I have been without a shedio since November, but my new one is up and running. In the meantime I have been reading lots of lampy stuff, including a thread on another forum about Heather Trimlett's 40 bead challenge, and I thought it would be an ideal way to get back into the beady groove.
Would anyone like to join me? (I have been in touch with Heather and she gives us her blessing)
It's not a swap, or a competition, just a learning and developing process. The idea is to make 40 beads using no tools whatsoever, all a similar size and only melted in dots for decoration.
This is a note from Heather about her challenge:
"For the 40-bead project I want them done one per mandrel. It's not about making the beads fast, it's about thinking about the one bead you are working on. This whole thing is as much about watching your brain process – that's why I want them made over a period of time rather than all at once – as it is about learning how the glass moves."
It is in your own time, no deadline, so you can do it at your own speed and join in when you want. I will keep the thread updated with people's progress, and a list of who is participating with details of their colour choices. Please post pictures of your progress, Heather suggests we do them in small groups, maybe 5 per session, so we can digest what we have learnt, and plot and plan new variations.
Here are the rules, please click on the link to download the entire PDF with important information:
http://www.heathertrimlett.com/40-beads/index.htm (http://www.heathertrimlett.com/40-beads/index.htm)
Don't forget to send a picture of your 40 beads to Heather at the end of the exercise! Her email is on the pdf. She will post them in her Pinterest board:
http://www.pinterest.com/heathertrim...oject-results/
Excerpt from Heather:
Supplies:
• 1/8" mandrels (I didn't have any 3mm mandrels so I used 2.4mm)
• Two colors of highly contrasting opaque glass rods (for example, black & white, or turquoise & lapis etc.). Use only these two colors.
Tools:
• NO TOOLS! Heat & gravity are your only "tools". (I am watching you!)
Instructions
Make 40 beads:
• about 1/2"–5/8" in diameter
• using DOTS only as a decorative element
• melting ALL dots in - NO BUMPS at this time
• 5-6 beads at a time and take a break, work over a series of days (NOT 40 beads in one day)
Only one bead per mandrel
Tips:
Make each bead with a different pattern; random dots are fine, but experiment with precise dot patterns as well. Vary the size & placement pattern of the dots. Use no tools other than your mandrel. Yes, I love tools too, but I want you to understand the glass and how it moves, and you can't do that if you are manipulating it with a tool.
Keep your beads on a string in chronological order. You will be amazed at the progress you make between bead #1 and
bead #40!
I need to know your name and what colours you choose so I can make my list.
I hope lots of you will join me. I have chosen my colours and done my first beads. Will post photos in another post.
Janet
anfrank - Turquoise and Ivory
Angie -
AnnaSpanna - Anna Reichenbach Opal Raspberry and Eff Light Grey
Bearyboo - Danielle Black and Effetre Yellow Ochre
BettytheChook - Fiona Intense Black and White
Binty - Lime Green and Black
BlueKilnBeads - Yvette CIM Gunmetal & Ivory
Calico Cat - Carole Dirty Martini and CIM Cornflower
CarolB - Black and White
Damselfly Jewellery - Lt ivory and Turquoise
Debbie G -
DementedMagpie - Black and Dark Turquoise
DragonArtGlass - Andrea effetre 212 opaque lime green, and effetre 428 opaque light red.
Enchanted Cobwebs - Helen Sky blue and Dark Red
Essexgirl - Medium lapis and Periwinkle
Failariel - Colette Coral and Sky Blue
Flowerjasper - Sandy Effetre pastel Pink & Effetre dark grey
GaysieMay -
GlassByNiki -
GlassyLou- Lou Lapis and Light Sky Blue
Helenfc - Helen
Helsbels - Helen CIM Adamantium unique and CIM Key lime pie
Ilona - Effetre Dark Silver Plum and Effetre Opaque Grey.
Jayspangles - Janet CIM Adamantium and Effetre Light Ivory
Jeannette - light red and yellow pastel
Jenefer - Bullseye Cobalt and Periwinkle
Justjules - Pale Sky Blue and Marc Pastille
katherinem - Seashell and Adamantium
katie78 - Purple and Pearl Grey
Kaylee - Vicky Cim Fremen and Grape Ape
Lynnybobs - Lynne. CIM Tuxedo and Peace
k00m - Kerra Eff 452 Dark Brown Red and Eff 247 Light Lavender
Kimster - Kim Dark Ivory and Turquoise
MadelineBunyan - Eff purple272 and lt turquoise
marklaird - Lapis Cobalt Blue and Turquoise
Mel - Apricot yellow and petrol green
MoiraHFG - Dk ivory and Copper Green
Nammie - Anna Effetre Purple red and Dk ivory
Nicknack - Nick Effetre Dark Sky Blue and Petal Pink
Nikki - Apricot yellow and Black
Pam - CIM Valentine and Creamsicle
Pandanimal
PreciousROC- Rebecca
PurpleCobwebs - Gaynor Lime and Black
Ruth
Sangemarie - Sandra Lime Green and CIM Grumpy Bear
Sarah- dark periwinkle and dark ivory
Sarah A - Purple and Light Pink
Silkworm - Mary Pistachio green and black
SilverGems89 - Gemma Effetre Purple242 and Black
Skyblue - Lorna Orange and Smurfy
Tish - Blue and Reichenbach opal orange
Tomcat - Mark. Effetre Periwinkle 1220 and Effetre Black 1064
Trudi - CiM Lapis and Effetre soft grey
Veeka - Middle Blue and White
Yellow friend - Sheila Sage Green and Carrot Red
Yeske - Jeske Ivory and Opaque Brown
Quote from: Glassy Lou on September 21, 2013, 09:10:03 PM
Helen, I've done that too but then had a thought - does that contravene the "40 unique" rule? Or because it's like a negative of the original is it ok...?
