Get ready for 2013 with Lapidary Journal's 2013 Gemstone Price Index

Photo by Lapidary Journal

Whether you’re going to the show of gem/bead shows in Tucson this February or just trying to get ready for your 2013 projects, you’ll find the 2013 Gemstone Price Index from Lapidary Journal’s Jewelry Artist Magazine really handy.

Just click HERE to download it, save it, print it, and take it with you to all the gem shows this year to be better informed when it comes time to buying all those lovely gems. Just know that the Index is limited to gem rough available to amateur cutters at shows, internet and wholesalers. Sharon Elaine Thompson, GG, FGA, compiled the list and states that "for this reason it does not include rough such as emerald, ruby, exceptional quality blue sapphire, or imperial topaz, materials that are not readily available except to professionals."

What Lapidary Journal's Gemstone Price Index does include is dozens of transparent faceted gems and faceting rough and will give you an idea of gem prices generally – especially handy if you are new to buying stones.

Check out the link above to download your copy or just click HERE.

Jazz Up Your New Year's Eve Outfit

Photo and Pattern by
Beadwork.about.com

Christmas will be over before you know it and many have New Year's Eve plans already in the works.

Whether you plan on spending a quiet evening at home with love ones or attending a fun, splashy party - what do you plan on wearing? I'm a big fan of the "little black" dress or top and pants, but that can sometimes get boring.

One of the easiest ways to update your holiday party wear is to make Beaded Button Covers. Button covers were all the rage in the 80s and I still think they are a great idea to help embellish an outfit on a temporary basis.

Button Cover
Photo by Beadwork.about.com

They look this:



Best of all you just need a few beads and button covers. I've seen button covers in packages of 10 at Michaels and Hobby Lobby.

Click HERE to go get the directions.

Now, go bead!

2013 Escapist Mentorship Program - For Artists

Do you want to learn how to take your art to the next level – perhaps submitting it to local, national, even international galleries? How would like to have the support of a professional artist, attorney and others guiding you along the way for free for an entire year?

John Ross Palmer's Escapist Mentorship Program was founded in 2009 as a casual way for a fun group of local Houston artists to meet, communicate with each other about art and business while learning by example from Artist John Ross Palmer as a group leader. However, in 2010, the program required applicants to submit images and answer a series of essay questions in order to be accepted into the program.

To become an Escapist Artist, the individual must complete – in full - the Application that you can obtain by clicking HERE. All timely submitted, complete applications are scored by a five-person jury composed of Artist John Ross Palmer, FCC members, former Escapists and John Ross Palmer art collectors. There is no cost to apply and there is no fee for the countless hours that Mr. Palmer pours into promoting the talented artists that have been admitted into the program.

If you are selected, the program is fun and casual. Laid-back group meetings are regularly scheduled in addition to personal visits by Mr. Palmer to the respective Escapist artist studios. Depending upon the stage of your career, this could mean Mr. Palmer visiting your studio or the space where you create out of your home. You will also get light homework and get to write about your goals and intentions in journals that he has created. Each Escapist Artist is also provided with unique Escapist stationery for the purpose of sending correspondence to collectors and potential art collectors.

In addition, John Palmer coaches the artists not only on evolving their art technique, but also on how to promote your art, retain exclusivity, have savvy business salesmanship and overall personal and professional confidence. John Palmer's business and life partner, attorney Ryan Lindsay, is highly involved too - meeting with the Escapists at their discretion to coach them on effective marketing, running a small business, the advantages of sharing your art online and how to improve their website design.

As if that’s not enough, works by the selected Escapists may be featured at local events held at the John Palmer Gallery and Studio as well as national events. For example, in 2010, some Escapists were featured at An Evening of Escapism, the Black-Tie Gala held at the Gallery, Art Chicago 2011 and the 2012 Los Angeles Art Show.

Unlike many other artists that are concerned with the competition, John Ross Palmer sees the benefit of elevating all artists to add power to the profession. For more information about this program and about Artist John Ross Palmer, visit the website by clicking HERE. To download the application, click HERE.

Good luck!

Christmas Tree Earrings

O'Christmas Tree Earrings
Photo and Pattern by
Beadwork.about.com

You still have about 10 days to make some beady Christmas gifts and earrings are quick and easy to make.

Look what you can make with just a few beads, some ear wires and Brick Stitch know-how - these adorable "O'Christmas Tree" earrings by Beadwork.about.com.

They should work up in less than 30 minutes. Don't have red for the "ornaments" - don't fuss (remember Santa is watching). Instead, use what you have and change it up. I would love to see some gold or silver ornaments instead.

Have fun ya'll.

Click HERE for the pattern and directions.

Need Photographs?

The Houston Polymer Clay Guild has made arrangements with local professional photographer Jeremy Pierson to come to the February guild meeting to photograph their work and have generously extended that opportunity for HBS members as well.

If you would like your work professionally photographed, you can purchase a spot for $30 per item. You will receive at least one professional-quality digital image of your item suitable for use on websites, blogs and online stores or to submit to contest, galleries, shows or whatever you wish. To purchase a slot, visit the HPCG website at www.houstonpolyclay.org and click on the "upcoming events" link.

For questions or more information contact Milli Jewell at jewell600@msn.com.

HBS Annual Holiday Party

Hello Everyone!

This year sure flew by fast! That must mean we've all been having fun with those beady little things we find so enticing. Our holiday party will be held on December 15 at Bayou Manor, located at 4141 South Braeswood. The party will run from 10:00 a.m. to12:30 p.m.

Michael Miles will be our host again this year and will be bringing drinks and ice.

