Becky Swasey has a fabulous way of using classical components and incorporating them into modern, contemporary, and funky designs. Becky also designs recycled jewelry and part of all of those proceeds go to the Ronald McDonald House. She has a great sense of style and each one of a kind piece offers a personal approach to accessorizing. “From coordinating earrings, necklaces, and bracelets to recycled aluminum treasures, these items are created to inspire.” We are excited to introduce you to Becky! To see more of her designs see our June 09 issue!
Funky Bridesmaid
Miss Recycling Humanitarian Princess III
I have a passion for chunky, multi-strand jewelry. Whether you use large beads, multiple strands or layers of texture, there are so many ways to stack and wrap your beads. I love the way you can combine textures, colors and materials into one bold and striking piece. Here are some fabulous finds from Etsy that each gave me some great ideas for that next chunky jewelry piece.
1. Frost and Ice by coeurdepierres
2. Aqua Chain by musettemade
3. Bahama Beauties Earrings by SSSJ
4. Roots by DanaBeigelDesign
Erin’s artistic eye for mixing a variety of metals, rich tones, and great textures often draw me to her designs. I love pieces made from unexpected or vintage items like this antique Victorian keyhole and skeleton key. To see this design along with guidelines for creating a similar piece see our June 09 issue.
Treasures Found
Visit Erin’s website at TesoriTrovati.com
This little peek is the back view of one of my favorite pieces from this month’s issue. Check it out: Rhinestone & Filigree, by Lori Dillard
Beaded Cuff
SUPPLIES
- Back Ribbon, add 1 and 1/4 inches to your wrist circumference.
- Top Lace, length of wrist circumference
- Needle and thread
- Cord elastic
- 1 shank button (no holes in top, but a hole in a post beneath the button).
- Beads
INSTRUCTIONS
- Pick out your materials.
- Tack the lace on top of the ribbon.
- Fold the edge of the ribbon over approximately 1/8″ so that the raw edge is visible on the top. Fold the ribbon over again forming a 1/2″ hem, concealing the edge of the lace. Tack the edge down, leaving the sides open. Pass a length of elastic cord through the open sides and tie off into an almost snug loop. Trim the excess elastic and rotate the loop so that the knot is hidden in the hem. This elastic loop is one side of the clasp.
- Repeat the hem on the other end of cuff, only this time without the elastic. Sew the button to the edge of the ribbon. When the elastic loop on the opposite end is slipped over the button, the shank of the button should “float” in between the edges of the cuff.
- Stitch beads on to the cuff. Your bead work can be as simple as an accent bead here and there, or as detailed as you have the patience for.
This was one of those projects I just kind of made up as I went. However, I liked it so much, that I am excited to repeat the cuff design with different colors, beads, and tidier (more patient) stitches. This project can be repeated in countless variations. Below are some of the ribbons and embellishments I have collected for future cuffs.
Personalize your favorite piece (or the perfect gift!) with monograms or initials. There are lots of ways to add letters – stamps, stickers, scrapbook rub-ons, metal presses and engravings. You can also get beads that come pre-stamped or charms made in the shape of the letters you want. The possibilities are endless! These Etsy finds all have great ideas for incorporating monograms into your jewelry pieces.
1. Unforgettable by UnfinishedBusiness
2. Romantic Noir Wedding Lariat by FringeLore
3. Monogrammed Shell Pendant by EmilyRoseJewellery
4. Mother’s Charm Bracelet by princessbydesign
