Good River Beads & Jewelry - Hannah Rosner

New Kits from Good River Gallery

2012-01-15T15:49:00.000-08:00

NEW KITS AVAILABLE ON ETSY!

I have new kits available! The idea, of course, was to use up extra beads. This never works since I had to go shopping to complete the kits. And I would never possibly go overboard with my bead shopping, so... there are an awful lot of kits. Most are one of a kind colorways, so even though you are getting a pattern, your finished piece is likely to be a unique piece of art. Bead kits include everything you need including instructions. You'll have to provide your favorite beading thread (I suggest 6lb or 8lb fireline).

You can see them all here:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/HannahRachel?section_id=7642073

Japanese Screen Bracelet - a beginning peyote stitch project.
Bright Rainbow Colors - 1 available
Pastels (even softer than the photo) - 1 available
Whites, pinks, lavendars - 1 available
Autumn neutrals (browns, purples, soft greens) - 1 available
Autumn Brights (reds, bright greens, oranges) - 1 available
Warm Colors (reds, oranges, purples) - 1 available
Brocade Ribbon Bracelet - A beginning bead embroidery project. Available in the following colors (the cover photo is the same for all of them since they are limited edition kits - just take a look at the second photo for exactly what is in each kit).
Olive, Blue & Green - 2 available
Blue and Lavendar - 1 available
Seafoam Green, Cream and Beige - 3 available
Rust, Ochre and Olive - 1 available

Steampunk Velvet Ribbon Bracelet
- A beginning bead embroidery project.
Kit is very similar to the sample piece EXCEPT has a larger/better quality wind-up watch and 2 cogs instead of 4 - 1 available
Steampunk Watch and Bead Necklace - a beginning level beading project. Requires basic sewing, but not much else!
Kit is very similar to the sample piece, slightly different seed beads - 1 available
Set a Cab in Beadwork - a beginning/intermediate peyote project. Comes with all kinds of extras in the kit
Gray & White - 1 available
Dahlia Pendant - an intermediate level pendant with a rivoli set at the center.
Stick Pearl Version - 1 available
Crystal Clear Briolette version - 1 available
Champagne Dreams - an intermediate level tri-sided beaded bead with optional fringe techniques to turn it into a tassel pendant. Kit includes beads for the bead plus extras for fringe.
Blue Zircon and AB green - 2 available
Pink/Fuschia/Orange - 1 available
Royal Ruffles Ribbon Bracelet - an intermediate/advanced peyote stitch project. Comes with a beaded toggle clasp tutorial and beads in the kit to complete both the bracelet and toggle.
Matte Silver and iridescent colors - 2 available
Lilacs and Pinks - 1 available
Arabian Nights - the big brother to the Champagne Dreams. Learn a triangular peyote technique. Advanced level.
Amethyst purple square stones with soft purple beads - 1 available

My New Valentine's Shop on Etsy

2012-01-15T15:26:00.000-08:00

NEW - VALENTINE'S SHOP ON ETSY!

I'm adding new stuff every day - includes some super sweet items, and a few steampunk-inspired not-so-cutsie pieces.

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com.

News and Updates from Hannah Rosner at Good River Gallery

2012-01-15T15:20:00.000-08:00

Are you used to writing 2012 yet?

It finally really snowed here, and the pups want to go outside every five minutes. I've been using the cold weather to finish that long-overdue computer work. It seems like even with updates on my website, there's always more to do. I've just updated the earrings and purse pages as well as added new product into the focal and florals bead sections. Maybe now I can stop for a few moments. Its oddly addictive. This new year has been mainly dedicated to getting some new work ready. I've held over the Hawaiian Sunset Pattern since I've gotten so many email requests to extend the special on it. I've created new kits and put them up for sale as I made them on my Etsy. Or, you can preview them below.

In addition, check out the new pate-de-verre bead sets (preview to the left) and the new Valentine's Day beads (preview below)!

January and February are really busy for classes!

Ally Beads Classes for January and February:
Beginning Peyote Stitch Band Jan 26th, eve
Bead Embroidered Bracelet February 26th
You can register online at http://www.allybeads.com
Columbus Polymer Clay Guild Buckeye Bash:
The guild has asked me to give my lecture on Successfully Selling on Etsy on Feb 17. Hope to see you then!
Glass Axis Classes for February:
Intermediate Level Lampworking Feb 18&19.
Beginning Beadmaking February 18, morning.
You can read about the classes at http://www.glassaxis.org
Gahanna Bead Studio classes for February:
Champagne Dreams - February 15
Shamballa Bracelet - February 22
DNA Spiral - February 25
You can register online at http://www.gahannabeadstudio.com
Happy New Year!
Hannah
http://www.goodrivergallery.com

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

New Tribal Beads On My Etsy Shop

2012-01-15T15:11:00.000-08:00

NEW - TRIBAL BEADS
ON ETSY!

These drop shaped beads range from about 1 1/2" long to 2 1/2" long. Sold as sets. I'll probably use them for bead embroidery at some point, but meanwhile, have been just having too much fun making them.

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

Happy Valentine's Day from Good River Gallery!

2012-01-13T12:44:00.000-08:00

Brrrr...!

The winter weather has finally hit us here in the Midwest. But, we are enjoying evening blazes in our fireplace, white wines and good movies. The romance reminds us...

Its time to look towards Valentine's day! Head on over to our Etsy Store and see what is currently in stock in our new valentine's day shop. http://hannahrachel.etsy.com/

A Word from Good River Gallery

2012-01-05T19:17:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

I wanted to wish everyone a really happy new year, health and prosperity in 2012. I've enjoyed the past year immensely, wanted to thank you all for your friendship and support, and look forward to an even better upcoming year.

I've spent the last two weeks of 2011 updating my website. It was sadly behind. I think its all caught up now, with updates on almost all of the pages. There are new catalog and tutorials pages, a pdf calendar (Charlene's idea) and more. The catalog section has brand new eye candy, and the tutorials section now has ALL of my tutorials. In addition, all of my free tutorials have been transfered to the tips section, so if you missed one, you can find it there.

This month I'll be creating kits and putting them up for sale as I make them on my Etsy. In addition, I have some new bead styles in the works!
I'll be doing my Etsy Success lecture at Gahanna Bead Studio on January 10. You can register online at http://www.gahannahbeadstudio.com/

Happy New Year!
Hannah

http://www.goodrivergallery.com/

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com/

Murrini with Hannah Rosner

2011-12-29T18:47:00.000-08:00

Murrini with Hannah Rosner
At Glass Axis. Columbus, OH
http://www.glassaxis.org
This traditional Venetian technique gets its name from the Italian for ‘thousand flowers’. Molds and cane are used to pull sticks of glass, which when cut into slices, reveal beautiful floral designs. This torchworking class will cover several types of murrini pulls while focusing on strengthening basic skills. Students will learn to create a variety of murrini and incorporate it into glass beads. Saturday & Sunday, 10 am to 3 pm
Jan. 7 & 8

More details...
We'll begin by using some mass produced murrine on beads, just so you can mess some up while learning to apply them.

Then, we'll make really simple stuff like bullseyes.
Then we'll move onto a valentine's day heart

And then a star (this one has reactive stuff around it)

And then a simple flower
And then a feather
And then probably some cute paw prints

And then an eye.

To sign up, call Glass Axis. 614-291-4250

FREE Silk and Chain Steampunk Necklace Tutorial

2011-12-21T17:03:00.000-08:00

Silk and Chain Steampunk Necklace

Materials:
Centerpiece - I used one of the steampunk watches that we bulk ordered from China, but you could use a lampwork pendant/bead!
1/4" silk cording
Cord Caps
Wire - I used 22g since that's what I had hanging around
Chain (I have three varieties here). My longest piece was TWICE as long as the cord and just happened to come attached to that watch.
Big jump rings (I think these guys are 10mm)
Clasp
Disk Beads
Lampwork Spacer Beads
Size 8/0 or size 6/0 seed beads
Beading Thread (I recommend Fireline)
Clear Tape
Glue - I recommend .527 watch glue or "Zap-a-Gap." Don't use superglue since it puts a white film on glass beads that looks bad.
Optional - Steampunk Cog Bead things (I used two - they were made by Tim Holtz)
Optional - if you're using a lampwork centerpiece: headpin and matching beadies
Optional - matching 6mm Swarovski crystal
Wireworking Tools - flat nosed pliers, round nosed pliers and wire cutters

The Centerpiece

If you have purchased one of the watches and want to use it as the centerpiece, you don't have to do anything to it besides take it off the chain. However, if you want to use a focal bead, you'll need to turn it into a drop first.

Slip a bead (shown is a Swarovski, but you’ll be using your focal) onto a head pin, and using round nosed or needle nosed pliers to bend the head pin over. If your lampwork bead hole is too big for the little "head" on that head pin, block it up with some smaller beads, one above and one below your bead. See the little space between the headpin and the 90-degree bend? You want this, but you only want a little bit of room there (no more than 1/16”).

Tip: In the photo I'm uploading, that's a towel behind the Swarovski, but it looks like a shag rug, so turn on some disco now to complete the rest of this project.

Next, hold the bent part of the head pin with round nosed pliers, and with your fingers bend the rest of the head pin around the nose of the pliers to form a loop.

Insert the nose of your round pliers back through the loop. Hold the loop of the head pin over the nose of the pliers while using bent/flat/needle nosed pliers to wrap the head pin around itself. This will secure your loop so it cannot open.

If you are using the watch, you might want to add some heavier beads at the bottom of the tassle chains. I've noticed the weight isn't well distributed otherwise. I also added some more chain into the tassle, because I LOVE fringe.

The Silk Cord

Our own Jamn makes silk cording, but its not as thick as the stuff I used. You could bundle some of hers together though, and it would add a layer of texture that would be really beautiful.
http://Jamnglass.etsy.com
Here's a photo I randomly ripped off her etsy site, just to tempt you. Hopefully she won't mind...

I found some of the thicker stuff also on Etsy at
http://TandZSupplies.etsy.com
but here's the thing... I've never ordered from this company and so as a result can't vouch personally for her.
She's got good feedback, though.

I happened to have a piece from a million years ago, made from a company called embeads. I looked them up online and can't find their website, though. I'd also like to pretend that I was all trendy in using orange since its the Pantone Color of 2012. Actually, the Pantone Color is "tangerine" and I just had this cord...

The Disks

I refuse to take responsibility for my boro disk-making obession, so I'll just go ahead and blame someone else for it (you know who you are, up there in Canada)! You can make your disks out of either soft glass or boro. I just like the colors of the boro. If you want some, I've got plenty to spare, just let me know how many and the approximate color. They're super cheap, too. I used... uh... 8 of them. They only sort-of matched.

Anyhow, here's a bunch of eye candy I had hanging around on my computer...

If you do want to try and make your own, here are two videos I dug up on youtube. They use soft glass, but you could use boro instead. As a matter of fact, I think its easier in boro. You do want to pop them into a kiln, though.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xl5s3FLmdaM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VtmR8Ib5z2s

Ready to put this thing all together?

Wrap your longest chain around the silk cording. Wrap it pretty tightly, and try to keep the wraps even.

Wrap scotch tape tightly around the ends. This will help to keep your chain nice and even with the silk cording and will also help keep the silk cording from fraying. Cut the tape directly in half so that when you add your bead cap the tape doesn't stick out from underneath that cap. Nip off the extra chain with wire cutters.

Wrap a piece of your wire around the chain and taped edge. Do it really really REALLY tightly. Add a bunch of glue right at the top of the tape. This will help keep your silk from fraying also, and acts as extra insurance in case your wire wrap wasn't tight enough. Run the wire up through the bead/cord cap. I like adding a matching bead up here to make the back look as nice as the front. Wirewrap your clasp onto the piece.

Okay! Time to embellish the front!

Add a large jumpring at the center front. I like to catch the chain here, too, just to make sure that the wrap stays consistent. Attach your focal bead/watch to the jump ring.

I put a piece of thin chain through each of 4 disks and suspended them from jump rings around the cord/chain.

I also added two other short pieces of chain between the jump rings. You know, since I had that extra chain and all. The three chains I used in this piece did NOT match. This was part of the fun of it.

Finally, I stacked glass disks, spacer beads, cogs, Swarovski crystal and some 8/0 seed beads and sewed them onto the silk cording. My cogs were two different metals and none of the beads matched. I was okay with this!
Here's a close-up on one of those stacks.

Too busy for you? Here's a simpler version...

Now, lets see your version!

News and Updates from Good River Gallery

2011-12-16T19:00:00.000-08:00

Thanks to everyone who came out to the Glass Axis Holiday sale and to the Gem Street Show in Sharonville. I enjoyed meeting new faces and seeing old friends.

Can you please help? I'm in this month's Etsy Beadweavers challenge. The challenge is "Arabesque" and my team has created some wonderful pieces. Please stop by before the end of the day today (Dec 15) and vote for your favorite piece. http://etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com/

Just a few more days to get your gifts to you via mail before the holidays. I still haven't even started shopping for gifts yet. Don't tell!
I am happy to take layaways on any of my items over $100, so if you have your eye on something, we can work out an easy payment schedule for you with no percentages.
I've added photos of the larger jewelry on a model so you can get a better sense of the scale of the pieces.
Just a few left! Simple Beaded Earrings, all gift priced. Linked page includes all finished jewelry, just scroll down to find the Beaded Earrings selection.
My Large Hole Euro Style Beads are one of a kind and fit all big hole bead bracelets including Troll and Pandora. Or, learn to make your own bead encrusted one - details below!
Lampwork Glass Bead Grab Bags are available in this newsletter! Just take a look at the column to the left.

