Pearl Blay
body jewelry
news stories
unusual jewelry
But this Mexican mother of 4 and tattoo artist is not the sort of person you'd like to encounter at night...at least not with a cross pendant and garlic bulbs on hand. That's because she is known as the Vampire Woman.
Extreme Bling - The Vampire Woman's Body Modifications
Think your teenager's lip piercing is too much? You definitely haven't yet met 35-year-old Maria Jose Cristerna.
Pearl Blay
beadwork
bracelet
tutorial
video tutorial
The right angle weave or cross-weaving is one of my favorite beading stitches. It is a versatile stitch which can be done with different sized beads.
The Etsy Russian Team has a blog and one of their members, Svetlana posted a simple right angle weave bracelet tutorial with freshwater pearls and seed beads. It's a really sweet design which can be customized with different colors.
How to Make Right Angle Weave Bracelet Tutorials
Image by Svetlana |
The Etsy Russian Team has a blog and one of their members, Svetlana posted a simple right angle weave bracelet tutorial with freshwater pearls and seed beads. It's a really sweet design which can be customized with different colors.
Pearl Blay
supplies and displays
tips and tricks
tutorial
video tutorial
I've always provided ordinary jewelry gift boxes when selling jewelry. But when I started to sell my designs online, those ready made boxes would not do as they aren't flat enough for Canada Post's "slot of doom" (see my past post How to Package and Ship Jewelry).
So I use pillow boxes. Even if you don't sell jewelry, they make a great alternative to regular boxes if you like making them for gifts.
How to Make a Pillow Box Tutorials
DIY Pillow Box Tutorial by Botanical Paperworks |
So I use pillow boxes. Even if you don't sell jewelry, they make a great alternative to regular boxes if you like making them for gifts.
Pearl Blay
brooch
earrings
feature designer
unusual jewelry
wire work
Whimsical Animal Wire Work Jewelry by Chatnoir77
I am very fond of whimsical jewelry but my simple efforts at creating cat and people earrings are with bead covered wire. So when I came across fellow Canadian's shop chatnoir77 on Etsy, I was instantly charmed.
Her flair for fun animal jewelry and bookmarks is both remarkable and delightful to behold. Be sure to check out her store for other whimsical designs like the mermaid, golfing lady and skiers.
Her flair for fun animal jewelry and bookmarks is both remarkable and delightful to behold. Be sure to check out her store for other whimsical designs like the mermaid, golfing lady and skiers.
Pearl Blay
beadwork
earrings
necklace
tutorial
wire work
How to Make Beaded Grape Clusters Tutorials
The Reader Question thread is where I pick an emailed question or a blog post comment to answer and share with everyone.
Madeleine, a new blog reader from South Africa emailed me and said "I love the way you write – it’s as if you’re sitting right next to me having a chat.... Would you be so kind and point me in the right direction to find tutorials on how to assemble clusters of seed beads etc. to form “grape” like earrings and pendants? It looks so interesting and a real challenge."
Madeleine, a new blog reader from South Africa emailed me and said "I love the way you write – it’s as if you’re sitting right next to me having a chat.... Would you be so kind and point me in the right direction to find tutorials on how to assemble clusters of seed beads etc. to form “grape” like earrings and pendants? It looks so interesting and a real challenge."
Pearl Blay
bracelet
feature designer
recycled jewelry
Organic Eco Bangles from Mango Trees
Organic jewelry from fruit trees? Yep. Mango Tree makes their hand carved and hand painted bangles from organic grade A mango trees. These mango trees are not felled until fruiting has ceased.
Pearl Blay
beader design
high tech jewelry
Color Coordinate with Cell Phone Charms!
Not all cell phones can take charms but the charms themselves can easily be used to decorate other things like backpacks, bags and so forth. They are a great gift idea. You just need to get the small corded finding for cell phones.
But a number of beaders at a couple of beading parties didn't just make them as gifts but created them for their own cell phones!
But a number of beaders at a couple of beading parties didn't just make them as gifts but created them for their own cell phones!
Pearl Blay
feature designer
rings
unusual jewelry
Being innovative is all about having new ideas and concepts. One artist who breaks new ground is Portland based Stephanie Simek.
Her Classealienne Rings (link no longer available) are what she calls "demi-bands" which feature one or two gemstones at the ends. They are rather like jewels for between your fingers! Very understated, don't you think?
Between the Finger Rings by Stephanie Simek
Being innovative is all about having new ideas and concepts. One artist who breaks new ground is Portland based Stephanie Simek.
