Open later on Thursdays, new classes and new stuff!

THE SHOP WILL BE OPEN THURSDAY EVENINGS UNTIL 6:00 P.M. UNTIL CHRISTMAS!  Hours for SATURDAY, CHRISTMAS EVE are 10:00 A.M. UNTIL 3:00 P.M..  THE SHOP WILL BE CLOSED FOR THE WEEK OF DECEMBER 25^TH THRU 31^ST, FOR INVENTORY. 

Hi All,

Hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving.  Judging by last week and yesterday, people are kicking their holiday crafting into high gear.  Now is the time to get serious about those special gifts.  Need inspiration?  Come on into the shop.  Ideas abound!  There are so many lovely beads to choose from and all the findings you’ll need to bring it all together.  I’ve restocked the seed beads and there are some new colors, too.  Components for all of your favorite holiday earrings are here loose or in kits.  All of the newest magazines are here full of lovely new patterns to jumpstart your inspiration.  If you don’t have time to make something special, all of the hand crafted pieces here in the shop are 30% OFF, now through Christmas!  It’s not too late to special order items needed for special projects.  Don’t wait much longer though.   Restocks and new items are coming in daily, so come on in a browse the shop.  Need a quiet place to work?  The studio is available weekdays, you can listen to lovely holiday music, watch the river roll by and work in a kid free, pet free, spouse free environment.  Only Santa will know you are here!

Upcoming classes to inspire you and get you started on exciting new projects:

SILVER BELLS ORNAMENT
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 8, 6:00-8:00 P.M.

This is the one you’ve all been waiting for. The new ornament for this year.  It’s an old design with a new life that a friend, Karen Wight, brought to me. It’s a sweet, easy little bell to glisten on your tree. They're so easy to make you still have plenty of time to make a whole choir of bells to hang, or to give as gifts. Components are available in gold, too. (This will also make a great Bridal Shower favor or decoration). So, RING in the holiday season with these lovely silver bells. Skill Level: Beginner

WIREWORKS: WIRE SCULPTING
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 10:30-12:30

The first in the WireWorks series taught by Maine Artist Mig Lemire of Scarborough, this is our version of Wire 101. Learn how to fashion elegant wire sculpture around a flat stone, beach glass or dichroic glass piece. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to create, and how many compliments you'll receive on your craftsmanship. This stunning art form is so much easier than it looks, you'll wonder why you waited so long to take the class. SKILL LEVEL: BEGINNER.

"A BERRY HAMMERED HOLIDAY" EARRINGS: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 10, 1:00-3:00

These fabulous hammered silver earring are designed by Mig, (but named by me in one of my quirkier moments. The garnet pearls and beads just reminded me of winter berries). If you enjoyed the hammered cuff bracelet and earrings in October, (or even if you've never hammered metal before) you'll have wonderful fun creating these beautiful earrings. You'll learn hammering, texturing and the proper way to hole punch metal as well. Who would guess that such physical techniques could yield such elegant adornments. And, they are not just for holiday wear. You can, of course, use any type or color of beads to create your own personal look! Call to reserve your seat today!

What’s New:

Need more bling in your life?  Who doesn’t.  Bling it up for the holidays with these 6x8mm multi-tonal crystals at very affordable prices!  (must see in person)

For those who remember the “RED VELVET” CRYSTALS, they’re back!  6x8mm rondells, are wonderful for earrings, necklaces and more!  (again, must see in person to truly appreciate.  They are a deep velvety red!)

Whether it’s earring, necklace accents or ornaments, these glass pearl drops in fabulous colors will fit the bill.



These are just a few of the super beads and supplies waiting to be made into something extra special to go under your tree.  Get them while they’re hot!  Get them while they’re here!

It’s been fun to see what people have been beading up!  I just love show and tell, so bring it in.  Need to find a certain component?  I’m glad to help.  Just remember to bring in the pattern or pieces you’ve compiled so far, it will make it easier to find what you are looking for.

And remember, when you’re overwhelmed by shopping and cooking and traffic,  you’ll find a calm, quiet atmosphere, here!  Come browse and revive yourself.

