A Bead A Day

Looking for Patterns?

2012-02-01T23:43:00.004-05:00

For some reason I was thinking it was closer to the weekend than Wednesday today and I would have time to craft tonight...Well, reality struck and all I had time to do was poke around looking for interesting beads.

Sort of like running your fingers through beads, but not actually making something! :)

I wondered if any of you had come across this Freepatterns.com site. I noticed there was a top 10 list of beading patterns. You've got to love these rings called "flashy fingers"!

Sparkly Heads-up from Artbeads

2012-01-31T21:27:00.002-05:00

Are you ready for some sparkle?

Silly question right?

There is nothing like Swarovski sparkle other than the beautiful bright sunshine in the summertime! :) Ahhh!

Thanks to Artbeads.com for sharing some of the new colors and shapes to come for spring/summer 2013! Yummy stuff here!!

Take a look at this GREEN! "Crystal luminous green" to be exact...oh me oh my-o!

I am going to send you over to the Artbeads blog now so you can get your sparkle fix too! Enjoy!!

Keys & Butterflies

2012-01-30T23:10:00.000-05:00

Okay, I have a confession to make...

I've been visiting Etsy again! BUT, look what I found.

I LOVE these keys that have been decorated with "butterflies in flight". So cool! Since butterflies represent transformation or awakening, I think this is a PERFECT way to express the idea that "you have the keys" to making a great life.

Created by "Adorn me Jewelry" (Tina & James), whose Etsy profile reads:

"Weare a mother and son team bringing you beautiful handcrafted artisan jewelryfor all tastes and sizes -- large and small. Because making sure our jewelryfits you is a passion and important goal, we offer the option of making almostall of our designs larger or smaller than the listing sizes, as you need them.Each of our items are made with loving care and an artistic consciousness withyou, the individual, in mind...."

Here is the description of these earrings: "Ihave decorated vintage skeleton keys (1 1/2" long in size -- size Mediumin the photo guide in this listing) with small butterflies in flight, then hungthem from medium-sized gunmetal kidney-shaped ear wires. These earrings are alittle weighty."

Wow, thanks to Adorn me Jewelry for such a fabulous expression of creativity!!

You Have the Keys!

2012-01-29T23:42:00.000-05:00

I did a quick search for key beads because I had a thought last week after someone showed me a page in an inspirational book that said, "You have the keys".

I didn't really need to read anything else after that, I completely got it, felt it and agreed with it!

Of course my first thought was shrinky dink words to dangle along with some key beads as a great reminder of this absolute fact! So, that's the path I'm on at the moment.

As you well know, I am prone to taking a few different paths at the same time. In most cases, the ideas pan out down the road. It's the excitement phase that I LOVE!!

So, please feel free to jump on my band wagon with me for the ride, I'd love the company! :) Here are a couple of keys I have found so far.

The first from Bead Mecca and the second heart key from Artbeads.com.

Swarovski Sale & Mobile App!

2012-01-28T23:46:00.000-05:00

Happy weekend! I wanted to take a few minutes to share some info I discovered today.

FireMountainGems.com is advestising a Swarovski bicone sale. Up to 15% off regular price on 4, 6 and 8 mm bicones. Yay!

These look like a great deal, 6mm Xilion bicones in assorted colors, NICE!

I also noticed the FireMountainGems.com catalog has gone Mobile!! Android, Iphone or Ipad!! Pretty exciting! Here are the details:

"Yourfavorite jewelry-making catalog is now more portable than ever. Fire MountainGems and Beads Catalog app enables you access to the latest catalogs to shoponline right on your iPhone, iPod touch, iPad or Android equipped mobiledevice. Now you can view the latest beads, findings and other jewelry-makingsupplies whenever (and wherever) you want!"

Peace, Love & Bead Blogger Friday

2012-01-27T22:49:00.001-05:00

Wow, time has flown this week! Let's get ready for a creative weekend. Here are some fun blogs to kick it off!

BeadingArts
Interested in publishing this year? How about starting out with a magazine?

Snapout of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Everyday Gemstones from the publishers of BeadStyle magazine is beautiful,easy, and is a special Winter 2012 issue --and Jean thrilled to be in it!

JeanCampbell
What exactly does a beadwork tech-editor do? Read on!

Beadsand Books
Join the spring challenge and makeover a ready-made wintry bracelet into apiece of springtime jewelry!

TheWriting and Art of Andrew Thornton
Want to help a small business out? It's so easy! With a few clicks you can helpAllegory Gallery get some free advertising dollars!

Art BeadScene
Gaea shares some of her current favorite beading and craft related tools

About.comJewelry Making
Are you struggling with the cost of metal right now? Tammy gives you a tip forgetting the look of metal beads without the cost.

Frosted Cheese Cracker

2012-01-26T22:46:00.001-05:00

You are going to love this!

I wanted to share something happy, sunny and bright yellow since we haven't seen the real thing up in the sky for a little while.

These are SO adorable and the name of them is adorable too:

Frosted Cheese Cracker Yellow Sun (Vintage Lucite Beads 25mm).

Are you smiling?! I know, me too!

Thanks to the Gems & Knots website for this sun-shiny moment!!

Treasure Hunting

2012-01-25T22:19:00.003-05:00

Have you ever gotten lost jumping from one etsy site to another? WOW, it's like meditation or something...

I wanted to share a couple of great finds that are both related to Valentine's Day!

Look at this adorable labrador retriever, awwww! So darn cute!!

It's from the "Suzoom" etsy shop. I noticed a few other pets in her collection just in case you are looking!

This fabulous swirly set of beads is from the "Fanceethat" etsy shop. LOVE these! So fun and sweet!

Thanks to Suzoom and Fanceethat (AND Etsy) for a fun evening of treasure hunting!

Do you Love Toho?

2012-01-24T22:14:00.005-05:00

I'm so sorry, but sometimes I can't help myself...there is nobody here to censor or edit my silliness so I just ask for your forgiveness in advance...

So, I ask...Do you love Toho, like I love Toho?

There is NOTHING like true Japanese Toho beads! They are perfect in every way!

How do they get every tiny little bead so perfectly identical? All I really know is they are precision cut and perfect for bead weaving projects! The color combinations are unique and inspiring.

And now, the big news! It's time for the annual "Treasures of TOHO Competition".

If you aren't familiar with the competition, it is sponsored by Toho of Japan, but you must enter through a bead store. I received an email from an Ohio bead shop today, Ally Beads, now accepting entries.

For those of you entering, good luck and happy precision beading!

Here are some of my fave Toho beads from Artbeads.com (4mm green lined peridot)...Awesome!!!

Tweet, Tweet!

2012-01-23T22:15:00.000-05:00

I had to make one last trip to the vault when I remembered this necklace I made using a Necco candy heart!

How could I have forgotten this little valentine surprise?!

I had been working on a Rings & Things design challenge that incorporated a sweet "tierra cast" bird and frame.

Now, as a crafter all I could think of was gluing crazy things to that frame!

I absolutely LOVED the little bird, but when I happened to pick up some Necco candy hearts to give to co-workers and discovered the "tweet me" heart, it all started coming together in my head!

The crazy little crafter in me couldn't help but add some gold seed beads and then a little spritz of glitter on top of the Necco heart. :) You know, for good measure!

It sure is fun to take a trip down memory lane, I feel like I've been playing with glitter and I don't have any messes to clean up!!

Red Hemp Cord?

2012-01-22T22:02:00.003-05:00

I've had fun playing with the eye glass chain holders I mentioned in Saturday's post. Ideas are forming!

The latest and greatest one is about using red hemp cord to knot all these little pieces together into a 3 strand bracelet.

Did you know there was red hemp cord? Once again, the thought crosses my mind that I am so glad we live in a time of Google!

I found this particular "Barn Red Hemp Twine" at the Hemp Hut on Etsy! How fun!

Of course, there might also be a few hearts and crystals thrown in, but this idea is still under construction.

A Design Idea

2012-01-21T23:56:00.000-05:00

I came across a bag of these eye glass pieces that are meant to be attached to glasses and have wire, beads, cording or something added on to hold them around your neck.

I've had these for several years and never opened the package. I wondered if I could use them in an interestingly unusual piece of jewelry just by connecting them to each other. Hmm...

So, here is where I am at the moment...we'll see if anything evolves from it. :)

Maybe by adding red hearts, I can turn this into my valentine piece....you just never know!

Peace, Love & Bead Bloggers!

2012-01-20T21:47:00.001-05:00

It's Friday and that means it's time to GET INSPIRED! Here are some fab links that will help!

About.comJewelry Making
What is better than some beaded embroidery how-to for a buck? Errr..nothing!

Beads& Books
See the 30+ beautiful winter jewelry designs in the Secret Snowflake Challenge.Participants used techniques such as bead embroidery, resin, stringing,wirework, etching, and more!

CharleneSevier Jewelry
Sometimes jewelry acts up a little before it comes together. Charlene sharesone of those times

Carmi'sArt/Life World
Carmi has a link to a kumihimo give-a-way to share!

Beading Arts
Cyndi has been trying to encourage everyone to get out there and take a classthis year!

Snapout of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Valentine's Day is one of the most delightful days on Jean's calendar! Why?Because she gets to think about love, and jewelry such as the astoundingpendants at NanoStyle! Tell your beloved "I love you" in a mostincredible way!

Art BeadScene
Heather offers a beautiful free project inspired from high in the treetops!

