Process

With my first bead show of the year around the corner, litterally, I am surrounded by beads in all stages of completion.  (It is the Berks Bead Bazzar in Reading pa if you are local, come on out, its a wonderful show- not too big, but has the best selection of what you need)

 

I have been posting a lot of process pics on facebook, and thought I'd catch you all up here.

 

Here are some beads getting their first layer of paint.  I use many layers to create depth and warmth in my beads.  Some are still "naked" to show you the before.

 

 

Here they are finished.  These are some of the little guys that were sent off to the Bead Cruise by Heather Powers. (you will find me under the sponsors for the cruise- something new for me this year)

 

 

And here they are all packed up for the Bead Cruise

 

 

 

Here are some first layer shots of my color polymer

 

 

 

And here is that last pic after the second layer of paint

 

 

And here are some samples of finished beads

 

 

I also made these bead sets that have my earthy mix of polymer beads along with sea glass and gemstones. 

 

Here is the earthy mix before they were made into sets

 

 

And here are the sets

 

 

 

And then there is the metal work, which is what I am currently working on finishing and sealing

 

 

There is so much more to do to be ready.  I really hope I can't get it all done without wearing myself out.  With all the colds and such this time of year, wearing myself down is a guarenteed illness.  So I will keep plugging away, and going to bed on time ;)  Hopefully I will see you at Berks!!!

 

AND- after the show, I will be having a giveaway that Friday, March 8th- so stay tuned!!!