I LOVE My Job

Anna Lindell's Zipper bracelet was not a snap.  I shared this free pattern with our Friday Happy Hour group tonight.  We had an overflow class with 18 participants.  It is a lovely looking bracelet…but a little misleading at first sight.  Hidden underneath these zipped up triangles is a base of 1.5 mm cubes of right angle weave (RAW).  They are tiny and RAW is,… well, you understand.  Most of the group had no experience with this stitch and I have to say….they impressed me!  Every one of them got it. Our event is an hour and a half…a stop between work and dinner. So, only the speedy ones got those triangles on, and not one person completed the bracelet.  Next week we are continuing the class to pick up where we left off.   There will be more copies of the pattern and  you are welcome to stop in and check for empty seats to get some assistance.

Meanwhile, in the midst of all the calls for "help" I couldn't help smiling at the situation. Our parking lot was full, every seat in the studio was taken, the cookies were being gobbled up, and slowly and painstakingly these lovely ladies were circling those cubes together.  Laughing and helping each other.  What a job!  What a life!  

Our Happy Hour Free Bead and Wire events are every Friday 4:30-6 PM in Studio Poppy.  There are cookies and gluten free snacks.  It is a friendly, low-key atmosphere.  You can find out the week's class and supply list at the Friday Happy Hour page on this blog. 
Come join us!

New Beads and New Classes for a New Year!

Mary Frances Seashore Purse

Greetings Beady Friends!  Poppyfield Bead Company is abuzz with activity these days.  We've been making room for new products and new ideas.  If you walk into the shop you'll notice changes right away.  We have new displays with beaded delights.  We are showcasing our upcoming classes, as well as the growing repertoire of past classes with patterns for purchase.  In addition, you will be struck by the beautiful beaded purses by Mary Frances that are for sale.  These are hand-made collectors' items, so come take a look.

 I am now carrying Czech seed beads.  We are busy getting them priced and hanging.  We've expanded our 13/0 charlottes selection and have some beautiful and unusual colors such as pink ceylon, green opaque iris, and slate blue.  I have a full array of 10/0 hanks of all the traditional opaque colors.  I've even managed to find some 11/0 one cut / charlottes.  Over time I will be adding Czech tri-cuts and more sizes, colors, and finishes.  So, if you are looking to match your beads on hanks, come on in and see what we've got.

Half Tila's are Here !!

These are 2-holed beads that look like little bricks (see the earrings pictured above).  They are half the size of regular Tila's and dare I say, very very cute.  We've got several colors including some metallics, and many more on the way.  Speaking of Tila's....more Picasso finished Tila's have arrived including a turquoise and lapis picasso.  Our Uno selection is growing and if you want to see some  in action, check out the Love Is In The Air Earring class pictured below.

NEW CLASSES FOR ALL LEVELS!!

click HERE for details

Love Is In The Air Earrings w/ Julia Hecht

Saturday 2/8, 1-4 PM, $35

Valentine Charm Bracelet w/Julia Hecht

FREE class

Saturday, 2/1 1-3 PM

Registration Required

No Experience Necessary

Boogie Woogie Bugle Necklace w/ Margo Field

Saturdays 2/22 and 3/1, 1-4 PM, $55

We've got lots of wonderful Swarovski Heart beads, and new heart charms - so you can spread the love that's in your heart.  

***REMEMBER - MONDAY NIGHT IS LATE NIGHT***

WE ARE OPEN UNTIL 8 PM

Hope to see you soon!

The Future Unfolds

Designed by Jessy Petit Bijoux

Beaded by Julia

Sometime after I opened the shop in 2011, I had the fortune of dining with a well-known bead master.  She developed her reputation in the '90s, during the bead resurgence that heralded the current wave of seed beading.   She shared with me her view that the seed bead wave had crested, and we were now beginning the decline of seed beading in America.  Sort of disconcerting "news" for me as new seed bead shop owner.  Today, I am absolutely certain, that this famous smart person was WRONG!  

Thanks to the internet and information exchange, ideas are moving at the speed of broadband.  Amazing European beaders and their stunning creative works are in my home everyday...via my little laptop.  While our American beaders, the pioneers of the '90's Bead Renaissance, continue to stitch wonders, Europe is exploding.  Lately,  I have been "traveling" to Hungary, the Netherlands, Germany, Russia and Italy, all with my cat on my lap.  The newest beads originate in Europe and you can see what's possible with Rullas and Rizos (our newest items) from European beaders who've been using them while they were still an ocean away from American bead shops.  The rising popularity of Perlen Poesie, the German beading magazine, here in America, is just another sign.  

