Inspired by Winter - A Pearl and Crystal bracelet for Cousin Corporation

Last Spring, the Cousin Ambassadors (aka my creative sisters) were given an assignment for Jo-Ann Fabric and Craft stores.  Many times when we get assignments like this we can't share them because the store needs to see them and be able to use them in their advertising and promotions first. 

The theme I was to create around was "Winter."  I'm giggling about that now as I type this because I'm sitting in my office in Clearwater, FL.  It's 81* outside and still getting hotter... so talking about Winter is truly ironic. 

Alas, there are parts of winter living in Wisconsin for 35 years taught me to appreciate.  There's much beauty created in the first snow or in the frost.  I love the hoar frost on the trees when the fog freezes to the limbs... I just didn't much enjoy the fact it lasts for 4+ months.

I just got the piece back and I'm really excited to share it with you... and to wear it because, what a coincidence.... it happens to be just my size! ;)

Wouldn't this be perfect for bridal jewelry?? Or to pop that vintage glam look??

This bracelet used 6mm round mirror beads and 6mm pearls from Cousin.  I used a multi-strand clasp with hook and extender chain to be able to give it versatility.  This piece was a whole lot of making links and connecting those links, but the finished bracelet is awesome!  And of course, I made earrings to match!

If you'd like to make this great bracelet and earring set, you can pick up all the materials at Jo-Ann Fabric & Craft stores!  And I have the instructions all written up!  Message me via my Facebook Page - Bella Amore Legacy Jewelry and I'd be happy to email them to you!

How's This for A Contest Piece?

A few weeks ago I mentioned that I was going to step out of my comfort zone in 2011.  Well, I'm happy to announce I've finished a piece to enter in the Happy Mango Beads - Bead My Valentine contest.

In looking at all the themes and categories in which contest entries will be judged, I chose "Roses are Red, Violets are Blue - FLOWERS!!!"  Yes, flowers speak to me.  If you've seen some of my jewelry over the summer months, you'll notice I use lots of flower as props.  From Zinnias to Morning Glories and BOATLOADS of daylilies I just love how they provide a rainbow of color and happiness. 
So for me, the theme of flowers was perfect!

I used a handpainted ceramic bead that I had been hoarding as a focal.  Using a circular brick stich, I created petals in a mix of delicas with small pink crystals forming the petals.  For the necklace I stitched 2 leaves using the same mix of delicas.  I added a few pearls and fire polished czech glass beads for a bit more color & sparkle and kept the rest of the chain simple. 

The necklace wears beautifully flat against your collar bones and makes a statement without being heavy.  It's actually very lightweight!  So while I'm still trying to get the "perfect" photo to e-mail in, I'll leave you with a few that really do show the detail and coloring!

Thanks so much for all your encouragement to step outside of my box.  I did, I'll continue to and I look forward to growing!  Hope you all have a WONDERFUL Superbowl Sunday!