Beads and Beading

[Jane&Andy]

Have any of the other beaders made the switch to CC yet?

here's some of the jewelry I've made:
tree agate
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4d738b3127cce9c1572096fbc00000026118AZN27Ny3btK

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf09b3127cce9d3a54b7392800000016108AZN27Ny3btK

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf09b3127cce9d3a5199799c00000016108AZN27Ny3btK

strawberry quartz and jade
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf09b3127cce9d3a54c5395a00000026138AZN27Ny3btK

[Jane&Andy]

green earrings
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf09b3127cce9d3a5124f81100000016108AZN27Ny3btK

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf09b3127cce9d3a6c2d39ae00000026138AZN27Ny3btK

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf09b3127cce9d3a699f798600000016108AZN27Ny3btK

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cc22b3127cce9dd68438d14100000026138AZN27Ny3btK

[Jane&Andy]

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cc24b3127cce9ddc9469430a00000026138AZN27Ny3btK
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5df37b3127cce9e2eda4f445800000016108AZN27Ny3btK
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5df37b3127cce9e2e788a44cc00000026138AZN27Ny3btK
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5df11b3127cce9f3a5ee8170000000016108AZN27Ny3btK

[Jane&Andy]

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5df11b3127cce9f3a5c5317ba00000016108AZN27Ny3btK

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dc27b3127cce9fa554e1289c00000016108AZN27Ny3btK

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dc03b3127cce90334568ab0d00000016108AZN27Ny3btK

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dc03b3127cce90334572ab1700000016108AZN27Ny3btK

[mmeblue]

This is one hobby I haven't gotten into, mainly because I don't wear much jewelry, but I wanted to tell you that your work is beautiful! :D

[Jane&Andy]

thanks. :D I wear more jewelry now than I did before I started making it. Its a fun hobby but can get expensive, well any hobby is like that. :p

[bunny nose]

HI Jane&Andy- I was on the beading thread over there as newlywed&happy.

Jumped over here, things look good here.

Haven't made much jewelry lately. Been out of work so money is a little tight, and like you said- any hobby is expensive.

I am going to Florida tomorrow for 3 weeks to my IL's home down there. When I was last there I found a beading store on my last day. So I have all my stuff packed and will be visiting that store as soon as I can. We don't have beading stores where I live.

As usual- your stuff is beatiful! Keep it coming!
Karen

[Jane&Andy]

Hi Karen. :)

I haven't done much beading lately either. These are all old pictures.

[Trillian]

Jane,

I've done some more recent beading, but I don't have it photographed! I think these are my most recent:
http://serendipitystyle.com/images/Bliss-NecklaceD.jpg
http://serendipitystyle.com/images/Myrna-BraceletD.jpg
http://serendipitystyle.com/images/Yelena-EarringsD.jpg

I'm pretty excited b/c I just launched a custom-design section on my site, too.

[Jane&Andy]

I love that bracelet Trillian - its gorgeous!

[jenahdawn]

I was just coming over to see if anyone started up 'our' thread, and Jane, you never disappoint me.

And I think I just figured out how to post pictures, but I don't have anything ready right now....

[meganth]

Gorgeous stuff ladies. I've started working on stuff again after taking a break. I've had too much on my plate.

I did take the day off of work yesterday and got a necklace, a bracelet and a few pairs of earrings done. Makes you wonder what we could accomplish if we didn't have to work!!!

[juliemag]

Gorgeous jewels ladies! I haven't posted in the beading thread in a dog's age, figure now is a good a time as any! :p

Here's one of the necklaces that's been a hot one for me. It's a double wrap necklace with a toggle clasp. I've been doing them in various colors.
http://images.snapfish.com/343%3C%3B%3A2%3B23232%7Ffp58%3Dot%3E232%3C%3D9%3A7 %3D%3B34%3DXROQDF%3E2323937998%3A%3B5ot1lsi

[kadee_29]

Ive been wanting to get into this. I made my daughter and some of her friends matching bracelets but thats about it.

I need to find a good place in my house that can be just for me and my stuff.

[Jane&Andy]

juliemag - I really like that necklace - thats a really neat idea. :)

[jlp]

Hey, Jane! You're all over the place here at CC! :D Good call starting the beading thread.

Here's some new stuff:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d836b3127cce926f184119c000000015108QbOWrRu5aY
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5db05b3127cce919296d22c0a00000016108QbOWrRu5aY
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dd26b3127cce90c089f72c3400000016108QbOWrRu5aY

[jlp]

And, some old stuff:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf31b3127cce9c58608cb43b00000016108QbOWrRu5aY
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf31b3127cce9c58608d350a00000016108QbOWrRu5aY
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf31b3127cce9c586177756800000016108QbOWrRu5aY
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf39b3127cce9c58617031fe00000016108QbOWrRu5aY
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf39b3127cce9c58617e31f000000016108QbOWrRu5aY

[jlp]

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf39b3127cce9c586179b0c700000016108QbOWrRu5aY
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cc01b3127cce9deeafd229e200000016108QbOWrRu5aY
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cc01b3127cce9deeac40e8d900000016108QbOWrRu5aY
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cc01b3127cce9deeacb2e82b00000016108QbOWrRu5aY
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cc01b3127cce9deeac83692a00000016108QbOWrRu5aY
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5dc28b3127cce9049319a171800000015108QbOWrRu5aY

[Jane&Andy]

I'm bored so I post a lot. :p

gorgeous stuff jlp! I love that red and purple set! :D

[jlp]

Hi, Jane!

That red and purple set is actually orange and purple. My cousin is getting married at the end of September, and those are her colors. (I'm doing the invites too - 300 of them! :eek: I need to get the paper ordered so I can get started.)

