Origami Jewelry & The Art of Folding Paper

Origami 

Origami is a method of folding paper into intricate designs and shapes.

An ancient art representing transformation and awareness.

Each fold is a reminder, of beauty in simplicity and the inner strength to triumph over challenges/ setbacks.

The crane is a symbol, known to represent peace, love, healing & good fortune.

Origami lovers may now enjoy the beloved animal totem as jewelry at Beech Designs.

Here's a further look into the art of folding paper!

 

Origami Origins 

Origami, is a Japanese word, meaning to "fold" (ori) "paper" (gami or kami). This art form, originally used for decorative and ceremonial purposes, today is enjoyed around the world.

Turns out, the act of folding Paper into works of art has been in practice for so long, much of the history of this art is a bit hazy whether it began in Japan or China.

It wasn't until the year 610 paper making made its was to Japan. 

Research shows, in Japan, the art of origami had been in practice well before paper was invented in China, the year 105 A.D.

Both cloth and leather were other highly probable materials used in the process of this art method.

The origins of origami carry symbolic messages and reflect elements of the natural world. Such as plants and animals.

The Crane's existence; ie appearance, behavior, and the myths surrounding it, all contribute to its symbolism. This heavenly creature's image represents hope, peace, good luck, longevity, fidelity, happiness, strength/resilience, to the promise of successful accomplishments.

The  Material

The paper both fragile and strong, is traditionally honored, with each fold, transforming the material into art. Where once a flat 2d piece of paper changes into a 3D sculptural form. 

The form-manifest, is imbued with an energy focus of the now, honoring its symbolic qualities.     

Into Jewelry

Creating these mini paper art sculptures, as jewelry adornments, was of interest for Beech Designs. 

Truly wearable art.... That's light as a feather 🤭 🪶 

The origami crane continues to inspire and influence handmade creations with Beech Designs.

And new variations are always on the horizon 😉

Discover online and in select local areas.

Read on --> Origami Crane Earrings: Grace Through Posture

4 Easy Indoor Plants to Brighten Your World & Winter + A Hidden Garden Gem in Florida

From the Garden 

To new beginnings moving forward.🥂

A post inspired after we made our way to Kentucky from Florida. Having to move our outdoor garden indoors, starting from scratch.

After arriving, the season was turning to the cold months. 

During this shift I am reminded of the garden we created. An enchanted oasis- that was the backdrop to The Studio.

From the Garden II

Arriving to Kentucky 

Arriving in Kentucky, the winter storm blew through, and with it the reminder —this is the time to step back and reflect.

During these times of change and adjusting, thankful to friends who have been supportive in various ways.

One of them being, gifts of greenery to start a garden anew. 

Some folks gifted cuttings and other potted plants that have begun the emergence of a new backdrop to the working atmosphere of an indoor garden, ...aka soon to be jungle studio. 

Four Must Have Plants 

Uplifted and inspired by these new garden delights, here is a list of four must have plants that will change your world.

Amaryllis

First up, the Amaryllis. Ok, well the first on the list is technically a flower, but the timing and beauty of it made it impossible to leave out. 

 

I've always known this as the Christmas or winter flower.... Since that's around the time of year I've seen it blooming. This is the Apple Blossom variety, and it’s just stunning.

In Greek, Amaryllis means to sparkle, and it’s no wonder. Its radiant color and vibrant, displays a perfect burst of life in the darker months. This flower symbolizes strength, beauty, pride, and love — which sounds like a good ally for a flower that opens up in the winter months.

I love when Amaryllis bulbs arrive in a basket. This delightful presentation shows up with no blooms at first… but as you water it, it slowly comes to life, revealing its majestic flower gem.

For something classic and elegant, the Amaryllis ‘Apple Blossom’ in a natural jute basket (around $49), is such a sweet choice — soft color and a welcoming presence. If you’re thinking bigger, two nursery pots in a woven basket (about $89), makes a fuller display that feels like a true winter centerpiece.

For something a little different for the darker months, when we’re spending more time indoors, White Flower Farm offers a variety of Amaryllis bulbs, with optional planter kits and basket presentations that let you tailor it to your space or gifting style. You can explore their current Amaryllis selections here.

