My Bead Studio

First Tila Bead Trial

2010-09-29T21:43:00.000-07:00

Completed Dallas Lovett Pieces

2010-08-30T21:21:00.000-07:00

Highland Mist Bracelet and La Fiesta Earrings, design by Dallas Lovett. My earrings, made to colour match the Highland Mist bracelet, my own design, inspired by Dallas. The bracelet and my earrings use Toho permanent finish metallic mauve and Swarovski cyclamen opal beads.

Rachel Nelson-Smith - My Lekku!

2009-02-23T20:29:00.000-08:00

Spiral Rope Variation

2009-01-03T20:55:00.000-08:00

This spiral rope is a variation of a rope I learned from Sonoko Nozue at last year's Bead and Button show. Actually, since I scanned this, I've changed it - added another layer. Guess I'll have to re-scan it.

Broadcollar Necklace a la Julia Pretl

2008-08-30T14:14:00.000-07:00

The scan doesn't do the colours and texture justice. There are gorgeous 30mm bugles just below the short netting and underneath the long netting.

My version of the Ootheca cuff

2008-08-23T12:54:00.001-07:00

Memory Wire Necklace

2008-05-11T14:41:00.001-07:00

Made with:
Memory Wire
Rondelles
4mm Faceted Rounds
8/0 Hex Seed Beads
Gold End Caps

Y Necklace

2008-05-11T14:36:00.001-07:00

Made with:

Medium Softflex

Gorgeous Faceted Rondelles

4mm Faceted Metallic Purple Rounds

Matte Purple Iris Hex Cuts

Fresh Water Pearl Chain

Gold Colour Barrel Clasp

Strung Necklace with FWP Chain Detail

2008-05-11T14:28:00.001-07:00

Made with:
Softflex Medium
New Fresh Water Pearl Chain
Venetian Glass Bead
Octagon Spacer
8mm Faceted Fire Polish Rounds
Hammered Oval Toggle

Melanie Potter's Lunar Lights Bracelet

2007-08-26T16:38:00.001-07:00

I had the pleasure of taking Melanie Potter's Lunar Lights bracelet class. I finished it this week. The colour of the Swarovski rivolis is Crystal Vitrail Light. I made a matching ring. Note: I used Silamide to make the bracelet and Fireline to make the ring. Although I prefer thread, I think that for this project I'd recommend Fireline, it has so much more body and hold.

Macabre, beautiful, wasteful, definitely engaging.

2007-06-03T17:10:00.000-07:00

This project came up on a jewelry group - a diamond encrusted skull byartist Damien Hirst titled "For the Love of God".

Gallery website http://www.whitecube.com/

Artist with skull http://tinyurl.com/ypyjjy

More on the artist http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Damien_Hirst

UK newsarticle with a slideshow of how the piece was made. Click onthe "In pictures For the Love of God". http://tinyurl.com/3dzk48

2007 Bag of Beads Spreadsheet

2007-03-02T09:39:00.000-08:00

I've had some requests to explain how I used a spreadsheet to choose the colours for my Bag of Beads project for the Toronto Bead Society. So, here goes:
1. I selected a colour strip in a palette that I liked (from a book).
2. I identified the 8 colours that made up the strip and named them.
3. I measured each instance of the colour and recorded it in Excel (spreadsheet software).
4. I then sorted by the name I gave, totaled the area for each colour and calculated the percentage. I grouped some together into a colour group, so that I ended up with 5 categories and a percentage of each to use.
5. This mainly told me that the primary colour to use were greys, minimizing the whites and reds.
6. I DID NOT measure my beads by these percentages. I just paid attention to the mixes as I went along.
Hope this explains it!

Toronto Revue Theatre Marquee Collapse

2007-02-20T21:01:00.000-08:00

http://www.torontoist.com/archives/2007/02/revue_cinema_ma_1.php#comments

For those of you who've been to the store, you probably know the Revue Theatre across the street. The historic building's marquee collapsed sometime overnight Sunday. Looks like rusted suspension chains to me. Without the marquee, the building is rather ordinary and unlike most other buildings on the street, or for that matter on most downtown Toronto streets.

Beaded Lizard?

2007-01-30T19:48:00.000-08:00

Anyone else notice that Joni Mitchell appeared to be wearing a beaded lizard at her induction into the Canadian songwriter's hall of fame?

The detail is from is the best photo I could find of it: http://tinyurl.com/2pze9c Alas, my computer software doesn't function like the ones on all the CSI programs - when I zoom it, the pixels get blurrier, not clearer - go figure!

Top 10 Bead Items of 2006

2006-12-29T21:41:00.001-08:00

This year is almost over, and I've been thinking about what I think the top 10 bead related items of this past year.

