tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28794732123816784962024-03-13T18:15:57.497+00:00Islay SpaldingJewellery Designer/MakerIslay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.comBlogger76125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-18885479939820008042023-08-05T00:32:00.002+01:002023-08-08T03:10:34.685+01:00Luckenbooths<p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="s1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span></p></div><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;">💛 Luckenbooth Brooches <span class="s2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">💛</span><span class="s1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"> </span></span></span></p><p style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-family: helvetica;"><span class="s1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I’ve had a wee flurry of enquiries about these so thought I’d share three bespoke versions I’ve made for people in the past, and three drawings of versions yet to be made! </span></span></span></p><p></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74_biBh24PJaBz-UUj4g90-k2Y3dp08aggp4JZGyFmt42s7XzzZ7Rkbny2nyXaOcpu6ZrygI3HUfspUyGAwgtUJpsAA16vpTPa5Zx-KXsT2o0fSdWfpoQneA-HdxfWAGUgWCWZ_CvokXkaUSbrOWW8zkQtRfn7tFEzRpqUDlaqOsn0ll9uURvC4td9vRh/s1422/26A5A541-73C0-4FB4-9FC9-9503CDE45D9C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1421" data-original-width="1422" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj74_biBh24PJaBz-UUj4g90-k2Y3dp08aggp4JZGyFmt42s7XzzZ7Rkbny2nyXaOcpu6ZrygI3HUfspUyGAwgtUJpsAA16vpTPa5Zx-KXsT2o0fSdWfpoQneA-HdxfWAGUgWCWZ_CvokXkaUSbrOWW8zkQtRfn7tFEzRpqUDlaqOsn0ll9uURvC4td9vRh/s320/26A5A541-73C0-4FB4-9FC9-9503CDE45D9C.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /><span class="s1" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><br /></span></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPzvVDGV1yypkO8O25hMMTkhrDSG4ajmkcNSQINN-ymRsraBRqs9VWZLEr3FM0JEYerJ0t762EgatXvDU1ri0YFGm2KQk-ZaihEpPze-yNy_ariLznpMGwLhEvj-Wo3-6kqFBL1xun_GDq_3Qg1aziuXDQprK4CR3qcFII1wNZUn7x0WIGsLh8usqJ6ZyV/s2800/973EBC9C-29AA-481A-943E-3D5D6569D80C.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2800" data-original-width="2800" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPzvVDGV1yypkO8O25hMMTkhrDSG4ajmkcNSQINN-ymRsraBRqs9VWZLEr3FM0JEYerJ0t762EgatXvDU1ri0YFGm2KQk-ZaihEpPze-yNy_ariLznpMGwLhEvj-Wo3-6kqFBL1xun_GDq_3Qg1aziuXDQprK4CR3qcFII1wNZUn7x0WIGsLh8usqJ6ZyV/s320/973EBC9C-29AA-481A-943E-3D5D6569D80C.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><br /></span><p></p><p><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUAfxW9nRZIDmDl2f2FOxeSqzOYOwdeoekoqch-_Ghtgv_Ti9XIBy2aJmgObTFziGusT7a6_2mnKpUc53aMwAzG-xvMHm-hzProih1PNwo_wItqkbpmkIcQTVXAPHIs3696UYyCE6LzpnmdxpXj1T-BWgXryRwYuXG9Cuq2mEWp1J598ZFrytSgUyS2omv/s1272/61BEF9A6-7302-4E1B-B13E-2BA277B780AB.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1272" data-original-width="1272" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUAfxW9nRZIDmDl2f2FOxeSqzOYOwdeoekoqch-_Ghtgv_Ti9XIBy2aJmgObTFziGusT7a6_2mnKpUc53aMwAzG-xvMHm-hzProih1PNwo_wItqkbpmkIcQTVXAPHIs3696UYyCE6LzpnmdxpXj1T-BWgXryRwYuXG9Cuq2mEWp1J598ZFrytSgUyS2omv/s320/61BEF9A6-7302-4E1B-B13E-2BA277B780AB.jpeg" width="320" /></a></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><br /></span></span></div><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62F8GM9yBI5fv7lyq1EtF5laQr21EsfD8gkBATWQosG8mDWNtL2bQRkBjqG6TTVgVTMieF0AfJbwAoMsNhgwHqB3TeHIGPabJcwziFkUxkNKmy6rPs1-3Toh1IZx1Awih4C0qObRocrazoktPSKt1X8SOFXxcqMgHNH85BGlXa41t5D7WyBTUswYY_bLX/s1368/E336A51D-A3E1-4244-A549-F6B7CE3879EF.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1368" data-original-width="1368" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh62F8GM9yBI5fv7lyq1EtF5laQr21EsfD8gkBATWQosG8mDWNtL2bQRkBjqG6TTVgVTMieF0AfJbwAoMsNhgwHqB3TeHIGPabJcwziFkUxkNKmy6rPs1-3Toh1IZx1Awih4C0qObRocrazoktPSKt1X8SOFXxcqMgHNH85BGlXa41t5D7WyBTUswYY_bLX/s320/E336A51D-A3E1-4244-A549-F6B7CE3879EF.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div></span></span><p></p><p><span class="s1" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small;"><span>Luckenbooths are a Scottish love token, traditionally made from silver, sometimes set with stones, which dates back to the 17th century. The name comes from the Scots word for a lockable stall or workshop. The Luckenbooths on the Royal Mile in Edinburgh housed many silversmiths and goldsmiths and were the first place these style of brooches were made and sold.</span></span></p><p><span class="s1" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small;"><span>If you’d like to commission one of the designs, as they are, or with changes or additions such as initials, stones or Date Notches, then please get in touch! </span></span></p><p><span class="s1" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small;"><span>The oval cabochon stone used in the first brooch is a piece of granite provided by the customer from a quarry north of Oban. The third brooch has a cabochon of Tayside moss agate, both cut and polished by Nat from Scottish Gemstones. </span></span></p><p><span class="s1" style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small;"><span>Taking orders for later in the year deadlines and beyond….books are filling up so if you’re thinking about Christmas (I know it’s far away but good things take time!) then please get in touch sooner rather than later :) </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: helvetica; font-size: small;">Thanks for reading….first blog post in about 3 years! When is say blog post, it’s the same post I’ve just posted on Instagram, thought it might be good to start duplicating these things and make them a bit more searchable online. Would love to hear your comments if you’re reading here so please say hi! </span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span></span></p><p class="p2" style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; font-stretch: normal; line-height: normal; margin: 0px; min-height: 22px;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><span class="s1" style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody;"></span></span></p>Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-16497583375217058592019-05-04T15:22:00.000+01:002019-05-04T15:23:31.758+01:00The Month of May<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Well hello! It's been a while! Thought I'd dust off the ol' blog and write about all the things I'm getting up to over the next month. May has become a busy one for us Dundee designers....as it's <a href="https://www.dundeedesignmonth.com/">Dundee Design Month! </a>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">First up.... Man Pins! Louise and I, along with our team of rubbers, drillers and benders, have been busy in the workshop designing and making our new collection, the Solar System Collection which will be ready to launch in July. We're really excited about this collection (I'm really excited about this collection!) as for the first time we'll be using precious metals in our designs! If you check out our Man Pins instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pinsformen/" target="_blank">@pinsformen</a> you'll get some wee peeks of the new designs as they're being made.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">But what I really want to tell you about is our Make Your Own Man Pin Workshops! They are happening TOMORROW 5th May! We still have spaces left for you to come along to a workshop and make your own Man Pin, tie clip or pair of cufflinks. Bring your own bit of wood - an old wooden object, an old instrument or piece of sports equipment, a bit of something you can't bare to throw away and we'll provide all tools and guidance to turn it into something wearable. There are four 2 hour workshops to choose from, £20 a head, head to our website <a href="https://manpins.com/collections/make-your-own-man-pin-workshops-5-5-19">www.manpins.com</a> to book.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Here's some photos of last years workshops! We had great fun!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">One last Man Pin thing.... you'll find some of our Fruit Wood Collection in this years Design Festival Shop run by <a href="https://www.teagreen.co.uk/">Tea Green</a>. <a href="https://2019.dundeedesignfestival.com/">Dundee Design Festival</a> is taking place from the 21st-28th May in the Keiller Centre, curated by <a href="https://www.agencyofnone.com/">Agency of None</a>....I can't wait to see what they do with it! Man Pin Maker <a href="http://www.getsomewood.com/">Louise</a> will also be stocking the shop with some of her beautiful hand carved spoons AND is heading up the install team to build the thing!
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Next! <a href="https://www.oorwullie.com/" target="_blank">Oor Wullie's Big Bucket Trail</a>! I am excited to announce that I'm painting another giant Oor Wullie! This time the trail goes nationwide with sculptures in Glasgow, Edinburgh, Dundee, Aberdeen and Inverness to find from 17th June until 30th August. After this they will be auctioned off to raise money for Glasgow Children’s Hospital Charity, Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity and the ARCHIE Foundation. And even more exciting.... V&A Dundee are sponsoring my design! Whooohoo! Turns out stripes are right up their street :) It's called Dazzle Wullie and is inspired by Dazzle Ship camouflage, much like Dazzle Penguin was last year, I'm trying to channel a bit more of the V&As angles and stripes this year (it basically looks like a big dazzle ship anyway) and am very happy to be getting to do this sort of work again....I'm finding it very therapeutic in a time of lots to do! Can't show you the full design yet, but here's a few wee bits :)
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">And while we're on drawing rather than making... Colouring Club! Another Design Month activity! The wonderful Suzanne Scott aka <a href="https://whimsicallush.co.uk/">WhimSicAL LusH</a> and I are holding Colouring Clubs in her fabulous studio (just under WASPs) on Thursday 9th and Thursday 23rd May from 7-9pm. It's be an evening of colour and cake! We're gonna get all our coloured pens and pencils together for you to use and we have six original drawings for you to choose from, colour in and take away...and another one for home :) We'll guide you through picking a colour pallet, demonstrate and help you with techniques and fill you full of tea and cake! It costs £20 (£14 if you're aged 14-18) and tickets can be booked on Eventbrite here <a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/colouring-club-with-whimsical-lush-and-islay-spalding-tickets-57200675761">9th May</a> or here <a href="https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/colouring-club-with-whimsical-lush-and-islay-spalding-tickets-57201907445?aff=ebdssbdestsearch">23rd May</a>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you haven't seen WhimSicAL LusH's work and you're on the Instagram go give her a follow <a href="https://www.instagram.com/whimsicallush/?hl=en">@whimsicallush</a>...you'll find some photos of her wonderland studio there too!
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Now back to jewellery! There's a new club in town! The Dundee Jewellers Collective are holding their first exhibition - The 4th J - on the weekend of the 25th-26th May in Studio 215 of the WASPs Artist Studios. The DJC started life as a network to share information, support, tools and materials between independent jewellery design/makers in Dundee. 14 of us are exhibiting together to showcase our work and highlight the impact that contemporary jewellery has on Dundee's design scene.
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">This is something I've been wanting to pull together for a couple of years now so very pleased we'll be taking part in Dundee Design Month in this way. I'll be exhibiting some Kilt Pins along with some new jewellery designs all inspired by this evolving city.
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">If you're in the Ferry this month pop into <a href="http://prettyflyworkshop.com/">Pretty Fly</a> on Brook Street. They are stocking a selection of my Biomorphs and Thritty Pings...I think they've got a few of my greetings cards too!
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">For those up Perth way get yersel to <a href="http://www.tayberrygallery.com/">Tayberry Gallery</a> on Princes Street, the best selection of Islay Spalding Kilt Pins in Scotland....the world actually! And some other work like this silver Small World Domed Pendant (they have one in 18ct too....lush!)
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo by Chris and Eliza Photography - www.chrisandeliza.co</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Anyone in Aberdeen? <a href="https://teaselandtweed.co.uk/">Teasel and Tweed</a> have a selection of Kilt Pins, including a specially designed Aberdeen Coastline Kilt Pin and some Man Pins. And if you're on your way up there, pop into Forfar and see <a href="http://www.zoeduthie.com/">Zoe Duthie</a>'s beautiful new jewellery shop on the High Street which has a small selection of my Kilt Pins and cufflinks. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">I've got loads of bespoke Kilt Pins and some rather lovely engagement and wedding rings on the go just now :D which means along with everything else my order book is currently full with new work starting in July. But if you have an idea or an occasion for a <a href="http://www.islayspalding.co.uk/kiltpins.htm">bespoke Kilt Pin</a> then send them my way and I'll schedule you in! Thank you to all my customers for giving me such interesting work to do and for your patience as I juggle all my work! Best place to see my most recent creations is on my instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/kiltpins/">@kiltpins</a>.
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">May is usually a time for pipe bands for me with the Scottish Champs happening in a couple of weeks.... but not this year :( I've taken a wee year out from competing with my band <a href="https://www.mcpb.co.uk/">MacKenzie Caledonian</a>, just a wee year... to put a bit more time into my business, put some plans into action and move it up a notch...it's time to level up! I'm still keeping my hands in though and doing some teaching work, which includes teaching at the <a href="http://dundeecitypipeband.co.uk/">Dundee City Pipe Band</a>, the worlds first all inclusive Pipe Band, based here in Dundee. We'll be out recruiting at the Dundee City Pipe Band Competition in the City Square next Sunday 12th May so if anyone fancies trying their hand at being a pipe band drummer, now's your chance to come and have a go! And my two worlds will collide on Saturday 25th May at the Dundee Design Parade as the band will lead the parade through the city centre....also the same day as the DJC exhibition....oh it's all going on!