See you soon and,

Happy Beading,

Linda



It's All Happening Here on Water Street!!

Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on the past year and contemplate the things we are most grateful for.  As I sit down on Thursday for a wonderful meal with my family, I’ll be thinking of all of you.  Several people have told me lately that they are so glad that this little shop is here.  It goes both ways.  I am so grateful for all of you, your friendship and your patronage.  I am here, and will continue to be here only because of you and your support of this small business.  As the year draws to a close, I’ll be thinking and planning 2012’s classes and events.  I would love to hear your thoughts, too.  What kind of merchandise, classes, or special events would you like to see here at the shop?  Let me know.  I may not be able to do it all, but I will take it all into consideration.  In the meantime, have a wonderful Thanksgiving Day!

THIS SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 26^TH, there are all kinds of things happening here on Water Street in downtown Augusta and here in the shop. 

First, there are still a couple of seats left for BEADING BASICS with Marie Jacques from 10:30-12:30.  If you have been wanting to get started beading, this is the class to do it.  You will learn basic stringing, using tools, find out about wires and findings, design and composition, and how to put it all together.  It’s easy if you know how and after Saturday, you’ll know how! 

The other big happening on the street is the annual “City of Augusta Riverfront Holiday Tree Lighting Tradition”.  It’s a day of activities and events all leading up to the Tree Lighting at Waterfront Park and FIREWORKS!!  I’ve attached a flyer (above) with a schedule of the events.  Come on down and spend the day, stroll the street, see the sights, meet the merchants and have a holiday blast with your neighbors.

Specials here at the shop include:

·        30% off handmade finished jewelry pieces.

Dads can bring the youngsters in for a special gift for Mom.  Special Holiday earrings will be offered under $10.

 20% off all Swarovski Crystals for all of my special customers.  (that includes the beautiful, big stones to wire wrap or bead around)

Don’t forget the DAISY CHAIN NECKLACE on Thursday, December 1^st,  Check the website for details.

Saturday, December 3^rd, Lori Holt is here all day with two of her wonderful pieces.  From 10:30-12:30 it’s her SHIMMERING SNOWFLAKE and from 1-3 be here for the CANDY CANE BRACELET in herringbone stitch. 

Click here to go to the website for details      http://www.beadsonthekennebec.com/

And, don’t forget to redeem your BEAD BUCKS this Friday and Saturday!

If for some reason I don’t see you, (you’ve lost your car keys, your hands are tied, or you’re away for the holiday, eek!)  HAVE A WONDERFUL THANKSGIVING WITH THOSE YOU HOLD DEAR!  See you soon and,

Happy Beading,          

Linda

Calling all Knitters! We need your leftover yarn!

Hi Everyone,

At this time of the year, we tend to think more of those in need and try to find ways to lend a helping hand.  For those of you who knit or do crafts with yarn, this will be an easy fit.

Friends at Kennebec Behavioral Health are seeking donations of yarn for a family in need.  This family wishes to create knitwear and crafts to sell at local craft fairs, to generate income to purchase essentials to carry them through the coming winter months.   They want to do the work themselves, they just need help getting the materials to create sellable items.

If you have left over yarn or yarn from a project you never got around to and have now lost interest in, you can either drop it off here at Beads on the Kennebec, 333 Water Street in downtown Augusta, or, at Kennebec Behavioral Health at 66 Stone Street, Augusta to the attention of Melissa Winchester.

Please bring your donated yarn during working hours starting Monday, November 14^th (Tuesday here at the shop) through Saturday, November 26^th.

Thank you in advance for your open hearts and generosity.

Linda

Pearl SALE, Victorian Ornament and Wonderful Wire!

It’s been a busy week here at the shop with new items coming in to be tagged and put out and smart crafters getting an early start on their holiday gift making.  I now have a REALLY FULL wall of glass pearls in sizes from 3mm to 10mm in a full spectrum of colors. (and ranging in price from $2.85-$6.50 per strand) Check out the cranberry and spruce green.  Both perfect for holiday jewelry making.    There are pearl drops and rondells, too.  And don’t forget freshwater pearls in wide array of colors and shapes as well.  This week get your PEARLS ON, with 25% off ALL PEARLS/ALL WEEK LONG!