Here are mine (in no particular order):

1. Kumihimo. I discovered Japanese braiding at Bead and Button, and have had fun with it ever since! Have you seen my Titania necklace http://beadstudio.blogspot.com/2006/08/titania-necklace.html?
2. Micromacrame. I picked up the book by Kris Buchanan. http://www.kristinebuchanan.com/book1.html The photos and projects were very inspirational. It helps that the C-Lon cord comes in over 50 fantastic colours. It's not the 70's anymore indeed.
3. Bead Embroidery. I taught myself some of the basics, then took a course with Sherry Serafini - who really filled in all the blanks. http://www.serafinibeadedjewelry.com/
4. Cabochons. Now that I know what to do with them (see "Bead Embroidery" above), I love them. I have several awaiting some free time to make into wonderful jewellery. Here's my latest http://beadstudio.blogspot.com/2006/12/raku-cabochon-pendant.html
5. Polymer Clay. I have a love-hate relationship with polymer clay. I finally tried it this year and found it in some ways as difficult as oil painting - I never got the hang of colour mixing - they all came out brownish grey, no matter what I did. Anyways, I'm perservering, and I certainly have some great ideas - just not the skills - yet - but I think the learning curve may be quite steep. That said, you should see the gorgeous polymer clay beads I've got from the wonderful Barbara Colautti.
6. Dichroic Aikos. I finally broke down and bought some.
7. Treenway Silks, especially the Montano series. Great for kumihimo.
8. Storing By Colour. I'm experimenting with storing my beads by colour rather than by type. That said, some still end up in their own places - like Swarovki, pearls, etc. It was really tough putting the Czech 10's in the same place as the Japanese 11's.
9. Creative Bead Weaving by Carol Wilcox Wells. This isn't a new discovery, but rather a visitation with an old friend. Considered to be the beader's bible by many - and it really stands the test of time. Can only be outdone by The Art and Elegance of Beadweaving, also by Wells.
10. Nancy Zellers great new website: http://www.nzbeads.com/. A very sophisticated and perfect site with lots of eye candy and useful information.

Happy New Year everyone.

Heather

Raku Cabochon Pendant

2006-12-17T05:56:00.000-08:00

A wonderful raku cabochon by Vera Romoda - bead embroidered, embellished and fringed to make a pendant. This piece is huge! The cabochon is 2.75" (65mm) in diameter. I call it "A Bird in the Hand" (there are 2 other birds in the fringe).

Christmas Bells Bracelet

2006-11-24T12:15:00.000-08:00

Something that started as a practice strip - ended up being a Christmas themed bracelet. I was playing with 2 drop peyote, practicing with some left over 6/0 mix. When I ran out, I switched to 11/0, which meant it was now 4 drop peyote! When I finally ran out of beads altogether, I thought the strip could be a bracelet. Added the toggle and the bells, a voila, a Christmas bracelet.

Martini Olive Bracelet

2006-11-24T11:53:00.000-08:00

Name says it all LOL

Digestive System Model - Polymer Clay

2006-11-15T20:32:00.000-08:00

Amazing what you can make with polymer clay. FYI, the stomach is wadded up waxed paper covered in a thin layer of clay.

2006-09-13T18:03:00.000-07:00

David Chatt - A must see

This video is fairly high resolution, so you can watch it full screen - worth it to see the work!

2006-09-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

Instructional Bead Video

Fun video, but not what you're expecting!

Accolades

2006-09-09T22:28:00.000-07:00

Paige, one of our favourite customers likes us too!

Cats in Space

2006-08-19T19:55:00.000-07:00

Okay this has nothing to do with beads, I just thought it was hilarious!

Titania Necklace

2006-08-11T10:24:00.000-07:00

Polymer Clay for Fun

2006-08-06T14:00:00.000-07:00

My first polymer clay beads made into bracelets with wood beads and spacers. These are actually the first I've made on my own - I've made better in the two classes I've taken LOL.

I'm hoping to make this into a class for kids at Bead Junction- hence the bright colours and large sizes.

Chinese Lantern Necklace

2006-08-04T07:38:00.000-07:00

After I made this necklace, I thought it looked like Chinese lanterns - maybe I was inspired by the Chinese Lantern Festival at Ontario Place even though I haven't seen it yet! I used a hand dyed silk cord, felt and satin cord wrapped beads. I put the beads on headpins with 6/0's at the bottom and made the standard loops at the top. I threaded the loops onto the cord, and tyed a loose overhand knot to keep their spacing. Of course, all these items are available at the Bead Junction.

What is it?

2006-07-26T07:00:00.000-07:00

2006-07-11T20:56:00.000-07:00

Trying something new - adding beady video

New pieces using fun lampwork

2006-06-05T21:57:00.000-07:00

How much do you think these sold for?

2006-05-02T21:39:00.000-07:00

Answer? http://tinyurl.com/go9ts

David Chatt, Two Hands...

2006-04-30T21:18:00.000-07:00

Okay, yes I bought it. I'll let you know what I think when I get it. Go to his site http://www.davidchatt.com if you want to buy one too.

This week's necklace - liquid silver and swarovski - what could be better :)

2006-04-25T11:25:00.000-07:00

My Ring

2006-04-25T07:54:00.000-07:00

This photo was taken about a year ago when I was working at U of T. They needed a picture of an architect's ring - and they happened to find me. Anyways, back in December we had a "Favourite Jewellery" event at the Toronto Bead Society - who ever wanted to could talk about their favourite piece and it didn't have to be beaded. Anyways, this was mine because I earned it!

River Rose's 5 Sided Pendant

2006-04-13T16:50:00.000-07:00

****UPDATE***** We now have River's pattern for this lovely piece at the store http://www.bead-junction.com

I've finished River Rose's 5 Sided Pendant, here's the photo:

It's done in brick stitch, and I made 2 variations.

1) I hinged the lid
2) I used drops in the picot at the lid bottom edge.

