Vital Elements

Closure

2011-10-14T22:14:00.000-07:00

Vital Elements will be closed Oct.15th through Oct. 23rd See you on Monday Oct. 24th

Spider Web Earrings

2011-10-10T11:31:00.000-07:00

Retro Rose Design came up with these spider web earrings. Available in the store or in Rhonda's (Retro Rose) Etsy site.

Great New Gifts

2011-10-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

It has been a shockingly long while since I have posted here. My store has blossomed into the best gift store! I am still not finished carrying all the things that I want to but it is getting somewhere near complete. I have ignored my blog and done all my news on facebook but with the recent bad press and changes to facebook I am going to try and post here more often.
My new lines include the following

Good Fortune bath and body products including their best selling Lip Scrub, Faucet Soaps, Lotions and Body Oils.

Paddy Wax Candles these are eco and green friendly using recycled green wine bottles with fantastic fragrances, these make the best gifts.

Circle O Place mats, coasters, and the cutest little recipe box full of recipes in categories such as Small Bite, Chocolate, Champagne, Cookies, Cupcakes etc. Picture coming soon!!!

New Bath Products by Simpatico

2011-03-21T16:32:00.000-07:00

Coming in 2 weeks! Beautifully packaged and wonderfully scented Bubble Bath by Simpatico. This is a fantastic which can be used as a shower gel as well. I've ordered soaps too in Fern, Petal and Coral. Come in and smell the goodness!

Carols Birds and Hens

2011-03-13T12:54:00.000-07:00

I am so fortunate to carry Carol Sjolholms adorable hens and birds. Come in and adopt one, they are so bright and cheery!

Classes Canceled

2011-03-13T12:51:00.000-07:00

Sad to say but I am cancelling my workshops due to lack of interest. These classes had been requested and my thought was to offer the complete picture in metal working for the local population but unfortunately there is just not enough interest. I may plan future workshops with a different media or ?????? Let me know, I really cant afford to advertise properly so that may have been one the reasons for lack of interest, So that being said look for an expansion to take place in the craft supply section of my shop it will take time, like the economy, as slow as molasses in winter!

Basic Metal Smithing Vital Elements is starting a series of metal-smithing Work-shops with the purpose of providing single steps to gain a total knowledge of working with metal to create jewelry. Once you know the basics, project specific classes will follow. Every month beginning in March there will be 2 different workshops offered twice. The following are March classes all on Monday evening 5:30 to 8:00 so have an early dinner and come ready to learn. Classes are going to be kept purposely small with payment required a week in advance. S Student are required to have their own tools and keeping cost in mind these workshops will allow you to build your metal working tools slowly and affordably. Occasionally I will have some of these available to purchase at Vital Elements March 7 and 14 metal sawing 30.00 plus materials March 21 and 28 stamping 30.00 plus materials In April we will continue April 4 -5 beginning PMC 1st evening create piece 2nd evening fire and finish $60 +materials April 11-12 beginning PMC 60 + materials April 25th Chains, earring wires, findings and cold connections. $30 + materials May 2nd Tiny treasure locket. Perquisite metal sawing, cold connections. The following tool lists are needed if you plan on making your own jewelry. Class tool list Sawing jewelry saw, bench pin, size 2 blades, 6x6 sheet of 22gauge copper, bronze, nickel silver, or brass Hand drill, small metal files. Stamping. Alphabet metal working stamps, Ball pen hammer copper, silver, brass sheet metal, Chains etc. Various gauges of steel.copper, sterling wire. Call 360-298-0300 or come in to reserve a seat. Classes are limited and will fill fast. Bench pin http://www.ottofrei.com/store/product.php?productid=328&cat=362&page=1 saw blades http://www.amazon.com/SE-Jewelers-Saw-Blades-144pc/dp/B002Q8886C/ref=pd_sbs_indust_3 saw http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=911054 sheet metal, copper, sterling or nickel silver. www.objectsandelements.com/shop/metal-sheet-metal-c-73_74 STAMPING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES Ball pen hammer Browne’s or Ace Metal stamps Alphabetical Harbor freight search for metal stamps Basic tools and supplies that will be needed Wire cutters Round nose pliers Bent nose or chain nose pliers Wire in various gauges 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 Sheet metal Please check all your resources Old j

2011-02-03T21:29:00.000-08:00

Vital Elements is starting a series of metal-smithing

Work-shops

with the purpose of providing single steps to gain a total knowledge of working with metal to create jewelry. Once you know the basics, project specific classes will follow.

Every month beginning in March there will be 2 different workshops offered twice. The following are March classes all on Monday evening 5:30 to 8:00 so have an early dinner and come ready to learn.

Classes are going to be kept purposely small with payment required a week in advance. S

Student are required to have their own tools and keeping cost in mind these workshops will allow you to build your metal working tools slowly and affordably.

Occasionally I will have some of these available to purchase at Vital Elements

March 7 and 14 metal sawing 30.00 plus materials

March 21 and 28 stamping 30.00 plus materials

In April we will continue

April 4 -5 beginning PMC 1st evening create piece 2^nd evening fire and finish $60 +materials

April 11-12 beginning PMC 60 + materials

April 25^th Chains, earring wires, findings and cold connections. $30 + materials

May 2^nd Tiny treasure locket. Perquisite metal sawing, cold connections.

The following tool lists are needed if you plan on making your own jewelry.

Class tool list

Sawing jewelry saw, bench pin, size 2 blades, 6x6 sheet of 22gauge copper, bronze, nickel silver, or brass

Hand drill, small metal files.

Stamping. Alphabet metal working stamps, Ball pen hammer copper, silver, brass sheet metal,

Chains etc.

Various gauges of steel.copper, sterling wire.

Call 360-298-0300 or come in to reserve a seat. Classes are limited and will fill fast.

