Ambrosian Beads

Turquoise Agate Pendant Necklace

2011-10-17T01:20:00.001-04:00

Turquoise Agate Pendant Necklace, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Here's a little pendant that needed a chain. I used Wildfire thread and had SOOO much trouble getting the last few stitches through the beads the more than once. Arrgh !

Purple Drops Tatted Necklace

2011-10-17T01:14:00.001-04:00

Purple Drops Tatted Necklace, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

New necklace...the second one using the pattern I designed for my mom's birthday necklace.

PRS9E11 White Crest Necklace

2011-10-12T23:41:00.001-04:00

PRS9E11 White Crest Necklace, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Episode 11 of Project Runway, Season 9 featured the challenge to design a garment inspired by one of three live birds, a white crested cockatoo, a green amazon parrot and a jet black raven. The winning design was inspired by the raven, but this week, we could use any of the birds to inspire our accessory to embellish the runway. I selected lovely cockatoo because I remembered the large spoon shaped beads I had which, to me, resemble the crest feathers of the parrot. I myself have four small parrots, so this episode was really fascinating. I agree with the judges with their selection of Anya's raven inspired design as the winner, but a close runner up in my mind was Viktor's flowing white feathery gown.

Red Gem Ring

2011-10-12T01:07:00.001-04:00

Red Gem Ring, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

I started this little ring a few weeks ago to submit to the Embellishing the Runway Flickr group. This was supposed to go with the crazy long-legged design challenge. The red garment was spectacular...weirdly awesome in a way...and I thought the ring would be a nice touch. Here it is finally, better late than never !

Green Droplets Tatted Necklace

2011-09-29T10:16:00.001-04:00

Green Droplets Tatted Necklace, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

My Mom's birthday was this week so I decided to try a pattern that was in my head to make a necklace for her in her favorite colors. After some tweaking of the stitch count, I got it to shape around the neck nicely, and used exactly the number of fringe beads I had on hand. This pattern was so successful, I think I will make a video tutorial when I'm in the mood.

Back on Track

2011-08-30T18:16:00.001-04:00

PRS9E5, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

After one entry in the Flickr group, Embellishing the Runway, followed by a series of now UFOs, I've managed to finish a bracelet to complement last week's winning (team competition) outfit, designed by Anya.

Triangle Earrings

2011-08-09T22:49:00.003-04:00

I love to make beaded triangles as do many beadweavers, but when I submit items for jurying at Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery, there is a limit on what we call "like items." In other words, don't submit production work, or work that is so similar, it looks like you just cranked out a batch of the same design even if using different colors...making it a little tough on the beaded triangle addict. Hence this design which I came up with around midnight, the night before jurying. I turned the ol' triangle on its edge, added a moonstone oval drop bead and voila, a new design (for me at least). This pair went in the gallery, but I can make another just like it in case someone orders from my Etsy shop...did I mention, I LOVE TRIANGLES ???

Embellishing the Runway (with beads !)

2011-08-09T16:36:00.003-04:00

Project Runway season 9 is in full swing, and this year, I decided (last minute) to join in the fun of designing accessories for each week's winning outfit and posting them in a Flickr group called
Embellishing the Runway. I knew about it last year from my beading friends on Facebook but didn't think I could keep up at the time. This year seems right so I joined a day before the first week deadline. I managed to create a simple bracelet which captures the colors of the winning design by Bert Keeter. I used a basic four bead herringbone stitch which works up quickly and chose some greys and orange (the closest thing I had was more of a pumpkin color). The winning design for this week seems to have stirred up alot of controversy and I'm late starting so it looks like some midnight beading sessions are in order this week ! More pictures posted in the coming weeks (fingers/beading needles crossed !)

New viking knit project

2011-05-17T11:48:00.002-04:00

Viking knit #4, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

As with most of my projects, this one was actually started 6 months ago. I started beading the agate slab back in December...I had it sitting around and it just appealed to me to give it a peyote beaded edge. Today I'm hoping to give it the final touch of a bail...in the meantime, I worked on making a viking knit chain in black coated copper wire. I used 26 gauge wire and it worked out nicely in single weave, could've been too stiff in double. I always guess at the final length and stopped weaving at 11", hoping it would reach at least a comfortable choker length...well, lo and behold, it passed that length and I even have enough to make a bracelet. In this Flickr set, you can see the progression of "draws" (meaning each time I pulled it through the drawplate...it's what I call them, not sure if that's correct). Next after threading on the pendant, I will attempt to close off the ends with some copper caps and add a clasp...stay tuned for those pics !

EBW 2011 Spring Swap

2011-05-12T15:05:00.000-04:00

EBW 2011 Spring Swap, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

This year's Spring Swap was much more of a success for me. I've been feeling more creative and having a goal has been good to get me more motivated. This year, my "swappee" was Callie Mitchell aka Peregrine Beader on Etsy. We can request that the "swapper" make something using a stitch that we don't usually use, so she requested bead embroidery. That was perfect for me, because I wanted to use some metal bracelet blanks I had and try covering them with bead embroidery. Her colors were reds, browns and golds. I had enough beads in these colors to get started, so I measured out a piece of Lacy's stiff stuff to fit the metal blank with about 1/4" extra all around. Later I ran into trouble when the fabric started to pull up too much and came out too short to use the metal blank. Oh, well, I decided to abandon using that and after finishing the embroidery, I covered the back with a piece of tan suede. I stitched up a loop and added a button, and I had essentially the same style bracelet but with more flexibility. I got a message from Callie that she loves it...yay !

Shortly before the deadline of the EBW swap, I received a package in the mail from Charlene Abrams aka More than Somewhat on Etsy. I was thrilled to receive such a lovely necklace made in my favorite colors, midnight blues, purple, magenta and using RAW which is a stitch that I failed to master and can only appreciate. Also, this necklace matches a pair of earrings I made several years ago that have always felt lonely, now they make a nice set. Thanks, Charlene !!!
See the other swap creations

Woo-hoo ! I'm in the COCO MoCA

2011-04-01T20:05:00.004-04:00

Conan Necklace, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

My beaded Conan pendant got selected for the online gallery of artwork depicting Conan O'Brien and his various images and logos. Last summer I made a peyote stitched pendant (started off as a bracelet, but I procrastinated) and I wore it to the Legally Prohibited from Being Funny on Television tour that Conan did while he was off the air. Team Coco started a Flickr group for people's artwork (they totally stole that idea from me, I started my group first !) and selected different works in all media. There is a Facebook LIKE this page button for my piece, but the link is wrong. If you click it, you end up LIKING somebody else's piece ! Grrrr !

Time to vote on "Fashion Through the Ages"

2011-03-13T14:43:00.001-04:00

Etsy Beadweavers Blog

There is still time left to vote for your favorite beadwoven creation in the Etsy Beadweavers' monthly challenge. This month's challenge was selected by our previous winner, Patrizia of Triz Designs. Patrizia has challenged our members to "Choose a fashion style from any period of fashion and design a piece to fit that chosen style/period." We do this for fun and to show the world the extent of our creativity...the prize is just the honor of selecting the next month's challenge. Please take a minute or two to look at all the wonderful designs, created entirely by hand and with original designs (using patterns from other designers is not allowed), and vote for your favorite. This month I entered a piece (#32) entitled "Metropolis", which plays on some of the design elements popular during the Art Deco period.