EarthenwoodStudio Chronicles
Melanie looks back at an older post where a favorite song inspired a series ofwing themed pendants.

Valentine's Day Design Challenge

2012-01-19T22:33:00.000-05:00

I just got word that "Bead Happily Ever After" is hosting a design challenge for Valentine's Day! Yay!

The beauty of design challenges is they have a tendency to push you out of your comfort zone and often require ingenuity along with an extra dose of creativity.

By the way, some lucky participants are going to win bead money!

Here are some of the details of the challenge and you can find them all on this Bead Happily Ever After post. :) Have fun!!

"1. Create your “Valentine’s Day” inspired design using atleast one product(beads or findings) purchased fromour Bead Shop.

2. Email a clear photo of yourfinished design by 9:00 p.m. EST on February 10, 2012."

Shrinky Love!

2012-01-18T23:37:00.001-05:00

Since we're talking about shrinky dinks and I dug into the vault yesterday, what's one more day of it?!

I forgot how I can obsess when it comes to shrink plastic!!

Here are a couple of past projects I made into bracelets.

Based on my personal experience, the printable white shrink plastic seems to work the best.

You can print all kinds of fun things on them to make into jewelry, keychains or embellishments including digital photos and free clip art images.

From the creators of the original shrinky dinks which came on the scene in 1973, there are more types of shrink plastic than you can imagine.

Check out their website, "the magical land of shrinky dinks!"

ENJOY! :)

Plexiglass & Shrinky Dinks for Valentine's Day

2012-01-17T22:02:00.003-05:00

Okay, I've dug into the vault for these, but I think you are going to like them!

I took a class designing jewelry with plexiglass a couple of years ago taught by the fabulous Tonia Davenport, author of "Plexi-class: Cutting Edge Projects in Plastic".

It was a great experience and many tools were involved such as a jeweler's saw, files, dremel tool, heat guns, alcohol inks, razor blades and lots of other things I had never used before to make jewelry!

I knew I was in over my head, but Tonia was great and there were friends in the class so we had a great time. As always, everyone's project turned out VERY different.

That's pretty amazing considering we were all using the same heart pattern that we cut out of our little plexiglass pieces with a saw.

Here is the end result with a tiny little shrinky dink note attached that I rubber stamped with the word "smile" and then shrunk with a heat gun.

Wow, just talking about it now makes my head spin and I'm feeling pretty proud of myself all over again! :) Yes, friends, a great example of the phrase, "beauty is in the eye of the beholder" or maybe it should be "...in the eye of the creator"!

The other piece shown here was created by Tonia and, in my opinion, perfectly represents valentine's day.

LOVE...

Ready for Red?

2012-01-16T22:10:00.003-05:00

Moving right along! The snow has melted (yay!) and I've seen lots of jewelry designers and crafters talking about Valentine's Day!

Time for some bright red to take center stage!

I'd love to hear about the Valentine's Day jewelry making challenges you are all involved in or what you are working on in preparation for a festive and romantic "holiday".

I have successfully deconstructed a previously well-worn Christmas bracelet and cleaned all the 10mm swarovski cubes so they are ready to be valentined! (Another great reason to have a blog...making up words!)

Here are a couple of fun projects from previous years. Now it's time to create something new with clear and light siam sparkly cubes!!

Snowflake Design Challenge HOP!

2012-01-15T13:04:00.002-05:00

It's time for the big reveal of the Snowflake Design Project Challenge!

There are 30 others listed below who are sharing how they used the same group of beads that I've been mentioning over the last week.

My project turned into several since there were so many beads to use!!

I made a bright aqua stretchy cord ring with matching earrings as the perfect little girl gift. (see below)

As always, I seem to design for myself, so I created a very simple choker chain design to show off the gorgeous ceramic pendant and connector. The brushed silver chain seemed to give it a wintery feel.

I placed the second connector inside the silver loop to use as a bracelet focal piece. Using soft-flex wire in two different shades of blue, I created a woven pattern incorporating some of the other great beads.

I'm wearing them now which usually means I like them and I hope you do too! :)

If you have a few minutes, I hope you'll hop along to all the great blogs below to find out how others used them.

HAVE FUN, that's the name of the game today!

Alice (Alice Dreaming)
Chris (beadjewelry.net)
Christa (Adventuresof One Beady Woman)
Crystal (Here Bead Dragons)
Cynthia (Cynth's Blog)
Dawn (Morning Glory Beading)
Donetta (SimplyGorgeous)
Erin A. (SeeB&B Blog)
Jennifer (JenniferJW)
Jennifer (Jewelry, Art and Life)
Kari W. (SeeB&B Blog)
Kate (We Can Make That at Home)
Kay (Palm Coast Art)
Linda (Lindy's Designs)
Lisa C. (A Bead a Day)
Lisa (Inspired Adornments)
Mary (MLH Designs)
Michelle (Beads & Books)
Michelle B. (SeeB&B Blog)

Millie (AMM Jewelry)
Norma (Moonlit Fantasies)
Pam (The Crazier Sister)
Rebecca J. (SeeB&B Blog)
Renetha (Lamplight Crafts)
Rosemarie (Gem Rose Designs)

Shannon (Falling into the Sky)
Susan (Bead Inspired)
Therese (Therese'sTreasures)
Therese (DomesticGoddess Enterprises)

Snowflake Design Project: Part 1

2012-01-14T21:05:00.001-05:00

Tomorrow is the big reveal day for the Snowflake Design Project! There are 30 others who will be sharing how they used the same grouping of beads.

I had mentioned there were some brighter blue beads that I was going to use as earrings rather than in the main project, so I thought I'd share them now just for fun. :) Since there were four of these coin beads, I threw together a stretchy cord ring to go along with them.

Simple and sweet, these would be a perfect gift for a young girl. Also perfect for winter time to add a little pop of color! Why do I like things that appeal to little girls? Re-living childhood? Hmm.....

Stop by tomorrow for the reveal HOP!

The Blue Bead Group

2012-01-13T23:25:00.000-05:00

Here's the last grouping of pretty blue beads included in the Snowflake Design Challenge, yay!

It's been fun sharing all of these beads with you as I prepare to finish up the design that will be posted on Sunday. I can't wait!

For now, let's see what our bead blogger friends have been up to. They always seem to come up with something interesting and new to inspire!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Margot Potter, Swarovski, the incredible low down on the most fab event atTucson this year! You must check this out!!! WOW!

ResinCrafts!
Carmi has a two part series featuring resin on agate!

EarthenwoodStudio Chronicles
Melanie goes into her blog archives to share two pretty bird necklaceinspiration pieces

Carmi'sArt/Life World
Carmi declares 2012 as the Year of The Knot!

BeadingArts
Do you struggle to add Swarovski rivolis to your bead embroidery? Cyndi has thesolution for you in her brand new e-booklet, "Three Bezels Plus a Bonus"!

ArtBead Scene
We giggle and chuckle along to the sexy bead humor of the new blog BeadedLaughter by Sylvie Lansdowne

About.comJewelry Making
Don't you love rubies? But, they are pretty pricey unless you opt for sparklingruby yarn. This necklace combines ruby yarn and black filigree components.

Featured Designer: Debbie Rasmussen

2012-01-12T22:34:00.000-05:00

We're taking a little detour tonight to feature a designer! Unheard of on a Thursday here at A Bead A Day, but hey, I just had a little realization....I can do whatever I want on A Bead A Day! :)

The best part of having a blog... total freedom!

So, here we go!

Debbie Rasmussen is new to blogging, but obviously not to beading!

Her designs are pretty spectacular. I have posted a couple of my faves here, but there are quite a few more on her blog, "A little of this, a little of that...beautiful things..."

I had to chuckle at her first post back in December. "...went on another beading field trip...like I need more beads. Actually I needed a couple of focal beads for my latest project..."

I know, I do the same thing. Go for a few beads and end up peeking at a few extras!

I also enjoyed how she speaks so emotionally about her designs. It makes them come alive! Here's what she wrote about this crystal encrusted pink necklace:

"The stone is Cobalton Calcite and is believed to aid in opening one's heart to others. The pink symbolizes love and caring, good for broken hearts and self discovery and can also aid in peaceful sleep."

Thanks for sharing Debbie!

Slick Icy Beads

2012-01-11T22:56:00.001-05:00

I am happy to report the weather is holding steady at 45 degrees and after a bit of rain, seems calm and peaceful out there! Yay! I think it's safe to talk about icy looking beads!

One more day of studying the Snowflake Design Challenge beads before getting busy and finishing up my design.

Final designs are posted by all 30 participants on Sunday!

I can't wait to see what everyone comes up with. I am always amazed at how different the final pieces look considering everyone had the same beads to use.

Now I can't wait to see what I design! :)

The "S" Word

2012-01-10T23:02:00.000-05:00

Dare I say it???

I don't want to bring it on, but I did hear the "weather that must not be named" is coming at the end of this week.

Yes, I'm talking about the "S" Word, otherwise known as S_OW. Nah, I just can't bring myself to say it.

However, these sweet and innocent looking beads do remind me of it.

If only S_OW was as kind and sweet as these beads!

I will embrace the winter, I will embrace the winter.... Oh, sorry, I just slipped into my mantra. It's one that I really do want to achieve. It's silly to live your life dreading a couple of months out of the year!! :) So, for those of you in the same predicament, say it along with me..."I will embrace the winter"..."I will embrace the winter".

