Saturday, March 16, 2013

Inspiring Links: March 2013

With the season of renewal upon us, it’s the perfect time to take a look at new inspirations, unique ideas, and crafty opportunities. Not only is it time to shake off the gloom of winter and start fresh, but there are so many fantastic new products and projects appearing as well. Here are some of my favorite inspirations of late.


If you’re a fan of DIY projects outside of beading, this Suitcase Cabinet project featured by Fine Craft Guild might be just the thing you need to spruce up your craft room. The original project is meant for a cute kitchen cubby, but just imagine the possibilities for storing and sorting supplies!

I also love Everyday Inspired’s recent post on arranging oodles of framed photographs and portraits to enhance your décor. I love the collage look when it comes to wall art - my craft space is just one big mess of pasted and stapled treasures right now. These tips could apply to just about any style or situation, even my inspiration wall.


If you love using Swarovski Elements and Beadalon in your designs, this is the perfect opportunity to show off your beading talents! The Crystal Glam 2013 jewelry design competition is now underway. The winning design will be displayed at Treasure during London Jewellery Week, and there’s a fabulous bead prize! Entries must be submitted by May 16th, 2013. For full details, check out the I-Beads Facebook page and contest FAQ.

Speaking of London, the bloggers at The Bead Shop have compiled a list of ways to incorporate current trends into your jewelry designs. In Key Trends from London Fashion Week, they explain how to transform runway looks into ideas for color palettes and more.


New bead innovations aren’t always compatible, but the designers and Fusion Beads have found a great way to combine the new Czech spike beads with Tilas, and our favorite leather wrap bracelet style in their Femme Fatale bracelet project. While you’re there, don’t forget to check out the 24 Carrot crystal earrings for a little Easter inspiration.

The beady bloggers at Cousin Corp have invited some favorite jewelry designers to share their stories and inspirations for the next year. Check out the Cousin bead blog on Fridays to spot the beader of the week.


Combine oodles of lovely round beads in your favorite colors to create a fabulous sculptural donut pendant, designed by Justyna of Eridhan Creations. Check out the full tutorial in parts one, two, and three.

For a splash of spring color and some beady eye candy, check out Cindy’s beaded bead Easter egg earrings at Bead Origami.

For an even bigger dose of color, the Proud Mary Necklace project at Artbeads.com really delivers. The combination of seed bead embroidery and gorgeous Czech glass buttons is definitely a win. And the best part? This project leaves the button shank intact - no snipping required.


And last but not least, the amazing beaded flowers, trees, and floral sculptures of Oksana Konovalova will amaze and delight you! Check them out in the spotlight on Beads Magic.

What are your favorite inspirations right now?

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1 comment:

  1. Great post. There is nothing like traditional style rosettes especially with spring Powwow coming soon.
    Nicole/Beadwright

    ReplyDelete

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