PARKING:
Please park in the uncovered spaces in the rear of the gated parking lot. Covered spaces are for residents of Bayou Manor only. After parking, walk back through either the pedestrian or vehicle gate and access the building through the main entrance. Please check in with the receptionist for an ID badge before proceeding to the auditorium.

WHAT TO BRING:
As a reminder, members have been asked to bring goodies to munch on during the party. If your last name begins with A-L, please bring something sweet. M-Z should bring something savory.

Tablecloths, napkins, plates and cups will be provided.

Members are asked to bring a beady gift with a maximum value of $10 to participate in the gift exchange. Michael will issue numbered tickets and when your number is called, you may select a gift from the table or you may appropriate a gift that has already been opened. However, if that recipient wants to keep the gift, he or she will have to sing for it. A gift can be appropriated three times, with that third time being the charm. Then it goes home with whoever is in possession.

VENDORS:
Any current member can be a vendor at the monthly meetings. The cost is $10 for one 6' table, payable when the Treasurer, Carolyn Slater, comes by to collect, not once sales are generated. Vendors must provide their own table coverings and may arrive at 9:00 a.m. and sell until the President, Diane Mayes, announces that the party will begin. Vendors are expected to cover their tables at that time and may resume sales once the party is over. Everyone must vacate the auditorium no later than 12:30 p.m. If you would like to vend this month, please contact me at slnowlin@yahoo.com or 713-294-9886 by December 14.

LIBRARY:
The library will not be open for checking out materials but our Librarian, Lillian Skogsberg, will be accepting returns that are scheduled for this month. Please note that there will not be a library raffle this time.

MEMBERSHIP:
For those beading friends who keep their membership current, we are very appreciative of your efforts. It allows you to attend monthly meetings and have the opportunity to participate in the monthly programs. Dues are $30 per year for an individual and $40 per year for a family membership (two persons living in the same household). Our Membership Coordinator, Kim Butler, will be glad to assist you in effecting your renewal.

Our annual holiday party is always a lot of fun so I'll look forward to seeing you there.

Shirley Nowlin
HBS Vice President - Programs

Beads Baubles and Jewels

If you're a fan of Beads Baubles & Jewels, then you'll be glad to know you can view segments from the 1700 Series. Featured artists include Mary Hettmansperger (my personal favorite), Candie Cooper, Kate Richbourg, Brenda Schweder and more. Click HERE to go to their YouTube channel and start watching.

HCCC Call for Resident Artists

Photo by Houston Center for Contemporary Crafts

The Houston Center for Contemporary Crafts has issued a Call for Resident Artists.

Application Deadline: March 1, 2013

Media Accepted: Wood, Glass, Metal, Fiber, Clay, Mixed Media

A residency not only means your own studio for a minimum of 24 hours a week, but access to wide variety of professional opportunities and resources!

• Five to ten residencies awarded
• Three, six, nine or twelve-month residencies
• Stipend & housing allowance
• Free studio space with 24-hour access
• Ongoing professional development

To learn more and/or apply for a residency, click here and it will take you to the Houston Center for Contemporary Crafts website.

A Beaded Christmas

Drove by the Town and County Center during Halloween only to discover that it already had all its Christmas decorations out! But, you know, I have discovered once Halloween is over, the rest of the year just seems to fly by.

So with that in mind, here are some cute, easy Christmas projects for you to try from one of my favorite places to look for inspiration and, yea, shop too.

Click on the name of the project and it will take you the instructions.

Santa Was Here Earrings

Santa Was Here Earrings by Fusion Beads

Kris Kringle Earrings

Kris Kringle Earrings by Fusion Beads

Nick at Night Bracelet

Nick at Night Bracelet by Fusion Beads

Happy Beading Ya'll!

(All photos by Fusion Beads)

Luscious Leaf Fringe Technique

Photo and technique by Fusion Beads

I am a ginormous fan of fringe and I am so loving this Leaf Fringe Beading technique from Fusion Beads!

Click HERE to see how it's done.

2013 Bead It Forward Quilt Project

The Bead & Button staff will once again be organizing the Bead-It-Forward Bead Quilt Project for 2013. This project is an international beading effort that benefits breast cancer research and was started by bead artist Jeanette Shanigan in honor of her mother who died from the disease. For a number of years, Jeanette collected tiny, 1.5” by 1.5” squares of beadwork submitted by bead artists from around the world and pieced them into mini mosaic quilts. The quilts were auctioned at the annual Bead and Button show. In 2012 alone, the bead quilts and other donations by bead artists raised $19,500 for breast cancer research at the Medical College of Wisconsin! In 2011 Jeanette relinquished her much love project to Bead & Button magazine.

And, Bead & Button is doing it again. This year’s theme is: “Flowers: Stitching to Find a Bloomin' Cure.” All you have to do to participate in this fun and worthwhile project is create one or more 1.5" x 1.5: (3.8 x 3.8 cm) beaded squares (stitched onto a 2" square) and send them to Bead & Button. The complete rules and guidelines, as well as a sample pattern can be downloaded HERE.

The deadline for submitting squares is March 1, 2013, so we have plenty of time to create squares. In fact, the January 2013 program will be dedicated to this project. In years past, we have met in the 7th floor meeting room at Bayou Manor after the the meeting for a fun afternoon of beading and I expect we will do the same this time.

HBS has been delighted to be a part of this worthy cause for several years now – won’t you join us this time? More information will follow as the time draws near, but we hope to see you there.

To see examples of bead squares created by members and friends of Houston Bead Society (including Peanut, Nancy Jones' beloved pooch), click HERE.