Okay I have to be honest, deeeeeep inside I'm cursing it, but I will not give up!

Bright Watery Blue

2012-01-09T22:24:00.001-05:00

I sorted through all of the Snowflake Design Challenge beads and put them in little groupings. These are really nice, bright turquoise/aqua glass beads.

I LOVE the bright color, it reminds me of the Caribbean....ahhh.

I'm working on a crochet idea, but I'm still not sure these are going to be part of that particular design. They would make great earrings, so we'll see what happens!

In the mean time, let's enjoy these pretty watery blue beads!! :)

Happy Group of Beads

2012-01-08T23:18:00.001-05:00

Is it just me, or is this a happy looking bunch of beads? They are from the Snowflake Design Challenge I'm working on.

Honestly, when I looked at them framed in the photo, I heard these lyrics in my head (no joke): "sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy".

What is that about? All I can think of is maybe the round metal link said "sun" to my brain and the other tiny little round beads seem cheerful....you got me, I don't judge it, I just appreciate it and share with unsuspecting passers-by.

So, isn't this a happy looking bunch of beads?

....."Sunshine on my shoulders makes me happy, sunshine in my eyes can make me cry..." :)

Have a great week!

Re-purposing Swarovski Crystals

2012-01-07T23:19:00.002-05:00

I have been trying to clean and organize our craft, exercise, catch-all room which must be done and the only good thing about it right now is that I am finding quite a few things that had slipped through the cracks.

This is a holiday bracelet I made 3 years ago and somehow lost track of it. I remember wearing it for 2 months straight, but then it's a blur.

I LOVE these giant cubes and am planning to deconstruct it so I can use the red and clear crystals in a Valentine's project!! YAY!! :) Love re-using favorite things!

Peace, Love & Bead Bloggers!

2012-01-06T19:48:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday! It's time to visit our fellow bead-bloggers to get inspired for a weekend of creativity! YAY!!

About.comJewelry Making
Step up from the basic pearl post earrings withthis dangle earring tutorial.

Art Bead Scene
It's the start of a new year and a new month andthat means a new Art Bead Scene challenge! Check out the beautiful colorpalette that we pulled from a William Morris wallpaper design.

Beading Arts
Have you heard about Take a Stitch Tuesday?

EarthenwoodStudio Chronicles
Melanie starts a new blog project for the year,being inspired by places of the imagination. Read about the first month'sinspiration of places in the sky.

Resin Crafts!
Carmi makes a rose themed necklace with cookingmolds.

Snap out of it,Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean's involved in a new project! It's jewelry,wait--it's crafts, no--hold on--it's dolls, no wait! It's a book! Hold on toyour hats! It's a whole bunch of fun and it is debuting this week! See more onJean's blog!

Ceramic Snowflakes

2012-01-05T23:52:00.000-05:00

Tonight I've got out all my fabulous beads for the Snowflake Design Challenge.

Now that I'm focusing on these pieces, I wanted to point out how special these ceramics are.

The snowflake pendant and connectors were created by Mellisa of Chinook Jewelry. She has so many beautiful pendants on her site, I wanted to share a link directly to them.

Mellisa's blog profile reads, "I make pendants from clay and even some jewelry when I get around to it!" That is so honest and I completely understand what happens when you get caught up in one aspect of creating, everything else seems to slip away for a while! :)

Enjoy!

Bead Fest Fun!

2012-01-04T23:22:00.002-05:00

WOW! Get ready for a springtime BEAD FEST!!!

I received this info recently in a "beading daily" email, HOW FUN!!

Bead Fest is being held April 13-15, 2012 at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center!

I noticed some familiar names on the instructor list including our pal Barbara Lewis of Painting with Fire!!

Gosh, I need to check my calendar!!! I'd LOVE to experience this!

If you are planning to attend, let us know, just in case we need to live vicariously through you!! :)

New Design Challenge

2012-01-03T23:24:00.000-05:00

It's time to start designing, yay! I was so excited when I received my package in the mail for the Secret Snowflake Challenge from Michelle Mach.

The picture above is EXACTLY what I received! I currently have all the beads out and my wheels are turning!

Once you start looking at every single bead and recognize the potential of each, it gets exciting!

If you want to throw in your ideas now, feel free! This challenge deadline is January 15th. At that point, you will be able to see all of the designs created by 30 people using the same beads! How fun is that?

It's really one of my favorite types of challenges. It's amazing how people think and design so differently even using the same pieces!

Official Jewelry for the New Year

2012-01-02T23:04:00.000-05:00

Finally!

I ended up using the red and green bracelet I made last month as a prototype for this bracelet. For this version I used black beading wire, clear swarovski crystals and black diamond.

The first time I put it on I realized I should have had my Ott Light on while making this...

There is a tanzanite crystal in place of one of the black diamonds. :) That's the beauty of home-made when I am the one doing the making. It adds character!

Have a great new week in the new year!! I made a simple pair of earrings as well that I'll share in tomorrow's post.

Sweet Little Ring

2012-01-01T23:05:00.000-05:00

Cute, cute, cute! I have been wearing my new ring since I glued it all together.

I ended up using super glue to adhere the flatback swarovski's to the ring blank.

After trying out a few new sparkles around the covered button, it became clear that simple is better! No need to add extra crystals to the form!

Lots of fun as well as quick and simple! My favorite kind of project! :)

New Pink Project

2011-12-31T23:55:00.000-05:00

I got a little side-tracked after visiting Jo-Ann, Etc. today...

I'll have a couple of finished project pics for you in Sunday's post, but until then, here are a couple of products that whammied me! :)

In a good way!

How cute are these light pink ring blanks from plaid? I used the green ones to glue red bells on last month.

I walked around the store looking at beads, buttons and scrapbooking supplies to find something to glue on them.

Here is what I settled on. These really sweet fabric covered button brads from Martha Stewart Crafts.

They are called "doily lace" fabric brads. CUTE!!

I also pulled out some extra swarovski rhinestones....sparkly!

By the way, HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Great Charms for the New Year!

2011-12-30T22:38:00.000-05:00

How great are these charms?I have to admit I LOVE this 24k gold charm for only $5.99 on Amazon!

I wish I had it now so I could work it into a great piece of jewelry! :)

These others are great too! How about this very crystally charm from NewBeadz.

Looks like a great deal, marked down to $9.99.

I really like the combination of the 5 charms together, they would make a great gift bracelet!

Keep us posted on the new pieces you are working on, it's getting close to the big day! :)

Impressive Beading!

2011-12-29T22:44:00.004-05:00

Do you know a good thing when you see it?

For me, I would have to say I probably know a good thing 90% of the time, but it's the acting on it or sharing it or taking whatever action immediately comes to mind when you do see it! My track record on that is probably not 90%, but hopefully I am improving with age!!

Well, I happened upon a really good thing today that is actually more than one good thing and guess what? I'm taking action by sharing it with all of you!!

I receive the "beading daily" emails and noticed recently that Mortira of Inspirational Beading was mentioned and commended for her "bracelet a week" challenge! Wow, that is so impressive!!

I finally made my way over to her blog a little while ago and noticed her post was about GLITTERY geodes AND a very cool website called "theglitterguide.com". YI-YI-YI, life is good!

The bracelet pictured here is one of my favorite of Mortira's called, "Time Piece".

Yay, thanks Mortira!! :)

New Year's Wish Come True

2011-12-28T23:45:00.001-05:00

You will never guess what I found today at the dollar store!!

I went in to find some knit gloves and crafty things to embellish them with for a crafting session with my Mom, niece and aunt.

No need to keep you in suspense...I found the New Year's horn noise makers on a necklace chain I mentioned in yesterday's post! WOW!! Who knew?!

It was so unexpected, I bought one for all of us who were crafting, it was so much fun! We ended up embellishing our gloves slightly over the top, but we had lots of fun! I made two pairs of earrings, but ended up giving them away so I don't have anything to share here except the gloves!! :)

We also made party hats using poster board, glue guns, glitter and the covers of some recently received holiday cards! And, we used large rubber bands to put under our chin!

LOTS of fun was had by all!

New Year's Eve Favors & Plans

2011-12-27T22:42:00.000-05:00

Since I am still working on my New Year's Eve project, I thought it would be fun to share a couple of fun tidbits I discovered while googling today.

First of all, how much do you love the Happy New Year party horn on a neck chain?! Too fun!! I wish I had one of those!

There are all kinds of fun party favors designed for the occasion. I sincerely recommend googling them, you will not be disappointed!!

The other tidbit I wanted to share was the fact there will be a New Year's Eve worldwide webcast from Times Square in New York City. Here's the link!

Please feel free to share your plans, your jewelry designs or your wishes for the new year! It's getting close!

New Year, New Jewelry!

2011-12-26T22:21:00.000-05:00

The time has come to put away the red and green! It was lots of fun while it lasted.

No need to get sad or depressed, the next celebratory event is just around the corner, yay!

So, I cleared out a bead box and started pulling clear, black, white, clear crackle and a few white glass pearls to fill it.

It's looking pretty fun and sparkly so far and I haven't even gotten through half of my stash!

I have two potential ideas going, but I haven't decided which way to go yet. I thoroughly enjoyed wearing this red and green bracelet. It would be fabulous for 2012 using black wire and a variety of Swarovski crystals in jet black, clear crystal and black diamond.