Bench pin

http://www.ottofrei.com/store/product.php?productid=328&cat=362&page=1

saw blades

http://www.amazon.com/SE-Jewelers-Saw-Blades-144pc/dp/B002Q8886C/ref=pd_sbs_indust_3

saw

http://www.midwayusa.com/viewProduct/?productNumber=911054

sheet metal, copper, sterling or nickel silver.

www.objectsandelements.com/shop/metal-sheet-metal-c-73_74

STAMPING TOOLS AND SUPPLIES

Ball pen hammer

Browne’s or Ace

Metal stamps

Alphabetical

Harbor freight search for metal stamps

Basic tools and supplies that will be needed

Wire cutters

Round nose pliers

Bent nose or chain nose pliers

Wire in various gauges 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24

Sheet metal

Please check all your resources

Old jewelry, kitchen drawers for things that can be recycled, old baking pans, copper wire from electric work or unused and broken lamps get resourceful and reuse and recycle.

Holiday Shopping Shop Locally

2010-12-02T21:02:00.000-08:00

Hey Vital Elements Friends
I thought I would let you know what's in store for the Holidays.
Vital Elements represents the following local artist
Kris Samona's who makes wonderful dragons, frogs, octopus, and earrings from glass. These are one of a kind beautiful creatures
Betsy Childress's superb bead work creations. Besty's beaded jewelry shows the result of years of experience and attention to details.
Retro Rose Design, yep thats me Rhonda Scott. I have just put 3 months worth of jewelry production into the store. Come by and see what I have been up to.
I'll post more tomorrow with pictures.

Forte Chocolates

2010-11-14T07:16:00.000-08:00

I am putting out some great Chocolate today. Forte Chocolates were the best I tasted at the Seattle Gift Show. They are made in Stanwood so they are local to our region. I have limited quanity of their sea salt dark chocolates and two kinds of their dark chocolate bars, Aztec Soul and Orange Jazz. Come on in while they last.

Vital Elements Class Offerings

2010-10-18T11:16:00.000-07:00

So I am cancelling some of the classes that didn't have any interest and changing my policies. When the going gets tough the tough gets going, that's my new motto for the month of October. My classes are now 15.00 like my competitions, supplies not included. Before, they were all inclusive now you pick out what you want to use.
My classes will have supply lists and students should have the basic tools which I sell in my store, with very affordable prices. Although I do general beading, not the bead weaving, I bring in Betsy Childress who is a very talented local (Friday Harbor) Beading Instructor and Artist. Her First class will be rescheduled and posted later today. She will have kits of all the supplies needed.
Steam Punk Jewelry is such a Hot Trend now and I have the supplies for making a wonderful necklace. Nov. 8th is the date and I only have 3 spots left so come on in and sign up. I am so excited about this class.
Help support your local business, shop locally.

Vital Elements Beads, Gifts, Jewelry and accessories and inspiration

2010-10-01T16:42:00.000-07:00

Vital Elements Beads is a full service bead store serving Friday Harbor and the San Juan Islands. We have been in business since Feb. 2010 and now offer free how tos for the beginning beader. Come and learn how to put together a wonderful necklace or earrings and receive free instruction from Rhonda Scott of Retro Rose Design, a jewelry design company since 1985. We offer beading and jewelry workshops plus mixed media, collage and other fun art project classes.
I have expert research sources for the hard to find beading and jewelry supplies and can order anything you need if I don't have it in stock. Also available for you to browse through are magazine and books.
Hope to see you soon......Islanders please support your local business's.

Tangeled Web I wove

2010-09-26T15:58:00.000-07:00

Here is my wire web that I wove for my stores window. It was simple and really didn't take very long to complete.

Class Schedule!

2010-09-15T19:27:00.000-07:00

It is time again to start up Vital Elements Fall Workshops. Here is a list of tentative Workshops and Dates. Come on in to the store at 30 First Street, Friday Harbor to sign up or ask more questions about the Workshops offered

Sept. 27th Jewelry 101
Oct. 18th     Artist Trading Cards
Oct   25th and 26th Precious Metal Clay ---3 spaces left
Nov. 1st        Art Journaling
Nov. 8th        Steampunk Jewelry            ---3 spaces left
Nov. 15th      Jewelry 202
Nov. 22nd     Collaged Wall Hanging

Beginning Oct 1 Vital Elements is hosting a weekly Friday Night Art Nite, it like a quilting Bee but with Arts and Crafts. Jewelry, Fiber, Paper and yes even quilters are welcome to come and be inspiring and get inspired. Please RSVP to Vital Elements so I know if anyone is coming! This is something that at least 5 people have asked about so I will give it a try. 6 to 9 every Friday.   RSVP by commenting, stopping by, or calling me.

I will be posting suggested basic Craft kits that you will need for my classes, also needed tools for Vital Elements Jewelry workshops.

New Beads Added on Wednesday!

2010-09-14T10:44:00.000-07:00

I had my first bead vendor come and sell me beads! His name was Tony and he drove a tagged van full of beads across the US from New York State.
I'll be putting new copper, Czech glass, and silver bead caps into the store on Wednesday.
Hopefully I will be able to scan them (scanner acting up) and post them here later today. I purchased table cut Czech beads, some fire polish 3mm, and 6mm rondels. In copper I have a some toggles, large focals and a small selection of regular shapes.
Come on in and see what's new. Through out the fall I will have new merchandise every week. Add a comment and let me know what you would like to see on the island in beads and crafts supplies.
Work shop sign ups coming soon!

Herringbone Bracelet workshop

2010-09-03T12:42:00.000-07:00

Vital Elements is please to announce a Herringbone Beading Class offered by bead artist extraordinaire Betsy Childress. Come and join the 4 hour workshop on Oct. 17th ) all the beads and material are provided including a glass button to clasp it. Just 50.00 and you get excellent instruction and a fabulous bracelet with the knowledge and instruction sheet to make more. See you there. Call 360-298-0300 leave a message with your name and number.

Beads by Jean Christen

2010-08-07T08:03:00.000-07:00

I finally got my camera to upload to my computer. For some reason it was just not working right. Now I can post the pictures of Jeanies Beads.

Port of Friday Harbor

2010-08-07T07:57:00.000-07:00

Everyday when I park my car up the street from my store I pause to take in the beautiful view of the Port of Friday Harbor. I thought I would share with you my view.

