Bead Society of Cape Cod

Bead Museum - Rapid City, South Dakota

2012-01-16T13:50:00.012-05:00

Elaine went on vacation to Rapid City, South Dakota, home of Prairie Edge, a gallery and store housing its very own Bead Museum.

Don't forget to click on the pictures to see all the detail. Enjoy!

Close up of a display case:

More of the display case:

And more:

Beautiful skilled examples of artwork:

All the colors of the rainbow:

2011-12-05T20:00:00.002-05:00

Hi everyone,

Our next meeting is January 19th, 2012. We will be meeting in a NEW LOCATION, the Dennis Public Library in Dennisport, conveniently located near the center of town.

Dennis Public Library
5 Hall Street
Dennisport, MA 02639
http://www.dennispubliclibrary.org/

January's Project is the Great Lengths Necklace. This is a fun, versatile project and I think you'll enjoy it.

Supply List for 45" necklace.
Approximately 344 3mm beads (round or bicone) OR approximately 268 4mm beads (round or bicone)
1 tube Size 11 seed beads
1 tube Size 15 seed beads
2 size 12 beading needles
6 lb fire line
Light, mat, scissors, etc.

(You can also make a shorter version that uses approximately 184 4mm beads.)

This is a lot of 3mm or 4mm beads, so double-check to make sure you have enough

Have happy safe holidays and see you in the new year!

2011-10-16T13:56:00.003-04:00

Hi folks,

It's October! And time to prepare for our next project, the Chan Luu Wrap Bracelet. This is a different project for us and the samples sparked a lot of interest at the last meeting.

Chan Luu Wrap Bracelet Supply List

15-30 mm button with shank
1-2 (16-inch. strands) 4-6 mm large-hole beads (approximately 90 6 mm beads or 140 4 mm bicones)
24 -52 inches round leather cord (1.5 mm diameter)
8-12 lb. test monofilament (fishing line)
Hypo Cement
Clipboard
Foam board or a piece of sturdy cardboard the same size as the clipboard
Binder Clips

Hope to see you on the 20th!

2011-09-16T14:28:00.003-04:00

Hi folks,

Hope everyone had a great Labor Day. A big thank you to everyone who attended our beaded kumihimo class and to Jan Bernier and her helpers for teaching the class. Thanks again everyone!

* * *

The third Thursday of September is coming up fast (next week!), so let me briefly apologize for not sending this out sooner. Our next project is Sparkly Wheels, a very pretty project for earrings or a pendant.

Supply List for Sparkly Wheels

Earrings with a Rivoli Center
2 14 mm rivolis
42 3mm bicones or fire polish
Small amount of size 15 seed beads
2 ear wires
6 lb Fireline
Size 12 beading needle

Sparkly Wheel Pendant (Option 1)
30 4 mm crystals or 4mm fire polish
Small amount of size 15 seed beads
6 lb Fireline
Size 12 beading needle

Sparkly Wheel Pendant (Option 2)
27 4 mm crystals or 4mm fire polish
Small amount of size 11 seed beads
6 lb Fireline
Size 12 beading needle

For all projects, bring light, mat, scissors, etc.

There are a limited number of rivoli pairs for members. Please email me if you were not at the last meeting and are interested in a pair of rivolis.

2011-07-16T14:17:00.002-04:00

Supplies: Items with * are in the kit.

* Kumihimo Round Braiding Board

* 7 EZ bobbins for the cord

* Cord (Gemorama sells the cord in the Kits). If purchasing your own, purchase C-Lon Bead Cord.

Cut into (7) 30” cords for necklace or (7) 18” cords for a bracelet. You must cut cords.

Note: crochet or embroidery thread will not work. The cord must be large enough to grab inside the Styrofoam slots and the beads must slide freely down the cord while working with it.

7 colors of 6º or/and 8º seed beads (seven colors make it easier to see where you are in the project. Combine sizes for a textured look or all one size for bead crochet look.

A “Big eye” needle

Permanent marker or pen

Cone and Clasp or a one piece unit that is a cone w/ attached clasp.

You will need general beading supplies if you are attaching the clasp in class (glue, fireline, and beading needle). If you make a bracelet you should complete the project in class.

Prep work prior to the meeting. If you are picking up a kit at the meeting you should be there by 6:30 to string your beads (instructions below).

PREP WORK:

Cut 7 strands of the cord – length noted above.

On each strand load a stop bead and push to the end leaving a 6” tail then load approx 6 beads on each strand for each inch of the finished project. Therefore a 7” bracelet would require approximate 6 * 7 (42) beads to be loaded on each of the seven strands.

Remember to allow 1” for a clasp. A bracelet is recommended as a first project. Wrap the cord around the bobbin (starting with stop bead end ) and snap the top of the bobbin shut.

Gather the ends of the 7 strands and tie into a knot.

Prep work is done! See you at the meeting.

There will be several samples using seed beads, crystals and Czech beads for inspiration.

2011-06-30T09:31:00.003-04:00

Hi folks,

We had 26 attending to the last meeting and got to play around with Yo-yo beads. A big thank you to Ann Hochman for teaching and her helpers. Good progress was made by a number of people and some had even finished an earring before the end of the evening. Thank you for attending everyone!

* * *

Christmas in July

For our next project, we'll be making a pretty beaded ornament, a bit different from what we've had for ornaments in the past, a ball made out of beads. Great gift for the winter holidays and once you get the technique down, you can do it in miniature for pendants or even earrings.

Supply List

3 mm bead or a #6 seed bead in any neutral color (silver, gold, AB clear, etc.) for fill in between large beads.
Big eye needle if needed for better control
Scissors
Mat
Light

The Bead Society shall provide kits of large acrylic beads and monofilament line.

Colors are red, blue, purple and white, first come, first served. The first kit is free to members, additional kits may be purchased for $1.50.

* * *

Bead and Chats are back!

West Dennis Library - 260 Main Street (Route 28)

Next one is Wednesday, June 29th, 5-9 pm.

The Bead and Chats take place the last Wednesday of every month at the West Dennis Library, at 5-9pm.

Do you have unfinished projects? Feeling a bit "stuck" on a project? Just want some dedicated time to bead? You can arrive at the Bead and Chat ANY TIME and leave ANY TIME. Stop by after work, bring supper if you like, this is about convenience and easy socializing.

Please note, the library is CLOSED during the Bead and Chat, so you will need to contact Peggy White so she can let you in.

2011-06-13T09:59:00.002-04:00

Hi folks,

I hope the beginning of summer is finding you well. Our next project is Yo Yo bead earrings, these beads do not have a drill hole so turning these beads into jewelry requires a different technique than you've seen in previous meetings.

There are a limited number of Yo Yo beads supplied by the Bead Society for Members attending the meeting. If you have not already reserved your beads, you need to contact Ann Hochman ASAP. The meeting is only two weeks away so don't delay!

Supply List for Yo Yo Bead Earrings

* 2 YoYo beads (provided by Bead Society)
* 1 gr. size 15 seed beads - Base Color (A) Delicas NOT recommended for base. AND
* Several colors and/or sizes of seed beads to coordinate/contrast with YoY and base color bead

Blue Earrings
1 gram. size 11 (accent color) - B
1 gram. size 11 (accent color) - C

Green Earrings

1 gram. size 8 (Pink accent color)
1 gram size 11 (White accent color)
1 gram size 11 (Raspberry accent color)

Your size 15 seed beads from the base can also be used as the end of your fringe or for the picot.

* Pair of earring wires
* 2 small closed jump rings (optional)
* 4-lb Fireline
* Size 13 beading needle (No Big Eye needles please)
* Flat nose pliers to assist in pulling needle through beads
* Bead mat
* Task light and magnifier highly recommended
* Small scissors

* * *

Bead and Chats are back!
West Dennis Library - Next one is June 29th, 4-9 pm.

The Bead and Chats are taking place the last Wednesday of every month at the West Dennis Library, at 4-9pm.

You can arrive at the Bead and Chat ANY TIME and leave ANY TIME. Stop by after work, bring supper if you like, it's all good.

Please note, the library is CLOSED during the Bead and Chat, so you will need to call Peggy White's cell phone number so she can let you in.

2011-05-07T10:30:00.001-04:00

Hi folks,

We had over 25 people attending the April meeting for the Magatama Spiral Necklace, including a number of new faces.

Thanks for coming everyone and a big thank you to Shelley and her helpers for introducing us to this interesting bead!

* * *

May's Project is Be Diamond or Be Square Bracelet

Supply List

* Two coordinating colors of Size 8 ROUND beads. (Examples would be size 8 round metal beads OR Size 8 Toho 3-cut glass beads (lots of sparkle)).
* If using METAL beads, 14 lb Fireline OR if using GLASS beads, 6 or 8 lb Fireline.
* Needles,
* Mat in contrasting color.
* Scissors.
* Light/magnification (if necessary).

This project uses Right Angle Weave to make the bracelet units. If you're unfamiliar with Right Angle Weave, I strongly suggest looking at some tutorials.

Video tutorial on Youtube:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0RBg48YSxtE

Another tutorial that that can also be printed out as a PDF:

http://www.aroundthebeadingtable.com/Tutorials/RightAngleWeave.html

You can also find tutorials in most beading books and magazines.

Don't wait too long to get your beads or study the tutorials!

2011-03-24T10:30:00.004-04:00

Hi folks,

We had 21 people attending the March meeting and Brenda Oliver taught a variation on the daisy chain called the Daisy Chain Vine. Starting it was a bit tricky, so kudos to everyone who persevered.

Thank you all for attending and thank you Brenda and helpers!

* * * * * * * * *

Our next meeting is April 21st. For the month of April, we have the Magatama Spiral Necklace. Special beads are required for this project, so please read the supply list and information carefully.

Supply List for Magatama Spiral Necklace

20 grams Size 8 seed beads
15 grams Size 11 seed beads
30 grams Long Magatama Beads 4x7 (makes 1 22 inch necklace and a pair of earrings)
Beading needle Size 12 or Big Eye Needle
8lb Fireline Beading Thread or C-Lon Micro Cord
Clasp

Magatama Beads can be purchased online. You want the LONG type, typically described as 4 x 7.

At Caravan Beads (http://www.caravanbeads.net/) (please note, they are sold in 10 gram packages, so you will need to purchase three packages to make the project)

Twisted Sistah Beads (http://www.twistedsistahbeads.com) (sold in 30 gram packages)

There are other websites that offer them, but these particular sites offer a good selection.

Offline, Twisted Sistah will be at the Innovative Beads Expo in Seekonk, MA.

Innovative Beads Expo
http://www.innovativebeadsexpo.com/
Johnson & Wales Inn (Eastern Providence, RI)
213 Taunton Ave., Seekonk, MA 02771
Saturday, April 2 - 10AM to 5PM
Sunday, April 3 - 10AM to 4PM

Happy hunting and don't wait too long to order your Magatamas!

* * * * * * * * *

Some of you saw the beautiful work that Linda Tocco had at the front of the room at the last meeting, a beaded cuff and a bracelet. Both those items were created from kits from Beads East. She highly recommends their kids for clarity of instructions and quality of materials.

Their website is:

http://www.beadseast.com/

2011-03-13T12:02:00.002-04:00

Bead Society Meeting - Dennis Police Station Community Room

Thursday, March 17th

Social Hour 6:15, Meeting 7pm

Thank you everyone who came to February's meeting! Quite a few people turned out for the meeting and virtually everyone made great progress in the Branched Pearls Necklace.Thank you Maureen for teaching the project and those who assisted.

For this month, the project is the Daisy Chain Vine.

Supply List

64 - 4mm bicone crystals OR fire polished beads

9 grams (about 124-136) Size 6 seed beads

5 grams - Size 11 seed beads

Nymo D or 6 lb Fireline

Needles

Scissors

Mat

Light (if necessary)

If you look closely at the attached pictures, you'll notice there are some size differences between the different necklaces. You can substitute as long as you keep the ratios between the different beads. You could use this for a necklace, part of a necklace or a bracelet.

Enjoy picking out your beads for the meeting and please RSVP, thank you!

