Beadingstein's Monster

Black Shell Necklace

A perfect mix of black and silver, this mixed media necklace pushes personal boundaries.  A new artist usually gets stuck using the same techniques repeatedly.  Day after day, this same old song and dance becomes very tiring.  I needed something more.

Chains were all the rage at this time.  Many beautiful designs popped up everywhere.  Naturally, I was intrigued.  Chain became my next purchase even though I had no clue how I was going to use it.

One day while I was bead fishing, I came upon a black circle pendant with an interesting, silver tree design.  It melted my heart.  I fell in love.  I had to have this beautiful treasure in my life.  But how was I going to showcase it's beauty?

The question haunted me until I sat down in my studio.  Well actually, until I sat at my cheap wooden desk located in the corner of my living room.  As I faced my jewels, the silver chain peeked back at me.  It glistened against the pendant.

The design began to reveal itself inside my creative mind.  Instead of grabbing paper to draw it out, I gathered my materials and set up my bead board.  Black shell chips eagerly sat inside my bead box.  Their small circular shape would be the perfect complement to the roundness of the pendant.  Another question presented itself.  Should my design use only the chain or could I do something more?

Looking at the black beads next to the silver bead caps, I began to smile.  This was the turning point of my design.  I challenged my comfort zone by wrapping it with chain.  My necklace came to life.  I probably resembled Dr. Frankenstein with hair crazed and wide eyes as I flung beads around creating this piece.  What a sight indeed!

It is nice to see something come together the way this necklace did.  I love the visually stunning flow of the design.  My goal was complete.  I must admit.  I was a little scared.  I could have created a monster that day.

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Day 353: December 3rd, 2011- Christmas Swirl Earrings

This is a conceptual design.  I wanted to see the difference between a hammered look  (Left) and just a wrapped look (Right).   I am loving the wrapped look better.  The joys of experimentation. :) 

Day 354: December 2nd, 2011- Christmas Vacation Earrings

Day 355: December 1st, 2011- Christmas Vacation Necklace

Shown with Christmas Vacation Bracelet

Shown with Bracelet and Earrings

Day 356: November 30th, 2011- Jingle Ball Bracelet

Holiday Shop Hop

Join Lilly Rose and Many Other Talented Artists for MiShel Designs' Holiday Shop Hop

Holiday Shop Hop 2011: Saturday Dec. 3rd and Sunday Dec.4th

http://www.misheldesigns.blogspot.com/p/holiday-shop-hop-2011.html

Hand Carved Wooden Snowman by
Gordon W. Baldock

A Bead A Day
Beads2Die4

Blackbeary Mountain

Blue Pearls Handcrafted Goods

By The Beach Designs

Chic and Frog

Crafty Hope

Dragonfly Dreamers

Etania Gems

ExPostFacto Jewelry

Fangdangles

GreenBead Designs

Handcrafted Serenity Jewelry Designs

Happy and Healthy Magnetic Jewelry

Holly Westfall / Silver Rose Designs

Just A Tish

Just Mare Pottery

Keefer Style Creations

Kabs Creative Concepts

Klassy Joolz

  Kristi Bowman Design
Lilly Rose Jewelry Designs

Little Rocks

Melinda Orr Designs

MiShel Designs

My Life Under the Bus

Olive Branch Organics

Pine Ridge Treasures

Pink Poppy Studio

Rosebud’s Lampwork Beads

 Sand & Sea Designs

SCJ Jewelry Design

Sew Stacy

SongBeads

Studio Waterstone

Sundancegems

Suzanne Stevens

Sweet Creek Herbs

Sweet Water Designs

Wire Worked Handcrafted Jewelry

Days 364-357

Day 364: Ornament Earrings

Day 363: Christmas Charm Bracelet

Day 362: Christmas Charm Earrings

Day 361: Christmas Vacation Bracelet

Day 360: Red Royalty

Day 359 : Twist Earrings

Day 358: Abstract Wreath Earrings

Day 357:  Jingle Bell Earrings

Day 365: November 21st, 2011

Wire-wrapped Pearls

Green and Black Pearls Wire-wrapped in Silver

Day 366- November 20th, 2011 Abstract Christmas Tree Design

Lilly Rose's 366 Days of Jewelry

As another decade of life approaches, I asked myself, 'What am I going to do my last year as a twenty-something?!'  The answer came rather quickly.  A jewelry countdown called 366 Days of Jewelry.  Each day this year, I am going to create a new piece of jewelry.  Every piece will follow a specific theme set for the month it is created in.  The themes will be based on a stone, a material, or a group of colors.

Christmas Tree Earrings

Since my birthday falls around the holidays, my first month's theme features the colors red, green, gold, and silver. Each piece will either contain all of these colors or some of them.  The possibilities are endless. This is going to be a fun journey on the road to the big 3-0.  Can I keep up?  What will I create?  What will the next theme be?  Stay tuned and check back often!  Thank you for joining me.


Suggestions are always welcome!

Signature Pearls

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Don't hesitate to leave a comment or question.