Adding more beads

2010-07-02T08:16:00.000-07:00

It has been quite a while since I've posted on my blog! I have been busy, busy, busy and the tourist season just started.
I have been adding beads and jewelry findings daily. I recently got in contact with Jean Christen from eastern WA. She makes wonderful beads, pendants, pots, mugs and the best mixing bowls ever. She is sending me some and I should have them in store by mid-week next week, yahoo! Love her work and I have been looking for nice ceramic mugs for my store for about 6 months.
4th of July weekend is upon us here in the San Juan Islands and I am hopeful it will be a very busy weekend. I am so excited to have the prospect of putting more wonderful gifts in my store for my customers at reasonable prices.
I am still trying to get Art papers, Scrapbooking supplies and other goodies. Stay tuned.
Have a wonderful weekend.
R

Drilling Holes in Things Workshop Mon

2010-05-23T07:34:00.000-07:00

Drilling holes in things workshop is on Monday Evening at 5:30 I have a space left if you are wanting to join in to this workshop. It is 30.00 plus a charge (actual cost) for the special bit. You need to have a Dremel or Dremel type tool. Come and finish a beach glass necklace and earrings. We will also be drilling stone.

What's In Store Teresa DeLeen Studio

2010-05-18T10:11:00.000-07:00

Vital Elements carries a wonderful line of Jewelery from Teresa DeLeen Studio. The initial pendants she creates are one of a kind and simply beautiful. Teresa makes her pendants from PMC. She desribes the process below.
Precious Metal Clay is a clay-like medium used to make jewelry, beads and small sculpture. It consists of very small particles of silver mixed with an organic binder and water. Precious Metal Clay can be shaped just like any soft clay, by hand or using molds. After drying and sanding, it is fired in my kiln. The binder burns away, leaving .999 pure silver which will not tarnish as quickly as sterling (.925) silver which contains copper. The piece was then antiqued, to bring out the texture, tumbled all night to strengthen the metal and, viola!

Drilling Holes in Things- rescheduled to May 24th 5:30

2010-05-16T07:22:00.000-07:00

This workshop has been moved to May 24th due to a pre-scheduled event. Hope to see you then!

Great Workshop Last Night

2010-05-11T09:21:00.000-07:00

I had the best workshop results last night. It was my collage workshop and we went through about 10 techniques. Great fun! I love the fact that so far the workshops have gone well. They are small and intimate and I think I prefer that to a larger group. I asked the attendee's if they liked a technique based class or a project based class and two would prefer a project base class. It may be hard to finish a project in 2-3 hours but I am going to come up with some ideas for my fall and winter workshops.

I have been approached by several people to do one on one instruction and to have jewelry making parties, art parties, and beading parties so I am working up a brochure and price sheet for different kinds of events. This would be fun and bring business into Vital Elements and the customer would take home their project as a memento.

I recently had a customer come in and spend the evening with her husband making 12 special pendant for her 50th birthday, she and her friends were all traveling to Spain and attending a horseback riding adventure. The pendants had the name of the group and an image of a horse. They turned out great and it was a great experience.

I brained stormed and came up with some great ideas.
Bridesmaid parties, make necklaces to wear in the wedding
Teen Beading Parties - Make earrings and bracelets
Birthday Parties with your choice of Jewelry, collage, journaling.
Remembrance Parties - Making a special journal or book to remember an occasion or loved one.

Artist Trading Cards are so much fun. They are a great way to make sure you are doing some kind of art. While creating them you get all kinds of wonderful ideas for larger projects. The little baseball card size of art are also a fun way to try mini versions of technique. By June I will have some made and ready to trade. They are not for sale...you must make one and trade. You can cut a 2 by 3 piece of heavy cardstock or anything that has some density to it and just, even, doodle. Fabric ATC’s our fun if that is your art medium. Make sure you come in and check out a binder full of examples. I will try and get in stock some blank ATC's too.

That's it for now and I will try and give an update on the Island ATC Project. It now has a name! IAP

collage workshop supplies

2010-05-08T07:53:00.000-07:00

IF you are signed up for my Collage Workshop please don't forget to bring papers. If you can pre-gesso a canvas and base coat it in the color of your choice.

Drilling Holes in Things Class date

2010-05-07T10:06:00.000-07:00

HI I am going to have to move the Drilling Holes in Things class to Monday May 24th, at 5:30.

Beads in Friday Harbor

2010-05-05T22:08:00.000-07:00

Hey! Did you know there was a bead store in Friday Harbor? Yep! Vital Elements have an ever increasing supply of beads for your beading needs. Let me know what you are looking for and we can find and order them for you. We also have a selection on chain and jewelry frames for resin and small mixed media jewelry projects. Come on in and check it out soon. New beads added daily.

Collage Workshop-Layer Upon Layer

2010-05-05T08:56:00.000-07:00

My collage class is full! If you are signed up and can't make it make sure you call or email me and cancel. Thanks

Here is the supply list.

Matte Medium aka Mod Podge Matte finish
Acrylic paint in assorted colors
Paint brushes
Images Copied onto card stock at Printonyx
Rubber stamps for texture (if you have them)
scissors
mounted canvas in the size you prefer (if you have gesso please gesso your canvases before class. If not them bring them in and gesso them Sunday before 4)
hand sanitizer with alcohol

I think that's it. Check back just in case I add something at a later date

Steampunk Workshop

2010-04-29T19:46:00.000-07:00

There is still room in this great Steampunk Jewelry

Workshop Monday May, 3, 2010

Here are some links to give you an idea on what Steampunk Jewelry is .

www.steampunkworkshop.com

www.thesteampunkhome.blogspot.com

www.steampunkmagazine.com

www.etsy.bionicunicorn.com

www.etsy.edmdesigns.com

www.etsy.TrashAndTrinkets.com

BASIC TOOL KIT

Wire cutters (flush)

Bent nose pliers

Round nose pliers

Needle nose pliers

Sculpey, Premo, or other polymere clay

22, 18, or any size you have,wire. Copper, silver, steel or that artist wire will work fine.

STEAMPUNK SUPPLY LIST

Class

Broken watch parts including

Watch faces, gears, keys, lenses.

Small Images, smaller than a quarter down to smaller that a dime.

Small electrical parts

Small Chain pieces are fine.

Beads

Due to the cost of small watch parts I will have an affordable kit available with bits and pieces of the above supplies.

