Getting Inspired before Returning to Reality

It's a little late on a Sunday night, but I figure there's never a bad time for creative inspiration!

I'll need all my brain cells with me tomorrow and I realize now some of them have been on a break over the last week.

A little extra focus on any subject should help get them all corralled for tomorrow's return to work. :)

By the way, I have exciting news about my weekly bead blogger inspiration links...we're adding CRAFTERS!

I'm excited to be sharing both bead blogger and craft blogger links starting with this post.

I haven't "met" everyone yet, so I'm looking forward to learning about their work.

We're starting things off with our pal Jean Yates. She posted some great pics and funny stories which is just what I needed! Enjoy!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done! 
Cue the flashback optical illusions as Jean goes from the beginning piece of jewelry she made in 2013 to the final piece of the year, and explains why they were created and for whom!

BIG Crafty Princess News!
The Crafty Princess Diaries has a big announcement posted about what is happening in 2014.

Cheap Christmas Wreath: from Puny to Grand in 2 Steps
Does last year's wreath or an inexpensive one you bought need a bit more pizazz? Let's kick it up a notch.

Ornaments With Beads and Baubles
Sure, Christmas is over... but you'll still want to make these super easy peasy ornaments.

Resin and Rhinestones
Charlene experiments with resin and vintage rhinestone components and shares the results.

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton 

Andrew just returned from filming an episode of the PBS show, "Beads, Baubles and Jewels". Check out his thoughts about the journey.

Over or Just Beginning?

Feeling a little sad because Christmas is over? 

The coolest thing about this time of year is, it doesn't last too long! 

Another holiday is right around the corner and it's a GREAT one! 

One that, by nature, signifies new beginnings! Yay! It's a new day and a new year! 

The ball is in our court, we have every opportunity to step out on the right foot and make it as great as we want.

YAY!

I've started setting my own intentions and expectations, how about you?

For now, it's about the jewelry...and I've pulled some beads for a brand new project!

Out with red and green for a while and in with black and sparkle. I don't know why those colors say Happy New year to me, but they do!

I wish you all a fabulous and sparkly NEW YEAR! 

We'd love to see your new year's sparklies, so feel free to post links in your comments back to your blog, facebook or etsy site.

I'll be sharing as soon as this one materializes! :)

Last Minute Inspiration or Mental Break

Looking for last minute holiday jewelry making inspiration or just a quick mental break from all the hustle and bustle?

Here are some fun ideas from a few of our jewelry making friends.

LOVE these tassels made by Carmi's blog hop designers!

So festive!

Carmi's Art/Life World
Organizing a blog hop is a big job. When you have fabulous results like this one...you are excited to share! Come see the Dazzle-it Tassels blog hop for inspiration!

About.com
Are you ready for Santa? Get ready with these cute holiday earrings.

Beading Arts
Do you love recycling your broken jewelry bits? Cyndi has the holiday project that's perfect for you!

Resin Crafts Blog

If you want to know how you can wear a beautiful paper package...come see the Mariage Frere Tea necklace!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done! 
Jean explores what's new at one of her fave sites, Beaducation! 

Square Pegs Necklace

I LOVE these burgundy resin squares! The green mirror beads work perfectly for subtle holiday flair.

Sing along if you want to:

Square pegs, square pegs, square, square, pegs!!

I really need to get that series on DVD! ("I'd like it if they like us, but I don't think they like us!")

Okay...back to the necklace...

The crystals add a hint of the crisp New Year coming right around the corner.

Most importantly, this goes with a couple of new holiday outfits, yay!

Making gifts or getting ready for new outfits? Please share your creations! We'd love to see them!

Btw, ...still obsessed with ribbon.... :) As always, the beads are from Cousin.

It's a Christmas Necklace!

There's no question about the inspiration for this necklace, it's Christmas!

I made this last Saturday morning so I could teach it that night. Yep, I guess I need the pressure to produce!

I always like to make things simple when teaching a group of crafters or non-beaders. My ribbon obsession continues and just requires simple ribbon clasps to finish it off. The crystazzi crystals definitely add a feeling of holiday lights, very shiny!

Crafting started after eating, drinking and being merry around 9pm and finished up around 3:45am!

Lots of gifts, beads, paint, hot glue and pine cones...I didn't want it to end!

The next morning it's sort of like that after Christmas or after vacation blah... The good news is, you can have a craft night anytime you want!! You just need to sign up a friend or two and set a date!

As always, an awesome time was had by all and everyone finished their crafts, yay!

Shopping Season!

Just checking in to see if any of you were out and about on the busiest shopping day of the year.

I'm sitting here at home looking at beads, watching HBO movies and thinking about the craft I'm going to take to craft night tomorrow.

I wanted to share this little necklace project that I just finished. As always, my projects tend to be quick and easy.