I am not going to make the same patterns on any of the beads... patterns will be unique on all the beads, its just the colour of the base bead that changes. Heather's original photo in her challenge pictures show that she's used black bases for some, white bases for others, but the patterns on each bead is still unique. Sorry to cause confusion.
Anyway, here are my first eight. I like 6 of them:
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7384/9861021165_78b5299808.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/9861021165/)
IMG_0036 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/9861021165/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
Does anyone know if we are allowed to remake any we don't like, or is that not allowed?
My first batch. Turns out I didn't duplicate any patterns (even though I was sure I had).
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2852/9861819485_3c894c3b69.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/9861819485/)
40beadsday1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/9861819485/) by GlassyLou (http://www.flickr.com/people/thejewelleryhall/), on Flickr
I've put all my tools away so I'm not tempted to touch them. I do seem to have lost the ability to make a round bead without the assistance of a roller though...
Tish, yours are coming on really well, I can see your progress already.
I did another 8 today - no more from me now until next weekend. I really want to mix these up so that the colours alternate, but I'm being good and keeping them in chronological order even though it's killing me!
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3824/9880201604_ea7840b587_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/9880201604/)
IMG_0044 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/9880201604/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
Quote
By the way, someone mentioned there was a LE thread about this challenge. Anyone got a link?
Here you go: http://lampworketc.com/forums/showthread.php?t=250615&highlight=bead
I notice that there's a second challenge too, to be completed after this one:Project #2 – THREE colors, 1/2" to 1", strive for all the same size, everything else per Heather Trimlett's instructions. I can see myself moving on to that one after this one -- I'm finding it very addictive.
Hi there, I've decided to come out of hiding and take part in this too! Loving seeing everyone's work so far.
I've decided to use Effetre 452 Dark Brown Red/Wine Red (why does every supplier use a different name for this colour? ::)) & Effetre 247 Light Lavender.
Managed to finally get out to my shed for the first time in months and made 4 beads for this challenge. I wasn't expecting the slight reaction from the Lavender and I've already re-learnt that placing dots on the flame side is annoyingly awkward. Please excuse the somewhat crappy phone photo.
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5344/9902313154_b738edba55.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54948878@N07/9902313154/)
Beads 1-4 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54948878@N07/9902313154/) by Beadasaur (http://www.flickr.com/people/54948878@N07/), on Flickr
Nice! I really like the second one :)
Ok, I've finally settled on a colour combination. I'm gonna be boring and use ivory & opaque brown (I have a whole stock of both of them). These are my first five, in chronological order
(https://pbs.twimg.com/media/BU3wCfDCMAAT5-s.jpg)
I noticed that the brown tends to feather out but I don't really mind. I'm just glad they don't go waterish and blotchy like my first attempt!
Ps. I'm amazed at myself how they all turned out similar size :D
Well here goes - 1st 10 made (well I think there should only be 9 but a smaller test bead obviously photobombed the pic). Anyway, opal raspberry and effetre light grey. TBH I am not totally convinced by the subtleness of the colour combo but they are pretty enough to warrant forging ahead with it!
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7428/9935572356_f7fd3c78fb.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rainlilybeads/9935572356/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rainlilybeads/9935572356/) by Rain Lily Beads (http://www.flickr.com/people/rainlilybeads/), on Flickr
A bit wobbly, I'm afraid. Straight off the mandrel, please excuse bead poo...
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2860/9939297495_d643fc9a4e_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/9939297495/)
40 beads 1 to 6 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/9939297495/) by sleepychamaeleon (http://www.flickr.com/people/sleepychamaeleon/), on Flickr
These are my first two test beads to check the colour combo!
CiM Lapis and Effetre Pearl Grey
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2890/9957310663_c5fa017682_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/glitteringprize/9957310663/)
40 bead challenge (http://www.flickr.com/photos/glitteringprize/9957310663/) by Glittering Prize - Trudi (http://www.flickr.com/people/glitteringprize/), on Flickr
Aaagh factor of 10 trying to get photos uploaded. Have had to work out how to use my DH's Mac having only been used to a VIAO. Hope the photos are ok (http://i989.photobucket.com/albums/af14/crocosmia60/IMG_5638.jpg) (http://s989.photobucket.com/user/crocosmia60/media/IMG_5638.jpg.html) These are 2 sessions worth(http://i989.photobucket.com/albums/af14/crocosmia60/IMG_5637.jpg) (http://s989.photobucket.com/user/crocosmia60/media/IMG_5637.jpg.html) :)
Shelia
These are my first 5 beads. Sorry about the awful pick, had to use a different camera.
