Did I Mention Beadwork?!?

Did I mention that I used to do beadwork? I haven't done any in quite a while.   I still have a small stash of beads just in case the urge strikes!
I started doing beadwork because I wanted an amulet necklace and couldn't afford to buy one.  I took an introduction class at the local college and that's how it all began.  I sold my pieces at a few arts and craft fairs (one being in Santa Fe that was sponsored by a bead shop owner) and really enjoyed every aspect - from choosing the pattern to choosing the beads.  Luckily I kept a few of the things I made.


My first piece made on a loom

Below is an example of the peyote stitch.  You are beading in the round so the beginning of the row is always changing.  I used delica beads for this piece.  They fit so nicely together they fall into place just like bricks!  I had a book of great patterns using the peyote stitch but I must have gotten rid of it.  I've looked several times and just can't find it.  You can find patterns on-line though, if you are interested.  Peyote stitch is a little more complicated than working on a loom so keep that in mind.

Most of the amulet necklaces don't have the small beads on the side.  I added those and think it really adds a little extra to the piece.  You can make the necklace and dangles as plain or decked out as you want.  Hmm, maybe I should get out my beads and do a little demonstration in a future post.  If you'd be interested in seeing that let me know.

One of my first amulet necklaces made with peyote stitch

Below is a bracelet that I made.  I saw one and actually figured out how to make it!!  You construct the base of the bracelet on a loom.  Loom work is fast and easy.  Keeping the base on the loom you then make loops of whatever beads you want to use.  In this instance I used pearls that I had and small copper beads as spacers.  The clasp is magnetic so it's easy to put on -- just be careful that it doesn't end up dangling from your car door when you get in!


Bracelet made with pearls

Here's some more bracelets that I've made.

This one has hematite and turquoise hearts

This next bracelet was made using a spiral stitch.  It's interesting - the pattern automatically spirals.  I also made some necklaces with this stitch but didn't keep any of them.

Bracelet using a spiral stitch.  Funky square beads with copper beads as spacers

I also made earrings but forgot to take any photos of those.  I'll do that in a future post.  Beadwork is totally fun.  Some of these beads are really, really small so I don't know how my eyesight would hold out!

I hope you are having a great weekend.  Mine has been so very nice.  Friday I bought a copier/scanner/printer and will hook it up this week.  I'm also getting internet at my home tomorrow so no more having to go to Starbucks to post.  Although this has been a nice Sunday morning/afternoon thing. 

We got some snow here and am supposed to get more this evening.  I'm keeping my fingers for a snow day on Monday!!!

Thanks for visiting!!!