[Jane&Andy]

I still like it, even if its orange. :)

[jenahdawn]

bumping. Jane, I KNOW you made a fun necklace......

[Jane&Andy]

ouch, you're twisting my arm! :p

here's what I made last weekend:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d924b3127cce92c1c7a3ad7700000016108AZN27Ny3btK
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d924b3127cce92c1c092eddd00000016108AZN27Ny3btK
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d924b3127cce92c1c74fad9b00000016108AZN27Ny3btK

[jlp]

JANE!! I'm absolutely IN LOVE with the bracelet and green necklace! Of course, the blue necklace really caught my eye too. :D

You can really tell that you get lots of opportunities to hit bead shops. You always have a great variety of beads in your designs. I feel like all I use are crystals. While they are beautiful, and I love the look of them, I wish I had access to more choices. It's so hard ordering online. Sometimes what I order, and what I receive isn't what I was thinking of.

There is a Paint-your-own-Pottery place near us. They just added a "Bead Bar". I'm dying to get over there to check it out!!
http://www.cros.net/aturinsky/index.htm

[Jane&Andy]

thanks Jen. :D

It's so hard ordering online. Sometimes what I order, and what I receive isn't what I was thinking of.

thats why I don't do much ordering online anymore. I buy crystals and a few other beads from Artbeads.com and everything else is bought at various stores around me. There are two shops only about 10 minutes from my Mom's house - one is pretty small but the other one has quite a few beads and always has the most gorgeous display necklaces. I've been really lucky with having such easy access to so many great shops.

[taraw]

Jane&Andy, I just saw your post in the thread for posting pictures of crafts you are proud of. Your post made me venture over to this thread. You do amazing work! Do you sell any of your pieces? You really should. :) Your last post said that you buy most of your supplies from small local shops. I suppose big craft stores like hobby lobby don't have the same quality and selection? I am going to have to do some searching to see if there are any of these bead stores near where I live.

[Jane&Andy]

thanks Tara. :D I've sold a few things here and there but haven't really found a market to sell my stuff in. I end up giving away a lot of it as gifts. Although I've taught my sisters how to bead so now they can make their own stuff (and are less interested in receiving it as gifts).

Your last post said that you buy most of your supplies from small local shops. I suppose big craft stores like hobby lobby don't have the same quality and selection?

the big craft stores actually sell quite a bit of beads and supplies but the quality just isn't as good as the smaller stores. I buy beading wire (beadalon) there and other supplies (my pliers, beadboard - for laying out and measuring pieces) but I stick to buying my beads from local stores or websites (like Artbeads, INMCrystals, Fire Mountain Gems).

[Daniel's Kitty]

Wow. I love the pictures!

I could get myself into trouble here. I love doing beadwork, and I am starting to branch into some wire. I enjoy making earrings and do some that have fishing lures on them and some that are normal. I like making necklaces since they require less of a mess though.

I have never ordered stuff online, but we have a couple of great stores that always have some really fun stuff. Hobby Lobby does have some interesting stuff depending on what you are looking for.

I just wish I could find a place to sell stuff, I could have so much fun finding interesting beads that way. I used to sell it through my mom when I was little but that hasn't worked in years. My mom quit when she was promoted. I wind up giving a lot of people Christmas or birthday gifts.

[jengen]

Beautiful stuff, ladies!! I've been so busy with making jewelry for two July 1st weddings (one was my sister's) that I haven't even posted most of my latest stuff on my site. Here is the necklace I made for my sister's BM's...the dresses were the exact same shade as the rose quartz:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d924b3127cce92cce3c70c7e00000035108AbM2Llu4aNQ

[jlp]

Beautiful, Jen! I'd like to see more please. :)

[emschwar]

I had my first foray into beading today. Here's what I came up with:
http://images.costcophotocenter.com/3444365923232%7Ffp4%3Enu%3D3235%3E33%3B%3E437%3EWS NRCG%3D32323873%3A4774nu0mrj
I might undo it and do something else. I'm not sure. I like it, but I kind of want to keep playing :)

[Jane&Andy]

very pretty emschwar. :)

[Jane&Andy]

emschwar - Have you checked out Accent Bead Shop? Its a huge shop by White Flint Mall
Accent Bead Shop (http://www.accentsbeads.com/)

Bead Bungalow (http://www.beadbungalow.com) is a good one too but its in Annapolis (near me but a bit of a drive for you).

[emschwar]

I'll have to check those out, Jane. Although both are pretty far from me. So far, it's just Michaels and Joanns.

[Jane&Andy]

Accent beads is REALLY big but they don't have much in the way of loose beads. But they have an enormous selection of gemstone strands and lots of swarovski pearls (and crystals too but I buy those online b/c its cheaper). They have quite a bit of silver but that and the gold beads and various findings are all kept behind the counter (which is a pain).

Bead Bungalow is small but has a big selection of loose glass beads. I've taken classes there and been happy with the instructors.

Just figured I'd give you a little more info on the stores before you decide to drive out to either one. I know there are more around here (I found those by doing a google search), I just haven't checked them out.

[emschwar]

Thanks, Jane. I'll have to search and see if I can find one closer to columbia. With the baby, it's hard to travel far to shop (he hates shopping!).

[Jane&Andy]

I can see how that would make it difficult. We've taken my neices with us to bead shops but only when they were young and asleep (younger than your boy). I haven't been to Accent beads in awhile, its 30min each way for me and I don't usually have anything else to do in that part of town, so its a lot of driving just for 1 errand.

[emschwar]

Yeah, he gets ticked when I try to shop. (Especially if I'm in one aisle for a long time. He's ok, to an extent, as long as the cart keeps moving.)