OR, something inspired by this top drilled crystal bracelet I made and gave away to a friend this time last year. I have 8 of the top drilled bicones left, so it could be sort of a combination of both designs. Stay tuned!

In the mean time, I'd love to hear about your new jewelry for 2012!

Having a Holiday Moment

2011-12-25T23:27:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays everyone!

It's going to be a crafty week since I'm off work, so stay tuned for New Year's jewelry ramblings beginning with Monday's post. :)

Until then, here's a fabulous bracelet I just found on Beadaholique!! (SO CREATIVE!)

It's the Holly Wreath Bracelet and you can find complete instructions on their site as well, HOW GENEROUS!!

See you soon!

Santa

2011-12-24T23:41:00.000-05:00

Here are a couple of cuties! Happy Holidays! :)

Peace, Love & Bead Bloggers

2011-12-23T22:42:00.000-05:00

YAY! We made it not only to the weekend, but to a total of 10 days off work!

Please join me in the next cheer, YAY!

Time to create, have fun and enjoy the moment!!

Here are some interesting and fun links for inspiration! Enjoy!

The Writing andArt of Andrew Thornton
Embrace the holiday spirit of giving and bid onone of the fantastic "Artists Helping Artists" auctions going on tohelp Penny of SparrowSalvage!

Snap out of it,Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean discovered a wonderful way to boost yourinspiration! It's called DOTS--and you must get some! :)

Carmi's Art/LifeWorld
Carmi has a post about Natural Touch resin beadsand making them your own.

Beading Arts
It can be a bit hard to find nice ornament coverpatterns that are free, so Cyndi has rounded up a few goodies for you!

Art Bead Scene
On the 6th Day of Christmas, Gaea posted a funbeaded holiday card hanger project! Check out all 12 Days of Christmas projectson the Art Bead Scene blog!

About.comJewelry Making
Don't get hung up on hang tags. Learn some easyoptions for creating earring cards and hang tags.

Bonnie's Kreative Korner Giveaway

2011-12-22T23:57:00.001-05:00

Our friend Bonnie of B-Lee Kreations is marking a blogging milestone by giving away a very cool necklace with her favorite cat pendant.

Head over to her blog post if you get a chance and leave a comment by the end of next week.

Here is her description of the piece: The polymer clay pendant is covered in resin and is attached to four pieces of heavy gold chain. The chains are attached to matching green cords with a gold lobster claw and heart.

My favorite part of the pendant design are the dots that make me think of bubbles around the mystical little cat. :)

Bright Holiday Colors

2011-12-21T23:41:00.001-05:00

As the work week is winding down the next two days, my thoughts have finally turned to HOLIDAY fun! To me, that means, BEADS and/or any kind of crafting!

I just made a pair of earrings for a co-worker and was wondering what I was doing this time last year.

I took a trip down memory lane which is pretty easy to do on a blog and discovered I was talking about a bracelet from the year before.

I don't know where this one is any more, sometimes they just seem to fade out to make room for new things.

I still love it and thought I would share!

Happy Holidays everyone! I hope you will keep sharing the projects you are working on, it's fun to see what people are up to.

Glittery Project from About.com

2011-12-20T23:54:00.001-05:00

Oh my goodness, talk about cute! Look at these adorable snowmen!!

I must say that during the holidays I thoroughly enjoy the chance to mix good old fashioned crafting with jewelry making.

This project from Tammy Powley at About.com's Jewelry Making site totally captured that feeling with these snowmen earrings.

Guess what...? She used GLITTER! I am a huge fan of glitter in any project!

Take a look if you have a chance. Tammy always details out all of her projects along with photos. Enjoy!

3D Jewelry Design

2011-12-20T00:15:00.003-05:00

As a continuation of yesterday's featured designer post, I wanted to share some additional information from Alia of ArchetypeZ.

First of all, prepare to have your mind expanded just a little bit! :)

I was intrigued by Alia's geometric designs in her Etsy shop and wondered how she created them.

She just happened to share a link to the printing service she uses and recommended taking a look at the short videos on this site to learn more about 3d printing.

As Alia put it, "It's an interesting technology that will one day probably be in all our homes the same way inkjet printers are.

I'd love to get your thoughts on this amazing technology! I can't wait till it IS in all our homes! Thanks Alia!

Featured Designer: Archetype Z Studio

2011-12-18T23:24:00.000-05:00

Wow, wow, wow! I LOVE coming across things I haven't seen before and this felt bracelet definitely falls into that category!

How cool and fun and artistic....I really know I love something when I get the feeling, "I wish I had thought of that!"

Creating pieces like this out of felt has got to be rewarding because it is an unusual material to use for a bracelet cuff. It's a lot of fun to surprise people with the unexpected! LOVE it!

From the Archetype Z Etsy profile, I discovered the artist behind the designs is Alia. She has degrees in architecture, but says she always had an interest in smaller scale design work like jewelry design.

I can feel the architect in her work. Wait till you see the other structural pieces using both interesting materials as well as traditional materials.

Alia also has a facebook page for special discounts.

Thanks Alia!!

Holiday Light Earrings

2011-12-17T22:48:00.003-05:00

After driving through a "festival of lights" display tonight, I was wondering if there were any holiday light beads out there. I didn't find any light up beads, but...

Take a look at these!! They are so fun! I found this kit on the Goody Beads site. They are called Garnet Swarovski Holiday Light bulb earring kit.

They sparkle instead of glow, but it's just as nice!

What do you think? If you have any other ideas for holiday jewelry, please share them!

Peace, Love and Bead Bloggers!

2011-12-16T21:55:00.000-05:00

Yay, it's the weekend! I know lots of people are finishing up all of their holiday preparations, planning trips, sharing recipes AND CRAFTING!

It's a great time of year and the perfect time to practice living in the moment! Enjoy the warm and happy moments as they are happening!

Our blogger friends are always sharing some of their fun moments and this week is no different!! In the links below you will find colorful bead garland, ornament tutorials, fabulous magazine features and MORE! Enjoy!

Art Bead Scene
Jennifer decks the halls with a super colorful,Jangles styled bead garland, and her free tutorial will show you how to makeone too!

The Writing and Art of AndrewThornton
Andrew shares a couple of magazines that he wasrecently published in.

About.com Jewelry Making
No time to make beaded ornaments? This is so nottrue when you have this super fast and inexpensive tutorial to help you.

Beading Arts
Every new year should bring a new challenge. Howabout getting inspired by the Ring A Day challenge...and maybe win a copy ofthe book?

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beadingto be done!
Jean has fun being a new designer blogger forNina Designs! Come and see what she made!

Carmi's Art/Life World
This week I made a beautiful component evenbetter!

Funky Beads for the Holidays

2011-12-15T23:27:00.004-05:00

How much do you love these lampwork beads by Patty Miller of Cabari Beads?

She calls them Funky Lampwork bead disks. It looks like they are on sale too!

They are so GREAT! I love the colors and you would think this close to the holidays, I wouldn't think it was so festive, but it is!

The bright colors really work, it makes me want to decorate the house in bright, festive colors.

I can see it now, but I'm getting a vision of a steel drum Christmas...ahh, it's a nice vision! :)

A Different Kind of Sparkle

2011-12-14T22:46:00.003-05:00

Would you call these beads sparkly? I think I would, they are quite festive!

I found these for sale on Etsy.

In fact, I used a bead similar in a project for my beading book. I used green crinkly beading wire and crimped a handful of these beads along the wire to keep them in place. The end result was very fun and retro-ish.

This is such a busy time of year, I hope everyone at least has a chance to look at their beads this season! :)

Happy Green Holiday Beads

2011-12-13T20:54:00.006-05:00

If you are looking for holiday themed glass beads, I found a couple you might like!

Beadaholique has quite a few czech glass beads in stock.

I really love the ones with a retro-kitsch vibe!!

They make me happy and remind me of that feeling of being a kid at Christmas.

The trees are listed as: Czech glass beads opaque green and gold christmas tree 16mmx12mm.

The bells are listed as: Czech glass beads, 9mm bell beadcaps emerald green.

While you are over at their website, make sure to check out their free beading projects and inspiration!

I'd love to hear your ideas about how to use these in projects too!

Handmade Glass Beads: A Love Story!

2011-12-12T21:42:00.006-05:00

Before going into all the fab glass bead-making details, I have a story to tell you. It really is a love story.

A couple by the names of Tim & Lily were living in Seattle when they discovered each other and their love for all things Italy.

They eventually took a brave step and left the U.S. to start a new bead-making life in Florence, Italy.

Wow! I think they might be my new idols! It always seems clear to me when people find the courage to make a change like this, love is involved in some way.

Either between people, places or things! In this case, it might be all three! You can read more of their great story on their website, BeadedLily.com.

I had such a great time looking through their website. You can get an idea about their classes, their beads and the love involved!

Here are a couple of my favorite designs. The turquoise got my attention immediately, so great! A yummy color that feeds the soul (or at least mine). :)

I absolutely love their collection of "mood swing" beads! These are from their "manic" collection, how fun is that?! What a great idea and a great story, thanks to Tim & Lily for allowing me to share a little bit of their life and their work with you! Enjoy!

THANK YOU! & More Giveaways to Check Out

2011-12-11T21:34:00.005-05:00

Thank you all so much for stopping by to say "Hi" and to share your thoughts, encouragement and great

ideas!!