There's still one more class this year that is perfect for the holidays at Ally Beads. Getting together with other beaders and jewelry making friends for a fun and festive learning experience is a great way to take a break from the holiday bustle and indulge yourself during this busy season. You deserve it. After that, we start our January classes schedule for the start of the New Year.

Happy Holidays!
Hannah

Free Beading Tutorial - Braided Necklace with Lampwork Drops Tutorial

2011-12-12T21:08:00.000-08:00

Braided Necklace with Lampwork Drops Tutorial

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DIY! Project Accessory Inspired Necklace
Well, I think its time for another free tutorial for me. This one was inspired from Christina's Rope & Chandelier Part Necklace on Project Accessory, which I've been sucked into and probably will now watch religiously. I'm sure there's someone to blame for this besides my wanting to avoid work.

Here's a photo of my finished necklace. I used black hemp and lampwork (full materials list below).

Here's a photo of hers.

Now, before we get into this, let me just say that I believe this design belongs to her, and I made this necklace for myself. I think the design is fabulous, although its more of a summer thing than a winter thing. I'm not planning on selling it or making money off the tutorial or anything - its a straightforward braiding design that she has added drops to and a leather strap across the bottom to hold the weight but if I were to sell this necklace I would email her to ask permission first.

Materials needed:
*Hemp, 1-2mm wide
*Leather Cord, about 2mm
*Optional (I had it leftover from my macrame tutorials): C-lon
*Optional (if you are using the C-lon): Needle with large enough eye to thread with C-lon
*Optional (if you are using C-lon): Thread Burner
*Glue - I like .527 Watch Glue OR E6000.
*Clear tape
*2 Ribbon Crimp Ends, available from your local bead store or firemountaingems.com. About 13mm should be fine. There may be a bulk buy going on!
*Headpins, available from your local bead store or firemountaingems.com. Get the largest/thickest ones you can. There may be a bulk buy going on!
*Jump Rings, available from your local bead store or firemountaingems.com. Get about 8-12mm ones. There may be a bulk buy going on!
*Jump Rings (1 or 2). You might need an extra large jump ring or two for your pendant.
*Optional: Extender Chain (you'll see this in my photos below)
*1 Large Off-Mandrel Pendant (overview on how to make this below).
*Even number of disk shaped beads (I used a 23mm press that I purchased off Ebay. I have no idea who the maker is, but I luuuuv it. I recommend one of Catt's presses for this, though, which you can purchase here: http://www.cattwalk.com/lentilsandca...raduatedLentil)
*Optional: Matching beadies

Part 1 - Assembling and Making the Beads

Okay, first, lets get through that off-mandrel pendant.
Taken DIRECTLY off of my friend Val's description (I think she'll be okay with this):
* Make desired design at end of 6-14mm rod.
I used boro, but you don't have to. It was something like double amber purple over white over clear with clear swirls. I'm not 100% sure of the colors since I don't mark my rods religiously.
* Squish.
* Heat tungsten until glowing - push through glass to make hole - (make sure it is warm enough to receive it. but a little stiff too).
I use a Peter's Tweezers for this step since I suck at using a tungsten. I'd love to use Handy Andy's tweezers, but haven't yet purchased any.
* Attach cold seal to one end, and melt off "blob" from other of rod.
I pointed my end while I melted it off...
* Decorate and embellish 'til your heart is content.
* Flame polish and anneal - oh, and have fun!

Scared of making something off mandrel? C'mon! Try it! Its fun!
Alrighty, you could always make a big bead for the center front - it doesn't HAVETA be off mandrel.
Great! Make some disk beads to match. I made 6, and then some matching donut shaped ones.
While the pendant and the disk beads anneal, we can go ahead and make the necklace part.

Part 2 - The Weight Bearing part of the Necklace

Cut 9 pieces of the hemp 2 1/2 feet long each.
You'll be braiding them using a regular three-strand braid, but the trick is that you'll be dealing with three strands as a single piece, just to give it some bulk. You want to keep them all next to each other, not bunching up, though, so your final braided ribbon stays flat.

Braid them up to 1 1/2" less than you want your final piece to be - the ribbon ends and the clasp will add that extra length, plus you can go in and add an extender chain.

Don't know how long you should make it?
Choker necklaces sit high on the neck.
Wikipedia tells me that they are generally 14-16 inches long.
HOWEVER, I need a 12 inch choker and a good friend on mine uses an 18" one. See where the idea of an extender chain might be useful?

Don't know how to braid? No problem - there is an excellent tutorial here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F_hHhtQGNus

Got your braid done? Awesome.
The ribbon crimp is really easy to use - you just have to make sure all your pieces fit into it.
Wrap a piece of tape around where you want to cut your braid at start and end. Make sure its on there really tight!

Cut a piece of leather to the EXACTLY the same size as the finished braid.

If you'd like to stitch it onto the bottom of the braid a bit, this will make it a little stronger. I've used C-lon here and knotted the ends on the back of the piece. I use a little bit of glue or a thread burner on my knot since C-lon tends to be springy and the knots come undone.

Use another piece of tape to attach the leather to the bottom of the hemp braid.

Cut the tape in half and glue the HECK out of the ends.

Part 3 - The Clasp

Open up your ribbon crimp a bit, add a bit of glue in there, and then smash it around the outside of the hemp/leather/tape contraption.

Add jump rings, your optional extender chain, and a clasp. I added beads to the end of my extender chain since I had extras.

Part 4 - Attaching the Beads/Drops

Okay, your beads and pendant are annealed and cooled and all the bead separator is cleaned out of there, right? We're going to work on the drops first. I made them all first, but you can make them as you work (see directions below).

Attach the pendant to the center front leather using the extra large jump ring. I added a couple of extra jump rings because I wanted my pendant to sit lower than my side beads.

Put the disk beads onto the headpins. Because my beads had larger holes, I had to add a smaller bead underneath. I also used a loop headpin (an eyepin) so I could add little copper drops I found in my stash. If you have matching beads, you can load them on top. Make a loop at the top of the headpin. If you know how to wire wrap, this will make it stronger.

Attach the head pin loops to the leather using jump rings.

Admire your work!

Free Beading Tutorial - Steampunk Zipper & Lampwork Bead Bracelet

2011-12-12T20:45:00.000-08:00

Steampunk Zipper & Lampwork Bead Bracelet

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This bracelet was recently featured in Michele's Crafty Tips blog:
http://www.blogaboutcrafts.com/featured-friday-december-9-2011.html
For free new craft tips every day, head on over to her blog and take a look.
http://craftytips.com/

This is the second tutorial I've submitted based on Project Accessory. I was all set to LOVE this show, but as it turns out it hasn't been nearly as inspirational as I thought it would be. Nevertheless, I love this bracelet.

You can see my first tutorial based on the TV show in this blog as well (post above this one).

Okay, so here's the bracelet.

And here is Nina's bracelet, which was my inspiration.

Now, before we get into this, let me just say that I believe this design belongs to her, and I made this bracelet for myself. I think the design is fabulous. However, in this case I may well sell the finished project because I think I've made it "mine" enough and also because there are already a number of really amazing zipper designs on Etsy.
You can see them here:
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ReborneJewelry
http://www.etsy.com/shop/ZIPPERjewelry
http://www.etsy.com/shop/meganleone?section_id=6214583
http://www.etsy.com/shop/catrinel777?section_id=6888287

Materials Needed:
*1 or more 24" plastic zipper (I've used two for this sample)
*Ultrasuede in one or more colors (I've used two colors here - a red for the front and a blue for the lining)
*Lacy's Stiff Stuff or thick interfacing. Fusible is great!
*Clasp: I've used a purse clasp. I have a number of them for sale if you want to PM me, or you might be able to fnd them on Etsy.
*Optional: Lampwork Glass Disk Beads. Mine are boro and if you PM me I can make some for you
*Optional: Lampwork glass leftover wavy bead from my other free tutorial projects. Tutorial available here:
http://lampworketc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=99725
*Optional: Tim Holtz Steampunk Cogs
*Optional: Leftover Swarovski crystals and seed beads from other projects
*Needles
*Thread - regular for the base part of the bracelet and beading thread for adding beads - I recommend Fireline.
*Small, sharp scissors
*Glue - I recommend e6000, which is super stinky but works great because it remains flexible when dry

Cut a 2" x 8.5" (or whatever size will fit you - remember, because this is big you don't want it to be too snug) rectangle from both the interfacing (Lacy's stiff stuff) and the front color of your ultrasuede. If its fusible, get out that old iron and stick 'em together! Otherwise, open up that glue. If you do glue them, give it all time to dry!

Open up the zipper(s). Cut off the end pieces and the pull. You'll end up with two working pieces per zipper. You might want to keep that pull for a decorative element on your bracelet, but I just tossed mine.

Start in the center and curl up your zipper. Tack it on. In the case of mine, I had two zippers so had a two-tone look that I rather enjoyed. One zipper that was longer than the other, so I ended up separating the two of them and really just playing with the curls. Don't tack them down all the way - you want a sort of 3d effect here! remember to hide the cut ends of your zipper underneath the curls and tack them down especially well.

Here's half of the bracelet:

And here's all of the zipper pieces tacked down:

My ginormous clasp is more of a fashion statement than the rest of the zipper. I needed some extra insurance on it, so I knew I had to really sew it down and didn't want those stitches showing on the inside of the bracelet, so I put it on next so I could later cover the interior stitches with the lining. Generally, I wouldn't put the clasp on until the end.

Optional: I decided that the rectagular shape was super boring, so I trimmed it to match the freeform curliques of the zipper better.

At this point, you could well slap a lining on this and call it done!
But...
I decided it needed some beads, and I happen to have a few hanging around my house, so I grabbed some Tim Holtz cogs and sewed them on, and then grabbed some leftover boro disks I had hanging around and then started rummaging through my Swarovski crystals and sewed them on.
It was sorta a free-for-all around here.

First, here's a photo of those disks

I blame Val for an obsessive couple of days in which I did nothing but make these.

And here's a photo of the bracelet with the stuff all haphazardly sewn on.

You're nearly done! The interior of your bracelet probably is a mess of knots and threads and stuff. That's okay - you should have seen mine. Glue it onto the lining ultrasuede. I suggest sticking your bracelet to a larger piece of lining and waiting until the glue dries before trimming it. While you wait for it to dry, you have to figure out what to do with the edging. You have a couple of different options.

Option 1: Whip stitch the edges closed.
You can learn to do a whip stitch here. http://www.ehow.com/video_4940669_sew-whip-stitch.html

Option 2: Whip stitch the edges closed using a bead
You do it the same way as above, only add a seed bead as you are working. This looks great because it looks the same as the zipper edge.

Option 3: Use seed bead picot stitch
Picot stitch is a great way to finish off the edge of bead embroidery so you don’t see the cut edge(s) of fabric. Picot also looks great in 15/0 beads.

Before Set Up for the 3-Bead Picot Stitch – thread on 3 beads (see diagram below). You will use three beads to set up the pattern just this time. The middle bead will sit up above the 2 side beads on either side. Let the beads fall to the bottom of thread and rest on the bracelet edge.

Move needle over one bead width and pass needle from the back, a whisper in from the edge and through to the front edge. Now, pass the needle up through the last bead from its bottom hole through bead to top.

From now on you will only thread on 2 beads each time you create a bead picot. You will simply thread on 2 beads and make another small stitch that is one bead width away, bringing needle through from back to front edge. Now bring needle up through the last bead and tug thread to set beads into position.

There you go! Wear and enjoy!

Free Beading Tutorial - Bead Encrusted Big Hole Bead

2011-12-12T20:01:00.000-08:00

Bead Encrusted Big Hole Bead (Seed Beading, but easy!)

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I showed these pearl encrusted BHBs a while back in the Pandora Style Bead Gallery thread (http://lampworketc.com/forums/showth...80096&page=137) and got a bunch of requests for a tutorial on them. So, here it is!

Are you ever in the middle of a huge pile of cored beads and you just are having a super off day? I've been hoarding my sterling, copper and brass rivets for a while now, figuring that at some point I'd finally figure out what to do with the perfectly fine metal pieces after I'd gone and broken the glass off them.

Materials:
Leftover rivet from a broken BHB or any tube shaped bead
11/0 seed beads
Beads to cover your core. I've tried pearls, crystals, 6/0 seed beads and aquamarine. Photos at the end.
Fireline beading thread
Beading needles. If you're using pearls, they'll probably have to be #12.
Small, sharp scissors
Optional: Thread Burner
Optional: 15/0 seed beads
Optional: A little bit of glue. I suggest some E6000.

Cut at least 1 yard of fireline beading thread for this project. You really don't want to start a new thread in the middle!

Using the 11/0 seed beads, do a strip of peyote stitch that goes around your little bead. Generally I start with 4 beads. Its really important that you start with an even number. Don't kow peyote stitch? No problem! Its super easy, and there's a great online tutorial here that actually uses 4 beads in the demo.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJeRvtmi2xk

Below, my little peyote stitch strip...