Cherry Blossom Amaryllis 

No matter how you choose to present them, these bulbs are a cheerful surprise on cold days. White Flower Farms even shares tips for gifting Amaryllis (which I love), and if you plant in late September through early November, you’ll likely enjoy blooms throughout the winter. With a little care, depending on the bulb, some Amaryllis can even gift you two or three cycles of flowers per season — something lovely to look forward to year after year. 🤞

Aloe Vera 

Next up, Aloe Vera. You may have heard of it as the miracle — or magic — plant, and honestly, it’s earned that reputation.

It’s such a good one to have on hand, and a longtime favorite of mine because of how much it offers when it comes to health and wellness. 

Aloe Vera 

This succulent has a long list of amazing benefits, and in my own day-to-day life it’s used in many ways — from helping replenish electrolytes and supporting vitamin and mineral intake, to being my go-to for skin care. I’ve used fresh Aloe as a face wash, for burns and inflammation, and as part of my personal wellness routines, aiding digestion and overall vitality.

To me, it’s one of those plants whose value goes far beyond anything you’ll find in a bottle, which is why I love having the real deal on hand — growing as part of my natural defense garden-cabinet.😉 

Because Aloe is a succulent, it also pairs beautifully with other easygoing plants that thrive indoors, especially during the slower winter months. I love grouping it with trailing or sculptural succulents — they add texture without demanding much care. For those, I often browse Leaf & Clay’s hanging and trailing succulents, which are perfect for shelves, windows, or anywhere you want a little movement and life.

If you’re just starting out or want a simple way to build a small indoor collection, something like Leaf & Clay’s easy indoor succulents pack makes it feel approachable and low-stress — a nice complement to Aloe’s steady, supportive presence.

Aloe, requiring sunlight, thrives quietly in its space, offering gentle support with minimal fuss — and it pairs beautifully with other resilient, low-maintenance indoor plants, like the Snake Plant.

Mother-in-Law's Tongue/Snake Plant 

Mother-in-law's Tongue 

A plant that requires so little and give so much.

 

Extremely low maintenance and beloved for its ability to absorb negative energy (are you into feng shui?) Believed to bring good luck and positive energy flow. (Yes please)

Its superpower? Boosting indoor oxygen levels naturally. It’s highly effective at removing common pollutants, like mold and formaldehyde, helping improve indoor air quality. A must-have for any indoor garden.

Added bonuses, reduces allergies and boosts metal health... I guess the more oxygen the better you feel. 🫧

English Ivy  

Have you ever held a bunch of this beautiful vine & smelled it like a bouquet? It smells so freakn' fresh, ... the real outdoor fresh scent, naturally.

It's no wonder it has a rap for its air-purifying abilities, removing harmful toxins such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air, this graceful vine makes it a great choice for homes and offices, or any cozy corner that could use a little clean, natural energy.

Highly adaptable houseplant that requires minimal watering.

If you’d like to bring this fresh, fragrant greenery indoors, White Flower Farms carries English Ivy— a simple way to add both beauty and air-purifying benefits to your space

English Ivy 

Nature's Multitaskers 

All these plants can grow/live outdoors depending on the zone, but can be enjoyed indoors as well.

°True multitaskers

°Visually/creatively inviting/inspiring 

°Bringing natural vibrance & ambience 

°Filtering the air of toxins

°Provides oxygen and may help boost mental health

These plants are so easy to care for and very low maintenance. And when you care for plants, plants take care of you.

🪴 More plant inspiration is on the way! Our indoor garden journey continues with the hydroponic tower — a perfect solution for keeping greenery thriving during those in-between months when natural light is limited. 🌱

I’d love to hear from you: which plant brightens your space and lifts your mood?

 

DIY Business Cards & Tags Part: II, 3 Alternative Paper Materials For Marketing Your Handmade Business

 

Cost: 0-$10

 

Materials:
– Watercolor paper 

– Found flat paper material

– watercolor &/or acrylic paint(s)

– mod-podge, matte or glossy
– rub on stencil stickers or stamps
– any additional metallic/colors- optional

– blank labels- optional

 

Tools:

– self-ink stamper

– paint brushes
– printer - optional
– ruler
– scissors
– cutting mat

 

 

Resourceful tips for an artist, on a budget or not.

This post is a continuation of DIY Business Tags & Cards- Part: I

 

A Note About Supplies

The supplies listed above is similar to Part I's. Some materials in the list have been altered for this post. As mentioned, in Part I, much or all of these supplies you probably already have in your home or office/studio and can be applied here in Part II.  