November 2012 Meeting

Hello Everyone:

In addition to voting for officers for 2013, we'll be having some "shrinky stuff" fun during the November 17 meeting. Please join us for this important gathering at Bayou Manor, 4141 South Braeswood, from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Remember to park in the uncovered spaces in the rear of the gated lot. Covered spaces are reserved for the residents of Bayou Manor. After parking, walk back through either the vehicle or pedestrian gate and access the building through the main entrance. Stop by the receptionist's desk for an ID badge before proceeding to the auditorium.

ELECTION:
HBS holds an election for officers for the coming year at each November meeting. Your vote is important because it represents your interest in the continued success of your bead society. In addition to the previously announced candidates, which are listed below, nominations will also be accepted from the floor with the permission and presence of the person being nominated. Current membership for a minimum of one year and a serious desire to help HBS continue to be the best it can be are the requirements.

• Shirley Nowlin - President
• Lillian Skogsberg - Vice-President 
• Carolyn Slater - Secretary
• Tish Reed - Treasurer

PROGRAM:
Tish Reed will present the "Shrink Shrank Shrunk" program. Remember, some lucky person will win the book - Shrink, Shrank, Shrunk: Making Stylish Shrink Plastic Jewelry by Kathy Sheldon from which Tish is taking the program. This is fun you don't want to miss!!!

Kits will be available for sale (to members taking the program first) for $10.00 and include all the components you need to make the above projects as well as enough shrink plastic material to play with at home.

Tools You Need to Bring:

• Round nose pliers 
• Chain nose pliers 
• Wire cutters 
• Good pair of small, sharp scissors (but, not your fabric scissors) 
• Fine and medium tipped black marker 
• A few colored permanent markers with a medium tip 

Optional, But Recommended:

• Beads to add to the shrink, shrank, shrunk charms 
• Favorite rubberstamps 
• Clip art or other art work you can trace 
• Staz-On Ink pad(s) 
• Colored pencils 
• Permanent markers in a variety of colors 
• Embossing gun 
• Regular size single hole puncher (used for paper) 
• Large size decorative punches like those found in the scrapbooking store 

Remember: Shrink Art Sheets shrink 30% to 50% so artwork and punches should be no smaller than 2” or larger than 5” – depending on your project.

VENDORS:
Current members are eligible to be vendors at each monthly meeting. The cost is $10 for one six-foot table, payable when the Treasurer, Carolyn Slater, comes by to collect. Vendors may arrive at 9 a.m. and can sell until the President, Diane Mayes, calls the meeting to order. At that time, vendors are required to cover their tables. Once the meeting is adjourned, sales may resume. Please remember that HBS must vacate the auditorium no later than 12:30 p.m.

LIBRARY RAFFLE:
Our Librarian, Lillian Skogsberg, maintains an excellent library for current members to check out books for a period of one month. Lillian is always adding new selections so stop by and check out the offerings.

The library raffle is held to generate funds for operating expenses. Tickets are 50 cents each. Be sure to get your tickets early because once the meeting is called to order, ticket sales will cease. There are lots of "beady" prizes just waiting to go home with a lucky winner.

MEMBERSHIP:
Our Membership Coordinator, Kim Butler, will not be at this meeting. If you would like to join or renew, please contact her at kimb528@yahoo.com for the address. Dues are $30 per year for individuals and $40 per year for a family membership (two persons living in the same household).

I'm looking forward to the election, the "shrinky stuff" and show and tell with all your beautiful creations. I'll see you there.

Shirley Nowlin
HBS Vice President - Programs

Beadsmith - Looking for Your Works of Beady Art

To celebrate the “dawning of the Golden Age” of the two hole bead, Beadsmith is looking for photos of your works for the following albums:

• Dynamic Duos (Super Duos)
• Tantalizing Tilas (Miyuki Tila Beads) 
• Totally Tiles (Czech Tile Beads)
• Terrific Twins (Preciosa Twin Beads)

Please send j-pegs (.jpg format) of your two holed beaded inspirations to one of the following address for possible inclusion in their albums:

• steven@beadsmith.com
• steven@helby.com 
• Beadsmithsteven@gmail.com

2013 Bead Journal Project - Registration Open Now!

The Bead Journal Project (BJP) is the brain child of bead artist and author, Robin Atkins, and began in June 2007. That first year, over 240 women and 1 man committed to creating one bead journal page per month - for a total of 12 pages.

To participate, you need to register (see link below) and then create one journal page per month using any media and technique, provided it includes some beading. Participants are encourage to freely structure their page in any way and in any size as long as all 12 pages are the same size.

The 2013 Bead Journal Project will run from January 2013 through December 2013 and there is a blog you can go to for inspiration, encouragement and support.

For more information, including how to register for the 2013 Bead Journal Project, go to:
Bead Journal Project. Registration ends November 25, 2012, so hurry and join now!

Easy Focal Bead Bracelet

If you're like me, you probably have a small (or maybe not so small) collection of "special" beads you've collected over the years - lampworked beads, gemstones - beads you found fascinating or loved on sight! But, you can't figure out exactly what to do with them. Well, worry no more. Here is a cute and easy  wire work bracelet from favecrafts.com that uses some 14 and 22 gauge wire, a clasp and your favorite bead to showcase. And, although it calls for a Coiling Gizmo, you can easy make your own coil without one.

So click HERE, pull out one of your favorite focal beads and make a bracelet (or three or four). Did I mention Christmas is coming and how easy this would be to make for gifts? I think, I  just did.