Here's the only place this gets a bit fussy. You need that strip to wrap around your core (or cylindrical bead) and not be too loose and not be too tight (otherwise the thread will rip out later). In addition, when it wraps around, you'll be "zipping" it together to form an endless band. If you wrap it around your core and the beads don't fit together like little teeth or a zipper, then you'll either have to stitch one more row of peyote stitch or take one row out.

Below, you should see how I can "zip" that little piece together.

Okay, that photo sucks, and of course I already finished the project, so here's another shot of my zipping together a piece of peyote stitch from a completely different project. But you should be able to see how those little sticky outy beads just fit in together and hopefully it'll make sense. Hey, its a freebie! Gimme a break!

Alrighty, here's another out of focus picture of the piece all tightened up. If you are using a regular cylindrical bead, you might want to put a little glue onto a toothpick and just get a little in there. With the channel from the rivet, I don't have to worry about it falling off at all. As a matter of fact, I could just call this done here...

...but of course I have to add fringe to everything.
You'll be adding the very simplest of all fringe here. You'll add a bead, and then a bead I'll refer to as a "stop" bead. Then, you'll go back down through the larger bead and anchor the fringe onto the piece. I like using a 15/0 seed bead as a stop bead. My fringe beads will be pearls, and since I'm all about this project being a "using up leftovers" project, I'm also going to use a random mix of pearls.

Here's the first pearl I've added.

And a couple more pearls. See the way the little 15/0 seed bead sits on top?

Here I'm finished with the first row around the bead and I'm adding a second row...

All in all, I added three rows of pearls around the bead before I decided it was nice and "full."

Once you are finished, weave your needle through the beadwork until you are sure that it won't come loose. Cut off the thread and use your thread burner, if you have one, to get rid of any thread ends. You're done!

Here's the finished bead.

Free Beading Tutorial - Ladder Stitch Bracelet with Lampwork Closure

2011-12-12T19:42:00.000-08:00

Ladder Stitch Bracelet with Lampwork Closure

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I learned these ladder stitch wrap bracelets years ago (read: decades ago), but they are enormously popular right now because of designer Chan Luu. Consider making them with a lampwork bead closure.

Hers are done with semiprecious and/or swarovski crystal and you can see them (and their prices) here:
http://www.chanluu.com/Wrap-Bracelets-s/335.htm

-------
Below is what you need to make a 1-yard wrap.

Materials:
Work Surface
Thumbtack
6 yards C-Lon Macrame Cord (I get it from caravan beads here: http://www.caravanbeads.net/ProdList.asp?scat=76 )
2 yards 2mm leather (available from your local bead store)
30 grams size 6/0 seed beads (also available from Caravan Beads)
Lampwork glass bead (mine is boro and you can find the tutorial to do this wave bead in this forum room. I used GA Passion Extreme and clear for this bead). The important thing about your lampwork, is that the hole must be big enough to go over TWO strands of the leather. You'll see why as you read through this.
Twisted Wire Needles
Some glue - I suggest watch glue.
-----------

Fold your leather in half. Wrap the C-lon around it and fasten with a knot.
THIS IS YOUR BUTTON HOLE! Make sure that it fits over your bead.

Stick a bit of glue on there or burn that little end with a thread burner or match (see the Shamballa Bracelet Tutorial thread in the Tutorials For Sale section on details regarding this). Pin down to your work. It'll make it easier to start.

Thread your needle.
(Okay, I actually HATE these little wire needles, but they do make this project easier. So, swear a bit and then go ahead and thread that booger)
Thread on a size 6/0 seed bead.

**Pass the seed bead underneath and between the leather pieces.

Go OVER the lower leather piece, THROUGH the seed bead and OVER the upper leather piece.
Thread on another seed bead.** Pass the seed bead underneath and between the leather.

You probably see where this is going.
Go OVER the lower leather piece, THROUGH the seed bead and OVER the upper leather piece.

Thread on another seed bead.
Continue between the ** until you get bored.
I got bored about 4" into this bracelet, but I was all heck-bent on making it wrap at least twice. BTW, the Chan Luu single bracelets run about $150.

When you get to the end, wrap your C-lon a few times around the leather and pull it really tight. Tie a knot and glue it. Pull your lampwork over the top of this wrap and over the top of the knot. The glue should also be inside that bead. Tie a knot on the outside of the lampwork and trim your cords.

You're done! Admire you work!

Now, lets see photos of yours!

Vote in this month's Etsy Beadweavers Team Challenge!

2011-12-12T15:17:00.000-08:00

The theme of December's Etsy Beadweavers challenge is "ARABESQUE STYLE." Arabesque is an ornamental design style consisting of interwoven vines, flowers, leaves and geometric forms, often combined with other motifs. Motifs in Persian art can be a paisley, a geometric shape, a horse, lion, or flower. Western art motif examples include acanthus, egg and dart, and fleur de lis. Arabesque patterning is used in Persian rugs, tilework, medieval manuscripts, embroidery patterns and architecture.

Please view this month's contest entries below and then head on over to http://etsy-beadweavers.blogspot.com to vote. By the way, my piece is #22!

Voting for this challenge runs December 9th - December 15th.

News and Updates from Good River Gallery

2011-11-30T16:56:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the holiday season! I want to take a moment to thank you for being a newsletter subscriber. I've been lucky enough to meet some really wonderful friends through my business and I want to wish every one of you a wonderful winter and holiday season.

I will be teaching at Ally Beads in Cincinnati/Milford on December 17th. See below for details. I'll also be teaching for Gahanna Bead Studio here in Columbus Ohio. Details on those classes are to the left.

I'm involved with two shows this month - both run the weekend of the 9th-11th. The Glass Axis Holiday Sale in Columbus is always great fun. Watch demos, make your own ornament, and shop for gifts. I'll also be at the Cincinnati Gem Street show with Ally Beads Jewelry and Gifts!

Consider buying handmade for the holidays!
Kits are a great idea for family and friends for the holidays - DIY is "in" and the beginning kits are a great way to spread beady love. I have a whole bunch of the Brocade Bead Embroidered Bracelet Kits and some Japanese Screen Kits new up on my Etsy!
I am happy to take layaways on any of my items over $100, so if you have your eye on something, we can work out an easy payment schedule for you with no percentages.
Simple Beaded Earrings, all gift priced.
Don't know what to get? Try a gift certificate, available in my Etsy shop!
Its also time to start gearing up for the 2012 show season. For anyone who is interested in doing Bead Shows but is overwhelmed, or anyone who wants to increase their sales at shows they already do, I have a new tutorial available. See below for details!

Happy Holidays!
Hannah
http://www.goodrivergallery.com
http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

Upcoming Ally Beads Classes

2011-11-30T16:55:00.001-08:00

ALLY BEADS CLASSES
Cincinnati, OH

Dahlia/Snowflake Pendant or Ornament - JoEllen pointed out that this looks just like a snowflake, so it'll make a wonderful pendant or ornament for the holidays. Learn how to capture a rivoli in beadwork. You could stop right there, or you could add more bling (which do you think I prefer)? This can be made either using stick pearls or crystal briolettes. You'll finish this piece in class.
Saturday November 19, morning.

My work will be there for a trunk show the days I am teaching. Lampwork beads to fit your pandora bracelets. Tutorials, beads, jewelry, you know...

You can register for the classes online at
http://www.allybeads.com/Cincinnati-Class-Schedule_ep_45.html

Gem Street USA Show News

2011-11-30T16:52:00.000-08:00

GEM STREET USA SHOW
Cincinnati, OH

With Ally Beads! They will have sterling silver components and clasps at great prices at the show. They'll also have their Chamilia line, and kits.

I'll have lampwork beads to fit your Euro-style (Pandora, etc) bracelets. Tutorials, kits and beads. No finished jewelry, though - it'll all be at the Glass Axis Holiday Sale here in Columbus that same weekend. I'll be working the show on Saturday and Sunday.

Sharonville Convention Center
11355 Chester Road
Sharonville, OH. 45241.

For more details, a map and a coupon for $1 off admission, head to their website. http://www.gemstreetusa.com

Upcoming Bead Show Tutorial News

2011-11-30T16:48:00.000-08:00

A GUIDE TO SELLING AT BEAD SHOWS

My brand new tutorial is finally complete! I started this one almost a month ago and its been coming along really slowly.

This step by step guide is geared towards the beader who has never done shows before, but also may have some good tips for anyone who does shows but still feels overwhelmed by getting ready for them. Tutorial walks you through many of the things you need to consider in your road to bead-show-selling-success!

70+ pages and still growing!
Will be $18, but $12 preview price.

Upcoming Glass Axis Holiday Show

2011-11-30T16:44:00.000-08:00

GLASS AXIS HOLIDAY SHOW
Columbus, OH

Its one weekend only, and I'm not sure what I'll have there, so you'll have to drop by. I'll be working the show all day on Friday and am planning on making gift priced finished items and holiday themed stuff. I'll probably also have lampwork beads there with me on Friday!
Friday, December 9 -
Sunday, December 10

For more details, http://www.glassaxis.org

Upcoming Gahanna Bead Studio Classes

2011-11-30T16:37:00.000-08:00

GAHANNA BEAD STUDIO CLASSES
GAHANNA, OH

Dahlia/Snowflake Pendant or Ornament
Make a wonderful pendant or ornament for the holidays. Learn how to capture a rivoli in beadwork. You could stop right there, or you could add more bling (which do you think I prefer)? This can be made using stick pearls, dagger beads or crystal briolettes. You'll finish this piece in class. This class works as a prerequiste for the Champagne Dreams project (see below).Saturday December 3, 10:30am-1:30pm

Etsy Success for Everyone
Learn how to set up your shop or give it a makeover to gain hits and sales through site stats, good photos, keywords, and more. We'll also touch on social marketing for a full sales plan. There's still time to sell before the holidays!
Tuesday December 6, evening

Champagne Dreams
Make this little three-sided beaded bead using rivolis. Optional fringe is discussed. This project will be completed in class. However, there is prehomework. Student must set three rivolis in beadwork before they come to class. The dahlia pendant is an excellent prerequisite class if you don't know how to set rivolis.
Wednesday December 14, 5:30-8pm

To register, give them a call at
(614) 933-8948

After Thanksgiving Specials at Good River Gallery

2011-11-25T13:56:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving with family and/or friends.

As you know, the shopping season is now on us. Time for AFTER THANKSGIVING SALES!
After Thansgiving Specials at
Good River Gallery's Etsy Store!
11/25/11-11/28/11 EST

50% off Beading Tutorials on Black Friday
45% off Beading Tutorials on Small Business Saturday
40% off Beading Tutorials on Cyber Monday
15% off Finished Jewelry, Purses and Sculpture
SALE on all Halloween leftovers, including a bead perfect for the "Twilight" series and a skeleton key pendant.
Just to make it easy, you don't have to add any coupon codes - prices are already marked down on the days they are on sale.
http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

Once again, I hope you've had a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Sincerely,

Hannah Rosner

Good River Gallery
http://www.goodrivergallery.com
http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

New and Updates from Good River Gallery

2011-11-09T17:01:00.000-08:00

I know this is coming to you a bit early, but I'm heading out of town again for a few days mid-month. There are still loads of classes and events this month as well as some classes early on next month!

I will be teaching two classes that are perfect for the holidays at Ally Beads in Cincinnati/Milford. See below for details. I'll also be teaching for Gahanna Bead Studio here in Columbus Ohio.

Briolette Beads and More in Forest Park Illinois is having their annual gift fair! Kate has promised me a whole table, but I'm not sure what I'll have. See below for what I'm planning!

Consider buying handmade for the holidays! New on Etsy:
http://hannahrachel.etsy.com
* I have a whole bunch of the Brocade Bead Embroidered Bracelet Kits and some Japanese Screen Kits new up on my Etsy! A perfect gift for someone who wants to learn beading - these are all beginning level!
* I am happy to take layaways on any of my items over $100, so if you have your eye on something, we can work out an easy payment schedule for you with no percentages.
*Brand new Simple Beaded Earrings, all gift priced.
* Halloween items on clearance - wholesale pricing! There are some keys, some big hole european style charm beads and some focal beads.

I know I sell mainly sell online, but consider also purchasing your gifts this holiday season from your local and independantly owned businesses. Independantly owned and operated brick and mortar shops are becoming fewer as big businesses like Amazon.com and Walmart boom. If this continues, personalized customer service will be a thing of the past.

Happy Holidays!

Hannah
http://www.goodrivergallery.com
http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

ALLY BEADS CLASSES

2011-11-09T16:56:00.000-08:00

The Embellished Netted Icicles Necklace looks complex but its super easy. Its a beginning level project and you won't believe how lovely it looks. You won't get finished with this one in class, but you'll get a great start on it. Just as a warning, though, this has a lot of crystal or pearl in it, so its a pricey piece to make!

Saturday November 19, afteroon.

My work will be there for a trunk show the days I am teaching. Lampwork beads to fit your pandora bracelets. Tutorials, beads, jewelry, you know...

You can register for the classes online at
http://www.allybeads.com/Cincinnati-Class-Schedule_ep_45.html

Briolette Beads and More Gift Fair News!