My advice? Don't do the above! The combination of the hinge and the drops means it is a little complicated to close the lide without catching up some of the suspension strands.

It is quite a lovely objec though - kudo's to River!

I am Shetland Wool (seems right for a Heather)

2006-04-11T20:34:00.000-07:00

Just a bit of fun - a quiz to find out what type of wool you are. Turns out I'm not cushy mohair, but sensible shetland wool... my Aberdeen nany would be proud. It says, "You are a traditional sort who can sometimes be a little on the harsh side. Though you look delicate you are tough as nails and prone to intricacies. Despite your acerbic ways you are widely respected and even revered. "

Try it yourself: http://quizilla.com/users/bisybackson/quizzes/What%20kind%20of%20yarn%20are%20you?/

Ndebele - old work! Lots of new stuff to come :)

2006-03-29T00:36:00.000-08:00

Ndebele with an increase - bracelets

Bead Junction Classes

2005-10-12T07:49:00.000-07:00

Upcoming Classes and Events:

Thursday October 13th, 2005: 7:00 – 9:00pm
Swarovski Cubes Bracelet, Patricia Huff

Make an easy bracelet using Swarovski cubes and right angle weave.
$25.00 class fee, plus beads, Beginner

Friday October 14th,2005: 7:00 – 9:00pm
Stripes Bracelet, Heather Taylor

This is an easy Ndebele bracelet that is a great way to play with colour.
$15.00 class fee, $29.95 kit fee, Beginner +

Saturday October 15th, 2005: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Spiral Rope Basics, Patricia Huff
Learn the basics of how to do spiral rope, it works up quickly!
$25.00 class fee, plus beads, Beginner

Tuesday October 18th, 2005: 6:30 – 9:00
Stitch n’ B*tch Session – Our very first!
Having trouble with a pattern or project? Once a week, come to our table and through the meditative qualities of beadwork and patient assistance, soothe your soul. No charge, drop in event. (Held every Tuesday)

Wednesday October 19th, 2005: 6:30 – 9:00
Techniques Night
Crimping – try out the different pliers, crimps, cord and crimp covers.
$5.00

Thursday October 20th, 2005: 7:00 – 9:00pm
Checkerboard Bracelet, Heather Taylor

A sophisticated version of the Stripes Bracelet.
$15.00 class fee, plus $29.95 kit fee. Beginner +

Friday October 21st: 9:00 – 11:30pm
Friday Night Frolics- Our very first!
On the 3rd Friday of every month the store will be open until 11:30pm. Come discover the Roncesvalles neighbourhood – lots of great restaurants, coffee shops and even the Revue movie theatre; and then drop by to bead with us. For those with children, get them tucked into bed, have the significant other stay in, and come have a girls’ night out. Hope to see you!

Saturday October 22nd, 2005: 1:00 – 5:00pm
Mended Heart Pillow, Mary Kroetsch

Embellish a heart shaped pillow to learn bead embroidery techniques.
$25.00 class fee, $25.00 kit fee, Beginner

Tuesday October 25th, 2005: 6:30 – 9:00
Stitch n’ B*tch Session
No charge drop in event.

Thursday October 27th, 2005: 7:00 – 9:00pm
Waves Bracelet, Heather Taylor

Curvy gorgeous bracelet is a variation of the Stripes Ndebele Bracelet.
$15.00 class fee, plus $34.95 kit fee, Beginner ++

Friday October 28th, 2005: 7:00 – 9:00pm
Peyote Primer, Patricia Huff
Get started with one of the most popular bead weaving stitches.
$25.00 class fee, plus beads, Beginner

Tuesday November 1st, 2005: 6:30 – 9:00
Stitch n’ B*tch Session
No charge drop in event.

Thursday November 3rd, 2005: 7:00 – 9:00pm
Spiral Rope Basics, Patricia Huff
Learn the basics of how to do spiral rope – it works up quickly and there are lots of variations to play with!
$25.00 class fee, plus beads, Beginner

Friday November 4th, 2005: 7:00 – 9:00
NanC Meinhardt’s Frothy Bracelet - Part 1, Heather Taylor
Make internationally renowned artist NanC Meinhardt’s Frothy Bracelet. This is taught in 2 parts with homework in between, Part 2 is Nov. 11th.
$25.00 class fee, each part, plus beads, Intermediate

Saturday November 5th, 2005: 10:00am – 12:00pm
Swarovski Cubes Bracelet, Patricia Huff
Make an easy bracelet using Swarovski cubes and right angle weave.
$25.00 class fee, plus beads, Beginner

Saturday November 5th, 2005: 1:00 – 5:00
Bead Embroidery Sampler, Mary Kroetsch
Make a traditional sampler to learn various bead embroidery techniques.
$25.00 class fee, $25.00 kit fee, Beginner

Friday November 4th, 2005: 7:00 – 9:00
NanC Meinhardt’s Frothy Bracelet - Part 2, Heather Taylor
Make internationally renowned artist NanC Meinhardt’s Frothy Bracelet. Part 2 of November 4th’s class.
$25.00 class fee, each part, plus beads, Intermediate

Tuesday November 8th, 2005: 6:30 – 9:00
Stitch n’ B*tch Session
No charge drop in event.

Tuesday November 15th, 2005: 6:30 – 9:00
Stitch n’ B*tch Session
No charge drop in event.