Her Classealienne Rings (link no longer available) are what she calls "demi-bands" which feature one or two gemstones at the ends. They are rather like jewels for between your fingers! Very understated, don't you think?
Pearl Blay
beadwork
earrings
swarovski
tutorial
More Awesome Beaded Earrings Tutorials
I like beaded earrings projects because they are fast for near instant gratification and don't need fitting like rings. They are also a wonderful way to try out a new beading stitch.
A really pretty pair to make - the Cha-Cha earrings by Jennifer van Benschoten over at the About.Beadwork site. Although the tutorial uses size 11 seed beads, the project will still be quick as there aren't a lot of small beads used. The visual impact is created by the side-drilled glass drops.
Image by Jennifer van Benschoten |
Pearl Blay
movie
necklace
tutorial
wire work
How to Make a Golden Snitch Pendant Necklace
It was rather sad to see the final film over the summer. The books as well as the 10-year-long Harry Potter theatrical series were family favorites.
So I was delighted when I came across a simple but great tutorial on how to make a wire work golden snitch necklace. The necklace would be perfect for a Harry Potter fan on your gift list.
So I was delighted when I came across a simple but great tutorial on how to make a wire work golden snitch necklace. The necklace would be perfect for a Harry Potter fan on your gift list.
Pearl Blay
beadwork
feature designer
necklace
Gorgeous Statement Beaded Jewelry by Perlina Rosa
No one would ever dispute the tremendous contributions Russian designers have made to the beading scene. The Russian spiral and St Petersburg stitches are but two examples of many unique techniques which originally came from that part of the world. These though barely hint on the tremendous talent there.
So feast your eyes on the drop dead gorgeous statement beaded jewelry of 3 Russian designers - Olga Orlova, Lully Snetkova and Kaya Solovieva who together with Tina Galagan form Perlina Rosa.
So feast your eyes on the drop dead gorgeous statement beaded jewelry of 3 Russian designers - Olga Orlova, Lully Snetkova and Kaya Solovieva who together with Tina Galagan form Perlina Rosa.
Pearl Blay
bracelet
earrings
swarovski
tips and tricks
tutorial
video tutorial
wire work
Fabulous Swarovski Crystal Chain Jewelry Tutorials
Wire wrapping earrings or perhaps bracelets doesn't have to be difficult! Not if you use Swarovski rhinestone chains for maximum impact!
Two fabulous rhinestone crystal chain bracelet tutorials by Allie over at Miss Lovie Creations should convince you. I really cannot decide which I like better - the Threads and Rhinestone bracelet or the Braided bracelet . They both look classy. (Be sure to check out her other craft tutorials!)
Two fabulous rhinestone crystal chain bracelet tutorials by Allie over at Miss Lovie Creations should convince you. I really cannot decide which I like better - the Threads and Rhinestone bracelet or the Braided bracelet . They both look classy. (Be sure to check out her other craft tutorials!)
Pearl Blay
biography
historical
necklace
Lady Emma Hamilton's Pendant
Emma Hamilton by George Romney
Lady Emma Hamilton (1765 - 1815) was born Amy Lyons in very humble circumstances. Yet in adulthood, this beautiful woman with dark copper hair and dancing eyes became infamous as the mistress of Britain's greatest naval hero, Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson (1758 - 1805).
Their doomed love affair scandalized society as both were married at the time. It tragically ended when Nelson was killed at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
Lady Emma Hamilton (1765 - 1815) was born Amy Lyons in very humble circumstances. Yet in adulthood, this beautiful woman with dark copper hair and dancing eyes became infamous as the mistress of Britain's greatest naval hero, Admiral Lord Horatio Nelson (1758 - 1805).
Their doomed love affair scandalized society as both were married at the time. It tragically ended when Nelson was killed at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805.
Pearl Blay
bracelet
necklace
tutorial
Many of you are such creative souls, you probably enjoy sewing as well. So here are some ideas to do cross-over jewelry! Also note that these jewelry designs are suitable for those who are metal allergic.
How to Sew Statement Jewelry Tutorials
Image by Naima |
First up is Naima's wonderful bead and sequin embellished fabric necklace tutorial. She called it a bellydance necklace as she is an enthusiast but really, it can be worn by anyone. The tutorial is divided into Part 1 , Part 2 and Part 3.
Pearl Blay
feature designer
necklace
unusual jewelry
Scented Jewelry Inspirations
Do you remember reading about tightly corseted Victorian ladies who faint at the slightest provocation? They had to be revived with smelling salts or vinegar.