One of the easiest ways to plug in to this world is through Pinterest.  At Pinterest individuals from all over the world are posting photos.  You can search a word like "beadwork" or "rullas" and suddenly scores of beautiful photos are sent to your screen.  You can collect your favorites on a "Board" that you set up, or not.  If you set up a board (and it's easy to do), your favorite photos (and links to where they originated) will always be there when you sign back on.  If you want to let others do the searching for you, you can follow others' Boards.  Pinterest is great for  inspiration and gawking at some jaw-dropping creations.  It is also a source for FREE patterns.  

I have set up 2 boards of free patterns - FREE Beadwork Tutorials and FREE Wirework Tutorials.  This means you can sign onto Pinterest and search Julia Hecht.  You will come to my page and you can click on one of my Boards to look around.  If you want, you can "Follow" me or one or more of my Boards.  That way, when you sign on you will see the newest "pins" I've collected. 

Right now, I'm very taken with a young lady from Rome named Jessy who goes by the name "Petit Bijoux".  She posts FREE, in-depth tutorials on "you tube".  They are in Italian, but I find that I can follow them anyway.  I made this Friday night using a 14 mm rivoli, Super Duo's, 4 mm Fire Polish, 11/0's and 8/0's.  It is ingenious, but not difficult.   For me, decoding these tutorials from far away lands, whether spoken or written, is like finding the key to hidden treasure.  But if foreign languages makes you cringe, don't despair.  There are plenty of  "photo tutorials" and many people know English and will post in our tongue.  

There's a whole big beady world out there, just waiting for YOU to explore.  Come see us if you have difficulty, and we'll be happy to help.  

ON THE WAY

15/0 Delicas

Two hole tile beads from Czech Republic

3.4 mm Drops / Magatamas in lots of new colors

4 x 7 mm Long Magatamas in lots of new colors

Hollywood Sparkle

Hollywood Sparkle by Julia L. Hecht

Just in time for the Oscars!  My long awaited Hollywood Sparkle necklace is finally finished.  I've scheduled the classes and they are open for registration.  This is an intermediate - advanced class.  Choose either Monday evenings 6-9 PM:  4/8, 4/15, 4/22 or Saturday afternoons 1-4 PM:  5/4, 5/11, 5/18.  This class uses peyote stitch, tubular herringbone, and various embellishment techniques.  I will be focusing on how to embellish the bail and the lower portion with crystal and pearl "explosions".  There is more to it than meets the eye.  Click here to go to the classes page for more details. 

Peyote Premiere by June Malone

Not ready for such an advanced class?  Don't despair.  We all started at the beginning and June Malone, our resident peyote stitch master will guide you in the basics in her Peyote Premiere class.  This class meets once for 3 hours and covers everything you need to know about flat peyote stitch.  These circular earrings she's designed can also be made individually as a matching pendant.  Choose June's colors or your own.  You will be able to apply these techniques to all sorts of peyote stitch patterns in books and magazines.  Class meets Saturday, April 6th 10 AM - 1 PM.  Click here to go to the classes page for more details.  

Samples of both the Peyote Premiere and Hollywood Sparkle are on display at Poppyfield Bead Company now.  

There are still 2 places left in Margo's Floral Fantasy Necklace class that meets starting this Monday 2/25.   If you want to take this class contact us ASAP.  Click here for more details.  

WIRE MEET-UP - FREE - Every Tuesday 1-3 PM  

Classes Coming Soon 

Wendy's new Kumihimo Beaded Diamond Spiral 

Margo's Floral Fantasy on Saturdays

Free Wire - Julia's Drop Everything and Twist - TBA

New Products

Swarovski Large Teardrop Pendants (seen in Hollywood Sparkle)

10 and 12 mm Swarovski Margaritas (sparkling flower beads)

New Super-Duo and Twin Bead Colors

New Rivoli Colors:  Rose Starlight and Crystal Brandy 

New Swarovski Bicone colors: Crystal Astral Pink, Blue Zircon, Garnet 2AB, Erinite, Fern

Fully Stocked Peacock Daggers and Spikes in 3 sizes

New Books on RAW (Lark), Peyote (Interweave), 

and French Beaded Flowers

Old Favorites Back in Stock

On The Way - Just Shipped

Rizo's and Rulla Beads in all available colors

*******Remember  Monday night we are open til 8 PM

Hope to see you soon!