Have you ever heard of:
PQR CRAFTS
6542 BELLEVIEW DR
COLUMBIA, MD
Ph: 410 997-8006

I was trying to google for a bead shop in columbia, and that's what I found, but I can't find anything out about it. I could call, but that's too easy ;)

[Jane&Andy]

nope, never heard of that place. But I do have a beading magazine at home that lists shops by state. I'll look at it tonight and post info on any others in MD.

[emschwar]

Thanks, that'd be great!

[Daniel's Kitty]

I like the blue color.

If I ever figure out how to post pictures I will have to put some of my stuff here.

[Georgiana]

Aside from Quilting, Mosiacs, Painting,Interior Design and Photography, This is one hobby I want to get into!

A WC friend of mine does beading and she does an awsome job! She is so good that she does shows and alot of the WCer's order their bridal/bride's maid jewelry from her. She has definately put the beading bug in me!

Suscribing!

[Jane&Andy]

emschwar - I haven't forgotten you! well, I kinda have, but not entirely. I'll try to remember to dig up my beading magazines to look for local stores for you tonight.

[bunny nose]

Jane&Andy - Any chance you can look for beading stores in my area also? I've tried searching- but to no avail.

Thanks
Karen

[Jane&Andy]

no problem Karen.

emschwar - there's only 1 more listed for MD:
Beads & Crystals of Frederick
5732 Buckeystown Pike (I 270- exit 3A)
Frederick
301-694-4900

that one is really far from me but I'm not sure where you are.

Karen -
Beads World
1384 Broadway
New York City
212-302-1199

New York Beads Inc
1026 Avenue of the Americas
New York
212-382-2994

Are Tivoli, Troy, Smithtown, Cold Spring or Croton-on-Hudson anywhere near you? Those are the only other listing aside from some in Upstate NY.

[bunny nose]

Thanks Jane&Andy - the two you listed are in Manhattan- only a ferry and subway ride away. The others are all too far for me. I guess beading isn't that big here. Oh well. I guess I will have to take a trip into Manhattan one day.

Thanks so much!
Karen

[emschwar]

Can anyone recommend a good kind of wire to use for making necklaces? Something not too pricey, and available at Michaels or Joanns. Thanks :)

[Alioop12345]

Em- I use the nylon coated wire. Sometimes I use Memory Wire too.



Does anyone know where to find a pattern for Heirloom Stitch bracelet? I was going to take a class at my bead store but they still don't have it listed and I am itching to make one....it's really beautiful.

Thanks!

[suzubeane]

I did not know about the other thread, but I'll be lurking here; I don't have time for a hobby right now since I'm remodeling my home. But I still have all the beads leftover from when I beaded in high school (almost 25 years ago, guys!) Beads and supplies are so much more readily available now with the internet, plus I now live in Providence, which - as the heart of the costume jewelry industry - has no shortage of places to purchase finings.

I'm hoping to get my daughter into this eventually – at nine, she's old enough to start now.

[kemaji]

Can anyone recommend a place online that sells good quality semi-precious stones for a reasonable price? I'm specifically looking for peridot (my birthstone).

TIA!

[jlp]

I get most of my beads from Fire Mountain Gems (FMG).
http://www.firemountaingems.com/search.asp?skw=peridot

The beadshop.com has BEAUTIFUL beads, but they are rather pricey.
http://www.beadshop.com/shoponline/beads/gemstones/gemstones-peridot.aspx

Hope that helps!

[Amuse Bouche]

I just picked this up again after a long time -- I wasn't finding jewelry of the kind I liked in my price range so I thought I'd make some. My first project was a necklace with jade, carnelian and quartz crystal, but I don't have pics. I'll have to take some. I buy most of my supplies online because it's cheaper and more convenient -- firemountaingems.com and jewelrysupply.com are the two I usually shop from, but I'd love more sources!

[gnatters]

I usually get my gemstones from either e-bay radiatebeauty (http://stores.ebay.com/Pendants-and-More_W0QQssPageNameZstrkQ3amefsQ3amesstQQtZkm) is my favorite source on there. For websites with reasonable gemstones, I go to Vitabeads (http://www.vitabeads.com). I have noticed they have the best prices outside of e-bay for gemstones and especially mother of pearl flowers.

I made this necklace from a 30-35mm MoP flower pendant from vitabeads, 6mm Rosaline Swarovski beads and seed beads:

http://photobucket.com/albums/a91/gnatters/th_Florence.jpg

Happy to help!

~Natalie

[jenahdawn]

So, I have a little problem....

I had a two day show this weekend, and SOOOOO many people at this show (and my last) were interested in these two necklaces. I had one in blues, one in clear. And, I sold them both.......and didn't take a picture beforehand...I have a HUGE two days show next weekend, and would probably sell a few more......but......

Yeah, stupid me can't remember QUITE how I made it.....oh, well....another new design, I guess. :o

[LRL]

I thought I might ask you ladies if you have ever seen the type of bead that I am looking for. My co-worker went on vacation at Punta Mita, Mexico, and bought a couple of necklaces with beads that are beyond gorgeous. I've seen a ton of different types of beads, but have never seen these.

The beads were clear, no rainbow effect, very translucent, and reflected light like crazy. The light reflection was a yellow tone, and this is without facets. The beads that she had were oval largish beads. Now she tells me that these are Opal, but I don't think that the necklace would have cost only $25 if that were the case, plus I don't think that opal is that translucent. The closest I can find is opal moonstone quartz. Does anyone know if this is what I am looking for? It's definitely not a coating on the bead that is making these reflections.

I think I might have to take my camera to work for the next time she wears it! :) TIA!

[nektarine]

The beads were clear, no rainbow effect, very translucent, and reflected light like crazy. The light reflection was a yellow tone, and this is without facets. The beads that she had were oval largish beads. Now she tells me that these are Opal, but I don't think that the necklace would have cost only $25 if that were the case, plus I don't think that opal is that translucent. The closest I can find is opal moonstone quartz. Does anyone know if this is what I am looking for? It's definitely not a coating on the bead that is making these reflections.

