<![CDATA[Brenda's Blog]]> http://site.jewelrydistinction.com/blog.html?cq=1 en-us Sun, 30 Dec 2007 04:09:08 GMT <![CDATA[Article: Colors of Cancun by Brenda New]]> http://site.jewelrydistinction.com/blog.html?cq=1&p=10




My recent visit to Cancun, surpassed my expectations.  Not only was I able to take in the beautifully colored water, balmy breezes, delicious food and drink, and cultural experiences, I was inspired by the bright and beautiful colors of the marketplace and architecture.






Colors that might be considered to be tacky in my neighborhood, were bold, and beautiful in their setting.  Bright oranges, yellow, and purples shone bright in the midday sunlight, and glowed with a deep, rich, vibrance at sunset.






These colors were so inspiring that you will be seeing some new jewelry designs using some of these bright and gorgeous colors in my handmade beaded jewelry collection.




]]> Sun, 30 Dec 2007 04:09:08 GMT <![CDATA[Article: The Bling of Swarovski Crystal Jewelry by Brenda New]]> http://site.jewelrydistinction.com/blog.html?cq=1&p=9

Swarovski crystal beads add bling to almost any style jewelry.  Swarovski crystals are like little gems of light and when used alone result in stunning crystal jewelry designs that brighten almost any attire, whether evening or casual.  Swarovski crystal jewelry that uses only Swarovski crystals and no other components can stand alone and compare to any more expensive jewelry, including diamond jewelry.


I like to combine Swarovski crystals with other jewelry components, especially silver and gold, and even use them in my gemstone creations.  What might otherwise be a dull looking bead or stone, can easily be brightened up when a Swarovski crystal is added. 


Alternating Swarovki crystals with other beads in handmade beaded jewelry creates an interesting pattern.  Varying the size and shape of the Swarovski crystal beads with other beads, will create an interesting and unique piece of handmade beaded jewelry that will rival other higher priced gemstone jewelry.


If you want jewelry with bling, purchase a piece of Swarovski crystal jewelry.  You don't need to spend a fortune on a diamond necklace or bracelet.  When you buy Swarovski crystal jewelry, you are getting bling without the cost.   Affordable Swarovski crystal jewelry allows you to purchase multiple pieces in varied colors to match your wardrobe and will keep you from getting bored by wearing the same piece of jewelry, day in and day out!


]]> Sun, 30 Dec 2007 03:58:04 GMT <![CDATA[Article: Using Black in Your Jewelry Designs by Brenda New]]> http://site.jewelrydistinction.com/blog.html?cq=1&p=7
Here is a tip for those of you who are learning to bead.



Using black in your handmade beaded jewelry designs can create a dramatic appearance. The use of black jewelry alone always creates a dramatic look and is both elegant and dressy. Black jewelry can also be casual when using black as a choker, or when using black leather. Create a 3mm Greek leather choker with pendant using a large silver or glass focal bead. Tie the black color of the leather to the pendant by using a black bead in your pendant design with the silver or glass.



Black also enhances other colors in your designer jewelry by creating a contrast that accentuates those colors. Try using a variety of pastel colored beads and place black beads in between each pastel bead. You will see how the contrast brings out the colors in your beaded designer jewelry. This works particularly well when using Swarovski cystals to create dramatic, beautiful, and unique crystal jewelry.



Finally, use black beads with your jewel toned beads to create an even more dramatic look in your handmade beaded jewelry. Try using topaz Swarovski crystals interspersed with jet Swarovski crystals to make a beaded necklace, beaded bracelet, and beaded earrings that say WOW! Also vary the shape of the beads to create interest.



So many of us wear black on a daily basis that using black beads in our handmade beaded designer jewelry is not only beautiful, but practical. Try it and let me know how it works for you!



--Brenda
2007-12-28 15:08:41 GMT]]> Fri, 28 Dec 2007 22:09:40 GMT <![CDATA[Entry for December 28, 2007]]> http://site.jewelrydistinction.com/blog.html?cq=1&p=6 How to Make a Strong Beaded Bracelet by Brenda New.



Here are some tips on how to make a strong, quality handmade beaded bracelet that will last for years.



In order to make a strong beaded bracelet, it is important to make certain that you are using the best components available. I use either Soft Flex or Beadalon in 49 strand, medium strength for most of my bracelets. If using beads with small holes such as with some pearls, you may have to use a lighter weight 19 strand weight. In any case, use the strongest, highest strand, stringing material that will fit the holes in your beads. Do not use fishing line, or nylon string to make durable bracelets. Use nylon coated stainless steel.



The second tip to making a strong beaded bracelet is to make certain that you are not stringing your handcrafted beaded bracelet too tight to prevent it from being plyable. Make certain that your bracelet is not too stiff when you bend it in a circle, prior to crimping the crimp bead.



Yet another way to alleviate breakage of your handmade beaded bracelet is to make certain that the loop you create beyond the crimp bead that goes through the clasp is not too small or tight. You will want your clasp to move freely in order to prevent stress and friction on the stringing material, which over time could cause your bracelet to break.



Another tip is if your clasp has a sharp or 90 degree edge where the stringing material passes through, use a wire guardian to protect the stringing material.



Making certain that the bracelet is the correct size will also reduce strain on your handmade beaded bracelet. If the bracelet is too tight, it will place unecessary stress on the bracelet. This is especially true when using a toggle clasp when you are trying to pull the end through the round part of the clasp. The proper way to measure for correct bracelet size is to measure the wrist and add 1 1/2 inches to arrive at the needed size. If using large beads (10mm or greater) you may need to add length to accommodate for the large bead size.



Lastly, use quality crimp beads that are the correct size. I usually use 2mm sterling silver or 14K gold filled crimps. Use a crimping tool properly to secure the crimp bead. Do not "smash" the crimp bead after crimping because this will cause additional stress and friction on the stringing material.



I hope these suggestions will help you to create beautiful and strong handcrafted beaded bracelets, that will be worn for many years.



Please let me know if these suggestions helped you!

--Brenda]]> Fri, 28 Dec 2007 22:05:43 GMT