Welcome to Busy Crow Studio

Skeleton on Toadstool Postcard from Zazzle.com

2011-11-10T14:55:00.000-08:00

The tiny skeleton on this toadstool waits patiently for....?? The card has plenty of space under the photo for your own personalized message or thought...
Skeleton on Toadstool Postcard from Zazzle.com

I've Got My Eye On You Samsung Galaxy Case from Zazzle.com

2011-10-08T06:52:00.000-07:00

For one creepy custom Android phone case, check this out:

I've Got My Eye On You Samsung Galaxy Case from Zazzle.com

Just An Old Fashioned Girl Knitting Bag from Zazzle.com

2011-09-07T08:54:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but I get tired of people thinking that knitting is old-fashioned!

Just An Old Fashioned Girl Knitting Bag from Zazzle.com

I Love Crochet Clown Speaker from Zazzle.com

2011-08-15T07:27:00.000-07:00

Clowns aren't so creepy when combined with crochet.....right?

I Love Crochet Clown Speaker from Zazzle.com

Knitting Happy Hour Bag from Zazzle.com

2011-08-12T16:22:00.000-07:00

Knitting Happy Hour Bag from Zazzle.com

Time to Go Shopping Bag from Zazzle.com

2011-08-12T16:19:00.000-07:00

Time to Go Shopping Bag from Zazzle.com

Memory Bear Completed

2011-08-01T10:06:00.000-07:00

In memory of Natalie, this patchwork bear was made....

Bonanza is having a Book Rush!

2011-07-18T08:39:00.001-07:00

What is a 'rush' at Bonanza? It's when a selection of items goes on sale for great discount! check out this upcoming rush:

http://tinyurl.com/289mk6a

Easy Crocheted Seat Cover

2011-07-18T08:36:00.001-07:00

Dress up an inexpensive folding metal stool with this easy crocheted cover:

http://www.sova-enterprises.com/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=18561;osCsid=kd2ptm4a3njqu28ovvc7402br5

Chinese Martial Arts book...

2011-06-17T09:23:00.001-07:00

Just sold a Chinese martial arts book to a man in Brooklyn, NY....was it a genuine need or simple curiosity? Find what you need at:

http://www.amazon.com/shops/A3PGSA1WVYIQJN

Memories Memorial Bear Made to Order

2011-03-12T08:01:00.000-08:00

A Memories Memorial Bear is a teddy bear that I create from the clothing and other items that you send to me. What makes it special? The clothing and items are from a loved one that you want to remember forever with a huggable, soft teddy bear -- perhaps made with the fabric from their favorite shirt or dress, the one you always remember them wearing? And this can also be done with an assortment of different garments, for a patchwork bear for example. Like the example bear in the photo, imagine yours made with fabric from their favorite outfit, and dressed up with that pin they always wore... And these bears are not just for making a memory of someone who has passed on, but you can also have one made for any other reason (using the fabric from that bridesmaid dress you'll never wear again, perhaps...? Or a bear made from the fabric of those baby clothes that were outgrown...?) Bears sit at 10" tall, stuffed with fiberfill stuffing, and have button eyes. Bears are completed within 2 weeks of receiving your fabrics. Price of a bear is $35.00.

Having a soft, huggable teddy bear made from the garments of your loved ones is a wonderful way to 'reach out and touch' your memories of them.

Contact me if you have any questions at all.

Mermaid Art Card from Zazzle.com

2011-02-18T15:21:00.000-08:00

When you need a lovely greeting card that tells them to 'start swimming, and stop sinking!", this mermaid card can be customized with your own message:
Mermaid Art Card from Zazzle.com

The Crow's new Etsy shop: Craftique Redux

2010-12-01T13:35:00.000-08:00

If you are seeking recycled, upcycled or sometimes unusual crafting and art supplies, check out Craftique Redux at Etsy:

http://www.etsy.com/shop/busycrowstudio?ref=pr_profile

You just might find something to further inspire your mixed media or altered art project!

Kipper Tin Art Challenge

2010-11-13T13:33:00.002-08:00

This cute altered kipper tin is what I received from my swap partner Mary at Art Forty-Two; there is an adorable bunny in the shadowbox, and the back reads, "the sounds of silence were startling."

