Paua pendants are simple for beginners to make with just basic sewing skills required. They are really unique pieces that make wonderful gifts - either completed or given as a kitset. They look great on chain, cord or ribbon. I made these ones from the instructions in Queen Bead's book and chose my pieces myself when the Bead Hold was based in Auckland. Now that Nia has moved to Taranaki, she has kitsets available to buy on-line (and of course you can just purchase the instructions … [Read more...]
Pearl Bracelets
In an earlier post I talked about how I often used to go to jewellery classes nearby but now The Bead Hold has moved to rural Taranaki and is now available on-line only. Now that I can’t go to the classes, I have purchased several kitsets/ instruction sheets covering a range of different techniques to try and am working my way through them to see what I like best. Pearl Bracelets The Bead Hold has lots of pearl bracelet kits to choose from in a whole range of delicious colours (click on … [Read more...]
Pearl Stringing
In an earlier post I talked about how I often used to go to jewellery classes nearby but now The Bead Hold has moved to rural Taranaki and is now available on-line only. Now that I can’t go to the classes, I have purchased several kitsets/ instruction sheets covering a range of different techniques to try and am working my way through them to see what I like best. Sneaky Pearl Stringing "Detailed instructions to make a pearl strung necklace on silk cord with a knot between every bead. The … [Read more...]
Beaded Dragonfly & Butterfly Cards
At one stage I was having a 'Dragonfly Phase' where I was making lots of different cards with dragonflies on. Steph found this book in the library and suggested that we try making some of the beautiful beaded dragonflies (and butterflies) in it. We just needed some 34 gauge wire, 28 gauge wire, and a range of smallish beads. We also needed some mulberry paper for the wings and some tacky craft glue. Steph also had some amazing material called Crystal Shred. You … [Read more...]
Wine Glass Charms
What I really like is the cross-over between my different crafts. Often the same tools and supplies can be used for both. Combining card-making and jewellery making can create some fantastic gifts that can suit males and females. For these wine glass charms, I bought some rings, beads and charm sets fairly cheaply at Spotlight and assembled the charms. For some I stamped and mounted an image and for others I used an image from a calendar to make a 'centre-piece'. I stuck these onto … [Read more...]
Not Your Usual Jewellery
Jewellery doesn't need to be the more common necklaces and earrings. You can use the same skills and supplies to make amazing key rings, zipper pulls and glasses keepers for yourself or for gifts. … [Read more...]