2011-11-09T16:49:00.000-08:00

BRIOLETTE BEADS AND MORE GIFT FAIR
Forest Park, IL

Kate has promised me a whole table if I want it at the Briolette Beads and More Gift Fair. Its one day only, and I'm not sure what I'll have there, so you'll have to drop by. I am planning on making gift priced finished items and holiday themed stuff. I'll probably also have patterns and lampwork beads!

Saturday November 26

For more details, call the store.
708-366-8318

News and Info from Good River Gallery

2011-11-01T17:28:00.000-07:00

Thanks to the folks at the Carlisle School of glass for hosting a wonderful first ever Glass Stock East! Also, thanks to Deb, the founder and creator of Glass Stock.

Also while in New Jersey I got to see my college roomie, Elizabeth! She looks totally the same to me, except there's all these grown up kids hanging around the place. How did that happen?

There are loads of classes and events this month! Early this month I will be teaching at Ally Beads in Cincinnati. There's still room in the classes! Then, later in the month I'm back down there for two jewelry pieces that are perfect for the holidays. See below for details. I'll also be teaching for Gahanna Bead Studio here in Columbus Ohio. Details on those classes are to the left.

There's still a few days to get to the mail-away trunk show with kits, tutorials and lampwork glass beads at Your Design, LTD in Bettendorf, IA.

I have a whole bunch of the brocade bead embroidered bracelet kits new up on my Etsy!

Hannah
http://www.goodrivergallery.com
http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

Gahanna Bead Studio Class News from Good River Gallery

2011-11-01T17:22:00.000-07:00

GAHANNA BEAD STUDIO CLASSES
GAHANNA, OH

Buckeye Pendant
The colors are off a little in my sample since I was using what I had on hand, but we'll really be using chestnut and ivory beads for this. Yup, that's my UlyBear wearing the necklace.
Wed 2 to 5 pm
Nov. 9

Ally Beads Class News from Good River Gallery

2011-11-01T17:10:00.000-07:00

ALLY BEADS CLASSES
Cincinnati, OH

Still had one more Atlantis Bracelet Class scheduled for Ally Beads that I had totally forgotten about on 11/5! I think we'll add some interior fringes and some pearls to this one and make it look like a scallop shell! A lovely piece like this should go out with a bang, don't you think? You'll get pretty close to finished with this bracelet in class. I hope you can join me. Saturday November 5, full day

One of my favorite classes is the Bead Embroidered Bracelet class. Every last one of my students' pieces come out wonderful and unique since you'll start with completely different materials. You won't finish this piece in class, but you'll get a really good start on it - I love making these just about the most! Sunday November 6, full day

Dahlia/Snowflake Pendant or Ornament - JoEllen pointed out that this looks just like a snowflake, so it'll make a wonderful pendant or ornament for the holidays. Learn how to capture a rivoli in beadwork. You could stop right there, or you could add more bling (which do you think I prefer)? This can be made either using stick pearls or crystal briolettes. You'll finish this piece in class. Saturday November 19, morning.

The Embellished Netted Icicles Necklace looks complex but its super easy. Its a beginning level project and you won't believe how lovely it looks. You won't get finished with this one in class, but you'll get a great start on it. Just as a warning, though, this has a lot of crystal in it, so its a pricy piece to make! Saturday November 19, afteroon.

My work will be there for a trunk show the days I am teaching. Lampwork beads to fit your pandora bracelets. Tutorials, beads, jewelry, you know...

You can register for the classes online at
http://www.allybeads.com/Cincinnati-Class-Schedule_ep_45.html

Welcome to October at Good River Gallery

2011-10-11T13:44:00.000-07:00

September went by in the blink of an eye! I can't believe that its really fall here. October is super busy at Good River Gallery. Hope to see you sometime this month! NEW on my Etsy - I now allow layaway plans. If interested, then email me and we'll discuss details.

Because of the Right Angle Weave ruffled bracelet in the current issue (October 2011) of the Bead and Button, I have decided to retire my Atlantis Bracelet. It was one of my best sellers for the past year and a half. I first uploaded my photo of it to Facebook in May 2010 and taught it here in Columbus Ohio in August 2010, but still got a note telling me I had copied it which I'm still smarting from. For now, you can see a photo of it and it is still available here:
http://www.etsy.com/listing/62944502/beading-tutorial-atlantis-beaded

October 27-November 6, I'll have a mail-away trunk show with kits, tutorials and lampwork glass beads at Your Design, LTD in Bettendorf, IA. Stop by the store and say hello to the owner, Fran!

Meanwhile, I'll be at Glass Stock teaching in New Jersey at the Carlisle School of Glass from October 28-31. There's still room if you want to take the Crossover fusing/torching class. We'll be making floral tiles! Or, you can take a bead embroidered bracelet class using seed beads and a glass cabochon. Details are in the left hand column.

Also, my pattern testers have been awesome. Thanks to them - they all did a great job! If you made a sample for me and didn't pick something out, don't forget to write to me.

Bobbi ended up being my 1000th sale! Thanks so much! There's another little grab bag slated for anyone who leaves me my 500th positive feedback on Etsy. If you've purchased from me on Etsy and have anything good to say, please do give me feedback!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and almost all of us know someone who has been affected. Consider donating to the Komen Foundation.

Hannah

http://www.goodrivergallery.com
http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

YOUR DESIGN, LTD Trunk Show and Sale. IA

2011-10-11T13:39:00.000-07:00

YOUR DESIGN, LTD
Trunk Show and Sale
Bettendorf, IA

This is the first time my work has been shown in Iowa. Tutorials, kits and lampwork glass beads... You know the drill and the sort of stuffs I show. I'm going to make some pieces just for the store, though.

2340 Cumberland Square Drive
Bettendorf, IA 52722
Phone: 563.355.1519
http://www.yourdesignltd.com
Oct. 27 - Nov. 6

Circleville Pumpkin Festival!

2011-10-11T13:37:00.000-07:00

There's still time! You know you want to hop a plane and check out the Circleville Pumpkin Festival. Pumpkin everything - pizza, pie, ice cream, you name it. I'll be with Glass Axis in their glass pumpkin filled booth on Thursday, October 20th.
http://www.pumpkinshow.com

My work will be there the full week, however. Lampwork beads to fit your pandora bracelets. Finished fall and Halloween jewelry for you to choose from. Most of them are really priced for gifts.

Tuesday-Saturday Oct. 18-22

Glass Stock East Carlisle School of Glass Art

2011-10-11T13:34:00.000-07:00

GLASS STOCK EAST
Carlisle School of Glass Art
- Millville, NJ

Come and join us for the first ever Glass Stock East 2011!

GSEast is a sharing, collaborating event modeled after the Glass Stock festival which has run for 8 years on the Oregon Coast by Deb Crowley with much success! This event as grown in popularity with artists willing to teach and share for the opportunity to do the same.

This is a chance to get "out of the box" and learn new skills, get priceless feedback and inspiration.

My lampwork boro flowers class is full, but there's still room to attend and some really impressive on and off-torch classes by some wonderful nationally known artists.

For details on how to attend and a list of all the classes and events, visit Deb's website.
http://debcrowley.com/gpage3.html

Good River Gallery Intro

2011-08-24T16:12:00.000-07:00

I know it isn't really September yet but next month is so super busy I can't wait to tell you about it!

Thanks to Charlene and Dan in Chicago, who (as usual) were wonderful hosts. Also, many thanks to Kate.

September starts out with a bang - for anyone who is headed to Glass Stock West, I'll see you in Oregon soon!

I have beadweaving classes listed for Gahanna Bead Studio as well as a class at the Ohio Beader's Retreat and a demo at an evening event for the Zanesville Art museum. For lampworkers, I have a few classes lined up for the fall at Glass Axis.

No bead shows this month! See you online and in the classroom. -Enjoy! Hannah

http://www.goodrivergallery.com
http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

Glass Axis Classes

2011-08-24T16:05:00.000-07:00

GLASS AXIS CLASSES
Columbus, OH

Stringer with Controlled Flame

Intermediate beadmaking class. $120 for 6 hours of instruction.
Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm
Sept. 11

Sculptural Floral Beads
Create life-like sculptural glass flower beads in this intermediate/advanced class. This course covers everything from festooning a bead with "painted" flowers through three-dimensional glass rose beads. Torchworking I or equivalent experience required. $240 for 12 hours of instruction.
Saturday & Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm
Oct. 15 & 16

Bead Coldworking & Finishing Techniques
This course teaches finishing techniques including faceting, cutting and polishing beads. The course will cover acid etching, sandblasting, and more. I will demonstrate bead coring and capping. This course is at an intermediate level for those who have tried beadmaking or taken our beginning class. $240 for 12 hours of instruction.
Saturday & Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm
Nov. 12 & 13

To register, call Glass Axis at 614-291-4250.

Upcoming Classes at Gahanna Bead Studio

2011-08-24T15:54:00.000-07:00

GAHANNA BEAD STUDIO
- Gahanna, OH

One of my favorite things about the Gahanna Bead Studio is that supplies are included in the class fee, except for where listed below.

DAHLIA PENDANT

Students need to be comfortable with even flat peyote stitch. This piece also looks lovely with briolette drops or daggers. There are samples of each at the store.
Sept 15.

ATLANTIS BRACELET

(Photo in main intro block, right) Use crystals or pearls and seed beads to make your own version of this handbeaded bracelet. Students should be very comfortable with flat even count peyote stitch before registering for this class. Sept 21.

NDEBELE CABLES BRACELET

Use seed beads and crystals to make your own version of this handbeaded bracelet. Students should already be comfortable with ndebele/herringbone stitch. Sept 10.

STEAMPUNK SPIRALS

NECKLACE

Fashion another over-the-top necklace piece with a decidedly steampunk feel. Students need to have a working knowledge of peyote stitch and be well versed in bead weaving. NO SUPPLIES ARE INCLUDED IN THE CLASS FEE. Sept 17.

CHAMPAGNE DREAMS PENDANT

Make this tri-sided pendant using rivolis. Students need to be familiar with even count flat peyote stitch. Sept 29.

Register online! Just hit the classes page. There are multiple class pages, so scroll through to see them all.

http://www.gahannabeadstudio.com

Summer Specials from Good River Gallery A New Tutorial, A Trunk Show and a SALE!

2011-08-07T20:09:00.000-07:00

Hi all! Well, of course I managed to forget a bunch of stuff in last week's newsletter, so please excuse me while I send out an update.

I have brand new tutorial -
Introduction to Color Theory for Seed Beaders. It also has a little on seed bead finishes and sizes, but it is 50+ pages of what I hope is really good stuff. I hope it makes putting together new palettes easier for you! It is to the left.

Also, below, details on a 15% off SALE - everything on my Etsy site!

If you are in Chicago but can't make the classes I'm teaching next weekend, drop by anyhow. I'll have a full TRUNK SHOW of my kits, tutorials and beads. It'll be at Briolette on Thursday and Sunday, and at Caravan on Friday and Saturday (Aug 11-14).

2011-08-07T20:06:00.000-07:00

INTRO TO COLOR THEORY FOR SEED BEADERS

For anyone who has had trouble understanding color theory or going about picking a palette, here is a PDF tutorial that will hopefully help you out. This goes into Color Theory, symbolism and also shows you some of my very favorite palettes. It keeps growing, but thus far its 50+ pages.
Also, a tiny little bit about seed bead finishes, shapes and sizes.

I haven't figured out what this will ultimately sell for, but lets start it out at $10!

15% off everything in my Etsy

2011-08-07T20:04:00.000-07:00

15% off everything in my Etsy Store Sale!

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

Beadweaving Tutorials
Lampworking Tutorials
Finished Jewelry

...and BEADS!
I've just added in a ton of new lampwork floral pendants and beads as well as some boro disks, spacers and bracelet sized beads.

Starting.... NOW!
Until... I get bored with it.
Use coupon code SUMMERFUN2011 when you check out on Etsy. The code doesn't work in Paypal, just the Etsy checkout.

August News from Good River Gallery and Hannah Rosner

2011-08-03T13:20:00.001-07:00

Thanks to everyone who visited me at the International Society for Glass Beadmakers Gathering & at all my classes this month. In particular, thanks to Diane who pull together an enormous set of beadweaving classes at the very last minute for me. Thanks also to Deb and the crew in Oregon for a fantastic vacation.

I have classes listed for Gahanna Bead Studio.

In Illinois? There are also classes listed for Briolette Beads and More & Caravan Beads Chicago!

No bead shows this month! See you online and in the classroom. At the beginning of next month I'll be at Glass Stock in Oregon. If you are interested, Deb still may have space for you - contact her at http://www.debcrowley.com

-Enjoy! Hannah

http://www.goodrivergallery.com

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

GAHANNA BEAD STUDIO CLASSES

2011-08-03T13:19:00.000-07:00

GAHANNA BEAD STUDIO CLASSES

- Gahanna, OH

NDEBELE CUBES

Use Japanese cube beads, glass

seed beads and Czech pressed glass to make your own version of this bracelet. Students will learn flat ndebele stitch and a toggle clasp made of peyote stitch. Students SHOULD BE ALREADY FAMILAR WITH FLAT PEYOTE STITCH before they begin this project. Kits are included in the fee, with several colors available. Aug 17.

