BeadandButton Show - Let the beading begin!

We can;t believe the Bead and Button Show is here and gone! iKandies attended the annual show mid June and in addition to signing up for classes, we decided to attend one of the regular functions sponsored by the Show. This function was Wednesday evening's "Meet the Teachers" reception. Ikandies enjoyed meeting the ones who teach the over 500 classes that were held this year. So many interesting ideas-spiraled necklaces, metal creations, seed beads galour- too many to choose from,  each with their own unique twist.  Ikandies is always looking for new directions to explore when it comes to jewlery creations. Even picked up a few kits for classes we couldn't take.

Our first class the next day was Lisa Niven Kelly's Spiro Necklace. Here's a shot comparing her finished product and my creation. Mine is on the left.  Not bad for the first time!

Another class we took was Intro to Faux Bone.  Faux Bone??!!  According to the creator of this plastic product Faux Bone is a non- toxic, high grade PVC product that does not produce fumes when heated properly, is completely malleable, and can be formed into just about any shape.  You can saw, stamp, rivet, paint, cut- why do more than you imagined - with this product.  Here's a peak at what we created, with the original untouched product appearing in the lower right hand corner.

I'm always looking to improve my metal smithing skills, so I took Kim St. Jean's Fold Forming and Enameling class. Here's my bracelet in assembly mode with a fresh coat of clear enamel on it.  Notice how the combination of butane torch and enamel brings out beautiful shades of rose on the copper metal base?

Another class we enjoyed was Magic Gem Pendant by Irina Miesch. Not as tricky as it looks, but the results were beautiful!  What a combination of Cubic Zirconia, Swarovski crystals, filigrees and wire wrapping!

So the show is over.  We came home with many new ideas, additional creative skills and lots of new beads to add to our "storehouse".  We are please to report that two of our new jewelry designs, based on skills learned at the 2012 show, have sold recently.  We're glad others enjoy the beauty of unique and creative jewelry like we do!