I know how busy everyone is, but I have to tell you that sharing with and visiting all of you during this time of year adds so much to my little world. :)

I just love to see what everyone is working on whether it is jewelry making, decorating or shopping! Here are a few who visited in the last week or so...

Lacey of Creekside Craziness

Designs by Dawn Marie

Hollyhocks, All things handmade in NC

Be-Jeweled by Jana

Cyndi of Beading Arts

Beetique

Saturday Sequins

Skye of Creative Chaos

Crowbirdie Beads

Polymer Clay Tutor

BY THE WAY, If you haven't had a chance to check out "Where Women Create" for their seriously cool giveaways, you still have until Noon on December 16th to leave a comment on the posts that you are interested in winning!

Check out Day 3 if you would like a chance to win a copy of my book and a project kit. :)

Have a great new week everyone!

This Week's Project: New Holiday Bracelet

2011-12-10T23:16:00.002-05:00

I just finished up this year's Christmas bracelet. For some reason, I like to use the good old red and green in at least one holiday jewelry piece. This is it.

I love how it wraps around my wrist evenly distributed on a 3 strand clasp.

I also love the sparkle!! I used Green Beadalon wire with green and red swarovski crystals, EASY!

If you have been working on new projects for the holiday season, don't forget to leave a link in your comment if you would like to share or email me and I'll share with everyone!

I hope you are finding time to do some crafting!! :)

Peace, Love and Bead Bloggers!

2011-12-09T20:56:00.002-05:00

The weekend is here, YAY!! :)

If you are looking for inspiration, this might just do it! Our bead blogger friends are sharing projects, giveaways and opportunities to help other artists! Enjoy!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Andrew creates a piece to be silently auctioned off to help a fellow artist out! Bid on his necklace to win and check out all the other fantastic auctions going on!

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean hosts a very lovely giveaway from the sublime bead and jewelry store in Florence, Italy, Beaded Lily!

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi has a series of bezels filled with last year's Christmas cards to share this week.

Beads & Books
Michelle turns an inexpensive printer's tray from a craft store into a beautiful display for a jewelry show.

Beading Arts
Wanna learn to work with chains in your jewelry designs? Cyndi has a copy of "Chains Chains Chains" up for grabs!

Art Bead Scene
Erin provides an inspiring treasury of architecture inspired jewelry compontents to give us some ideas for the Art Bead Scene December challenge!

About.com Jewelry Making
Time and money are items many of us don't have much of right now, but not to worry. These simple projects are just what you need to inexpensively spread some holiday jewelry love.

Bring on a SPARKLY New Year

2011-12-08T20:59:00.005-05:00

Are you feeling festive yet? :)

I just popped over to BumbershootSupplies.com to check out their vintage selection of beads, pieces and parts and thought this vintage swarovski rhinestone chain would be PERFECT for a New Year's Eve jewelry project!

I LOVE black and crystal for ringing in the new year for some reason. To me it feels like a fancy, grown-up party! Some red lipstick and you are good to go!

I've never worked with vintage chain, but I'm thinking a HUGE black faceted crystal as part of a focal or a clasp would work beautifully! Deconstruct some of it or use it "as is" in a 4 strand bracelet... What do you think?

Lampwork Holiday Sugar Beads

2011-12-07T21:45:00.004-05:00

WOW! If these beads don't say happy holidays, I don't know what does!

These are now on my wish list! How fun and fabulous! I am not a lampworker so I can't figure out how Kimberly Nicole of BastilleBleu got these so perfectly delicious!

I have such a thing for glitter, these really satisfy that need for sparkle!

On her Etsy site, Kimberly Nicole states that she makes all of her beads at her home studio. She also has a few holiday crystal wire-wrapped rings up for sale on Etsy.

If you get a chance, stop over to take a look at these sugary goodness beads! :)

Quick & Easy Necklace

2011-12-06T22:55:00.005-05:00

I've been wanting to share this project since Saturday when I made it (about 5 minutes before heading out the door for a friend's mini-craft-night). I seem to get very crafty ideas in a time crunch when I am supposed to be doing something else!

I had a necklace with a large round pendant wired on it that I've been wearing on and off for the last couple years. I had been thinking it was probably ready for retirement.

When I was at the craft store, I had seen some very cool scrapbooking brads that I thought would be perfect for holding down the collar of a black sweater.

The sweater zips all the way up which stands up the collar. I wanted to wear it half-zipped down with a sparkly tank top under it, but the collar wouldn't lay down nicely.

So, within the same package of brads was a flower shape that surrounded the brad as an option.

I used two plain brads to hold the tips of the collar down by easily poking them through the sweater collar and sweater and separating the ends to hold them open.

I then ran the 3rd brad through the flower shape and, after cutting off the old necklace pendant, used a jump ring to hang the brad. Voila! Fun, quick, cute and unique!!

Winner Announced & Another Chance to Win!

2011-12-05T22:43:00.005-05:00

Thanks to everyone who stopped by over the weekend to check out all the talented artists and crafters during the Holiday Shop Hop!!

Wow, how awesome was that? I just loved the eco handbags, wooden toys, AND THE JEWELRY!! People are SO creative!!

I just popped over to Random.org to select the winner of my book, A Bead in Time. Congratulations to Deci Worland of the Gem Rio Etsy Shop and Blog. YAY!!

If you are looking for another chance to win a copy of "A Bead in Time", I have good news for you! The fabulous crew over at "Where Women Create" are giving away a copy too!

They are on DAY 5 of the 12 Days of Christmas GIVEAWAYS! Would you believe they have 4 different artists/designers per day, which means the winner each day walks away with all 4 items, AMAZING! Get your comments in by Noon on December 13.

Leave a comment on the DAY 3 post for a chance to win my book AND a kit for the project pictured here, Ode to the Dandelion. :)

I noticed one of the featured giveaways today (Day 5) is Bakerella! You have probably seen her book, "Cake Pops". Seriously that book has such a great cover you can't help picking it up! And guess what? She's giving a copy away, yay!

Exciting stuff!! GOOD LUCK!!

Holiday Shop Hop & Giveaway!

2011-12-03T05:00:00.005-05:00

Yay! It's hustle and bustle time preparing for holiday fun! This time of year provides a wonderful opportunity to show your gratitude for special

people in your life.

I love making things for people myself, but I also know that time has a way of escaping me. If you are experiencing the same thing, the lovely Shel of MiShel Designs has coordinated this weekend long online shopping experience for you. Thanks Shelly!!

To celebrate the season, I am also giving away a copy of my beading inspiration book, A Bead in Time!

Just leave a comment on this post and a random winner will be selected on Monday, 12/5/11. If you would like to purchase a copy of my book to give to one of your creative friends, Amazon has a number of them listed at a great price. Under $10 including shipping, just click on the link above.

This post will run for 2 days to give everyone a chance to get through the links below. You will find handmade beads, jewelry, wooden toys, eco-friendly handbags and MORE! Enjoy and HAPPY HOLIDAYS! :)

Blackbeary Mountain

Blue Pearls Handcrafted Goods

Handcrafted Serenity Jewelry Designs

Happy and Healthy Magnetic Jewelry

Holly Westfall / Silver Rose Designs

Just A Tish

Just Mare Pottery

Keefer Style Creations

Kabs Creative Concepts

Klassy Joolz

Kristi Bowman Design

Lilly Rose Jewelry Designs

Little Rocks

MiShel Designs

Melinda Orr Designs

My Life Under the Bus

Olive Branch Organics

Pine Ridge Treasures

Pink Poppy Studio

Rosebud’s Lampwork Beads

Wire Worked Handcrafted Jewelry

Spinning Butterfly Swarovski Crystal

2011-12-02T23:54:00.003-05:00

Oh my goodness! If you aren't feeling nice and sparkly inside at the moment, try clicking on this Firemountaingems.com link.

They have a graphic with a spinning butterfly crystal component that will definitely make you smile! How cool is that?

The butterfly pictured here will give you an idea of what they have posted, but the spinning version is SO MUCH BETTER!

I also wanted to give you a heads up for tomorrow's post.

It will be up early for the Holiday Blog Hop! I will be giving away a copy of my book and providing links to 40 shops that you might want to visit if you are doing some holiday shopping! :) See you then!

Love Crystals?

2011-12-01T22:00:00.006-05:00

Get ready to add these to your wishlist!

These are from Artbeads.com. These two would be great used to make a simple tennis bracelet in holiday colors!

Listed as "Swarovski 17704 SS29 Xilion gold plated setting 2-holes Light Siam" and "Peridot".

The other colors are: sunflower, light rose, fuschia, aquamarine, sapphire and blue zircon just to name a few!!

I'm picturing myself stringing up a fabulous holiday bracelet with these!

I love a container full of crystals and knowing I will soon be wearing them!

It would also be fun to make a fabulously sparkly bracelet using the clear crystals and white opals for a sparkly new year's eve party! Yummy!

Gifts of Crystal!

2011-11-30T23:02:00.006-05:00

Okay, what I should have titled this post is, "gifts of crystal (that I would like to receive)!"

I have never seen these pieces before and just discovered them on the Firemountaingems.com website.

This gorgeous blue is listed as "Drop, Swarovski crystal and silver plated brass, aquamarine with silver-foil back, 8x4 single stone faceted marquise. Sold 4 per package."

Seriously? The package is currently $5.57. Wow, I LOVE it!

