamon. Yup, these are so great, that they're worth the reaction.

Amy and I set ourselves up with a MarcoPolo tea from Balzac's and one of Alli's out of this world buns, and we just know that it's going to be a good day.

They are so gooey, you'd think there was more topping than bun. And the best part -- she has a small portable warmer, so they're served a just the perfect temperature!

Allison is the baker and seller of these fine treats. She also has a number of other baked goods for sale -- both savoury and sweet. She even makes a bread concoction with fiddleheads on it! Oh and be sure to try these crazy spicy potato thingies that she makes -- they're fantastic.

The Farmers Market at The Distillery has started again and runs Sundays through Thanksgiving Sunday October 12. We are all very excited and eagerly anticipating the 5th season.

REGULAR LOCATION: The farmers' market is located at the Distillery Historic District 55 Mill Street in Toronto on Trinity Square by Balzac's Coffee.

ALTERNATE LOCATION DURING SPECIAL EVENTS: you will find the farmers' market on Market Lane, located in the east end of the District, near Soul Pepper Theatre.

Pipe and Punty Glassworks at The Distillery

2010-05-25T11:13:00.023-04:00

What a nice surprise, coming to work at the studio on Saturday and finding Miia Virtasalmi and her husband Robert Tannahill setting up for the Artisans at the Distillery show that happened this past long weekend! The weather was kind of iffy on Saturday -- but Sunday and Monday were super.

The booth looked fantastic -- a crisp white tent and display that made all the yummy blown, cast and fused glass work they do look just fantastic. It's always fun to see what they've been working on. Both Miia and Robert have very different styles, but somehow the work always seem to have a nice sense of balance, when shown together.

We've had the pleasure of carrying the mushroom and cupcake paperweights at our studio for a while now -- but this was the first time we'd had the chance to see some of her new fused glass jewelry work. The skull rings and earrings that Miia's doing are so great! You can see more of her work at www.pipeandpunty.com

They'll have a booth at the Toronto Outdoor Art Exhibition July 9th 10th and 11th, as well as showing their work at the Stratford Art in the Park, on June 12th and 19th. It sounds like maybe Robert will have an interesting process for selling his work this year -- something about a scale?!? If it's true -- we look forward to seeing how it goes!

Emily Filler Is Having Solo Show!!

2010-05-21T15:46:00.001-04:00

Our good friend and studio neighbour Emily Filler, is kicking off a solo exhibit this weekend at Terence Robert Gallery in Ottawa.

Her work is beautiful and thoughtful -- just like her!! She's at the gallery this weekend, so if you're in the neighbourhood, drop in to say "hey"!

Oh Maude

2010-04-22T22:38:00.004-04:00

This is Maude. I wouldn't say she's a studio mascot, she's more like a visiting dignitary.

We've figured out that if she's walked to the studio -- her behaviour once she's here is WAAYYY better.

Without the exercise, she's a bit of a goof. Trevor says it's like trying to pet a squirrel.

Maude has always had a need to have a blanket/towel with her at all times -- kind of like the Peanuts character Linus. She drags this thing all over the studio, then almost always settles herself directly behind and under Amy's torch chair. To Amy's credit, she works around the obstacle -- not so easy when you're trying to get a finished piece into the kiln!

The down side about her is that she's just plain sneaky -- not always in a good way. When anyone puts their hand down to show any kind of affection to her, she does a couple of licks and then every once in a while she'll follow up with an unsuspecting nip. We're really working on this, cause well it's pretty bad behaviour, no if's and's or buts about it. A friend of ours recently pointed out that whenever any one approaches the dog, I frantically blurt out "kisses only Maude, kisses only!!" Wow, how embarrassing.

The up side is, she is so happy to see Amy and Cynthia when we get to the studio. She's just so thrilled to see them, each and every time. Quite often, she'll make this crying squeaky noise, reserved for only those that she sees as her family.

Dream Jeanie...

2010-04-20T23:17:00.001-04:00

Jill and I went out for dinner with Jean (of Nortel fame, mover and shaker in the glass community) to Queen Margherita Pizza, a new place in my hood (Queen St East & Greenwood). The food was great and it was fun to go out and talk about all things glass... you know because it can get tiring for the boyfriends sometimes!
There are a few projects we've been wanting to help facilitate with Nortel and now we have a plan to help fuel the Bullseye Glass buzz... we just love it so much and think it's a fantastic glass to work with that we want to share the love with everyone - hopefully our students too!
I you're a flameworker and you've never tried working with Bullseye Glass, we think it's a premium product and we highly recommend working with it.
The Bullseye team has improved their line of flameworking rods significantly since I remember first trying them out when I was at Sheridan, almost 12 years ago but really I was drawn over to the dark side (hah) when I was invited to participate in a group show Currency at the Bullseye Gallery in 2004. Ever since then I've been hooked!

Get your greetings here folks... TANK is carrying cards!

2010-04-20T13:48:00.018-04:00

It's a perfect fit for Jill and I as we both have a slight obsession for pretty paper products. It's a fact that the first thing we use to do upon our arrival to Milwaukee, WI (for the annual Bead and Button Show) was go to Broadway Paper, a fantastic paper, cards, sketchbooks and all things colourful and sentimental type shop! Jill and I have always talked about how we'd love to carry cards, so we thought.. why not? We had some cards made by our friend Emily Filler (who is also in our building) for an event a while back and they were a big hit... so we're expanding our selection!

We have spent some time going through our card drawers picking over some of our favs and looking online at our most drool worthy letterpress card designers to bring them to you.

So next time are in the need... please come down to the Distillery and paruse our cards, and if you need a little somethin' somethin' to go with that card - we've got you covered for jewelry too!

It's time to get outside...

2010-04-20T12:14:00.007-04:00

I'm sitting outside on our back deck and over head is pure blue sky for the second day in a row! How wonderful. Yesterday I even had a cat nap in the afternoon sun for a couple hours after enjoying a fresh Mohito with Cynthia. We spent the morning at Cherry beach with her dog Olive and met loads of other cute, furry (and wet) friends... came back with just a little sand in the bottom of my rolled up jeans! Above is a bulldog we met who was just hanging out in the water by himself... cooling down and taking it all in.

2010-02-27T18:30:00.005-05:00

More and more these days Jill and I are working collaboratively on designs for TANK. Personally I very much enjoy the process of working this way and find it to be an extremely rewarding experience. Take two perspectives, the obvious benefit of two sets of uniquely skilled hands and the results are usually quite good.
Recently Jill and I have been planning, planning, planning... not as much making of late but we'll get there. It's a slower time of year so it's perfect for contemplating new ideas, playing at the torch and working through these concepts visually with our materials. Often just allowing yourself this time to experiment in the studio brings the most wonderful things.
I gave in today as I felt a strong urge to make something "weird" .... So I did, I made a crazy looking sculptural bead with loops all over it and I can't wait to see how it looks tomorrow when I take it out of the kiln. It was very satisfying to make either way and already I see other even bigger crazier beads in my head!

Here are some necklaces that Jill and I put together this week - part of a new line we're working on... John from Proof Gallery next door took the photos for us.

{ Jill likes to call this one "Classy Whimsy" }

2010-02-19T23:54:00.003-05:00

{ student Phoebe making a bead }

Recently I had the pleasure of introducing young Phoebe to glass beadmaking. She is working on a project for school about glasswork and had already been to visit my school chum Kelly Lowe for her own glass blowing experience. At TANK she quietly worked away on each bead, carefully considering my advice and turing out some pretty good results! Phoebe is lucky to have supportive parents to help out with such endeavours for a school project - we're hoping maybe we've sparked an interest that will continue to grow.
Good luck Phoebe. Hope we see you again.