October 2012 Meeting

Corsage Earrings by Kathy Jolly of Bowerbirds
L to R: Star Flower, Tawny Turquoise
Moonglow, African Violet

By Shirley Nowlin

HBS Vice President - Programs

Please join us on Saturday, October 16, for the monthly meeting of Houston Bead Society at Bayou Manor, 4141 South Braeswood. Hours are 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. We'll have a lot to discuss about the November election, a book review or two, along with projects completed from those books, and an agenda full of beady news and show and tell.

PROGRAM:
Kathy Jolly, one of our longtime members and the owner of Bowerbirds, has created many exquisite pieces of jewelry, always amazing everyone with her ever evolving knowledge of inventive ways to use wire and beads. Our special treat this month will be the construction of earrings using leaf beads, flower beads and wire. You'll be an expert when you leave and can make a pair for every outfit! With Kathy teaching and giving tips about beads in general, this is definitely a program you won't want to miss! 

Kathy says she has designed this project to share some beaded wirework techniques and ways to use leaf and flower beads in your jewelry. You’ll find the techniques you learn useful for charms and pendants as well as for earrings. 

    Tools Needed 

• Round-tipped pliers 
• Needle-nose pliers 
• Precision wire cutter 
• Small washcloth, bowl or bead mat to keep beads from rolling off the table 
• Glasses/magnifying glass for close work - if you need them

     Materials 
     Kathy will have materials kits available for all students for $6 with the following items: 

• Pair of earwires (14K gf, sterling or niobium) 
• About two feet of 26 gauge art wire 
• Two cup-flower beads 
• Four heart leaves 
• Two 6mm pillow beads 
• Six 3mm glass pearls or firepolished round beads 

     Kathy will have several kits available at the meeting for the earrings pictured above and    

     probably in some other colorways. Additional kits will also be available for purchase. If you   

     have questions about this program, please contact Kathy at bowerbirds1@aol.com. 

PARKING:
Please park in the rear of the gated lot in the UNCOVERED spaces. Covered spaces are reserved for residents of Bayou Manor only. After parking, walk back through either the pedestrian or vehicle gate and access the building through the main entrance. Remember to stop by the receptionist's desk for an ID badge before proceeding to the auditorium.

MEMBERSHIP/INFORMATION TABLE: 
Kim Butler, Membership Coordinator, will have membership forms available at the information/sign in table. If you haven't been to a meeting for a while and your membership is not current, Kim will be glad to assist you in renewing. Dues are $30 for individuals and $40 for a family membership (two individuals living in the same household). Remember, this is YOUR bead society and we need your support.

LIBRARY: 
Lillian Skogsberg, our Librarian, maintains an extensive inventory of books for your beading pleasure. Members with current status may check out a maximum of three books for a one-month period. If anyone has overdue books (a small fine will apply), please be kind and return them so that others may enjoy them, too.

Last month I mistakenly noted that library raffle tickets are priced at $1.00 each or 6 for $5.00. Well, oops, that was a big error on my part! The correct price is 50 cents each. I apologize for that snafu. The raffle is a worthy cause and raises funds for operating expenses, so at 50 cents each, that's a great bargain to be eligible for one of the prizes. Please remember to purchase your tickets before the meeting is called to order by our President, Diane Mayes. Once the meeting is in progress, ticket sales will cease.

VENDORS:
Any member with current status may be a vendor at monthly meetings. I will accept reservations through Friday, October 19, at slnowlin@yahoo.com. The cost is $10 for one 6-foot table and is payable when the Treasurer, Carolyn Slater, comes by to collect, not after sales have been generated. Vendors, who must provide their own table covers, may set up at 9:00 a.m. and sell until the meeting is called to order. At that time it is the responsibility of all vendors to cover their tables. Sales may resume after the meeting is adjourned. Please remember that we must vacate the auditorium no later than 12:30 p.m.

CANDIDATES FOR OFFICE:
At the November monthly meeting, HBS will elect officers for 2013. If you are interested in running for office, have been a member in good standing for at least one year, and have the time to devote to helping HBS be the best it can be, please contact Diane Mayes, HBS President at 281-540-1727 before Friday, October 19. A slate of candidates will be announced at Saturday's meeting. 

BEAD JAR:

Don't forget to bring your unwanted beads, components, tools, etc (is there any such thing?) to donate for the Bead Jar.

SHOW AND TELL: 
Please bring your beautiful jewelry creations to share with everyone. Cards will be provided for you to list your name, title of the piece (if applicable), technique(s) used, and if it was inspired by jewelry made by another artist, please give credit to that artist.

With a super program, the camaraderie of visiting with like-minded individuals and checking out the beady offerings, we've got a fun-filled meeting lined up for you. I'll see you there. 

Autumn Leaf Earrings

Autumn Leaves by Beadsmagic.com
Photo by Beadsmagic.com

So, you're not much of a Halloween fan, huh? Well, then, here's a really lovely pair of Autumn Leaf Earrings that are so fast and simple to make, you'll be able to wear them the same day.

These are from Beadsmagic.com and although they are in a kinda, sorta Christmas like colorway, I could easily see these in golds, browns, tans, oranges and yellows for Autumn.

Come to think of it, they would make really nice Christmas gifts in this colorway.

Just sayin...

Have fun ya'll!

Diane Fitzgerald's Favorite Beading Projects

Diamond Chain Bracelet and Snowflake created by Pat Powell
from Diane Fitzgerald's Favorite Beading Projects

By: Pat Powell,
      HBS Member

Recently, I had the opportunity to review and play with some great and fun beading projects from the book, Diane Fitzgerald's Favorite Beading Projects (published by Larkcrafts).

