Exploration of Tubular Beadwork

Kate McKinnon
Saturday, May 1st, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Level - Intermediate to Advanced

Photo: Left, a Bat-Ended Screwt bracelet, with stacked and flared sections of tube, strung on sturdy Softflex 019. Right, some of the same components, strung with felt balls, in a Felty Screwt.

This class  is meant  for  students of all levels, but those attending  should be comfortable using (and threading) a size 12 needle with fine beading thread, and know the basics of at least one tubular stitch. The Screwts feature Ndebele herringbone for the flared Screwtlets at the end.

In our one-day class, students will learn a variety of ways to design pieces with tubular beadwork that really hold up to  wear. Instead of sewing your beadwork to a clasp, or constructing a loop that ties into your tube, learn to finish your pieces with wire, beading  wire, cord, fiber, or linked metal. Kate’s  focus is on smooth  engineering--any style of tubular beadwork can be explored and enhanced using the ideas in this class. Kate will include many tips and tricks for finishing beadwork, maintaining even tension, changing thread, and embellishing the final beaded tube. Don’t miss this exciting session with one of the most innovative bead artists around!

Supplies:

One tube of size 10 or 11 seed beads, and one half tube of size 13, 14, or 15 charlottes.
Beading thread (I use black Nymo O, B and D from the three ounce cones) Thread Heaven or wax.