Multiple Variations
About the book:
"The theme of this book would have
to be layers. Layers of beads, layers of ornaments, layers of
color. The Vivaldi is front and center this year. Thinks of it
as a great starting point for your imagination. I can just see an
"Under the Sea" version with fishes and shells, or an "Ivy Cottage"
version with flowers and leaves. With all the great square beads out
there, maybe even a "Roman Arches" architectural version. Patriot
lovers, the Americana was designed for you. It's a parade all by
itself.
I also spent this year thinking
about size. There are so many different sized ornaments out there
that the notion of a standard sized ornament is fast disappearing. I
still designed everything to fit the 2.5" - 2 5/8" ornament, but then I
started playing around with the possibilities. What was once a
single ornament, now has become a Double Decker. And if you can make
a Double Decker, why not a Triple Decker? The possibilities are
endless. Especially now that they make ornaments that range in size
from a marble to a softball. I've tried to design patterns that are
easy to adjust for any size ornament so look for these design hints as you
go. And what about shape? Not all ornaments are round
anymore. Those pretty teardrop ornaments deserve a little attention
too, so read through the Pineapple Lace pattern to see how you can make
teardrops work.
If the
Pineapple Lace pattern makes you think of Grandma's doilies, then the
Whirl-a-gig should make you think of outer space or carnival rides.
This is a simple netted ornament that incorporates jewelry findings for an
out-of this world look. Don't you just love the space age bead cap
dangles? Finally,
there is the Snowman. This sweet, goofy-faced fellow is sure to
garner smiles around the holidays. But don't let the grin fool
you. Use orange crystals and lose a few teeth and he could be a
scary Halloween pumpkin man. Peyote ears and wire whiskers will give
you an Easter Bunny. Use red crystals, add a beaded beard and a
peyote stocking cap and you've got yourself a Santa. May all your
holidays be beaded! -Karen DeSousa Softcover; Full Color; 31 pages Book size: 8 1/2 x 11 inches |