I found so many different types of projects in the book that I didn't know which project to select first. But, I soon decided on the Diamond Chain Bracelet. As you can tell from the accompanying photo, I did not stop with one. In fact, I’m still making them with beads other than Swarovski crystal bicones! (I did stop for a breath, however, to make one snowflake. They are wonderful by themselves or used in multiples, as pictured in the book.)

All the projects in the book have very detailed instructions. At the end of the instructions, there are also ideas for project variations with photos. Although, the projects use mostly bead-weaving techniques, there are some that include fibers. The most fun is the Button Doll Ornament. I look forward to going through my button stash and making one of those.

Basically, this is just a great book with something for everyone.

(Editor's Note: You can check out the HBS Library for a copy of this book. Remember, you  must be an HBS member in good standing to check out books. For more information, contact Lillian Skogsberg, HBS Librarian).

Beaded Fantasies by Sabine Lippert

Scheherazade Pendant by Sabine Lippert
From the Book Beaded Fantasies
Beaded by Carolyn Slater

By Carolyn Slater,

HBS Treasurer/Webmistress

I was very excited to receive my copy of Sabine's book. I love the intricate patterns she paints with the different sizes and shapes of beads. I chose the Scheherazade Pendant as my first project using mainly fire polish beads in greens. I found the directions very easy to follow and the diagrams helpful. 

Sabine uses different sizes of beads to create the structures then reinforces them with netting which holds that shape and also covers any exposed threads. I recommend using fire line for her projects due to the wear and stress factor with the glass beads.

I'm shopping for my next project - the purple Rope Necklace on page 111 and, no, I won't be beading in my car.

Happy Beading!

Pantone Fashion Color Report Fall 2012

Pantone has been the world recognized color authority for many years.

Fall 2012 Color Trends - Photo by Pantone

This is their prediction of color trends for Fall 2012.

Boo! Halloween is Coming

The holidays will be here before you know it, so why not enjoy Halloween before all the hectic-ness starts? Here are a couple of cute patterns for Halloween themed bracelets.

This one is from one of my all time favorite sites - About Beadwork. Click HERE to go the site for instructions.



Designed by Chris Franchetti Micahes for About Beadwork

Are you in the mood for a darker version - then how about this one? Click HERE to go to the Peyote Dreams' blog for instructions.

 

 

 

Have an eerily, creepy, spooky Halloween!

Beautiful Beaded Ropes by Jill Wiseman

The weekend is coming and you need a project. Well, you're in luck. Thanks to larkcrafts.com here are two more gorgeous projects from Jill Wiseman's book Beautiful Beaded Ropes to download.

Jill's book is a multitude of what would normally be your average, every day bead techniques magically transformed to luscious, gorgeously beaded ropes. Beautiful Beaded Ropes is beautiful enough to be a coffee table book and, yet, functional enough to teach you what you need to create the project as well as variations to make it your own. Total beginners will have the opportunity to practice the techniques (thanks to the detailed instructions and photographs) while more intermediate and advanced beaders will be able to head right in to the projects.

Clearly narrated, step by step instructions combined with awesome photographs and topped with one awe inspiring, jaw dropping gallery makes this one sweet cherry of a book that will have you running to the bead store to buy more beads... and that's not a bad thing at all.

Without further ado, here are the links and projects for you to download. By the way, if you can't buy the book just yet, check out the HBS library. Thanks to Lark Crafts, we've been given a complimentary copy.

Click here to download the Ray of Light Bangle

Ray of Light Bangle by Jill Wiseman from her book
Beautiful Beaded Ropes

And, click here to download the The French Quarter Lariat

French Quarter Lariat
 by Jill Wiseman from her book
Beautiful Beaded Ropes

Please be sure to drop Lark Crafts a line to thank them for their generous donation.

Free Books Contest by Lark Crafts

Lark Crafts is celebrating their latest release - Beautiful Beaded Ropes by Jill Wiseman (check it out in our library) by giving you a chance to win a dozen books and nine of them are from the Beadweaving Master Class series - all autographed by their respective author.

The Beadweaving Master Class books being given away are:
 

• Shaped Beadwork - Diane Fitzgerald
• Beaded Opulence - Marcia DeCoster
• Embellished Beadweaving - Laura McCabe
• Sensational Bead Embroidery - Sherry Serafini
• Classical Elegance - Maggie Meister
• Bead Riffs - Rachel Nelson - Smith
• Japanese Beadwork - Sonoko Nozue
• Beaded Fantasies - Sabine Lippert
• Beautiful Beaded Ropes - Jill Wiseman

But, wait... they are also throwing in three of their most popular gallery books all filled with photographs of gorgeous beaded jewelry:

• Showcase 500 Beaded Jewelry
• Masters: Beadweaving
• 500 Beaded Objects

All you have to do to enter the contest is leave a comment on the Lark Crafts blog post by 9 p.m. EDT on Wednesday, October 17. Click here - Lark Crafts Free Books Contest - and you will be taken directly to the site.

Good Luck!

Snap Up a Pair of Repetto Flats - Sparkle Shoe Contest

Enter the Swarovski Elements contest running on Facebook and you can win a gorgeous pair of Repetto Flats from Paris! It's called the Sparkle Shoe contest. And, all you need is a camera (or camera phone).

Here are the rules:

1. Take a picture of a dazzling, sparkling pair of shoes.
2. Send them photo using the form on the Facebook link above.
3. Watch for your photo to show up on on the contest entries page. Click HERE for the link (or to view entries).
4. Wait to see what photo gets selected for the grand prize and two runners up.