Metropolis Necklace-Etsy Beadweavers Challenge

2011-03-08T14:49:00.003-05:00

This month's Etsy Beadweavers challenge theme, Fashion Through the Ages , struck a chord with me because I had a pattern developed that fit perfectly with the Art Deco style of design. I created the triangular portion of my Metropolis Necklace using the pattern I made with my BeadTool design program and stitched it in herringbone using 4 beads at a time. Then I worked upward in brick stitch to a decent choker width of 1/2" and finished out the rest of the choker in peyote. I had fun looking through my vintage button collection and found the perfect button to complement the Art Deco design. Of course, I finished it all last minute and could only get some basic photos done. Next time, no procrastinating (yeah right) ! You can check out all the amazing entries from our beadweaving team now and vote on March 8th.

Custom Order from Facebook Friend !

2011-01-24T14:26:00.005-05:00

Recently, a fellow "Coco-nut" (fan of Conan O'Brien ) ordered a pair of my Starflower Earrings . She wanted me to choose the colors and her only requirement was that the two colors be contrasting. I tried to elicit more info from her, and finally established that she likes metals, so I picked out a copper and gunmetal color scheme. The plan worked ! She loves them ! Whew ! Plus, I included a strip of stickers I made using my beaded Conan logo from the old "Late Night" show...she loved those too :-)

Freeform Brick Stitch Bracelet

2010-12-09T19:26:00.006-05:00

Well, folks, here I am again at long last...and I'm patting myself on the back for finally finishing something new in beadweaving. I've been on a tatting kick and in another failed attempt to enter something in the latest EBW Challenge, I managed to create a new bracelet. However, I missed the deadline because I got sidetracked making a "Conantree" (Christmas tree decorated with CONAN on TBS themed decorations). I am happy though, that I did make something new. It's been a year and a half since my world fell out from under me and I lost my drive to bead. Slowly but surely, I'm working to gain it back...challenges and swaps are helping the process.

I saw a freeform brick design somewhere and thought I would give it a try. My attempt was supposed to reflect the lyrics to the "Sounds of Silence" by Simon and Garfunkel, which was the December theme for the Etsy Beadweavers's challenge. I chose a line from the second verse:

In restless dreams I walked alone
Narrow streets of cobblestone,
'Neath the halo of a street lamp,
I turned my collar to the cold and damp
When my eyes were stabbed by the flash of a neon light
That split the night
And touched the sound of silence

....and created my design using various greys with a "stab" of neon pink. Freeform brick really suits my design style, much moreso than peyote, however, like all freeform, it has a mind of its own, thus adding to the unknown time frame for completion. I followed my own rule for freeform, though, which is: never "unbead" anything...in other words, whatever you have already stitched must stay, you have to use it. Keeps you thinking about creative ways to cure something you don't like about your beadwork. This bracelet is going into the next Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery show next week. If it doesn't sell there, I'm listing in my Etsy shop in January.

Copper Treasury

2010-09-28T12:09:00.004-04:00

Here is a gorgeous treasury simply titled Copper ! My Natural Beauty agate slab necklace is one of the featured selections. Thanks to fellow Etsy Beadweaver, Connie of Asterope Bead Creations for including my necklace.

Needle Tatting Tutorial Uploaded !

2010-07-23T21:54:00.004-04:00

Needle Tatted Earrings with Beads

It was so hard getting this project off the ground. My Windows Movie Maker maker and I were no longer married, so I had to figure out how to do it myself :-/ and I had to wait until the mood hit (which is the way I've been operating since we split). Anyway, I figured out how to import, drag and drop, add fades, titles, captions and music (which disappeared when I added narration...arrrgh !) and voila ! My second tute in two years. Now that I know how, there will be more to come :-) I prefer making photo sequences because if I screw up while in the middle of a project, I would have to start another one and work up to that point just to re-record the video. Maybe I'll use video with a quick project. However, I have a very vocal parrot who tends to dominate the airwaves whenever he senses something important is going on (aarrgh !). I hope you like the video (don't know why it looks so out of focus...the photos were crystal clear when I was working with them...maybe compression altered them...oh, well).

Etsy Front Page Happy Dance !

2010-07-21T13:57:00.001-04:00

front page my girl with dragon tatoo treasury july 2010, originally uploaded by crownrose gems.

Fellow Etsy Beadweaver, Crownrose Gems, posted this treasury a few days ago and today it spent a short time on the front page of Etsy.com ! My Venezia bracelet is part of the collection which is based on the popular Millenium trilogy by Swedish author, Stieg Larsson. I wouldn't have know about my front page appearance if it hadn't been for Statsy.com. I totally forgot about the fact that I linked it to my Facebook profile and besides generating an email to me, it automatically posted to Facebook ! Very handy indeed !

A Novel Treasury

2010-07-18T09:50:00.004-04:00

My Venezia bracelet is part of this treasury based on the novel, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo. This collection is so interesting, I'm tempted to go check out the book !

Tatted Earrings with Beads

2010-07-16T12:50:00.001-04:00

Tatted Earrings with Beads, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Needle tatting seems to have taken over my beading life, especially since I'm getting a clue as to how to design. Here are some earrings I made recently. I'm working on a video tutorial and learning how to use Windows Movie Maker in the process. Hope to post that soon.

"Adrift" Freeform Bracelet

2010-07-05T17:12:00.002-04:00

"Adrift" Freeform Bracelet, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Again, a tale of procrastination and inertia but with a happy ending ! This bracelet started out as a project for the EBW Spring Swap, but I had a hard time moving ahead using these colors....they just don't motivate me. I used them because my swap partner liked "earth tones." I searched my bead stash for the "earthiest" bead colors I could find, and found only a few. The clock was ticking and the shape kept growing and I couldn't stop it, but knew I didn't have enough time to let it grow into the size it wanted to be. So I set it aside and started the round pendant (see previous blog post).

Fast forward a couple months and the as yet unfinished bracelet...determined to submit a completely new item to the recent gallery show, I took it out and let it reach it's destined size. It was kind of growing on me, but I probably won't attempt using these colors again anytime soon. Finished in time for the gallery jury day, I submitted it and it was accepted, and just a week later it sold to a lady from France ! And I'm happy to report, I've also sold a necklace I finished last December and three pairs of earrings ! I think my "year of inertia" has finally come to a close :-)

Water Falls Treasury

2010-05-21T08:36:00.004-04:00

Another lovely treasury entitled "Water Falls" by Trinity Designer Jewellery features my "World on a String" necklace. I appreciate her efforts and artistic eye and wish I could reciprocate with a treasury of my own, but I have never been able to snag one...and I know how much fun it would be to make one !

Necklace makes another treasury appearance

2010-05-18T10:40:00.003-04:00

My Caribbean Sea Blues Necklace has made another appearance on Etsy, this time in a treasury entitled Blossoms Up by Lorraine ofTrinity Designer Jewellery. Enjoy the beauty of her selections ! Be sure to follow the link to the treasury, because I still haven't figured out how to get a screen cap of all four rows of a treasury :-(

EBW Spring Swap-Tale of Procrastination and Regret !