Hope to see you there.

What's New?

2010-04-27T08:48:00.000-07:00

I recently received a shipment from Peacock Park. Here a few of the things I put into the store.

Upcoming Workshops

2010-04-24T07:06:00.000-07:00

MAY WORKSHOP OFFERINGS

May 3 5:30 to 7:30
STEAMPUNK JEWELRY

May 10, 5:30 to 7:30
COLLAGE- LAYER UPON LAYER

May 17 5:30 to 7:30
DRILLING HOLES IN ROCKS (THINGS)

Come on in and sign up. The Collage workshop has 1 space left. The Steampunk Jewelry has 3 spaces.
I will have supply and material lists by Wed. in the store.

New Workshop: Drilling Holes in Things!

2010-04-21T22:09:00.000-07:00

In Vital Elements Newest Workshop you can learn how to drill holes in Island rocks and beach glass. Also learn the best way to drill a shell without chipping it. You need a Dremel tool for this class. My new preferred Dremel for this process is a cordless one. I am planning on holding it on Monday Evening May 17th.
This class will run from 5:30 to 7:30- 8:00 .

I will order the drill bits need for this class and there will be a charge for that.
If you have earring or other jewelry findings bring them. I do have them for purchase as well.
This will be a fun workshop and you will be going home with a finished piece of beach glass and or beach rock jewelry.
Bring your own beach glass and rocks.

Homework and Beachwork Look for thinner rocks to make this beginners class easy. No agates just the flat dark ones on our local beached. For beach glass pick out your thinner pieces. Pair up your pieces for earrings. Start a sketch book with simple drawings of your idea, think of what beads you have or check out Vital elements beads for accents.
Keep Checking Back for Examples.
This workshop will be 30.00

All About Resins Workshop Mon. April 19th (Full)

2010-04-15T21:31:00.000-07:00

Here is the promised list of supplies you should bring with you to the All about Resing Workshop.

Scissors
bottle Caps and other small jewelry type items like frames or tiny tins
small jewelry size pictures you can copy these from your own files and print them out or cut images from magazines.
small metal embellishments, crystal beads, glass glitter, jewels other things to put into the resin for texture
small paintbrush
apron or workshirt

I think that is it. Sorry I am so late in getting this posted I came down with a fever last night and just went to bed!
I will have some jewelry findings available to purchase and some pictures too. The pictures are 5.00 a sheet and the little frames range from 1.50 to 6.00.
Make sure you come by 5:00 so we can get started!

Basic Jewelry 101 Workshop

2010-04-07T22:08:00.000-07:00

Hi All,
Thought I would update the information for my first workshop. There has been an opening in this class due to the fact that the Lopez ferry doesn't run late enough for a gal on Lopez to take this workshop so give me a call and sign up. If you want to take this with a friend I could probably handle two more. My biz number is (360) 298-0300
Read earlier posts to find out more about this class and what you will need.
Save money and bring your own beads and findings. Vital Elements will supply stringing material, crimping beads, toggles or clasps, headpins and earring wires. This class will be fast paced and fun! Bring a note pad for notes.

Beads and Jewelry Findings oh and Hearts!

2010-04-02T08:37:00.000-07:00

I just unpacked a box of great jewelry findings. They are frames and surfaces to use with small pictures. Nunn Design makes the little frames. I am going to find the time today to make a few necklaces and earrings from these wonderful pieces. I'll add some beads and make some great pieces.

I have had these hearts in my shop and need to do something creative with them. They have a loop on them and can be hung. They're little scared heart bottles.
One last thing.

I found these images of old Czech Beads. I love the images. These bead cards were offered on eBay.

Off to Art Fest and VE closed days

2010-03-22T13:20:00.000-07:00

I am heading out on Wed. morning to Port Townsend to stay at Fort Worden and attend Artfest 2010, this is an annual event for me, one that I haven't missed for 7 years.
Vital Elements will be closed on Wed. March 24th, Thurs. March 25th, and Sunday March 28th. Alice Shull will be working for me for Friday and Saturday so stop in and say hi to Alice.
See Ya!

2010-03-20T20:50:00.000-07:00

Basic Jewelry 101    $ 25.00     2 hours   Monday April 12th     5-7pm
This is the class for you if you need to know how to make a basic earring, bracelet or necklace. Simple chain making and wire work will be covered. Check out websites and magazines and start a jewelry journal with pictures of what you want to make and draw up your designs.
Supplies   (you provide)
*Beads
*Focal Bead
*Jewelry Findings (toggle set, head pins, earring wires, lobster clasp and ring)   Kit Available for 5.00

Tools Needed
Wire cutters, side cutters
Round nose pliers
Bent nose pliers
Flat nose pliers

Vital Elements will have simple tool kits and all the findings available to purchase. Be sure to bring what you have to save on your costs.

Class Schedule

2010-03-14T22:56:00.000-07:00

Here is Vital Elements class Schedule. Come on into the store to get the scoop and the tool and supply list.

Vital Elements Gifts - An Octopus's Garden

2010-03-05T07:24:00.000-08:00

Looking around my gift store I realized that I have quite a few Octopus in my store. Thought I would share with you a couple picture of these wonderful creatures that a local man named Kris Sanoma made.

This next Octopus is one that I made out of steel wire for Artfest 2009. The theme was Sea Monsters

Have a great day and come on in to my store for your Sea Creature needs! We have beads and gifts too!

Oilcloth International!

2010-03-03T18:17:00.000-08:00

Did you know Vital Elements gift store in Friday Harbor has 5 different bright and pretty patterns in Oilcloth! Yep! This wonderful material can be used to make everything from table cloths to aprons and makeup bags. Check out Oilcloth Internationals' Web site and link up with great idea on how to use this traditional product! Made in the USA
Our bead supply is growing daily. Come on in and tell me what you need in bead stuff.

Friday Harbor Gift Store Friday Harbor

2010-03-02T14:39:00.000-08:00

Friday Harbor Gift Store Vital Elements

Now carries Publications from Stampinton... and art based company. Somerset STudio is the #1 best selling Arts and Craft Magazine at Barnes and Noble. The craft stores always sell out on the mainland...but you dont have to travel off island to buy these wonderful magazines.

