Totally Twisted Bangles & Beads

What I Am Working On

2012-01-29T12:47:00.001-05:00

I am working on a pendant/necklace using this turquoise donut. In the center I am using a round silver button that fits just perfectly in the hole. I am envisioning lots of fringe for this and a simple rope maybe a spiral but I need to get the pendant finished first. I love the markings on the donut - so interesting.

Temptation - Bead Embroidery Pendant and RAW Rope

2012-01-27T09:33:00.000-05:00

This is my latest beading endeavor finished a few days ago. A bead embroidery pendant and cubic RAW necklace. The focal of the pendant is 2 coral cabs surrounded by various size seed beads. I am so happy I finally learned how to do cubic RAW it is quite easy once you get the hang of it and it moves quickly - two things I like. It is listed in my Etsy Shop here. I think this necklace would be great for Valentines Day it has such a nice feel and the coral focal is a beautiful shade of red with hints of orange. I have and idea for a new pendant using a turquoise donut and lots of fringe - I can't wait to start. I have so many ideas my head is spinning - I just need to sit down and do some beading. Easier said than done. I just finished painting my bedroom and I need to get new carpets in the house and then finally get some furniture bought - I am in my new house almost a year and haven't done anything to set it up. I was waiting to do the painting first so now that is done so no excuses. I just haven't seen any living room furniture that I LOVE and I want to love it - so I will keep looking. Once I have the carpet picked out I think the furniture search will be easier - at least the color will be. I also want to do some abstract painting again - it has been too long and I have a lot of ideas I want to try out on canvas - I had to give up my studio when I moved so it is not that easy to just jump in and paint a large canvas now but I am going to try. I have paint left over from the bedroom walls and I want to do some nice abstract work using that color with some red, cream and black - I just need to get into motion.

Coral Pendant - More Work

2012-01-14T14:33:00.000-05:00

So I think I am finished with the surface beading of my coral pendant - I better be since I cut off the backing!! I need to back and then edge this and decide to fringe or not to fringe. I am thinking that maybe I will work on the necklace portion next before I decide to add the edging or the fringe - I will see what works best with the necklace/rope. So far I like this one it is simple but elegant looking - so I better not over power it with the necklace portion.

Bead Embroidery Pendant - Beginning

2012-01-13T16:03:00.001-05:00

I have just started this Coral pendant and plan on making a necklace to go with it in coral and possibly cubic RAW. But then that is thinking way to far ahead. So far I am in the beginning stages and I am wondering why I don't plan out my designs better - I just jump right in and start beading. I think this is probably not the way most people do it but it works for me - well sometimes ; ) I already am thinking about fringe and it is way to soon for that - sigh!!! Well I do like the paring of the red and gold and I will carry that through in the necklace portion. I hope to get some beading done on this later today. I bought candy - Ferrero Rocher - my favorite so I am good to go.

Limelight - Cellini Spiral Bangle

2012-01-12T11:01:00.000-05:00

So I finally finished my Cellini spiral bangle and have named it Limelight. I forgot how slow this stitch is - it seemed to take forever to complete this bracelet and then I was afraid I wouldn't be able to zip it up properly - but I did it! I used size 15, 11 and 8 seed beads. Here is a tutorial for the Cellini spiral. I would like to do a few more but right now I am working on a bead embroidery pendant and necklace using coral - it is in the beginning stages and I am not sure where it is going yet. Today is my painting day so I hope to complete at least 2 watercolors that I can sell and then buy beads. Limelight is in my Etsy shop here - actually I would rather sell that than paintings. I have quite a few other beading projects picked out to do - now I just need the time.

My New Ott Light

2012-01-09T17:21:00.000-05:00

So I wanted to get better lighting for beading in the evening. I have heard how great the Ott light is but of course I had to ask my fellow beaders. I got nothing but positive reviews on the Ott so that is what I wanted to buy. After a few false starts I finally got a 40% off coupon for Michael's from my friend Sharyn - I go to Michael's and the Ott lights are on sale for 50% off. So now I am the new owner of the Ott light pictured above. Last night was its maiden voyage and I LOVE it - I don't know how I have gone this long without this light. And yes that is still the green Cellini spiral bracelet I have been working on forever. I cannot believe how slow it is moving - like a snail. I think I may finish it up tonight or tomorrow and I will be so glad to move on to something new.

Cubic RAW

2012-01-04T09:38:00.000-05:00

So I wanted to learn how to do Cubic RAW - and her you have it. My first Cubic RAW bracelet. Very simple but hey I did it. It was fun and an enjoyable to stitch. I will be using Cubic RAW for some ropes for my pendants - hopefully soon. For some reason I have moved on to a Cellini spiral bracelet - go figure - but I will be back to RAW soon. I really like making jewelry for myself since I don't have to come up with a name ; )

My Star Necklace

2011-12-28T17:41:00.001-05:00

So I decided I wanted a star necklace too. I made this one a lot bigger than the turquoise - I used bigger beads. I just hung it from a silver ball chain and I think it works well. This star is from a pattern by Callie Mitchell The Peregrine Beader. It is fun and quick to bead and makes a nice pendant or a charm in the smaller size.

I am working today on Cubic RAW. Here is a great video from Heather Collin - I beaded up a sample and next I am going to make a simple bracelet. It was actually easier than I imagined once I got going. I want to be able to have some different chain/necklaces for my beading for 2012. I also want to explore herringbone - so much I want to do!

I cannot believe 2011 is almost over. I have a photo album on my FB page of beading I have done this year and in a few days I will be making a new album for 2012. The year passed so quickly - well I had a lot go on this year some good and some not so good so I am ready to start with a clean slate in 2012. I probably should set some goals for the coming year - I will have to think about that for a bit.

Star Fish Necklace

2011-12-25T17:44:00.001-05:00

So this is the Star Fish pattern I purchased from Callie Mitchell The Peregrine Beader. The top photo is the actual star fish which was really fun to bead. So I decided to make a necklace for it - just very simple stringing with the turquoise crystals that I used in the middle of the fish and silver seed beads. It has a nice silver loop and toggle closure. The bottom photo is more true to the actual color.

This star fish is small about 1 inch - beaded with size 11 and 15 seed beads. I am sending this necklace to someone special because it will be just perfect for her!! I want to make one for me but I want my star fish bigger so I will experiment with bigger beads. I will be interested to see how that comes out.

