Beadyjans crafty creations

Making room for crafting

2011-01-25T15:13:00.003Z

I've been busy trying to keep my new years resolution - to start clearing some space in my craft room. Wow how DID all that stuff get in there anyway?

I'm a serious hoarder and sometimes get overcluttered and it begins to make me feel stressed, so I'm taking it a bit at a time and trying to have a craft de-stash of some of the items I'll never use.

Firstly I've begun with some scrapbooking supplies and tag books and journals that I've made and will never use. Hopefully someone else will be able to put them to good use and if I get something for them, even if its nowhere near as much as I bought them for (blush) maybe I'll be able to buy a new storage unit to keep things tidy?

Please have a look in my Folksy shop for more crafty supplies (as well as my usual handmade jewellery)

Happy New Year

2011-01-07T09:35:00.003Z

I just want to wish A Very Happy New Year to all my crafting friends and fellow bloggers.

I know it's a little late but I've been enjoying an alternative Christmas by sunning myself in Tenerife. We spent the festive season over there chilling out and relaxing and have come back with the batteries recharged and ready to face the remainder of winter, if not with a smile at least with a bit of a tan!

Here's just a few of the many photos I took.

Folksy :: Buy "Vintage collage brooch"

2010-12-01T10:58:00.001Z

Folksy :: Buy "Vintage collage brooch": "£4.50

1 in stock
Description
Pretty, nostalgic, one of a kind, collage brooch.

I collaged a scrap of vintage text onto mountboard and deckled the edge with silver embossing powder, then I added a recycled bottle top filled with a pretty vintage image, then glazed it and surrounded it with embedded pearl trim.

Swinging below the brooch is a strand of silken threads, loaded with delightful beads and a tiny tassel.

On the back is an easy to fasten badge pin.

Because this is made from mountboard its lightweight and easy to wear on a delicate garment or pin it to your hat or bag to make a vintage fashion statement.

Folksy :: Buy "Pretty in Pink Necklace and bracelet set "

2010-11-22T09:53:00.002Z

Folksy :: Buy "Pretty in Pink Necklace and bracelet set ": "Description
Beautiful handmade beaded necklace and matching bracelet set in pretty shades of pink from palest candy floss to deepest dusky rose, with a hint of silver, pearl and a tiny touch of spring green.

Includes lampwork glass beads, crystals, facetted glass and rose quartz gemstones all mixed together.

The necklace is Princess length measuring approx 18' long and fastens with a secure rollover claw clasp and a large tibetan silver loop.

The Matching bracelet measures approximately 7 3/4' long and fastens with a tibetan silver t bar and loop."

Folksy :: Buy "Evening in Paris Beadwork Necklace"

2010-11-20T14:30:00.001Z

Folksy :: Buy "Evening in Paris Beadwork Necklace": "Evening in Paris Beadwork Necklace
£18.00

1 in stock

Description
I handmade this one of a kind beadwork necklace from a selection of my prettiest beads in shades of mid to deepest blue with touches of green, lilac and purple.

First I made the centrepiece by beadworking a Peyote twist which spirals naturally then I embellished it by intricately working rows and rows of freeform beadwork across and around the spiral twist.

I then added a couple of sperkling blue beads to each end and mounted it on a dainty beadwoven double netted row of small beads and finished it with a Tibetan silver loop and secure rollover claw clasp.

It measures approx 19' long which is a really nice length to flatter your neck and comfy to wear.

You can dress this necklace up or down by evening it will grace the most elaborate ballgown or little blue party dress.

If you can'r bear to stop wearing it by day it will look just as fab nestled in a V neck cashmere sweater, or worn with a checked cotton shirt and jeans.

Its a one-off and a real conversation piece - absolutely stunning.

Old Teddy begged to model it - doesn't he look cute? But it will look even better on YOU !"

Folksy :: Buy "Honey and lime twist Necklace and bracelet set"

2010-11-20T09:45:00.002Z

Folksy :: Buy "Honey and lime twist Necklace and bracelet set": "Honey and lime twist Necklace and bracelet set
£14.00

1 in stock

I just listed this set on Folksy

Description
Matching set of a beautiful, handmade spiral twist beaded rope necklace and matching bracelet.

Both are handmade from glass beads in shades of honey and lime green.

They fasten with a tiny Tibetan silver heart loop and secure rollover claw catch.

The Necklace measures approximately 20' long (just over 51cm)

The bracelet measures approx. 8 1/2' long (21.4 cm)

They would make a lovely gift set.

Please note - Old Ted isn't for sale - he just wanted to help by modelling some jewellery for me."

Patchwork bags

2010-08-20T08:49:00.003+01:00

When I recently got back into sewing again as a hobby I decided I wanted to make some nice bags and smallish items to get back into the swing of using a sewing machine.

First of all heres my veryfirts attempt - a tea towel tote bag. I bought a pack of 3 retro print tea towels in a lovely firm linen like fabric, one tea towel made this really useful shopping bag which I made with one long strap so I can carry it over my shoulder.

Next I wanted to make a book cover as I'm seldom to be seen without my current read in my hand and I tend to take them with me where I go, this useful book cover has a ribbon as a bookmark and I made it with 2 handles so I can carry it about, its very lightly padded so it protects the book but is still light and compact.

I made this one a touch too small and it only fits a smaller papaerback but hey, now I've made one I can make a whole bunch in different sizes and colours!

I wanted to try a handbag and I looked on the web for free bag patterns and found this super free pattern at Made by Rae for a buttercup bag, if you're interested in making bags I can recommend popping by her blog which has several really easy to follow patterns totally FREE to download.

Its quite a small shoulder bag and I made it in really bright tropical summer colours to add a bit of sunshine to the days I use it.

I got a big offcut of this very jazzy fabric at my local car boot sale - what a great find!

In the meantime I bought a small pack of mixed patchwork fabrics so I could get on and do some patchworking which was what set me off on this route in the first place.

First I made this smallish book bag which is smallish enough to carry 2 or 3 paperback books but not big enough for a whole load of shopping.

Its really pretty and I think I might make a larger one for when I go scouting around the charity shops, markets and car boot sales for fabric and books!

Finally here is the most recent one I made - this was MUCH more complex It was made from a pattern my friend gave me when I saw her toting one of these lovely patchwork bags around.

Its padded with wadding and quilted to make it nice and soft and it has ties at the side so it opens out even larger if you need to cram more stuff in!

Its nice and big and strong enough to use as a shopper or a craft bag. I'm going to use this for carrying my current project around when we go away for weekends, or when I go to my craft group or for a crafting session at a friends like I enjoyed last week.

I hope you've enjoyed seeing my efforts so far.

Beady fans - don't worry I haven't stopped beading and have several new beady projects in line to follow shortly.

Calling all patchworkers and stitchers

2010-07-20T11:03:00.002+01:00

Just wondering if any stitching blog friends can help me out? I'm looking for any unwanted scraps of cotton patchwork fabric that any of you might have going spare?

As you know I do lots of crafts - beading, cardmaking, scrapbooking and embroidery but its many years since I actually did much sewing and I'm planning on taking it up again and this is why ...

My late Mum was a keen patchworker and she made lots of lovely things, before she died she was working on a large patchwork quilt in multi coloured cotton prints. She would buy second hand clothes from jumble sales, occasional new offcuts from the remnant store and use pieces from our clothes and beg offcuts from friends and family as she was very thrifty and never had much pin money for herself.