I love using ribbon to finish off the neck when possible. It adds some decorative flair and also cuts down on extra time beading that part of the necklace. :)

All of the beads here are from the Cousin Corporation and all can be found at Meijer and probably JoAnn, etc. as well. There's a Meijer store not to far from me that has an ENTIRE aisle of nothing but Cousin beads. It makes me so happy to hang out there.

I enjoy looking at beads in online catalogs, but there's nothing like seeing them in real life, taking them off the hooks and putting them up next to others while designing on the spot.

That's my favorite way to figure out a design or get ideas for things to make.

By the way, if you don't have a Meijer or Walmart nearby and you tend to shop at JoAnn's or Michael's make sure you use your coupons!!

There are usually coupons in the mail or when you enter the store. If not, look them up online and print them before you go. For smart phone folks, make sure you either use their app or bring the coupons up while you are at the checkout!

Let me know what you're making this year for holiday gifts by posting a link in the comments of this post or sending me a picture via email. I'll use them all in a holiday jewelry making post in a couple weeks.

Happy Holidays, happy bead shopping and gift making too!! :)

Peace, Love & Bead Blogger Inspiration!

Just in case you're looking for beading inspiration, our friends have come through by sharing some of their latest activities.

Thank you bead bloggers!

Have you noticed that people everywhere have crossed over into holiday mode?

Crafting, shopping, cooking and more! There's definitely a vibe in the air!

For those of you traveling, be careful out there AND don't forget to share links to your holiday creations in the comments so we can all enjoy! :)

Shown here is one of my all time favorites that just materialized as I was creating in preparation for Thanksgiving a few years ago!

It still holds a special place in my heart for some reason. It's a cornucopia! :)

About.com Jewelry Making
Copper is the new silver....as in much more affordable and thus much more popular. Here are loads of jewelry tutorials that include copper.

Art Bead Scene
Check out Tari's super-cute festive ornament tutorial!

Beading Arts
Sometimes a project takes you two steps forward and one step back, but not to worry...!

Carmi's Art/World Life
While most people would turn gifted fabric into a quilt or clothing, Carmi felt it was best to showcase it in a bib necklace.

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean reviews Cindy Wimmer's great wireworking book, The Missng Link -- it is wonderful!

Resin Crafts Blog
This week Carmi shares her newest bezels made from painted gilded samples from her journal.

Bead Stash Winner Announced!

Yay, the time has come to announce the winner of the pre-holiday bead stash giveaway!

First of all, thank you ALL so much for stopping by and checking in, it means so much to me!

As any blogger, beads or otherwise, knows, you can share info and you really never know who, if anyone, stops by.

So, THANK YOU!

And now, the winner of the bead stash giveaway is... Carolyn of Carolyn's Creations! Congratulations Carolyn!

I can't wait to hear back from Carolyn so I can get this package shipped out!

It seems like the perfect time to wish you all a wonderful Thanksgiving and fabulous holiday season!!

Don't forget to let me know about all the sparkly creations you are all making for friends and family this holiday season! I'd love to share them here!

My Beadly Duty a.k.a. Sharing the Bead Obsession

Just in case you haven't seen these bead combos yet, I just HAD to share!

These are new packages from Cousin Corp.

The group photo shows just a handful of them, it looks like there are 26 combo packs in total.

I have this one particular package out on my bead table right now, which also happens to be the living room coffee table :)

I just can't stop looking at it and I don't know why...

There's something about the combination of these beads and the way they are strung on this card, I don't know.

Not sure if you get the same effect from a photo.

It's like staring at something you don't quite understand.

I know I should be doing other things like taking beads of the package and making a gift to give later in the day or at the very least doing some chores, but these are sort of mesmerizing...

If you can figure it out, let me know.

Pre-Holiday Bead Stash GIVEAWAY!

Yay! It's giveaway time!

I love a grab bag, especially one filled with beads!!

It's always fun to get beads selected by someone else.

Since I've already done an early holiday bead giveaway with Cousin's new Tis the Season line, it seemed like a good time to do a random bead stash giveaway.

This giveaway includes a selection of pendants, beads, findings, etc. These are fun pieces, all from the ultra-generous Cousin Corporation. :) Yay!

If you are interested in winning this fun little collection, just leave a comment here by Friday, Nov. 22.

Good luck! :)

Bead Bloggers & Upcoming Giveaway

If you're looking for a little bit of inspiration before gearing back up for the week, here you go!

I can't believe it's already 10pm on Sunday, yikes! I still have things I want and need to do.

Keep an eye out for tomorrow's blog post, it's GIVEAWAY TIME!

I spent a couple hours today while watching the movie, Elf, digging through my bead stash and organizing beads into actual containers.

I cleaned out the containers months ago, so I guess that's sort of how things evolve around here. You take the time when you can and when you're inspired.

