Happiness by Design

November 20, 2009 by auntiesbeads

In the spirit of the up-and-coming holiday season, the Auntie’s Beads design team (Susie, Shanna, Karla, Deb and I) decided to pack up our beads and visit the nursing home where Susie’s mother lives and help the ladies there design jewelry.  Karla whipped up some pre-cut wire with one end of the toggle already attached to save some trouble and we brought extras of everything just in case.  We hit the road with a huge variety of beads, not sure what to expect. 
 
When we first got there, I have to admit I was uneasy.  I didn’t know if the residents were interested in beading and I feared that something might go wrong.  Still, we found a table in the common area and laid out several bead mats.  We opened our many bins of color coordinated beads and waited.  Over the loudspeaker, the activities coordinator announced our arrival.
 
Sure enough, a trickle of sweet, excited women appeared.  One, then two.. then five!  Before we knew it we had split into two tables.  Diane, the woman sitting next to me, made a beautiful green bracelet to match her eyes.  Then she started talking about how excited she is about the holidays and decided she wanted a Christmas necklace! She created a sparkling piece with lots of chinese crystal and sterling silver. Both her pieces turned out great- she designed everything, all I did was string and crimp.  She asked Susie how many beads we’d need to make a reindeer, which cracked me up!
 
Susie’s mother’s physical therapy classes must be really paying off- she strung her beads herself.  The woman next to her giggled the whole time and believe me, her laughter was contagious!  Over at the other table, Karla helped an energetic 95-year-old woman named Murtle string a very sassy red bracelet.  It turned out cute and after Murtle put it on she let us all know that she’s gonna go find herself a date!  As Karla said, she had spunk. :)
 
Working with these women made me so happy.  I think it put a little sparkle in their days and ours.  When I went back to work I just felt better about the world.  We all decided we will go back between Thanksgiving and Christmas.  This time, we’ll help the ladies make gifts for their loved ones. I’m definitely going to find Diane when we get there, after all, she did request that I bring her some perfume next time. ;)
 
Happy Holidays everybody!

Kelly McCoy, Auntie’s Beads Designer

It’s Crystal Clear To Me Now!

November 19, 2009 by auntiesbeads

I’ll admit it: we at Auntie’s Beads were once “Swarovski snobs”. We believed that if it didn’t bear the brand name, it wasn’t worth having. Then we stumbled on an excellent source for Grade A Chinese crystal and we changed our minds. Its luminosity, weight, brilliance, color, and overall design make it a product that is well worth having. (And it doesn’t hurt that the price is so reasonable!)

So what is Chinese crystal you may be asking? (And, believe me, I have had that question more than once.) Chinese crystal is, obviously, crystal that is made in China. All of the Chinese crystal we carry is Grade A. It is all multi-faceted and has great luminosity. In addition, it comes in many beautiful cuts, shapes, and colors. Aside from bicones, rounds, and rondelles (products similar to those made by Swarovski but not attempted knock-offs), Chinese crystal also comes in a wide range of unique shapes. (I especially LOVE the barrel beads.) And while some of the colors are similar, many are very original; the metallic effects are some of our all-time favorites.

The other common question I get asked by people new to beading or new to the Chinese crystal craze is, “Is there a crystal without lead?” The answer to that is no. By definition, crystal IS leaded glass. Whether it is Swarovski or Chinese crystal or any other variety of crystal, it will contain lead. (Lead is what gives crystal its weight.) Whereas Swarovski has a lead content of about 30%, Chinese crystal lead levels are typically in the low-to-mid 20% range. This means that Swarovski makes a heavier bead which accounts for some of the price difference between the two products.

That being said, because of recent concerns about lead poisoning, products containing lead have gained a lot of suspicion from concerned consumers and jewelry makers. Crystal is made in a unique way; the lead is bound into the structure of the glass so that no real danger is presented. Unless you are stacking bracelets up to your elbows and wearing 20 necklaces made of crystal, I think you are safe to bling yourself out. (The kiddos are a different story. I almost always recommend lesser amounts of crystal or substituting crystal with Czech glass when making children’s jewelry.)