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<span style="font-family: "helvetica neue" , "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Better get cracking!</span>Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-24649020903082985132016-11-23T12:19:00.000+00:002016-11-23T12:19:24.097+00:00The West Ward Works Brooch and Some Recent Commissions In May this year I took part in a <a href="http://www.craftscotland.org/whats-on/event_details.html?scottish-jewellery-week-meet-your-maker&event_id=6486">Craft Scotland Meet Your Maker Event</a> at Scottish Jewellery Week. The event was hosted by Dundee Design Festival in the old DC Thomson's print works building West Ward Works. This was where the DC Thomson annuals were printed; the Beano, Dandy, The Broons and Oor Wullie to name a few. I was asked to design and make a piece of jewellery responding to the festival and I choose to make a brooch inspired by the building itself. I was fascinated with it's history, it's size and being a Beano fan the fact that so many pages of happiness would have been printed and spread all over the world from that building. I loved the layers of what was left of the building which held the secrets of the things that happened inside. <a href="http://www.scottishjewelleryweek.co.uk/live-jeweller/">Read the interview here</a><br />
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The brooch will be auctioned online to raise money for <a href="http://www.archietayside.org.uk/">ARCHIE Foundation's Tayside Children's Hospital Appeal</a>, the same charity as benefited from the <a href="http://www.oorwulliebuckettrail.com/oorwullie/wullymorph/">Oor Wullie Bucket Trail</a>. It will be on display at Tea Green's Christmas Pop Up Shop in The Old Flour Mill in Dundee from 26th November where bidding will open until 21st December, bids can be made in a silent auction box or online and will close at 8pm on the 21st.<br />
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I'm now busy helping Santa with some bespoke commissions and making some new Kilt Pins which will be ready to buy in time for Christmas. I'll leave a list of where you'll be able to find my work over the next few weeks at the bottom but meanwhile, feast your eyes on some recently commissioned pieces and if you have an idea yourself for a bespoke piece of jewellery in time for Christmas then now is the time to get your orders in! Read the <a href="http://www.islayspalding.co.uk/commission.htm">'Commission a Kilt Pin'</a> page on my website and send me an email, or see what I have in stock in my <a href="http://fromtheworkshop.bigcartel.com/products">online shop</a>...and for more inspiration check out my <a href="http://www.islayspalding.co.uk/projects.htm">gallery of bespoke jewellery here </a><br />
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Kilt Pin and Earrings for Calum and Laura</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">designed as recognition of their commitment to the MacKenzie Caledonian Pipe Band</span></div>
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Bennachie Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">with labrador, sheep and date notches</span></div>
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Bagpipe Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">a stylised bagpipe with African Blackwood from an old set of bagpipes and the owners initials BW</span></div>
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Edinburgh Skyline</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">with music and Roman numerals</span></div>
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Kilt Pins for The Gang</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">for the groom and his groomsmen made to their own design</span></div>
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Mackintosh Rose and Music Brooch</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">a 60th birthday present with date notches and sapphire </span></div>
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Moffat Hills Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">view from the wearer's wedding day with date notches and photo-etched map</span></div>
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Sail Kilt Pin with River Thames</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">with date notches and textured silver</span></div>
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Celtic Cross Pendant</div>
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JJ Bagpipe Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">for a piper with the first letters from his and wife's names</span></div>
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Wren Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">blade and plate design with customer's family emblem</span></div>
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<span style="color: #76a5af; font-size: x-large;">CHRISTMAS STOCKISTS</span></div>
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You can find my work in the following places in the run up to Christmas....there is limited stock in each so please enquire before you visit if you are looking for a specific item. </div>
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<span style="color: #76a5af; font-size: large;">DUNDEE
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<b>Location</b> - Tea Green Concept Atelier Pop Up, The Old Flour Mill, Exchange Court<br />
<b>Dates</b> - 26th Nov - 24th Dec<br />
<b>What's there?</b> - Special edition Oor Wullie Colour In Jewellery collaborations, Thritty Pings, Men's jewellery (tie slides and kilt pins), pieces from my Oddgon Collection, a collection of silver rings for men and women.... and the West Ward Works Brooch will be on display to bid for.
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<b>Location</b> - Pretty Fly Workshop, Broughty Ferry<br />
<b>Dates</b> - all<br />
<b>What's there?</b> - Biocube and Oddgon & Angular Jewelley, Triangulate Kilt Pins and a Dundee Skyline Kilt Pin
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<b>Location </b>- Dundee Contemporary Arts Centre (DCA), Perth Road<br />
<b>Dates </b>- all<br />
<b>What's there?</b> - Man Pins
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<span style="color: #76a5af; font-size: large;">PERTH
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<b>Location </b>- Tayberry Gallery, Princes Street<br />
<b>Dates </b>- all<br />
<b>What's there?</b> - Biomorph Jewellery, Kilt Pins, Man Pins, Twist Rings and Thritty Pings
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<span style="color: #76a5af; font-size: large;">GLASGOW
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<b>Location</b> - Tea Green Christmas Market, Kibble Palace, Botanic Gardens<br />
<b>Dates</b> - 10th - 11th Dec<br />
<b>What's there?</b> - Oddgon Jewellery, Thritty Pings, Man Pins, Men's jewellery (tie slides in wood and silver, Kilt Pins and silver rings), Christmas and greetings cards
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I am still taking orders for bespoke jewellery and Kilt Pins in time for Christmas, but please get your orders in fast to guarantee delivery under your tree!<br />
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I wish everyone a cosy and happy winter, have a jolly time folks!<br />
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<br />Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-20976428583261537462016-09-13T13:29:00.003+01:002016-09-13T13:29:47.507+01:00Cheerio Wullymorph!Today's the day! Later on tonight all of Dundee's colourful Oor Wullie sculptures will be auctioned off to raise money to build a new operating theatre in Tayside Children's Hospital.<br />
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Back in June I spent five days in <a href="http://www.tayberrygallery.com/">Tayberry Gallery</a> live drawing all over a 5 foot tall fibreglass Wullie to create Wullymorph! Artists, local and international, were asked to submit designs for the Wullies and then the chosen designs were sponsored by local businesses and brought to life for the <a href="http://www.oorwulliebuckettrail.com/">Oor Wullie Bucket Trail</a>.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The proposal drawing for Wullymorph</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Progress being made....</td></tr>
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If you live in Dundee or have visited over the past couple of months then you will be familiar with the cheeky chappy who's been popping up all over the city, some have been on tour to other cities, and over the weekend there they were all brought together in Slesslor Gardens for a spectacular send off! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7keRuJwr4RU/V9fpba6pIhI/AAAAAAAABuY/mjaYKVkB8ZQ2Gk5QJdjnFXGDnBZPmeADACLcB/s1600/Wullymorph%2Band%2Bfamily.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7keRuJwr4RU/V9fpba6pIhI/AAAAAAAABuY/mjaYKVkB8ZQ2Gk5QJdjnFXGDnBZPmeADACLcB/s640/Wullymorph%2Band%2Bfamily.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I was so excited to find out my Wullie was to be displayed in Broughty Ferry, my home town! Thank you everyone for looking after him so well! And here he is in Slessor Gardens with the rest of my family :)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A visit to the P2s at Grange Primary School, we had fun playing with jewellery and making shape pictures together! </td></tr>
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It has been amazing seeing how these sculptures have affected people in the city, I think many will be sad to see them go, but glad it's all for a good cause and has made, and will continue to make, so many people happy and well. Huge thanks to all the organisers who have done a fantastic job making things run smoothly and making sure all the Oor Wullies have been well looked after, it's been a privilege to be involved, fingers crossed for the auction tonight!! Good luck Wullymorph and all the rest!<br />
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Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-84698420101582642612016-08-05T11:16:00.001+01:002016-08-05T11:16:39.680+01:00Spotlight On Meeeee! This month I am showcasing my work at <a href="http://www.tayberrygallery.com/" target="_blank">Tayberry Gallery</a> in Perth as part of their 'Spotlight On' exhibition series.<br />
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I designed three Perthshire Kilt Pins specially for the event. The Perth Skyline design features an abstracted version of the famous skyline including St Matthew's Church and Smeaton's Bridge as seen when crossing the Queen’s bridge. As big fans of all things design and architecture, we are donating 10% of every sale of this Kilt Pin to the <a href="http://www.stmatts.org.uk/Donate.html">St Matthew's Church Refurbishment Fund</a>. The Auld Brig is a stylised representation on Smeaton's Bridge and the River Tay Kilt Pin features an ariel view of the river. </div>
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My talented sister Shona spent a couple of days in the workshop with me while I made the Auld Brig Kilt Pin and filmed some of the process. She has produced this brilliant video with sounds from local lad <a href="https://soundcloud.com/architeq">Architeq</a>.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" mozallowfullscreen="" src="https://player.vimeo.com/video/149024164" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="640"></iframe>
<a href="https://vimeo.com/149024164">Making the Perth Bridge Kiltpin</a> from <a href="https://vimeo.com/shonaspalding">Shona Spalding</a> on <a href="https://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.<br />
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There's also three special Biomorphs being exhibited, each pendant strung on different beads complimenting the colour of the resin. The first one, strung on the green chrysoprase, was made specially for the <a href="http://www.dundeedesignfestival.com/" target="_blank">Dundee Design Festival</a> earlier this year and was exhibited in the <a href="http://www.scottishjewelleryweek.co.uk/these-hands/" target="_blank">Scottish Jewellery Week Exhibition 'These Hands'</a>.<br />
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The exhibition is on for another couple of weeks so head along to the gallery to see more! Here's some sneaky peeks to tempt you :) and if you are too far away to visit but see something you like then please <a href="http://www.tayberrygallery.com/contact/4576989425">contact the gallery</a> for enquiries.<br />
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<br />Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-12067079627411774632016-07-19T02:44:00.003+01:002016-07-19T03:33:36.488+01:00Selected CommissionsOh dear! I have let the blog slip a bit! :/ So to warm things up again here's some commissioned Kilt Pins and other jewellery from the past year.....<br />
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Loch Lomond Kilt Pins</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">designed for a groom and his groomsmen with their names on the back</span></div>
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Brodie Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">reworking of the Brodie Clan crest</span></div>
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Whisky Cask Oak Kilt Pin and Cufflinks</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">made for Dave and Claire's wedding day, a C shape in the the hole in the wood and a long D shape in silver on the right of the Kilt Pin, date notches representing their wedding day on the kilt pin and the day they met on the cufflinks</span></div>
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Edinburgh Skyline and Rugby Ball Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">with date notches</span></div>
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Loch Lomond Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">the view over Loch Lomond, notched date stick, music score</span></div>
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Oban and Mull Kilt Pin and Belt Buckle</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">the view from McCaig's Folly over Kerera and Mull, pipe score to 'I See Mull'</span></div>
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Yorkshire Rose Tie Clip</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">mountains of Montana, turquoise stone and initials</span></div>
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Swimming Salmon Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">little salmon move up and down a cut out of the River Dee</span></div>
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Kilt Pin for a Dundee Piper</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">bass drone with views of the Law, date stick and stag's head</span></div>
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Anchor and Claymore Kilt Pin</div>
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The Bang Club Pendant</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">a present from husband to wife using the logo of the club where they met, the holes round the edge signify the 25 years they've been together with markers for the years when their children were born, the snake represents their first dance - The Snake by Al Wilson</span></div>
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Maple Leaf and Thistle Claymore</div>
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Kilt Pin for a Glasgow Pianist</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">with date stick, keyboard and views of Glasgow</span></div>
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Initial Thistle Kilt Pins</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">with date notches and birthstones</span></div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cOhOFp_K-Cc/Vv6n-esdRAI/AAAAAAAABm4/ukdIpA9jZwcPIg6p8msHcFUj3r3lYYNXw/s1600/Kens%2BBiomorph%2BCufflinks%2Blogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cOhOFp_K-Cc/Vv6n-esdRAI/AAAAAAAABm4/ukdIpA9jZwcPIg6p8msHcFUj3r3lYYNXw/s400/Kens%2BBiomorph%2BCufflinks%2Blogo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Biomorph Cufflinks</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">colours to match the wearers kilt</span></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rk9USUjPNsA/Vv6oBsW35tI/AAAAAAAABnA/NNloHMtJMMgRLWcjTRLpo7XinI95DSIww/s1600/Silver%2BFlute%2BBrooch%2Blogo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Rk9USUjPNsA/Vv6oBsW35tI/AAAAAAAABnA/NNloHMtJMMgRLWcjTRLpo7XinI95DSIww/s400/Silver%2BFlute%2BBrooch%2Blogo.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Flute Brooch</div>
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Snowboard Pendants</div>
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Husky Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">design from the clients illustration with a topaz for the husky's eye</span></div>
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I've been lucky enough to have a couple of awesome friends commission me to make their engagement rings which allowed to experiment with some new ideas and the Cairngorm! My new favourite stone! The Cairngorm is a type of smokey quartz found in the Cairngorm mountain range, it's very rare and these ones in particular are very pretty, a sparkly champagne colour with a hint of grey/purple mist, so very Scottish!