Precious Hearts

Free Wire Class -  Saturday, January 26th 10 AM -12 noon

Precious Heart Earrings by Julia L. Hecht

Join me for a special opportunity in wirework.  This Saturday, I will share my Precious Hearts Earring design and demonstrate the techniques needed to make these lovely sparkling vintage inspired earrings.  The focal dangles are 18 mm heart pendants from Swarovski - they are absolutely gorgeous.  Their size is perfectly balanced with two clusters of crystal dangles.  You will learn how to create a strong connection for the hearts using my twist and wrap technique.  Plus, there is plenty of opportunity to practice and perfect your wrapped loops.  The class is appropriate for all levels.  The kit is $26, and is available in three color ways:  Tango (shown here), Golden (golden hearts with various golds and reds ), and Valentine (red hearts with reds and pinks).  There are only 8 kits available so don't delay.  Call with a credit card or come by. We open on Monday at 2 PM. 
(More kits will become available in the future when the Precious Heart crystals are available again.)

 Seed Bead Classes

Not Grandma's Cameo still has a few places available for Mondays 1/28 and 2/4 6:00- 9:00 PM.  This beautiful netted collar class is back by popular demand.  I taught this in 2009 and probably won't be teaching it again.  So, if you're interested, sign up while you still have the chance.  

Coming Soon

Floral Fantasy Class by Margo (Uses crystal margaritas - yummy!)

Hollywood Sparkle Class by Julia  (A sparkling neckpiece you could wear to the Oscars)

Twin Beads - We've got 'em in every color.  This week we will be tubing them and getting them out on display.  They will be sold in 5" 20 gram tubes.  They are cute, affordable, and offer plenty of design opportunities.  We still have our fabulous Super-Duo precision twins and will continue to carry both in every color. 

Crime Scene Update...

Many of you remember that when we opened on 3/20/11 only a small portion of the store was ready for shopping.  We had a large section across from the studio that was replete with wonderful Czech glass strands, but hanging in a disorganized mess.  I referred to it as "the crime scene" as in "Do Not Enter".  Eventually I opened the crime scene for business as I worked to clean it up, and shrink it.  On Monday, Wendy, June and I roll up our sleeves to attack what remains in earnest.  We 3 will spend the entire day reorganizing the back end of the store.  We will be bringing out  fire polish, druks and Czech pressed glass that we've had sequestered and hidden away.  Come visit and see what's happening and what new products we bring out.  Poppyfield will be open from 2-8 PM, as usual and at your service to help you with all your beading needs.  

Tuesday Wire Meet-Up with Sylvia Abeyta

 Come join us for an informal wirework session every Tuesday 1:00 - 3:00.  Sylvia is a retired teacher and is great at explaining techniques and helping troubleshoot.  Come with your own ideas or see what's on Sylvia's creative agenda.  All levels.  FREE.  

Remember Monday is late night at Poppyfield.  We are open til 8:00 PM.  So stop by after work or after dinner and browse our great selection of beads, fiber, and metal at your leisure.  

HOPE TO SEE YOU SOON!

Spread The Love

Not Grandma's Cameo by Julia Hecht

Greetings Beady Friends!  We have some wonderful events coming up to warm your heart during our winter freeze.  In anticipation of Valentine's Day, I am teaching a romantic Victorian netted collar called Not Grandma's Cameo.  It is pictured above and uses a stone bead for the focal piece.  I will be teaching how to bezel and embellish a stone with a drilled hole through the center.  This technique is different from the rivoli bezel that Laura McCabe pioneered during the last decade. Like Laura's method, it is also a peyote technique, but in many ways it is simpler because it utilizes the the hole, something you cannot do with a rivoli.  The netting is lovely and creates a beautiful curve that is comfortable and easy to wear.  It is appropriate for almost all levels.  Advanced beginners, with just a minimum of stitching experience will be fine.  If you've never stitched seed beads, but want to take this class, please get in touch with me so we can determine if you are ready for this class. 

Not Grandma's Cameo with Julia:  2 Mondays 1/28 and 2/4 6-9 PM $55 

See the Classes page for more details.  Call with a credit card or come by to purchase a seat in this class.

For those of you who want to learn the rivoli bezeling technique, stay tuned.  I am working on a wonderful crystal creation with a Swarovski product that we just got in.    Stop by and visit me in the studio to see it in progress.  When it is completed, I will schedule it and post here and on Facebook.  Which reminds me...Please like Poppyfield Bead Company on Facebook and follow PoppyfieldBeads on twitter to get the latest news.  