Register online! Just hit the classes page. There are multiple class pages, so scroll through to see them all.

http://www.gahannabeadstudio.com

CARAVAN BEADS & BRIOLETTE BEADS CLASSES

2011-08-03T13:16:00.001-07:00

CARAVAN BEADS & BRIOLETTE BEADS
CLASSES
Chicago & Forest Park, IL

Lecture Series - Etsy Success

(at Briolette)

Etsy allows vintage, supplies and handmade items on their site. Not just for beaders - learn to sell your work successfully online!

Thurs August 11 Class Date 6-9pm

Embroidered Beaded Brocade Bracelet

(at Caravan)

A beginning beadweaving class. Learn basic bead embroidery!

Fri August 12 Class Date 6-9pm

ReUse! Recycle! Felted Beaded Tote Bag with Hannah & Bethany Adams (at Caravan)

A beginning felting and beadweaving class. Learn to upcycle and reuse for a one-of-a-kind tote.

Sat August 13 Class Date

Atlantis Bracelet (at Briolette Beads & More)

An intermediate level beadweaving class. Students need to be comfortable with even count flat peyote stitch.

Sun August 14 Class Date

Mid-month update from Good River Gallery

2011-07-19T07:12:00.002-07:00

There's still some
time to get in on
the July fun! Its
been a long time
since I had a
beadwoven bands
graph-only sale. So,
all of my tested
loomwork and
peyote graphs are
on sale at $4.00 or less.
EXTENDED UNTIL
11:30pm 7/19 ONLY.
No word charts, no finishing techniques, just the graphs.
You can find them by heading on over to my website.
http://www.goodrivergallery.com or

http://www.goodrivergalleries.com/catalogkitspeyoteSALE.htm

I have one more class for Gahanna Bead Studio this

month (but wait till you see what we have scheduled

next month) and have extended the trunk show of my work at Grand River Beads

in Rocky River Ohio.

I'm almost ready to head down to the ISGB Gathering in KY

and will be holding a table at the Bead Bazaar.

Hope to see you sometime this month!
Hannah

http://www.goodrivergallery.com

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

ISGB Gathering in Kentucky!

2011-07-19T07:12:00.001-07:00

INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR GLASS BEADMAKERS
Gathering & Bead Bazaar
Louisville, KY

Here's a more complete listing of what I'll have at my table:

* Large Iris and Orchid Beads
* Trumpet Flower Pendants
* Smaller Floral Beads & Pendants
* Really cheap boro disk beads
* Bracelet Sized Boro Beads
* Really cheap boro spacer beads

* Sculptural googliebird tutorial (boro or soft glass)
* Soft Glass Surface Techniques Tutorial

Saturday, July 30th.

Kentucky International Convention Center

http://www.isgb.org

Grand River Beads Trunk Show

2011-06-30T06:35:00.000-07:00

GRAND RIVER BEADS
Trunk Show
19361 Detroit Rd.
Rocky River, Ohio 44116

A full trunk show of my beads, finished jewelry, kits and tutorials! Runs July 1 - 9th.

440-331-4950
www.grandriverbeads.com
grandriverbeads@sbcglobal.net

ISGB Gather Bead Bazaar Bound!

2011-06-30T06:34:00.000-07:00

INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR GLASS BEADMAKERS
Gathering & Bead Bazaar
Louisville, KY

Beads and tutorials! Open to the public. Look for my table.

Saturday, July 30th.

Kentucky International Convention Center

THE PEACOCK BRACELET TUTORIAL

2011-06-30T06:32:00.000-07:00

Presenting....

THE PEACOCK BRACELET TUTORIAL - in white & gold!

Sometime last Fall (yah, like 9 months ago), Jody suggested that I rework my peacock bracelet in whites and golds, so I tried it. Its fabulous, and has pearls in the fringe!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62767675/hannah-rosner-peacock-feather-bead

GAHANNA BEAD STUDIO CLASSES - July 2011

2011-06-30T06:29:00.000-07:00

GAHANNA BEAD STUDIO CLASSES

- Gahanna, OH

DAHLIA PENDANT

July 13 6pm-9pm This is an INTERMEDIATE peyote class.
Students need to be comfortable with even count flat peyote stitch. As always, there is plenty of embellishment and loads of bling. Learn to set a rivoli in beadwork and then add all kinds of other stuff.

BEAD EMBROIDERED CUFF BRACELET

July 16 10am-5pm
This is an all levels class. In-class covers basic bead embroidery, setting a cabochon in peyote stitch beadwork, and the edging picot stitch. This class is FREEFORM. That is to say that each individual student will be designing and making their own piece, but before you worry, I promise to make it easy for you to make a unique, one-of-a-kind piece of jewelry

STEAMPUNK BUG PENDANT

July 24 10am-5pm

Make a steampunk 3d pendant using tiny size 15/0 seed beads, odd count peyote stitch and decreasing peyote! If you don't dig bugs, then it just looks like a drop pendant without the wings. We'll discuss a few options for finishing techniques. This is an ADVANCED project. Students should be VERY adept at even-count peyote stitch.

Register online! Just hit the classes page. There are multiple class pages, so scroll through to see them all.
http://www.gahannabeadstudio.com

June News from Good River Gallery

2011-06-04T17:41:00.001-07:00

My thanks to JoEllen and the full staff at Ally Beads in Cincinnati for their hospitality and a wonderful display for my solo show. Their shop is lovely - if you are ever in the Cincinnati/Milford area, you should definitely drop by.

Also, thank you to new and old friends at Marcon. It was a lovely weekend.

Much of this month is taken up with Bead & Button (June 8-12). I will be sharing booth #410 with Jeannette Cook of Beady Eyed Women. Drop by - as always I'll have my floral lampwork beads, kits and beadweaving tutorials.

During Bead & Button, my Etsy shop will be closed. It'll reopen with one-of-a-kind kits and some new tutorials right after I return.

Highlights still coming this month are in the table of contents to the left - I'll be teaching for Gahanna Bead Studio. I also will be heading to Missouri at the end of the month to teach for Three Monkeys Beadery.

Enjoy the season!
Hannah

http://www.goodrivergallery.com

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

Good River Gallery at BEAD & BUTTON SHOW Booth #410

2011-06-04T17:39:00.001-07:00

BEAD & BUTTON SHOW
Booth #410
with Jeannette Cook of Beady Eyed Women!

June 9 - Show Preview (eve)

June 10-12 - Show Floor open

Milwaukee, WI
Frontier Airlines Center

* New floral lampwork

* Beadweaving tutorials

* Look for one-of-a-kind kits, and some limited edition kits

*50% off bin. Rummage through for focal lampwork and some sets!

Etsy Success for Everyone.

2011-06-04T17:38:00.001-07:00

GAHANNA BEAD STUDIO CLASSES - Gahanna, OH

ONLINE SALES FOR THE ARTIST
June 15
This class is not for jewelers alone! Learn the ins and outs of successfully selling on ETSY. These classes are for any artist who is trying to sell their work on line. Bring a pen and notebook, and a laptop with wireless if you have one.

Register online!
There are multiple class pages, so scroll through to see them all.
http://www.gahannabeadstudio.com/views_GBS/view_classes.php

CLASSES AT THREE MONKEYS BEADERY in Troy, MO

2011-06-04T17:36:00.000-07:00

THREE MONKEYS BEADERY
Troy, MO

Saturday June 25.

Royal Ruffles Bracelet Class

9am-noon or 1-4pm.

$35.00 plus materials.

Intermediate Level. Students need to be very comfortable with even count flat peyote stitch

Call to register

Sunday June 26.

Bead Embroidered Cuff Bracelet Class

(photo right)

9am-4pm

Beginning level.

$65.00 plus materials.

That center piece looks great as a lampwork bead or cabochon, too. Perfect for the lampworker who wants to try something new.

I'll also have a full trunk show of beads, finished jewelry, kits and tutorials.

Three Monkeys Beadery

Troy, MO

636.528.7786

Win a SOMETHING!

2011-06-04T17:32:00.000-07:00

(that's the surprise - I don't know what it is yet)
(it'll probably have something to do with beads)

I have TWO upcoming big events on Etsy. I'll send out somethings for each one.

Little something: To whomever leaves me my 500th POSITIVE feedback.

Bigger something: To whomever buys my 1000th item on Etsy. If you purchase more than one item, they are all counted separately!

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

2011-05-22T15:13:00.000-07:00

The rest of this month just got even busier!

Highlights still coming this month are below

I'll be selling my finished jewelry at Marcon here in Columbus. I'll be teaching for Gahanna Bead Studio and doing a demo in northern California. And all this before Bead and Button!

I love the springtime. We have lily of the valley and bleeding hearts in bloom, and some lovely jack-in-the-pulpit and Mayflowers out near the stream. Enjoy the season!

Hannah

http://www.goodrivergallery.com

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

-----------------

May & Early June GAHANNA BEAD STUDIO CLASSES - Gahanna, OH

COLOR THEORY FOR THE BEADER
May 25
Beaders constantly ask us about the differences in seed bead sizes, shapes, and finishes. This lecture-based class looks into all these as well as color affects your eye, how to pick "good" color combos and how the type of beads blend.

ONLINE SALES FOR THE ARTIST
June 15
This class is not for jewelers alone! Learn the ins and outs of successfully selling on ETSY. These classes are for any artist who is trying to sell their work on line. Bring a pen and notebook, and a laptop with wireless if you have one.

Register online!
There are multiple class pages, so scroll through to see them all.
http://www.gahannabeadstudio.com/views_GBS/view_classes.php

May Events!

2011-05-22T15:09:00.000-07:00

I'm so far behind on posting!

Almost June, and I've already missed blogging about many of the events this month.

MARCON ART SHOW/SALE
Memorial Day weekend!

Fri, May 27 - Sun, May 29

Columbus Convention Center.

Columbus, OH

Finished Jewelry in a whole range of price points, from $25 up. Focusing on steampunk, fantasy and science fiction designs.

ALSO: Sat May 28 at 10am. ETSY SUCCESS FOR EVERYONE. Morning panel in the art show room (Madison Room).

PACIFIC GLASSWORKS
GRAND REOPENING
FLAMEWORKING DEMO

Mon, May 30 - Wed, June 1

Exact times TBA

401 North Main Street #202

Fort Bragg, CA 95437

Glasswork and jewelry in Northern California.

Beadmaking and flameworking demos. We'll probably do a collaboration piece between multiple artists and have been discussing a marble run. Come on by and see what we actually do, shop for just-finished items and more!

Oh, and its near the wine country. And the beach. And there will be some cute dogs nearby. Email me if you think you'll be in the area. Possibly we'll even have time for an evening beadweaving class.

BEAD & BUTTON SHOW

Thurs, June 9 - Sun, June 12

Booth #410

Frontier Airlines Center
Milwaukee, WI

Tutorials, Kits and lampwork. A few new kits and tutorials, some show specials and much more!

Third Place!

2011-04-13T08:06:00.000-07:00

Neptune's Tail won 3rd place at this year's Gallery of Excellence at the Glass Craft Expo in Vegas this year in the Beads and Jewelry category. Beads by John Winter and myself. I did the beadweaving. Bernie fussed at me to put it online.

I hope to get a full blog post up sometime soon on my Vegas trip, but this is it for now, while I get ready for the show in Denver. Jeanette Cook and I will be sharing a booth there!

Springtime!

2011-04-08T09:23:00.001-07:00

Welcome to spring! Hopefully the weather has improved a bit where you are! March was really a whirlwind, and April isn't going to be much calmer.

Highlights this month are below. I'll be in Denver, selling my finished jewelry at a solo show in Cincinnati and at a spring sale here in Columbus. I'll also be doing a lampwork demo at the Zanesville Museum of Art.

But there's other exciting news! Jeri Warhaftig's new book, Creating Glass Beads, is out and its FABULOUS. She did a wonderful job. Its available from Amazon.com and is so inexpensive for the wonderful projects she included. But best yet, she selected a group of project testers and I got a chance to be one of them. In addition to trying my hand at new techniques (the photo above is one of her designs), I also met a wonderful group of lampworkers. Congrats to everyone for a wonderful job! You can see the projects in person at the International Society for Glass Beadmakers Gathering at the end of July.

Enjoy the spring!
Hannah
http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

Zanesville Museum of Art Demo

2011-04-08T09:22:00.001-07:00

LAMPWORK GLASS DEMO
and lecture at Zanesville Museum of Art

April 23.

This is pretty exciting. I'll be setting up in front of the museum and recreating some of the beads and smaller versions of their roman glass. I hope the weather is good. Please join me!

Zanesville Museum of Art

Zanesville, Ohio

ROCKY MOUNTAIN BEAD SOCIETY SHOW

2011-04-08T09:20:00.000-07:00

ROCKY MOUNTAIN BEAD SOCIETY SHOW

April 16 &17

Denver Merchandise Mart.

Denver, CO

I'll have my newest jewelry tutorials as well as lampwork glass flowers and just a few clearance focal beads. I'm sharing a booth again with Jeannette Cook - we had so much fun last year we decided to do it again.

SCULPTURAL FLORAL BEADS

2011-04-08T09:18:00.000-07:00

SCULPTURAL FLORAL BEADS
at Glass Axis

Intermediate/advanced level.

Make Sculptural beads based off photos of real flowers. We'll be working in 104, or if you prefer to bring your boro, you can work in that instead. It'll be fun - what more is there to say?
May 8th. Call to register 614/291-4250

GLASS AXIS SPRING SALE

2011-04-08T09:16:00.001-07:00

GLASS AXIS SPRING SALE

Friday, April 29-May 1

1341 Norton Avenue.

Columbus, OH

Finished Jewelry in a whole range of price points, from $35 up through $3000.