Good luck.

September Program

This month, the lovely sister/sister team of Audra Gladney and Gwen Higginbotham taught HBS members to create a lovely little beaded pouch perfect to hold a cell phone, credit cards or money - to buy more beads, of course.

And, Happy Birthday Audra!

Sometimes, I don't like beads... she says.

Carolyn told me today that sometimes - sometimes - she doesn't like beads. While you process that statement, check out her work from Laura McCabe's recent workshop.

HBS Member Carolyn Slater
wearing her Renaissance Necklace

Lantern Lighter Necklace designed by Laura McCabe and created by Carolyn Slater

 

Renaissance Necklace designed by Laura McCabe and created by Carolyn Slater

`

SEPTEMBER 2012 MEETING

Please join us Saturday, September 15, for the monthly meeting of Houston Bead Society. We'll get together at Bayou Manor, 4141 South Braeswood from 10:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There is some ongoing deconstruction at Bayou Manor in preparation for a move to the new tower across Braeswood. You can probably expect a bit of dust but parking is available in the UNCOVERED spaces inside the gated parking lot. Please remember that the covered spaces are for residents of Bayou Manor only. After parking, walk back through either the pedestrian or vehicle gate and access the building through the main entrance. Stop by the receptionist's desk for an ID badge before proceeding to the auditorium.

PROGRAM:
Our very own Gwen Higginbotham and her sis, Audra Gladney, will teach us how to make an awesome little pouch necklace. Gwen, who is a seamstress extraordinaire, has already constructed the pouches in lots of cool fabrics. She and Audra will lend their considerable beading expertise in putting together the necklace portion and connecting it to the pouch. The pouch can be used to stow a cell phone, credit cards (for beady purchases, of course), keys, etc. - just lots and lots of possibilities. Too cool to miss out on!

Kits are available for $10 and include the pouch (a variety to choose from), jump rings, eye pins, accent gem and cone. Silver or gold-tone findings kits will also be a part of the kit.

TOOLS AND SUPPLIES LIST:

• Round nose pliers
• Chain nose pliers
• Crimp tool
• Beading mat
• Bugle beads (long, medium or short)
• Complementary seed beads (medium or large or size you are most comfortable working with)
• 5 mm. accent beads
• 30-35 crimp tubes or beads (available in packages at stores like Michael's, Hobby Lobby or favorite beading store)
• Flexible beading wire
• Last, but not least, your creativity

MEMBERSHIP:
Our Membership Chairperson, Kim Butler, would like for everyone who has not renewed their membership to do so at this meeting. Dues are $30 per year for individuals and $40 for a family membership (2 persons living in the same household). Visitors are welcome to attend one meeting and take part in that month's program; however, membership will be required to return to subsequent meetings.

LIBRARY:
Our Librarian, Lillian Skogsberg, has new selections for your perusal. We'll have a book review and one lucky person will go home with a new book from a drawing. Members can purchase library raffle tickets ($1 each or 6 for $5) prior to the meeting being called to order by the President, Diane Mayes. All sales will cease at that time so get there early to see what your library has to offer you and help HBS support the ongoing acquisitions with the raffle.

VENDORS:
Individuals whose membership has been current for at least one month may sell at the monthly meetings. Tables can be reserved by contacting Vice President, Shirley Nowlin by Friday, September 14. The cost is $10 for one 6' table, payable when the Treasurer, Carolyn Slater, comes by to collect, not after sales have been generated. All vendors must provide their own table coverings and may arrive at 9:00 a.m. to set up. Sales may proceed until the meeting is called to order. After adjournment, sales may resume. Everyone must vacate the auditorium no later than 12:30 p.m.

SHOW AND TELL:
This is a special time of the meeting when we get to ooh and ahh over fellow members' creations. Please feel free to bring completed jewelry, accessories, or projects in progress to share with everyone. Cards will be available for members to list their names, description or name of piece, technique, and if the piece was inspired by someone else, please include that artist's name.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:
If you have an announcement to make about upcoming bead-related events, teaching schedules, museum openings, etc., the best way to get the word out is to prepare a quantity of flyers for the information table. Other announcements for which flyers cannot be prepared should be addressed to the President, Diane Mayes, at 281-540-1727, no later than Thursday, September 13, so she can determine if there is available time for the announcement during the new business segment of the meeting.

OFFICERS FOR 2013:
The President will appoint a nominating chairperson to oversee the search for new officers for 2013. If you are interested in running for office, have been an active member for at least one year and can attend all of the meetings, in addition to donating lots of hours to nurturing HBS, you might consider running for office. Diane will discuss the details at the meeting. Copies of the bylaws will be available with descriptions of officers' duties.

Soutache Jewelry

I don't know if I've been living under a rock or what...but, look what has come to my attention lately - Soutache Jewelry.

Allegro Appassionato by Anneta Valious

Soutache is a type of braided trim traditionally used in the textile industry for decoration on a piece of fabric (i.e. clothing and/or drapery), but it can also be used functionally as in to cover a seam.  It looks like a flat, shiny piece of braided trim with a groove down the center and is available in hundreds of colors. Today, many people are using soutache to cover the hem of bridal veils or to create floral patterns. And, now - to create lovely pieces of beaded and soutache jewelry - like French Beader, Anneta Valious.