 

This DIY Series

Part: I of this series gives insight and step by step instructions on re-purposing discarded paper towel rolls for business/display cards & tags. 

Part: II expands on material opportunities and the experiences that led to those as options. 

 

From me:

With life as my studio, most often times I work with what's around me. What flows/streamlines is a gain, an experience to build on, while enjoying and giving to others.

 

For You:

These experiences may offer a reminder of encouragement & support

- that what you need is most likely already around you.

- you are a creative being, so approach by allowing yourself to run with the ideas & apply your own way/s for your handmade business/confidence

- that finding your repurposed material/ways enhances your unique handmade business brand's experience or creative practices.

Where Part: II's Journey Begins

 

It seemed a Part: II was in order, because somewhere along the way I ran out of cards and tags! Maybe I was completely out of paper towel rolls or waiting on the flattening stage of the process. What ever it was, it became clear I needed another source or material option to fill in the time gaps of the process times! And at one point, vending at weekend art fair, needed cards the next day!

 

 

There Aren't Any Leftovers

 

Material Source 

Option 1: 

 

Teaching watercolor painting classes, proved to be another material source option. When classes were over, I'd go around the room and collect any paper pieces that were left behind as scrap/demo/testers/drafts. 

 

 

 These small color packed pieces of paper held splashes or dashes of paint where color and brushes were tested. Which I saved over time and proved to be a meca for a great material source for cards and tags!

 

 

I cut some testers to a desired card or tag size and placed a sticker/ label with my business info on the back and …

 

Viola! 

Mini abstract paintings showcasing my handmade jewelry! People love it… and so do I.

 

  

 

 

So if I planned classes ahead with good quality card stock watercolor paper, then the leftovers would serve my ideal /preferred business display card & tag material. 

 

*Takeaways - Paper project leftovers will serve as ideal card & tag material.

 

 

The Good Stuff

 

Source Material 

Option 2:

 

At some point I ran out of paper leftovers as a source for cards & tags and the mini painting display cards had become a preferred in handmade store/gallery settings. 

 

Resourcing, I said why not, and pulled out fresh watercolor paper, brushed a couple of transparent color layers, and cut to size to continue these mini painting jewelry display cards. And adding stencil or rub on designs proved to be just as effective and adored.

 

Yes, save the good fresh clear watercolor paper for your next masterpiece(s). But a moment was reached, and decided to pull out some card stock watercolor paper. 

 

The color paint application process of Part I is used here. I'm just using 140 lb watercolor paper instead which also has a nice thick absorbency hold. 

 

Remember, for a more thicker & sturdier card, always incorporate mod-podge. This is a versatile medium that is always used for DIY cards. 

 

 

~Just like in Part I, You can simply start by taking a sheet of 140 lb watercolor paper and applying any color you’d like. Cold pressed 140lb watercolor paper is a thicker paper with a stronger hold & absorbency (instead of hot pressed paper which is less absorbent). The more watered down the paint, the deeper it goes into the paper. And mod-podge can be used at any stage of painting, working as an adhesive, for color paint transparency/layering, and/or as a sealant.

The Show Must Go On

 

Material Source

Option 3:

 

As a vendor,  at a weekend art fair, with an excellent booth location, things were going well. But by the first day's end business cards had run out and the fair was a three day event!!

 

That evening, arriving home, I noticed some colorful filings in the recycling bin. Walking over I realized they were broken down cereal boxes. And pulled a few out and cut them to a desired card size. Simply put the business info on the back (inside cardboard surface) with a  self-ink-stamper. ..

 

Ta-da! 

 

Excited at how they turned out as this process time was super quick, I was ready for the following day at the fair! As an artist this empty canvas space, allowed me to use my imagination to create more business cards from findings.

 

Returning to the art fair, I now was curious to see the response these new cards would get.  

 

The individuals responses turned out to be better than expected. A potential/customer would go for a card, investing as they held it- maybe even a little longer than if it might of been a regular big box store bought business card. Then one side of there mouth would go up, then a smile, they’d turn in delight and ask, 

"Is this from a cereal box?” And I’d say proudly, “yes, It is!” 

They loved it!

And actually the textural thickness/feel of the material was commented on as a preferred. 

 

Remember, as an option, if you want to seal or strengthen your material use mod-podge.