2010-04-19T21:29:00.010-04:00

A couple months ago, an idea for a swap of beadwoven creations among members of the Etsy Beadweavers started to be tossed around. 12 members signed on and then the beading began. I received Laura Zeiner's name. I didn't know Laura, but she listed her preferences and said her favorite colors were earth tones...wouldn't you know, most of the bead colors in my stash are bright "jewel" tones like magenta, purple, royal blue...alot of black, gold and silver beads too. I had to search the stash for a few muted colors and thought about trying out a new beadweaving technique. I was curious about the spiral peyote stitch I had recently seen in Bead and Button and thought about creating a bracelet for her. I poured out the beads, got settled and time after time, got lost in the pattern and found myself ripping and restarting. For some reason, I couldn't wrap my brain around the directions, or the pattern just didn't present itself in the beadwork as I went. Oh, well, back to the drawing board.

After having procrastinated long enough on even starting the project, I found myself up against the deadline and feeling guilty. I tried a couple more designs, but they weren't interesting enough or shaping up properly. I had some round agate slices and one of them was in muted brown shades. I started beading around it in peyote stitch, switching bead sizes, but the edges were too wavy...more ripping ensued. Finally, the piece began to shape up, but I needed to finish and get it in the mail. I slipped it on a silver neck cable and packed it up to send, regretting that it was just a mere shadow of the project I had in mind initially. Fortunately, Laura wrote that it was beautiful and she loved it. Whew ! I hope she's not just being nice ! Please visit Laura's blog: Stick Lizard Designs and make sure to follow the link to her Etsy shop.

Today I received the swap item that was made for me by Hadass and was thrilled that she used my favorite color, magenta and that it fit perfectly. She added pearls which I never use, so I'm pleased to have some to wear. Please visit her blog: Spring Colors and make sure to check out her Etsy shop.

Thanks to Christine of Christine's Beadworks for keeping us all in the loop ! Please stop by her blog and see the beautiful mosaic of all the beadwoven creations made for the swap.

Mural Painter Seeks Donors

2010-03-28T11:29:00.001-04:00

Through my Brazilian percussion band, Batala , I have connections to so many different people, events and projects. One of my Batala sisters passed on this plea for funds to help mural painter, Joel Bergner create a mural to raise awareness about domestic violence in our communities. I checked out his paintings and immediately fell in love with the bold colors and simplicity of line. I hope some of my friends will also appreciate his style and the seriousness of this issue and help see this project to its completion. If you would like to donate, please see the link in the upper corner of my blog and thanks so much !

Triangle Time

2010-03-24T15:05:00.005-04:00

Triangle Twister bracelet

My Triangle Twister bracelet was featured on this blog recently: Pardalote in an article about peyote triangles. Once you try them, they are definitely addicting. Took me forever to find a tutorial, finally located instructions in Carol Cypher's book: Mastering Beadwork.

I'm a Winner !

2010-03-08T11:31:00.004-05:00

I got a message the other day from my fellow beadweaver and Facebook friend, AJ, telling me that I won a pair of her earrings ! I was so surprised because I didn't remember entering any contest, although I am a fan of her Facebook page, Earthe Fae Designs. The contest was open to all Facebook fans, and lo and behold, I won ! I can't wait to receive these lovely earrings. Thanks again, AJ ! Please take a look at some of the other beauties she has in her Etsy shop, Earthe Fae Designs.

Tatting Addiction

2010-02-28T12:25:00.002-05:00

Red Tatted Bracelet, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

I haven't done any real beadweaving in ages it seems. It has to do with my emotional state during the divorce I just went through :-( However, I got a little kick in the creative pants, so to speak, by learning how to tat recently. The two basic design elements, ring and chain, are all I know, but I figured out how to link them along the edge and turn corners so I designed this bracelet with beads. This one I made for a friend for Valentine's Day. She has been an enormous source of support for me in the last year, and I wanted to present her with this little token of gratitude. She loved it !I've posted more bracelet photos on Flickr and will be listing a bracelet or two in my Etsy shop soon.

Treasuries !!!

2010-01-13T22:48:00.007-05:00

"Red for You"
"Colors (5)"
Two days and two treasuries ! My Caribbean Sea Blues necklace and African Helix and Glass Pendant necklace were featured in treasuries ! Ileana of Enchanted Beads and Daniella of Daniellart were kind enough to include my two necklaces. Plus Ileana took the time to send me a full screenshot as I have practically given up figuring out how to get the entire treasury in a screenshot. Please click the links under the photos to go to the treasuries :-)

Interview on Beads Perles

2009-12-17T12:01:00.003-05:00

I was contacted recently for an interview on the beading blog Beads Perles and today my interview was published. I'm honored because this seems to be the ultimate resource for interviews with talented beadweavers from around the world. The blog is in Spanish with the interviews published in both Spanish and English. I guess I could compare my answers to the Spanish and learn a few more words !(I have a lazy ongoing project to learn Spanish) Good thing I have it bookmarked now because I hope to get caught up with reading all the interviews one day !

Blue agate necklace

2009-12-14T22:45:00.002-05:00

Blue agate necklace (PixUp), originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Better photos will be coming shortly. This is a necklace that I did a couple years ago. I originally used a purchased glass leaf pendant, but everyone who saw it in my art gallery said "oooohh !!! did you make the pendant ?" After saying "no" one too many times, I vowed never to make another artist's or commercially made pendant the focal point of a piece of beadwork. It took me two years to come up with an idea that I like for another pendant.

I purchased the agate slab while on vacation in Bar Harbor, Maine the summer before, and at the last minute before gallery jury day, I decided it would work perfectly with the unadorned necklace. Feverishly working all day yesterday, going out for a few hours with a friend then staying up until 1:30 am, it was ready to visit the gallery this morning. I haven't checked yet, but I hope it was accepted and will find a new home shortly !

EBW Members Nearly Meet !

2009-12-11T22:36:00.004-05:00

A couple days ago I got a Facebook message from a fellow Etsy Beadweaver, Rosita aka CrownRoseGems. She was visiting the Washington, DC area and I felt very honored that she wanted to make a special trip to my fiber co-op to see my beadwork. We nearly made a connection, but plans didn't favor our meeting in person. However, she was able to visit the Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery in the Torpedo Factory Art Center, and graciously complimented my jewelry that she saw while she was there. Please take a look at her beautiful beadwork here . I hope we do get to meet sometime and I hope I get to meet other beadweavers too. My place is always open for a visit from a fellow bead fanatic !
CrownRoseGems

Etsy Beadweavers' December Challenge Entries

2009-12-09T19:11:00.002-05:00

The latest beadweaving challenge is all about peace and the winter olympics. Take a look at what members of the Etsy Beadweavers have beaded up this time !

Freeform Necklace Set

2009-12-01T12:26:00.002-05:00

Freeform Necklace Set, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

I wanted to stitch up a quick herringbone bracelet, but for some reason, it didn't want to be a bracelet after all. What started out as an easy plan for finishing, turned into a weeks long project that I put aside numerous times. My deadline was the big gallery holiday show, so that forced me to bring this thing to a conclusion. At 11:30pm the night before jurying, I stitched up some earrings to match. It's in the gallery now, and hopefully someone will think it's the perfect gift.

Gallery show necklaces

2009-11-17T12:16:00.001-05:00

Gallery show necklaces (PixUp), originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Yesterday was the jury day for the big holiday show at Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery . I was on the jury panel and had fun scrutinizing all the great fiber art that passed under my nose. I am good with detail and was able to spot tiny flaws in knitting, beadwork and sewing. If I could only get paid to do that every day ! Anyway, our gallery has an unbelievable amount of beautiful fiber works to wear, view or use and there is something for everyone on the shopper's gift list. I got 35 items accepted into the show which lasts through December.

