SOLDERED RINGS &  BEZELS,  the DVD,
with Kate Richbourg
produced by Beaducation.com
Metalwork Series

I was completely thrilled that I was given the opportunity to review this DVD produced by Beaduction, the fabulous online teaching shop which offers all sorts of tools , materials and lessons, and now is offering some top teachers sharing their knowledge in DVD format.
I have loved Kate Richbourg's teaching style for years! Her style is calm yet fun, as she proceeds seemingly effortlessly from step to step, teaching how to do whatever it is you are planning on learning.

I have to say here that one of my first instruction videos which I ever bought was a video by Kate.  To be honest, without her, I probably never would have learned to wire wrap. EVER. Seeing as that is one of my specialities, I was really excited to review this particular DVD, SOLDERED RINGS & BEZELS, with Kate at its helm.

The ring which you will be making is the onyx ring pictured above, on the front of the DVD, however it is explained at the beginning that the manner in which you make this ring applies to any sort of flatback cabochon, whether it is dichroic glass, semi-precious stone, or something else you might choose. Another thing which you should know is that there are a number of free tutorials at the Beaducation site (which is also where you purchase this DVD and a number of other wonderful  and exciting ones) which you might want to check out as you go along your way through this learning experience. For example, if you didn't know how to stamp metal, you can check that out for free on Beaducation. You can also learn on the site, for free, how to antique with liver of sulphur, which you will need to know to really make the ring you are creating with this DVD's help "pop" with extra impact!

This 98 minute DVD is separated into sections, like a book. My husband walked in and wanted to watch it too. It is quite engrossing for anyone, and in my opinion, learning to solder is like learning to play the piano. You may choose later on to specialize in a different instrument, to continue with the piano simile, or you may choose to head off in a different jewelery making style, but this is basic stuff we should all know first! It is what makes us real jewelry artisans.Therefore, make it easy on yourself and choose this DVD to learn to solder. Kate will take you carefully and thoroughly through the steps you must know to learn to set a cabochon into a bezel ring (or a pendant if you prefer). When you are finished, you will know everything you need to know. If there is any confusion at all, you can go back, of course, to any part of the DVD. I doubt you will be confused at any point however.Kate Richbourg is just too good a teacher!

The DVD is separated into steps. Basically, they are:
Tools & Materials
Cutting the Bezel Wire
Soldering the Bezel
Shaping the Bezel
Attaching the Bezel to the Backplate
Fabricating the Band
Soldering the Band
and the Conclusion

You can go back and view separate sections if you need to, and you can order most of the materials you might require (including the DVD itself) right online at Beaducation.
Kate Richbourg is the Director of Education at Beaducation. She knows EVERYTHING you will need to know and even anticipates things you will want to do, which you shouldn't do, and tells you beforehand the correct time to do them.  Boy, did she have MY number a couple of times with her tips! You will see what I mean if you purchase this completely FIVE star DVD from Beaducation.
What's more, I guarantee you will have a ball with your new expertise at making soldered rings and bezels! From there, I expect it will intrigue you into wanting to investigate Beaducation further. Beaducation is absolutely one of the best sites of its kind online.
I heartily recommend this super-fun and illuminating DVD, SOLDERED RINGS & BEZELS,  with Kate
Richbourg.

Big News! If you would like to win this particular DVD,  or another of the wonderful new DVDs which Beaducation is offering--your choice on whichever one you want!-- all you have to do is "Like" their blog, which is here: http://blog.beaducation.com/
Please leave me a comment on this entry so that I know you have entered their Giveaway! This Giveaway ends on Thursday, next week!

--jean

Disclosure: A review copy was provided by the publisher. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.

from National Jeweler, which I read and recommend:

sign up for it through the link above. it keeps you apprised of lots of things you wouldn't come across anywhere else!--jean

Indians, Russians hold first diamond summit

Mumbai--Russia and India, two of the diamond trade’s most influential nations, got together for the first of what they hope will become many joint summits last week in Mumbai.
Organized by the Moscow Diamond Bourse (MDB), Russian-language trade magazine Navigator for Jewellery and India’s Gem & Jewellery Export Promotion Council (GJEPC), the Indo-Russian Jewellery Summit took place June 20-23. The purpose of the event was to increase cooperation between the diamond and jewelry industries in both countries.
In his opening address, GJEPC Chairman Rajiv Jain said the event would serve as a platform for members of the Indian manufacturing and trading industries to network with Russian buyers. He proposed that the summit become an annual event.
MDB President Alex Popov echoed that thought. “I hope this event will indeed become an annual event where Indian and Russian industry members can get to know each other, learn about each others’ capabilities and capacities. I strongly believe that Russian retailers, manufacturers and producers can do good business in India while Indian producers and traders will find markets for their products in Russia,” he said.
The summit included individual workshops, visit to diamond and jewelry factories and round-table discussions. See below for pictures from the event.