Tutorials

2011-12-21T15:21:00.001-05:00

I have purchased a few tutorials lately - my Christmas present to myself. Like I sad in a previous post I have quite a body of work and I am looking to learn and try new things. The top photo is a Satellite Bead by Heather Collin. This is done in RAW and I am really trying to understand RAW. It was fun to make and I am either going to suspend it on a chain or make a small beaded rope for it.

The second photo is a herringbone bracelet Garden By the Sea by Beverly Herman. The focal is a 6 hole bead by Heather Powers - Humble Beads. I love the color combo and it looks great on my wrist. I had a good time making both the bead and bracelet and I did learn a lot.

Support your fellow beaders and always give them credit when you use one of their designs. I have some more tutorials that I will be beading up and showing soon.

Memory Wire Bracelet

2011-12-20T17:40:00.002-05:00

I wanted to make something for casual wear with jeans. I had the memory wire for a long time and decided to use up some odds and ends of beads from other projects. I really love this bracelet - the color is amazing and I love the charms on the loop ends. I have some more memory wire and I just might make another one maybe in gold and browns.

Minerals - Double Spiral Bracelet

2011-12-12T17:17:00.004-05:00

Well I do believe this is the last of the spiral bracelets for awhile. This one is a bit larger - will fit a 7 inch wrist and is listed in my Etsy Shop here. I am next going to work on one of the new beading patterns that I purchased. I am not sure which one yet - I have to see what beads I have here in my stash as I am trying not to buy anything until after Christmas. Too bad I have to go deliver paintings tonight that means I cannot start anything - well tomorrow then.

A Body of Work

2011-12-11T13:26:00.003-05:00

I finished this double spiral bracelet last night - it is in my Etsy Shop here. I have a few projects picked out that I want to get going on but I have been thinking about beading lately - specifically beading what I want to bead for a change, learning some new techniques and just having some fun. Which brings me to the title of this post "A Body of Work". This is a term I have used often in my art - a term that allows me to change and try some new things. I consider a body of work as having enough good consistent work that represents me at the point I am now - in either my painting or jewelry career. I have lots of items for sale in my Etsy Shop and plenty to take to a craft show so why not move on and try some new things?

With this in mind I thought I would learn RAW - it is coming along sort of. I also thought I would buy some patterns from me fellow beaders who I admire and make some nice jewelry for myself in the process - a win-win situation. So far I have purchased patterns from Beverly Herman of No Easy Beads, Chris of Good Quill Hunting, Callie Mitchell of The Peregrine Beader and Heather Collin of Dreamweavers Studio. I will probably get a few more but for now that is a good start. I also want to start a nice bead embroidery project - I am just not sure what it will be yet - but I should be pretty busy for the winter. I will post photos as I progress.

New Necklace for Me & Book Giveaway

2011-12-03T17:36:00.002-05:00

I just finished this turquoise fringed bead and placed it on a silver ball chain for me!! I liked my Christmas bead so much I thought why not make a casual one for everyday wear and I just happened to have these turquoise chips out from a recent bead embroidery cuff that I finished. This fringed bead is from a pattern by The Jade Dog - thanks Darcy for this great pattern. I also want to tell everyone about the Super Holiday Bead Book Giveaway - 21 Books from Lark Jewelry & Beading. What a great giveaway this one is - I would love to win so go have a look here.

Candy Cane - Russian Spiral Bracelet

2011-11-30T18:19:00.003-05:00

I guess I am in the Christmas spirit this year. I just finished this Russian spiral bracelet in red and white - just like a candy cane. It also has a gold loop and toggle closure. I will be listing it in my Etsy Shop soon - I am off to bingo - I sure hope I win something ; )

Another Christmas Spiral

2011-11-28T18:30:00.008-05:00

Well I liked my Christmas Spiral bracelet so much I decided to make a similar one and put it in my Etsy Shop. I am finishing up another holiday bracelet - this one in red and white like a candy cane - I will photo and list it tomorrow. I sure am enjoying making these smaller bracelets but I feel a large bead embroidery project coming on. I also want to explore RAW - I have Marcia DeCoster's Beaded Opulence book and I purchased 2 RAW tutorials - so what am I waiting for - I don't know but I do know RAW scares me. I just need to jump in and get started I guess ; )

Christmas Jewelry for Me

2011-11-25T13:07:00.002-05:00

I am going to a Christmas party this year and decided I needed some nice jewelry to wear. I never really make something just for me so I was excited about a new bracelet. I decided on a double spiral in red, green and gold (of course). I had a nice small closure that worked so well with the design. It fits me perfectly and I am thrilled with how it looks on my wrist. I then thought maybe something for my neck would be in order. I few years ago I bought a pattern for a fringed bead from The Jade Dog - I have made a few of these for myself and some friends so I thought a nice one in red, green and gold would be great. I made the fringe on the bead a bit longer than usual and I like it a lot. You can see the results in the above photos. I put the fringed bead on a gold ball chain - it is 24 inches. I can't wait for the party to wear my new jewelry. I think I might make a Christmas bracelet or two for my Etsy Shop.

Turquoise Dream - Bead Embroidery Cuff

2011-11-17T13:08:00.003-05:00

I started this cuff in the summer when I was staying in PA. I figured I better finish it so I can move on to a new project - I only work on one project at a time. This is a bead embroidery cuff and the focal is a turquoise donut surrounded by copper seed beads and turquoise chips. The remainder of the cuff is made up of seed beads, pearls and other various beads in shades of copper, brown and turquoise. It is backed with dark blue felt and the center is a brass cuff blank. I am so glad to finally finish this one - I hope my urge to bead is back - maybe so because I have a new project picked out. Since I moved to my new house I don't seem to get much done and time just flies. Now that winter is coming I hope to get back into painting and beading I also want to get back into reading my tarot cards - should be a busy winter.

A New Blog Post

2011-09-11T14:06:00.002-04:00

I wasted serious time over the summer in PA. I am now back in NJ and need to start doing some things and making some plans. I started this new bead embroidery cuff while I was in PA and did a little work on it there. I unpacked my beads today and did some more work on it this afternoon and I plan on finishing it sooner than later!! I need to make some decisions on my beading and on my painting and I need to do it soon. I think I want to spend some time painting a few watercolor landscapes - I like to do them, I am good at it and they do sell. After looking at all the beautiful scenery in PA I am inspired. Sounds like a plan right there. The problem is finding the space to paint - now that I am in my new house I do not have a studio anymore. I think I am going to go look over in the clubhouse - there is an arts and craft room there that I may be able to use to do some watercolors a few afternoons a week. I probably could use it to bead too. Think I will take a ride over there tomorrow afternoon and inquire.