Charm Evolution

Charmed

Practice makes perfect.  The phrase is constantly regurgitated.  When you are learning a new skill, this is one of the most annoying phrases I know.  You are fumbling.  Nothing is going your way.  Giving up seems like the best option.  Then one day, it clicks.  You conquered the skill and you are ready to proudly display it.  All the times you spent in doubt were almost meaningless.  You begin to realize that practice does make perfect.  The phrase rings true.  You no longer despise it.  Instead you embrace it.  You walk up to someone trying to learn something new.  What do you say to them?  "Practice makes perfect!"

Learning a new skill is challenging.  It takes a lot of time to be awesome at whatever it is you do.  This relates to every field imaginable.  Struggling is a part of learning.  It helps us grow.  

The bracelet above is my example of learning and growing.  I knew I wanted to work with links, chains, and beads.  Inexperience was not going to hold me back.  I had to try to find out if I could make something beautiful using this technique.  Looking at my seed beads and oval-shaped silver jump rings, I had an idea.  Did my idea work?  Well not exactly.  The piece is interesting but not structurally sound.  I needed a better technique. 

Black and White

Rainbow Kid

What is a new designer to do?  Her research of course.  The internet is amazing.  As a self-taught jewelry designer, it has become my greatest friend.  I found a video on YouTube showing how to make a bead loop.  I decided to try again.  It was almost Christmas.  We did not have a countdown calendar.  Using a little imagination, my daughter Crystal and I created our very own.  I was able to practice this technique by using beads in the project.  Plus, I gained a new piece of artwork I will always treasure because I made it with my little girl.

I continued to practice days after.  My loops did not feel right though.  I struggled holding the round-nose pliers.  My wrists would begin to cramp.  There has to be a better way.  My first copy of BeadStyle Magazine showed up in the mail.  Every page was filled with the most beautiful jewelry I had ever seen.  Oh yes, I felt intimidated.  I envied their skill until I realized, they all had to struggle first before being able to make their jewelry, just like me.  I can be that good too.  Practice makes perfect.  

BeadStyle Magazine lead me to a video showing how to make a simple loop.  I carefully observed the demonstration. She showed how to correctly use the pliers by twisting away from you.  I was twisting it towards me.  Incorrect technique caused my wrists to hurt.  She also showed how to get a perfect loop every time. My mistake was not visually marking my place on the pliers to create the same sized loops for each bead.  I was enlightened.

Anxious, I grabbed all of my materials.  I placed a bead onto a headpin and made my loop.  I could have cried.  The loop was perfectly round.  My wrists did not hurt.  I finally knew the proper technique to make a simple loop.  It felt amazing! I was one step closer to making the jewelry piece I always wanted to make.  

After practicing some more, I decided to make a bracelet.  Chains, links, and beads were sprawled out in front of me.  I glanced at another piece I had made and decided to break it down for the silver hoops.  My inspiration took charge.

The bracelet was finished.  I could hardly believe my eyes.  'I created this?!'  It looked just like I had envisioned it.  Silver with a lovely mix of blue beads, my first real charmed creation was complete.  I felt accomplished.

The best part about being a new jewelry artist are moments like these.  I know I have a lot to learn and many challenges ahead.  The journey has already been fun.  I wonder where else it will take me.  As I continue down my road, I will cherish my new favorite phrase: Practice makes perfect!




Here is a link to 'Basic Loops' from Beaducation: http://www.beaducation.com/vids/watch_class/22

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Two-Faced

Revamped

A complete revamp on one of my earlier designs, this necklace proudly displays it's new face.  The original earthy design was inspired by the woods.  I wanted the necklace to be a reflection of it's beauty.  I purchased the pendant from a local retail store.  The colors aided in the selection of the beads.
Upon returning home, I immediately started to arrange the beads into a pattern.  I changed this pattern several times until they complemented the pendant in the best possible way.  This necklace was then placed along my other designs before moving onto my next creation.
My parents came for a weekend visit later that month.  It is always a pleasure having them stop by especially since we moved and no longer see them as often as we would like.  During our visit, my Mom wanted to see my newest designs.  She smiled as she picked through each one.  She held up the wood necklace and made a face.  Disappointed, I had to ask what it was about this design that she did not like. She began to tell me how she loved the pendant but not the beads selected.    The necklace was dull and needed something more in her eyes.  
I pulled out my box of beads, my tools, and my bead board.  I decided to break my design back down to its basic parts.  My Mom was going through my beads as I was putting the pieces of my necklace away.  She pointed out all the beads she thought were pretty and I began to pull samples of each.  
As I examined the display of beads before me, I became inspired.  I grabbed out the pendant  placing it in the center of my bead board.  Then I began to play.  This time, the beads danced together to a perfect rhythm.  I flipped the board around so my Mom could see the new design.  She smiled and said, "It looks great!"  Faster than lightning, I restrung my design.
This necklace is no longer a dull piece to be overlooked.  Now it is a colorful, interesting creation.  Retaining the earthy theme, the design gains a new quality; the shine from the sun.