*Take away- resourcefulness brings an adventure you may enjoy, you might be pleasantly surprised.

- 99.9% of the time what you need is close by or right around you. And with your invested creative energy and intentions they do impact others-even if what seems to just be a tag, or just a card. People love to be around creativity, innovation, ingenuity on any level- the inspiration is catching. Which inspires them with what their doing.

 

- Focus on supplies that will benefit your creative project the most. 

You never know what your findings will allow you to create. And that's part of the process of being an artist. It's a process, being an artist. Have fun!

 

 

What’s your next handmade re-purposing idea?

What's an abundant material around you, that could re-purposed into something new?

 

Shell Power: Whispers of Inspiration from Mother Nature

Shelling I

                                               

 

 

The magic of shells

 

Do you remember the first shell that sparked your curiosity to discover more?

 

Maybe you have a jar(s) of shells you've collected, as a momento. 

While holding those water realm forms & shapes was your explorative imagination brought to the surface?😉

 

In today's post we dive into the magic of shells, their property messages & how they might assist you.

 

Shelling II

The tools are provided

 

Ancient tribes around the world recognized an object, that was once the home of a sacred being, to have spiritual energy.

Shells have been and are used as fetishes, enhancing ornamentation/jewelry, protection from negative energies, ceremonial pieces, as well as tools to stimulate intuition and spiritual connection.

Remember that shell you put to your ear to hear the ocean? Well it turns out there is something to that. Temple Initiates were taught to be intuitive and hear inner voices by listening to a seashell. I'm sure further history holds the origins of this practice.

 

Mother Nature makes no mistakes, every object, animate or inanimate, is surrounded by its own energy field.(1)  

With the ocean as their place of birth, each shell has been grown following a pattern of sacred geometry. This geometry is an essential part of their composition. 

Nature's elemental objects of desire each have a song, a frequency, and are imbued with information and purpose, carrying a message. Our job is to allow and experience/receive.

 

Shells, energy-wise, ignite & bring inspiration! It's literally their calling! So why not use the natural tools she provides.

And if you feel that nudge to reconnect with the ocean herself… 🌊

Imagine walking along the shoreline, discovering shells shaped by time and tide — each one a message waiting to be found.

✨ Book your own shelling adventure here →Shell Key Shelling Trip

 Let the sea choose your next treasure.

 

Scallop Chandeliers

 Allow Your Inner-Voice

 

At times, you may have experienced a need for a spark of inspiration, an idea-to work, a revelation, to reach an answer to complete a project.

 

Remember those seashells you collected at the beach!

 

Next time you experience this, I invite you to arrange seashells with imagination, intuitively placing them to give some insight. (Among or around your current project). Move the shells around, be fluid with placement and arrangement- it's more about an interactive immersion.

 

Allow yourself space with an innocent approach. As you honor the process, seashells remind us of the fluid movement of flowing within.

 

In this way pathways are revealed. And your mind begins to be free within the moment.

 

Reminders

 

Children are open to receiving and remind us of the innocent play that brings streaming wonder & creativity. So let's draw upon that innocent approach! (This is guilt free, heehee)

 

Not to fret, if the process doesn't seem to happen straight away. Be patient, you know how the saying goes... allow the process to unfold. As a result new pathways are emerging and gaining strength. The more you allow the sooner the activating insight/qualities awaken.  

 

 

 

Sea Urchin Wrap Dangles

 

 

Did you know?

 

~ Shells can be used to improve self-image, help organize your life, & to increase your personal strength & endurance. (1)

~ Shells were highly prized in ancient tribes of American Indians. They were used for trade. And when worn around the neck, this placement of adornment signaled/exhibited wealth. The earliest monetary trading beads.(1)

 

~ Early Romans built their civilization by the sea, carving seashells into every form of objects of beautification, such as earrings, fans, hair combs and even eating utensils. These carvings often represented images of their gods and of their heroes. It was believed that the shell could bring them the power of the carved image. (1)

 

~ Shells inspired this post!

 

Shell LaveRock Mala

 

 Do you have a favorite shell? If so, what is it?

Looking to further strengthen the magic of nature in your world? Check out Four Indoor Plants To Brighten Your World 

Stay Connected >>>>

Beech Designs

Objects of Desire + Notes From The Studio

 

Sources: 

1- Dorothee, Mella L.. Stone  Power. (1986). Warner Books Edition.