Etsy Shop for nemeton

Beadweaving Tutorial No. 3 - Sleek Beaded Bead

Fri, 25 Dec 2009 12:27:30 -0500

$6.00
A beadweaving tutorial that will teach you how to make big, beautiful beaded beads. Clear, friendly step-by-step instructions are illustrated with a full colour diagram (now re-drawn by a proper graphic artist, so it's much better than the one you can see in the photo!) to guide you through the design.

The technique uses circular peyote stitch with increases and decreases to cover a 20 mm round wooden bead. Learn the secret of a perfect fit, bead by bead. The instructions assume no prior knowledge but you will achieve better results much faster if you are already familiar with peyote stitch, increasing and decreasing.

The finished beads make beautiful pendants or stunning focal beads for necklaces, and can also be used as light pulls, bag charms, or even holiday decorations! Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.) Seven other designs are also listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop, and two sets of four tutorials are also available.

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

Beadweaving Tutorial - 8 Freeform Peyote

Fri, 25 Dec 2009 05:14:54 -0500

$6.00
A beadweaving tutorial that will teach you how to get started with freeform peyote stitching. Clear, friendly step-by-step instructions are illustrated with full colour photographs to guide you through the design.

You may find this easier if you already know the 'basics' of peyote stitch, although the photos and instructions do take your through the whole process right from stringing the first bead. Learn how to mix colours and shapes, form spirals and bridges, and add a button and loop clasp. The instructions will help you make a simple strip suitable for use as a bracelet; you can join several together for a necklace. I hope you'll then be inspired to do your own experiments with different colours and beads - there are no limits!

Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.) Seven other designs are also listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop, and two sets of four tutorials are also available.

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

Beadweaving Tutorial - 11 Sparkle Pendant

Thu, 24 Dec 2009 05:23:34 -0500

$6.00
A tutorial for a delicate seed bead and crystal pendant that is also ideal for making party earrings. The finished article is about 30mm (just over an inch) in diameter and very sparkly!

Most suitable for beaders with some experience; although the instructions aren't complicated, the stitching is fiddly because of the small size of the piece.
Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.) Lots of other designs are also listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop, and two sets of four tutorials are also available.

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

If you would like to purchase a kit containing all the beads and sparkly bits you need, please contact me for details and I'll put together a custom listing for you. Other colourways may be available - just ask! I will also happily make this pretty little thing to order for you in colours of your choice.

Pick'n'Mix Set of 4 Beadweaving Tutorials - choose your own

Wed, 23 Dec 2009 07:18:31 -0500

$18.00
Now you can take advantage of the price reduction on my tutorial sets and still choose what you'd like to learn! Mix and match your four favourites from the list below and let me know your choices in the 'message to seller' when you check out.
This listing is for any 4 of my currently listed beadweaving tutorials. These cover a wide range of techniques and designs in clear step-by-step instructions, fully illustrated with colour photographs and/or diagrams where appropriate.

The projects (all of which are also available separately) are as follows. Choose any four titles from:

1 Peyote Pipes - a beginners' tutorial on peyote stitch, covering flat peyote, zipping up into a tube, and both even- and odd-count tubular peyote. Make three different beaded beads and string them into a simple bracelet.
2 Capture a Cabochon - make a bezel with right angle weave and peyote stitch, then add a bail to turn it into a pendant. A useful and popular technique with no glue involved!
3 Sleek Beaded Bead - circular peyote stitch with increases and decreases to cover a 20 mm round bead. Learn the secret of a perfect fit, bead by bead.
4 Summer Dew - link modified daisy chains together to make a pretty necklace, finished with a circular brickstitch pendant.
5 Cellini and Dutch Spirals - an intermediate tutorial on these two attractive 'corkscrew' variants of tubular peyote. Learn how to string that all-important first row to get the bead sequence right!
6 Flower and Leaf Embellishments - use circular brickstitch to make centres for two different flower styles, and learn a handy peyote stitched leaf pattern. Ideal for earrings or adding interest to your projects!
7 Diagonal Peyote - another intriguing variant on peyote stitch that makes a 'bias-cut' band. Simple, slinky, and puzzling to those who don't know how it was made!
8 Freeform Peyote - probably the thing I get asked about most often. This simple tutorial will show you how to get started and make a band suitable for a bracelet. Throw the rules out of the window and have fun!
9 Jungle Collar - a lavish peyote-stitched collar with fringing, leaves and flowers
10 Magpie Cuff - right-angle weave embellished with crystals and fringing
11 Sparkle Pendant - circular brickstitch pendant with lots of crystals
12 Nemesis Necklace - spiral peyote with a focal pendant and lush tassel

Each project is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer A4 sized hardcopies by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.)

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial files ONLY; any beadwork and paper copies shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

Make a Wish Necklace

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 06:50:09 -0500

$285.00
A fairytale, one-of-a-kind necklace with freshwater pearls, sterling silver, sparkling crystals, and lots and lots of handmade lampwork glass beads by Cornish genius Tania Grey. The little multicoloured rounds that give the necklace its name are a design she calls her 'Little Wishes' - because if wishes could take a beady form, they would look just like these! They're ethereally pretty with wisps of delicate multicolours encased in clear glass, and each one is slightly different. I've teamed them with Tania's pastel pink and palest yellow 'opalino' glass spacers and a trio of larger beads in a beautiful organic creamy colour. Hilltribe silver charms add a feminine finishing touch, and the necklace fastens with a sturdy S-hook clasp (this is copper thickly plated with silver, to reduce the cost; please convo me if you'd like it replaced with a solid sterling one). The necklace measures 16" (40 cm) long and the central pendant hangs approximately 3" (7.5 cm) deep.
This would make a beautiful keepsake for a wedding or other special occasion, as well as being a lovely, sparkly piece for summer wear. Please feel free to ask if you need a different length, or would like matching earrings and/or bracelet.

Chinese Silk Necklace

Tue, 22 Dec 2009 06:50:09 -0500

$305.00
A truly unique handstitched neckpiece with a beautiful, detailed glass focal bead by lampwork artist Billie Jean Little ( http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5141377 ). The swirling vines and buds of the pendant are complemented by a beadwoven spiral of herringbone stitch in translucent alabaster white seed beads, accented with larger beads and an assortment of freshwater pearls.
This striking yet very feminine necklace is a generous 18" (46 cm) long, and the core is strung on hard-wearing steel beading cable; the pendant hangs an additional 3" (8 cm) deep, including the charm dangles. Hilltribe silver provides the perfect finishing touch, and the necklace fastens with a robust S-hook clasp of fine silver-plated copper (please contact me for details and prices if you'd prefer this to be replaced with a solid sterling silver one). A sterling silver tag identifies this as my original work.
The design is based on my pattern 'Japanese Silk', also with a focal by Billie Jean Little, which was published in the November 2008 issue of Step by Step Beads magazine. It would make a beautiful and unusual wedding necklace as well as an eyecatching accessory for any special occasion - or even with a plain white T-shirt and denims - it's never the wrong time to wear pearls!

Beadweaving Tutorial - 4 Summer Dew Necklace

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:08:54 -0500

$6.00
A beadweaving tutorial that will teach you how to stitch this pretty necklace. Clear, friendly step-by-step instructions are fully illustrated with colour photographs to guide you through, bead by bead.
Learn how to link modified daisy chains together, then surround a larger bead with circular brickstitch to make the pendant centrepiece. The daisies can be made with tiny round crystal beads in their centres to give the whole piece a subtle sparkle. No prior knowledge is assumed, but you will find this tutorial much easier if you have a little beadweaving experience!
Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.) Seven other designs are also listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop, and two sets of four tutorials are also available.

A complete kit for this design, containing the tutorial sheet plus all the beads, drops and crystals to complete the project, can be found in the 'Kits' section.
In addition you will need a beading needle, beading thread (K.O. thread is recommended) and scissors or thread clippers.
***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

Set of 4 Beadweaving Tutorials Nos. 9-12

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 12:08:34 -0500

Beadweaving Tutorial No. 9 - Jungle Collar

Mon, 21 Dec 2009 04:15:28 -0500

$6.00
A beadweaving tutorial that will teach you how to combine simple stitches to make a lush and fabulous collar in my signature style. Clear, friendly step-by-step instructions are illustrated with full colour photographs to guide you through the design.

You will find this easier if you already know the 'basics' of peyote stitch and brickstitch, although the photos and instructions do take your through the whole process right from stringing the first bead. Learn how to mix colours and make a peyote-stitched collar, 'grow' a leafy fringe, and add a button and loop clasp. Instructions for two different floral embellishments are also given. I hope you'll then be inspired to do your own experiments with different colours and beads - there are no limits!

Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.)

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

Set of 4 Beadweaving Tutorials - 1-4

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 16:50:27 -0500

$18.00
A set of four tutorials that will teach you a range of beadweaving techniques, with clear step-by-step instructions fully illustrated with colour photographs and/or diagrams where appropriate.

The projects (all of which are also available separately) are as follows:
1 Peyote Pipes - a beginners' tutorial on peyote stitch, covering flat peyote, zipping up into a tube, and both even- and odd-count tubular peyote. Make three different beaded beads and string them into a simple bracelet.
2 Capture a Cabochon - make a bezel with right angle weave and peyote stitch, then add a bail to turn it into a pendant. A useful and popular technique with no glue involved!
3 Sleek Beaded Bead - circular peyote stitch with increases and decreases to cover a 20 mm round bead. Learn the secret of a perfect fit, bead by bead.
4 Summer Dew - link modified daisy chains together to make a pretty necklace, finished with a circular brickstitch pendant.

Each project is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer A4 sized hardcopies by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.)

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial files ONLY; the beadwork and paper copies shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

Tutorials 1, 3, and 4 are now available as kits; see the individual listings for details.

Set of 4 Beadweaving Tutorials - Nos. 5-8

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 16:49:11 -0500

$18.00
A set of four tutorials that will teach you a range of beadweaving techniques, with clear step-by-step instructions fully illustrated with colour photographs and/or diagrams where appropriate.

The projects (all of which are also available separately) are as follows:
5 Cellini and Dutch Spirals - an intermediate tutorial on these two attractive 'corkscrew' variants of tubular peyote. Learn how to string that all-important first row to get the bead sequence right!
6 Flower and Leaf Embellishments - learn circular brickstitch to make centres for two different flower styles, and a handy peyote stitched leaf pattern. Ideal for earrings or adding interest to your projects!
7 Diagonal Peyote - another intriguing variant on peyote stitch that makes a 'bias-cut' band. Simple, slinky, and puzzling to those who don't know how it was made!
8 Freeform Peyote - probably the thing I get asked about most often. This simple tutorial will show you how to get started and make a band suitable for a bracelet. Throw the rules out of the window and have fun!

Each project is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer A4 sized hardcopies by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.)

