Show off your tops! :)

[MermaidBrandie]

Lovely top! Is it swimable! I know real shells get heavy and it looks like there's real starfish on it. Are they coated to protect them from water damage?

I'm working on a new top! A bit less showy and more casual. :) the big starfish are attaching now, then I'll put the smaller one in the middle. Might glue some gems all over it too. :)

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/17/69a0940c88357e6018eaae0211f07376.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/17/55172a848aa0821f5741c1a1db155770.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/17/83b19896d2a9d54bd86e13d37f03823a.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/17/cf9e5b65b4af67e618e3cfd07ba209d6.jpg


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[Mermaid Coralia]

I love your top and your bird! I have a quaker myself named Kiwi :) Hopefully my top will be done soon so I can post it here. It's taking FOREVER

[Sassenach]

Coyote Walker, I love that top! It's so simple yet so elegant! Great colors! And I'm planning to seal it myself, I don't think the maker did.

Kaitwoman, that's so funny! I love meeting other people with quakers. And I can't wait to see your top!

[MermaidBrandie]

Thanks! I love seaweed tops but I love the simpleness of this one.

What are you gonna seal it with? I'm curious. :) i wonder why the maker wouldnt.


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[Rebekah.fish]

I just finished the first half of my soon to be top ^-^

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/04/17/957b99ed3f6906b12b26a1b8bd84e320.jpg

[Sassenach]

Not sure, I need to do a little bit of research. I think I've heard that an acrylic sealant will do the job? And it's not that she wouldn't, I think it's that she didn't know. She also used hot glue on the top, which isn't the best adhesive, but she assured me that she'd never heard of anything falling off. I didn't mind too much since I've got a bottle of E6000 on hand and am not planning on doing karate in it(;

Also I love that top Rebekah! It'll go so well with your tail!

[MermaidBrandie]

Hahaha fair enough then. Good luck!

Rebeckah, those sequins look fab! :)


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[Rebekah.fish]

Thanks! I've bought my town out of E6000 so I had to work on something else u til I could find more hahaha.

[Mermaid Lilium]

I have to order in my e600 via USA sellers on amazon xD so I feel your pain haha

[Aziara]

Nothing like an impending meetup to get my butt in gear, lol.
http://i1147.photobucket.com/albums/o554/Aziara86/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-05/20150501_140658.jpg (http://s1147.photobucket.com/user/Aziara86/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-05/20150501_140658.jpg.html)
http://i1147.photobucket.com/albums/o554/Aziara86/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-05/20150501_140734.jpg (http://s1147.photobucket.com/user/Aziara86/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-05/20150501_140734.jpg.html)

[MermaidAine]

Omg that is so cute!!!


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[Mermaid Wesley]

Pirate mermaid!


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[Mermaid Sirenia]

Love it!! I just got my top mermaid ginger made me :) I wanted a shell top that was very simple yet comfy, so I asked her to make one. It's SO cute AND comfy!!http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/02/ebe9eff0e4c2c18b8467ded210b182b3.jpg

[OceanWhisper]

Nothing like an impending meetup to get my butt in gear, lol.
http://i1147.photobucket.com/albums/o554/Aziara86/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-05/20150501_140658.jpg (http://s1147.photobucket.com/user/Aziara86/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-05/20150501_140658.jpg.html)
http://i1147.photobucket.com/albums/o554/Aziara86/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-05/20150501_140734.jpg (http://s1147.photobucket.com/user/Aziara86/media/Mobile%20Uploads/2015-05/20150501_140734.jpg.html)Cool :D

[OceanWhisper]

It's super pretty I love it! Whee did u get the seaweed?
It's actually just fake foliage, but it looks seaweedy to me :) I got it at red dot

[MermaidBrandie]

Love the pirate flag top. :)


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[MermaidRuby]

29558

Here's my first top! I got the silicone starfish from the Mermaid Atlantis's Etsy shop. I plan to make my next one similar to this, but with blue shells.

[Seraphina Suds]

That pirate flag top looks so comfortable!!

Ruby, I can't see your pic D: dunno if it's just me though

[MermaidBrandie]

I cant see the pic either! :(


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[MermaidRuby]

fixed it!

[MermaidBrandie]

So many leaves!


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[MermaidRuby]

I Know! It took me a whole week to hand-sew those leaves on! I probably stabbed myself at least 10 times with my damn needle!:rolleyes: I think I will simply order a top from Atlantis or Mernation for my next tail!

[Ilyena]

Only 10 times?? I'm impressed. I felt like a sieve after sewing my leaves on XP

[MerMaisy]

Made my top and headband!
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[Caprica]

Everything has such amazing tops!
I was able to snag some stuff today for great prices. Most was half off and I had a 20% off coupon that worked on sale items too! All the greenery is plastic since I didn't want to worry about fabric leaves getting worn out or gross. And I have a wealth of pearls I can add~
http://i1116.photobucket.com/albums/k565/SharinganBlossom91/Mobile%20Uploads/20150516_233838.jpg (http://s1116.photobucket.com/user/SharinganBlossom91/media/Mobile%20Uploads/20150516_233838.jpg.html)I'm still trying to decide if I want synthetic or natural shells for the bulk of the cups...

[MerMaisy]

Sales are so lovely. I used natural shells for mine and they're a bit heavy, but I don't feel like they're too much weight for me to swim with. Just giving you my experience.

[Princess Pearl]

After it was pointed out that you literally cannot see my white top against my very very white skin, I added some netting for contrast!

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/05/20/44d6f3cd1eb0d848ad33ca2e1c03d15c.jpg

[Caprica]

For those that have used silicone objects- how have you attatched them to a bra? I'm starting on mine and dont want to cover the cups entirely in greenery if it will impede how they attatch.

[Princess Pearl]

I used GE silicone to attach the silicone seashells to a bikini top base, then E6000 to attach the netting to the bikini. The glue and the silicone haven't done anything strange so far, but I only attached it yesterday morning.


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[MermaidBrandie]

Silicone only cures to silicone. Since most hardware silicone isn't safe for prolonged contact with skin (and it can saturate through the bra and make contact that way) I would get silpoxy or a small thing of premium silicone to attach them.
(This is the reason I sell my shells and starfish pairs with a felt backing on them. Makes things easier on the customers)


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[Caprica]

Silicone only cures to silicone. Since most hardware silicone isn't safe for prolonged contact with skin (and it can saturate through the bra and make contact that way) I would get silpoxy or a small thing of premium silicone to attach them.
(This is the reason I sell my shells and starfish pairs with a felt backing on them. Makes things easier on the customers)


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I was actually considering the shells from your shop, specifically because they have a felt backing! But figured I'd pose the question just in case.

[MermaidBrandie]

Haha! Yep that's why!


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[Gingersnaps]

Hey guys! I finally got around to my first mermaid top :D I'm super excited I got an email from my tail maker saying they will start on my Ariel tail June1st!! much excitement I cant believe its happening!
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[Emmadives]

Gingersnaps I absolutely love your shells! What are they made out of?

[Gingersnaps]

Gingersnaps I absolutely love your shells! What are they made out of?

Ahh thank-you! :D The shells are made out of a light weight resin, I cant take credit for making them though my boyfriend bought them for me for Christmas. I think I'm going to add some pearls to the top, and maybe some starfish?

[Emmadives]

Ahh thank-you! :D The shells are made out of a light weight resin, I cant take credit for making them though my boyfriend bought them for me for Christmas. I think I'm going to add some pearls to the top, and maybe some starfish?

I could definitely picture a starfish right in the middle. That would look fantastic!

[mermaidopal]

30032
Here's my bra! It was made by Siren Trinkets on Etsy. It was only $55 plus a $15 or so upgrade to get it mounted on a bra base. I love it, but the only thing was that when she made it, she didn't account for stretch in the bra when she attached the netting, so it originally didn't fit. But for such a low price, I didn't mind altering it on my own too much.

[Elodea the Mermaid]

I made a lily pad top out of the foam lily pads for spas and water gardens. I used a heat gun to shape them like bra cups.
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[Mermaid Kelda]

That looks fantastic!
Would you mind posting the picture in this thread (http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?4526-Top-for-a-fresh-water-mermaid) as well? It's great to see more fresh-water tops!