Midnight on Halloween Cards from Zazzle.com

2010-10-28T18:46:00.000-07:00

Midnight on Halloween Cards from Zazzle.com

Paper Dolls are Fun for All Ages!

2010-10-25T09:08:00.000-07:00

http://www.lulu.com/product/media-download/paper-crafting-make-a-beaded-paper-doll/13377355

Red Panda Beads to the rescue....!

2010-09-03T12:42:00.001-07:00

I cooked up a batch of polymer clay skull pendants that I had made in a nice lavender color, envisioning black accents in the embossed areas. But yikes, I over-cooked them (forgot to re-set the temperature from my last project), and so I had to save them with paint and embossing powder, so they turned a bronze color. I had just received my color mix of Earthtone size 10/0 Delica beads from Red Panda Beads in the mail, and they were a perfect compliment to the bronze skull pendant. I just worked the main bezel by randomly selecting the colors, because they all worked well. The main bezel was herringbone stitch, and the bail was done in square stitch (this I striped with rows of one color). I then added a citrine crystal as a pendant drop and a golden link chain, and my weirdly pretty skull pendant is ready to wear! I also discovered that I LOVE working with 10/0 Delica beads; even my 'cheap' needles (with larger eyes) fit through their holes for several passes of thread, and I didn't even have to wear magnifiers. The size makes a difference!

Note: Why a skull? I guess it's my latest phase... check out my Boneyard items at http://www.zazzle.com/busycrowstudio

Flower Coil Ring

2010-08-20T13:34:00.000-07:00

Big, funky rings are all the rage right now...try making a Coil Flower ring!
http://www.lulu.com/product/media-download/wire-craft-coil-flower-ring/12304051

Knitted Scarf pattern: Slither Cable

2010-08-12T10:29:00.000-07:00

This knit scarf works up quickly, and practically 'slithers' off your needles!

http://www.lulu.com/product/media-download/slither-cable-knitted-scarf/12195406

Rose Wreath Mirror

2010-06-25T11:40:00.000-07:00

When you frame a mirror (or picture frame) with pretty roses, you've got a beautiful image! This polymer clay project tutorial includes instructions and photographs. Find it at my Lulu shop:

http://www.lulu.com/product/media-download/polymer-clay-make-a-rose-wreath-mirror/11486593

Heart Deco Necklace

2010-06-18T16:15:00.001-07:00

String a lovely Heart Deco necklace, with the flair of art deco by using glass cathedral beads to gracefully hang a faceted crystal heart pendant. Find the instructions at:

http://www.lulu.com/product/media-download/beading-make-a-heart-deco-necklace/11391212

A pretty necklace to make: Marbled Magic

2010-06-18T09:17:00.000-07:00

Swirl pretty colors into marbled handmade beads and accent them with sparkling crystals.

Find the stringing instructions for the Marbled Magic necklace here:

http://www.lulu.com/product/media-download/make-a-marbled-magic-necklace/11389909

Soul of Needlecraft Art Doll pattern....

2010-06-12T13:37:00.000-07:00

Art dolls are a fun way to express your creativity....with this Soul of Needlecraft Art Doll pattern, you can use the full size pattern to work in needlepoint canvas, or transfer to fabric for traditional embroidery. It's now available at:

http://www.lulu.com/product/media-download/make-a-soul-of-needlecraft-art-doll/11276785

Make a Unique Flower Lady Necklace

2010-06-04T15:33:00.000-07:00

This unique pendant features flower bead charm embellishments. The tutorial includes the instructions and photographs to make this 2" pendant with necklace cord.
$3.99

Chocolate Zebra Necklace pattern

2010-05-29T09:46:00.000-07:00

Make a striking necklace using chocolate and cream stone beads. The pattern includes the materials source information also.

$1.99

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T17:58:00.000-07:00

Happy Mother's Day to all.....I'm so happy that my son wrote a crow poem for me!

With feathers so dark and a mind so bright,
crows will fly up into the night.