Russian nesting dolls were outfitted with saris and Indian jewelry to symbolize the coming together of two distinct cultures.

Alex Popov (left), Alexey Mzareulov, Rajiv Jain and Sanjay Kothari take part in the traditional Indian lamp-lighting ceremony at the Indo-Russian Jewellery Summit.

Sanjay Kothari (left), Prasad Kapre, Alex Popov and Alexey Mzareulov were among the industry leaders present at the summit.

Pip. a Zaloa27 custom Blythe, with two toned saran hair and hand painted eye chips looking spooky in a boot.

                                                                              BOO!

BEADBLOGGERS!

About.com Jewelry Making
As an admirer of all things arts & crafts, Lisa shares the handpainted jewelry pieces of "Moni's Originals". Stop by to check out these miniature works of art!

About.com Jewelrymaking
Looking to make some easy metalsmithing jewelry? Take a look at these new jewelry videos.

Art Bead Scene
Looking for some creative jewelry displays? So is ABS Editor Heather Powers. Come check out what she's found.

Beading Arts
Free-form peyote stitch and wire work...what could be more fun than combining the two?!

Carmi's Art Life/World
Carmi's new ring features a rock garden!

Earthenwood Studio
Melanie opens a weeked bead store at her local artist market and has lots of pictures of her booth to share.

Resin Crafts!
Resin Crafts has a great tutorial showing you how to create a pendant with a spoon.

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Andrew Thornton, a wonderful person and a member of our group, is having a "Virtual Yard Sale" as he calls it . Check it out on Jean's blog and then go have FUN!

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Andrew hosts a week-long Virtual Yard Sale! The week is filled with Ebay sales, new products added to the Shop, lots of giveaways, and some major deals!

I got a geat email from Beaducation, yesterday, and want to share part of it with you all today!  Here it is:

"... we are trying to build our blog followers and are having an AWESOME giveaway until July 1. We are giving away a $100 gift certificate to our online store. All readers have to do to enter is to follow our blog.  We are trying to reach 1000 followers before July 1st and if we do, we will pick TWO winners to receive a gift certificate at $100 each.  Our blog is a great way to stay in the loop for all of our upcoming specials, FREE classes and Design Ideas and new Online Video Classes.

We really appreciate your support of our business. 

Beaducation.com

Win a $100 gift certificate to Beaducation.com. Click here for details.

Andrew Thornton, one of my wonderful pals and fellow Beadbloggers, wrote me with this super info:

Hi there!

Hope you all are having a great morning. I'm in the process of having a Virtual Yard Sale with lots of events going on, like bargain priced jewelry on Ebay (all starting at $0.99), $10 Lots in my Shop, freebies, Quick-fire Giveaways, a Thursday Giveaway, And more!

I think you should head over to Andrew's promptly because a "yard sale" at Andrew's is right up there with caviar blinis at Petrossian!!! Andrew is tops! Check out the information on Wednesday June 22nd on his blog! Whee!

--jean!

My father, Bob Baldridge, by jean yates

I write about him a lot so much of this you may have heard,  but possibly you have not, so here's to my father on Father's day.