FREE WIRE CLASSES - SAVE THE DATES

Saturday January 26th 10-noon  and Saturday February 9th 10-noon

These will be beginner level projects using the basic set of tools (chain nose, round nose, and nylon jaw pliers, and flush cutters).  Designs are in the works and will be posted here (as well as Facebook and twitter) along with information about how to sign up and save your seat.  Don't miss out on these great opportunities.  It is my way to "spread the love of wirework".  

NEW POPPYFIELD PRODUCTS

Beautiful new Kumihimo end caps and bails 

Czech glass buttons

New Rivoli color - Crystal Brandy

New 6 mm Fire Polish Beads

New Bicone Colors:  Deep Tanzanite and Indicolite

New Glass Focal Pendants - $6

New Seed Bead Colors - size 11's in opaque blues and greens (available in 15's by request)

The New Bead and Button and Beadwork Magazines - get 'em while they last

Tuesday Wire Meet-Up with Sylvia Abeyta

 Come join us for an informal wirework session every Tuesday 1:00 - 3:00.  Sylvia is a retired teacher and is great at explaining techniques and helping troubleshoot.  Come with your own ideas or see what's on Sylvia's creative agenda.  All levels.  FREE.  

Remember Monday is late night at Poppyfield.  We are open til 8:00 PM.  So stop by after work or after dinner and browse our great selection of beads, fiber, and metal at your leisure.  

The Gift of Sharing

Christmas Delight Charm Bracelet

Many people ask me about my career shift, from physician to bead shop owner.  They wonder about why and also comment, "It must be so different".  It is different in many ways. But in some ways, the rewards are surprisingly similar.  It comes down to the gift of sharing of myself.  One of the things that compelled me towards a career in medicine was a desire to use myself to "help" others to heal.  That is how I thought of the medical field.  

Today, through the twists and turns my life has taken me, what I've learned, is that "healing" and "help" come in many forms.  During the most challenging time in my life, when I was recovering from a most debilitating illness, I discovered beads.   When I put together my first pair of earrings, I was filled with  a childlike delight of wonder and possibility. With it came a message and warm glow that infused my body.  The message was: I have created something beautiful.  The warmth was a healing energy that has followed me ever since.  It was my own healing...a path I choose daily.  

My own healing has been less straightforward than the kind they teach in medical school.  I have had to seek out and experiment with what allows that healing energy in, and what blocks it.  It turns out that you, my dear customers, are part of my medicine.  Passing on what I've learned so that YOU can create beauty, heals me.  During my free wire events I see your eyes full of that same wonder and delight as you create something new and beautiful.  I know I am passing on a skill that you can use over and over again to create something from your own being and manifest it as an object of beauty.  Many of you create gifts for others.  In some way, I am in that gift.  And not only me, but my own teachers, and everyone who has helped and supported me to allow the event to come to pass.  

We do charge for patterns and classes here at Poppyfield.  We wouldn't be here if we did not.  But I LOVE my occasional free wire classes, because it comes as a gift from my heart.  Of course the materials are not free...and they aren't free for me, just as my rent and heat, hooks, are not.  So when you are drawn to Poppyfield for any reason and patronize my shop, you keep it alive and nourish it.  That in turns allows me to be here for you... and then you come here and I am nourished.  And so it goes.  

Join me on December 15th for my last FREE WIRE EVENT of 2012...The Christmas Delight Charm Bracelet.  Click here for details about the kit.  

Kits and Colorways

Kits in 3 color-ways are now available for purchase for "A Little Romance" Chandelier Earrings Free Wire Class, this Saturday 11/17 at 10 AM - noon.  Click on the Free Wire Classes page in the header above to see more pics and get all the details about what's included in the kits and what tools you will need.  Call the store to buy your kit in advance.  I have room for 16 participants, and all are welcome on a first-come-first-served basis.  However, purchasing a kit in advance will guarantee you a space.  I will have kits available on the morning of the class.  And you may come as early as 9:30 AM.  (Please note: The store will not open for general shopping until noon.  We will focus on wrapped loops and incorporating chain into your designs.  With these skills and all the gorgeous beads out there... THE SKY'S THE LIMIT!  You will be able to give hand-made gifts galore this season. 

Hope to see you  Saturday!

Catching Up

Greetings Beady Friends.... It has been a while since my last post and even longer since my last email to my customers.  Thanks to those who were concerned about me. I have been fine but overly busy.  Wendy and I have been training June, our newest addition to the Poppyfield team.  Now that June is working independently I can get back to blogging and emailing to keep you all up to date about what's new at the shop.  