(http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x233/lopo_09/P1010113_zps8735abc2.jpg)
(http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x233/lopo_09/P1010111_zps649ec30c.jpg)
It was nice to be back at the torch.
So I have a few more beads to add
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7394/9963423175_5ce3c3d76c_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/glitteringprize/9963423175/)
40 bead challenge ... stage 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/glitteringprize/9963423175/) by Glittering Prize - Trudi (http://www.flickr.com/people/glitteringprize/), on Flickr
Some of my observations ..
figuring out the size of the base bead to allow for the amount of dots to be added. was also surprised at how much the dots spread out ... opaques do spread out a bit on transparent glass .... Maybe it's the colour choice?
Also used heat and gravity to swirl the dots around. You do need good heat control for this and spinning skills! The bead will go a bit more round than donut shaped.
Some more from me. I've realised that because of the reactions between these two, I can't do precise patterns, but I can work with the reactions; also with reducing the copper green.
Do you know what? My dot placement is actually getting less random. Brilliant!
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3691/9970314816_424d0354ca_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/9970314816/)
40 beads 7 to 12 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/9970314816/) by sleepychamaeleon (http://www.flickr.com/people/sleepychamaeleon/), on Flickr
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2824/9970315166_4f146c3d73_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/9970315166/)
40 beads 13 to 17 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/9970315166/) by sleepychamaeleon (http://www.flickr.com/people/sleepychamaeleon/), on Flickr
My second batch of seven. Not sure why I'm doing them in batches of seven - it doesn't even go into 40!
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7360/9987942164_518b34e10f.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/9987942164/)
DSCN6523 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/9987942164/) by GlassyLou (http://www.flickr.com/people/thejewelleryhall/), on Flickr
These are a fair bit smaller/skinnier than the first lot. I'm finding it hard to stop with the dots once I quit working on challenge beads and move onto other stuff. Still enjoying it though.
Here are my latest 8 beads (numbers 17 - 24) from me - they are the ones at the front.
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5545/9996268883_3224a944c3_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/9996268883/)
IMG_0074 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/9996268883/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
Had a couple more sessions - the last one has shown a slight regression in sizing!(http://i989.photobucket.com/albums/af14/crocosmia60/IMG_5652.jpg) (http://s989.photobucket.com/user/crocosmia60/media/IMG_5652.jpg.html)(http://i989.photobucket.com/albums/af14/crocosmia60/IMG_5654.jpg) (http://s989.photobucket.com/user/crocosmia60/media/IMG_5654.jpg.html)
Also having looked at others - there's so many designs I hadn't even thought of :)
Shelia
Set one, produced over the last two weekends. I must admit I'm not getting as much torch time as I would like at the moment but I suspect we all say that.
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5443/9997817783_dba4446e97.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/hazelhousejewellery/9997817783/)
40 bead challenge set 1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/hazelhousejewellery/9997817783/) by Marklaird (http://www.flickr.com/people/hazelhousejewellery/), on Flickr
There are some lovely designs on every bodies beads. Going to have to start writing some ideas.
Here are 11-17.... it is so difficult knowing what the heck is going on under the reactions with these two colours and so dot placement gets a bit haphazard to say the least! Bu they def look better and sharper once they are out of the kiln!
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7386/9999792955_6966bb96c5.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rainlilybeads/9999792955/)
40 bead Challenge (11-17) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rainlilybeads/9999792955/) by Rain Lily Beads (http://www.flickr.com/people/rainlilybeads/), on Flickr
OK, I have made a start! I had a little practise then got going with beads 1-5...
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2809/10005468683_4c84a5d012.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10005468683/)
1 to 5 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10005468683/) by Nammie's Pics (http://www.flickr.com/people/102536316@N06/), on Flickr
Using Effetre Purple Red and Dark Ivory (and its a lot darker red in real life than on my screen, sort of 'deep knife wound' rather than 'fresh cut finger'). I had a little break and then did beads 6-8...
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2808/10005467993_9875304f17.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10005467993/)
6 to 8 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10005467993/) by Nammie's Pics (http://www.flickr.com/people/102536316@N06/), on Flickr
..and my gas ran out! So I am stuck for a bit now. It gives me time to reflect on what I've done so far - Must work on consistent sizing! and I'm getting some very 'hairy' dots, I think its just because I haven't found the best place in the flame to cut the stringer properly but all advice/suggestions are welcome.
I'm really enjoying seeing what everyone is producing and all the different colour combos. Its also great to be able to join in with something with the experts despite only having had my torch a few days.