Wednesday November 16th, 2005: 6:30 – 9:00:
Techniques Night
Finishing Loomwork – have a piece on the loom that you’re dreading finishing? Bring it in for an evening of solving finishing dilemmas.
$5.00

Friday November 18th: 9:00 – 11:30pm
Friday Night Frolics
On the 3rd Friday of every month the store will be open until 11:30pm. Come discover the Roncesvalles neighbourhood – lots of great restaurants, coffee shops and even the Revue movie theatre; and then drop by to bead with us. For those with children, get them tucked into bed, have the significant other stay in, and come have a girls’ night out. Hope to see you!

Saturday November 19th, 2005: 1:00 – 5:00
Fantasy Feather Brooch, Mary Kroetsch
A brooch that uses theatrical techniques to make a “faux” feather brooch.
$25.00 class fee, $25.00 kit fee, Beginner

Roncesvalles Polish Festival

2005-09-16T21:27:00.000-07:00

Although Bead Junction isn't open yet, we'll be participating in the Roncesvalles Polish Festival. It's quite a fun event which includes pierogy tasting! We'll have jewellry, kits and beads and a display of some of the classes we'll be offering. So, keep your fingers crossed that the rain will go away, and drop by to say hello.

Have a great weekend and hope to see you at 389 Roncesvalles :)

Toronto Bead Store Announcement

2005-09-08T21:13:00.000-07:00

I'm pleased to announce that Patricia Huff and I are opening a full service bead store in Toronto called Bead Junction. Our grand opening is Saturday October 1st, and the store is located at 389 Roncesvalles Avenue, Toronto. Hope to see you there!

Bead and Reel (4)

2005-09-08T07:05:00.000-07:00

Bead and Reel (3)

2005-09-07T07:04:00.000-07:00

Bead and Reel (2)

2005-09-05T07:03:00.000-07:00

Bead and Reel (1)

2005-09-02T07:03:00.000-07:00

My flabbergasted response to Rio Grande's justification for price gouging.

2005-08-25T19:56:00.000-07:00

"So, you mean that your August 2005 catalogue is not the most current? How unusual, I guess you'd better send me the most recent one so I can keep up with your prices. Do you re-issue them weekly, I mean, it's still August 2005 isn't it? Or are you currently issuing the 2006 one now?

I understand that prices fluctuate, and most retailers plan their pricing to reflect that. No other US retailler of any kind has EVER charged more than is published in their catalogue - otherwise why bother having a catalogue? Or even a website if you have to phone for the prices?

Also, does that mean that your prices GO DOWN when things like currency fluctuations are in your favour? I highly doubt it - I feel that you are just trying to justify whatever price you want to charge. What exactly increased the price of the Colores resin?

As for returning it, it would cost me MORE than the additional cost - so I'm better off financially to keep it and just swallow your extra fee.

I think this is VERY poor policy, and I will attempt to avoid purchasing from Rio Grande in the future as I could never know what you'd be charging me. I belong to a number of online groups and won't hesitate to give my opinion of Rio Grande's pricing policy in the future.

Heather Taylor"

Rio Grande's response...

2005-08-25T19:54:00.000-07:00

Wow, a fast reply - they must have to send this out many times a day...

"Dear Heather,

Thank you for your email. The price for item 638960 is currently $108.00. If you refer to page 722 in your catalog you will see under our "pricing guidelines" section that while we do our best to hold prices steady during the course of the year, prices may still change without notice. Prices are always fluctuating due to factors beyond our control such as currency exchange rates, fuel surcharges, freight charges, raw material fluctuations, labor cots, and customs duties. We highly recommend to all of our customers to call and verify pricing before they place an order in order to avoid any surprises.

We understand that higher prices are never good news so if you feel the price of your kit is too high, you can always return it within 30 days for a full refund. I will also send you a current copy of our catalog so that you can have our most up to date pricing information.

If you need any further assistance, please feel free to contact any of our Customer Service Representatives at 800-545-6566 (7 AM - 6 PM, US Mountain Time) or at info@riogrande.com and they can assist you with any additional questions you may have.

Sincerely,
Rio Grande
Written Response Teamresponseteam@tbg.riogrande.com"

Note to Rio Grande

2005-08-25T19:52:00.000-07:00

Finally today I sent a note to Rio Grande about the overcharge. This is what I wrote:

"RE: Invoice No. 000000 I was charged $108.00 for item no. 638960, the complete Colores Resin system. Your August 2005 catalogue shows that item on plage 710 as $97.50. Please credit my VISA with the difference. Thank you. Heather Taylor"

Proportion Study B & W

2005-08-14T20:29:00.000-07:00

More on Rio Grande

2005-08-09T19:50:00.000-07:00

Hmmm, must be a mistake, I was charged $108.00 for a $97.50 item.

Rio Grande Order arrives!

2005-08-06T14:49:00.000-07:00

Whoo hooo my order with the resin stuff has arrived.

Colour study - rocks

2005-08-05T20:28:00.000-07:00

Rio Grande Order

2005-08-04T19:42:00.000-07:00

Ordered Colores Resin kit from Rio Grande today. :)

Report on Bead and Button 2005

2005-06-19T06:59:00.000-07:00

Bead and Button 2005 was fabulous! I was like a teenager, except it was about beads, not boys.