New Project

2011-08-16T12:22:00.004-04:00

So I thought I would start a new project. I have to say I have not been very productive this summer but then again I cannot sell a piece of jewelry to save my life. This is going to be a new bead embroidery cuff in shades of turquoise and copper. The focal is a donut that I am thinking may not be a great choice but I think once I get going on this it is going to be amazing. I have all the beads picked out so I need to get beading. I just need to decide what to put in the center of the donut!

Bracelet - Maybe

2011-07-27T18:38:00.002-04:00

Not a great picture but it is getting late in the day. These are two of the components for my next project. I am hoping this will eventually transform into a bracelet. We shall see how it goes - I have been having problems from the start but I refuse to give up so we shall see on this one. If somehow it all comes together I think it could be really nice but then again it may just plain suck ; ) Hey I am not big on planning.

Black Magick - Bead Embroidery Cuff

2011-07-25T12:42:00.002-04:00

Black Magick my latest bead embroidery cuff. The focal is a metal cut button surrounded by size 8, 11,15 seed beads in black and silver. This one was different for me as the complete cuff is all stop beads rather than just bead embroidery stitches. It really makes for a LOT of texture and interest. I like the fact that it is really a monochromatic piece - black and silver - it is very elegant. So now I need to pick out my next project - I am thinking maybe something simple for a change but I do love my bead embroidery! I don't do too much in the summer - I seem to just like to sit by the lake and read but that's OK as long as I am at least thinking about beading.

Something New

2011-07-03T14:53:00.002-04:00

Sweet - this is the start of my next beading project. I am excited with it so far but as usual I don't have any plan on how this is going to work out - so we shall see! I do know it is going to be all black and silver and I do have a name picked out already. This is not a great photo - it is raining like crazy here at the lake today so I had to take what I could get in terms of lighting - good thing our fireworks display was last night.

Born on the Bayou - Bead Embroidery Cuff

2011-06-28T20:57:00.003-04:00

This is my latest cuff Born on the Bayou. Love the colors - lime, yellow green, black, green with a 30mm round Kambaba Jasper Cab as a focal. It is listed in my Etsy Shop here.

Almost There

2011-06-24T13:58:00.003-04:00

Well I am finished with the major beading portion of my latest cuff. Now I need to attach it to the cuff band and edge. I love the coloring of this one and have a great name picked out.

Cuff - More Work

2011-06-18T10:24:00.003-04:00

A little more work done on my bead embroidery cuff. I was hoping to work on it yesterday but that didn't happen - maybe today. I really like how this is shaping up and I love the coloring. I am having a really hard time getting a good image of the focal - too much glare in this picture. I need to work on the right side to even out the design and see where it is heading. I never know where I am going next with these cuffs - I just put down the beads that feel right - if they don't look right up they come ; )

New Cuff in Progress

2011-06-13T13:31:00.002-04:00

It is a cool damp day here in PA so I started a new bead embroidery cuff. So far I am excited with it - although I have done as much ripping out as I have beading. I like the color combination of this one and hope it continues to go well.

Royal Flush - Bead Embroidery Cuff

2011-06-12T13:37:00.003-04:00

New cuff just finished - lousy photos ; ) This is a bead embroidery cuff in shades of dark red, pink and golds. I love making these maybe I should start wearing them. I am starting a new wider one in shades of black and green - hope it comes out as good as this one.

Bead Embroidery Cuff in Progress

2011-06-03T11:58:00.002-04:00

This is a new cuff I am working on - I have ripped it out twice so far but I think I finally have a plan. I hope to get a lot of work done on this one today as it is cool and windy outside - good beading weather. This is not my favorite colors but a good use of the focal.

What I Am Working On

2011-05-19T23:10:00.004-04:00

This is a new pendant - the cab is coral and I thought it should have some fringe. I may do more edging on it - not sure about that yet. I also need to figure out the necklace/rope. I am thinking maybe just stringing some nice beads as the pendant is pretty busy. I also started a bead embroidery cuff but no photo yet - it is just in the early stages. I need to get busy and do some serious beading. I have been doing a lot of reading lately and it seems when I read everything else just stops. Craft show next weekend I hope it is a good one ; )

Intaglio - Beaded Pendant and Necklace

2011-05-06T23:21:00.002-04:00

Finished this beaded pendant and spiral rope necklace called Intaglio. I bought 3 of these copper disks which I have used as the focal - I paired it with turquoise, brown and cream colored beads. This is a bit longer than most of my necklaces - it is 19 inches plus the closure but I just felt it looked better at the longer length. I am not sure what I want to do next I know I want to start another collar but they just take so long to finish - I do have the design pretty much worked out so maybe it would be a good summer project.

Two Double Spiral Bracelets

2011-04-30T12:08:00.004-04:00

I had a request to make a double spiral bracelet in black and gold. These are the two I made. The top bracelet is called Grace and the bottom Hope. I really like both of them - they are quite elegant. Now it is back to making a necklace to go with my copper pendant. I am still unsure as to what type of necklace I want to make for it so doing the bracelets was a nice diversion.

Work In Progress

2011-04-27T09:42:00.003-04:00

This is a little pendant I am working on. The center is a copper disk, I have 3 of them and have no idea where I bought them - I know I should keep better records. I paired it with turquoise, ivory and brown seed beads. I wanted fringe but not too much so I think this works. Next I need to figure out a necklace to go with it - maybe stringing or a St Petersburg chain?? I have to make a couple of spiral bracelets for a customer so this will be on hold for a bit. I am also planning on a new bead embroidery collar - I think I pretty much have the design figured out now just the color and getting the beads together. My goal for this year was to not buy any new beads - so far so good I am using up what I have and I have lots!!!!

Fortune - Bead Embroidery Cuff

2011-04-20T18:55:00.003-04:00

Finished my bead embroidery cuff. I am calling it Fortune. The cab is a dark brown stone and I do not know what it is but it has some grey spots in it. The beading is done in shades of brown, rust and grey. At first I was not too happy with the color combo but now that it is finished I really like it. It is dark but rich and chocolate looking - gotta love that. I am not sure what I want to start next - I would like to start a collar but I don't know if I want to devote that much time to something right now.