Erm, I'm a bit late - I've plumped for light red and yellow pastel.
(Not mine on the far left!)
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5472/10007194934_c7085f3d91.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paladinglass/10007194934/)
Day 1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paladinglass/10007194934/) by Jeannette Copeland (http://www.flickr.com/people/paladinglass/), on Flickr
Well next lot done! Not sure about photobucket pic, when I resize it looks like the pic is completely cropped! Must read instructions again...
Here goes.
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p551/Kimster21/P1050392.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/Kimster21/media/P1050392.jpg.html)
Very difficult to keep things neat & tight with such soupy soft spready reactive colours! Will do a 'Things I am learning (lots!)' list tomorrow :D :D
Next 10 coming up hopefully. These were my favourite to make, but huge variety of sizes! The whole lot are noticeably bigger than sets 1 & 2, which stupidly I didn't have in front of me when I was making them.
(http://i1155.photobucket.com/albums/p551/Kimster21/55b83d99-ec3e-4804-9563-e69e56ed18d5.jpg) (http://s1155.photobucket.com/user/Kimster21/media/55b83d99-ec3e-4804-9563-e69e56ed18d5.jpg.html)
I'm doing the LE thread - Jay said I could post them here too, so here's my latest. Beads 12-16 and the whole lot so far.
My colours are ASK silver cinnamon and Effetre black.
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7447/10028577634_668e39d7f9_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/10028577634/) (http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7419/10028712913_a70dc80afe_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/10028712913/)
Had a bit of a rush of blood to the head yesterday, decided I'd swim a couple of kilometres when exercise is really not my thing. Still came home and needed to melt something though... Here are beads 9 to 12, I think I'm getting more consistent on sizes...
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2830/10036922783_64dc3c8821.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10036922783/)
9 to 12 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10036922783/) by Nammie's Pics (http://www.flickr.com/people/102536316@N06/), on Flickr
and all together so far
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7433/10036868376_2b410527b3_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10036868376/)
1-12 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10036868376/) by Nammie's Pics (http://www.flickr.com/people/102536316@N06/), on Flickr
That's a bit fuzzy but no doubt you'll get to see the set again when I complete a few more.
Thank you for everyone who advised on dots, I think I was a bit more controlled this time, not quite so many loose strands of glass :)
First 6!
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5514/10051600965_032732882a.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/51728827@N04/10051600965/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/51728827@N04/10051600965/) by binty13 (http://www.flickr.com/people/51728827@N04/), on Flickr
Wow, you've all been busy. Gorgeous work everyone!
I've managed to make another 4. At this rate it's going to be next year before I finish!
This time I learnt that I find it much easier to make small dots and add more glass to them before melting in, rather than trying to do big dots straight away.
Here's beads 5-8:
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3679/10055474605_04aabf3753.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54948878@N07/10055474605/)
Beads 5-8 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54948878@N07/10055474605/) by Beadasaur (http://www.flickr.com/people/54948878@N07/), on Flickr
and the whole lot so far:
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5460/10055472614_386569676a.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54948878@N07/10055472614/)
Beads 1-8 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/54948878@N07/10055472614/) by Beadasaur (http://www.flickr.com/people/54948878@N07/), on Flickr
I finally got started... I decided to go for CiM Fremen and Grape Ape. I haven't looked through the thread yet to see everyone else's beads, I thought it might be good to try to do mine first before looking ::)
My first 8 beads...
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2879/10058041313_abc292204c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kayleelampwork/10058041313/)
40 Bead Challenge part 1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kayleelampwork/10058041313/) by VickyK135 (http://www.flickr.com/people/kayleelampwork/), on Flickr
And the second set of 8 which I like a bit better:
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2842/10057941094_e89b5ee7e8.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kayleelampwork/10057941094/)
40 Bead Challenge Part 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kayleelampwork/10057941094/) by VickyK135 (http://www.flickr.com/people/kayleelampwork/), on Flickr
24 beads to go!
Lovely beads everyone, really clever - bit of a learning curve for me!
Session 1 (left set) and session 2 to the right.
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7378/10058802235_acd8f28a55.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paladinglass/10058802235/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paladinglass/10058802235/) by Jeannette Copeland (http://www.flickr.com/people/paladinglass/), on Flickr
This is the 2nd set of beads
(http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x233/lopo_09/P1010691_zpsccd904c1.jpg)
And a better picture of the first set
(http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x233/lopo_09/P1010692_zps834dd3e6.jpg)
The strand so far
(http://i182.photobucket.com/albums/x233/lopo_09/P1010694_zpsb8416f71.jpg)
Fabulous beads everyone .. this thread is really inspiring me!!
Here's my stage 3 beads
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7385/10065178055_b6f40d368c_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/glitteringprize/10065178055/)
40 bead challenge stage 3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/glitteringprize/10065178055/) by Glittering Prize - Trudi (http://www.flickr.com/people/glitteringprize/), on Flickr
I will post a picture later with them all together!