Oh how I'd love to...

2010-02-17T22:40:00.011-05:00

{ work by Cynthia Toops & Dan Adams }

You may not know this about me but I got my beadmaking start many years ago, think grade 6 or 7. I began my love affair with colour by making polymer clay beads and selling them on family vacations for extra spending money, to bead shops we'd come across on our travels. During this time, I first laid eyes on Cynthia Toops incredible work in one of my books and still I find inspiration in her pieces. Later when I discovered flameworking and Dan Adams work, I had no idea that he and Cynthia were married and also collaborated but it makes total sense to me now.... so much detail. I just love it!

Yesterday when trolling around online I saw that they are teaching a class together at the ISGB conference this year. I would LOVE to take this class. Who knows if that will work out as August is already a very busy month. I'll keep my fingers crossed though!

Happy Valentine's Day

2010-02-13T20:11:00.021-05:00

Thanks to all who came out for our Valentine's Day event and making it a successful day. Oh my... Jill's Swedish Tea Cookies were faaaaaaaaaantastic!
We are going to extend the Sale to tomorrow for you last minute shoppers. All things red, pink and purple are 20% off.

I forgot to mention we also have some greeting cards by our talented friend Emily FIller from upstairs. One of her paintings is shown above.

TANK you very much!

2010-02-12T16:25:00.003-05:00

Yesterday Julie Beverstein came in for a private lesson that her sweet boyfriend surprised her with for Christmas. We just had to post this photo of the box that the Gift Certificate was in under the tree. Julie has saved it since then so she could show us knowing we'd get a kick out of it!
Thanks Julie.

2010-02-08T13:07:00.002-05:00

Next weekend will be another great opportunity to get out and enjoy your local handmade experience. The Case Goods Warehouse will be hosting a Valentine's Shopping event on the Saturday so you can pick up something special for your sweetheart this year. Or pass this along with a little hint, hint... and tales of home baked goods to entice!

We personally are also having a BIG SALE! Yes all jewelry red, pink or purple will be on sale for the day at 20% off. Lots of shiny, pretty ideas from yours truly - Amy & Jill xoxo

POPPYTALK

2010-01-18T17:53:00.007-05:00

We are excited to be part of L O V E T R A N S F O R M S : a wedding and valentine's online craft fair. Please go check out our new work.

poppytalkhandmade
Tankstudio on Poppytalk

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-24T13:46:00.003-05:00

Thanks to everyone for a great year at TANK.

Have a wonderful holiday & happy new year.

We look forward to seeing you in 2010.

Amy & Jill

Regular studio hours will resume on Jan 2nd.
Please call if you'd like to come by before then
416-821-1269

ONE OF A KIND SHOW

2009-11-26T23:48:00.005-05:00

Come visit us TANK girls in booth L35, at the Christmas One of A Kind Show. We have a great location in the centre isle near the fashion show area so we're easy to find! Some of our work is also featured in a special display area at the front of the show as you come in. Woodeewoo!

We've been busting a hump for the last few months making loads of sparkly new designs just in time for the holidays. You'll find lots of new items that we are excited to be introducing at the show. I forgot my camera transfer cord at the shop but took pictures today and I hope to have them up tomorrow night. Oops, guess I can't remember everything!

Here are the show details. Hope to see you there.

Thursday, November 26 to Sunday, December 6, 2009
Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition Place,
100 Princes' Blvd., Toronto ON M6K 3C3 Canada
Weekdays 11am-10pm, Saturdays 10am-9pm, Sundays 10am-6pm

2009-09-20T20:04:00.006-04:00

Summer has been good to us this year at TANK... The Distillery has grown, as it seems to do every year - it's always evolving and changing. In our building (The Case Goods Bldg) we have a new tenant - Hoi Bo. We're thrilled because owner, Sarra Tang (creator of the MADE show) is also a good friend. Her work is fabulous and we love her quick draw sense of humor, she's an excellent addition. Her line includes handmade bags, purses, clutches and clothing. I love Sarra's designs, she has a wonderful attention to detail. I am already planning on buying another purse from her. You can never have too many handbags!

Jill and I have been designing a new jewelry line for TANK and we can't wait for the big reveal this fall/winter at the One Of A Kind Show. Yes that's right, we'll be at the Christmas One Of A Kind Show this year... first time! Come check us out. It's hard to believe that it's now only just under two and a half months away. Yikes...

here is one of sarra's luxurious bags for you to drool over. www.hoibo.ca

GUEST ARTIST CLASS

2009-08-07T23:22:00.003-04:00

more details, or call 647-430-8589

Cross it off the list! TOAE 2009.

2009-07-28T10:22:00.012-04:00

The Toronto Outdoor Show was great this year. I worked very hard leading up to it making many new pieces, solo work and collaborative jewelry with Cynthia. I'm also excited about and old style I'm revisiting, one of my favorite styles, the In Circles painted beads. (pendant below)
The weather was great for the most part, we had a real downpour of rain on Saturday morning but that's to be expected at least once during the show! It cleared up pretty quickly and the sun came out to dry us all off! Thanks to Jill for being a great helper, she was my right hand woman this year, and I couldn't have done it without her.

I think I've finally recovered from the show and the studio looks fantastic right now with all the new work. We also had the pleasure of meeting Jewelry artist Emily Gill at the Outdoor Show, and we're excited to be carrying her work (brooches below.) Congrats to her on winning Best Jewelry this year at TOAE! Emily's work is fabulous, bright, colourful, enameled and felted jewelry. Very affordable price points too, come by and check it out!

Kristina Logan Class

2009-05-24T17:00:00.013-04:00

It was a pleasure to have Kristina Logan teach at our shop recently. It's been many years since I took my first class with her. In Montreal and then at the Corning studio where I was convinced to go to college for glass blowing after having such a life changing experience. It may sound corny, but that's how it happened!
I've been personally inspired by Kristina's work and dedication to her craft as long as I can remember and to watch her work and teach again (with many more years experience) I still stand in awe and feel humbled by her skill.

Kristina is truly one of the best flameworking teachers. The students loved the class and the feedback was fantastic, so much so that we're looking at getting her to come back next year to teach her class about combining glass and silver. Most of Kristina's work combines gold, silver and glass. Please check out more of her work on line at her site www.kristinalogan.com

The Commitment Ring - Freedom

2009-05-05T16:46:00.011-04:00

Cynthia and I have some new work in a show at Lafreniere & Pai Gallery in Ottawa. Please go check it out if you are in the area... The ladies at Lafreniere & Pai have a great eye for spectacular jewelry and have one of the best collection in Canada in my opinion!

Here is a little commentary about the work we made for the show.

The Commitment Ring - (theme freedom)

The wearing of rings to signify commitment of various types dates back thousands of years; commitment to spouse, family, friend, country, religion or political organization. Our approach to the theme of Freedom within the realm of commitment rings stems from the idea that one does not need to wear a ring in order to remember or signify one's commitment; the ring exists as a celebratory reminder, not an obligatory device.

Baci (Kiss Blower) Rings - From the Italian Baci, meaning kiss. These inter-active rings are worn with the bead held and protected inside the hand; when you're ready, open up your palm and blow a thousand kisses toward your love.

Love Bird Rings - An ancient symbol of love, fidelity, and freedom, these colourful rings are instantly recognizable as a special symbol, held aloft and proud for all to see.