So, here's a little inspiration, catch you tomorrow for giveaway time! :) Kicking things off we have Carmi's cool resin video.

Resin Crafts Blog
If you have ever wondered about how to make unique cabochons for jewelry designs, this new EasyCast video should be a big help!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean enjoys some special jewelry creativity with the help of the season's first snow, some friends, and a camera!

Art Bead Scene
Check out how ceramicist, art bead artist and jeweller Kylie Parry updates and personalises her holiday packaging!

Beading Arts
Vintage hinges make a wicked cute bracelet!

A Few of My Favorite Things

Okay, this pendant makes my top ten list of all time, LOVE IT!

The last few times I had a love connection with a jewelry making component, you might remember it being a little more sparkly. :)

Just in case you are new to A Bead A Day, here are a few love story flash backs from the vault.

1. Sparkly Shamballa Beads
2. Druzy-licious
3. Celebrating mirror beads one and two

There's just something very special about this pendant. I don't know if it's the mix of metal and cording or the black/silver mix, but it really brings a wow factor.

Not only have I received so many compliments on this necklace (I hope she doesn't mind me mentioning it here) the Sales & Marketing Manager at Cousin Corporation used it to make a very quick wow necklace for herself by hanging it from a chunky chain with a huge toggle right next to the pendant. It was definitely a WOW!

I'll have to ask if I can post a picture of her finished product. In the meantime, here's my original design.

Sometimes you just need to see a jewelry component in action to get inspired for your own project.

Love those Bead Bloggers!

I just love our bead blogger friends who share fun stuff every week!

Sometimes they share what they're up to or new techniques, freebies, introductions to other beading related artists and so much more!

Thanks to all for sharing! I know it keeps me inspired.

First up, Jean Yates is once again offering the chance to win a great new book by Scott David Plumlee.

Make sure to comment by Tuesday, 11/12/13 to be sure you are in the running!

Have a great new week everyone! :)

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean is hosting a giveaway on her blog for Scott David Plumlee's wonderful new book, SILVER SOLDERING SIMPLIFIED, and it is a very special giveaway--it is INTERNATIONAL! How Great!!!

Art Bead Scene
Check out Brandi's new colour palette for this month's challenge piece by Cezanne.

Resin Crafts Blog
International themed clear stamps look wonderful stamped into resin clay.

Beading Arts
Have you had an opportunity yet to play with Bezel Effects paints?

Carmi's Art/Life World
Is there anything more satisfying than completing a project while watching tv? These fabulous fabric cameos all represent a block of down time.

Versatility is Key!

Just a quick post to let you all know I just saw these tubes on sale over on the Primabead.com site.

I got really hooked on these last year and made LOTS of gifts with them.

All it took was a little bit of ribbon and a ribbon clasp - different Colors of ribbon based on the person you are gifting.

So versatile and SO EASY!!!

That's definitely a theme with jewelry I make especially if I am making more than one for gifts!

So, here you go:
20x65mm metal textured curved tube pendant-silver

If you end up using this in any of your projects, I'd love to see how you incorporate it. :)

Here's the one I made last year for quite a few people, including myself.

Last Minute Bead Blogger Fun!

It's time to gear up for a new work week, so it's time to pay attention to the clock and get back on schedule.

I suppose if you have to watch the clock, it might as well be swarovski crystalled! :)

How about just a few more minutes to read through some fun bead blogger posts?!

I'm with YOU!

Have a great week! :)

Beading Arts
If you're going to make gifts for the Holidays, it's probably time to get started...

Art Bead Scene
Check out the beautiful entries for this month's challenge piece - spooky! 

Carmi's Art/World
Baroque style is the type of jewelry I most want to create. It begins with a purchase I spotted online.

Resin Crafts Blog
You can turn your favorite pencil into a pendant with resin clay.

Snap out of it, jean! There's beading to be done! 
A story of a jewelry piece by jean which became a holiday gift instantly! See jean's blog!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Check out what the participants of the Inspired by Reading Book Club made in response to the October selection, "My Mother She Killed Me, My Father He Ate Me" edited by Kate Bernheimer!

Super Standout Components

WOW, these components are so superly fabulous!

I just received two sets of four links in red and green. Yes, I'm also going to be making some traditional holiday jewelry.

After the last post about non-traditional jewelry pieces, all I could think about was traditional sparkly red and green, yikes!

Why Lisa, why? Honestly, I don't know why, but I'm going with it! :)

My vision is something simple. A necklace with two strands of chain, one showcasing the red components and one showcasing the green. Not intermingled, just two layers of single holiday colors.

In fact, I might just make that right now!!

My husband's tradition of getting in the holiday spirit early (meaning the day after Halloween has apparently rubbed off on me!)

Soon, we'll be watching Elf and Holiday Inn. I've already made low cal hot chocolate, so I think I have arrived. :)

The Holidays are Coming!