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial files ONLY; the beadwork and paper copies shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

Beading Kit for Marie Antoinette Collar - Russet Only - Half Price Special Offer

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 16:48:39 -0500

$30.00
***WINTER SALE SPECIAL OFFER***
This kit is currently available at half price in the Russet colourway ONLY from now until 31 December. The price shown includes the reduction; this item was previously offered for sale at $60.
The kit will be re-stocked in other colourways in the New Year, but if you absolutely desperately must have one of the other colours for Christmas, convo me and I'll see what I can do about putting one together for you!
*******************************************************************
A coordinating selection of beads, charms, buttons and ribbon plus step-by-step full colour instructions to make your own version of my popular Marie Antoinette collar. Netting stitch is shaped into points like the petals of a big flower, lavishly embellished, and threaded with ribbons. Each kit is hand-picked and slightly different, so the beads you receive may not be the exact ones shown in the photograph, but you can be certain that your necklace will be unique!
The kit comes carefully packaged in a handy reusable storage box and includes a beading needle and a spool of thread; the only tools you’ll need in addition are thread clippers/scissors and a big eye needle or darning needle.
***PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A LISTING FOR A KIT and not the finished necklace, which is shown for illustration only!
************************************************
The kit is currently in stock in RUSSET ONLY - the other colours will be restocked in the New Year.
************************************************

This is an adaptation of my original design, which was published as a project in Beadwork magazine in April 2007. It assumes no prior knowledge but is most suitable for beaders with some experience of beadweaving and a basic knowledge of netting stitch. You are free to make your own choices about the arrangement of the embellishments and stamp your own personality on this pretty design.
The instructions for the original project, which was slightly more complex and had different beaded flowers, are also available as a pdf download from Beading Daily (www.beadingdaily.com); the kit can be used to make either version, so if you wish to purchase just the materials, please contact me and I'll put up a materials-only listing for you.
And if you're not a beader but still love this collar, I'm happy to make you one as a commission; just contact me with your choice of colour. If there are particular charms, buttons, or other materials you'd like me to include, or if you'd prefer a colour that isn't listed here, let me know and I'll see what I can do!

Marie Verte Collar

Sun, 20 Dec 2009 05:07:40 -0500

$220.00
The 'Marie Antoinette' necklace design was the first project of mine to appear in print in the US (Beadwork magazine, April 2007) and has since become one of my signature pieces. It's a shaped netting base in seed beads, with lots of embellishments, buttons, and brickstitched flowers, decorated with pearls, crystals, gemchips, ribbons and bows.
For this version I chose some Indian silver-lined seed beads in a particularly vibrant shade of lime green; they're irregular in shape and size and so they give the finished piece a lovely 'rustic' texture. I teamed them with jonquil yellow, cream, pearl, and just a hint of rust and peachy pink. A peach ribbon is woven through the top edge and there are little ribbon bows on the central points and a tassel at the back. (I know ribbons aren't to everyone's taste though, so if you'd prefer the piece without them, they can easily be removed; I won't be offended, just convo me!)
The collar is approximately 16" (40 cm) long and 2.5" (7 cm) deep at the central point. If you need a different size, just let me know.

If you'd like a similar collar but green just isn't your thing, feel free to contact me and I'll happily make you one in colours of your choice. I'm itching to make a white one for someone's wedding! I can also make matching earrings and cuff bracelet.

The collar is also available as a kit to make yourself (the kit listing may also give you some ideas for colour combinations but I'm afraid it isn't currently available in green): http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18637262

Resolutions Pendant - Inner Beauty, Outer Strength

Thu, 10 Dec 2009 12:08:22 -0500

$42.00
This piece was created for the FHFteam Challenge theme 'Resolution'. The word has many meanings but I have chosen to focus on the aspect of personal resolutions, of the sort that many of us make when each New Year rolls around: to become better people by cultivating our positive traits and conquering our negative ones. This is the first in what I hope will be a series based on this construction, which takes a lustrous crystal pearl and surrounds it securely with a disc of woven seed beads. The pearl is a beautiful soft lilac shade and the surround is in matte bronze, giving the appearance of a robust metal setting. The inner beauty of the pearl can shine through while being protected by the circle.
The pendant can be worn by men or women and hangs from a 19" (43cm) suede thong with a sterling silver lobster claw clasp. (The thong can easily be altered to your preferred length; just add a message with your measurement when ordering.) The pendant diameter is approximately 1 1/2" (35 mm).
If you would prefer a different colour, let me know; I love any excuse to make these!

Glacier Earrings

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 12:38:44 -0500

$19.00

Two subtle grey and green lampwork beads by Emma Ralph, teamed with freshwater pearls, Swarovski crystal beads, and silver beadcaps and wire in these restrained yet highly detailed earrings (#12/100) from my 'Limited Edition' series featuring the work of some of my favourite glass artists. They have an icy translucent quality - brrrrr - and their neutral palette makes them suitable for wear with almost anything. The earrings measure 1" in length and are hung from sterling silver earwires.

Beadweaving Tutorial No. 6 Flower and Leaf

Wed, 02 Dec 2009 04:54:15 -0500

$6.00
A beadweaving tutorial that will teach you how to make brickstitch flowers and peyote leaves to embellish your beading projects. Clear, friendly step-by-step instructions are illustrated with full colour photographs to guide you through the design.

Learn to stitch circular centres for two different flower styles, then a simple peyote stitch leaf for the perfect finishing touch. The instructions assume some prior knowledge of peyote stitch and circular brickstitch.

The finished flowers and leaves are ideal for earrings or for adding extra texture to bracelets or necklaces. Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.) Seven other designs are also listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop, and two sets of four tutorials are also available.

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

Beading Kit for Jungle Collar

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 17:02:26 -0500

$60.00
A coordinating selection of beads plus step-by-step full colour instructions to make your own version of my Jungle Collar design. Learn how to work peyote stitch, edge it with drops, and embellish it with a lush fringe and beaded flowers and leaves. Let your beading imagination run wild!
Each kit is hand-picked and slightly different, so the beads you receive may not be the exact ones shown in the photograph, but you can be certain that your necklace will be unique!
The kit comes carefully packaged in a handy reusable storage box; the only things you’ll need in addition are a beading needle, a spool of nylon beading thread and some sharp scissors.

***PLEASE NOTE THIS IS A LISTING FOR A KIT and not the finished necklace, which is shown for illustration only!
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The colours currently available are Tropical (bright and zany, as in the finished collar shown in the photo), Midnight (dark and mysterious mixed metallics) and Pacific Blue (an underwater forest in blues and teals). Please contact me with your colour choice as soon as you have placed your order. As these kits are made up in small batches, it's very helpful if you can give a second colour choice in case your first choice is unavailable. Please also let me know if you would prefer to receive the instructions electronically as a pdf to print yourself, rather than as a hard copy.
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This kit assumes no prior knowledge but is most suitable for beaders with some experience of beadweaving and a basic knowledge of peyote, fringing and brickstitch. You are free to make your own choices about the arrangement of the embellishments and stamp your own personality on this pretty design.

If you already have the tutorial and wish to purchase just the materials, please contact me and I'll put up a materials-only listing for you. Alternatively if you just want the instructions, the tutorial is listed separately in the 'Kits' section of my shop. And if you're not a beader but still love this collar, I'm happy to make you one as a commission; just contact me with your choice of colour.

A Year's Supply of Beads with free tutorial

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 11:50:25 -0500

$60.00
The perfect gift for a keen beader, or a treat for yourself - a really BIG bargain pack of beads! Each season of the year is represented by three generous bags of seed bead mixes with coordinating focals and accent beads. There are fresh and pretty pastel shades in the Spring pack... bright primary and flower colours for the Summer... rich warm tones for Fall... and snowy white, classic monochrome and holiday colours for Winter. Enough to keep you happily stitching and creating throughout the next year, I hope!

As an added bonus, your pack will include a FREE beadweaving tutorial. Choose any one of the 12 tutorial sheets listed in the shop and let me know your choice in the 'message to seller' when you check out. Your tutorial will be emailed to you as a pdf at no extra charge.

The main photograph shows a representative sample of the complete pack; the other photos show the 4 seasons (each of which is also available individually; see the listings in the shop). Please note that these packs are hand-selected and so the beads you receive may differ slightly from the ones in the photographs... but rest assured that there will be plenty of them! Each bag of seed beads contains a mixture of sizes 11 and 8 and weighs approximately 40 grams - that's at least 480g of seed beads in your pack - and there will always be at least 8 other bags of beads to go with them. Experienced beadweavers, please also note that the seed beads are largely of Chinese and Indian origin. They are of reasonable quality but they won't be as evenly sized and regularly shaped as the more expensive Czech and Japanese beads. They will still give you plenty of colour and texture but are perhaps better suited to organic freeform than to precise geometric stitching!

Sparkle Pendant - Winter Rose

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 07:44:16 -0500

$20.00
A delicate pendant handwoven from seed beads and crystals, with a glass pearl at its heart. The beads are frosty white and the crystals are in pretty, sparkly shades of rose pink - a pretty holiday gift for a special lady!

The pendant is 30 mm (just over an inch) in diameter and hangs from a coordinating 42 cm (17") satin ribbon with silvertone metal hook fastening.

If you'd like to make your own pendant, a tutorial for this design is listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop. If you'd prefer it in another colour, or would like a pair as earrings, please contact me to place a custom order.

Sparkle Pendant - Pink Champagne

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 07:39:05 -0500

$20.00
A delicate pendant handwoven from seed beads and crystals, with a glass pearl at its heart. The beads are frosty white and the crystals are in subtle shades of palest peach and champagne - a pretty winter gift or bridal piece!

The pendant is 30 mm (just over an inch) in diameter and hangs from a coordinating 42 cm (17") satin ribbon with silvertone metal hook fastening.

If you'd like to make your own pendant, a tutorial for this design is listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop. If you'd prefer it in another colour, or would like a pair as earrings, please contact me to place a custom order.

Beaded Spacer Beads, brights

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:55:47 -0500

$65.00
A set of beaded beads, each handstitched from tiny glass seed beads and drops and tough nylon thread, for you to use in your own creations. The set consists of four tubular beads 25 mm long x 6 mm wide (3/4" x 1 1/4" approx.) and three round beads 12 mm (1/2" approx.) in diameter, supplied temporarily strung with metal spacers and seed beads as shown in the photographs. This is enough to make a bracelet with the addition of a few more beads and a clasp, or you could add more beads to make a necklace, and the bright colours of this set coordinate perfectly with the Flores Mexicanas focal set ( http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=24864910 ) if you had something more dramatic in mind!

I love making beaded beads and will happily create a similar set in different colours, or customise this listing to include more or fewer beads - just contact me!

Spring Jade Collar

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:19:38 -0500

$220.00
A gracefully curving fringed neckpiece handstitched from tiny glass seed beads and lavishly encrusted with semiprecious stone chips of jade and green turquoise, accented with a few freshwater pearls. The clasp is a vintage button with a sturdy beaded loop; a sterling silver maker's tag marks this as my original beadwork (accept no imitations!). The beads are chosen at random from a mixture of creams, pale yellows and my favourite lime green, with occasional touches of bronze, peach and pink to warm it up. A pretty, feminine collar for day or evening wear, or for a special occasion (it would make unusual wedding jewellery too). Fits a 16" (41 cm) neckline and is approx. 2 1/4" (6 cm) deep at the centre front.
A matching cuff and matching earrings are also available: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22239513
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22239969

I love making these random necklaces, so if green isn't your colour I would be happy to make one for you in a colour of your choice. Just convo me with your details and measurements and I'll see what I can do!

Spring Jade Cuff

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:19:38 -0500

$115.00
A supple, textural cuff bracelet hand-stitched from tiny glass seed beads and sparkling glass drops in fresh spring green shades, lavishly embellished with stone chips and freshwater pearls. The clasp is a gorgeously glossy vintage acrylic button and snug beaded loop. Satisfyingly heavy and very comfortable to wear, the cuff is a generous inch (2.5 cm) wide and fits a 7 1/2" (19 cm) wrist. Designed to coordinate with the Spring Jade Collar ( http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22139731 ) and equally wearable just on its own, this bracelet is a unique statement piece and looks fabulous with neutrals, greens, or even just a white T-shirt. The perfect piece to brighten up your Spring day!
Matching earrings are also available: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22239969

Spring Jade Earrings

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:19:38 -0500

$45.00
Handstitched seed bead earrings, each with a soft pink/brown freshwater pearl at its centre and edged with translucent 'new jade' chips in pale spring green. Each stylized flower is approximately an inch (2.5 cm) across and hangs from a sterling silver earwire.
These earrings are a lovely Spring accessory on their own, and are also designed to coordinate perfectly with the Spring Jade Collar
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22139731
and Spring Jade Cuff
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22239513

Other colours can be made to order, just convo me for details.