Margo's Rivoli Roundel

Right now we have a bunch of new learning opportunities.  Just up ahead is Margo's new Rivoli Roundels Necklace.  It is beautiful and unique and uses 3 rivolis that are just gorgeously embellished.  As I mentioned in the email, I had been blocked from sending the large customer emails - there are just so many of you now (YAY!!).  Although we did a little target email to Margo's past students, some of you may have been left out.  I apologize.  I am HAPPY to report that there are still available places in the class.  It is coming up soon... 3 Mondays:  Nov 12, 19, 26 6-9 PM $75.  It isn't too late... Call the shop or come by ASAP to register.  

Free Wire Classes 

A Little Romance

Just in time for you to make your holiday gifts.  Saturday, Nov 17th 10 AM - noon, I will be teaching A Little Romance - Chandelier Earrings.  This class is free, and I will have kits available for purchase.  Stay tuned for kit colors and prices.  

Saturday, December 1st 10 AM - noon another free wire class is planned.  So save the date!  I will be unveiling the design soon.  Stay tuned.  

Painted Roses

From Vintage to Modern -  COLORING METAL

Vintage brass does not mean dull and boring.  Vintaj Patina Pigments make it possible to permanently color oxidized brass.  No messy or toxic chemicals needed.  It is a simple as painting!  I have worked out a simple 3 step technique for creating these beautiful PAINTED ROSES.  We will have our first metal painting class on Saturday, December 1st  from  3-5 PM.  I will provide all materials and walk you through the process.  Everyone painted as a kid.  Bring that spirit back in this FUN class.  You will be able to complete a rose pendant in the class.  Class size will be limited to 6 students.  Don't miss out.  $40 including materials.  

Make your own gifts with our new findings (seen here)

Poppy Gallery

We are expanding our finished-work gallery for the gift giving season.  We now have silk scarves from local artist Bishop at Brave and Crazy Designs.  If you like extra sparkle, check out our crystal jewelry from Desert Gems, imported from Israel.  New felt bags from Nepal will be here soon.  We will continue to expand throughout the holiday season. Come and see how we blossom.  All finished work is returnable.  

Reaching Out

Now we are back on track with the emails.  I am working with a marketing company that offers mass emailing.  I am crafting the appearance and text of each email.  Please do let me know if you like them or want other info included.  The emails are my way to reach out to you, so help me to do it in a way that works for you.  

Customer Kudos - How Exciting

Jessica Dowell won a Gold Medal for Fire Mountain Gems seed bead jewelry contest in 2011.  Check out the back cover of the current issue of Beadwork to see her fabulous work of art.  

Bonnie Vigil has a design in the gallery section of Jill Wiseman's book on Beaded Ropes from Lark Books. We have this book in stock  - and it looks chock full of designs you'll want to try.  

Two of my own designs have been chosen for Bead and Button Magazine this summer. 

Let me know if you have work published and I'll post it here and brag for you.   

Hope To See You Soon

Peace and Beads 

Julia

Milestones

Sue's Luz del Alma Pendants

Since my last post, we've had a few milestones here at Poppyfield Bead Co.  Yesterday I completed my first ever 9 hour class, the Luz del Alma or Light of the Soul Necklace.  I know I spent more time creating the instructions, than I did beading the necklace.  It is 9 pages and 43 diagrams / photos.  I will be sending off the work to Bead and Button, and we'll see if they want to publish it.  I am very proud of the unique bezel and use of spikes to create a radiant frame for the 27 mm Swarovski rivoli.  Even if it never makes it into a magazine, I am thoroughly happy with it.  Again, I was amazed by the creative color combinations that my customers put together.  Sue Weix made 3 of the focal pendants between weeks 2 and 3.  Look how beautiful!  Instructions will be available for sale sometime next month.  Call, come by or email.  Another session is beginning this month on Oct 22nd. It will meet three consecutive Saturdays from 1-4 PM.

Wendy's Blooming Braid Rope with my Flower Power Medallion

Wendy taught her first bead classes this month.  First, an Introduction to Kumihimo, and then her mystifying pattern:  Blooming Braids - the beaded kumihimo rope with beaded flowers braided right into the rope.  Blooming braids was so popular that we are having another class on Saturday, November 3rd from 1-4 PM ($35).  If you are interested in this class, please get some beaded kumihimo skills, beforehand.    You can purchase a kumi book, or my Kumi Bangles Bracelet instructions for some beaded rope practice.  