This bead strand came in the mail today along with quite a few others, yay!

I'm so darn lucky and so grateful to the Cousin Corporation. Being a Creative Circle Ambassador continues to be a great experience AND a growth experience.

I selected these beads with thoughts of creating something for the holidays that's not so obvious. They're listed as 12 Piece Resin 15mm - Open square red.

Working with open squares or circles is always fun. It's exciting to think about the many ways to either string them with beads in the center OR linking them up in a way that leaves the center open.

At first I was thinking of going an earthy route and using hemp cord in some way. I'm not totally convinced that's not the way to go yet.

However, I'm also thinking of adding some kind of sparkle. I'm wondering if going extreme sparkle would be interesting due to the contrast.

I'm open to thoughts, so holler them out if you have them.

Looking for Inspiration? It's Bead Blogger Time!

Do you ever feel like somehow a week went by and it seems like a blur? I don't know how, but an entire week just passed by and it seems like it was just the weekend.

The good news in all that is, HEY, it's the weekend again! :) Yep, there's the silver lining!

I'm going to really focus on this weekend and live it and really be in the moment to make up for "losing" the last 4 or 5 days!

I just gave myself a cheer, "you can do it if you put your mind to it, buckle down, buckle down, do it, do it, do it!" :)

Just to really get things kicked off, some of our blogger pals are sharing inspiration. First up is Jean Yates. She's sharing sneak peeks from Beading Daily, NICE! Enjoy...

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Join Jean as she shares an email from Beading Daily with some awesome previews and jewelry projects ahead of time!

Beading Arts
What do you do when the beadwork on a prized dress falls apart?

Carmi's Art/Life World
Sometimes a wonderful childhood book character can come back to you in the form of jewelry - come see the Pinocchio necklace!

Resin Crafts Blog
Do you remember Betsy McCall? These sentimental resin filled bezels will be perfect for both the young and older women in your life.

Craft Night Success!

A great time was had by all at craft night, yay!

It's always hard to see it come to an end, but it's fun to come home with completed projects.

I didn't get my rock painting done, but we'll finish that one up next time.

We  DID end up with wine cork jewelry though so that made me happy!

I had a bunch of ideas and took about half of all the beads and findings I own just in case. :)

The prototypes I made right before heading over to craft night are pictured here.

These were fun and a little whimsical which usually happens when I am having fun creating in a crunch time situation standing at the kitchen counter.

The necklace is made with a cork I cut lengthwise with a knife and the bracelet is made with a cork I cut into slices AND after rubber stamping it, glittered it just a tad. :)

Very fun and seriously one of a kind! I didn't even know I needed or wanted these until I made them.

Now I'm so glad I have them, they make me feel happy, hey, just like wine.

That seems very appropriate!

If any of you have made wine cork jewelry, please share!

Sweet Shamballas!

Happy Friday!! So glad it's here! For me it's craft night weekend, yay!

Lots of crafting, eating and drinking with family and friends tomorrow night until we can't bead, glue or paint another thing and fall off to a few hours of sleep in the wee morning hours.

Ahh, sounds great! :)

Now I just have to finalize the project I'm going to teach. One thing I know for sure is it will be a jewelry project and the other thing I know is it will have a wine cork or wine corks in the design.

I just need to do a little more trial and error before deciding on a final design.

Interestingly, I have found myself once again totally hooked on these Cousin shamballa beads. Wow, by now the novelty would have usually worn off.

I know it hasn't because every project I conceive of seems to have a shamballa bead in it! These light purples are SO magical in real life. Amazing! They are available at Walmart too which is great, just in case I get inspired and need to go on a midnight run!

I think purple shamballas with wine corks have what it takes to make a great piece of fun craft night jewelry. How about you? :)

Bead Blogger Fun!

Wow, having that extra day off Monday really threw things out of alignment there for minute...it's Wednesday already!

I didn't want to miss some of the great happenings reported by our bead blogger friends, so here's a quick roundup!

I'm afraid we missed out on the Kristal Wick book giveaway, but still awesome info! :)

To make up for it, we're starting things out with a great post by Lorelei Eurto. Check out her tips for hosting a jewelry open house! Nice, thanks Lorelei!! :)

Art Bead Scene
Check out guest blogger Lorelei Eurto's post on holding an open house jewellery event!

Beading Arts
Don't you feel sooo good when you finish a project? Cyndi has just finished a large bead embroidered necklace, so she's feeling GREAT!

Carmi's Art
Discovering someone else's jewelry collection is always a treat. Buying, cleaning and possibly re-stringing it is something to consider too.

Resin Craft Blog
If you have not tried working with a channel bracelet, this post is for you! Jewelry clay and a bangle means instant happy!

Snap out if it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean is hosting a book giveway for the wonderful jewelry instruction and design book by Kristal Wick, Metal Clay 101 for Beaders--come and comment on her blog for a chance to win it!

