CLASS DESCRIPTION

Discover how to make a beaded bezel setting for cabochons, using peyote stitch and seed beads (stitched together with beading needle and beading thread). ‘Capture’ your cabochon with beads that complement it to enhance the overall finish. Create a beaded bail to make a unique pendant which can then be hung from a cord, ribbon, beaded rope, etc.

Any convex shape can be used as a cabochon, including cabochons made from semi-precious stones, polymer clay, dichroic glass, ceramic, interesting buttons (especially shank buttons), and ‘found items’ (such as old jewellery components etc.). Bring your own cabochon to the class (minimum 2cm diameter), or purchase one from the tutor on the day.

SKILL PREREQUISITE

* Ability to use a needle and thread (or willingness to learn this during the class).

* A little experience with off-loom beading techniques (using beading needle, thread and seed beads) is helpful but not absolutely necessary.

ESSENTIAL TECHNIQUES COVERED

* Peyote stitch bezel – incorporating tubular even-count peyote stitch

* Ensuring the ‘correct fit’ of the beadwork around the cabochon to secure it

* Picot embellishments

* Creating a peyote stitch bail

* Adding new thread securely as needed

WHAT'S INCLUDED?

* Tuition

* Use of bead mats, Thread Heaven and scissors during class

WHAT TO BRING AND MATERIAL FEE

* Materials/kit fee: $15 (includes printed instructions). This kit fee does not include the cabochon.

*Participants who wish to purchase a cabochon from the tutor during the class can expect to pay between $6 and $20 for a suitable cabochon. A variety of bead colour choices will be available.

* Please bring pen or pencil.

* Thread Heaven thread conditioner – only if you have some already.

* Recommended: magnifier light or other magnification (if desired).

GENERAL INFORMATION

We request that you wear closed in shoes, have long hair tied back and wear minimal jewellery in classes for OH&S reasons.

PREVIOUS STUDENTS HAVE SAID

This is a new course