Not sure where to begin when using Chinese crystal? We have a few great projects that are sure to inspire you. One of my favorites is the Keeping The Faith Bracelet because it really showcases the colors and brilliance of the beads. The Metallic Magic Necklace is another one of my favorites—I actually own this piece! Since many of our beads are sold by the piece, you can make a great pair of earrings for a great price as well. I hope you enjoy using this new, beautiful, unique product as much as we do!

Shanna Steele, Auntie’s Beads Designer

Can’t Stop Me Keychain – Instructions

November 16, 2009 by auntiesbeads

We all have way more keys then we want. One to the front door, one to the back door, one to work, one to our car, one to our husbands’ car, one to our gym locker… not to mention those keys you keep for your friends and family in case they get locked out. Add some pretty to your big pile of keys as a little reminder that life is good!

Instructions:

Step 1. Use your nipper tool to cut the loop off the top of your cross charm. Then, cover the back of your charm with GS hypo cement. Wait about 30 seconds for it to become tacky, then place it in the center of your labradorite pendant. Set it aside to dry.

Step 2. On one headpin string beads following this pattern: 3 small bicones, 1 large bicone, 1 small bicone, 1 large bicone and 1 small bicone.
On another headpin, string: 1 small bicone, 1 rectangle lampwork bead, 1 small bicone, 1 lampwork disc bead, 1 small bicone, 1 square lampwork bead and 1 small bicone.
On another headpin, string: 1 small bicone, 1 large bicone, 3 small bicones and 1 large bicone.On another headpin, string: 1 large bicone, 1 square lampwork bead, 1 small bicone, 1 rectangle lampwork bead, 1 small bicone and 1 lampwork disc bead.

Step 3. For your 2 headpins with just crystal and no lampwork, use your pliers to wire wrap them directly onto the loop below the clip attached to the keyring. For your other two headpins, wire wrap them to a jump ring and then attach the jump ring to the loop below the clip.

Step 4. When the cement holding your charm to your pendant is dry enough that it won’t slip if you move it (you can do this after about 15 minutes if you’re very careful not to touch it), place your pendant on a headpin. Wire wrap the headpin to a jump ring and attach the jump ring to the loop underneath the clip. When the glue dries after about an hour, you’re good to go!

Materials and Tools Needed:

Labradorite Faceted Free Form Pendant, 26 x 36mm (1)
Silver Plated Open Cross Charm with Swirls, 14 x 20mm (1)
Clip Key Ring, 28 x 65mm(1)
Lampwork Rectangle Bead, Green/Brown, 12 x 15mm (2)
Lampwork Square Bead, Green with Tan Stripe, 14mm (2)
Designer Lampwork Disc Focal Bead, White with Brown/Green Swirls, 16mm (2)
Swarovski Crystal, 8mm Xilion Bicone, Smoked Topaz (5)
Swarovski Crystal, 4mm Bicone, Bag of 10, Crystal Vitrail Medium (2)
Nipper Tool (1)
2 1/2 Inch Sterling Silver Head Pin with 4mm Bottom Beading (5)
2 3/4 Inch Bali Sterling Silver Head Pin with 6mm Bottom Bead Cap (pictured)
2 Inch Silver Head Pin with Heart Accent (pictured)
  or Silver Plated 3 Inch Headpins, 21 Gauge, Bag of 10
G-S Hypo Cement (1)
Silver Plate Jump Rings, Open, Bag of 10, 8mm, 18 Gauge (1)

Kelly McCoy, Auntie’s Beads Designer

Everyday Elegance – Full Instructions

November 4, 2009 by auntiesbeads

The Lantern beads are one of my favorite styles, and I love Everyday_Elegance-2combining silver and black.  I like to make earrings that can be worn for any occasion.  I think these earrings would look great with just about anything…think jeans and a black turtleneck, or a cocktail dress at a holiday party.  The lantern beads provide a sleek, sophisticated look, while the dangles add movement and a touch of whimsy, creating an elegant balance.