Original Design

I am on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lilly-Rose-Jewelry-Designs/171869306163213

 And I am on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/LillyRoseJD

Buy Lilly Rose Jewelry @ http://www.etsy.com/shop/LillyRoseJD

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Don't hesitate to leave a comment or question. 

Policy Update: DIBS Program

Lilly Rose Jewelry Designs is proud to introduce a new "Fans-Only" program called DIBS.


What is DIBS?
The purpose of DIBS is to provide my fans with the first chance to own their favorite Lilly Rose design.


Why did you decide to start this program?
Lilly Rose's DIBS Program is my way of saying, "Thank you for your support!"  I wanted to do something special for you.


How can I participate?
In order to participate in DIBS, you must be a fan of Lilly Rose Jewelry Designs on Facebook.  Make sure you hit the "Like" button on the top of the page.  Once you are a fan, you will have access to the posts on Lilly Rose's wall.


Why should I participate?
In addition to having the first chance to own a design, the DIBS Program also offers 10% off the listed price and free shipping for United States Fans.


What if I live outside the U.S.?
International fans will receive 15% off the listed price but must pay shipping fees.


This program sounds great!  How does DIBS work?
A listing will be posted on Lilly Rose's wall with the item's description and price.  Be the first to comment 'DIBS'.  Further instructions will be provided after the listing is closed.  


What are the payment options?
Payment will only be accepted through PayPal.


When will my design ship?
Jewelry piece will ship seven days after cleared payment.  Expect to receive your new jewelry in about 2-4 weeks.


How long will each item be open to call DIBS on?
Once the design is listed for DIBS, you will have a 24 hour window to call 'DIBS'.  After 24 hours, the item will be listed on ETSY at full price plus shipping.


What if I decide I no longer want a piece I called 'DIBS' on?
Make a comment or send a message stating so.  The item will then re-enter the DIBS Program.


Can I still call DIBS on a design after the 24 hour window is closed?
Yes as long as the item has not been listed on ETSY.  Once there, you can no longer call 'DIBS' on that piece.


How often will designs be placed in Lilly Rose's DIBS Program?
As soon as designs are created.  Please check back often.  Don't miss out!


https://www.facebook.com/LillyRoseJewelry?ref=tn_tinyman


https://www.paypal.com/


http://www.etsy.com/shop/LillyRoseJD

Beginning Design

In this photo is the second necklace I had ever made.  I began my jewelry hobby back in 2008.  It was an interesting year for me.  My days were busy.  I was working full time in a factory while I was going to school so I could provide a better life for my family.  My hard work paid off when I was accepted into the Dental Hygiene program.    This program is not one for the weak.  It was very stressful especially when you are working full-time along with it.  On top of it all, I had a small child at home.  It was rough.  I needed stress-relief.  This is how I found my jewelry hobby.   

I stopped into Michaels with an old gift card and started looking around.  I found myself standing in front of a huge display with many dangling, sparkly beads.  They were beautiful.  All different colors, shapes, and sizes.  I wanted to buy all of them.  Fascinated, I went back home and did some research.  What do I need to make a piece of jewelry?  What are the techniques?  What tools do I need?  Once I had my basic questions answered I headed back to the store gleefully.  I knew what I needed;  a basic tool starting kit, a couple of boxes of glass beads, wire, a bead board, crimp beads, and some clasps.  I rushed home to try it out.

Now, I was not a natural.  I had troubles with the crimp beads.  My designs would go crashing onto the table.  Beads were rolling everywhere.  This was not great stress-relief in the beginning. I was not about to give up though.  I kept trying and trying.  I did not get the technique down until my husband, Rob, grabbed the piece from me.  He picked it up and began looking at it.  He then picked up the direction sheet and worked his magic.  He walked over to the couch, sat down, and tried it.  I went into the other room frustrated. Ten minutes later, he called for me.  The clasp was attached perfectly.  The crimp looked wonderful.  He was much better than me with this.  My wonderful husband showed me the correct technique.  I remember how happy I was the first time I accomplished this first technique.  I excitedly grabbed more beads and wire to make another piece.  That next piece is the necklace shown above.

From this point, jewelry making became fun.  I began trying different styles and mixing different types of beads.  I gave away my earlier pieces to my family.  They loved them.  I started getting compliments on my designs.  It made me feel good to know someone else loved my designs as much as I did.  This necklace helped spawn my new passion.  I am glad I never gave up.    

I am on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lilly-Rose-Jewelry-Designs/171869306163213

 And I am on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/LillyRoseJD

Buy Lilly Rose Jewelry @ http://www.etsy.com/shop/LillyRoseJD

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog!
Don't hesitate to leave a comment or question.

First Blog Post

Hello.


Welcome to my blog.  Everything I create has a story behind it.  Sharing each of these stories with you is the main purpose of this blog.  I hope you enjoy reading them.  Please check back often for updates.

I am on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Lilly-Rose-Jewelry-Designs/171869306163213

 And I am on Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/LillyRoseJD

Buy Lilly Rose Jewelry @ http://www.etsy.com/shop/LillyRoseJD

Thank you for taking the time to read my blog!
Don't hesitate to leave a comment or question.