#aroundsquare

[the-backspin-alchemist]

So Aroundsquare is hosting a photography competition…

[g-r-parker-blog]

The Knucklebone isn't as nimble as a set of begleri, but it scratches a similar itch and doesn't draw as much attention. #geargeek #fidgets #aroundsquare #knucklebone

[the-backspin-alchemist]

[the-backspin-alchemist]

Woe, Aroundsquare photography be upon ye

[the-backspin-alchemist]

Some new test shots with the Nikon D800E using some of my AO2 gear

[kalikai]

Decided to try getting a green patina on these copper begleri (ao2 mini standards, I think? Or maybe they're hardcore inners? Can't remember)

Used an emery board to remove most of the existing patina from the lower part of the bead

Tried soaking them in salt water and didn't really get anywhere. Added some vinegar to the mix and it made the beads lovely and clean with no patina lol. The salt got lovely and green, but none of that green really stuck to the beads. Left them for a few days and only got a few speckles of green here and there around the tops of the beads where there was some salt piled up

Went back to google and actually read the blog posts about greenifying copper instead of just skimming the results page. Changed up my recipe and method.

Made up a mix of red wine vinegar, some powerful anti-dandruff shampoo (for the sulfur), a dash of Seasol (cuz there were posts saying to use Miracle Gro but I don't have any of that and I do have Seasol (which doesn't have any sulfur in it but idk if miracle gro does either and hey it can't hurt), and loads of salt.

Soaked the beads for 45 minutes or so, and then, importantly, took them out of the marinade and let them air dry overnight! That was the step I hadn't done previously, and wow what a difference it made.

Imma give them a week or so to just sit there with that crust on them before rinsing them off to see what's underneath. Feeling excited. 😁

[the-backspin-alchemist]

Woe, begleri video at sunset with beeps and chimes

[the-backspin-alchemist]

Behold, begleri with two cords.