Just an update

2010-03-01T09:13:00.000-08:00

I have a shipment from Fringe Studio coming in this week. I also am getting a shipment of bead related items Inexpensive tool kits, great charms and chains and more crystal beads.
My workshops are filling up 2 more people and one of them is a go.
Check them out and sign up by either calling Vital Elements at 360.298.0300
Basic Jewelry 101(12 and up)
Wire Wrap Cabochons
Resin Jewelry- Fill it up!
Celini Spiral
Goddess Pouch
I put some beautiful vintage amber gold beads in my case yesterday. They are about 12 mm in size. Also some nice rondelles crystals in amethyst.
Vital elements has Swarovski Crystal Beads too!
We have a full table of affordable gem and agate beads, pearls, ect
Come on in and check out Vital Elements the new gift and bead store in town!
Open Mon. 10-5, closed Tue., Wed-Sat 10-5, Sun. 12-4

BEADS BEADS BEADS

2010-02-27T20:48:00.000-08:00

Vital Elements has beads! I am trying to provide beads to jewelry artists in Friday Harbor.I want customers to let me know what they need when they shop for supplies in town. Everyday my collection of beads for sale grows as I am ordering constantly and purchasing new display. I really want to supply our island with special and unique beads for focal pieces and have findings and strings of beads to create your own pieces. I will also begin collecting antique and vintage beads to sell to artists and collectors. Come on in and check it out!
I have been a bead buyer for my personal jewelry business for 30 years, I have been a collector of beads all my life.
Vital Elements will be the home of San Juan Island Beader's and will have the first meeting Wednesday evening March 3 at 5:30. This will start as a small group (your invited!) just getting together to talk, share, learn about beads. Bring a project and share what you do. Everyone is invited.

Adding Jewelry and Arts and Craft workshops

2010-02-21T14:47:00.000-08:00

I am adding some workshops. Starting March 1st Vital Elements will have workshops on a weekly basis. March's workshop offerings will be Celini Spiral ( a beautiful one piece beaded spiral necklace with a button for a clasp, wire wrapped cabochan, this is a simple way to set a stone or other treasure in steel, copper or sterling wire.
Captured Picture pendants in resin. Learn how to use 2 part resin to make domed picture pendants, scrabble tiles or framed objects. Jewelry making 101, this is a beginners class on making earrings, necklaces, and bracelets. Vital elements will begin layered collage classes and a Getting to know the Steampunk Style Jewelry class. More coming soon

Opened and Lovin it

2010-02-18T21:12:00.000-08:00

It is so good to have a store again. Here are some pictures before I recieved 14 boxes on Monday! I still have yet to see my bath products, but they are coming.
Business is good and walk in traffic is wonderful.
I didnt get finished with everything in my store until 4:30! but it was still the 12th of February. Yeah Rachel was my first customer...she bought some beads.

Opening Day

2010-02-12T08:20:00.000-08:00

Well this is it! I am opening today! I probably will wait until 2:00 or 3:00 and make it short day. I have about 1/2 my merchandise in but want to be open for the 3 day weekend.
I will post photos soon.
R

Getting close now

2010-02-05T08:24:00.000-08:00

My opening is scheduled for Feb. 12th....that's a week from today, Yikes. It is going to be so good to be back in business!! All my shipments have not arrived so I am having a not so grand opening. I have about 50% of what I ordered and am still ordering. I have 6 wonderful artists coming in on consignment. If you wish to consign show me what you have!
My business is going to grow slowly and steadily, keeping in mind that debt is what got our economy is a mess in the first place... that being said it will only get better everyday so once I am open come in often as new things will arrive daily for a while, then weekly as the spring and summer progresses.
The bead part of my store will be super cool... the crafts supply will have to wait until my coffers fill again.
This is the fantastic counter that my dad made me for my birthday! He is getting older (76) and said this is the last big project he will ever do...he is so dear and a tad onry! Love ya dad.
My goal for Vital Elements....of imagination is to be a place that from the moment you walk through the front door you feel inspired, by special treasures, craft ingredients, beads, and the product of imagination everywhere. I also want to be a destination store. What that means is that people who come to the island plan on coming to my store. That will be an accomplishment.
Here are some pics of the counter my dad made and shadows of my sons friend William painting the out side of the building. The other dude is my 3rd son Tyson, he is making a really cool steam-punk watch.

Shopping 'til I Drop!

2010-01-25T23:13:00.000-08:00

I am just back from the Seattle Gift Show where I spent 3 days shopping for wonderful products for my new store. I found some wonderful art items, jewelry, bath products and decor.
Last Thursday I got my first shipment of goods. I am so happy it was from Papaya! I took an Artfest class from the creator of these wonderful goods that will be gracing my new store.

Goddess Bag Class!!!

2010-01-16T09:39:00.000-08:00

My first bead class will be led by Betsy Childress. It will be The Goddess Bag. Please sign up by commenting on this Post.
The cost to you with all the supplies will only be $65.00! Too Cool! Betsy will take you step by step through this project and you will go home with a finished bag!
Date will be determined by the sign ups the week of Feb. 15th-22.
Plan a day to create!

Upcoming Workshops at Vital Elements

2010-01-09T09:59:00.000-08:00

Workshops to be offered at Vital Elements

Betsy Childress Cellini Spiral
Goddess bag

Rhonda Scott

Ink Jet Transfer
Simple Fused Glass Pendants
Book Binding
Precious Metal Clay
Drilling Stone
Basic Jewelry Making 101
Mixed Media Collage
Bottle Cap Art
Lots of Project based classes and workshops
What do you want to learn?

Vital Elements is to be the home of the San Juan Beaders. This is a group of creative beaders who either collect, sell, create, make or just plain love beads.
First meeting day to be determined. I am thinking of Tues or Wed early eve. or???
Email me at retrorose@rockisland.com

Paint Paint Paint

2010-01-08T23:15:00.000-08:00

I have been painting for 4 days! My son came up from Oregon to help me and I am sure glad he did. My shop is looking good. I painted one wall salsa dancing the other a gray green called Scotland Moor ( or something like that), that is in the fist 38 feet of my shop. In the second section that will be dedicated to arts and crafts supplies, beads, and classes in all kinds of beading, jewelry, mixed media, found object art, I painted it a nice yellow called handmade. I thought it was very appropriate for this room. It sure brightened my shop up!! I still have to put a darker stencil with a damask pattern over the hot salsa dancing.
Here are some more pictures of phase II
I will reopen on Feb. 12 with beads, cards, candles, home decor, jewelry, craft supplies and tons of inspiration and art.

