African-Inspired Decorating

By Mandy Buchanan

Many people living in other countries in Europe or America find themselves attracted to African-inspired décor. Their reasons for this may vary and could be that they have experienced a great African holiday, a desire for a more natural way of life, or a desire to show their support for those in poverty in African nations. Whatever your reason, here are a number of ways that you can bring that touch of Africa into your decorating.

African-Inspired Decorating with Beads
Beadwork has long been a part of the African tradition and apart from jewellery is also used to make many other items such as beaded bowls and dishes as well as ornaments that can be used in your decorating. Beaded aloes are another popular item in South Africa that can suit a wide range of décor styles and look very elegant.

Use African Flora in Fabrics
Fabrics that have pictures of African or South African flora can also be a great idea. Alternately you may want to include actual framed pictures of African flora in the rooms of your house. These fabrics may be made into kitchen items such as oven gloves, aprons, or place mats; or used in bedspreads and other bedroom or living fabrics.

The Big 5
The big 5 animals of Southern Africa are another popular idea behind African-inspired decorating. You can either use decorative animals themselves (if you have been to Africa you would probably have noticed ornaments in many different materials made into the shapes of these animals) or use fabric prints of the Big 5 animals. The Big 5 include elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo and rhino.

African Artwork
African artwork can be used in any room that you want to have an African-inspired feeling. Pictures of African women carrying pots on their heads, African sculptures and pictures of African scenery can all be used depending on the environment you are trying to create.

If you are looking for a touch of Africa in your home then why not consider some of these African-inspired décor ideas? Use African beadwork, artwork, fabrics and decorative items to create the atmosphere you are looking for and show your love of this continent or support for its people.

This article was written by Mandy Buchanan. If you are interested in purchasing items for your African-inspired decorating please visit Thorntree Crafts and Curios.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mandy_Buchanan

7 Simple Steps to Making Jewelry at Home

By Kameron Kay

I began beading several years ago at Fred Segal in Santa Monica. They had a really cool bead shop where you could sit down, design and make your piece. It was a bit pricey but worth the finished product and the lack of hassle.

I took this theory and began designing jewelry from my home and selling it to boutiques. Here is a quick and easy way to make a beautiful necklace.
1. FIND A PENDANT
This is usually the most important part of the design as it is going to be the main attraction. It is the largest part of the necklace and is centered to gain the attention of the eye. I look for unusual and unique pendants that are already wire wrapped and/or have a loop to slide onto a chain or bead onto flexwire.
The pendants I use range from stones like amethyst, citrine, turquoise etc to beautiful crosses and cameos. It doesn't matter what the pendant is, just make sure it stays within your budget. You also want to make sure it is made well and will not fall apart after 2 wears.

2. MATCH THE PENDANT TO THE BEADS
Once I chose a pendant, I then advance to the bead section. I always choose something that compliments that pendant in color, texture and size. For example, if I was going to choose a Indian coral and turquoise pendant, most likely I would use a similar stone for the beading that matched in color and size. Maybe a small nugget torquise or round coral bead. Another example would be a black and white cameo pendant. Most likely I would pair it with a round onyx stone that was smaller than the pendant and accented the cameo. You can also be creative and a bit funky and try mixing a black and white cameo with some cool stone as well. It just depends on how traditional you want to be and who you are making the necklace for.

3. ADD SOMETHING THAT SPARKLES
Once I have my pendant and beads chosen, I always like to add a bit of sparkle to the piece. I personally like Swarovski crystals scattered throughout. They add a bit of glimmer and make the piece pop. It also adds value to the piece if your end goal is to sell it.

4. SPACERS TO ADD BLING
In some pieces, I like to add some silver or gold spacers. Even if it is just a plain tiny round one that separates the beads from the crystals. It also adds bling and makes the crystals pop. However if you are going to use silver, be prepared to clean it regularly as it can tarnish.

5. NOW THE TOOLS AND FINDINGS
Now you are ready to actually put the necklace together. If you are beginner, this should take no more than and hour. I can usually make about one piece every 15 minutes. Make sure you have the necessary tools and findings. For a basic necklace you will need the following :
-Wire, Thread or Stretch Cord (I prefer Accuflex wire)

-Crimp beads (2 beads - One for each end)

-Small Jewelry Scissors (or manicure scissors will work)

-Clasp (I prefer a large lobster clasp with matching jump ring)

-Flat Nosed Pliers (I use two pairs when making pieces but you can use just one or substitute tweezers)

6. PUTTING IT ALL TOGETHER
Wire:
You start with the piece of wire and measure it to the length you want. You can also use a beading board but I do the easy way of just measuring. Cut the wire to desired length.
Fasten the end:
Place the jumpring and crimp bead on the end of the wire, so the beads won't slip.
String the beads:
Begin stringing the beads along the wire. Use whatever pattern you chose above. For example:

3 beads, 1 silver spacer, 1 crystal, 1 silver spacer, 3 beads....and keep repeating.