Next two batches from me (http://i989.photobucket.com/albums/af14/crocosmia60/IMG_5674.jpg) (http://s989.photobucket.com/user/crocosmia60/media/IMG_5674.jpg.html)(http://i989.photobucket.com/albums/af14/crocosmia60/IMG_5676.jpg) (http://s989.photobucket.com/user/crocosmia60/media/IMG_5676.jpg.html)
Having had a closer look at the photographs the last 4 look a bit redder I think because these were from a new rod. I think it may be Light Red which got mixed up with my batch of Carrot Red - should I remake these in Carrot Red or see it as a lesson in looking a bit closer next time :(
My coral is quite orange which is disappointing.
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2843/10074503244_b063ef6b9e.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10074503244/)
1-12 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10074503244/) by Dragonfire Glass (http://www.flickr.com/people/dragonfireglass/), on Flickr
I've now completed all 40 & think I'll call it my Blood & Mud Collection - can't think why I chose these colours!!(http://i989.photobucket.com/albums/af14/crocosmia60/IMG_5678.jpg) (http://s989.photobucket.com/user/crocosmia60/media/IMG_5678.jpg.html)
:)Shelia
Quote from: Failariel on October 04, 2013, 09:31:59 PM
I'm running out of dotty ideas though
Me too!
Here's my next batch..
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7334/10090550974_864389d9bd_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10090550974/)
40 beads 18 to 23 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10090550974/) by sleepychamaeleon (http://www.flickr.com/people/sleepychamaeleon/), on Flickr
I can't see CarolB's (?).
I made 2 more and gave myself 3rd degree burns and burnt a hole in the mat...still I like the half and half idea - lovely inspiration (thank you).
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7401/10102696005_282682cdab.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paladinglass/10102696005/)
Day 3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paladinglass/10102696005/) by Jeannette Copeland (http://www.flickr.com/people/paladinglass/), on Flickr
ok, time to post some of mine!
started off well...
(http://madelinebunyan.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/p1400674adj.jpg?w=490&h=333)
my first four are still my favourite. even with the stray wrong coloured dots on bead no.3.
sadly I think I've regressed as I've gone along! over half way now though!
(http://madelinebunyan.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/p1400687adjsm.jpg?w=490&h=120)
I put a post on my blog (link in sig) with more pictures
Here's my latest 8 (at the front- sorry not the best pic of the two on the left). Up to 32, 8 more to go.
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5471/10142152723_bf26b367e8_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10142152723/)
IMG_0086 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10142152723/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
Thanks everyone
wow you're racing on Helen! and they look fab!
I have another 6, taking me to 28, still don't like them as much as my first four, but seeing potential for other things in that 2nd one along (where I can use more colours and my rake!)
(http://madelinebunyan.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/p1400707adj.jpg?w=490&h=262)
more pics on my blog. I need to put them on a string now, I'm running out of skewer and they don't easily fit in the camera frame anymore!
Dots 18-23 from the weekend. The last bead got bigger because I was originally planning on having small surface dots, then changed my mind (and the first one was the only Saturday bead and is smaller).
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5502/10162817506_662ea8a5c0_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/10162817506/) (http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3797/10162747485_85c58acd0f_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/10162747485/)
Here are my first 6 (first on right). Sorry about the photo, it makes them look all dark and grotty! I seem to be having trouble with sizing!!!!!!!! The first two were part of a colour test. In future I'll keep the on that's nearest to the right size in front of me, and hope that helps with getting the size more consistent. The biggest one just grew and grew, as I tried to get the two halves equal.
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2857/10168494763_0bfe91bac3.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/83809794@N06/10168494763/)
IMG_0377 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/83809794@N06/10168494763/) by nicknack2014 (http://www.flickr.com/people/83809794@N06/), on Flickr
I can only improve!
Nick
They look really lovely Nick, dots are really round and clear - unlike mine which are a bit fuzzy and wonky but I'm looking forward to seeing how my last ones will compare - if I ever get there! Have tried to upload photo of my first 6 but not really sure if it will work as it all sounds a bit complicated (hope it doesn't come our really massive :o). Will have to re-do bead three as it is bumpy rather than flat but thought I'd leave it on the skewer for now!
(http://i842.photobucket.com/albums/zz345/blue-whippet/bb03c467-d3aa-470e-b1bc-15b8da412487_zps8a2cb5c5.jpg) (http://s842.photobucket.com/user/blue-whippet/media/bb03c467-d3aa-470e-b1bc-15b8da412487_zps8a2cb5c5.jpg.html)
Yay! I'm finally finished! I have really enjoyed this challenge, although have to admit I'm kind of sick of looking at these two colours now. I have learnt that:
1) I generally prefer simpler patterns to more complex ones.
2) Sometimes abstract is good
My sizing definitely got more consistent as I went along too.
