Blue Glass, Copper Handcrafted Art Wind Chime with Beach Pebbles

Cobalt Blue Glass with Copper Art Wind Chime, with Beach Pebbles

Few people have any idea of the process for making even one of my more basic wind chimes, such as the one pictured above.

Every single component, from the glass to the chimes, is totally handcrafted.

I find the rough glass, carve it, process it, drill it. I order bulk long tubes from New Brunswick for the small chimes, cut them, polish them, treat them to an antiqued finish, and polish again. I go to the beach and hunt for suitable beach stones, drill them, mount them. I bend copper wire and solder it for the glass, and to make the chime holder, and to thread the stones. Also to make the copper hanging hook. Then there are photographs to be taken. Listings on the various internet sites. 

When it sells, packing is an art in itself: getting the bought item promptly to the customer in great shape. 

My customers may not generally know just how much goes into their purchase, but I do know that they are very appreciative, judging from the emails and feedback I receive. And I appreciate that, more than anything.

Perforated Sheet Metal Fence, Metal Roofing Raised Garden Beds

This yard was scraped earth several months ago.

A while back, I had pledged to make at least bi-weekly blog postings. It turns out moving into a new house takes some time to adjust, and so many things had a higher priority than writing this blog. We are loving the new house, and my wife is fully responsible for transforming our scorched earth back yard to what you see above. Well, I do take credit for the design of the perforated metal fence, and for the design and building of the raised garden beds, which are made from leftover scraps from our house siding.

Between running my wind chime / suncatcher business, there is always a little something to do to the final touches on the house. This week has been painting the final drywall in our basement. I absolutely detest painting, so I am really happy that is done!

Now I am trying to box a very large wholesale order, shipping out to New Mexico. There are so many heavy beach stone wind chimes! This is going to be a nauseating postage bill, but I am happy to have so many fine works going to New Mexico-- one of my favourite states.

I hope to find time to do more blogging. Much more enjoyable than painting ceilings!

Another view of the back yard, with the semi-transparent perforated sheet metal fence, and the raised garden beds, all designed by Coast Chimes artist Tim Kline