This versatile weave technique makes big statement necklaces with that all important WOW factor.
For this project you will need:
- Beading thread
- 2 x crimp beads
- Flat nose pliers
- Round nose pliers
- Jewellery Maker Snips
- Bead reamer
- Kit TBGP71, or component parts of a similar nature
- Black ribbon
Take three one metre lengths of beading thread, secure a crimp bead to one end making a loop in the threads.
Thread on to all three strands one white faceted shell pearl, it may need to have the hole slightly widened. To do this grasp the shell pearl securely between your index finger and thumb and gentle twist the bead reamer in the hole.
Next thread a large shell pearl on to the central beading thread.
Thread six black agate faceted rondelles on the left hand thread.
Add five faceted shell pearls on to the right hand thread, following the pattern silver, black, white, silver, black.
On to all three strands add one white faceted shell pearl.
To make sure all the parts of the necklace are sitting neatly pull all three thread tight and shuffle the gemstones into place. The large white shell pearl should sit in the centre, framed by the faceted shell pearls and the black agate faceted rondelles.
Next, as before, thread a large shell pearl on to the central beading thread.
This time, add five faceted shell pearls on to the left hand thread, following the pattern silver, black, white, silver, black.
Now thread six black agate faceted rondelles on the right hand thread.
Again thread one white faceted shell pearl on to all three treads and shuffle the gemstones in to place pulling the beading threads tight. Repeat this process, swapping the sides of faceted shell pearl and the black agate rondelles each time. To make the necklace I used 7 of the large shell pearls in total.
Thread a crimp bead on to all three beading threads and keeping the tension tight make a loop and crimp the beading threads in place. I like to use my round nose pliers to keep the tension tight while I am passing the beading threads back through the crimp to make the loop.
Trim off the excess beading threads neatly by bending them back against your secured crimp bead, take the flat side of your Jewellery Maker snips and cut the threads at the bend.
Tie you ribbon bows on the each loop either and of you necklace and tie a length of ribbon each side to form your necklace. You can add a clasp if you wish. Remember to use a dab of nail varnish on the ribbon ends to keep them from fraying and also on the knots to keep them secure.
Why not experiment with difference colours, shapes and sizes of gemstones ? For this example I have used purple shell pearls framed by plain pyrite rounds and plain pyrite wheels tied with purple organza ribbon.
The combinations are endless so give it a go!
As always I look forward to seeing your makes.
Han x x x
