The Bead Spot

As often happens, I didn't get very far on the wall I had planned to repair last weekend, so that's one project that will extend into the next. Hopefully, it doesn't take too long, but I've found that home improvement stuff usually does. I also didn't spend much time working on beads. I've been trying to better organize my workspace, but didn't get that done either. Hopefully, I'll get that finished before this coming weekend.

Check back often. More beading how-tos will be added in future posts. Stop Beads Ladder Stitch -- Method 1: Use to create two equal lengths of string coming out of the ladder. This is ideal for projects in which the ladder is not on the edge of the project. Single-Needle Ladder Stitch:  Use to create a single length of string coming from the ladder. This technique is ideal for projects in which the ladder is at the edge of the project. Square Stitch : Use in projects that look like loomwork. Peyote Stitch--Even Count. Peyote Stitch--Odd Count.

Beginning with this post, I will occasionally add some beading how-tos. Here's a very basic technique. Stop beads keep the beads of a project from sliding off. I typically choose a bead that is larger than the ones within the project so that it stands out. To secure a stop bead: Thread your needle. String one bead onto your thread or other stringing material. Slide it within an inch or two of the opposite end of the thread. Pass the thread through the bead again so that the thread forms a complete loop around the bead, then pass it through again. Pull the thread tight so that the bead is secure.

While holding my daughter last night, I noticed a 6 mm bead lying on the floor. After blinking a few times as if I wasn't really seeing it, I bent down and picked it up. As I lifted it, I realized it was attached to a long, clear string ... and a whole bunch of other beads. It was the stop bead for the door hanger I'm working on. I'm so glad I saw it before my daughter did.

I probably won't do much beadwork over the weekend. I've decided that I need to finally finish my entryway, which has looked like this for a little more than a year. I spent a lot of time removing the wallpaper, but due to an issue with the ceiling, there didn't seem to be much sense in finishing the entry walls just yet. Once the ceiling was taken care of, I took time off from work to smooth out the wall and get it painted. Just my luck, though, I spent that week sick. So, during the day, I'll be fixing this mess, and then working on the door hanger as I unwind in the evening, if I have the energy.

Delica beads are still my favorites, but I also like the size 11/0 Japanese seed beads that Fusion Beads sells. They are every bit as uniform as Delicas, which makes them great for many of the projects I work on, including the kids rings I've made with my nephews.

A friend of mine will move out of state this summer, and I'd like to make her a going-away present. She collects Santas, but I know she already has a beaded one. She also doesn't wear much jewelry, so that idea is out, too. One idea I have it to make an eyeglass holder. This will be a new one for me.