[Elodea the Mermaid]

That looks fantastic!
Would you mind posting the picture in this thread (http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?4526-Top-for-a-fresh-water-mermaid) as well? It's great to see more fresh-water tops!

Thank you so much, Kelda! I will definitely post it there. I think I have some side pictures too. I'm definitely a freshwater mer (hence the name, lol)! You can't see it in this picture, but my parasol is green, so I put a huge orange water lily on top to make it a lily pad as well :-)

[Yulia]

I just receive a top from Mermaid Kassandra, I won it from her Facebook giveaway. :)
It has lot's of sequins and flowy fabrics, and a pretty shell in the middle too. (And it smells exactly like when I was in Italy many years ago haha <3 )

http://utterberg.net/upload/img/201506241441-11649093_1000480823305168_337697435_o.jpg

[Mermaid Kassandra]

Again that top looks like it was made for you 😁

[Sparkling City Mermaids]

Very pretty on you!

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[Mermaid Nerida]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/06/24/01e8c7d531c1956ccfc16694d0580630.jpg
This was my first top. I'm working on two more right now! [emoji13]

Sent from my shell phone under the sea!

[Mermaid Lilium]

quick question for those who've made abalone tops here.... I know you gotta cover them in resin so they don't smell rotten when wet, but...

- do you need to coat both sides of the polished abalone with the resin?

- and how much resin does it take to safely seal them? I bought.... http://www.amazon.co.uk/Pebeo-Gedeo-300ml-Crystal-Resin/dp/B0027J1DB2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1436401651&sr=8-1&keywords=Pebeo+Gedeo+300ml+Crystal+Resin

- aaaand I used e6000 for the spraypainted ceramic shells on my previous top to fix them to the bra base... worried the resin/abalone won't work as well with e6000, and don't have time at the moment to order an epoxy glue (wouldn't know what to order for that either with being in the uk!)

Wanted to try to get my top done for a trip this weekend having forked out like £65 for a pair of 8" polished green abalone lol.

[Mermaid Jaffa]

If you slather on thick coats like 2 or 3, make sure to get it into the little hard to get places around the glued on bits and pop the air bubbles with a toothpick. When the resin sets, you don't have to worry about things falling off the thick layers stay on. Make sure to have extra drying time in between coats too, especially if you put it on thick.

E6000 will stick to most surfaces. The only ones that I've found that doesn't seem to work, is neoprene on rubber. It will stay but can be peeled off with a little effort.

[Mermaid Saoirse]

I made a lion's paw top a few months ago. I just never got around to posting the pictures before. :)

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31299

[Cordelia]

Wow! I love the way you linked the chains and little jewels. :D

[Mermaid Saoirse]

Wow! I love the way you linked the chains and little jewels. :D

Thanks! All the chain is hand made with stainless steel rings so they don't get damaged.

[Princess Kae-Leah]

https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xaf1/v/t1.0-9/556236_335961279793865_1447836809_n.jpg?oh=ea4b79d a86d27dc94c0b476618c6b45a&oe=5627A151
Made by Alasea, the Blue Mermaid
https://scontent-sea1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpf1/v/t1.0-9/1535454_10100310072454459_1095866947840722957_n.jp g?oh=dd3c9dac8b3e7ae91b65c1ec58426fb0&oe=561F1C71
My Adorkable tee, perfect for lounging around the house and casual shoots

[Mermaid Saoirse]

You look so cute! The purple really suits you and I love how your hairpiece looks :D

[Princess Kae-Leah]

Thanks, my headpiece is by Torri Hansen, aka Random, the Lake Michigan Mermaid

[anichanchu]

Currently working on a top that is nowhere near done. :(

[Mermaid Stardust]

Great tops everyone! Shimmy I love your abalone top :)

I've only made two tops myself.. I need to make another one. I'm so horrible at procrastinating making new ones, haha [emoji14] Is that just a me thing or do you guys have that problem too? I guess it doesn't help that ever since I few from a C cup to a D cup nothing really covers things.. even the abalone make my boobs look smaller than they are cause a good chunk of the lower bit of the cup I had to cover in foliage.

Anyhow here are my current 2

20475

20474
Hi, I'm wanting to make a top which will look similar to your beautiful abalone top.

The shells I have ordered are polished (shiny). Do I still need to paint them in a resin clear coat all over to stop them smelling or are they fine as is? I wasn't aware that they had a smell until another mer mentioned it recently.

Also, if I use the e6000 glue on the back and stick onto a nude material bra, will it hold? (especially in water)

Also, (yep another question) for added security I was wanting to (extremely carefully) drill 3 small holes in each one to sew down. How do I do this? Is there a special shell drilling tool?
Thanks

[Winged Mermaid]

Hi, I'm wanting to make a top which will look similar to your beautiful abalone top.

The shells I have ordered are polished (shiny). Do I still need to paint them in a resin clear coat all over to stop them smelling or are they fine as is? I wasn't aware that they had a smell until another mer mentioned it recently.

Also, if I use the e6000 glue on the back and stick onto a nude material bra, will it hold? (especially in water)

Also, (yep another question) for added security I was wanting to (extremely carefully) drill 3 small holes in each one to sew down. How do I do this? Is there a special shell drilling tool?
Thanks

You could resin coat them, but honestly they don't need it. In my experience, they're pretty solid and durable. Coating them in resin, as I've seen on other abalone tops, can actually make any scratches a LOT more visible on a smooth shell like this. I didn't coat mine and it's doing great!

E6000 should work fine, but I personally use gorilla glue for strong bonds like attaching shells to tops or clips to clip bases. It's not the prettiest (it puffs up and cures yellow) but if it's covered by the shells then it's not an issue. Also the glue can be sanded and painted, which is handy if any accidentally seeps out somewhere. I just trust it more than E6000 as to me it seems to have a more solid bond. I've seen other tops made with E6000 where the shells came off in the first few swims, and mine haven't budged. Also see my bit about getting a good bond in the accessory faq thread (http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?6472-%E2%98%85-The-Accessory-Making-FAQ-%E2%98%85):


•How do I glue something so it bonds properly?
1) Read the instructions! Seriously, there's stuff you need to know on there. Like did you know gorilla glue's cure is water activated? If you glue without water it won't do much good! So read the instructions :)
2) Clean the surface well and get rid of any oils. I use rubbing alcohol, but others suggest acetone as rubbing alcohol can leave a residue that can cause issues with some glues.
3) Rough up the sides of what you're gluing together if you can- simple sandpaper is good for this. If you have an x acto knife or something similar you can score the surfaces with a cross hatch pattern.
4) CLAMP IT. #4 is the most overlooked, but by far the thing that will help your glue bonds be the strongest that they can. Little clamps are $0.67 each at Home Depot- seriously worth it. Using the right glue and clamping means sometimes you have to wait a day or night before you can continue to making your piece. To me the piece lasting a long time is worth it, VS using hot glue or some such and having it come apart a few months down the line.

If you don't have the clamps, you can always put the top on, apply glue where needed, situate the shells where you want them, put down a a towel on the floor and lie on your stomach so your body weight acts as clamps with the weight you put on it. It usually takes about an hour or two for the glue to start solidifying (at least if you're using gorilla glue). Just be careful, I glued netting to my skin once doing that.. was rather painful getting off :P

I honestly wouldn't advise drilling them. Firstly, abalone dust is toxic! Another bit from the FAQ thread:

•How do I drill holes in shells?
You need a power tool- either a power drill, or a dremel. You need to take caution when drilling seashells. Seashell dust should not be inhaled, as the particles are very sharp and can do damage to your lungs. Abalone shell dust is toxic. Both can cause lung disease. You need to either use a respirator capable of filtering out these tiny particles, such as a P100 or n95 respirator, or drill the shell while it's underwater so the water will catch all the dust. I actually recommend both, if possible. Remember to wear protective gear for your eyes as well!

To drill the shell underwater, make sure the shell is completely submerged, but ONLY submerge the tip of the bit. I recommend a plastic dish, so if you drill into the bowl you won't drill through the bowl and break (glass) or put a hole (wood) into it. Be sure to rinse the shell after you've drilled it, before using.

Also it's possible if you drill a shell like that that's already been sanded down so much, you could crack it. But if you do decide to go ahead with it, be sure to be safe about it! You don't need any special bits, just a bit in whatever size you want the hole to be.

