I’ve been doing some knotting-between-beads lately, using all kinds of different cords, and having fun with the results.

Traditionally, knotting has been used with pearl beads to protect them from rubbing against one another on the strand, and to save them from all falling off if the cord breaks. But knotting also gives beaded jewelry a nice feel and beautiful drape, and you certainly don’t need to worry about kinking.

Here are my most recent articles on knotting between beads, including a review of the basic awl-and-tweezers technique:

How to knot between beads

Stringing materials for knotting between beads

Griffin silk cord sizes and colors

Enjoy!

Today I published my review of Liz Jones’ new book, Silver Wire Fusing. It’s an introductory book that will walk you through each step of making fused silver jewelry components, and hooking them together.

Liz Jones is an instructor and buyer for Fusion Beads (gorgeous site, gorgeous stuff), and her eye for style really comes through here.

I noticed that one of the first Amazon.com reviews complained that the book is only for beginners - but I think that’s the point . . . to be for beginners. So, if you are one, and you’d like to give fusing a try (it’s easier than soldering), then do consider picking this one up.

Barnes & Noble has launched its new “how-to” site, Quamut, and the Jewelry Making section features one of my previous book projects - this funky and a-little-over-the-top bead and chain necklace:

It uses basic wire-wrapping techniques, and the instructions are now available for free online.

Click here for a complete list of available projects.

As a follow up to my basic peyote-stitch band project, I’ve now published instructions for making a matching peyote stitch toggle clasp.

For help with the peyote stitch, be sure to post in the BellaOnline Jewelry Making Forum, or add you comment here!

Bead & Button is accepting sign-ups for workshops at its enormous annual bead show. The show will be held June 1 -8 at the Midwest Airlines Center in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Here’s an overview of what’s scheduled for each day of the show:

• June 1-3 - Master Classes and Workshops Commence

• June 4 - General Education classes start and Meet the Teachers Reception

• June 5 - SHOPPING OPENS - Exhibit Floor - Private Preview - 4-9pm

• June 6-8 - Bead Marketplace open to public

• June 6 - Lampworking Madness - our first “Flame Off” - 8:30-10:30pm (tickets required)

• June 7 - Bead Social and Auction Night

The full schedule is available as a pdf. Click here for registration information. Information about area hotels is also available on the show website.