2011-02-11T12:09:00.003-05:00

Bead Society Meeting Reminder - Thursday, February 17th, 7pm
Branched Pearls Necklace (kit project)

Thanks to everyone who made it out to the meeting January! Sitting at home on these cold nights can be quite appealing so taking the time to come out for a meeting is greatly appreciated.

Thank you again.

February's project is a kit, the Branched Pearls Necklace. This is an attractive, easy to make necklace kit in gold or silver with plenty of materials for you to play with the technique and (possibly) even make a pair of matching earrings.

Please let me know as soon as possible if you are planning to attend, thank you!

Bead Society Recycle Challenge

2011-01-05T09:40:00.006-05:00

Wild Daisies in Yarmouth kindly donated several boxes of broken jewelry to the Bead Society of Cape Cod.

Here are several pictures of the creative uses our members came up with:

Napkin Ring and Necklace

Necklace and Rosary

Bookmarks and Necklace

Decorative piece on wooden bowl, Plant Hanger and Necklace.

Nightlight.

The winner! (Ann Hochman's Dragonfly Necklace)

2010-12-31T14:20:00.003-05:00

Hi folks, hope everyone is having good holidays! Attached are photos of the January project, plus the supply list. Stay warm!

General Information:

This bracelet uses ladder and brick stitch to complete the two pyramid-shaped ends which are then connected by stringing 8 rows of beads. You can complete a coordinated bracelet by matching the connecting beads by color and/or shape; or you can use your stash of bead soup. Just remember that you will want to pass the thread through two times for strength.

I would recommend a pretty button or bead for the clasp but you may also buy or bead your own clasp.

Materials required:

(A) 60 4mm cube beads

(B) about 400 beads of various sizes - USE YOUR IMAGINATION - some suggestions include;

* 1) bead soup
* 2) size 15 - size 8 beads of coordinating colors, may be round, hex or triangle
* 3) gemstone chips or bugles to add more variety.

(D) Fireline 6 lb beading thread or alternate of your choice.

(E) Button or clasp of your choice.

(F) Ruler, mat, scissor

Netted Necklace

2010-09-24T18:10:00.008-04:00

Our September meeting was a success and everyone was able to create at least one side of their bezel. Our newer members had done their homework! Thank you.

Thanks to Jan, Alyce, Peg, and Marcia for teaching/helping during the class.

Calendar for remainder of 2010:

October - Junk Jewelry Contest. Don't forget to bring your creations for the contest.

October - Netted Necklace.

November - No meeting.

December - Holiday party.

The October class will be the Netted Necklace taught by Jan.

Materials List:

Size 8° seed beads in 1 color for base around the neck.

Size 11° seed beads in at least 3 colors.

Fireline 6 lb

Needle size 10

Clasp of your choice

Wire guards

Glue - G-hypo cement recommended

Thread Heaven or beeswax

Please don't forget:

Beading Mat – light or dark - in a color contrasting to your beads

Scissors - make sure they are sharp enough to cut Fireline

Magnifying glasses if needed

Lamp and extension cord if needed

Bezeling a Rivoli with an Open Back

2010-08-27T19:43:00.018-04:00

We had a great meeting in August learning how to attach clasps and some of us turned our UFO's into finished pieces. Thank you Linda, Jan, Alyce and Peg for sharing your knowledge with us.

****

Our September program will teach us how to Peyote Stitch around a rectangular rivoli with an open back, a technique called "bezeling". Cabochons and Rivolis have no holes so they need to be encased with a bezel so that the cab/rivoli can be attached to another object.

****

You should know how to do the Peyote Stitch beforehand so here is some recommended reading:

Creating Crystal Jewelry with Swarovski by Laura McCabe. A great explanation of beading with rivolis.

Beading with Cabochons by Jamie Cloud Eakin. Great explanations and lots of inspiration and eye candy.

The Art and Elegance of Beadweaving by Carol Wilcox Wells. This is a classic that will teach you how to Peyote.

All three can be found by going to http://www.clamsnet.org

****

Materials list:

24x16 Swarovski rectangular rivoli.

6 lb. Fireline in smoke or crystal.

size 11 delica.

size 15 seed beads.

size 12 needles.

scissors.

Thread Heaven or beeswax.

Please don't forget:

Beading mat in color contrasting with your beads

Magnifying glasses if needed

Lamp and extension cord if needed

Finishing School

2010-08-03T21:05:00.024-04:00

Judy Langone and her helpers did a wonderful job teaching the Crystal Delight Bracelet at the July meeting. Thank you, Judy for sharing the bracelet with our members.

Our August project is almost everything you've ever wanted to know about finishing necklaces and bracelets. This is your opportunity to finish your UFO's by learning how to:

Add a thread into your finished piece and make your own toggle. (We will provide I pins for the toggle.)

Crimp flexible wire (Softflex, Beadalon) using spring rings, lobster claws, metal toggles.

Use wire guards. (We will provide the wire guards.)

Create button and loop closures.

Bring your unfinished pieces to the next meeting and learn how to attach a purchased clasp or make your own loop and toggle closures.

Materials List:

Clasps

Crimps

6 pound Fireline

Size 12 Needles

Jump Rings

Your project and a few extra beads from the project

Basic Tool Kit:

Flat or Bent Nose Pliers

Round Nose Pliers

Wire Cutters

Scissors

Crimpers (optional)

Please don't forget:

Beading mat - light or dark - in a color contrasting with your beads.

Magnifying glasses if needed.

Lamp and extension cord if needed.

Crystal Delight Bracelet

2010-06-26T12:55:00.012-04:00

Thank you for the great turnout last Thursday. We had great attendance including one new member and six guests.....Thank you to Linda and her helpers, Alyce and Peg, for helping us to practice our skills with wire wrapping. The Program Committee tries to do this at least once a year because there are new members and it also serves as a refresher for those who know how to wire wrap but haven't done it in a while.....Some of our members left the meeting with a new pair of earrings.....Thanks again, girls.

***

Our July project is the Crystal Delight Bracelet.

Materials list:

Bicone Crystals:

12 4mm, Color A, plus extra - see note below

34 4 mm, Color B, plus extra - see note below

24 6 mm, Color C

24 4mm, Color D, plus extra - see note below

Seed Beads:

Small amount - size 11

Small amount - size 15

Clasp

2 Jump rings

Fireline, 6 lb.

Two beading needles

Beading mat - light or dark - in a contrasting color to your beads

Magnifying glasses if needed

Lamp (and extension cord) if needed

You will need approximately 7 (12mm) Margaritas if you want to use them. The Margaritas are the green crystals sitting on top of the white pearls in the center of the photos.

The bracelet was made using all bicones or a mixture of bicones, fire polish, and pearls so the choice is yours.

NOTE: Different beads will produce different size bracelets so make sure you have extra 4mm beads.

Simple Wire Techniques for Earrings

2010-06-02T10:31:00.017-04:00

The June project is another great opportunity to work from your stash of beads because we will be practicing wire work by making earrings. We will make as many pairs as we have time and materials for so go through your closet now and find those outfits that don't have matching earrings and bring beads in those colors. Or make a pair of earrings and buy an outfit to match. :-)

Materials List:

Beads from your stash in various sizes from size 11 seed on up in all sizes and shapes.

Supplies List:

Flat nose, bent nose, and round nose pliers.

Wire cutters. (Wire for the earrings will be supplied by the Bead Society free of charge for all those members attending the meeting.)

Beading mat in a color contrasting to the beads.

Magnifying glasses if needed.

Lamp if needed.

Tools for June Meeting

2010-05-26T19:32:00.007-04:00

The Bead Society of Cape Cod will be purchasing tools for our members who do not have them and wish to purchase their own. The cost of the tools will be approximately $4.00 each. The Bead Society purchases supplies at wholesale and it is our practice to pass any savings on to you.

If you do not have the necessary tools you may find a buddy to share with but it is imperative that you have/share the tools listed below:

***

Flat Nose Pliers
Bent Nose Pliers
Round Nose Pliers
Wire Cutters

All pliers should be smooth at the gripping part so as not to mar the wire.

Please reply to Linda Lord at beadqueen65@yahoo.com, or Peg White at white01232@aol.com by June 1 if you wish to purchase tools for the next meeting.

Any questions can be directed to Linda and Peg.

Looking forward to a great meeting in June when everyone should be able to go home wearing a pair of earrings they have made!

Viking Knit Workshop - Mimi Huszer

2010-05-13T20:39:00.010-04:00

Saturday, June 19th 9:30am to 3:30 pm

Dennis Memorial Library
(1020 Old Bass River Road, Dennis)

Members: $72.00
Non-members: $82.00

There's still time to sign up to learn this technique!

Please write Alyce at if you are interested. (alycemcl@aol.com)

2010-05-08T08:56:00.007-04:00

Hi folks,

Our next meeting is Thursday, May 20th and we have a great project for this month. This necklace is a good way of using up a lot of different beads or is a good excuse to purchase more.

Please read carefully the supply lists for the different versions, look at the pictures and be inspired. There's a lot of room to get creative with this project, so have fun.

* * *

Bundled Beauty Supply Lists

* * *

#1 Pastel Version

* Size 8 - 4 colors
* Different sizes (including roundel, cube, round and oval 4mm to 12 mm) the necklace uses about 8 inches of these.

* * *

#2 Blue & Green Leaves Version

* 1 Color each size - Size 11, 8, 15 and 6.
* Miscellaneous shapes in coordinating colors. I used flowers, ovals, leaves, rounds, really any shape works that coordinates with the leaves and flowers that drape to the necklace.

#3 Quartz and Crystals (not pictured)

* Quartz shapes that cover about 8-9 inches - oval and oblongs
* Gold bugle beads - Size 3
* Clear beads - Size 11, cubes and drops
* White beads - Size 11, cubes
* Gold finish bicone crystals in size 6 or 8 mm

Supplies for all necklaces:

* Fireline 6lb smoke - crystal if using transparent or clear beads
* Needle size 10
* Clasp of your choice
* Wire guards OR additional Size 11 beads (The project is strung from end to end so up to 5 strands must be accommodated. Wire guards are recommended or size 11 beads to create a loop through the ring on the clasp.
* Beading mat - in color contrasting to the beads
* Scissors
* Magnifying glasses (if needed)
* Lamp (if needed)

Pearl Knotting Revisited - Thursday, April 15th, 7pm

2010-04-12T21:15:00.003-04:00

If you missed pearl knotting the first time, here's your chance to learn!

Supply List:

* 2 packages of size 6 silk to complement beads (comes on a card with needle attached) Size 5 may also be used.
* 8 mm beads (21)
* 6 mm beads (20)
* 4 mm beads (40)
* 8 mm pearls (20) or another bead different from above 8 mm.
* 1 clasp (snap, toggle or hook and eye)
* 2 clam shell
* Scissors
* Clear nail polish
* Beading tweezers or awl (tweezers will be available for purchase at the meeting for a minimal charge.)

The above materials make a necklace approximately 30"-32" inches.

Netted Jewel Earrings

2010-03-11T17:57:00.002-05:00

Hi folks,

Our next meeting is March 18th, 7pm. Brenda Oliver will be teaching Netted Jewel Earrings.

Please read the supply list carefully. The colors listed will make the project in the attached picture. You can change the colors, but it's very important to use the same sizes or the project won't come together correctly.

Hope to see you there!

Supply List:

Netted Jewel Earrings
76 lavender luster size 15 seed beads
10 lavender luster size 11 seed beads
10 matte brown AB size 8 seed beads
12 soft green lumi 3mm fire-polished rounds
6 beige-and-gold luster 4mm fire-polished rounds
8 soft green gold luster 6mm fire-polished rounds
1 pair gold filled ear wires (If you want ones like the picture, French or lever back)
Smoke 4lb braided beading thread

Tools
Size 12 beading needle
Scissors
Beading mat
Light (optional)

Victorian Scallop Necklace - 2/18/2010

2010-02-13T12:09:00.007-05:00

Hi folks,

Our next meeting is February 18th, 7pm. We have a sweet little project for just after Valentine's Day, the Victorian Scallop Necklace.

Supply List:

You can do this in two different sizes, depending upon the beads you have available and personal preference.

