Tuesday, December 10, 2013

Bead Camp, Bead and Button Show 2014

 I am a component designer by nature….I like to make a component and then decide how to use it in jewelry.

I took that concept seriously when designing the content for last years Master Class.  Three full days of playing with a large playground of components, with each of 32 people making their own unique creations.  We explored a number of design considerations, examined flow, color placement, and connections, and expanded on each component with a chapter on 'what if?'  You will be able to see many of the excellent projects in the February issue of Bead and Button Magazine.

This year Marlene's request was that I consider the second annual 'bead camp' format of classes.  Many of my pieces do use the style of re-usable components I am known for.  Unlike the master class, we will be working on the specific project featured on that day and not on combining multiple components into unique designs.  We will however have time in this all day, early evening format to explore how else one might use the components in the project at hand.

Bead camp registration will open today, December 10th and be available for sign ups. Click on the Caption to go right to the Bead Camp listing!  You may choose any number of the bead camp classes, 1, 2, 3 or all 4!  If you happen to be fairly local to Milwaukee this may be an ideal way to fit in a class without conflicting with any of your show week selections.  I will however teach two show week classes as well, so look for Duomos Romanticos on Wednesday the 4th and Robbins Nest Cuff on Tuesday June 3rd.

Duomos Romanticos
Robbins Nest Cuff


The beautiful Pacific Morning Glory makes an excellent ring, necklace or earring.  Kits will be available for the project as shown in the catalog, but if you think camp is for you, you might plan on bringing an assortment of seed beads, crystals and pearls to further your nighttime explorations.  Should you wish to relax and continue your beading, it will be possible for most of you to take home a finished project and perhaps a complimentary design.

The Pacific Morning Glory below is by far my favorite, but that may be because it is my newest one….I also have fuchsia and bronze, black and silver, pale green and lavender, and blue and silver.  Quite a nice assortment.

Pacific Morning Glory Saturday May 31st B141161
Pacific Morning Glory Ring (variation which may be explored, not kitted)

 Touch of Whimsy also comes in hot pink and turquoise with touches of gold and a yellow and pale grey is in the works.
Touch of Whimsy Friday May 30th B141163
Sundial Pendant is seen here in a soft aqua with bronze accents.  I believe I will also be doing it with silvers and pacific opal.  This pieces seems to call for soft and romantic.
Sundial Pendant Wednesday May 28 B141160

One of my classic favorites, Cassandra also lends itself to being changed into a ring, pendant or earrings.  It is also a fun color play….Stay tuned to see more variations.

Cassandra Thursday May 29th B141164





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