The thing with these spikes (or any spike) is that they are a 'one way only' kind of bead. So what you do with them is somewhat limited. I decided to start off a bit predictable. I know, I know. That isn't really like me. But at least 2 early attempts were disastrous 'fails' that were ripped out. Surprisingly (at least to me) the feel of this bracelet is so comfortable around the wrist. Totally wasn't expecting that!
The beading here is an organic ladder stitch (aka, freeform to work around those ginormous spikes). I wanted an earthy feel to it, so I grabbed some mud-colored seed beads that are a bit irregular. They really pulled out the light veining in the howlite. I still have a stash of these, so I will go back to trying something a little more adventurous and let you know if I hit on anything worthy of showing you all.
Now that's a highly unusual piece! I'm trying to figure out where the holes are...there must be four?
ReplyDeleteWould love to see what it looks like worn :)
This turned out beautifully, with the organic/earthy vibe clearly front and center. Freeform ladder~genius idea! What a great piece. The straightforwardness works well due to the spikes demanding so much attention. I have had ideas brewing since I got them, so I guess I need to start implementing them. Yours reminds me of snow capped mountains :-)
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun piece. I love that it's edgy and soft all at the same time! Great colors too.
ReplyDeleteI can't say it's something I would wear but I can appreciate the artistry.
ReplyDeleteLike Christine, your creation has inspired me to bust out those beautiful spikes and figure out which of my ideas will actually work...thanks for the inspiration and the lovely nudge!
ReplyDeleteVery cool bracelet!
ReplyDeleteI have never seen spiked beads, but I love the idea of them. Thanks for sharing.
Valerie
Everyday Inspired
Hi Cynthia,
ReplyDeleteI love the bracelet. It seems that with these spikes the designs may always be a little demanding, but you did a good job of softening that demand. I, like Christine and Bobbie need to get busy creating.
Therese
Cute piece!!!
ReplyDeleteHave a good week!!! and my g+ for you!!!:)))
Besos, desde España, Marcela♥
This is beautiful - love the howlite, and your coordinating seeds are so pretty! It LOOKS comfortable, too!
ReplyDeleteI have to tell you - whenever I see these beads, I get a flash back to Madonna - I am not sure why! :)
I agree with Duni -- very unusual! Spikes generally have a "punky" quality to them, but here you've given them an unexpected tribal feel -- very earthy cool!
ReplyDeleteFabulous beads. They bring a whole new dimension to the piece!
ReplyDeleteI like this - it's funky! I do really love the color of those little seed beads. They are just perfect w/the howlite.
ReplyDeleteLove the spikes! Very different and cool!!!
ReplyDeleteI just see one of Madonna's outfits for some reason! :) I do like how you designed it though!
ReplyDeleteGlad you had the courage to try something! I have been looking at spikes too but can't figure out what to do with them... I was thinking about a focal possibly. -anyway, your bracelet turned out nice ;)
ReplyDeleteWhat a fun piece Cynthia...it has an edgy boho feel!
ReplyDeleteThese spikes are really cool! I haven't come across stone ones like these before. Those seed beads are perfect with the howlite markings. A very unique look! Spikes have been popping up on jewelry all over Pinterest lately.
ReplyDeleteI love those spikes!! They make me think of a dinosaur.
ReplyDeleteI'm a huge fan of spikes and love what you have done with this design! Has such a natural raw texture to the whole piece. Simply fabulous!
ReplyDeletea great design! (which has garnered some great comments!)
ReplyDeleteEs una pieza preciosa y única.
ReplyDeleteYikes spikes! you made it work. I love the tones on the bracelet.
ReplyDeleteSuch a fun piece, and absolutely something I would wear. I think it has a southwestern vibe. I'm heading to Tucson in the morning and would so love to be sporting this on my wrist. (Alas, it's not Ireland, but it's WARM!!)
ReplyDeleteHello dear friend, just stopped by to say a Happy 2014!!! and thanks for stopping by my blog and sharing support and kindness. I see you have busy over here....I like it?
ReplyDeleteOh I like this Cynthia! The colors are soft, but those spikes give it that edge. I've been drawing some ideas and can't wait to get to my studio!
ReplyDeleteNice combination..mellow n sharp :)
ReplyDelete