Smaller Scale Necklace:
Size 11 Delicas
20 4 mm round crystals (or pearls or similar 4mm bead)
Size 11 Czech Beads
Size 6 Fireline
Needle suitable for the Size 11 beads

Larger Scale Necklace:
Size 8 Hex Beads
14 6 mm round crystals (or pearls or similar 6mm bead)
Size 8 Czech Beads
Size 10 Fireline
Needle suitable for Size 8 Beads

Both:
Scissors
Bead mat
Light (if necessary)
Clasp (barrel clasp works well)

Hope to see you at February's meeting!

* * *

7th Annual Boston's Best Little Bead Show
Friday, Feb 26 10-6
Saturday, Feb 27 10-4
Boston-Dedham Holiday Inn Hotel and Conference Center
55 Ariadne Road
Dedham, MA
(Exit 15A off I-95/route 128)
Admission $4/ $6 for 2 days

Retail / Wholesale Open to the Public

* * *

Diane Fizgerald 2010 Bead Calender - free download!

Welcome back! Long and Sparkly Lariat

2010-01-19T15:18:00.002-05:00

Hi folks,

Well welcome back! Hope everyone had a good holiday season! We have a great new project to start off the year.

***

Long and Sparkly Lariat

This is a pretty and easy necklace. If you have extra beads, it would be very easy to make matching earrings.

There is a small amount of crimping involved so there will be a crimping refresher at the beginning of the meeting. If you have never crimped before, this is a great learning project.

If you already have crimping supplies, you may be able to use them for the project (read carefully the sizes of the wire and crimp beads). If not, you will be able to purchase a kit of crimps and wire for a nominal fee and borrow a pair of crimp pliers.

***

Materials for the Long and Sparkly Lariat

(If you want your project to look like the picture, Color A and Color B are gunmetal and black, respectively)

2 tubes size 8 Hex beads - Color A
1 tube size 8 round beads - Color B
1 tube size 8 round beads - Color A
20 beads size 6 rounds OR triangles OR drops OR cubes (don't bring a mix of different types, just one type)
6 accent beads, sizes 4-6 mm. (Examples of accent beads might be crystals, pearls, etc.)
2 rondelles OR two additional accent beads with holes large enough to hide crimp beads.
Scotch tape or bead stoppers.
Scissors.
Crimp pliers.

At least 12 size 2x2 crimp beads
1 spool of size .012 19-strand or .014 21-strand Beadalon or Accu-flex or Softlfex wire
(If you don't have wire and crimp beads, kits will be sold at the meeting for a nominal fee and crimp pliers will be available for borrowing.)

Last but not least, this necklace is going to be very slim and subtle. You probably want to go for sparkly and shiny (especially with the hex beads) and especially if selecting neutral colors so it doesn't get visually lost when worn.

2009-09-29T14:13:00.002-04:00

Just a reminder, today is the last day of the Brewster Ladies Library Display. The library's open until 8pm, so you still have time to catch it!

2009-09-29T13:59:00.002-04:00

Hi folks,

A big thank you to Jan Falcone and her helpers for teaching the Garden Necklace. Certain aspects were challenging, but the project was well worth the effort. Please bring your completed project to the next meeting, I'm sure everyone would love to see them.

Thanks again Jan!

* * *

It was good to see so many new faces at our last meeting. Let me take this opportunity to say thanks again for coming and to make a brief correction. If you were interested in the West Dennis Bead 'n Chat, it is the LAST Wednesday of the month, so the next West Dennis Bead 'n Chat will be *September 30th*, not tomorrow.

* * *

Our next project will be taught by Deborah Moore Thursday, October 15th and will be the Harlequin Bracelet done in African Helix.

Supply List:

Materials for the Harlequin bracelet
A pencil, dowel or knitting needle (size 8-11 work well)
(A) 8 grams each of 4 different color size 8 seed beads (colors A-D);
4 grams each of white and black size 11 seed beads (for rib);
4 grams each of 4 color size 11 seed beads to match the size 8 seed beads.
(B) size 10 or 12 beading needle
(C) Fireline 10 lb beading thread or alternate of your choice.
(D) Various beads for embellishment (optional)
(E) Clasp of your choice if you don’t want to make toggle closure

General Information

The African Helix stitch is very versatile. You can modify this bracelet by using different materials in one or many colors. You can complete 3, 4 or 5 panels separated by the “rib” beads. You can graduate the wide by using size 8 beads to start and then converting to size 11 beads in the same or different colors. You may use bugle beads for the panels and size 8 or 11 seed beads for the ribs. Experiment and have fun!

It is important to match the width of your knitting needle, dowel or pencil to the circle created in your set-up round. It should be snug but not so tight that you can’t move the tube as it grows.

If this is your first African Helix piece I would recommend using size 8 seed beads for the panels and size 11 seed beads for the ribbing. Using different colors makes a fun piece but it isn’t necessary to make every panel a different color. At a minimum I would recommend that you choose a color for the rib beads that is different from the panel beads.

2009-09-17T17:16:00.001-04:00

Hi folks,

First, a warm thank you to Brenda Oliver and her helpers for teaching the Coraling Technique class. I hope you're all having fun with this versatile technique and we'll be seeing some of your lovely projects at the next meeting.

Thanks again Brenda!

* * *

Our next project is the Garden Necklace. This is a pretty necklace you can embellish as much (or as little) as you like.

Supply List:

Size eleven seed beads (for the "strands" or body of the necklace and the flower/leaf embellishment). It's recommended that you select,

* Three colors for the strands or body of the necklace (usually light greens or beiges)
* Six (or more) colors for the flowers.
* Two colors for the leaves. (usually medium greens that can also be paired up with the light greens/beiges).
* Size 15 seed beads to coordinate with the colors used in the flowers. These will be used for embellishments.

Additional beads that might be nice include small "daggers" for some of the leaves, 3mm Czech beads for the flower centers, 3mm or 4mm cubes or maybe some drops. None of these are mandatory, just if you have them lying around.

Size 6 Fireline

Size 10 needles and maybe a size 12 if you need a smaller needle to go through some of the Size 15 beads.

Scissors.

Wax or Thread Heaven.

Beading mat in a contrasting color to the beads in your project.

A clasp.

13th Annual Cape Cod Bead Show

2009-08-15T09:34:00.003-04:00

Falmouth Rec Center
790 Main Street
Falmouth, MA 02540
August 15th-16th
Sat 10-5
Sun 10-4

2009-07-29T17:03:00.006-04:00

Hi folks,

Thank you so much for the great turnout on Thursday! We saw some faces we haven't seen in awhile, added one new member and got to play with our beautiful rivolis with the instruction of Jan Falcone and her helpers.

Thanks again everyone!

* * *

August Meeting - Coral Strand Necklace - Brenda Oliver, instructor

Size 11 seed beads
Size 15 seed beads (optional to embellish tips)

(Quantity depends on length of necklace, length of branches, closeness of branches and number of strands. Average strand 18", 3/4 " fringe, 3/4" spacing.)

6# fireline
size 12 needles
mat, scissors, round and flat nose pliers for finishing
clasp, bead cap or cones for finishing ends

* * *

If you are still working on your rivoli...or if you're stuck on your rivoli...or if you're stuck on any other project, why not come to a Bead and Meet? There are no guarantees, but there's a good chance someone can help you. The Bead and Meets are as follows,

* Lower Cape Bead'nMeet
Orleans Senior Center, Room A
150 Rock Harbor Road, Orleans
Third Monday of every month, 1-3:30 pm

* Mid Cape Bead'nMeet
West Dennis Library
260 Route 28 West Dennis
Last Wednesday of every month, 5-9 pm

* Upper Cape Bead'nMeet
Stop'n Shop Community Room
3900 Falmouth Road, Marstons Mills
First Saturday of every month, 10 am-12 pm

* * *

Feeling tense? Check out the Beadwork Master Class article in the Aug/Sept issue of "Beadwork" magazine. Author Nancy Cain says some interesting things about how to control and use thread tension and how to "let the beads do the work".

2009-07-08T22:54:00.003-04:00

Thank you everyone who attended our last meeting!

The wire bead crochet taught by Brenda turned out to be a highly rewarding project. Even those of us "crochet impaired" folks were well on our way before the end of the meeting.

Thanks again Brenda and everyone who assisted in the class.

* * *

Our next project is the Beaded Rivoli

Rivolis are beautiful crystal shapes without holes (look at the attached pictures). This project will allow your rivoli to be used as a pendant while still allowing the light to shine through.

* * *

Supply List

20mm rivoli (supplied by the Bead Society of Cape Cod)
6lb Fireline
needle size 10 or 12
Size 11 Delicas Color A (small amount, approximately 200)
Size 11 Delicas Color B (small amount, approximately 200)
Size 15 regular seed beads (small amount to match/contrast with Color A)
Size 15 regular seed beads (small amount to match/contrast with Color B)
Light and/or magnifying glass (if needed)
Beading mat – color that shows up the beads – (dark beads – light mat)
Scissors
Pen/pencil for notes
Thread Heaven or other thread conditioner if desired

* * *

Hope to see you there!

Follow-up to May meeting

2009-06-07T20:27:00.000-04:00

Around twenty-five people attended our last meeting, including three new folks! Ann Hochman and her helpers FINALLY were able to teach the cube bracelet project (remember, this was the project originally snowed out in January).

This was a challenging class, but people worked hard (both attendees and teachers) and some stunning examples of work were taking shape at the end of class.

Thanks again Ann and everyone who helped!

* * *

Our next meeting will be the Bead Crochet taught by Brenda Oliver.

Bead Crochet Supply List

* 50 - 75 Beads (Exact size is not important, they can be stone chips, pearls, size 6s or other similar size/weight ).
* Metal F,G, or H Crochet hook (hook should be SHARP, not rounded)

This website has an illustration of several different types of crochet hooks. The top blue "Boye" hook is an example of what you want. The middle pink "Bates" hook is an example of what you don't want. See the difference in the tips?

* Wire cutters, round nose pliers and flat pliers
* Tape
* Cones
* Clasp
* lamp, etc, if needed.

Bead Crochet Homework (very short)

If you selected a spool of wire at the last meeting, string fifty of your beads on the wire. DO NOT CUT THE WIRE!

If you were not at the last meeting, just bring your beads with you to the June meeting. We'll help you get caught up.

2009-05-04T21:33:00.002-04:00

Hi folks,

Thank you so much, everyone who turned out for Deborah Moore's ruffled bracelet class. There were twenty people in attendance and the variety shown in the different bracelets was quite lovely. This was a fun project and Deb, thanks again!

***

IMPORTANT DATE CHANGE

Due to the needs of the police, the date of the next meeting in May has changed. We are now meeting Thursday, May 28th. (One week from our previous date.)

I know this may cause some inconvenience, but as you all know, the meeting room is first and foremost a space for the police have trainings and events.

Hopefully, this will not put too many people out and we anticipate going back to our regular schedule in June.

***

Thanks everyone...

2009-04-06T07:18:00.003-04:00

Around twenty people attended our last meeting where Marge Primavera and her helpers taught the St. Petersburg Chain. This is a pretty stitch, but not the easiest to learn. Many people were well on their way to creating so beautiful things so don't forget to bring your completed projects to show off on the board.

Thanks again Marge!

* * *

Our next meeting will be the Ruffle bracelet taught by Deb Moore.

Materials

65 g size 8 round seed beads (metal or glass) -(Delica cylinders will NOT work)

About 300 2mm corner less cubes or

size 10 or 11 hex or

size 10 or 11 Triangles.

Fireline 10 lb beading thread

Clasps - Will be available to members at the meeting.

Needles, scissors, mat, light, etc.

Homework:

Yes, there is some homework. This is so you can make your band ahead of time and concentrate on the ruffle for the class. It won't take too long, these are eights and it will work up VERY quickly.

***

String an even number of the seed beads to fit your wrist, leaving an eight inch tail.

(72 of the seed beads will fit a 6 1/2 inch wrist. Adjust as necessary (keep the beads an even number). The completed band should ALMOST meet around your wrist.)

Work in Peyote stich until the band is four beads wide on each end (eight rows).