1)I adored and continue to adore my father. He died in 2005, quietly in his favourite chair, as he was making a phone call to me. He had gone to church right before (he liked to go in the winter on Saturday afternoons , so he could relax at home and read the New York Times on Sunday mornings in cold weather). It was February.  Therefore he was all ready to go right up to Heaven when he died. The priest had asked him on the way out from church that Saturday (my father was in a lot of pain from prostate cancer) as he shook his hand, "How are you Bob?" and my father said, "I'm better now!" With his amazing, sweet smile.
2) I would have answered the phone as I always did when he called that evening but I was on the phone with one of my kids. I was too dumb to know how to work the flash/hold button.  But I later heard his call on our answering machine. It was quite phenomenal and my father's last gift to me of so many gifts he gave me.
3) When my father was a little boy, he was considered frail, He grew up to be 6' 3" and very strong. A wrestler and a squash player. However, when little,  he was sent every winter on a train by himself all the way from Omaha, Nebraska, to go to Florida, where his beloved grandmother "BaWa" lived, to attend Catholic school with Al Capone Jr. and Desi Arnaz, who was a very popular older student (who already had a band). This was in Miami, which was barely developed. We owned land there but later had to sell it. If we hadn't had to sell it during the depression, who  knows who I would be now?  Somebody a LOT richer, that's for sure! Incidentally "BaWa" had divorced my father's grandfather, run off to Paris for a year, and returned to bring smoking for women back to Omaha. However in my father's eyes she was wonderful. I sometimes wonder if we have a french half-relative in Paris we do not know about, but no one discusses that sort of thing.
4) Due to the years in Miami and also due to his terrible bouts of hay fever, my father had to give up his early dreams of becoming a cowboy like his older brother Mac and became a skin diver instead. He was excellent at this as he never smoked so he could hold his breath a really long time. He would skin dive along the jetties near our beach club and also under the Atlantic Beach Bridge, with the noise of the cars echoing above us in  deafening manner.  If he wanted to, he always caught a striper with his speargun. I would watch for his head to re-emerge after he went under water, and a plume of water from his snorkel would always  signify where he was about to surface, and it was never where I expected. our dog Josie would bark hysterically.  For some reason, we thought he needed protecting, but he never did. All his life, all he really needed was companionship. That is why he was one of the most beloved members of our small community. He asked for nothing  but honest friendship, and he had the most loyal friends of anyone I have ever met. He was the most devoted friend to them you could ask for.
5)My father adored his mother (I am named after her) and would easily cry upon recollecting how great she was with all of his friends when he brought them home--the cookies and milk etc.  She was the cleanest, neatest, BEST mother in the world as far as he was concerned. We shall disregard the fact that "Nana" liked pink so much she dressed my father as a baby in pink. Thank God my Aunt Tish came along and my father didn't have to wear quite so much pink, although he did grow up to have a fondness for pink Brooks Brothers shirts, and they suited his coloring, which was Scottish--red hair and fair complexion.
6) My father was a Scorpio which is nothing if not the most intense sign in the Zodiac. They like to hide their piercing eyes behind their immense collection of sunglasses. Ask me how many sunglasses my dad had. Countless!
7) My father was a devoted family man and drove up every weekend to see his father after my grandmother died. Not his brother nor his sister did that.
8) When his father died, he would drive up to see me and our family. He was the only person who could handle the craziness which was our daily life with two little children with autism and an older child too--the oldest boys were away in college. He would bring funny gifts for our older son like "a Can of Florida Sunshine" and other things, and he would calmly tolerate our gigantic son with autism squashing him by sitting on his lap as he ate breakfast in our kitchen, and even laughed when our other autistic son stole his bacon, grabbing it from his plate and flashing past him into the hallway.
9) My father was a war expert. He wrote a book called Victory Road , by Robert C. Baldridge. You can hear him on youtube if you type in his name. He was a forward observer for the Ninth Division. I proofread the book for him right after one of  my kids was born. I was exhausted, but he kept calling and saying, "Are you done yet?" "Are you done yet?" like the Pope to Michaelangelo in the movie where Charlton Heston is playing Michaelangelo painting the Sistine Chapel. If my father had something he wanted done, it was a good idea to do it. Just do it!!!
10) My father had a great love of Cadillacs, which were looked down upon in our community. He didn't care, and finally got his dream car, a used black Cadillac  with fins and red leather seats. The people in our community were very  Anti-Semitic and called this "Bob's Kosher Kayak", or "Bob's Jew Canoe"  I am ashamed to say. It makes me furious to this day that they were like this but he didn't care. My sister wanted a station wagon like everyone else. I didn't care.
11) Way before the movie Forrest Gump, my father would walk enormous lengths and distances.  He would have my mother drive him far away from our house and walk and walk until he couldn't walk any more.  Then he would find a phone booth and she would pick him up.  It was this sort of idiosyncrasy that caused people to think that my dad was slightly eccentric. Again, he didn't care. He never cared what people thought of him  because he was a good person and he just had certain things he liked to do his way. He was also very smart. A lot smarter than most of the people who might have been judging him.
12) When my father turned 80, I made him 80 chocolate chip cookies. He died in his 80th year and I am so glad I made these for him because he put them in the freezer, didn't share them, and ate around one a day. It was the best gift I could have given him because he loved my recipe so much.