What I Am Working On

2011-04-16T18:29:00.002-04:00

I am working - really I am. I started this bead embroidery cuff the other night - it is in shades of brown and silver/grey. I am not too crazy over the color combination but I have decided to continue with it. I took the color cue from the focal which is a brown cab with bits of grey but I think it may be a bit dark - at least it is for my taste. Next project brighter colors!!! I will be going to PA for the summer in a few weeks and I do not want to bring all my beads like I did last year. What I am planning is to pick out about 5 or 6 projects, get all the beads and components together and individually bag them - this way I have things to work on but did not bring the complete bead room with me. I hope this will work.

Enigma - Freeform Peyote Bracelet

2011-04-09T19:03:00.003-04:00

Just finished this freeform peyote bracelet in shades of purple. It has a purple and copper button as the focal. I am feeling uninspired right now - beading has become a bit tedious - I think I will work on a bead embroidery cuff next - I always enjoy doing those. Part of the problem is I do not have a space just for beading in my new house. I take out my project and then put it away - I am beading on the kitchen table - but at least the lighting is good. I had hoped to bead in the spare room but have not set it up yet and I will be going to PA in a month so maybe when I come back.

Backwater - New Pendant and Necklace

2011-03-30T13:30:00.003-04:00

So with the packing, moving and unpacking I have not been doing a lot of beading. I just unpacked my beads the other day and really do not have a place set up to do any serious beading yet. I had started this cab as a cuff but it just did not want to be a cuff and I got tired of fighting it - so I turned it into a pendant with a spiral rope necklace. I am not in love with the color combo but hey at least I have finished something in the new house - so its all good.

Charade - Freeform Peyote Bracelet

2011-03-01T23:33:00.002-05:00

This is my latest freeform bracelet. I will not be doing too much beading in the next 2 weeks - I am moving to a new house and I haven't even started packing yet. I am freaking out over this move - so much to do it is scary. About this bracelet - size 6, 8 and 11 seed beads in turquoise. The focal is a 20mm howlite surrounded by turquoise and bronze beads. It is very beautiful and listed in my Etsy Shop. I have started a new bead embroidery cuff but don't know when I will get time to work on it - I need to pack up all my beads!!

Abra - Embroidery Cuff

2011-02-27T12:42:00.002-05:00

This is the finished cuff called "Abra". The focal is a Lisa Peters connector surrounded by tiger eye chips. The remainder of the cuff is LOTS of various seed beads, pearls, bugle beads and various other glass and metal beads - all in shades of brown, tan, gold, bronze and green. The cuff is 1 3/4 wide. I really like the way this came out - I had my doubts in the beginning but I am glad I didn't give up on the design. The cuff is very earthy and bold - you will be noticed if you are wearing this one! It is listed in my Etsy Shop here.

Bead Embroidery Cuff - More Work

2011-02-24T10:43:00.003-05:00

Moving right along on my new cuff. I have mixed feelings about it so far but I am going to continue. More work on this today and I hope to finish by the weekend. I do enjoy doing these and I think I would like one in either blue or silver - next.

New Bead Embroidery Cuff - Start

2011-02-22T09:18:00.003-05:00

This is the start to my new cuff. The focal is a Lisa Peters connector. It had wavy edges and I wanted to keep the edge showing so I surrounded it with chips. I am not sure where this is going next but I do know I will be working on it later today so we shall see. I like the tan, brown and green earthy colors - something different for me with the green.

Fringed Bracelets

2011-02-21T14:04:00.002-05:00

These are 2 new beaded fringed bracelets that I made. The first is called Bliss and has been sold. The second I just finished today is called Brown Sugar and I will be listing it in my Etsy Shop shortly. I enjoy making these bracelets and they look and feel great on the wrist. Both of these fit a 6 1/2 inch wrist - my size!! I am going to start a bead embroidery cuff next - I have the beads picked out and I am ready to go. A cuff takes me quite a bit of time so I will post in progress photos.

Twist of Lime - Freeform Peyote Bracelet

2011-02-20T08:42:00.002-05:00

Latest finished freeform bracelet Twist of Lime. I like it but if I had to do it over I would have used a dark green focal rather than the lemon yellow but otherwise it is a nice bracelet. I am enjoying doing the freeforms but have a commission to do next and then a bead embroidery cuff so freeform will be on hold for a bit but I know I will be back doing more soon. I think I am neglecting necklaces but hey I am in a bracelet state of mind right now.

More Freeform Fun

2011-02-16T13:50:00.004-05:00

So I am moving right along down the freeform road. The top photo is a bracelet called Pearl Talk - freeform peyote in a pearl white shade. I used size 6 and 8 beads and size 11 gold for accents. The focal is an old gold bead I had hanging around that was just begging to be used. I surrounded it with size 8, 6 and 11 beads and attached it and it was just the finishing touch this bracelet needed.

The bottom photo is the beginning stages on my next lime colored freeform. I marked my bead mat with guide lines - if I didn't the bracelet would just grow and grow. I hope to do more work on it later tonight. I think my next project may be a bead embroidery cuff - I have the colors all picked out - think earth tones with a Lisa Peters cab as the focal.

Pearl Freeform Bracelet - In Progress

2011-02-12T11:03:00.002-05:00

I started this new freeform bracelet last night but had to stop to go watch Fringe. This is my beginning stages - I know lots of people work their freeform horizontal but I prefer to work vertical. The finished bracelet has a nicer feel - the horizontal to me is stiffer - but that is just me and I have done freeform that way too. I am not sure where this is going next but so far I like it. I am enjoying doing freeform right now and see a few more in my future. I also like doing them in same shades for now but this could change too.