Winding down

2009-12-20T08:00:00.000-08:00

There are just 5 more days to shop at Vital Elements Holiday Gift Shop.
My hours are
Sunday 11-5
Monday 10-6
Tues 10-6
Wed 11-6
Thurs 11-3

I have Melissa Callahan's wonderful handcrafted spiders with the story of the Christmas Spider and other spider legends. She also brought in 3 daddy long-legged spiders that are beautiful.

We have jewelry, bath products and botanicals,candles, hats for men and women, cards, beautiful art prints, Volkswagen van prints, Photography umbrellas, key chains, prints and cards, wonderful original collages, Metal garden flowers, Joan Benney's T- shirts and photography plus so much more. Come in and enjoy our local artists.
Shop Locally......Buy Handmade

It's almost full

2009-12-03T21:41:00.000-08:00

Here is Vital Elements Holiday Shop. It is almost full with 3 more artists squeezing their beautiful art into my shop in the next few days.

More Good News

2009-12-02T20:42:00.000-08:00

Vital Elements Holiday Shop is OPEN!
I will have pictures tomorrow of my store. It is amazing how it all came together in just a couple of weeks.
Here is a few more of the wonderful artists that have graced my store.

Joan Benney- Ethereal Photo Prints and hand screened t-shirts with the most wonderful graphics.
Kevin Roth- Recycled, rejuvenated, beautiful silver flowers and bugs.
Chris Samoas - Skillfully made frogs, flowers, dragons and more. All made from glass in Chris's Island studio. (Chris I hope I spelled your name correctly!)

Some More Additions

2009-11-29T22:11:00.000-08:00

Today I signed up two more artists to Vital Elements Holiday Gift Shop
Robin Atkins Bead Book Author and artist extraordinaire. Check out her blog at www.beadlust.blogspot.com
Karly Crafter Fun, whimsical,country crafts using vintage quilts.

What's in Store???

2009-11-28T21:00:00.000-08:00

My new store is almost full for the Holidays! I will carry the artists and their fabulous goodies.

Gayle Hazelton - Bountiful Herbs Soaps and delicious Herbal products.
Betsy Childress - Bead work, woven bracelets and spiral cord necklaces. Beading kits too!
Alice Shull - Beautiful cards
Besty Drake - Fabulous Handcrafted Beads made into glamorous Jewelry
Rhonda Williams - Watercolor Images of V.W's and Island Scenes.
Joan Benny - Super T shirts
Kim Bertrand - Photo Image Pillows and special handmade photo image purses
Nancy Lind - creative cards and beautiful unique jewelry
Kevin Roth - The best recycled metal art in Western Washington
Erin Lamoreaux - Fun and chunky stone jewelry
Plus more to list soon!

Opening Dec. 1st

Wish List

2009-11-21T08:42:00.000-08:00

Hi! I thought I would send out a wish list to the community and the universe. Some things I just need to borrow, some things I can pay a little for. Here are the things I need to help me put on Vital Elements Holiday Shop

A store counter long enough for a cash register and some display.
A Christmas Tree.
Cedar Boughs.
A potter
A knitter
A Quilter........

So Far.......Absoulutely Wonderful!

2009-11-16T08:28:00.000-08:00

I am very excited over the response after getting the word out on Sat.
So Far I have
Betsy Childress Bead Weaver Extraordinaire and Bead Pattern Inventor and a future teacher at Vital Elements.
Chinmayo with her fantastic tile boxes with tea or ? These are so beautiful.
Rhonda Wheeler A very talented unknown to this island, watercolor artist who is also creating one of a kind craft pieces. You will love her art work.

Betsy Drake Beautifully hand made jewelry from her artisan beads. Betsy use to work and sell her jewelry at The Garuda

I will try and get pictures to add here so you can share in my excitement over my new store.

Something New in Friday Harbor

2009-11-15T23:08:00.000-08:00

I am opening a store in Friday Harbor for the month of December....then closing and re-opening in Feb. My store in Dec is the Vital Elements Holiday Shop. This is a temporary consignor store for the holiday season. It will be open Dec. 1 through Dec. 24th Then in Feb., hopefully, just as the Olympic Games in neighboring Vancouver BC open on Feb. 12th 2009 Vital Elements will re-open as a great Gift Store.
You are invited to bring in your art product and handcrafts to be consigned. Here is a break down on costs. A table space or 5x10 wall space is 100.00. then 20% of sales. There are 1/2 spaces available and tower card rack size spaces. Bringing your own display is recommended after speaking with me first. Since I do shows all the time I tried to figure what would be a fair price. I just paid 25.00 on island for a space 10x10 for 4 hours.
My store will be open a total of 170 hours. It will be advertised on San Juan Island and other islands and a little on the mainland. I will take Master Card and Visa.
I have over 25 years experience in vending arts and crafts. I have owned and operated 2 brick and mortar store fronts, one an antique store in Dundee, Oregon and Vital Elements in Friday Harbor
Email and sign up. I have limited space. So don't procrastinate!

Vital Elements ........of imagiation

2009-11-15T18:14:00.000-08:00

Here are a couple of picture of my store front which will become Vital Elements. For the month of Dec. I am taking consignments and opening a fun and festive Holiday Shop. So far I have a lot of artists interested and 5 artists signed up already. This week is so busy.

Vital Elements Holiday Shop

2009-11-12T17:37:00.000-08:00

Could it Be?

2009-11-09T13:13:00.000-08:00

Could it be? Another store? It is in the 1st stages and maybe it will work. Lots to do will post as I go through the process!!