Pearl Garden Collar

Mon, 30 Nov 2009 11:19:19 -0500

$225.00
Another variation on my signature 'Garden' collar, this time in soft, feminine shades of white, cream, peach and beige with touches of sweet pink and rich coffee brown. Tiny seed beads are stitched one at a time into a supple necklace hung with all manner of sparkling crystals, lustrous freshwater pearls and glass beads. There are hearts, flowers, leaves, raindrops to be found if you look closely! The necklace band is further embellished with a layer of beaded loops and more fringes, and at the centre is a single beaded flower with crystal petals. A gorgeous and romantic gift for a special lady of any age (and MUCH more sparkly than I can possibly show you in the photographs!), this would also make a lovely bridal necklace. It coordinates nicely with the Pink Champagne bracelet; a wider cuff bracelet and/or matching earrings can be made if required, just convo me for details.
The necklace fastens with a vintage mother of pearl button and a pretty beaded loop; it's approximately 16" long (length can be altered if necessary) and 2.5" deep at the centre front. It's very comfortable and easy to wear, and for those with allergies, it's metal-free.
Each of these pieces is unique and unrepeatable, and I love making them, so if you'd like something similar but in a different colour, don't hesitate to get in touch.

Beading Kit for Nemesis Necklace - Neptune

Sun, 29 Nov 2009 07:38:55 -0500

$65.00
A boxed kit containing all the beads you need to make my signature 'Nemesis' design: a swirling beaded corkscrew necklace with a lush fringed tassel. This is a new, improved version of last year's best-selling kit and each one is unique!
The handy acrylic storage box contains seed beads, freshwater pearls and glass drops, carefully hand-picked to coordinate with a beautiful handmade lampwork glass focal bead by Tania Grey (tanofcourse.etsy.com). A smaller lampwork bead forms the clasp. 'Neptune' is in Mediterranean shades of turquoise and green with contrasting lime green pearls. Other colourways will be listed as they become available. (If you don't find one you like, feel free to contact me with suggestions!) You will also receive a fully illustrated A4 step-by-step instruction sheet; please let me know when ordering if you would prefer this to be emailed to you as a pdf.

Additional materials and tools required: flexible beading wire, beading thread, needle, scissors, wire cutters, pliers/crimping tool. Some prior knowledge of peyote stitch, branched fringe, and basic stringing/crimping techniques would be useful.

Please note: this is a listing for the kit and tutorial ONLY; finished beadwork shown in the photos is for illustration only and is NOT included in your purchase!

Sparkle Pendant - Ice Blue

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 16:08:22 -0500

$20.00
A delicate pendant handwoven from seed beads and crystals, with a glass pearl at its heart. The beads are frosty white and the crystals are in glittering, icy shades of blue - just perfect for winter parties!

The pendant is 30 mm (just over an inch) in diameter and hangs from a coordinating 42 cm (17") satin ribbon with silvertone metal hook fastening.

If you'd like to make your own pendant, a tutorial for this design is listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop. If you'd prefer it in another colour, or would like a pair as earrings, please contact me to place a custom order.

Beading Kit for Nemesis Necklace - Nerissa

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 10:46:06 -0500

$65.00
A boxed kit containing all the beads you need to make my signature 'Nemesis' design: a swirling beaded corkscrew necklace with a lush fringed tassel. This is a new, improved version of last year's best-selling kit and each one is unique!
The handy acrylic storage box contains seed beads, freshwater pearls and glass drops, carefully hand-picked to coordinate with a beautiful handmade lampwork glass focal bead by Tania Grey (tanofcourse.etsy.com). A smaller lampwork bead forms the clasp. 'Nerissa' is in shades of amethyst and russet with contrasting white pearls. Other colourways will be listed as they become available. (If you don't find one you like, feel free to contact me!) You will also receive a fully illustrated A4 step-by-step instruction sheet; please let me know when ordering if you would prefer this to be emailed to you as a pdf.

Additional materials and tools required: flexible beading wire, beading thread, needle, scissors, wire cutters, pliers/crimping tool. Some prior knowledge of peyote stitch, branched fringe, and basic stringing/crimping techniques would be useful.

Please note: this is a listing for the kit and tutorial ONLY; finished beadwork shown in the photos is for illustration only and is NOT included in your purchase!

Beadweaving Tutorial No. 12 - Nemesis Necklace

Sat, 28 Nov 2009 10:31:52 -0500

$6.00
My signature design has had a makeover at long last! An ideal way to showcase a special focal bead, this lush necklace has a swirling peyote spiral on either side and is finished with a branched tassel. This design is probably the one I am asked about most often (particularly the tassel) so here is your chance to find out how it's done!

This tutorial has been completely rewritten and illustrated with new, clear photographs throughout. Most suitable for beaders with some experience of peyote stitch and branched fringe.
Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.) Lots of other designs are also listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop, and sets of four tutorials are also available.

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

If you would like to purchase a kit containing all the beads and sparkly bits you need, there are some listed in the 'Kits section'. But if you don't see what you want, please contact me for details and I'll put together a custom listing for you in colours of your choice. For non-beaders, if there isn't a finished 'Nemesis' listed in the shop, contact me to place a custom order.

Beadweaving Tutorial - 10 Magpie Cuff

Tue, 24 Nov 2009 10:05:43 -0500

$6.00
Indulge your inner magpie! A step-by-step, fully illustrated tutorial that will enable you to create this slinky, sparkly cuff bracelet in embellished right angle weave. Perfect party jewellery for the holidays! Most suitable for beaders with some experience, although a patient beginner would be able to follow the instructions too.
Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.) Lots of other designs are also listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop, and two sets of four tutorials are also available.

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

If you would like to purchase a kit containing all the beads and sparkly bits you need, please contact me for details and I'll put together a custom listing for you. Other colourways may be available - just ask! The finished cuff is also listed for purchase in the shop.

SALE Citrus Blossom Pendant Necklace and Earrings

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:04:52 -0500

$150.00
***SALE Special offer - reduced by 30% to make room for new stock. This is your chance to pick up a really special and unique piece of jewellery at a bargain price!
Was previously listed at $215 - now $150. That's a saving of $65!
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Get your sunglasses on! A riot of zesty, zingy colours and pretty florals, this unique and cheerful necklace will brighten up your wardrobe and bring sunshine to even the dullest of days.
The pendant incorporates two beaded beads (wooden beads covered with tiny seed beads, stitched in place one bead at a time) with an unusual random design, finished with a lush beaded tassel with sparkling crystals and pearls and a glass leaf. The supporting necklace has handstitched swirls of fantastic 'foliage' in herringbone stitch, with lots of glass drops to add extra texture. The clasp is sterling silver and carries a maker's tag, so you know that this is my original work. The necklace is a generous 19" (48 cm) long and the pendant has a drop of 4" (19 cm) - definitely a statement piece! A pair of tasselled earrings on sterling silver wires is included in the price; they measure about 1 1/2" (4 cm) from top to bottom and are lightweight, comfortable and fun to wear.
This design is a real one-off and can never be exactly repeated - snap up this bit of sunshine now, and be sure of being noticed this summer!

Midnight Garden Cuff

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:02:44 -0500

$52.50

***WINTER SALE SPECIAL OFFER***
I've reduced the price of selected items throughout the store by 30% from now until 31 December. The price shown includes the reduction; this piece was previously offered for sale at $75.
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This cuff kept me sane in a hospital waiting room - it's based on an odd-count peyote stitch technique developed by Cynthia Rutledge (and used with her permission). Black seed beads are stitched together one at a time to make a sleek band, embellished with sparkling crystal marguerites and edged with tiny seed beads and crystal bicones. The metal-free clasp is a faceted glass bead and beaded loop. It will fit a 7" wrist (convo me if you need a different size) and is just over an inch wide. Very sparkly and easy to wear, and it's a bit of nemeton history too: this is the original cuff as featured on the 'Beading Daily' website in November 2008. (Instructions to make your own are available from the site as a pdf download too.)

SALE Nemesis Necklace - Tanzanite

Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:02:44 -0500

$34.00
*****SPECIAL OFFER - HALF PRICE! *****
It's the last of the prototypes for my bestselling kits, and it's time it went to a new home, so this pretty necklace is on offer at half price!
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One of my signature pieces, an eyecatching foiled glass focal bead on an asymmetric seed bead strung and spiral necklace, finished with a bead and loop clasp and a lush fringed tassel with lots of charms - including hearts, of course! This is the 'Tanzanite' colourway, with blue-purple and lavender beads contrasting with bronze and copper colours. The necklace is approximately 16.5” long and the pendant measures 3” from the top of the bead to the bottom of the tassel.

Beadweaving Tutorial - 7 Diagonal Peyote

Sun, 22 Nov 2009 05:03:06 -0500

$6.00
A beadweaving tutorial that will teach you how to stitch this intriguing 'bias-cut' peyote band. Clear, friendly step-by-step instructions are fully illustrated with colour photographs to guide you through, bead by bead.
Learn how to get started and see how the pattern takes shape and grows into a slinky, flexible strip of beadwork with lots of potential uses.
No prior knowledge is assumed, but you will find this tutorial much easier if you have a little beadweaving experience and are familiar with the basics of flat, even-count peyote stitch (or have purchased my Tutorial 1!)
Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.) Seven other designs are also listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop, and two sets of four tutorials are also available.

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

Pink Champagne Bracelet - Made to order

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 08:44:50 -0500

$45.00
'Pop, bubble, bubble, bubble...' A supple, slinky bracelet handstitched from creamy 'pearl' seed beads with a further layer of beads added to the outside and embellished with sparkling faceted beads and glass pearls in pretty pastel creams, pinks and yellows. The bracelet is just over 7 1/2" long and 1/2" wide, with a clasp made from a textured glass pearl and a beaded loop. This easy-to-wear party piece would make a lovely gift for a special lady of any age, and would also be a beautiful piece of bridal jewellery. I don't currently have one in stock, so this piece will be made to order, with an approximate delivery time of 2-3 weeks. Also available in different colours and sizes; just contact me with your requirements.

Summer Dew Necklace

Sat, 21 Nov 2009 08:44:50 -0500

$58.00
A delicate beadwoven pendant suspended from a double daisychain with a contrasting droplet edging, fastening with a neat bead and loop. The necklace measures approximately 16.5" and the pendant has a drop of 1". It's pretty, feminine, summery and unique - the random mix of colours ensures that I can never make exactly the same necklace twice. And for the perfect finishing touch, every daisy has a tiny sparkling Swarovski crystal faceted bead in the centre to catch the sunlight. A real garden party piece if ever there was one!
PLEASE NOTE the necklace currently for sale has tigereye for the clasp and in the pendant centre, which is a darker colour than in the necklace in the photograph. I'll update the main photo as soon as I can!

****You can now make this lovely design for yourself in a choice of two fabulous colourways:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=17032304

Seed Bead Seasons Selection Pack with Free Tutorial - Winter

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 08:03:01 -0500

$20.00
Sometimes there are just so many beads to choose from that you don't know where to start! To help you, I've put together these affordable, colour-themed selection packs. Each contains three generous bags of mixed seed beads, plus co-ordinating focal beads and accents. Pick your favourite season and start beading - or make a beady friend very happy with the perfect holiday gift!