While you are in the shop, check out the “NEW” tags everywhere! If you haven’t stopped in for a while, come on in and see what you are missing.



DID YOU KNOW: Beads on the Kennebec carries a great selection of all the major beading magazines to keep you up to date on the latest trends and patterns. Pick up your favorite while you are here.

The ornament classes have been big hits, as usual.  If you missed taking the ‘VICTORIAN CRYSTAL HEIRLOOM ORNAMENT” during Christmas in July, you have another chance at this two part class this week and next week, Thursday, November 10^th and 17^th from 6-8 P.M..  People can't get enough of these gorgeous ornaments. The piece is so beautiful it will take your breath away. This is one ornament that will be handed down for generations, gaining value (sentimental and monetary) with each passing year. In the first class, we'll begin making the netted cover. The second class we'll secure the net over the glass ball and systematically add the crystal drops. Done in Czech fire polished crystals, this piece is not as complicated as it looks. It is basic netting with embellishments and ideal for a beader who is new to hand weaving. And, they are fun to do!  Start now and you will have enough to cover your tree or complete your gift list by holiday time. Making one of these magnificent orbs always gives me an Olde Fashioned Holiday feeling.

Want to display your very special ornament in a very special way?  Ornament stands are now in stock in silver and gold to enhance your fabulous creations.  Just $6.50 for a beautiful sturdy stand with a finish that will last.  This week only, take 25% off.

Mig is back this Saturday, November 12th, with two of her most popular classes. The CAGED PENDANT and the ARROWS BRACELET are always sought after pieces. Each is intriguing in its own way.
CAGED PENDANT: From 10:30-12:30. For all of you Wired Up Fans of Mig, this technique will thrill you. you will take a cabochon stone (flat backed, domed face) and trap it in a “caged” border. It's a stunning effect and easy to learn with a basic wire wrapping background. Do you have a beautiful cabochon that you found at a gem show? This is the perfect way to get it out of the jewelry box and worn with pride! Reserve your seat early. Mig's classes fill fast! SKILL LEVEL: NOVICE (Some wire wrapping experience recommended)

ARROWS BRACELET: From 1-3 P.M..  WOW is the first word that came to my mind when I first saw this fabulous bracelet.  It is sure to become a staple in your jewelry wardrobe and WOW everyone who sees it. Weave this in your choice of wire, and metal, glass or seed beads. However you dress it up this unique and comfortable piece is sure to garner compliments every time you wear it. Sterling silver, or gold and silver filled wires are available.  Skill Level: Intermediate (some experience in wire techniques recommended)

****Sign up for either (or all) of this week’s fabulous classes and get %10 off your class supplies.  (This week only!  For these classes only!)****  (If you have pre-registered and purchased materials, see me).

Did you know: Beads on the Kennebec has a full selection of ear wires and findings in Sterling, gold and silver filled, copper, and antique plates that are nickel and lead free?  There are French wires in several styles, lever backs, kidney wires and more!  Here’s the latest addition: 2” kidney wires in gold or silver plate.

Did you know: We also have a great selection of Pandora Style bracelets in a silver tone and a huge assortment of large hole beads? Here’s the newest addition. Leather braided bracelets in black and white. Come in and check them out! Great fun for teens, and moms like them, too, for casual styling. Super stocking stuffers!

Did you know: there are TEN fabulous colors of TILA BEADS now in stock.  Get em’ while they’re HERE!! (Just a small sample below: White Frosted Mist, Rose Gold and Antiqued Metallic Green)

So many beads, so little time. So stop in soon, see what’s new and “BEad, all that you can BEad!



First look at Lori Holt’s Candy Cane Bracelet:

CANDY CANE BRACELET: SATURDAY, DECEMBER 3RD, 1-3 p.m., W/LORI HOLT, FEE: $35

Whimsical, fun and a great way to learn a new technique. Make this sweetly striped bracelet in tubular herringbone stitch to show your holiday spirit or as a charming gift for a special gal. It will, of course, make up well in any combination of colors. It has the look of a crocheted rope, but easier. A great opportunity to learn something new. Call to reserve your seat, today! Skill Level: Novice (some hand weaving experience recommended)

See you soon and,
Happy Beading!