Bead Wishlist

2011-11-29T23:12:00.002-05:00

I am curious about whether you all have a bead wishlist for the holiday season or a bead shopping list for your friends.

I don't think I have any beads to buy this season for friends, but I do sort of have a wishlist of some beads I'd like to get for myself :)

I just noticed that Firemountaingems.com has a number of sales going on. I do happen to love the holiday tree earrings made out of swarovski crystals.

I've made the snowman before, but never the tree....hmm. I think I might be getting myself a pre-holiday gift! :)

Too-Cute-Beads actually has kits available, NICE! They have green trees AND these adorable clear trees! I am liking these, I think it's the kitschy-factor!

What do you think?

Kid-Friendly Jewelry Making

2011-11-28T21:26:00.005-05:00

I saved this fun, kid-friendly jewelry project from my all night craft extravaganza to share with you today.

It was probably close to 1:30am by the time we got around to this project. By the way, my 12 year old niece hung on till 3:30am, what a CRAFTER!

Our holiday craft night usually turns into a full blown party with gifts, food and drink.

This time around, we all got new glue guns! It was definitely a mini Oprah moment, "everyone gets a glue gun"!

It was exactly what we needed to embellish our felt covered slap bracelets with a bit of holiday fun! The packages of slap bracelets came from hobby lobby, 4 for $1, YAY!

I almost forgot to mention my super crafty and smart niece also saved the day when one of the others accidentally glued their embellishments on the backside of the slap bracelet. She summoned her inner craftiness and gently turned the slap bracelet inside the felt so all was well! It was a magical moment! (Did I mention we had been crafting for several hours by that time?)

This Week's Projects: Holiday Craftiness

2011-11-27T21:31:00.008-05:00

Sometimes it seems like the projects I dream up at the last minute are the most fun!

I taught four jewelry projects at yesterday's holiday craft night extravaganza! A simple swarovski crystal earring for all ages; a felt covered slap bracelet with hot glued holiday characters and sparkly pom-pom's; a pair of 3 dimensional snowflake earrings AND...a jingle bell ring!

The jingle bell ring is definitely my favorite! It was fun to make and to wear. You wouldn't think ONE bell would be so jingly, but it is!

It doesn't seem like a true crafty-craft unless you have to alter the original form in some way. We were pounding and cutting the bell to get the shank to lay flat, then all it took was a bit of hot glue. I thought it would be fun to add a little sparkle, so I super-glued on some flat back swarovski crystals. Yay! (Just for the record, we did all agree it could also be cute in the summer as a lady-bug :)

The concept behind the snowflake earrings was to show that plenty of things can be made into earrings besides standard beads and findings. These snowflakes came in a package of 8 for $1 on sale at Hobby Lobby for the purpose of decorating a mini holiday tree.

I added a swarovski bicone for a little sparkle and ended up liking these even better than the red swarovski crystal earrings. :)

I'd love to see and share your holiday projects if you've been creating. Feel free to comment with a link back to your projects or email me and I'll post them here over the next few weeks.

Have a great new week!

Craft Night Sneak Peek

2011-11-26T23:12:00.001-05:00

Here are the pieces for one of my more crafty projects :)

Green ring form, shiny red jingle bell and clear swarovski flat backs!

I enjoy teaching a real "crafty" project and a nice wearable jewelry project. Since I do LOVE using a glue gun in jewelry making, this one is perfect!

I found these green ring forms and shiny red jingle bells at Joann, Etc.

I had high hopes that I could smash in or cut off the bell shank in order to get a flat surface for gluing.

I also had high hopes that I could use my swarvoski flat back heating tool to adhere the crystals to the bell.

I will come back later on with an update and pics of all completed projects. :)

Peace, Love and Bead Bloggers!

2011-11-25T22:36:00.004-05:00

I Love when jewelry designers express their LOVE for pretty sparkly things! Makes me feel a kinship or bond, like I'm not alone!

Take a look at this pendant that Jean Yates is sharing on her blog this week.

Yummy! Once you have been sufficiently awed by the sparkle, here are a few other blogs to check out if you get a chance!! :) Enjoy!

Tomorrow is my craft night, so I look forward giving you a sneak peek before heading over to my Mom's for an all-nighter of crafty fun. Have a great weekend!

Snap Out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean discovered a very special pendant that expresses the way a person feels in a very special, amazing way!

Beading Arts
Beautiful toggle clasps are meant to be seen, not hidden away!

About.com Jewelry Making
Combine those jewelry techniques - this time with wire and fused glass.

Art Bead Scene
Gaea's ceramics pair up with Vintaj Brass to create some gorgeous Victorian Christmas jewelry inspiration!

Sparkly Polymer Clay Ideas

2011-11-24T21:12:00.004-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

I want to thank many of you for jumping on my glitter bandwagon! It's so much fun to go a little glitter crazy in good company! :)

I'm still working on the best way to add glitter to my beading projects.

In the mean time, the Polymer Clay Tutor has some great articles about using glitter in clay projects!

AND, wait till you read about using faux-snow for making faux-opals like the one pictured here!

WOW! Cindy Lietz has such great tricks up her sleeve when it comes to polymer clay. Enjoy!

Snowflakes or Spring Flowers?

2011-11-23T21:39:00.002-05:00

Here is a great project I came across back in the spring. I was so happy that Fusion Beads gave me pemission to share it with you!!

Now that I am looking at it again, I'm thinking it would be great re-designed as snowflakes!

By the way, this project involves GLITTER! :)

The project is titled, "Coloring Filigree with Glitter and Acrylic Paint Dabbers"! There was no way I was not going to click on that link especially when I saw they were using this really great bluish/turquoise glitter!

They have provided a list of materials needed, step by step instructions AND they have 3 different finished jewelry projects that you can download instructions and make yourself!

They are all so cute, but I think this springy flower necklace called,Floral Fever Necklace, is my favorite!!

The other projects are the Morning Frost Earrings and Star of the Party Bracelet.

Enjoy!

Need More Drama? Just add MORE glitter!

2011-11-22T22:51:00.010-05:00

You might have already guessed what was going to happen when I wore the bracelet from yesterday's post...

I was trying to be conservative when I "lightly dusted" it with glitter. After sticking it in my pocket as I was leaving this morning, I discovered that's where all the glitter is as well!

I was very surprised when I pulled it back out and it had magically disappeared!

Contrary to what you might be thinking, I did NOT take that as a sign that I shouldn't be wearing glitter. I decided to rework the bracelet a bit to make a slightly more dramatic look AND used a bit more glitter!

Can't wait to try this version out tomorrow, STAY TUNED!

Glitterama!

2011-11-21T21:59:00.004-05:00

I'm having so much fun with the mod podge and diamond dust glitter tonight!! :) Wish you were all here with me so we could all sparkle together!

I just did a very light dusting on the glass pearl and swarovski bracelet and dotted the glue on this large mother of pearl flat round so the glitter would stick everywhere!

I'll be wearing these to work tomorrow. I'm not sure how they will hold up, but will keep you posted.

I hope to keep most of the glitter to myself, but it is entirely possible that it will float around in the air just slightly, we shall see!

I know many of you think glitter is just a little too messy, but the sparkliness everywhere really does make up for it!

The Winner is...

2011-11-20T22:26:00.003-05:00

The winner of all the miscellaneous beads posted throughout the week is LACEY of the Creekside Craziness blog!

YAY! I'm excited to get all these pieces and parts out to her so she can start creating with them. As always, I'd LOVE to see what Lacey creates with them, but there are no strings attached, just enjoy!

Stay tuned for an upcoming Holiday Blog Hop where I will have my book up for sale over at Amazon.com AND will be giving a copy away!

I'll also be part of the 12 days of Christmas giveaways over at "Where Women Create"! Another chance to win a copy of my book AND all the pieces needed to create one of the most popular projects.

I'll keep you posted here on A Bead A Day! For now, have a great new week! :)

Final Giveaway Pics!

2011-11-19T21:04:00.003-05:00

Happy, happy weekend everyone! I hope you are having fun thinking about any upcoming holiday celebrations.

Chances are, you are celebrating in some way over the next few months!

Celebrations are great especially when you have a chance to create gifts for others.

The funny thing is that most people are just thrilled to get something homemade or handmade, whichever term your prefer! It doesn't have to be perfect, just heart-felt!

Here are a couple more beads included in this week's giveaway EXTRAVAGANZA!

Just leave a comment on any post and you will have a chance to win all pieces mentioned this week! Good luck!

Peace, Love and Bead Bloggers!

2011-11-18T22:03:00.003-05:00

Before getting this crafty weekend started, here is some inspiration to get you going!

Our fun-loving bead bloggers are sharing books, thought processes, new resin products, challenges and MORE!

Enjoy! Stop back tomorrow for one more day of giveaways before announcing the winner who takes all on Sunday!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Andrew muses on the importance of having time to think and "tinker".

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean reviews the fabulous book, Sharilyn Miller's Arty Jewelry III! Is Sharilyn great, or what?

Resin Crafts!
A brand new resin has been created for jewelers and launched on the Resin Crafts blog this week!

Beads & Books
Join Michelle's last beading challenge for 2011 with a winter-themed kit featuring handmade porcelain beads by Chinook Jewelry, Czech glass, pearls, and ribbon!

Beading Arts
Bead a continuous loop necklace for a unique eyeglass holder!