As an added bonus, all Seed Bead Seasons packs include a FREE beadweaving tutorial. Choose any one of the 12 tutorial sheets listed in the shop and let me know your choice in the 'message to seller' when you check out. Your tutorial will be emailed to you as a pdf at no extra charge.

Please note that these packs are individually selected and so the beads you receive may differ slightly from the ones in the photographs... but rest assured that there will be plenty of them! Each bag of seed beads contains a mixture of sizes 11 and 8 and weighs approximately 40 grams - that's at least 120g of seed beads in your pack - and there will always be at least two other bags of beads to go with them. Experienced beadweavers, please also note that the seed beads are largely of Chinese and Indian origin. They are of reasonable quality but they won't be as evenly sized and regularly shaped as the more expensive Czech and Japanese beads. They will still give you plenty of colour and texture but are perhaps better suited to organic freeform than to precise geometric stitching!

Seed Bead Seasons Selection Pack with Free Tutorial - Fall

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 07:59:16 -0500

$20.00
Sometimes there are just so many beads to choose from that you don't know where to start! To help you, I've put together these affordable, colour-themed selection packs. Each contains three generous bags of mixed seed beads, plus co-ordinating focal beads and accents. Pick your favourite season and start beading!

As an added bonus, all Seed Bead Seasons orders include a FREE beadweaving tutorial. Choose any one of the tutorial sheets 1-12 listed in the shop and let me know your choice in the 'message to seller' when you check out. Your tutorial will be emailed to you as a pdf at no extra charge.

Please note that these packs are individually selected and so the beads you receive may differ slightly from the ones in the photographs... but rest assured that there will be plenty of them! Each bag of seed beads contains a mixture of sizes 11 and 8 and weighs approximately 40 grams - that's at least 120g of seed beads in your pack - and there will always be at least two other bags of beads to go with them. Experienced beadweavers, please also note that the seed beads are largely of Chinese and Indian origin. They are of reasonable quality but they won't be as evenly sized and regularly shaped as the more expensive Czech and Japanese beads. They will still give you plenty of colour and texture but are perhaps better suited to organic freeform than to precise geometric stitching!

Seed Bead Seasons Selection Pack with Free Tutorial - Summer

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 07:55:20 -0500

$20.00
Sometimes there are just so many beads to choose from that you don't know where to start! To help you, I've put together these affordable, colour-themed selection packs. Each contains three generous bags of mixed seed beads, plus co-ordinating focal beads and accents. Pick your favourite season and start beading!

As an added bonus, all Seed Bead Seasons orders include a FREE beadweaving tutorial. Choose any one of the tutorial sheets 1-12 listed in the shop and let me know your choice in the 'message to seller' when you check out. Your tutorial will be emailed to you as a pdf at no extra charge.

Please note that these packs are individually selected and so the beads you receive may differ slightly from the ones in the photographs... but rest assured that there will be plenty of them! Each bag of seed beads contains a mixture of sizes 11 and 8 and weighs approximately 40 grams - that's at least 120g of seed beads in your pack - and there will always be at least two other bags of beads to go with them. Experienced beadweavers, please also note that the seed beads are largely of Chinese and Indian origin. They are of reasonable quality but they won't be as evenly sized and regularly shaped as the more expensive Czech and Japanese beads. They will still give you plenty of colour and texture but are perhaps better suited to organic freeform than to precise geometric stitching!

Seed Bead Seasons Selection Pack with Free Tutorial - Spring

Tue, 17 Nov 2009 07:51:18 -0500

$20.00
Sometimes there are just so many beads to choose from that you don't know where to start! To help you, I've put together these affordable, colour-themed selection packs. Each contains three generous bags of mixed seed beads, plus co-ordinating focal beads and accents. Pick your favourite season and start beading!

As an added bonus, all Seed Bead Seasons packs include a FREE beadweaving tutorial. Choose any one of the tutorial sheets 1-12 listed in the shop and let me know your choice in the 'message to seller' when you check out. Your tutorial will be emailed to you as a pdf at no extra charge.

Please note that these packs are individually selected and so the beads you receive may differ slightly from the ones in the photographs... but rest assured that there will be plenty of them! Each bag of seed beads contains a mixture of sizes 11 and 8 and weighs approximately 40 grams - that's at least 120g of seed beads in your pack - and there will always be at least two other bags of beads to go with them. Experienced beadweavers, please also note that the seed beads are largely of Chinese and Indian origin. They are of reasonable quality but they won't be as evenly sized and regularly shaped as the more expensive Czech and Japanese beads. They will still give you plenty of colour and texture but are perhaps better suited to organic freeform than to precise geometric stitching!

Set of 4 Beadweaving Tutorial Sheets - Nos. 5-8

Mon, 16 Nov 2009 16:37:20 -0500

$18.00
A set of four tutorials that will teach you a range of beadweaving techniques, with clear step-by-step instructions fully illustrated with colour photographs and/or diagrams where appropriate. Each set of instructions is supplied in a handy plastic filing wallet. Available as hardcopy only (A4 size).
The projects (all of which are also available separately) are as follows:
5 Cellini and Dutch Spirals - an intermediate tutorial on these two attractive 'corkscrew' variants of tubular peyote. Learn how to string that all-important first row to get the bead sequence right!
6 Flower and Leaf Embellishments - learn circular brickstitch to make centres for two different flower styles, and a handy peyote stitched leaf pattern. Ideal for earrings or adding interest to your projects!
7 Diagonal Peyote - another intriguing variant on peyote stitch that makes a 'bias-cut' band. Simple, slinky, and puzzling to those who don't know how it was made!
8 Freeform Peyote - probably the thing I get asked about most often. This simple tutorial will show you how to get started and make a band suitable for a bracelet. Throw the rules out of the window and have fun!

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial sheets ONLY; the beadwork shown in the photos is for illustration and is NOT included in your purchase!

The Absolutely Officially Ugliest Necklace In The World

Fri, 13 Nov 2009 12:24:20 -0500

$331.27
Yes, it's true! This is my winning entry in the 2009 international Ugly Necklace Contest organized by the Land of Odds bead store and Center for Jewelry Arts in Nashville. Truly a one-of-a kind piece that can never (and probably SHOULD never) be repeated!
The necklace is stitched together from fragments of some of the many, many beadweaving projects that for one reason or another were destined never to be completed. Some were technical failures. Others were lousy colour combinations. Some would probably have been quite nice but I lost interest. Some went on to become published projects... many didn't! There are pendants, buttons, leaves, beaded beads, wire wrapped components, even some experiments with laminated silk... a whole slew of my beading history here, and the sad thing is that I could tell you what each and every one of those sad fragments was intended to become.
However, the whole is now more than the sum of its parts, and those sad little losers from my 'UFO' box have come together into a winner. At a hefty 28" (70 cm) with its off-centre pendant, it's a definite conversation-starter. The clasp is a lampwork bead and sturdy beaded loop and despite all those dangling ends it's securely stitched and crimped together so as to be wearable. Perhaps not everyday though!

If you want to see more about the piece, including a full materials list, visit http://www.landofodds.com/store/ugly7.htm where you can also have a giggle at the other finalists. Perhaps you'll have a go yourself next year?

Finally (if you're still reading) here is the accompanying poem 'The Story of my Beading Life'. Says it all really!

Unfinished objects – UFOs.
All beaders have a lot of those,
Enthusiastically started
Before you got a bit half-hearted.

I pick beads up, I start to stitch,
But just can’t make decisions… which
Of all these beads spread on my table
Will make this cuff most fanci-able?

And so I put it to one side,
Leave it till later to decide,
Get out some other beads and things
And start a range of fancy rings.

One ring down and six to make…
My beady willpower starts to flake.
I know, I’ll stitch some leafy collars
In hopes of earning lots of dollars.

Half way along, with leaves aplenty
(17, 18, 19, 20…),
My eyes are closing and I’m yawning.
I’ll make the others in the morning.

That night I have a great idea
Seen in a dream all bright and clear.
I’ll win Bead Dreams! Find fame and glory!
By lunch next day, a different story…

Rings, cuff and collar still half-made,
Now I need beaded beads to trade.
This one is wonky, here’s a flat one,
Won’t even try to finish that one…

And so the pile of UFOs
Just multiplies and grows and grows.
However many things I bead,
I never have the time I need

To finish them, to make and mend
And fasten off each dangling end.
I have unfortunate suspicions
These are my beady life’s conditions

And when at last I’ve served my time-O
And fate steps in to cut my Nymo
I’ll plead and argue all the way
To live and bead just one more day

And when the Reaper comes for me
I’ll go with him reluctantly
My plaintive cry still undiminished:
“I can’t go yet – I HAVEN’T FINISHED!”

The Little Mermaid's Little Purse

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 16:14:17 -0500

$460.00
A one-off fantasy fairytale piece inspired by Andersen's haunting story of the Little Mermaid. A fish-shaped purse is embellished with hundreds of tiny shell sequins, with tiny glistening red details like drops of blood. The eyes (which also fasten the bag) are Danish coins with their very fitting pattern of hearts, waves and crowns; the bag charm reflects the mermaid's obsession with shoes, especially the red dancing shoes she longs to wear. Inside are her little mermaid treasures: her mirror and comb, her tiny charm bracelet, a locket with a portrait of her handsome Prince, the dagger with which she will one day fail to kill him...

The purse can be carried as an evening bag with the doubled freeform straps, or the straps can be separated and tied at the back with the ribbon so the piece can be worn as a necklace. The fish is 5" (13 cm) long and just over 3" (9 cm) wide at the widest point; the straps combine to give a necklace length of about 24" (60 cm). Maybe this isn't something to wear every day, but it's a beautiful and intriguing keepsake to wonder at, or to give as a very special gift!

Ice Dream

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:48:58 -0500

$87.50
***WINTER SALE SPECIAL OFFER***
I've reduced the price of selected items throughout the store by 30% from now until 31 December. The price shown includes the reduction; this piece was previously offered for sale at $125.
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A fairytale collar inspired by the story of the Snow Queen in her terrible frozen stronghold. Spiky icicle fringes are encrusted with 'ice cubes', glistening glass nuggets and seed beads that pull the spikes into twisting, tortured shapes as though they were frozen in mid-movement. It's glistening and sparkly and iridescent, an eyecatching piece that would make a fabulous bridal necklace. The metal-free clasp is a glass button and a robust beaded loop; the collar is approximately 15" long and about 2" deep at the centre front (the length can be altered if necessary; contact me for details).
This was my entry for the Etsy BeadWeavers (EBW) Team December challenge 'Snow Queen'. You can view this and all our subsequent challenges on the team blog (www.etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com) .

Tigereye Chip Collar

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:48:58 -0500

$95.00
***Congratulations, you have completed the First FHFteam/HAF team Scavenger Hunt!

Convo www.kitzbitz.etsy.com with the names of your two favorite listings in the FHF/HAF Duel team scavenger hunt to be entered into the prize draw. There will be two winners drawn at random after our treasury expires. You could win either this beautiful Sterling Silver Helm pendant created by Kimberly Kitchen of HAFteam or this stunning Sterling silver Bling Ring handcrafted by Julie Haveland Beer of FHFteam.

Thank you for your support!
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A seed beaded collar in a random mix of sparkling gold and rich transparent brown, hung with a lavish fringe of polished tigereye stone chips. Beautiful for summer against tanned skin, this necklace is casual enough for daytime wear and sparkly and exotic enough for a night out too!
The collar is approximately 15" (38 cm) long and has a supple drape - it looks best if it's worn so it sits low around the base of the neck. (The length can be adjusted if required; just let me know when you purchase.) The fringe is a generous 2" (5 cm) deep at the central point. A simple bolt-ring clasp is securely stitched to the beadwork.