Our new sales assistant, June Malone, has started working.  She  is busy meeting customers and learning the ropes of running the store.  Come on in and say hi to June.  She is a fabulous bead artist (who loves working with delicas).  You can look forward to some new classes with June, as soon as she settles in.  

New Poppy Products

Speaking of delicas - we have a big shipment of size 10 delicas arriving this week.  We've got other new products including silver plated kumihimo bails in a number of sizes, lentil beads, new books, and silk ribbons in beautiful bright colors.  I have a growing selection of Miyuki galvanized duracoat beads in size 11's and 15's.  They are just gorgeous.  Margo saw them on one of her teaching trips and recommended them. I also have Miyuki project kits for sale. They are very affordable and include instructions in English and all beads and supplies needed.  

Instructions for the Flower Power Medallion are available for $12 ($10 for PDF version).  Call, come by or email for this super duo and pearl creation.

Upcoming Events and Classes

Albuquerque Wire Twisters - Wirework meet-up -  Tues, 10/9 1-3 PM, Free and open to all

Sylvia Abeyta is organizing a new group for those interested in learning or improving their wirework, or just "twisting" in friendly company.   Brand new beginners welcome.  

Magic Carpet Bracelet - Tues 10/16 6-9 PM, $35

Luz del Alma Necklace - Saturdays: 10/22, 10/29, 11/5 1-4 PM, $75

Blooming Braids - Saturday 11/ 3, 1-4 PM, $35

 Do you have jewelry you no longer want?  Broken jewelry?  

Many of you know that I was a pediatrician for many years here in New Mexico.  I worked with the most vulnerable children and families and I saw tremendous need in our community.  Pegasus Legal Services, legal advocates for New Mexico's children is asking for jewelry donations for their fundraising.  This is a non-profit organization that does important work protecting the civil rights of New Mexico's vulnerable children.  

Remember - Monday night is late night - we are open til 8:00 PM

Hope to See You Soon.  Til then... Peace and Beads

Glad To Be Back

Luz del Alma by Julia L. Hecht
End Caps and Clasp

Greetings Beady Friends!  I've been away from the store a lot this summer spending time with my family.  It has been wonderful and full of precious, priceless moments.   But I've missed you and the beads.  Of course I schlepped my bead projects on travels and opened them repeatedly in my home.  But, since my last post, I have not had what it takes to transport myself into "deep beading".  Virginia Wolf, the 19th Century writer  needed "A room of one's own and lock on the door," to ply her craft.  I need good lighting, reading glasses, and a quiet place to sit still for hours.  And of course, lots of beads.

Yesterday, though, I had all that, and got down to it.  I finally finished Luz del Alma, my first exploration with tiny spike beads (see previous post).  They enhance a sparkling 27mm rivoli.  The effect is not at all spiky  or edgy. But,  rather radiant and celebratory.  Last night I finished the end caps and clasp.  They are built upon a delicate (easy!) kumihimo satin rope using a variety of bead stitches that create complexity and intricacy.  The finishing is so special, you might want to wear your hair in a bun for this one!  The class dates are set and it is open for registration:  3 Saturdays - September 22nd, 29th, and October 6th or 3 Mondays - October 22nd, 29th, and November 5th.  Additional kumihimo classes will be scheduled soon for those of you wanting a rope class.  Of course you can create your own rope for this piece.  But, why not add some new techniques to your repertoire?  Call with a credit card, or come by the store to register.

Poppy Classes

Margo's Enchanted Primrose and my Triple D Earring classes have been lots of fun!  If you missed Enchanted Primrose you can order the instructions (PDF or paper) from Poppyfield.  The Triple D earrings class on Saturday, Aug 25th still has some places left.  It is instant gratification and the instructions are easy to understand and written for brand new beaders.

Poppy Products

The results from the Delica poll are in, and visible in the upper right hand corner of the blog.  There isn't an overwhelming separation of preference.  I was surprised to find that size 10's are more desirable than size 8's, so that was helpful. I was happy to see that there is a desire for cut beads as I already have some size 11 hex cut Delicas.  As soon as we get them tubed I will have them available for purchase.  I have already ordered some more colors in 11's that I couldn't resist. (I saw a customer with them and was disappointed to discover that I wasn't carrying them.  Problem solved!!)  Size 10's will be my next addition as I believe they are not yet available locally.  So, if you are looking for more Delica beads, stay tuned.

I have also grown my selection of tiny tiny 15/0 Czech charlottes.  I have a mix of both plated precious metal and affordable "look a-likes" including nickel, brushed 24 kt gold, brushed and bright copper.  So, dispel the rumor that "no one in Albuquerque is carrying 15/0 Czech charlottes."  You CAN get them at Poppyfield, starting at $4.50 for a 5 gram tube.