New ArtFire Shop !

2009-10-27T12:37:00.003-04:00

I took the plunge today and set up an ArtFire shop probably because there are other less enjoyable projects to finish up around the house, and it was a good way to procrastinate. Don't know how to connect with some of the other ArtFire shops, or even to get my shop to show up in a search for "beadweaving". I used that as a keyword, but for some reason it's not working. I keep toying with the idea to take down my Ambrosian Beads website which is not easy to update, but I need a shop that will allow me to use a .com domain. Plus I like to have a place to showcase all my previously sold works. It seems to be a never-ending search for the perfect (free or cheap !) web host !

Tatting Favorites

2009-10-25T12:17:00.002-04:00

Since I'm on this tatting kick, I decided to see what kind of tatting I could find on Etsy, and as I discovered, there is alot ! Enjoy !

The Artistry of the Etsy Beadweavers

2009-10-24T17:32:00.006-04:00

One of the members of the Etsy Beadweavers put together this deliciously beautiful montage of works by nearly every member of the team. My Shades of Grey necklace appears near the beginning at the 26 sec. mark. Thank you, Christina, of Good Quill Hunting for making this lovely video. Now, when I need inspiration, I'll just watch the video !

Second tatting attempt (PixUp)

2009-10-23T12:46:00.003-04:00

Second tatting attempt (PixUp), originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

A couple weeks ago, I blogged on Fiberlines about learning to tat. My intention is to incorporate beads and make some jewelry items. After finishing my very first tatted medallion, I dug up this pretty pearl cotton that I've had for years, and strung it with some 8/0s. I'm hoping this will turn into a bracelet and I might figure out a way to work some beadweaving into the edges. Stay tuned !

While you're waiting on pins and needles for the outcome of this project, take a look at totusmel's incredible Tatted Mask instructions on Instructables, or visit this tatting forum to meet fellow tatters.

Bead for Life@ Green Festival

2009-10-12T11:12:00.003-04:00

Bead for Life@ Green Festival (PixUp), originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Yesterday I went the the Green Festival to perform with my band at the end of the show. There were hundreds of vendors promoting green products and services, and as I was making my way through the booths, I found one of my favorite organizations, Bead for Life. This organization helps women in Uganda produce beads and jewelry made from recycled magazines. The sales of the jewelry help the women with individual and community projects in their towns. I rushed right up to the booth and started shopping. It's always so hard to choose just the right piece, but I ended up selecting two simple bracelets. The ladies kindly allowed me to take a photo. I hope they had some good sales at the show.

B-Boy Battle @ Crafty Bastards

2009-10-05T09:49:00.001-04:00

B-Boy Battle @ Crafty Bastards
Originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads

Ok, this is a little OT, but I just had to share one of my favorite events of the year. The Crafty Bastards craft show is a great show with lots of Etsy sellers, but the high point, for me is the "b-boy" battle that is going on at the same time. Breakdancers come from all over the country, I guess, and compete for the number one spot. This video is of one who turned out to be my favorite. He goes by the name "Atomic Goofball". I think the name says it all....enjoy !

2009-09-25T10:15:00.002-04:00

I found a sweet deal on iPhone this week, ordered, received it, and now playing with it. Goodbye beadwork ! At least I can blog on the fly, now.

NYC Trip !

2009-09-09T22:14:00.007-04:00

I just got back from a three day trip to New York to be a part of the annual "Lavagem da Rua 46" which is a Brazilian parade based on the "Lavagem do Bonfim" in Salvador, Bahia in Brazil. The festival and parade took place on 46th Street which is known as Little Brazil. I went as a member of my all-women percussion band, Batala Washington and marched wearing all white as is traditional. The excitement was unbelievable as the famous Brazilian musician, Carlinhos Brown , led the parade and performed afterwards. I never knew anything about him, but he is a fantastic entertainer. I'm going to download some of his songs. After the parade, I was walking down 6th Avenue and discovered several bead stores. Treating myself to a few goodies was the icing on the cake to an excellent day which included samba and caipirinhas !

New Items Listed

2009-08-06T22:11:00.002-04:00

Seems forever since I have posted to my blog. I haven't had a spark of creativity for the last six months. I guess, since I left the Artists' Undertaking Gallery last summer, I had less reason to bead as much as I used to. I'm still at the Potomac Fiber Arts Gallery (recently renamed) and we can jury in items each month only up to three times if they don't sell. I took my overstock to a new art/craft shop in Hyattsville, MD last October and sold a couple pieces, but they had to close down in May. So guess what, MORE jewelry just sitting around the house. Now I can wear it all the time, though ! Anyway, haven't felt like making MORE new stuff, just 'cause I can't think of what to do with what I already have. So, little by little, it's going in my Etsy shop, like this bracelet I made last fall: Bracelet Got the Blues and these earrings I made around the same time:Red and White Ball Earrings

Etsy Beadweavers' August Challenge Entries

2009-08-06T21:59:00.003-04:00

The latest challenge the Etsy Beadweavers have engaged in used the theme "First Ladies of Style". Check out the incredible entries in the challenge and make a visit to the Etsy Beadweavers' blog to vote for your favorite. As usual, I haven't entered. I guess it's been almost two years since I entered something. Seems I was always under the gun to finish something completely unrelated for my galleries, and could never fit in the time. I WILL make something again sometime, I promise ! For now, all I can do is vote !

Shades of Grey Necklace

2009-03-14T00:05:00.001-04:00

Shades of Grey Necklace, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Finished up my second beaded cab project and have enjoyed the entire process. Looks like I'll have a few more up my sleeve, I've had a bunch of cabs chillin' in a box now for about six years !

New Classes at Off the Beading Path

2009-02-25T22:18:00.005-05:00

After re-thinking my beadweaving class offerings, I decided to go with shorter, more beginner level classes at a very affordable price ($15--can't bead, I mean beat that !). I was originally offering 3-hour classes which used my kits, but wasn't getting any takers for those. I came up with some smaller projects which the owner approved and put them on the schedule. I offered an intro to beadweaving which had the student make a simple leaf design with size 8/0 beads and intro to brick stitch which used a simple graphed pattern I made with BeadTool. A few students signed up for those and had a good time. The next class on the schedule is bead embroidered cabochon pendant or pin and I have several people down for that. I'm also offering triangle earrings, peyote tube bracelet or earrings and brick stitch circle earrings or pendant. These are the upcoming class dates:

Feb. 28 2-4 pm Bead Embroidered Cabochon
Mar. 14 3-4:30 pm Triangle Earrings
Apr. 5 2-3 pm Peyote Bead Tube Bracelet or Earrings
May 9 2-3:30 pm Brick Stitch Cirvle Earrings

YouTube Views

2009-02-15T18:53:00.003-05:00

As I was winding down from an afternoon of beadweaving classes, I decided to check my YouTube channel to see how many views I've gotten on my one-and-only beadweaving tutorial. I was shocked to see that it's been viewed almost 7400 times !!! I think it might be due to it's location on a jewelry and beading blog that I didn't know about until it showed up in my Google Alerts.

