Spring Time, on a Bead Loom!

Spring is finally here!

In celebration, my next 'Bead Loom Class', will have a flower theme. 

"Daised Cuff", below, offers 3D petals arranged in tailored spacing.

The upper edge is actually 'wire crochet'. This is called 'capture chain'

 because it also has a line of 'ball chain' running inside.

Next cuff offered, for this class, is a velvety petal 'Cone Flower'.

The background is woven using 'Tru Cut Permanent Metallic Silver Beads'. 

You can notice a slight glint of light, in this picture. It occurs when the light hits a few of the cut edges.

The petals and leaves are 'matte finish', offering a great contract to the silver background.

Another 'Cone Flower' color way, below. This time with Teals and Black. 

The pattern offers more flowers, in this garden. 

A detailed fringe, using Superduos and crystals, offer a nice sway of Spring!

Each of the cuffs have a 3D addition, in petals or a leaf. 

I am not very versed, in hand weaving beads, or using some of the amazing style beads available today, 

but I did try my hand at weaving a pair of matching earrings!

Now that this line up is complete, I am ready for April 5th and April 12th,

the two day class being held at BEAD SOUP, in Savage Maryland.

June will be my next session, (June 21st & June 28th), sharing all I know, about the bead loom.

I am thinking a 'Summer Theme'!

Adorning Patterns Beyond the Warps!

I recently shared some patterns I created, specifically for the students at Bead Soup. The 'Mystery Loom Class" was a huge success. Now, I am looking over some of those patterns, wanting to recreate a few myself! The "Kitty Boo" was such a whimsical design, I just had to weave it.

The edgings are completed using Super Duo Beads, crystals and 11/0 seed beads. The clasp is still underway, being cut and finished, so any final pictures will be available on my website. This picture is being posted in hopes to offer some inspiration.

Consider adding hand weaving stitches, of beads, to your warp edges. These initially add width, but they also add further to the simplest of patterns.

While working up the final pattern, for my Spring Class, at Bead Soup, (April 5 and April 12, 2014. Call for reservations.), I am starting to recreate some Summer themed patterns. The one below is a serene look at waves beating the beach.

Now, I will be dragging out the Adirondack Chairs and some Flip Flops!!

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One more thought. I receive emails, daily, requesting info, about the proper loom and warp management techniques. I am putting together a detailed post, offering some of my thoughts on specific looms, in the industry, and techniques a bead weaver can consider. Stay tuned :D