Friday (only) will also be your last chance to get some of the clearance focal beads. I'm phasing out a number of styles, so once they are gone I won't make them again.

From the Etsy Success Q&A

2011-03-18T18:33:00.000-07:00

Q: How important is blogging for sales?

A: Blogging generates content on the web that can be found by your audience – so blogging can definitely bring in traffic! Think about the most beneficial and authentic content you want to share. What can you cover that will interest your target market? Etsy's Guide to Blogging is a great place to start your blogging path.

Miyuki Updates

2011-03-18T18:23:00.001-07:00

Our hearts go out to the victims of the terrible earthquake, tsunami, and nuclear power plant in Japan.

Fortunately, we have heard word that the Miyuki factory, the Miyuki employees and the Katsuoka family are all safe in Southern Japan. Nevertheless, we don't know if production and shipping will be slowed by the devastation and whether the affected nuclear power plants will affect the power supplies in Southern Japan.

Bead Embroidered Bracelet Class - March. Centerville, OH

2011-03-13T19:01:00.000-07:00

BEAD EMBROIDERED BRACELET at
Y2SISTERS

March 26th.

We'll be holding this at the Centerville Coin Shop! If you can cross stitch or embroider or sew you can bead embroider! The finished bracelet looks really complex but wait until you see how easy it is to make this heirloom piece.

To register, call Centerville Coin shop and ask to talk to Danielle or December. 937/436-3003

GREAT LAKES BEADWORKER'S GUILD SPRING BEAD BONANZA

2011-03-13T18:56:00.001-07:00

GREAT LAKES BEADWORKER'S GUILD BEAD BONANZA

March 20

Visit me!

I'll have new lampwork, kits and tutorials. The 2011 Spring Bead Bonanza will be held at the Southfield Municipal Complex Pavilion in Southfield, MI, 26000 Evergreen Road.

Good River Gallery at the Ally Beads Bridal Show, March 25 & 26

2011-03-01T22:19:00.000-08:00

Please Join Us!

2nd Annual AllyBeads Bridal Show

Friday, March 25 – 5 – 8 pm
Saturday, March 26 – 11 am – 5 pm

AllyBeads Jewelry & Gifts – 16 Main Street – Milford, OH 45150
513/831-8300 – www.AllyBeads.com

AllyBeads Jewelry & Gifts

Custom Jewelry & Bridal Beading Parties

Chaz Bridal & Consignment (with accessories by Two Stitches)

Beautiful Gowns, Dresses, Accessories and Bridal Attire Services

Cruise Planners – The Best Cruise Shoppe

Cruise & Travel Specialists for a Perfect Honeymoon/Destination Wedding

Kirk & Company Jewelers

The Ring – From Proposal to Ceremony

McIntire Photography

Experienced Wedding Photography

Row House Gallery & Custom Framing

Capturing Memories with Artistic Flair

Sugar Cupcakery

Delectable & Beautiful Organic Cupcakes

Supporting Cast

Auel’s Chocolates – Edible Wedding Favors

Floral Keepsakes – Specialized Floral Presentation

Gayle’s Vintage Clothing – “Something Old” Jewelry

GIG Metal Designs – Personalized Metal Jewelry/Favors

Good River Gallery – Custom Bridal Jewelry

MJ’s on Main – Great Food/Party Room for Showers & Rehearsal Dinners

Phoenix Rising Designs – Custom Bridal Hair Accessories

Pantone's Color of the Year is Honeysuckle

2011-03-01T20:29:00.001-08:00

Pantone's Color of the Year is Honeysuckle

Pantone suggests Honeysuckle will pair easily with the basics of black, navy, charcoal or light to mid gray. Also suggested are bronze greens.

While pink isn't for everyone, there are lots of beads you can find in this color to use in your beadwork:

If you are into bling, Swarovski has crystals of all shapes and sizes. Look for Indian Pink, Rose and Rose AB to add the Honeysuckle color.

If you prefer more natural stones and materials, you can find bigger beads and cabochons in Rhodonite, Rhodochrosite, Pearls and Shells.

For beadweaving, Look for Delicas® in these great Honeysuckle colors. All of them are available on the Caravan Beads online sales site (http://www.beadstogo.com). Just click on the links!

ceylon color-lined raspberry ice (DB236)
silver-lined pink (DB625)
silver-lined frost dark rose (DB685)
transparent matte dark fuchsia (DB775)
transparent matte hot pink (DB778)
color-lined hot pink (DB902)
color-lined pink lipstick (DB914)
transparent dark rose (DB1308)
silver-lined dark pink (DB1338)
silver-lined pink rose (DB1341)
silver-lined dark rose (DB1342)
opaque dark rose (DB1376)

If you haven't used this color in your beadwork before, looks like this is the year to try. Never be afraid to try something new and don't forget to do it with your own style.

Thanks to Julie Hunkar and Guide To Beadwork for this article.

Online Selling - Etsy and Beyond - by Lori Peterson

2011-02-24T20:25:00.000-08:00

Online Selling – Etsy and Beyond

- Lori Peterson

Lori Peterson wrote this article about online and Etsy sales. You can see her beads at http://www.loribeads.com

Picking a name

Try to pick something that will either identify YOU or what you are selling. “Your Name Designs” is one that I recommend (i.e. Lori Peterson Designs). It covers a broad range of products and services, should your focus change. I chose Loribeads before I really thought about that. Also, think about what website names are available. Chances are if you want something like Lampwork.com or FusedGlass.com it is already taken. Do your research before making a final decision on picking an etsy store name.

Policies & returns

I could load this section up with examples of what not to do. Put enough info in the policies to inform and protect your interests but not so much that it puts buyers off of doing business with you. Keep it simple, straightforward and above all else, shopper-friendly. Don’t gouge customers with shipping charges. If you want to make more money on the product, price it accordingly. Returns policies should reassure customers that you want them to be happy with their purchase. Try to keep that in mind. Occasionally you will get a difficult customer, that’s just the way it is. Try not to let those experiences form your policies. This is my opinion only.

Logos and branding

Pick a look and create a logo, online banners, etc. Etsy is a good place to look if you want someone to create all that for you. Some website hosts will have templates you can use and customize. Branding is so important that unless you are just dabbling in selling, spending time getting this right is really important. Make sure your logo/banner says something about your aesthetic.

Announcements and artist intro

Here’s the place to announce your grand opening! You can also announce sales, coupons, new products and even general chit-chat here. Artist profile is the place for your artist statement, how you came to be an artist, stuff like that. I don’t like to shop at a store when I don’t know their location so be sure to put where you are, too.

Photos, photos, photos

-lighting and cameras

Honestly, it’s more about the photographer than the camera. Get a decent camera – no need to spend a bundle – most point and shoot cameras are fine for web photos. I sell beads so I made sure the camera I picked had a macro setting.

-photo tents and lighting

Light diffusion is pretty important, especially when photographing glass. I recommend getting some good, bright lights and a photo cube, sized for the product you intend to sell. Ott lites are a good choice for lighting but other daylight bulbs will work just as well. Most bad photos are bad because there wasn’t enough light.

-post production

Photoshop, Gimp, Paint Shop Pro, there are many different photo editing programs out there. Some are free, some are really pricey. I have tried them all and trust me when I say that none of them can turn a bad photo into a good one. Pick one that works with your level of photo-editing interest. Photoshop can be a resource hog on a slower computer and is very expensive and has a pretty big learning curve but it is the industry standard for photo editing so if you get stuck and need help, you’re likely to find someone online who will have an answer to your question. The bare minimum you will need from a photo editing software is to be able to resize photos. Out of the camera, they will likely be too big. Etsy has a 1000x1000 pixel recommendation for your shop photos.

Descriptions / Categories / Tags

-take a look at similar items for keyword/tag/category help

I know this seems like cheating. But, really, it is the easiest way to make sure you get tags that make sense for your product. Take a look at a few different products before you pick tags, though. Some people use tags inappropriately. Make sure the tags you pick actually make sense for the product you’re selling. If they don’t, someone might report you and your item may be removed.

-dimensions, materials used, facts

Make sure you give all the pertinent information for the product. It may seem obvious to you that the item you are selling is teeny-tiny because it’s in front of you. When you look at macro photos of the item, it may seem MUCH larger. Let the customer know what to expect so they aren’t surprised when they receive the item. Same goes for materials used. If you used sterling silver, let them know. If you used base metal containing nickel, let them know. Nothing worse than wearing something that gives you an unexpected rash!

-inspiration and artist stuff

Some artists like to include a story, like how the item was conceived, inspired or stumbled upon during the creative process. Customers like to catch a glimpse of the artist’s soul. Remember, you’re selling yourself as much as you’re selling the item!

Listing Strategies

-list a few items a day rather than all at once

The default search result for Etsy is newest first so you probably want to be on the first or second page when someone searches for an item like yours. If you list frequently, the chances are better you will be easy to find and be seen by more people. Also, keep in mind that the more items you list, the more items you will sell, generally speaking. If you only have a couple things in your store and never update it, you won’t be as successful a seller as someone who keeps their store fresh and fully stocked with exciting new items.

-list and promote, list and promote, list and promote

Etsy makes it really easy to promote your items now. One button push and you can publish your item to your Facebook page! Same goes for Twitter, too. You can also send out newsletters to your customer list to let them know when you have new items and sales.

After the sale…

-feedback

If you want feedback (and you do) you need to leave feedback for your buyers. Thank them for their quick payment or for supporting your art.

-tracking sales/ customer base/ follow up

Keep a list of customers and get a mailing list going. Make sure you check with them before adding them to the list. No one wants spam. There are a lot of free and paid opt-in mailing list generators you can use that will add a form to your website. Some of those are Bravenet, Constant Comment, Vertical Response.

-packing and shipping

Pack your items securely so that they will arrive at their destination in once piece. Make sure you include a hand-written thank you on the receipt or even on the back of a business card. You can personalize your packages by adding special touches like gift boxes, pretty tissue paper or whatever makes you happy and furthers your brand image. Get creative! Oh and don’t forget to ship promptly!

Advertising and Promotion

Paid and Targeted

There are tons of advertising opportunities for artists out there but you have to look for them. If you want to pay for advertising you can sign up for Google Adwords or buy an ad in a magazine that targets your audience. I like advertising on forums I actively participate in. It is pretty reasonably priced and super targeted. It pays to do some online research to see where your customers are gathering.

Blogs / Facebook / Twitter

A blog or posting to Facebook or Twitter is a great way to talk about your creative process, promote your items and let customers know about your latest creations. If you’re not a good writer, just post photos and links!

FREE TIP - BASIC WIRE WRAP - USING A HEAD PIN

2011-02-20T16:37:00.000-08:00

FREE TIP

BASIC WIRE WRAP - USING A HEAD PIN

String your beads on the headpin. Make certain that the head of the pin is flush with the bead.
Using a pair of chainnose pliers, bend the wire right next to the bead away from you at a right angle.
Grasp the bent wire with your round nose pliers just beyond the bend. Pull the end of the wire back around the tip of the pliers. Go all the way around and make a loop around the tip of the pliers, until the wire points in the other direction.
Grasp the top of the loop with your round nose pliers to hold it steady while you use your chainnose pliers to grasp the remaining free wire and wrap it tightly around the wire below the loop.
Cut the remaining wire flush with the work, and press it against the wire gently, using the tip of your chainnose pliers.
Attach your earwires.

New Tutorial! Velvet Steampunk Cuff Bracelet.

2011-02-15T16:07:00.000-08:00

New Tutorial! Velvet Steampunk Cuff Bracelet.

Related to my ribbon bracelets, but this has more of a steampunk feel to it, including where I got all these keen supplies.

Intermediate level. You should know even count flat peyote stitch before you do this piece. Otherwise, its super easy, all kinds of possibilities. Doesn't have to be as wide as I made it (mine is over 2" wide).

Sold as tutorial only. $15.00

http://www.etsy.com/listing/68010017/black-velvet-steampunk-beaded-bracelet

Classes at Ally Beads this month

2011-02-15T16:05:00.000-08:00

ALLY BEADS CLASSES
513/831-8300
http://www.allybeads.com/Cincinnati-Class-Schedule_ep_45.html

BEAD EMBROIDERED BRACELET

Feb 19. If you've done any sort of sewing, you'll do just fine with this bracelet. I know it looks complex, but it isn't!

OVEREMBELLISHED BRACELET

Feb 27. Looks way more complicated than it really is. Students who have never done beadweaving will find this a good start. Learn even count flat peyote stitch and then learn different embellishments. Students who already know even count flat peyote will learn "fast peyote' which does two rows at the same time.

Geometrics Necklace at 1 Stop Bead Shop

2011-02-15T15:51:00.000-08:00

GEOMETRICS NECKLACE at 1 Stop Bead Shop

There's still room in the Geometrics class at 1 Stop Bead shop in March, although I think its getting pretty full. This class is advanced! The rivoli and side pieces are pretty easy, but the interlocking peyote stitch shapes are fiddley.

http://www.1stopbeadshop.com/advanced-peyote-geometrics-necklace-p-8892.html

Holiday Beads for Sale!

2011-02-15T15:50:00.001-08:00

Its after Valentine's Day.
Know what that means?