[Mermaid Stardust]

You could resin coat them, but honestly they don't need it. In my experience, they're pretty solid and durable. Coating them in resin, as I've seen on other abalone tops, can actually make any scratches a LOT more visible on a smooth shell like this. I didn't coat mine and it's doing great!

E6000 should work fine, but I personally use gorilla glue for strong bonds like attaching shells to tops or clips to clip bases. It's not the prettiest (it puffs up and cures yellow) but if it's covered by the shells then it's not an issue. Also the glue can be sanded and painted, which is handy if any accidentally seeps out somewhere. I just trust it more than E6000 as to me it seems to have a more solid bond. I've seen other tops made with E6000 where the shells came off in the first few swims, and mine haven't budged. Also see my bit about getting a good bond in the accessory faq thread (http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?6472-%E2%98%85-The-Accessory-Making-FAQ-%E2%98%85):



If you don't have the clamps, you can always put the top on, apply glue where needed, situate the shells where you want them, put down a a towel on the floor and lie on your stomach so your body weight acts as clamps with the weight you put on it. It usually takes about an hour or two for the glue to start solidifying (at least if you're using gorilla glue). Just be careful, I glued netting to my skin once doing that.. was rather painful getting off [emoji14]

I honestly wouldn't advise drilling them. Firstly, abalone dust is toxic! Another bit from the FAQ thread:


Also it's possible if you drill a shell like that that's already been sanded down so much, you could crack it. But if you do decide to go ahead with it, be sure to be safe about it! You don't need any special bits, just a bit in whatever size you want the hole to be.
Thank you so much for all that info :)
I didn't know they were toxic!
That is VERY helpful. I will let you know how I go with gluing the shells to the bra top. I think I'll give the drilling a miss as I wouldn't want them to break as they are soooooo pretty. And I will definitely by buying some clamps...Having netting stuck to your tummy for days could be hard to explain...lol.
Again, thanks heaps [emoji8]

Also, on a side note...if anyone is interested in Nautilus shells (large ones cut in half for bra tops) I can post the link of the guy I got mine off. He's very nice and packages them very well. These ones are 180mmx160mm (so quite big)
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/15/67c3fd4e9d8a7369414914fb1682d8da.jpg

[OceanWhisper]

please do put up the link!! they're stunning! :D

[Mermaid Stardust]

please do put up the link!! they're stunning! :D
Ebay item number: 111717832420

[Mermaid Nessie]

31510

Here is the tops I made with seashells from Mermaid Atlantis :) I also have a Merbellas scale top coming soon

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Hey, everybody! I don't have a top yet, but I love designing and I wanted to post some designs for anyone who would like them! :)

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150718_145803_zpsvo6lzust.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150718_145803_zpsvo6lzust.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150718_145904_zpsbkhecg7t.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150718_145904_zpsbkhecg7t.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150718_150027_zpszcc7wl5v.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150718_150027_zpszcc7wl5v.jpg.html)

[MermaidSaph]

Hey, everybody! I don't have a top yet, but I love designing and I wanted to post some designs for anyone who would like them! :)

http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150718_145803_zpsvo6lzust.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150718_145803_zpsvo6lzust.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150718_145904_zpsbkhecg7t.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150718_145904_zpsbkhecg7t.jpg.html)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150718_150027_zpszcc7wl5v.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150718_150027_zpszcc7wl5v.jpg.html)

Ooohh, pretty! I would only ever be brave enough to wear the Celestial one, though...

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Aww, that's all right! That's actually my favorite one. Haha :)

[Princess Pearl]

I love the jellyfish one!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I love the jellyfish one!

Thank you!! Feel free to use it if you like!!! As long as you let people know where it came from, it's totally up for grabs!! :D

[Mermaid Neri Elvina]

Gorgeous! Lotus you really are talented!

Sent from my XT1021 using Tapatalk

[Celaeno]

That Sea Angel top is hawt!

[A_Koi_Mermaid]

That Celestial top is lovely Lotus! I have been brain storming a top to cover my shoulders since I burn so easily, something like that is perfect!!! A nice blend of armor and femininity.

[PearlieMae]

I LOVE the Sea Angel!

Nice work, Lotus! :clap:

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Aww, thank you guys!!! Like I said, feel free to use them if you want to!! You have my full permission, as long as you throw me the design credit! Love you all!! <3

[MerMaisy]

Those are super cute Lotus! Will you post more if you draw them? [emoji2]

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you, MerMaisy!! Definitely!!! I love designing tops! I'm going to try to do more creature tops!

[MermaidAine]

Lotus those are so beautiful!!! The Celestial would be perfect for covering my tattoos when needed. I will for sure give you credit if I am ever able to get one made. Thanks for posting these!

[Elodea the Mermaid]

Hey, everybody! I don't have a top yet, but I love designing and I wanted to post some designs for anyone who would like them! :)



Lotus, you are so talented! I can't even. I'm so happy to have a Lotus original in the form of the logo you created for me!


Ebay item number: 111717832420

Sienna Star, thank you so much for sharing this information! I'm going to order some ASAP.

[MermaidAine]

I don't have a picture of my top but I do have a picture of the interesting sunburn that my top created on my tummy. http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/20/c28b3a83a007703e18920a637c4ae661.jpg


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[Mermaid Alaria]

Everyone looks so great! I love all the variations on the theme, and so much originality!! Beautiful!

I've posted this elsewhere too, but this is my masterpiece so far. :)
316343163631635

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Lotus, you are so talented! I can't even. I'm so happy to have a Lotus original in the form of the logo you created for me!



Sienna Star, thank you so much for sharing this information! I'm going to order some ASAP.

You're so sweet, Elodea!! You were such a delight to work with! If you ever need anything, please don't hesitate!! :D <3

[Yulia]

Everyone looks so great! I love all the variations on the theme, and so much originality!! Beautiful!

I've posted this elsewhere too, but this is my masterpiece so far. :)

LOVE THAT SO MUCH

[MermaidAine]

The rope turned out so cute!


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[Mermaid Stardust]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/24/2d0febac1bf802e70e8d695ffef09020.jpg

YAYYYY!!!! My new boobies arrived ;) I'm just a tad excited, LOVE them. Can't wait to put them on the bra.

[Celaeno]

OMG shiny... :swoon:

[Aziara]

Hmmmm.... I could see Lotus' Celestial top with fins running down the arms. It would look awesome!

edit: Ohh! Ohh! Also incorporate some finger webbing!!

[Mermaid Stardust]

Hmmmm.... I could see Lotus' Celestial top with fins running down the arms. It would look awesome!

edit: Ohh! Ohh! Also incorporate some finger webbing!!
Hmmm...that sounds interesting :)

[Ashton]

I love those designs!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Hmmmm.... I could see Lotus' Celestial top with fins running down the arms. It would look awesome!

edit: Ohh! Ohh! Also incorporate some finger webbing!!

Go for it!!! :cheerleader:

[MermaidAine]

Omg those shells are amazing.


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[Lotus the Mermaid]

Just finished the first coat of paint today for my first top! I'm so excited! I'm making it a white to pink ombre! I can't wait to add pearls! :)
http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20150725_054800_zps4eau262j.jpg (http://s1324.photobucket.com/user/XxBasyaxX/media/PSX_20150725_054800_zps4eau262j.jpg.html)

[Mermaid Neri Elvina]

Ooh love the colour

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[Celaeno]

That's a gorgeous shade of pink, can't wait to see it with the pearls!

[OceanWhisper]

OMG Lotus those shells remind me of a strawberry and vanilla icecream sundae :D *drool*

[OceanWhisper]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/24/2d0febac1bf802e70e8d695ffef09020.jpg

YAYYYY!!!! My new boobies arrived ;) I'm just a tad excited, LOVE them. Can't wait to put them on the bra. they're mermazing!!! I love paua shells :) their colors are so pretty

[OceanWhisper]

Everyone looks so great! I love all the variations on the theme, and so much originality!! Beautiful!

I've posted this elsewhere too, but this is my masterpiece so far. :)
316343163631635 Bravo! That looks like it took a long time to sew, and I love the color gradient and rope :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thank you guys!! OceanWhisper, it makes me hungry, too. XD

[OceanWhisper]

haha

[PearlieMae]

they're mermazing!!! I love paua shells :) their colors are so pretty

Where did you get those?? We're they expensive?