Coming Soon Super Duo - The twin of Twin Beads

Several customers have asked about Twin Beads.  It looks like they are catching on!  Since they seem to be showing up in magazines and on-line tutorials looking absolutely beautiful and intriguing, I've decided to carry them.  Well, their twin anyway.  I did some research and discovered that 2 very similar 2 holed bead products are manufactured in a wide array of colors: Twin Beads and Super Duo.  Christina of Good Quill Hunting tested both. She reports that Twin Beads are more irregular in shape, sometimes do not have both holes patent, and require culling.  They are also cheaper.  However, the main frustration with Twin Beads is that sometimes by the time you find out the 2nd hole is not patent, the bead is already incorporated into your work. That sounds like an experience I'd pay to avoid.  So, I've decided to carry Super Duo - billed as uniform, precision made, and reliable.  I've got every color on order and my supplier is awaiting their arrival on this continent.  I'll keep you posted.

Remember, Monday night is late night - we are open til 8:00 PM.

Hope to see you soon!

Delicas, Daggers, and Dangles - OH MY!

Delicas-Daggers-Dangles "Triple D Earrings"
by Julia Hecht

Just as I am drawn to the Wizard of Oz, which I've seen so many times, I can't resist another twist of this classic and timeless earring design.  This stunning version uses Delicas, Swarovski crystal bicones, and long Czech daggers.  I'll be teaching it twice - on Monday, July 30th 6-9 PM and Saturday, August 25th, 1-4 PM. For seasoned beaders who like dangles, it is some fun, instant gratification. At the same time it is also suitable for new beaders, as the techniques are not complicated.  This is my Independence Day color way.  I've already done another one with double AB bicones that can't be beat.  Delicious.  Come by the store to check them out in person.  They'll be on display or on my ears.  I just love 'em. 

Welcome Wendy

Wendy is our newest addition to the Poppyfield Family.  Wendy has switched from silversmithing to seed beads and from computer programming to working in a bead store.  We are very happy to have her as our new sales assistant.  She's been busy learning beading and Kumihimo techniques and everything there is to know about our products.   Please don't hesitate to say hi and introduce yourself to Wendy.  

Poppy Classes

Several  classes are open for registration.  Kumi Bangles on July 9th, Fun with Filigrees - Cold connections, basic wire, and riveting on July 16th, Triple D Earrings (see above pic) on July 30th, Enchanted Primrose Necklace (advanced seed bead project with Margo Field) on August 4th, 11th and 18th, and Triple D Earrings again on August 25th.   Click on the "Classes and Shows" Page on this blog for more details.  You can register over the phone with a credit card, or come by the store.  Your payment holds your place.  

New Poppy Products

While I was away on vacation, Solange and Wendy were busy getting our  new products out on the floor for you.  We've got the Design and Go JR portable beading surface - which was requested specifically by some of our customers.  

Come see our expanding inventory of 3.4 mm drops and 4 x 7 mm long magatamas. I've got small affordable quantities of some of the most beautiful matte metallics,  and AB finishes.  These are great in micro macrame and kumihimo designs (not to mention seed bead projects). 

New Czech fire polish (3, 4 and 6 mm) are out - including matte iris finishes and lustres.  

New brass filigree

Coming Soon

New chain, Czech rondelles, tinier beads (not yet here, but soon), beginner micro macrame classes

Hope to see you soon!

Pot Pourri

Tomorrow's Drop Everything and Twist Wire Class is "Project Free" - A POT POURRI

I noticed some of the regular attendees have taken my projects one step further and put their own personal stamp on them. Come share what you've done with the techniques you've learned. Bring your work to display. Be proud and show us!! I will also be available to help with any of your projects and help work on techniques. Wondering why your loops just won't center or how to start spirals with tiny tiny centers? Having trouble with weaving? Come get "straightened out"

1:00 at Studio Poppy

A large shipment of Artistic Wire and Beadalon Tools is expected today - so if you are missing some of that great colored wire - stop in and pick some up tomorrow.

OPEN BEADING: Tuesdays 2-4 PM

Come bead with friends! Learn a new technique! Share your beady wisdom!

Only $10 New Mexico Rivoli Fan Earrings 6:00-9:00 tonight!

Still a few places left. You must have the Laura McCabe book, Creating Crystal Jewelry with Swarovski. I am sold out, but I am told you can download it off google or amazon.