50% off all heart beads and pendants on my Etsy

http://www.etsy.com/shop/HannahRachel?section_id=5917006&view_type=gallery

I recalled any unsold hearts from galleries and bead stores, and augmented with some brand new ones just because these things are too much fun to make. They are on my Etsy, already priced at 50% off.

I included both traditional Valentine's Day items

and also some steampunk pieces for anyone who prefers the less saccharine side.

ALSO... There are still some leftover Halloween and Christmas beads. I know, it comes around every year, but its more fun this way, and cleans out my stash. They are ALREADY MARKED DOWN, some of them as low as 75% off.

Hate using Paypal? Just email me and I'll set them aside for you - I also take checks.
goodrivergallery@aol.com

CREATING GLASS BEADS - More stuff

2011-02-12T17:28:00.000-08:00

I've already mentioned that Jeri Warhaftig's new book is out in preview form. Its called Creating Glass Beads and its BEAUTIFUL.

So, first things first. Want the book?
http://www.amazon.com/Creating-Glass-Beads-Workshop-Beginner

Anyhow, in addition to the beads sown in my post/note below, I also got THREE pieces of jewelry into the book. THREE of them! Although I dare say that my photos are better than the professional ones!

So... here they are!

Chapter 1 - Ruffled Pendant
This combines Jeri's pendant design with my DNA spiral necklace. Guess what - you can make your own DNA spiral necklace. Its actually a beginning project available here.

Chapter 4 - Cosmic Bead

This was my favorite project, but when you try to take the project above and you put it together with this project, you get a mess. Actually, I sort of like it anyhow...

Chapter 6 - Cane Beads

Whahoo! They actually used my photo in this one. This has beadweaving and a big old orange blown glass bead and some wire/chain work.

CREATING GLASS BEADS - By Jeri Warhaftig

2011-02-09T11:53:00.000-08:00

GUESS WHAT I JUST GOT IN THE MAIL?!?!

Jeri Warhaftig's new book is out in preview form. Its called Creating Glass Beads and its BEAUTIFUL.

I was lucky enough to be selected as part of the project testers for the book, and it has been SO hard to keep all her really exciting ideas under wraps. But now that the book is on preorder on Amazon.dom, I feel like I can finally show you what you'll learn in this book. Or... Jeri will be teaching these techniques in person at both the Vegas Glass Craft Expo and also Bead & Button.

So, first things first. Want the book?
http://www.amazon.com/Creating-Glass-Beads-Workshop-Beginner

Here are some of the projects, out of order...
These are my test beads, not Jeris, but there are photos of all of them in the book!

Chapter 9 - Portals Beads
Before and after cutting and polishing. Many many many thanks to Bernie, who brought her lap wheel up and laughed at me while I cut and polished and polished and polished and polished.

Chapter 1 - Ruffled Bead.
Purple & Gold. What's not to love? Holy HECK but it was hard to make an orchid out of the soft glass. I'm back to boro for those boogers. I actually made that top bead into a finished DN spiral necklace. I'll try to find the photos...

Chapter 3 - Eye Bead
I've always been fascinated by these. So I made a lot of them.
You can actually take this from Jeri as a class at Beads & Button!

Chapter 4 - The Cosmic Bead
This one was seriously my favorite.

Winter Doldrums Giveaway

2011-02-08T18:12:00.000-08:00

I've been stashing away items for a "GeoBox" on one of my online forums, and after waiting for it for three months, I've come to the conclusion that the young girl who was in line in front of me just is never going to send it.

So... here I am with a small bunch of crafty odds and ends. What to do with them, since I already was set to send them off to someone who might use them?

How about a bloggy/facebook giveaway?
It seems like the right time of year since we're all looking for a reason to keep ourselves amused in this grey Midwest weather...

This includes some beads made by other lampworkers, some of my own beads, some "seconds," a couple of beady mixes, a couple of tutorials, some fiber stuff, and maybe I'll get a chance to go through some other crafty boxes to see what I can find. It will probably all be related to jewelry stuff, but you never know!

So... just post on any of the these three sites (only one entry per person, sorry).
http://goodrivergallery.blogspot.com
http://goodrivergallery.wordpress.com
http://http://www.facebook.com/#!/profile.php?id=1284217842
What I'm looking for is THE BEST & FUNNIEST excuse to stay inside and bead.

Jewelry Tutorials based on Lampwork Focal Beads

2011-02-03T15:31:00.000-08:00

I have had a number of email requests for jewelry tutorials based on lampwork focal beads, so I've decided to list them all below.

Cascade Pendant
Basic Wirewrap. Super Easy. Works best with a bicone.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/48044838/hannah-rosner-cascade-wirewrapped

Micromacrame Pendant
Beginning Level.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62208563/hannah-rosner-micromacrame-lampwork

Micromacrame Treasure
Intermediate Level.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/62208587/hannah-rosner-micromacrame-treasure

DNA Spiral Pendant
Intermediate seed beading. Can use any size/shape focal bead.>[/IMG]
http://www.etsy.com/listing/60552202/hannah-rosner-dna-spiral-beaded-necklace

Sea Form Pendant
ADVANCED. This is more about the seed bead weaving than the bead, but I use a 14mm round inside mine.

http://www.etsy.com/listing/58075945/hannah-rosner-sea-form-pendant-tutorial

Happy February from Good River Gallery

2011-02-01T20:11:00.000-08:00

Happy February!

"Why, what's the matter,

That you have such a February face,

So full of frost, of storm and cloudiness?"
- William Shakespeare

Much Ado About Nothing

Check out the Glass Axis Valentine's Day Sale and Workshops. They will have sweet gifts for sale, but you also can take a workshop with your sweetie, and the hot shop sure feels nice this time of year!

There are loads of February classes to warm up your winter. They are listed below for Ally Beads and to the left for 1 Stop. A tentative overview of my classes in 2011 here --> PDF Calendar, but I keep adding to it!

Stay warm!

Hannah Rosner
http://www.goodrivergallery.com
http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

February Classes at Ally Beads

2011-02-01T20:08:00.000-08:00

February Classes at Ally Beads
Cincinnati, OH

There is still some room in the classes I'm teaching at Ally Beads Cincinnati in February. Check the website for photos, dates and costs.

NDEBELE CUBES BRACELET
Easy bracelet - we'll even go over the clasp in class. JoEllen has pointed out that this would be awesome as a bridal party bracelet and the design can also be done in white for a spring bride.

JAPANESE SCREEN BRACELET
Even count peyote stitch. For anyone who already knows peyote, we'll also cover "fast peyote" in class, which does two rows at once.

PEYOTE CHAIN BRACELET OR NECKLACE
Basic even count peyote stitch with a lampwork glass bead. This is an easy project for beginners.

BEAD EMBROIDERED BRACELET
Feb 19. If you've done any sort of sewing, you'll do just fine with this bracelet. I know it looks complex, but it isn't!

ATLANTIS BRACELET
A good next step for the beadweaver who already knows even count flat peyote stitch. Learn a super easy way to beadweave ruffles onto a base form.

OVEREMBELLISHED BRACELET
Looks way more complicated than it really is. Students who have never done beadweaving will find this a good start. Learn even count flat peyote stitch and then learn different embellishments. Students who already know even count flat peyote will learn "fast peyote' which does two rows at the same time.

513/831-8300
http://www.allybeads.com/Cincinnati-Class-Schedule_ep_45.html

Valentine's Day at Glass Axis and on Etsy

2011-02-01T19:39:00.000-08:00

Valentines Day Sale at Glass Axis, Columbus OH

Glass Axis is having a Valentine's Day sale and workshops Feb 9-14. For full information:
http://www.glassaxis.org/media/events2011.htm

I'll include both traditional Valentine's Day items

and also some steampunk pieces for anyone who prefers the less saccharine side.

Not in town, but still interested in the pendants?
Look under the Valentine's Day shop section, although they'll be updated as they sell out at the event. Hate using Paypal? Just email me and I'll set them aside for you - I also take checks.
http://www.etsy.com/shop/HannahRachel?section_id=5917006

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/February-from-Good-River-Gallery.html?soid=1102509927228&aid=TJW_2ThJ2NE

2011-02-01T19:13:00.000-08:00

http://myemail.constantcontact.com/February-from-Good-River-Gallery.html?soid=1102509927228&aid=TJW_2ThJ2NE

RSS FEED FOR DIGG

2011-01-20T14:30:00.000-08:00

Softflex Beading Wire Steampunk Contest

2011-01-19T17:15:00.001-08:00

SOFTFLEX BEADING WIRE

The Softflex Beading Company recently featured a Steampunk Beading Contest. 1 Stop had many participating artists. Hannah Rosner's Key to My Heart pendant was one of the winners. All of the materials were either handmade for this piece or were from 1 Stop Bead Shop.

You can see all the participants here. You can view the winners here.

New Valentines Day Shop on my Etsy

2011-01-19T16:06:00.000-08:00

I've created a new shop section on my Etsy. It includes both traditional Valentine's Day items

and also some steampunk pieces for anyone who prefers the less saccharine side.

http://www.etsy.com/shop/HannahRachel?section_id=5917006

End of the Year Sale!

2010-12-31T08:22:00.000-08:00

Save
50%

Offer Expires: January 2, 2010

A bunch of you said that you'd missed the 50% off sale after Thanksgiving - you were traveling or just plain away from your computer. So, here you go. An end of year reduction sale. Please buy beads!
Includes:
All tutorials
Bicone focals
Large hole sterling lined beads, including some Buckeyes, leftover Halloween and
leftover Christmas beads.
Some boro hearts - get a jump on Valentine's day!

Use coupon code DEC2010

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

Beginning Bead Embroidery Project Kits!

2010-12-31T08:11:00.000-08:00

Brocade Bead Embroidered Bracelet
Beginning Bead Embroidery Project

Sold as kits only, these are based off the fabulous collection of modern and antique brocade ribbons I've amassed over the years. There are many styles to choose from, but only a limited number of kits in each style since I only had a yard or so of each style. Everything included EXCEPT Fireline beading thread or your favorite beading thread and a plastic water bottle (you'll see why).
Email me goodrivergallery@aol.com
if you want one and I'll send a Paypal invoice.
-----------
RED/TEAL/ORANGE/GOLD
(Photo above). This one comes with a different cab than photographed. It'll be a more oval shape than photographed but you will be happy with it, I promise. An arabesque pattern in rich colors. Very wide - almost 2" across. Only 2 available! This was selling at $35.
------------
JUST ADDED
I was seriously hoarding this vintage olive and gold ribbon with grapes on it, but since these kits were crazy popular, I'll make ONE up as a kit for anyone who didn't get their first choice. The first person to claim it gets it! No cab.
------------
OLIVE/GOLD/PURPLE
(Photo right ). Arabesque brocade ribbon is about 2" wide. Only 2 available! This kit is $25.00 without a central cab or $35 with one.
---------------

SILVER BLUE FANS
(Photo right ). A slightly smaller kit with no cabochon. Metallics and a peachy pink on a light background. This was difficult to photo and probably will need a realy light beading touch. Absolutely beautiful. Brocade ribbon is about 2" wide. Only 1 available!This kit is $25.00.
---------------
FUSCHIA TRIANGLES
(Photo right ). A slightly smaller kit with no cabochon. Teal, fuschia and gold with a triangular motif. Brocade ribbon is about 2" wide. Only 3 available! This kit is $25.00.

CYBER MONDAY 50% off sale on my Etsy.

2010-11-28T20:13:00.001-08:00

That's right... EVERYTHING. I added a whole bunch more lampwork on there. Just put in the coupon code THANKS2010 when you check out.

Beadweaving & lampworking tutorials, finished jewelry (and some was gift priced even before the reduction) and loads of lampwork.

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com/

News & Huge Sales at Good River Beads and Jewelry

2010-11-23T19:15:00.000-08:00

We're gearing up for the holidays at Good River Beads and Jewelry and kicking it off with a 50% off sale in my Etsy shop! Sale starts... NOW... and runs through Monday. I'll be adding items all weekend, but the bulk is up there already!

Had an eye on a piece you don't see on my Etsy? If its a purse, it'll be at Briolette Beads and More in Forest Park, IL Saturday, Nov 27th. They are also running a special on my tutorials if you prefer a print-out rather than an emailed version.

Glass Axis is having a holiday sale December 10-12. Chances are, if its a piece of jewelry and you don't see it on my Etsy, you can catch it in person here in Columbus at their sale. Details below.

Just one more chance to take a class this year. I'm teaching at Ally beads in Cincinnati at the beginning of December. Details below.

Wondering what has happened to the new peyote stitch patterns I was putting out while in Taos? I haven't had much of a chance to work on them, but below are three new ones. Graphs and word charts only, and I'm afraid they are untested, but I think they should work out okay...

Happy Holidays!

Hannah Rosner

http://hannahrachel.etsy.com

50% OFF SALE in my Etsy Store!

2010-11-23T19:11:00.000-08:00

50% off Sale in my Etsy Store!

Everything listed is 50% off with coupon code THANKS2010 through Monday Nov 29th.

That includes all tutorials, jewelry, beads, everything! Keep checking back - I'll be adding items throughout the weekend.

