That’s the usual message I get when a friend/family get a new mobile, therefore also pertaining a new number.  However my number is no different.  Thankfully.

So, it’s that time of the year again.  I’ve upgraded my mobile (much better contract I must say) and received it today – just as well since my other one was starting to give up on life, ha.

Actually, this time last year I was ranting about mobiles.  I’m happier a lot this time round.  Not because of the actual mobile though.  Oddly enough I was more happy with the customer service given rather than the actual phone.  The guy was really helpful and offered a contract and mobile, which catered to my needs; the bog standard calling and text-ing function.  The most shocking thing was he provided me with his name; usually I have to ask for the person’s name – you know, so if something goes wrong I know who to point the finger at.    I don’t think I’ve ever witnessed that in my life.

Makes me wonder why company representives are reluctant to give their name consistently?  Does this also happen where you live?

[Edit 19:53] Oh, for those who might be interested, I got a Sony Ericsson W890i.

I swear I am female.  I am not a guy in diguise of this girly blog. 

I think Valentine’s Day has lost it’s true “purpose”.  Wasn’t the intent of this day dedicated to those – who aren’t taken – who wish to share their admiration for someone?  Valentine’s Day can be used as an incentive to show through words, action or gift that someone is liked.

Now you get people in relationships wondering why they didn’t receive any gifts or words of affection.  If you’re in a relationship wouldn’t it be better to relish what you have already?  Rather than work up a fuss on this one day, when any other day would be just as suitable.  As long you’re with someone who deeply cares about you that’s all that matters, right?

This post wasn’t written to make anyone feel guilty about vexating their partner.  I just think Valentine’s Day is pointless if you’re in a relationship, as those kinds of things should be done without the excuse/reason of 14th February.

So beautiful.  I will incorporate these into my projects.  One of my on-going projects, besides the knife, is a ring and I can’t wait to see what it will entail.  All I know is that we will require 1 gemstone, roughly 6-8mm in diameter and round.  I slightly went over board though.

Note to self: don’t go near a gem shop again.

Gemstones I purchased.

These gemstones weren’t purchased all together; I have bought them over the years. Gosh, that just made me sound old.   However, on Tuesday I brought quite a bit so the kind gemstone lady gave me one for free.  Yay to freebies.

So, you think you buy a more than decent product.  Let’s say, for instance, a jewellery cleaner.  Decide a couple of days later you’re going to try it…only to establish that it’s ineffective.  You then turn to your friend, Google.  Find a home made solution and, voila, it works a treat.

Here’s a tip on how to clean your jewellery (I’ve only tested it with silver):

1. Glass jar
2. Fill half way with warm water
3. Add a stripe of aluminium foil
4. Then add one teaspoon of salt
5. Put jewellery pieces in jar
6. Leave for a few minutes, although it works instantly
7. For any stubborn tarnishes just repeat the whole process

Ta-da, your home made jewellery cleaner: free of potent, offensive scent.  Don’t be an idiot like me and waste your money during these tough times.    Much thanks goes to katlnhats.

Remember when I mentioned that one thing I would like to improve on is public speaking?  I got through the presentation on the Friday before last but it didn’t go according to plan.  When it came to my part of the presentation I was speaking, the talking was okay.  However, when I looked at the monitor after I hadn’t clicked for my images and summary to appear on screen.  :/  To find some form of recovery I waffled on a bit longer so people could read that slide.  Then came the next slide.  I was fiddling with the flash pen top – it was somewhat comforting.    However my right hand, which controlled the mouse decided to become twitchy and make a section of text appear which I wasn’t going to harp on about just yet.  So, all in all a slightly embarrassing performance from me.  Although next time I’ll know to bring a USB pen lid.    Ah well, it’s on of those things which, in time, I will get used to.

Aim:

To provide an insight into the use of matrix tooling; also known as a dye which helps form metal into the desired shape when pressure from the hydraulic press is applied, and hydraulic press used in industry for multiple production of hollow-ware and cutlery. To understand the commercial aspects of pressing and its significance to the industry. To develop and present design solutions professionally.

Objective:

To use a range of tools and equipment associated with the pressing technique and understand the principles of good design for this process. To develop ideas for a kitchen knife that uses the process to its full potential. To present a portfolio of design development using a variety of media in a professional manner.

Project:

Using the research and source material gathered in project 1.6 (the presentation), develop ideas through sketches and models to finalise a design proposal for a kitchen knife. You will be introduced to Photoshop on Monday afternoons to help with the design process and to provide the tools to create high quality presentations and promotional material. Once you have selected a successful design, make an aluminium matrix tool from metal supplied, and, following a demonstration of hydraulic presswork, use this technique to make pressed elements in nickel silver to form the knife handle. Stainless steel will be used for the blade to create a fully functioning kitchen knife.

As part of this project you will take part in an organised visit to Sheffield on Thursday 12th February. This will include a visit to the Millennium Gallery and David Mellor’s workshop. The subsidised cost of the coach will be £10 per person, leaving the School of Jewellery at 9.00am and returning for approx 6.30pm.

All quoted from the project brief, with exception of the italised sentences.    Right, back to the drawing board now.