Complete Heart ring- A colourful rendition of an anatomical heart you can comfortably wear on your hand. Sweet and straightforward, the aorta keep the ring anchored in place. A Proper Heart ring is the meeting place for design, biology and spirituality.

Contra-Bling Rings- These rings speak to the sad legacy of the engagement ring, a sentimental piece of jewelry with good intentions gone horribly awry. Through advertising geared primarily towards women, the diamond industry that arose during the twentieth century ensured that their product should become necessity. While the beauty of diamonds is indisputable, the immense pressure to conform and quantify love in a singular fashion is a total fabrication under strict corporate control. In a single word, it's garbage.

Designed Together - Proper Jewelry

Design team Amy Johnson, glass artist, and Cynthia Archer, metal-smith jeweler, have joined forces to create a line of contemporary jewelry named Proper. The idea to collaborate arose from a desire to challenge the perception of what is seen as precious and wearable today. Proper jewelry is stunning, diverse, and unusual. The wearer feels the weight of the piece and it warms to the body, offering a physical experience when worn.

Working in traditional methods, but with a non-conformist approach to jewelry design, Cynthia and Amy are very deliberate in their choices about why they work with glass and silver. The results of their collaboration reveal a modern aesthetic that unites a sophisticated colour palate, an irreverent sense of humour and detailed craftsmanship.

NEW WEBSITE - more class dates added today

2009-04-25T15:02:00.003-04:00

We're very happy to announce that TANK Jewelry & Beads has a new website. Please take some time and check it out! Information on the following will be showcased on the new site www.tankstudio.ca

We have just posted dates for all our upcoming classes and have three new International Teachers booked as well! Lots of fun crafty classes to keep yourself busy over the summer.

- Classes & Workshops in glass beadmaking, silversmithing, felting and jewelry assembly
- Visiting International Instructors
- Upcoming Events/ Shows
- Work for sale online
- Torch time rental
- Private classes / group workshops
- Amy Johnson
- Jill Cribbin
- Feature Artists
- Our Location

NEW CONTACT EMAIL
info@tankstudio.ca

Please come by and visit us at the Distillery District Wednesday - Sunday Noon to 5pm.

this makes me happy!

2009-04-16T11:06:00.009-04:00

The latest project I've finsihed in my Shao Pin class... Also of note, he is hosting a show called Connection at his studio in the Distillery on behalf of Zilberschmuck . It's the 5th annual national juried exhibition of Canadian fine jewelry and metalwork. Show runs from April 19 to May 30.

NEW WEBSITE!

2009-04-15T15:56:00.003-04:00

Thanks to my wonderful boyfriend Trevor Bond, we have a brand new website for the studio. Please check it out www.tankstudio.ca - we've got lots of info on classes plus more international guest teachers coming up. Read about the various artists who's work we carry at the shop.

We'll continue to blog about the studio and stuff going on but our new website will be the main source to find info about us from now on.

Hope you like it!

Amy & Jill

Students Again...

2009-04-01T21:20:00.010-04:00

Jill and I are taking a metalsmithing class right now with Shao Pin Chu at his studio here in the Distillery. It's fun but also hard work and very different from the instant gratification of glass. However it's very satisfying to complete the projects and challenge ourselves with something new. I'm very excited by testing my hand at a new skill.
Above are a few pics from the last 6 weeks.

ETSY UPDATE

I just added lots of new beads to my etsy shop yesterday... and there's more coming!

Makin' It Work For Everybody!

2009-03-19T15:07:00.005-04:00

Given all of our current studio/ shop commitments we've had to make the tough decision that Bead & Button won't be part of our schedule this year. We're sad we're not going to get to see all of our friends and get to participate in all the B&B shinanigans! We sure are going to miss rubbing shoulders with our boothmate Michele Goldstein - creator of tiny glass objects extaordinaire www.michelegoldstein.com

We're thrilled that we are able to help out a fantastic crew of ladies who will be expanding into our booth for this year. Best of luck to Susan and thanks so much to LInda for making this so easy.
Check out more of Susan's work here www.susanlenartkazmer.net

2009-03-12T17:50:00.000-04:00

BEGINNER BEADMAKING - Level 1
$285 Inc Materials
May 5th - 26th, Tues Evenings 6:30-9:30
Techniques - round beads, dots, stringer applications, feathering, raking, tubes & bicones, encasing, silver leaf

BEGINNER BEADMAKING - Level 2
$285 Inc Materials (10% off for B1 Students)
June 2nd - 30th, Tues Evenings 6:30-9:30
Techniques - off mandrel, pendants, buttons, layers, sculptural, reactive glass, studio set up, safety & tools
* note: series includes a free 5th week on studio setup & safety

INTERMEDIATE BEADMAKING - Level 3
$285 Inc Materials (10% off for B1 or B2 Students)
July 14th -Aug 4th, Tues Evenings 6:30-9:30
Techniques - ribbon cane, simple murinni, focal beads, multiple beads (for production), marbles, individual intrest topics

PRIVATE LESSONS - All Levels
$40/hr (min 3 hr) or $235/day
Focus your studies with expert teacher Amy Johnson

PRIVATE GROUP EVENTS&and CLASSES
$95/person (min 5 people, max 8)
Gather your friends, family or co-workers and come play with fire and colour! A 3 hour intro class on glass beadmaking with teaching duo Amy Johnson & Jill Cribbin.

News...

2009-02-27T16:24:00.005-05:00

TANK Jewelry & Beads Newsletter

We've got a lot of great things up our sleeve this year for spring at TANK jewlery & Beads. Jill and I have been working hard, but also taking some time to explore new things this winter and we can't wait to share with you. Shown above are just a few new projects, a close up of a mobile by Amy, a pendant by Amy & Cynthia and new beads by Jill.
In this letter, I've detailed out some special dates you might want to set aside. Please keep checking our BLOG www.tankstudio.blogspot.com for all the latest (we've been updating more often) and links to shopping online

+ + + + + Also see more class details at the bottom of this email + + + + +

THE LIVING ARTS CENTRE - Beadmaking Level 2 with Amy Johnson
Mississauga ON - April 22nd to June 24th, Wednesday evenings 7-10pm
Contact the Living Arts Centre to sign up
www.livingartscentre.ca

GUEST TEACHER - MASTER BEADMAKER Kristina Logan May 16th & 17th.
We only have ONE space left so act soon if you are interested in taking this class. It's going to be fantastic! Kristina is one of the most respected glass beadmakers out there, and her work speaks for itself!
www.kristinalogan.com

FUSION - Clay & Glass Association - ANNUAL CONFERENCE May 22nd
Jill and I will be teaching a one day class as part of the 2009 Fusion Conference. You can find more info on their website.
www.clayandglass.on.ca

TANK Jewlery & Beads - Classes At Our Shop
+ Currently Running
Beginner 2 series
+ Always Available
Discounted Group/Party Intro Classes
Private Lessons with Amy Johnson
+ Starting March 25th
Intermediate Beadmaking
$285 Inc Materials (10% off for B1 or B2 Students)
Wednesday Evenings 6:30-9:30
March 25th to April 15th
Techniques Covered
- ribbon cane
- simple murinni
- focal beads
- multiple beads (for production)
- marbles
- individual intrest

SHOWS & EXHIBITIONS COMING UP

La Freniere & Pai Gallery - Ottawa ON
+ New collection available April 01 2009
+ The 2nd Commitment Ring Exhibition: "Freedom" May 2009
www.lapaigallery.com