LRL... sounds like it might be Mexican Opal, which can range from a milky yellowish white, to a deep russet orange. just a hunch! it is cheaper than australian or even lab-created opals.
http://mywebpages.comcast.net/BeauxBeads/images/opalfirebriosheart040626.jpg

moonstone also comes in a range of colors, from greyish to peach, but is more milky and less translucent.
http://www.firemountaingems.com/images/P3921GSB.jpg

another possibility is pineapple quartz (http://artgemsinc.com/Content/SearchResults.asp)...which is a manmade stone, and much cheaper than the others.
it has almost a mountain-dew yellow gleen to it.

or maybe even smooth citrine?

you should take a pic!


************************************************** ******

i'd like to follow along here more regularly than i did on the "other site". i used to make jewelry back in highschool, and then stopped for a while. i got back into it for christmas last year, and made many of my gifts!

i mostly do beading, but i'd love to learn more about metalsmithing. i've got the PMC set, so i figured i would teach myself a few things with that first...and then maybe take a class somewhere {ahem, once i finish what i am already in school for!}.

here's a few of my christmas gifts from last year...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/kstar770/jan05065.jpg
sapphires and crystal, 14K gold

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/kstar770/randompics014.jpg
sapphires and goldfill chain


and a more recent creation!
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v326/kstar770/0ccf80fd.jpg


i wish i had more time, and funds for supplies! often, i end up taking pieces apart to re-use the stones.

[happy]

I have just taken up beading and am planning on selling my stuff. I have some "organizational" questions for you.

1. Please show me the storage container do you use for loose beads and supplies. (we don't have a lot of storage space and my current baby food jars are taking up to much room)

2. What do you use to store your finished products? (please show me if possible)

3. What do you use to display your products.

4. How do you get your pictures to look so great? Are there any digital camera tricks that I am missing?

Thanks for your help.

[nektarine]

where did all the jewelry-makers go?


here's is a site that a friend told me about...Donate your crafts to help Katrina Survivors! (http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=3146)

i thought some of you might be interested!

[Trillian]

I am selling a bunch of my jewelry displays. I have an ad in CC's classified ads, here (http://www.constantchatter.com/classifieds/showcat.php?cat=25&page=).

[Trillian]

happy, here's the best resource I can recommend:

The Switchboards (http://www.theswitchboards.com/forum)

[happy]

Thank you for that link. It has been very helpful. As soon as I take some pictures ofmy stuff I will post some pictures of it.

[happy]

Here are a few pic's that I took today. They are not that great but you get the idea :) http://images.snapfish.com/3449866723232%7Ffp47%3Dot%3E2323%3D%3B9%3A%3D734%3 D3232%3B9%3A643959nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/3449866723232%7Ffp47%3Dot%3E2323%3D%3B9%3A%3D734%3 D3232%3B9%3A643957nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/3449866723232%7Ffp58%3Dot%3E234%3B%3D9%3B6%3D84%3A %3DXROQDF%3E2323%3A%3A976%3A39%3Aot1lsi

http://images.snapfish.com/3449866723232%7Ffp64%3Dot%3E2323%3D%3B9%3A%3D734%3 D3232%3B9%3A643953nu0mrj

[happy]

http://images.snapfish.com/3449866723232%7Ffp63%3Dot%3E234%3B%3D9%3B6%3D84%3A %3DXROQDF%3E2323%3A%3A976%3A3%3A8ot1lsi

http://images.snapfish.com/3449866723232%7Ffp3%3B%3Dot%3E2323%3D%3B9%3A%3D734 %3D3232%3B9%3A643965nu0mrj


http://images.snapfish.com/3449866723232%7Ffp63%3Dot%3E234%3B%3D9%3B6%3D84%3A %3DXROQDF%3E2323%3A%3A976%3A3%3A4ot1lsi


http://images.snapfish.com/3449866723232%7Ffp64%3Dot%3E2323%3D%3B9%3A%3D734%3 D3232%3B9%3A643955nu0mrj

[Daniel's Kitty]

If I only have a few beads I use a medicine bottle, or I get small plastic zip bags from craft stores.
Either one of these can be then put into plastic shoe box sized boxes. It keeps it all pretty well organized.

[happy]

Does anyone know what these stones are called?

http://images.snapfish.com/3449934%3B23232%7Ffp47%3Dot%3E2323%3D%3B9%3A%3D%3A 25%3D3232%3B9%3A934%3A24nu0mrj

I am trying to write descriptions of my jewelry but I have no idea what these are. Thanks

[Chris'slady]

I have made a few necklaces in the past, but happy those necklaces you are making our gorgeaus.
I'm so jealous they our beautiful. Everyones are.

Were do you get the beads?
and the clips to put the necklace on? I'm very interested on how to do it.

[mlfallis]

? - Ok does anyone know where you can buy already made necklaces??? I love all of the ones posted but I am not crafty and would like some for my upcoming wedding.

[vjel]

chris's lady, you can get all this jewelry making stuff at Michael's or any craft story really. That would prob be a good place to start if you're just beginning to make stuff. I know others here buy from Fire Mountain Gems. I usually go to a bead shop at one of the malls around here.

mlfallis, I'm sure any of the ladies here would be able to make you something if you want. Also, Carrie D Mader (http://www.redcross.org) makes some beautiful jewelry as well. She is a former WC bride. Or you can go to any department store and find stuff there (Lord and Taylor, Nordstroms, Hechts, etc. all carry beaded jewelry). HTH!