* * *

Glass Bead Extravaganza
April 25, 2009
Holiday Inn (NEW LOCATION!)
265 Lakeside Avenue
Marlborough, MA 01752
10:00am-5:00pm
$3 Admission

* * *

St. Petersburg Chain - March 19th

2009-03-03T20:32:00.006-05:00

Meet and greet - 6pm-7pm
Meeting - 7pm-9:30 pm

* * *

A big thank you to everyone who participated in the Tattoo necklace class! Our first meeting back after the holiday break (and bad weather) and your presence was greatly appreciated. Thank you both those who taught and those who participated.

* * *

Show and Tell

I hear many people were well on their way to completing a Tattoo stitch necklace. Bring in your completed projects and show them off!

* * *

Our next meeting will be the St. Petersburg Chain, March 19th at the Dennis Police Station Community Room.

This is a beautiful elegant stitch that can be adapted to many different bead sizes. I recommend choosing the larger bead sizes for learning the stitch.

List of materials:

Select at least two (2) sizes of beads from the combinations listed below.

Select rounded seed beads (Czech) rather than cylinders or delicas

Main Color - Size 11 seed beads (60 per inch)
Larger Bead - 4 mm round bead (6 per inch)
Optional Arm End Bead - Size 15, 10, 11, 2mm, size 8 (12 per inch)

Main Color - Size 10 seed beads (50 per inch)
Larger Bead - Size 6 seed beads (5 per inch)
Optional Arm End Bead Size 15, 10, 11, 2mm, Size 8 (5 per inch)

Main Color - Size 8 seed beads (80 per 3 inches)
Larger Bead - 6 mm round bead (10 per 3 inches)
Optional Arm End Bead - 3 mm round bead (10 per 3 inches)

In the attached pictures, the turquoise/silver/silver half stitch shows the Eights/6mm/3mm combination. The gray/silver/darker gray combination shows the Elevens/3mm with 15s as a picot stitch.

Your thread and needle will depend on the size beads used. You should be able to pass the thread through the beads at least FIVE times. I recommend doing some testing beforehand to make sure this will work.

Also, it's not enough to simply get the needle through. The necklace needs to be loose enough to drape. If the stitch is so very tight it sits on your neck like a stiff thing, that's not going to be the desired result.

Do some playing around. And if you're not certain which beads/thread/needles to use, bring an assortment with you to the meeting and we'll assist you.

And of course, along with the needles/beads/thread, bring,

Bead mat
Scissors
Light (if you need it).

Tattoo Necklace - February 19th

2009-02-09T21:39:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone,

I know it was a disappointment to everyone that we had to cancel the last meeting. The Cube Bracelet has been re-scheduled for MAY.

I know that's a bit of a wait, but re-scheduling is a little tricky, so I hope you all understand.

Meanwhile, our next meeting will be the Tattoo Necklace on February 19th. This is a relatively easy and fun project.

Supply list for Tattoo Necklace

1. size 8 seed bead for a smaller more delicate size necklace or
2. size 6 seed bead for a larger bead size necklace that works up more quickly. (one large tube of size 6 Czech glass seed beads will make a 17/18 inch necklace). Nymo D bead thread or Fireline, 4-6 lb.

Beeswax or Thread Heaven

Beading needles, #10

Clasp

Clear nail polish or G-S Hypo cement

Beading mat, scissors, light

* * *

Bead and Meet at Orleans Senior Center will be back in MARCH.

PLEASE NOTE: Because of Monday holidays, the Orleans "Bead and Meet" will not meet again until March 16th.

* * *

6th Annual Boston's Best Little Bead Show
Friday, Feb 27 ( 10-7) and Sat. Feb 28 (10-4)
at the Boston -Dedham Holiday Inn,
55 Ariadne Rd. (Exit 15A off I-95/route 128) Dedham, MA
$4. admission

2009-01-02T16:17:00.005-05:00

I hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving holiday, our November 20th meeting - Netted Beads -- was attended by many familiar faces and a couple of new ones. This was a fun project with a lot of room for variation.

Some people used the glass pearls, others their own 12 mm beads and some members improvised with different sizes and types. Jane Kucks and her helpers did a great job and a number of people had completed a netted bead by the end of the night.

Thank you very Jane and everyone who assisted!

The next meeting will be the Peyote Stitch Base Bracelet on January 15th, 2009.

We only have so many hours in a meeting and we want to concentrate on the fun stuff (embellishing the bracelet base). So there will be some homework (making the base). It will go very quickly because of the size of the beads involved. Just get your supplies together and dive in.

* * *

SUPPLIES for 7 1/2" Peyote Stitch base bracelet.

Beads/Components/Stringing Materials:

-30 g size 4 cubes (do not substitute)
-6 g size 8 Japanese seed beads (do not substitute)
-8 g size 11 Japanese seed beads (do not substitute)
-60 4 mm flat daisy spacers
-6 lb. fireline or Nymo D thread, conditioned
-#12 Beading needle
-(2) 2" 20 gauge eye pins for toggle clasp -- silver plated eye pins will be available at the meeting

Tools:
-Chain nose pliers
-Round nose pliers
-Wire cutters and scissors
Other:

Sharpie Magic Marker or other shape with 1/2" diameter to shape toggle wire loop
Bead mat, Lighting, Scissors, Ruler, Masking tape, Thread Heaven or beeswax
* * *

HOMEWORK

In order to complete bracelet clasp and embellishment within alloted time, please come to the meeting with a completed peyote stitched bracelet base.

* When measuring the length of the bracelet, allow 1 1/2" for the toggle clasp.
* The width of your bracelet will be (4) size 4 cubes. On 2 yds of conditioned stringing thread, attach a "stopper bead." Leave an 8" tail.
* String (4) size 4 cubes and continue in peyote stitch until you reach the desired length.
* Do not cut off excess thread at either end of your bracelet base and do not remove stopper bead.
Please RSVP so that we have enough eye pins for everyone in attendance.
* * *

Peyote Stitch Tutorial
If you need a peyote stitch refresher, almost every bead magazine or general beading book will have a tutorial. There's also a number of online tutorials, I've linked to just a few here, including one video.
Suzanne Cooper's peyote stitch tutorial
Bead and Button's Peyote stitch tutorial
Peyote Stitch Video

2008-11-09T13:16:00.006-05:00

Our October 16th meeting - Beaded Snowflake -- was attended by thirty people. The project was challenging, but people were very motivated and many were close to completion by the end of the evening. Thank you everyone who taught and made it happen!

If you want to know more about the floor wax used to stiffen the final project, Make magazine has a brief article about Future Floor Wax and its properties.

* * *

The November 20th class will be Netted Beads. These beads can be strung later with a combination of other beads to make a necklace, bracelet or even a pair of earrings.

For the netted bead, you will need the following supplies:

Large, round 12mm beads (After learning the technique you can experiment with different sizes … but for the class, use 12mm beads)
5 size 6/0 seed beads, for each 12mm bead
3 colors of size 11/0 seed beads, a small amount of each color, (preferably Japanese Matsunos)
2 beading needles
Nymo D, Power Pro fishing line or Silamide beading thread
Paper clips, quilting pins and ear nuts, or twist ties (something to put the 12mm bead on while you do the netting and to hold your work in place until you use the bead for a later project).

Cape Cod Bead Society Pot Luck Holiday Party - Tuesday, Dec 2nd.

This will be at the Dennis Senior Center, Koenig Hall, downstairs. There is an elevator in the building.

Bring a wrapped bead related item worth $10 for the grab bag.

There will be a Sign-up Sheet at the meeting for people who want to bring tasty items to the potluck. (hint, hint)

* * *

Bead and Meet at the Orleans Senior Center

Come to the "Bead and Meet" at the Orleans Senior Center. Please bring something beady to work on and have a fun time working and chatting with others. There is a $2 charge for use of the space.

The Bead and Meet will be the third Monday of the month, 1-3:30 pm in Room A.

Please contact Ann Hochman if you're planning to attend

* * *

We have a potential Bead and Meet location in Cotuit at the Stop and Shop.

If you would attend a Bead and Meet in Cotuit, please contact Linda Lord so we can gauge the level of interest.

* * *

Innovative Beads Expo
Embassy Suites Hotel
123 Boston Post Road West
Marlborough, MA 01752

Friday, November 14 - 10AM to 5PM
Saturday, November 15 - 10AM to 5PM
Sunday, November 16 - 10AM to 4PM

http://www.innovativebeadsexpo.com/

* * *

Stiff neck or stiff back? Check out Yoga for Crafters.

2008-10-01T21:49:00.006-04:00

* * *

Our September 18th meeting - Chain Maille -- was well attended by over thirty people. Mardee Verdina and her helpers did a great job teaching the class. Even us chain maille novices "got it" and were well on our way by the end of the evening.

Thank you Mardee and thank you everyone!

For your reference, the materials used for the class were,

Kits - 18 gauge jump rings, Size 7 OD (outer diameter)

Raffle kits - 14 gauge jump rings, Size 9 OD (outer diameter)

There are many web tutorials on chain maille and chain maille jewelry. Do some searching and you'll find tons of tutorials and ideas. Have fun!

* * *

The October 16th class will be a Beaded Snowflake. This is a very pretty project that looks more difficult than it is and you'll be in good shape for winter holiday gift giving. Supply list for snowflake

Color A size Eight beads
Color B size Eight beads
Twelve bicone crystals, 6mm
Fireline 10lb (difficult to find, will be available at the meeting)
One beading needle, big eye if desired.
Beading thread
Scissors, mat, light, thread conditioner.

Tip: You can work with just one color bead, but I strongly suggest working with two colors while learning. Make sure your two colors contrast strongly, if you pick greenish-blue and bluish green, you might as well just work all in the same color.

This project does not use a ton of beads. I used two 3.5" long tubes of Eights and still had beads left over. It's worth your while to pay a little extra and get uniformly shaped beads with attractive finishes.

One of the attached pictures is of a snowflake worked in Size eleven beads. If you want to try Elevens, use 4mm crystals and 6lb Fireline. This is a more challenging way to learn, so please keep that in mind.

See you at the October meeting!

2008-08-09T09:44:00.003-04:00

Twelfth Annual Cape Cod Bead Show

790 Main St, Falmouth, MA 02540

At the Falmouth "Rec" Center.

August 16 & 17

Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4

Admission: $3.00

August 21st Meeting Annoucement.

2008-08-09T09:31:00.004-04:00

The July 17 meeting--Kumihimo-- was the largest attendance we have ever had. Thanks to Jan Falcone and her helpers for all of their work!

Next month (August 21st) is the Bump Bracelet taught by Mardee Verdina.This is done in even count flat peyote with a little twist to form a bump. Please familiarize yourself with even count flat peyote before coming to the class, there are numerous sources on the web or look in the back of a good bead magazine.

Supplies for a 7 inch bracelet including the clasp.

90 #6 Beads
180 #8 Beads
180 #11Beads
210 #15 Beads
105 #15 Beads in a contrasting color (this is optional) You can use one color only
6 lb Fireline - Needle of choice as long as it will pass through the #15 beads
2 Strand Clasp
Scissors, bead mat, etc.

For those of you that know the stitch and want to get a jump start on the class you can string 10 beads and weave ( in peyote) 3 rows of 15's, 3 rows of contrasting 15's, 3 rows of 15's, 3 rows of 11's, 3 rows of 8's, and be ready to start the bump. Leave at least a 10 inch tail in case you need to adjust the length larger than 7".

Below are two examples of the Bump Bracelet using slightly different beads. Once you learn the technique you can experiment with different beads.

2008-07-13T17:09:00.001-04:00

Sandwich Glass Museum has an exhibit on Contemporary Lampworked Beads from seven New England bead artists.
The exhibit runs July 1st through September 31, 2008. Sandwich Glass Museum.
The museum is open daily 9:30am to 5:00 pm and admission is $5.
The Museum is located at the corner of Route 130 and Tupper Road at 129 Main Street.

For more information, contact them by phone (508)888-0251 or visit their website. http://www.sandwichglassmuseum.org/

2008-07-13T17:06:00.001-04:00

The June meeting--Russian Spiral- was a huge success with 27 members attending to learn the weave. Thanks to Brenda Oliver for all of her work in preparing the instructions and teaching.