When she died the patchwork was only half finished but I hadn't the heart to do anything with it so I carefully packed it away in its unfinished state.

When we moved house I gave away the big bag of uncut fabric pieces to a charity who appealed for materials, as we were very short of space and it seemed a shame to have it just sitting around when someone could use it.

The other day I came across this unfinished patchwork and decided I'm finally going to try and finish it, but I need lots of fabric and when I've looked at patchwork fabric its just so expensive. I need lots of variety as each patch is different, its like a windmill with each square made up of 4 pathces of 2 different fabrics and each piece would need to be a minimum of 6" x 18"

As the patchwork was originally going to be made as a thrift item from remnants and offcuts I wondered if any of my blogging friends might have some offcuts of either vintage cotton or left over remnants of patchwork cotton which you can spare me, I'd be happy to swap for beads, or buttons or make you some earrings or a beaded bookmark, or whatever in exchange.

Do please leave me a message or drop me an email if you can help me get going on this project by sending me a few scraps of cotton.

Playing with buttons

2010-04-16T10:44:00.004+01:00

I'm loving making jewellery from buttons - its such fun and they look so lavish and rich when I've finished.

Firstly theres the Button Lovers Rococo Necklace

Rich and lavish in deep shades of pink, blue, green, amber with a selection of large metallic buttons. Available now in my Folksy shop

Then last night I completed this ornate pastel bracelet for button fanatics. It's inspired by the style of Marie Antoinette so I called it "Let them Eat Buttons"

Its really lovely and the ice cream shades are pefectly suited to long summer days.

You can see more pictures of it in my Folksy shop

Thanks for looking everyone.

Spring has sprung

2010-04-12T13:14:00.003+01:00

Its finally here - the sunshine I mean !! Hooray.

So what am I doing sitting indoors listing jewellery in my Folksy shop ?

Maybe I'm a little bit bonkers. Anyway I'll keep this short and sweet so I can get out in the garden and read my book - I'm reading Martina Devlin's "Ship of Dreams".

Heres a new Beaded bookmark they are always very popular.

There is the Tangeiria bracelet

And heres the gorgeous Tangieria Necklace to match the bracelet

If you'd like to see any of them in more details please click on the links or just visit my Folksy shop

Beadyjan Beautiful Beaded Jewellery

Calling ALL crafters

2010-04-07T14:12:00.002+01:00

Look what I've just found - Virtual Craft market it looks like a really great place for all us crafters to sell or swap our surplus supplies and its free to list stuff.

You know what happens you need a few beads to finish a necklace, a few embellishments to make a layout and you can only find a whole big pack and the ones lefte over just sit there taking up room in your craft room.

Well now you can de-stash and sell or swap all your spare craft supplies (not your handmade items though) for absolutely free - whether its tools, books, fabric, wool, jewellery making supplies, paper, cardmaking etc.

Do have a peek and join in the big crafty de-stash I'm off to sort out my craft room right now.

Winner has been drawn

2010-03-23T09:48:00.002Z

I've drawn a winner of my blog candy and have emailed them.

The winner is YukkieJenny from Russia. I hope you enjoy your blog candy and huge thanks to everyone who entered I hope you'll keep following my blog and hope I'll find time to share some more of my makes with you all soon.

LILAC TIME peyote spiral swirl necklace

2010-02-27T11:17:00.003Z

Looking for the perfect gift for Mothers day? A little thankyou for a special friend? This gorgeous lilac peyote spiral swirl mecklace might just fit the bill.

A hand beaded peyote spiral of lilac beads in different sizes is threaded onto a pretty feminine ribbon and cord necklace which fastens with a clasp and chain so it can be adjusted between 18" and 19" in length.

A lot of work and care went into the making of this pretty item and now its looking for a loving home - at a fraction of the cost of similar items on the High street and a handmade one of a kind item to boot! Just £8.50 plus postage! Buy it now in my Folksy store

LILAC TIME spiral swirl necklace £8.50

Just listed 2 necklaces in my Folksy shop

2010-02-25T15:02:00.005Z

I've just listed a couple of necklaces in my Folksy shop

The first one I've called caramel crunch as the yummy colours remind me of caramel and toffe and icecream and the handmade wire beads I've made and added to it add a crunchy texture.

Please CLICK HERE if you'd like to buy it and you can also see more pictures of it

Caramel crunch beaded necklace £9.00

This one has been mentioned here on my blog - I made it for myself but as I've never worn it I decided to offer it for sale, its really ruch and exotic and I've called it Kasbah necklace!

If you're interested in seeing more pics and maybe buying it, do call by my Folksy shop - please CLICK HERE

Kasbah Fringed Beaded Necklace £12.00

Look what I WON !

2010-02-15T12:11:00.003Z

Look what I won in the Trimcraft prize draw! I'm sure you can imagine how thrilled I was to receive this scrummy selection from their latest collection - Funky Vintage.
Thats just so much right up my street I couldn't have won a better prize if I'd hand picked it.

The envelope contained a full pack of 48, 8x8 papers in 12 different designs a full pack of 72, 6x6 papers in slightly different coo-ordinating designs, 2 pack sof glittery adhesive ribbon, one pack of cards and envelopes and a pack of the most gorgeous big brads - now isn't that a fab thing to plop through your letterbox!

It really kick started my creative juices (which have been needing a nudge lately) and I set to making my first tri-shutter card which I made from a great tutorial which you can find at The Craftiblog. I'm pretty pleased with the results - I used a funky fashionable shoe image which I decouapged and added glitter to the buckle. Everything else on the card is from my funky vintage prize.

I then made another with one of my little altered vintage slidemounts, the paper on the slise was a left over scrap I already had (K & Co if I'm not mistaken) but the rest was from the Trimcraft set. Aren't they just gorgeous papers and embellishments and wasn't I lucky to win.

Spring blog candy giveaway for crafty bloggers

2010-02-10T11:17:00.007Z

I've been blogging about and thinking about Spring coming recently (I can't wait its been such a long winter) and when I was spring cleaning my craft room I came across a whole bunch of craft materials that shout SPRING.

So as I've been entering a few crafty Blog Candy giveaways lately and have been lucky enough to win one WOOHOO, I've decided to offer my own Spring blog candy to cheer someone up in the last dull days of winter.

As its to celebrate Spring it will run until the traditional first day of Spring Saturday March 20th and I will draw a winner at random on Monday 22nd March.

The winner will receive all the items shown above so please have a look at the photo to see what you can win:

They are all from my personal craft stash and include

* 1 pack of Mamelock vintage relief scraps

* 1 pack of Habico flower baskets toppers

* 2 sheets of Mandala peel offs

* Lots of die cut frames and tags

* ribbons and lace

* a tub of large brads

* some fabric motifs

* a few beads and embellishments

* Assorted flowers and leaves

* 1 handmade by Beadyjan altered cd friendship plaque/ wall hanging

* 1 Pair of handmade by Beadyjan earrings for pierced ears

All are in pretty fresh Spring shades of yellow, orange and Spring green.

I'm hoping to gain some new followers so there are a few simple rules.

* Become a follower of my blog

* Add a link to this post from your blog with a picture of the blog candy

* Post a comment once you've done the 2 easy steps above and tell me why you'd like to win.

* I must be able to contact you via your blog or email.

I'd also be delighted if you tell people about it via Twitter, your favourite craft forum or Facebook but that's not obligatory.