While looking down they will try to see
where they can find an opportunity.

In search of friend and in search of fun,
busy they will fly whether moon or sun.
-- Vincent Romero

The cutest garden friend is the Ladybug....

2010-04-17T09:38:00.000-07:00

The cutest friend in the garden is the ladybug! This even-count peyote beading chart features a full color numbered chart and a word chart, with the Delica bead colors and amount needed. The finished size is 1.8 x 2.44". It would make a great amulet with ladybug bead fringe!
$2.99

An important garden friend, the Bee

2010-04-17T09:21:00.000-07:00

The bee is such an important garden friend, and the whole world is worried about their numbers today....
This even-count peyote beading pattern features a full color numbered graph and a word chart, with the Delica color and amounts needed. The finished piece, using Delicas, is 1.8" x 2.44.

$2.99

Make pretty beads with recycled foil....

2010-04-16T10:37:00.000-07:00

The use of recycled foil adds a 'gold-foil' luster to polymer clay beads, and the use of shell nugget beads enhances the look. This tutorial includes instructions on incorporating the foil into your handmade beads and connecting them into a necklace.
$1.99

Beadwork: Make an Angel Cameo Magnet

2010-04-15T07:29:00.000-07:00

Hear the tinkle of angel wings each time you open your refrigerator, file cabinet, etc.; this beaded cameo has a tiny bell in the fringe and a magnet on the back to place on any metal surface. The beadwork tutorial includes photographs and instructions.

$3.99

Make your own unique Shoebox Tote for Beading & Crafting

2010-04-03T10:12:00.000-07:00

In the sea of craft totes that arrive at a craft class or workshop, let yours be the standout! This pattern shows you how to create a unique tote out of an inexpensive plastic shoebox, and customize it to your personality. This how-to pattern includes full size pattern, photographs and instructions.

$6.99

Bachelor Panda Peyote Beadin Chart

2010-04-02T10:50:00.001-07:00

Who needs 'The Bachelor' to give you a rose when this cute Panda is ready to hand you a long-stemmed beauty. This even-count peyote chart pattern includes full color numbered graph chart, word chart, Delica bead information and amounts. Finished size: 2.3" x 3.2" approximately.
$3.99

Aztec Motif Beading Chart for Odd Count Peyote

2010-04-02T10:41:00.000-07:00

Use this striking Aztec motif as an amulet bag, and trim with lavish bead fringe. The pattern includes full color numbered graph chart, word chart, Delica bead information and amounts. The finished size is approximately 2"x3", and the stitch is odd-count peyote.
$3.99

Family Tree Peyote Beading Chart

2010-04-02T10:23:00.001-07:00

Use even-count peyote stitch to follow this beadwork chart, and personalize the tree by sewing on tiny crystals or beads in the birthstone colors of your family. Personalize it even further by adding fringe that includes tiny charms of their favorite things (pets, sports, etc.). The pattern includes full color numbered chart, word chart, and Delica bead colors and amounts needed. Finished size is approximately 2" x 2.25"
$2.99

Stone Disk Beaded Bracelet Pattern

2010-03-31T16:33:00.000-07:00

Use disk beads and join them with embellished round beads for a pretty bracelet. The pattern includes the instructions with photographs. Beading Stitch used: Square Stitch.
$2.99

Make a bright Los Muertos Skulls Beaded band....

2010-03-24T16:08:00.000-07:00

Use the beading chart for Loom or Square Stitch to create a bracelet, hatband, or even a belt or bookmark. The chart includes the full color numbered graph.
$1.99

Wildflowers Beading Chart

2010-03-18T13:04:00.000-07:00

This beading chart features stylized yellow wildflower motifs along the length. Work it in square stitch or beading loom for a pretty bracelet. The pattern includes the full-color beading chart.