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I'm going to leave it there just now....silly of me not to have blogged earlier, so much has happened over the past year.....I'll quickly list some things so I don't forget! My sister's wedding and hen do adventure on Skye, making <a href="http://www.shottspipeband.com/dundee-designer-islay-spalding-creates-bespoke-cap-badges-for-shotts/" target="_blank">cap badges for Shotts and Dykehead Caledonia Pipe Band</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KiltPins/photos/?tab=album&album_id=910294945733803" target="_blank">Dundee's Big Wedding Exhibition</a> in the Caird Hall, taking part in <a href="http://www.teagreen.co.uk/" target="_blank">Tea Green</a> markets and pop up shops and started 'Colour In Jewellery' with Joanne MacFadyen, a Christmas visit from my Brazilian sister Kira, skiing in the Alps, photographing <a href="http://www.fromtheworkshop.bigcartel.com/category/man-pins" target="_blank">Man Pins </a>on Skye, pipe band trips to Germany and France, Scottish Jewellery Week and the Jewellery Trail around Dundee, Jeweller in Residence for the Dundee Design Festival and painting a giant Oor Wullie! </div>
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TTFN</div>
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<br />Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-58083058007395717942015-05-31T19:48:00.003+01:002015-06-01T11:20:43.706+01:00Behind the Scenes - Acid EtchingWith the help of my intern, <a href="http://www.katiewatt.com/" target="_blank">Katie Watt</a>, I've put together a post explaining a couple of the different ways I use the process of etching to add pattern and texture to my work.<br />
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Photo-Etching</h3>
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Photo-etching is a process that uses light and acid to cut the design I’ve drawn into the silver. <br />
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By scanning my drawings and doing a little editing and tidying on Photoshop I can print my image on to acetate. The print quality will effect the final outcome so it’s always worth checking the black is super black and there are no marks on the acetate that shouldn’t be there.<br />
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Transferring the image from the acetate to the silver is made possible with light sensitive film. This film is attached to the silver - but beware - it’s got to be in a dark room under a “safe” red light otherwise the magic happens before we’re ready. The freshly prepared silver/film combination now has to be left to dry somewhere TOTALLY dark overnight - which means it’s onwards and upwards with some other project, time for a beer, or if I’m doing this at 2am (which is not uncommon) it’s time for bed! <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9d27ZeKE4NM/VWs_w0cSFiI/AAAAAAAABXw/JzR00-HxRKo/s1600/Red%2Blight%2Bwork%2Bspace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9d27ZeKE4NM/VWs_w0cSFiI/AAAAAAAABXw/JzR00-HxRKo/s640/Red%2Blight%2Bwork%2Bspace.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">How my workspace is set up for photo-etching.</td></tr>
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In the morning I’m ready for stage two. The acetate goes on top of the silver/film and then that goes upside down on a light box where it’s blasted with the UV light. The film hardens when it is exposed to light but - and here is the key - the black ink protects the film from hardening. Therefore where the image was on the acetate the film will be soft and everywhere else will have hardened. Putting it in a soapy solution and giving it a little scrub with a toothbrush brushes off the unhardened film, exposing the silver so it’s ready for the acid.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pSMc-OnrGwE/VWtgX_jTuII/AAAAAAAABaA/Vbfi_5-JfFg/s1600/photo-etching%2B-%2Bred%2Broom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pSMc-OnrGwE/VWtgX_jTuII/AAAAAAAABaA/Vbfi_5-JfFg/s640/photo-etching%2B-%2Bred%2Broom.jpg" /></a></div>
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The hardened film will now protect the silver from the acid so that only where the film has been washed away will the acid cut the silver. Read further on to find out a bit about how the acid works with the silver. For now I’ll just say the silver is submerged in the acid for the right amount of time and then the silver is left in caustic soda and water until the remaining film disintegrates.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yxmt-bhE6Co/VWtNtBWGIpI/AAAAAAAABYw/LObaw5m7k5k/s1600/PhotoEtchTrio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Yxmt-bhE6Co/VWtNtBWGIpI/AAAAAAAABYw/LObaw5m7k5k/s640/PhotoEtchTrio.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The silver is ready to be etched as the blue film has hardened. 2. Going
into the acid. 3. After it has been in the acid it goes into caustic
soda and water which disintegrates the film.</td></tr>
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Then I need to cut of the shape, maybe do some soldering, polish it up and what-not ….. And voila!! What was recently an idea in my head and a drawing in my sketchbook is now etched into the silver, creating a beautiful piece of handmade bespoke jewellery.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qmSDQd3OlQk/VWtPfgJRA8I/AAAAAAAABY8/koTTUEUn01k/s1600/Hare%2BPendant%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-qmSDQd3OlQk/VWtPfgJRA8I/AAAAAAAABY8/koTTUEUn01k/s400/Hare%2BPendant%2B1.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The finished Hare Pendant with a diamond set in the eye.
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<h3>
Traditional Etching</h3>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0LJCp0TWCaE/VWtQRrA22fI/AAAAAAAABZE/Ggz30tf-f5s/s1600/niseach%2Band%2Bkenmore%2BKPs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0LJCp0TWCaE/VWtQRrA22fI/AAAAAAAABZE/Ggz30tf-f5s/s400/niseach%2Band%2Bkenmore%2BKPs.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kenmore and Niseach Kilt Pins - both traditionally etched.</td></tr>
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Photo-etching gives you the opportunity to create designs digitally or by scanning drawings which can be edited with Photoshop if required. Another method that gives a more organic, hand drawn design is a more traditional method of etching.
After coming up with a design I get the silver and completely cover it in black furniture polish. Once it is dry I use a scribe (a pointy metal tool) to scratch away the black polish as I freehand draw the design. The areas where I have scratched away the black polish are now unprotected and when I put the silver in the acid it will be these areas that will be cut into.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-corYRk8g9us/VWtR0ecsraI/AAAAAAAABZY/O3DXYjqVkAY/s1600/Black%2BPolish%2BTrio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-corYRk8g9us/VWtR0ecsraI/AAAAAAAABZY/O3DXYjqVkAY/s640/Black%2BPolish%2BTrio.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUJKgU4Ojv4/VWtRkxZhy4I/AAAAAAAABZQ/km5-8MoD4RY/s1600/in%2BAcid%2BTrio.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-rUJKgU4Ojv4/VWtRkxZhy4I/AAAAAAAABZQ/km5-8MoD4RY/s640/in%2BAcid%2BTrio.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Oxidisation is a good way to really show off the etching as it gives a stark contrast in colour which reveals the interesting textures and helps them to stand out.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c1eWbCCftvk/VWtSRFH94bI/AAAAAAAABZg/CILE6odX3C8/s1600/Oxidisation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-c1eWbCCftvk/VWtSRFH94bI/AAAAAAAABZg/CILE6odX3C8/s400/Oxidisation.jpg" /></a></div>
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<h3>Acid Antics </h3>
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The acid reacts differently for many reasons. Of course the length of time the piece is in the acid is going to have a big effect. Temperature, the age of the acid, the position of the silver in acid and different types of acid all effect the way the acid behaves and need to be monitored to ensure the desired result is achieved.
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gw-5bM5KVlM/VWwxS2ShMVI/AAAAAAAABaQ/VRxvsF-wgRA/s1600/Dancing%2BPump%2BKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Gw-5bM5KVlM/VWwxS2ShMVI/AAAAAAAABaQ/VRxvsF-wgRA/s400/Dancing%2BPump%2BKP.jpg" /></a></div>
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The text on this Kilt Pin stands out as the area around it has been bitten away by acid. This was done using the traditional method of etching. The textured effect comes from the organic freehand scratching away of the black polish combined with the acid cutting unevenly due to the angle at which it sat in the acid pot.
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<h4>
Examples of each method : </h4>
The Oak Leaf Kilt Pin is a good example of how photo-etching can be really efficient. The pattern can be drawn by hand and then digitally expanded. Using digital software means that the pattern can be edited and perfected before being printed and etched. Someone else's handwriting can be replicated using photo-etching too. The music written on this Kilt Pin was hand written by the client’s bagpipe teacher - photo etching allows me to transfer this directly to the Kilt Pin making it even more special.
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gOVgPF1GOWY/VWtUKYTO5LI/AAAAAAAABZo/hb8Ig-LqY0g/s1600/OakLeafKP%2B.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-gOVgPF1GOWY/VWtUKYTO5LI/AAAAAAAABZo/hb8Ig-LqY0g/s640/OakLeafKP%2B.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mbtZErWqews/VWtUK2zXxXI/AAAAAAAABZs/bZuj9QDC3PM/s1600/drawings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mbtZErWqews/VWtUK2zXxXI/AAAAAAAABZs/bZuj9QDC3PM/s400/drawings.jpg" /></a></div>
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Photo-etching was used for the Hare as you can see here with the hand drawing transferred to a digital drawing. The Kenmore design was more suited to traditional etching as a rougher more textured organic pattern was desired.<br />
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So which way is best?
It is important to choose the right method for each individual project which is usually based to the aesthetic of the finished product. There are loads of things to experiment with when etching - I’m always up for testing different things and seeing what works and I’m sure I’ll still be discovering new tips and tricks long into the future.
Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-75458604407719417402014-10-01T10:14:00.000+01:002014-10-01T10:14:39.359+01:00Birthday BlogIt's Islay Spalding Contemporary Jewellery Design's 6th birthday today! (and the actual me's 31st birthday tomorrow...eeek!) So I thought I'd better give you all a wee update of what's been going on.<br />
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First of all, big one ups and thanks to jewellery student <a href="https://twitter.com/kendaldewar26">Kendal Dewar</a> and textile designer <a href="https://twitter.com/jenheilbronn">Jen Heilbronn</a> for helping out in the workshop this summer. Kendal has been working with me on the Oddgon and Angular Collection, cutting, filing, wet&drying and helping form a collection of pieces which are now available to buy in the <a href="http://www.tayberrygallery.com/">Tayberry Gallery</a>. Whilst Jen has taken the Thritty Pings to a new level, turning 12 of my original drawings into 97 different colours and styles of brooches and over 200 different earrings......stay tuned for where to buy (the next task!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wApuvQAc4JY/VCtiIcTT9fI/AAAAAAAABKQ/uS0FvZPWrRw/s1600/ThrittyPings%2Band%2BOandAs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-wApuvQAc4JY/VCtiIcTT9fI/AAAAAAAABKQ/uS0FvZPWrRw/s1600/ThrittyPings%2Band%2BOandAs.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thritty Pings and Oddgons & Angulars</td></tr>
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Another ongoing joint project has been with my workshop buddy Louise Forbes - the Man Pin! These are pins for men, designed to be worn on a lapel, or a kilt...but equally good on a bag or hat, or indeed a woman :) The first series is made from different combinations of four tropical hardwoods: Kambala, Padauk, Ovangkol and Bubinga, and blue, turquoise and lilac resins. We're working on the rest of our first collection now and sorting some sexy looking backing boards for the pins to be displayed on.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hTWXi-n8LO4/VCtiqqlYyrI/AAAAAAAABKY/5WjgDQiODsg/s1600/ManPins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hTWXi-n8LO4/VCtiqqlYyrI/AAAAAAAABKY/5WjgDQiODsg/s1600/ManPins.jpg" height="285" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Man Pins</td></tr>
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We previewed all the above pieces at the recent Dundee Jewellery Trail, part of <a href="http://www.scottishjewelleryweek.co.uk/">Scottish Jewellery Week</a>, an event started this year and driven by the fantastic Kate Pickering. In two months the idea was conceived, planned and carried out, culminating in the Vanilla Ink End of Year Exhibition, '15 Years' an exhibition of 29 Scottish graduate jewellers works, a one day symposium hosted in collaboration with <a href="http://www.incorporationofgoldsmiths.org/" target="_blank">The Incorporation of Goldsmiths</a> of presentations, panel talks, ‘Meet and Make’ networking lunch and, the Jewellery Trail! - a two day open studio event. I'm looking forward to seeing and being part of making this week grow year by year...go Kate! And the rest of the Dundee Jewellery Massive! <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I1-uRfUv1iA/VCtjCONJfJI/AAAAAAAABKg/zhYqFf835-k/s1600/Open%2BStudios%2B2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-I1-uRfUv1iA/VCtjCONJfJI/AAAAAAAABKg/zhYqFf835-k/s1600/Open%2BStudios%2B2014.jpg" height="192" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Workshop</td></tr>
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I decided to do something special to mark the occasion so I spent the two days designing and making a kilt pin inspired by my friend Jamie Craig's photo of Dundee. He takes brilliant photo's around Dundee along with a couple of his friends, you can find their work here - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Bonnie-Dundee/845355378813762">Bonnie Dundee Photography</a> <br />
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I just need to get it hallmarked now though.....hallmarking's great and all but it sure is annoying that you can't just finish a piece properly in a weekend! Once hallmarked (waiting for my next batch of commissions to be ready for the same package) it will be available to buy in my online shop....that's right, my ONLINE SHOP! Whoop! There's finally some products in it...kinda the classics just now, some Biomorphs and a wee range of Ready to Wear Kilt Pins. Got my friend Jody Mitchell, aka <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pixijo">PixiJo</a>, to help me out with some photo's of my jewellery on actual people, something I've not quite got round to doing before......thanks once again to the fabulous Jen and Kendal, thrust into my clothes and jewellery and made to stand around garages and doorways for a sunny and fun day! Used some to make these promo images for the shop - otherwise known as <a href="http://fromtheworkshop.bigcartel.com/">From The Workshop</a> - look out for them and give them a like and share on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/islayspalding.jewellery">Facebook</a> later today, would be mighty helpful :)<br />
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<a href="http://fromtheworkshop.bigcartel.com/">visit FROM THE WORKSHOP here >>>> </a><br />
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There's been some interesting commissions this summer too -<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m1uOxnL7Qh4/VCtmrVq7B3I/AAAAAAAABLE/xEia6vRhQxk/s1600/Andrews%2BBelt%2BBuckle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-m1uOxnL7Qh4/VCtmrVq7B3I/AAAAAAAABLE/xEia6vRhQxk/s1600/Andrews%2BBelt%2BBuckle.jpg" height="326" width="400" /></a></div>
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Silver Kilt Belt Buckle </div>
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Columbine Kilt Pin and Cufflinks </div>
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Charles Rennie Mackintosh inspired Kilt Pin with Initials</div>
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Edinburgh Skyline and Cat Tail Kilt Pin and Cufflinks with Date Notches </div>
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Hare Pendant with Diamond Eye </div>
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Bowls Bracelet </div>
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Granulated Platinum Engagement Ring with Diamonds and Pearl </div>
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Rod of Asclepius Lapel Pin with Ebony </div>
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Arran and Dundee Shooting Kilt Pin </div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GdVrR7sI1m0/VCtmv6xCbgI/AAAAAAAABMQ/j8AWU5hnYJw/s1600/Skull%2B%26%2BDrumsticks%2BKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GdVrR7sI1m0/VCtmv6xCbgI/AAAAAAAABMQ/j8AWU5hnYJw/s1600/Skull%2B%26%2BDrumsticks%2BKP.jpg" height="400" width="271" /></a></div>
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Skull and Drumsticks Kilt Pin with Ruby and Diamond Eyes, Initials and Date Notches</div>
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The Four Friends</div>
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Got sucked into hills, islands, rocks, beaches, scenery and the beautiful beautiful stillness, wildness and emptiness of North Uist in July visiting friends. Just saw kilt pins and jewellery everywhere.....and the colours! An inspiring time. <br />
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Also been having a bit of fun over on <a href="http://society6.com/islayspalding">Society6</a> recently, playing about turning Oddgon & Angular drawings into t-shirts, i-phone covers and all manner of things! <br />
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The other exciting thing this summer has been playing with the Mackenzie Caledonian Pipe Band, we've had our best results in a long time this year getting 2nd in the Europeans and 5th in the Worlds and are now gearing up for a recording in November (don't worry, I'll tell you all where you can buy the CD ;) ) and a concert in the Gardyne Theatre in Dundee on February 27th next year. Check us oot wi' all oor trophies :)<br />
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That's all for now, sorry about the massive blog, should really remember the little and often trick.... ah well.... to the workshop! <br />
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<br />Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-88628226539551848552014-05-12T18:02:00.002+01:002014-05-12T18:15:59.170+01:00Kilt Pins, Plaid Brooch and CufflinksA few of the Kilt Pins I've recently been making.<br />
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A Plaid Brooch and a wee pair of Cufflinks too.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WtDA7O1MojY/U3D5aj-PKII/AAAAAAAABGI/wtWuqyC333o/s1600/AnchorKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WtDA7O1MojY/U3D5aj-PKII/AAAAAAAABGI/wtWuqyC333o/s1600/AnchorKP.jpg" height="303" width="400" /></a></div>
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Anchor Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Designed for someone in the Merchant Navy.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tGtsANPUgHo/U3D5bElrAII/AAAAAAAABGU/mywzr67O9W4/s1600/CGThistleShamrock+PlaidBrooch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tGtsANPUgHo/U3D5bElrAII/AAAAAAAABGU/mywzr67O9W4/s1600/CGThistleShamrock+PlaidBrooch.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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Thistle and Shamrock Plaid Brooch with the initials C and G</div>
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Lambton Worm Kilt Pin with Sapphire Eye</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Based on the legendery creature that arose from the River Wear and was slain by Sir John Lambton.</span><br />
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Murdoch Family Crest Kilt Pin</div>
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Italy and Scotland Cufflinks</div>
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Sword Kilt Pin with initials and Aquamarine</div>
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Thistle and Shamrock 2014 Kilt Pin<br />
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I've now opened an <span style="font-size: large;">online shop!</span> Hooray! As well as being able to buy kilt pins online you can now buy my jewellery too :) Having a bit of a soft launch to make sure it's working properly so <a href="http://fromtheworkshop.bigcartel.com/">click here to have a sneaky peek.</a><br />
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Still a lot more products to be added and extra photos of the ones
available already, but please go check it out, any comments are greatly
appreciated, thank you! <br />
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Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-29914163795455546692014-04-18T16:29:00.002+01:002014-04-18T16:30:03.909+01:0010 mins before band...Oh what a beautiful day! Just cycled up the road from my workshop and now I'm sitting by my window in my flat overlooking sunny Dundee and the Tay...meant to be getting drum music ready to give to the kids at pipe band practice soon but thought I'd grab 10 minutes to write this as I've just done what I've done so many times and written a blog post in my head...so thought I'd better get it down quick!<br />
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I write a lot of blog posts in my head, I used to do the same with diary entries. I kept a journal style diary when I was a young teenager (the best time of life to do this I'd say!), stories of so many first times and happy memories, I'm glad I wrote them down!<br />
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It's not always the actual stories though, but seeing the pages and reading the words can jog the brain into new memories. I've always liked memories, and I've always been pretty good at remembering things from my childhood and how I felt as a child and growing up...I think it's important as an adult to remember these feelings and experiences, it's a thing none of us should ever lose. But then as I started to grow up I wrote less often and used photographs instead, I have a couple of excellent photo albums (yes real photos!!) from my student days, all organised, and even a few VHS tapes of our silly times!<br />
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But now it's all online! It's what I love about the internet and social media, especially in my line of work, I feel so integrated with my work and everything I do feeds into inspiring what I'll make next, which then feeds out again into memory joggers of what I was doing/how I was feeling at the time. I record so much of my work, what inspires me or makes me happy on facebook or instagram that now it's like my diary. A lot of people would say social media is an edited version of ourselves but of course it is, we edit ourselves as people for different situations all the time, always have done! A negative feeling might slip through on my personal facebook page now and again, maybe even on instagram, but the positive stuff is what I want to remember, I'll learn from the negatives.<br />
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Can't really remember the point I was trying to make, and I need to go and get ready now, but anyway I think it was something about I should write in this blog more :) I used to write a bit more personal stuff but I feel the last wee while has all been photos of kilt pins, mind you that is this and this is that anyway. I think it's just the sunshine making me feel all contemplatey (no time to find the correct word or sentence structure there)<br />
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Here's a photo of my lovely view :) .....must dash!<br />
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<br />Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-69723034317234779422014-01-31T14:10:00.001+00:002014-01-31T14:13:41.729+00:00Last of the 2013 Kilt PinsWell, I guess it's Happy New Year....wee bit late but there we go! Thought I'd share a selection of some of the bespoke Kilt Pins I worked on before Christmas with you before rambling on about what else I've been up to, so here you go!<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YshkEfdic7Q/UuufgTEIc4I/AAAAAAAABBc/WB8-7visUUg/s1600/Celtic+Spanner+KP+horz.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-YshkEfdic7Q/UuufgTEIc4I/AAAAAAAABBc/WB8-7visUUg/s400/Celtic+Spanner+KP+horz.jpg" /></a></div>
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Celtic Spanner </div>
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Doon Pearl Kilt Pins</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Outlines of the Rivers Ayr and Doon with the customers Doon Pearl halved.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YI6VNZojp-s/Uuub0fzkJLI/AAAAAAAABAk/vKgpsGkethI/s1600/Mustang+KP&CL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YI6VNZojp-s/Uuub0fzkJLI/AAAAAAAABAk/vKgpsGkethI/s1600/Mustang+KP&CL.jpg" height="325" width="400" /></a></div>
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Mustang Cobra Kilt Pin and Cufflinks</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Silver and resin, inspired by the Mustang Cobra and the customers initials: CAM.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IAVX-UPOzIg/Uuub0rKBBEI/AAAAAAAABAs/gDdS1qiPYfQ/s1600/NZ+Ferns.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IAVX-UPOzIg/Uuub0rKBBEI/AAAAAAAABAs/gDdS1qiPYfQ/s1600/NZ+Ferns.jpg" height="271" width="400" /></a></div>
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New Zealand Fern Kilt Pin, Brooch and Cufflinks</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Fern done three ways!</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rT0cucnp3LE/Uuub0wnkt1I/AAAAAAAABA4/WlfZv17Yz_M/s1600/NZ+KP+with+Koru.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rT0cucnp3LE/Uuub0wnkt1I/AAAAAAAABA4/WlfZv17Yz_M/s1600/NZ+KP+with+Koru.jpg" height="311" width="400" /></a></div>