I'm not that happy with the tutorial as my camera doesn't take great macro shots, nor do I have a digital video camera. However, I wanted to get something out there as an experiment until I am ready to upgrade my equipment. The one thing I love about the tutorial is the music of my friend, Nana Frimpong, and his amazing djembe playing. When I post another tutorial, I plan to use more of his music. I think it has a certain meditative yet purposeful sound, perfect for beadweaving.

Etsy BeadWeavers February Challenge...

2009-02-12T14:23:00.002-05:00

JanFebMosaic, originally uploaded by wMarlaine.

...is entitled Tropical Holiday. Please visit our Etsy BeadWeavers blog where you will find links to each entry then vote for your fave !

Quick Earring Display

2009-01-03T01:36:00.002-05:00

Quick Earring Display, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Last month, I whipped up a whole bunch of Batala themed jewelry (red, white and black color scheme) for a Batala fundraiser. I wanted to display the earrings on a wire form, but didn't want to spend any more money on fancy earring cards, so I tried out an idea. I took some free twisty ties, folded them in half, taped them to the back of the earring cards, folded the loop over into a small hook and voila ! Easy hanging earring cards :-)

Writing Instructions for Designs

2009-01-02T21:49:00.006-05:00

I have so many designs that I would love to write instructions for, but I always hit a brick wall when it comes to including good diagrams. Since I'm a cheapskate, I'm not about to spend $300 on some drawing program which takes a college course to learn how to use. So I've been battling with the programs pre-installed on my computer plus limited trial use and freebie programs. I can't seem to find a program (that I can figure out) that allows you to move the circles or ovals (bead shapes) around and put them where you want them. They always seem to jump to some pre-determined location. Plus I would love to make them look 3-D, etc.

I have had a bit of luck, though, after reading some messages on the BeadTool Lovers Yahoo group list where I discovered the free program, Inkscape, along with a link to this fantastic tutorial which is soooooper dumbed down, just what I need ! I worked my way through the detailed instructions, was able to create some 3-D bead shapes, numbered them and was trying to do the final step which is drawing a thread path, and for some reason, the lines keep disappearing ! And I was so close to getting it. I'm determined and will try again because people are asking me for certain patterns and all I have been able to do is take photos of each step. It's a very time-consuming effort and often I'm not satisfied with the detail of some shots. Once the item is made, I'm not going to make another exact copy just to work up to that point for a re-do of a photo :P

A customer was requesting the pattern for my Chevron Chain and Peyote Bracelet and the other day I got lucky and remembered that the pattern had been available on the Bead Bugle website. I had sold the design to Bead Bugle about five years ago (for a little more than the price of a finished bracelet :P) and decided to check for it. Lo and behold, it's still there. I don't know how many millions (lol) they have made off of it, but at least I was able to give my customer the opportunity to get it immediately. Back to working with Inkscape now !

Beady Slogans

2008-12-29T21:10:00.001-05:00

I was cleaning up my bead site bookmarks, and I found this fun list of slogans for beadlovers. Enjoy !

Beadweaving Beauties

2008-12-26T22:46:00.005-05:00

I just listed a necklace that needed to get out and stretch a bit after resting in the jewelry inventory box for a few months. It got picked up for a new treasury by binkaminka called "Bead Therapy". It's full of exquisite beadweaving and I'm very honored that my necklace was included. I'm still bummed out that I can't seem to get a screenshot of the the full treasury image, so apologies go out to the other artists whose photos are cut off at the lower edge. And thank you, binkaminka, for selecting my necklace ! Here is a gorgeous necklace from her shop:

Holiday Message

2008-12-24T12:25:00.002-05:00

Holiday Message, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

This little Christmas tree was something I made over 10 years ago, before I got into beadweaving. I guess beading was already creeping into my soul ! I posted this photo on Flickr as a thank you for all the creativity I see on a daily basis through my Flickr friends' uploads. I'll also use it to wish all my blogging friends a Happy Holiday !

Brick Stitch Violin

2008-12-19T13:27:00.005-05:00

Years ago when I first started beadweaving, my brother encouraged me to make some violin themed jewelry to sell at our family's violin shop. At the time, I was learning peyote stitch and didn't yet know how to do odd-count peyote (still haven't tried it, but I found some good tutorials recently). Plus, I hadn't learned brick stitch yet. The violin shape eluded me. Well, my brother got me started thinking about it again, and I decided to try it in brick stitch, and "viola" (ha, ha, I mean, "voila"-so funny when people write "viola" instead, that's the instrument I play !), and it looks halfway decent ! The size is an inch and a half, a little large (and obnoxious) for earrings, but made a nice, tiny pendant. I won't be wearing it however...every year, I get enough violin themed jewelry, ornaments and mugs to line a thrift store (where it ends up after the student quits !) BTW, I made the pattern with BeadTool 2.0 (need to upgrade, but it works pretty well).

Herringbone Necklace Needs Help !

2008-12-15T23:27:00.003-05:00

I've been wanting to try the necklace design that uses herringbone stitch and a range of bead sizes. What I can't figure out is how to keep it from curving too steeply. It won't fit around the neck with this much curve, and it starts to curl when you try to straighten out the edge. I started over four times with different sizes and gave up after awhile, choosing just to add some brick stitch to the sides and a thin necklace chain. Any help will be welcome :P

Check out this Phishing Scheme

2008-12-10T23:25:00.002-05:00

I received this message today through Flickr and thought it was hilarious. There were lots of links to click on to "approve or reject" their request, so of course, I didn't click on anything. Here's the first part of the message:

"We at NowPublic are working on coverage of the top 10 worst fashion trends of 2008, and we are putting together a collection of photos. We came across your amazing photo on Flickr and it would be a great addition to our story. We would very much appreciate its use, with proper credit to you of course."

The funny part is that is says they are working on coverage of the top 10 WORST fashion trends of 2008. Now why would any sane person want to have their photo included in the WORST fashion trends. And I don't even know to which photo they are referring ???!!!

..because I'm smart enough...

2008-12-09T21:08:00.003-05:00

I was checking out the Talent Database profile of a very talented beadweaver Three Fates Design and decided to take a look at all my "acknowledgements." I realized that I am doing pretty well to get all these compliments and wanted to share the words that others have said about my work. I'm glad I've been able to get my beadwork out there and get such great feedback from other talented artists. Here are some of the comments on my Talent Database profile:

"And work is fantastic as always. :-)"
"excellent work and compositions in your portfolio. Keep up the great talent."
"Stunning work!!! And blue freeform bracelet is a masterpiece!!!!"
"Your beadwork is truly amazing. You have the most unique, interesting and beautiful pieces."
"I admire your work"
"WOW! I bow down and stand in awe...I do a bit of beadweaving, but nothing even approaching your work. Most beautiful!"
"I'm so glad to see you on here and to watch your beautiful beadwork from home! :)"
"Beautiful free form beading."
"I love your triangle twister bracelet.... it's so funky and different... LOVE it!"
"This is not just bead work, this BEAD WORK. Your creations are gorgeous."
"You have some of the most unusual and beautiful pieces."
"Stunning designs. I'm so impressed and in awe when I see designs like yours, you have such strong skills with intricate seed bead work!"
"I find your work amazing. Love the freeform look."
"Lovely work. I wish I had the patience for seed bead work sometimes ... especially when I see beautiful work like yours."
"The Russian Leaf pieces are great"
"Beautiful knitted necklaces, love the pink beads."
"I am such an admirer of your free-form beadweaving! It amazes what you can create with a needle, some thread, and those fabulous seed beads

Beading in Red, White and Black...Batala Hey !