[Jane&Andy]

Chris'slady - I buy a lot of my supplies at local bead shops (found some just using google). I also order from artbeads.com and Fire Mountain Gems.

mlfallis - many people on here make jewelry to sell. Talbots sells some pretty beaded jewelry and RondaKelly.com (http://www.rondakelly.com/) is my sister's friend's website. She makes some gorgeous jewelry.

[mlfallis]

vjel and Jane&Andy: Thanks for the website I will have to check them out.

[luzbel]

I also do beads and beading! :D
So happy to have found this many people who share the craft.
Happy what's the center stone of the last photo in your second to last post? I have one exactly like it and have no idea what the name is

[Alioop12345]

just wanted to post a pic of a bracelet I made at beading class last night. It's called Embellished Heirloomhttp://img.photobucket.com/albums/v639/Alioop12345/5e2e9e38.jpg

I was so happy with how it turned out. It was relatively simple too!

[happy]

Does anyone make napkin rings? I had someone ask me for some and I am having a hard time thinking of a creative design. If you have made any or know of any cute ones that I can look at please show me.

luzbel- I don't have any idea what any of my stones are called. I need to start looking into that next time I go to the bead store.

[vjel]

happy, I see beaded napkin rings all the time but they are typically similar in design. Here's some from Crate and Barrel:

http://images.crateandbarrel.com/is/image/CrateandBarrel/TwistBeadedNapRingBluSlvr?$lg$
the design on this is hard to figure out but it looks like it its just twisted?
http://images.crateandbarrel.com/is/image/CrateandBarrel/WideMultiBeadNapRingRedOrng?$lg$
http://images.crateandbarrel.com/is/image/CrateandBarrel/GoldBeadSprayClusterNapRing?$lg$

[vjel]

from Pier 1 Imports:

http://www.pier1.com/images/catalog/G61646D.jpg
http://www.pier1.com/images/catalog/G63868D.jpg
http://www.pier1.com/images/catalog/G40611d.jpg

some of these napkin rings look time consuming b/c of the amount of beads! It'd almost be easier for your friend to buy them! ;)

[jenahdawn]

This STYLE in general wouldn't be hard to do or time consuming, once you get in the groove of it.
http://www.pier1.com/images/catalog/G61646D.jpg

[meganth]

I have 4 different styles of napkin rings that i make. Once you get it figured out it's pretty simple, just pretty time consuming making the same thing 8 times.

[happy]

Meganth - do you have a picture of the ones that you make? If so I would love to see them.

[meganth]

Not on me but vjel posted some good examples for you.

[Jane&Andy]

I haven't been beading much lately but a friend asked me to make something for her to wear to a wedding. Here's what I made:
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d709b3127cce941b726ca8df00000016108AZN27Ny3btK
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d709b3127cce941b725b29d800000016108AZN27Ny3btK

[jenahdawn]

Ooooooo...Jane, I LIKE that! LOVE the colors.

I've been making watches lately, since I keep selling them.

[Jane&Andy]

thanks Jenah. :)

[lil_nance]

Jane I LOVE that necklace! It's gorgeous.
Jenah Would you be willing to share some pictures of your watches? Do you use a clasp or stretchy cording? I have the watch piece but have been trying to figure out where to start. Measurements would be great too. THANKS.

[jenahdawn]

I normally don't post pictures of my work, but I'll see what I can do. (It'll be at LEAST 8 hours, since I have to charge the camera batteries.)

Plus, I am about to start a VERY complicated one...and, fair warning, I am NOT the photographer in the family.....so, in a few hours, I will....

I have two that are stretchy, but those aren't what people want. (They want those in bracelets, but I don't like using it, unless it if for kids or a special order) So, clasps. I tends to go a little big on watches so I can adjust down, but I have also found most people WANT them on the bigger side.

And a lot of people are "freaks" like me. I am right handed and wear my watches on my right wrist, which is a HAIR bigger than my left.

[jenahdawn]

With the boards being messed up, I don't know if this will work.

Four of my watches. The last one took me 2 1/2 hours and is quite intricate, but I am, I repeat, NOT the family photographer.

http://images.snapfish.com/344%3B536%3B23232%7Ffp45%3Dot%3E233%3A%3D493%3D9%3 B5%3DXROQDF%3E2323%3B43%3B35259ot1lsi

http://images.snapfish.com/344%3B536%3B23232%7Ffp58%3Dot%3E233%3A%3D493%3D9%3 B5%3DXROQDF%3E2323%3B43%3B3525%3Bot1lsi

(Doesn't look like it's going to work....)

[happy]

Hi ladies,

I finally figured out how to make some napkin rings.

Let me know what you think of them.

http://images.snapfish.com/344%3B583923232%7Ffp7%3Enu%3D325%3A%3E8%3C5%3E759% 3EWSNRCG%3D3232%3C372%3B3475nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/344%3B583923232%7Ffp7%3Enu%3D325%3A%3E8%3C5%3E759% 3EWSNRCG%3D3232%3C372%3B3477nu0mrj

http://images.snapfish.com/344%3B583923232%7Ffp58%3Dot%3E2323%3D%3C37%3D3%3A3 %3D3232%3C372%3B2929nu0mrj

[lil_nance]

Jenah, thanks for the pics. It gives me a better idea of what I'm trying to do. Yours look absolutely gorgeous. I know mine will be on the simple side probably just single strand. Have you or would you ever use a toggle clasp? I usually only make earrings and necklaces so bracelets/watches feel like a foreign world to me.
Wearing your watch on you right is not odd, I do that too. :D

[jenahdawn]

Yeah, I've used toggles on them, but I usually use them for other projects, so I tend to use box clasps, because they are pretty sturdy...plus, for the bottom one, it's kind of necessary. (I wish I had a better picture of it)

[bluebunny]

Wow! So many talented people on this thread. I love all the beaded jewelry! Any suggestions on how to get started? I'd like to learn. Did you all take a class or what?

