Found my old stash of little shells from way back when.  It's been a while since we've been to the beach. I'm dying to go, but all summer, even when it looks perfect out, the clouds suddenly roll in and dump a load of rain and shoot lightning everywhere.  Unfortunately we don't live close to the water so the chances that we'd waste a long trip just to get rained on is highly likely.

Keeping it simple with some found shells that already had holes in them.  I can't imagine trying to get the rotary tool to drill such a clean hole in the shell without it shattering or spraying nasty dust everywhere. Some predator already did the hard work for me.  Simply combined with some dead soft wire (aluminum? I dunno) that I got from Japan.  It comes in different colors and the hue runs all the way through, not like the painted/coated crap.  They actually use this stuff for crafts and jewelry and I can see why, it's great stuff.  The gunmetal/pewter color is my favorite; I wish I brought more of that color home.  Strung simply on flat braided nylon cord which is super durable and doesn't irritate the way leather and waxy cotton can, especially when they get wet, perfect for the beach, when/if we can ever go!

My family back up in Chicago is hosting another summer block party, this time with a 1950's theme!  Back when I used to cut fabric for Hancock Fabrics and Vogue Fabrics, I remember having to cut tons of felt for poodle skirts before Halloween.  I had never actually made them until last night.  Now I'm addicted.