Contemporary Glass Society
Unpolished – Experimental Glass Jewellery
April to May 2009
An online exhibition of contemporary glass jewellery and body adornment curated by Candice-Elena Greer and displayed on the Contemporary Glass Society's online Gallery.
www.cgs.org.uk

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + FULL CLASS DETAILS + + + + + + + + + + + + +

Kristina Logan Class at TANK
Advanced Beadmaking -- Dot Placement, Precision, & Form
$525 + gst - this includes all materials - May 16th & 17th
www.kristinalogan.com
This workshop is designed for people who would like to improve their beadmaking skills. A broad spectrum of techniques will be explained and demonstrated - various surface decorations, clear casing, working large beads, and trouble shooting common mistakes and difficulties. Students will also be encouraged to concentrate on individual projects, ask questions, and work towards defining their own specific style. Students will be expected to have had a foundation in the basics of beadmaking.
Contact TANK to sign up

Fusion Conference Class with Jill Cribbin and Amy Johnson
Hands-on Intro Flameworking Workshop - Max 8 students
Friday May 22nd, 9am - 4pm
TANK jewelry + beads Glass Studio,
Toronto Distillery District,
55 Mill St., Bldg 74, Studio 105
www.clayandglass.on.ca

Fusion Member Price $150
With 3 Day Conference Ticket $130
Learn to make glass beads with instructor and glass artists Amy Johnson and Jill Cribbin at TANK jewelry+ beads, their Toronto Distillery Historic District studio.
Using oxy-propane torches, participants will make basic glass beads and learn decoration methods. Teacher to FUSION member Sam McKenna, who won an award for her Fireworks 2008 piece that combined clay and glass, Amy Johnson will demonstrate a variety of basic flame-working and simple surface decoration techniques. Instructors Amy and Jill will supervise participants as they make glass beads. Beads will anneal overnight and may be picked up at the studio. A one hour lunch break will allow time to explore the District or dine at a local restaurant.

Finished!

2009-02-22T18:26:00.006-05:00

2009-02-20T16:46:00.005-05:00

Love Birds!
So here is a little preview of some of the parts for a new project I've been working on for a while in little bits and bobs...stay tuned to see the finished piece shortly! It's all comin' together baby. Just in time for spring too!

Shiny happy and new...

2009-02-19T12:06:00.003-05:00

Our good friend and neighbor at the Distillery District, Emily Hamill made these nice new aprons for Jill and I so we can keep ourselves tidy and keep our clothes burn free, (for the most part!) We LOVE them.

and here is another new pendant from Cynthia and I. I've been wearing a red one that I stole out of the case last week, and it's my new favorite thing.

Felted Balls

2009-02-15T14:13:00.001-05:00

What you do when you can't get to a torch!
Felt Me Balls (Happy post Valentines Day)
Jill

Happy Valentine's Day...

2009-02-13T11:52:00.003-05:00

For your Valentine...

2009-01-29T17:00:00.004-05:00

Brand spankin' new, & just in time for Valentine's Day! Two other styles (not shown.)

While at home all cozy and warm...

2009-01-19T13:32:00.007-05:00

I've been busy hiding from the cold, working on some new projects for this year. I hope you like! A little sneek peek of what's in store for this year. Some new pieces to help make your home nice and cheery.

2009-01-16T17:03:00.004-05:00

Flying Yoga with my friend Kirstin...

2009-01-06T12:37:00.001-05:00

Happy New Year!

Why not try something fun and differnt this year, tap into your creative side and come play with fire and colour at one of Canada's Leading Glass Flameworking studios.

BEGINNER BEADMAKING - Level 1
$285 Inc Materials
Jan 21st - Feb 11th, Wed Evenings 6:30-9:30
Techniques - round beads, dots, stringer applications, feathering, raking, tubes & bicones, encasing, silver leaf

BEGINNER BEADMAKING - Level 2
$285 Inc Materials (10% off for B1 Students)
Feb 18th to March 11th - Wed Evenings 6:30-9:30
Techniques - off mandrel, pendants, buttons, layers, sculptural, reactive glass, studio set up, safety & tools
* note: series includes a free 5th week on studio setup & safety

INTERMEDIATE BEADMAKING - Level 3
$285 Inc Materials (10% off for B1 or B2 Students)
March 25th to April 15th - Wed Evenings 6:30-9:30
Techniques - ribbon cane, simple murinni, focal beads, multiple beads (for production), marbles, individual intrest topics

PRIVATE LESSONS - All Levels
Focus your studies with expert teacher Amy Johnson
$40/hr (min 3 hr) or $235/day

PRIVATE GROUP EVENTS&and CLASSES
$95/person (min 5 people, max 8)
Gather your friends, family or co-workers and come play with fire and colour! A 3 hour intro class on glass beadmaking with teaching duo Amy Johnson & Jill Cribbin.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

2008-12-25T00:12:00.004-05:00

When my parents build the house I grew up in they used this, year round! I'm sure glad they decided not to get pregnant until they'd finished the indoor plumbing...

Happy Holidays everyone!

Lots of New work on ETSY

2008-12-19T08:44:00.001-05:00

Classes Announced for Bead&Button 2009

2008-12-12T14:27:00.002-05:00

Amy's class - Sculptural Beads: Fun and Whimsical Forms

NEW CLASSES FOR 2009

2008-10-26T20:38:00.003-04:00

Beginner Bead Making - Level 1
$285 Inc Materials
Wednesday Evenings 6:30-9:30
Jan 21st - Feb 11th 2009

Techniques Covered
- round beads
- dots
- stringer applications
- feathering & raking
- tubes & bicones
- encasing
- silver leaf

Beginner Bead Making - Level 2
$285 Inc Materials (10% off for B1 Students)
Wednesday Evenings 6:30-9:30
Feb 18th to March 11th

Techniques Covered
- off mandrel
- pendants
- buttons
- layers
- sculptural
- reactive glass
- studio set up, safety & tools

Intermediate Bead Making - Level 3
$285 Inc Materials (10% off for B1 or B2 Students)
Wednesday Evenings 6:30-9:30
March 25th to April 15th

Techniques Covered
- ribbon cane
- simple murinni
- focal beads
- multiple beads (for production)
- marbles
- individual intrest

2008-10-23T14:42:00.009-04:00

So I am back at work finally after being stuck at home sick for a few days... I'm not working yet but I will be soon!
I think after Jill and I finished the awards, my body just kacked out. We were really happy with the results though, and they are being given out this week at the festival.

I've also been playing with some new ideas...and can't wait to experiment more. The new beads are both graphic and sculptural and I'm stoked to make them into some jewelry. Here's a preview...

On another note... last week our friends came to visit and here are some fun pictures from our visit and of their new puppy Dewey. Oh my god! So cute!

Colour makes me happy!

2008-10-13T17:49:00.003-04:00

Some fun production beads...

In Progress

2008-10-06T11:10:00.007-04:00

Jill and I are working on some awards for Planet in Focus. They run an environmental film & video festival and have asked us to make the awards. We're working again with our friend and talented designer Stephen Lindsay of Urban Product. Stephen is making some beautiful bases out of bamboo wood to hold the glass components and highlight the lines in the cane we're using. You can see his work featured in the new issue of Design Lines.

