Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Last Minute Handmade Gifts

http://www.shop.punkyjane.com/Last-Minute-Gifts_c71.htm
http://www.shop.punkyjane.com/Infinity-Toggle-Bracelet-LMG1555.htm
Infinity Toggle Bracelet

We are excited to announce that we've just posted an entire section of Last Minute Gifts. Everything in this section will be shipped within two business days of payment.

We're posting just a few samples here. Be sure to check out our entire selection.

http://www.shop.punkyjane.com/You-are-Braver-Inspirational-Quote-Necklace-LMG2070.htm
You Are Braver Necklace

It's not too late to have unique handmade gifts under the tree!

http://www.shop.punkyjane.com/Compass-hand-stamped-sterling-necklace-LMG2608.htm
Hand Stamped Compass Necklace


Happy Holidays!

Wednesday, November 20, 2013

In the Studio – Handmade Silver Infinity Symbol


http://shop.punkyjane.com/Infinity-Symbol-Necklace-7500.htm
Handmade Silver Infinity Symbol as a necklace

What goes into making our one-of-a-kind fine silver infinity symbol? We thought it would be fun to show you a little behind-the-scenes action from the Punky Jane Studio.




Each symbol is hand shaped from fine silver wire...


...fused, and then given a gently hammered finish.

http://shop.punkyjane.com/Infinity-Toggle-Bracelet-1555.htm
Handmade Silver Infinity Symbol Toggle Bracelet


To create our Infinity Toggle Bracelet, we attached the infinity symbol to nice and sturdy sterling silver chain with our hand-forged toggle.

Truly handmade and one of a kind!

Shop for our Handmade Infinity Designs.

Thanks for stopping by the studio!

Monday, November 18, 2013

12 Days of Savings!

We are so excited to announce our 12 DAYS of SAVINGS!

There's a new code for each day. Notice how the savings gets a little lower each day? Shop early and be rewarded!




It's starts today...use the code PJ12days25 and save 25%.

Codes good on the specified day only at www.PunkyJane.com and not valid on 14k gold.

Don't forget to check out our holiday ordering deadlines.

'Tis the Season of Savings!




Friday, November 15, 2013

Get Creative and Win!

http://shop.punkyjane.com/Hand-Stamped-Binder-Paper-Sterling-Silver-Necklace-2081.htm

We just introduced our new hand stamped Binder Paper design. We think it would look adorable with a message stamped on it, but we can't decide what to stamp!

Comment here with your suggestion. If your idea is chosen,  you'll win your design! How about that? Rewards for creativity!

We'll only be choosing one phrase, and keep in mind that it should be relatively short. The 'paper' is only 1" tall and 3/4" wide.

If more than one person submits the selected phrase, the first one submitted will win (determined by the time and date of the comment post). And it's okay to submit more than one idea.

Contest ends at midnight Friday, November 22, 2013.

Ready? Set...Go!!




Personalized Gift Ideas for the Geek in Your Life

You may have noticed that I tend toward the geeky side.

Thought I'd share a few of my favorites designs. It might just help you find the perfect, personalized gift for that geek in your life, or share with your circle so they can shop for you.


Scrabble Inspired Necklace
Choose any word or name, 2 to 5 characters to create your own personalized Scrabble rack necklace. Each tile is stamped with the letter and its official Scrabble point value. Single letter tiles are also available.




'Hello My Name Is' Write On Wipe Off Tattle Tales Necklace
Inspired by those fun little sticky name tags, you can write a new name or word every day!



Magic 8 Ball Necklace
You can have several tags so you can switch them out depending on your mood.




Sterling Silver Paper Clip Necklace
Pay homage to your favorite little fastener! This fully functioning paper clip is hand formed from sterling silver wire.



Molecule Necklace
What's your favorite molecule? I'm going with Theobromine (it's a big deal in chocolate).




Check out our entire Geekery Section here, including designs inspired by Harry Potter, Doctor Who, and the periodic table.


Thursday, November 14, 2013

You are braver than you believe, stronger than you seem, and smarter than you think.

~ Christopher Robin to Winnie the Pooh.


I'm so excited to introduce this new design!

This takes me back to my days as a graphic designer and the excitement of seeing blank paper feed into one end of the press and my completed design come out the other side.

