Diary of a Demented Store Owner

Wednesday 21 March 2012

Cutters Mate


I like Ray Nicholas. I really do. 
And the funny thing is that I don't even know him.
You see, Ray is the owner of a company called Creator's Stained Glass They make the Cutters Mate cutting system. I believe it might be a good tool. I don't know because I have only seen it from afar (apparently Ray has a really small 'free samples' budget).
I really want it to be a great tool given the refreshing approach that Ray uses to try and get orders. Always polite. Always persistent.
For several years he's tried to sell me this tool, along with some of his other products, unfortunately for him, without success.
And it pains me greatly to admit to that.
Problem is, whether his Cutters Mate is the best thing since Swiss Cheesed Glass (I doubt it), it sits on a field crowded with more than adequate alternatives (I know Ray- 'is it really an alternative' you might argue) at a much lesser cost. 
But you did manage to get a free plug out of this 
Go here for more info.
Tell them Mikey sent you!

Tuesday 20 March 2012

Free Glass!

Yes folks, it's true.
Something that's never been done before!
It's the Toronto Maple Leafs Special.
All Spectrum, Youghiogheny, Uroboros, Kokomo, Bullseye, Wasser, Wissmach, English Muffle and Swiss Cheesed Glass is free during all Leafs playoff games this year!

Thursday 8 March 2012

Oops, We Forgot

Sometimes we're not the swiftest I realize. Forgot to mention that the latest issue of the great (and free) Stained Glass News is now in. 
This issue's free pattern is a bit of a step up from the extremely lame one that came in the last issue. They have been duly advised. We have inside knowledge that an even better one is future pending...

In SGN #99, you'll find:
• new items, including: some new books, supplies for an exciting new fusing technique, a new bead mold, new System 96 and FX90 items, new tools for stained glass, and some new accessories for your fused glass projects.
• reader hints, a reader's workshop and more on "The Readers' Page"
• Today's Yard Art Jacqui Bush—New columnist, Jacqui Bush, has been making beautiful yard art with her students, and shares inspiration for this fun idea with readers.

Glass Tapestry David Alcala—Another new columnist, David Alcala, has been the talk of the town… glass fusing town, that is. David shares a little about how his unique techniques came about, introduces his new products and upcoming book, and prepares to lead us on this exciting new journey in glass fusion.
• Stained Glass 101 Matthew McMillan—In this continuing series, Matthew talks about how to get the dimensions of the custom installation onto paper, things to think about during fabrication, and offers tips on how to turn a large panel safely.
• You Can Make It Linda "Scotti" Scott—Linda shows how to use leftover scraps of latticino, moretti and other bits and pieces to create beautiful jewelry.
• Fire It Up! Susan Molnar—This time, Susan shares one of her mistakes, and shows how it turned out to be a fun technique.
• this issue's Free Pattern: Floral Hat offers a breath of fresh air… spring air. This pretty hat is easy to make, yet very pretty.
• a page of photos from readers in The Readers' Gallery


Wednesday 7 March 2012

Correction

On November 31, 2011, the Diary of a Demented Store Owner Blog erroneously reported that the Canadian Stained Glass Wholesalers Advisory Board (membership- 1) had advocated the kidnapping and tar and feathering of Mikey F. Figgy (our beloved leader). In actuality, Mikey's middle initial is 'G'. The Diary regrets the error.

Big Bullseye Sale at Bullseye


Being the largest fusible glass supplier in Canada means that we always try our best to carry almost everything possible. 
And that has meant maintaining inventory in both 90 and 96 glass or namely Bullseye, Spectrum and Uroboros. 
We made a conscious decision awhile ago to significantly reduce our Bullseye line for several reasons (see here for some). 
Was it the right decision?
Seeing stuff like the email below reaffirms that we believe we did;

Friday 2 March 2012

Time To Remind Everyone...

March comes in like a lamb...
... and out like a goat...

Intro To Fusing Seminar

Thinking about utilizing those artistic/technical skills you've developed over the years for the betterment of mankind? Or maybe something else if you're Dr. Evil? 
How about considering our Intro seminar on fusing being run tomorrow?
Same tools, same skills (or lack of), take the day (10-4) and learn how to fuse and make a whole bunch of stuff! 
No need to preregister- just show up.
Taught by 'I'm Not From Barcelona Louie'- see here for more info...