Good luck everyone.

EDITED ... to everyone entering for my blog candy PLEASE NOTE the 4 simple rules above as only entries which comply with all of these will be included in the draw.

Vintage slide mounts.

2010-02-09T09:56:00.005Z

When I was tidying my craft room I came across these little vintage themed altered slide mounts I made a while ago - I had a real fad for making these and have a big pile of them which I must use up - I think I'll make a pile of decorated notebooks, journals with them on the front.

I want to use the ones I've made to justify making some more as they are such fun to make and are the perfect way to use up all those pretty but tiny scraps of pretty paper and oddments of ribbon that seem too small to keep.

Each one is only about 2" square and turns out looking like a little minature artwork.

If you fancy making some yourself all you need is a few old glassless slidemounts, (you might have some lying around or you can pick up a box from any photographic shop) a few small scraps of dainty printed paper, oddments of narrow ribbon and lace plus a vintage button or charm or a small flower etc. and some narrow double sided tape.

Finally you'll need a few vintage images and print them out really small - my printer does a contact sheet of 35 images and they are the right size or you can buy sheets of collage images that are meant for domino art and they are also about the right size.

Just put double sided tape on the blank mount then place it face down on the back of your paper, then put dst on the back edges of the mount and add your image then fold the trimmed edges of the paper over to the back and stick them down too.

Then decorate the front with a tiny piece of ribbon, a few beads and a button with the shank removed or a flat button or charm and that it! I finish mine by sticking a square of card over the back to conceal the raw edges of paper and neaten it up.

If you make any do send me a link so I can see what you made.

C.C Designs Sugarplum Spring CANDY Kit….

2010-02-08T16:17:00.001Z

Kellie Winnell » Blog Archive » C.C Designs Sugarplum Spring *CANDY* Kit….

Look at these gorgeous products - well you can win them on Kellies craft a holic blog, just click on the link to be taken there and find out how you can win this amazing blog candy - good luck.

Bring me sunshine

2010-02-08T10:10:00.006Z

Just a few thoughts today - I'm off to art class this afternoon which I'm looking forward to, its great to get together with a group of like minded people and the tutors really great I always come away feeling I've really learnt something.

I've been busy Spring cleaning my craft room - not a small task but it had become so cluttered it was sapping my creative juices!

So its out with the old and in with the new and in with the new - heard I've won some blog candy so hope that will inspire me to get more creative when it arrives.

Please see my sidebar for links to some of the loveliest blog candy around in blogland right now, and watch this space as I'm going to offer some blog candy myself soon.

We went to our caravan to check it over at the weekend we haven't been able to get there due to the heavy snow up in the Pennines (see the picture above) but its almost gone now and there were hints of spring being on the horizon soon, I can't wait I'm SO not a winter person even though it looks amazing give me sunshine anytime.

Collage Obsessions Friday challenge

2010-01-24T12:52:00.004Z

This year I promised myself a couple of things - to get back into creative mode and to blog more regularly. So I found a collage challenge on collage obsessions blog to take an image they provide and make some collage art with it.

Well, heres my fairly pathetic attempt. It's so long since I did any digital collage that when I opened my paint software I found I'd forgotten how to use it!! and spent a frustrated few hours cussing at the programme. I ended up using my fairly basic scrapbooking programme.

Apologies if its not very original or creative I will practise more and hope to get better as I enjoy playing iwth digital images/collage/scrapbooking etc.

Red necklace

2010-01-22T10:13:00.002Z

I've been a lazy blogger and I really don't know why, the bad weather recently has had me stuck indoors a lot of the time and I could/should have been updating my blog but I've just been reading other peoples blogs, catching up on reading lots of books. I have been doing a bit of crafting and heres a necklace I made for Christmas.

I'm also trying to get myself motivated to get back into papercrafting as its a while since I've done any.

I've been entering a whole load of competitions trying to win myself a nice prize but so far nothings turned up - still you have to be in it to win it don't you? Fingers crossed!

How did Christmas come around so fast?

2009-12-05T12:42:00.005Z

This year I had great intentions of making my own Christmas cards and somehow it still hasn't happened yet and Christmas is galloping closer every day.

However Ten Two Studios has come to the rescue with a great selection of free Christmas themed collage sheets so if you fancy having a go at making some vintage or collage themed Christmas cards pop by and download as many of these gorgeous free sheets as you like.

Art classes

2009-11-10T10:54:00.003Z

Because I've been wittering and Twittering on about how much I'm enjoying my beginners art classes I thought I'd share a couple of the pictures I've created since I started classes about 2 months ago.

Please bear in mind that I'm in my 50's never really done much sketching or painting since I was at school and these are the very first things I've completed, however I'm enjoying it so much and thats the main thing isn't it? I only went along to keep a friend company and I'm so glad she persuaded me to go with her.

I thought I was going to like paiting with watercolours best but when I tried them I found it rather difficult to control the colour and when we tried acrylics I hated it as I hate getting my hands sticky or messy and they are very messy.

What I am loving is working with coloured pencils, and pastels.

The picture of the tiger is done in Cretacolour pastel pencils which I treated myself to on Sunday when I went to the arts and crafts show at the NEC Birmingham.

The landscape with boats I did in WHSmiths artist quality watercolour pencils and the fruit was the very first picture I did at my first lesson and its done in soft pastels.

The pictures have come up in reverse order to how I wanted them as the most recent picture is at the top and the oldest at the bottom but I can't work out how to change the order - maybe my next class should be a basics of computing?

I'm not completely happy with my work yet but its a fair start, and I can see TONS of room for improvement but I'm fairly happy that I've managed to produce something that actually looks something like what I intended it to, thanks for looking.

New bookmarks and bracelets for Christmas

2009-10-29T15:21:00.004Z

Beaded bookmark, lots of colours available just £4 including post and packing
" Mythrelle" multi coil wrap memory wire bracelet in purples, lilacs and black £12

"Naiads wish" multo coil memory wire wrap bracelet in turquoise, aqua, silver and pearl. £12

Been busy making stuff for Christmas, bookmarks and bracelets which you can buy from my Folksy store.

Just click HERE to pop in my on-line Folksy shop if you'd like to purchase a bracelet or bookmark as a Christmas gift.

Guinevere bracelet

2009-09-04T14:57:00.003+01:00

I've just finished making this pretty multi coil memory wire bracelet in lovely frosty sparkling neutral shades of pewter grey, white, pearl, crystal and silver.

To fit any size wrist I'm selling it for £12.

Gonna be busy making stuff for friends for Christmas soon so if YOU'D like a unique Beadyjan piece making as a unique gift please let me know soon.

Catching up

2009-08-12T09:52:00.005+01:00

Ok I've been really naughty not keeping up with my blogging!

Two excuses, I was having huge problems opening blogs because of some conflict with IE which seems to be rectified now, fingers crossed!

I've also been spending quite a lot of time at our caravan, where its gorgeous and peaceful but theres not even any mobile phone coverage let alone internet access, so I have't seemed able to get caught up properly with blogging and emailing.

