Thursday, December 10, 2009

Gaining Popularity

This seems to be a favourite among my customers... so far. I haven't even made one for myself yet! It's made with easy-to-handle size 6/0 beads and stretchy thread. Len's Mill Store has turned out to be a good source for czech beads.

Tuesday, December 8, 2009

Peyote Cuff Bracelet



(Christina Cuff)

This was the second peyote cuff that I made. Peyote stitched beads feel really nice against the skin. I made a couple rings too, because they don't take as long and I wanted to practice. Did I mention that you stitch through every single bead, one at a time?!

I have discovered that there was a reason some of the first beads that I bought were cheap. Not round, not uniform, some with no holes, some whose colour ended up on my fingers... I like "Delicas", small beads from Japan, the best for weaving projects due to their uniform, cylindrical shape. They fit together like bricks. They are however, very small. Not good for someone with tremors!


(zipper pull done in peyote)

I have some beads lined up for a third cuff - this one will be for me! It will be similar to the one I made for Christina (see "Christina Cuff" above), but a dark brown colour, different closure and maybe some embellishments. OK, it will probably be nothing like Christina's! I will keep you posted.


Saturday, December 5, 2009

Christmas Presents


See? I really have been busy. So has my photographer, Christina (Studio Kuefner), as you can see by the photos. Hopefully I won't spoil the surprise for the recipients.

These first three are of a necklace and bracelet set made with dalmation jasper cubes and black round beads.


 




I made a dragonfly necklace for my Aunt Dot and had enough materials left over to make a second, more modern design.







This long lariat style necklace can be worn at least 3 different ways. Casual and fun. The large bead is a piece of coral that has been dyed a nice bright red.





Here's a zipper pull or cell phone charm for the coffee lover:





Wednesday, December 2, 2009

I had fun making this choker. My only worry is the round aventurine beads: they are dyed and due to time constraints, they are from Michaels. Hopefully, the colour won't transfer. Next time I will give them a protective coating. Something else to buy!

(photos by me - I'm learning...)