Moved to a new Place

2007-03-02T08:08:00.000-08:00

Hi
I have been posting most of my work on my other Blog.
See it at www.retrorosedesign.typepad.com

snow and art day

2007-01-11T19:32:00.000-08:00

The only reason I was able to find time this week to do art is because of all the snow Our little corner of Northwestern Washington State has received in the last couple of days. Today it was blowing across our lane and I barely made it home…on a wing and a prayer…comes to mind. I just have to love my old Ford Bronco II on days like these. It may be vintage (I am being kind here to my car it is really a beater) but it got me home this morning. My husband’s nice big diesel truck couldn’t plow through the snow as I did, to park in my driveway. The picture is of the most recent snow with my hubby and son digging a track so he can park at home.
The art is a picture of the 4x4 page I made for Vicki Mack’s uplifting book. One of her friends is putting it together. Vicki suffered a brain aneurysm and is in the hospital for a few weeks. A friend who lives near her has organized a book for her from your online friends. Light a candle for Vicki everyone.
Peace
Rhonda

Some Music

2006-11-29T20:43:00.000-08:00

This is a great new CD by Loreena McKennitt. It is as beautiful as her previous music. It is perfect for the holiday season. Visit the website and listen to her music at www.quinlanroad.com

Rennisance Lady

2006-11-29T20:39:00.000-08:00

I just posted some of my jewely on my etsy store www.retrorose.etsy.com
Here is a pendant I made in one of Susan Lenart-Kazmers frames. I like how it turned out.

Winter Scene

2006-11-28T18:47:00.000-08:00

This never happens here, on this island, but about every 10 years we get a nor'eastern coming out of Canada, and we get a deep freeze. We love it for a while and then start worrying about things like pipes freezing, roads icing, and tree branches over power lines which mean we sleep in our studio because the house doesn't have a wood stove. It is a special treat when it snows first then the cold comes in and the snow stays for a few days.. Normally it snows and melts in about an hour.
I have had time to post new jewlery on my other blog www.retrorosedesign.typepad.com check it out!
I took this picture of a tree in our front yard.

2006-10-29T08:18:00.000-08:00

This is just a small portion of my, as I call it, my blessed mess! I love my mess. I am trying so hard to share with others! My life, my mess, my interests, love, time, and stuff I know. Maybe tomorrow I will reveal more.....R

Bad Day Beautiful

2006-10-23T20:49:00.000-07:00

Sometimes the best thing to do on one of "those" days is to hike or explore or visit one of your favorite places. This is San Juan County Park. It is one of the most beautiful places in the world. This is where I go to make a bad day Beautiful.

Wire Mannequinns and Eiffel Towers

2006-10-16T20:31:00.000-07:00

I just posted some wonderful wire mannequinns on my etsy store at www.retrorose.etsy.com. Check them out. I will be posting some Eiffel Towers once my camera recharges.
R

Found Objects Cont

2006-10-16T19:30:00.000-07:00

Found Object Art

2006-10-16T18:35:00.000-07:00

So what constitutes a found object? Is it some rusted piece of tin or a smashed brass button, one mitten? Or, is it wonderful like these old treasures I found at a tag sale? Maybe it is some other amazing thing found in the bottom of an old wooden crate or the corner of a jewel box?
Here are some pictures of my newest, old found objects.

Art and Soul

2006-10-10T08:14:00.000-07:00

Here are the jewelry pieces I made in the workshops I took at Portland's Art and Soul Retreat. My classes were Susan Lenart-Kazmer's New Works in Wire (bracelet) and Sharilyn Miller's Wire Basket Ring.
I am highing recommending these two teachers.

Tin Pins and Work

2006-09-30T19:32:00.000-07:00

These are some of the fun pins/brooches I have made from tin. I am so anxious and excited to be putting tons of have to do things behind me
and now can focus on up coming shows and get my studio straighten up and back to creating. I have taken a part time job with the school district and have finally adapted to the change in my schedule. Work actually causes me to be more organized with my time so I get more done at home and at The Studio.
R

Tin Can Art

2006-09-26T09:06:00.000-07:00

I really love working with tin cans and re-using old found items to create one of a kind pieces of art jewelry.
This necklace is cut from a vintage tin era 1930-1940 made in Holland. It at one time held either toffee or tea. I am not quite sure which.
I used swavorski crystals and moonstone beads to give it the sweet retro look.
If you like this check out my web site
www.retrorose.com
R

Charmed

2006-09-19T08:28:00.000-07:00

My season of selling at Roche Harbor has come to an end. I am building up my jewelry reserves for the holiday season. Here are some charms I have made with PMC (Precious Metal Clay). They are made from molds taken from vintage jewelry and other old and funky things. The rosary type charm is made from an Omar Pearl Tag that was on some pearls from the 1890 to 1920 era.

Peace,

Rhonda www.retrorose.com

Danielles Necklace

2006-08-23T08:01:00.000-07:00

This Danielle Dean in her wedding necklace. She hired me to design and make it for her. Check out her web site at www.danielledean.com she is a great photographer with a wonderful ablility for mixed media art.

Do Not Fold Spindle or Mutilate

2006-07-26T20:34:00.000-07:00

The Museum of Art and Science, The Washington pavilion http://www.washingtonpavilion.org/ is having an Art opening on July 28th. There be be a virtual tour. The museum sent out invitations to one of the Yahoo groups I belong to for submissions of art work altering a old punch card any way the artist wanted to.
I titled my piece hanging chad. I first cut over 100 tiny copper pieces, then adhered the tiny numbers onto the copper with acrylic matte medium. Then I drilled and saw out approximately 30 of the numbers, with the action of the saw it caused some of the light weight cardboard punch card pieces to dangle off the copper piece, thus hanging chad.
If you are in Sioux Falls South Dakota this July 28th through Sept check out this very interesting exhibit. I think it is time I take a road trip.
Let me know what you think .

My Dad

2006-06-18T21:35:00.000-07:00

My Dad's name is Eugene Anderson. He is the best dad a girl could have. He always gives me the best advice. He's 72 now and more active than I can remember. He is Norwegian and proud of it. He's almost a pure Norwegian with only 1/8 Danish. He loves restoring classic foreign cars and golf and travel. He loves my mom and has been married to her for 52 years. He has always been a stable rock with very practical and loving advice. HAPPY FATHERS DAY DAD, I LOVE YOU!