When I recently had a friend whose father died this year, a war vet,  I put up this picture and song for her:

Back when I was a child
Before life removed all the innocence
My father would lift me high
And dance with my mother and me and then
Spin me around till I fell asleep
Then up the stairs he would carry me
And I knew for sure I was loved
If I could get another chance
Another walk, another dance with him
I'd play a song that would never ever end
How I'd love love love to dance with my father again
When I and my mother would disagree
To get my way I would run from her to him
He'd make me laugh just to comfort me
Then finally make me do just what my momma said
Later that night, when I was asleep
He left a dollar under my sheet
Never dreamed that he would be gone from me
If I could steal
One final glance
One final step
One final dance with him
I'd play a song that would never ever end
Cause I'd love love love to dance with my father again
:
Every night I fall asleep
And this is all I ever dream
Cause I'd love love love to dance with my father again


Happy Father's Day, Dad, I love you

jean


BEADBLOGGER'S SUNDAY

Resin Crafts!
Resing crafts has a special $200 give-a-way ending June 21

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Cyndi Lavin, multi media artist and beader extraordinaire, has added a new chapter to her e-book! Please read my review of it! Her book is now 5 chapters long and is filled with great ideas and beauty -- irresistible! Plus, as you may know,the first chapter continues to be a FREE download! Hooray!  

The Bead Dreamer
Ever wonder if the Knew Concepts red jeweler's saw frame is really better? Charlene shares her take on it.  

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Want a "post-Bead&Button Show" stash of jewelry-making goodies? Enter to win this week's Thursday Giveaway! 

A Bead A Day
Earrings make great gifts in a hurry for yourself and friends! Lisa shares a few newly made pairs using both sparkly and vintage beads!

About.com Jewelry Making
Get in the mood for summer jewelry fun with two turtle jewelry tutorials from Tammy.  

Art Bead Scene
Art Bead Scene dishes up some lovely sunshine - come get some!  

Beads & Books
Have you ever wondered how much traffic websites such as Etsy or ArtFire get? Michelle shares a free online tool that gives you quick website statistics.  

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi is experimenting with Apoxie Sculpt!

If you are having trouble viewing this email, click here For customer service click to chat online or call toll-free 1-866-925-FLEX (3539), 8am-4pm PT, Monday-Friday A live person will answer!

Save 25% on Soft Flex Fireworks Variety Pack. Enter coupon code FIREWORKS at checkout. Coupon valid Monday 6/13/11 - Friday 6/17/11. Click to shop Fireworks Trios. Offer ends at 11:59 pm PT on Friday 6/17/2011. Offer is not valid with any other discounts. If your purchase qualifies for two or more discounts, you will receive the best discount, but not a combination. Coupon discount for retail and designers only. Click to learn how to enter a coupon code

Fireworks Necklaceby Jamie Hogsett See this free project idea

click here to see our detailed return policy

home      contact us      change email      ask Sara      find a bead store      privacy policy

note: don't forget to check out the great interview of the Ruse on The Music Monkey's blog,
"Music is My Life" !!!

Zephyr, a custom Blythe by Zaloa27, on a windy day yesterday, after the rain ended



BEADBLOGGERS SUNDAY!



Lorelei's Blog: Inside the Studio
Lorelei put together a nice collection of items that would be great for your Art Bead Scene challenge entry this month.

Resin Crafts!
Resin Crafts blog has a post introducing shrinky dink to resin.  

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean "reviews" a few items from the fabulously lush and unique online bead store, ARTBEADS! See what she does with some of the materials which she purchased there!  

A Bead A Day
If you enjoy using photos in your jewelry creations, stop by A Bead A Day to pick up some simple instructions for making label holder necklaces!  

About.com Jewelry Making
Tammy has a new Twitter account and an updated Facebook page for her site. Please like & follow her!  

Art Bead Scene
Come see what ABS has in store for this month's challenge!  

Barbe Saint John - New Jewelry from Forgotten Artifacts
Barbe shows off The Queen and her Industrial Chic Crown

Beads & Books
Michelle shares two different summertime necklaces she made using components from Earthenwood Studio.

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi has featured her "Waiting for the bus" ring.  