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New Zealand Kilt Pin with Koru</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LbUARR2GONg/Uuub1igllEI/AAAAAAAABBA/kqAYhTlKEDE/s1600/Owl+Kilt+Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LbUARR2GONg/Uuub1igllEI/AAAAAAAABBA/kqAYhTlKEDE/s1600/Owl+Kilt+Pin.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
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Twit Twoo!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nMScck0QYOw/Uuub2Ma7e2I/AAAAAAAABBI/rgjv5RN_trc/s1600/Tattoo+KP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-nMScck0QYOw/Uuub2Ma7e2I/AAAAAAAABBI/rgjv5RN_trc/s1600/Tattoo+KP.jpg" height="400" width="316" /></a></div>
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Maori Tattoo Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Designed to match the clients tattoo.</span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EYHWiXmgF_4/Uuub2mV2NNI/AAAAAAAABBQ/GQoCG4PLj10/s1600/Turtle+KP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-EYHWiXmgF_4/Uuub2mV2NNI/AAAAAAAABBQ/GQoCG4PLj10/s1600/Turtle+KP.jpg" height="400" width="330" /></a></div>
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Polynesian Turtle Kilt Pin</div>
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Bit of a theme running through a few of those designs, just coincidence! Isn't it strange how things turn out? </div>
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Every now and then I get the chance to make things in other metals too! Below is an 18ct Gold pendant, made with the customers own chain and diamond.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0PsRIWCloA/Uuub0EJRAtI/AAAAAAAABAg/SIQXOg6K4SQ/s1600/GoldLeafPendant.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H0PsRIWCloA/Uuub0EJRAtI/AAAAAAAABAg/SIQXOg6K4SQ/s1600/GoldLeafPendant.jpg" height="320" width="256" /></a></div>
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So things have been busy in the workshop so far this year, and not too cold. (think that still might be to come....although so long as there's snow to ski on I'm happy!)<br />
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Been working on some wood and silver kilt pins with my workshop buddy Louise, something I've been wanting to get started on for a while so that feels great! She's been making an excellent selection of 'Man Pins' too, kilt pins/brooches from hardwoods...they are so beautiful! There's been a few photos from the workshop been posted on Instagram, follow @islayspalding and @louisecforbes for a peek at what's going on.<br />
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As well as some interesting Kilt Pin commissions, I'm working on an unusual engagement ring, getting to play with more metals by making platinum and palladium weddings rings, making bits and pieces of my new jewellery collection and finishing up a great big silver belt buckle!<br />
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Also got an interesting side project on the go creating some illustrations for an ebook, something a bit different! I love drawing so it's been fun but it made me realise it's been a while since I drew 'real' things, that aren't kilt pins and pieces of jewellery of course, looking forward to seeing it all come together, I'll let you know when it does! Meanwhile here's a sneaky peek - <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-16hwUwO4Aaw/UuutQA8VIfI/AAAAAAAABB0/FTyT0uIXB4Y/s1600/Lorient.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-16hwUwO4Aaw/UuutQA8VIfI/AAAAAAAABB0/FTyT0uIXB4Y/s1600/Lorient.jpg" height="215" width="400" /></a></div>
Time to stop procrastinating and head out in the rain, doing some big solders in the workshop this afternoon and got a <a href="http://www.nikkimcwilliams.com/2014/01/super-studio-sale-2014-bring-on-the-boomf/">cushion sale</a> to visit later before band practice......have a good one!<br />
Islay<br />
<br />Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-36126250764203815302013-11-05T13:22:00.000+00:002013-11-05T13:22:44.867+00:00Fairbairn-Sykes Kilt PinThe Fairbairn-Sykes Kilt Pin is now available to buy!<br />
Please have a look at my <a href="http://www.islayspalding.co.uk/buykiltpin.htm">website</a> for ordering details and delivery times.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s4Lz7Y0z3jU/UnjvelAQT5I/AAAAAAAAA9Q/gkQxDnHl2vQ/s1600/FBSKP+main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-s4Lz7Y0z3jU/UnjvelAQT5I/AAAAAAAAA9Q/gkQxDnHl2vQ/s400/FBSKP+main.jpg" width="217" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_uy-cloE0s4/UnjvfwVJJSI/AAAAAAAAA9k/CdzLWFc5grY/s1600/FBSKP+side.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_uy-cloE0s4/UnjvfwVJJSI/AAAAAAAAA9k/CdzLWFc5grY/s400/FBSKP+side.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tke5xQUBZwQ/UnjvePCEMWI/AAAAAAAAA9M/EP7WtJdbHco/s1600/FBSKP+catch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tke5xQUBZwQ/UnjvePCEMWI/AAAAAAAAA9M/EP7WtJdbHco/s400/FBSKP+catch.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ce59v18wepc/UnjveshXHJI/AAAAAAAAA9U/9ZRM4vi0XFo/s1600/FBSKP+hinge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="273" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Ce59v18wepc/UnjveshXHJI/AAAAAAAAA9U/9ZRM4vi0XFo/s400/FBSKP+hinge.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The design is based on the Fairbairn-Sykes Fighting Knife, more commonly known as the Royal Marines Commando Dagger as it features in their insignia. The knife was made famous in World War II when issued to the British Commandos, the Airborn Forces, SAS and many other units, especially for the Normandy Landings in June 1944. (wikipedia) <br />
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The Kilt Pin is cast from solid Sterling Silver and each one is stamped with it's own edition number. It measure 95mm in length and has an oxidised black handle and a brush finished blade. The pin is made from a strong, silver coloured base metal and his hinged at the top with a rollover catch. The Kilt Pin is hallmarked in Edinburgh and comes in a presentation box with a certificate of authenticity.<br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pimRbXwuiZ0/Unjwj5JKjrI/AAAAAAAAA94/0ck2jzJCOjY/s1600/FBSKP+Grouped+with+writing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="352" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pimRbXwuiZ0/Unjwj5JKjrI/AAAAAAAAA94/0ck2jzJCOjY/s400/FBSKP+Grouped+with+writing.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<br />Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-657768090117750582013-09-21T13:22:00.000+01:002013-09-23T14:01:50.334+01:00Kilt Pins, Brooches and CufflinksIt seems that these three things have become my specialty of late! Over the past couple of years my practice has taken a slightly different direction than what I originally intended, commissioned items are now mostly what I make. I do enjoy it, I really enjoy it! But I sometimes I feel the artist inside me misses exploring my own ideas rather than someone else's. (according to the little red wiggly line 'else's' isn't a word....well I don't know what else to say there so that's that.)<br />
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Plan to remedy that though, I should have a bit more free time soon as I'm leaving the OTC after 12 years, my other part of life as an Army Drum Major (again, never part of the plan..isn't it strange how life turns out) is coming to an end. I'm a bit sad, but mostly happy, and I've just spent an amazing couple of weeks in Moscow with them parading up and down Red Square so I feel satisfied with what I've done and ready to go.<br />
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So the plan is to turn some of the drawing I do into real life things! I've had money put aside for a print making session for ages now, it's something I've never done, but always fancied, and I'm terrible at making time for these things!! So, Tuesday nights (and the occasional weekend throughout the academic year, plus a week winter camp and 2 week annual camp) will now be drawing time! Yay! Pens and pencils, see you next Tuesday!<br />
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In the meantime, here is a selection of some of the commissioned pieces I've been making over the past, well 10 months really, not been too good at updating the ol' blog of late...preferring the quickness of Instagram really to fire up photos of work in progress and inspiration, so please follow me there if you use it, you'll find me @islayspalding. Also I'm better at pictures than words. :) Enjoy!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--qDZoMumKsk/UjuSesfUn6I/AAAAAAAAA6g/zkjFpykPIBo/s1600/Aberfeldy+Mod+KP&Brooch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--qDZoMumKsk/UjuSesfUn6I/AAAAAAAAA6g/zkjFpykPIBo/s400/Aberfeldy+Mod+KP&Brooch.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Aberfeldy Mod Kilt Pin and Brooch<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Designed as retirement presents for two committee members and to celebrate the Aberfeldy Mod's 90th Anniversary. The kilt pin has a cut out of Loch Tay and the pipe score for 'The Atholl Highlanders'. The brooch features the Lawers Range hill line and the suns rays, taken from the Royal National Mod's emblem, the overall shape is based on a <span class="st">Clàrsach.</span></span> </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bKlfREYll-A/UjuSeq4yDHI/AAAAAAAAA7U/iNZpW7PlL_s/s1600/Bali-Cycling+KP.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="276" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bKlfREYll-A/UjuSeq4yDHI/AAAAAAAAA7U/iNZpW7PlL_s/s400/Bali-Cycling+KP.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Bali Kilt Pin<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Outline of Bali merging into an etching of a cycle route down Scotland and notches representing the date. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DA23IbusCcY/UjuSeSHhYMI/AAAAAAAAA6c/vteR3G-RIVo/s1600/Bird+of+Pray+KP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DA23IbusCcY/UjuSeSHhYMI/AAAAAAAAA6c/vteR3G-RIVo/s400/Bird+of+Pray+KP.jpg" width="218" /></a></div>
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Bird of Pray Kilt Pin<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Date notches and hillscapes, roller printed feather texture. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3dmaim5792k/UjuSfltPlfI/AAAAAAAAA6w/0uw_41_VDsQ/s1600/Borseth+KP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3dmaim5792k/UjuSfltPlfI/AAAAAAAAA6w/0uw_41_VDsQ/s400/Borseth+KP.jpg" width="243" /></a></div>
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Borseth Crest Kilt Pin</div>
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DLD Kilt Pin<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The initials DLD with a thistle set into a notched frame. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pbhhPufbeug/UjuShW8zy5I/AAAAAAAAA64/WBRhe_lVTDo/s1600/FiddleKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-pbhhPufbeug/UjuShW8zy5I/AAAAAAAAA64/WBRhe_lVTDo/s400/FiddleKP.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Fiddle Kilt Pin<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Form inspired by the shapes found in the fiddle, date notches and a photo-etching of the score for 'Crossing the Minch' </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-za9P3Nom69s/UjuSiDKnsXI/AAAAAAAAA7I/W5GmcR0QSUw/s1600/KJB+KiltPin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="301" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-za9P3Nom69s/UjuSiDKnsXI/AAAAAAAAA7I/W5GmcR0QSUw/s400/KJB+KiltPin.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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KJB Kilt Pin </div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kA82FSijZy4/UjuSje7QTYI/AAAAAAAAA8E/R0mt1hdSQGg/s1600/Lemonwood+KP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kA82FSijZy4/UjuSje7QTYI/AAAAAAAAA8E/R0mt1hdSQGg/s400/Lemonwood+KP.jpg" width="246" /></a></div>
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Lemonwood Kilt Pin </div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cj7H7jQrDzc/UjuSiW2DiXI/AAAAAAAAA7E/9VCZbxesBIU/s1600/LM+Kilt+Pin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cj7H7jQrDzc/UjuSiW2DiXI/AAAAAAAAA7E/9VCZbxesBIU/s400/LM+Kilt+Pin.jpg" width="290" /></a></div>
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LM Kilt Pin<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The initials LM topped with a thistle head containing a garnet. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MZf4gTclgP0/UjuSkPc9KpI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/7SBY_frEx8g/s1600/Oak+Leaf+Kilt+Pins.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="202" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MZf4gTclgP0/UjuSkPc9KpI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/7SBY_frEx8g/s400/Oak+Leaf+Kilt+Pins.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Oak Leaf Kilt Pins<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Two kilt pins made for a civil partnership, split by the River Don and containing a photo-etched oak leave design and notches representing the date. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a6HCX5lxSmw/UjuSlejxRsI/AAAAAAAAA7k/pnVyxfFWym0/s1600/OldManOfStor+KP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a6HCX5lxSmw/UjuSlejxRsI/AAAAAAAAA7k/pnVyxfFWym0/s400/OldManOfStor+KP.jpg" width="232" /></a></div>
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Old Man of Stor Kilt Pin<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hillscape of The Three Sisters on Skye running down the centre, topped off with layers of silver making the shape of the rock feature, The Old Man of Stor. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c3KRExur6X4/UjuSl234WTI/AAAAAAAAA7o/-dCr00q3Qqw/s1600/Rose&ThistleKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-c3KRExur6X4/UjuSl234WTI/AAAAAAAAA7o/-dCr00q3Qqw/s400/Rose&ThistleKP.jpg" width="283" /></a></div>
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Rose and Thistle Kilt Pin<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">A design inspired by the illustrations on the couples wedding stationary with the initials E and C wrapped round the stems.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G1gClRkv1hg/UjuSmiBO3qI/AAAAAAAAA70/RfVUuJsEUKU/s1600/Tay&RailBridge+KP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="183" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-G1gClRkv1hg/UjuSmiBO3qI/AAAAAAAAA70/RfVUuJsEUKU/s400/Tay&RailBridge+KP.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Dundee from Wormit Kilt Pin</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jo13O7ghgOc/UjuSm53PV4I/AAAAAAAAA74/VWQi0c8yEY4/s1600/Thistle&Bee+KiltPin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jo13O7ghgOc/UjuSm53PV4I/AAAAAAAAA74/VWQi0c8yEY4/s400/Thistle&Bee+KiltPin.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Thistle and Bee Kilt Pin and Cufflinks<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">The thistle and bee design is taken from the Ferguson Clan Crest. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--LfUwbJ7H2c/UjuSok2nbTI/AAAAAAAAA8I/hcXs0N6KL_I/s1600/Yin&YangKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--LfUwbJ7H2c/UjuSok2nbTI/AAAAAAAAA8I/hcXs0N6KL_I/s320/Yin&YangKP.jpg" width="230" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">Yin and Yang / Rhino and Swan Kilt Pin and Pendant</span><br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">When sat together these pieces make a styalized yin and yang design and the co-orinates for the couples favourite viewpoint, etched into the silver, join up. The kilt pin is inspired by the horns of a rhino, and the pendant the neck of a swan. When together the notches represent the date of their owners wedding.</span><br />
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Thanks for reading/looking! And if this has inspired you please send your commission requests to islayspalding@gmail.com...I love to hear your ideas!
Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-75570767826045000352013-08-08T16:17:00.001+01:002013-08-08T16:17:06.463+01:00On a busI'm on a bus, going to Edinburgh to meet a few friends and pop in to the West End Craft Fair, and I was just thinking about all the things that get done and how we don't really know who does them. Like all the average folk that build roads, build buildings, bridges, ships, planes all the crazy things about the place! It never fails to amaze me that we manage to pull together as a team and make these things happen, whatever part you play in it. It got me thinking then about the folk who don't look around and wonder. I heard a story recently about a women who was trying to find a job, she'd been on job seekers allowance for years after losing her job, I can't remember exactly what she did, it was some sort of admin job, but she couldn't see past only being able to do exactly the same job so she finding it difficult to find a new one. The person working at the job centre asked of there was any other jobs she could do, anything she had experience or anything she wanted to do or try out. The women seemed stumped and said there was nothing else she could think of, nothing else she had ever even imagined doing, whether achievable or not, she just didn't have the imagination to see beyond what she knew already. Eventually she replied, asking the job centre employee what their job was like, saying it looked good as it was sitting down, she could perhaps do that? <div>Perhaps we need more inspiration, more pride in what we do to inspire others to join in and contribute, let's shout about our achievements, however small or seemingly insignificant, what it goes towards to become a whole can be magnificent. I'd love to know who laid those bricks, who painted that wall, who planted those flowers, who cleaned that street, and of course who decided all these should be done in that way! Perhaps that information being out there would make people take a bit more responsibility and pride in their actions, and therefore inspire others to do the same. Salute the little people! Lots of little things go to make one big thing! We should thank the bin men, I'd love to see a notice board in the city centre with the faces of the people that had kept our streets tidy that day, perhaps it would be harder to drop litter when you knew who was picking it up? We should thank the tradesmen who build our infrastructure, I'd love to see a website where you could see the people involved, from the architects and planners to the person who painted the railings, perhaps it would be harder to vandalise if you knew who made it? </div><div>I'm not saying this is solution to people finding jobs, I've just been watching too much Mad Men so everything's turning into advertising campaigns at the moment. And I realise it's a bit more difficult than just being inspired enough to get off your arse and broaden your horizons a bit, and in a lot of ways, the problem lies in the hands of people who won't ever take responsibility and are so beyond reality they probably don't even realise, or worse, they do but don't give a fuck because they're quite happy thank you and there's bigger things to worry about. </div><div>Should probably sign off before I get ranty, plus I'm about to cross the Forth and want to look at the bridges. I just want everyone to be happy and nice to each other really, help each other out and make good things happen and things to be beautiful! Same old shit. I'll try blog about some jewellery next time, I don't usually spew my thoughts out everywhere, I'm not particularly confident about constructing an argument or giving my views on things, but you know, bus journeys get samey. </div><div><br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-T-Emj_5dE9o/UgO2bcW9C4I/AAAAAAAAA5s/YTsHQ_UqEbA/s640/blogger-image--2026971946.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-T-Emj_5dE9o/UgO2bcW9C4I/AAAAAAAAA5s/YTsHQ_UqEbA/s640/blogger-image--2026971946.jpg"></a></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Guid bridge. Pity about the rain. #scotland </div>Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-50568231623191134292013-07-30T12:07:00.005+01:002013-07-30T12:08:05.576+01:00Spalding Sisters Studio Sale<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xSCZWBE9heY/UfeeTaFxNtI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/OLwbPYPDu4Q/s1600/StudioSale+for+web.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-xSCZWBE9heY/UfeeTaFxNtI/AAAAAAAAA5Q/OLwbPYPDu4Q/s320/StudioSale+for+web.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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For the facebook event page go here - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/524987460890025/">https://www.facebook.com/events/524987460890025/</a>Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-4346986294347936572013-06-07T14:35:00.001+01:002013-06-07T14:35:58.895+01:00UpdateI've composed about 10 blog posts since my last, but they are all I'm my head. It's a pretty good place to be right now! <br />
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For more timely updates you can also follow me on Instagram, twitter, Facebook, and even Vine now! Just search IslaySpalding, there's only one! <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gPLpn3Kc_9s/UbHhuVINTmI/AAAAAAAAA3k/QIWEWbjKVYM/s640/blogger-image--697533139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gPLpn3Kc_9s/UbHhuVINTmI/AAAAAAAAA3k/QIWEWbjKVYM/s640/blogger-image--697533139.jpg" /></a></div>Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-63007209073540872042012-12-12T13:16:00.000+00:002012-12-12T13:21:59.517+00:00Christmas is coming...and the geese are getting fat! I'm just back from five days living in a marquee in Earls Court, London, where I was playing with Tayforth UOTC at the British Military Tournament (horse pomp and ceremonial bling) and BOOM, Christmas is almost here!<br />
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So, if you want to get your hands on a piece of Islay Spalding Jewellery or a Kilt Pin this December I'd better tell you where to get it!<br />
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The beautiful <a href="http://www.tayberrygallery.co.uk/index.htm">Tayberry Gallery</a> in Perth has a range of <a href="http://www.islayspalding.co.uk/biocubespage.htm">Biocubes</a> as well as some pieces from the <a href="http://www.islayspalding.co.uk/flotsampage.htm">Flotsam & Jetsam Collection</a>. <br />
<a href="http://www.touchedbyscotland.com/"><br /></a>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TdvU2F9oYZI/UMh-fPMCb1I/AAAAAAAAA1o/g-vCGhPARrE/s1600/BiocubesTayberry.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TdvU2F9oYZI/UMh-fPMCb1I/AAAAAAAAA1o/g-vCGhPARrE/s400/BiocubesTayberry.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VaOrLW2qt1Y/UMh-u4gQcAI/AAAAAAAAA1w/5Izo6nWbu8k/s1600/F&JSticksGreen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="291" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VaOrLW2qt1Y/UMh-u4gQcAI/AAAAAAAAA1w/5Izo6nWbu8k/s400/F&JSticksGreen.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.touchedbyscotland.com/">Touched by Scotland</a> in Oyne, Aberdeenshire, have a selection of Biomorphs in their Winter Exhibition.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qxzh9wv-RFo/UMh-zQCAO8I/AAAAAAAAA14/A58NAHPzgws/s1600/BiomorphsTBS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qxzh9wv-RFo/UMh-zQCAO8I/AAAAAAAAA14/A58NAHPzgws/s400/BiomorphsTBS.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If you're further down south then <a href="http://www.frannyandfiler.com/">Franny and Filer</a> in Manchester have a collection of Trisition pieces and the brand new Hop Studios in Lewes have a selection of Biomorphs.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J2aLnmGmcss/UMh-9rHcchI/AAAAAAAAA2E/qqAm2-9s1V0/s1600/trisitiongroup.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-J2aLnmGmcss/UMh-9rHcchI/AAAAAAAAA2E/qqAm2-9s1V0/s400/trisitiongroup.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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If a Kilt Pin is what you're after then please take a look at what's available on my website here -</div>
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<a href="http://www.islayspalding.co.uk/buykiltpin.htm">Ready to Wear Kilt Pins</a></div>
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It's a little late for a bespoke design for Christmas time... but to get your imaginations going, and ideas flowing, here's a selection of bespoke designs created over the last few months. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q6a23xSSSQI/UMiAIgEKM8I/AAAAAAAAA2M/Q_duH6bZyvs/s1600/ItalyKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q6a23xSSSQI/UMiAIgEKM8I/AAAAAAAAA2M/Q_duH6bZyvs/s400/ItalyKP.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Italy Kilt Pin</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXWnc1XwNuo/UMiANylA_yI/AAAAAAAAA2U/1VS93Jsa2S4/s1600/MG+KP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ZXWnc1XwNuo/UMiANylA_yI/AAAAAAAAA2U/1VS93Jsa2S4/s400/MG+KP.jpg" width="186" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Deconstructed Stave Kilt Pin</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RWrNcq3faKM/UMiAPUpSs3I/AAAAAAAAA2c/weGfB71jWb8/s1600/MatthewsKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="333" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RWrNcq3faKM/UMiAPUpSs3I/AAAAAAAAA2c/weGfB71jWb8/s400/MatthewsKP.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="st">An Eala Bhàn Kilt Pin</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-62fjx8zc50o/UMiAQXs5g6I/AAAAAAAAA2g/nWEn4U3XkRc/s1600/Oxford-JapanKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-62fjx8zc50o/UMiAQXs5g6I/AAAAAAAAA2g/nWEn4U3XkRc/s400/Oxford-JapanKP.jpg" width="225" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oxford/Japan Kilt Pin</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XZi6m14_kKQ/UMiARR_ORYI/AAAAAAAAA2s/AIz0YHsXgQA/s1600/Schiehallion+Brooch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XZi6m14_kKQ/UMiARR_ORYI/AAAAAAAAA2s/AIz0YHsXgQA/s400/Schiehallion+Brooch.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Schiehallion Brooch</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bottP7wVo1s/UMiAStcy2OI/AAAAAAAAA20/TorIRi_ve5E/s1600/Skerryvore+KP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bottP7wVo1s/UMiAStcy2OI/AAAAAAAAA20/TorIRi_ve5E/s400/Skerryvore+KP.jpg" width="236" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skerryvore Kilt Pin</td></tr>
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Right, off to the workshop, got some Biomorphs to fill with resin and a Kilt Pin to polish. Remember, for more updates please 'like' my <a href="https://www.facebook.com/islayspalding.jewellery">Jewellery Facebook </a>page, I have a separate one for just <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KiltPins">Kilt Pins</a>, or follow me on <a href="https://twitter.com/islayspalding">Twitter</a> or Instagram using @islayspalding Hope you all have a very merry Christmas!<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SIzA6fgD2k8/UMiCQkfkHvI/AAAAAAAAA28/JkOOMUk7QkU/s1600/CatNecklace.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-SIzA6fgD2k8/UMiCQkfkHvI/AAAAAAAAA28/JkOOMUk7QkU/s400/CatNecklace.jpg" width="288" /></a></div>
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meow!</div>
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<br />Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-30202597032064357972012-07-21T21:22:00.000+01:002012-07-22T14:52:57.688+01:00Summer holiday on South UistSince I'm finally up to speed again after my holidays I thought I'd better show you the pics! I spent the first week of July on South Uist at <a href="http://www.ceolas.co.uk/">Ceòlas</a>, a Gaelic music summer school, playing my fiddle, learning Ceol Mor the Allan MacDonald way, inappropriately hitting things with drumsticks and attempting and failing to learn any Gaelic. Except the words uisge beatha....that means whisky!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zsoJeuXWVJ0/UAFKdIYVYoI/AAAAAAAAA1c/c-7cnKOLiiI/s1600/ceolas8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zsoJeuXWVJ0/UAFKdIYVYoI/AAAAAAAAA1c/c-7cnKOLiiI/s400/ceolas8.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Excellent Kilt Pin inspiration</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iB0jDFVwt8I/UADncddR1nI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/whNgEra2Meg/s1600/ceolas1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iB0jDFVwt8I/UADncddR1nI/AAAAAAAAA0Y/whNgEra2Meg/s400/ceolas1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sun setting from the ferry</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WDe0STCkFho/UADnljR91MI/AAAAAAAAA0g/mk83uC5tHWA/s1600/ceolas2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="287" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WDe0STCkFho/UADnljR91MI/AAAAAAAAA0g/mk83uC5tHWA/s400/ceolas2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Looking towards Barra</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OyHebntVNbE/UADnvrZh-tI/AAAAAAAAA0s/euWwLgkJB5s/s1600/ceolas3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OyHebntVNbE/UADnvrZh-tI/AAAAAAAAA0s/euWwLgkJB5s/s400/ceolas3.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Learning tunes on the beach,,,,good times!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PxJUDh160sg/UADn4EIfxJI/AAAAAAAAA00/JQkHy-xGlpI/s1600/ceolas4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PxJUDh160sg/UADn4EIfxJI/AAAAAAAAA00/JQkHy-xGlpI/s400/ceolas4.jpg" width="286" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me and Julia</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9cyuPLuCvPc/UADn_aPBI7I/AAAAAAAAA08/b5USSfQDeDc/s1600/ceolas5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="293" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9cyuPLuCvPc/UADn_aPBI7I/AAAAAAAAA08/b5USSfQDeDc/s400/ceolas5.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just want to be back there now!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rGCUFrn3JIw/UADoJEbZzCI/AAAAAAAAA1I/IOqg10YsBiU/s1600/ceolas6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="298" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rGCUFrn3JIw/UADoJEbZzCI/AAAAAAAAA1I/IOqg10YsBiU/s400/ceolas6.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lochboisdale very early one morning</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gsz3kaCCa-A/UADoQneOGWI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/hQsGqPwXe1o/s1600/ceolas7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="270" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-gsz3kaCCa-A/UADoQneOGWI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/hQsGqPwXe1o/s400/ceolas7.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hills with their cloud hats</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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And here's a wee video of the pub...<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dzbdDE0vGqATi5xIstFBGBkDG_LLpCvjeziQHRuY-yII795zbZrgzmr5S3yujh4pTJuLdsoBJATelzHHbKHJA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe> </div>
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"Thig crioch airan t-saoghal ach mairidh gaol is ceol" (The world will come to an end, but love and music will endure)</div>
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<br />Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-71777708797907677782012-06-28T19:55:00.000+01:002012-06-28T19:57:40.196+01:00New Commissioned WorkAs promised, a selection of recent commissions for jewellery and Kilt Pins - <br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MNV9ihi2jRU/T-uxpaluo-I/AAAAAAAAAys/qnvzQtoUtHg/s1600/Emma&Brian+Rings.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="325" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MNV9ihi2jRU/T-uxpaluo-I/AAAAAAAAAys/qnvzQtoUtHg/s400/Emma&Brian+Rings.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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18ct Wedding Rings</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Notches and lines represent the date of the wedding.</span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EO1OjtKrRe4/T-uxuYaXXGI/AAAAAAAAAzM/5WPhI0LQT9k/s1600/Thistle&Shamrock+KP&CL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="271" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EO1OjtKrRe4/T-uxuYaXXGI/AAAAAAAAAzM/5WPhI0LQT9k/s400/Thistle&Shamrock+KP&CL.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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Thistle and Shamrock Kilt Pin and Cuff Links</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">For a wedding to match the stationary designs.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TmBloInMUok/T-u0cKQm6wI/AAAAAAAAAzY/63Um15VQS54/s1600/AntlerKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="296" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TmBloInMUok/T-u0cKQm6wI/AAAAAAAAAzY/63Um15VQS54/s400/AntlerKP.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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Stac Pollaidh and Antler Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">Hillscape with Stac Pollaidh at the top, a piece of the clients favourite music and an edge inspired by the shape of a deer's antler. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhj77p5WJjo/T-uxqOhDfGI/AAAAAAAAAy0/9aNxFm2Wcns/s1600/JillHannenKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="295" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bhj77p5WJjo/T-uxqOhDfGI/AAAAAAAAAy0/9aNxFm2Wcns/s400/JillHannenKP.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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India Pendant Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">I was given this silver pendant to mount on a brass background and turn into a Kilt Pin.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oQ8bvlMNuco/T-u2TFcfe_I/AAAAAAAAAzw/oaHpLS_dt2o/s1600/Hexagon+Brooch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oQ8bvlMNuco/T-u2TFcfe_I/AAAAAAAAAzw/oaHpLS_dt2o/s400/Hexagon+Brooch.jpg" width="400" /> </a></div>
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Hexagon Brooch</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">This piece was designed with a friend and made for his girlfriend. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0vdLjUIs_r0/T-u0fB5nSoI/AAAAAAAAAzo/K8q76hYi5Zc/s1600/SydneyOperaHouseKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0vdLjUIs_r0/T-u0fB5nSoI/AAAAAAAAAzo/K8q76hYi5Zc/s400/SydneyOperaHouseKP.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sydney Opera House Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">For a 30th birthday, featuring the River Thames inside a Sydney Opera House shape with notches and lines around the edges representing the clients date of birth.</span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfZZoRzQ2W0/T-yTvRXt0lI/AAAAAAAAA0E/DMP0-iN8JWI/s1600/ColliesKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfZZoRzQ2W0/T-yTvRXt0lI/AAAAAAAAA0E/DMP0-iN8JWI/s400/ColliesKP.jpg" width="242" /> </a></div>
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Collie's Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">For graduation, St Andrews Cathedral and a map of the Lairig Ghru.</span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-moBatUakkRY/T-yTzgugsLI/AAAAAAAAA0M/ezZFIRRONtM/s1600/ConisbyKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="275" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-moBatUakkRY/T-yTzgugsLI/AAAAAAAAA0M/ezZFIRRONtM/s400/ConisbyKP.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Conisby Kilt Pin</div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">The coastline around Conisby, Islay, and the Gaelic word for love.</span></div>
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I've just had to delete a few images upon realising the dates they were made for have not yet passed, so better not give away any surprises! </div>
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Now, back to the workshop for a bit before a last day of work tomorrow, British Pipe Band Championships on Saturday then HOLIDAY! A week on South Uist - fiddling, piping and merriment!</div>
<br />Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-72957606227580835582012-06-25T01:29:00.000+01:002012-06-25T01:29:27.331+01:00New Studio!I am excited to announce that Islay Spalding Contemporary Jewellery Designs is expanding! I now have a space in the wasps studios in Dundee, shared with my sister, to use as a design studio. For the first time in a couple of years I will have a desk, a real actual desk and not a living room table! So, no more designing kilt pins in pyjamas for me. As great as it sounds, working from home was starting to drive me a bit crazy, it looses it's appeal after a while, and to have a space where I can just work and not worry about dishes and distractions is a total treat. It's just round the corner from my workshop, 4 minutes 50 from bench to desk locking doors behind me... not bad! The other huge advantage of another work space is for the cleaner side of jewellery making. The presentation and photography of pieces, packing and wrapping and paperwork is all much easier in a space that's not filled with tools, materials and dust (my workshop buddy cuts a lot of wood...)