New Items in the Shop

Hi All,


I just want to remind you that there are a few seats left in some great classes this week.

First, Christina Niet’s ICE BRACELET, this Thursday evening from 6-8 P.M. This bracelet is the ultimate Bling Bracelet and the one you'll want to wear to all your special holiday parties. Once your friends see it, they'll all want one for themselves. Be ready to surprise them with one you made yourself (It’s easy enough for a beginner). Christina Niet of Good Quill Hunting designed this gorgeous piece, but since she's moved to Colorado, she's left it to me to show you how to create it. New to hand weaving? This is a great starter piece, too. Just a couple of seats left. Call today to reserve yours. Tuition $25.00


This Saturday, Mig is back from Fryeburg Fair and anxious to show you some wonderful wire and metal techniques.

This Saturday, October 15th from 10-12:30, be here for BORDER WRAP. If you loved the Wire Sculpting class with Mig, you'll love Border Wrap. The second in our WIREWORKS series, this class teaches you how to showcase a cabochon or other flat backed stone by incasing the edges in a bound bezel. You'll learn to create exquisite sterling or gold filled border wrapped slides and pendants. Bring your own stones or pick from our beautiful selections. (This is a standalone class. You do not need to have taken Wire Sculpting to accomplish this technique). SKILL LEVEL: BEGINNER. Tuition $65.00

Saturday, October 15th from 1-3 P.M. join Mig for HAMMERED COPPER CUFF AND EARRINGS. It’s easy, it’s fun and you get to pound metal! Mig will show you how simple it can be to beginning your journey into metalwork. Start by fashioning this simple bracelet and earrings set from affordable copper forms. You'll learn to shape and texturize the metal by the proper application of some simple, basic metalwork tools. This class will open the door to working with metals. Future classes could lead to stamping and embellishing your metal pieces. Skill Level: Beginner. Tuition $65.00

Now for some NEW STUFF!!

Blister Pearls

Gorgeous crystal rondells in an amber fall mix, black and gold, black and white and metallic blues and clear. (Must see in person to truly appreciate)

Faceted Black Onyx

Etched Ironstone, very interesting

Carved Jade Focals

If you loved the spotted mushrooms, they’re back in a mini variety.

Large Calsilica in green, purple and black and white, and Christmas Calsilica!

Peacock Jasper in assorted shapes and sizes

PEARLS, PEARLS, PEARLS.

This is just a small sample of 4mms in scrumptious colors for holiday dressing. There are more colors and all sizes waiting for you.



Stop in, browse around and see what’s new. See you soon and,

Friends of Cyndy Sexton

Some of you may not be aware that the founder of Beads on the Kennebec was a wonderful woman named Cynthia Sexton.  Cyndy was an expert beader and for more than four years loved running this shop and delighted in her customers and their accomplishments.  Cyndy reluctantly gave up the shop in order to focus on treatments for breast cancer.  Those who knew and loved Cyndy will want to know that she passed away on Wednesday, October 5^th, surrounded by her family and loved ones.

Relatives and friends may visit from 2-4 and 6-8 P.M. on Monday, October 10th at Plummer Funeral Home, 16 Pleasant Street in Augusta. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated Tuesday, October 11th at 11:00 A.M. at St. Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church, Western Avenue, Augusta. Burial and committal prayers will follow in the family lot in St. Mary Cemetery, Winthrop Street, Augusta.


Donations may be made in Cyndy’s memory to: Franklin Memorial Hospital-Martha B. Webber Breast Care Center, 111 Franklin Health Commons, Farmington, ME, 04398. Donations will aid current and future breast cancer patients in their fight against cancer with comfort care.


Beads on the Kennebec will be closed on Tuesday, October 11th until 2:00 P.M..

Class Updates, New Stuff and Holiday Schedule

Hope you are all enjoying this wonderful summer weather. Here is a quick up date of some super classes from now to the end of the month and some cool new stuff.