Cindy Gimbrone Beads
Cindy's put together a few of her favorites and come up with a sweet ring.

The logo of the Music Monkey's blog, "Music is My Life" above, as drawn by the author of the blog. I like it very much as it reminds me, in ways, of John Lennon's doodles. It is very spare and yet it is so clear that it is a monkey! Cool!

This week the offering on the Music Monkey's blog is an interview with my son Jim Bilus' band, The Ruse.
I implore you to go read it as it is very eye opening -- the interviewer got a LOT of new info from the band which has never been brought to light before. It is very entertaining and you will further understand what makes your favorite (favourite, if you are from GB!) band (The Ruse, of course!) tick, and where they got a lot of their inspiration from.

I have always been proud of my son and The Ruse, as they are nothing if not ever progressing forward, with tons and tons of fans. What is cool about this interview by the Music Monkey is that is difficult for people in areas other than the US to really get an idea of what they are about as they have yet to tour other than stateside.  The Music Monkey is a famous writer/reviewer on Amazon.co.uk, and he is excellent at what he does. I am incredibly honoured that he took an interest in the Ruse and chose to profile them. I heartily recommend that you follow him on Facebook, and that you read his other blog entries as well. The very first one which I read blew my mind. It was about how music can alter your mood. The Music Monkey is very honest, wonderful at addressing what he is writing, humorous as well, and always just a great all around read!  Thanks so much to him for having the terrific taste to choose The Ruse to interview, and for doing a SUPERB, insightful job!

--jean

The Ruse

Hair Fascinator

Shisha

Wrap Bracelet


All from Cyndi Lavin's new Chapter from her e-book

 

note: All the chapters are available right now at this link, including the free
chapter and the newest one:http://www.beading-arts.com/p/e-books.html

I wish to begin by introducing you to the fabulous Cyndi Lavin, in her own words:

"Cyndi Lavin is a mixed media artist, jewelry designer, and writer living in central

Massachusetts. She strongly believes that life and art are intertwined, that we

are all works of art, designed by God to be creative beings, and that part of our

purpose in life consists of discovering the things that we meant to create.

Cyndi's work appears in many art and jewelry books, as well as in popular

magazines like Belle Armoire, Lapidary Journal, Jewelry Crafts, Simply Beads, , and Somerset Digital Images. She enjoys sharing her art,

Life Images, adventures and tutorials through her daily blogs,

Beading-Arts.com and Mixed-Media-Artist.com  http://www.beading-arts.com/ Cyndi's link

 

Copyright 2011 Cyndi Lavin ~ Beading Arts,

If you yourself accept, either consciously or unconsciously, the same beliefs which Cyndi holds, you will naturally delight in Cyndi's ongoing e-book. Quite simply, the way I see it is that what she is saying is that we all have, as humans, a natural God-given ability to create wonderful art. 

Ms. Lavin's e-book is perfectly beautiful. She is very careful to explain the whys and hows of what she is teaching, so that a new person attempting this sort of mixed media beading will find it very accessible. A person brushing up on technique will benefit as well, in the most fabulous ways, because the author is extremely skilled as a teacher and also as a person who has a terrific ability to view things from new and different angles.

I have reviewed a number of chapters from Every Bead Has a Story previously on my blog. Each of the chapters builds upon the previous one, expanding the reader's knowledge chapter by chapter. As the first chapter is free and gives the reader the basic techniques, one does not need to fear that there will be any confusion along the way. I will bring this up again later. The reader is always able to understand everything which is going on, through the author's excellent photos and explanations. Each chapter is different and fun, and each one's intention is special. It is carefully and interestingly written out by Cyndi so that anyone can easily understand, and grow successfully as a beader, as the author's book evolves. 

The interesting and special characteristic of Chapter Five is that the author has chose to turn a concept upside down, in a sense. Instead of combining mixed media with bead embroidery in the traditional manner, she has flipped the viewpoint. As she says, "What would happen if we mixed bead embroidery into some of our other favorite fiber and fabric arts"? The balance has been altered in this chapter, yet the beauty remains strikingly exquisite.

As with the other chapters, there is a table of contents, a list of materials and tools required, a fascinating listing of additional bead embroidery stitches and techniques you may require, and then there are the projects. I do not wish to spoil your enjoyment of discovering what your favorite projects will be, but I particularly loved one which involved Shisha mirrors, one which utilized crocheting to make a chic Hair Fascinator with charms (Cyndi is nothing if not hip!), and one which teaches the reader how to make a knockout of a wrapped bangle bracelet. I totally sighed over that one. It is just down my alley! 