I was a little nervous going into Cynthia's workshop, but after 3 days of intense beading, I found it very rewarding. Don't ask what I made - I really just "sampled" - worked out design issues, etc. But I do know that something is already bubbling in my mind about this. I sat next to Suzanne McNeil (Design Originals publisher - the booklets with the Panda on them) and probably about 70% of the class were bead store owners and /or Cynthia groupies (they had taken many courses with her). They had a great class dinner at a French restaurant on the last day with Cynthia and the editors of the various Kalmbach Bead publications - I even got a diploma. Wine flowed freely, but contrary to French tradition the cheese plate was served first - mind you Wisconsin is known as the dairy state. I sat with Mindy Brooks (current editor of Bead and Button) and Marlene Vail the show organizer. I learned lots of inside stuff. Did you know that Interweave was sold recently? Did you know that the Arton couple go to Tucson? I shared a room with Maria Rypan and we sat up beading late into the night. Mind you she has more stamina than me! I also took a class with Susan Lenart Kazmer which was fantastic (you've probably seen the necklace made of old pencils she made).Anyways it was great, a real hoot, and I spent too much money on kits and beads. I've already made a ring by Laura McCabe - a real bling ring - with a 1" dia. swarovski rivoli in the centre surrounded by 46 2AB swarovski crystals (oh my).

Whew. I can hardly wait until next year!

Paisley Brooch

2005-06-13T07:07:00.000-07:00

Day one in Milwaukee.

2005-06-11T07:02:00.000-07:00

Hoffman Brooch. Today is the first full day in Milwaukee at Bead and Button. But yesterday I went to the wonderful Santiago Calatrava Quadracci Pavillion, the Art Museum here. I spent a lot of time there last year. They have a wonderful Arts and Crafts show including some brooches by Hoffman (but not the one above). It's a bit synchronistic - I've picked up some Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau images for Cynthia Rutledge's class, and this exhibit is going on!

Milwaukee Here I Come

2005-06-10T07:01:00.000-07:00

The big Bead and Button show in Milwaukee is starting on Sunday, and I'm gonna be there!

TBS Meeting, great food, great bargoons

2005-06-09T07:39:00.000-07:00

Last night's meeting was great as always - I really enjoyed the beady atmosphere and especially seeing the fantastic bracelets those who went to the Bead Retreat made for their swap. I'm jealous! Way to go guys. Just a reminder - the Toronto Bead Gathering is now going to hold our summer meetings at the Grenadier Restaurant in High Park. The next one is June 22nd, 6:30. If I don't see you there, see you in September :)

Mucha's colours, Corbu defined, curves abound

2005-06-06T19:07:00.000-07:00

Villa Savoie Stair

I loved Mucha in the 70's

2005-06-05T07:05:00.000-07:00

For curvilinear forms who better than Alphonse Mucha - and Art Nouveau.

Paisley Comma Form - Corbu alike?

2005-06-04T19:01:00.000-07:00

Plans are in black and white, this paisley is in black and white - the curvilinear form is appealing to me. Time to follow that track.

Le Corbusier - Ronchamp Plan

2005-06-04T06:58:00.000-07:00

Ronchamp for inspiration - I've been here, but even so, I can't believe the plan - I wish I had it with me back in 1986 so I could have really understood what I was seeing.

Panicked for ideas.

2005-06-03T06:52:00.000-07:00

I'm quite panicked about the lack of inspiration I'm experiencing - I have to have something together for Cynthia Rutledge's class starting on June 12th, and just don't feel it yet. Lately I've been working more from the beads than from other inspiration, so this is a challenge to look to other work. I'm debating about a variety of things. I'll post some images that are inspiring me, maybe you can help? PLEASE leave any comments :)

P.S. I am the type who pulls things together at the last minute, mainly because I've been simmering on it for so long! Talk about bead soup!

Bead Storage - Solution No. 6

2005-05-31T20:07:00.000-07:00

Recently I bought these great shop storage tubes from Lee Valley. What I like is that they come in different widths, so I can accomodate a wide variety of bead sizes. The black lid is very elegant and it screws on, so no accidental spills and they stack or stand very well. I've moved all my semi-precious stones to these. Back to Lee Valley Tools for "Shop Storage Tubes".

My Value as a Human

2005-05-26T20:29:00.000-07:00

I am worth $1,307,060 on HumanForSale.com

Yahoo Bead Groups I Belong To

2005-05-19T05:32:00.000-07:00

Toronto Bead Society
Toronto Bead Gathering
Canadian Beaders
Canadian Beaders Swap
Fun with Bead Patterns
Lapidary Journal Jewelry Arts List
Mirrix Tapestry and Bead Looms
Wire Wrap Jewelry

Flowers and beads - is there anything better?

2005-05-13T07:52:00.000-07:00

Harriet, or KYBEADMAKER on Ebay made these fantastic beads. I love the colours, the shapes and the decoration. This photo with the flowers is perfect. I hesitate to share her work with you - it'll only drive her prices up!

Incredible photo - incredible beads!

2005-05-13T07:43:00.000-07:00

Playing with colours!

2005-05-12T11:43:00.000-07:00

I love to play with colours, and beads are perfect for that activity. Today I found a great online tool, a colour match program for picking 6 colours for a website. It's just as easy to use to pick colours for beadwork! It's called ColorMatch and you just slide the red, green and blue bars and it will generate colour palettes for you. It's VERY addictive, just like beads .