OK heres a few photos - This is the farmland where the caravan site is

This is the view of Kirkcarrion above the site late one sunny August evening

Heres our favourite tearooms in Middleton in Teesdale

And me sitting outside reading (bad photo of me but I've never been what you'd call photogenic)

It was my birthday back in July and I recieved a Sony E-reader from my other half as I'm a very keen reader. I LOVE it, its easier to hold than most books, and I can carry literally hundreds of books with me in my hanbag wherever I go, there are also some great free ebooks to download legally.

heres a huge list of free romance books and stories to download

http://www.roadtoromance.ca/freestories.htm

And a variety of different kinds of books here

http://newfreebooks.com/

If you don't have a Sony reader you can read ebooks on your PC, laptop or PDA. I wish I'd known about them when I worked in the call centre. I could have sat at my work pc with an ebook open and read it between calls! Theres even loads online so you can read them anywhere you have internet access. Not that I'm encouraging anyone to sit reading when they should be working - Oh ok I AM encouraging you to do that - why not!

I've had a few nice days out with friends, my mate Sue and I have jumped on a bus and been to the coast and a couple of nice country villages and enjoyed a stroll and afternoon tea.

I had a lovely meet up with 2 book loving friends, we all went to Annes house in Wetherby for lunchj then had a lovely look around the shops in Wetherby - its a lovely place for a couple of hours mooching with some great charity shops crammed with bargains, a few lovely upmarket gift and craft shops and a recently opened fabulous discount bookshop.

I've recently discovered Spotify where you can listen to some great quality music how about listening to some Goldfrapp

http://open.spotify.com/track/2WjcUtchLH4Uxc8hxFiFxu

or if you prefer heavy rock you could give Chickenfoot a listen

http://open.spotify.com/track/1AWXKlAvgXcwzisycW0Lge

I'm still going to my creative writing group every other Monday and enjoying it a lot - though I don't think I'll ever be happy enough with anything I've written to attempt getting it published!

Finally, a question for anyone who reads my blog - What do you or would you enjoy reading about, seeing pictures of, or having links to most of all on my future blog posts?

Please let me know by adding a comment.

Thanks for popping by, hope to see you again soon.

Coriandr / Beadyjan / Nebula earrings

2009-06-08T10:09:00.002+01:00

Coriandr / Beadyjan / Nebula earrings

I've just listed some new earrings to my Coriandr shop.

The Nebula Earrings are a little more elaborate than my usual simple earrings and take a little more time to create.

They are made by taking a facetted crystal bead and brickstitching around it with toning and contrasting beads, then adding a pretty dangling fringe.

They are suspended from 100% surgical steel ear wires as are all my handmade earrings as these are really the ONLY wires I can wear in my own sensitive ears apart from gold and whats good enough for me is good enough for my customers.

At a recession busting price of just £5.00 a pair they are available in a wide choice of different colours just email your preference and I'll make a pair just for you.

Oh and as someone so nicely asked me the other day if I will ship items abroad - yes I'll send them to USA, Canada, Australia and anywhere in the EU - in fact if you'd like to buy any item I've made I'll be happy to quote you shipping costs to your country, wherever you live as long as you pay by Paypal, just contact me by email Beadyjan@yahoo.co.uk

Wired pink floral heart pendant on ribbon thong

2009-06-04T13:21:00.003+01:00

Wired pink floral heart pendant on ribbon thong
Originally uploaded by Beadyjan

Just finished this pretty pink heart pendant on wire with a little coil at the bottom. I've added it to a silvery grey ribbon and cord thong.

Buy this for just £5 now at my Coriandr shop

http://beadyjan.coriandr.com/

Happy Weekend everyone

2009-05-22T08:45:00.007+01:00

What are you doing this weekend? I hope you have a good one whatever you're up to and the weathers a bit kinder than it was here last weekend.

I've been making some new earrings - I decided to name every pair I make even though they sell for as little as £3.50 a pair because each pair is one of a kind and individually handcrafted so I thought they deserve names rather than just reference numbers.

This pairs called Tenderness.

This pair is Tranquille

These are Serenity

This pair is called Enchantment - you can't see terribly well in the photo the absolutely stunning Czech crystal cluster beads at the top but they are gorgeous.

I bet these would be about £20 if you got them in a shop!

And this pair is Cherish because they are so precious looking

If you're a Facebook user I've started a new page for my jewellery, you can become a fan of my page on Facebook with a chance to WIN FREE EARRINGS by visiting it HERE as once I have 100 facebook fans I will be giving away a pair of unique bespoke Earrings absolutely free - please pass it on!

Earlier this week I went to the doctor and found I've trapped a nerve in my neck, probably with all the sneezing. At least I have some strong painkillers and some new arthritis medication, which seem to be helping.

Today I'm meeting up with an old friend Sue, we usually manage to have a good laugh so I'm looking forward to a catch up with her.

Have a great weekend everyone.

Quick update

2009-05-20T14:45:00.004+01:00

Got back from a week away at our caravan and felt achey and fluey with an awful headache which my doctor says is a trapped nerve in my neck caused by my arthritis! So I'm doped up on painkillers and feeling very sorry for myself.

I'm having a go at using Twitter, but can't quite work out what to do and how to find any followers - so if anyone reads this who uses Twitter do let me know!

As soon as I feel a bit more like myself I'll be posting a few new pics.

My new Folksy shop

2009-04-24T13:37:00.004+01:00

Just a short blog today as I've been busy finding my way around FOLKSY

Its a fairly new wesbite aimed at providing UK based craftspeople with a place to list and sell their handmade goods.

It seems pretty good and I've opened my own Folksy shop

So far just a few items listed but I'll be adding more. Do have a quick look and let me know what you think.

Lavender Lane bracelet - perfect for arthritis sufferers

2009-04-20T11:45:00.003+01:00

Ideal for Arthritis/ rheumatism sufferers, my latest bracelet is a stunning mix of beads in shades of lavender, lilac, purple and silver.

Woven together to form a cuff style bracelet which caresses your wrist it fastens with an elegant and practical foldover magnetic clasp in antique bronzed copper. Overall length including clasp is 19cm (7.5")

As an arthritis sufferer myself I am always looking for ways to alleviate pain and follow the popular belief that both copper and magnets are an effective source of pain relief.

These clasps contain two strong magnets and are made from copper, providing two widely popular treatments in one together with the added advantage of being extremely easy to fasten by yourself, even with painful hands.

This colourway is a one off and this unique and unusual bracelet can be yours for just £14, please email me if interested.

Chunky agate necklace and bracelet set

2009-04-15T13:33:00.003+01:00

Another item I've been working on lately is this big, bold gemstone pendant necklace and matching bracelet, and I love it - I hope you do too.

In genuine natural agate gemstones the fabulous brown, gold and red shades make me think of South American desert landscapes so I've called it Atacama.

At £25 for the set its a snip of a price for a huge statement piece and as its a one off, if you like it buy it now.

Email me at Beadyjan@yahoo.co.uk to reserve it for yourself or to ask me any more questions about it and any of my creations.

New necklace

2009-04-08T14:36:00.004+01:00

I haven't blogged anything for ages so just thought I'd share my latest creation. This necklace is a beadworked peyote spiral embellished with a myriad of lovely beads in shades of bronze, copper and turquoise.

Approximately 18" long it fastens with an ornate Tibetan silver flower t-bar clasp.

Its a one of a kind item and is available for sale at just £24.

If you're interested just let me know.

Butterfly world

2009-03-16T13:31:00.003Z

The other day my friend Sue and I decided to have a day out but when we were ready to jump on the bus it began to chuck it down with rain and it was pretty chilly too and suddenly the idea of a day out shopping and walking around outdoors didn't seem quite so appealing.