I am one of many people who love Cyndi Lavin's work, and this e-book had been extremely successful. To further incite you into trying it, there is a no strings attached offer (this is what I mentioned earlier)  to download the entire first chapter for free. HOP on it, people!  It doesn't get any better than this!

Finally, in this chapter which I have just reviewed, as with all the others, there is a gallery of Cyndi's work for the reader's further inspiration. If you don't adore everything you see in this gallery, you have misplaced your reading glasses.

This is a total treat to view.

I look forward to many more chapters of this undeniably remarkable, lovely, colorful, inspiring, and easy to understand e-book, Every Bead Has a Story, by Cyndi Lavin. She is one of the mixed media beading GREATS.

--jean

Cyndi's sites:
http://www.beading-arts.com/
http://www.mazeltovjewelry.com/
http://www.wildestdreamsdesigns.com/
http://www.mixed-media-artist.com/
http://www.why-not-art.com/
http://realfoodfast.blogspot.com/

Hi! it's jean. I just got an email from Artbeads today and I, as a customer, was asked to review some of their products. You can do this too.
As I love Artbeads, and many of the designs in my book used materials and components from Artbeads, I said to myself, "Why don't you do a quick review of some of the items which you have obtained from this wonderful store on your blog today, and then post them on Artbeads later, after you figure out how to do it?" Many unique and wonderful beads and chain styles were running through my head as I said this to myself.
What you need to know about Artbeads is that it truly is a large, magnificent online store with great service, a dedicated staff of cool people who are delightful and fun, and most of all, no matter what level of designer you are, they have what you need. Whether it is a  book or a set of tools, or a kind of glue  or something more exotic, like free use of their vast inspiration library of projects, or finally,  those fabulous beads we cannot stay away from, Artbeads has it all. Frequently it is the only place to get something which just could be that perfect something which you need for the special piece of jewelry you are designing.
Everything you order arrives promptly and exquisitely packaged. I believe that Artbeads understands that opening a package initiates the relationship between a designer and his or her beads.  Therefore the packages are wrapped like gifts and the outer, brilliantly colored tissue is downright regal looking. You will also often receive a card giving you a discount on your next purchase, and you will receive a card showing you one of their lovely inspirational designs which you might wish to check out, to make for your own enjoyment.

I want to get to specific beads now but first I thought you might like to have an idea of what it is like to experience Artbeads, the store.

Here are some of the things which I have bought from Artbeads:

I own this pendant:  It is large, it is porcelain, and it is entirely backed with sterling silver and has a hefty rounded sterling silver bail on it. This has been in my bead box for a while as I want to make something perfect with it. It is a very dramatic statement simply on its own, but I cannot have it floating on my chest in mid - air, so I must come up with just the right idea which will be powerful enough to stand up to the design and shape of the specific pendant, yet not take away from the impact of it, which as I repeat is "stand alone".

To assist myself theoretically, I might consider the fact that Artbeads is having a sale on pearls this week (see above and follow my link)
and I might mull around about entwining some freshwater pearls and some Montana blue colored crystals, as well as some other Swarovski Elements from Artbeads in softer,  pale ocean-y colors.  I could make this look like an underwater seascape.
I am discovering that this isn't really a review, it is a contemplation.
However I do give this pendant 5 stars, review-wise, for its top notch quality, its appeal to the eye, and its uniqueness.

Speaking of the pearl sale, 

I have had the pleasure of using these Keishi pearls in a necklace which I made for Australian Beading magazine. Here are the pearls. above. This divine color is sold out but there are so many more to love and to choose from! Here is the necklace which I made:

I am beginning to think I like blue    (<--yes this link actually goes somewhere) a lot. Funny that I think of myself as a pink girl! At any rate, I loved the Keishi pearls from Artbeads --5 Stars!, and also used elegantly shaped graphic Aquamarine Swarovski Elements in 12 mm x 10.5mm.