Here's a shot showing the final 8 beads at the front:
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7446/10203454146_b792f9b414.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10203454146/)
IMG_0090 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10203454146/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
And another shot of the final strand:
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3743/10203351754_43942eca1e.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10203351754/)
IMG_0091 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10203351754/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
My next few:
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3679/10203460736_1398883870_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10203460736/)
40 beads 24 to 28 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10203460736/) by sleepychamaeleon (http://www.flickr.com/people/sleepychamaeleon/), on Flickr
I've been trying to copy some of the clever patterns I've seen on this thread, but with the smeary nature of these glasses and my less-than-accurate dot work, you'd never know it to see these!
Still..I like the reduction on the last one :)
Hope this works!!
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5456/10204247364_70e042ecd0.jpg)
Well done Helen! *high fives* they look fab, love how all the different colours look different not only for the oclour, but the behaviour of the glass.
Moira, you're doing great with that tricky pairing
Veeka, those are so lovely and crisp! much better colour choice than mine!
I have finished!!!
(http://madelinebunyan.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/p1400796adjsm.jpg?w=490&h=639)
other pics on the blog again.
If you haven't yet done the 40 bead challenge Part 1 , might I suggest that you go and check out that first: http://www.frit-happens.co.uk/forum/index.php?topic=42626.0
This thread is for those who now fancy doing the 40 bead challenge part 2!!!
The rules for Part 2 of the challenge are as follows:
1. You must make 40 beads using only THREE colours (In the original challenge, these had to be opaques, but in Part 2 you can use silver glass and transparents if you wish - it's up to you how "faithful" you want to be to the original challenge rules). You can only use DOTS as your decorative element on the bead surface, and all dots must be melted in flat. Each bead must be unique, and you can only make 1 bead per mandrel.
2. The beads must be made using NO TOOLS except a marver. It is ok to use tools to pull stringers BEFORE you start.
3. Beads must be between 1/2 inch to 1 inch diameter, and in Part 2 of the challenge, you are aiming to achieve the best size consistency you can across the strand.
4. Beads must not be made all in a single day. Ideally, make 5-6 beads a session, as you will learn as you go along.
5. You can use whatever size mandrels you have, but the ideal is 3mm.
6. String each bead onto cord in the order you make them. Post pictures here as your strand grows!
No time limit, make them at your own pace.
Once you have decided on your three colours (testing is recommended!), let me know your name and what you have chosen and I'll update this thread accordingly.
The original details of Heather's 40 bead challenge can be found here:http://www.heathertrimlett.com/40-beads/index.htm
Participants:
Yellow Friend (Sheila) - Wine red, sky blue and acid yellow
Helbels (Helen) - CIM Lapis, Vetrofond Pajama Blue & Reichenbach Deep Black
Moira HFG - white, light grey, and Reich Pink Lady
Please post photos of your finished 40 bead challenge strands here. Can you add details of the colours you used, and any issues you may have had, and any useful lesson learned.
I haven't finished mine yet so can't start it off.
ok, I'll be first, not that I was first to finish, and not that this is in any way a race
(http://madelinebunyan.files.wordpress.com/2013/10/p1400796adjsm.jpg?w=490&h=639)
colours: light turquoise and purple 272
main lesson...less is very often more!
issues: picking up the wrong coloured stringer (grr celadon and dark turquoise!) shoulda tidied my desk a bit better!
more thoughts as I went along on my blog, link in sig.
Here are mine:
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3743/10203351754_43942eca1e_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10203351754/)
IMG_0091 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10203351754/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
Colours used: CIM Adamantium Unique and CIM Key Lime Pie
Lessons learned: It's hard to make lots of small dots close together look neat and tidy. Generally, a sparse pattern is more pleasing to the eye than a complex one. There's a point of no return where adding more dots just produces a messy bead. Flaws on a single bead are very noticeable, but in a strand, they don't show up as much :D
Issues experienced: On a couple of beads I overestimated how much the size of the bead would grow as the result of using lots of dots. This led to a couple of small beads.
I do love the variety of beads here - all lovely!
Here's a few more:
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3709/10212740074_e5e4eee87a_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10212740074/)
40 beads 29 to 33 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10212740074/) by sleepychamaeleon (http://www.flickr.com/people/sleepychamaeleon/), on Flickr
Sun is shining - so have taken a couple of pics of the first 2 batches. Now I know you can have a transparent or silvered glass, I might have a go at those options too - even if its only for me.
(http://i989.photobucket.com/albums/af14/crocosmia60/IMG_5684.jpg)[/URL[URL=http://s989.photobucket.com/user/crocosmia60/media/IMG_5686.jpg.html](http://i989.photobucket.com/albums/af14/crocosmia60/IMG_5686.jpg) (http://s989.photobucket.com/user/crocosmia60/media/IMG_5684.jpg.html)
Theres sooo many possibilities :)
Shelia
I used sage green & carrot red, not sure why but they didn't react too much & I wanted a different combination to what I would normally use.
Lessons learnt - I started too small. As the string evolved my beads all became somewhat round but I'm ok with that and the sizing became more consistent. I never have been good at keeping a donut shape. So if you want round but unaided by tools.