[jenahdawn]

I can't speak for anyone else, but I have only taken one class, years after I got started, to learn how to make one piece.

Otherwise, it's all trial and error.

[Jane&Andy]

I took a few classes at a local bead shop. I tried learning from some books but I wasn't doing things quite right. The classes helped a lot and were fun.

[amyintn]

bluebunny I'm just starting to learn, too! When I went to Michael's today to see what kind of stuff they had or if they had any classes, they had these little kits. The kits have all the stuff in them to make 4 different pairs of earrings and it walks you through it, explaining it step by step. They were only 5.99. Of course, you have to have your wire cutters and round nose pliers to do them.

I've found them very helpful for a learning experience.

[MrsCantDecide]

You girls make GORGEOUS stuff!

Jane ~ I know who you made that last set of necklace and earrings for, I thought it was gorgeous when she posted it then too! Where did you get the Sapphire crystals? I know Artbeads.com doesn't have them. :)


Does anyone here MAKE their own glass beads?

I just started making jewelry, I had been making mostly just the glass beads. Since getting pg, I haven't felt comfortable making the glass beads, so instead I've been just making jewelry! I just made a bunch of sets of earrings for a girl here at my work for her wedding, but I have trouble figuring out how to photograph earrings.

This is a bracelet I made last weekend (yeah ignore my crappy phototaking!):
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y68/stef842/bracelets.jpg

And these are bracelets I've made with my own glass beads:
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y68/stef842/STLgrandmasbracelet.jpg

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y68/stef842/MNgrandmasbracelet.jpg

[jenahdawn]

MCD, I'm really digging the matte ones you have (In the pictures, it's the coppery colored ones and the light blue)

I don't use a lot of "chunky" glass beads because I don't know what to do with them, but I always wanted to learn how to make them anyway!

[nektarine]

haven't been able to check in here in a while, good to see that other people are being productive with the jewelry making! :)

i just went to a gem & mineral show on sunday, the first one i've been to in a while. i took my DH along this time, and was expecting him to be bored out of his mind, and instead he was fairly interested, not to mention helpful! i also picked up some great deals! there's still a lot going on with school for me, but i want to start playing around with my new beads more than anything!

nice beads MCD!
i have a lot of homemade ceramic beads (not made by me though!) that remind me of the matte ones you posted. and i've also been sort of clueless as to what to do with them. i usually work with wire & chain, and the holes in all the beads seem huge compared to the stones that i am used to dealing with.

[bluebunny]

amyintn, I think I might check out that kit at Michael's. I might look into taking a class somewhere if I can find one. What a cool hobby!!

[happy]

Hi Ladies,

I need to make earings for a flower girl. The bride want pearl studs with a small dangle. How do I do this? Is there some kind of stud that I can buy and attach the pearl to that? Does anyone have any ideas? Please let me know.

Thanks

[nektarine]

happy....

there are studs with flat tops you could buy, like this-->
http://www.firemountaingems.com/images/P1641FNB.jpg

but it depends on the shape of the pearl, and it might be tricky adding a dangle. ?

maybe you could buy one like this instead, and just place the pearl over the design on the stud-->
http://www.beadshop.com/shoponline/images/earrings/603E68.jpg

that one is here. (http://www.beadshop.com/Earrings-603E68.aspx)

[happy]

Thanks for the help. I think that I will get the kind with the loop at the bottom for a dangle.

[nektarine]

any time!
that would probably be your best bet, good luck.

[Alioop12345]

Just posting my latest

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v639/Alioop12345/PICT0036.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v639/Alioop12345/PICT0033.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v639/Alioop12345/PICT0032.jpg

I've been feeling more adventuresome lately and am trying osme new stuff. FUN!

[BonBon06-11-05]

My Goodness! I just want to compliment you all on how beautiful your creations are! Can anyone recommend "how to" books on making beaded jewelry? I would love to learn how. :)

[craftgenius]

Hello ladies...

Check out the jewelry I made for my friend's wedding...
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5ce37b3127cce94f328390caa00000015108AZuGTdi5bNL

A few more items...
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4db32b3127cce9a107b4749b600000016108AZtWzZk5ZNp

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5db02b3127cce91881aa427a800000016108AZtWzZk5ZNp

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d823b3127cce925919e76b1c00000016108AZtWzZk5ZNp

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d823b3127cce925907066bf200000016108AZtWzZk5ZNp

[snowzilla]

No time to upload pictures of my own stuff, but I have been following along in this thread and really enjoying it!

I decided to clean out my supplies today, much to my husband's delight, and I have some Swarovski beads for sale - I have an ad in the classifieds section (http://www.constantchatter.com/classifieds/showproduct.php?product=129&sort=2&cat=25&page=1)if anybody is interested in supporting their bead addiction, and getting my hubby off my back about all of the beading supplies I'm sitting on. :p

[Kanika]

Hi,

I'm new to these boards but I do have a little something to contribute to this thread. I'm a newlywed and for our wedding I made my own bouquet out of seed beads. There were 20,000 beads and 6 months worth of work in this bouquet. What do you guys think?

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5df23b3127cce9e7588854eba00000016108Absmzdu4cMz
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5df32b3127cce9e0d8d779f5b00000026108Absmzdu4cMz

[Jane&Andy]

MrsCantDecide - oops, sorry I missed your question from last month about that pendant - I haven't been beading much lately so I haven't really been keeping up with this thread. Anyway, I bought the pendant at a local shop.

gorgeous work everyone!

[Smiley124]

Bumping this up!