Now, if you want to begin your beading journey with the knowledge and skill to create professional looking pieces from the start, then be here this SATURDAY, (August 20, 2011) for BEADING BASICS with Marie Jacques. This class will give you the experience in basic stringing techniques that will propel you into the world of beading with confidence. Start now and there is plenty of time to create fabulous fall fashion pieces, gifts for all the gals on your gift list and maybe sell a few to coworkers and earn a little extra for holiday shopping. Who knows where it could lead you. In class you will string a bracelet or necklace and learn to make basic stacked earrings. There are a few seats available, so call and reserve your seat today. Class starts at 10:30 till 12:30 (approx..).

GET READY FOR FALL FASHIONS, NOW!


The SPARKLING GARDEN BRACELET was so popular when offered in May, that the class filled up almost overnight.  If you missed it then or have just discovered this beautiful piece, there are just a couple of seats left in the class next THURSDAY, August 25^th.  This is one of those must have pieces. This beautiful design by Joetta Payne first appeared in the June 2003 Bead & Button magazine. This triangular variation of Right-angle weave is not for the beginning bead weaver, but if you have some hand weaving experience, particularly with right-angle weave, you will do just fine. Those of you who have become fans of Japanese Weaving will love the progression of this bracelet. The photo doesn't do justice to the piece. Do stop in and see it in person. If you are a "crow" like me, you'll just have to have one.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 27,2011 12:00-2:30, Sue Daigle will be on hand to instruct you in the ancient art of Japanese Braiding or "Kumihimo". This technique dates back to around 8000 BC, yet fits into our contemporary society quite well. Meaning a "Gathering of Threads", Kumihimo braids were used as personal adornment such as obi-jime ties, ropes to bind ancient scrolls, and were presented by emperors to heroes and others who earned high honors. Today they lend themselves well to belts, trims, handbag straps and, of course, jewelry. This relaxing form of beaded braiding works up quite quickly and makes beautiful, affordable and very unique gifts. This class always fill quickly so reserve your seat early. Ask for a materials list as a small amount of prep work is necessary prior to the class.

Please keep in mind that the shop will be closed for a long LABOR DAY WEEKEND from Friday, September 2nd through Monday, September 5th. Please plan your shopping accordingly.

NEW ITEMS: 

These are a few teasers. I’ll have more to show you next week! These are all about interesting shapes and textures.

These beautiful flower two-hole sliders arrived for last week’s crystal cuff class. I had to try one out. This is a real WOW piece. Stop in and see it in person. (I’ll try to keep it here in the shop).

Bronzite Coins:

Goldstone Ovals:

       

Picture Jasper Drops:

Large Calsilica Shapes:

Mother of Pearl Nuggets:

Stop in and visit. There is always something new to see and touch. See you soon and,

Happy Beading,
Linda

It's Wire Week!

Hi Everyone,


This is the week of WIRE!

The WIRE AND CRYSTAL CUFF this evening is full. But look for it on the fall schedule if you missed it this time. It’s a fun piece to make, wear or give. With the new silver filled wire available, it’s very affordable to make.

SATURDAY, Mig Lemire is here all day with two exciting wire projects.  In the morning from 10:30-12:30 it’s PRONGS.  This is the third class in the Basic WIREWORKS Series.  Mig will expertly guide you through the process of making a “Pronged” setting for a faceted stone.  This is a piece that always gets compliments and people are floored when you say "I made it myself". This can be done with any size or shape of faceted stone but Mig suggests a rectangular stone for your first project. A selection of CZs and Swarovski stones ideal for this project are in stock and quite affordable. NOTE*: This is the last time this class will be offered, this year.  SKILL LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE. 

In the afternoon from 1-3 p.m., learn to fashion these fantastic TEARDROP EARRINGS.  You'll want to wear these beautiful earrings everywhere! Mig will show you how to fashion a teardrop, basket weave setting to cradle 12-14mm flat backed cabochons or Swarovski Rivolis. On line or in a jewelry store, these would cost a small fortune, but, you can make them yourself for a fraction of the cost of store bought. They'll make a wonderful extra special gift, too. Skill Level: Intermediate (Pre-requisite: Wire Sculpting or Border Wrap)

Hot new items in stock:


ROSE QUARTZ NUGGETS, Highly polished. Beautiful.