This may be like sucking eggs for some but I hope this may be useful for newbies. This is how I got the sizing about right. Make the core perfect by laying an even amount of glass, i.e. 2 wraps wide, or 2 small beads side by side, continuous steady spinning but take it out of the heat for it to firm up, keep it level, don't overheat the core afterwards. Then adding a bit to the middle to fatten it up. You don't want pointy ends - if you do then redistribute the glass by heating the ends and holding the mandrel at 45 deg angle, when the glass starts to move - take it out of the heat but keep spinning until it firms up. If it starts to droop take it out of the heat but keep spinning. When you're happy with the shape and the colour is back - start decorating.
I didn't have too much problem with coming up with different designs. I didn't plan too much as this never works for me anyway. You can have 2,3,4,5 or 6 dots around the middle, 2 sets of parallels, overlaying, bi colour bases. Heating as hot as you dare can bring some interesting results too.
Whatever - I found this a lot of fun & a very useful exercise coming from someone who mainly does focals & organics. And now does dots :)
Shelia
(http://i989.photobucket.com/albums/af14/crocosmia60/IMG_5678.jpg) (http://s989.photobucket.com/user/crocosmia60/media/IMG_5678.jpg.html)
Here are my first 8, hope to be making the second 8 today, then that will be it until next weekend. I am pretty pleased with them so far, they are fairly consistent of size, some are slightly "Flat" at the end rather than truly round, but I will work on that:
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3700/10243810566_784a4c66ca_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10243810566/)
IMG_0092 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10243810566/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
So here is my 4th session, not so happy with the dots, but by some fluke they are relatively evenly spaced!
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5349/10246540916_e0828aeaa1.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paladinglass/10246540916/)
Day4 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paladinglass/10246540916/) by Jeannette Copeland (http://www.flickr.com/people/paladinglass/), on Flickr
They look pretty good to me, too!
Here's my first lot. The results of Friday's colour testing by which I decided on the colours are on the left, the other five are yesterday's batch.
So far:
- Size and shape are not perfect, but pretty good by my standards. Having a "size reference" bead in front of me definitely helps.
- I still can't do neat stripes on purpose; I will attempt to improve this in the course of this challenge. Dot placement, however, has definitely got better this year.
- When coming up with the other designs, consideration should be given to the slightly streaky quality of the turquoise. As can be seen in the middle bead, this affects the effectiveness of "masking" techniques.
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3731/10252536073_5001150736_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/88956060@N05/10252536073/)
Here are my second batch
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5446/10253586325_68ffe81318.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10253586325/)
13-26 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10253586325/) by Dragonfire Glass (http://www.flickr.com/people/dragonfireglass/), on Flickr
Quite a lot of size variation but for now I'm concentrating on dot placement. I'll work on size next ...
I'm loving all the colour combos and the fact that so many people are taking part.
I've fallen behind somewhat thought I'd have a bit of a catch up this weekend.
Here are 15-24 - phew, past the halfway mark. I'm relatively happy with these - particularly because I've managed to get them all the same size or thereabouts. I suspect my pattern originality will start to wobble soon. I'm learning some really important things though so I'm keeping a list. :)
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2827/10257875464_dcc32b4bd1.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/10257875464/)
day3 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/10257875464/) by GlassyLou (http://www.flickr.com/people/thejewelleryhall/), on Flickr
I would like to join this challenge please. I have chosen medium lapis and periwinkle (because I have lots of each!).
This is my first batch of 5 and you can see why I need this challenge :-[. There are problems with size, shape and dot placement.
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3719/10265422615_9be115ac55.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/98646411@N05/10265422615/)
40bead1 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/98646411@N05/10265422615/) by Essexgirl100 (http://www.flickr.com/people/98646411@N05/), on Flickr
Can anyone tell me why the lapis has gone horrible in the last 2 beads?
This is my second batch, not much improvement :'( but at least the colour hasn't changed :)
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7429/10265410086_5f2ac762f6.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/98646411@N05/10265410086/)
40bead2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/98646411@N05/10265410086/) by Essexgirl100 (http://www.flickr.com/people/98646411@N05/), on Flickr
At the rate I am going this is going to take until Xmas!
Have made my finished strand into a necklace, and I am pretty pleased with it. I have lots of things it will go with, and I have been looking for something to use the Tierracast clock toggle on for ages. It seems appropriate considering the time that has gone into this project.
Welcome Essex girl, you will see too that I was dimensionally challenged, but the finished result shows that even if they aren't all the same size they still look ok, but I definitely got more consistent towards the end. I did photograph them initially in the order that I made them, but rearranged them to make them up.
Now to consider my options for part 2....
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7442/10267538084_fb5e0a177e.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/14029336@N03/10267538084/)
AdobePhotoshopExpress_2013_10_14_12:34:24 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/14029336@N03/10267538084/) by JaySpangles (http://www.flickr.com/people/14029336@N03/), on Flickr
Here's my next 8. I aimed for a mix of precise and abstract. Abstract I find harder, and interestingly, I'm finding it harder to come up with patterns on round beads, which is the opposite of what I thought would happen.