This is a prototype design and although it's a functional and attractive piece of jewellery, it's not quite finished to the standard I currently expect from myself - it's got a plated clasp and some irregularities in the weave - hence its inclusion as a 'Second'. I've reduced the price to reflect this too.

Simplicity Dichroic Bridal Pendant Necklace

Wed, 11 Nov 2009 15:48:58 -0500

$165.00
A perfectly simple modern classic to provide the finishing touch to a pure white wedding gown: a rectangular piece of sparkling dichroic glass, captured in a bezel of iridescent seed beads and embellished with tiny dichroic cylinder beads for just a hint of extra sparkle around the edge. The simple beaded rope necklace has tiny rings of the same dichroic beads stitched around it at intervals on either side of the pendant and at the ends; they are almost invisible until they catch the light, when they flash with that unmistakable dichroic brilliance in pretty pastel shades ranging from pink through orange to green to pearly blue.
The necklace fastens with a delicate sterling silver clasp and extender chain (with the tiniest detail of dichroic beads at the end) and carries an engraved tag confirming that it's my original beadwork. The rope is 16 1/2" (42 cm) long, adjustable up to 17 1/2" (44.5 cm), and the pendant measures 2" (5 cm) long (including the bail) and just under 1" (2.5 cm) wide.
The brilliant and subtle rainbow colours in the glass and the beads are impossible to capture adequately with photographs, but this is such a pretty piece of jewellery! It looks as delicate as a soap bubble, but with care it will last to give you many years of pleasure and sparkliness. I only had one piece of this glass in this colour, so there is unlikely to be another necklace exactly the same, ever. (I love an excuse to work with these fabulous dichroic beads though, so will happily make a bracelet and/or earrings to match if you require them!)

MADE TO ORDER - Wedding Garden Collar

Tue, 10 Nov 2009 03:59:04 -0500

$520.00
****PLEASE NOTE: this item is made to order and I don't currently hold one in stock. This means that there will be a four- to five-week delay in shipping your necklace. If you want a necklace in a hurry, check out the other designs in the shop!****

The ultimate bridal neckpiece! A highly detailed, sparkly seed beaded collar in white and cream with accents of pale peachy pink, embellished with crystals, pearls, glass beads, lavish fringing, and beaded flowers. All you need with it is a simple gown (and maybe a custom order of matching earrings and a cuff) – it has a supple drape and plenty of sparkle and really ‘comes to life’ and looks fabulous when worn.
Each of my ‘Garden’ collars is unique and takes many hours’ careful work to create; the top row of the beadwork is reinforced with extra stitching and the piece is finished with a sterling silver clasp and a lovely beaded tassel detail at the back of the neck. The collar measures approximately 17.5” long (an extender chain can be fitted if desired) and is some 2” deep at the front.

This necklace was featured as an editor’s pick from the gallery of wedding designs on the Interweave Press ‘Beading Daily’ website and excited a lot of interest. It is based on my signature piece ‘Rose Garden’, which was published as a project in the UK magazine ‘Bead’ in 2008 and is also available to order:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=20357098

If you’re not getting married but would still love to wear a big sparkly beaded collar, I will happily make one to order for you in a colourway of your choice – just contact me for details.

Tic-Tac-Toe Set

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:08:22 -0500

$20.00
This fun little set is another bit of nemeton history - it was published as an online project ('Netted Game Board') in Bead and Button magazine in 2008. It’s a 2.5” square gameboard made entirely from tiny glass seed beads in a symmetrical netting stitch, with nine colourful squares for the game of Tic-Tac-Toe, or Noughts and Crosses – it comes in its own handy storage pouch with glass ‘nugget’ playing pieces. An entertaining and unusual gift!

This is in the 'seconds' section because it's not quite absolutely as square as I would have liked - I think the different colours of seed bead are slightly different sizes. It still works fine as a game board though!

Sparkling Eyes Cuff

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:08:22 -0500

$125.00
'Take a pair of sparkling eyes...'
This glamorous and distinctive design was published in 'Beads & Beyond' magazine in December 2008; this is the ORIGINAL beadwork that appeared in print! A set of handmade lampwork glass lentil beads by UK maker Ilona Ruttle (Fluid Glass Art Beads) are framed with circles of stitched seed beads in classic glossy black. The central circle is embellished with sparkling Swarovski crystals, and the finishing touch is the striking oversized white metal lobster clasp with its elegant detailing, set off with an organza ribbon bow. The bracelet adjusts between 8" and 8 1/2" (20-21.5 cm) in length.
Matching earrings with lampwork beads from the same set are also available: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22099418
I'm happy to make this style in other colours and sizes; please contact me for details.

Sparkling Eyes Earrings

Fri, 06 Nov 2009 15:08:22 -0500

$30.00
An elegant pair of blue, green and black earrings that coordinate perfectly with the Sparkling Eyes Cuff ( http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=22044848 ) and are very wearable just on their own. Two petite handmade lampwork glass lentil beads are teamed with dangling trios of crystal bicones, black seed beads and sterling silver wire; the colours of the crystals are in a different order on either earring, to reflect the fact that the lampwork is handmade and therefore subtly non-identical. The earwires are sterling silver and the earring drop is approximately 1 1/2" (4 cm).

Flores Mexicanas Beaded Bead Set

Thu, 05 Nov 2009 15:38:41 -0500

$135.00
A colourful trio of my beaded beads in the brightest and zingiest of colours, for you to create something fabulous and unique! Each bead is carefully formed around a wooden core, with 440 tiny glass seed beads and drops each individually woven into place on tough braided nylon thread that is non-stretch and fray-resistant. The resulting beads are approximately an inch (25 mm) in diameter, so they are big enough to use as single focal beads or they can be strung together into something chunky and eye-catching... or you can simply keep them in a bowl on your desk to play with, or hang them as ornaments! The design is my own (I do have a tutorial listed in the Kits section of the shop, if you fancy having a go yourself) and makes use of the variations between seed beads from different manufacturers to ensure a seamless and perfect fit around the core. (The core bead is stitched through, too, to ensure that you won't ever lose the hole!)

A coordinating set of smaller spacer beads is available: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=25123260

This listing is for the three beads shown in the photographs; if you require more or fewer beads I will happily make more, or split the set, and create a custom listing for you. If you'd like the beads mounted as pendants on sterling silver headpins, this can be done for a small extra charge. And of course I love any excuse to make these beads, so if you'd prefer different colours, just let me know and I'll see what I can do. Or if you'd like a piece of jewellery featuring these beads but don't want to make it yourself, I'll happily create a very special necklace just for you!

Sparkly Mojo Box - Skybluepink

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:05:48 -0500

$33.00
An extra-special sparkly box of beads to inspire you to make something fabulous for the holidays... or to give as a gift to a beading friend. A gorgeous fused dichroic glass cabochons in rich cobalt blue with a pink sparkly stripe, teamed with three assorted blue lampwork glass beads and hand-picked selections of seed beads, bugle beads, drops, charms, accent beads and a generous sprinkling of genuine Swarovski 'Crystallized Elements'. A sheet of handy ideas is included to get you started if you can't think what to make - although with this delicious selection it probably won't be a problem!

Each of these boxes is unique and unrepeatable, but I'm happy to make them up to order in colourways of your choice. The box can also be shipped as a gift to a friend at no extra cost - just contact me for details.

Sparkly Mojo Box - Golden and Green

Wed, 04 Nov 2009 10:00:33 -0500

$33.00
An extra-special sparkly box of beads to inspire you to make something fabulous for the holidays... or to give as a gift to a beading friend. A gorgeous gold-coloured fused dichroic glass cabochon, a green and white floral lampwork focal bead, and two coordinating lampwork spacers are teamed with hand-picked selections of seed beads, bugle beads, drops, charms, accent beads and a generous sprinkling of genuine Swarovski 'Crystallized Elements'. A sheet of handy ideas is included to get you started if you can't think what to make - although with this delicious selection it probably won't be a problem!

Each of these boxes is unique and unrepeatable, but I'm happy to make them up to order in colourways of your choice. The box can also be shipped as a gift to a friend at no extra cost - just contact me for details.

Jungle Collar III

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 11:03:02 -0500

$245.00
A lush and colourful collar with a tropical feel; perfect partywear year-round! The collar band is hand-stitched one bead at a time and edged with pretty glass drops, with beaded fringes, leaves and flowers added in the middle to form a gently curving and highly textured centrepiece. It's light and comfortable to wear, with a simple but secure bead-and-loop fastener (metal free, for those with allergies). The necklace is about 18" long (it can be altered, just convo me if you require a different length) and hangs about 3" deep at the front.
Lots of little details to explore - each of these collars is unique and unrepeatable, so you can guarantee you won't meet anyone else wearing the identical necklace!

If you'd like to make your own version, a tutorial is available in the 'Kits and Tutorials' section of the shop. And I love making these, so if you'd prefer one in a different colourway, please contact me to discuss your requirements!

Misty Mountains Collar

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:49:30 -0400

$235.00
A deep collar-style fringed neckpiece in subtle misty greys and pale blue, edged with tiny glass drops and liberally embellished with loops of beads, labradorite chips and teardrops, and freshwater pearls. The base of the necklace is hand-stitched on tough 'Wildfire' thread with a random mix of tiny glass seed beads; irregular shapes and different sizes add to the organic texture. The sparkle and blue fire of the labradorite is very hard to capture in the photographs; you really need to wear this piece and see it move and catch the light. Rest assured it really IS much more sparkly than it looks in the pictures!
The collar fastens with a labradorite oblong and a neat beaded loop and measures approx. 15" (38 cm) long and just under 2" (5 cm) deep at the front. Understated enough to wear every day, but glamorous enough for the evening, this unusual piece would be a useful addition to any wardrobe. You'll never see anyone else wearing your necklace, either: I couldn't duplicate this piece exactly, even if I tried!

Bead Mojo Box - Magnificence - Special Offer

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:49:17 -0400

$16.00
***WINTER SALE SPECIAL OFFER***
I've reduced the price of selected items throughout the store by 30% from now until 31 December. The price shown includes the reduction; this item was previously offered for sale at $25.
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Every beader has those days when inspiration is lacking... so here's my remedy for lost beading mojo! This boxed bead collection is sure to kick-start your creativity again. Seed beads, accents and charms are all handpicked to coordinate with some beautiful lampwork glass, and there's a handy sheet of tips and ideas to inspire you too.
Every box is different and unrepeatable - a lovely treat for you, or a great gift for a beader or crafter. Check out the other colours in the range; and if you'd like a colour that isn't listed, just contact me and I'll see what I can do.

Magpie Cuff

Fri, 30 Oct 2009 12:49:16 -0400

$66.50
***WINTER SALE SPECIAL OFFER***
I've reduced the price of selected items throughout the store by 30% from now until 31 December. The price shown includes the reduction; this piece was previously offered for sale at $95.
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A sparkly seed beaded cuff encrusted with crystals, buttons, pearls, brightly coloured beads and anything else that caught my eye as I looked through my bead box, with the sparkliest crystal button of all being reserved to make the clasp.
The base of the cuff is worked in right angle weave in black, white and iridescent blue-green to reflect the colours of magpie plumage. It is just over 7" long and 1" wide and fastens with a beaded loop round the crystal button. Fireline thread is used for the stitching throughout; this is a very tough thread that will resist abrasion and cutting by the sharp edges of the cubes and crystal sequins among the embellishments.
Truly a one-off and a piece that will draw attention wherever it goes - snatch it up and hide it away in your nest before some other magpie does!