Everyone's stuff is so gorgeous! I was inspired by this thread and mentioned to my MIL that I wanted to start beading. So, she got me a ton of beads and supplies for Christmas. I still haven't made my first attempt - I'm not really sure where to start or how to work with the wire. I need to go get a book or take a class but I haven't gotten to that point yet. I am going to see if I can find any "how to's" through google, but if anyone can recommend any helpful websites, that would be great!

I'd also love to see more of everyone's work!

[FoxyBlue]

What metals do you all use? Does anyone work primarily in precious metals, or do you mix?

What is a good basic guage(s) to start with? I really am just messing around to get a feel for it, but the one wire I got is too soft to holid its shape.

I'm curious because I like sterling silver, but I wondered if it's more pracical to use a harder metal. Or if anyone even works entirely with SS.

[maxandmolly]

So, this is my new bad spending habit! I complimented a co-worker on her jewelry last week, she said she had made it herself, and now here I am! But I am finding it a very expensive new hobby-I've been to Michael's 4 times in the last week.
Right now I am just doing very basic simple stuff with the value pack beads and such-you ladies have such GREAT stuff!

[nektarine]

So, this is my new bad spending habit! I complimented a co-worker on her jewelry last week, she said she had made it herself, and now here I am! But I am finding it a very expensive new hobby-I've been to Michael's 4 times in the last week.


wait until you go to your first gem show! then it really starts to get dangerous!

i made a few pieces for christmas gifts (and one necklace for myself!), but i haven't gotten around to uploading any pics.

[maxandmolly]

Yeah, I don't think I can allow myself to go in a place like that. I have no self-control!

[maxandmolly]

Ok, a little help, fellow beaders:
WHY can I not get the hang of turning head pins? I keep mangling them. They turn too much, or too little, or the loop is too big, or too small. What am I doing wrong?

[trestlegirl]

Does anyone around here set their own stones? I keep seeing beautiful bracelets made with beach glass, set in silver, and I want to learn how to do that...would be a good way to use some of the ever increasing piles of beach glass that I pick up, and make some cool presents at the same time.

I'm also wanting to start a mini-business, selling stuff (jewelry, scarves, notecards, etc) that I make as I have the time for a little extra income. Does anyone have experience with the various online consignment stores??

maxandmolly, your stuff looks great! Good luck with your bracelet business!!

[ShelbyMay]

Does anyone have experience with the various online consignment stores??


The only one I've dealt with is Funky Utopia -- The owner is very professional, honest, helpful, etc.

I think setting sea glass in silver would involve doing your own metal working (because of the irregular shapes).

[trestlegirl]

I think setting sea glass in silver would involve doing your own metal working (because of the irregular shapes).

Yes! I did some searching around and found that the university I work for has a crafts center which offers all sorts of cool classes, including silver smithing/stone setting. (I can't believe I've worked here for 7 years and didn't know it exists!) I started a class last week, I'm so excited!

I also found Etsy.com, which appears to be a great place to sell. I have bought a few things but haven't got my own shop set up yet.

[happy]

Hi Ladies,
I am reviving this thread. Does anyone have any ideas for bridal party jewelry. I have 5 brides (that are friends) coming over to look at jewelry for the bridal party and I am running out of ideas so that they don't all have the same thing.
If anyone has any ideas please post them :)

[jlp]

Here is a Shutterfly album of a lot of the jewelry I've made. There are a few bridal sets in here, but also just a lot of random stuff. Feel free to use some of my ideas. :)

http://share.shutterfly.com/action/welcome?sid=8QbOWrRu5aMuk

[happy]

jlpYour jelelry is beautiful. Thanks for posting the link. I will use some of those ideas. Sometimes I just get in a rut of the same old thing and need to get some other inspiration from some other places.

[vjel]

I haven't made jewelry in 2-3 years maybe and thought I could just pick up my pliers and make something. Boy am I out of practice! Wire wrapping is not as easy for me as it was a couple years ago, lol. Anyway, here's the bracelet and earrings I made last week. I used gold filled wire, smoky topaz swarovski crystals and green/bronzey coin pearls.

http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/greencoinpearljewelry002.jpg
http://i3.photobucket.com/albums/y72/vjel/greencoinpearljewelry004.jpg

[vwinkel]

vjel - love that bracelet and earrings set!

[vjel]

vwinkel, thank you!

I just made another necklace and earring set for my bff but forgot to take a pic before dropping it off tonight. :o Not sure how it fits yet so if I need to make adjustments, I'll try to take pics this w/e.

[KGif]

I am looking to make a necklace like so:

http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f188/KGif/Necklace.jpg

Along those lines. - you know with the big beads that are so in now. My question is -- what the HECK are those beads called? I found some that look somewhat like them by searching online but they all have some cutsie patter or something like tht on then. I'm actually just looking for big round cream color beads. I know it's way easier then I think -- but for some reason i'm having the hardest time finding any!

Thanks ladies!

[nektarine]

hey KGif...

if you want gemstone beads - you might want to try riverstone....

http://www.firemountaingems.com/images/P6328GSB.jpg

those are 8mm, at firemountaingems.com

i'm not sure, but it's possible that a cream version of agate or jasper exists. ?


vjel....
those are beautiful! i love coin pearls like that.

************************************************** ***********


unfortunately, i haven't been making much these days. :( when i do - i'm stilll in the phase where i'll make something, wear it for 3 days, and then take it apart to make something else. i just don't have enough materials yet!

but these earrings have managed to stick around!

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34789%3C653%7Ffp6%3A%3Dot%3E2326%3D%3B%3A3%3D%3C35 %3DXROQDF%3E2323568549%3A%3B5ot1lsi

the briolettes are zircons, so they shimmer a lot, but they also have a pretty iridescence to them.

http://images.costcophotocenter.com/34789%3C653%7Ffp66%3Dot%3E2326%3D%3B%3A3%3D%3C35%3 DXROQDF%3E2323568549%3A%3B%3Aot1lsi

[2kCougar]

nektarine--those earrings are beautiful!! Where did you find the beads? I've been looking for purple briolettes, but all that I find are really expensive amethyst beads.