BIG Glass Axis Holiday Sale

2010-11-23T19:10:00.000-08:00

Glass Axis Holiday Sale

For details call 614-291-4250

December 10-12, 2010.
I'll have my finished jewelry here... And some large hole beads that fit Pandora and Troll bracelets! Make your own blown Christmas ornament, demos and more...

My Bead Embroidered Bracelet Class at Ally Beads

2010-11-23T19:06:00.000-08:00

Class at Ally Beads. Cincinnati, OH

There is still some room in the class I'm teaching at Ally Beads Cincinnati on December 5, 10am-3pm.

BEAD EMBROIDERED BRACELET

One of my most popular classes, this bead encrusted cuff bracelet is actually much easier than you'd expect. If you are comfortable with a needle and thread, you'll do just fine.
Call to register. 513/831-8300

http://www.allybeads.com/Cincinnati-Class-Schedule_ep_45.html

My Steampunk Collar in the Softflex Beading Contest and Your Vote

2010-10-20T15:28:00.000-07:00

Please vote for Hannah Rosner and my Steampunk Collar in the Softflex Beading Contest This is the Steampunk Collar piece that I submitted for the Softflex Steampunk Design Beading Contest. I designed this piece with the steampunk style in mind and for the detail and elegance that is often seen in the steampunk tradition; i.e. worn with a Victorian gown.

Steampunk as a style trend in based upon the visual imagining of a combination of the Romantic and Victorian eras meets the Industrial era which gives anything steampunk its own very distinct and recognizable look.

All beads and supplies for this Steampunk Collar were donated by 1 Stop Bead Shop. Please visit 1 Stop Bead Shop at 1stopbeadshop.com. Materials included: jasper, moukite, brass, copper, handmade lampwork glass, antique skeleton key, ceramic, Czech glass, Japanese seed beads, braided softflex wire. Combines embroidery techniques with fringe.

For more information on the Softflex company, please visit http://www.softflexcompany.com/ or to vote in the Softflex Beading Contest, go to http://www.softflexcompany.com/WSWrapper.jsp?mypage=BeadingContestVotes.html

Caravan Beads Chicago and Good River Beads and Jewelry have teamed up!

2010-10-17T20:03:00.001-07:00

Caravan Beads Chicago now offers NEW kits made from my patterns on their online store Beadstogo.com

African Leopard Beaded Bracelet Kit - Intermediate Level Beading Kit - Peyote Stitch Bracelet. All beads and instruction included. You'll need to provide the clasp, although the instruction packet explains clasping techniques. Available NEW at Beadstogo.com from Caravan Beads Chicago.Art & Crafts Movement Beaded Bracelet Kit - Intermediate Level Beading Kit - Peyote Stitch Bracelet. All beads and instruction included. You'll need to provide the clasp, although the instruction packet explains clasping techniques. Available NEW at Beadstogo.com from Caravan Beads Chicago.American Flag & Lady Liberty Beaded Bracelet Kit - Intermediate Level Beading Kit - Peyote Stitch Bracelet. All beads and instruction included. You'll need to provide the clasp, although the instruction packet explains clasping techniques. Available NEW at Beadstogo.com from Caravan Beads Chicago.Celtic Knotwork Beaded Bracelet Kit - Intermediate Level Beading Kit - Peyote Stitch Bracelet. All beads and instruction included. You'll need to provide the clasp, although the instruction packet explains clasping techniques. Available NEW at Beadstogo.com from Caravan Beads Chicago.Japanese Screen Beaded Bracelet Kit - Intermediate Level Beading Kit - Peyote Stitch Bracelet. All beads and instruction included. You'll need to provide the clasp, although the instruction packet explains clasping techniques. Available NEW at Beadstogo.com from Caravan Beads Chicago.

*All kits are constructed exclusively by Caravan Beads Chicago and Beads to Go. All kits are designed exclusively by Hannah Rosner and Good River Beads and Jewelry at Good River Gallery.

I was a semifinalist in the lampwork category for Bead Dreams 2009 and won second place for my bead embroidered collarpiece in the Treasures of Toho 2009 Contest. The Treasures of Toho necklace can be seen in the February 2010 issue of Bead & Button or on my website (link above). I teaches nationally at Bead Store and for Bead Societies.

Wow - October is here already!

2010-10-07T20:19:00.000-07:00

Where did the time go, and how did I let my blog get this far behind? I don't even want to consider my website, which hasn't been updated since August.

I went to an event in Oregon in early September and came home to fall colors. My thanks to Deb and everyone who helped plan Glass Stock 2010. It was my first time at the event and everything I expected... plus some surprises.

There is still space available in my upcoming fall classes. Links to registration information and details are in the blog posts below. Again, I'll have my full set of tutorials and beads on display at the stores.

I will have new beads and tutorials at the Great Lakes Beadworkers Guild Bead Bonanza on October 10th in Southfield MI. Details can be found on their website: http://greatlakesbeadworkersguild.org/bonanza.html

Enjoy!
Hannah Rosner

http://www.GoodRiverGallery.com

Lampworking Classes at Glass Axis this October

2010-10-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

There is still room in my Glass Axis Lampworking Classes this October!

For pricing details and to register for all Axis classes, call 614-291-4250

Window Beads
October 19, 21, 26 & 28, 2010.
Learn some cold finishing techniques, from acid etching, through sandblasting and cold cutting beads.

Classes still available in Columbus this month!

2010-10-07T20:10:00.000-07:00

There is still some room in the classes I'm teaching at 1 Stop Bead Shop this fall! Below are the October Classes. You can register online for them.

Bead Embroidered Bracelet
October 13 - (photo above)
This class is nearly full, so get your space before it fills!
Learn how to design free-form embroidery, mount on a brass cuff, and finishing technique. Brush up before Sherry Serifini comes to Columbus or just come get inspired!
http://www.1stopbeadshop.com/bead-embroidered-bracelet-p-8685.html

Corset Bracelet
October 20th
Interesting faceted effect with Toho triangle and a steampunk influence. Uses even count peyote stitch, with a twist!
http://www.1stopbeadshop.com/corset-bracelet-p-8687.html

Classes still available in Pittsburgh this month!

2010-10-07T19:57:00.000-07:00

I'm doing the following Classes & a Trunk Show at Crystal Bead Bazaar at the end of October.
Pittsburgh, PA

There is still some room in the classes I'm teaching at Crystal Beads this October! Call the store to register or you can register online. Photos are available on the website. http://www.crystalbeadbazaar.com/class_schedule.asp

Pick Your Peyote October 23rd
Students will choose one of my patterns, then learn to read both a work chart and a graph. Also discussed will be a nifty little technique called 'fast peyote'. Students don't need to know even count flat peyote stitch before they come to class, but it doesn't hurt.

Ndebele Cables Bracelet
October 23rd
Crystals and Ndebele Herringbone stitch. What's not to love? Students need to be very comfortable with flat herringbone (ndebele) before they come to this class. Piece will not be finished in class.

Garden Passions Necklace (photo at top of post)
October 24 A fabulous slinky lariet necklace, based off a piece I saw in Prague a number of years ago. Students have a bit of prehomework and must be very comfortable with even count flat peyote stitch before they come to this class. Project will not be completed in class.

Project samples should be in the store by October 14th!

Join Glass Axis for the Third Annual Pumpkin Patch Event!

2010-09-29T15:53:00.000-07:00

Join us for a fun filled family weekend of glass making and exploration with the opportunity to purchase unique glass pumpkins created by artists from all over Central Ohio. The event is held at Glass Axis, 1341 Norton Avenue in Grandview, OH, and begins Friday, October 1 and runs through Sunday, October 3, from 11am to 5pm each day.

Wander through an incredible colorful artistic installation made from hundreds of glass pumpkins.... This year's installation will be styled by Elisabeth Warner of Pluck (pluckathome.com), recently featured in the Columbus Alive style section.

View free glass blowing demonstrations and make a solid glass pumpkin out of molten glass ($50), a cute flame-worked pumpkin bead ($15), or a crafty mosaic pumpkin tile ($10); art-making activities run from 12pm to 4pm each day. We will also work together to make an Autumn-themed quilt for a Columbus family in need. Entry, artist demonstrations, and quilt making activities are free and appropriate for all ages.

Preview Party: September 30 - 6:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Join us for an evening of Honky Tonk and glass pumpkins, plus help support Glass Axis Educational Scholarships. Enjoy music from two of Columbus' most popular low key country bands - Nathan Snell's Country Band and Moon High (moonhighmusic.com) - view live glass blowing demonstrations, and be the first to select from hundreds of unique and colorful glass pumpkins created by artists from all over Central Ohio, and styled by Pluck (pluckathome.com). Refreshments generously provided by Fusion Café (twitter.com/FusionCafeINC) with cash bar. Entry is $7 and supports Glass Axis Educational Scholarships.

Project Of The Week At Good River Gallery

2010-09-20T11:22:00.000-07:00

Sequin Festival Earrings

Beginning Beading Project

Supplies Needed
Large Sequin Drops
Small Sequin Drops
Gunmetal Metal Seed Beads
Copper Jump Rings
Copper Earwires

From back to front, stack large sequin, small sequin and metal seed bead on a jump ring. Make six.
Make a chain of 5 jump rings. Stagger the charms you’ve made onto the chain.
Attach an earwire.
Wear and enjoy!

Have leftovers? Here’s an idea for a matching necklace. You can see the actual piece at 1 Stop Bead Shop

Tips: Setting a cabochon in beadwork using square stitch

2010-09-17T15:33:00.000-07:00

This variation on the square stitch creates a beaded bezel that will not only hold a cabochon securely but also will add beauty to whatever type of cab you choose: stone, glass or porcelain. The piece can then be embellished with fringe or accent beads and turned into a pin or necklace. Or as an alternative, you can apply the cabochon directly to a leather pouch or jacket, choosing colors that will highlight your central piece. Bezels can be created in beadwork out of either the square stitch or out of peyote. I prefer the square stitch for bezels on stones that have corners.

Apply a very small amount of glue to the center back of the cabochon, and place it onto the center of your stiff stuff scrap. This holds the cab in place as you work. Try to avoid letting the glue seep out the sides, as this can make it difficult to pass your needle through once the glue has dried.

Thread your needle with an arm's length of beading thread, then knot the end. While holding the cab and fabric firmly between your thumb and forefinger, push the needle up through the fabric using the edge of the cab as your guide. Make a baby stitch to secure it.

1. Pick up two beads on your needle and run the needle back down through the Stiff Stuff, securing the beads in place.
2. Bring the needle back up between the two beads and out through the second bead.
3. Continue adding the beads two by two by following the above two directions, until you've worked your way around the perimeter of the cabochon. This is the base row.
4. Bring the needle back up through the Stiff Stuff, and angle it in through one of the beads in the first row. Starting with this bead, run your needle in a circle through all of the beads. Using a firm but gentle tug, pull the thread tight. This will draw the beads close to the cabochon and help straighten out any crooked beads. Now, set the cabochon aside and let the glue dry a little bit.

This is also a great time to go ahead and draw out any more of the pattern you might want. All the bead embroidery I do is done with this version of the back stitch.

While we wait for the glue to set up a little bit, let's learn the most basic square stitch off the actual piece.
1. Thread a needle and some beads. Congratulations! You've already finished your first row.
2. Turn the work and start your second row. Pick a bead. Loop your thread back through the last bead of the first row and out. Go back through the bead you just picked up (the first bead of the second row) and out again. You have just completed your first stitch of the second row.
3. Pick up another bead. Pass the thread back through the next to last bead on the first row and out of your new bead (photo right). Continue beading in this fashion until you reach the end of the row. Play with this a little bit…

Now, let's go back to our cabochon… Start adding the beads as you did above, except for a minor variation - I like to thread two beads, then go through two beads of the base row.

In order to make the bezel "squeeze" around the cabochon, the upper row needs to be a little tighter than the base row - this will happen when the bezel is a bit higher than the crown of the bezel. On a shallow cabochon, this will happen on the second row. On your piece, it might happen on the third row. In order to make the top row tighter than those below, you can just reduce the number of beads evenly around the highly curved areas. Add one bead, then go through the second bead available in the base row. When you reach the end of row two, pass the thread back through the first bead of the first row, back through the last bead of the second row and all the way around the circle. Keep your tension tight, but not too tight. You don't want your work to be stiff. The beads should lie up against each other but the work should remain flexible. NOTE: Be sure you use beads with fairly large holes when working lower rows of square stitch. Delicas are perfect for this stitch. Another option to make the bezel hug around the cabochon is even easier. Just switch to size 15/0 beads for the top row. The finished row will be smaller because of the smaller size of the beads.

If you want to bead embroider more pattern around your cabochon, now is the time to do it. When you are finished with your design, trim the lacy's stiff stuff as close to the beadwork as you can and use any stitch to edge your beadwork. Don't cut any of your embroidery threads!

Happy Labor Day Weekend From Good River Gallery!

2010-09-02T07:33:00.000-07:00

I'll be in Oregon at Glass Stock West this upcoming weekend. Technically, Good River Gallery will be closed, which really just means that any PDF orders will have to wait until Monday for emails and Tuesday to ship via post office mail.

Have a happy, healthy weekend, everyone! Eat well!

We'll be closed next week.

2010-08-14T15:59:00.000-07:00

Starting Monday, Good River Gallery's Etsy store and Artfire store will be closed. We're moving!

Keep your eyes peeled for a reopening sale!