Don't you just want to pass out in joy when you see this gorgeous  bead, shown below?  It is the quintessence of the culmination of generations of fine Swarovski Austrian crystal work. Picture a pair of earrings hanging delicately from your earlobes. Of course, the hole is shown horizontally and you would have to wire these vertically. I swear no none would be able to tell you were not wearing a queen's ransom of jewels with these Swarovski Elements on your ears.  The good thing is the reassurance that the beads will arrive to you unchipped and undamaged in any way, due to Artbeads mindful and careful packing I have mentioned. There is nothing more disappointing that getting a bunch of glittery beads which you have been waiting for, spending as much as you can afford (on a good note: Artbeads offers free shipping) and having some of your goods arrive damaged.

5 Stars for this Graphic Swarovski Element bead!

I also strung on tiny clear bicone Swarovski Elements from Artbeads, and a few dark Swarovksi rondelles, as well as an enchanting mermaid and nautilus clasp from Green Girl Studios and some precious art glass beads from my dear friend Kim Miles.

I love this necklace, and give the materials which I used from Artbeads 5 stars, once again. You can count on the high consistent quality of their pearls, and you can be certain you are not getting fake Swarovskis from this fine store. Perish the thought.

I am going to finish up for now by actually showing you one more product from Artbeads which I have purchased countless times. I want to point it out to you in case you want to wire up some fancy yet simple to make earrings using the Graphic Swarovski  elements beads which I just showed you above.

You will need TWO headpins , and TWO (NOTE: these are sold individually!)  ear posts, such as these

 or these

both of which are 6mm, with CZs.  I particularly like the square (or diamond shape) for this earring design because of the shape of the graphic crystal (the square, or diamond shape, is sold out right now but put your name on the list and they will get it in and notify you sooner than you can imagine!). I have only used the round myself, however I have used them in all sorts of colors, as they come in pink CZ, as well as semi-precious inlaid stones.  Just wire wrap the head pins neatly which you have chosen (try to choose long ones as the beads are long) and close the loop.  Open the post which you have chosen and hook the loop and dangling earring on, and close the post. Put on and admire yourself.  :)

Variations on this which would be great fun would be to have a collection of tiny Swarovski Elements in dark green colors  (or colors of your choice) wire wrapped on head pins and placed on a jump ring with the graphic bead in the middle, on the same ring. Simply hook the jump ring onto the post, and close. Make sure the jump ring you choose is not too thick for the hole on the ear post.
You will need two clutch backs (the ear posts do not come with clutch backs) as well.
I would choose sterling ear posts as I have shown. And head pins from the link I gave you above. I have tried tons of Artbeads head pins and they come through for me every time.

These CZ post earrings are incredibly versatile, can be worn day or night, sparkle like crazy, and make you look stunning. They give you extra allure!


When you are a jewelry designer, try never to skimp on the little details, even a little earring post, if possible. I absolutely love love love these, as Eloise who lives in the Plaza Hotel would say, and I give them...
5 stars!

This has been fun. As I have around eight billion things to review for Artbeads I shall stop now writing my blog. I hope you enjoyed this short meditation on certain things which I have bought from Artbeads and thoroughly enjoyed using!
thanks, jean

Layla is a slightly customized Piccadilly Ebl Blythe

Layla,
song sung by Derek and the Dominoes

(written by Eric Clapton and Jim Gordon)

What'll you do when you get lonely
And nobody's waiting by your side?
You've been running and hiding much too long.
You know it's just your foolish pride.
Layla, you've got me on my knees.
Layla, I'm begging, darling please.
Layla, darling won't you ease my worried mind.
I tried to give you consolation
When your old man had let you down.
Like a fool, I fell in love with you,
Turned my whole world upside down.
Layla, you've got me on my knees.
Layla, I'm begging, darling please.
Layla, darling won't you ease my worried mind.

Let's make the best of the situation
Before I finally go insane.
Please don't say we'll never find a way
And tell me all my love's in vain.
Layla, you've got me on my knees.
Layla, I'm begging, darling please.
Layla, darling won't you ease my worried mind.



SUNDAY BEADBLOGGERS!


Cindy Gimbrone, The Lampwork Diva
Look what's sprung up underneath one of Cindy's Red Lotus Pods!

Lorelei's Blog: Inside the Studio
Summer is just days away. Come on over to check out the latest installtion from the Earthenwood Design Team.

Resin Crafts!
Carmi has a four part series on mold making on Resin Crafts blog this week.    

Snap out of it, Jean! There's beading to be done!
Jean reviews the third in a fine series of books by Marthe Le Van. This one is expressly about rings which you can make in 30 minute or less! And they are OUTRAGEOUSLY gorgeous. Come see!  

