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Hello All!
Well it's been an interesting year for all of us. We've had some of the weirdest weather patterns on record. A gorgeous summer, a mild winter (so far). I'm not complaining, I'm all for lower heating bills, it's just, well, different! The economy has sure taken us on a bumpy ride, but, here we are at years end, still beading together. We did lose our founder Cyndy Sexton in October, but her legacy lives on in all of us who live and breathe to bead.
There are lots of fun and interesting projects coming up in the next several months. There's lots to learn and projects that will keep you busy until the robins return again. January will start off reprising some stitches and projects that have become favorites over the years. Right off the bat, Odin is back with the Netted Rope bracelet that was so wildly popular in November. If you missed it, now is your chance to learn to learn this easy and striking stitch. Some who took the class in November, loved it so much, they kept the stitch going until they had a magnificent necklace. Mig is back with the ever popular "Tree of Life" pendant. Fun to make, fun to wear, fun to gift. Make it a family tree with birthstone colors of the whole family. If you haven't learned Peyote Stitch, you'll have your chance mid-January. This is a stitch found in many beading projects and well worth knowing. Peyote stitch is also a pre-requisite for "a special class" later in February. (see below) January is "Time" to learn about making "Watch Band Bracelets". What fun to create your own special timepiece.
Odin will visit us again in February for the Japanese woven "Crystal Heart" pendant. A fascinatingly beautiful piece. It will be a sought after piece come Valentine's Day. Make it to wear yourself or give it away. I'll be revisiting the ancient technique of "Viking Knit" with fairly new tool that's easy to use, the "Viking Knitter". Marie Jacques will be offering "St. Petersburg Chain". This was another class that got so much attention last fall that I had to turn people away. If you are one of those, call early to reserve your seat. I am very excited to announce that in Mid-February I will be offering "Beaded Boxes" in a three part class based on Julia Pretl's book "Little Beaded Boxes". I know many have been waiting for a class like this. These stand- alone treasures are little works of art and learning to make them will spring board you into the art of bead sculpture. There are many other old and new projects that I'm sure will entice and excite you. So, register early so you don't miss out on your favorite! Call or email me if you have any questions.
See you in the New Year and
Happy Beading!!
Linda
Beads on the Kennebec
WINTER 2012 CLASS SCHEDULE
Class fees do not include materials unless otherwise indicated.
Register for classes in person or call the shop at 622-1666.
Register for three or more classes at one time and receive 15% off all classes booked.
SHOP HOURS: TUES-FRI 10-5 SAT 10-3
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JANUARY
WIRE CROCHET THURSDAY, JANUARY 5, 2012 6:00-8:00pm
Crocheting with wire is far simpler than it looks and the results are spectacular. This necklace always gets oohs and aahs. Simple to create and stunning no matter what type of bead you select. Use seed beads, gemstone chips, round, square, large, small or a combination of all of the above to create a truly unique look. The same technique delivers completely different results depending on your choice of beads, and colors. It's such fun to combine beads for incredible results. Skill Level: Beginner with a knowledge of crochet chain stitch.
Tuition $25.00
with: Linda
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NETTED ROPE BRACELET SATURDAY, JANUARY 7, 2012 10:30-12:30
If you missed this class in November, here's your chance to learn the project and enjoy making it at a slower, more relaxed pace. This piece appears to trap gemstones/pearls or crystals in a beautiful beaded net to encircle your wrist, or make it as a fabulous necklace. Use colorful pastel stones or pearls to have an early spring piece to brighten up the drab days ahead. Netted rope is easy. So much easier than it looks. Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$25.00 with: Odin
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SPIRAL ROPE NECKLACE THURSDAY, JANUARY 12,2012 6:00-8:00P.M.
The Spiral Rope is a fascinating beaded chain that takes on so many looks and applications depending on the beads used. It's easy to create once you know a simple little trick. Learn this stitch and create colorful beaded rope chains to match any pendant, add beads between for unique necklaces or just showcase a pendant. (Or one of your new Wire Wrapped pieces). Skill Level: Beginner.
Tuition
$25.00
with Linda
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WIREWORKS: BORDER WRAP SATURDAY, JANUARY 14, 2012 10:30-12:30
If you loved the Wire Sculpting class with Mig, you'll love Border Wrap. The second in our WIREWORKS series, this class teaches you how to showcase a cabochon or other flat backed stone by incasing the edges in a bound bezel. You'll learn to create exquisite sterling or gold filled border wrapped slides and pendants. Bring your own stones or pick from our beautiful selections. (This is a standalone class. You do not need to have taken Wire Sculpting to accomplish this technique). SKILL LEVEL: BEGINNER
Tuition
$65.00 with: Mig Lemire
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WIREWORKS: TREE OF LIFE PENDANT SATURDAY, JANUARY 14, 2012 1:00-3:00 P.M.