Art Bead Scene
Heather offers a free project: a quick and simple nest necklace that uses wire to elegantly frame an art bead

About.com Jewelry Making
Here are some tips and design ideas for picking the right bracelet for the right person.

More Bead-Mix Giveaways!

2011-11-17T21:45:00.002-05:00

Get ready for cheerful plastic flowers!

As part of this week's giveaway, there are LOTS of these colorful flower beads in the mix, you will not be disappointed!

These are absolutely perfect beads for layered earrings or fun charms on a bracelet!

If you are not a plastic bead fan, I think you will be surprised at the look of them when incorporated into a fun jingly/jangly jewelry piece!

Leave a comment here or on any post this week for a chance to win it all! :)

More Giveaway-Grab-bag Pieces!

2011-11-16T20:58:00.004-05:00

Next up in this week's giveaway grab-bag is a plastic bead mix you might remember from back in the Summer...

Here are a few of them, but there are many more! This is a perfect bead mix for making a very fun and eclectic charm bracelet, triple strand necklace or several matching multi-strand bracelets for friends.

Once again, if you have left a comment so far this week or leave a comment here, you will be in the running for all of the items featured throughout the week. :)

Stay tuned for more!

Pieces & Parts

2011-11-15T21:10:00.001-05:00

For those of you who stopped by yesterday's post, here are the contents of the box!

I discovered a necklace kit by the Simplicity company at Tuesday Morning over the weekend and was fascinated by it. I have a thing for gems that look like they could be in a treasure chest or Jewel Quest video game!

So, back to the picture. Do not adjust your colors, it is blue as blue is blue! Very cobalt! I can't imagine making something like this for myself, but I think it would be very fun to cover completely in jewels and treasures as a gift for someone who loves bling!

I also think it would make a great gift for someone who likes to craft or is learning how to sew.

Either way, it's now up for grabs, so leave a comment on any post the last few days and you will be in the running!

Make It Shine!

2011-11-14T21:05:00.001-05:00

Wow, have you ever seen anything like this in a kit before? It looks like they are marketed by Simplicity to people who sew.

I came across this in Tuesday Morning over the weekend and didn't even think twice about buying it. I had a need to know

more! The regular price was $18.99 and it was marked $3.99.

I'm not a bead embroidery guru so it did make me wonder if you could actually make something out of this that looked wearable.

Here's the back of the box so you can see the other designs available through www.simplicty.com. It looks like this one is marked down to $5.20 on their site.

I've got a picture of the actual pieces inside for tomorrow's post, so stay tuned!

Crystal Giveaway Time!

2011-11-13T20:54:00.003-05:00

It's time for a Swarovski Crystal Giveaway, YAY!!

Not only that, along with the crystal, I will send you a hand-picked bead mix AND a very interesting jewelry making kit I found at Tuesday Morning over the weekend.

More to come on the rest of this giveaway throughout the week.

Fun stuff! Just comment on any post this week and you will have an opportunity to win.

This crystal is a fabulously large, 30x14mm "navette pendant".

The stringing hole goes through the top point which makes it very easy to work into a necklace or a sun-catcher!

My advice about using Swarovski Crystals as sun-catchers is, be sure to wear sun glasses. Be prepared for the light to be thrown all over the place!

I had a very crystally bracelet on recently while riding in a car with other people and felt like I had to keep my hand near by body or people would be blinded by the crystally light! :)

If you would like to win, just leave a comment and check out posts this week for the other pieces of this giveaway!

Glittery Upside Down Snowman Project

2011-11-12T23:57:00.002-05:00

I took the advice from a recent comment and re-worked my giant snowman pendant. Of course it took me until 11pm to get all of my other stuff done, so I could play a little, so it is a tad late!

I found a smaller round glass pearl in a similar color and after putting it back together upside down, I glittered it!!

I know, I couldn't help myself! Since I used the word glitter I haven't been able to get it off my mind!

The upside down glitterman is hanging up so it will dry quickly, but I'll run in the other room and snap a pic of it since it won't actually be ready to wear until tomorrow. :)

Please tell me I'm not the only one glittering up their jewelry projects!!

I haven't decided if I like this shape yet or not, but I thoroughly enjoyed gluing and glittering!

Peace, Love and Bead Bloggers!

2011-11-11T23:22:00.005-05:00

It looks like this is going to be a pretty crafty weekend! Yay! I'll be getting the glitter out and working on some holiday projects! How about you?

Art Bead Scene has announced it's holiday ornament Blog Hop, check it out using the link below! :)

Art Bead Scene

Art Bead Scene announces its annual Holiday Ornament Blog Hop!

About.com Jewelry Making
Bravo has a new TV show that uses Project Runway as a template but the designers are making accessories instead of clothing. What are your thoughts about this new show?

Beading Arts
Jewelry designer Tammy Powley shares some of her expertise for creating unique bead strung jewelry!

Beads & Books
Michelle shares upcoming deadlines for beading & jewelry making contests and challenges.

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Cindy is off her loom this week! Come see her new RAW book!

Earthenwood Studio Chronicles
Melanie mourns the passing of a furry friend by making a pair of special cuff bracelets to honor her memory

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean's famous friend, the Great Margot Potter, has some wonderful news! Read all about it on Jean's blog!

Time to Get Out the GLITTER?

2011-11-10T23:02:00.002-05:00

Hmm...I think it might be time to get out the glitter! Who doesn't LOVE diamond dust glitter?

It transforms everything. I've had it on my arms and clothes after crafting with it and didn't want to brush it off. It just glows...

I made a bunch of very inexpensive earrings as gifts one holiday season by making right angle weave baubles out of 6/0 beads that come in a huge tube for a couple of dollars!

After making the baubles, I coated them gently with ModPodge (glue) and covered them in diamond dust.

They made the cutest earrings hanging from a simple sterling plated chain. These baubles could be used in many festive jewelry designs. The best part of making them into earrings is that the diamond dust eventually makes onto your shoulders and looks so sparkly!

So, are you using glitter in your holiday jewelry?

Holiday Jewelry Projects

2011-11-09T23:53:00.007-05:00

I asked yesterday if anyone had ideas for holiday jewelry, so I wanted to share a few I recently discovered:

Included on these sites are projects for holiday jewelry, ornaments, pins, magnets and more! Have fun and keep me posted, especially if you want to share!

I'll be teaching a holiday craft in a couple of weeks, so if you have some other easy project ideas, please send them my way!

Swarovski Sparkle for the Holidays

2011-11-08T22:25:00.004-05:00

Have you seen the fall/winter 2011/2012 Swarovski Elements Innovations Collection?

Let me tell you, IT'S SPARKLY!

I just noticed some of the pieces are on the FireMountainGems homepage.

If you have seen either of these in real life, please let us know what you think. They are both intriguing to me!

The golden shadow 28x28mm faceted graphic pendant and rhombus would be great for making some fun, sparkly holiday gifts!!

Speaking of holiday gifts, I'd love to hear what you are making this season for friends and loved ones! :)

Creative Connections...

2011-11-07T21:08:00.007-05:00

In yesterday's post I mentioned the Polymer Clay Tutor, Cindy Lietz, and shared a fabulous pirate-y bracelet from her website.

She commented on the post and pointed out the rounded focal piece is actually a copper clasp made by Melinda Orr!

So... I took a quick trip to Melinda's Etsy site and immediately took a deep breath in when I saw this....seriously, it is called "Flower Power" copper and brass bracelet.

I LOVE IT!! It makes me wish I had created this myself because I feel so connected to it!

What a fun experience and a great reminder about the sharing and caring nature of the creative community! It's really wonderful how you meet one artist who connects you with another, who connects you with yet another and on and on...sounds like a commercial, but it's REAL!

I hope you enjoy this wonderful artist's work! You can also visit Melinda at her Peace Creek blog.

Pirates, Pics and Snowmen, YAY!

2011-11-06T22:54:00.005-05:00

After posting those adorable polymer clay pumpkins yesterday from Tammy Powley's About.com post, it made me realize I hadn't checked in with our friend Cindy Lietz recently.

Cindy is also known as the Polymer Clay Tutor!

She's been talking about hand-tinted photo transfers, pirate canes and snowman beads, how fun.

I really love her pirate bracelet. She connected all of her beads with the perfect type of wire, but I have to say the curved focal bead is the BEST!

Thanks for everything you do to share your talent with the world, Cindy! :)

Peace, Love and Bead Blogger Saturday!

2011-11-05T22:05:00.002-04:00

In case any of you have been looking for inspiration today, our bead blogger friends have come to the rescue!

You've got to see these adorable polymer pumpkins over on Tammy's post at About.com! Sweet! She's got the instructions stepped out in case you want to make a few of your own. :)

About.com Jewelry Making
Make a fall patch of pumpkin beads using polymer clay.

Art Bead Scene
The November Monthly Challenge is announced, revealing a historical painting of a beautiful woman in autumn tones

Beading Arts
Cyndi is featuring innovative stringing techniques all month on Beading Arts! Come join in the fun :-)

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
This week's Minding the Business is about taking care of you.

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean re-reviews a book by Maggie Meister she finds particularly outstanding

Giant Accidental Snowman

2011-11-04T22:40:00.003-04:00

As a continuation from yesterday's post, here is the accidental snowman I made before work and wore all day until I caught my reflection and realized I was wearing a giant snowman!

I really didn't see the snowman until it was already made. On the drawing board in my head, it was very elegant! :)

Funny in hindsight, well, maybe funny as it was happening too!