SPIDER STONE IN PINK AND BLUE and several shapes and sizes.

GREEN AVENTURINE in 20mm rounds and large teardrops

Mother of Pearl nuggets in a serene sky blue

If you liked the PEACOCK VISTA JASPER cabochons and pendants, you’ll love the beads in rondells, ovals and 20mm coins.  See them in person to truly appreciate their unique beauty.

New items arrive weekly, so stop in often and see what’s new.
Happy Beading,

Linda

Showing Off !!!

We recently had a class for the Victorian Crystal Heirloom Ornament.  It is always fun to see the colors and combinations that people come up with to create this beautiful piece.  Well the prize for most unusual goes to Annette Barrows of Manchester.  Annette has a grandson that love Halloween.  It’s his favorite holiday.  So, she created one of these ornaments using a black glass ornament, orange seed beads and bone skeleton skulls for the drops.  Bravo Annette, for your creativity.  There are just so many possibilities with beads.  Stop in, browse, and let your creativity soar!

More new stuff out next week. See you soon and,

Happy Beading,

Linda

Holiday Hours and 3 Day Sale!

Well if this weather holds we’ll have a spectacular 4th of July! We’ll keep our fingers crossed. REMINDER: THE SHOP WILL BE CLOSED THIS FRIDAY, JULY 1ST AND SATURDAY JULY 2ND, FOR A LONG HOLIDAY WEEKEND.

Between now and then, come in and take advantage of a huge 3DAY SALE!!!! There are new items and lines that I’d like to get in, but I’ve no place to put them. So, I need to clean house. For the next three days, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, June 28th, 29th and 30th,

ALL SWAROVSKI PENDANTS, FOCALS AND SPECIALTY PIECES ARE 60% OFF!
ALL PANDORA STYLE BEADS ARE 50% OFF,
ALL GEMSTONE BEADS AND CHIPS ARE 25% OFF,
AND ALL SEED BEADS ARE 10% OFF.

This is a great way to stock up on your vacation beading supplies, so don’t miss out. Once the items are gone, they may never return and especially at these prices! So, don’t wait, come in get ‘em while they’re HOT!

The Swarovski samples below are just a few of the fabulous pieces on sale. Others include Starfish, Cosmic Pendants, Aqualine Pendants, 2-hole spacer bar settings, hearts, cosmic squares and more.

“Pandora Beads” abound in crystal, Murano, stone lamp work, cat’s eye, animal shapes, metal and more!

Don’t forget to register for upcoming classes. Since the release of the third quarter schedule last week, calls have been coming in to book seats. Don’t let your seat be taken by someone else. Call to today!


Thursday, July 7th is the first of the “Christmas in July” classes. EASY NETTED SNOWFLAKES will get your holiday beading off to a simple, yet elegant start. New to hand bead weaving? This is the class for you to get emersed in the art form. Are you an old hand? Then this is an easy, relaxed project to pass a summer evening. Either way, you’ll love it! Class runs from 6-8 and the fee is $25.


SATURDAY, JULY 9^TH, Mig is back with us with two super classes.  From 10:30 – 12:30, she will walk you through the beautiful BORDER WRAP.  This is a great one to learn because the binding technique for the edges lends itself to many other wire wrapping projects.  For example, “Prongs” (see description under next month’s wire class listing on the website).  

From 1-3p.m., try the exquisite “Beez to Butterflies” Chain Maille technique.  You must have some prior chain maille experience for this class.  This is a beautiful, substantial bracelet.  I just love the feel of the piece on my wrist.  It has just enough weight to let you know you are wearing something special. If you are not sure if you have the experience necessary to take on the project?  Call me for more information.  Fee: $65 for each of Mig’s wire classes.

Stop in for the sale, to register for your favorite class or just to see what’s new.  Just stop in to say “Hi”!  It’s always a pleasure to see you and what you’ve been beading.  If I don’t see you, have a Happy 4^th!