Pins of Bling

 I wish these pins sparkled on the page like they do in the light.  For some reason

 the photos don't do them justice but I wanted to tell you the story of why I make them, and how they have brought something which is extra cool  into my life .  A very special way for me to create and express my artistic side where it's just me, the ever so elegant Swarovski crystal beads, wooden shapes, soothing music and a glue gun.  But I can't tell you about the pins until I tell you my story discovering the glue gun and it's remarkable capabilities.  No, folks, I haven't lost it, I just have to share this story, be it silly and pedestrian.

I knew glue guns existed (the only non-violent gun I know of)and was faintly aware of it's magic that creates and doesn't destroy.  I had no idea what I personally could accomplish with one but after watching Project Runway, I was impressed with one of the designers saving the day with her 'glue gun'. They aren't expensive, I think I paid less than six dollars for mine, along with a package of glue sticks. 

My first project began after receiving a T-shirt from the LEAP program at St. Mary's College when we visited the Moraga campus near Oakland.  I don't particularly like T-shirts.  The are usually too masculine looking, the necks are too high so I always cut them down and sew it into a boat neck design.  Then I fold the sleeves up a bit.  So I bought these Swarovski crystal beads and glued them to the shirt where the dancer was doing a jete (leap).  Wow, what an improvement!  I brought a little bling enhancement to an otherwise drab piece of clothing.  I next took this little wooden camel pin I never used, painted it with red nail polish and then with my mighty glue gun added some multi-colored beads all over the body making sure the eye of the camel was a special shade of blue.                                                                              

                                                                                     I was getting compliments from bank tellers

and super market cashiers when I wore the pin.  I thought, maybe I have something here. Let's see what else I can do.  In the past, my creativity was relegated to dancing, singing, acting, working as a make-up artist and even sewing clothing for a few lady friends.  Now, I can make clothing even more attractive with the glue gun and beads.  I also found a very simple pair of black sandals at the thrift store and adorned them with the shiny, crystal beads and voila, I have something quite lovely and unique.
I was thinking then, let's see what I can create that might even make me a few bucks.  As I recently set up household in the South, I purchased the orbs and crosses and went to work.  Being house bound, not having wheels, I may have become craft obsessed and using the glue gun may have become my new narcotic.  I love pulling the trigger and watching the clear liquid adhesive pour out onto something just screaming for a bead to adhere and enhance my project.  I wonder, is there a 12 step program for this kind of addiction. Maybe it's just plain art happening.  I hunkered down and made dozens of pins.

Who knows if I'll continue to make them when I get back to Los Angeles.  Hopefully, I'll be able to find a greater variety of shapes.  Or I may just enjoy wearing the ones I have now in my wardrobe to auditions and SAG/AFTRA functions.  I still do love my favorite toy, the glue gun, and have repaired many a shoe, purse, mug handle, etc with it's great adhesive value.  But in the meantime, it's fun to say, "yes, I made this".. but you can do it too.  Just get yourself one of those little glue guns.  It will change your life, or at least your wardrobe.  And you don't even need any kind of license.