Bead Mojo Box - Mottled

Fri, 23 Oct 2009 04:04:06 -0400

$21.00

***WINTER SALE SPECIAL OFFER***
I've reduced the price of selected items throughout the store by 30% from now until 31 December. The price shown includes the reduction; this item was previously offered for sale at $30.
*******************************************************************
Every beader has those days when inspiration is lacking... so here's my remedy for lost beading mojo! This boxed bead collection is sure to kick-start your creativity again. Seed beads, mother of pearl, Swarovski crystals, cubes, bugle beads, furnace glass and pressed glass accents are all handpicked to coordinate with some beautiful lampwork glass by Tania Grey in subtle mottled browns, and there's a handy sheet of tips and ideas to inspire you too.
Each one of these selections is different and unrepeatable - a lovely treat for you, or a great gift for a beader or crafter. Check out the other colours in the range; and if you'd like a colour that isn't listed, just contact me and I'll see what I can do.

Plankton Bracelet

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:52:20 -0400

$85.00
A bracelet of intricately beaded elements that are reminiscent of diatoms or coral larvae. Each beaded bead evolved from its predecessor, so they are all slightly different but related. They have been carefully handstitched from tiny glass seed beads in shades of matte cream and softest pink, and strung together with brown freshwater pearls and sparkling crystals to make a subtle but intriguing summer bracelet.
This piece will fit up to approximately an 8" wrist - and don't worry, those beads may look spiky but the spines are flexible and soft so it's comfortable to wear! The bracelet is strung on robust steel beading cable and finished with a sterling silver toggle clasp. The restrained colours make it wearable with lots of different summer outfits. (It would go rather well with my starfish earrings too!)

I'll happily work with you to re-create a similar bracelet in a different colour or size - just convo me for details. Or if you'd like a set of these beads to use in your own designs, please let me know.

Dulce de Leche

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:52:09 -0400

$185.00
Named after my favourite sweet treat, this is the ultimate in beady temptation... a swirling, glossy 'lollipop' focal bead on a lush spiral necklace in shades of chocolate, cream and caramel with just a touch of honey and a lovely drippy fringe... mmmmm, makes me feel hungry just to look at it!
The handmade lampwork glass beads are by Cornish genius Tania Grey; the 16" necklace is stitched in right angle weave and lavishly encrusted with tiny glass drops. The pendant (which is removeable, with care) hangs a generous five inches from the top of the beaded loop to the tip of the fringe. I've used strong nylon 'Fireline' thread for all the weight-bearing parts, including the necklace, so it's strong, flexible and non-stretch.
This unrepeatable piece was my entry for an Etsy BeadWeavers (EBW) Team Challenge on the theme 'Temptation'. To see the current challenge, search tags for 'EBWC'; you can view all the entries, leave a comment, and vote for your favourite on the team blog (www.etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com) .

Go on... give in to the temptation... you know you want to!

River Cuff - Pebbles

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:52:09 -0400

$95.00
This is an earth-toned version of my 'River Cuff' project, published in the July/August 2009 issue of Step by Step Beads magazine. It's a wide band of randomly chosen seed beads, each one carefully hand-stitched in place, decorated with transparent glass buttons. The circular buttons mimic raindrop ripples on the surface of water, and also magnify and distort the beads underneath as you look through them, just like looking through water at a pebbly riverbed.
The cuff is approximately 1" (2.5 cm) wide and 6.5" (17 cm) long (it can be lengthened if required). It fastens with two loops that fit round two of the buttons, so the clasp disappears when the bracelet is worn, giving the illusion that the river is endless.
I love stitching these random beads together and will happily make this bracelet to order in different colour schemes - just convo me for details.

River Cuff - Original Blue

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:52:08 -0400

$120.00
This is the ORIGINAL 'River Cuff', published in the July/August 2009 issue of Step by Step Beads magazine. It's a wide band of randomly chosen seed beads, each one carefully hand-stitched in place, decorated with transparent glass buttons. The circular buttons magnify and distort the beads underneath as you look through them, just like looking at raindrop ripples on the surface of a deep blue river.
The cuff is approximately 1" (2.5 cm) wide and 6.5" (17 cm) long (it can be lengthened if required). It fastens with two loops that fit round two of the buttons, so the clasp disappears when the bracelet is worn, giving the illusion that the river is endless.
I love stitching these random beads together and will happily make this bracelet to order in different colour schemes - just convo me for details.

Starfish Earrings - large, cream

Wed, 21 Oct 2009 15:52:08 -0400

$21.00
***WINTER SALE SPECIAL OFFER***
I've reduced the price of selected items throughout the store by 30% from now until 31 December. The price shown includes the reduction; this piece was previously offered for sale at $30.
*******************************************************************

These are my ORIGINAL starfish earrings, which appear in the July/August 2009 issue of Step by Step Beads magazine. The perfect beach party earrings for the summer! Lightweight and eyecatching, they are hand-stitched from glass seed beads and hung from sterling silver earwires. Each starfish measures about 1.5" (4 cm) across. The arms aren't rigid but will bend a little and move about when you wear them - making them look alive!

These can also be made in other colours - look out for new listings or convo me for details. I am also happy to make them in a smaller size (like these: http://www.etsy.com/view_transaction.php?transaction_id=8792603 ) if you prefer a more delicate look.

Beadweaving Tutorial - 1 Peyote Pipes

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 12:14:55 -0400

$6.00
A beadweaving tutorial that will teach you the basics of peyote stitch, one of the most useful and versatile of all the off-loom stitches. Clear, friendly step-by-step instructions are fully illustrated with colour photographs to guide you through, bead by bead.
Learn how to stitch flat peyote, zip it up into a tube, and progress to both even- and odd-count tubular peyote. Next, make three different beaded beads from your samples, and string them into a simple bracelet. Then start to use these techniques in your own designing!
Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.) Seven other designs are also listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop, and two sets of four tutorials are also available.

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

A kit containing the instructions plus all the beads you need to complete the tutorial is available in the 'Kits' section of the shop.

Forest Collar

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 03:43:20 -0400

$200.00
A lush fringed neckpiece in subtle natural browns and greens, decorated with acrylic flowers and leaves. The acrylics make the necklace very light and comfortable to wear, with the added bonus of making a lovely rustly tinkling sound as they move! The foundation of the collar is right-angle weave, which makes a strong but flexible beaded lattice; layers of fringing are added, with bugle beads to catch the light. Pearls, hearts, faceted beads and a variety of other shapes add lots of fascinating detail. The necklace fastens with a big pearlised button and sturdy beaded loop. This is truly a one-off and will never be repeated!
The centre front is about 3" (7.5 cm) deep from the top of the band to the tip of the largest leaf; the necklace is approximately 15" (38 cm) long when fastened.

Retro Garden Collar

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 03:43:20 -0400

$475.00
Another member of my signature ‘Garden’ series, this lush peyote stitched collar has a ‘retro’ colour scheme of lime, cream, strawberry and chocolate. The detailed decoration includes sparkling crystals, beaded leaves and flowers, freshwater pearls, and glass beads of all shapes and sizes, all individually hand-stitched in place. The top edge of the necklace is reinforced with extra stitching to distribute the weight of the fringe, and the collar fastens with a glass bead and a stitched loop. Slinky, sparkly, and satisfyingly heavy yet very comfortable to wear, this is the perfect necklace for a big occasion and would make a very special gift.
The collar is 16 1/2” (42 cm) long and 3” (7.5 cm) deep at the front - please let me know if you require a different length.
Each of these collars is a unique, unrepeatable slice of wearable art. I love making them and will happily create a custom order for you in colours of your choice; just contact me for details. Matching earrings and cuff bracelets can also be made to order.

Beadweaving Tutorial - 5 Cellini and Dutch Spiral

Sun, 18 Oct 2009 11:30:53 -0400

$6.00
A beadweaving tutorial that will teach you how to tackle these two 'corkscrew' variants on tubular peyote stitch. Clear, friendly step-by-step instructions are fully illustrated with colour photographs to guide you through, bead by bead.
Learn how to start the pattern off by getting that all-important first row sorted, then watch your beadwork grow into a lush textured spiral. Please note that although the instructions start from the first bead, you will find this tutorial much easier if you have a little beadweaving experience and are familiar with tubular peyote stitch (or have purchased my Tutorial 1!)
Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.) Seven other designs are also listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop, and two sets of four tutorials are also available.

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

Pearl Romance Earrings

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 07:18:46 -0400

$52.00
A pair of sparkly wedding earrings, painstakingly stitched from tiny glass seed beads that frame crystal beads and freshwater pearls. Each little diamond is double-sided so it will look equally beautiful from the back or the front, and hangs (just under 1"/2.5 cm deep) from a sterling silver earwire.
These would be the perfect complement to the Pearl Romance Collar and Cuff (see listings in the 'White Weddings' section of the shop) but will equally well coordinate with most of my other wedding jewellery.

Do please let me know when ordering if you would like me to re-hang one of the earrings so that the design is the identical way round on both - I like non-matching but I do understand that not everybody is the same way!

Pearl Romance Collar

Sun, 11 Oct 2009 07:18:46 -0400

$290.00
When I started on this necklace, I wanted to challenge myself to move away from my usual florals and fringes and make a bridal piece that would 'marry' my favourite random, textural elements with a more restrained and classic style. After many attempts I created this deceptively simple collar-style necklace encrusted with crystal beads and freshwater pearls - the perfect accessory for the bride who wants something modern and unique, yet simple and beautiful.
The trellis base is handstitched from tiny glass seed beads on strong braided nylon thread, then lavishly embellished with a further layer of beadwork to give it depth, texture and sparkle. A scalloped edging of the tiniest seed beads adds yet more detail. The necklace is designed to sit just around the base of the neck; it's smooth and comfortable to wear, satisfyingly heavy, and drapes beautifully.
I chose a warm palette of pale cream and palest peachy pink that will complement most skin tones. The piece is finished with a sterling silver clasp and carries an engraved maker's tag, so you know this is a piece of my original beadwork. It measures 16" (40 cm) along the upper edge and is just under 1" (2.5 cm) deep.
A matching cuff and earrings are also available: see the listings in the 'White Weddings' section of my shop.

This design can be re-made in different colours (pure white, for example, or deeper pinks, or blues, or even black!) and to different lengths - just convo me to discuss your requirements. I love working with customers to make their special day even more special!

Pearl Romance Cuff

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 04:17:10 -0400

$135.00
A sparkly, bold yet feminine cuff bracelet laden with crystals and pearls - the perfect accessory for your big day! Supple and comfortable, this satisfyingly heavy piece is a generous 1" (2.5 cm) wide and is a nice, slightly loose fit on a 7.5" (19 cm) wrist. The photographs don't do justice to the sparkle: the crystals really catch the light as the wearer moves.
The bracelet base is made from tiny seed beads in creamy white, pearl finish and palest opal pink, handstitched together to form a trellis band, then lavishly embellished with a random pattern of freshwater pearls, sparkling crystal beads and crystal flowers, edged with glass drops and loops of even tinier seed beads. The clasp is a secure magnetic sterling silver slider (not recommended if you have a pacemaker - please convo me for alternatives!) and strong nylon braided thread is used throughout, to ensure that this piece will last for many years.
I am happy to remake similar designs in different sizes and colours, with alternative (including metal-free) clasps, or with the crystals and pearls arranged in a regular pattern if random isn't quite your cup of tea. The bracelet will coordinate with many of the necklaces in my wedding section, or you can contact me to commission a matching choker and/or earrings. (I love any excuse to play with crystals and pearls!)

