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Metalworking and bead weaving come together! Create striking, original pieces of art for jewelry, wall hangings, embellishment etc. using straightforward techniques, a bead soup and a sense of whimsy. No prior metalworking or bead weaving experience is needed.
Part One: Metalworking
In the first part of the workshop we will cut and decorate metal sheets and stamp ‘words of wisdom’, poetry and other special thoughts on the back and front of our piece. We will then prepare the metal for beadwork with punching and cold connections.
Part Two: Bead Weaving
Next we will pull together exciting color combinations of beads and accent pieces and lay out our design. Finally we will embellish the top of our piece with free form stitching and a ‘bead soup’. You will be encouraged to push in different directions and break rules. I hope this class becomes a jumping board for your own creative process!
Supply list:
You may choose to bring your own supplies or purchase materials during the class. Please visit my website at: www.gilbertdesigns.net for an array of ideas and color palettes that will be offered or to reserve a kit ahead of time. If you choose to bring your own supplies, then please bring the following:
Metalworking portion:
– 24ga. Metal sheet (copper, silver, brass etc.) at least 2” x 4”
– 22ga. Wire (to match sheet) at least 1 foot
– 16ga. Wire (to match sheet) at least 3 inches
– 14ga. Wire (to match sheet) at least 2 inches
Bead Weaving portion:
– Bead Soup consisting of at least the following: All sizes of seed beads from 14/0 to 5/0, in numerous shapes such as round, hex, tube etc. and in a variety of finishes such as shiny, matte, transparent etc. (I usually draw from around 20 to 40 different seed bead tubes.)
– A few small accent beads (pearls, stones, glass etc.) in colors that match or complement your color palette.
– At least one (approx. ½”) focal bead (pearl, stone, glass) that complements your color palette.
– Your thread of choice (we will use it doubled, so please choose size ‘b’ or ‘4 lb’)
– Beeswax
– Size 12 needles
– Task light (optional)
– Scissors
– Bead mat for working your piece on
– Bead tray or extra mat for your bead soup
Tools:
Basic metalworking and wire working tools will be available for use during class if you are unable to bring your own. Decorative stamps and antiquing solution will also be available for use in class. However, bring tools if you have them: Chain nose pliers, round nose pliers, flush cut wire cutters, shears, files, punches, decorative stamps, chasing, ball peen and raw hide hammers, anvil and pad, ruler, pencil, etc.
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