Many of the members brought in a favorite piece of jewelry that they had made. Really wonderful pieces were brought in from past classes and beyond so we all walked away inspired by the members work. Let's do it again next month. Bring as much as you want.

Next month is Kumihimo/braiding taught by Jan Falcone. Jan will teach you how to make a bracelet using size six beads that looks very much like bead crochet.

The Bead Society will furnish the Braiding board to the first 30 people that RSVP to this notice. I will also be ordering clasps for those that want them at $3.95 a clasp. You must tell me if you want silver or gold and your order must be to me by July 1. These clasps are not your ordinary clasp since they have to be glued on to the cord.

Supplies;

Size 6 beads - approximately 320 for the bracelet.

Thread--silk floss available at www.weirdollsandcrafts.com

6 strand embroidery thread. Separate into three strands for each of the 8 lengths

C-Lon Bead Cord available at www.MoondanceDesigns.com Moon Dance Designs is offering the Bead Society free shipping on any order of at least $30 and the order must include C-Lon Cord, C-Lon Micro Cord, and/or the new Tex 400.

Don't forget to check your local bead stores to see what they may offer for Kumihimo braiding.

Homework: This class requires that you do some work at home to prepare for the class.

You must string 8 - 30" cords with 60 beads each and then tie them all together with an overhand knot. Knot is at the very end of the cords. We cannot take the time in class to string the 8 cords so please come prepared with the above cords ready to go.

2008-06-08T13:26:00.002-04:00

7th Annual Divine Bead Festival
Mansfield/Foxboro Holiday Inn
31 Hampshire Street
Mansfield MA 02048
Sunday, June 22 2008
Admission: $4

For info, contact Terri at 631-288-8914 or funkystuffbeads@aol.com

Bead Society Meeting - Thursday, June 19th

2008-05-31T13:41:00.002-04:00

Our next meeting will be on Thursday June 19th at the Dennis Police Station.

Brenda Oliver will be teaching the Russian Spiral. This is a fun and quick stitch with lots of variations for an interesting necklace or bracelet.

Supply list:

Size 15/0 seed beads Size 11/0 seed beads

Use a combination of 11/0 and 8/0 if the 15/0's are too small for you to see.

A size 12 needle or one fine enough to pass through the 15/0 beads several times Nymo size B or Fireline. Nymo will make a softer necklace and Fireline a stiffer one.

8mm filler bead for the bumps. This helps to keep the bump rigid but it is an option. If you want the bump to lay flat just omit the filler bead.

Clasp Mat, scissors and what ever else you need.

Let's have a show and tell table for the next meeting. Bring in your most favorite piece that you have made. It is always fun to see what others have done and to get some inspiration for future projects. See you soon!

2008-05-10T11:52:00.002-04:00

Our next meeting is May 15. Alyce McCloughlin will be teaching a Bangle made with a Diamond Net Cable.

Supplies:

One beading needle, size 12 or big eye if desired. If you are using charlottes a big eye might have trouble fitting through the beads.
Beading thread--Nymo size D or fireline.
174 round 4mm beads
Seed beads, size 11
color A seed beads, size 15/0
color B seed beads, size 15/0
Scissors, mat, light, thread conditioner.

Look at the attached picture and you will see that the black and gold one only used one color of size 15/0's. Black Onyx was used for the 4mm beads. The other bracelet used round crystals and one color of 15/0's.

To construct the Bangle you build a cable of beads to fit comfortably over your hand. The supply list is for an 8cm bracelet. You can also construct several cables and attach them with larger beads to form a necklace.

Tip: The larger the number for wire or for needles the smaller the wire or thinner the needle. So 24 gauge wire is very thin and 14 gauge is thick. A size 12 needle is very fine and a 10 is heavier.

We are still giving some great door prizes at each meeting so hope you can come and maybe go home with a nice kit, book or gift certificate.

Until May---Happy Beading

2008-04-14T21:26:00.003-04:00

Bead Society Meeting- Peyote/Crimping/Earring Wraps April 17th, 7pm Dennis Police Station

* * *

Thank you everyone who came to Unfinished Objects, participated in the raffle and made the meeting a success!

* * *

For our next meeting, we will be doing a REFRESHER SESSION of three techniques. Those techniques are,

Stringing/Crimping - Basics that make the difference in a strung necklace.

Earring Wraps Refresher - You may never buy earrings again...

Peyote Stitch Refresher Session - Peyote Stitch Inside and Out

Our goal is for everyone who comes to get a chance to participate in TWO of these sessions. When you RSVP, indicate which Refresher is your FIRST choice and which is your SECOND.

Read to the very end of this message to see the supply lists for each of the three Refresher Sessions.

* * *

SUPPLY LIST FOR PEYOTE

"EVEN-COUNT" PEYOTE REFRESHER SUPPLIES

BRING 3 COLORS ( 100 BEADS OF EACH COLOR IS SUFFICIENT) HAVE A STRONG CONTRAST BETWEEN THE COLORS OF THE BEADS.

SIZE 8 JAPANESE "CYLINDER" BEADS OR SIZE 8 HEX JAPANESE "CYLINDER" BEADS

IMPORTANT = ALL 3 COLORS MUST BE THE SAME KIND OF BEADS. YOU CANNOT MIX THE TWO STYLES FOR THIS PROJECT. HEX BEADS ARE LONGER AND WILL NOT FIT WITH NON-HEX.

THESE ARE FLAT-SIDED BEADS, ALMOST TUBE-LIKE, AND FIT TOGETHER BEAUTIFULLY.

THIS IS IMPORTANT FOR THIS STITCH.

DO NOT BRING REGULAR DELICA BEADS. THEY ARE TOO SMALL FOR LEARNING A NEW STITCH.

DO NOT BRING "CHECK"//ROUND-SIDED/BALL-LIKE BEADS. THEY DON'T NESTLE TOGETHER & WILL DRIVE YOU NUTS.

IF YOU DON'T HAVE "CYLINDER" 8 BEADS & DON'T WANT TO SHOP FOR SOME, I CAN MAKE UP SMALL BAGS OF 3 COLORS ($3.00 PER BAG OF 3 COLORS) I WILL DO THIS ONLY IF YOU INDIVIDUALLY REQUEST IT. EMAIL ME IF YOU WANT ME TO BRING BEADS FOR YOU.

THREAD & NEEDLES THESE ARE BIG HOLES. ALMOST ANY "REGULAR" MATERIALS SHOULD FIT. BRING YOUR FAVORITE.

PS IF YOU TOOK THE CLASS BEFORE, PLEASE BRING YOUR COPY OF THE INSTRUCTIONS OR LET MARGE PRIMAVERA KNOW IF YOU NEED A NEW COPY.

SUPPLY LIST FOR CRIMPING/STRINGING

Crimping Technique for Basic Stringing

20 - 2mm sterling crimp beads
Lobster clasps and soldered rings / or toggle clasps
20" - Softflex or Beadalon beading wire - diameter .014 or .019
Must bring your own beads, spacers, crystals, etc. to finish a simple bracelet

Crimping tool
flat or bent nose pliers
nippers or cutters
tape measure
2 common or quilt pins

Linda Lord will bring some basic kits for purchase at $5.00 if you don't have the supplies for crimping. It will include:

2 sterling lobsters
2 soldered jump rings
20 - sterling 2mm crimps
24 " Softflex beading wire
#6 seed beads for ends

SUPPLY LIST FOR EARRING WRAPS

The following supplies are needed for the Basic Earring Wraps:

Sterling french ear wires
2" sterling silver head pins (bring enough head pins for playing) approx. 20
A variety of small and medium glass beads, and silver beads to fit on the head pins.

Linda Lord will have a pkg. of 10- 2" sterling heads pin kits for $2.00.

Round nose pliers
Flat or bent nose pliers
Nippers or cutters

* * *

Don't forget to bring a beading mat, magnifier, light or any other convenience you need to work.

2008-03-01T14:47:00.002-05:00

The Diamond Weave Bracelet was a great success, despite the challenge of a late start. We had a very good turnout, with some faces we haven't seen for awhile. Despite the challenge of a larger group, many people were well on their way and a couple of people had even finished by the end of class. Thanks to Jane Kucks for a great class!

Our next meeting will be Thursday, March 20th. We are scheduled for our usual time of 7pm.

Beep-beep-BEEP...Do you have UFOs in your house? Not men from Mars, UFOs are UnFinished Objects.

Bring your unfinished projects to the next meeting to work on, especially if you're stuck on a step or have run out of steam.

Left-handed people may want to look at the latest copy of Bead and Button. Founding editor Alice Korach has a one-page article on page 18 of tips for left-handers doing beadwork in a right-handed world.

See you March 20!

2008-01-28T20:39:00.001-05:00

We had a large turn out for Ann Hochman's class "Quintessential Necklace". Many of the students went home with a great finished necklace. I have seen this necklace with just three focal points or just one, showing us that a pattern does not always have to be exactly as it was taught. Thanks to Ann for a great class.

Our next meeting is February 21. Jane Kucks will be teaching the Diamond Weave Bracelet.

Supply list:

Fireline, 6lb test or less
1 needle----two if you are making a beaded toggle for the clasp
54 6mm beads
11/0 seed beads (approximately 500)
15/0 delicas or charlottes (optional - may need for fillers)
Clasp -- bring a clasp if you do not wish to make the beaded toggle
Ruler
Beading mat -- scissors, thread conditioner

Look at the attached pictures to see how Jane mixed the colors. It is nice to weave the outside in one color and add a different color in the beads that cross or lay next to the stones. Make sure you have round 6mm beads. You can go to different shapes once you learn the weave but make it easy on yourself and stick to round for learning.

Tip: When threading a needle with fireline, power pro, monofilament or other dense threads, use your pliers to flatten the end. The thread will spread out like a fan which slips right into the eye of the needle.

Remember if the schools are closed we will not have a meeting. The police have told us that in a rare event they may have to use that room in an emergency so our meeting would be cancelled. Check your e-mail the day of the meeting to make sure you don't have a notice of cancellation.

Six lucky members won the Door Prizes at the last meeting. Next month we will have more books, kits and gift certificates to give away. Remember you have to be there to win so plan on coming to the meeting for a chance at these great prizes.

2008-01-16T20:36:00.000-05:00

Innovative Beads Expo
Embassy Suites Hotel
123 Boston Post Rd. West, Exit 24B off 495
Marlborough, MA
Friday, January 18 - 10AM to 5PM
Saturday, January 19 - 10AM to 5PM
Sunday, January 20 - 10AM to 4PM

Fee is $4.00

2008-01-10T20:15:00.001-05:00

A New Year is just around the corner and it is time to start thinking of beading again.

Our next meeting will be Thursday January 17 at 7 PM at the Dennis Police station.

Our instructor will be Ann Hochman. She will be teaching the Quintessential Necklace. Attached are photos of examples of the necklace. Remember you can always substitute what you want for your necklace as long as you stay within the suggested size of beads. This necklace could be made with Turquoise, sterling and red coral or Black Onyx and gold. Anything is possible so use you imagination.

Supply List:

40-46 6 mm or 5 mm beads (crystals, pearls, gem stones or glass beads)

23-29 4 mm beads

36-44 3 mm beads

2 grams of size 11 beads in a contrasting or complimentary color

Clasp of your choice

2 beading needles, #10 or # 12 Big eye needles can be used but make sure they will pass through the beads several times. Be especially careful of this if you are using real pearls.

Ruler, scissors, beading mat, tape or pins to secure beads to work surface.

See you there!

2007-12-16T21:35:00.001-05:00

Even with a rainy and windy night we had a great turnout in our new location for the "Puttin on the Ritz " necklace class. Claire Hannafin and her helpers got everyone on track right away and some even finished the necklace that night. What a way to end the year with a finished necklace in less than three hours.

One of the most frustrating things that I hear from the members is that they cannot pick out the right colors. To help solve this problem, Claire Hannafin brought in sample sheets of the color forecast for fall-winter 2007-2008 and spring-summer 2008. She also gave us a web site where they forecast trends in color for the next year. www.pantone.com Go to the web site and click on fashion and home, then on the left will be trends. Click on trends and you will see what the famous designers are predicting. They have very trendy graphics so you can easily visualize what they are talking about.

