Bead Porn!

It's been a while since I have "shared my finds"....so this is some of what I have recently acquired.  I was a little scared to type Bead Porn in my title...goodness know what a google search will do with that name.  Oh well...

First up are these gorgeous lampwork beads made by Susan Kennedy of Sue Beads.  It's no secret that blue is my favorite color.  But, when it is this deep and rich, and accented like these, well...'nuff said!

The next set of pretties are lampwork by Judith Billig of Icarus Beads.  Her etsy shop is in "vacation mode"...but I bought these  from an online auction on one of the way-too-many Facebook Groups that I belong to.  Her Facebook page, where she updates her beady goodness, can be found here.  Anyway, these beads have just a touch of pastel, encased in a thick, thick layer of clear glass, in an awesome square/dice shape.  I have named them Pastel Icicles, 'cause I think the name fits!

This next set of beads - a very large set as a matter of fact - is by Jenelle and her husband Daniel of Beads and Botanicals fame (link to their Facebook page here) .  Again - another auction win!  They contain her "famous" sea salt blends...Winter White is the title.  Swoon!

This last set of lampwork finds is from Catherine Steele.  Yes - another Facebook auction!  I was online the instant she posted this picture, and let me tell you, I had to fight to win this one! :)  I had seen her beads in matched sets, so I felt lucky to find this one!  Each bead is different and has intense colors...and I just love the bicone shape!  A link to her Facebook page is here.  

I am on quite a few email lists, one of which is Dakota Stones.  This is dangerous! :) Well, last week Dakota Stones announced that they had begun carrying large-hole gemstone beads.  While I adore gemstones, the holes are so tiny and not big enough for my first love - wire (except the thinner gauge wires, which don't hold up for what I make).  I don't tend to string beads with beading wire - I love the look but I hate crimping (HATE!) :) Most people prefer large hole beads for fiber or leather.  Not me....I instantly saw wire going through these beauties! 

From Top to Bottom: Picture Jasper, Yellow Jade, Faceted Sunset Dumortierite, Impression Jasper, and  Sky Eye Jasper

So far, I have made these earrings with the Impression Jasper.  I just love all the colors flowing in that awesome heishi shaped bead!

I finally felt well enough (worst flu EVER) to attempt to solder.  So, going through my stash of cabochons, I was so pleased to find this little Picture Jasper.

And, I used some of those Picture Jasper large-hole gemstones and some 18 gauge sterling silver wire.  I am a happy girl!

I am happy to report that I finally used the Flex Shaft to polish up the pendant.  OMG!  What a difference from using a Dremel!  With the big fat Dremel, I had to hold it in my left hand, with the jewelry in my right hand (I am right-hand dominant).  But with the Quick Change Hand piece I purchased (link here), I was able to switch - in seconds - from one mandrel to the next to polish this quickly.  And, this handset is so darn slender - and I held it in my right hand - so, again...I am a happy girl!

Today is Monday, which means errands (ugh).  But, I am happy to report that my mother is finally well enough to leave the house and wants to go shopping with me.  So, I will joyfully run those errands today!

Thanks so much for stopping by today!  I love to read your comments!!

xo

Patti