Many of them wore filigree pomander or vinaigrette necklaces just in case they had the vapors or if they needed to smell something pleasant rather than the odors of unwashed bodies common then. Well, they are b-a-a-c-k! Only the sweet smelling kind though!
Many of them wore filigree pomander or vinaigrette necklaces just in case they had the vapors or if they needed to smell something pleasant rather than the odors of unwashed bodies common then. Well, they are b-a-a-c-k! Only the sweet smelling kind though!
Pearl Blay
bracelet
tutorial
wire work
More Wire Wrapped Bangle Tutorials
Wire work bangles are always popular so here are more tutorials I came across.
Kathy Frey created these fun and funky Haywire Bangles. Her easy tutorial will suit those who are still in the beginner stages of wire work.
Pearl Blay
bracelet
necklace
rings
tips and tricks
tutorial
video tutorial
More Fun Shrink Plastic Jewelry Tutorials
Shrinkable plastic such as the Shrinky Dink are really fun to use. You can cut out shapes and color them. There are also some basic colored sheets available in black, cream and brown.
What you do with them is all up to your creativity. Here are some more delightful jewelry tutorials to help spark your imagination. Be sure to check out the links below for previous stunning shrink plastic jewelry tutorials
What you do with them is all up to your creativity. Here are some more delightful jewelry tutorials to help spark your imagination. Be sure to check out the links below for previous stunning shrink plastic jewelry tutorials
Pearl Blay
bracelet
feature designer
high tech jewelry
recycled jewelry
rings
Our love of computers and the latest gadgets creates a huge problem of disposal once they are no longer wanted.
One artisan who recycles them into jewelry is Milan based Paola Mirai, the creator of Cirkuita collection. Paola meticulously dismantles unwanted gadgets and upcycles them into new "jewels".
Recycled High Tech Jewelry by Cirkutia
Inkjet Cartridge Ring |
One artisan who recycles them into jewelry is Milan based Paola Mirai, the creator of Cirkuita collection. Paola meticulously dismantles unwanted gadgets and upcycles them into new "jewels".
Pearl Blay
bracelet
tutorial
How to Make Beautiful Polymer Clay Bracelet Tutorials
Pearl Blay
feature designer
tips and tricks
tools
tutorial
Natural Stone Jewelry and Stone Drilling Tutorial by Authentic Arts
There is so much beauty in nature. Take pebbles. I've often admired the smooth lake, river or beach stones I've encountered during walks. I've even wondered how they would look as jewelry.
Well, one artisan who not only wondered but actually made them into jewelry is Wisconsin based Jenny Hoople whose shop on Etsy is called Authentic Arts.
Well, one artisan who not only wondered but actually made them into jewelry is Wisconsin based Jenny Hoople whose shop on Etsy is called Authentic Arts.
Pearl Blay
beader design
bracelet
earrings
gemstone
PrettyTurquoise Chip Bracelet and Earrings Set
Turquoise is a precious stone treasured for thousands of years by many cultures around the world. One of oldest sources is Persia (modern Iran) but it is mined in different places.
People believed in its protective and good luck charm qualities. The Apache tribe also thought turquoise gave archers accurate aim.
People believed in its protective and good luck charm qualities. The Apache tribe also thought turquoise gave archers accurate aim.
Pearl Blay
earrings
tutorial
wire work
How to Make Your Own Small Kidney Ear Wires
Many women prefer to wear lever back earrings. But we can't easily make those ourselves. An alternative for more security are kidney ear wires. These have a safety loop at the back.
These are slightly more tricky to make than ordinary hook style ear wires but the tutorial by editor Tammy Jones of Jewelry Making Daily is pretty easy to follow.
These are slightly more tricky to make than ordinary hook style ear wires but the tutorial by editor Tammy Jones of Jewelry Making Daily is pretty easy to follow.
Pearl Blay
humor
news stories
BMW's How to Steal Jewelry in 10 Steps Commercial
Watching BMW's recent commercial on Youtube on how to steal jewelry in 10 steps made me smile. The ad features a suave man, a beautiful woman, a jewelry store, a pearl necklace and a luxury car kitted out with the latest technology - the whole point of the ad.
How BMW got away with making such a commercial is revealed in the final scene.
How BMW got away with making such a commercial is revealed in the final scene.
Pearl Blay
business tips
supplies and displays
tutorial
Fall is the time of year when many artisans are getting ready for the bumper crop of craft shows. Jewelry displays are key to showcasing jewelry properly. So here are more jewelry display ideas and tutorials.
