Beadwork has been both a hobby and an occupation for hundreds of years. It takes great creativity and skill to create a handcrafted beadwork project. While most beadwork projects are focused on jewelry, there are other projects available. These projects include artwork such as sculpture and wall hangings as well as items of decoration. Some of the most popular beadwork crafts projects include pillows, lamp shades, and bracelets.
Beadwork crafts can be integrated into almost any style and projects. Adding beading to such items as pillows can create an exotic look to any living area. Beadwork patterns can be found in craft stores as well as online. These beadwork patterns will provide the necessary list of supplies, accessories and equipment to purchase in order to complete the projects. It is easiest to make a pillow from scratch by completing the beading design prior to filling and sewing the pillow closed. Obviously, this project needs some amount of skill in both beadworking and sewing, but the finished project is a beautiful handcrafted beadwork pillow.
One of the most sought after and easiest beadwork projects is the beaded lamp shade. This project begins with an ordinary old lamp shade and ends up being transformed into a handcrafted beadwork piece of art. It is a good idea to not attempt to overload the lamp shade with too many beads or it will end up looking tacky. Use a beadwork pattern to pattern the lamp shade and then glue or thread the beads. Beads can also be hung from the base of the lamp shade to inject an additional touch of character. The best part of the beadwork lamp shade project is that there are endless possibilities. These lamp shades are perfect for the home, or for gift-giving. This is also an excellent project for children. A handcrafted beadwork lamp shade is a great starting project.
Beadwork bracelets may appear to be an easy beadwork project to tackle, but this can be deceptive. Yes, it is easy to string beads together, attach a clasp and call it a beadwork bracelet, but the fun comes in during the design and creation of a truly unique piece of jewelry. There are a lot of beads available at beading supply stores, but those beads are often just not enough to be able to design and create something unique. There are some great online shops as well as retail beading stores devoted entirely to beadwork that will have the range of beads necessary to create a unique beadwork bracelet. Beads come in all different shapes, sizes, and materials. The possibilities of combinations and designs are endless. Beadwork jewelry is the most common use of beads, but this is because it is very satisfying to create something that other people will admire worn.
Beadwork is most often seen in jewelry, but these projects, including the pillow and lamp shade break out of that mold. The beadwork bracelet is a great place to start in beadwork design. Beading provides a wonderful outlet for creativity and imagination.
If you love beadworking and are interested in joining a new and exciting online beading community where you can share your passion, learn and meet other beading enthusiasts, then a great place to visit is BeadHuddle.com. At BeadHuddle.com, you can set up your own profile pages, post photos of your latest beading creations and designs, upload and share ‘how to’ beading videos, chat online, write articles and blogs about beading and beadworking, ask questions, share tips and participate in forum discussions and polls, post comments and rate other member’s contributions, take part in quizzes, post events and announcements about beading fairs, markets and shows in your local area, and so much more. Best of all, the site is free to join.
To learn more about BeadHuddle.com, go here: Beading Community
