Quilt Patchwork Patterns

Beads and Bookmarks

The probabilities of working with beads aren’t limited to jewelry.  Beads are not only for necklaces or bracelets or earrings.  If you’re looking for a new thing to use your beads in, why not decorate your bookmarks? First thing that you should do is to be certain you have what you need for making bead jewelry.  Ensure you have all the required tools and materials on hand as it can be exasperating having to stop in the middle of a project. 

Beaded bookmarks make for actually unique and beautiful gifts.  The fact that you made it yourself makes it thoughtful and booklovers would find it really special.  Top it off with a gift of a book or subscription to a magazine. Artsy crafty bookmarks are always appreciated as little gifts.  The great thing about these book mark gifts is that every one is always completely unique. 

If you’re an ardent reader yourself, making and employing a beaded bookmark would make your reading experience all the more fun!  Having beaded bookmarks also adds a fancy class to an otherwise dull shelf of books. 

You can opt to make your beaded bookmarks in 2 ways.  You may either purchase a ready-made one and make a beaded trimming, or you can create the entire thing from nothing. 

you can decide to start simple and create a store-made bookmark first.  Bookmarks can be found in just about any bookstore and you could even find some old ones around your home.  Punch out a hole close to the top edge of the bookmark and fasten a tassel on it made from strings and beads of your choosing.  You can also use embroidery thread and charms to make it unique. 

You can also create a bookmark yourself by trying laminated paper.  This is special because you can decide to print on it a picture of your favorite art or you can also create a collage for your buddy.  Its better to use heavy paper when doing this in order that it becomes tougher.  Do the same as when you decorate a store-bought bookmark. 

Paper bookmarks don’t always have to have fancy pictures on them.  Sometimes you can decorate them with beads.  Attempt to experiment with felt paper as it has that good fabric texture that you don’t have to sew and most importantly it does not fray.  Play around with curls and other fancy lines.  Finish it off with a beaded tail. 

Another bookmark that you can make is a straightforward book thong.  These are just cords and strings with beads tied in them.  Decorate these the same way you would a tassel. 

Whichever way you do it, making beaded bookmarks could be a really fun activity.  It is something that even kids would like and would be able to do.  Not to mention the end products are helpful, considerate, and truly special. There are tons of beading forums that you will find online which will give you some great designs.

Beaded Friendship Bracelets

Are you wanting a great accessory to symbolize your friendship to another?  Try a friendship bracelet.  They’re private and sentimental ; and the best part is that you can make them by yourself! First off make sure you have what you need for making bead jewelry

The neat thing is that beaded jewerly making can be enjoyed by all the family. Friendship bracelets have been around for many , many years.  Folk tradition claims that when anyone gives you a friendship bracelet, you must wear it and not remove it till it falls off on it’s own.  Taking it off implies that you are ending your friendship with the person that gave it to you. .

These bracelets are really easy to make.  Most designers use embroidery thread in making them but you can also choose to use hemp.  There are also a lot of knot styles to choose from such as the double-chain knot and the braid but the most commonly-used one is the half-hitch knot.  If you are making the bracelet out of embroidery thread, try using 2 colors.  You can also mix your favorite with that of your buddy’s to make it more personalized and remarkable. 

When making the bracelet, begin by cutting three strands of one color and three strands of the other.  You must have a total of six strands in your hand.  Tie a knot about an inch from the end of all 6 strands.  Make sure that you secure the strands with a weight because you’ll be pulling on them.  Form a single knot with the first three strands and another with the leftover three strands till the bracelet is the length you want it to be.  Secure the ends with another knot and trim them. 

One way that you can make your friendship bracelet more special is to add handmade glass beads to them.  You may even select beads that are symbolic to you and your friend.  Try looking for beads that represent what it is that you like about your chum or maybe something that reflects both of your personalities. 

To add beads to your bracelet, simply thread floss into a needle and string the beads according to the pattern that you like.  Be careful when stringing your beads so that you won’t make that many mistakes.  It is also helpful to design the pattern before you begin to make the bracelet. 

Making friendship bracelets is truly a way to bond with your mate.  It’s straightforward to make and the product is truly something that you will both love for a very long time.

All Beaded Up

Have you got old garments in your closet that have gone out of season but are still in love with?  Do not you wish you could do something to spice it up a little bit to make it seem new again?  Well you completely can!  It’s all pure and simple!  All you need is a few beads in all the perfect colors and voila!  It is going to be as good as brand new!  You won’t ever know the power a few dainty handmade glass beads and some thread can do for your apparel.  Now take your time to sort out those old garments, give away those that are not useful for you anymore, and keep those that you can still spice up through beadwork. 

Are you not pleased how a few beadworks can save everyone a bunch of cash in buying new clothes?  You will find all the materials that you need at your local bead stores or craft shops. There are so many things you can gain advantage from it.  Now let us commence with some tips we can use in spicing up that hideous and plain wardrobe. 

Have you got a blouse with a boring, faded print?  Why not highlight that print by sewing some beads on their outline and straight into the cloth?  You will surely be dazzled by the superb results. 

Do not be worried if your old wardrobe has complex swirls or plain cuff trims because whether it is a blouse, a couple of old jeans, sweaters, tank tops, tees, coats or jackets ; beads will still be a fun and stylish way to bring out your standard wardrobe. 

Beadwork doesn’t only do wonders on old garments, it is also just about popular as an accessory.  If you want to give a new look to your attire, some striking accessories on the neck, ears, wrist and fingers will surely do the job.  Or you can add beads to your purses, gloves, scarves, slippers, hats and even head bands! 

Having a quiet dinner with your other half or some friends?  Are you dying to make a statement as a host?  Aside from the relaxing cast of candlelight over your silverware, you may also jazz it up by sewing some sparkly and glittery beads on your placemats, serviettes, hang some on your candelabrum or your centerpieces. 

There are endless ways to creatively use those beads even in your own home!  Sew them on your towels and pillows, or your blankets and curtains, even on wall sconces and candle holders.  Make your door appear more inviting by draping it with a curtain made out of pretty bead strands. There are thousands of simple beaded jewelry making tutorials that you can find online to give you some inspiration and ideas.

Also, always remember to hand wash your beaded items.  Never put those in a washing machine or else you will never see that pretty and complicated beadwork again!