We've still got a bit of shifting to do and some shelves to build to complete the master plan but here's a wee peek at what it looked like at the Wasps Open Studios last weekend -<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--nlwkWE3SSw/T-ekJkXKRzI/AAAAAAAAAyE/1UpcrBDJE48/s1600/Wasps4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="328" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--nlwkWE3SSw/T-ekJkXKRzI/AAAAAAAAAyE/1UpcrBDJE48/s400/Wasps4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f4Qg2_o24A0/T-ekRAiRpPI/AAAAAAAAAyM/FxSeiOrZK1A/s1600/Wasps5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-f4Qg2_o24A0/T-ekRAiRpPI/AAAAAAAAAyM/FxSeiOrZK1A/s400/Wasps5.jpg" width="298" /></a></div>
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Oh, and we have a hole in the floor! <br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QttREI1GRrY/T-euXYfEQOI/AAAAAAAAAyg/CpIXnW0gitI/s1600/IMG_0880.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QttREI1GRrY/T-euXYfEQOI/AAAAAAAAAyg/CpIXnW0gitI/s400/IMG_0880.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I'll get a wee blog post up this week about some of the commissioned kilt pins I've made recently since there's not been one up in a while, meanwhile, take a look at this stop motion animation by Max Hattler, total jewellery inspiration!<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="281" mozallowfullscreen="" src="http://player.vimeo.com/video/42832538?portrait=0&color=ff000d" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="500"></iframe> <br />
<a href="http://vimeo.com/42832538">Shift (by Max Hattler)</a> from <a href="http://vimeo.com/maxhattler">Max Hattler</a> on <a href="http://vimeo.com/">Vimeo</a>.Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-6359422669288709742012-01-15T02:06:00.000+00:002012-01-15T02:06:03.539+00:00Jigsaws For FriendsHappy New Year and aw' that! I've hit the ground running this year with plenty of projects and jobs on the go and a head full of ideas! Just back from a late one in the workshop (which is thankfully not all frozen up this year) where I've been working on some kilt pin and wedding ring commissions. And here's some I made earlier, along with a couple of my other projects.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qNDH1ItOCAc/TxIppyEVQ2I/AAAAAAAAAwc/joL0ETINPb0/s1600/SkydiversKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qNDH1ItOCAc/TxIppyEVQ2I/AAAAAAAAAwc/joL0ETINPb0/s400/SkydiversKP.jpg" width="349" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Skydiver Kilt Pin</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mTL79TRKZvc/TxIpqNST5fI/AAAAAAAAAwk/K4tSK_wqyuE/s1600/TheMunzer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mTL79TRKZvc/TxIpqNST5fI/AAAAAAAAAwk/K4tSK_wqyuE/s400/TheMunzer.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Munzer</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-To_1z2AK8oM/TxIpqV0TWbI/AAAAAAAAAw4/j-XfBITqOKQ/s1600/EdinburghSkylineKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="286" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-To_1z2AK8oM/TxIpqV0TWbI/AAAAAAAAAw4/j-XfBITqOKQ/s400/EdinburghSkylineKP.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Edinburgh Skyline Kilt Pin</td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b>Jigsaws For Friends</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">felt pen on pre-cut cardboard</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gYo3gC9ln2E/TxGDcs5MQsI/AAAAAAAAAv4/EjjyVv0dxEw/s1600/jigsaw4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-gYo3gC9ln2E/TxGDcs5MQsI/AAAAAAAAAv4/EjjyVv0dxEw/s320/jigsaw4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ac9aXI0-BCA/TxGDfEpZzGI/AAAAAAAAAwA/MutztLvhUQE/s1600/jigsaw3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ac9aXI0-BCA/TxGDfEpZzGI/AAAAAAAAAwA/MutztLvhUQE/s320/jigsaw3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uaVi-C9y3IQ/TxGDh6A-qMI/AAAAAAAAAwI/Ei7h-JBnV-k/s1600/jigsaw2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uaVi-C9y3IQ/TxGDh6A-qMI/AAAAAAAAAwI/Ei7h-JBnV-k/s320/jigsaw2.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-215Obt2pLlE/TxGDkzSiaEI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/YomARqg2fWM/s1600/jigsaw1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-215Obt2pLlE/TxGDkzSiaEI/AAAAAAAAAwQ/YomARqg2fWM/s320/jigsaw1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b>Workshop Sounds</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">beatmaker 2, the ultimate procrastination tool</span></div><b><br />
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<object height="81" width="100%"> <param name="movie" value="https://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F28162141"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed allowscriptaccess="always" height="81" src="https://player.soundcloud.com/player.swf?url=http%3A%2F%2Fapi.soundcloud.com%2Ftracks%2F28162141" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="100%"></embed> </object> <a href="http://soundcloud.com/islayspalding/workshop-sounds-ii">Workshop Sounds II</a> by <a href="http://soundcloud.com/islayspalding">IslaySpalding</a> <br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><b>Triquetra Collection for Shetland Jewellery</b></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">visit their website here - <a href="http://www.shetlandjewellery.co.uk/triquetra-two-tone-brooch.html">www.shetlandjewellery.co.uk</a></span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oDArKq6YHTk/TxIxMkz9I0I/AAAAAAAAAxA/1gRsQivP1Lw/s1600/Triqutra%2BBrooch2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="285" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-oDArKq6YHTk/TxIxMkz9I0I/AAAAAAAAAxA/1gRsQivP1Lw/s400/Triqutra%2BBrooch2" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKefV61R2-Q/TxIxMjTePqI/AAAAAAAAAxI/wiVsokW9V94/s1600/Triquetra%2BNecklace" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="211" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-aKefV61R2-Q/TxIxMjTePqI/AAAAAAAAAxI/wiVsokW9V94/s400/Triquetra%2BNecklace" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3oDRFuSTTmI/TxIxM39aPWI/AAAAAAAAAxY/fqEEOayWLp8/s1600/Triqutra%2BBrooch" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="310" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3oDRFuSTTmI/TxIxM39aPWI/AAAAAAAAAxY/fqEEOayWLp8/s400/Triqutra%2BBrooch" width="400" /></a></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WxkhFZfILIo/TxIxNVdSXQI/AAAAAAAAAxk/AmVsPXFTC2M/s1600/Triquetra%2BRing" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="387" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WxkhFZfILIo/TxIxNVdSXQI/AAAAAAAAAxk/AmVsPXFTC2M/s400/Triquetra%2BRing" width="400" /></a></div>Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-33255855622567421392011-11-19T10:31:00.001+00:002011-11-19T10:34:27.277+00:00This and ThatWhy hello there! It's been a wee while, I've just realised my business and I have turned another year older since my last post, yay! So what have I been up to you may ask? This and that.... had a braw weekend in Germany performing with my pipe band where I got to open the show with a solo drum fanfare which was pretty exciting, made some cracking kilt pins (if I may say so myself), doing a bit of drum teaching....and learning, played my fiddle a lot recently which has been lovely and just sent some jewellery down south to the Chapel Gallery in Lancashire for their Christmas Exhibition - <a href="http://westlancslsp.org.uk/leisure__tourism/chapel_gallery/exhibitions_and_events.aspx">Objects of Desire</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hQBGZ2ot0qk/TscH0JO4U8I/AAAAAAAAAt4/PEbkW2tHg_E/s1600/ChapelGallery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="282" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-hQBGZ2ot0qk/TscH0JO4U8I/AAAAAAAAAt4/PEbkW2tHg_E/s400/ChapelGallery.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biomorphs at the Chapel Gallery, Lancashire</td></tr>
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And here are some of those kilt pins I was boasting about -<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3nbXva-U4X8/TscI-gYk8nI/AAAAAAAAAuA/9qFZtLUx46s/s1600/Drummy+KiltPin.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="236" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3nbXva-U4X8/TscI-gYk8nI/AAAAAAAAAuA/9qFZtLUx46s/s320/Drummy+KiltPin.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Drum Major's Mace Kilt Pin</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AhjHaVe0y5Q/TscI_WlpwZI/AAAAAAAAAuE/EKhpcPE8mIM/s1600/Miners+Pick+KP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="237" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-AhjHaVe0y5Q/TscI_WlpwZI/AAAAAAAAAuE/EKhpcPE8mIM/s320/Miners+Pick+KP.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Miners Pick Kilt Pin</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NTw4BIZnKkU/TscJAY3GjBI/AAAAAAAAAuM/0P8aP8H4fGA/s1600/LotusElise.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="218" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NTw4BIZnKkU/TscJAY3GjBI/AAAAAAAAAuM/0P8aP8H4fGA/s320/LotusElise.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lotus Elise Father & Son Kilt Pins</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9qlcsFx6G7M/TscJBEHWTPI/AAAAAAAAAuU/ioH2J53LBTo/s1600/Crabbit+Midge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="244" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9qlcsFx6G7M/TscJBEHWTPI/AAAAAAAAAuU/ioH2J53LBTo/s320/Crabbit+Midge.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crabbit Midge Kilt Pin</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UxbJGj44ab8/TscJCiovzFI/AAAAAAAAAug/nG83V3UyHlQ/s1600/SetSquareKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="233" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UxbJGj44ab8/TscJCiovzFI/AAAAAAAAAug/nG83V3UyHlQ/s320/SetSquareKP.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Set Square Kilt Pin</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BqCMqDq6-TA/TscJDjJuxqI/AAAAAAAAAuo/RU-Cf6CFjcw/s1600/SA80Bayonet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BqCMqDq6-TA/TscJDjJuxqI/AAAAAAAAAuo/RU-Cf6CFjcw/s320/SA80Bayonet.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SA80 Bayonet Kilt Pin</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Germany was a pretty whistle stop tour, mostly on a bus, that fortunately sold beer, but we did get to see a bit of culture, as well as provide it of course! We stumbled across this brilliant house in Braunsheweig and a church with some amazing stained glass. <br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D9o_b5fWckI/Tscf4B_ZUzI/AAAAAAAAAvI/6HbJvuLQ92I/s1600/germany.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="385" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-D9o_b5fWckI/Tscf4B_ZUzI/AAAAAAAAAvI/6HbJvuLQ92I/s400/germany.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Happy Rizzi House</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--x5wWUvcnQo/Tscf1oOdq5I/AAAAAAAAAvA/3ghezFIjrjs/s1600/germany5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--x5wWUvcnQo/Tscf1oOdq5I/AAAAAAAAAvA/3ghezFIjrjs/s320/germany5.jpg" width="284" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stained Glass Window in St. Magni Church<b> </b></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vIg6f2gKNWI/Tscf54nD_pI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/eZfFmCwrATU/s1600/germany4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vIg6f2gKNWI/Tscf54nD_pI/AAAAAAAAAvQ/eZfFmCwrATU/s400/germany4.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A much bigger stained Glass Window in St. Magni Church</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
We also stopped off in <span class="st">Köln for a couple of hours, saw the massive cathedral, helped/annoyed some buskers and drank some beer.</span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-isg1ZKIDBok/TscfzUPCyTI/AAAAAAAAAu4/VZ3jq20x2tU/s1600/germany7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-isg1ZKIDBok/TscfzUPCyTI/AAAAAAAAAu4/VZ3jq20x2tU/s400/germany7.jpg" width="291" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span class="st">Köln Cathedral</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kmDuYhTcfJ0/Tscf7ama2SI/AAAAAAAAAvY/wBh0FE3Lu4g/s1600/germany3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kmDuYhTcfJ0/Tscf7ama2SI/AAAAAAAAAvY/wBh0FE3Lu4g/s400/germany3.jpg" width="230" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gerhard Richter Pixel Window</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eiFqQDIORds/Tscf-S8C3hI/AAAAAAAAAvg/SVm7e2Q2yOI/s1600/germany2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eiFqQDIORds/Tscf-S8C3hI/AAAAAAAAAvg/SVm7e2Q2yOI/s400/germany2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Nice Mosaic!</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nUpFps1v8sI/TscgBIiBaOI/AAAAAAAAAvo/lZCbGdESbVw/s1600/germany1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nUpFps1v8sI/TscgBIiBaOI/AAAAAAAAAvo/lZCbGdESbVw/s400/germany1.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even some thistles</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