It has been another great year for the Bead Society. We continue to grow and meet new friends with the same interest. I personally have seen a remarkable change in our members abilities to read a pattern and learn a new stitch in a short period of time. Even the new members that have never beaded before are catching on quickly and making wonderful pieces of jewelry. Our members are always sharing ideas and from what I have observed, if someone near them is struggling they jump in and help so no one falls behind. All in all I would say it is a very nice group of women that belong to the Bead Society.

Our class schedule is almost complete for 2008 and I am sure you are going to enjoy what we have chosen. The new classes will be fun and challenging with lots of new techniques. I have attached a picture of January's class. The supply list will be out later.

I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving with their family and friends. See you in January!

LOCATION CHANGE!

2007-11-08T21:25:00.001-05:00

Please note, we are now meeting in the Community Room of the DENNIS Police Station, at the corner of Bob Crowell Road and Route 134. We still meet the 3rd Thursday of each month at 7pm. See you there!

Upcoming Shows

2007-11-08T21:21:00.001-05:00

The Innovative Beads Expo 2007

Nov 16, Friday - 10am-5pm
Nov 17, Saturday - 10am-5pm
Nov 18, Sunday - 10am-4pm
Marlborough, MA - Embassy Suites Hotel
www.InnovativeBeadsExpo.com

2007-11-02T20:54:00.000-04:00

The Holiday Ornament class was a huge success. Although it was a challenge, everyone seemed to get the idea and went home able to complete the star. Special thanks to Marge Primavera and her helpers that put so much time and effort into making the kits and writing the instructions. Now let's get dressed up for New Years with a great necklace that is sure to bring lots of compliments.

This is a right angle weave technique using two needles. Claire Hannafin will be the instructor.

Supply list:

3 grams of 13/o charlottes or same amount of 15/o seed beads

30 6mm top drilled beads Swarovski top drilled bicones are shown but any top drilled bead would work. Tear drops, top drilled pearls, top drilled leaves etc. The drops do not necessarily have to be 6mm. Could be 9x6 teardrops or something else. Just make sure your 244 beads compliment the size of the drops.

244 3 or 4mm pearls or beads. 4mm Swarovsky pearls were used in the above sample

Fireline or thread of choice. NOT Nymo. It splits too easily when crossing needles.

2 needles -- If using big eye needles and pearls, make sure they will go through the pearls. This is only a problem with natural freshwater pearls because the holes are so small.

1 clasp

Beading mat, 2 straight pins to anchor work on mat. Scissors.

Have fun picking out some great beads for this fancy necklace. See you soon,

Upcoming Shows

2007-10-02T21:12:00.000-04:00

International Gem and Jewelry Show

Oct 12-14 1277 Main St. Spfld, MA (The Mass Mutual Center) Springfield, MA

Fri 12-6, Sat 10-6, Sun 11-45

Bead Affair

Oct 13 Armenian Cultural Center, 47 Nichols Ave. Watertown, MA Sat 10-5 only one day.

2007-10-02T21:10:00.000-04:00

September meeting--Janna taught 24 enthusiastic members how to surround a cabochon. It is a great technique to know and we thank Janna for showing the members how to do this. Don't forget to bring in your finished work for all of us to see at the next meeting.

October is our Holiday project--Marge Primavera will teach the members how to make a three dimensional star. This looks like a very difficult project but trust me, it is not. The good news is that everyone that ATTENDS the meeting will be given a complimentary kit to make the star. You only have to bring your bead mat, scissors and if you have it, one 2 1/2" big eye needle. We are teaching the Holiday project in October to give you time to make these wonderful ornaments for your friends and family in time for the Holiday season. You must RSVP for this meeting since the amount of kits are limited.

2007-08-28T22:01:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Jan Falcone and the expert aid of Marge Primavera for teaching 24 enthusiastic members how to make peyote-stitched Beaded Beads. This was a really neat project and many people went home with a lovely Beaded Bead that night, thanks to Jan's terrific instruction.

If you are making more Beaded Beads, don't forget to bring them in for the finished work board so we can see what the students did with the stitch taught at the last meeting.

Next month Janna Pereira will be teaching beaded cabochons. There's some simple sewing techniques and some peyote stitch involved, which many of you should be old hands at now .

Supply List A cabochon. More on choosing a cabochon below. Two sets of beads, one slightly larger than the other. More on selecting beads below. Scissors, beading mat, scissors Light, magnification (if necessary). Nymo thread. This should easily go through both sizes of your beads at least twice. It will be fairly visible, so select thread that matches (or contrasts pleasingly) with your beads and cabochon. Needles. Bring needles that will go through both sizes of your beads easily and are sturdy enough to easy go through layers of Stiff Stuff and Ultrasuede. "Big Eye" needles or very flexible "wire" needles are not appropriate.

Choosing your cabochon. – A cabochon is a stone or other object with a flat back and a convex (dome) top. Most commonly, we are talking about stones, but there are also glass (especially dichroic) cabochons.A good cabochon is one that has a nicely proportioned dome tapering to a thin edge.

Whatever you use needs to be flat-backed. And for a first project, you pobably want to work with a LARGER item. How large is larger? Let's say larger than a US quarter, which is about 24 mm in diameter.

If you're feeling adventurous, you could also use a coin or a button. Keep in mind, a coin will be more difficult than a domed cabochon. If selecting a button, try to pick a button as close to the dome shape as possible. If there's a protruding shank on the button, it will have to be removed before class.

Choosing your beads – For this class you will need two sizes of beads, one slightly larger than the other. For example,

Size eights and size tens/elevens.

OR, Size tens/elevens and size fifteens.

OR, Size sixes and size eights.

I would strongly encourage people to work with Eights and Tens/Elevens or Tens/Fifteens.

One last thing to consider, the larger of the two bead sizes is going to surround the cabochon. Think about proportion. Big Size 6 beads are not going to work sitting around a US quarter. If you want to work with Size 6 beads, choose a thicker, more substantial cabochon.

To give you an idea, the cabochons in the attached pictures are of the following materials,

Tan cab & white/tan beads - Agate cabochon, bead sizes ten, eleven and fifteen.

Coin & red beads - Canadian "loony" coin, bead sizes ten and fifteens

Black button & blue/white beads - Vintage button, bead sizes eights, tens and fifteens. This shape had a very high dome and turned out to be surprisingly difficult to work with, hence the three different sizes of beads used.

Black & white cab/purple beads - This is actually one of the large "marbles" used decoratively in vases, backed with a piece of origami paper, with size eight and ten beads. The marble is very irregular and the beads are all cheapie jobs from the craft store. As you can see from the picture, the result is not particularly graceful, but still recognizable. I made this piece specifically to illustrate that you can work with less than optimum materials and still have a recognizable result.

Please ask if you have questions about purchasing supplies and I hope to see you at September's meeting.

2007-08-28T22:00:00.000-04:00

Bead Fiesta
September 7, 8 & 9
Holiday Inn & Suites
265 Lakeside Ave.
Exit 24A off Rte. 495
Marlborough, MA
http://www.beadfiesta.com/

2007-07-31T21:52:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Marge Primavera and her helpers for teaching 34 enthusiastic members how to weave a herringbone stitch. Marge not only taught the stitch but how to finish off the work and add a focal bead. Very detailed instructions were passed out to everyone. That takes a lot of work so thanks again to Marge.

We will now be having a finished work board so we can see what the students did with the stitch taught at the last meeting. So bring in your work and share it with the rest of the members.

Next month Jan Falcone will be teaching how to make beads out of beads. You will be using the even count flat peyote stitch to work up a pattern that will be made into a bead.

Sew your different beads together and Bingo you have a very interesting bracelet, necklace or earrings. Use your imagination and all of those left over beads you have been accumulating. Jan had many samples on the bulletin board at the last meeting that were just fantastic. She will bring them in again to give you ideas.

Supplies:

Size 11 beads - 3 colors

Size 8 beads - 1 color

Size 8 Hex beads - 2 colors

Optional - drops, daggers or size 15 beads for embellishment

Fireline 6lb

Needle Size 10 & 12 (for 15's)

Approx 6 8mm glass beads

Clasp of your choice

Mat

Scissors - Magnifying glasses if needed - Lamp if needed

Check out the put and take box at the next meeting. One of our members is an antique dealer and said she had lots of old pieces of jewelry that she would be glad to donate to the box next month.

11th annual Cape Cod Bead Show

2007-07-16T21:21:00.000-04:00

Cape Cod Bead Show
Falmouth Rec Center - 790 Main Street
Falmouth, MA
August 18-19

Sat 10-5

Sunday 10-4

$3.00 admission
www.thebeadtree.com

July 19th, Bead Society Meeting, 7pm

2007-07-09T06:45:00.000-04:00

Summer is here and the beading is easy... Jan Falcone did a wonderful job teaching at our last meeting, thank you Jan!

With Jan's instruction and some aid from our helpers, a total of 14 were able to enjoy mastering the beautiful Loop D Loop bracelet. Please bring your creations to the next meeting, I am looking forward to seeing what everyone has done and I'm sure others are also.

Thursday, July 19th, Marge Primavera will be teaching Herringbone Cord. This is an attractive and versatile technique, one with a lot of room for variation. You will learn the technique on a 6-bead Cord in class. After you master the technique, then you can switch over to whatever size, pattern, or bead-number cord pleases you for your personal cord.

Also, since we will be doing a Beaded Cabochon in September, consider that you might want to coordinate your cord with your cabochon for a necklace. Just something to keep in mind when you're picking your bead colors.

Supplies:

Beads (at least 100 beads each of 2 or 3 colors for class sample) If you have even the slightest difficulty seeing or handling small beads, size 8 or even size 6 are STRONGLY recommended for this class. Also, if you like quick results, larger beads will work up much faster.

Needles and thread. Whatever will pass through you beads AT LEAST 3 TIMES. Thread color should match or blend with bead color(s).

Mat.

Scissors.

Light (if necessary).

Magnifiying glasses (ditto).

Have a safe and happy holiday week and see you in a few weeks!

Thanks to all of you who RSVP-ed for the last meeting.

2007-06-04T22:10:00.000-04:00

We had a record turn-out of 42 and everyone had a place to sit because we knew they were coming. Alyce did a great job of teaching pearl knotting and everyone was able to master the technique. Since then I have seen several of the members and they are all wearing their great pearl knotted creations.

Thursday, June 21st at 7pm, Jan Falcone will be teaching the Loop D Loop Bracelet. This is another fun and easy stitch that gives great flashy results and you get to use all of those left over beads that have not found a home.

Supplies:
1 tube of #6 beads or 3mm cubes for the base. Cylindrical rather than round are best
6 grams of a mixed assortment of beads. 11's, 8's, small bugles, drops, cubes, bicones or what ever you would like. Just have fun with what you have. Look at the attached photos and see what she used for an example.
Fireline 6 lb or thread of your choice. About 5 yards.
Beading mat in a contrasting color from your beads
Size 10 needle, but a 12 or big eye should work.
Thread Heaven or other thread conditioner
Clasp of your choice or a self made clasp with loop and button works too.
Lamp and magnifying glass if needed.
Scissors

I have attached three pictures to give you some ideas. The crystal one will not be taught because it is a slightly different technique but it gives you an idea of what you can do with the basic stitch.

Show and tell--bring in some of your completed projects for everyone to see.

See you there!

2007-04-24T18:17:00.000-04:00

What a great turnout for our last meeting.We had lots of new people eager to learn new beading techniques. A total of 30 enjoyed making the pearl balls, star bursts and octahedrons.

Our next meeting will be May 17. Alyce McLaughlin will be teaching pearl knotting.

This is a great technique to have in your beading skills. It is not difficult, but to do it right and maintain the tension and proper position of the knot takes some practice. Once you have it you can make lots of wonderful necklaces or branch out as I did in the attached photo of a bracelet.

Alyce has generously donated a large amount of glass pearls for anyone that needs them.You should bring some of your own beads in the event we run out of the donated pearls.

Thanks to Alyce, Bead-Rite has donated all of the thread you will need for the class. The thread is called Silkon and is very nice to work with.

The Bead Society is furnishing the twisted needles that you will need.