"You are braver than you believe,
stronger than you seem, and
smarter than you think."
~ Christopher Robin to Winnie the Pooh

This wonderfully inspirational quote (one of my favorites!) which I’ve designed first in type, then into beautiful, handmade jewelry.

It is currently available as a stand-alone necklace, as well as a building block in our Simply Charming Collection. It will soon also be available as a keychain.

Stay tuned...more to come!



Comment here with your favorite quotes...you might just seem them in a future design!


Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Make a First Christmas Even More Special with a Hand Stamped and Personalized Ornament


Our hand stamped and personalized Christmas Ornaments are sure to make any Christmas special, but did you know each one of our My First Christmas designs comes with a little journal to record special moments?


In addition to a 'to' and 'from' section, you'll be able to record:
  • Where I went...
  • Who was there...
  • What I wore...
  • What I ate...
  • Something funny I did...
  • My favorite gift...

Let's face it...it's the perfect place to record those precious moments that will embarrass your kids in about 13 years!



Each ornament also includes a Sunshine Polishing Cloth so you can keep it looking shiny and bright. These ornaments promise to not only be a focal point of any tree, but a treasured keepsake for years to come.

Not your baby's first Christmas? No problem! We can stamp any year for you.

Remember to order before November 29th to ensure holiday delivery. Read more about production time and shipping options in our FAQs section.


Monday, November 11, 2013

It's all about the crust.


I love making pie. In fact, I love making pie almost more than eating it. The perfect pie crust is like a challenge to me...something seemingly unattainable that I'm always chasing.

I've always sworn by my food processor pie crust recipe. Tried and true. Rave results every time.

One day last week, as I quickly scrolled past a post, either on a blog or on facebook, could have been a billboard for all I know...I saw it. Someone proclaiming that making pie crust in a food processor wasn't cutting it. Really? How dare you?!? I was curious and offended all at the same time. My quest for the perfect pie crust prevailed, and I filed this little tidbit away.



After a quick trip to Apple Hill yesterday, and that case of apples staring back at me, pie was a must.

As I set out to make my traditional crust, those words rang in my ears again. Really? Okay, I'll try it. Since I couldn't remember where on earth I had seen the post, I Googled 'pie crust without a food processor." I clicked the second result...after all 'Smitten Kitchen' is a great name.

I read her blog post entitled 'pie crust 102: all butter, really flaky pie dough' and realized she really knows her crust! She's struggled with the shortening/butter question. She's done the food processor thing. As I read through, it all made perfect sense. Little pockets of butter melting in the oven leaving perfectly flaky crust.

I decided to try it.

Not only is it actually easier in the long run (I hate washing the food processor), it's an amazing crust. Our Pink Lady apples made a wonderful filling, but the crust was as close to perfection as I've ever made.

I have to say, I'm never going back. I look forward to wonderful holiday season filled with pie.

Check out the Smitten Kitchen pie crust recipe here. It's a great read with a ton of detail and pictures. Love that.

And yes, there's a pie crust 101 and 103. This is my kind of class schedule.

Enjoy!







Friday, November 8, 2013

Jump Start Your Happy Thoughts



We all have those days. Days where we need to remind ourselves of all the good things.

Sitting on my office shelf, always easy to see, is this sweet little book called 14,000 things to be happy about by Barbara Ann Kipfer. (You can purchase the revised and updated edition on Amazon.)

I've had this book for years. It's a wonderful little treasure. The author spent 20 years recording the small things that made her happy and then compiled and published her book.

On days I need a little boost, I simply glance through the pages until I find something that sparks a happy thought. It's amazing how once one happy thought is planted, my mind will just take off.


Today I landed on page 219. The word "Crayola" and "I love you" jumped right off the page. All warm and fuzzy again.

Sometimes, just seeing the cover makes me smile. That was easy.

How do you jump start your happy thoughts? What are the little things that get you through?


Thursday, November 7, 2013

How to Care for Your Punky Jane


Thought we'd take a minute to review some tips on how to care for your hand stamped and personalized Punky Jane Jewelry.