Trims

2006-06-16T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is where I would like to be this Friday morning. I discovered this wonderful booth of beads, trims, tassels and lace. It was early and I was just wandering through the flea market in Paris. I loved the colors and patterns and the way this woman's booth was set up. The visual delight of this booth stunned me and all I walked away from her booth with was this picture. I want to go back to Paris.
Rhonda

Vital Elements Sign

2006-06-03T08:15:00.000-07:00

This is the open sign I made for Vital Elements. I had a vision, what can I say? I kept it of course and it hangs on the wall in studio.
R

2006-05-29T08:15:00.000-07:00

This wonderful illustration is my moms artwork. She loves drawing animals and fairies. This is a whole set called "Wedding in the Northwoods. It consists of about 20 animals and their clothes. She has always as long as I can remember, taken her time to do her art. When I was young she would sit with a crow quill pen and a bottle of Black India Ink. For extra pin money my mom would hand illustrate and ink, then frame wedding invitations. She used this extra money for underwear and socks for us her children and for rummage sales and the Goodwill.
I can remember the Goodwill in Portland when I was young. There were stacks and stacks of depression glass plates, salt and pepper shakers. If I was good my mom would give my sister and I either a quarter or a dime to spend. My sister and I would head towards the back of the "better goods" department and pick from the boxes of beaded, metal mesh, and embroidered purses. Usually we had a dime and bought a beaded purse.
I was the youngest of three and when in afternoon kindergarten, so I would go with my mom to the As Is section of the Goodwill and wait for it to open. I remember once when the as is had a whole bin of dolls, my mom said "Rhonda, when the doll opens run in and pick up as many of the china dolls as you can" I became the artful dodger that day and loved doing it. We never saw as many dolls as there were that day, again.

Mothers Day in Retrospect

2006-05-15T09:23:00.000-07:00

I was trying all day Mothers Day to post a message but alas, my mom was here and the time just slipped away.
My Mom knows me better than anyone, most moms do know their daughters and have a connection that is unexplainable.
As we were cleaning up from a simple breakfast of homemade blueberry muffins, orange juice, and coffee, my mom who is visiting for a week, handed me a precious scuffed green book cloth journal. Speaking the words I have heard often that accompany a special found gift she said"I have had this for so long and loved it, I bought it at some tag sale a long time ago and thought is was time to pass it along" As I open the aged cover of the journal and stared in wonder at the beautiful age-stained manilla pages I let low key "Oh mom this is so cool" There gracing the pages, were pencil sketches from 1910-1920 France . The sketches were jewelry rendering (drawings) done by a French woman with meticulous and loving care.
I am posting a picture to share with you the special gift I received.
R

Cob Web Cards

2006-05-11T07:41:00.000-07:00

About a year ago there was a huge paper toy auction in the mid-west. It was also posted on eBay. This is one of the images that I saved. It is called a cob-web or a spiderweb card. I may have that name wrong, I do forget a lot lately. Hmmm. Maybe it is called a honey comb card. That could very well be the right name.
Anyway it always give me pause to reflect on the time and care given to create the seemly simple things. When at a closer look you see how complicated they really are.

Honoring my mom

2006-05-09T10:37:00.000-07:00

This week just seems to be a week of honouring my Mother. She is a wonderful talent artist and a very ecentric woman. Her imagination is whismical and her sense of humor is fantastic. She is a collector extrodiare. She once tried to count her collection, to make a list. She gave up and just said "Well, I guess I collect collections." I am posting a picture of what she calls her religous wall.
She has kept a journal, an art journal for ever, not daily entries, just ideas that come to her, quotes she likes, web-sites for me to look up and things she feels and learns. She once wrote a Soap Opera in her journal and recently told me about it. This will be read only after she passes on. She told me to not judge her by what she wrote, then she said it was pretty good stuff!

2006-05-08T08:26:00.000-07:00

I think that this , of the photographs I have taken, is one of my favorites. It represents a life goal accomplished, both for myself and my mother, as well as my sister. As we were leaving the elevator after going to the top of the Eiffel, with my parents waiting for us, I saw this bird, framed beautifully by the ornate iron of the Eiffel Tower. My sister and I walked across the bricked courtyard, laughing and realizing where we were, while my Mom was crying from one of the bases of the tower. She was so happy her daughters had made it to France, and with her.

2006-05-06T22:18:00.000-07:00

I named this blog after my store Vital Elements. I closed the doors about 3 years ago. The name was hard to create for me. My store had nothing vitally elemental to live your life, it had things vital to your heart and soul.
I had beautiful candles with names like Madagascar spice and ocean breeze from a company called Pacifica out of Portland. I had the most gentle Japanese incense and also some from France. The best line of soaps from France and Italy. There was always just the right pillow, or picture frame to use in your home. I had wonderful cards and a case of very special blown glass writing pens from Italy and journals from around the world to share your thoughts in . Four cases of the beautiful jewelry from Moose Creek, Silver Seasons, and me Retro Rose Designs. There were beads and little boxes and a whole rack of special small things that were very affordable. My staff was wonderful, I had the best. Ironically all our names started with Rachel, Robin, Renee, and me Rhonda. When they were filming Practical Magic, Adian Quinn was a special customer as was Sandra Bullock and Matthew McConahey. The set designers came in and bought special papers for a book to be given to the director. I was luck enough to visit the set and get a tour of the amazing greenhouse that still is one of my favorite movie places, the kitchen and living room where all beautifully decorated. It was a fun time in my life. But, the best of the best about VE were the customers that supported me for 5 years, they shared their lives, loves, and losses with me. There were tears and hugs and laughter.
I have never written much about my shop. I loved it. It was a goal, a dream realized, lived and said goodbye too.
And now another business is gently nudging its way into my life.
I do have another goal by 55. I manage to succeed when I write them down on paper.
If I can find pictures of Vital Elements I'll share them with you.

2006-05-04T23:06:00.000-07:00

This is the beginning of another blog. I suppose I need this one to because I like the graphic layout better than livejournal. I have no idea how to create or to get people to link me from here. Oh my another journey.
R