2008-11-30T20:23:00.004-05:00

I love living in the Washington, DC area for all the cultural opportunities it offers and in the last 5 years, I have gained close friends in the Bulgarian, Finnish, Ghanaian and Brazilian communities through music (visit my fiber art blog to read more). Since last year, I have been a member of the USA's only Batala band, which is an all-women Brazilian percussion band. Our band is in high demand in DC for parades, fundraisers, soccer halftime shows, honorary dinners and many other events. We have a visual identity that employs the colors red, white and black and right now, I am in full production mode for a supply of jewelry for our upcoming art gallery fundraiser. One of our members is a graphic artist and has invited other artists to paint portraits of band members as we play which will be auctioned off at the end of the party. I'm looking forward to selling lots of jewelry to band members and friends.

Giving Thanks for the "LBS" (local bead store)

2008-11-27T00:25:00.003-05:00

After I wrap up the last hour of beading, I want to give thanks for the local bead store. If it weren't for those who take the time to count, weigh, bag and tag all those millions of tiny and not so tiny beads, findings and supplies, I wouldn't be able to run across town for an absolutely necessary article to finish a design at the last minute. So I raise my glass to the owners, managers and faithful employees of my local bead stores, Off the Beading Path, Star's Beads, Beads Ltd., Beads on Parade and several others along the I-95 corridor from Baltimore, MD to Richmond, VA. Thank you all, keep up your stock and I'll see you very soon !

New Work

2008-11-20T01:44:00.001-05:00

Peachy Tubular Bracelet, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Lately I've been trying to produce up to 10 bracelets and 10 pairs of earrings to submit to my co-op gallery. At this time of year, the membership (we have 70 members) submits most of their items for the holiday show. The gallery gets filled with more items than usual, so a couple years ago the board voted to create limits on the number of items we can submit. We have a 10 like-item limit, too, and what sells mostly for me is earrings so I have up to 10 I can sell during any month. We just had our last jury on Monday and we can replenish any items sold at our "mini jury" in mid December. I hope to have to replace all 26 items I submitted !

Beadalon Offer

2008-10-23T21:45:00.006-04:00

Update: Super-fast delivery ! I received two spools of Wild Fire today, only a couple days after ordering ! They sent me one spool of 12 lb in green and 10 lb in black, 50 yds each ! It says thermally bonded beadweaving thread-cannot be pierced with a needle. I hope I like working with it. I haven't been able to find a price anywhere because they didn't include a cover letter, just a catalog, but with no prices.
I got the following message through my website:

Subject: fireline
Message: Drop me a line and I will send you samples of our new Wild Fire. We have had many FireLine users say they like it much better.

Best regards,

Drew Potter

BEADALON
440 Highlands Blvd.
Coatesville, PA 19320
866-423-2325 x116
610-466-6000
FAX: 610-384-7260
dpotter@beadalon.com

I sent my request for the samples, because I would love to have something less slippery and more supple, like Nymo thread (see my previous post where I mention my dislike for Fireline-what good timing !). I'll report back on the new thread after I receive it, or if anyone else tries it, please leave a comment.

Incremental Progress

2008-10-23T13:56:00.007-04:00

Talk about lazy-that's been me lately. Spending way too much time on Facebook, reading blogs, watching TV and trying to referee the new kitty/old kitty battles. I haven't completed any new beading projects in months it seems. The newest project I've started which is still a WIP, is a brick stitch pin. I had some round metal pins (brooch) and have been experimenting with adapting the brick stitch earring design. I encircled the disc with wraps of Fireline and have been using a copper color palette. I intend to cover the wraps on the back with ultrasuede and stitch it down. Since I hate working with Fireline, I tend to put this project down frequently, but wanted to use it to prevent the metal edge from cutting the thread. Wish me luck on finishing this before Thanksgiving !

In other beading news, I'm enjoying using my new Beadalon sticky gel pad in my beading tin (the blue stuff in the photo). It's great for keeping beads from rolling.

New Art Venue Opening

2008-10-16T23:49:00.003-04:00

There's a new art and craft gallery in Hyattsville, MD called Artists on the Avenue and I will be showing my jewelry there. There are 30 artists, so it is quite an eclectic mix of art. This Saturday is the grand opening celebration which features the opportunity to make your own fused glass pendant for free !

Beadweaving Classes at Off the Beading Path !

2008-08-15T22:38:00.002-04:00

Recently, I decided to leave the Artists' Undertaking Gallery in Occoquan, VA, where I had been a member for the past four years. I plan to focus on putting more of my beadwork and other fiber artwork in the Potomac Craftsmen Fiber Gallery in the Torpedo Factory Art Center. Just as I was planning to leave Occoquan, a new bead store called Off the Beading Path opened and the owner contacted me about teaching there. I am happy to retain my Occoquan connections as it is a delightful little town with some wonderful people and stores to visit. So, here are my upcoming classes !

Saturday, August 23rd from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm: Spiral Rope Bracelet and Earrings Set

Sunday, September 7th from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm: Glass Gem Ring

Saturday, September 20th from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm: Three Earring Designs with Delica Beads

All the materials are available in the store with a friendly 10% discount on purchases for class participants. My kits will also be available for $20 each.

Vacation Treats

2008-08-14T14:56:00.004-04:00

Vacation is all about treating yourself, right ? Well, here's how I treated myself this past week on my trip to Boston and the NE corridor. In Boston, I went to the Museum of Fine Arts where I was too cheap to pay the $17 entrance fee (I'm used to the freebie museums here in Washington, DC), but spent about two hours in the amazing bookstore there. I found a copy of "Zulu Beadwork" which was on my "to-buy" list and snagged it. I'm interested in the triangular tube patterns. The next day, I chanced upon a delightful little bead shop called Beadworks where I spent about an hour picking up some fresh colors and findings. Next stop after Boston was Bar Harbor, Maine where I found some agate slabs and disks at Willi's Rock Shop.

New Local Bead Shop

2008-08-04T00:26:00.006-04:00

Bead shop, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

There's a new bead shop within 5 miles of my house ! It's unbelievable ! The shop just opened up at the end of June and is already doing brisk business. I have acquainted myself with the owner and she invited me to teach classes there. I will be teaching three classes in the coming weeks, including my gem ring, spiral rope bracelet and earring set, and three Czech bead earring designs. I sure hope Off the Beading Path is here to stay !

Occoquan Memories

2008-08-04T00:02:00.002-04:00

Occoquan, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Today was my last day in the gallery, where I've been a member for the last four years. I've made some dear friends in Artists' Undertaking and in Occoquan, and fortunately, it's not a real goodbye. I will now be teaching some beadweaving classes at the new bead store in town, Off the Beading Path and I'll be coming in to see what's new in town, shop for gifts at the gallery and say hi to old friends. It's a great little place to get to know. Enjoy the photos !

Earring Tutorial on YouTube !

2008-07-21T11:48:00.003-04:00

My husband put together a video tutorial of the still photos of my "Starflower" herringbone earrings. It features the music of our friend, Nana Frimpong, a master drummer and kalimba player from Ghana. Since there wasn't space for the text on each photo, I have a link to download the directions from my website. Try it and leave a comment on YouTube or here. Also, I have a Flickr set of all the photos here . Thanks for looking !

Join me on Facebook !