This is such a pretty pendant and one that has special meaning to so many people. You can make your very one and personalize it with you favorite stones, birthstones or make it a family tree. How about a birthstone colored branch for each family member. The possibilities are endless once you know how. It's an easy project, too. Skill Level: Novice. (Some wire working experience is suggested).
Tuition
$65.00
with: Mig
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FLAT EVENCOUNT PEYOTE STITCH BOOKMARK/BRACELET THURSDAY, JANUARY 19, 2012 6:00-8:00 P.M.
If you only learn one Hand Weaving stitch, Peyote stitch is the one to learn. A popular form of hand weaving that produces a brick pattern, it is used to create bracelets, necklaces, encase cabochons, and in the more advanced forms, beaded boxes and sculptures. Thumbing through beading magazines and books you will generally see one or more projects that incorporate peyote stitch. In this class we will create a Flat Even Count Peyote band which may be finished as either a bracelet or bookmark. These will work up easily, once you know how, and make great gifts. This class is a pre-requisite for Little Beaded Boxes Starting in February. Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$25.00
with Linda
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BEADED CABOCHONS SATURDAY, JANUARY 21, 2012 10:30-2:30
Beaded cabochons are so striking; they almost take your breath away. But, are they as daunting to make as they look? NO! Robin will lead you through the process and you'll be turning out your own beautiful Beaded Cabs for winning gifts in no time. This is a wonderful technique for turning all those beautiful cabs you've picked up at gem shows into fabulous jewelry. Schedule early, this class fills fast. SKILL LEVEL: NOVICE (some hand weaving experience)
Tuition
$35.00
with: Robin Stuart
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WATCH BRACELET THURSDAY, JANUARY 26,2012 6:00-8:00 P.M.
It's TIME to learn something new. Start your year off right with a new timepiece on you wrist. A variation on simple stringing, in this class you will learn the basics of creating a beautiful watch band to fit your personal style. After that you'll be able to create watches in different color palates to blend with whatever you are wearing. Interchangeable watch bands will also be covered. Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$25.00
with Linda
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BEADING BASICS SATURDAY, JANUARY 28, 2012 10:30-12:30
This class is a must for the beginning bead enthusiast or for anyone interested in fine-tuning their beading skills. Learn about all the tools and materials needed to create and finish your own wearable art. Some attention will also be given to color, shape and balance. These techniques will spring you forth into the world of beading with the confidence it takes to create your own designs! Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$25.00
with Marie Jacques
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CHEVRON CHANNELS BRACELET THURSDAY FEBRUARY 2, 2012 6:00-8:00 P.M.
If you are new to hand bead work, this is an easy beginner project that adds bling to an age old technique. Back by popular demand, this soft and comfortable bracelet was first seen in the August '06 Bead & Button Magazine designed by the artist Julz. A ladder stitch base is embellished with colorful chevrons. So easy you'll want to make several in various colors to match your summer wardrobe. This class fills fast so don't wait to reserve your seat! You must see these in person. Stop in. Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$25.00
with:Linda
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JAPANESE WEAVING: CRYSTAL HEART SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2012 10:30-1:30
This is one hot little heart and just in time for Valentine's Day! The last time this class was offered, it filled before I was able to get the schedule out. People saw it displayed on the counter and signed up. Odin will guide you through creating this beautiful heart with Swarovski Crystals. Use it as a pendant, attach to a keychain, cell phone, purse. You decide. However you use it, you're sure to get oohs and aahs. Everyone will want one, but you'll be the first. Skill Level: Novice (Experience with hand weaving recommended)
Tuition
$35.00
with Odin
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VIKING KNIT THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 9, 2012, 6:00-8:00 P.M.