[Mermaid Stardust]

Where did you get those?? We're they expensive?
On ebay. I posted the item number a few post back (maund.au2014). About $50aud. The guy is really nice and had heaps of shells, very well packaged.

[Ariel-Starfish]

Ooooh! Where did u get those? :swoon:



http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/24/2d0febac1bf802e70e8d695ffef09020.jpg

YAYYYY!!!! My new boobies arrived ;) I'm just a tad excited, LOVE them. Can't wait to put them on the bra.

[MermaidBrandie]

Making a new simple top for myself :)
Silicone shells made by me ^.^
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/03/2c4a9c214e237dd84b34358e7c91fbb9.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/03/f0aad342ef49e2714a4978efd220749b.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/03/19e575fa4446b151793f46903a824287.jpg

I love the look of the tops with seaweed and stuff, but I'm a simple person who values comfort lol


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[MermaidAngela727]

JUST OPENED MY NEW ETSY STORE! ALL OF MY MERMAID BRAS ARE ONE OF A KIND AND HANDMADE WITH LOVE!
"FINS UP MERMAIDS"
MERMAID MARINNA'S TREASURES
https://www.etsy.com/listing/242869089/marinnas-wish-mermaid-shell-bra?ref=listing-shop-header-1

http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=31982&stc=1
http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=31983&stc=1
http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=31984&stc=1

[Celaeno]

Wow! Are they swimmable?

[MermaidShannon]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/06/5d804b578095c5aa6986a40456d04174.jpg
http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/06/462c1a148dda8bb07d4bb6287085b4fc.jpg

Mernation sent me
This GORGEOUS TOP to match my MVD tail. Omg in love. In love.


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[Mermaid Menanna]

Just finished the last of my outfit today. The top is last year's $8 Walmart special tankini top. After staring at the scraps from my tail for a week I started wanting a top to match but I didn't have any money left to spend, so... I used what I had on hand. The black tankini top underneath the fringe tucks nicely into my tail to prevent any "oops" moments. Between fabric and bead work it added at least a couple of lbs to the top which seems to balance me out nicely in the water with the heavy tail/fluke.

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Over the winter I plan to add more bead work to the top, eventually covering anything that is black, leaving me with the green, gold, and pearl white that I originally wanted for a color scheme. I put this top together in about a week from start to finish all based on something I saw in my head. If I hadn't needed to rush it I would say it was fun to make. I did 2 wks worth of bead work in 4 days, so that kinda sucked some of the fun out of it.

[Dancing Fish]

The beaded top I made last week on my camping trip!
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I just realized how lousy the colors look in this pic...oh well! It's actually shades of bright orange, gold, and copper over a chocolate brown spandex.

[PearlieMae]

I LOVE the beaded top! I don't know how you have the patience for beadwork (said the individual scale maker), it would drive me insane!

And Menanna, I can't wait to see your top in action! Thicker mers like me are always looking for a modest top!

Coyote, I LOVE the colors!

Angela, those tops are stunning!

Shannon, that looks amazing on you, the colors are perfect!

SO MANY BEAUTIFUL TOPS! I just... :fallover:

[Mermaid Julianne]

Just finished the last of my outfit today. The top is last year's $8 Walmart special tankini top. After staring at the scraps from my tail for a week I started wanting a top to match but I didn't have any money left to spend, so... I used what I had on hand. The black tankini top underneath the fringe tucks nicely into my tail to prevent any "oops" moments. Between fabric and bead work it added at least a couple of lbs to the top which seems to balance me out nicely in the water with the heavy tail/fluke.

32102

32101


Over the winter I plan to add more bead work to the top, eventually covering anything that is black, leaving me with the green, gold, and pearl white that I originally wanted for a color scheme. I put this top together in about a week from start to finish all based on something I saw in my head. If I hadn't needed to rush it I would say it was fun to make. I did 2 wks worth of bead work in 4 days, so that kinda sucked some of the fun out of it.

I love this so much! I always get discouraged when I see how many mers wear bikini tops, but I really love how well your top blends into your tail. And I think the bead work looks amazing! You should post another photo when you finish!

[MermaidAngela727]

https://www.etsy.com/listing/244009151/mermaid-bra-marinnas-dream?ref=listing-shop-header-1
JUST OPENED MY NEW ETSY STORE! ALL OF MY MERMAID BRAS ARE ONE OF A KIND AND HANDMADE WITH LOVE!
"FINS UP MERMAIDS"
MERMAID MARINNA'S TREASURES
https://www.etsy.com/listing/242869089/marinnas-wish-mermaid-shell-bra?ref=listing-shop-header-1

http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=32223&stc=1http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=32224&stc=1http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=32221&stc=1http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=32225&stc=1

http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=31982&stc=1
http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=31983&stc=1
http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=31984&stc=1

[introverting]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/07/24/2d0febac1bf802e70e8d695ffef09020.jpg

YAYYYY!!!! My new boobies arrived ;) I'm just a tad excited, LOVE them. Can't wait to put them on the bra.

I really like the color on those, they probably gorgeous in person! Keep us updated during the making process :D

[introverting]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/21/a1978319d63e911cb6e5d1fbc8a3d7df.jpg

A picture of my MerNation top. Can't wait to receive the whole package in a week or two :)

[Lotus the Mermaid]

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/08/21/a1978319d63e911cb6e5d1fbc8a3d7df.jpg

A picture of my MerNation top. Can't wait to receive the whole package in a week or two :)

Gorgeous!!! Y'all are making me want a MerNation top!!! (^.^)

[Mermaid Caspiana]

The top I made to replace the old one I made that didn't fit anymore and this one matches my tail that I'm about done with!!! :D I'm going to add a bunch of betting and pearls between the cups to cover some cleavage too. ;)
32446

[Mermaid Stardust]

Im after the brown netting you use for making tops. I need it in one big piece not chopped up into little bits. Does anyone have a link or place you got yours from so I can buy some too?

[Mermaid Mystery]

I got mine from michaels, they had a bag full of it and it's not chopped up. it comes in brown and black

[Mermaid Stardust]

I got mine from michaels, they had a bag full of it and it's not chopped up. it comes in brown and black
Thank you. I'll give them a go. I've never heard of them. We don't have them in Australia.

[MermaidBrandie]

Hobby lobby, michaels and Joanns all sell it I believe


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[Calizaire]

32538
Finished!

[Vela]

Wow Calizaire!!!! That is a beautiful top!!! I love the flow of the sequins and the little shells at the top are perfect!!! :)

[Calizaire]

Thank you! This was my first experiment with the shell sequins. I had planned on doing net halter straps but I felt they were too organic looking with the sequins. My daughter says I look like a "Vegas Showgirl Mermaid". Hahaa!
The seahorse in the middle is my fav part. I'm happy with this experiment!

[Vela]

I think being a "Vegas Showgirl Mermaid" would be awesome! Then again I love shiny stuff and am often distracted by it! I love the seahorse, its so sweet!!

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Here is my new summer fish suit... Was gonna pose in it but today, somehow the bending and turning around to take photo, my body did not want to do! So it is just pics of front and back of fish suit.
http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=32650&stc=1

[Yulia]

Here's the top I got from mermaid Jessica!
It's a halterneck silicone scale top, blinged out with pearls and seaweed! :swoon:

http://utterberg.net/upload/img/201509070136-2015-07-27_11.30.46.jpg
http://utterberg.net/upload/img/201509070138-2015-07-27_11.29.14.jpg
http://utterberg.net/upload/img/201509070140-2015-07-27_11.30.15.jpg

[OceanRose]

Oooh gorgeous!

[Mermaid Neri Elvina]

Ahhh Yulia you goddess

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[Theobromine]

I figured I might as well post some of my tops in this thread...I've been making these silicone kelp tops for myself and a few friends/testers and I just listed them on my Etsy.
33004
33000
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First pic is my prototype (which I still wear but I've improved the design since), second is Mermaid Iona's, third is Mermaid Octavia's, fourth is Mermaid Lorelei's, last is Mermaid Elodea's. They're a lot of fun to make, I'd been wanting to do this design since forever because I love this type of kelp and I wanted to go for a more natural look (as much as I do love the beautiful, glamorous tops everyone else makes!)