You must have tweezers to make the knot. These are not the tweezers that you use to pluck your eyebrows. They are pointed on the end and very sharp. We will be selling them at the meeting for $1.

Supply List
Clear nail polish (to glue knots) Needle nosed pliers Bead cups or ends Clasp

General Supplies for the class Mat String of beads ( make sure the holes are not large) Measuring tape or ruler Scissors

Raffle: We will raffle off the three necklaces that are pictured. Make sure you pick up your ticket when you register.

The Innovative Beads Expo 2007

2007-04-24T18:08:00.001-04:00

Embassy Suites Hotel
123 Boston Post Road West
Marlborough, MA 01752
www.InnovativeBeadsExpo.com
May 11, 2007 10am-6pm
May 12, 2007 10am-6pm
May 13, 2007 10am-4pm

Glass Bead Extravaganza 2007

2007-04-24T18:06:00.000-04:00

Armenian Cultural Center
47 Nichols Ave.
Watertown, MA 02472
www.glassbeadextravaganza.com
May 5, 2007 10am-5pm

Snow Library Exhibit

2007-04-11T21:41:00.000-04:00

For the month of April, the Snow Library in Orleans has an exhibit displaying work from members of the Cape Cod Bead Society. I haven't had a chance to visit it yet myself, but I saw what was going in and it should be impressive!

If you wish to visit the library, instructions from their website are,

"...From the Sagamore Bridge, take the Mid-Cape Highway (Rt.6-East) to Exit 12 (Orleans-Brewster exit). Take a right coming off the exit (Rt. 6A-East). Take a right at the second stoplight (Main Street). The library will be on your right immediately past a bank and the Friends Market..."

The street address is,

67 Main Street, Orleans, MA

Their hours are,

Monday - 10 am - 5 pm
Tuesday - 10 am - 8 pm
Wednesday - 10 am - 8 pm
Thursday - 10 am - 5 pm
Friday - 10 am - 5 pm
Saturday - 10 am - 4 pm
Sunday - 2 pm - 4 pm

Hope you get a chance to check it out!

The Whole Bead Show

2007-04-11T21:39:00.001-04:00

The Whole Bead Show
Holiday Inn
21 Atwells Avenue
Providence, RI
April 13-15 hours Fri and Sat 10-6, Sunday 12-5
Admission $5
http://www.wholebead.com/

2007-04-03T06:57:00.001-04:00

Thanks to Janna Pereira for teaching a great new technique to a small but very enthusiastic group on March 15.

Our next meeting is April 19. I will be teaching several techniques to make Star clusters, an Octahedron and Chinese Pearl Balls (Dodecahedra). These are not difficult and can add some real bling to any necklace or bracelet. Displayed in multiples or just one on a simple chain makes a very impressive piece.

Supply list:

Fireline, power pro, spectra. Nymo is not recommended Two needles, all techniques use two needles for weaving. Scissors Mat

Star Bursts: 10 top drilled beads. Swarvosky makes the best star but any top drilled bead will work to learn the technique. Top drilled means it is a tear drop shape bead that is drilled at the top from side to side. In the pictures, the orange was 8mm and the blue earrings were 6mm.

Octahedron: 12 round beads. 4mm is a good size to start with. Real pearls are not recommended since you need to pass through the hole several times. Small amount of seed beads in a complimentary or contrasting color.

Chinese Pearl Balls: 30 beads. The ones that are pictured were 6mm pearls and bicones. These make 3/4" balls so you may want to go smaller, although working with larger beads while you are learning will be easier.

All of the above make up very quickly so if you have an idea for a completed project, bring all the findings that you need to finish it.

Has this ever happened to you? You have spent an hour stringing a beautiful necklace and you hold it up to your neck to see how it looks and drop one end. Half the beads go on the floor and the other half go down the drain. Here comes the plumber to save your beads.

I don't know how many times this happened to me until I found the Bead Stopper and it has never happened since. It is a coil that clamps down on the thread or wire and just won't let go until you want it too. Every beader should have at least a few of these so we will be selling them at our next meeting.

See you in April!

Bead Fiesta Shows

2007-03-07T20:25:00.000-05:00

Sunday, March 18, 2007
Sturbridge Host Hotel
366 Main Street - Route 20
Sturbridge, MA
10-5

Sunday, April 1, 2007
Crowne Plaza Hotel
801 Greenwich Ave.
Warwick, RI
10-5

www.beadfiesta.com

2007-02-27T21:34:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Chris Shand for teaching the caterpillar bracelet at our last meeting. Twenty brave members came out in the cold to learn the technique and take home a fuzzy fun bracelet. The colors they chose were wonderful.

March 15 is our next meeting and Janna Pereira will be teaching an embellished Brick-Stitch Bracelet. She will teach you how to use a double needle method to make the ladder that the rest of the bracelet is built off of. This is a simple method to get started so everyone will be on their way to embellishing in a very short time. You might think about brushing up on your brick stitch skills before the meeting. Just do a search with Brick Stitch in the title and you will find many free instructions on line.

Supply List:

Fireline (6 lb) or other beading thread. Nymo is not recommended.
2 "Big Eye" needles (recommended but not necessary if you do not have them)
Czech 3-cut beads. Approximately 10 grams. These are sparkly beads with small facets that catch the light. Metallic or AB coating looks best with this project.
If you do not have these you can use size 11 beads but try not to use Japanese cylinder beads.
2 mm or 3 mm Czech Bugle Beads that match the 3-cuts, or use the colors of your choice.
5 -- 5 mm firepolished beads
Clasp of your choice.
Scissors, matt, thread conditioner and light of you need it. These are small beads.

Ann Petrou is one of our members and she will be teaching introduction to Precious Metal Clay on March 6 and 13. Ann has studied in several schools to become a Certified Instructor of Precious Metal Clay. PMC allows you to form the shape that you would like and when it is fired it turns to 99.9% pure silver. Learn to make your own beads, clasps, pendants and earrings. For more information about her classes please contact her at beachwalkerann@aol.com

BEADS, BEADS 2007 - Nice People Co., Inc.

2007-02-27T21:29:00.000-05:00

Sunday, March 18th, 2007
12:00 Noon to 4pm

Summerfield Suites
54 Fourth Avenue
Waltham, MA

www.NicePeople4U.com
nicepeople@mindspring.com

6th Annual Divine Bead Festival

2007-02-27T21:26:00.000-05:00

Sunday, April 29th, 2007
10 am to 5 pm

Mansfield/Foxboro Holiday Inn
31 Hampshire Street
Mansfield, MA 02048

Admission $4

For info, contact TERRI at 631-288-8914 or funkystuffbeads@aol.com

4th Annual Boston's Best Little Bead show at a new location for 2007.

2007-02-22T22:22:00.000-05:00

Friday, March 2 from 10-7

Sat., March 3 from 10-4

No Sunday hours

admission $3.

At Boston-Dedham Holiday Inn Hotel

55 Ariadne Road, Exit 15A off I-95/ route 128, Dedham, Ma

more info can be had from Terri at funkystuffbeads@aol.com

2007-02-10T10:30:00.000-05:00

Last months class taught by Marti Williams and her helpers was a great success. It was one of the largest meetings we have had with 27 members in attendance and almost everyone went home with a completed bracelet. That's what I call a successful meeting.

We had a lot of feedback from members that said they enjoyed being able to finish a project in one evening. That of course is not always possible as projects become more advanced but we would like to have feedback from our members of what they would like to see taught at the meetings. If any of you have ideas or thoughts on how you would like the meetings to go or what you might like to learn, we would love to hear them.

Caterpillar Bracelet is next months project. This is a chance for you to use all of those bits and pieces of beads that you have left over. Anything goes with this bracelet so use your imagination and what you have on hand to make a fun and funky bracelet.

Supplies:
10" of beading wire (size .014 is recommended but use what you have)
2 crimp beads--crimp pliers
Beading needles-scissors-work mat
Button or large bead for closure (actually any type of clasp will work)
Size 6 or size 8 seed beads for base (about 70 for a finished 7 1/2" bracelet)
Nymo or fireline beading thread--thread conditioner

Fringe Supplies Size 11 and size 8 seed beads
Various glass beads,crystals, pearls, charms, etc.

Look closely at the attached photos and you can see how each artist picked a certain base color theme and then embellished it with other colors. Also look at all the different types of beads they used to create the affect they wanted. Have fun with what you have on hand.

Happy New Year!

2007-01-15T16:54:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful holiday and are now ready to start beading again!

********************************************************************************

Our next meeting will be Thursday January 18, 7pm. We will be meeting in the usual place, the Brewster Police Station Community Room on 631 Harwich Road (Route 124), Brewster.

Marti Williams will teach a technique similar to right angle weave using two needles. This is not a difficult stitch to learn so everyone should go home with a beautiful bracelet.

Materials needed for January's Project:

This is for a 7" bracelet before the clasp is added,

* Fireline 4 or 6 lb
* 64 6mm bicone crystal beads An AB finish really adds sparkle.
* 103 3mm crystal beads in a contrasting color - You do not have to use Swarovsky crystal. Any 6mm beads and 3mm beads will work.
* A one strand clasp
* 2 Big-eye needles. Big-eye needles are highly recommended since two threads go through each needle. We will have big-eye needles for sale at the meeting for those who do not have them.
* Work mat and scissors

********************************************************************************

Put and Take Box -- Do you have extra beads or findings you're just never going to use? Starting this month, bring those unwanted lovelies with you to meetings. We will have a Put and Take Box, The idea is you PUT those unwanted extra beads into the Box and TAKE an item of approximately equal value. It's a fun way to enhance your stash and pass on your unwanted beads to someone else. ********************************************************************************

If you have a completed project from a previous meeting, please bring it for Show and Tell. ********************************************************************************

An upcoming show,

Innovative Beads Expo 2007
Jan 19 and 20 10-5pm
Jan 21 10-4pm
Marlborough Embassy Suites Hotel
123 Boston Post Road West Marlborough, MA
www.innovativebeadsexpo.com

Bead Society Meeting Follow-up

2006-11-19T20:31:00.000-05:00

Wow, what a great turn out for the star class taught by Marge Primavera and her helpers. 96 kits were sold so I think there are going to be a lot of Bead Society Stars on the Cape this Holiday season. For those of you who are now addicted to making the stars, you can purchase more of the 30 mm twisted bugles at www.oldstyle.net. Remember to buy 28 gauge beading wire to fit through the twisted bugles.

Great news--besides being such a successful meeting we had 7 more people sign up to be members. We certainly are growing, meeting and making new friends and having lots of fun. Keep bringing your friends and don't forget the member who brings in the most new members for the year will receive a complimentary membership for the next year.

Hint--You should always keep track of what it cost to make each piece of jewelry and how long it took to make it. The reason for this is when you start selling your jewelry you will know what value to put on it. We plan to have a Bead Society Sale next November so you need to have this information to price your jewelry for that sale.

Standing Rule of the Bead Society--No instructions for the bead society projects will be given out prior to the meeting and no instructions will be sent over the internet.

January's project--Reminder, we do not have a meeting in December, but we will be meeting January for our RAW (right angle weave) Sparkle Bracelet.

Materials
One single strand clasp
Approximately 64 6mm crystal bicones
Approximately 104 3mm crystal bicones.
6lb fireline.

You do not have to use crystals but do pick out 6mm beads and 3mm beads. Picture is attached.

Have a great Thanksgiving and keep beading.

Follow-up and Next Meeting of Bead Society

2006-10-30T21:07:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Linda Lord and her many helpers for teaching how to wire wrap a briolette. Not the easiest technique to master but an important one.

For our next meeting on November 16th, Marge Primavera will be teaching a Holiday star. This should be a lot of fun and a different technique because you will not be using thread. A 28 gauge brass wire is what weaves the beads together. Wire work is really fun and not hard so I hope you will all come and try it.

Kits will be available to make the stars. We felt it would be easier for the society to put kits together since finding 30 mm twisted bugles was not easy and then 100 or more came in a pack. If any one wants to make a gazillion stars I will be happy to give you the supplier and a supply list. I have attached several pictures for ideas on how to use the star rather than just as an ornament. Great as package decorations or on a wine bottle for a hostess gift. They also look great hanging at different levels in a window.

