Sun Catcher

Summer is here, the sun is out and there is no better way to play with its rays then with a sun catcher. I found a simple and innovative way of making one for the window or garden on the ICA’s Pinterest page and all you need is some plastic beads and a non-stick pan.

I have quite a selection of beads at home, so I experimented a bit, even adding glitter to one of the disks. Not all of the beads melted at the same time or temperature - some didn’t melt at all and different beads created different textures and finishes, so just keep an eye on the oven for this one. Once the disks cool, they fall quite simply out of the pan with no extra pressure needed.

I found that the plastic beads usually found in a child’s beginners beading kit create a smoother and more transparent finish than the others, but unlike the other two disks that could be threaded easily through the unmelted beads, this one had to be hammered. I found this quite difficult, with the disk breaking, but this was easily fixed with some superglue

I really enjoyed this craft, so many more possibilities! Await a jewellery blog with these disks in the future.

For more information on ICA crafts get in contact with the ICA at admin@ica.ie, 01 668000 or An Grianán at admin@an-grianan.ie, 041 982 2119

Blackwork

In a recent Monday tester class in Central Office, I had the chance to try Blackwork taught by the fabulous Breda. Blackwork is a form of embroidery using black thread and sometimes includes accent coloured threads and beads. Historically, blackwork was used in the reign of Henry VIII on clothing.

Here is how I got on…

This pattern was a combination of back-stitch and cross-stitch with some beads thrown in for something a little extra. I really enjoyed this class and have since taken on a larger project

For more information contact An Grianán at admin@an-grianan.ie or 041 9822119. ICA at admin@ica.ie or 01 6680002

Knitting and Stitching

The Knitting and Stitching show took place recently from October  30^th to November 2^nd with a high ICA presence as always. I attended on the Saturday to get some crafting advice from the lovely ICA ladies and to fill up on craft supplies for future projects.

There was so many things to see and buy, it is a bustling event and definitely worth attending. There was a fabulous collection of art pieces, crafting materials, kits, and handmade pieces. There is not enough words to explain all that the Knitting and Stitching show provides for craft fans, so how about I show you instead!

So many new projects so little time...I’m going to need more craft storage. 

Beaded Bracelet

I always admire handmade beaded jewellery for it’s beauty and delicacy, and hold admiration for the patience and skill needed to make some of the pieces. I had tried myself to make my own before but only had somewhat of a success on a loom and even then the seed beads drove insane me continuously getting stuck on the needle. I decided to attempt beading once more in An Grianán before abandoning it completely.

I was able to choose the bracelet I was going to make, within my skill level,  then was given a choice of coloured beads. The kit cost five euro and included all the beads, even the dreaded seed beads, thread, needles and clasps.

Here’s how I got on… 

My almost final attempt was a success! And that was all down to the incredible teachings from Eleanor, even the thread and beads she selected for the kit were incredible quality, including the dreaded seed beads all equal in size and shape. I had no problems getting them through the needles, these were ordered in form Japan.

Some of Eleanor’s work was displayed around the room showing the incredible pieces that can be created with practice, patience and creativity. I have been inspired back to beading.

For more information contact An Grianán at admin@an-grianan.ie or 041 9822119