[Mermaid Neri Elvina]

I figured I might as well post some of my tops in this thread...I've been making these silicone kelp tops for myself and a few friends/testers and I just listed them on my Etsy.
33004
33000
33001
33002
33003
First pic is my prototype (which I still wear but I've improved the design since), second is Mermaid Iona's, third is Mermaid Octavia's, fourth is Mermaid Lorelei's, last is Mermaid Elodea's. They're a lot of fun to make, I'd been wanting to do this design since forever because I love this type of kelp and I wanted to go for a more natural look (as much as I do love the beautiful, glamorous tops everyone else makes!)
What's your etsy?

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[Mermaid Kelda]

It's in her signature ;)

[Theobromine]

Yup, it's in my signature :) but here's the direct link to the top listing: https://www.etsy.com/listing/248275000/custom-swimmable-silicone-kelp-mermaid?ref=shop_home_active_1

(I just didn't want to make this post look too spammy like O HAI I SELL DIS)

[Mermaid Alaria]

I am working on a simpler top that I can wear under my rashguard if I want to. I need IDEAS! How do I make this look completely awesome?33034

[Luna Dreamtide]

Why don't you thread and knot beads and other pretties on the strips? It's pretty cute plain too though.

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Why don't you thread and knot beads and other pretties on the strips? It's pretty cute plain too though.

Sew fins to it.

[Mermaid Neri Elvina]

I'm on mobile so I don't get signatures

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[MerMaisy]

I made a rave bra style top a few days ago. Here's a quick pic and another to show the sparkles.

[SeaGlass Siren]

I saw a really pretty too at a lingerie stood with flowing fabric. I have a thing for flowing fabric tops not sure why. But I plan on hand sewing glass beads and pearls on it

[MermaidKelly]

I'm so inspired by everyone's creativity on here. I am a new mermaid. I have always had a love for everything ocean growing up on the eastern shore. But right now Im going mermaid crazy since deciding I was going to be a Mermaid for Halloween this year. I just received my first tail by FinFun and I spent several hours this weekend working on my "show" top. Im posting a few pics of my progress, Im curious to see what everyone thinks.
330873308833089330903309133139

[Ashe]

Wonderful rope work :) Welcome to the mer community!

[Mermaid Mystery]

I was thinking of doing something with ropes, but yours is gorgeous! Welcome!

[MermaidKelly]

Thank you!!! I cant wait to finish covering it with smaller shells, pearls and rhinestones. Im going to be one top heavy mermaid... lol :lol:

[Mermaid Lorelei]

I don't think I've posted my top from Cyanea (Theobromine) in here yet.

https://scontent-iad3-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xpa1/v/t1.0-9/11216705_901697076579878_3888394311090895465_n.jpg ?oh=353643d38e7ba59810fee4fd2568ec5b&oe=5695CB1D

[Calizaire]

3389833899
Just finished my bird of paradise inspired top and hairpiece to wear with my orange and yellow tail! I'm mostly happy with how they turned out. I have a photo-shoot this weekend and was really bustin' tail to get both done this week.

[Mermaid Stardust]

3389833899
Just finished my bird of paradise inspired top and hairpiece to wear with my orange and yellow tail! I'm mostly happy with how they turned out. I have a photo-shoot this weekend and was really bustin' tail to get both done this week.
Stunning!!!!! Cant wait to see it with the tail

[Calizaire]

Thank you Stardust! I'll be wearing it with a tail just like yours. :)

[Ophelia Finn]

My first mer-top! Its lily pads and net with some sparkles and plastic plants :) i finished it last night and im wearing it tomorrow at the pacific coast mer fest!
22029
ignore my face and hair i just woke up XD

I can't say how much I love this top! I've always loved a lillypad concept for freshwater mermaids but I'm not sure I could pull it off as good as this ^_^

[Mermaid Enora]

3389833899
Just finished my bird of paradise inspired top and hairpiece to wear with my orange and yellow tail! I'm mostly happy with how they turned out. I have a photo-shoot this weekend and was really bustin' tail to get both done this week.

Don't know if you've done your photo shoot yet or not, but a word of advice do your dry photos first cause the purple hologram sequins don't hold up well in water.

[Adalira]

3389833899
Just finished my bird of paradise inspired top and hairpiece to wear with my orange and yellow tail! I'm mostly happy with how they turned out. I have a photo-shoot this weekend and was really bustin' tail to get both done this week.

All i can say is Wow Wow Wow! Love it!!

[Ashton]

Do you guys seal your tops (when using materials that are not silicone)?
I have been experimenting with sealing some abalone shells and fake plants to see if it extends its' swimmable life. Any thoughts?

[Luna Dreamtide]

Do you guys seal your tops (when using materials that are not silicone)?
I have been experimenting with sealing some abalone shells and fake plants to see if it extends its' swimmable life. Any thoughts?
I've been wondering this too?

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Do you guys seal your tops (when using materials that are not silicone)?
I have been experimenting with sealing some abalone shells and fake plants to see if it extends its' swimmable life. Any thoughts?
I always use Mod Podge. There are other options, but that one is easy to find, comes in different textures, and does the job if you do at least two or three layers. At that point, it should seal paint very well. I've had great experience with it. Just be sure that they're thin layers, or it will leave the paint looking milky in places.

[PearlieMae]

Mod Podge is a PVA (polyvinyl acrylic) adhesive, and is water-based, like Elmer's glue, and will turn white and weaken with prolonged exposure to water.

I would suggest a resin top coat, like EnviroTex, or, at the very least, Krylon High Gloss clear spray.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Mod Podge is a PVA (polyvinyl acrylic) adhesive, and is water-based, like Elmer's glue, and will turn white and weaken with prolonged exposure to water.

I would suggest a resin top coat, like EnviroTex, or, at the very least, Krylon High Gloss clear spray.
Thanks for the tip!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Honestly, I've done water tests and that's never happened before, but i'll make note of it.

[PearlieMae]

I killed a couple of headpieces using Mod Podge...his long did you let your test pieces soak?

[Mermaid Jaffa]

Mod Podge?? Its not durable for water wear. Mod Podge when cured, goes sticky during hot weather.

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Thanks for letting me know! After about 3 hours soaking in water, the colors got a tad milky (I had read somewhere on MN that Mod Podge was an acceptable sealer, so it's a bit frustrating), so I'll be sure to switch to resin for the future! <3

[MagickalDJ]

How would hot glue do? As a cosplayer, it's pretty much my go-to adhesive lol

[Mermaid Lilium]

Hot glue is a big nope, you can use it to hold stuff together while you use a better glue like e6000 though. Hot glue will just peel off in water

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[Ashton]

I love Krylon High Gloss clear spray, it comes in Satin, Matte, and Gloss. Granted you have to coat whatever you are working on with a bunch of thin layers, I feel like it is the best bet (other than resin like Pearlie said).

[Mermaid Lilium]

Will the high gloss spray hold up in chlorinated water?

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[Mermaid Jaffa]

Will the high gloss spray hold up in chlorinated water?

Sent from my D5803 using Tapatalk

Best way to find out, is to spray a test sample and wear it for several swims.

[Ashton]

If you make sure it has a good full coat and rinse it off afterword I don't see why it would not help. But chlorine eats away at everything anyway so it would degrade a bit. But I don't think the color would change. That's what I am working on, and am curious about.


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[Lotus the Mermaid]

I'm so excited to announce that I finished my top! And just in time because my tail is coming in tonight!

I'll be offering the "Lotus Top" in my shop very soon, too!! :)http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20151127_085711_zpsv9dkneay.jpghttp://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20151127_090519_zpssx9dzgao.jpg

[Luna Dreamtide]

I'm so excited to announce that I finished my top! And just in time because my tail is coming in tonight!

I'll be offering the "Lotus Top" in my shop very soon, too!! :)http://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20151127_085711_zpsv9dkneay.jpghttp://i1324.photobucket.com/albums/u604/XxBasyaxX/PSX_20151127_090519_zpssx9dzgao.jpg
Oh my gosh, gorgeous!! Love it.