Margo's Giant Poppy Ensemble still has places available - if you took the Ornamental Poppy Class you are eligible for this class. Next session is next week!

Nov 21st and 28th 6-9 PM. $40. Call to sign up with your credit card, or come by the store and pick your beads. We've got a great selection of 27 mm Rivolis which is the center for this gorgeous flower. Check the classes page for pics.

Hoop La La!!

DROP EVERYTHING!!!! Tuesday 10/4, 1:00-2:00

Tomorrow's DRop everything And Twist (DRAT) FREE wire class will be these sparkling filigree-ish hoops. They are so "ooh la la" fabulous. I will teach wire wrapping and weaving and crystal embellishment. They also include a simple loop and spiral in the design. It is a great way to build your wire skills so you can follow magazine and book projects and take more advanced wire classes down the road. Check the end of the post for the materials. No need to register. Just show up!

Hoop La La Earrings by Julia Hecht (2 color ways shown)

Some of you have seen my wire and crystal bezel for rivolis that I am currently developing. These earrings are based on the bail design for that project. So, if you take this free class, you will be building your skills for an upcoming elaborate design class that I will be offering soon. Plus, it is a bit of a sneak preview.

Drop Everything!!!!! Monday 10/10, 6:00-8:00 PM

Firecracker Ring by Julia Hecht - Kit Available

Birthday Butterfly Pendant

Next Monday evening (10/10) Poppyfield will host a free wire class in the evening. I will teach the Fire Cracker Ring and the Birthday Butterfly, in that order. Click on the project name for more details about each. I will have ring kits available with everything you need to make one ring for $8.50. The class itself is free. No need to register. Just show up! The materials for these classes will be listed at the end of this post.

CLASS UPDATES

Seed of Compassion Necklace by Julia Hecht

Seed of Compassion by Julia Hecht

Advanced Beginner Wire and Bead Fusion Class

2 Saturdays: 10/22 and 10/29, 1-4 PM, $40.

Moorish Tile Beaded Beads

Moorish Tile Beaded Beads by Diane Fitzgerald (Guest Bead Master from MN)

Intermediate Seed Bead

One day workshop: Saturday 11/5, 10-4:30, $85

Tropical Bauble by Diane Fitzgerald

Tropical Bauble Pendant by Diane Fitzgerald (Guest Bead Master from MN)

Intermediate Seed Bead

One day workshop: Sunday 11/6, 10-4:30, $85

Pre- class homework - you can start this project the day you register!

Ornamental Poppy Trilogy by Margo Field

Ornamental Poppy by Margo Field

Intermediate Seed Bead Class

Registration open for Saturday class: 11/12 and 11/19, 1-4 PM, $40.

PRODUCT UPDATE!

Now In Stock and Ready for Your Enjoyment!

• Size 15 Galvanized Seed Beads in 6 Colors (Tooo Gorgeous!) - Perfect for Margo's Ornamental Poppy
• 27 mm Swarovski Rivolis in 8 colors: Crystal AB, Fuschia, Aquamarine, Peacock Eye, Montana, Chyrsolite, Summer Blush, and Emerald - Get 'em while they last!
• Candy Corn and Skulls Handmade Glass Charms (limited supply) - $1.50 and up.

POPPY REMINDERS

Mondays are Late Nite at Poppyfield - We are open until 8:00 PM

Tuesdays are Open Beading 2-4 PM - Come Bead With Us! Help with any bead or wire project.

Supplies List for DRAT Free Wire

Hoop La La Earrings: 18 ga wire - 10.5", 26 ga wire - 30", 2.5 mm Swarovski crystals (30 or more depending on hoop size), 2 earring wires. Tools needed (please bring or plan to buy - we can't rent or lend -sorry): Round nose, chain/flat nose and nylon jaw pliers, flush cutters, jump ring mandrel is helpful.

Birthday Butterfly: 18 ga wire - 24", 2 colors of 26 ga colored wire (about 18" each color). 24 crystal bicones (2.5 mm) in 2 colors, and an accent dangle that uses one glass flower and a 4 mm bicone.

Tools: round nose, chain nose, and nylon jaw pliers, and jump ring mandrel. We are hardening by hammering so a chasing hammer and bench block are recommended.

Firecracker Ring: Ring base with single loop, 22 ga wire -36", 6mm bicone crystals - 10, size 11 seed beads, 1-2 grams, one glass teardrop bead - hole top to bottom.

Tools: round nose, chain nose and nylon jaw pliers.

Hope to see you soon!