$3.00

Cuppa Tea Bracelet

2010-03-17T09:02:00.000-07:00

Bead a Cuppa Tea bracelet....a teapot in the center with an embellished lid, and flanked on both sides by teacups. This beadwork pattern includes the full color beading chart for use with square stitch or loomwork. Use Delica or Toho 11/0 round cylinder beads. Download the beading chart now:

$3.00

Make a unique Leather and Turquoise Necklace

2010-03-13T21:47:00.000-08:00

Leather and turquoise look great together...you could even recycle an old purse or gloves to make the beads! Download the pattern now:

$2.99

Knit a cute Flower Panel Hat

2010-03-10T17:03:00.001-08:00

Knit a Flower Panel Hat to embellish with flowers in the colors of your choice. The pattern is knit on straight needles and is sized for medium to large adult size. The brim has a slight inward curve, giving it a beret-like appearance. Pattern includes photos for embroidery stitch to make flowers.

Download Pattern Now: $3.00

Make a Summer Spool Necklace

2010-03-05T18:40:00.000-08:00

Make a pretty hibiscus-red necklace that is airy and bright without being heavy. It's fun to make and perfect for a sundress this season. Learn how to spool-knit! Download the pattern here:

$3.00

Kokopelli Peyote Pin Beadwork Chart

2010-03-04T09:59:00.001-08:00

This beading project creates a great Kokopelli pin (also fabulous as a tie-tack, against a solid black tie it looks great). The even-count peyote beading chart is full-color, and uses Toho or Delica beads in four colors. The finished piece is approximately 2-1/4".

Download the chart now for $1.99:

Springtime beaded egg tutorial....

2010-03-01T09:09:00.000-08:00

This beading tutorial creates a pretty beaded egg to make in a pretty springtime color...and enjoy it all year. The tutorial is available for instant download here,:

$6.99
Instant Download

Make a beaded Cube and Button Bracelet

2010-02-20T11:44:00.001-08:00

This pretty bracelet works up quickly because of the hole sizes in the beads used. The tutorial is available for instant download, and includes photographs and instructions to make the bracelet.

$3.00

Cleopatra's Bracelet & Earrings Beadwork Tutorial

2010-02-19T16:21:00.000-08:00

Make a beaded bracelet and earrings worthy of Cleopatra! This beadwork tutorial includes instructions and photographs to complete the bracelet and earrings. $5.00 Instant Download

Kokopelli Loom Chart for Beading

2010-02-15T20:29:00.000-08:00

Use this Kokopelli loom work chart to bead a bracelet or bookmark, (or you can use square stitch if you like). The chart is available here for instant download ($l.99):

or visit:

http://www.bead-patterns.com/shop/shop.php?designer=Busy%20Crow%20Studio

Free How-To: Make A Recycled Artist Trading Card Storage Box

2010-01-21T12:50:00.000-08:00

Make a pretty storage box from recycled materials to hold your Artist Trading Card (ATC) collection. The free tutorial is at:

www.bead-patterns.com

(Look for designer Busy Crow Studio)

Wire Wrapped Hooplet Earrings

2010-01-20T14:39:00.001-08:00

These wire wrapped earrings are light and sparkling, and the inner free-swinging bead adds movement. Find the tutorial at:

http://www.lulu.com/content/e-book/wire-wrapping-beaded-hooplet-earrings/8235071

Painted Lady Peyote Beading Chart

2010-01-20T11:31:00.000-08:00

Painted Lady is an even-count peyote beading chart that you can use for a lovely amulet, etc. The pattern includes a word chart and full color numbered graph chart. You can find this chart at:

http://www.bead-patterns.com/shop/shop.php?designer=Busy%20Crow%20Studio

'No right, wrong way' for this club | Inland News | PE.com | Southern California News | News for Inland Southern California

2010-01-19T14:09:00.000-08:00

'No right, wrong way' for this club | Inland News | PE.com | Southern California News | News for Inland Southern California

Here is the link for the small article about the Altered Art Tea Party in the Press Enterprise newspaper....

Make a bracelet fit for a queen...

2010-01-07T09:53:00.000-08:00

Make a beaded bracelet with sparkling crystals, and fit for a queen. The tutorial is available at:

http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/beaded-jewelry-queen-filigree-bracelet/8179346

Make a Wire Wrapped Heart Pendant...