[suzanne86]

Oh, wow. Knock me out. To die for!!! :-)

[Starfrit]

I just realized I never posted pics after I got my amazing top from Lotus on Thursday night! <3 It's my first proper mermaid top, so I've been SUPER excited about getting this! ;w;

http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=34307&stc=1
Straight out of the box. Came with the original concept template and an adorable little thank-you letter!

http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=34308&stc=1
First picture taken once I put it on (which was immediately, of course~). It fits perfectly and is SO comfy!

http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=34309&stc=1
And a more serious picture once I could stop giggling and hopping around. :P


I'm super excited to bring it out for a test-swim, although I need to coat the shells in some EnviroTex first since we found out about the issue with the Mod Podge coating (which Lotus was super awesome about!). EnviroTex shouldn't have any weird sort of reactions to Mod Podge, right?

[Lotus the Mermaid]

I just realized I never posted pics after I got my amazing top from Lotus on Thursday night! <3 It's my first proper mermaid top, so I've been SUPER excited about getting this! ;w;

http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=34307&stc=1
Straight out of the box. Came with the original concept template and an adorable little thank-you letter!

http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=34308&stc=1
First picture taken once I put it on (which was immediately, of course~). It fits perfectly and is SO comfy!

http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=34309&stc=1
And a more serious picture once I could stop giggling and hopping around. :P


I'm super excited to bring it out for a test-swim, although I need to coat the shells in some EnviroTex first since we found out about the issue with the Mod Podge coating (which Lotus was super awesome about!). EnviroTex shouldn't have any weird sort of reactions to Mod Podge, right?

YOU LOOK SO AMAZING OMG!!! I'm so, so glad you love it!!!

I was about to message you about it!!! I tested my own shells and it works great over Mod Podge! I'll keep experimenting, but as long as you follow the instructions to a T, it should cover perfectly! ^-^ <3

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Oh, wow. Knock me out. To die for!!! :-)

Thanks!!! I just listed this top style in my Etsy! Super excited to be working with silicone again! ^-^

[Luna Dreamtide]

Thanks!!! I just listed this top style in my Etsy! Super excited to be working with silicone again! ^-^
Your tops are lovely Lotus!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Your tops are lovely Lotus!

Thank you, Leina!! You're so sweet! :B <3

[Starfrit]

YOU LOOK SO AMAZING OMG!!! I'm so, so glad you love it!!!

I was about to message you about it!!! I tested my own shells and it works great over Mod Podge! I'll keep experimenting, but as long as you follow the instructions to a T, it should cover perfectly! ^-^ <3

Perfect! <3 I'll see if I can meet up with my buddy this week to use his studio!

[Lotus the Mermaid]

Perfect! <3 I'll see if I can meet up with my buddy this week to use his studio!

Whoop!!! Sweet! :D <3

[Rogue Siren]

34331

Its not done yet....but BAM, LIGHTS! <3 Its a prototype, but the top should be totally waterproof! x3

[Ashe]

Rouge Siren, that is amazing! The lights illuminate the points just beautifully. Great work!

[Ashton]

OMG, super cool!

[East coast mermaid]

If you ever start selling, please let me know! [emoji16]


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[Kitaronicus]

Suuper like the led use!
Was wondering when the fandom would start using them!

[Seraphina Suds]

That looks incredible! Very bioluminescent!

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[Mermaid Stardust]

OMG THATS INCREDIBLE! Are you selling them? I so need this.

[New York Mermaid]

I never did show off the top I got from my mersister Syphira, Its one of the first ones finfolk created - I've been in love with it since I first saw it, hoping I could get one, one day. It originally came with straps but I modified it (I really hope they don't mind) I prefer halter-tops for comfort and added alittle bit of netting to hide the tummy lol. Its SUPER COMFY!! so here it is. Oh and the seahorse is named Oliver (as Mermaid Syphira named him). let me stop rambling here.

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[Ophelia Finn]

34331

Its not done yet....but BAM, LIGHTS! <3 Its a prototype, but the top should be totally waterproof! x3

:jawdrop: <- There is not better expression than this.

[Rogue Siren]

Thank you everyone! I'm so happy with it. X3


If you ever start selling, please let me know! [emoji16]


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OMG THATS INCREDIBLE! Are you selling them? I so need this.

It still has some testing to undergo, but then I will be offering them for sale. <3

Edit: I'll be wearing my lighted top to an event this weekend and getting some underwater photos. I just found a product that will make them even more durable. I will take a total of 3 custom lighted top orders for $175. After that prices will be adjusted. Thanks!

[CarolMyers]

Nice tops! Thanks for sharing.

[East coast mermaid]

Yayyy for Christmas finally got a silicone top from mernation. http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/15/12/27/8c3f276c7cc0309f05a6705a50e10ce7.jpg


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[Talia]

Yay for Mernation tops! :cheerleader::cheerleader::cheerleader:

Congrats, East Coast Mermaid!!

[Mermaid Momo]

I can't wait till I have a tail so I can make myself a top


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[Mermaid Enora]

I can't wait till I have a tail so I can make myself a top


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

oh you don't need a tail to have a mermaidy top.
I did a mermaid top only/waist up photo shoot way before I had my tail.
and then I just wore it with a long flowy skirt. :)

[MermaidOphelia]

When I first started off, I began with just swimsuit tops that were mildly altered.

But now I have a beautiful latex top made by Mermaid Dottie from the pod I'm in.

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/14/d75f8a980dcf97f457636793b2c94c59.jpg

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[Luna Dreamtide]

I love love your top Mermaid Ophelia! So cute!


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[Luna Dreamtide]

My first top!! I accidentally posted this in another thread before... Oops...
Let me know what you mers think?

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160119/884d21a6bb0de1cf9853aff9e22c8b8b.jpghttp://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160119/052775ce7eb4847183f756e0296b3f83.jpg


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[suzanne86]

Looks lovely! :-)

[Mermaid_Sarina]

Hi everymer :) This is my first top, I just made it when I was visiting Mermaid Leina recently.
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[Mermaid Julianne]

Ooh Sarina, I love all the gears on your top! It gives off a great steampunk vibe. And the key in the middle is a nice touch.

[Luna Dreamtide]

Ooh Sarina, I love all the gears on your top! It gives off a great steampunk vibe. And the key in the middle is a nice touch.
That's what we were going for! Sarina is a shipwreck explorer mer!

[Mermaid Momo]

Does anyone know where to get fake lion paws? The real ones aren't rounded enough to fit the curve of my boobs and cuts into my skin even with a bra (because I wear a 32A aka, the bras next to the training bras) so I'm looking for a shell that won't dig into my skin or if it does it has rounded soft edges.

Here are my top inspirations for what I'm looking to make

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/ab206b45100d75cd45faa7df9f7ff3b3.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/7c1eee2e1517d4924d3a2d7dd8578364.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/ff076e267f5f53cb68849afa4fd212d9.jpg


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[Luna Dreamtide]

Does anyone know where to get fake lion paws? The real ones aren't rounded enough to fit the curve of my boobs and cuts into my skin even with a bra (because I wear a 32A aka, the bras next to the training bras) so I'm looking for a shell that won't dig into my skin or if it does it has rounded soft edges.

Here are my top inspirations for what I'm looking to make

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/ab206b45100d75cd45faa7df9f7ff3b3.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/7c1eee2e1517d4924d3a2d7dd8578364.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/ff076e267f5f53cb68849afa4fd212d9.jpg


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Pearlie Mae sells Resin lions paw and clam shells in her store. They might be what you need :)

[Adalira]

Does anyone know where to get fake lion paws? The real ones aren't rounded enough to fit the curve of my boobs and cuts into my skin even with a bra (because I wear a 32A aka, the bras next to the training bras) so I'm looking for a shell that won't dig into my skin or if it does it has rounded soft edges.

Here are my top inspirations for what I'm looking to make

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/ab206b45100d75cd45faa7df9f7ff3b3.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/7c1eee2e1517d4924d3a2d7dd8578364.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/ff076e267f5f53cb68849afa4fd212d9.jpg


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I don't know what a fake lion paw is since the translation comes down to the real thing a fake paw from a lion and i don't believe that is what you are looking for lol.
I think you mean the big sea shells? Have you tried a costume store? They usually have the fake sea shell bra's.
I think here they call them hawai bra in the costume stores. Usually used for hawai themed costumes.

[Mermaid_Sarina]

Ooh Sarina, I love all the gears on your top! It gives off a great steampunk vibe. And the key in the middle is a nice touch.

Thanks Julianne! :D

[East coast mermaid]

@adarila you can always shop around for custom made silicone lion paws for a better fit as well.


