I took a long break from writing Manekis Pärlblogg during Christmas and New Year's, but now I'm back so here's the first two weeks of posts over at my other blog.
Job's tears
Job's tears, Chinese pearl barley or adlai is the name of a plant that can be used for lovely silver-grey beads. Mostly seen in "ethnic" jewellery from around the world, it works just as well in sleek, modern designs.
Polymer clay contest
French bead shop Perles & Co has announced their latest contest, focusing on the use of polymer clay. The contest is open to residents in EU countries. Click here for the contest website.
International Charm Day 2011
Spread the news: April 28 is International Charm Day and your opportunity to celebrate art charms. The motto for the day is "wear & share". Wear you art charms, swap them, send them as a RAK, do a giveaway/blog candy, publish an art charm tutorial -- there are many ways to celebrate the event.
Jewellery packaging
Whether you buy them or make them, there are many things to consider when choosing packaging for your jewellery, especially if you're trying to build a brand. Contains several links to tutorials and instructions to make your own packaging solutions, from jewellery pouches to origami boxes to altered tins.
Reversible pendants
Utilize the hollow back of a stamped metal pendant or component by filling it with polymer clay, epoxy clay or resin. A creative way to make a pendant more personal.
Most read 2010
Top 25 of the most read blog posts during 2010. Not surprisingly, the most popular post was the introduction for beginners wanting to learn how to bead/make jewellery.
New book on ICE Resin and more black from Vintaj
The gals behind Objects and Ornaments are launching their own publishing division. First out are a book on ICE Resin and a softcover editions of Susan Lenart Kazmer's fab Making Connections. Vintaj is launching a wider range of their lovely, black Arte Metal line.
Vintaj February challenge
The theme for the February challenge at the Vintaj blog is Starry Nights. Read more about it here.
Cross-woven bracelets
Make lovely bracelets by weaving/braiding cord, lace or ribbon.
Zinc
With the price of silver still rising, zinc alloy is one of the alternatives that are becoming more popular. Zinc is otherwise perhaps best known as a part of brass, white gold, nickel silver and tibetan silver.
LED jewellery
LED, light emitting diodes, are fun, but did you know you can also use them in to make jewellery? And more precisely: used as they're intended, being able to be switched on and off. Pendants, bracelets and necklaces that can light you up.
To dream about beads and pearls
Do you know what it means when you dream about beads or pearls? To those that believe in dream interpretation, they are symbols with special meanings.
Authentic Victorian bead patterns
There are several sources for actual victorian bead patterns if you're interested in learning about beadwork in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Metal prices predicted to keep rising
The prices of metals like gold (now at an all time high), silver and copper are predicted to keep rising during this year, experts say. Many jewellery-makers and beaders are now looking for alternatives to sterling silver.
Patina for cat owners
Did you know your cat can help you patinating your copper, bronze and brass? A twist on an old, traditional way to add patina to metal the "natural way". (Also includes tips on more modern vinegar and ammonia techniques.)
Art Bead Scene January challenge
The theme for the first monthly challenge this year over at ABS is Wayne Thiebaud's Brown River. Create using art beads for you chance to win gorgeous beads and silk cord -- and participate in the tour.
ohhhh, lot's of yumminess to bookmark and read!
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