2009-12-31T13:40:00.000-08:00

The heart in this pendant swings freely within the beaded circle, for extra sparkle....

h ttp://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/wire-wrapped-heart-pendant/8150692

Make a great faux turquoise necklace...

2009-12-31T06:18:00.000-08:00

Make your own faux turquoise rondelles, and add silver beads and a southwest-themed silver charm for a great necklace:

http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/make-a-faux-turquoise-rondelle-necklace/8149249

Make a pretty Fantasy Puff Doll

2009-12-29T10:12:00.000-08:00

Recycle a damaged 11" fashion doll into a pretty fantasy creation. It's a great way to use up your stash of embellishments, fabric, and imagination! Includes the full sized pattern:

http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/make-a-fantasy-puff-doll/8141919

Knit a Curly Waves Scarf

2009-12-21T20:49:00.001-08:00

Knit a scarf with textured feathery 'waves' dancing across its length; find the pattern here:

http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/knitted-scarf-curly-waves/8116053

Knit a Bobble-Head Hat

2009-12-07T14:49:00.000-08:00

This fun knitted hat features a comfy loose fit with sassy bobbles along the sides. The pattern is available at :

http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/knitting-bobble-head-hat/8045518

Make a Doodle Art Doll

2009-12-05T13:42:00.001-08:00

Doodle your own unique fabric and use it to make a wonderful beaded art doll. The finished doll is approximately 6" and makes a great mini wall hanging. Find the tutorial here:

http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/doodle-art-doll/8034722

Recycle a Can With Crochet

2009-11-24T08:00:00.000-08:00

Make a cute flower-topped box with lid from a recycled can. The box is perfect for filling with those new air fragrance crystals or potpourri because the scent wafts easily from the crocheted lid. The pattern is available here:

http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/recycle-a-can-with-crochet/7972431

Knit a Go Team! Hat

2009-11-23T08:35:00.000-08:00

This knitted hat features an extra-thick brim of vertical stripes. Knit the hat in your team colors for a cozy way to watch those outdoor games! The pattern is available here:

http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/go-team-knitted-hat/7966177

Make a Cozy Knitted Hat

2009-11-20T14:37:00.001-08:00

This knitted hat pattern features a deep cozy ribbed brim with a crown that has cable twists and stockinette bars. The hat tapers to an elf-like point, and is embellished with a tassel. This pattern is knit with straight knitting needles. The pattern is here:
http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/cabled-knit-hat/7952598

The Alphabet of Life

2009-11-17T07:30:00.000-08:00

Here are some of the cards I have received so far.....I plan to frame my alphabet when it is completed.

Always pray.
Be kind.
Count your blessings.
Dream.
Express thanks.
Forgive.
Give freely.
Harm no one.
Imagine more.
Jettison anger.
Keep confidences.
Love truly.
Master something.
Nurture hope.
Open your mind.
Pack lightly.
Quell rumors.
Seek wisdom.
Touch hearts.
Understand.
Value truth.
Win graciously.
Xeriscape.
Yearn for peace.
Zealously support a worthy cause.

Knitted Scarf Pattern: Lacy Loops Knitted Scarf

2009-11-13T10:46:00.000-08:00

This easy knitting pattern creates a lacy, openwork scarf resembling broomstick lace. The completed scarf using worsted weight yarn and size 8 needles is 5" wide. You can get an even lacier look with sport or sock yarn, and smaller needles. It's a quick and easy project that looks best with light or bright colors, and makes a nice gift.

Find this pattern at my Lulu shop:
http://stores.lulu.com/busycrowstudio

Knit a Side Swipe Scarf

2009-10-31T13:03:00.001-07:00

This latest knitted scarf design features lacy paths which swerve across its length. This scarf works up quickly with size 11 needles and worsted weight yarn.
http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/knitted-side-swipe-scarf/7856779

Wonderful Artsy Decoupage Box

2009-10-30T07:28:00.000-07:00

My student Mari made this fabulous decoupaged box for me (she brings her craft supplies and tools in boxes she decoupages, and I have always told her how much I admired them.) The box she gave me is such a visual treat (especially if you love cats). These photos show different sides, and notice how she added depth and interest by having the cat cutout in the front of the opening. She has a lot of style and imagination, and we all look forward to her creative offerings. The cat with the orange background really resembles my own bengal cat, Kiki, the unofficial mascot, bead-chaser and wire nut here in the studio.