[Goddess Tiff]

Hi all! I love the things you have been posting, very pretty!! I just wanted to drop off a pic of my current project. I got a top for our anniversary on the 21st and it has a very low neckline, so of course I had to make something fabulous to go with it. :p I have finished the neckalce, and I'm working now on earrings and a bracelet to match. This is the most "extreme" piece, I guess, so here is what I have:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v714/TiffanyC/P1010009.jpg


What do you think? It's all sterling silver, Swarovski crystal, and marcasite.

[maxandmolly]

Tiffany, I love it! I just yesterday bought a Liz Caliborne (clerance cheap!) white loooooooow neck date top. Hmm. May have to shamelessly swipe some of your design! (Assuming you don't mind, of course!)

[littlejules]

YAY! I found this thread! I'll be back with a few pics. I haven't been making earrings for a bit (time and $ constraints), and I so miss it.

[maxandmolly]

Ok, a qestion, ladies-
I did an FSU piece for someone a few months ago. Got to the bead shop, and the garnet cryswtals looked faaaaaaaaaaar too dark. The girls that worked at the shop told me most of the pros who bought stuff for FSU themed stuff used Siam instead of Garnet.
Now, my s-brother and his wife just had a beautiful baby boy. S-dad wants a mother's bracelet to give her when they make their first visit. Do I go for Siam again? Or use Garnet? The garnets I see at my bead shop are just SOOOO dark! I don't think they'll translate into a decent piece of jewelry.

[snowzilla]

maxandmolly - I only ever used garnet when it was specifically requested. It's far too dark, and doesn't pick up the light or look like a true red the way siam does. If it's a matter of preference, definitely go for the siam.

[maxandmolly]

Without digging into my stuff, now I'm thinking it was light siam.
But yeah, I agree. S-dad will definitely never know the difference, and s-SIL, I am sure, with a newborn, a husband, two dogs, her mother for a week, then her very crazy MIL for a week, then her FIL and S-MIL (my s-dad & mom) will have far more to worry about than whether it's really garnet or siam or light siam, on her new mother's bracelet. ;)
Thanks for the backup-always good to have a second opinion!

[beachlvr]

I am just getting started in making my own jewelry. I made this for my friend's birthday. It took forever!!! Are there any good ways to string all these seed beads without eyestrain? I had some really thin beading needles, but it was still really difficult to do.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v370/laurierf/IMGP4397.jpg

[framboise]

I want to make wine charms with a pineapple theme for a friend's birthday gift & am having trouble finding the charm parts. I want different "styles" of pineapples to be the distinguishing feature of each charm and am open to just about any style as long as it's identifyable as a pineapple. I have been watching (and even won) a few things on ebay and etsy, have checked the sites I saw recommended in the rest of this thread & have also browsed a couple of local craft stores, but don't yet have enough pineapples for a set. Have any of you experts seen any small pineapples that would work for a project like this?

Thanks in advance!

[maxandmolly]

So, my local bead shop has abruptly jacked their prices on Swarovski bicones & rounds. FireMountainGems now has them beat, but my question is, how much is shipping? Do they go by total, weight, #of pieces?

[morningdew]

I have a question for you bead ladies! I'm making bracelets for my twin girls - swarovski crystal rounds with small pearls and their names in silver letters. The woman at the bead store told me that the crystals will cut through any sort of elastic-y material I string them on. I really didn't want to string the bracelets on wire since I want them to be adjustable.

Has anyone had this problem? Any suggestions on something strong but stretchy I could use? I suppose I could just break down and use lower quality beads, but I really wanted these bracelets to be a keepsake for them too so I wanted to use higher quality stuff.

Thanks!

[maxandmolly]

I'm not picturing elastic being adjustable-it will only shrink to the actual length the beads take up. I would go with nylon coated wire. You can always do a length of SS chain, with a spring or lobster clasp. That way you just close it on whatever link of the chain gives the best fit.

[morningdew]

I'm not picturing elastic being adjustable-it will only shrink to the actual length the beads take up. I would go with nylon coated wire. You can always do a length of SS chain, with a spring or lobster clasp. That way you just close it on whatever link of the chain gives the best fit.Maybe adjustable was the wrong word... I guess I meant stretchy (so it can just slip over their hands without needing a clasp).

[maxandmolly]

A ha. Well, they also say not to use fishing line-type stuff with metal crimps for the same reason, and I have yet to have a problem with that.
Maybe try one out first with cheapie beads, so how it works?

[trestlegirl]

morningdew, I use a clear elastic line that I bought at the jewelry shop for making swarovski bracelets. I've never had a problem with the crystals. You do have to be careful about the crimp beads that you use - be sure to get the higher quality ones with flat edges - some of them have sharp edges which will cut the elastic.

maxandmolly, FMG absolutely kills you on shipping and handling! But, they'll tell you what it's going to be before you enter your credit card information, so you can decide whether it's worth it or not. Also try artbeads.com - they are a teeny bit more expensive but offer free shipping.

[maxandmolly]

Tell me that AFTER I've found a bunch of stuff I want! For beads I need to actually see them/hold them, but I'm having a hard time finding interesting/different/inexpensive earring findings locally.

[c'est la vie]

BUMPING! :D
Hello ladies, I’ve wanted to get into this since I saw some glass beads a friend of mine made herself and her jewelry. Now that I found this thread I'm itching to start learning.

Please keep those pics coming! You guys make some beautiful pieces!!