Anneta uses soutache to create beautiful neckpieces, earrings and bracelets, like this one:

Naiade Bracelet by Anneta Valious

And, stunning necklaces like these:

Lys Bleu by Anneta Valious

Romantic Garden by Anneta Valious

For the past several weeks, Beadsmith has been posting pictures of soutache jewelry created by some of their followers and I am completely hooked. Luckily, Anneta has written a book entitled Bead Embroidery with Soutache: 25 Gorgeous Jewelry Projects with Decorative Braid that will be released by Lark Crafts around June 2013 (and I can't wait).

If you can't wait either and want to try using soutache in your work, here are a couple of links to tutorials:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=omv8dmbWze4 (in Italian)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FuwdAEJfmLM (More like a slide show and it's fast, but I really like this one).
http://www.oceaniecreations.fr/blog/schema-bijoux-perles-broderie-a-la-soutache/ (in French, but with great pictures)

And, here's one from Anneta Valious herself.

http://www.mylovelybeads.com/php/class/previewClass.php?num=2&key=soutache&lan=en

In the meantime, enjoy more eye candy created by another soutache beader, Andrea Zelenak of Romania.

Soutache Jewelry by Andrea Zelenak of Romania. Photo courtesy of Beadsmith


(Photos of artwork by Anneta Valious  used with permission of the artist)

Win Swarovski Crystals!

Photo courtesy of Fusion Beads

Fusion Beads has selected an amazing assortment of Swarovski Elements Crystals in the color options that Pantone (the leading authority on color) is predicting for Fall trends to give away to one lucky winner! In fact, the winner will win an assortment of crystals - from bicones to sew-on stones, rondelles to heart-shaped pendants.

For a chance to win this sparkling assortment of Pantone inspired Swarovski Elements Crystals, leave a comment by clicking HERE and telling Fusion Beads what your favorite color combinations from the 2012 Pantone Color Trend are. A winner will be randomly selected on Friday, September 7, 2012, at 4 PM PST and informed by e-mail. Good luck ya'll!

Fall 2012 Jewelry Trends

According to the website, Rocks, Paper, Metal, there are four big jewelry trends to watch out for this Fall:

1. Disco - if you are old enough to remember the disco era of the 70s, then you know we're talking about bold geometric shapes and components, resin and enamel accents, stud and the huge "door knocker" earrings as well as anything in the 70s colors - grey, black, yellow, red, orange to name a few.
2. Creamy Colors - and flesh tones are hot this Fall as you can tell by all the fashion magazines. These colors include milky stones and/or beads, cream, white and light turquoise patinas, cabochon beads  and anything made up or composed of metal, cord, resin and shell.
3. It seems to me that anything having to do with Nature never really goes out of style and this Fall is no exception. Look for earthy and neutral colors, floral and animal accents, animal prints (including textures on metals) and stackable rings. Feathers also continue to be very popular.
4. Like Nature, Tribal doesn't seem to be going out of style any time soon either. One of the key things to look for with this trend is worn, burnished platings and traditional tribal colors like dark reds, oranges, blues, browns and yellows and surprisingly, they're being mixed with - neons! Castings and etchings of natural objects such as feathers, horns and anything floral are also expected to be hot this Fall.

One trend that I'm seeing a lot of that this site didn't mention was the use of Argentium. According to Wikipedia, Argentium is a "modern sterling silver alloy which modifies the traditional alloy (92.5% silver + 7.5% copper) by replacing some of the copper with the metalloid germanium. As it retains the 92.5% silver content of the traditional alloy, it is still referred to as sterling silver."

Because it has the same silver content, you work with Argentium much like you would with regular sterling silver; however, Argentium has some very nice properties that silver doesn't. For example, thanks to its Germanium content, it has a high resistance to tarnish and best of all, it does not get the dreaded firescale when soldered or heated to high temperatures. On the other hand, it has a lower melting point (1410 degrees F) compared to sterling silver (1475 degrees F).

Argentium is patented and trademarked by the Argentium Silver Company, UK.

I've never worked Argentium, but I think I'll give it a try soon. Stay tuned.

More Free Stuff!

We're coming up to a 3 day holiday weekend and you need something to bead. Why not try one or all of these three projects from Candie Cooper's latest book Necklaceology published by Larkcrafts.

Here is a cute little necklace called the Safekeeping Necklace featuring some found objects and silk ribbon.

Safekeeping Necklace by Candie Cooper

What about Candie's Peace Dreams necklace pictured below?

Peace Dreams by Candie Cooper

And, last but not least the Orion Necklace:

Orion Necklace by Candie Cooper

To download your copy, simple click on the name of the necklace (highlighted) and it will take you the Larkcrafts site.

In addition to being a designer and author, Candie is also a frequent guest instructor on Beads, Baubles and Jewels.

(All pictures courtesy of Larkcrafts)

Bead Stoppers

Ever been at a bead store and see a package of tightly wound coils that look like these?

Picture courtesy of Fire Mountain Gems

And wonder... "What are they used for?"

These little gadgets are bead stoppers. You clip one to the end of your thread prior to beginning a project and it secures or stops your beads from falling off. They can be easily placed on and taken off the thread with a simple squeeze. 

Okay, so it's the middle of the night and you need a project for the next day and... no bead stopper! Don't pull out your hair! Instead, find a larger bead in a different color than your working beads and pass the thread through and around it at least twice.

Regardless of what you use - a spring coiled bead stopper, larger bead or even tape, once you're finished with your project, pull the thread out and weave your tail in.

Need a Little Challenge?

Looking for a little beading challenge to rev up your week? Then, check out this week's challenge by Fusion Beads:

Week 16 - Make A Statement Piece
A statement piece doesn’t have to be overwhelming to still speak volumes about the wearer. Bold colors, multiple strands or a large focal can all turn regular jewelry into a show stopping piece. Make something this week that stands out in a crowd!