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[Mermaid Momo]

I don't know what a fake lion paw is since the translation comes down to the real thing a fake paw from a lion and i don't believe that is what you are looking for lol.
I think you mean the big sea shells? Have you tried a costume store? They usually have the fake sea shell bra's.
I think here they call them hawai bra in the costume stores. Usually used for hawai themed costumes.

I've true both costume stores and amazon but a lot of them are made for C cups so they're huge on me still. I was thinking of a way to cut them down but the ones I looked at were solid plastic.


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[Mermaid Momo]

I'm all about the girlie!
I love these plastic shells, because they are lightweight, comfortable and can be painted to match any tail!21923
these are what I'm looking for

[Calizaire]

Pearlie Mae makes and sells them from her Etsy shop https://www.etsy.com/shop/PearlieMae
I was actually just yesterday considering purchasing some but wasn't sure if they'd work for me, size wise. If you end up purchasing some, let me know how they worked for you!

[PearlieMae]

I have them here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/211016974/resin-lions-paw-shells-for-mermaid-tops

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I'm a B and they fit me fine...and I can add resin inside for a push-up effect!

And I have another resin that is flexible (not shown)...it's a clear-ish amber color. I'm testing paints on them to make sure it doesn't flake off. I also have resin scallop shells, too!

[Calizaire]

I have them here: https://www.etsy.com/listing/211016974/resin-lions-paw-shells-for-mermaid-tops

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I'm a B and they fit me fine...and I can add resin inside for a push-up effect!

And I have another resin that is flexible (not shown)...it's a clear-ish amber color. I'm testing paints on them to make sure it doesn't flake off. I also have resin scallop shells, too!
Oooo, jazzed about the potential for flexible ones, I hope you'll update when/if those become available!5
Question: your resin shell listing says they are "typically" 5 inches across. Does that mean you make other sizes? I have some 6 inch lion paw shells that when making a top with by attaching them over a top look good, but I want to make a shell top with just the shells drilled and some rope stringing them together, which has a lot less coverage. Anywho, held my 6 in shells sideways across my B cup boobies and boy, there was a lot of side boob going on. (Especially since they don't have much depth and kinda smoosh the boob out) which is what led me to looking for larger lion paws and intimately, yours. Short story long, do you make them in other dimensions?

[Ashton]

My unpolished abalone top [soon to be available on etsy] <3
http://mernetwork.com/index/attachment.php?attachmentid=35317&stc=1

[Mermaid Momo]

I'm gonna have to get my hands on some of your shells pearlie

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[Adalira]

That looks beautiful Ashton!

[Luna Dreamtide]

Ashton - you and your top look lovely! Great job.

[PearlieMae]

Oooo, jazzed about the potential for flexible ones, I hope you'll update when/if those become available!5
Question: your resin shell listing says they are "typically" 5 inches across. Does that mean you make other sizes? I have some 6 inch lion paw shells that when making a top with by attaching them over a top look good, but I want to make a shell top with just the shells drilled and some rope stringing them together, which has a lot less coverage. Anywho, held my 6 in shells sideways across my B cup boobies and boy, there was a lot of side boob going on. (Especially since they don't have much depth and kinda smoosh the boob out) which is what led me to looking for larger lion paws and intimately, yours. Short story long, do you make them in other dimensions?

When I said typically 5" across, I had measured the shells I have on hand. I don't really make them any other sizes...I can make them smaller by removing the outer edge, something that's hard to do with natural shells, but until I find larger shells to cast, I can't make them bigger.

I've made some drilled to thread soft cotton rope through, and you're right, there is a LOT of side boob happening, but that the look they were going for. (My daughter runs in a burlesque crowd and they love the racy potential! :D )

[PearlieMae]

I just made a quick video about my resin shells (and ate up my data plan uploading it :mad: ), enjoy!


https://youtu.be/rvTR08bvfBY

[SeaDragon Mermaid]

I have begun making neoprene sea animals for embellishing tops, tails - wherever! These and other items can be found in my Etsy shop, Mermaid Galene's Grotto (https://www.etsy.com/shop/MermaidGalenesGrotto). See the classified section (http://mernetwork.com/index/showthread.php?9561-Mermaid-Galene-s-Grotto) here on MerNetwork for more info. Here's my prototype: a Blue-ringed Octopus named Octavia. I wore her, to the delight of lots of children, at our New Year's Eve waterpark gig.

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In the next few months, I will be adding more realistic neoprene animals: other octopus species, rays, sea turtles, and eels. Down the road I will also be listing faerie products - perhaps even a neoprene dragon or two!

i know this was posted a while ago, but I LOVE it!

[Mermaid Momo]

What kind of glue do you suggest using to glue your shells to a bra Pearlie?

[Princess Pearl]

Does anyone know where to get fake lion paws? The real ones aren't rounded enough to fit the curve of my boobs and cuts into my skin even with a bra (because I wear a 32A aka, the bras next to the training bras) so I'm looking for a shell that won't dig into my skin or if it does it has rounded soft edges.

Here are my top inspirations for what I'm looking to make

http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/ab206b45100d75cd45faa7df9f7ff3b3.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/7c1eee2e1517d4924d3a2d7dd8578364.jpghttp://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/19/ff076e267f5f53cb68849afa4fd212d9.jpg


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The Mermaid Atlantis also makes silicone shells. Her store is MythandMagic on Etsy. I'm a fellow 32A, the small sized shells fit quite well.

[PearlieMae]

What kind of glue do you suggest using to glue your shells to a bra Pearlie?

Personally, I suggest sewing, I drill small holes around the perimeter so you can tack them on (I drill large holes if you want to thread cord through and not attach to a bra). The resin is very smooth on the inside and I wouldn't trust glue to adhere. I COULD lay in a piece of polyester batting into the resin to give glue something to grab onto, and then I would recommend marine epoxy or regular epoxy to glue it to a bra substrate.

[Rogue Siren]

Our new seaweed top!
...or is that seaweed? ;)


Revealing my Leafy Sea Dragon!


This top is for sale! Size 36B, may fit a few sizes up or down.
As the first one, much of the detail was sadly lost during painting, but it is still a lovely top! $180 (or best offer) with free shipping within the US.

I hope to make the multiple version of the dragon. Smaller, larger, more delicate and realistic. But I'm quite happy with how it turned out for now. :)

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[Kait]

Our new seaweed top!
...or is that seaweed? ;)


Revealing my Leafy Sea Dragon!


This top is for sale! Size 36B, may fit a few sizes up or down.
As the first one, much of the detail was sadly lost during painting, but it is still a lovely top! $180 (or best offer) with free shipping within the US.

I hope to make the multiple version of the dragon. Smaller, larger, more delicate and realistic. But I'm quite happy with how it turned out for now. :)



EEEEE I love it!! The sea dragon is gorgeous. I'd be interested in a blue and black style one :)

[Mermaid Kelda]

Holy hell that's a beautiful creature! :clap:

[Adalira]

Wow, that looks beautiful!

[Mermaid Lilium]

Rogue, I might have to save up and commission one of these, they're awesome!

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[Rogue Siren]

Thanks everyone! <3


Rogue, I might have to save up and commission one of these, they're awesome!

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Haha, thank you! <3 I wanted to make a seaweed top...but not the usual seaweed tops we see, so this was born. Lol

[PearlieMae]

So creative! Well done!

[Spindrift]

Gorgeous! I love it!! :)

[Mermaid Momo]

My top is almost done but I can't figure out how to attach my shells to the bra. I've tried E600 and hot glue but the shells aren't sticking :( http://images.tapatalk-cdn.com/16/01/30/8a199b12abd647c261c30f03f6994822.jpg


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[Adalira]

That top is gorgeous Momo! I am not sure how to attach the shells, maybe sowing them is an option? I know there are a lot of very strong glues from "Bison". I know that on their website you can use the guide to help you find the right glue.
I have used the guide in the past to find the correct glue for certain projects.
I have tried to find it in English and think i found it, hopefully i did it correct:
http://www.bison.net/en/advice/adhesive-sealant-guide/
I hope you find an answer for your problem. Maybe one of the other mers has an even better solution, good luck!