A wonderful gift!

2009-10-30T07:23:00.001-07:00

One of my students gave me a wonderful stuffed cat that she made as a present. It has whimsical feather whiskers, and bells on its collar and tail, and she stuffed it with potpourri also. I just love it! Mari has such a delightful artistic sense.....look for my other post about the decoupage box she made for me (she brings her craft tools in boxes she has decorated, and I always admired them, bless her, she made one for me.)

Knit a Kitty Toes Scarf

2009-10-26T16:16:00.001-07:00

The simple knitted lace pattern on this scarf resembles the cat footprints that you see on your car windshield every once in a while....that's how this knitted scarf got it's name! This is a fun knitting project that creates a 48" scarf.

Find the pattern here:
http://stores.lulu.com/busycrowstudio

October 2009 Sale at my Artfire Shop - 10% off everything

2009-10-02T06:24:00.000-07:00

I'm having an October 2009 sale at my Artfire Shop - Everything is 10% off during the month of October 2009!

New Swap-bot Swap: Make a Zentangle Puffy

2009-09-30T09:32:00.000-07:00

I've started a new swap at www.swap-bot.com: Make a Zentangle Puffy, where you will make a tiny pillow the same dimensions as an ATC (2.5x3.5") to use as an ornament, sachet, pincushion, etc. Drawing a zentangle onto fabric is possible when using an embroidery hoop to keep your fabric tight. Come and participate!

Make a Wacky Bead Lady Eyeglass Holder

2009-08-31T08:37:00.000-07:00

Use polymer clay to make a wacky, fun eyeglass holder that you can dress up with beaded earrings and necklace.

http://stores.lulu.com/busycrowstudio

The most beautiful hats, headbands and head pieces EVER

2009-08-29T18:14:00.000-07:00

If you love millinery, head pieces, and headbands, check out this site to see some truly gorgeous examples:

http://thefathatcat.vox.com/

Oh, you've got to shop at this Etsy Store!

2009-08-28T07:36:00.000-07:00

I just received my six pendants from Kelly at http://shesthatgirl.etsy.com, and I can't say enough good things about them; they are cute, whimsical, beautiful, and adorable, and the quality is outstanding....

Junk Jewelry Project, part 2

2009-08-16T17:10:00.001-07:00

This was another lone earring from my junk jewelry purchase a few weeks ago. I removed the wire 'fringe' that it had, and replaced it with a more colorful beaded fringe and strung it onto a leather cord for a pendant. I also added a carnelian disk bead to hide the wire-wrapped loop on the bail.

Recycle and make a cute fuzzy bank

2009-08-15T09:08:00.000-07:00

Recycle fliptop candy, mint or other similar containers into a cute, fuzzy bank....
http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/make-a-fuzzy-sock-critter-bank/7535969

Announcing Bookmark Points!

2009-08-08T11:42:00.001-07:00

At my Artfire Shop, I am now offering Bookmark Points:

Earn discounts on your purchase! For every 5 bookmarks purchased by one customer (verified by payment method), you will receive a 10% discount on any one item from the shop. Think of it as a 'virtual punch card'.... I will keep track of how many bookmarks are purchased, so you don't have to buy 5 bookmarks at one time. When you are ready to claim a discount, just email me for verification.

2009-07-21T14:04:00.000-07:00

Stitch up a sunny seahorse in cheery bright orange, at a size of 1-1/2 x 2", he's a perfect size for amulets, etc. The even-count peyote chart includes full color graph and a word chart, and the design only uses six colors.
$4.99

TIme to make a wire wrapped ring!

2009-07-11T09:09:00.000-07:00

If you are the crafty type, names like Tiffany and Zales don't impress you; you'd rather make it yourself anyway. Have fun making a Cool Coils Ring, it's easy and comfortable to wear!

Buy Now

Make a pair of round sparkle earrings....