All you have to do to participate is to create your piece following the challenge guidelines. It's not a race nor does it have a deadline or prizes; nope, the weekly Bead Challenge is mainly to get you motivated to bead - maybe something beyond your comfort zone. 

For more information for to:

http://fusionbeadsblog.com/2012/05/07/youre-invited-to-join-our-weekly-bead-challenge/ 

Now go bead something!

Call for Entries

The Women's Jewelry Association (WJA) has issued a call for entries for its Gem Dazzle Diva 2012/13 Competition. The application is available HERE or by emailing Nicole@womensjewelryassociation.com.

There are several themes and divisions you can enter your piece in including actual jewelry entries sponsored by the American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) that's called GEM DIVA. To enter this division, you must submit a finished piece of jewelry that incorporates natural colored stones or pearls. Three prizes will awarded in the Bridal Wear, Evening Wear and Business/Day Wear categories.

The other division is for two dimensional entries called DAZZLE DIVA which is a WJA judged contest, To enter this division, you must submit a two dimensional drawing (can be a hand drawn rendering, CAD/CAM rendering or photo of a jewel) that must be mounted as instructed on its site. Like the AGTA division above, there will be three prizes awarded in the Bridal Wear, Evening Wear and Business/Day Wear categories.

Prizes include a trophy, $250 cash price and a subsidized trip to New York City to attend the 2013 WJA Members Gala in March and the annual In the Know Conference.

For more information or an application click on the links above. Questions can be directed to the DIVA Design Competition Chairperson, Cindy Edelstein at cindy@jewelersresource.com.

Remember, you can't win, if you don't enter; but, you'll have to hurry - the deadline is September 21, 2012.

AUGUST 2012 MEETING

We're looking forward to seeing you at the August 18th meeting when we'll gather at Bayou Manor, 4141 South Braeswood. Meeting hours are10:00 am to 12:30 pm. Members and visitors may arrive as early as 9:30 am to enjoy perusing the library and vendor selections as well as visiting with fellow beaders.

BEADING TIME
Since we have traditionally held the HBS mini-bazaar during August, no program was planned; however, with the cancellation of the regular event, we have made plans for a "project help session." Please bring any projects you may be working on that are giving you a bit of trouble or just bring any beading endeavor you're working on. Members will be available for some expert advice to help you past those trouble spots.

If you have a beading tip that you'd like to share, please bring it in written form. We'll share it with everyone and your tip will be published in a future issue of our newsletter, Beadspeak. This beading time promises to be a fun interaction between members and will also serve to introduce new members to our group.

PARKING
Please park in the UNCOVERED spaces in the rear of the gated lot. Covered spaces are reserved for Bayou Manor residents only. After parking, walk back through either the pedestrian or vehicle gate and access the building through the main entrance. Stop by the receptionist's desk for an ID badge before proceeding to the auditorium.

MEMBERSHIP
Our Membership Coordinator, Kim Butler, will be staffing the information table with lots of printed matter to interest you. In addition, Kim will gladly accept membership renewals. Our fiscal year runs from May 1 to April 30 so if you haven't renewed yet, now is the time to do so. Dues are $30 for individuals and $40 for family memberships (two persons residing in the same household).

VISITORS
Please note that visitors are welcome to attend one meeting and take part in that month's program but in order to return to future meetings, membership is required.

ANNOUNCEMENTS
If any member has an announcement to share with the HBS members, please contact our President, Diane Mayes, at 281-540-1727by Thursday, August 16, to request that it be added to the agenda. If there will be time for the announcement or if Diane considers it an item that can't be contained in a printed notice, she will confirm that with you pre-meeting. It is the policy of HBS to allow members and visitors to place printed notices on the information table.about teaching schedules, classes, shows, etc. There just isn't enough time during the meetings to give individual attention to announcements and make sure that all events are given equal time.

LIBRARY
Our Librarian, Lillian Skogsberg, will have great news about some recent book donations to the HBS library. Lillian does a super job maintaining our library for your use. Books are available to members for a one-month period, after which they must be returned so that everyone can enjoy the growing number of selections.

The monthly library raffle is held to generate operating funds. Tickets are six for $5.00 or $1.00 each for less than six. Please remember to buy your tickets prior to the meeting being called to order. All sales will cease at that time. Lillian usually has two drawings so check out the available beady prizes when you visit the library table.

VENDORS
Members with current status are eligible to be vendors at the monthly meetings. The cost is $10 for one 6' table. It is the accepted practice to pay for the table when the Treasurer, Carolyn Slater, comes by to collect, not once funds are made through sales. If you would like to reserve a table, please contact me at slnowlin@yahoo.com or 713-294-9886 by Friday, August 17. Vendors may arrive at 9:00 a.m. and may sell until the President calls the meeting to order. At that time it will be the responsibility of each vendor to cover their table and join the meeting. Sales may resume after the meeting has been adjourned. Please note that HBS must vacate the room no later than 12:30 p.m.

SHOW AND TELL
Each of you is talented and we want to see your beautiful creations. Bring all those beaded treasures to share with the group. Cards will be available for you to record your name, title of piece (if any), and stitches or techniques used. If you found inspiration for your piece from another artist, especially if it is close to being a direct copy, please be sure to give that artist written credit on the "Inspired by" line on the card.

In other news, Christine Tan will be at the meeting to tell us all about the recent Laura McCabe workshop. I heard it was a most excellent weekend!! We'll also have some information available regarding copyright laws as they affect jewelry. I'll see you there.