Soups On

Here we are once again, all gathered around taking peeks at each others soup for the 6th Bead Soup Blog Party. I was paired with the very talented Shannon LeVart, Missficklemedia, and she sent me a wonderful assortment of goodies. So without further ado...

I love just about anything that is related to the ocean or sea, so my heart skipped a beat when I saw this wonderful focal, a copper polymer clay starfish with green patina. Since blues, greens, and turquoise colors seem to be in the majority around here, it was a perfect fit! And, no need to hide the pretty patina of the verdigris toggle clasp in the back, so it took a front seat, right above the pendant. 

Underwater

The fun ensued, lots of antiqued copper wirework links and connectors, a smattering of patina-ted beads beads from Shannon, a few lampwork beads, a sprinkle of turquoise, and a touch of ceramic discs by Marsha Neal Studio.

The necklace is just the right length to show off the pendant and the little dangles.

And then...while I stayed safe with the necklace, I went way out on a limb with this bangle. I decided to make a bangle with the large toggle clasp...minus the bar. Heavy gauge copper serves as the base with the beads and chain from my mix. The bases is partially wrapped with some sari silk that was actually the wrapping around my package.

I was so far out of my comfort zone with the bangle! So much so that I kept second guessing myself the whole time but decided to stay the course to see what transpired. And I'm so glad I did, it could us a little tweaking but overall I think it's pretty cool! Especially because I like to layer bracelets.

There are plenty of leftovers, I just couldn't bare to use all my prized ingredients ...that's the hoarder in me talking...

Slip on over and check out what Shannon created with what I sent. I'm anxious to see myself.

Be sure to check out all the participants for the first reveal of the 6th Bead Soup Blog Party. And a super, BIG Thank You to Lori Anderson for once again hosting such a great party!

Shelby

The Goods

I received my bead soup...well it's been a couple of weeks ago now...from my Bead Soup buddy, Shannon LeVart. I know, I know, I can not believe that I haven't reveal the ingredients yet either, but time just keeps slipping away from me. Poor excuse, but alas here are the goods.

A gorgeous selection of patinaed chain and beads, not one but two clasps...one that is very large and in charge...a starfish polymer focal, some yummy recycled glass beads, and some chunky macarroll beads.

There no time like the present to get started, so I'm off to the shop to stir it up a bit. Check back on July 28th for the first big reveal and see what we all created with our soup.

Shelby

Soup Partner

This go around for the Bead Soup Blog Party I have been partnered up with a wonderful partner that needs no introduction...the lovely Shannon from Missficklemedia. Eekkk! I've often admired her components, but have never had the pleasure of using any.

Recently, I drooled over the wrapped keys that are published in the current issue of Belle Armoire Jewelry. So pretty!

And, I just love all the wonderful patina colors! Who knew metal could be patinaed in any color under the rainbow.

Needless to say, I'm super excited to see what arrives in my mailbox. And keep a lookout on her blog to see what I sent her.

Shelby

My Own Challenge

Did you get around to visit all the wonderful artists participating in the Bead Soup Blog Party? I didn't participate this time...whaaaaaaa! I didn't even sign up to participate:( Don't know why I do this to myself! I make my mind up that I'm not gonna do it, the deadline passes, then...I wish I had. Buyers remorse, or in this case remorse for not buying. But alas, I still hopped, I'll admit I didn't get through the whole list, still working on it.

Instead I created my own little challenge. The challenge was to pick out some beads that have been hanging around for a while and use them. Making the choice of what to pick was difficult enough, as I have a whole stash that need to be destashed. Finally I choose a wonderful set of lampwork beads.

image from beeboo

Gorgeous right? I love these beads! But there is one problem, they are pastel. I don't do pastel, way out of my comfort zone. And yet I continue to purchase pastels, what is wrong with me???

Finally, after much hand wringing and grumbling to myself I emerged with this bracelet. I think I did the beads justice and the bracelet is perfect for spring. 

Easter Egg Lampwork and Sterling Silver Wire Wrapped Bracelet

Must remember to challenge myself more often.

So here is my question to you...

Do you purchase pretty beads? Even if they are a color palette that poses a challenge to you?