Add the pendant:
Once you get to the middle, slide the pendant onto the wire.

Even it out:
Repeat the beading until you get to the end.

Fasten the end:
Add the crimp bead and the lobster clasp.

7. WEAR IT AND TEST IT
I always like to try the piece on and make sure it hangs well and doesn't do anything funny. Sometimes when you use a thicker Accuflex with heavy beads it can become too tight or too loose or hang weird. I like to try it on several times throughout the process to make sure I'm happy with the length etc.

Good luck!
My name is Kameron Kay, marketing expert and jewelry designer. Please visit my newly released "Jewelry Selling Secrets" ebook and audio program at: http://www.kameronkay.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kameron_Kay

Personalized Name Bracelets - Make Your Own Mother's Day Gift

By Kathy Hickok

Handcrafted, personalized name bracelets become cherished gifts for mothers, grandmothers and more, especially when you create it yourself. With sterling silver alphabet beads and a few other key ingredients, you can make your own mother's bracelet, deployment bracelet, awareness bracelet, or just about any other theme you can imagine. Visit your local bead store or hobby shop or look online for the supplies you will need. With these simple instructions, your creation will be a great gift for Mother's Day or any other occasion.

What you need before you start:

1. Flat Beading Pliers (needle nose pliers will also work with care)

2. Wire Cutters

3. Stringing Wire (I prefer Beadalon® Bead Stringing Wire, Nylon Coated Stainless Steel, .46mm, Black)

4. Two (2) Wire Guardians (not required, but good for longevity of the bracelet)

5. Two (2) Crimp Beads

6. Lobster Clasp or Toggle Clasp

7. 4mm Jump Rings

8. Alphabet Beads to spell out the name

9. Other beads to match your theme, birthstone color, etc. Swarovski crystal beads and small round silver beads are great additions.

STEPS:

1. Measure a bracelet you (or your gift recipient) already own to get the right size, or use a piece of string around the wrist to mark and measure. Make sure that it is a little loose. Cut a length of stringing wire that is the desired bracelet length plus at least 2" extra. (If you want a finished bracelet that is 8", you'll need to start with a 10" piece of wire.)

2. The next task is to make a loop. String a crimp bead on the piece of cut wire. Slide the wire through the wire guardian. Take the end of the wire as it comes out of the guardian and slip it though the crimp bead as well. Pull to tighten so that the crimp bead is tight against the wire guardian, and you don't have excess wire hanging out of the crimp bead. Use the beading pliers to squeeze the crimp bead closed.

3. Begin stringing your beads. Try alternating colors or using round spacer beads in between the alphabet beads. It's also a good idea to plan out and lay out what beads you want to use before you start. That way you'll know exactly how many beads you need to end up with a symmetrical bracelet.

4. Once you're happy with the design, place the second crimp bead after your last decorative bead (you should have approximately 2" of wire left) and then slide the second wire guardian on just like before. Carefully take up the slack, being sure not to pull the wire too tight, so the bracelet can move and bend, but also not so loose that you see the wire between the beads. Now squeeze the crimp bead closed and then trim any excess wire away.

5. Now you can attach the lobster clasp or toggle clasp to the right side of the bracelet using jump rings. You can also attach a 1" extender chain on the left side to allow the wearer to adjust the bracelet for comfort. (This is especially a good idea if you think the bracelet might end up being too small.) Attach a charm or two to the extender chain with jump rings to add even more of a personal touch.

You're done! You've just made a name bracelet for your mother, a mommy to be, or even just for fun. All it takes are some alphabet beads, silver wire, colored beads, some patience and a few more supplies to make a great Mother's Day gift.

Jewelry making and beading are hobbies for just about everyone to enjoy. Charm Factory supplies sterling silver charms, charm bracelets, silver beads, alphabet beads and more to make your own bracelet, necklace or cell phone charm to give as a gift or as a treat for yourself.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Hickok