I came up with the bright idea of a trip to Butterfly world at Preston Park which is quite close by as my friend had never been in before.

It costs £3.50 admission for adults and you can come and go as you please all day. You enter via a small shop with lots of butterfly related souvenirs and the receptionist brings her gorgeous talking parrot Maia to work with her and the parrot sits in her large cage and greets everyone and waves!

Once inside the large Butterfly enclosure you step into a warm, steamy tropical paradise housed in a very large conservatory type building. Tropical blooms and plants abound and the huge exotic butterflies flit and flutter all around you, if you sit or stand still for long they even land on you!

Seats are provided and you can just sit and relax in this lovely warm environment.

There is a waterfall and a pretty stream with lots of Koi carp which you can feed with food available at 20p a packet.

At the far end is a small mini zoo, with snakes tarantulas and lizards plus the current attraction 3 cute Meercats.

Collage picture of Smokey cat

2009-03-09T13:47:00.003Z

I can hardly believe its now 3 weeks since we lost our lovely Smokey.

To be honest I'm finding it very hard to cope with and am still tearful and weepy at times. I get up on a morning and expect to find him waiting to be fed, I go upstairs during the day and expect to find him lying on the bed sunning himself, sometimes my chest aches so much from not being able to hold him close and give him a cuddle, ever again.

I wanted to do something in memory of him and made this little collage of photos of him.

Hope you like it.

My OWOH giveaway mini pillow arrived

2009-03-02T13:02:00.004Z

We went away for a long weekend at our caravan in the Durham Dales and arrived home nicely chilled out to find my One world one Heart giveaway prize waiting.

Its a dainty little mini pillow made from vintage fabrics by Laurie at http://indulgeyourshelf.blogspot.com/

If you love vintage items do pop by her blog and see some of her tips and tricks.

Its a very pretty little handmade treasure and I'm delighted I was the lucky recipient.

In memory of Smokey - my gorgeous cat

2009-02-17T11:20:00.003Z

I'm afraid the worst thing imaginable has happened and last night we lost our beloved Smokey cat. I'm devastated as, even though he's been very ill, I hoped the medication helping meant he was going to improve enough to have a decent quality of life for some time.

Last evening he was asleep on the back of the sofa (one of his favourite spots) where I was sitting watching tv and he suddenly made a strange little noise, then a few seconds later I heard him moving and thought he was going to come on my knee as usual, but he just fell off the back of the sofa and I managed to catch him, he was shaking and I thought he'd just gone a bit wobbly again so I put him on the floor and he fell over and then began to stagger about and fall into the coffee table and banging into stuff it was terribly scary to watch.

So I scooped him up and held him and could tell he was having or had just had a seizure his eyes were rolling around and one was bulging a bit while the other was sunk right back and he was shaking and his back legs were rigid.

I cuddled him for a few minutes and when he didn't get any better we got his basket and we put him in to stop him trying to move and hurting himself.

We dashed over to the emergency vet but knew there was nothing he'd be able to do except stop things before he suffered too much. If we'd even waited overnight he'd have been scared and we couldn't have left him as he couldn't stand up and he'd have fallen and hurt himself even worse.

It was one of the hardest things thats ever happened and I am completely distraught, I know he was a pet but he was also my furry baby and I loved him SOO much it hurts.

At least, after the first episode he came home and spent a couple of weeks of love and cuddles being even more pampered and spoilt than usual and in a way we said goodbye properly and had a bit of time to get used to the idea that he may not get better.

I'm going to miss him SO much as we've had him since we moved into this house over 10 years ago and with me not working I'm used to having him around all day when I'm at home alone.

Rest in peace my little Smokey - if ever a pet was adored you were and I'll never forget you.

Winter sun

2009-02-15T09:48:00.003Z

I just wanted to share this lovely view of the sea in winter which I snapped yesterday. After so much snow it was nice to see the sun shining and as we were passing by the headland at Hartlepool I grabbed my camera.

At first I thought I wasn't going to be able to take a picture of the sea as the sun was bang in front of me, but as I lowered my viewpoint I realised it might turn out ok after all - and it did, I think this pictures turned out really pretty.

The WINNER is ....

2009-02-13T08:49:00.003Z

I'm delighted to announce the lucky winner of my one of a kind polyclay pendant necklace is.....

Kimmie of Once upon a Blue Crow her name was drawn at random yesterday and she's contacted me to claim her prize.

Kimmie is a talented art doll maker who makes adorable dolls like this one

Please call by her blog, say Hi and see how talented she is.

OWOH giveaway draw

2009-02-12T13:57:00.002Z

Its come around so fast - the day to draw a winner - and I still didn't find time to visit all the entrants blogs and enter all their draws as this just grew SO much bigger than I'd envisaged. Wow this has been so much fun.

I'll still be able to visit those blogs I haven't seen yet over the next few weeks though.

I've drawn a lucky winner of my necklace and am waiting until they've replied to my email before I announce their details ....
I do hope they like their necklace.

Snowy Monday

2009-02-02T09:47:00.005Z

Like much of Britain we awoke to find several inches of snow and freezing temperatures. I just can't get warmed through even with the heating on full blast and my thick fluffy socks and slipper boots on my toes are like icicles.

Last week I had a horrid week hence no new posts. My oven went on the blink and couldn't be fixed so I've been living on microwaved and wok fried meals.

Today my new oven is due to be delivered, so I'm hoping the waether won't delay or postpone its arrival. I NEED my oven!

My cat Smokey has been really poorly, we took him to the vet last week who gave him two injections and if he wasn't any better by Monday to take him back. He is no better so as soon as my delivery arrives I'll be taking him back there. Fingers crossed, I'm quite worried about him - he looks as though he might have had a stroke or something he's all lopsided and wobbly on his paws.

I had a lovely day on Saturday, went to Sheffield to meet up with about 20 on-line friends I've met through a book exchange site Read it Swap it
We all went to LA Tasca Spanish Tapas restuarant and had a good old gossip and stuffed our faces. A great day out.

UPDATE
My lovely new cooker arrived and is safely installed, I haven't really tried it out much yet but I'm sure I'll be creating some gourmet delicacaies very soon - ha ha (I'm the worlds worst cook)

Took Smokey back to the vets and we're not really any further forward, They still don't know for sure what's wrong but suggested we may want to wait a few more days and see if he improves (the antibiotics are slow release so may take a little longer before they show results)
If not, we could consider leaving him at the vet hospital for some quite lengthy, expensive tests and trials including the risk of a general anaesthetic to do them, which might be quite stressful/ risky for him, so at the moment we are waiting and taking it day by day.

I don't want to tempt fate but he seems a touch more alert and lively today so I'm crossing all my digits that he can turn the corner without hospitalisation.

One world one heart giveaway

2009-01-23T12:56:00.011Z

Bloggers - win this Beadyjan handmade pendant necklace absolutely free!

Find out how by reading on ....

Whilst blog hopping to find some new craft blogs to peruse I've come across the one world one heart blog. its a huge international blog giveaway event created to encourage arty crafty bloggers around the world to get together, give away a piece or more of their art and discover new people and find new blogs and possibly win something too!

It sounded right up my street so I thought I'd find out more about it and having read that its been happening for 3 consecutive years I decided to take part this year.

For my giveaway I've decided to offer this handmade donut pendant which I made from polymer clay with glittery inclusions and then I wove a spiral rope from seed beads and added a tibetan silver toggle clasp.

