Art adventures: Auckland’s Bead Hold

Continuing my art adventures, I decided it was time to learn a little bit more about beading. In Hawaii, I had taken a beginning wire-wrapping class and learned a little about stringing and earring design, but there were still a lot of things I didn’t know.

My art clay instructor recommended the Bead Hold in Point Chevalier, so I took a bus out to pick up some basic tools and supplies and to take a group class in peyote stitching. It was an enjoyable experience and the staff were friendly and helpful, so I made the most of my remaining time in Auckland and signed up for a two-hour private lesson. My tutor, Bex, was great! She covered everything I wanted to learn, including a last-minute piece on making chandelier earrings, and was very patient. In class, I started on a multiple-strand necklace and chandelier earrings, and then completed a decorative wire-wrapping project. The proof of her quality instruction was my ability to finish each of the projects at home on my own time. Here they are:

Peyote stitch bracelet

Paua shell bracelet

Chandelier earrings

Multistrand necklace incorporating a pendant from Hawaii

I have an affinity for teal and turquoise lately, as you can see in my color choices. Ladies, are there any colors you are attached to right now?