Tri-Wing Ring

This is another project from Contemporary Geometric Beadwork, it is the Tri-Wing Ring.  I am really in love with this book, the shapes and the construction is just mind blowing.  Yes this is just a triangle, however, I already have a project in mind to create a bracelet using this Tri-Wing shape, as well as some earrings!!!!

I really did not love the color choice at first (I was using some leftover beads), however, once completed, the colors have actually grown on me a little.

 

The fit is perfect, the directions were clear on how to make a size 6 ring

I may use this as a pendant or component for another jewelry piece rahter than a ring, although it is not uncomfortable and it is truly unique

Underside

I can't wait to create more, but for now, I am on to another project, the Power Puff (pics soon)

Completed Rick Rack Bangle

I have completed the bangle and the most significant change is that I built a few rows on the opposite side in order to give the bangle a more polished look.  While I was tempted to add more embellishments, I did not want to compromise the already snug fit.  While I am not certain if embellishments would make the bangle smaller, I just did not want to chance it and then be left with a bangle that I could not wear.

I have decided that this will be the top of the bangle

This angle shows the beaded edge on the underside, it is subtle but it creates a nice edging 

This is the bangle turned upside down and really the bangle can be worn on either side

TADA!!!

I love the color combination and now I am excited to move onto adding horns or wings and twists and turns.  Again the versatility that is offered is truly endless.

Rick Rack Bangle (Part 2)

So I have completed one side of my rick rack bangle and now I think I am going to build on the opposite side, then I am going to add a few embellishments to finish.

Not certain which side will be the top/bottom yet???

The bangle still fits but it is snug getting around my hand, however, I am pleased that I was able to gauge the sizing quite close.

I love the curve that appeared after I added a point round and a lot of tension

I have seen some awesome rick rack bangles, and I have to be careful not to compare my bangle to others that I have seen.  I am very pleased at my first run with this project, and while it is quite simplistic, it is still a success and I am excited to continue to grow with this new found technique.

Stay tuned for the completed bangle!

New Project: Rick Rack Bangle (Part 1)

As I posted previously, I wanted to try a project from Contemporary Geometric Beadwork.  I chose the rick rack bangle and after 3 attempts to start, I finally was able to work the first 2 rows and now I am just building on the bangle.

I wish I could show you the start, however, I lost my phone and of course my pictures were stored in my photo gallery.  If you are interested in starting one of these bangles you can purchase the book (which is worth every penny) by clicking here or you can follow the video tutorial on Youtube by clicking here

I plan to continue adding rows and embellishments until I am fully satisfied with the outcome, so I think I have my work cut out for me, but I will keep you updated as the bangle progresses.

Dark Bloom

Created for the July EBW Challenge "Summer Flowers"

Instinctively many view summer flowers blooming and swaying in the sunshine, however, I wanted to add a unique twist to this theme.

Dark Bloom pays homage to all those lovely flowers that are blooming in the dark or in inconspicuous places. Dark Bolom is also a metaphor for the hidden beauty that can be found in people, and is a reminder to never judge by apperance. Though this piece does not convey the norms of beauty that one imagines when they picture summer flowers, it is still a stunning piece that will garner much attention and admiration. And even in the darkest most desolete places, beauty can, and will bloom.

The pendant and bail were made using peyote stitch and the rope was stitched using the chemille stitch. The lace and brocade backing are tightly stitched to the backing and lend a shabby chic/goth effect to the necklace. 

The bead caps were made by myself using black and red polymer clay and the findings are all lead free metal in black tone.

Operation open those beading books in effect

What a wonderful few projects I have completed and have been working on.  I have immersed myself in challenges and swaps and blog hops, so much so that I have laid aside many patterns that I have been wanting to complete.  I love the freedom of creating my own projects, however, I also bought patterns from esteemed jewelry artists that I want to complete as well.

I have the book Contemporary Geometric Beadwork and there is a Ric Rack project that I am dying to try out and the cone and horn projects. By the way, if you are looking to expand your beading knowledge, this book is definitely an awesome edition.  not only are the projects unique, the techniques are so versatile that there is literally no limit to the amazing pieces that can be created.

I also have Jean Power's Geometric Beadwork and there are several projects that I want to try.

There are also Marcia Decoster's Beaded Opulence

and for my new loom, Sharon Bateman's Contemporary Loom Beading 

This is just to name a few, looks like I have my work cut out for me, but I am excited to create more and expand my beading skills as well as my designing skills.

Double Happiness Pendant

 

This item was created as my entry for the Etsy Bead Weavers (EBW) Team Challenge "June Bride".

http://www.etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com/


Always in admiration of Chinese culture, I was drawn to the double happiness symbol worn by Chinese brides. I chose the altered symbol that  incorporates symbols of love (hearts).

Unlike American brides who wear white, Chinese brides wear red accentuated with gold and turquoise. The entire pendant is made with Miyuki seed beads and measures 3.5 inches at the highest point and 3 inches at the widest point.

The pendant can be added to any cord of your choice and can be worn on any occasion after your special day.   The pendant can also be worn without any cord and can be pinned to a garmet or head piece.

This was a fun challenge and I always like the different styles that each jewelry artists chooses. 

Please visit the team blog at www.etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com to see more members' entries. Between June 9 and 15, you'll be able to vote for your favorite entry.

Of course the July challenge is "Beautiful Summer Flowers" and since I love flowers, I will be participating in this challenge as well.  Stop back through soon, I will be keeping a journal of my process of creation for this project.