2008-07-18T23:32:00.003-04:00

Join me on Facebook !, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

My husband got me to set up a Facebook account, and now I'm hooked ! But I need more BEAD FRIENDS !!! I've already discovered Shirley and Regina but I know more EBWers are out there ! Add me (Carol Holmes) as your friend or send me your name and I'll add you. Or look for the Facebook icon on the left sidebar to go right to my page. See you on Facebook !

Viking Knit Circle Earrings

2008-07-14T17:54:00.001-04:00

Viking Knit Circle Earrings, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

My exhibit at Artists' Undertaking is finally finished. I kept working on more necklaces and earrings to display and now it looks complete. I worked out this circle technique in my new viking knit skills and I'm pretty happy with the way they've been turning out. A little bit hard on the fingers, but since the process goes pretty fast, I don't mind. I had some itty-bitty beaded beads that needed to be put to use, and they were the perfect size for the center of the wire circles.

Viking Knit Necklace

2008-07-08T23:29:00.004-04:00

Viking Knit Necklace, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

I'm a featured artist this month at the Artists' Undertaking Gallery in Occoquan, Virginia. Along with the other artist, painter, Barbara Henris, we entitled our show "New Directions" to highlight the recent changes to our styles of work. I have hit a low point in sales at the gallery and decided to add my newest technique learned; viking knit . There is a silver jeweler across the hall from our gallery, and I wanted to try and interest some of the customers who are more attracted to silver and metals. We shall see how that goes ! In any case, I am having fun with viking knit and experimenting with a variety of shapes beyond the basic, yet beautiful rope shape. More to come ;-)

Keeping Busy

2008-06-27T09:58:00.005-04:00

My other obsession is vintage clothing, textiles and sewing (see my other blog: Fiberlines ), and I just finished up a dozen recycled apron totebags for the Ballston Arts and Crafts Market two weekends ago.

So in other words, I need to catch up on beadweaving, and I have the next gallery jury day at Potomac Craftsmen Gallery on Monday. As usual, it coincides with a weekend filled with rehearsals for an early music concert (I play baroque violin and viola for a living LOL), which will take up all my time for beading (darn mortgage payment and food !!!) so here's a new item that I managed to whip up while gallery sitting the other day. It's very simple, but hey, it's stock.

My First Etsy Front Page !

2008-06-18T23:10:00.006-04:00

6-18-08 ALL EBW FRONT PAGE, originally uploaded by Sand Fibers.

Thanks to EtsyBeadweaver extraordinaire, Carol Dean Sharpe, aka SandFibers , who created this wonderful treasury and included my "Limelight Bracelet" along with a few other gloriously green beadwoven treasures. Please visit her Etsy shop where you'll find her beautiful bracelets and pendants.

I found myself in three more treasuries at the same time (what a surprise!) so I want to thank annabeads , enchantedbeads , and Grandma Marilyn .

Green Glass Herringbone Bracelet

2008-05-26T21:30:00.002-04:00

Green Glass Herringbone Bracelet, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

This bracelet started out as an earring, spent several hours as a ring, then finally morphed into a bracelet.

Identify this stitch !

2008-05-26T21:29:00.003-04:00

Identify this stitch !, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

A friend asked me to repair this necklace. All it needs is a new loop, so I accepted. Usually, I decline repairs of jewelry that I didn't make. Obviously, this is some type of African stitch, and according to Carol Huber Cypher's Mastering Beadwork, it resembles African Polygon. It looks interesting enough to try, so if anyone has any knowledge, please pass it this way. THX

Triangular Tones Bracelet

2008-05-19T23:12:00.006-04:00

Triangular Tones Bracelet, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

This was supposed to be another box, and when the corners of the triangle started to rise up instead of lie flat, I changed it into a bracelet and finished it the next day. I added a vintage glass button in the center. It's now listed here .

Tiny Triangle Box

2008-05-19T23:08:00.002-04:00

Tiny Triangle Box, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

I finished the box I was experimenting with last week. It's only a little bigger than an inch along one side with the lid an inch and a half. Actually, I made the lid a little too big (boo-hoo). I took a guess at the the number of rows needed before starting the side and wanted to make sure it would fit over the box. I'll probably attach a short chain of beads so the two pieces stay together.

Dutch Spiral Necklace-It's Finished !

2008-05-15T00:57:00.002-04:00

Dutch Spiral Necklace, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

UPDATE !!! Mom loved the necklace !!!

Back in November, my mom commissioned me to make a necklace in brown, cream and black beads. I have been planning to get around to the dutch spiral technique, and finally gave it a shot. I like how the necklace turned out, but I won't be doing another one anytime soon. I like to work tight, but this stitch is so unbelievably floppy, I just couldn't get a grip on it. After hours and days of fighting it like a snake, I gave up and finished the necklace with tubular herringbone stitch and a vintage glass button. Haven't given it to mom yet, because I had to get a couple photos done first.

Amber Glass Earrings

2008-05-15T00:50:00.002-04:00

Amber Glass Earrings, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Just tried the brick stitch technique to make these earrings. Since I haven't figured out how to keep the glass bead to stay flat with the beadwork, I think I'll use round or oval beads for the center next time.

Zoya is a Winner !

2008-05-05T22:52:00.005-04:00

My dear friend, Zoya Gutina has won again in the Rings & Things "Your Designs Rock !" competition ! She won first place in the glass category with her Mermaid's Garden entry and honorable mention in the gemstones and pearls category with her Egyptian Nights. Take a minute to feast your eyes on these beadwoven beauties and see more of her dazzling beadwork here. If you are ever in the Washington, DC area, make sure to stop by the Potomac Craftsmen Fiber Gallery at the Torpedo Factory in Alexandria. Zoya always has some of her wonderful beadwork on display there.

Elan Calendar May '08

2008-05-04T00:28:00.001-04:00

Elan Calendar May '08, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Elan magazine published my "Embarcadero Palm" necklace in this month's issue. It's on the calendar page to promote the Artists' Undertaking Gallery May group show entitled "Art Springs Eternal." Elan magazine is marketed to high-end real estate buyers and shoppers in upscale neighborhoods in Northern Virginia. It's my first magazine publication !

My Lovely Beads Newsletter

2008-04-26T21:28:00.004-04:00

I've been featured in Zoya's newsletter this month ! Click here to read it, then make sure to visit her website to see her fabulous beaded creations. Zoya's latest work was accepted into the Bead & Button competition and she was also juried into the Torpedo Factory Art Center as a studio artist. Go Zoya and thank you for featuring me ! and hurray for beadweaving finally getting respect as an art form !

Free Money !

2008-04-25T23:07:00.006-04:00

....spend it HERE !!!
I just signed up for RME (Revolution Money Exchange) after reading about it in the Etsy forums. It's a no-fee version of PayPal. There are quite a few Etsy sellers who are accepting it now, and when you sign up, they automatically put $25.00 in your account. If you put a button on your website or blog, you can get $10.00 for referrals (hint, hint...look to the left...see a large green button ?).

April Etsy BeadWeavers Challenge

2008-04-06T21:05:00.003-04:00

April Etsy BeadWeavers Challenge, originally uploaded by Sand Fibers.

UPDATE: WE HAVE WINNER !!! Wolf took the top prize with her unbelievable creation, Flower of Fire's Heart Congratulations, Wolf !!! Even though voting is over, it's not too late to have a closer look at all the wonderful beadwork. See the list below.