To be in with a chance of winning this one of a kind necklace all you need to do is add a comment to this post, you must have a blog of your own and I should be able to contact you through your blog so no anonymous comments.

All valid comments received up to and before midnight (uk time) on February 11th will be put into a hat and the winner will be drawn on February 12th 2009. At this point I will announce the winner on my blog and contact them via email asking them to contact me within 14 days with their snail mail address.

This is an international event and entries are welcome from all bloggers wherever in the world you are.

Good luck.

If you're an artist or creative crafter who'd like to join in please visit Lisa Swifkas blog for more details. We'd love to have more people aboard our "gypsy caravan" as its also called.

Couple of new necklaces I made

2009-01-16T13:24:00.005Z

I've had a little break from beading as my arthritis has been so painful with the colder weather, however its a touch less cold now so I have made this black necklace for a friend in the USA.

I made her a black and grey wrap bracelet before Christmas and she asked me to make a necklace to match in black and grey. I hope she doesn't think its too dark or dull. She doesn't blog so I know she won't see this.

The second, freeform necklace is one I began making for myself before Christmas and didn't finish it, I picked it up yesterday and completed it and I must say I'm pretty pleased with the end result.

My lovely blog candy arrived

2009-01-12T11:10:00.003Z

Before Christmas I received an email from Mel at Paper Imagery Designs that I'd been picked as the winner of her blog giveaway.

I've recieved 5 scrummy romantic collage sheets aren't they lovely.

If you fancy som efor yourself you can buy them from her website or why not pop by one of her lovely blogs and get some creative ideas.

http://paperimagerydesigns.blogspot.com/

andhttp://alterediva.blogspot.com/

Now I just have to make myself some time this week to sit down and get creative with them.

Thankyou for my lovely prize Mel.

Heritage scrapbook page Mum when she was young

2009-01-08T14:23:00.002Z

I just downloaded some lovely free digital scrapbook paper from http://scrapu.blogspot.com/ and had to use it straight away to make this layout.

It seemed to me to be both youthful and yet vintage so suited perfectly this very old photo of my lovely Mum when she was a little girl.

I made the entire page with free digiral scrapbook elements. The beads and pin are from DSP.

The Quote is by AlyAly Designs and the corners by PascaleA

I hope you like it.

Altered chocolate box

2009-01-04T13:20:00.002Z

Once the chocs are eaten the box often gets thrown away or put in the recycling but this one was such a useful size - it holds 2 stacks of 6 or 7 cds, I decided to collage it up a bit and use it to store my cds of vintage images and collage sheets etc.

I covered it with some K & Co Vintage themed scrapbook paper of old envelopes and postcards, then added 2 rubber stamped vintage images from The Stampsmith and an altered slide mount, then trimmed the edge with a scrap of old lace.

I think it looks really vintagey yet it sits next to my pc and doesn't look out of place.

New Scrapbook page

2009-01-03T15:24:00.007Z

Its quite cold today but we did manage to spend an hour or so in the garden, cutting back some shrubs and trees which has tidied up the back garden and surprised a few birds when they came down to my seed feeder to find half the tree they sit in, gone!

Doing a bit of hard graft has made me feel justified in spending the remains of the afternoon indoors, on my computer making a few scrapbook pages.

The other day I downloaded the excellent free photo editing programme Paint.net and am learning how to use that to make scrapbook pages and digital collages. I'm not very Au Fait with it yet but have managed to make one or two.

I cheated a little with this one by using a gorgeous ready made quickpage by Pam Lefors Designs and just added a couple of images.

The pictures I used are of really poor quality. They were taken over 30 years ago on a really cheap and tacky camera. Since then they were stuck in a non acid free album which faded and damaged them. I came across them and even though they're so poor they are the only photos I have of my little dog Ben who died a few weeks after these photos were taken.

Even though he was just a baby when he died and spend just a few short months with me so many many years ago, I have never forgotten my lovely sweet baby Ben.

This way a few more people can share him.

He was a miniature long haired dachsund and the big white dog was his best friend whose name was Hypo and belonged to a neighbour. Even though Ben was so tiny he could sit in the palm of my hand he was a feisty little chap and used to run this big puppy ragged, jumping all over him and showing him who was boss.

I hope you like the scrapbook page.

Happy 2009

2008-12-31T10:05:00.004Z

I just want to take this chance to wish all my fellow bloggers a very Happy New Year for 2009. I hope the coming year is kind to you and your family and brings good fortune and health.

Have you made any New Years Resolutions? Do tell me about them in your comments. I've made mine - Mainly to be more organised and get my craft room tidied and less like a junk room so I can actually work in there again.

I want to be even more creative and artistic and use the inspiration I get from all your lovely websites and blogs to help me be a more regular and imaginative blogger.

I also plan to offer some blog candy/ small giveaways at some point later in the year when I have more regular readers/ followers so don't forget to follow my blog and keep your eyes peeled for the chance of a freebie or two.
I hope you had a good holiday season however you celebrated Christmas. We don't go overboard as there aren't any youngsters in the household and we just enjoy a little time to relax.

Yesterday I finally collected my new specs - was a bit disappointed they weren't here before Christmas but there was a problem and they had to be sent back to the lab. At least I can see properly now and they are quite trendy too.

My best news is that Santa brought me what I've been hankering after for ages - a laptop! So now I can sit and blog-hop in front of the tv as well as in the study.

We had planned a day out at our caravan on boxing day but the car developed a fault so we just had a walk around our local area, there's an old railway line which has been made into a walk so we ambled along that. Hardly the day out in the stunning Durham Dales as planned but the weather was bright and dry and we enjoyed the fresh air.

I'll be SO glad when March arrives and we can begin to use the caravan properly again.

Just because I'm missing being there here's a scrapbook layout I did of pictures taken at the caravan.

Found a great giveaway

2008-12-28T14:49:00.002Z

I just found a great crafty giveaway at http://www.alphastamps.com/blog/

Lots of crafty goodies to be won.

Also if you fancy more chances to try and win some lovely crafty goodies, scrapbooking stuff and "blog candy" have a look at my favourite links over on the left.

Winding down

2008-12-21T13:26:00.004Z

I've finished my Christmas shopping and did my main grocery shop yesterday. I was a bit surprised that it wasn't terribly busy in Sainsburys. I bet everyones waiting until the very last few minutes of Christmas eve and then they'll all rush in and wonder why theres nothing left!

I really don't enjoy food shopping at all the only kind of shopping I enjoy is thrifty shopping at fairs and markets and shopping for arty and crafty stuff.

Today I'm cooking us a big chicken that'll do us for the 3 days until Christmas as we'll have a roast chicken dinner today then tomorrow we'll have some cold with chips and salad then I'll turn whats left into a sweet and sour stir fry.

I've been sitting watching tv and making some vintage altered slide mounts. I love making these and I use them to add to cards, altered cds and in collages and on the front of decorated notebooks.

I take an ordinary blank plastic slide mount and cover it with pretty printed paper (sometimes I age the edges with ink or add some embossing powder or glitter) then I add a miniature vintage portrait from collage sheets or my collection of old postacrds and photos and decorate it with a vintage button, bits of ribbon, or anything else which takes my fancy.

They're only tiny but I think each ones a little mini artwork in itself.

I'm always looking for more different ways to use them - any ideas?