Sun Kissed - Freeform Peyote Bracelet

2011-02-11T11:36:00.003-05:00

So here is the latest finished freeform peyote bracelet and I must say I LOVE it. I am calling this one Sun Kissed - just because!!!! I didn't think I would like all the orange but I really do - the shades are different, there is lots texture and some shiny and some matte beads - makes for a nice mix. I have to say though it does not photograph well and I tried lots of different backgrounds - the focal seems to melt into the band in the pictures - not the case in person. I like doing freeform right now and plan another start later today - I am thinking all white or else lime greens - probably will end up doing both ; )

Freeform Bracelet

2011-02-09T15:37:00.002-05:00

I realized that I never posted a finished photo of my black freeform bracelet. I bought a tutorial on freeeform from Mikki Ferrugiaro and this is my result. I have done freeform before and I am never really happy with my results. This one came out great and I am so happy with it and guess what it is just my size ; )

I like my bracelets chunky so I used size 6 and 8 seed beads and a few size 11 here and there. Its about 2 inches wide at it widest point but that includes loops and mini fringe. Now I am off to finish the orange freeform and I know I am not done exploring just yet.

New Freeform Bracelet in Progress

2011-02-08T14:59:00.002-05:00

Well I think this is the worst photo I have ever taken or this orange bracelet is going to be a bitch to get a decent photo. I have ripped this one out a few times but I am a bit happier with it now - I need to work on the edges and maybe put in some type of a focal. Orange is not one of my favorite colors and I had planned on making this one pink and orange but here it sits all orange. Maybe I needed the brightness and warmth with all of the snow. I plan on doing more work on this tonight.

I have been doing a lot of reevaluation in my life lately especially in my art and beading. As far as beading goes I will keep on beading even after I move but I plan on doing more involved larger projects - things that make take longer but projects I find more satisfying and things I can learn from. Right now I am exploring freeform - like I said I have done freeform before but never to my liking and I am never comfortable working in freeform. I guess if I do a few of these I may change my mind.

Back To The Sea - Beaded Pendant and Necklace

2011-01-28T18:41:00.002-05:00

This is my newest jewelry creation Back To The Sea. The focal for this necklace is an Orthoceras I purchases at a rock and mineral shop in West Virginia. I surrounded it with black and pearl gray beads in size 8, 11 and 15. I wanted something a little different than just a spiral rope necklace and decided on some gray pearls with size 8 seed beads to start the necklace which was finished in a spiral rope. It has a silver loop and toggle closure. To learn more about Orthoceras click here. I really like the black and gray coloring in this necklace - it is understated yet elegant - like me ; )

Orthoceras - Beginning Steps

2011-01-25T10:48:00.003-05:00

So I have started to do the surrounding beadwork on my first Orthoceras and I am going with black and pearl grey. I have some idea about how I want to proceed but that can change in an instant - I guess that is the fun part - well maybe not. I do like it so far and I know I want the Orthoceras to be the star in this one. I hope to get more work done on this later today and I am going to try to make it happen.

Orthoceras - Say What??

2011-01-21T18:28:00.003-05:00

I visited a rock and mineral shop when we were in West Virginia this past fall. These are three of the things I bought. They are called Orthoceras - a long straight cephalopod from the Devonian Period 350 million years ago. These creatures lived in a shallow sea where Morocco is now. Orthoceras are identified by their straight shell with center siphuncle. The became extinct approximately 190 million years ago. I bought 3 - 2 small and one large. I am going to make these into necklaces - bead embroidery pendant with a matching rope necklace or maybe one into a collar - not sure yet. They are not easy to photo - they are black and grey and very shiny. This should be interesting ; )

Ghost - Beaded Pendant and Spiral Rope Necklace

2011-01-20T08:41:00.003-05:00

I just finished this bead embroidery pendant and spiral rope necklace entitled Ghost. The pendant features a square tan, cream and gray Lisa Peters cab focal. I matched it up with lots of cream and gray beads and added that little gray pearl to the bottom of the pendant. It measures 16 inched plus the loop and toggle closure and is in my Etsy Shop here. So now I am thinking about my next project - maybe another necklace or perhaps a bracelet - so many choices ; )

Pendant Peek

2011-01-16T09:55:00.004-05:00

This is the pendant I have been working on - almost finished and the next step will be the necklace. I am not sure what stitch I will use yet - spiral rope, herringbone, a combination with stringing. The focal is a square Lisa Peters cab. What I love about it is the unusual colors. I am enjoying working on this and I have decided to tilt the square on it side for the finished pendant. I hope to get this finished today - we will see how I do with that.

Night at the Opera - Beaded Fringed Bracelet

2011-01-11T16:02:00.002-05:00

This is my newest beaded fringed bracelet but not for long as I am working on another. This one is entitled Night at the Opera and composed of various beads in black, red and gold. It also has a beautiful black and gold button closure. It is listed in my Etsy Shop and if you use the coupon code HEART from now until Valentines Day you can take 10% off any item in the shop.

Two New Beaded Fringed Bracelets

2011-01-09T18:58:00.004-05:00

Two new beaded fringed bracelets for 2011. The top image is called "Blue Bird" and the bottom "Dark Side of the Moon". I really wanted to beadweave some bracelets after doing the huge bead embroidery collar project - these fringe bracelets are quick and fun to bead. I just started another one in black and red. These are also larger that I usually make - they will fit a 7 inch wrist or larger - I usually make everything to fit me 6 1/4 inch but find when I go to craft shows I am lacking in larger bracelets. Both are listed in my Etsy Shop.

The End is Near ; )

2010-12-28T13:16:00.003-05:00

So I have been snowed in here in NJ and I have been doing some beading on my collar. I am almost finished with the beading portion - just a little more and then I just need to put on the backing, edging and fringe. I must say doing the fringe is a major undertaking but really it is like the icing on the cake. I will be so glad when this is finished it just took too long and I lost interest on this one - but I resisted the temptation of starting anything else until this collar is completely finished. Soon........

Merry Christmas - 2010

2010-12-25T09:14:00.002-05:00

Christmas Party - Bracelet

Bead Embroidery Collar Three

2010-12-22T15:16:00.003-05:00

I haven't posted here in awhile in fact I haven't done much beading in awhile. I started this collar in PA this summer and now started working on it again. I don't know why I lost interest - maybe because a collar is such a big project or maybe I just needed a beading break. Anyway - I did a bit of work on it and will continue to work on it until I finish. I cannot decide if I should just push through and finish it or start something else too - I have to think about that. I do think when it is finished it will be quite beautiful - the colors are amazing and different. Now I just need to sit down and work on it.