2008-10-01T22:04:00.009-04:00

Today I had to grab a scarf on my way out the door... I just had a feeling I would need it later. Fall is here apparently, and I could feel it on my bike ride home. It's kind of nice though, I love wearing sweaters and feeling all cuddled up. Plus I have a great collection of handmade scarves and hats. It's a bit of a weakness...that and purses!
As far as work goes, right now Jill and I are working on some custom fused pieces (we'll have pictures later) with lots of twisted cane and murinne inclusions. It's fun to be working on something a little different. It's also getting us excited about doing some new fused jewelry and special holiday gift items. Jill and I have been talking about this for years... I guess we needed a bit of a kick start though. Meanwhile, I've also been filling a small wholesale order, so I'm really looking forward to having that done so I can start on a whole new batch of work for the shop.

On another note, all summer I've been practicing driving standard, it has been mostly a confidence thing for me, and I'm finally feeling good about it. Trevor has been very kind and patient with me, helping me and putting up with my constant questioning when he's in the car...his car. No one else has learned on his car, so I feel pretty lucky. It's so practical thought because I rarely need a car, but now when I do I can use his instead of renting one. It also makes teaching in Missassauga MUCH easier!
Last night I taught at the Living Arts Centre, it was the second week of my second 10 week session. I enjoy teaching there for a number of reasons and because it takes me out of my usual element. Often I get to run into old galss buddies from my Sheridan days and get to meet some new talented folks as well. My class this round is doing well so far, they are all focused and trying hard. I convinced the LAC to extend the classes from 2 hours to 3 hours after the last session and it's made a huge difference. It's so hard to really get into it when you only have two hours and students who've never worked with glass! I can't wait to see how they progress over the next 8 weeks. Below is a picture of some of my students working.

And a few more pics of some happy friends of TANK that came by with their parents on the weekend for our big Opening party... a big success!
first we have Sky and Autum, my friends Kirstin and Dave's kids, and secondly Jill's nieces Rachael and Emma.

It's almost time...

2008-09-22T21:59:00.003-04:00

For our new shop Grand Opening! This Saturday we'd love it if you can come by and help us celebrate our new shop space. There will be some good deals on select jewelry inventory and Jill and I are even going to get busy in the kitchen and do some baking! Between the jewelry and the baked-goods I hope to see some familiar faces, and maybe some new ones too! Anyone who signs up for a class this weekend will also receive 10% off.

Our New Digs...

2008-09-18T21:08:00.003-04:00

Since TANK has reopened, Jill and I have been quite busy. Finally we are both working at the torch again and looking forward to having some new designs for sale very soon - just in time for our grand opening!

This past weekend Heather Trimlett came all the way from California to teach a class on Hollow Beads and Vessles which was great, I have to say. Having her in the shop and watching her instruct brought back fond memories of when I took a class with Kristina Logan and Heather at Corning many years ago. It's neat for me because I really relate to her school of though on glass... which makes sense of course, seeing as I was her student. Heather really knows her stuff.

"Heat, Gravity, Volume... the answer to almost any glass question."
Heather Trimlett

OPEN FOR BUSINESS

2008-08-11T13:28:00.012-04:00

please click on picture to view larger.

Jill and I are so thrilled with how things came together with the move. Our hard work and the help of some other special people really paid off. The layout is much better and the studio feels way more roomy than our old space. We will be putting up 9 more new hanging display boxes tomorrow and some vinyl graphics and we'll be completely done! Yay! I'm so happy.

Please come by and see us when you have a chance!

WE'VE MOVED!!!

2008-08-07T23:54:00.004-04:00

Yay!

The moving is finally over. Our new space looks fantastic! I will have some pictures very soon. We have a few more new displays coming but other wise we are pretty much done. It feels so great to have a fresh space, and it's so much nicer than the old one. Way brighter, bigger, and the flow is also better. You'll just have to come by and check us out for yourself!

New Address:
TANK Jewelry & Beads
105, Bldg 74, 55 Mill St.
Toronto, ON. M5A 3C4
647-430-8589

A couple updates...

Heather Trimlett.
We have given out the scholarship to one very deserving flameworker. We still have two seats left though.

Beginner Beadmaking with Amy Johnson starting Aug 20th
Class runs Wed evenings for 4 weeks, $285 Inc. I have 2 spots left.

Studio Grand Opening BIG SALE and party!
Sat Sept 27 - Save the date, more details to come.

TORONTO OUTDOOR ART EXHIBITION

2008-07-08T19:28:00.002-04:00

Please come by, check out my new work and say hello. I will have a selection of individual handmade glass beads for crafty folks who like to DIY in addition to my unique collection of finished jewelry and showpieces.

Heather Trimlett Class

2008-07-03T08:02:00.003-04:00

Hi. Just wanted to let everyone know that we are down to one or two spots left plus the scholarship seat for the Heather Trimlett class... so if you're interested make sure to sign up soon!

tweet, tweet!

2008-06-21T17:25:00.004-04:00

new glass murinni from today.

It's been a week of decisions. Jill and I sat down with our good buddy and fantastic furniture maker Stephen Lindsay to decide on the design for some more display box showcases for our new shop. But before we could do that we had to kind of finalize the layout for the space... which was hard but now that it's done, feels really good. I think we're going to be really pleased with the new space. We also have some good ideas for other additions to the shop. I'll post pictures of the new space when we move. It's coming up soon.

Yay.... progress!

New Baci - Blowing Kisses Rings

2008-06-19T13:06:00.002-04:00

2008-06-18T23:07:00.002-04:00

New Scholarships

2008-06-11T17:31:00.002-04:00

Hey, were back from another successful Bead & Button Show in Milwaukee, and raring to go on all sorts of new plans and ideas.

First up...

We are happy to say that we will be offering one full, or two half scholarships on our guest & international teacher workshops.
We hear through the grape vine that sometimes these classes can be pricey for newer flameworkers or students. In general we'd just like to try to help out those who may not otherwise be able to take advantage of such an awesome learning experience with visiting artists.

So for our next class with Heather Trimlett on Sept 13th & 14th 2008 we will be offering one full scholarship.

The details of her class are:

Vessels and Hollow Formed Beads
$400 + $50 tool kit ($85 value)
10am - 6pm both days

What you need to submit to apply for the scholarship:
- Why you want to take this particular class
- What your glass bead making history or experience is
- Link to your website or 5 pictures of work (no bigger than 300kb each)
- Why you?

We need the info by July 20th and will announce the recipient on Aug 1st.

Good luck... and remember if it doesn't work out this time, try again:)

New Hope Necklaces

2008-05-28T17:01:00.007-04:00

Embrace all things natural... The face of our world is changing and it's up to us to make changes. Mother nature is telling us it's time to step up. Let's do our part.

Sneak Peak

2008-05-13T10:34:00.007-04:00

I've been working on some new goodies lately. Last week I went to the textile museum and these beads are inspired by all the beautiful rugs from the collections there. Also right now they have an interesting show on of textiles from Afganistan during the last 25 years or so and it's interesting to see how the motifs change from things such as flowers to tanks, planes and bombs. The rugs really are the story of the people there.

Happy Mothers Day!

2008-05-11T12:19:00.003-04:00

Don't Forget... it's Mothers Day!

Branches

2008-05-10T12:58:00.003-04:00

Exploring the Forest...

2008-05-06T14:12:00.007-04:00

Some fun new ideas I've been playing with lately.