Pretty pendant

2008-12-18T13:03:00.004Z

I realised I've not posted any beady stuff or jewellery I've made this month, which is unlike me.

I was sorting through some stuff I made a while ago. You know how you look at something you've made with a critical eye and think "Hmm, I'm not really too impressed with that" Then you take a fresh look at it months or even years later and think "Hey thats not bad after all"

Thats what happened with this Pendant. I was messing about with some Fimo ages ago and made this pendant by cutting a square shape and then making a big donut hole in it. I rubbed the surface of the Fimo with some Pearl-ex powders and then scraped a swirl with a pointy tool, Finally I sprinkled on some ultra thick embossing powder then baked the pendant to see what it came out like.

The utee make a raindrop effect which I thought spoilt it but looking at it with a fresh eye I think its kind of pretty.

I added several thin strands of seed beads to hang it from in toning colours.

Digital collage

2008-12-17T13:02:00.006Z

Here are a couple of simple vintage collage pictures I've made today on my computer.

I love messing about with collage and using vintage images but as the house is all nice and tidy for Christmas and my DH wants it to stay that way I decided to have a dabble with digital collage. I'm not very good at it yet but I enjoyed having a go... What do you think of them?

I've been playing around with my Scrapbook flair software and some free digital scrapbooking backgrounds and embellishments from Simply clean digi scraps , and a Vintage photo I tinted.

There are lots of lovely free digital scrapbooking backgrounds and kits to get you started if you fancy having a go and you can find some of them by clicking this link Digital Scrapbooking Freebies

Free collage sheets

2008-12-16T18:56:00.003Z

Just found this lovely website ten two studios where they're offering a free collage sheet every day in the countdown to Christmas. There are some really lovely ones too.

If you're into collage please do go have a look.

Recolouring vintage photos

2008-12-11T13:31:00.007Z

I just found this website where you can download a free trial version of some really cool software which makes it east to add colour to black and white photos.

Its really useful for me as I like to use vintage images and portraits in my altered art and collage projects. However I'm always drawn to those which were hand tinted as that touch of colour really makes a difference.

I'm not very skilled with digital imaging and not patient enough to teach myself properly however in just a few minutes I managed to turn this

Into this - ok its not perfect but not bad for a first go.

Smokey the literary cat

2008-12-10T13:23:00.005Z

I thought my cat Smokey was a bit quiet, so I went into my lounge to see what he was doing and found him lying on the book I'm reading, looking for all the world as though he was going to begin reading it.

It was closed when I left it so he'd opened it himself.

Doesn't he look as though butter wouldn't melt? Don't you believe it - he's a little devil even though he's calmed down a lot now he's getting on in years and is a more mature gentleman - though he's still my baby.

For those of you who wondered what type of cat he is he's a Devon Rex.

The book, in case you're interested is by Bear Grylls, and is called across the frozen Ocean.

2008-12-09T14:12:00.005Z

I've promised myself that I'll add something to my blog at least once or twice every week.

Trouble is I sometimes wonder what I can put (such a boring life I lead)

I've been staying indoors quite a lot, its so cold outdoors Brrrrr. Had to nip into town today for a few essentials but didn't stay long.

I was glad to get back to my warm home, a good cup of coffee, my computer and my cat. I've been playing scrabble on Facebook with several friends.

If anyone reading this is on Facebook heres my profile why not join me in a game of scrabble?

I saw this lovely image on Photobucket, isn't it cute?

Vintage altered art cds

2008-12-06T10:06:00.004Z

After posting a couple of my cards yesterday, Treez's lovely comment reminded me of the altered cds I make also on a vintage theme.

I usually give these as small gifts to friends who need cheering up either in with a card or in place of one.

They have been well received and much admired.

I include a ribbon or cord hanger or a clip so you can hang them on your wall.

I had a stack of those old free cds you get given with Sunday newspapers and decided to make them into something pretty.

I cover them with pretty vintage paper, then add images, words, slide mounts ribbons and buttons all to add to the vintage feel.

I enjoy searching out vintage images to use in my art.

Vintage style cards

2008-12-05T11:40:00.006Z

Just thought for a change I'd show a few vintage style cards I've made.

I love using these old photographic images.

They look so pretty and romantic.

Hope you enjoy looking at them.

Snow today

2008-12-02T16:03:00.006Z

Well, I now know its winter. We had a good overnight layer of snow and some of its hung around all day. Its only the beginning of December and I'm sick of the cold already - I don't DO cold! I'm such a warm weather person it makes me wonder why I live here in Northern England where its often cold.

Having arthritis means when the temperature drops I AGE overnight and ache all over - creak, groan. Oh well the snow looks beautiful and brings out the artistic side in me so what better excuse than to stay indoors reading and crafting with a nice mug of hot chocolate.

Heres a picture of my back garden covered in snow.

What I made today

2008-11-06T15:10:00.003Z

It was my morning at bead group today.

there are about 12 of us in it and we get together once a week to do some beading, share patterns and techniques.

I've made these 2 donut pendants which I've suspended from a ribbon and cord thong necklace.

I think they're really pretty - what do you think?

I'm going to sell them for just £6 each.

Earring things

2008-10-31T10:10:00.005Z

Thought I'd show you a few of my easy to wear dangly earrings which are really popular.

You can buy these and see many more styles at

http://beadyjan.fotopic.net/

Sizzle bangle

2008-10-30T09:49:00.004Z

This is what I made yesterday - for sale at £7.

Its another memory wire bangle which fastens with a Tibetan silver S clasp.

It will fit a medium wrist - approx 7.5" but I can remodel it on request to fit a little larger or smaller.

I just love the hot pinks with a hint of black to stop it being too girly girly.

Christmas shopping anyone?

2008-10-28T09:13:00.004Z

I've been busy making some more items for Christmas presents and got carried away as usual and made far too many, so if anyones looking for a few stocking fillers how about
Beaded bookmarks.

at just £4 each they are the perfect stocking filler for any book lover. Made from strong flexible Silver plated wire and pretty beads they keep your page marked in the prettiest way.

I have begun to make memory wire wrap bracelets again, after several people begged me to, they really are the thing to be seen wearing right now.

They fit most sized wrists snugly and are priced at £12 for multi coil with 4 coils .

or £7 for single coil wrapover as shown below.
(worn singly or several together these really are the easiset bracelet ever to wear) no clasp or fiddly fastener to mess with.

Email me with your requirements now.

I can make them up in different colourways of your choice ( subject to availability of beads which I have in my current stash.

I accept payment by Paypal or uncrossed postal order.

Eni style bangle number 2

2007-02-19T10:50:00.001Z

I made this one a little simpler and less fussy - ideal I think to wear with casual spring fashions.

Its has 2 sepearte links at the back which I could remove and adjust to fit a smaller or larger wrist so it can be made to measure.

This ones for sale at £32.00 and features genuine carnelian gemstone beads.

Eni Oken inspired bangle

2007-02-02T10:41:00.000Z

I don't know where the start of 2007 went. I KNEW I'd be too busy to keep up with this blogging!

Anyway I'm going to try and make a quick catch up now and again. I've been really busy trying to take my beading and jewellery making to the next level and teach myself some new techniques.

I've taken advanntage of some of the excellent tutorials available and one of these is for an Eni Oken style bangle (or brangle - as its half way between a bracelet and a bangle)

I am fairly satisfied with it although I must stress it is only a test piece and I didn't have quite the correct gauge of wire as I incorrectly converted from US measures to uk ones! so its a little bit rough to be honest.