That's all for now! Is it too early?.... Probably not...ok here goes because I probably won't be back for a while.... hope you all have a lovely Christmas! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vr79vCFmMKQ/TseFSB-dvCI/AAAAAAAAAvw/cx_r6anVQkI/s1600/Me+and+HSD+Drummers" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vr79vCFmMKQ/TseFSB-dvCI/AAAAAAAAAvw/cx_r6anVQkI/s320/Me+and+HSD+Drummers" width="320" /></a></div><br />
<span id="goog_1993116638"></span><span id="goog_1993116639"></span>Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-91001388567276604842011-09-27T02:31:00.002+01:002011-09-27T02:40:28.548+01:00Gordon Duncan Kilt Pin and NecklaceI was honoured to be asked to make a Kilt Pin and Necklace for the <a href="http://www.gordonduncan.co.uk/">Gordon Duncan Memorial Trust</a> recently. They were presented to the compères <a href="http://www.garywest.co.uk/">Gary West</a> and <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fiona_Ritchie">Fiona Ritchie</a> at the fifth annual Gordon Duncan concert, A National Treasure V, on Saturday night. The design for the Kilt Pin was based around the Gordon Duncan skeleton logo (read <a href="http://www.tradmusichall.com/gordon-duncan.html">here</a> for the full story!), the Necklace for Fiona has a design based on radio transmission waves on the front and the logo on the back.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ezoM0nLs1i0/ToEkEUBih3I/AAAAAAAAAto/b60klMiVZYY/s1600/GDKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="285" width="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ezoM0nLs1i0/ToEkEUBih3I/AAAAAAAAAto/b60klMiVZYY/s400/GDKP.jpg" /></a></div><br />
And here's the flyer I made for the occasion, hope you picked one up!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0PtopUhGAOg/ToEo8BWEz6I/AAAAAAAAAtw/vx3lNVyhXyE/s1600/KiltPinFlyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="286" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0PtopUhGAOg/ToEo8BWEz6I/AAAAAAAAAtw/vx3lNVyhXyE/s400/KiltPinFlyer.jpg" /></a></div>Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-67774106182016981742011-08-19T11:06:00.000+01:002011-08-19T11:06:26.458+01:00Biocubes at Black Box BoutiqueI sent a new collection of <a href="http://www.islayspalding.co.uk/biocubespage.htm">Biocubes</a> down to <a href="http://blackboxboutique.wordpress.com/about/">Black Box Boutique</a> in Edinburgh last week. If you haven't visited this wee gem of a shop yet then you must! It's filled with curious delights of the jewellery, textiles, ceramics and illustration kind and situated on West Bow Street in the Grassmarket. Run by jeweller <a href="http://www.hannahlivingston.com/">Hannah Livingston</a> the shop showcases not only the work of the talented makers but an interior created by <a href="http://lylemccance.com/">Board Stupid</a> furniture designers, branding created by <a href="http://www.rydo.co.uk/">Rydo</a> and an in-house jewellery studio where Hannah Livingston and <a href="http://www.sarahbrownjewellery.co.uk/wordpress/">Sarah Brown</a> create their work, all fellow ex-DoJers I'm proud to add!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pstCqNDX8KM/Tk2wxVveTBI/AAAAAAAAAs8/mxgE3QW5xqo/s1600/BiocubesWithText.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-pstCqNDX8KM/Tk2wxVveTBI/AAAAAAAAAs8/mxgE3QW5xqo/s400/BiocubesWithText.jpg" width="318" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LMxLPfUbMS8/Tk2ybv9De2I/AAAAAAAAAtU/b_6qNPhcwJ8/s1600/BiocubeOnSnake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LMxLPfUbMS8/Tk2ybv9De2I/AAAAAAAAAtU/b_6qNPhcwJ8/s400/BiocubeOnSnake.jpg" width="277" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Double Sided Biocube Pendant</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_NuzqQcbhx4/Tk2wzPZT1gI/AAAAAAAAAtE/QY-QJDKF13c/s1600/BiocubeRings%2526Earrings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="288" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_NuzqQcbhx4/Tk2wzPZT1gI/AAAAAAAAAtE/QY-QJDKF13c/s400/BiocubeRings%2526Earrings.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biocube Rings and Ear Studs</td></tr>
</tbody></table><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iE8nwLys04w/TkzUSLahUOI/AAAAAAAAAs4/XBtd0Z_o9oU/s1600/BiocubeDanglys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iE8nwLys04w/TkzUSLahUOI/AAAAAAAAAs4/XBtd0Z_o9oU/s400/BiocubeDanglys.jpg" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Biocube Earrings</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Here's the Batman Kilt Pin I mentioned in my last blog, this particular Batman logo comes from Warner Bros Batman Beyond animated series in 1999. Did you realise there were lots of different Batman logos? I didn't! Great wee video showing the evolution <a href="http://www.logodesignlove.com/batman-symbol-evolution">here>></a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U7lDgBFI7HI/Tk40uL56mhI/AAAAAAAAAtg/KNlcQHWKenU/s1600/Batman%2BKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-U7lDgBFI7HI/Tk40uL56mhI/AAAAAAAAAtg/KNlcQHWKenU/s400/Batman%2BKP.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Batman Kilt Pin</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<br />
Managed to escape reality, and pipe bands, for a few days this week and spent some relaxation time in the cutest wee bothy on the shores of Loch Shieldaig under the impressive Torridon Mountains, I really needed it and I find it so inspiring to be surrounded by the Scottish scenery even if it comes with midgies! <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PbXwOFp_fwk/Tk2yYt5tUoI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/_qLfxFItt4Q/s1600/Shieldaig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PbXwOFp_fwk/Tk2yYt5tUoI/AAAAAAAAAtQ/_qLfxFItt4Q/s400/Shieldaig.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br />
Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2879473212381678496.post-6223352159545657612011-08-04T13:37:00.002+01:002011-08-04T13:45:30.680+01:00Kilt Pins and Thritty PingsHope you're all having a fun summer and are getting the time to catch some rays! I've been busy in my workshop, enjoying lunches outside in the sunshine and back competing with the pipe band again so it's all go! I've quite a few things to show and tell! Let's start with some Kilt Pins, four commissioned and a wee treat for myself.<br />
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<table 261="" ;="" align="center" auto;="" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" center;="" class="tr-caption-container" margin-left:="" margin-right:="" text-align:=""><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VDeT9AiNbMo/TjdDpOr8N9I/AAAAAAAAAr8/0Hg-bfG0d7U/s1600/Citrine%2BKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-VDeT9AiNbMo/TjdDpOr8N9I/AAAAAAAAAr8/0Hg-bfG0d7U/s400/Citrine%2BKP.jpg" width="253" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Himalayas Kilt Pin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>A client gave me this gorgeous big Citrine to set in a kilt pin alongside a hillscape of the Himalayas, as seen from Darjeeling. It is the biggest stone I've ever set and I enjoyed the challenge. This is something I love about making bespoke kilt pins, I'm always getting interesting requests which lead me onto learning new things down paths I might not have explored by myself. Whether it's techniques, working with different materials, history, geography or the evolution of the Batman logo (that one's coming soon!) it keeps my head buzzing with ideas. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AFNN1h0FJ_s/TjcM7XIqpMI/AAAAAAAAArk/-NNm3UerclE/s1600/ColumnKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AFNN1h0FJ_s/TjcM7XIqpMI/AAAAAAAAArk/-NNm3UerclE/s400/ColumnKP.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brindisi Column Kilt Pin</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vV3G477Ny-E/TjcNYluGP4I/AAAAAAAAArs/RuLi_KDCVEI/s1600/McKilliganKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="281" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vV3G477Ny-E/TjcNYluGP4I/AAAAAAAAArs/RuLi_KDCVEI/s400/McKilliganKP.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Banff Kilt Pin</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PBJSeAbZOtQ/Tjn0s9m9hZI/AAAAAAAAAsE/mCjfgpYVrV4/s1600/LochTroolKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="283" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PBJSeAbZOtQ/Tjn0s9m9hZI/AAAAAAAAAsE/mCjfgpYVrV4/s400/LochTroolKP.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Loch Trool Kilt Pin</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IN3DCxD9zpI/Tjn0sCg8ijI/AAAAAAAAAsA/YLo8vv5ILi4/s1600/CompositionKP.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-IN3DCxD9zpI/Tjn0sCg8ijI/AAAAAAAAAsA/YLo8vv5ILi4/s400/CompositionKP.jpg" width="255" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Composition Kilt Pin</td></tr>
</tbody></table>The Composition Kilt Pin was the wee treat for myself, to wear at my first pipe band competition of the season at the weekend there in Ireland, not that it brought us much luck! I hope to make more in a similar sort of way over the next couple of months and actually get something for sale online, they are really great fun to make, kinda like sketching in metal.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xvJ0vIxNaVU/Tjn1Lccq0ZI/AAAAAAAAAsI/MP-0DPVF_XI/s1600/KenmoreKP%2526CL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="246" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xvJ0vIxNaVU/Tjn1Lccq0ZI/AAAAAAAAAsI/MP-0DPVF_XI/s400/KenmoreKP%2526CL.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kenmore Kilt Pin and Cuff Links</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
These cuff links were made to match this kilt pin, a commission from last year, the shape is taken from the bridge at Kenmore and they have the mottos from the Bruce and Hunter Clans etched into them.<br />
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I've been lucky enough to have the help of two interns this summer, <a href="http://sheilarousseltextiles.blogspot.com/">Sheila</a> who is just about to go into 2nd year at Duncan of Jordanstone, and <a href="http://lizziesjewellerymetalworkblog.blogspot.com/">Lizzie</a> who is embarking on her final year. It's been a massive help to have them in the workshop and really fun to have new people around, I love my own space but a change is nice!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CH1oS0vNV-U/TjqEMqgXdnI/AAAAAAAAAsM/GG-FOnXcql0/s1600/IMG_0244.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-CH1oS0vNV-U/TjqEMqgXdnI/AAAAAAAAAsM/GG-FOnXcql0/s400/IMG_0244.JPG" width="300" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lizzie hammering her ring</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
I've been having some fun recently with shrink plastic, a relaxing departure from expensive lumps of silver - think shrinking crisp packets in the oven when you were wee - making little earrings, kirby grips and brooches. They're called Thritty Pings and are available to buy at <a href="http://www.thetayberrygallery.co.uk/">The Tayberry Gallery</a> in Perth. The idea came about when I was struggling for something to put in my hair for a recent wedding, couldn't find anything that wasn't flowers or feathers! So I got out my pens and colours and made myself a hair clasp from a few pieces of shrink plastic I'd bought ages ago, this inspired me to see what else I could make with it and I'm really happy with the results and very grateful to my wee sister at The Tayberry Gallery for giving me shelf space for random ideas!<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vsw5bOQ7TUs/TjqEmL8RnVI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/0adqo9u73MY/s1600/Thritty+Pings.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vsw5bOQ7TUs/TjqEmL8RnVI/AAAAAAAAAsQ/0adqo9u73MY/s400/Thritty+Pings.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lots of Thritty Pings</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Right better head to the workshop, working on a new collection of <a href="http://www.islayspalding.co.uk/biocubespage.htm">Biocubes</a> that will be heading to the <a href="http://www.blackboxboutique.co.uk/">Black Box Boutique</a> in Edinburgh this month as well as some Strange Quarks and Melty Snarks bound for an exhibition and jewellery party hosted by the <a href="http://www.acj.org.uk/">ACJ</a> and The Tayberry Gallery at the end of this month. This month's a busy one! Pipe band competitions every weekend, two weddings, one I'm playing fiddle at so that needs to be seriously practised(!), a hill walk planned, kilt pin orders to complete so I'd better get on, stop talking about things and start doing! GO ISLAY GO!<br />
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Cheeripops!<br />
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On a side note.... look how my bedroom view has changed! (And the blinkin weather)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7jM6E4pVMw/TjqJNPQM6fI/AAAAAAAAAsU/V34R3JLazSw/s1600/ViewChange.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="175" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-R7jM6E4pVMw/TjqJNPQM6fI/AAAAAAAAAsU/V34R3JLazSw/s400/ViewChange.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Islay Spaldinghttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11557421357858001981noreply@blogger.com1