It's been one of those weeks...
Our show opening at Harbourfront was really great and I have some pictures I want to share of some of the other work and exhibitions that were also opening that night. Trevor and I had a fun time and our friend Christy gave us a behind the scenes tour of some of the studios which was neat. We got to see what some of the super talented resident artists are working on.
Jill and I did the TBS show on Saturday which was good, nothing too exciting, I bought some cool powdered glass beads from Ghana which I am in love with.
Sunday night sadly was our last night with Sasha our wonderful dog. She left us on Monday at the age of 15 or so and has moved on, hopefully we'll run into her spirit here and there. That was really sad for me as she was my first and only pet to date and truly one of the most graceful dogs around. We loved her very much.
And to top it all off... yesterday I bit the pavement riding my bike, I fell trying to avoid a cop car, and when I went back over the tracks my wheel got stuck and that was it. I went down hard. Luckily I won't ride without a helmet and no broken bones, just a lot of blood and some nasty road rash. Could have been worse!

Now I'm back to making beads... and on to the next.

Oh That's So Five Years Ago!

2008-05-04T16:35:00.018-04:00

Often imitated never replicated...

Glass work above by Tosca Teran - concepts by me (5 years ago)

It's good to see that my ex-studio partner Tosca Teran of nanopod studio (work shown above) is keeping my style alive! I suppose I should take it as a compliment. What else is there to do really, after all I was the one who offered her the opportunity to experiment on my torches when she said wanted to learn flameworking.

Now the age old problem that many artists experience plagues me too... Maybe it means I've really made it as an artist though, now that I'm being knocked off? Who knows but let's look at the bright side right?
To see more of my work check out my website ehmeglass, or look for it in various publications.

Remember to do your research friends, strive for excellence, quality and support the real deals out there!

ps. more fun summer stuff coming very soon.

Diamonds Aren't Forever... Done!

2008-05-02T13:24:00.002-04:00

TBS BEAD SHOW

2008-05-01T16:17:00.000-04:00

Looking for something to do this weekend?

Come visit TANK fire + metal at the TBS Spring Show. We'll have great deals on vintage lucite bundles and handmade glass beads! Lots of vendors with a huge selection of beady goodness!

Toronto Bead Society
Spring Bead Fair

Finished jewelry, Findings, Tools, Kits, Classes, Sterling Silver, Swarovski, Ethnic, Pearls, Vintage, Semi-Precious, Lampworking, Handmade Beads of Glass, Ceramic & Polymer

Saturday May 3rd 10am - 5pm

Downtown Toronto YMCA
20 Grosvoner Street
Between Yonge & Bay Streets.

Admission: $5 ($3 with flyer)

Subway: Go north of College and south of Wellesley

Parking: Available at the Coroner's Court car park across the street from the YMCA. Green P parking available at Wellesley, first block east of Yonge.

Diamonds Aren't Forever.

2008-04-30T14:21:00.006-04:00

"Diamonds Aren't Forever"
This necklace (shown almost finished) is for a show that Cynthia and I were invited to. The theme is social mores.

Cynthia and I joined forces 5 years ago to create a line of contemporary jewelry named Proper. The idea to collaborate arose from a desire to challenge the perception of what is seen as precious and wearable today. This show was a perfect opportunity for us to create a fun commentary piece about the ideas that drive the mainstream diamond industry.

Working in traditional methods, but with a non-conformist approach to jewelry design, we are very deliberate in our choices about why we work with glass and silver.
There are many manufacturing processes that are toxic and harmful, or facilitate economic and political strife in other parts of the world. The economics of mainstream gemstones and “precious metal” jewelry has traditionally been one of power, not so much simple supply and demand. By choosing to buy “Proper” jewelry, this power shifts directly to the artists making the work, and gives the wearer the modern advantage.

{It still needs a few more tweaks and there is a ring (not shown) part of the set. We will trim all the long bits of ribbon when we install...}

Show Details:
Harbourfront Centre
235 Queens Quay West, Toronto. ON
Opening - This Friday May 2nd 6pm -9pm
Runs to June 23rd

New Beads

2008-04-21T17:00:00.001-04:00

SPRING & SUMMER CLASSES

2008-04-20T12:12:00.003-04:00

TANK fire + metal
Spring & Summer Classes - Flameworked Glass Beadmaking

NEW Play with Fire + Colour $40 per 40 Minute Lesson
Most Saturdays between 2pm and 5pm

Experience the magic of molten glass in this fast paced lesson. Expert teachers will walk you through the basics of using a torch to wind molten glass around a mandrel into simple beads. This class is all about the experience, a taste of working with fire, or simply something fun to do while visiting the Distillery District. Students choose a bead they like and we help them create it! Expect to make several beads that will be kiln annealed overnight for strength and ready the following day, or sent by post along with your sample bead from us. Runs most Saturdays starting June 14th through the summer. Reservations are possible.

Beginner Bead Making $285
4 Weeks - Wednesday evenings 6:30pm to 9:30 pm
June 25th to July 16th or
Aug 20th to Sept 10th

In this class Amy will teach the basics of shaping mandrel wound glass into beads using an oxygen propane torch. In this fun class learn to make traditional patterns and designs on beads based on ancient glass techniques (from Europe and Asia.) This class is geared to students with no experience or those looking to review fundamental flameworking techniques or to crafty folks looking to try something new and different. It is important to have a solid foundation and that's what this class is about. Each student can expect to finish with a collection of their own beads and a general knowledge of glass beadmaking, aka flameworking.

Hollow Beads $95
Sunday June 15th, 10am to 2pm + 2hrs Free torch time

Learn to make structurally sound great hollow beads! In this fun focused class Jill will walk students through the process leading you to satisfying results! Make both small and large hollows with thin even walls. You'll try several styles of hollows including some with colourful tube cores, small trapped "baby" beads inside and simple exterior decorations adding extra flair to these weightless pieces. Hollow beads can be very useful when designing jewelry in particular because they provide plenty of volume without the weight! This class includes a bonus two hours free torch time!

Focal Beads $95
Sunday June 22nd or July 20th, 10am to 2pm + 2hrs Free torch time

In this class Amy will teach students more advanced techniques showing how to execute more elaborate, detailed and funky designs in glass. Amy will focus on techniques such as stacked dots, encasing, using silver and palladium leaf, feathering, furrowing, stringer decoration and sculpted forms. Emphasis will be on learning a variety of techniques so that each student may take away something different and create something uniquely theirs. These beads are ideal as the "focal piece" in other jewelry projects. Some previous experience required. This class includes a bonus two hours free torch time!

Encasing $95
Sunday June 29th , 10am to 2pm + 2hr Free torch time

Learn how to encase your beads in layers of clear or coloured transparent glass. Find out how artists trap designs under the glass creating an appearance of floating patterns or images. Encasing adds an extra slick look to all your beads, playing on the wonderful optical quality of glass. You will learn thick layer encasing techniques in this workshop, making designs on a core bead, then magnifying them with a thick even layer of clear over top. From tiny dots, stripes and triangles to fun free flowing designs, the sky's the limit! Some experience required. This class includes a bonus two hours free torch time!

Studio Time Rental for Glass or Silversmithing
$15/hour or $120/10 hours (all TANK students automatically pay $10/hour)
Hours : Wed to Sun Noon to 5pm, Thursday evenings 6 to 10pm (or by appointment)

Tank fire + metal is equipped with 8 flameworking torches and 5 silversmithing stations. Studio time rental includes use of torches, kilns, mandrels and tools for beadmaking. Bench rental for metalsmithing includes use of basic hand tools, foredom, grinders, polishers, and bench pin. Renters must supply their own glass and or metal for projects. Call for details about where to purchase supplies. Pre-booking is required for all studio time.