Viking Knit is an ancient technique that fashions wire into a strong, mesh chain. The old techniques are effective, but can me complicated, time consuming and hard on the hands. A new tool came out about a year ago that makes the process easier quicker and much more fun! The tool is called the "Viking Knitter" and it's a brilliant idea! The instructions that come with the tool are not terribly difficult, but it's still easier to learn a new project if you can see it done. I've had an opportunity to work with the knitter, and feel it is so much easier to maneuver than the old dowel and tape method. You will be turning out beautiful "knitted" chains right off the bat and loving how easy it is to do! These chains are wonderful alone or will beautifully enhance a special focal piece. Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$$15 WITH PURCHASE OF VIKING KNITTER AND DRAW PLATE, ($25 if you've purchased the knitter elsewhere.)
with Linda
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WIREWORKS: PRONGS SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2012, 10:30-12:30
Learn another great wire wrapping technique from Mig! For this project you will learn how to create a "pronged" setting for a faceted stone. This is a piece that always gets compliments and people are floored when you say "I made it myself". It's a piece that looks as though it came from a jewelers. The technique can be done with any size or shape of faceted stone but Mig suggests a rectangular stone for your first project. A selection of CZs and Swarovski stones ideal for this project are in stock and quite affordable. SKILL LEVEL: INTERMEDIATE
Tuition
$65.00
with Mig Lemire
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WIREWORKS: RINGS SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 11, 2012 1:00-3:00 P.M.
Everybody loves rings. How great to be able to make your own. Mig will walk you through TWO beautiful ring styles in this class. One using snap in stone settings and another for cabochons. A perfect way to use those little cabs you've been collecting. You'll be able to make birthstone rings for the whole family. And, add another great wire technique to your accomplishments. Call today! This class fills fast. Skill Level: Intermediate
Tuition: $65.00
with: Mig
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BEADED BOXES: THREE PART CLASS THURSDAYS, FEBRUARY 16, 2012 6:00-8:00PM THURSDAY FEBRUARY 23, 2012 6:00-8:00pm THURSDAY MARCH 1, 2012 6:00-8:00pm
Boxes, made completely out of beads! For a bead lover, this is nirvana! Even before I became a beader I've been fascinated by these little treasures. How do you take tiny little beads and weave them together into a stand-alone form? We'll walk through the steps together using Julia Pretl's techniques from her "Little Beaded Boxes" book. To me, Julia's book is the most complete, clear and concise compilation on the subject. And once you've mastered the basics there are enough designs and shapes to keep you busy for quite a while. (Books are available here at the shop.) We will begin our beaded box journey with the triangular shaped box. This is one of the simpler shapes to start with. A perfect project to get you through the long winter nights, you'll be so engrossed in creating you magical little boxes that spring will be here before you know it! By that time you will have some very special wedding and graduations gifts made. Join us for what I hope will be a beading,bonding experience. Skill Level: Novice to Intermediate: Knowledge of basic Flat Even Count Peyote Stitch required.
Tuition
$75.00FEE INCLUDES ALL THREE CLASSES PLUS THE PURCHASE OF "LITTLE BEADED BOXES" BY JULIA PRETL, Available here at the shop
with: Linda
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ST. PETERSBURG CHAIN BRACELET SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18TH, 10:30-12:30
This class was so popular in the fall, we just had to reprise it. If you've done enough square stitch, peyote stitch and right-angle weave and want to step up to the next level, learn ST. PETERSBURG CHAIN and have an extraordinary bracelet when you are done. This is a fun stitch and not difficult once you get into the rhythm of the progression. And you can do it any way you like. Earthy and organic or Bling it on! Skill Level: Intermediate (Experience in other off loom stitching and reading graphs and directions recommended).
Tuition
$25.00
with: Marie
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JAPANESE BRAIDING SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 25, 2012 12:00-2:30
BACK AGAIN! THIS CLASS BOOKS AS FAST AS I CAN POST IT! Learn the ancient are of Japanese Braiding, or Kumihimo. These beautiful and versatile braided cords were prestigious items presented by emperors to heroes, used to bind ancient secret scrolls, kimono belts for royalty, just to name a few of their uses. Today they are used to accessorize clothing as trims, belts, straps for bags and of course, jewelry. Sue will take you through the steps and show you how to make the wire coil and clasp as well. Ask for a materials list as some prep work is required prior to class. Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$25.00
with:Sue Daigle
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JAPANESE WEAVING: CRYSTAL DAFFODIL SATURDAY MARCH 3, 2012 10:30-1:30
Burst into spring with another of Odin's spectacular crystal creations, the DAFFODILLE! Woven completely out of bicone crystals and monofiliment line it will draw oohs and aahs from everyone who sees it. I personally plan on adorning a spring handbag with one. No matter how you use yours, you'll love it and so will everyone else. Skill Level: Novice (some hand weaving recommended) Tuition: $25.00 with: Odin
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WIRE CROCHET THURSDAY, MARCH 8, 2012 6:00-8:00pm
Crocheting with wire is far simpler than it looks and the results are spectacular. This necklace always gets oohs and aahs. Simple to create and stunning no matter what type of bead you select. Use seed beads, gemstone chips, round, square, large, small or a combination of all of the above to create a truly unique look. The same technique delivers completely different results depending on your choice of beads, and colors. It's such fun to combine beads for incredible results. Skill Level: Beginner with a knowledge of crochet chain stitch.