Feeding Time!

2005-05-11T08:33:00.000-07:00

Baby Falcons

2005-05-10T22:31:00.000-07:00

Eyas!

Regal Embellished Collar Class

2005-05-06T21:32:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I'm teaching my Regal Embellished Collar at Beads of Colour in Dundas. Should be fun, I've made a couple of samples in different colours, and have detailed instructions. If the class goes well, I think I'll kit this up for the Bead Fair next week.

Bata Bead Bonanza!

2005-05-05T22:38:00.000-07:00

Last Thursday I attended and this Thursday I participated in the Bata Shoe Museum Bead Bonanza. All the usual suspects were there... including but not limited to: Marilyn, Roxann, Maria, Flo, Laurie, Kirsty, Sue, Dwyn, Cindy, Marg, Gloria, Kim, Shelley, Anne and ? I'm sure I've forgotten someone. It was relatively well attended - a steady flow of people, but it was a nice quiet event where you could really talk to people, and just bead (no sales allowed). I was next to Marg, and her bead spinner was a hit! She had a beautiful wood one, but you can find instructions to make your own out of a margarine container on the net. Many people who have never considered beading, but who knew how to crochet or knit were fascinated. A lot of interest was generated for the Bead Fair next week. Thanks so much to Marilyn Gardiner for getting the Bata people to do this.

Hey, maybe next year we can have a make your own bead spinner on techniques night!

2005-05-04T06:41:00.000-07:00

Eggs!

Square Flip Top Containers (see below)

2005-05-02T18:34:00.000-07:00

Square flip top containers, photo from Out on a Whim

Bead Storage - Solution No. 5

2005-05-02T12:23:00.000-07:00

I have purchased these square flip top containers that look like Tic Tac boxes. About Beadwork recommends them highly. I had to get them from the States because I couldn't find them here. I really like these - they are easy to fill, and stack neatly together. You can even get small plexiglas cases to hold a variety of sizes - perfect for project planning (puddling as Marla Gassner says).

I'd really like to get these here... anyone know a wholesale supplier or manufacturer?

Mirrix Loom Opinion

2005-04-29T10:02:00.000-07:00

Hi, just thought I'd add my two cents to the loom debate on Canadian Beaders! Although the Mirrix can be used like any bead loom, the main difference with a Mirrix loom is that it is best used for weaving with a heddle. If you're into tapestries and fiber, then this may be the loom for you. Using the heddles has a steep learning curve - the set up is MUCH more involved than in warping a traditional bead loom. On the plus side, if you have back problems, this loom sits upright. Otherwise, there are tons of wood looms out there that will function just fine for regular bead looming.

Last Night at SpaHa

2005-04-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

The bead gathering last night at SpaHa (a contraction of Spadina and Harbord NOT to be confused with the other SpaHa - Spanish Harlem) was attended by seven including me. The service was greatly improved, and we decided to go there again for the May meeting. June, July and August will be held at the Grenadier restaurant in High Park. YES! Beading outside :)

Patricia started one of Maria Rypan's kits, and Jo-Ann was working on one from Cathy Lampole. Bennett had red beads worked into a triangular RAW bracelet that's in Chris Prussing's new book (I confess to not being overly fond of the book). Kim was working in white and blue, stringing on cotton to prepare for crochet - she's an expert for sure! I almost completed an embellished Ndebele bracelet - a variation on the "ribbon" in fun summer colours, using a bead mix I bought from Nancy Meisner at last weekend's CSNF.

It was convivial as usual. A fun time was had by all.

Toronto Bead Gathering: Wed April 27 2005

2005-04-26T17:53:00.000-07:00

Just to confirm that I've decided that this month's gathering will beheld at SpaHa (Spadina and Harbord) as usual. The main reason is that as I am no longer the organizer of the m#*t-up group, I can't change the location, and don't want anyone to "fall through the cracks" so to speak...We can talk about the May and June meetings then. If you haven't joined, click on the button to the right. See you Wednesday!

Peacock No. 2 - True

2005-04-21T08:13:00.000-07:00

Designed and executed by Heather Taylor, copyright 2003
I'm wearing this today, to cheer up a bleek rainy day. I made the first peacock necklace, which I called due to the way the fringe fanned out like a peacock's tail. So of course I had to make a second one that has peacocky colours. I used opaque dark blue, opaque turquoise, silver lined emerald and silver lined rainbow rootbeer. For this one, I HAD to add the peacock's crown or tuft of feathers at the top. This piece was a finalist in the Fire Mountain Gems 2004 Bead Competition, and is published on their site.

Ndebele with an Increase - Bracelet Project

2005-04-19T19:46:00.000-07:00

I'm teaching this weekend out at Beads of Colour in Dundas a bracelet using ndebele with an increase. The store is amazing, as is Debi, the owner and bead artist in her own right. Teaching there is usually a break even proposition!

No warps, no pulling, loomed bracelet.

2005-04-17T20:50:00.000-07:00

I finished a wonderful bracelet this weekend - a loomed bracelet with out having to deal with warps in it. I modified my loom and hope to have a picture for you soon.

Peacock No. 1 - Subtle

2005-04-16T22:20:00.000-07:00

madonna

2005-04-13T12:30:00.000-07:00

I love this photo of the egg peaking out from under the mom...

New Group!