- Created by Lisa Hughes Iversen of Angel Whispers Jewelry

  1.  Using a 2mm ball head pin, place on a 4mm black bicone, 4mm Bali spacer, and 2mm sterling silver round bead.
  2. Bend the head pin over the top of the silver bead, using a flush cutter trim to 1/4″ and make a simple loop using a round nose pliers – repeat 5 times – for a total of 6 dangles.
  3. Take an eye pin, open the loop with a chain nose pliers, slip on 3 of the dangles, close the loop, and repeat with the second eye pin.
  4. Take one of the eye pins, place a starburst spacer, lantern bead, a starburst spacer, a 4mm black bicone, a 4mm flat Bali spacer, and a 2mm sterling silver round bead.
  5. Hold the eye pin above the 2mm bead, using a flat nose pliers, bend the wire to a 90 degree angle – in the same direction as the bottom loop, trim to 1/4 ” and make a simple loop.
  6. Repeat steps 5 & 6 with the second eye pin.
  7. Slip completed earrings onto French Hook ear wires or your own handmade ear wires.

 
Materials and Tools Needed:
 
Sterling Silver Lantern Bead – 12mm – 2 pieces
Sterling Silver eye pins – 2 pieces
Sterling Silver ball head pins – 6 pieces
Swarovski Crystal bicone beads – jet black -  8 pieces
Spacers – 4mm Flat Bali – 8 pieces
Spacers – Starburst Bali spacers – 4 pieces
Sterling Silver round bead – 2mm – 8 pieces
Sterling Silver Earwire with 2 mm Ball, 21 Gauge, Pair
  or  Handmade Ear wires (SEE POST BELOW)
Round Nose Pliers
Chain Nose Pliers
Flush cutter

- Created by Lisa Hughes Iversen of Angel Whispers Jewelry

Make Your Own French Ear Wires

October 29, 2009 by auntiesbeads

French Hook Ear Wires (Instructions)Everyday_Elegance

Learn How to create your very own handmade french hook ear wires.   And don’t forget to check back soon to view the full instructions for the “Everyday Elegance” earrings.  You’ll get to use the french wires you create from this post!  These earrings were created by Lisa Hughes Iversen of Angel Whispers Jewelry.

  1. Using a flush cutter, cut a 2″ length of 22 wire. If using a headpin instead of wire, simply cut the head off the pin.  File if needed.
  2. Using a round nose pliers and holding it at the very tip of the wire, roll the pliers away from you, making a very small loop, Turn the wire over so the loop is facing up and place the pliers above the completed loop ( about 1/4″ up the shaft of the pliers)  with your thumb, push the wire under the pliers until it meets up with the small loop.
  3. Using an ink pen, or other small cylinder shape, hold the wire against the pen with your thumb, with the edge of the loop snug against your thumb. Using your other hand, bend the long end of the wire around the barrel of the pen.
  4. Repeat steps 1-3 with the second wire.
  5. Compare the ear wires when finished and make adjustments by bending, or by putting the wires back over the pen together and pulling on the wire.
  6. Using a flat nose pliers, hold the very end of the ear wire and make a slight bend by tilting the pliers toward you.
  7. If available, place ear wires on a steel block or anvil and tap lightly with a chasing hammer to harden.
  8. Open larger loop slightly and slip earring on by sliding it up from the end to the loop area. Close loop and repeat with second earring.

Tools & Materials Needed:

22 gauge wire or 2 inch sterling silver head pins
Flat Nose Pliers
Round Nose Pliers
Chain Nose Pliers
Flush cutter
Steel block or anvil
Chasing Hammer

French Wire Instructions provided by Lisa Hughes Iversen of Angel Whispers Jewelry

Make It Personal!

September 30, 2009 by auntiesbeads

As a jewelry designer, you always strive to create unique, wearable pieces of art. In the past year or two, there have been a lot of products on the market that let you truly create original, personal pieces for yourself and others. We call these products our Glue In and Glaze line. If you are looking for something new and fun to add to your design repertoire or just want to understand the product a little better, then you hGlue-In-and-Glaze-cat-banner-600x137ave come to the right spot!

We started our collection with pewter charms. I especially love the oval and round charms because their shape is just so versatile but we also carry them in squares, rectangles, and links. The best part about the pewter frames is the template so you don’t have to keep cutting your image down. Simply place your image under the template, trace, and cut.

After you have gotten your image down to a certain size, you will want to adhere it to the inside of the charm using Gem Tac and then give it a few hours to dry. If you are using shallow charms or pendants, you will want to use the Diamond Glaze which applies a thin, glossy clear coat on top of your images. In order to fill up the charm, you may have to use more than one coat; if so, let each layer dry thoroughly before applying the next. (I usually give mine at least 48 hours drying time.) A tip: always keep a paintbrush or toothpick—or some object with a small, fine point—handy so you can work out any bubbles that may try to arise within your work.