Private Lessons with Amy Johnson
$40/hr (min 3 hr) or $225/day

Private lessons are a real benefit to students offering advantages such as one on one learning and the ability to create your own curriculum based on what interests you most. With Amy's vast skill set she is able to work with students helping them gain confidence in their own abilities in a fun, safe environment.
Amy graduated from the Sheridan College Crafts and Design Program and has taught throughout North America at schools and studios including Sheridan College, The Living Arts Centre, Algonquin College, The Bead & Button Show, The International Society of Glass Beadmakers Conference, Fusion Conference, and many other private studios including TANK fire + metal. It has been over 11 years since Amy started working with glass, and even longer since she has been making and selling her own jewelry. Her work has been published and shown widely throughout North America and Europe.

Pickled clouds

2008-04-19T15:39:00.002-04:00

Some new beads...I am anxious to make more and make a juciy summer necklace!

Collections...

2008-04-16T11:07:00.003-04:00

This is the craziest house, not far from my place... what a collection!

LIVING ATRS CENTRE

2008-04-15T12:49:00.005-04:00

I'm off to the burbs for the rest of the day. I'm teaching my second class (which starts tonight) at the Living Arts Centre in Mississauga. This one is a ten week long class for beginner beadmakers.

You can find out more on the LAC website

Working her magic.

2008-04-14T18:01:00.004-04:00

Here's Cynthia preparing to solder a section of a fancy candle stick holder, a replica of a turn of the century piece. It has a fleur de lis pattern.

NEW CLASSS SPRING & SUMMER 08

2008-04-14T16:38:00.004-04:00

Yay, we've finally got it done. Look over to your right for a brief run down, and find more details on my website.
Look under the "learn" section here

Spring Greens...

2008-04-14T16:29:00.003-04:00

A new necklace I'm working on. The beads are smaller than you think!
My first needle point! So much fun. It's nice to have a portable hobby:)

Colour Therapy...

2008-04-14T16:15:00.007-04:00

We recently finished painting some areas of the house that needed a new coat or just a change.

My lovely beading nook, showcasing some of my wonderful handmade purse collection, and not my messy table!

And our fun kitchen with new blue walls that I love to experiment in, making yummy things to eat. This morning I made peanut butter bars with chocolate gnache icing from a new chocolate cookbook. They were too hot to ice when I had to go to work so I'm still waiting to taste my handy work. The other wall with the insane garden is a digital image that Trevor created and had printed really large so we could cover the wall with it. It's also on one of the front doors of our home.

Paul Stankard

2008-04-13T17:36:00.004-04:00

Last night Jill and I went to the opening at The Sandra Ainsley Gallery for a new PAUL STANKARD exhibition. His work is incredible and if you have time you should go check it out. The show runs until May 29th.

Ch, Ch, Ch, Changes!

2008-04-13T17:14:00.005-04:00

Wow.

I'm not sure where to start... so much going on, and I'm sorry for lagging in posts for so long. I am going to be better from now on!
So..

WE'RE MOVING
About 5 years and much love sweat and memories, we're moving to a bigger and better space. It's still within our same building, we will have two full walls that are all windows and a much more primo space! It happens August 1st. So in the mean time we are busy getting all our ducks in a line. Watch for BIG MOVINGS SALES!

NEW STUDIO MEMBER
We're happy to announce that Kyla Viteck has joined TANK. Kyla is a metalsmith who makes beautiful jewelry and is also on staff at OCAD. Later this summer she will be adding some more silver classes to our roster as well! Yay! Welcome kyla :)

NEW CLASSES
I am going to post new classes in the next day or so.

GUEST TEACHERS
Heather Trimlett from California is coming to teach in our new space mid Sept. Sign up today! $400 plus $50 kit fee (tools you keep)

NEW WORK
Yes I've been busy, lots of great new stuff, I'm slowly getting it on line. You can check my etsy page for some of it, and stay tuned for lots more.

BEAD & BUTTON
The best bead show around! We'll be there selling our goodies, and I'll be teaching two classes again this year, woohoo!

NEW SCHOLARSHIPS
We are in the works of announcing some new scholarships and awards for students who want to take our guest artists workshops, and also for graduating students from OCAD, Sheridan and George Brown. Stay tuned for more details.

Personal Spaces

2008-04-13T17:11:00.002-04:00

Some new pod beads I've been working on. I have a vision for them, you'll see soon enough!

Lipsticks!

2008-04-13T17:09:00.001-04:00

Personal Projects

2008-04-13T17:03:00.005-04:00

Finished my bracelet from class... now I'm working on my own custom pendant tops which I'm carving from wax, casting, cleaning up and then recasting.

WE WERE ON CBC TELEVISION!

2008-02-02T18:00:00.000-05:00

Recently the show Living in Toronto, hosted by Mary Ito came to our studio and did a segment on the shop. It was pretty fun, and I gave Mary a crash course in making glass beads. She actually did quite well considering she had never done it before and we only had time for two quick demo beads!

Check us out on the CBC link for the show...
(note this clip seems to crash when using safari... try firefox)

TANK on CBC

LARRY BRICKMAN VISITS TANK

2008-02-02T16:13:00.001-05:00

YAY! Larry's here...

Our AWESOME host and chef Lucie Weir of Lunacy Beads (she had a gang of us over for a traditional Czech dinner)

Cynthia is freaking out about the roast!

Larry at the shop teaching a class (TANK - at the Distillery)

SILVERSMITHING 101 at TANK

2008-01-24T16:03:00.000-05:00

We had our first lesson in silversmithing last night and it was so much fun! Cynthia had each of us come up with a bracelet design and then worked with us to make it a feasible project. It was nice to try something different but still feel at home in our own shop. My brain is all a flury with excitement and images of things I want to make.

We each started by cutting out a strip of sheet silver and then worked with it to start creating a pattern or shape.
Close up of my bracelet...

Our bracelets at the end of class 1. Top to Bottom, Alex, Amy, Jill

IT'S ABOUT TIME I DID THIS...

2008-01-22T12:16:00.000-05:00

I'm starting a silversmithing class tomorrow. I can't wait, Jill, another friend of ours and I are taking a class from Cynthia Archer, our studio mate & and resident metal worker.

I aready have ideas for things I want to make... and I know that I am going to need to learn wax carving because many of these items are sculptural and will be better suited to casting... I think. But first some basics, lets not too ahead of ourselves. Cynthia is so meticulous and particular about her work I know we are going to learn a lot! I'll post some doodles, and in progress pictures soon.

Hey just in case you haven't seen this website before, the carrot box is one of the most inspirational places to go when you want to oogle what other talented folks are up to. Everyday there are new photos and plenty of links to great artists. I love seeing such diversity!

COMING UP SOON...

2008-01-19T12:20:00.000-05:00

Beginner Series with Amy Johnson
$155 each or $520 for all 4 classes

Beginner Flamework Beadmaking with Amy Johnson
Sunday Feb 17th 10am - 5pm $155

Beginner Flamework Buttons with Amy Johnson
Sunday Feb 24th 10am -5pm $155

Beginner Flamework Gold, Silver, Palladium & Copper Leaf with Amy Johnson
Sunday March 9th 10am -5pm $155

Beginner Flamework Focal Beads & Pendants with Amy Johnson
Sunday March 16th 10am -5pm $155

Encasing & Hollow Beads with Jill Cribbin
$260
Two Sundays (10am-5pm)
March 16th & 23rd
or
Four Thursday evenings (7-10pm)
Jan 31st -Feb 21st

INTERNATIONAL INSTRUCTORS

Larry Brickman
Feb 2nd & 3rd 10am -5pm
$550 material inc.