2005-04-13T08:14:00.000-07:00

Greedy Meetup.com has made me come to a decision. I'm no longer organizer of the Toronto Beadwork Group, and have moved over to Yahoo! The new group is now called Toronto Bead Gathering (want to wash my mouth of the M**tup word forever), and I hope you'll join us.

Looks Like Metal Mesh, But It's Glass

2005-04-11T18:22:00.000-07:00

Diagonal Ndebele Cuff Bracelet
Variation on NanC Meinhardt's Super Froth
Variation designed and executed by Heather Taylor
copyright 2004

Bead Storage - Solution No. 4

2005-04-10T12:05:00.000-07:00

Fishing Tackle Boxes! I've purchased these Flambeau Storage Boxes from Canadian Tire, along with a soft tote to carry them in. They have their uses: great for taking beads to classes, I can carry a large assortment easily. It even has a place for fishing line (so handy to bead with), and a hole for pulling it through. Downside, the dividers, if they lift up, means your beads will get mixed up. Also, if you change your mind about one section, you have to use a narrow scoop, and really work to clear out the section. I have quite a few, and still use them to sort large quantities of larger beads (like when I purchase crystals wholesale). I've abandoned these as a way to store seed beads.

I haven't tried those screw together round plastic tackle boxes. The stacking idea doesn't appeal to me.

So, today's recap, in my studio there are (not in order of preference!):

Fishing Tackle Boxes
Parts Cabinet
Vintage Glass Mason Jars
Round Aluminum Watchmakers Cases

Eggy update!

2005-04-08T15:44:00.000-07:00

Five eggs now!

Super Froth Cuff Bracelet

2005-04-08T13:42:00.000-07:00

This cuff bracelet has four seed bead colours in the fringe (transparent amethyst, transparent root beer, copper plated charlottes and yellow lined aqua) which all work off of Vera's beautiful raku bead that I used for the focal bead. It's hefty and can ONLY be worn by someone with chutzpah. Thanks Dwyn for the photo. Oh yes, my own personal variation? Velcro clasp!

Bead Storage - Solution No. 3

2005-04-08T10:30:00.000-07:00

How else can you store beads???? Well, how about those parts cabinets for storing screws, etc, you get at probably any hardware store? Yep, I've got one of those too! I have a drawer for needles, a drawer for cording, etc. etc. etc. Mainly I have many of them labelled for "bits", shiny bits, copper bits, wood bits, leather bits - you get the gist. Found objects that maybe aren't quite beads, but could certainly be used in projects, some with holes, some without. All the drawers are labelled.

So, today's recap, in my studio there are (hopefully I won't get to twelve, like the twelve days of Christmas):
Parts Cabinet
Vintage Glass Mason Jars
Round Aluminum Watchmakers Cases

Bead Storage - Solution No. 2

2005-04-07T13:02:00.000-07:00

Next up, glass jars salvaged from my kitchen. Everything from mason jars to tiny spice bottles. They take up SO much room, and break. I have since culled most of those jars, and only use vintage mason jars (with lovely glass and zinc lids) for when I buy 1/2 a kilo (about 1 lb. to you Imperial types)of seed beads. The jars are lovely to look at on their own, and filled with colourful beads, make a wonderful sight. I'm happy to take any off your hands!

So, to recap, in my studio there are:

Vintage Mason Jars with Beads
Round Aluminum Watchmakers Cases, some in aluminum lidded boxes, some in cardboard

Bead Storage - Solution No. 1

2005-04-06T11:32:00.000-07:00

Okay, I think I have tried almost every type of bead storage going. Stores sell beads in a variety of ways, in little tubes, vials, ziploc baggies and in hanks (strung). What do you do with them when you get them home?

Tubes and vials work only for some types of beads (typically seed beads). Tubes, especially fall down... Ziploc baggies eventually lose their zip, and once you cut the hank, where do you put those beads???

Solution No. 1 that I tried were the little round aluminum tins that come with a clear top, and several fit into an aluminum tin. They are beautiful, and it seemed like a wonderful way to store beads. They sell them at Lee Valley Tools, and John Bead(a wholesaler). Of course they come in lots of sizes, BUT, and this is a big BUT - the lids just sit on the top. Making bead spilling ever so easy LOL. So, even though I bought a bunch of these, I now tend to use them for colour palette work (i.e. dumping various bead into them to see how I like them together). The nice clear lid means I can glance at them, and it keeps the dust off.

If they ever decide to make them with screw top lids, I may buy more.

Bead Class

2005-04-04T10:15:00.000-07:00

I taught NanC Meinhardt's Super Froth Bracelet (by permission) at BeadFX over the weekend. Some of the usual suspects were there (Maureen, Betty and Sue), and a few I'd met before (Tina and Cheryl), and at least two relative newbies and one rank amateur. It's a challenge to teach such a diverse group, but I try to keep my focus and give everyone the help they need. I love seeing the colour combinations that everyone makes, and how each person's beading style affects the outcome. Some pieces seem larger, some are looser, some cleaner in the design. I assisted Ruth Ann in selecting colours, and she had a great silk top that we used as a guide. I started a piece myself (which I usually do when teaching) using 11/0's and 15/0's and a subdued autumn palette. Just what I needed - another project to work on!

beady eyed bird

2005-04-01T13:42:00.001-08:00

These are photos I've captured from the online Kodak Birdcam

beady eyed bird babies

2005-04-01T13:42:00.000-08:00

So, I know they're not babies, they're eggs, but I just love the alliteration. I'm not a bird watcher, except in my windowless cubicle. Today the beady eyed peregrine laid her second egg. I'm so excited!