2009-07-09T16:05:00.003-07:00

Make a pair of pretty round sparkle earrings....the free tutorial is available at:
www.bead-patterns.com (look for designer Busy Crow Studio)

Make a Chain Flower Bracelet

2009-07-09T14:08:00.000-07:00

Make a chain flower bracelet, with bright bubbly bead flowers for your wrist...the tutorial includes instructions and photographs and supply information, and you can find it at www.bead-patterns.com (look for designer Busy Crow Studio).

Cat Elf Ornament Cover

2009-07-07T18:47:00.000-07:00

This beaded ornament cover features four different feline elves wearing striped hats and collars with bells; the tutorial is available at http://stores.lulu.com/busycrowstudio

Junk Jewelry Project, Part 2

2009-07-03T16:22:00.001-07:00

I took the lone earring from my recently purchased Junk Jewelry, and I wire wrapped it in pure copper. The earring has enameled colors in beautiful southwestern shades, and it looks great as a pendant!

The Junk Jewelry Project, Part 1

2009-07-03T16:04:00.001-07:00

Browsing around in a small bead shop the other day, I was surprised that I couldn't find one thing to buy (I went by the criteria of did I need it? did I want it? -- and the answers were just no for both!). However, the shop did have two large baskets of 'junk jewelry' to dig through; the kind of jewelry treasure that you used to be able to find in a thrift shop, a tightly packed plastic bag full of all the costume (and sometimes better than costume!) jewelry both whole and bits, for about $5.00. Those days are no longer; most thrift shops know now to sort and pick through their costume jewelry and try to sell it all individually in case there's a collector out there. I still got a deal on this assortment though, the signs over the baskets invited you to fill a small bag for three dollars.

The other reason I think I couldn't find a thing to interest me other than those baskets was the fact that I've been involved in the hobby of beading and jewelry making for more than 30 years, so it sometimes seems like there's 'nothing new under the sun' as they say. So digging through those junk jewelry baskets was a nice exercise in imagination. I selected some random items, and I'll show you what I'll do with them in upcoming posts. Maybe if you are getting a little 'jewelry jaded' like me, it can help inspire you to rescue some jewelry from the junk pile!

Make a Jeans Bag

2009-06-27T17:36:00.000-07:00

Recycle a pair of jeans or jeans skirt into a roomy bag with shoulder straps. The free tutorial is available at: http://www.meetup.com/altered-art-tea-party/ in the Files Section.

Madam Butterfly Peyote Beading Chart

2009-06-24T15:23:00.000-07:00

This even-count peyote beading chart depicts the heroine of Puccini's opera Madam Butterfly....the chart is full color and numbered, and also includes a word chart. Find it here:

http://stores.lulu.com/busycrowstudio

or purchase and download now:

$5.00

Instant Download

Make a pretty beaded crystal ring

2009-06-22T14:56:00.000-07:00

Stitch up a pretty bugle-bead ring with a crystal focal point; they are comfortable to wear, and lightweight. The tutorial is available at http://stores.lulu.com/busycrowstudio

Make a sleek and pretty bracelet with bugles and crystals

2009-06-22T14:54:00.000-07:00

Weave bugle beads and cube crystals for a sleek and pretty bracelet...the tutorial is available at:
http://www.lulu.com/content/multimedia/beading-crystal-and-bugle-bracelet/7312801

Southwest Style Necklace tutorial (stringing)

2009-06-16T16:12:00.000-07:00

String yourself the rich colors of the Southwest, and add a natural stone focal pendant. The tutorial features the instructions and photographs, with materials information. Now availablee at:

www.bead-patterns.com (look for Designer, Busy Crow Studio)

Meet Kitty Pearl....

2009-06-11T10:19:00.001-07:00

Kitty Pearl is a 6" wool felt cat doll that is wearing her favorite dress (made of pearls!). The tutorial for Kitty Pearl includes the full size doll pattern and the directions for making her pearl dress, with instructions and photographs.