I'd love to hear about your crafty plans for the weekend, I don't have too many myself except for wanting to find a few minutes to create!

Here's wishing you all a very crafty weekend!

Real Snowman Jewelry is Cute!

2011-11-03T20:28:00.004-04:00

If you have been to this blog before, you will not be surprised to find out that I was making jewelry before work this morning.

Why in the world I get the idea that I have to make something at the spur of the moment, I have no idea!

The funny thing is, my quick little project looked very cute in my head, but I'm not sure it was all that cute in real life. It consisted of only 3 beads and a chain. One very large light grey pearl, a medium sized similar colored glass pearl and a sparkly crystal rondelle in between. Hanging from a simple silver chain, I thought it was so cute...

I made it, put it on and wore it most of the day. It dawned on me when I caught my reflection in the elevator doors that I had just worn a giant snowman necklace all day! What? How did I not realize that when I was making it?

I took it off at work when I realized it, but will bring it home tomorrow to show you. I also had a fleeting idea that it would be fun to pull out a sharpie and put a little smiley face on him, but I held myself back.

In the mean time, I thought it would be fun to share some REAL snowman earrings that are part of a kit from Artbeads.com. How cute! I have a pair of these somewhere, they are a lot of fun to make and wear. Also a great project for new beaders!

Vintage Sweetness!

2011-11-02T23:43:00.003-04:00

Not to obsess or anything, BUT I just noticed these vintage flowers on the Bumbershootsupplies.com site and thought I better remind everyone to get their comments in by 11/23/11 here for a chance to win a $100 gift certificate.

Good luck everyone!!

Here's a quick description of what you will find at Bumbershoot's blog:

"...Where you will find antique and vintage supplies for jewelry and mixed media art, designs featuring vintage supplies, featured artists, tutorials and tips, newsletter sign up and archived issues..."

$100 Giveaway at Bumbershoot Supplies!

2011-11-01T23:02:00.003-04:00

WOW! This is an amazing opportunity!

BumbershootSupplies.com is giving away a $100 gift certificate!

Their vintage beading supplies are truly amazing. Take a peek at some of their items and you will soon be entering to win. Here's how to enter.

Thanks so much to Sharon and Jim for their generosity!! Here is one of my favorite items in their shop...

Yummy!! These are listed under vintage beads/navette sew-on. Gorgeous, these are calling out to me!!

The Obsession Continues...DRUZY-licious!

2011-10-31T21:00:00.004-04:00

I was ready to move on to something else today, but received some encouragement from Saturday Sequins and the Beadwright on yesterday's post to keep right on obsessing over these druzy's!

This is another ring from the fabulous Yarona Jewelry Design Etsy site! Wow, it's called "titanium" set in 18k gold, beautiful!

I had wondered if there were any geode mines in Ohio and while searching, I discovered a huge tourist attraction is located on Put-In-Bay in Ohio.

It's an island known for it's party-time atmosphere. I had visited there many times as a young adult and the fact it is at the same location as the Heineman's Winery pretty much explains why I never knew it was there!! :)

Here's a fun little story on Wikipedia about how the winery made it through prohibition times due to the crystal cave tourist attraction!

I hope you stuck around till the end of this post because I saved the most surprising discovery until last...Did you know there was an unbelievable crystal cave in Australia? It's in Atherton Queensland Australia.

Here's a photo, but if you have a minute to check out this youtube video from a tourist and admirer, here you go, enjoy! It is amazing and SO sparkly!

Thanks for indulging my obsession!!

Featured Designer: Yarona Jewelry Design

2011-10-30T22:36:00.004-04:00

For those of you who thought I was over my recent druzy obsession, I just fell off the wagon!!

Through Twitter I just found this Etsy shop, Yarona Jewelry Design. WAIT TILL YOU SEE THESE!

There is an entire page and probabaly more of these gorgeous and sparkly druzy rings. WOW! Just looking at them makes me feel like I went to a druzy mine and hit the mother lode!!

How amazing! I encourage you to visit and appreciate the beauty of nature and the artist who really knows how to showcase these treasures!

Thanks Yarona! I'm seriously drooling now! Your work is just fabulous!

This Week's Projects: Sequins & Crystals

2011-10-29T19:46:00.004-04:00

Saturdays are great for lounging around if you have the time. They are also great for creating! I did a little bit of both today.

I wanted to share my work in progress that I started on a little while ago. The sparkly component bracelet is not turning out at all as I expected, but I'm warming up to it. :) I do have a soft spot for a crystally right angle weave!

I'll keep you posted on the final outcome. I noticed I had all these leftover crystals from last weekend's class and couldn't resist playing with them!

So, the sequin project is this adorable felt messenger bag with a velcro closure. I found this last weekend when I made a quick trip to Hobby Lobby. It was $7.99 and I didn't have a coupon printed. Once again the smart phone pays off.

I googled "hobby lobby coupons" and the 40% off of one item came up. I asked at the checkout if they could take it directly from the screen of my phone and they did, yay!

The sequin peace sign is an iron on which took about 30 seconds to put in place and, voila, a new camera bag that I can continue to embellish as long as it holds up.

I also bought some adorable yellow canvas smiley face pins that have embroidered on eyes and smile in black, cute!

That's my crafting story for this week, I'd love to hear yours!

Peace, Love and Bead Bloggers!

2011-10-28T20:41:00.005-04:00

I love this wintery look even though I'm not yet embracing the coming season!

Our bead blogger pals are sharing some fabulous tips and updates below including Heather of Art Bead Scene who has some tips for making seasonal jewelry pieces.

Enjoy!! Catch you tomorrow! :)

Art Bead Scene
Heather helps us look ahead to the holiday season with some great inspiration for seasonal jewelry

Snap out of it,Jean! There's beading to be done!
Wonderful, really exciting giveaway from Beaducation! Read all about it and sign up on Jean's blog!

Resin Crafts!
This week we have a nice series showing you how to use an ice tray to make fun skull and bone cast pieces.

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
This week's Tuesday Tangle features handmade earrings of metal clay and wire.

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi has a cute fabric brooch idea for Halloween.

Beads & Books
How long does it really take you to make a piece of jewelry? Michelle shares the long process behind a simple pair of earrings.

Beading Arts
Polymer clay + greeting cards = a fun mixed media necklace!

About.com Jewelry Making

Break into glass jewelry making with these tutorials and techniques

Stones are Beads Too!

2011-10-27T23:08:00.004-04:00

I have a story for you...

I was on Etsy tonight looking for some lampwork doggie beads for a friend who wants to make something special for her Mom who has 4 rat terriers. Cute, huh?!

Well, explain to me how I found THIS etsy site because I can't figure it out exactly. BUT, I couldn't pass it by without sharing since there was clearly some kind of inspired computer clicking involved!

Wow! From Lake Michigan, these stones are really amazing! I LOVE when people see such art and beauty in natural elements that others might just be walking on.

Check out ALLYBEANS on Etsy, there are lots and lots of cool and interesting nature made pieces.

Versatile Spikey Beads

2011-10-26T21:51:00.006-04:00

I just popped over to the Beadwright's blog, a.k.a. Nicole Campanella, to check out her book giveaway and noticed these ultra cool beads scrolling by in her Etsy shop.

Wow, I don't think I've ever seen these beads before, they are labeled "Bead Spikes Green" and the description reads:

"Here are some vibrant green spike beads in acrylic. They are awesome!!!! Perfect for light weight earrings and seed bead embellishments. These are two inches with a great stringing hole."

I'd love to hear your thoughts about these. I agree with Nicole, they would make great earrings with a little sparkliness added in. I also think they could be used in an interesting Halloweeny way! I like scariness incorporated when you least expect it...in a slightly creepy way.

Cool or creepy, either way, they caught my attention!

Sweet CZ

2011-10-25T23:25:00.004-04:00

There was something familiar about the color of yesterday's sparkly druzy. It took a little searching before I remembered...

Last summer I used a bunch of these cool light amethyst CZ's in a vacation bracelet project. Now I just have to find the bracelet and decide if I want to re-purpose the pieces!

That's the beauty of making jewelry, especially when you use fabulous crystals and CZ's. Just disassemble, shine them up and make something new!

In fact, maybe I should order the druzy and use these amethyst CZ's as either a companion piece or as an accent within the same piece...Hmm, any thoughts on that? I know, I was supposed to stop buying...

While this color sort of reminds me of summer, I'm thinking that with a few warm complementary colors, it would be great for fall too! :)

Druzy SPARKLE!

2011-10-24T22:12:00.004-04:00

Have you ever dreamed about digging for gemstones?

The thought crossed my mind tonight so I did a couple of google searches and found this druzy freeform on the Firemountaingems.com site.

It is listed as "Focal amethyst (natural) 33x30mm undrilled freeform crystals with druzy."

The description reads:

"Excavated from mines and natural deposits, geode focal contains a fashionable rough look ideal for wire-wrapping projects. Freeform geode provides natural beauty with miniature crystals hidden inside. Focal will vary in size, shape and color. Mohs hardness 7."

This is so fabulous, it's kind of shocking! How fun would it be to dig something like this out of the ground? Mmm, maybe one day!

I'd love to get your input on this and find out where you get your druzy beads and your experiences with drilled vs. undrilled. Does drilling compromise the crystal in some way?

Thanks in advance for sharing!