BENCH RENTAL

Glass or Silversmithing Studio Bench Time
$15/hr or $120/10hr + glass or silver
Take advantage of working in a professional studio and feel free to ask for assistance.
Must reserve by phone or email and have beginner level experience

JANUARY LAMPWORKERS DINNER

We are hosting the next toronto lampworkers dinner on Tuesday Jan 29th at 7pm. We will start off with dinner at The Mill St. Brew Pub, and follow up with a torching play time at our shop TANK. Anyone who wants to come is welcome, and you can try making a bead or just watch people demo. Bring stuff for show and tell! This meeting is free, each person pays for their own dinner at the pub.

Please RSVP so I can make a reservation at the restaurant.
amy_johnson@sympatico.ca or 647-430-8589

LOCATION

TANK fire+ metal
103. Bldg #74
55 Mill St. Toronto, ON
Open Wed - Sun Noon - 5pm

AND THE COUNTDOWN BEGINS...

2007-12-30T16:30:00.001-05:00

My first beads since christmas... already thinking about spring!

Wow. This past month has just whipped by so quickly, where does the time go!

I wanted to thank eveyone who came down and made our Holiday Shopping Event a great success. We appreciate your support in buying handmade this year for all your family and friends. It's a small part but if we all do it, it really makes a difference!

Over the holidays I was lucky enough to be selected by the staff at Etsy.com to be one of the featured sellers. When you are chosen as a featured seller, you are interviewed about your work, and thoughts on handmade, then a clipping of the feature is posted to the front page of Etsy for a few days, and the whole article is hosted in the Feature section. This made a huge boost to my shop and added to sales as well. It was eciting to see my work on the front page for 5 days, and I received many wonderful comments from other sellers and buyers on etsy.

Here is a snap I took...

To read the whole article... look at the etsy website.

I went back home to Almonte to visit my family over the holidays, and it was a winter wonderland. It poured rain the day my brother and I drove up, and even after that there was still a solida foot and a half of snow, maybe more! I had Sasha, my dog with me so we went for lots of great walks through the forest, and she had plenty of fun chasing deer, and beavers!

Larry Brickman Teaching

2007-11-20T18:56:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone..

I just wanted to let everyone know that due to high demand for this class, we have added a second date. We need a minimum of 6 people to make it a go for sure, so if you are interested please let us know asap so we can book him for the extra time!

Here is a copy of the class description and other info

Dates :
1st class Feb 2nd & 3rd (full)
2nd class Jan 31st & Feb 1st (thursday/ friday)

Cost : $550 includes everything.
Payment will be due in January

Larry Brickman is a full-time glass artist we whose work is represented throughout through out the United States and Internationally. He has worked with jewelry since 1992 and has been focused on torchworking glass since 1996. Larry has taught beadmaking to over 1500 students. He instructs glass torchworking classes extensively through nationally known art schools and glass companies through out the United States, Canada, Mexico, Italy, Germany, and Australia.

The “Bigger, Better and More Dots” class is designed to further enhance your skills with eye or dot techniques and the many ways to manipulate them, for example- stacked, swirled, raked, and plunged dots and induced bubbles. This class will focus primarily on focal beads. The student will learn about glass control, larger and better core beads, large mandrel beads and proper bead holes. Larry’s vast experience as an flameworking engineer, past general manager of Frantz Art Glass, long term glass artist and instructor will enable him to answer all your questions on studio setup, fuels, torches, tools, equipment, glass, ergonomics, product vendors, and new products and materials. Larry is well known for FUN, informative workshops and passing on many “tricks of the trade” to enhance and help in your everyday flameworking.

www.brickmanartglass.com

For more info or to sign up please contact Amy Johnson or Jill Cribbin at TANK fire + metal
103, Case Goods Bldg. 55 Mill St, Toronto ON

647-430-8589

HUGE STUDIO SALE

2007-11-20T13:49:00.001-05:00

The three of us at TANK fire + metal are busy getting ready for our annual holiday sale. So many things going on... parties and get togethers, and shows... so many shows.

I know you're busy but we'd love to see you at our HOLIDAY SHOP TILL YOU DROP... you won't be sorry!

Cynthia, Jill and I will all be baking yummy treats and goodies, and there will be warm apple cider aswell, so please come join us and take advantage of our great prices.

Remember it's only for one day... DECEMEBR 1st Noon - 8pm

ETSY

2007-11-20T13:24:00.000-05:00

It's good to branch out right! Well this fall I decided to try selling my work online through a website called Etsy. It's a great do-it-yourself website full of handmade items and art created by people like myself. It's very easy to use both as a seller and a purchaser (i've bought quite a few great items myself.)
Well on the weekend my heart pendant was on the main page of the site, and it was fantastic! It made a huge increase in sales for me this week. Very exciting!
I have found the more I poke around the site the more I'm starting to come across great work, and not just cheap stuff but also very high end things.
A tip! When you come across someones work you like... look at their favorites list, chances are they will already have bookmarked a bunch of rad stuff.

VINTAGE LOVE

2007-11-20T13:22:00.000-05:00

Recently I've come across these amazing vintage flower components... so i thought i would share some of what i've made with them so far. I've turned them into pendants and combined them with other beads that i've made, and also some of the vintage lucite we're selling at the shop.

WORKSHOP DETAILS...

2007-11-08T12:25:00.000-05:00

PLEASE CLICK TO VIEW FLYERS LARGER.

CALENDAR

2007-11-08T12:11:00.000-05:00

NEW BEAD INVENTORY AT TANK fire + metal

2007-10-25T17:28:00.000-04:00

It's very exciting... We have found some excellent VINTAGE LUCITE beads, and are selling them at the shop! Oh my god... they are so juicy looking, I can't wait to make stuff with them. I've been using them in my own jewelry for a while now, and I thought they would be a fun to share.

I'm posting some pictures of the beads we have in our inventory so far, but we're only about half way into it so there is plenty more to come.. with patterns, stripes, and more flowers than your garden!!!

It's all really affordable too, which is the best part! We are selling it both by the strand and individually. It'll range from about $4-$8 per strand or $0.25 -$3 each per bead.

The History of My Heart...

2007-10-24T13:34:00.000-04:00

For years I have been making jewelry and beads inspired by our all important organ. I have been working away on new items for christmas and again, I've come back to my favorite place. So I thought it would be fun to share my little collection of hearts.

Here's a little history on my work... and how the heart is very much tied into so many of my designs.

stuck on you... circa 2001

sucker rings...circa 2001

sucker necklace detail... circa 2001

tubes of you necklace... circa 2002

complete heart ring (collaboration with cynthia archer) circa 2003

paradise painted heart pendants... circa 2004

thinking cap pin... circa 04

anatomical heart pendant... 2007

heart droplet pendants... 2007

lillipad heart ring... circa 2006

black heart... 2007

HOW TO GET INVOLVED

2007-10-23T23:27:00.000-04:00

click to enlarge pictures

Michele Goldstein Visits TANK

2007-10-23T16:37:00.000-04:00

This past weekend our good friend Michele Goldstein from Salem Oregon came to visit and also teach for the first time. All the students loved the class and none of us are sure why Meesh waited so long to start teaching! It was all about making hearts, bones, skulls and buttons. Lots of working both on and off mandrel.

Aside from the classs it was great to hang out and catch up... Meesh is super friendly and hillarious, and she's always got a great story about something her kids are up to. You can check out more of Michele's work on her website and blog.