Ganoskin/Orchid Raffle -WOW!!!

My fave and probably the most extensive jewelry manufacturing methods and techniques mailing list is: The Ganoksin Project. Whenever I have a question, all I have to do is search on the archives. If I can’t find it, I post it and there is always someone who has the answer..

They are having an AMAZ ING raffle during the Tucson Gem Show. AnyoneÂ can buy a ticket, you don’t need to be present to win! TheÂ total for prizes value is $23,187.90Â and there will beÂ SEVEN winners! Tickets are only $39, help support Orchid!Â Look at this list of raffle prizes:

Grand Prize: Total Value of $12, 373.90

Gold banner advertising account on Ganoksin – $1,599
Hill Management Consulting – Gift Certificate for Business Consultation – $1,080
Durston – Durston Rolling Mill DRM C130 Manual Mill â€“ $1,195
Reactive Metals – Gift Certificate for Reactive Metals Product – $1,000
Discount Digital Art – Gift Certificate for image scanning – $1,000
Jewelry Training Center – Workshop in including lodging – $1,000
McKinnon Global – Custom Web Programming and Business Plan Finances – $1,000
Foredom – Foredom TX Flexshaft and Book – $428.90
Myron Toback – Ambassador Collection Dapping Set – $415
Gemz Diamond Setting – Voucher including gravers and materials – $414
Otto Frei – A collection of Lindstrom pliers and cutters – $400
Swanstrom Tools USA – 3 sets of high quality pliers – $393
Gesswein – Gift Certificate from their Tool Catalog – $300
Allcraft – A selection of hammers – $300
MJSA – Selection of books and a subscription to MJSA Journal – $300
Racecar Jewelry – Model Making and Casting Workshop – $300
Bob Rush – Gift certificate for a variety of hand cut cabochons – $300
RHB Enterprises – Gift certificate for stones – $300
JewelerProfit – Geller’s Blue Book to Jewelry Repair Cost – $299
Fretz Design, LLC â€“ Exclusive Forming Hammers – $250
The Contenti Company – Gift Certificates – $100

2nd Prize: Pat Pruitt – Bracelet: Stainless Steel, Industrial diamonds – $2,500

3rd Prize: Chris Ploof Studio – A custom Stainless Steel Damascus and 18K Gold – $2,500

4th Prize: Don Friedlich – Hand fabricated brooch: Glass and 18K Gold – $1,800

5th Prize: Beth Rosengard – Brooch: Tourmalines, 14k & 22k Gold – $1,500

6th Prize:

Asphalt Apache Design – Website design and hosting for one year – $1,400
The Contenti Company – Gift Certificates – $100

7th Prize:

Amy Burkholder – Brooch and Eearrings: 22k keum-boo diamonds – $500
Gemz Diamond Setting – Voucher including gravers and materials – $414
The Contenti Company – Gift Certificates – $100

WOW!!!!! So go Buy a ticket, or increase your chances and buy a few! The winners will be drawn on the night of the The 12th Annual Tucson Orchid Dinner, Friday, Feb. 8, 2008Â Â Â Â Â

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The Legal Side of Running a Jewelry Business:…

As a long-time crafter, I’ve worked with all kinds of materials, but there’s something about fuse beads that never gets old. The creativity, the colors, the nostalgia—it’s all part of the fun! But let’s be honest, traditional plastic beads aren’t exactly great for the environment. That’s why I was so excited to try Hama BioBeads, an eco-friendly alternative that promises all the fun of classic Hama beads without the plastic guilt. So, do they live up to the hype? Let’s dive in!

What Are Hama BioBeads?

Hama BioBeads are a biodegradable version of the classic Hama fuse beads. Instead of being made from petroleum-based plastic, these beads are crafted from a plant-based, eco-friendly material that naturally decomposes over time. That means less plastic waste while still enjoying the same vibrant colors and creativity that fuse bead lovers expect.

First Impressions: Do They Feel Different?

When I first opened the pack, I was curious—would they feel different from traditional beads? The answer: not really! The beads are slightly smoother to the touch, but they’re just as easy to handle, pick up with tweezers, and place on a pegboard. The colors are just as bright and bold, which was a big relief since I was worried they might look dull or faded.

One of the things I love about these beads is that they’re the same size as regular Hama beads, so they work with all my existing pegboards and accessories. No need to buy new tools or change my crafting process!

How Do They Fuse?

Now, onto the real test—how well do they iron together?

I followed my usual fusing process, using parchment paper and a medium heat setting on my iron. The beads melted together perfectly, just like regular Hama beads. No weird smells, no uneven melting—just smooth, well-bonded designs.

I also noticed that once cooled, the fused beads felt a bit sturdier than traditional plastic beads. That’s a huge plus because sometimes regular beads can feel brittle or break apart too easily.

What Makes Hama BioBeads Special?

? Eco-Friendly & Biodegradable – The biggest selling point! These beads naturally break down over time, reducing environmental impact.
? Non-Toxic & Safe for Kids – Made from natural materials, they’re a safer option for little crafters.
? Same Great Quality – They look, feel, and fuse just like classic Hama beads—no sacrifice in quality!
? Works with Existing Hama Accessories – You don’t need special pegboards or tools; they fit right into your current stash.
? Great for Schools & Eco-Conscious Crafters – If you’re an educator or a parent looking to introduce sustainability to kids in a fun way, these are perfect!

The only potential downside is that since these are a newer product, they may not be as widely available as traditional Hama beads. Some colors also seem to be in and out of stock, so if you see a set you love, I’d suggest grabbing them while you can.

If you love fuse bead crafting but want a more sustainable option, Hama BioBeads are a fantastic choice. They’re just as fun, colorful, and easy to use as regular Hama beads, but they come with the added bonus of being better for the planet. Whether you’re a hobby crafter, a parent, or a teacher, these beads are a guilt-free way to get creative.

So if you’re looking to make your crafts a little greener, give Hama BioBeads a try! Check them out here!

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Have you read?

What Are Hama BioBeads?

First Impressions: Do They Feel Different?

How Do They Fuse?

What Makes Hama BioBeads Special?

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