The Bead Dreamer
Charlene creates a book and an alphabet stepping way outside the box. Don't we all need to from time to time?  

The Writing and Art of Andrew Thornton
Andrew hosts another great Thursday Giveaway! This time ceramic beads from Golem Studio are up for grabs!  

About.com Jewelry Making
There are lots of recent graduates out there. Here are some jewelry tutorials designed for the graduate.  

Art Bead Scene
The trend is bracelets. Check out the cool art bead components ABS found for you!  

Beads & Books
Michelle shares the bracelet she made with a 4-hole porcelain bracelet bar from Chinook Jewelry.  

Carmi's Art/Life World
Carmi features a newly molded pendant on this week's necklace sample.

Kim's blog header

Here is Kim on right as you look at pic--two gorgeous sisters, right? And there is a third one, too! Jeepers!
What pulchritude!


Super news!!! Kim Miles  <--this is the link to her whole site-- is making her signature beads again!
However, who knows how long for? Kim is very volatile just like the fire she loves to work with. How one person can be as charming, giving, artistic, and yet as dedicatedly fiercely creative as Kim eludes me.
Kim is OOAK. She is hands down the best at these sorts of beads, which she created first, and is known all over the world for her beautiful gift of making art glass CZ plunged, flower beads. Some of them have silver cores, some of them do not. Some can fit on Troll bracelets,

BUT I CANNOT LIFT THE PHOTOS FROM HER SITE! YOU HAVE TO GO THERE TO SEE THEM!
SO WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR???




 and presently she is looking into making beads with silver cores for Pandora style bracelets. She hasn't yet decided if she will do this size, the Pandora. 
All I know is that these flower beads were the reason I sought Kim out when I first met her.

This is the photo which was haunting me : I wanted to find this girl. I wanted to own one of these beads, and ultimately I did.

These luscious, flowered beads were the beads made for Bead and Button a few years ago by Kim. Bead and Button always offers one bead made by one artist which a collector can purchase (until the beads run out) as an iconic reminder of all that is wonderful about Bead and Button. All I had to go on was the memory of this photo in the back of one of the many magazines which I was reading to teach myself about jewelry at the time.
I do NOT give up easily, however.

I could not get them out of my head, and searched for her for almost a year before I found her. Every one of them which I now own is absolutely perfectly made and a treasure. If you do not own at least one Kim Miles bead, you are crazy!  She is a master at what she does.
She is also always doing something new, so if you like these beads, keep yourself hopping and frequently check her blog, The Long Way Home. So far that is where she has been posting the beads she has recently been making. While you are on her site, check out her art glass gallery of some of her favorite beads and freak yourself  out with some serious hard core art beauty via the torch.
Kim also knits and felts (expertly, but just for herself at this point) , makes stunning candles for sale, makes amazing steel jewelry for sale, cooks like a vegan angel, writes like a dream,  and --GOOD Grief!!! --maybe I should make this a shorter list by making it a list of what Kim doesn't do!
Kim and (her boyfriend, as she calls him) Rick (shhh! Rick is actually her divine husband!) are just the coolest, and I love them.
However that is not why I am pointing out her website. 
I want to be the one who alerts you when something NEW is happening chez KIM!!!

Oh Kim you are dreamy!

--jean

Thank you for placing an order with Artbeads.com! For every order placed at Artbeads.com, we will make a donation to Conservation International to protect 25 square feet of tropical forest. With the significant number of orders placed every day, these donations quickly add up, and we are confident that we'll be able to save a significant amount of rainforest land. So the next time you place an order, remember that you are helping us protect the rainforest, slow down climate change and make the world a better place for generations to come. On a more local level, we encourage you to get involved with the Artbeads Community and help others who share your interests. See if you can answer a tough beading question in the Artbeads Answer Box or inspire someone by sharing your jewelry designs on the Artbeads Facebook wall. Who knows, you may even find some answers and inspiration for yourself.

from jean:
Thank you Artbeads, for this action you are taking. I am so thrilled that you have decided to be so positive and proactive in this immensely important global manner.  I LOVE that you are doing this.  As I also LOVE your beads, it is a win-win situation. I get to donate through you, and I still get the beads from you which I adore!
I cannot express how much this means to me, to be a part of the Artbeads Community and to be able to have my order count, by having Artbeads donate to Conservation International in order to protect our tropical forests. Thank you so much!