1. Flaming Roses by artzilla
2. Hades Garden Beadwoven Bracelet by myfairladyvt4
3. The Flower of Fire Brooch by enchantedbeads
4. Flames and Flowers by enchantedbeads
5. Le Sacre du Printemps- Blue Flame by SalamanderHouse
6. Slave Bracelet- Blue Flames on Rose Buds by valhallaforge
7. Hana-Bi by thebeadedlily
8. Blaze - Peyote Cuff Bracelet by totallytwisted
9. Flame Flower Necklace by clairecreations
10. Fire Daisy Choker by nemeton
11. Mephaestus and Pan by ThreeFatesDesign
12. Fire and Flowers Bracelet by Emarah
13. Blazing Blossoms Amulet Necklace Waiting Room Series 2 by cigarboxbeads
14. Tattoo Flames Bracelet by PinkPoochDesigns
15. Firewheel by SweetFreedom
16. LUCIFER'S TONGUE Beaded Lariat by dawnchastain
17. Flower of Fire's Heart by DantesSpirit
18. Huang by SilverDragon
19. Flamboyant Flower Brooch by enchantedbeads
20. Mi Cala en Llamas by lolos
21. Goodness Gracious Great Balls of Fire by jstinson
22. Petals of Flame Bracelet by AmethystRavenstar
23. Fire and Flowers by BeadedKeepsakes
24. Blazing Flowers by triz
25. Fire Lotus by hands2heal
26. Fire Blossom by playnwithbeads
27. Flower of Flame by onathousandhills
28. A Moth to Fire and Flowers by PFordCustomJewelry
29. Ring of Fire by ThePreciousBeads
30. Summer Flame by SandFibers

Delica Heaven

2008-03-18T11:16:00.002-04:00

Delicas, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Here is a shot of the box of Delicas I have been sharing my home with for the past few months. Little by little, they are finding new homes and becoming transformed into wonderful beaded creations. Email beadweaving[at]gmail.com if are interested in any of these. They are available at half off the retail price.

Silver & Grey Freeform Peyote Bracelet

2008-03-17T17:01:00.004-04:00

Silver & Grey Freeform Peyote Bracelet, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Update: Sold the bracelet this week at Potomac Craftsmen Gallery

This bracelet got started about 3 months ago while working at Potomac Craftsmen Gallery but my heart wasn't quite into it then. I picked it up over the weekend to try and finish in time for the next gallery jury day. I thought I could finish it during the day on Sunday, but I kept on adding more and more beads to even out the sides. It finally took on a pleasing overall shape, but by then it was 10:30 pm at night. So much for the other beading designs I planned to finish by midnight.

(added on Tuesday) I forgot to mention that I discovered a helpful hint for people who are too intimidated to do freeform: do it in a hurry !! That way you are forced to live with the stitches that you've already done, and it cuts down on the indecisiveness that usually occurs if you're not comfortable with freeform. Sure helped me with finishing this piece in time. HTH anyone putting off trying it :o)

My Lovely Beads-Zoya Gutina

2008-03-15T22:25:00.003-04:00

My colleague and friend at Potomac Craftsmen Fiber Gallery, Zoya Gutina, has graciously included my "Starflower Earring Tutorial" in her latest newsletter this month. Her beadwork is spectacular, and she is a regular beading competition winner. I invite you to check out her website, My Lovely Beads.

New beadweaving tutorial: Starflower Earrings

2008-02-02T19:52:00.000-05:00

Try your herringbone stitch skills with my "starflower" earring tutorial .

Flowering Edge Herringbone Bracelet

2008-02-02T01:18:00.001-05:00

Flowering Edge Herringbone Bracelet, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Here's a little experiment I did the other night. I started with a long ladder of beads and wanted to create a ruffle on each side in herringbone stitch. Didn't have any success with that idea, and rather than starting over, I decided to build on the ladder row. I ended up making one row of herringbone in black with one colored bead in between each pair. Then I went back around in RAW with each colored bead to create the "daisies."

Beadweaving Classes

2008-01-29T13:44:00.000-05:00

I'll be teaching three classes at Beads on Parade in Fredericksburg, VA in February. It's a wonderful little shop just north of Fredericksburg on Route 17 between I-95 and Route 1. They have a good selection of gemstone, glass and seed beads and findings in a cute bungalow. They offer a wide range of classes in beadwork and wirework. I'll be teaching two earring classes; my three designs using Czech beads and three designs using Delicas, also my Chevron Chain and Peyote bracelet pattern.

"Metropolis" Bracelet

2008-01-28T19:53:00.002-05:00

"Metropolis" Bracelet, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Another recently finished bracelet. I used herringbone stitch again with Delicas. I call it "Metropolis" because the design reminds me of art deco patterns.

"Limelight" Herringbone Cuff Bracelet

2008-01-24T22:00:00.002-05:00

Lime Green Herringbone Cuff, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Here is the next cuff-style bracelet. I've created recently.I have collected quite a few different kinds of beads in the same lime green color and this herringbone design came to mind.

"Riverbed" Herringbone Bracelet

2008-01-18T01:58:00.002-05:00

Green Herringbone Bracelet, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

My latest experiment was a success, in my opinion. I tried herringbone stitch with "inclusions" as shown in the "Mastering Beadwork" book by Carol Huber Cypher (my Christmas present to myself) and named the bracelet "Riverbed" because it reminds me of a flowing stream over rocks.

The RED Challenge

2008-01-06T21:22:00.000-05:00

The Etsy Beadweavers are seeing "red" with their latest beadweaving challenge and voting begins Monday, January 7th. This month's challenge focuses on the use of the color red in any and all forms of beadweaving. There are beautiful and striking articles of jewelry as well as sculptural and useful pieces. A warning though, you are going to have a very difficult time choosing a favorite !

Triangle Twister Bracelet

2008-01-01T17:46:00.002-05:00

Triangle Twister Bracelet, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

Here's a new bracelet that I just finished. I had an idea in my head once I learned how to make these triangles ("Mastering Beadwork" by Carol Huber Cypher). There are other projects I'm "supposed" to be working on, but this one wouldn't let me stop.

New and Improved Ambrosian Beads Website !

2007-12-28T13:27:00.000-05:00

Before my trip to China, I started work on re-designing the Ambrosian Beads website I share with fellow jewelry designer, Lynnelle Ediger. I found the perfect webhost, Squarespace which included a blog feature and the ability to add PayPal buttons. I also added links to certain items that I have in my Etsy shop. All in all, Squarespace offered more features than I had with my previous webhost. The website is as always, a work in progress, so check back to see what new jewelry designs Lynnelle and I have listed. You can also RSS my blog.

Silk Factory Tour

2007-12-28T13:18:00.001-05:00

Picture_0549, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

On our recent trip to China, we were taken to a silk factory in Beijing. Here we see the ladies stretching cocoon silk over a form. They will next take the layers and stretch them out into a bed sized layers to make quilt batting. Check out additional photos of silk production .

Travels in China

2007-12-28T13:12:00.001-05:00

DCP_3639, originally uploaded by ambrosianbeads.

My husband and I recently traveled to China on a choral trip and were able to see demonstrations of weaving, silk production and jade carving. Here are some photos of the weaving demo

We have a winner !

2007-12-07T11:35:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to Swanee and her winning entry in the Etsy Beadweavers monthly challenge. Stay tuned for the next challenge in January.