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

Upcoming Classes and Some New Beads

We have some great classes coming up this week and next and there are still a few seats left.

DIAGONAL RIGHT-ANGLE WEAVE or (RAW on the side) as I like to call it. THURSDAY, MARCH 17TH, 6-8 P.M.. Right-angle weave is a favorite stitch of beaders everywhere. You will see it often in beading books and magazines and done in a variety of ways. This piece designed by Beth Stone and first published in the August 2006 Bead and Button, turns right-angle weave on its side to produce a soft and flexible necklace. Done in seed beads you can embellish it can be embellished with pearls or crystals. You will also learn to create a beaded toggle to keep it secure. This is a pretty piece with an interesting “slant” on a popular stitch. SKILL LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE (prior work in right angle weave helpful).


BEADING BASICS: SATURDAY, MARCH 19TH, 10:30-12:30, w/ MARIE JACQUES.
New to beading and would like to put a more professional finish on your pieces?
Been too busy to bead lately and have gotten a little rusty? This class is a must for the beginning bead enthusiast or for anyone interested in brushing up their beading skills. Learn how to use the tools and materials available to create and finish your own wearable art. Some attention will also be given to color, shape and balance. These techniques will spring you forth into the world of beading with the confidence it takes to create your own designs! SKILL LEVEL: BEGINNER.




DAISY CHAIN RESCHEDULED TO THURSDAY, MARCH 24^TH.  If you wanted to take the DAISY CHAIN class that was offered last Thursday and were unable to register in time, you can still take it next Thursday, March 24^th 6:00-8:00PM.  The class was rescheduled due to uncertain weather, so give a call and reserve your seat.  The daisy is such a simple, sweet flower. And that is just the way I’d describe this variation on a daisy chain. Vines and flowers are both size 11 seed beads although, you could use any size or colors to change the look and make it truly your own. This is a very easy project for first time hand weavers. But, even the more experienced can have a lot of fun with it. So, if you’ve wanted to try your hand at working with seed beads, or just want a simple little pattern to stitch, you’ll have fun with this one. This is a piece the all women, from granddaughters to grandmothers, will love to own. SKILL LEVEL: BEGINNER

BEADED CABOCHONS: SATURDAY, MARCH 26TH, 10:30-12:30, W/ROBIN STUART

Beaded cabochons are so striking; they almost take your breath away. But, are they as daunting to make as they look? NO! Robin will lead you through the process and you’ll be turning out your own beautiful Beaded Cabs for winning gifts in no time. This is a wonderful technique for turning all those beautiful cabs you’ve picked up at gem shows into fabulous jewelry. Schedule early, this class fills fast. SKILL LEVEL: NOVICE (some hand weaving experience)

Pretty new beads: More AQUA TERRA JASPER in nuggets, diamonds and coins in bright, springy shapes

Show and Tell:


Take a look at what Barry MacMillan has created with her new found knowledge of VIKING KNIT.  Barry took the class and learned how to do this ancient technique using the newfangled Viking Knit tool.  She found that the size of the knitted tube was just perfect for the large hole “Pandora Style” beads.  Another great idea for displaying your favorite big hole beads.  Nice work Barry!

The pretty fancy “Basic” pieces (pictured below) were created by the mother/daughter team of Linda and Emily Novak.

Preview of Upcoming Class!


OOH, AHH!  This is a preview of Mig Lemire’s next wire bracelet class.  This design by Eni Oken is coming up April 9^th.  Stay tuned for more details (or call now to pre-register, seats ).

Big Sale November 10th through November 14th!!!

Hello to all of my wonderful customers. I can’t thank you enough for your loyalty and support over the past three years since I’ve owned the shop. You are why I am here doing what I do, and by continuing your support and patronage, you are the reason I will continue to be able to provide quality product and services to the beading community. The current economy has exerted pressures on local brick and mortar stores, over and above the usual day to day demands on our creativity and pocket books. Those of you who (like me) are of an age to subscribe to AARP, may have seen a recent article about how buying locally can help support your local economy and ensure that our cities and towns maintain their uniqueness. The article, “Livin’ La Vida Local” states in part, “We're finally getting the point across that if you spend $100 at a local business, $45 stays within the community," says Stacy Mitchell, senior researcher with the nonprofit Institute for Local Self-Reliance. "Spend $100 at a national chain and only about $14 recirculates." Buying local is also about trading superstore sterility — and packed parking lots — for something more unique”. "……. it's all about the experience," says Mitchell. "You enjoy walking to the bookstore during the day and to a restaurant in the evening. It's about choosing the quality of the experience over the cheapest option." (Click here for full article.)

