If you haven’t picked up the copy of the new Metalsmith magazine yet, I highly recommend it. In addition to some excellent articles, there is also an opinion piece on blogging that Corey and I wrote. (This is the part where I’m jumping up and down because I co-wrote something that was published in Metalsmith!) You can pick your copy up in bookstores now.

In honor of my birthday (today!) and the one year anniversary of my blog (upcoming), I’ve decided to run a little contest.

I will be giving away not one, but TWO sets of fine silver on steel bracelets. All you have to do to enter is leave a comment on this post that answers the following question – Who would you give a set of my fine silver on steel bracelets to and why? Maybe its your mom, your sister, your best friend, or anyone who deserves a nice treat!

The contest will run until Sunday, November 4. Next Monday, I’ll choose one lucky winner and send both you and the person you’ve picked a set of three of my fine silver on steel bracelets!

Presents all around! Happy birthday!

I took the handmade pledge – did you?

A few new close-up shots from my trip this weekend.

While out antiquing with Adrienne, I saw this amazing Russell Woodard chair (similar to the one pictured above, but white and with curved legs that made it bounce). Sadly, it was a bit out of my price range (well, more than a bit) but now I’m on the hunt. I really want one for my house/office/studio/anywhere.

This weekend I went to the Hamptons to visit Adrienne, who moved there to work as an assistant to John Iversen. It was nice to get a away for the weekend, and to such a beautiful place. Everything from the houses to the scenery was super picturesque.

Adrienne took me to see John’s studio, which was so nice. High ceilings, white walls, and a wonderful collection of natural and vintage objects. I’m jealous.

We also had a yard sale, and true to form, made over the top, dorky signs for it. It was fun and a wonderful motivator to get rid of lots of stuff.

Adrienne and I also had a chance to talk about what we’re working on (or planning to work on), so between our conversations and the scenery, I’m feeling totally inspired. Back to work!

Above: our dorky yard sale signs
Below: some of John’s work.

This necklace from Jenny Vorwaller’s new shop (via Modish), which fits in nicely with my current chain obsession.

And this print by swallowfield. I adore Jennifer Judd-McGee’s work, and already own several of her prints. Perhaps I’ll have to consider one more…

I have a slight confession to make – I may be addicted to McMaster-Carr. McMaster-Carr is an industrial supply company, and I firmly believe you can get anything you’ll ever need (except food and clothes) from them. I place an order at least twice a week. (Luckily, for most orders, ground shipping arrives the next day.) Here are a few big tickets items I’m coveting…

A hydraulic press.

A bench shear (so I can cut steel sheet).

And even though its completely unnecessary, a punch that creates rounded corners on metal! A girl can dream…

Its taken me a while to get there, but I’m happy to announce the opening of my new shop megan auman home! Soon you’ll find all the non-wearable stuff I’ve been working on – wall panels, wire pillows, and just in time for the holidays and available now, my line of ornaments.

Happy shopping!

I was checking out the Storque on Etsy today, and clicked on an article titled “Etsy Holiday How-To #4: Photographing your items“. It features a video by the Etsy labs on how to photograph your work and THEY MENTIONED ME. Imagine the surprise while watching a video and suddenly hearing your name. Insanity! Thanks to Etsy labs for the shout out!