However I enjoyed making it immensely and intend to be making more in this style and hopefully improving my technique.

Watch this space for more of my new designs and to any "daring cardmakers" who read this please accept my apologies for not taking part in any challenges recently.

Where does TIME go???

2006-12-08T13:12:00.000Z

I just don't know where time keeps disappearing to I really don't.

Anyway just in case anyone pops by to see what I've been up to heres one of my latest beaded creations. I was shown a bracelet similar to it which a friend had brought back from her holidays and I thought it was so pretty I decided to make something similar.

Its made from swarovski crystal beads and size 11 seed beads.

I've added this and also finally added several other bracelets and necklaces to my website http://beadyjan.fotopic.net/ please have a peek if you have time.

Theres still just time for me to send out those last minute Christmas purchases so don't forget to drop me an email Beadyjan@yahoo.co.uk with any last minute gift requests.

Beady eyed

2006-11-21T14:47:00.000Z

I finally got my eyes tested last week after putting it off longer than I should have - to find that I really do need new specs especially for close up work. I've got my new varifocals on order and am getting really impatient to have my new specs as beading has been becoming a real problem visually for me and as one who lives to bead thats making me a not very happy bunny!

I've decided to make a special offer to any of you bloggers who buy any jewellery items from my website for Christmas - I am offering 10% discount plus FREE uk postage and packing until the end of November.

So if you're looking for unique, reasonably priced gifts or stocking fillers please take a look and email me with your requirements and mention the name of my blog to claim your 10% off.

Pictured here you can see just one of my pretty beadwork handbag charms, which can also be used as mobile phone dangles, scissor keepers or zip pulls! I can make these in a wide variety of colours.

I'll post goods to any uk address free of charge and will accept Paypal or Postal orders.

I hope you like the music video I added to my blog - I was quite proud of myself when I managed that - being a confirmed technophobe !!

Finally - It's a rubbish picture I'm afraid but heres my entry for this weeks daring cardmakers challenge - ribbon for the man in your life.

Busy weekend

2006-11-14T12:15:00.000Z

Hi everyone and thanks to those who left comments on my last post, I love it when people say Hi and let me know they've passed by, so please don't be shy leave me a comment even if its only hello!

I've had a rather hectic few days and weekend. Last Wednesady evening I had a stall at a craft fayre at a local school, it was really busy and I sold quite a few cards as well as lots of beaded jewellery and sold out of "altered notebooks" I think I'd priced them a bit low but they were a great "calling bird" bringing people over to my stall many of whom bought other items too.

I had a hectic weekend, visiting friends, managed to persuade my other half to take me up to Hobbycraft at Gateshead to have a crafty spend Woo hoo.

I also treated myself to a Clippykit brag bag which I've decorated with atc's I've received in swaps.

Theres some more fab ideas for decorating them in the gallery on their website, aren't they a great idea?

http://www.clipkitclub.co.uk/

I like it so much I'm going to get another and fill it with small scrapbook layouts, collage images etc.

Then today I FINALLY got round to making a card for the daring cardmakers weekly challenge ... and discovered I'm NOT that daring after all !

I have to be honest I find it very difficult to break out of my comfort zone and tend to find a style or theme I like and stick to it - which is, I guess, what these dares are all about.

Anyway I hope it's ok - you can see it here as for some reason I just cannot get a second photo to upload - maybe someone can tell me why?

A whole new months appeared!

2006-11-07T10:54:00.000Z

I knew I wouldn't be very good at keeping up to date with my blog! I just seem to have so much else on the go at the moment.

First things first I have been busy updating my website with some of my latest jewellery creations which are ready for Christmas you can see them here

http://beadyjan.fotopic.net/c1126627.html

and heres a pic of just one of my necklaces to whet your appetite.

Hang on ..... don't dash off just yet I have some rather exciting news to share.

I recently entered the stamper of the year contest in Simply Stamping magazine. Now although I wasn't the lucky winner of one of the fabulous prizes I have had a letter from the editor saying they liked my work and would like to feature some of it in a special article with the best of the entrants who entered but didn't win!

Thats good enough for me, I've never had any of my work featured in a proper magazine before!

It will be in Issue number 8 which I believe is out early in January 2007 so do keep an eye out (even its only a tiny picture)

Finally sorry to Kathy and friends for still not having a go at the daring cardmakers challenge - the stuff everyones producing is just brilliant http://daringcardmakers.blogspot.com/

and I do keep having a look at what you've all been up to even if I haven't contributed much yet.

Mid week mutterings

2006-10-26T10:10:00.000+01:00

It's Thursday already - where did the rest of this week go?

I'm trying to find the time to make a card on the theme of friendship for the challenge at Daring cardmakers blog, but unless I pull my finger out I'll miss the first challenge.

I'm getting my stock ready for a craft stall I'm having early in November, just a small event at a school nearby but its something to look forward to and plan towards. As well as making sure I have a good selection of beaded jewellery and gift items made up to fill my stall I'm also concentrating on trying to make my display more eyecatching on a shoestring!!

I got a nice crisp new cotton sheet in a dark terracotta to cover the table with and have filled some pretty picture frames with hessian fabric to hang earrings and brooches on. I bought a small wooden chest which I want to have stuff spilling out of and a couple of baskets to have small items in so I'm pretty happy with how its going to look.

I need a nice table top mirror on a stand which I can also drape a few necklaces from and which tilts at an angle so people can angle it and try on the jewellery. I'm sure I saw some small but pretty ones in Au Naturale a few months ago but they haven't got any now - typical. I've looked everywhere and come up with a big nothing.

Is anyone else dreading the onset of winter? I'm hating the dark nights already and although it's still been very mild day and night todays raining and very windy. My arthritis flares up something rotten when its damp so I've got my grumpy head on today.

2006-10-22T15:49:00.000+01:00

Its Sunday afternoon, very windy here in the North East but at least its stayed dry today which meant I could follow my favourite weekend pastime of having a mooch around my local car boot sale.

I go to the afternoon one as I'm not really a morning person but I like my bargains, (being an impoverished crafter)

I found a rotating spice rack with 20 glass bottles with lids which will be great for my craft room table top, it was only £2.00. I can put all my prima flowers, ribbons and stuff in it and have them all handy to view.

I also bought a pack of 50 Kleeneze blank cards and envelopes, they had never been opened and were only £1.50, very bright colours but they'll come in handy.

When I have more time I must try and work out how I can add links on this blog to my friends blogs - I really have no idea what I'm doing - can you tell??

2006-10-21T09:46:00.000+01:00

If anyone ever reads my blog please bear with me - I'm completely new to blogging and only want to have a go so I can join in with some friends on an exciting new card makers blog.

I'm Jan from the North East of England and my hobbies are what have kept me sane for the past few years since I have been unable to work full time, in my usual job in retail management due to increasing health problems with arthritis in my spine, knees and wrists.

I am mad about beads and collect them from any and every source, when I can bear to actually use any I make jewellery including bracelets and brooches and especially enjoy a style called freeform peyote - heres just one of the bracelets I've made.

I also use beads on many of the cards I make too as my other hobby is papercraft. I have been making handmade cards for about 4 years now and have also dabbled with scrapbooking too.

I'm a member of a monthly scrapaholics crop which I love attending as I get so much input from other members it can last me a month to use up all the inspiration!