Kel’s Lampworked Glass Jewellery & More - information, Downloadable PD

Discover the fascinating journey of wire working through thousands of years of jewellery-making history. From the goldsmiths of Ancient Egypt and the intricate filigree of Greece and Rome to decorative metalwork of the Celtic and Viking worlds and modern handcrafted jewellery, wire working has remained an enduring and versatile form of jewellery making. Explore how ancient craftsmanship evolved into today’s creative wire wrapping, wire weaving and beadwork designs, combining traditional techniques with modern tools and materials.

Discover the fascinating history and timeless beauty of herringbone in both seed bead weaving and wirework jewellery. Often associated with traditional Ndebele beadwork, the distinctive herringbone arrangement has become a popular and versatile technique in modern jewellery making. Explore its history, how herringbone stitch and wirework techniques are created, the essential tools and materials needed, and tips for making beautiful textured bracelets, cuffs, necklaces and bangles featuring the iconic “V” shaped design.

Create your own warm-toned peyote stitch bracelet inspired by desert sunsets, glowing skies, and earthy gemstone colours. This downloadable tutorial includes step-by-step instructions, bead recommendations, and guidance for creating a beautiful handmade bracelet using peyote stitch techniques. Perfect for beginners and experienced beaders alike.

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Discover the fascinating world of gemstones and crystals in this complete guide to their meanings, properties, symbolism and everyday uses. Gemstones have been treasured for thousands of years for their natural beauty, rarity and cultural significance, while many traditions and spiritual practices have also associated particular stones with different qualities and aspects of wellbeing.

Explore popular gemstones such as amethyst, rose quartz, black tourmaline and many others, including the traditional meanings, symbolism and spiritual properties commonly associated with each stone. From beliefs surrounding protection and grounding to associations with love, confidence, creativity, focus, relaxation and inner peace, this guide explores the rich traditions that have developed around natural gemstones and crystals.

Learn different ways gemstones can be incorporated into everyday life, including jewellery, meditation, mindfulness practices, home décor, collecting and personal rituals. The guide also explores how people traditionally choose, cleanse, charge, store and care for their crystals and gemstones.

Whether you are completely new to gemstones or have loved and collected them for years, this guide provides an easy-to-understand introduction to their history, traditional meanings and modern uses, helping you discover the stones that have personal significance for you.

Please note: Crystal and gemstone healing practices are based on traditional, cultural and spiritual beliefs. They should be enjoyed as complementary wellbeing or spiritual practices and are not a substitute for professional medical or mental health advice, diagnosis or treatment.

All About Flameworking – Beginner’s Guide
Flameworking is the art of shaping and sculpting glass using a torch flame. From colourful beads and marbles to delicate figurines and scientific glassware, flameworking combines creativity, craftsmanship, and fire into a fascinating hands-on hobby and profession. This beginner’s guide introduces the essentials of flameworking, including the difference between soft glass (COE104) and borosilicate glass, the tools and safety equipment you need, beginner-friendly techniques, and where to find classes and supplies in both the UK and the USA.
The post explores how beginners can safely start working with glass, choose the right torch and workspace setup, and understand the importance of ventilation and eye protection. Readers will also learn about common beginner projects such as beads, pendants, simple sculptures, and marbles, along with basic techniques like stringer work, shaping, gathering, and colour application.
In addition to practical advice, the guide highlights recommended suppliers for glass rods, torches, kilns, and tools, plus reputable studios and schools that offer beginner flameworking lessons. Whether you are interested in artistic expression, jewellery making, or simply trying a unique creative hobby, this guide provides a clear starting point for entering the world of flameworking.

Tutorial on brick stitch fringe flower earrings made from 11/0, 15/0 seed bead and 4mm firepolish beads. This is a simple tutorial that makes stunning earrings. 

Discover everything you need to know about seed beads in this complete beginner’s guide. Learn about the different types, sizes, shapes, finishes, and materials used in seed bead jewellery making and bead weaving. This blog post explores popular seed bead brands, how sizing works, essential tools and techniques, and tips for choosing the right beads for your projects. Whether you are new to beading or looking to expand your knowledge, this guide will help you understand the versatility and creativity that seed beads bring to jewellery design, embroidery, loom work, and decorative crafts.

Discover the history, symbolism, and modern styles of waist and belly chain jewellery in this detailed guide. Learn how waist chains have been worn across different cultures for fashion, celebration, spirituality, body adornment, and self-expression. This blog post explores the different materials, bead styles, chain types, and ways to wear belly chains, as well as tips for sizing, layering, and caring for your jewellery. Whether you are interested in traditional beaded waist beads, delicate body chains, or contemporary fashion accessories, this guide covers everything you need to know about waist and belly chain jewellery.

Chatoyancy, often called the “cat’s eye effect,” is a fascinating optical phenomenon seen in certain gemstones, beads, and cabochons where a band of light appears to move across the surface. This blog post explores what chatoyancy is, how it forms, and the different materials that can display this unique effect, including natural gemstones and handmade glass beads. Learn how to identify true chatoyancy by observing light reflection, fibre alignment, and movement within the stone or glass. Whether you are a jewellery maker, gemstone collector, lapidary artist, or simply curious about decorative stones, this guide will help you recognise and appreciate the beauty and value of chatoyant pieces.