Bead Mojo Box - Malibu

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 06:37:51 -0400

$30.00
Every beader has those days when inspiration is lacking... so here's my remedy for lost beading mojo! This vibrantly colourful boxed bead collection is sure to kick-start your creativity again. Seed beads, shells and mother of pearl, white metal beads and charms, crystals, glass pearls, glass chips, and some pretty little frosted hearts are all handpicked to coordinate with some cheerful handmade lampwork glass 'Sunspot' beads by Julie Fountain (Lush Lampwork) in rich turquoise blue and lime green with just a touch of amethyst purple. There's a handy sheet of tips and ideas to inspire you too.
Each one of these selections is different and unrepeatable - a lovely treat for you, or a great gift for a beader or crafter. Check out the other colours in the range; and if you'd like a colour that isn't listed, just contact me and I'll see what I can do.

Bead Mojo Box - Mouthwatering

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 04:02:24 -0400

$30.00
Every beader has those days when inspiration is lacking... so here's my remedy for lost beading mojo! This boxed bead collection is sure to kick-start your creativity again. Seed beads, accents, crystals, mother-of-pearl, semiprecious stone chips, and white metal spacer beads are all handpicked to coordinate with some beautiful handmade lampwork glass 'Sunspot' beads by Julie Fountain (Lush Lampwork) in mouthwatering citrus shades, and there's a handy sheet of tips and ideas to inspire you too.
Each box is different and unrepeatable - a lovely treat for you, or a great gift for a beader or crafter. Check out the other colours in the range; and if you'd like a colour that isn't listed, just contact me and I'll see what I can do.

MADE TO ORDER - Rose Pendant Necklace

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 04:02:14 -0400

$90.00
***Please note: this is a 'Made to Order' listing and will take between 2 and 4 weeks to ship. If you need a necklace in a hurry, please browse the Necklaces section of the shop for items that are in stock!***

A stylized rose with a pearl at its heart hangs among tiny leaves suspended from a delicate chain... all hand-stitched from the smallest of seed beads!
This very feminine necklace is a version of my 'Olive Rose' design, which was published in the October 2008 issue of Beadwork magazine. The necklace can be made to any length up to 21" and fastens with a pearl and beaded loop; the central dangle section has a drop of approximately 3". The rose is reversible, so the back looks just as pretty as the front. The high level of detail is achieved by patient, careful stitching with top quality Japanese glass seed beads in the smallest regularly available size; these make a necklace so lightweight that you barely know you're wearing it.
It doesn't have to be pink, either! The original version was a golden/olive colour, and it looks fabulous in white or cream (ideal for a bride or bridesmaid; see this listing http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=16270392 ), or it could be peach, yellow, red, lilac, pale blue, or even black for a slightly gothic look. (I'll happily try other combinations of leaves and roses if you want a more ornate necklace; contact me for details.) Just let me know your preferred colour when ordering and I'll track down some appropriate tiny beads.

Champagne Ruffle Necklace

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 04:02:02 -0400

$255.00
A swirling, frothy ruffle of tiny seed beads and sparkling glass drops surrounds a set of beautiful handmade lampwork beads in this eyecatching and very feminine neckpiece. The centrepiece is a 1" (25 mm) creamy-white lentil-shaped bead with fine silver wire detailing melted into its glossy surface; it's teamed with velvety-smooth etched rectangular pillows (another one makes the clasp) and a set of pretty little spacer beads with detailing in the palest transparent pink. Each lampwork bead is held in place between pale pink 'silk' crystal bicone beads for just that little extra sparkle. The necklace foundation is strung on tough nylon-coated steel beading cable, with loops and swirls of beadwork handstitched in place, mostly one bead at a time, carefully graduated in depth towards the centre. Extra rows of beads make the loops ruffle and twist to give the piece its organic feel.
The necklace is approximately 17.5" (45 cm) long and is very comfortable to wear. It would make a fabulous wedding necklace or the perfect accessory for a summer evening party. These beads can never be exactly repeated, so you can guarantee you'll never see anyone else wearing one!

MADE TO ORDER - Marie Antoinette Collar

Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:05:59 -0400

$235.00
***Please note: This is a 'made to order' listing; the necklace isn't currently in stock but will be re-made especially for you. Each version is unique, so your necklace may not contain the exact beads you see in the photos. The necklace will take approximately three weeks to ship. When you order, please contact me with your measurements and your choice of colours.***

This necklace design was the first project of mine to appear in print in the US (Beadwork magazine, April 2007). It's a shaped netting base in seed beads, with lots of embellishments, buttons, and brickstitched flowers, decorated with Swarovski crystals, ribbons and charms.

The final photo shows some of the colour combinations currently available (top: Champagne, Lavender, Mermaid; bottom: Peacock, Rose, Russet) but feel free to come up with your own suggestions and I'll see what I can do.
If you'd like to make this pretty design for yourself, a kit is available here: http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=18637262

Beadweaving Tutorial - 2 Capture a Cabochon

Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:05:59 -0400

$6.00
A beadweaving tutorial that will teach you the useful technique of bezeling a cabochon (a flat component with no holes in it) so that you can use it in your beading. Clear, friendly step-by-step instructions are fully illustrated with colour photographs to guide you through, bead by bead.

Create a bezel with right angle weave and peyote stitch, then add a bail to turn it into a pendant. It’s easier than it looks and there is absolutely no glue involved! The instructions assume no prior knowledge but you will find this tutorial easier, and achieve better results more quickly, if you are already familiar with single-needle right angle weave and circular peyote stitch.

Each set of instructions is supplied as a pdf file, which will be emailed to you. (Please let me know if you would prefer an A4 sized hardcopy by mail and I'll create a listing for you - a shipping charge will apply.) Seven other designs are also listed in the 'Kits' section of the shop, and two sets of four tutorials are also available.

***Please note this listing is for the tutorial file ONLY; the beadwork and paper copy shown in the photos are for illustration and are NOT included in your purchase.

MADE TO ORDER Rose Garden Collar

Sat, 19 Sep 2009 05:15:44 -0400

$520.00
****PLEASE NOTE: this item is made to order and I don't currently hold one in stock. This means that there will be a four- to five-week delay in shipping your necklace. If you want a necklace in a hurry, check out the other designs in the shop!****

My signature piece in my favourite style: a lavishly fringed seed beaded collar, embellished with crystals, pearls, glass shapes, and beaded flowers. It is satisfyingly heavy, but comfortable to wear, with lots of movement and sparkle. This turns heads, whether you wear it with a T-shirt, a wedding dress, or a formal gown!
Each of my ‘Garden’ collars is unique and takes many hours of careful work to create; the top row of the beadwork is reinforced with extra stitching and the piece is finished with a sterling silver clasp and a lovely beaded tassel detail at the back of the neck. The collar is made to measure to sit around the base of your neck (an extender chain can be fitted to give some adjustability if desired) and is about 2” deep at the front.
This gorgeous necklace is made to order for you in a colourway of your choice – it doesn't have to be pink! Contact me with your preferences and I'll see what I can do. A matching bracelet and earrings are also available.

The Tenth Ugliest Necklace in the World

Tue, 15 Sep 2009 05:07:02 -0400

$495.00
This unusual, unrepeatable and unspeakably hideous piece was my entry in the wonderfully eccentric Ugly Necklace Contest last year; it made it through to the semifinals and was placed tenth overall. (This year I'm delighted to say that I was the winner - look out for 'The Story of my Beading Life' in the shop in September!)
It’s a giant-sized take on a charm bracelet and makes a person-sized necklace, formed from robust seed beaded links hung with heart-shaped wire charms, each decorated with a pair of handmade lampwork figures or animals. It was made on Valentine’s Day 2008, hence the romantic theme. Plastic letter beads are strung together in a charm that spells out the original title of the piece, ‘I Let Our Love Sing… F’, which is of course an anagram of ‘Revolting Fuglies’.
(What is a Fugly, you ask? Well, it is a technical term for an art glass bead that has turned out, erm, VERY ugly despite its maker’s best efforts. Here are 42 of the UK’s very finest specimens kindly donated by their makers: handmade, kiln-annealed, cleaned, and hideous! )

The necklace is best summed up by the poem that accompanied the contest entry:
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I Let Our Love Sing – F(orte)

Once upon a blowtorch an artist made a pig.
A pretty pink color, and not very big.
She took one look at him and said “Bad luck,
But your face looks like it was squashed by a truck,

I tried my best, but this hideous creation
Will destroy my perfectionist reputation.
There’s nothing I can do, you’ve turned out so ugly,
I’m afraid you’re what lampworkers call: A FUGLY!”

Upon another workbench some aliens appeared.
Green, blue, spotty, distinctly weird!
“Oh dear,” said their maker, “you didn’t turn out right!”
And she hid them in her Fugly Box out of sight.

Every maker has a Fugly Box, dark and quiet,
With Fuglies who’d escape if they only dared try it,
They dream of being made into jewelry someday,
But for this hopeless lot there seemed just no way…

BUT THEN…
Mad beader Lynn had a great idea
To make an Ugly Necklace that will WIN this year!
On a lampworkers’ forum she put up a post:
“Your Fugliest Beads are what I want the most!”

Beadmakers are a lovely and generous crew:
They donated wonky rainbows and burnt trees too,
And green shapeless lumps that beggared belief
And looked like what you’d find in your handkerchief!

Lynn’s Fugly Collection became world-class:
So much hideousness made of glass!
Mutant birds, floppy flowers, bent butterflies,
Lots of things with no noses or too many eyes.

But still Lynn was missing the vital theme
To realize her Ugly Necklace dream.
Then up popped a plastic knitting charm and said “Look, stupid,
Just put me in your Fugly Box and I’ll play Cupid!”

It was Valentine’s Day, there was romance in the air,
And the Fuglies got together, pair by pair,
Car Crash Piggy was the first to leap
Into happy union with No-Nose Sheep.

The Green and the Blue Aliens were naturally matched
And Red Bird and LadyBird were easily attached;
But some of the other ones were very much harder,
Just too Fugly to inspire much ardour!

Pink Warty Alien and Snowblob Person
Their Fugly looks had just been cursin’
But now they’re an item, and right nearby
Blue Lizard Bead Sitting Thingy fell for ButterFfly.

Jaundiced Kidlet is quite new on the block
And Tonsured Baby thinks she rocks!
In her new wire necklace he finds her quite beguiling –
And believe it or not, her yellow face is smiling!

Mutant Dragon Budgie went hopping around
To see whether true love by him could be found.
Now he’s enjoying a cuddle and a snog
With bulging, bug-eyed Splat-Mouthed Frog.

Last and loneliest, the Goddess heard a humming.
A one-eyed mutant like a Dalek was coming!
“My Eye!” he cried, “I do declare
You look like Homer Simpson – but I DO NOT CARE!”

So now they’ll be together till the end of time,
Lynn stitched romantic charms for them and wrote this rhyme.
Even REVOLTING FUGLIES can be by love transformed –
Now I LET OUR LOVE SING – F(orte)
And let your heart be warmed!

******************************************************************
If this necklace finds a new home, a donation of $200 will be made to the ‘Smile Train’ organization, who work to help children with facial deformities. When my beloved grandmother passed away last year at the age of 99, she asked that donations in her memory be made to this good cause – Granny never got to see this piece but I know it would have made her laugh!