Mermaid's Song - Bead Embroidery Cuff

2010-11-20T20:22:00.002-05:00

I am doing a craft show Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend so I thought it would be nice to finish this cuff to bring to the show. I haven't been doing any beading lately - started this in PA and took forever to finish. I like the finished product - love the copper and turquoise and I love the name. I will be adding it to my Etsy Shop next. I also have a bead embroidery collar about half finished that I need to get back working on - next.

Almost Finished

2010-11-03T19:07:00.003-04:00

The end is near - not too much work to finish this newest cuff. About an inch of beading, adhere to cuff blank and edge - and call it a day! Well lets see when I can fit this in - I have been doing a lot of painting and I am painting well so I need to take advantage of that stroke of luck.

Copper and Turquoise - more work

2010-10-30T12:06:00.003-04:00

I ended up doing some painting last night which didn't leave very much time to bead but I did some work on the new cuff. It is coming along nicely - hope to do a bit more sometime today. I am not in a hurry to finish this but I do have a show coming up Thanksgiving weekend and would like to finish the cranberry bead embroidery collar to bring to this show with this cuff as well - I better get moving cause time flies.

New Cuff Started

2010-10-29T14:05:00.002-04:00

Started a new bead embroidery cuff last night. I love the combination of turquoise and copper - I was thinking silver rather than copper but this looks so much better. I like this one already - maybe I can get more work done over the weekend. I also have a huge bead embroidery collar to finish which I started this summer.

Rust Never Sleeps - Bead Embroidery Cuff

2010-10-27T20:21:00.004-04:00

I finally finished this bead embroidery cuff - I am calling it "Rust Never Sleeps". It has a red jasper as the focal and hundreds of beads in shades of rust, copper, black and cream. It is 1 inch wide. I am off to list it in my Etsy Shop.

More Work on My Rust Cuff

2010-10-23T18:38:00.002-04:00

I did some more work on my rust cuff. I really need to sit down and finish this especially since I have a turquoise cuff in mind for my next project. I hope to get a block of time to work on this tonight. I have been spending a lot of time working on my art - I redid my Art Web Site - added some paintings to my Etsy Art Shop and have been painting. I am also thinking about selling my NJ house and buying a new one in the area - this is a BIG decision for me - I have lived in this house 32 years and I HATE change. Lots of things going on here but I never miss a meal ; )

Bead Embroidery Information

2010-10-18T08:36:00.005-04:00

I get a lot of questions about bead embroidery and I am no expert. I started bead embroidery about a year ago but I do love it. I like the freedom of never knowing where a piece might take me or even where that next bead is going to go in the design. You can of course plan out your designs and have more control, but I like the abstract nature of just going with the flow. I have always admired the great bead weavers Sherry Serafini and Heidi Hummli and their book Bead Art Embroidery Techniques is invaluable. I bought this book and just looked at it for some time never trying to actually do any bead embroidery. One day a bead friend Carol Dean Sharpe from Sand Fibers post this video by Sherry Serafini on FB and I just had to get started. So far I have made about 8 cuffs and 2 collars and am half way thru a third collar. I understand Sherry Serafini has a new book coming out next year - I can't wait.

So what are you waiting for - give bead embroidery a try. Maybe start with earrings and then move up to a cuff. Here are some other great bead Embroidery Artists:

Patrizia Tager Triz - Good Quill Hunting - Sedona Skye - Hanna Rachel

More Work on Rust Cuff

2010-10-17T16:11:00.004-04:00

Did a little more work on this cuff during the week - got nothing done over the weekend. Lots going on in Hutterland and some of it not good ; ( Anyway sometimes a cuff takes on a life of it's own and I just know where each bead is going - not so this one, I am doing more tearing out than I am beading - but in the end I will win - I always do.

Cellini Spirals

2010-10-13T19:43:00.003-04:00

My Earthy Swirl bracelet was included in this great article about the Cellini Spiral. There are some great tips and wonderful examples of this amazing stitch in this post. There are also links for some cool tutorials. This article is by Weaverbird Beads so stop by her Etsy Shop and have a look at some beautiful beaded jewelry.

New Cuff Started

2010-10-13T15:23:00.003-04:00

This is the new bead embroidery cuff I started last night. The focal is a red jasper and the surrounding beads are dark and a bit lighter copper. I originally wanted this one to be copper and turquoise but it had a mind of its own and doesn't want any turquoise added. Instead the contrast will be cream and black. This one will be 1" in width and hopefully finished soon as I have a turquoise cuff in mind for the next project ; ) I have been spending more time on my painting since I got back to NJ - I am in an abstract state of mind - but if I am painting well I need to take advantage of it. I am back painting with the Monday night group which I really enjoy.

Earth Angel - Finished Finally

2010-10-07T16:39:00.003-04:00

I actually finished something - about time. I started this cuff during the summer - but since I did nothing over the summer just sit and read - little was accomplished. My goal when I got back home was to finish this cuff and the cranberry collar I had started - 50% complete ; ) Notice I have no goal to clean my house - which looks like someone broke into it - oh well.

I love the coloring of this bead embroidery cuff. The focal is a paua shell cab and it is very iridescent, making it hard to photograph. The colors remind me of camouflage - but like I said on facebook you would get noticed wearing this cuff for sure. It is 1 3/4 inches wide and I really enjoyed making it - think I will make another - perhaps 1 inch this time.

Bead Embroidery Cuff Continued

2010-09-17T12:05:00.002-04:00

Making some progress on my shell focal cuff. When I get back to NJ I will finish it and get it glued to the cuff blank. I didn't do very much beading this summer - brought all my beads with me - maybe for me beading is more of a winter project. I also do not have a dedicated beading space or good lighting here in PA - but that is a poor excuse. When I finish this cuff I have a beautiful cranberry colored bead embroidery collar about 1/2 finished - that is next. I do like the way this is coming along and I love the neutral colors. I need to come up with a name soon.

Finally More Beading

2010-09-09T18:01:00.002-04:00

I finally sat down to do some beading last night. This is a bead embroidery cuff I started in the spring and just never really worked on it all summer. It is coming along nicely and I hope to get it finished sometime soon. I also have a bead embroidery collar started and about 1/3 finished - need to get going on that too. Well the summer is winding down fast so I should be beading more.

