I've been trying to figure out a little history on turn of the century folk art toys, some call them "Prim Dolls." I just had this picture in my head of homemade, sewn rag dolls. But, there really is very little information on them. Plenty of pictures, but next to no background or history.
This necklace just seemed to have that same touch of handmade, folk art, rag doll flare. A bit of whimsy and a lot of swing when you wear it. The large grey rounds are matte hematite (LOVE this bead) and have a good weight to them, so it adds to the swing of the fringe. Oh yes, there is fringe. Fringe seems to be on my mind lately. And I used the zig zag stitch for the necklace as I wanted a chain with a more rustic feel to add to the folk art look. I am really enjoying playing around with this look lately.
Several of you asked about how to do the zig zag stitch. It really is very simple; using 3 beads to shape a triangle. I like using metal colored beads as it does create a chain look and feel to the stitch. Below is a step-by-step to explain:
I like your take on prim dolls. Very original!
ReplyDelete-will have to try that zig zag stitch ;)
Cynthia you are just blowing me away lately with all of your great designs. This is an awesome piece and I love the beaded chain/necklace.
ReplyDeleteI love this necklace and I love the way you use fiber in your jewelry. Thanks for the tutorial on the zigzag stitch. I think a collection of chain stitches is good to have.
ReplyDeleteThank you for the tutorial! I will give this a try!
ReplyDeleteGreat design! Thank you for creating a tutorial!!
ReplyDeletexxoo Rita
Clever necklace! Thanks for the tutorial. Of course I got confused on #4 because there's 4 beads not 3 but I think I understand what you're saying!
ReplyDeleteOh yes - your necklace does remind me of a Prim Doll! Lovely! I am an Antiques Roadshow LOVER - watch it every Monday night on my local PBS station. Last week, there were several Prim Dolls! Though I do not go near seed beads, I might actually be able to do this stitch, once I actually get the needle threaded! LOL! Thanks for the tut!!
ReplyDeleteOh wow - this is reflective of the 1920s Flapper period - what a gorgeos design and great tutorial!
ReplyDeleteThat looks fun!
ReplyDeleteYou are so talented! You must really love what you do! I couldn't do this!! LOL!
ReplyDeleteLove the zig zag look! Fun finishing touch!
ReplyDeleteYour rag doll is a favorite ~ and your rag spool too :-) The tutorial is great! I think I am going to make zig zag chains over the holidays. It fills the requirement for mindless beading.
ReplyDeleteThat zigzag stitched necklace looks awesome! I'm not experienced with seed beading. I guess you'd need good eyesight, which I don't have...
ReplyDeleteAnother beauty! I love it! Great tutorial too. I would definitely need reading glasses for that stitch.
ReplyDeleteAbsolutely stunning! Just as Linda said, i am truly loving your designs. :-) This necklace is so eye-catching...must be your fresh take on fringe - I'm crazy for fringe!
ReplyDeleteSuch a cool design and great tutorial! I love the tiny detail of the zig zag design. Really cool.
ReplyDeleteWonderful work, as always!!!
ReplyDeleteHave a good week, dear Cynthia!! my g+ for you!!!
Besos, desde España, Marcela♥
Just ran across your tut yesterday for the zig zag stitch and had to give it a try right away. I'm hoping to include some of that in a necklace in the future. Thanks so much.
ReplyDeleteHave you ever tried it with a bigger bead?