SALE Odd Rainbow Earrings

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 04:19:59 -0400

$15.00
A little bit of fun... and now at a bargain price too! This un-matched pair of brickstitch earrings in rainbow colours is sure to brighten your day. Each little circle is handstitched (one bead at a time) from Japanese glass seed beads and edged with tiny glass drops. The earwires are sterling silver and each earring measures 3/4" (just under 2 cm) from top to bottom.
If you'd like a matching pendant, necklace or bracelet, feel free to convo me and I'll see what I can do. I love any excuse to work with these beautiful clear colours!

SALE Earring Clearing Trio, Plum Blossom

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 04:19:59 -0400

$20.00
A trio of fun earrings, all with sterling silver earwires, in toning shades of purple and pink.
One pair are made with pretty pink glass hearts and coppery freshwater pearls; one pair with pressed glass trumpet flower beads, crystals, amethyst chips and freshwater pearls; one pair with crystals and handmade lampwork floral pillows. All are carefully crafted and unique. Three pairs of earrings at a bargain price - snap them up quickly before I change my mind!

Vintage Ribbon Cuff - Party Perfect

Wed, 09 Sep 2009 04:13:36 -0400

$29.40
***WINTER SALE SPECIAL OFFER***
I've reduced the price of selected items throughout the store by 30% from now until 31 December. The price shown includes the reduction; this piece was previously offered for sale at $42.
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A fun, frothy-textured netted cuff bracelet of sparkling silver-lined seed beads, elegantly edged with black and highlighted with rich reds and purples. The metal-free clasp is a vintage faceted glass button and a robust beaded loop that gives a neat fit for a 7" wrist. The design, which is featured in the October issue of Bead Magazine, was inspired by an embroidered, lacy vintage ribbon; lots of tiny beaded loops cover the surface and catch the light as you move.
This design can be made to order in other colours and sizes; just convo me for details.

Flores Morenas Beaded Bead Necklace

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 18:13:38 -0400

$295.00
Now here's something you don't see every day - five of my 'signature' beaded beads strung together with crystals, freshwater pearls and seed beads into a real stunner of a necklace. Each bead contains well over 400 tiny glass beads, each one individually handstitched in place to form part of an intricate floral pattern. No two beads are exactly alike - this is truly a one-of-a-kind piece that will never be repeated. The soft, warm earth tones of the beads are complemented with cream and brown freshwater pearls and some beautiful and unusual olive green faceted pearls, with just a hint of crystal sparkle.
The beaded beads are about an inch (25 mm) in diameter so they have a lot of visual impact, but they aren't heavy to wear, as they have wooden cores so they are much lighter than glass beads of equivalent size. The necklace is a generous 21" (53 cm) long, is strung on a robust nylon-coated steel beading cable, and fastens with a sterling silver S-hook clasp; an engraved and dated silver tag identifies this as my original work.
Believe me, this necklace is much lovelier than my photographs (I am working on replacing these images with better ones)! Bold and yet very feminine, it's subtle enough to wear every day but special enough for an evening party - and with its neutral palette it will complement a wide range of outfits. Even an autumn wedding dress!

Pink Pacific Lariat Necklace

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:47:46 -0400

$105.00
This beautiful and unusual lariat-style necklace is hand-stitched from beads in a pretty palette of pastel pink, pearly white and just a touch of green, grey and bronze. A handmade lampwork glass bead and a textured tassel with freshwater pearls finishes off each end.
You can wear this versatile piece draped like a scarf, or tied like a necktie, whatever suits your style. It's very comfortable to wear, satisfyingly weighted and with a beautiful flexible drape. The rope section is a generous 31" (79 cm) long, and the focal beads plus tassels add a further 3" (7.5 cm) to either end.
This design can be made to order in other colours and different lengths - just convo me for details. I can make matching earrings and bracelets too!

Sunset Collar

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 07:05:35 -0400

$95.00
An organic, random collar-style necklace in a mixture of warm and deep tones - oranges, browns, red, bronze and black. Tiny glass beads are woven together and interspersed with cubes, teardrops and a simple fringe to make a slinky, supple piece of jewellery that drapes beautifully around the base of the neck and is light and comfortable to wear.
When fastened, the necklace measures approximately 15" (38 cm) and is about 2.5" (7 cm) deep at the centre front. A matching cuff bracelet is also available, and matching earrings (as seen in Step by Step Beads magazine!) can be made to order.
This piece is in the 'sale and seconds' section because although it hasn't been worn and there's nothing technically wrong with it, it has travelled (to a US publisher for evaluation, and back again) and been in storage for a while, so I don't feel I can offer it at full price as 'new'! This is a chance to pick up a bargain piece of my signature-style 'random' beadwork - it would make a lovely gift for someone special, or why not treat yourself to the perfect complement for your autumn and winter wardrobe?

Sunset Cuff

Tue, 08 Sep 2009 06:50:21 -0400

$45.00
A fun, textured cuff bracelet in a random mixture of warm tones - looks great on tanned skin and is a cheering colour for the winter months too! It's handwoven from tiny glass beads with a central row of cube-shaped beads and a short fringe on each edge; the clasp is a simple glass bead and loop. The cuff is about an inch (2.5 cm) wide and will fit a 7" (18 cm) wrist - please convo me if you need a different size.
This piece is in the 'sale and seconds' section because although it hasn't been worn, it has travelled (to a US publisher for evaluation, and back again) and been in storage for a while. I've also become more picky about my clasps and finishing since it was made, so I've reduced the price to reflect this. It's still a lovely and very wearable piece of beadwork with lots of character and I'm hoping it'll find an appreciative home!

Caribbean Surf Collar

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 12:26:18 -0400

$180.00
A slice of tropical magic! Shells, seahorse charms, pearls and a multitude of other beads dance and sparkle on a lavishly fringed collar in the blues and greens of the warm Caribbean waters.
The collar is based on the right angle weave stitch, which makes it flexible and robust, and is embellished with several layers of drops, beads, plated charms, and fringing. It's approximately 16" long and fastens with a shell button and beaded loop. The fringing at the centre front is about 2" deep. The necklace feels satisfyingly heavy and slinky, and is very comfortable to wear.
Co-ordinating earrings are available; http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19475814 I'm happy to make this style of necklace in other colours and sizes, just contact me for details.
This was my entry for the Etsy BeadWeavers (EBW) Team January Challenge 'Tropical Holiday'. You can see all the entries and the stunning winner on the team blog at www.etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com - Enjoy!

Caribbean Surf Earrings

Mon, 07 Sep 2009 12:26:18 -0400

$30.00
Pretty circular beadwoven earrings hand-stitched from three different sizes of seed bead in Caribbean blues and greens, designed to coordinate with the Caribbean Surf Collar http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=19471247 but very wearable just on their own! The earrings are non-identical, with a random mix of colours around their outer edges, and hang by three linked rings from sterling silver earwires. Each rosette has a diameter of approximately 1" (25 mm). Lightweight and comfortable to wear, these would make a lovely gift or treat, and if you'd like a coordinating cuff or bracelet too, or would prefer the earrings to be in a different colour or style, just let me know and I'll see what I can do.

White Rose Pendant Necklace

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 12:35:34 -0400

$52.50
***WINTER SALE SPECIAL OFFER***
I've reduced the price of selected items throughout the store by 30% from now until 31 December. The price shown includes the reduction; this piece was previously offered for sale at $75.
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A beautiful creamy-white rose with a pearl at its heart hangs among tiny leaves suspended from a delicate chain... all hand-stitched from the smallest of seed beads!
This very feminine necklace is a version of my 'Olive Rose', which was published in the October issue of Beadwork magazine. The necklace is 16 1/2" long and fastens with a pearl and beaded loop; the central dangle section has a drop of approximately 3". No metal is used in its construction, so it's ideal for allergy sufferers as well as being so lightweight that you barely know you're wearing it.
This would be an ideal piece for a bride or bridesmaid, or it would make a lovely gift. It is now available made to order in other colours:
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=20616929

and I'll happily work with you to create a matching bracelet and/or earrings, or a necklace with extra roses and leaves... just contact me!

Champagne Garden Collar

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 12:35:34 -0400

$495.00
Another in my signature 'Garden' series, this time in a creamy 'champagne' colourway with touches of white, pearl, peach and pale pink. I just love making these collars! Each one is different and I never know exactly how it's going to turn out. Tiny beads are stitched together - mostly one at a time - with a tough braided thread that resists stretching and fraying. The necklace is embellished with a lavish graduated fringe hung with hundreds of different beads, crystals and freshwater pearls in carefully chosen colours. A trio of beaded flowers adorns the front of the necklace, surrounded by glass leaves and blossoms and yet more crystals - this is a very sparkly version of the design and really catches the light as the wearer moves!
The necklace is 15" (38 cm) long and is designed to sit quite high up around the base of the neck (the length can be altered if required), fastening with a mother-of-pearl button and a neat beaded loop. The collar is 3" (7.5 cm) deep at the centre front and weighs 3 1/2 ounces (just under 100 g) - satisfyingly heavy but very comfortable, as the weight is evenly distributed. A sterling silver tag identifies this as my original work.
Matching earrings and a cuff bracelet can be ordered if required, and I'm always happy to make these collars in colours of your choice - just contact me to discuss your preferences.

This necklace would make a stunning piece of bridal jewellery, or a very wearable accessory for any special occasion. It's a head-turning statement piece, yet very delicate and feminine. And you will never see anyone else wearing your exact necklace; I couldn't make an absolutely identical one again, even if I tried!

The Other Treasures of Atlantis Necklace

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 05:50:41 -0400

$495.00
Imagine some priceless artefact emerging from an excavation of a lost civilization... A fabulous combination of semiprecious stones, handmade glass and metal components, this necklace is a re-working of my 'Treasures of Atlantis' design that recently won the Beading Daily Semiprecious Beads Challenge and was published in the September 2009 issue of Step by Step Beads magazine.
The central attraction is a beautiful handmade metal clay lentil bead by Rebecca Crabtree of Fired Silver ( http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6707148 ), teamed with lampwork by glass artist Heather Webb of Bumpy Beads ( http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5597882 ), and set amid amazonite, labradorite, haematite, freshwater pearls, tiny star shapes and glass beads in a subtle palette of blues and greys. Clusters of delicate dangles give the piece lots of texture and movement; although the overall design is symmetrical, it has a certain random element too.
The necklace is just over 16" (41 cm) long and the central pendant hangs 2" (5 cm) deep. The clasp is a sturdy S-hook and a custom engraved tag identifies this as my original work.
This timeless yet modern design looks great with just about anything, from a little black dress to denims and a t-shirt; it's satisfyingly heavy so it drapes beautifully in wear and is very comfortable. There will never be another necklace exactly like this one!

Bead Mojo Box - Monochrome - Special Offer

Mon, 31 Aug 2009 05:50:41 -0400

$20.00
***WINTER SALE SPECIAL OFFER***
I've reduced the price of selected items throughout the store by 30% from now until 31 December. The price shown includes the reduction; this item was previously offered for sale at $30.
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Every beader has those days when inspiration is lacking... so here's my remedy for lost beading mojo! This boxed bead collection is sure to kick-start your creativity again. Seed beads, bugle beads, crystals, pressed glass accent beads, mother of pearl shapes, freshwater pearls, pewter squares and a spiral charm are all handpicked to coordinate with some beautiful handmade lampwork beads in glossy black and white with dashes of red, purple, pink and brown. A handy sheet of tips and ideas to inspire you will also be included.
Each one of these selections is different and unrepeatable - a lovely treat for you, or a great gift for a beader or crafter. Check out the other colours in the range; and if you'd like a colour that isn't listed, just contact me and I'll see what I can do.