In addition to the pewter charms, we carry pendants that are perfect for customizing as well. Some are deeper than others, though so you have to be change gears a bit when working with these. Instead of using Diamond Glaze, you will want to use DG3 Gel. Both are clear drying products but Diamond Glaze tends to get a little cloudy when too many layers are applied. DG3 Gel will allow you to put multiple coats on without compromising the color or finish of your photo. Like the Diamond Glaze, DG3 Gel requires adequate time to dry between coats. Again, I would wait at least 48 hours between each coat. To take it even a step further, I usually wait a week before I will sell one of my finished pieces using the gel. Because it is water based, it requires a lot of time to fully cure. I have found that putting my pieces under a lamp helps expedite the drying process but I am still very cautious about handling my pieces until I know each layer is completely dry.

Let’s say you’ve got the whole process figured out but you make a mistake and accidentally stick your finger in the gel while it is drying. (Yes, this is written from a little bit of personal experience.) The best part about working with these gels is that, because they are water based, no mistake is permanent and clean-up is easy. All you have to do is soak your piece in water and you will be able to salvage your pendant or charm.

I honestly didn’t think this gluing and glazing thing would be something I would be into but it really is so much fun. From photographs to collage sheets, I have been able to create truly unique, personalized, wearable works of art with just a hint of glue, a smidge of glaze, and a dash of patience!

Shanna Steele, Auntie’s Beads Designer

Designer Chat Going On NOW!

September 29, 2009 by auntiesbeads

design_q_aLive Chat with Auntie’s Beads Designers GOING ON NOW!  If you have any questions, want some tips or just want to chat with Shanna, Karla or Susie, click on the Live Chat button in the top left of www.AuntiesBeads.com.  

Here, I’ll make it even easier….

LIVE CHAT – CLICK HERE

Our Jewelry Designers are standing by now and will be available through 2AM CST today.  And we will be posting some of the questions and answers here on the blog so that we can all benefit.

Life Lessons Learned from a Bead Board

September 25, 2009 by auntiesbeads

Those of us who are beadaholics know that part of the addiction to making jewelry comes from the fact that you never stop learning. Whether you are exploring a new technique, tool, medium, or material, it seems as though there is always something to discover. I have noticed in my years of designing that beading has taught me a lot about myself and a lot of valuable lessons that can be applied not just to my bead board but to life in general.

 A few things I have learned along the way:

1. Frustration only breeds more frustration. Have you ever noticed that the more frustrated you get, the more negative you get, and the more this whole cycle of frustration and negativity hampers your creativity? The things we tell ourselves when we feel like we can’t do something are the very things that block us from being able to do that something. The solution: walk away from the bead board and return when you feel refreshed, relaxed, and more positive about yourself and your work.

 2. Patience really is a virtue. Most people assume that designers—or creative types of any kind—are always “on” and just have those creative juices flowing all the time. This just simply isn’t true. I can’t tell you how many times I have had an idea in my head only to find that the piece isn’t working out quite the way I envisioned it or only to find that the pattern I am working on just isn’t going to measure out the way it should. All the creativity in the world won’t help solve the problem; patience is the only real solution. My favorite, most original pieces have come from a perfect fusion of creativity and patience.

3. Work from your strengths, not from your weaknesses. A few months ago, we went through a strengths training workshop to discover what really moved, motivated, and inspired us. This changed the way I thought about beading—and life. Admittedly, I am not a person who likes repetition so I don’t like creating the same finished piece over and over again nor do I like making long necklaces (especially if they are straight strung or wire wrapped). Knowing what I don’t enjoy frees me to concentrate on the things I do love so I can grow and further my knowledge in those areas. I learned that it is okay not to be a jack-of-all-trades and it is perfectly fine to spend more time doing what you love.

One of the biggest perks of my job (besides being amongst beautiful beads all day long!) is hearing from people whose lives have been touched by the amazing rewards beading can bring. What life lessons have you learned from your experience as a beader? When you walk away from your bead board, what emotions do you have when you have finished a piece that has that “wow” factor? Share your experiences with me—and your fellow beaders—by commenting below!