Dawn Kruchoski of DMJ Discount Jewelry shared her pictures of her free standing pegboard display over on Rena's blog. It was conceived for speedy use.
More Cool Jewelry Display Ideas and Tutorials
Dawn Kruchoski of DMJ Discount Jewelry shared her pictures of her free standing pegboard display over on Rena's blog. It was conceived for speedy use.
Pearl Blay
beadwork
resin
rings
swarovski
tutorial
Did you know cocktail rings are sometimes known as dinner rings or even right hand rings? These statement rings were popular back in the 1940's and 1950's and were worn on the fourth finger of the right hand.
Well, cocktail rings are back in vogue! And what's more, Swarovski crystals make them extra special! Here are some great tutorials from talented designers to inspire!
How to Make Swarovski Crystal Cocktail Rings
Image by Resin Obsession |
Well, cocktail rings are back in vogue! And what's more, Swarovski crystals make them extra special! Here are some great tutorials from talented designers to inspire!
Pearl Blay
brooch
feature designer
Amazing Ribbon Animal Brooches by Ribbonesia
I've long been a fan of Japanese art and design. This new find of amazing animal brooches by Ribbonesia illustrates the reasons why. The designs are not only clever but beautifully and artistically put together.
The founder of Ribbonesia is Sapporo-based Baku Maeda, who is a freelance illustrator. He needed a project for his "fiddling" fingers which had nothing to do with his living.
Pearl Blay
beadwork
bracelet
necklace
reader question
tutorial
wire work
The Reader Question thread is where I pick an email or comment question to answer. I don't claim to know all the answers but I do my best to help.
Question : Pearl, Hi, do you have a tutorial or instructions how to make a toggle clasp out of a button?? I am so tired of buying toggles, I would like to make my own. Thank you, Marsha Durkin of PinkAngelWing on Etsy.
Answer : Bought toggles are great for when you run out! However, it always adds to the piece if all the components are hand made so it is is worth making your own.
Reader Question : How to Make a Toggle Clasp?
Image from About.com Beadwork |
Question : Pearl, Hi, do you have a tutorial or instructions how to make a toggle clasp out of a button?? I am so tired of buying toggles, I would like to make my own. Thank you, Marsha Durkin of PinkAngelWing on Etsy.
Answer : Bought toggles are great for when you run out! However, it always adds to the piece if all the components are hand made so it is is worth making your own.
Pearl Blay
bracelet
earrings
feature designer
necklace
rings
tutorial
unusual jewelry
Jewelry Made from Colored Pencils and Tutorial
It's that time of year where households with school aged children are awash with back to school supplies!
You and I know color pencil sets are really colorful. But that is where we stop, right? Not Iris Tsante.
Her collection of jewelry made from color pencils is nothing short of brilliant. The craftsmanship and imaginative use of her chosen materials is truly inspirational.
You and I know color pencil sets are really colorful. But that is where we stop, right? Not Iris Tsante.
Her collection of jewelry made from color pencils is nothing short of brilliant. The craftsmanship and imaginative use of her chosen materials is truly inspirational.
Pearl Blay
beadinggem designs
earrings
necklace
Pearl's Designs
unusual jewelry
wire work
A Challenging Wire Wrapped Coral Jewelry Project
Earlier this year, I completed a most challenging wire wrapping project. One of my colleagues had some coral which she bought in her native Algeria more than 20 years ago. Khalida said she bought it from people who collected it off the Mediterranean coast.
She loved the color but as you can see from the 3 pieces, there were a few issues for me to tackle. The first was obviously the shape. The main piece was akin to knobbly chicken feet due to the branching feature of red coral.
She loved the color but as you can see from the 3 pieces, there were a few issues for me to tackle. The first was obviously the shape. The main piece was akin to knobbly chicken feet due to the branching feature of red coral.
Pearl Blay
bracelet
necklace
tutorial
unusual jewelry
Barb Wire Inspired Jewelry Tutorials
In order to be creative, one also has to be observant. Much of the world around us can inspire. But I would never have thought ordinary barb wire could be a source of inspiration until I came across these tutorials!
Pearl Blay
beadwork
book review
Book Review - Creative Beading Vol. 6
Has it been a year already? How time flies! Once a year, the editors from Bead and Button battle it out get together to select the best projects from the magazine.
Kalmbach Publishing just sent me their latest effort, Creative Beading Vol. 6 for review. This collection might just be the book for beading enthusiasts who don't subscribe.
Kalmbach Publishing just sent me their latest effort, Creative Beading Vol. 6 for review. This collection might just be the book for beading enthusiasts who don't subscribe.
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