WINNER Announced...'Tis the Season!

Thank you all so much for stopping by and leaving a comment on last week's post for a chance to win lots of holiday beads and charms from the new Cousin Corporation 'Tis the Season collection.

I'm so excited to announce the winner is Julie of Second Hand Jules!

Julie, your package will be heading your way in the next couple of days!

In November I'll be pulling together a fun grab bag of miscellaneous pieces and parts for the next giveaway, so keep an eye out! :)

Thank you all my fun, fab beading friends!

Saturday in the Park Butterfly Necklace Project

I just discovered one of my favorite projects is posted on the PrimaBead.com site with instructions!

Yay! I love both of these butterflies and was so anxious to share with you.

This "Saturday in the Park" necklace project was conceived and created in a couple hours back in August.

I had a completely different project in mind when I ordered pieces for it.

When I started putting it together, it became clear it wasn't really working as I envisioned.

I turned to my existing stash to find a way to use the blue butterfly and once I introduced the colorful enamel butterfly, it all came together quickly.

The black faux leather connectors are AWESOME! They make a statement and just require a jump ring to connect.

This will go great with a cobalt blue blouse this time of year. In fact, I think I'll wear it myself today. :) It IS Saturday after all.

Time to Share Your Holiday Jewelry Secrets

Well my friends, it looks like the first wave of cooler air brings on a rush of people in the holiday spirit. Isn't that amazing?

I actually saw snowmen at the grocery store this week, yikes!

The time is here to start planning AND most importantly for artists, designers and crafters...time to GET BUSY!

SO, if you are feeling like sharing, I'd love to hear your secrets for getting in the spirit to create jewelry projects for the lucky people on your list!

Do you create holiday type projects using beads and charms like the ones pictured here? OR, do you mix and match crystals and beads in a certain color palette that isn't as obvious, but still has some holiday flair.

OR, do you think about each of your gift recipients and create something based on their favorite season, the colors in their wardrobe or their personal style?

Inquiring beaders really want to know! Please share and, as always, leave links to projects and pictures when possible. :)

Happy creating!

'Tis the Season Bead GIVEAWAY!

Are you ready to make some fun holiday jewelry?

I've got just the beads for you!

Thanks to the generosity of the Cousin Corporation through their Creative Circle Ambassador program I have PLENTY to share! 

YAY!

Leave a comment on this blog post through Saturday, Oct. 12, for a chance to win a surprise package of holiday beads and charms!

If your profile does not link back to an email address, please remember to leave that in your comment.

Thanks for stopping by...GOOD LUCK!

Bead Blogger Procrastination...again!

Once again, I'm having a procrastination moment...I want to hold onto the weekend just a tiny bit longer! :)

Feel like jumping on my bandwagon and squeezing out a few more minutes?

Let's just do a quick run through of the creative blogs below...starting with a new opportunity to share your resin designs, enjoy!

Resin Crafts Blog
This fall Resin Crafts is looking for crafters/jewellers who want to show off their resin work. We are shipping a wonderful bezel to anyone who wants to participate!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean reviews the great artist and author Jamie Cloud Eakin's most recent book, Bead Embroidery Jewelry Projects, Design and Construction, Ideas and Inspiration, and does indeed find it to be VERY inspiring!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
To celebrate the launch of our latest porcelain pendant design, we're hosting a giveaway! Find out how you can enter to win! 

Art Bead Scene
Check out our October monthly challenge colour palette! Spooky!

Beading Arts
Cyndi enjoyed taking part in her friend's Sequintastic September blog hop. Come see what she made, and find links to all the rest of the gang! 

Lauren Andersen - The Chainmaille Lady - New Book!

There's a great new beading book out this week! It's by our friend Lauren Andersen, yep, the Chainmaille Lady!

You can find The Absolute Beginners Guide: Making Chain Mail Jewelry on Amazon, not to mention just about every other book outlet.

I had the opportunity to meet Lauren Andersen when I was waiting my turn in the green room for the TV show Beads, Baubles and Jewels. It was certainly a treat!

Lauren was so encouraging and supportive of everyone considering she had already done spots on jewelry related TV shows. She was genuinely interested in everyone's success.

She's such an adorable lady with a kind and very SPARKLY personality. She would LOVE to talk everyone into making chain mail jewelry. Her enthusiasm is contagious!

Thank you Lauren for being you and sharing your talent with the world!! :)

Sparkly Snowflake Necklace Reveal!

Yay! I'm so happy to announce the new "Tis the Season" bead collection is now available at AC Moore stores as of tomorrow.

I must admit once I got on a roll and into the holiday or wintry season mindset, I had a blast with all the fun new products by Cousin Corporation.

It was easy to think about THESE snowflakes especially since we've had temperatures in the 70's and 80's!

