Here are my two ornaments....
I wanted to learn how to make a beaded star. I've seen many on Pinterest with beautiful, complex designs and there is one with snowmen on it that I would love to make. So, I made a prototype, just to learn the stitch and how it all fits together and that's as far as I got right now. This pattern is from Diane Fitzgerald's book, called Shaped Beadwork and Beyond. My first beaded start still sits pretty on the tree, even if the design is slightly plain. I actually found another link on Bead and Button and another way to make these stars and may try it as well. Diane Fitzgerald's idea has you making five beaded components and then sewing them together. Bead & Button's idea has you making 10 beaded components and then sewing them together - which may be helpful if creating intricate designs on the faces of the stars.
My second ornament came from the idea given at Art Bead Scene blog. Why not make an ornament with all my favorite hoarded art beads? I really like these beads and had to have them but either found them too big for the more delicate or flat jewelry I like to make or too whimsical for the jewelry I make. But I love them hanging on the tree!
The art beads included are: a spunky cowboy pendant by Jade Scott (who no longer sells these), beautiful handmade glass beads from Loupiac, and an enameled copper bead with the saying "Less is more" from Blue Antiquities. Less is more is a phrase I keep trying to live by but find many challenges with. This wreath isn't in traditional Christmas colors because I'm planning on hanging it by my kitchen window to enjoy all year after the tree is down.
**The in between beads are pyrite and the wire was found on the ground after a nearby utility pole was getting changed out. I collected a whole bunch of one foot wire segments - not sure what kind of metal it is, maybe steel? It's silver colored and slightly hard.
Can't wait to see what everyone else made! Merry Christmas!
Here are the links to the other participating designers:
Guest Designers
Art Elements Team
I know what you mean, christmas always catches me by surprise too! ;) I love both ornaments, the star looks beautiful and the bead ring is gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteThat beaded star is PHENOMENAL!! I just don't have patience for seed beads, but totally appreciate the skill it takes to work with them. And, what a great idea to use your favorite art beads in an ornament to hang up all year. Ingenious!!
ReplyDeleteOh, your star is awesome! I wanted to do a beaded star but just didn't get to it! I know what you mean about concerts, etc. And the lampwork ornament is wonderful - will look great in your kitchen window! Happy Holidays!
ReplyDeleteOH my!! I am in awe of your peyote beaded star. What a beautiful job you did. I also love your lampwork bead ornament-just perfect.And I agree with Sue, it would look wonderful hanging in the window.
ReplyDeleteWhat a stunning beaded star - I am in awe....and you lampwork ornament is so joyful. Thank you for taking part in our challenge and happy holidays.
ReplyDeleteYour star is gorgeous and the beadwork is so neat. I can't believe that its just a prototype
ReplyDeleteOh I love them both! I have yet to try shaped beading like your star, you may have inspired me. I think the wreath of favorite beads... hanging int he window all year? That is a fun idea! Thanks for joining us this year!
ReplyDeleteHi Denise, the first comment from Caroline is actually from Lesley, our accounts have been mixed up somehow... this is the real me :) Love your beadwork, the star is beautiful, and the wreath is the perfect way to show off your favourite lampwork! Both gorgeous designs!
ReplyDeleteYour beadwork is beautiful. Your other ornament is very cute.
ReplyDeletewow, jealous of your beadwork, that star is amazing! the wreath is very pretty too.
ReplyDeleteHow pretty! That star turned out just lovely and I love the idea for using your favorite art beads like that. Very pretty!
ReplyDeleteI so wish I could bead like you. I have tried and just can not get it right.. Well maybe one day. Love the second ornament as well. Have a wonderful Christmas.
ReplyDeleteI love the colors you choose for your star - it's gorgeous. The beaded wreath is fabulous. It's very cheery.
ReplyDeleteThank you for all the lovely comments!
ReplyDeleteYour beaded star is so classically Christmassy, and looks like a very versatile pattern to play with. I love your art bead wreath too!
ReplyDeleteI, too, sometimes snatch the opportunity to try a new design or technique for a challenge like this and the star is beautiful! The wreath is also a neat idea, love the boot!
ReplyDeleteThat star is so lovely... I'd never have the patience for that but I so appreciate other people's efforts. :) I love that you made an art bead wreath that you'll be able to enjoy all year long! Fabulous idea!
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