Shanna Steele, Auntie’s Beads Designer

My 5 Favorite Necklace Projects

September 22, 2009 by auntiesbeads

I wanted to share with you these 5 unique and beautiful projects posted by Auntie’s Beads designers.  It was difficult to narrow it down to just  five, but here they are.  Feel free to comment, giving us your own list of favorite Auntie’s Beads projects or you can comment on one of these that I have chosen. 

1. In My Bead Room Necklace

by Susie Henderson, www.AuntiesBeads.com Ownerin-my-room-neck-600x300

I love the name of this piece.  What can you do with all the extra beads sitting around in your bead room?  Glue them into a pendant!  I love how you can use art gel to let your imagination run wild and create one-of-a-kind pendants.  All the different colors in the seed bead broom mix work perfectly with the large turquoise nuggets resulting in a necklace you can wear with just about anything. The natural, chunky shape of the turquoise and the overflow of seed beads in the pendant give this piece so much interesting depth and texture. Good job Susie Q!

2. Falling For Copper Necklace

by Shanna Steele, www.AuntiesBeads.com DesignerFalling_for_Copper_Necklace_main

To me this piece just looks impressive, with all the intricate wire wrapping involved.  I think copper and olivine give this necklace a very earth tone. The Swarovski Crystal, 4mm Bicone, Bag of 48, Autumn Mix  would be beautiful on this necklace as well.  The crystals look very natural flowing over the copper leafand the addition of small sections of crystal between the copper chains surprises the eye in a very good way.  Keep it up Shanna! 

3. A Whole Lot of Shakin’ Going On Necklace

by Karla Schafer, www.AuntiesBeads.com Designerwhole-lotta-shakin-600x300

This necklace intrigues me because it’s just something I never would have thought of.  The dangling chain creates a beautiful, almost chaotic look that keeps your attention. The best part about this design is you can change up the beads and the chain that you use and create many gorgeous pieces from this one pattern.  Karla’s one talented lady!

4. Kokomo Neckace

by Kelly McCoy, www.AuntiesBeads.com Designerkokomo-neck-600x300-2

I feel like I’m on vacation when I look at this necklace.  I love the beach and the whites, beiges and browns in this piece feel like they were made to be by the sand.  I like how long this necklace is and I think using two 2-strand separators adds some character and keeps the piece from being boring.  To me there’s nothing like hanging a little charm from the back of your necklace to give it a polished look!

5. Cowgirl Up Necklace

by Karla Schafer, www.AuntiesBeads.com Designercowgirl-up-mix-necklace-600x300

Admittedly, I’m no cowgirl. But this necklace is just too cool!  All of the different colors and shapes and metals and crystals.. there is something to be said for hodge-podge beading.  This is the perfect piece to spice up a solid colored tee.  The best part is, it’s just straight beading, so anyone can make it!

Kelly McCoy
Auntie’s Beads Designer

$5 OFF Beaders Advantage

September 16, 2009 by auntiesbeads

For a limited time, we are offering $5.00 OFF an Auntie’s Beaders Advantage Membership.   To see the Coupon Code, visit the Promotions section of the Auntie’s Beads Facebook Fan Page, where we will be listing other exclusive offers in the future, only listed on the fan page of facebook.  But hurry, this offer will end on Tuesday, September 22.

5 OFF Beaders Advantage

What does that mean?

Well, if you are unfamiliar with Auntie’s Beaders Advantage then allow me to give you the skinny…

If you purchase a Beader’s Advantage Membership you will automatically receive 10% OFF all purchases for a year.  And yes, you can still use other coupons and still get the 10% OFF.   The 10% Discount begins even with your initial Beader’s Advantage purchase.  You will also receive Free Shipping on all orders with no minimum order amount as well as Earn Rewards Points for every dollar spent.  To see a list of redeemable goodies, visit our Rewards page.

Just Rosy Project Instructions

September 15, 2009 by auntiesbeads

We had a great response from everyone with the Bracelet Giveaway.  Thanks to all those whjust_rosyo participated.  We have a few people out there who were wanting instructions for the Just Rosy bracelet so here they are.  Enjoy!

Step 1. Use your nipper tool to cut 2, 24” pieces of beading wire.