I mentioned back on Sept. 17 I had sorted out the beads I wanted to use for this necklace project and I finally get a chance to share.

I absolutely LOVE the diamond shaped crystally dangles. If you look at the dangles from the right, the diamond sparkly is the second one in from the right. There are 4 total in the project.

BUT, I also love the larger silver snowflake encrusted rounds too!

If you're ready to start some holiday jewelry, now's the time!

Bead Procrastination...just a little bit longer

It's time to gear up for the new week. Before we do that, let's procrastinate for a little bit longer... :)

Join me on a trip to bead blogger land to see what our pals have been up to.

Just a little more time with beads before thinking about all the exciting things going on at work this week.

Enjoy!

First up, it's a fun keychain project using hemp cord and art beads, NICE!

Art Bead Scene
Check out this funky free project from Gaea, using tons of beautiful art beads!

About.com
Remember your summer vacation by combining elements from the beach in this new necklace project.

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Take a look at what some of the members of the Inspired by Reading book club made for the September selection, "Dogeaters" by Jessica Hagedorn.

Beading Arts
Time to add some bead embroidered motifs to Cyndi's new necklace, using African Helix, Chevron, RAW, and St Petersburg Chain as the inspiration!

Resin Crafts Blog
I craftastrophy in mold making turns into a super bangle project after a day of experimentation.

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean reviews the marvelously innovative new book, Explorations in Beadweaving, by Kelly Angeley. Get ready to get your socks knocked off!

I Asked & I Received Lots of Sparkles!

It's so exciting to find a nice little bead package in the mail each month...THANKS Cousin Corporation!

I had a chance to select these beads and was so excited to see them.

I am still loving the mirror bead collection. I thought I had mirror beads in every combination, but lo and behold, I didn't!

My plan is to make lots of sparkly memory wire bracelets for friends with all this sparkle. Ooh, I almost forgot about the earring forms, yay! Love the shape and can't wait to dangle something inside of the loop!

For the last couple of months the Cousin Ambassadors have been working with the holiday line of beads called Tis the Season. I wonder if that has inadvertently put me in the holiday spirit!

Wow, until I started writing this post, I didn't realize that was even why I ordered those mirror beads. I just thought I would like to see all the color combos I didn't already have.

That's actually kind of a sweet surprise. Aww. Hopefully my friends don't stop by to read this, but I'm sure they will be expecting jewelry gifts of some kind anyway again this year. :)

Anyone else out there working on gifts of jewelry for the holidays already? I'd love to hear about it!

Yummy Beads and Inspiration!

Yum! That's the first word that came to me when I saw this picture.

I love the clarity and the vibe of the photo being taken outside, you can barely see trees in the glass and all together it created a feeling for me.

Yum! :)

These beads were created by Fire Lily Glass Studio and you can find out more by checking out the Art Bead Scene link below.

Enjoy and have a great week everyone! :)

Art Bead Scene
Check out some beautiful boro lampwork beads and their corresponding colour palettes with Brandi!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done! 
Jean is a member of a group of designers for the great store and online presence Baubles & Beads. This week was the first reveal for the designers. Stop by and see what Jean made, enter a giveaway, and scoop up a great coupon code good through Sept. at Baubles & Beads ! Yay!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Andrew shares some upcoming classes at Allegory Gallery, including a Weekend Intensive taught by him and Lynne Suprock!

Beading Arts
Cyndi is starting a new series on making a bead embroidered necklace...follow along and try one for yourself!

Resin Crafts Blog
The Lanvin inspired name plate necklace is easy to make with Resin Clay.

'Tis the Season Project Update

You just have to love the creative process...

I got about a quarter of the way through with my original thought for this necklace and decided I probably need to take this in another direction.

Originally, the right angle weave piece was going to hang like a pendant with chain around the neck and the remaining beads creating LOTS of dangles from the chain on either side.

Now I'm thinking the right angle weave piece should be attached to chain length-wise and all the dangles should hang from that piece rather than the chain...

And, yes, I'm working on a paper towel because as usual, I've just gotta bead on my lap.

Any thoughts? Think winter because 'Tis the Season! :) Thanks everyone, you know I love to co-create!

If you have stories of beading project twists and turns, please share those too! I just know I'm in good company! :)

'Tis the Season...

Wow, time flies on Sunday that's for sure! Just checking in to see who had a creative weekend.

If you have anything new to share, as always, leave a comment and link back to your creation!

We'd love to ooh and ahh over it! :)

Here's a pic of some beads from the new 'Tis the Season line by Cousin that is now out in the craft stores.

These are the pieces I've pulled for a new project. It's going to be a necklace, but I haven't completely figured out the construction yet. My goal is to have it completed by Thursday of this week, so you'll be the first to know. :)

For now, if you are looking for creative inspiration, here's a peek at what our bead blogger friends have been up to...Have a great week!

