Beads, Beads, and more Beads!

While reorganizing my studio the other day, I was easily distracted when I came across my huge handcrafted clay bead collection. I have built up quite a large inventory over the past 10 or more years and just never got around to creating with them.  Some weren't finished (required sanding and polishing) and others just needed a touch up.  I decided to start working on them bit by bit.  It was quite the task and rather than get overwhelmed, I did a small amount each day over the past 6 months and now I have a nice supply ready to play with!  These are just some of the larger-size beads.

I happened to have emptied some bin-type containers so decided to use them for organizing.  I can hardly believe I ended up with 5 almost all filled.  Here are some photos to give you an idea.

I have some cool ideas for using these -- other than for regular jewelry pieces which I will share later.  I also have a huge stash of my rondelle spacer beads.  Each time I share the seasonal Pantone Fashion color clay recipes, I would make some spacer beads in my favorite colors.  I found these cute little plastic boxes for organizing them and now they are all in order and labelled with my clay recipe numbers to coordinate.

I have a tutorial lesson on how to make my rondelle spacer beads which you can find here (or click on the photo below):

The color recipes I used to create my beads are included in my Clay Color System which I also show how to organize all your clay.  It is more than just recipes -- it is a whole system and inspiration on how to create new colors and combinations.

My pantone color recipes are based on Kato clay but my new revised color system has been adapted to using other clay brands.  The colors may not come out exactly but will give plenty of inspiration.  Right now and until then end of April, both of these tutorials are on sale at 30% off.

I will be back later to share what I am creating with my beads.  Have a great weekend!