New Cuff

2010-08-25T17:25:00.002-04:00

Well I finally did some beading last night. I have been here in PA since May and have not done any beading at all. I have been painting, but mostly reading on the beach and doing not a lot of anything. This will be a new cuff - the focal is a shell cab and I am working it in neutral colors. Good thing I haven't forgotten how to bead ; )

Best Bead Giveaway Ever

2010-06-22T13:42:00.005-04:00

And I do mean best ever - Denise Yezbak Moore is offering this amazing giveaway to either 1 or 6 lucky people. You can enter and read all about it here on her wonderful blog. This is one giveaway you don't want to miss!!

Bead Embroidery Collar 3

2010-06-19T11:33:00.004-04:00

I finally had a little time to work on my newest collar last night on the deck - until I lost the light. It is coming along slowly but it is flowing nicely and I am loving the colors - I even have the name picked out for this one. I just wish I could get a nice big chunk of beading time to work. I have been painting, reading and taking an on-line digital art class - so I am not slacking off.

Some work on collar 3

2010-06-13T14:15:00.004-04:00

I sat on the deck last night and did a little beading - I love the colors in this collar - so different for me. I have been doing a lot of painting and reading and not much beading - but that is OK it is summer. I hope to get some more work going later today - raining here.

Two New Projects

2010-06-08T13:30:00.003-04:00

Its about time I blogged and about time I started some new beading projects. The first is going to be a collar - I have just a little bit of work done so far - not enough to tell if I like it or not. Also not enough for it to have any kind of flow yet. The second will be a cuff - just a bit of work on the focal shell so far - I never work on two projects at the same time so this will be interesting - wonder which will get the most attention. I have been painting a lot lately - figured I better get some beading started too.

Second Bead Embroidery Collar Finished

2010-05-24T17:34:00.003-04:00

I have finally finished my second bead embroidery collar and got around to taking some photos. I don't think the photos are that great but they will have to do for now. I really liked making this one and learned a lot along the way. I think my next project will be a bit more simple but I do know there are many more of these collars in my future.

Bead Embroidery Collar

2010-05-07T10:38:00.002-04:00

Moving along, although not to quickly. I really wanted to paint yesterday and I do again today - last night I watched some of my favorite TV shows (bones, fringe, mentalist) so I didn't get much beading done. Sometimes you need time off to do other things. This is a major project and I want it to be great - so I am willing to take my time and just let it flow.

Bead Embroidery Collar - A Little More Work

2010-05-03T14:01:00.003-04:00

I was up in PA this weekend so I really didn't have much time to work on the newest collar. I have done a bit of beading on both sides but not a lot of progress - I hope to get going on this again tonight. I am not in a hurry to finish this necklace - I am learning a lot and I am enjoying the process. It is coming together nicely but I have done quite a bit of ripping out - I am using a very limited color scheme with this one and I like the look - I was afraid it might get patchy but I don't think that is the case.

Tiger Eye Collar

2010-04-28T09:27:00.002-04:00

Not too much progress last night - but I did paint a great abstract so I can't complain. I also watched TV last night - which I don't usually do. This collar is a huge undertaking and I am not in a hurry, I want to enjoy the process.

New Collar - More Work

2010-04-27T09:21:00.003-04:00

I love the way this is progressing. I am happy with the colors and the placement of the beads. Once it starts to flow it takes on a life of its own. I hope to get some more work done later today - I want to work on the other side of the focal to start to see the balance - right now I need to go feed some hungry cats. I also see a painting session in my future too.

Second Collar - Beginning Stages

2010-04-26T12:25:00.002-04:00

After a rocky start and a lot of ripping out - I think my latest work is starting to flow. Since I have no set plan I really need to get a rhythm going in my bead embroidery. I think this one is on its way - I hope to get some more work done on this today but I really want to paint during the day and I also need to look thru my paintings to pick some out for upcoming art exhibits.

What I Am Working On - New Collar

2010-04-21T11:22:00.003-04:00

Just the beginning stages of my new collar - but I have the name picked out already. I hope to get some more work done on it today but I have some other mundane things to do too ; (

Wicked - Bead Embroidery Cuff

2010-04-20T09:19:00.004-04:00

I finished this cuff over the weekend but went up to PA to drop off some stuff for the annual migration so I am just blogging about it now. I just love the finished cuff and the name "Wicked" - the colors are so rich and the Lisa Peters button focal is amazing. I am enjoying making these cuffs and I just started the planning for a new bead embroidery collar. This will be my second collar and when I say planning I am using that term loosely - I just plan the shape and fit - the actual beads I haven't decided yet and of course the beading will be very abstract. I just know what shape it will be and it will have fringe - for me that is good enough to just jump in and start beading. This technique works for me but a more structured beader would probably have a fit working like I do. Well I am off to feed the cats I hope to have some progress with the collar to post next.

New Cuff Moving Along

2010-04-15T10:52:00.004-04:00

Got much better photos of the new cuff this AM. I am thinking of names and it needs to be a special name - I have a few in mind. The photos this morning are very true in color to the actual cuff - such rich jewel like tones - I am loving this one. It is coming together so easily - some I rip out more than I bead, this one is just flowing - all the pieces fitting just right. Boy a cuff seems so simple after making the collar - but a collar is next in my beading future and I don't need my Tarot cards to know this ; )

New Cuff - A Little More Work

2010-04-14T17:50:00.003-04:00

I am happy with this so far but then again I do not have much work done on it yet. I can also see it is going to be a bitch to photograph - it is so much nicer in person already. I hope to get going on it again in a bit and maybe get some beads on the other side to balance out the focal. Once I do that I can better see how it is shaping up - so far I love it.

New Cuff Started

2010-04-13T14:53:00.004-04:00

I bought a few things from Lisa Peters and love each and every one. I especially liked this button and decided to make it the focal of my next bead embroidery cuff. Just started but I have high hopes it will be a winner. I will be working on it later today and hope to see some direction as to what it wants to look like - since I don't plan it is always a surprise to me.

Forest Floor - Bead Embroidery Collar

2010-04-13T00:08:00.002-04:00

Well I have finished my first bead embroidery collar. It was a big undertaking but I did enjoy making it - even though I had no clue what the heck I was doing. There are some things I would do differently next time but I learned so much making this first one. I already have my next collar idea planned - I have started a new cuff using a Lisa Peters button as a focal so I will finish the cuff first. I sure do love bead embroidery and plan on doing a lot this summer in PA.