Art Bead Scene
Revisit a 'best of' post with Sparrow Salvage - an ever-popular topic: how to take great jewellery photos!

Beading Arts
Cyndi shows you how to make a necklace that features a "Shower of Pearls"!

Charlene Sevier
Ever start a piece of jewelry and then struggle to finish it? That's what happened to Charlene. There is a happy ending!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done! 
A beautiful art book concerning Blythe dolls (wearing jewelry of course!) has been written by Jean with her co authors and 40 world wide contributors. Preview the book, Big Eyed Love, and read more about it on Jean's blog!

Super Duper Sparkle

 




Oh my, I LOVE this kumihimo SPARKLE!

I didn't even know you could make something like this using the kumihimo technique.

This is called the Mai Kumihimo Necklace and Bracelet and here are free project instructions from our pals over at PrimaBead.com, the Cousin Corp sister company.

Okay, I vow to learn this in the fall so I can make lots of new pieces for the next season.

That will give me something to look forward to as the weather turns cooler.

Right now, I must say, I'm not so keen on the idea of cool weather yet.

That's what life is all about, finding inspiration! WOW!

Kumihimo Ideas

Here are some cute and simple kumihimo bracelet ideas from the Cousin Corporation.

I mentioned in a recent post that I was gifted with some great supplies and the necessary tools for learning this ancient Japanese braiding technique.

I've been itching to try it, but haven't had a chance to get everything out yet. I'm hoping to do that in the very near future. 

In the mean time, I received an email with these design ideas from Cousin and thought they were very sweet and simple. 

Not only that, check out this quick video on the braiding process. 

You could really go to town embellishing these using large hole beads and even other types of fibers knotted on...ahhh, the possibilities are endless! 

Just wanted to share! :)

Love, Sweet Love Necklace

This is an easy, easy necklace that says so much!

I LOVE the word love!

It is a happy word and can even be used as a mantra.

There are many more uses than when you are IN LOVE with a person, although that's a GOOD use of the word! :)

So, this necklace can be a statement of being in love OR a statement that feeling gratitude and love for people, places, things is important to your well being.

Whichever it is, this necklace takes about 15 minutes to make and you have gotta LOVE that! :)

Enjoy! By the way, these are all Cousin products including some of my very favorites from the "subculture" line which actually includes the happy, heart word LOVE!

Peace, Love and Bead Blogger Updates!

Happy Friday! Is there anything better than a rhinestone peace sign to get in the proper weekend mood?

I'm getting ready to see what some of our blogger friends have been up to this week. Join me if you have a chance! :)

About.com Jewelry Making
Say good-bye to summer but not your flip flops with this fun flip flop earring tutorial.

Art Bead Scene
Check out Brandi's colour palettes drawn from ceramic beads from Pajego Art House - yum!

Beading Arts
Cyndi shares information on finishing metal clay pieces with a great patina.

Resin Crafts Blog
A simple resin bird mold becomes a wonderful piece of jewelry.

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done! 
Jean shares a great free guide to etching jewelry by Jewelry Making Daily ! It is great!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Chevrons are trending now and have found their way into one of Andrew's bracelets!

In Search of...Kumihimo Stories

Look what I got in the mail!!

How exciting! I've always wanted to learn the Kumihimo braiding technique.

Yay, thanks Cousin Corporation!

I noticed the Primabead.com site is focusing on Kumihimo right now and providing some great ideas with free patterns.

I learned the tubular peyote stitch many years ago and remember how exciting and fun it was, how all I could see was endless possibilities.

I got very hooked and then crashed and burned.

I haven't practiced it in several years so when I received the Kumihimo board and some really bright and cheerful supplies, that old feeling began to stir!

I hope to take it out of the package this coming weekend to give it a try. In the mean time, I'd LOVE to hear your stories about learning Kumihimo. Make sure to leave links to designs you want to show off!!!

AND, any encouragement you might want to share or little helpful tips to help me over any typical learning curve bumps and bruises. :)

Thanks so much!

Happy Weekend Bead Blogger Inspiration

Yay, time to get creative...thank you weekend, you are right on time! :)

Here's some inspiration to get things rolling! Enjoy!

Carmi's Art/Life World 

Do you have a charm bracelet? Wear it again as a necklace!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Andrew was (subconsciously) inspired by the color palette of his shirt when working on this brick stitch bracelet.

Art Bead Scene

Check out Erin's big news - she will be presenting a webinar on Fibre Findings and Finshing Techniques for Jewelry for Interweave/FW Media!

Resin Crafts Blog!
A vintage Parisian frame and a very old dried flower makes this new resin filled object special.

About.com Jewelry Making
There is still time for some summer time earrings.

Beading Arts
Cyndi has been experimenting with CopprClay again!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done! 
Jean reviews the 10th Anniversary Collector's Issue of Bead Style Magazine and it is GREAT! See Jean's blog! 

