December 2009

REGULARS

Retail therapy
This month’s round up of the hottest new products and the latest trends

Subscription offer
Check out our fantastic new subscription offer!

Inbox
You emails answered and a sneaky peak at our online activities!

The gallery
We announce the winners and runners-up of the Jewellery Maker of the Year competition

Shopping for…
Christmas beads

Spotlight
We have top beading books, websites, workshops and kits under the spotlight for review this month

Sneak preview
Take a look at what’s coming next month




FEATURES

Quick gifts for Christmas
Great beaded stocking filler ideas to make in minutes!

Designer challenge
Four designers each use the same beads to create some really inspiring projects

Top 20
Be inspired by our top 20 Snowflake designs, for you and the tree this Christmas!

Meet and greet
This issue we interviewed silver clay artist Xuella Arnold

FEATURE PROJECTS

Little black jewels
A shimmering and head-turning jewellery set to update your little black dress this Christmas

Rippling river
Wirework silver links and texture to connect stunning deep blue beads

Swallows and amazons
Bend Vintaj brass to create a setting for a beautiful gemstone coin, learn how to manipulate this fascinating and intricate material

Blinging the blues
Use simple linking techniques to create this sparkling and contemporary jewellery set using rich blues and silver components

Electric dreams
Create an electric blue bling ring and matching earring set with some basic stringing techniques

Russian dolls
Use fimo and sparkling gems to create cute beaded Russian dolls and then turn into gorgeous stocking fillers for Christmas

Dazzling diva cuff
Use peyote stitch to encase a rivoli and create this cuff fit for any diva on the dance floor this Christmas!

Golden strands
Crochet a multi-strand golden necklace and learn how to incorporate beads for a dainty finish

Sparkle cuts
Cut out a snowflake shape and add a festive sparkle with glitter and beads to create a gorgeous decoration

Dewdrops
This fascinating technique will teach you how to melt dichroic glass in the microwave and create a fabulous pair of earrings

Party sparklers
Melt wire into your lampwork beads and encase with clear glass to create these tiny sparklers!

Holiday keepsake
Wire wrap a sentimental keepsake in a silver cage, then embellish with beads and decorative coils