Tools to bring---bead mat, wire cutters, needlenose pliers

I have also attached a picture of January's class "RAW Sparkle". At the last class some of the students wanted to know the size of the crystals so they could start looking for them now. They are size 6mm and size 3mm. It takes 64 - 6mm and 104 - 3mm. That is for a 7" bracelet. To really get the sparkle, an AB finish is the best for the 6mm.

Upcoming Show

2006-10-15T17:14:00.000-04:00

Oct 21/22
Innovative Beads Expo
www.innovativebeadsexpo.com
Fitchburg, MA

Follow-up and Next Meeting of Bead Society

2006-10-02T20:57:00.000-04:00

What a great turn out for last months meeting and lesson on flat brick stitch.

Thanks to Janna Pereira, Alyce McLaughlin and Marge Primavera for helping me teach. I think everyone went home understanding the stitch. I have seen some of the bracelets that were made from the class and they are wonderful. Please bring your brick stitch bracelets to the next meeting for show and tell.

Our next meeting is October 19. Linda Lord will teach how to wrap a briolette to attach it to earring findings or a chain. This is a basic skill that will help you to create interesting necklaces and earrings using a top drilled bead. I have attached a picture of several top drilled beads so you know what to bring to the class. It must be a bead that is drilled on the top and the hole goes from side to side.

Linda is making up kits for the wire you will use. Each kit will have enough wire to make 10 briolettes and will cost 75 cents. This is a silver wire with a copper core so it is very flexible for learning the technique. Once you have mastered the technique then you can use sterling silver head pins for the wire. You will need to bring in your own beads and findings for finishing the pendant or earrings. Also bring a work mat, roundnose pliers, chainnose pliers and wire cutters.

Other news--we are proud to announce that we now have a membership of 38 and we are growing with each meeting. Don't forget to bring your friends and use your guest passes so we can continue to grow.

Did You Know--We bring copies of instructions of the past classes to each meeting so if you missed one and want the instructions just ask who ever is registering members that night.

Follow-up and Next Meeting of Bead Society

2006-09-02T16:48:00.000-04:00

Thanks to Ann Petrou we learned how to do odd count peyote at our last meeting. The turn out was good and everyone learned a lot. For those who are still struggling with the stitch, October is the meeting to bring in your work and ask questions on how to finish it.

There are two bead shows coming up in Marlborough, MA on September 8-10. They happen to be across the street from each other so it could be a two for one day. Web site for information and directions is www.beadfiesta.com and http://www.innovativebeadsexpo.com/.

Next month our meeting will be learning how to do a Brick Stitch. This is a must have stitch in your bead skills since so many weaving designs use it. You will be making a bracelet using size 8 beads. If size 8 seems a little small to you than bring in 6's until you understand the stitch and then switch to the smaller beads.

Even if the project does not look like something you would want to make, come and learn the stitch. I recommend this because some day you will see a beautiful piece that you want to make and it will be brick stitch or peyote and you won't know how to do it. This is an easy stitch to learn and there will be four teachers there to help everyone.

Supply list

Size 8 beads in 4 colors****Make sure the 8's are similar size and shape
1 1/2 small tubes of main color 15 grams (a small tube is 8 to 10 grams)
1/2 small tube for the diamond color
1/4 small tube for the center flower color
6 to 8 beads for the center of the flower
A small amount of size 15 beads. The close-up picture at the top illustrates where they are used. They fill in the gap between the larger beads on each side.
Fireline (6lb) or power pro. I do not recommend nymo for this project when you are learning the stitch because you will be going in and out of the bead several times.
1 three strand tube clasp (this is a very nice clasp for this type of bracelet, but a button works just as well)
Scissors, needles, mat and light if you need one.

Pictures of the project are attached. You will be making the pattern like the black one. Hope to see everyone at the September 21 meeting.

Theresa Guthrie Class

2006-09-02T11:20:00.000-04:00

Nationally known instructor Theresa Guthrie will be teaching at Tumbleweeds on Cape Cod October 15 from 10am to 4 pm.

Theresa will be teaching the The Zip Stitch Bracelet. It is her original technique involving a unique form of peyote stitch and a quick and simple way to attach a bezel. This class is suitable for all levels of beaders age 16 and over.

Bead Society members fee will be $40, non-members $60.

~~Only two spots left so reserve soon to mverdina (at) comcast.net!~~ The Theresa Guthrie class is now full! Thank you for your interest!

Cape Cod Bead Show

2006-08-08T20:45:00.000-04:00

10th Annual Cape Cod Bead Show
August 19th and 20th
Gus Canty Community Center
790 Main Street, Falmouth MA
Sat 10:00-5:00, Sun 10:00-4:00
For more INFO call (508) 548-4665
www.thebeadtree.com

Bead Society of Cape Cod Meeting - August 17th

2006-08-06T12:08:00.000-04:00

When: Thursday, August 17th, 7pm
Where: Brewster Police Station Community Room
631 Harwich Road (Route 124), Brewster

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Dear Beaders,

For our next meeting, Ann Petrou will be teaching an odd count peyote pin/pendant. I hope you're all looking forward to this meeting, peyote is a useful and versatile stitch and can be used to create some truly stunning projects.

For supplies you will need:

Seed beads #11 - 2 colors - One will be your main color and the other the accent bead. (Please try to get the cylindrical shaped seed beads (delicas) as opposed to the rounded. They will lay better and be better suited to this project. A small tube (10 grams) of each will be more than enough.)

Nymo in a color close to the main color bead.

An embellishment such as a charm for this piece.

Beeswax or Thread Heaven.

Beading needle.

Work mat.

Scissors.

Good lighting is essential for this project. Please bring your Ott lamp or other task light if you have one.

Please RSVP to jannasp (at) yahoo.com (to respond, replace the (at) with "@" and remove the spaces).

Hope to see you there!

Bead Society Meeting Reminder

2006-07-17T21:31:00.000-04:00

We have had a change in plans for July's meeting. The Casual Clusters pearl bracelet will not be the lesson. Instead Alyce McLaughlin will be teaching a fun and easy spiral using Opalon which is an elastic thread. You can make bracelets or necklaces or napkin rings for gifts with this stitch.

For supplies you will need:

#6 and #8 Beads. 11's can be used but it is difficult to get the Opalon through the small beads. Drops can also be used for one of the beads. An example is the necklace in the attachment. 11's would work fine if you are using thread.

Opalon--this is the only stretch thread that works well with this pattern. If you are making a necklace you can use fireline,nymo or almost any thread of choice.

Focal Bead
2 bead caps or rondels
Fireline or power pro to reinforce the focal bead attachment.
#12 needles or any large eye needle. The twisted wire needles work well.
Clasp if you are making a necklace.

This is a quick and easy stitch so you might be able to wear your work home that night.

Hope to see you all on July 20th!

Class in Wire Wrap Earrings

2006-06-14T20:05:00.000-04:00

The Bead Society of Cape Cod Meeting Reminder

When: Thursday, June 15th, 7pm Where: Brewster Police Station Community Room 631 Harwich Road (Route 124), Brewster

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Have you ever made a beautiful necklace and wanted earrings to match but just can't get the wire wrapping right? Well Linda Lord will teach you how the pro's do it to make a wonderful finished product you will be proud to wear.

From simply making the loop and attaching it to the earring finding to wrapping one or more briolettes, she will show you how. This is a must lesson to complete your jewelry making skills. Attached is a picture of several different uses of the wire wrap technique. A list of supplies is listed below. If you do not have all of the required tools, there will be extras for you to use at the meeting.

If you don't have time to acquire wire-wrapping materials before the meeting, we will have kits available. Kits will be $4.00 and include 20 sterling head pins and 2 sets of sterling french ear wires.

Supply list and tools for wire wrapped earrings:

Supplies:

spool 20 gauge craft wire for practice. 10 - 2" long sterling head pins, .022 gauge 3/4 hard. 10-20 6-8mm semi precious stone beads that will fit on the head pins for earrings. various sterling Bali beads,4mm bicone Swarovski crystals that will also thread on the head pins. 1 or 2 pair sterling french ear wires. work surface,placemat or bead design tray Ott -light if needed

Tools 1-round nose plier 2-chain nose pliers 1-flush cutters or nippers to cut the wire 1-bend nose pliers or an additional chain nose plier

Kits including the head pins and ear wires will also be available for $4.00, but bring your own beads and tools. Some extra tools will be available at the meeting.

Please RSVP so we know approximately how many kits and sets of instructions to make available.

Planning ahead

2006-05-14T21:04:00.000-04:00

Don't forget, Crystal Cube Bracelet this week! See the previous post for details.

Next month's meeting will be June 15th and the project will be Wire Wrapped Earrings with Linda Lord. Further details to follow.

Follow-up and Next Meeting of Bead Society

2006-05-01T19:56:00.000-04:00

Dear Beaders,

Thank you all who came to last week's meeting. Mardee Verdina taught a class in Cross-needle weave, kindly assisted by Marge Primavera. Let's all have a hand for Mardee and Marge!

If you missed the meeting, we hope that we'll see you for our next project, Crystal Cube Bracelet. This is a for a pretty, lightweight bracelet, perfect for the warmer months ahead.

The necessary materials are,

Crystal Cube Bracelet Materials

If using a 2 strand clasp

49 Swarovski crystal cubes size 4mm
68 Swarovski crystal bicones size 3mm
.010 Soft touch wire
4 Crimps
2 needles

If using a 1 Strand clasp

49 Swarovski crystal cubes size 4mm
68 Swarovski crystal bicones size 3mm
8lb test Fire Line
12 #15 seed beads to correspond with the bicones
2 needles.

Bead mat-scissors-tools--etc.

Always remember to buy a few extra since wrist sizes are not always the same.

While the instructions specify Swarovkis, check out our local bead stores for supplies. There are many cube beads on the market other than swarovski and I am sure the bead store personal would be happy to help you. I personally have some cube shaped amber beads in my stash that I intend to experiment with for this project.

The next meeting will be Thursday, May 18th so you have some time, but if you want to order Swarovskis for this project, you'll want to do that soonest. Hope to see you there!

Materials List for Cross-needle weave

2006-03-31T21:28:00.000-05:00

At our next Bead Society meeting you will be learning the cross-needle weave. It is a versatile bead-stringing technique using pairs of needles. You should be able to complete this in one night so make sure you have all of your supplies.

Materials

Beading thread-fireline, powerpro or Spectra. You cannot use nymo with this stitch. Clasp 4 straight needles #12's would be great Scotch tape--beading pad 4mm beads and 6mm beads

(this can be flexible with a drop but you could not use an 8mm or 10 mm round bead) to compliment. We will call these the focal beads. In the pictures mine are the top and bottom bead. Round pearls and Heishe pearls in the blue necklace. Round pearls and drops (15mm) and top drilled pearls in the pink and green. 4mm bicones and drops in the black. The larger size bottom bead makes it form a natural curve to your neck. If you wanted to make a bracelet using this weave the top and bottom bead would be the same size because you do not want a curve.

4mm bicones are used for the center color.

Pearls cannot be used for the center because two needles need to pass through the bead at once and the holes are too small.

My necklaces were about 17" long and the following is the amount I used,

Black--150 4mm jet AB bicones 35 4mm aurum bicones 35 drops in metallic gold

Pink and green--76-4mm light rose bicones 14-4mm pink pearls 6-6mm top drilled pearls. 7 large drops About 40 pearls to finish plus a few bicones and pink beads.

Blue--52-4mm blue bicones 12-Heishe pearls etc.

I used swarovski but Czech firepolish would work just fine and is much easier on the pocket book.

Have fun picking out your supplies! Looking forward to a fun meeting.

Questions about this project? Contact Mardee at mverdina (at) comcast.net.

Upcoming Show

2006-02-20T10:56:00.000-05:00

5th Annual Divine Bead Festival Sunday, April 30th, 2006 Mansfield/Foxboro Holiday Inn 31 Hampshire Street Mansfield, MA 02048 For more info, contact TERRI at funkybeads@aol.com or 631-288-8914.

2005-04-18T20:05:00.000-04:00