Here are a few guidelines to keep your piece made with sterling (.925) or fine silver (.999) looking its best:
  • Don’t wear your jewelry in water, or allow it to be exposed to chemicals...they will damage the finish and oxidation. Even perfumes, lotions and sprays can damage the finish. 
  • Don't hang your jewelry in or near the bathroom, or any other damp area. This will dramatically speed oxidation.
  • Don’t use dip-style cleaners...they will remove the oxidation you want to keep (blackening of the letters). It’s best to use a soft cloth made especially for jewelry polishing (like a Sunshine Polishing Cloth), and polish very gently. 
  • After your jewelry is clean, you can store it in a zip closure bag if you won't be wearing it for awhile. If you bag a dirty piece, the oxidation will move very quickly.
  • If your piece has a brushed finish, the finish will lighten a bit with normal wear and the polishing cloth will speed that up.
  • If the oxidation in the letters gets a little lighter, it will darken again over time through the natural oxidation process. 
  • Remember, the best way to keep your jewelry from tarnishing is to wear it! Please note that it’s normal for silver jewelry to show gentle wear. Silver is a soft metal.
And remember, you can find this and other great info in our FAQs section.

If you ever have questions about how to care for your piece, don't hesitate to contact us.

Monday, November 4, 2013

Look What Punky Found: Pretty Hand Crafted Coffee Mugs

It's Monday. After the time change.

Let's be real...getting up in on a morning like this is hard, but coffee (or tea!) makes it just a little bit easier. We all reach for our favorite mug...if it's clean. Some of us prefer pretty ones or clever ones, but I prefer a large mug. The bigger the better in my book. Why waste time refilling?

As usual, Etsy has a great supply of hand made mugs. You might be able to convince me to go for a smaller mug if it's personalized and/or pretty.

For the selfish coffee drinker...

'Mine Coffee Mugs' by symmetricalpottery




For anyone who needs their own special mug...



'Personalized Mug' by MissPottery





For the grumpy (non)morning person that needs a smile....

'Super Cute Green Frog Mug' by misunrie

And my personal favorite...

'20 oz Soup Bowl/Mug' by DandelionPottery


Be sure to check out their shops for other hand made pottery items.

Now I'm off to pour another pot...er...I mean cup of coffee!


Friday, November 1, 2013

Look What Punky Found: Polymer Clay Jewelry

Since we're still riding the Halloween sugar rush, I thought I'd share this sweet Etsy shop, InedibleJewelry! Sisters, Jessica & Susan Partain hand sculpt each charm from polymer clay. After taking a look around their shop, I was astounded at the level of detail they are able to achieve.

Sweet charms by inediblejewelry



Blueberry Cheesecake by inediblejewelry

While I'm partial to the sweet treats, they also make snacks and savory items. Ants on a log anyone?

Ants on a Log by inediblejewelry

Cheese Plate Necklace by inediblejewelry

They've even shared how they create their adorable pie slices on Etsy's How To Tuesday!


Be sure to check out their...
Etsy shop
Facebook
How they got started on Etsy, here





Tuesday, October 29, 2013

National Chocolate Day! How'd I Miss That?


Yesterday, October 28th was National Chocolate Day. On a Monday. Cruel.

It whizzed right by without me even knowing. And this is a day I can celebrate!

Don't get me wrong. I had chocolate...a packet of hot chocolate mix in my coffee to start the day.

And Brownie Brittle! Oh my. If you haven't tried this you should. It's the best crispy part of the brownies that so many of us fight over.

Let's face it, a nibble of chocolate is like a little hug. Did you know that Theobromine is the chemical in chocolate that makes it feel that way?

Hand Stamped Theobromine Molecule Necklace

I apparently also missed National Chocolate Cupcake Day on October 18th and National Chocolate Milk Day on September 27th. Luckily, there seems to be some sort of chocolate-inspired "holiday" at least once a month. Whew. Found this helpful list.

Who am I kidding? Everyday is a Chocolate Day for me! Off to celebrate!



Friday, October 25, 2013

Simply Charming – More Ways to Build Your Own Creation

Our Simply Charming Memorial Glass Locket

You may have checked out our Build Your Itty Bitty section or our Simply Charming Collection. Both allow you to order one of our popular combinations, or start with a chain and simply add charms and crystals, as well as hand stamped and personalized discs.

We are so excited to announce yet another way for you to build your own Punky Jane creation!

Start with this sterling locket made with antique glass and add to it.

Our new Simply Charming Glass Lockets section allows you to order one of our popular combinations, or start with the sterling locket and build your own by adding charms and crystals. You can even order additional message discs for inside the locket and switch them out. (We like options.)

Our Simply Charming Glass Lockets let you create a truly personalized keepsake with a vintage feel.

Add clusters of charms and crystals.
Order an extra message disc
and switch them out.

