My Olympia Purchases

Yesterday I went to the 'Stitch and Craft' show at Olympia. It was not as big as I was expecting and I was a little disappointed if I'm totally honest. However, I did meet; Maria Diaz, Margaret Sherry, Jane Greenoff and Michael Powell, and they were all charming. I also managed to avoid the QVC queen, which was a blessing in my eyes!

I bought quite a few semi-precious gems and a small Michael Powell cross-stitch. Pictures of gems above...

Bubbles

My latest creation!

Bracelet

This bracelet was made with the focal stone in mind. I chose seed beads that matched all the colours in the stone (pale green, cream, grey, black, sparkling black). It didn't quite come out as I imagined it, but I do like it. It is delicate and I'm am getting better at photographing!

Idle Musings...

So many people lately have commented on the fact that I am not actually producing many cards at the moment! I suppose I should change the name of this blog, but all my business cards and stickers have the current name on, so I don't want to change things at this stage.

I suppose the answer is to start blogging more cards!

I am a strange crafter in that I get totally absorbed in one craft to the detriment of all others. Cross-stitching was my 'thing' until a few weeks ago and now beads have taken over. My craft-room floor is strewn with hundreds of seed beads! I have about 8 cross-stitch projects on the go at the moment, but just can't seem to make myself want to complete any of them. The beauty of crafting is that it is so enjoyable. If you have to force yourself to finish something, maybe it is not worth it? I know that the enthusiasm will return at some point, so will go with it when it does.

No doubt, the next few pictures will be jewellery, especially as I have another delivery expected from Beads Unlimited!

OK, I couldn't resist...

I just had to make two more rope chain stitch things! They are so easy and relaxing (as long as you don't snip the wrong bit (blush)).

This is the last rope-chain stitch bracelet for a while!

Beautiful colours - like boiled sweets. It went perfectly and fits really nicely on the wrist. I need to learn a new technique now though, so I am going to have a read through my (miriad) books.

Labradorite and Freshwater Pearl bracelet

This bracelet was inspired by the Pearl 'Potato' necklace in the latest issue of 'Bead' magazine. I love the mix of colours and think that the photo really shows them off.

FAO Nbg - you know who you are!

I have finished the lariat for you!!! I really hope you like it. If you do, please let me know by email and I'll contact you.

Here are a couple of pictures...

What a co-incidence!

The other day, I was suggesting to my mum that she take up beading as a hobby. I knew of two women who run courses but I have not been able to go to them in the past because I work during the week. Then, last night I had a phone call from one of the women who runs the courses. She was ringing to let me know that they have recently started doing courses on Saturdays! I have not spoken to these women for around a year, so how spooky is that!

I have booked myself on to the course on 19th April, where I will be doing some fancy netting stitch that then becomes a necklace or bracelet. I am trying to convince my mum to come with me as I think she would really enjoy it - I can't wait! The next one, which is two weeks later, involves cabouchon stones and beaded embroidery. It doesn't seem my cup of tea, but I will see what they look like when I attend the first session.

Bag Charm/Key-ring

This started off as an ear-ring, but it quickly became obvious that it was a bit 'Pat Butcher' in style! So I made it even more glitzy and changed it into a bag charm that can also be a key-ring.