Free Beading Instructions

As some of you know I was invited to participate in the "Blog for Beads" segment that Artbeads.com has been doing for several months now.
The way it works is I get to pick out a specified dollar amount in materials and create jewelry according to a theme chosen by Artbeads.com. Following that I have to give my honest opinion about the materials I have chosen. In addition the fabulous materials they carry the shipping is free which makes the next part of my scheme easy for all of you! Beginning with the next segment when I post the photo of the design I create for Blog for Beads, I will also give you a materials list and easy to follow instructions. All you have to do is sign up on my e-mail list and I will e-mail you the info FREE!
Here is the feedback I received from Artbeads.com about my latest creation. pictured here.
"Wow, what a beautiful ‘Mermaids Choker’ you’ve created! The pendant is breathtaking against your luscious mix of seed beads, crystals and amber. Your choice of colors for your beads is outstanding and the two gold satin rounds add a lovely touch framed up against the side of the gorgeous lampwork pendant. I’m delighted to see your beadwoven clasp too! This is the kind of design, that if I saw it in person, I would want to pick up and touch as it has a wonderful warmth and vibrancy to it. An absolutely gorgeous piece and I thank you for all of your hard work creating it. I also appreciate your work on your blog, photos and links as well."
Be sure and check out the feedback from my customers on my Guestbook page!

Mermaid Choker

"I have heard the mermaids singing, each to each." T.S. Elliott

Artbeads and I have done it again! This time the theme was summer and I had a hard time choosing my items with so many wonderful beads to choose from. When I saw this artisan created lampwork it took me right back to the years I spent in Hawaii...those beautiful beaches and luscious blue water.

The inspiration for this piece began with the beautiful lampwork bead in the center. It has the colors of a sandy beach and deep blue ocean waters. On either side you will find a satin 14K gold filled bead. On the multi strand neck there are treasures to be found. Among the size 11 and size 8 seed beads you will find genuine Swarovski crystals in 2 colors, and handsome genuine Amber chips; some opaque and some transparent. The “clasp” is a woven peyote stitch medallion and loop closure, a perfect detail for those hot summer days you want to wear your hair up. The length is 17 inches.

Blog for Beads by Artbeads.com contributed a large part of my materials in exchange for my honest evaluation of their merchandise in my blog. I am not paid to endorse them in any way.

Celebrating Spring with Artbeads

In springtime, love is carried on the breeze. Watch out for flying passion or kisses whizzing by your head. ~Terri Guillemets

Artbeads and I are celebrating Spring together!

That's right, it is time for Blog for Beads again and look at what I have for you this time!

I began this necklace with this stunning Venetian Glass 20mm Zanfirico Millefiori Disc as the focal point. I really wanted to bring out the beautiful gold tones in the glass so next I chose these 8mm Gold-Filled Round Matte Bead and placed them on the sides of the Venetian Glass and along the neckline. The balance of the neck was created with Swarovski Bicones and Amazonite beads. I used seed beads in 3 colors some of which are woven in and some I did in leaf shapes.

Artbeads has a wonderful selection of Venetian glass, Murano Glass and Lampwork beads in beautiful colors and a variety of shapes.

Sometimes when I have a hard time getting the creative juices flowing I just choose a large focal bead and go from there. It is a wonderful way to get beyond any creative block...give it a try!

I have another piece coming soon with more wonderful materials from Artbeads.com

Blog for Beads by Artbeads.com contributed a large part of my materials in exchange for my honest evaluation of their merchandise in my blog. I am not paid to endorse them in any way.

Beading Class

Here are a couple of items from little class I did recently. The top photo is one of my designs that was completed by an 8 year old. The bottom photo was designed and completed in one day by my 19 year old niece.

Sorry I have been away for so long. Our family has had some heavy trials and although they continue things are fairly well in hand, at least for now.
I am very excited about my new program and am desperately trying to get some time to play with it.
Many of you know that I have been working full time at an actual "day job" so that does not lend much of an opportunity to work in the studio. Hopefully now that things have mellowed a bit I can spend more time here. The job ends in June, so please hang in there with me! I have a lot of designs on the drawing board just waiting for the time to devote to getting them done.
I did manage to get some inventory for the jewelry store that is selling my wares fast and furious. I feel very fortunate for that.
The hats have slowed down now, a little trickle ever now and then but I can rest a bit on those for now.