Step 2. String a crimp bead onto one piece of wire, loop it around one of the loops on your 2 strand clasp, and then thread it (going in the opposite direction) back through your crimp bead. Crimp your crimp bead and leave just enough extra wire to string through your first onyx or sterling silver bead.

Step 3. Repeat this process with one end of your other piece of beading wire.

Step 4. On the right piece of beading wire, string 2 sterling silver beads. On the left piece, string 3 onyx  beads.

Step 5. Take your right piece of beading wire (the one with 2 sterling silver beads) and string it through the third onyx bead on your left piece of wire. String your right wire in the bead where your left wire comes out of the bead (they will be going in opposite directions). Pull tightly.

Step 6.  The side on which you string your onyx beads will switch each time.  First you put 3 onyx beads on left, 2 sterling silver beads on the right, string the right through the left and pull as in Step 5.   Next you will put 3 onyx beads on the right, 2 sterling silver beads on the left, string the left through the right and pull.  Then you go back to how you did it in Step 5.  Continue alternating until your bracelet reaches about half your desired length.

Step 7.  Now it’s time to attach the rose centerpiece bead.  To do this, string 1 onyx bead on each strand of wire. Then string your right piece of wire horizontally through the hole in your rose bead from right to left.  String your left piece horizontally left to right.  Pull gently. 

Step 8. String 1 onyx bead on each piece of wire.  Then string both pieces of wire through a third onyx bead, the right piece from right to left and the left piece from left to right.  Pull gently, and begin weaving again as you did in step 4. 

Step 9.  When you’re finished weaving, attach each end of your wire to your 2 strand clasp as you did in step 2. Make sure it lies correctly (isn’t twisted) before you crimp.

Materials and Tools Needed:

(These links will take you directly to the product page where they can be ordered)

Onyx Round Strand, 3 mm
Sterling Silver Seamless Beads, 3mm, Bag of 25 (2 bags)
Silver Plated 2-Strand Slide Lock Clasp, 16 x 6mm
Pewter Rose Bead, Silver, 7mm
Crimp Beads, Bag of 50, 2 x 2 mm
Beadalon 49-strand Wire, 100 ft., .015

Projects Wanted!

September 10, 2009 by auntiesbeads

we'll_post_your_projectWe would like to send a special invitation to all of those in our beading community who would like to share their beautiful jewelry designs created using AuntiesBeads.com products. 

Auntie’s Beads frequently publishes projects put together by our designers which include photos, supply lists and step-by-step instructions to make unique finished pieces.  We would like to invite all of you to do the same here on Auntie’s Blog.  The best part is, we will include a promotional link to your site from the blog post.

How to Participate…

Send an email to shanna@auntiesbeads.com with the following:

  • Name of piece -  The name can be anything- someone your piece reminds you of (i.e. “Anna’s Earrings” or “Bracelet for Shelly”), a feeling your piece gives you (i.e. “Warm and Fuzzy Necklace” or “Earrings with a Wink”), pay tribute to a color that inspired you to make the piece (i.e. “Tantalizing Turquoise Earrings” or “Beautiful Blue Bracelet”), etc.  Sometimes it’s fun to make your name rhyme or use alliteration.  Just think of something you find catchy!
  • Instructions –  Type detailed, step-by-step instructions to complete your piece. Be sure to include a list of all of the materials you used, including the number of each bead or jewelry component. Please be as detailed as possible; include what tools you used, lengths of beading wire, how to avoid possible problems while putting your piece together, etc.  For questions or help completing your instructions, email shanna@auntiesbeads.com.  You can also find how we like things set up by browsing our Beading Projects.
  • Photograph -  The photograph does not have to be the best quality since we will be taking our own picture of the piece once it gets shipped to us.  We will just need something to go by when reviewing the instructions and name of the piece.

Once we have received your information, we will notify you with shipping details.  Please keep in mind that we reserve the right to accept only what we deem as a quality project.  However, we are more than willing to work with you and help you modify the instructions to meet a certain standard.  That’s what we’re here for. 