Stainless Steel Elegance

Today is new product sharing day, yay!

Yes, having your own blog is sort of like being mayor of your own city.

You can declare special days any time you like. :)

Cousin Corporation is coming out with so many new product lines right now, I want to make sure I don't miss sharing any of them with you.

I'm excited to share that they have a great new line called Stainless STEEL ELEGANCE!

I started taking things out of packages as soon as my creative circle ambassador package arrived. I love the fact everything is hypo allergenic AND there's a great magnet clasp!!!!! My favorite finding!

I know not everyone is a fan, but the idea I can get a bracelet on both wrists and a necklace on in a few seconds flat before heading into my building for work every day makes me VERY happy!!

There are a couple of rhinestone earring pieces I also have to draw your attention to...they are really special. Pictured here is the Rhinestone round earring post. LOVE it! I have to admit it sort of says bridal, but it would also make a great base for a great pair of earrings worn every day.

I'm getting ready to use the post right now and will share once I figure out what I'm going to dangle from it. :)

Check them out on the Cousin.com and make sure to watch their Facebook page for weekly giveaways!

Holidays & Bead Bloggers

Yay, the weekend has arrived! I haven't had beads out for at least a week and I am feeling the pull!

My next Cousin Corp project is going to be holiday related! How fun!

Back in June they had a brand new collection of Christmas beads out in the craft stores, so I created some fun dangly decorations. But for this project, I can choose any holiday I want...hmm..what would you choose?

Halloween is always fun, here's a pic of one of last year's bracelets...but I do love sparkly new year's pieces. I need to decide pretty soon, but would love to hear your thoughts!!

For now, here are some fun updates from our bead blogger friends to kick off a creative weekend. Happy reading and creating!!!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean reviewed... and even more exciting, has a GIVEAWAY of the spectacular new book, Marcia DeCoster's Beads In Motion ! So do check out the review and consider yourself invited to enter the giveway while there is still time!

Beading Arts
Cyndi has collected a wonderful group of resources and tutorials for those who want to try working in metal clay or who wish to expand their skills!

About.com Jewelry Making
Love, love, love some Venetian glass jewelry projects!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Working with polymer clay, wire, and assorted accent beads, Andrew creates a very tribal statement necklace.

Art Bead Scene
Check out Gaea's Etsy finds for this month's challenge!

Book Review: Sweet and Simple Jewelry
Want to branch out from beaded jewelry alone? Or you sew, do embroidery, felt and would like to add jewelry to your work. Charlene reviews the perfect book for you.

Carmi's Art/Life World
Always looking for a way to use up her stash, Carmi creates a button and fabric wearable.

Resin Crafts Blog
Under the dome is a new ring made possible with Jewelry Clay.

What I Made on Summer Vacation

I've got some more fun things to share with you this month, but before moving on, I wanted to share the last few brand new Cousin Class-in-a-Box products and my little off-road designs!

I made these while on vacation last month. It was perfect timing to receive all four of the new kits so I could take them with me.

I have to put a shout out for the 3 in 1 tool that comes in each kit. When I first had a chance to use the tool last year, I pretty much used it just to try it out and liked it. This time around, I made sure to use only this tool while creating these projects.

I just realized how comfortable it is in my hand and how efficient it is to cut wire and go right to looping instead of putting down a cutting tool and picking up a round nose plier. Nice!

So, here are the Casual, Classic and Natural Class-in-a-Box kits.

I really loved opening all the packages and putting the beads from each kit together in one big baggie. A baggie made the most sense since I was sitting in a state park resort lounge area for a good bit of the time while other family members read books, puzzled or scrolled around on their Ipads. On the go arts and crafts...so fun!


I'm not sure I have a favorite, there was something in each kit that I really loved. From the bright silver and turquoise beads in the Casual kit to the sweet wooden flowers in the Narural kit.

I'd love to hear if you have seen these in your craft stores yet. By the way, between me and you, this is the time to use your 50% off coupon and that makes it an even more awesome value!

Sparkly Summer Choker

I love a good beading challenge! As mentioned in Monday's post, I recently received 4 brand new Cousin Corporation "Class in a Box" kits.

Each kit contains a variety of beads and components in a different style and color palette.

An instruction guide comes with each kit, but the real fun is knowing you have all those beads to make anything you want.

When faced with this situation, it's not surprising that I went directly to a right angle weave design because it's so easy, but appears a little more complex. This is the "Shimmer" class in a box...what a great name!

The colors are so fun and with limited amounts of each, it's exciting to put together something that I otherwise would probably not have thought to create.

Since each of the four Cousin Ambassadors all received the same materials, make sure to check out their designs too.

I have no doubt we'll all have our own unique results.

This is a great way to unblock your creativity if you are feeling blocked!