About the process:
First, I got out my handy dandy Harmony Guide to Crochet stitches. Using crochet cotton, and size 11 (tiny) seed beads in my first effort, I made one of the motifs. It was too big, but now I had something to hold in my hands, and look at. (It was too ugly to photograph, so you won't see it here. I need these failures to learn from, but they are my little secrets.)
So I adapted the stitches to a smaller one (see photo, far left).
Then, as I held the piece and examined it, I wondered how I could use a (larger) size 8 seed bead. An idea occurred to me and I came up with the one in the middle of photo. I also reduced the usage of the tiny seed beads.
On the third one (far right in photo), I kept the minimal usage of tiny beads, the larger (size 8) seed beads, but tried a different motif.
Next, I wondered what they would look like using Omega Brand No. 2 Nylon Crochet thread. (I use it in most of my micro macrame designs, so I have plenty on hand.) So, I made the next one in gold nylon crochet thread, with green seed beads, (both size 11 and 8). It measures 1 3/4 inches across.
I liked it so much, I made a pair in cobalt blue nylon crochet thread with light blue beads. Also measures 1 3/4 inches across.
And then a pair in red nylon crochet thread, and transparent red beads. Giving it a subtle shine and sparkle in the light. (one and 3/4 inches across)
I handled and played with these earrings for awhile. I am very visual and tactile. One of the reasons I like micro macrame and now this beaded crochet, is that not only do they appeal to me visually, but also on a tactile level. They feel friendly. I cannot otherwise describe. Most of my friends and local customers agree once they hold a piece. They feel good to wear, too.
So as I fondled my new creations, I wondered,...
What if I take off some of the points (around the edges)? And put in a centerpoint focal bead?
Well, guess what?
I used bright green nylon crochet thread, green iridescent size 11 seed beads, gold size 8 seed beads, and amber czechoslovakian fire-polished crystal 6mm faceted round beads.
And then the earrings asked for dangles.
So, let there be dangles!
They now hang 2 1/2 inches (not including ear wire).
I was feeling inspired.
Now, I wondered how can I alter the overall shape?
This one took 4 failures before I arrived at this one. In pink nylon crochet thread, pale cream iridescent size 11 seed beads and 10mm glass oval focal bead, I could be happy with this one.
They hang 2 inches from ear wire.
Or, does it need a dangle? Tell me what you think.
They hang 2 3/4 inches with dangle.
I'm not much for manufacturing, making the same thing over and over. I need to at least be able to play with color. But I love designing. This is why I never make the exact same piece twice. Something has to be different. Or I get bored. When I get bored, I lose motivation. Then I would not be Living the Dream. For me Living the Dream is to follow my muse.
I have plans for the future. I want to draw/write my designs into patterns to sell alone or in kits. Perhaps, one day a book...
Now, I need to list all but the first ones in cotton (they are just prototypes), and the pink (this pair of earrings is awaiting a necklace I have in my mind) on Etsy. See link list to go to my Etsy Shop (knotgypsy.etsy.com).
Let me know what you think and leave a comment if you wish. I look forward to hearing what you think of my blog, my jewelry, or whatever else you want to say.
1 comment:
Love the green one with golden dangles!! Gorgeous gorgeous gorgeous!!! And the pink one, cute, with or without the dangle! Keep up the great work! I look forward to checking out your blog regularly!
-Beaded Desert
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