Tuesday, August 26, 2008

What the heck IS BeadLit?


Since BeadLit is fairly new and it's getting new subscribers everyday, some may wonder what the heck is BeadLit? BeadLit is a Twitter I was inspired to start when I read about TwitterLit. TwitterLit is a twitter that posts the first line of a piece of literature with an Amazon link to the actual book. I thought it was a cool idea to do with beads! Why would I think so? I'm a glass beadmaker who has been making flameworked glass beads for 8 years and selling them from my website for 4 years. I designed jewelry with beads prior to making glass beads and continue to design jewelry. I string jewelry, I wire wrap, I do metal work, I work with seed beads - you name the technique, I've probably done it and bought a book about it! So, I have a long love affair with the bead and only someone who truly loves them would have half of her studio dedicated to books about beads. I want to share the bead-love with you! You'll be able to read a line about bead and/or jewelry making on the go!

If you haven't already, get a Twitter account .

On Tuesdays, I'll Twitter the first line of a beadmaking/jewelry design book - beadmaking of all mediums, glass, clay, metal, paper - you name it! - I'll BeadLit-Twitter the first line of how to make beads, how to design with beads, history of beads, design techniques with beads - anything related to a bead and written in a book.

Tuesday, August 19, 2008

Creating Lampwork Beads


Maybe you are a jewelry designer who has always wanted to learn how to make your own lampwork beads or maybe you are new to lampworking and would like to learn the secrets of the art from modern skilled lampworkers out there today.

Synopsis:

This book easily explains and demonstrates the techniques behind the ancient and exquisite craft of lampwork beading, using step-by-step instructions for making 16 different lampwork beads, which are incorporated into 16 jewelry designs. From creating beads, to shaping glass and mixing colors, this book outlines basic techniques through more than 200 color photos and illustrations. Youll quickly excel from beginner to advanced beader, with the potential for developing an exciting hobby or profitable side business.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

Wire Wrapping: Jewelry Studio


"Welcome to the world of wire wrapping."


Publisher Comments:

Compiled with advanced beginners and intermediate designers in mind, this guidebook starts with the basics of wire wrapping and builds skills progressively as aspiring crafters work through each project. The easy-to-follow instructions emphasize safety first and list all the steps required to get started, with a detailed discussion given to using tools such as pliers and wire cutters—wire wrapping does not require a soldering torch—and selecting appropriate materials such as copper, brass, and sterling silver. Finishing these stunning projects are a snap with the tips, tricks, and techniques shared within—jewelry crafters will delight in the resulting pieces that include beautiful bracelets, Celtic earrings, wire wrapped rings, and a wire-wrapped cabochon.



About the Author

Linda Chandler is a jewelry designer and teacher with more than 20 years of experience. She lives in Indianapolis, Indiana. Christine Ritchey is a writer, editor, potter, and jewelry maker. She lives in Pottsboro, Texas. They are the authors of Getting Started Making Wire Jewlery & More and Woven Wire Jewelry.

Tuesday, August 5, 2008

Making Wire Jewelry and More


"Making Jewelry is alot of fun."

Making Wire Jewelry and More by Linda Chandler and Christine Ritchey is part of the Getting Started Series from Interweave Press.

Publisher Comments:

Those with interest, but absolutely no wire-working knowledge, will find this gradual guide a great introduction to every aspect of working with the enduring medium of wire. The chapters walk the aspiring craftsperson step-by-step through the entire process, from where and how to shop for wire and beads, to choosing the right kind and gauge of wire, and what tools of the trade they need to borrow or buy. No background is assumed; skills build upon each other as the book progresses. The basic jewelry components, such as loops, jump rings, findings, and connectors, are covered in turn. These lessons are then put to use with a selection of six projects, from jewelry to more unusual uses for metal embellishments such as greeting cards. Filled with lessons, tips, and resources from start to finish, this manual is a primer for the true beginner.

Synopsis:

Learn how to make yur own wire jewelryl Don't know the first thing about making wire jewelry? Getting Started Making Wire Jewelry will get you going, with more than 100 color photographs that walk you, step by step, through the entire process, from where and how to shop for wire and beads, choosing the right kind and gauge of wire, to what tools of the trae you will need. You will learn how to make basic jewelry components such as loops, jump rings, and connectors, create and proudly wear the earrings, rings, bracelets - or make and give wire-decorated cards. With this book as your guide you will master the art of creating beautiful wire jewelry and gifts in no time!


About the Author

Linda Chandler is a jewelry designer and teacher with more than 20 years of experience, and the coauthor of Woven Wire Jewelry. She is a precious metal clay-certified teacher who conducts workshops in a variety of jewelry skills including wire wrapping, metalsmithing, and glass fusing. Her work has appeared in the book All Wired Up and the magazine The Wire Artist Jeweller. She lives in Indianapolis, Indiana.

Christine Ritchey is an independent writer and editor, potter, jewelry maker, and coauthor of Woven Wire Jewelry. She has worked for D magazine and the local PBS station in Dallas. She lives in Pottsboro, Texas.