The Beading Gem

Dead jellyfish are like amorphous blobs on beaches. But they are wonderfully graceful in water with their bell-shaped forms complete with trailing tentacles. So it is no wonder artisans love to use the jellyfish as an inspiration in their designs. 

The techniques featured here range from beadwork to wirework and polymer clay.  First up is the gorgeous jellyfish beaded pattern and tutorial by Diana Balogh of DiasJewelryShop shown above.  I have featured this marvellously innovative beader before. 

Japanese traditional wear includes the obi, the sash or belt worn around the waist. The obi can be made from a variety of different materials depending on the occasion. The hikihaku is a kind of obi reserved for very special occasions because these ceremonial sashes are woven from precious metals and even mother of pearl shell and lapis lazuli! Such sashes are quite stiff to wear but oh, the luxury!

Watch this amazing Victoria and Albert Museum video which shows how Japanese artisans prepare the threads and weave the threads into beautiful fabrics.