Brenda's Needlepoint Studio: Bracelet and Necklace Kumihimo Beading Amethyst-Topaz

August 7, 2024--Now the necklace has a matching bracelet. Love how the multi-colored beads shine and shimmer. This time, instead of using wire to secure the end caps, I'm trying the E6000 glue. So far so good.

Bracelet Kumihimo Beading Amethyst-Topaz

July 21, 2024--I was finally able to gather up all the "hardware" needed to finish this necklace. Firstly, I had to purchase a caliper in order to know how wide and how deep the end caps needed to be. Then to find end caps in a dark bronze color I wanted along with matching crimp beads and wire. Amazon to the rescue--I was able to purchase these bits and pieces (called "findings" by beading stores) in varieties of sizes and colors. So today I put it all together and here's a photo of the results (BTW, it looks gorgeous with just about all of my tops).

Necklace Kumihimo Beading Finished

Necklace Kumihimo Beading End Caps and Clasp

June 30, 2024--I wanted to learn another method of beading and came across Jill Wiseman's DVD entitled "Kumihimo with Beads" which explained everything I wanted to learn. She covered how to set up the Kumihimo disc, how to place beads on the cords (and how many to use), how to weave the cords, how to finish the project using various clasps, wires, crimps, end capes, etc.

Most important for me was how to fix a mistake (missing a bead, for example) by reversing the steps until you get to the spot that needs repair, then how to figure out where to start again. I found myself using her repair technique more than once and the results were perfect.

I've finished beading the necklace and am waiting on orders for the finishing items (end caps, wire, clasp, etc.). Here's the necklace ready for the finishing hardware. It's 29" long and I can fold a knot in the front to shorten the length if desired. The Amethyst Topaz size 8 beads using a medium gold cord were purchased from The Twisted Bead in Annapolis, MD.

I'm now going to look for more ideas of using various sizes and types of beads on my Kumihimo disc.