Finding TTT

2005-03-19T11:46:00.000-08:00

Toronto seems particularly bereft of Terrifically Tacky Tape, the double sided tape used mostly by scrap bookers. It came up last month in a class when everyone panicked because it seemed we needed it. None of the local scrapbooking shops or craft shops had ANY instock. Anyways we had enough at the class to share around, and since then, I've found a generic knock off at Wal-Mart. I don't recall how much it was, but it was Wal-Mart, so it wasn't much! It was in their craft section, with the beads. And although I've heard that the knock offs won't last as long as the brand name, if you are using it only to temporarily secure beads to a form that you are weaving in place, it will be absolutely fine!

Wonambi Bead Tapestry

2005-02-10T11:13:00.000-08:00

My first TBS Bag of Beads Challenge piece.

Created March 2003.

Bead Bugle Updater

2005-02-09T12:42:00.000-08:00

http://www.beadbugle.com/

The good news and the bad news: this e-zine comes out weekly! The design is a little on the rough side, but it’s packed full of information and ideas. It’s put out by the Perpetual Bead Show and BeadBabe.com.

Alice Korach, former editor of Bead and Button Magazine provides a regular column that is obviously the work of a talented beader. The Dec. 22nd issue has a snowflake ornament, but unlike others, it’s three dimensional!

Another great feature is Rena Klingenberg’s tips. An ongoing reader submission involves what to do with those orphan beads. The ideas range from kitsch to divine. This is a fun and useful ezine to arrive in your Inbox !

What's the difference?

2005-01-31T12:50:00.000-08:00

Know what the difference is between a thread conditioner such as Thread Heaven and beeswax? Think about the difference conditioner or wax would make on your hair! Conditioner applies a charge to the thread to help prevent tangles. Wax, stiffens and helps to keep things in place. Contrary to many bead patterns which indicate that conditioner or wax can be used, they each perform differently, and can affect the outcome of the piece you’re working on.

Some particular pieces like hollow beaded beads need the structure that wax can add. Even thread which is pre-waxed, such as Silamide, can be waxed if you need that stickiness and hold. This same stickiness is also what gums up your needle. Quality of the beeswax can be an issue. If you find it’s crumbly, it’s probably old, or has been frozen.

If something you make is turning out limp, and it shouldn’t be, switch to wax and try again. Of course the same is true of using thread conditioner. You may want to experiment with it in a piece that should have more drape.

Two other “conditioners” I’ve heard of, but not used are soap or Chapstick. I’ve even read of using beeswax based lip balm so that when you moisten the thread tip when you’re threading, you add a minute amount of wax to the end!

Finally, if with either you are getting lots of tangling and knotting, you may be working with a piece of thread that is too long! Alternatively, if your thread is shredding, it could be the fault of your needle.

Beading Bees

2005-01-12T12:35:00.000-08:00

Beading Bees, a website I like!

http://homepage3.nifty.com/Hachimitsu8/
This website is by a Japanese beader, and has lots of photos, tutorials and English text! Best of all, if you have some of those Japanese beading books at home, and REALLY need to know what a particular word is, you can find out by going to the section titled “Japanese / English” under the heading Tools and Tips.

Her blog is however written in Japanese, and I haven’t had much success cutting and pasting it into a translator like AltaVista Babel Fish: http://babelfish.altavista.com/. It translates it, but completely loses the sense of it! If anyone reads Japanese, I’m sure it’s an interesting read.

frothing from it's large hole

2004-12-07T13:06:00.000-08:00

Caught in a huge downpour, I'm soaking wet - and at the office. Minor I suppose, drying off doesn't really take any work.

My beadwork is calling me. Unfortunately I'm at the office, and it's at home. It talks to me, calls me, begs me to play with it. I'm sure it would email or phone if I let it! The piece I'm working on now is going in an interesting direction. It's NanC Meinhardt's Super Froth Bracelet. It's the colours that I'm pushing, and the use of a large raku bead with fringe frothing from it's large hole, tassel like.

Another one I'm doing as a cuff, with an actual cuff link for the closure. In steel and silver greys. Looks like woven metal.

A third one exists only in my mind (so far...), lets just say its silver.

Curling Thread Cure

2004-11-10T12:04:00.000-08:00

Is thread curling while you work giving you problems? Does it curl back and knot itself, leaving you to pick out in frustration? Beeswax and Thread Heaven letting you down? Try conditioning your thread with heat. Yep, time to dig out that curling iron from the 80’s (for some of us, the 70’s) and put it to good use in your beadwork.

Heat up your curling iron, and pull the thread you are going to use through it. It gets out the curls (very useful when you are near the end of a bobbin), and stretches it. It also stretches it right to the ends, and can make for easier threading. You then do NOT need wax or thread heaven, unless the pattern specifically calls for it. For example, some beaded beads use heavily waxed thread to add to the body of the bead.

This tip has proven particularly useful for Nymo, but less so for C-Lon (it tends to get stiff). Silamide, being pre-waxed, leaves a residue, so keep a tissue handy, and wipe down while the iron is still hot.