The solution

I really love beadwork, but I also have become captivated with metal and wirework.  In fact I've done more metal and wirwork this summer than I've beaded.  So I decided I would combine the two.  This is the result.

I bought a kit from well-known bead artist Paulette Baron.  I love the beautiful twisted peyote stitch creations that Paulette designs.  This pendant was really fun, and surprisingly quick to stitch.  This is what it looks like up close.

By using different size beads, and increasing the rows of beads, the work twists into a curl.  Paulette has many variations of this technique and each one looks unique.  In this design an 8mm Swarovski crystal in nestled into the curl at the bottom. 

While I was working on the pendant I decided to make a wire necklace for it.  I used copper wire to create wire wrapped beads, also known as Kuchi beads.  Then I made "S" shaped links that I wrapped with some of the beads from the kit.  I wanted to bring some of the beads into the necklace, so that was my solution.  By making the Kuchi beads and the "S" links I was able to continue the curl of the pendant in the necklace. The bail and the clasp were made from the copper wire also.  Here's a picture of the Kuchi beads and the "S" links.

The necklace is comfortable to wear and I love that I can combine my beadwork and my wirework.  I've combined different mediums before.  I've made jackets with fabric and knitting, jewelry with knitting and fabric and beads, and even a couple of necklaces using needlepoint motifs with beads and twisted cords.  It allows me to create some thing with all the different mediums I like to work in.  And, it's a fun challenge as well.

I know I'll be doing more of this!  I have so many beadwoven necklaces so I think some variety is in order!  Thanks for  stopping by today.  Have a great day!