Magnetic Bracelet

As I mentioned in the first post, I started out making magnetic bracelets. A lot of magnetic bracelets. A lot of the bracelets I made contained children's birthstones. Some also included the parents's birthstones. I made some for children that contained their favorite colors. Then I decided to incorporate letters into a magnetic bracelet and this is what I came up with:



QCGA stands for Quad Cities Greyhound Adoption, of which I am a member. The blue beads signify the birth month of my first greyhound, Marsha. Any colors can be used in these bracelets and any names can be put on any of the bracelets - within reason, of course.

One Strand Mother's Bracelet

This is a one strand bracelet that I made for myself with my daughter's name on it. I'm not sure how I came up with the design. I just sit at my design board and try different designs until I come up with one I like. I am always looking at other jewelry websites getting new ideas to incorporate into my designs.

Two Strand Mother's Bracelet

This bracelet is made out of the same materials as all of my creations. The 49 strand beading wire holds sterling silver letter beads, genuine swarovski crystals, silver beads and a silver toggle clasp.

This bracelet is for Kendra. Happy mother's day Kendra. Actually, Kendra knew about this bracelet as she and her husband tried to help me with my picture taking ability. They did a great job. Where did I put the pictures? I have no idea. If I ever find them I will be sure to swap them out for these pictures.

Explanation of Materials Used

I use only the best materials for my jewelry.

For example:
1. I use 49 strand, 26 pound sterling silver beading wire. This is so strong it could pull a truck :)
2. I use only Swarovski crystals in 3mm, 4mm, 6mm, 8mm and sometimes 10mm sizes. Sometimes bigger!
3. I use sterling silver beads when requested. Sterling costs more than silver plated. Most people cannot tell the difference. Sometimes I can't tell the difference. I am more than willing to use all sterling silver beads when requested, otherwise I will use bright silver plated beads.
4. For gold beads, I use gold plated beads. Pure gold would be bought at a jewelry store and would not be as personal. Sometimes I use 24 K plated beads.
5. For the letter beads, I do use sterling silver beads because there is little difference in price and they just look a lot better. Gold letter beads are difficult to get, but if you are willing to wait, it can be done.

Have any questions? Email me and I'd be more than happy to answer!

To All The Mothers Out There

One of my favorite bracelets to make is the Mother's Bracelet. I don't know of any mother that hasn't had a smile on her face when she sees her bracelet. There are many different ways to make a mother's bracelet and it really depends on how many children you have. This one is called Kelly, after my niece who I made it for. (By the way, Happy Mother's Day Kelly!)

The photography might lack a lot but the bracelet really is beautiful.

In The Beginning....

For those of you who know me, welcome. For those of you who don't know me, welcome also. Let me tell you a bit about myself and this blog. I love making jewelry. I have always had a love of making crafty things and, as my husband said, this is just a phase. If you would look at my craft/computer room, you would know that I have been through many different crafts but this jewelry one is here to stay!

It all started with this bracelet. I noticed a friend wearing it and I commented that I liked the colors. She took it off and gave it to me. The more I looked at it and the more I wore it, I decided I could make this and just copy the pattern. About that same time, I had the great pleasure of accepting the department head of the jewelry department (big job, little pay). With all of the great patterns out there and my new knowledge of beads, this became the hobby. What started out as just a few beads and making just magnetic bracelets has turned into much more. Feel free to leave me any comments or questions. I will answer everyone. Also, ask about any discounts or donations for your groups.

Thanks for looking and welcome to my blog.