[Mermaid Momo]

That top is gorgeous Momo! I am not sure how to attach the shells, maybe sowing them is an option? I know there are a lot of very strong glues from "Bison". I know that on their website you can use the guide to help you find the right glue.
I have used the guide in the past to find the correct glue for certain projects.
I have tried to find it in English and think i found it, hopefully i did it correct:
http://www.bison.net/en/advice/adhesive-sealant-guide/
I hope you find an answer for your problem. Maybe one of the other mers has an even better solution, good luck!

It's a real shell and I didn't drill any holes for sewing into sadly :( I tried E600 but it didn't catch on to it. I'm thinking I may have to rough up the inside of the shell somehow.

[Moonlight Blues]

My top which is actually made by Mermaid Hyli. Silicone seashells with crystals, I mean Gaahh I love her tops. Plus it matches my tail so well. Yay Hyli! :)

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beautiful tail where did you get it made? or who made it

[Adalira]

@ Momo, roughing the inside of the shell may actually work. The glue may simply need something to hold itself onto.
Maybe some sanding paper may work?

[PearlieMae]

Roughing up the inside may help, coarse sandpaper should do the trick. I would use an epoxy to adhere them to the bra. Marine epoxy would probably be best. I wouldn't want to worry about my shells coming off while I was swimming, and hot glue wouldn't be reliable, and E6000 is good, but I don't know if it's THAT good.

[Adalira]

May i ask how you colored the lace Momo? It looks so beautiful? Did you spraypaint it or hand paint it? And what kind if paint did you use?
I have a ton of lace laying around and was thinking of making things with it but i did not like the color of it (mostly just white), so painting it would be great for me and give so much creative freedom :-)

[Mermaid Momo]

I got it to fit! Ignore the punk and blue bra under it. I pour it on top of that bra while because my fiance wanted to see it on and I was too lazy to take it off.
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160131/fdede0c20d301be536be28976eb138ad.jpg

That one doesn't show the colors well but here's another modeled my my love to show the colors
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160131/a747db805e47706c8f5107422e05ef6f.jpg

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[Mermaid Momo]

May i ask how you colored the lace Momo? It looks so beautiful? Did you spraypaint it or hand paint it? And what kind if paint did you use?
I have a ton of lace laying around and was thinking of making things with it but i did not like the color of it (mostly just white), so painting it would be great for me and give so much creative freedom :-)
I hand painted it using these paints
http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160131/6c4f07a735474c9192abcc63ddd87c47.jpg

After painting it and letting It dry I ran an iron over it to heat set it then sprayed it with craft bond and put some glitter over it. After that dried I sealed it with acrylic waterproof sealer (and ironed again)

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[Mermaid_Sarina]

Momo your top is amazing! I love the colours!

[Luna Dreamtide]

Such a pretty top Momo! It looks great on you!

[MermaidBrandie]

The Mermaid Atlantis also makes silicone shells. Her store is MythandMagic on Etsy. I'm a fellow 32A, the small sized shells fit quite well.
I make silicone shells as well, in multicolor. :) However for this type of project (glueing crystals on then and such) I would recommend resin. Unless you're ok with getting silpoxy.

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[Adalira]

That top is amazing Momo! It turned out so great! Congratulations!

I actually have some tulip fabric paint laying around! YAY! I think my mom bought it for a project of hers and never used it and left it here. Thank you for sharing that info. I will do some experimenting at some point :-)

Once again, beautiful top! I just love it!

[Mermaid Lilium]

I used e6000 to attach the abalone shells onto my new shell top, it really can be that good ;)

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[Ashton]

I used E6000 to attach my abalone to my top as well, it works great! I havent swam in it yet because it is to cold.

[Mermaid Livou]

holy-moly what nice tops ^^
So. Me too, wanted to make a top. From shells. A year ago. I live in middle of land so wanted to order from faaaar far away. But it seemed that noone ship/offer shells over a certain size and umm.. i needed bigger ones :D and from a certain type, i dont know the english name. So I gave up on it. Then around spring time, one of my moms friends asked us "dont you wanna have TWO BIG SHELLS? I have them but have no place for them wanna give away". Out of nowhere, she wasnt aware of my intention to do anything related :D She bring'em, and they totally-perfectly fit :) but beeing too heavy and dont wanted to break or sg i made them into silicone, here they are, my very first mermaid top, my very first silicone work :)
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also the first, fast, blurry pics, pardon me.. from the outside it came out quite how i wanted, but the inside is a true mess :D funny accidnet, that the strips at the back reach over the fasteners, so they meet and stand up against each other, so it looks like I have a little fin on my back too :D :)
hopefully, soon i can post better pics along with a tail im amking since a year for myself, a turquoise mineral color themed one
cheers ^^

[Ashton]

thats super cool^

[Kunoichi Ribeiro]

My first top made by my friend Carolina Andrade! Im so in love with him! :swoon:35539

[Kait]

It's soooo pretty!! What did she attach with?


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[Ashton]

are those pearls hand sewn or glued on?

[Calizaire]

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Two I just finished. Might add red net halter straps to the red/orange/yellow one.
And I don't think I ever posted the corset I made for a Christmas Boat Parade. HUGE project, over 2,000 sequins!
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Edit: the corset wasn't totally closed because that would have taken an assistant and my pirate was sleeping when I took the pic. I made a corset instead of a top because I figured the extra coverage would help keep me warm. Nope, haha, I froze my gills off!!
Sorry for the bathroom pics!

[Kait]

Wow Calizaire they look amazing! You're really talented :)
So nice to see a shelled up corset for a change!

[Calizaire]

Wow Calizaire they look amazing! You're really talented :)
So nice to see a shelled up corset for a change!
Thank you so much! I seriously got in over my head on that corset...put in over 100 hours on it...the sad part is I'll probably never wear it again, it's so seasonal specific. Haaha! I made a matching light up crown too to go with it...was so fun wearing them for Christmas!

I'm going to open an Etsy shop to sell tops, I'm currently amassing enough projects to give people a good idea of what I can create. So far I have 5 tops and the corset. I'd like to have a dozen or so examples before I open a shop. I notice there are not a lot of sequin tops out there for sale, versus shell tops.

[Kait]

Well the 100+ hours definitely paid off!

Looking forward to seeing your shop :)

[Ashton]

absolutely lovely!

[Calizaire]

Well the 100+ hours definitely paid off!

Looking forward to seeing your shop :)

Thank you, that's very encouraging!
I'm making both dry and wet tops. With the exception of the corset, the ones above are water safe.
I have around 90 different types of sequins and I water test each for color and sheen durability.
I'm going to sell each for around $60 to begin.

Thank you again, it really means so much to me to see some interest. I may just end up with a dozen tops I end up giving away! Hahaa, it's ok, either way, making these tops is a great hobby I love so if I never sell a one I'll still have enjoyed every moment.

[Calizaire]

absolutely lovely!
Coming from a brilliant artist like you?! Oh *swoon* thank you Ashton!
I seriously fangirl over your creations.
Actually I lurked Mernetwork for awhile before I joined and I joined because I wanted to see your individual scale tail come to fruition. :)

[Mermaid Alea]

Ooooh I love the corset! The gradient on it is beautiful!

I need to work on my second top...I keep forgetting to buy the stuff I need for it. Winter seems like the best time for making mer-crafts to get my mind off of it not being prime swimming weather haha.

[Calizaire]

Ooooh I love the corset! The gradient on it is beautiful!

I need to work on my second top...I keep forgetting to buy the stuff I need for it. Winter seems like the best time for making mer-crafts to get my mind off of it not being prime swimming weather haha.

SO not happy with how the corset gradient looks in pics. In person it looks so much smoother. Grrrr.
Me too, I used my down cold months to produce produce!

[Luna Dreamtide]

I don't think the seasonal theme is too obvious. Either way - that corset is absolutely stunning!! Great job. I agree about the lack of sequin tops. They always look so pretty - there definitely should be more of them!

[UtahMermaidPearl]

http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160212/4a409f4b33b6192ee873afb5024be3b8.jpg http://uploads.tapatalk-cdn.com/20160212/01e72bd9fb62e6ba8a1254008b667420.jpg

[MermaidSandie]

Oooh Pearl01, I love both your tops, they're so unique and pretty!!! Especially the one in the second picture omg I really like the halter-style neckline <33

[UtahMermaidPearl]

The second one was made by Dottie :)