Important

  • Auntie’s Beads is not responsible for the shipping cost, however, will pay to have it shipped back to the sender. 
  • Only projects exclusively using products from www.AuntiesBeads.com will be accepted.
  • It is very possible that Auntie’s Beads will make some changes in the name and/or instructions of the piece, as well as add substitute materials to be used for project.  Contributors will be informed via email if such changes are to be made prior to publishing.
  • We will only include a link to your personal jewelry design site or blog.  No third-party storefront sites, such as Etsy, Artfire, etc.  It’s got to be your site!

Again, pleased send questions to shanna@auntiesbeads.com and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible. 

We are VERY excited to see what our Auntie’s Beaders come up with…
Thanks for reading and participating!

Congratulations to the Winner!

September 9, 2009 by auntiesbeads

just_rosyThanks.. And Congratulations!

We launched our first interactive blog and the response was overwhelming. Kelly’s beautiful “Just Rosy” bracelet inspired a lot of you to write some wonderful comments about our designs and designers, the Auntie’s Beads website, and the great promotions and products we carry.

Only one person could win this beautiful piece so we did a drawing this morning and the winner is… (drum roll, please)… DIANA KOESTER! Diana, please contact me at shanna@auntiesbeads.com so I can get your address and ship this beautiful bracelet out to you.

Don’t be disappointed if you didn’t win, though, because we have a prize for everyone: Kelly is working on the instructions for that bracelet right now so we can post and share them with everyone! They will soon be available in the Learning Center on our website and here on the blog. Stay tuned for more great blog interaction and surprises!!!

WIN This Bracelet!

September 3, 2009 by auntiesbeads

just_rosyHere at Auntie’s Beads, we’re teaming up to give our blog a little make-over. We want to create a more exciting and frequently updated blog to allow us to communicate better with the members of our beading community. Remember- the most important part of a blog is its readers! That’s YOU! To get you guys excited about our new and improved blog plan, we decided to kick things off with a little GIVE AWAY!

All you have to do is comment on this blog post and you are entered to win the “Just Rosey” bracelet. You can say anything! Tell us about a recent jewelry making experience, share comments about this piece, ask questions about how to make it, or just say hello! Winner will be chosen Sept. 9th.

Be sure to check our blog often, because there are more reader participation promotions to come!

The “Just Rosey” bracelet is made with 4mm onyx and sterling silver beads. It is 6 ¾” long and features a silver plate slide lock clasp for closure.

Important Beading Lessons I’ve Learned So Far

August 18, 2009 by auntiesbeads

In the past month or so, I’ve fallen head-over-heels in love with beading, and I don’t see that love fading anytime soon.  But like any passionate relationship, there have been times when my beads and I haven’t gotten along so well.  I find myself occasionally throwing a nipper tool across the room or yelling curse words at innocent little seed beads.  Still, slowly but surely, I have learned tidbit after tidbit that has made my bead blunders fewer and farer between.  I thought I would list a few beginner beading tips here and maybe save some poor ring mandrel out there from bead-abuse. 

1.   Always over-estimate the amount of beading wire or chain you’re going to need.  I’ve had to pull off my beads and start over with a longer piece a few too many times.

2.   Crimp covers can be your best friend.  They are easy to use (just use your pliers to squeeze them over your crimp bead) and hide the ugly part.

3.   When you’re working with wire, run it through your hands a few times first.  This is supposed to warm the wire and make it more flexible.  I don’t know about that, but it’s important to show it who’s boss.

4.   On that note, wire wrapping is difficult.  Be patient with yourself and remember that it will take practice.  Be ready to end up throwing away a little bit of weird looking, kinked wire.  You might want to use the cheaper stuff when you’re first learning.

5.   After you crimp your wire at the end of a necklace or bracelet, string it back through the first several beads.  This makes your piece stronger and helps hide where you trimmed off excess wire.

6.   Ever wondered how you tie off a piece of elastic so it won’t come apart?  Well I did.  Turns out you just tie a regular knot, but you put a few drops of strong glue (like hypo cement) on top to secure it. 

7.    Be an organized beader.  It will relieve your stress.  You can get little plastic bead organizers all over the place (I got a few from Wal-Mart for around 4 dollars).  Put your gold jump/split rings in one compartment, your silver in another, separate your crimp beads and your crimp covers by color.  Put your Swarovski Crystal in one compartment and your Czech glass in another… you get the picture.
Good luck and happy beading.

Kelly McCoy, Auntie’s Beads Designer