Make a Pokalotti Wreath

2009-06-05T11:42:00.000-07:00

Recycle plastic shopping bags or fabric into a Pokalotti Wreath, and embellish it to your heart's content....the tutorial includes instructions, photos and design suggestions:
http://stores.lulu.com/busycrowstudio

Rubber Ruffles Bracelet tutorial

2009-05-30T11:57:00.001-07:00

Make a fun and lightweight bracelet that features a fluffy wave of rubber oh-rings in the center. The tutorial includes instructions and photographs, and can be found at www.bead-patterns.com (search for Rubber Ruffles)

Beady Bella Cloth Doll Pattern & Tutorial

2009-05-30T11:54:00.001-07:00

Beady Bella is a bohemian babe who has very eclectic tastes, and she'd be happy to wear most anything in your bead and bauble stash. This tutorial includes the full size pattern for the 11" cloth doll, and instructions for her beaded accessories, with photographs. The tutorial can be found at: http://stores.lulu.com/busycrowstudio

Copper Heart Earrings tutorial

2009-05-27T12:11:00.000-07:00

If you're feeling summery and looking for light and airy designs, try a pair of Copper Heart Earrings. The tutorial includes instructions and photographs, and is at:

http://www.lulu.com/content/e-book/make-copper-heart-earrings/7205486

Make a Beaded Air Freshener

2009-05-20T16:29:00.000-07:00

Make a sparkling decor accent out of the lowly air freshener. Use colors of beads that suit your decor to make this beaded drape that fits over an easily obtainable air freshener. The tutorial includes instructions and photographs. The tutorial is available at:

http://stores.lulu.com/busycrowstudio

New Wire Bracelet tutorial added

2009-05-20T16:28:00.000-07:00

I've just added the tutorial for the Whimsical Wire Flower Bracelet tutorial; you can create a pretty bracelet using easy wire wrapping techniques, wire, and beads. The tutorial is available at:

http://stores.lulu.com/busycrowstudio

Bargain Alert! Beverly's Crafts in Colton, CA

2009-05-01T13:52:00.000-07:00

I'm sorry to see them go, but Beverly's Crafts in Colton, California, is advertising their going out of business sale at 40% off savings. Stop by and see if you can add to your craft stash!

New Peyote Beading Chart added: Singing the Blues Cat

2009-04-26T19:35:00.001-07:00

I've just added an adorable even-count peyote beading chart to:
http://stores.lulu.com/busycrowstudio

Brighten up the Boardroom, Liven Up Your Note-Taking....

2009-04-24T14:08:00.000-07:00

I just listed a beautiful bead-embroidered legal tablet cover. The cover is richly embroidered in beadwork, with a copper thunderbird, and turquoise accents, on faux suede. The cover comes with three new tablets of paper, and is easily refillable with the easy to find tablets. This legal tablet is the 'mini' size: 5x8", yellow lined paper. It's unique and only one of a kind, but I have it listed at two locations: Artfire:

http://www.artfire.com/modules.php?name=Shop&seller_id=220

and Etsy:
http://busycrowstudio.etsy.com

Two new tutorials added....

2009-04-17T15:36:00.000-07:00

Two tutorials have been added; the Star Medallion (a wire wrapped pendant project), and the Bead and Button Charm Bracelet. You can find these tutorials at any of my online shops at Artfire, Etsy, and www.bead-patterns.com (search for designer Busy Crow Studio).

Flower Corsage Bracelet Tutorial available

2009-04-13T14:25:00.000-07:00

Whip up a quick gift for a flower-loving friend with some beads and headpins. The tutorial is available at: www.bead-patterns.com (search for designer Busy Crow Studio).

Capture your Ocean Dream in this Wall Hanging tutorial

2009-04-13T14:23:00.001-07:00

Capture your fancy in this Ocean Dream Wall Hanging tutorial.... the tutorial includes construction details, supplies, and design suggestions. If oceans aren't your fancy, how about a "Fairy Dream Net"....?

This is what it's all about....!

2009-04-09T17:52:00.000-07:00

I teach beading and craft classes because I really love to see when people find their creativity. One of my most recent students, Caroline, was new to both beadwork and polymer clay. She recently completed these two beautiful projects, which she plans to give as a gift to a friend. One of the projects she made from one of my tutorial patterns. She has made my day!