Wednesday, October 23, 2013

Gift Ideas: Pet Lovers

With the holidays right around the corner, we'll be posting Gift Ideas to help make your shopping easier.

Today we'll showcase a few hand stamped and personalized ideas for the Pet Lover in your life.

If you know someone who's lost that special fur person, this makes a wonderful tribute. The date tag can be personalized another way if you'd like...another word or design stamp, for example.

Simply Charming Pet Memorial Necklace



Perfect for the person who wants to carry their pets names with them:

Love Circle with Paw Charm


The cat lover in your life will love this secret message locket that can have a message stamped inside:

Cat Lovers Hand Stamped Secret Message Locket

Be sure to check out our entire section of ideas for Pet Lovers.

And keep in mind our Holiday Ordering Deadlines:

  • Normal production time is 2-3 weeks. 
  • All orders placed by November 29, 2013 will ship no later than December 19th. 
  • Orders placed after November 29 will be handled on a first come first served basis. 
  • Please choose your shipping method accordingly...it's easy to upgrade your shipping during checkout on our site, www.PunkyJane.com. We ship from Northern California.

Tuesday, October 22, 2013

Look What Punky Found: Quotation Calendar

'2014 Handwritten Quotation Calendar' by Lettergirl

We're crazy about calendars (in any form) in the Punky Jane Studio...big surprise right?

As I perused Etsy a few days ago, I stumbled upon this handwritten quotation calendar by one of my favs, Gina Selesky of Lettergirl. Each month combines a calendar and an inspirational hand lettered quotation, plus a doodle or two.

It amazing how Gina can take something as simple as hand writing and make it into something truly beautiful. I absolutely love her various handwritten lettering styles and doodles!

One of her calendars would be a perfect holiday gift for any calendar lover, typrography lover, or anyone who needs an inspirational pick me up.


'2014 Handwritten Quotation Calendar' by Lettergirl
Be sure to take a look around her shop. She also creates personalized address and name stamps in your choice of her hand lettered fonts. But even cooler is a 'Love Your Letters' self-paced workshop to improve your own handwriting!

Letter Girl aka Gina Selesky's:
Etsy Shop
Facebook
Blog
Pinterest

Monday, October 21, 2013

And the winners are....


Five Years of Punky Jane = Five Winners!


Drumroll please...the grand prize winner of the 

Mark Your Calendar Necklace or Keychain is:

Karen T!!

You will receive an email with information on how to order.


The $25 Punky Jane Gift Certificates go to:
  1. Valerie B.
  2. Randi C.
  3. Donna J.
  4. Casey B.
You will receive an email with your exclusive code.

CONGRATULATIONS!


Didn't win? We want to keep the celebration going!
Use the code PJ5YEARS and save 15% off everything at www.PunkyJane.com, now through next Monday, October 28, 2013.

Thank you to everyone that entered!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Saturday, October 19, 2013

Handmade for the Holidays...Start Your Shopping Early



For many of us, it's tough to think about holiday shopping before Halloween. For others, most of your shopping is already done and you have your purchases hidden throughout the house.

I tend to fall somewhere in the middle. While I haven't started yet, I won't be waiting until the last minute either. My biggest struggle if I shop early is remembering where I stashed the gifts!!

When you're shopping handmade and personalized for the holidays, it's a must to get started early.

Here are our Holiday Ordering Guidelines to help you plan.

Normal production time is 2-3 weeks. 
  • All orders placed by November 29, 2013 will ship no later than December 19th. 
  • Orders placed after November 29 will be handled on a first come first served basis.
  • Please choose your shipping method accordingly...it's easy to upgrade your shipping during checkout on our site, www.PunkyJane.com. We ship from Northern California.

The following information is from USPS and FedEx:

United States Postal Service
  • First Class Mail: 2-8 day delivery to most U.S. locations 
  • Priority Mail: 2-3 day delivery to most U.S. locations 
  • Express Mail: 1-2 day delivery where available 
FedEx FedEx 
  • Express Saver: delivered in three business days 
  • FedEx 2day: delivered in two business days 
  • FedEx Standard Overnight: delivered next business day by 3:00pm 
  • FedEx Priority Overnight: delivered next business day by 10:30am
International orders can take 2-3 weeks via USPS Regular First Class Mail and 6-10 delivery days via USPS Priority Mail.


      

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