Bead Embroidery Collar - putting it all together

2010-04-10T11:04:00.005-04:00

Finally got all the pieces finished and I am trying to assemble the collar. Since I had no plan as usual, I am doing some trial and error techniques to finish this. I gave been ripping out just as much as I have been beading - another learning experience for me. I must say I have learned a LOT doing this one and there are some things I would have done differently. I guess if I didn't enjoy working this way I would plan better. This is also the way I paint so it works for me in the end - even though the end is sometimes hard to get to. Just a little more finishing to do on this one and I will be done.

I have a new embroidery cuff with a Lisa Peters focal started, but I think I may do a few small pieces like some earrings next - just to relax my eyes a bit. I plan on doing a lot of bead embroidery this summer. I have a ton of jewelry for sale in my Etsy and 1000Markets shops so I can bead what I want right now. I find I really like doing the bead embroidery - it is very abstract like my art. So I have planned a summer of Tarot study and bead embroidery - bring it on!

What I'm Still Working On

2010-04-05T12:04:00.003-04:00

These are the components that will be added to the large focal in the previous post. It will eventually be my first embroidery necklace. It will either be amazing or a total bust that I will rip out (especially since I have no idea what I am doing). So far I love it and talk about your learning experience. I have a few cuffs under my belt and I wanted to move up to a collar and this is a good way to ease into it. If it does not work out I really haven't lost anything but some time and I have gained a lot of experience.

What I Am Working On

2010-04-01T15:31:00.004-04:00

This is what I am working on now. I have no clue what I am doing but I am doing! I don't know if this will get finished, changed or ripped out but it is another learning experience for me. I am having fun so it ain't all bad. I also started a new cuff with a Lisa Peters cab and it will be fab!

Rust - Bead Embroidery Cuff

2010-03-28T14:11:00.006-04:00

This is the latest cuff finished. I am calling it "Rust". The focal is a coral cab surrounded by red aventurine chips. It has hundreds of size 15, 11, 8 and 6 seed beads and coral rondells covering its surface. All in shades of red, gold and red/orange. I really had problems getting this one to work - I spend a day beading and ripping out - I finally cut it all up. I refused to be defeated and started fresh the next day. I am happy I did - I really love this cuff. It is 1 3/4 in width and very showy. So I am planning my next cuff and will be taking the leap and trying a collar - pretty basic for the collar for the first on - I just want to get my feet wet! I have the focal and complimentary beads picked out and I like the color scheme. I just need to do some planning and get going.

Coral Cuff - Part Two

2010-03-26T10:25:00.004-04:00

Coral Cuff - the second coming - now this is more what I had in mind. I am glad I cut up the first start which you can see in the previous post. That was just not working for me. This start is much more interesting. It is all about the contrast between the textures, the smooth coral focal and the texture of the chips and larger beads - so far I am loving this. I cannot just live with something - jewelry or paintings, if I don't like the way they are headed I know I am not going to change my mind - they are not going to grow on me - quite the opposite. Also the first start was to symmetrical - I like things very abstract. This was a good decision.

Sometimes It Just Does Not Happen

2010-03-25T10:48:00.004-04:00

I started this cuff the other night and yesterday really started working on it. It was just NOT coming together - I unbeaded more than I beaded. I ripped it out so many times my hands were hurting. I just could not get this one flowing. About 1 in the morning I just gave up and cut it up. Well lets just say I gave up on that design idea. I will not be defeated by this coral cab - I have another idea and after I finish ripping out all the beads later today I will start fresh - so there!!!!!!

Ice Age - Bead Embroidery Cuff

2010-03-24T09:24:00.003-04:00

My newest OOAK bead embroidery cuff "Ice Age" . This one has a pearl and silver button as the focal and is made up of hundreds of pearls, chips, seed beads and cube beads in shades of white, ivory and pearl. I think it would be perfect for that June wedding. For some reason this cuff came together so easily unlike the new one I started last night - it is proving to be very difficult!

Finished Cuff and New Start

2010-03-21T17:46:00.004-04:00

The top photo is the finished cuff called "Mystic" The bottom photo is the new one I just started this weekend in PA - this will be called "Ice Age". Both are 1 inch wide. The new cuff all in white, is very textured and coming along nicely. I will be doing some more work on it tonight. I also have a red/orange one in the planning stages. I want to try my hand at a bead embroidery collar next. I have the beads and even the name picked out - I just need to zero in on the design and get started - soon.

Almost There

2010-03-17T18:31:00.004-04:00

Finished with the main beading now I just need to glue this to the cuff blank (which I just did) and then edge. This is my 6th cuff and I am continuing to learn from each one. I liken these to the abstract paintings I paint - every part of the piece is important - not just the focal. I want to keep the eye moving all over the bracelet and have all of it interesting. This is achieved by color, texture, pattern, movement, bead shape and finish. It is so much like a puzzle or collage where all the pieces must fit together to create a whole. I guess maybe this is why I enjoy doing the bead embroidery so much because it is so much like my paintings. I have my next piece in mind - well actually my next 2 cuffs planned and I want to try my hand at making a collar. I sure am having fun.

More Work on New Cuff

2010-03-17T11:16:00.002-04:00

Almost finished with my latest cuff. This one is just so beautiful I love the coloring - the turquoise with the copper. I should finish it today and glue it to the cuff blank - then just the edging and it will be finished. I am already planning my next cuff. I also want to try one without the cuff blank but need to think about a closure - I am not too keen on the hook and eyes so I need to research this.

Copper Canyon - Beaded Pendant and Spiral Rope Necklace

2010-03-16T09:42:00.003-04:00

I forgot to post this new pendant/necklace. I finished it over the weekend it is called Copper Canyon and is a bead embroidery pendant and spiral rope necklace. The center is a copper button used as the focal. It has many layers of seed beads in copper, black and cream surrounding it. The necklace is a spiral rope made using the same beads as the focal. It also has a smaller copper button that matches the focal as the closure. For some reason right now I am loving copper - it is such a rich warm color. I just started a new cuff in copper and turquoise - coming along nicely - photos soon.

Flamingo - Beaded Fringed Bracelet

2010-03-12T14:54:00.003-05:00

Just finished this fringed bracelet. The base is made up of pink seed beads size 6 and 11. It has many layers of fringe made up of different sizes of pink, rose and pearl beads. It has a handmade beaded button closure. I wanted to make something in between the bead embroidery but a new cuff is next.