I’m happy to be one of those small shops who provide a unique experience. Many customers have told me that this shop is charming, cozy and relaxing to spend time in. And, those who comparison shop, have commented that the merchandise is top quality, the selection is outstanding and the pricing on most items is much lower than many other shops. As for service, if I don’t have what you need in stock, I’ll do my best to find it for you. I’ve expanded the inventory to include more pearls, strands, tools, kits, wire supplies and crystal. So, if you haven’t been in for a while, stop in and check out all the new goodies. You might be pleasantly surprised at what you’ve been missing.

To thank all of my loyal customers, welcome back those who have been away for a while and really kickoff the “creating and crafting for the holidays” season, I’m offering BIG SAVINGS on many items in stock. This week starting Wednesday, November 10th thru Saturday, November 13th, take 25% off the already low prices for CZECH and CHINESE CRYSTAL STRANDS, reg. $2-$8.10, now $1.50-$6.08

40% off all SWAROVSKI PENDANTS (An easy gift with magnificent bling, just add a jump ring or bail and a cord or chain. Done), Reg. $1.5-$21.25, now .90-$12.75

40% off all MIYUKI BEADING KITS (make them up yourself or pop them into a stocking),

Reg. $7.95-$25.60, now $4.77-$15.35

40% off all POLYMER CLAY BEADS- Including Butterfly Strands (light weight and one of a kind), Reg. .50-$32.50, now .30-$19.50

and 50% off all LAMPWORK BEADS and all PANDORA STYLE  BEADS AND BRACELETS in stock.  (Choose from crystal, stone, Murano glass, cat’s eye, Mille Flore, venetian and more) Reg. $5.50-$30.00, Now: $2.75-$15.00

Don’t miss this first ever 4 day event! 


There are still a few seats available in the classes scheduled for this week.



THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 11TH from 6-8 PM, CUBES AND PEARLS BRACELET will be a hit with your BFFs when they receive one this holiday season and with you when you see how easy they are to make. And they’re oh, so comfortable to wear. Skill Level: Beginner. Fee: $25


MIG IS BACK this Saturday, November 13^th with more wonderful wire projects for you and for holiday giving.  The morning class starting at 10:30 is for the “CAGED PENDANT”.  This is such a striking piece that you’ll receive raves where ever you wear it. It will be the favorite gift of anyone lucky enough to receive one.  Call to register today.  This class won’t be offered again until spring.  Skill Level: Novice (some wire experience recommended)  Fee: $65


Back by popular demand, the ARROWS BRACELET class will be reprised Saturday afternoon from 1-3 PM.  This intriguing little bracelet always gets a lot of attention.  Do it up in sterling silver or copper with your choice of 3mm accent beads.  A wonderful way to express yourself.  A great gift idea, too.  Skill level: Intermediate.  Fee: $65.


Don’t miss the opportunity to learn to create the fabulous VICTORIAN CRYSTAL HEIRLOOM ORNAMENT in time for this holiday season.  They are deceptively simple to create yet so stunningly beautiful.  They amaze anyone who receives one and will be a treasured keepsake for generations to come.  This is a two part class.  Part One, on Thursday, November18th, will get you started on the basic netting for the body of the piece.  Part Two on Tuesday, November 23^rd, will show you how to  secure the netting over the orb and begin embellishing with crystal drops.  These ornaments are one of my favorite pieces to make.  I always get an olde fashioned holiday feeling while working on one.  Start your family tradition by reserving your seat today!  Skill Level: Beginner.  Fee: $45 (includes both classes)


The shop is also stocked with everything you need to create fabulous jewelry fashions and gifts for the holiday season.  Supplies are in for all of your favorite holiday earrings (Crystal trees, snowmen, angels, etc.), charms to create necklaces and bracelets or dangle off a special bookmark, snowflake forms to create your own special ornaments and much more.  Stop in today.  We have everything you need to make your holidays “sparkle”.

On behalf of myself and my fellow Downtown Merchants, THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING LOCALLY! (Be sure to check out the other wonderful shops in town for items you won’t be making yourself. You’ll be amazed at what they have in store!)