Hey, this is just a reminder that you can share your latest creations here. Post your beads, jewelry, etc. in your own blog or post it to the forum. It's more publicity for your work. Can't hurt. :)

I generally keep an eye on Youtube for new tutorials related to lampwork, beads, and jewelry so I can share them with you. Making a video tutorial is a great way to get your name out there and potentially get new traffic and customers to your website. However, there are some things I have noticed people doing that are really unappealing. An unappealing how to video will not give you that free viral marketing you are looking for because no one in their right mind will post something useless on their blog.

First, give it a good title. Use the words "how to" and "tutorial" in there so we can find it.

Second, use sound and explain what you are doing and why. Silent how to's are completely useless.

Third, turn off the radio and tv, put out the barking dog and screaming kid. Remove anything that makes background noise. Or better yet, record your voice over the video. Speak clearly. We should only hear you. Anything else is too distracting. Avoid the desire to use intro and/or background music. We aren't watching these to discover your music taste, we want to see and hear what you are doing.

Fourth, keep it short and to the point. Edit your video. Get right into it. Don't tell us why you're making this video or the history of your family. Remove long pauses while you wait for your glass to melt. Anything over five minutes is way too long.

Fifth, show us what you are doing as clearly as possible. Get in close with the camera.

Sixth, tell us who you are and give your website address.

Now go out there and make some good videos!

You can make these with squeezed lampwork beads too. :)

These things are so much easier to follow in video.

Well, it's that time of year again, time for the Ugly Necklace Contest. This is one of my favorites because it's just so kooky.

The deadline is March 15, 2008.

The prizes are:

FIRST PRIZE: a $992.93 shopping spree
on the Land of Odds web-site
RUNNER-UP PRIZE: a $399.07 shopping spree
on the web-site.

See here for more details, rules, etc.

A selection of lampwork earrings from other sellers.

A selection of lampwork necklaces from other sellers.

A selection of lampwork bracelets from other sellers.

A selection of beads on auction from other sellers. I am currently unable to make beads myself. :( If you really want more info on why click here.