Tuition $25.00
with: Linda
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WIREWORKS: WIRE SCULPTING SATURDAY, MARCH 10, 2012 10:30-12:30
The first in the WireWorks series taught by Maine Artist Mig Lemire of Scarborough, this is our version of Wire 101. Learn how to fashion elegant wire sculpture around a flat stone, beach glass or dichroic glass piece. You'll be amazed at how easy it is to create, and how many compliments you'll receive on your craftsmanship. This stunning art form is so much easier than it looks, you'll wonder why you waited so long to take the class. SKILL LEVEL: BEGINNER
Tuition
$65.00
with: Mig
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WIREWORKS: HAMMERED DISK BRACELET SATURDAY, MARCH 10, 2012 1:00-3:00 P.M.
Advance your skills in texturing metal in this fun class. Hammering is a great way to release your frustrations and as a bonus you get some great jewelry. This class will also give you exercise in creating different textures, punching and joining metal. And, Mig always has so much information that you don't get in a book or magazine. Call early, we're sure to have many around the table. Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$65.00
with: Mig Lemire
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GOTHIC ARCHES NECKLACE THURSDAY, MARCH 15, 2012 6:00-8:00 P.M.
Use pearls, crystals or gemstones to accent the points of the arches of this deceptively simple design by Margaret Duffy. This piece first appeared in the February 2007 issue of Bead and Button magazine. This is such a lovely piece whatever your choice of materials. This is a great piece to start with if you are new to hand weaving or have wanted to give it a try. Size 11 seed beads and 4mm pearls or crystals are all you need to get you going. Beginners welcome! SKILL LEVEL: BEGINNER
Tuition
$25.00
with: Linda
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BEADING BASICS SATURDAY, MARCH 17, 2012 10:30-12:30
This class is a must for the beginning bead enthusiast or for anyone interested in fine-tuning their beading skills. Learn about all the tools and materials needed to create and finish your own wearable art. Some attention will also be given to color, shape and balance. These techniques will spring you forth into the world of beading with the confidence it takes to create your own designs! Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$25.00
with: Marie Jacques
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WIRE AND CRYSTAL CUFF THURSDAY, MARCH 22, 2012 6:00-8:00 P.M.
Whether you're using hues of pinks, purples or blues, harvest colors or metallic, this captivating cuff draws attention wherever you go. Its style is so classic yet organic combining the movement of pounded metal, sparkling crystals and freshwater pearls. It's a real show stopper and makes a fabulous special gift that will be appreciated year round. Much easier than it looks, and so much fun. If you don't have a stash of leftover pearls, crystals and spacers, the Swarovski Trend Mix Tubes (a color blended combo of pearls and crystals in a mix of sizes) give you an economical option. You can also use two-hole gemstone sliders for an earthier look. Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$25.00
with: Linda
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RUSSIAN LEAVES SATURDAY, MARCH 24, 2012 10:30-12:30
(DESCRIPTION AND PHOTO TO FOLLOW)
Tuition
$25.00
with: Marie Jacques
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BIRD'S NEST PENDANT AND EARRINGS THURSDAY, MARCH 29, 2012 6:00-8:00 P.M.
Fanciful, whimsical and fun! We'll have lots of fun making these easy Bird Nests out of wire and pearls. These work up so fast and easily, you'll want to make lots to wear and give away because everyone will want one to ward off winter and usher in spring! Class fill fast so call today! Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$20.00
with: Linda
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NETTED ROPE BRACELET SATURDAY, MARCH 31, 2012 10:30-12:30
If you missed this class in November, here's your chance to learn the project and enjoy making it at a slower, more relaxed pace. This piece appears to trap gemstones/pearls or crystals in a beautiful beaded net to encircle your wrist, or make it as a fabulous necklace. Use colorful pastel stones or pearls to have an early spring piece to brighten up the drab days ahead. Netted rope is easy. So much easier than it looks. Skill Level: Beginner
Tuition
$25.00 with: Odin
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