Saturday, 16 November 2013

Free Star Earring Pattern.

So the time is coming around to Xmas and we're all looking for the perfect little gifts. So here at The Bead Shop we thought we'd make a simple, but eye catching pattern for a little stocking filler.

Materials: (all available from The Bead Shop Liverpool) www.thebeadshopliverpool.co.uk
5g Size 11 Seed Beads
1g of each colour Size 15 Seed Bead
4mm x 3mm Oval Chain
Fireline
Needle
12 Jump Rings
2 Earwires

Step 1: Pick up eight size 11 Seed Beads.



Step 2: Go back through all the size 11/0s (from the tail upwards) picked up in the previous round to form a ring


Step 3: Coming out of a size 11/0, pick up a size 15/0 and go straight into the next size 11/0 along.


 Step 4: Continue adding 15/0s between all the 11/0s.


Step 5: Coming out of a 15/0 that you added in the previous round, pick up two 15/0s and go forward into the next 15/0 along. Repeat this step all the way around


Step 6. Come up through the first 15/0 in one of the sets of 2 that you added in the previous round. Pick up a 15/0 and go straight down through the second 15/0 from the set of two that you added in the previous round. Also go down through the 15/0 from step 4 and up into the first 15/0 from the next set of two added in the previous round. Continue this all the way around.


 Step 7: You star should now look like this. Weave in the threads.


Step 8: Cut lenghs of chain to your desired length. Using a jump ring, go through the centre of the star and a link on the chain to join.


Step 9: Repeat all previous steps to make 5 stars. Attached all 5 lengths of chain to one main jump ring. Also attach the ear wire to this jump ring.


Step 10: Repeat all steps to make the other earring.


Enjoy your earrings whether they are for your or a loved one.


Friday, 1 November 2013

'Fireworks' (The Monthly Challenge)

On the 1st of each month we'll be posting a challenge theme to inspire your jewellery making - whether you're a seed beader, stringer, metal clay worker, kumihimo lover or an all round beadaholic! 

With winter fast approaching and the cold nights drawing in, its easy to get drawn into a darker mood. So we thought with bonfire night on our doorsteps, we'd add a bit of colour to our monthly challenge and make this month 'Fireworks'! So we want to see the bright, vibrant colours of a rocket squealing through the sky, a spinning Catherine wheel or beautiful golden sparklers. We want to see your designs that have been inspired by fireworks. Designs must be made especially for the challenge.



Images taken from google images


Does It Have To Be My Own Design? 
Not at all. We are happy for you to use designs from books, magazines or tutorials - or include elements inspired by other designers. However, we do ask that you remember to credit the designers when sending us your entries. 

Do You Accept Entries From Outside The UK? 
The Bead Shop Liverpool mails internationally so, yes, we are happy to except entries from outside the UK! 

When's The Deadline For Entries? 
The deadline for entries is the 25th of November 2013. Entries received after the 25th November will not be counted. We'll be sharing all entries on the blog - and announcing the winner - on the 28th November 2013. 

And How Do I Enter? 
Please send an e-mail to info@thebeadshopliverpool.co.uk and include your name, e-mail address, details of your design and, of course, a photograph!