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5478/10274358575_77c541b89b_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10274358575/)
IMG_0092 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10274358575/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
They look so much nicer in the flesh, I'll have to see if I can get a pic in natural light at some point. I already know the finished strand is going to make a stunning necklace. Only 24 more to go lol ;D
That's a lovely necklace. I'd definitely wear it. Not so sure I'd get so much wear out of the colours I've used, but we'll see...
I had another catch-up sesh today, so here's 25-34. Last six tomorrow hopefully.
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7447/10280080896_18742d317e.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/10280080896/)
40beadchallengeday4 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/10280080896/) by GlassyLou (http://www.flickr.com/people/thejewelleryhall/), on Flickr
Love that lime green!
Here's my last six. I'll post a pic of the full shebang on the other thread along with my findings. :D
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3675/10299748093_6da634f74c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/10299748093/)
DSCN6568 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/10299748093/) by GlassyLou (http://www.flickr.com/people/thejewelleryhall/), on Flickr
Here's my finished strand:
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5503/10299743703_c12d5a637c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/10299743703/)
DSCN6566 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/thejewelleryhall/10299743703/) by GlassyLou (http://www.flickr.com/people/thejewelleryhall/), on Flickr
Colours used: CiM Lapis and Effetre Light Sky Blue (224)
Final strand measures 330mm and weighs 90g - that's roughly the same weight as 5 rods (the rods averaging 6mm x 340mm).
Things I've learned:
1. It's better to start simple and build to something more complicated.
2. My memory is awful. I was putting beads in the kiln to garage and forgetting what designs I'd put on them. Also, I'd have a great idea for the next pattern while I was still finishing a bead. I can't recall a single time I ended up remembering the idea long enough to actually execute it.
3. I don't want to make anything in light sky blue or lapis for a very long time
4. By the end I found that I was thinking so much about dot patterns that it was clouding my creativity. The opposite of what happened at the beginning of the challenge.
5. I can just wing it with patterns, but I should have a plan of what I'm going to do with a bead before I start, otherwise it ends up being poo.
6. I find it easier to decorate the right hand side of a bead than the left ???
I had planned to swing from this challenge straight into #2, but I honestly can't face it. Maybe in a month or so...
Thanks ever so much for organising this one though - it's been a real eye-opener. I can stop having dreams about dot patterns now.
Lx
I love your colours GlassyLou and very precise dots too!
I've made it to number 18! Number 1 is in the middle - number 18 is top left.
This is one of my favourite combinations because of the laciness of ivory & the reaction it has with dark periwinkle -but all of that means I'm struggling with the more complex patterns. There are a couple in here which haven't worked so I'm simplifying things a little. Bead numbers 4 and 10 are not destined for a long & happy life and remain only because of the challenge rules - I haven't made up my mind about 6 & 14 yet.
I don't have my usual camera gear set up at the moment so apologies for the photo :-[
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3679/10317414954_98de0fc673.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/flameforcefive/10317414954/)
40 bead challenge (http://www.flickr.com/photos/flameforcefive/10317414954/) by Flame Force Five (http://www.flickr.com/people/flameforcefive/), on Flickr
Sarah
xxx
Here are beads 24-28.
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7416/10279650246_ba7ea68f94_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/10279650246/) (http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3705/10279564014_8454379285_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/10279564014/)
Getting near the end and according to my count I only need a few more. Still a vast variation in size though.
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2853/10336816485_6a4ef4be41.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10336816485/)
27-39 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10336816485/) by Dragonfire Glass (http://www.flickr.com/people/dragonfireglass/), on Flickr
Here's my last set - phew!
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3722/10332992854_3bf2a49716_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10332992854/)
40 beads 34 to 40 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10332992854/) by sleepychamaeleon (http://www.flickr.com/people/sleepychamaeleon/), on Flickr
Here's my full set, I think I might have mixed up the last two lots:
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5515/10364873975_39c96a09b0_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10364873975/)
40 beads, all 40 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10364873975/) by sleepychamaeleon (http://www.flickr.com/people/sleepychamaeleon/), on Flickr
It's true, you don't know what you can do until you try. My natural inclination is to trail rather than dot, so this has expanded my repertoire no end.
I've discovered that ivory over copper green is easier than the other way around, big dots of green just sink and vanish into the ivory. And I love the reactions; and the coppery red that comes up in a reducing flame.
Well I'd better think of some colours for part 2 then!
Moira :)
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3814/10376766105_2f71e17c7e_m.jpg)
I finally got to start - no sooner had I chosen my two colours than I got an urgent order!
Having problems with sizing - in an effort to allow for the additional glass, I went a bit too small for beads 3 to 6 . . . .
Corrr love that colour combo, Mark.
Lost my camera a.k.a him indoors has put it somewhere, but here's a few more.
Umm, generally not very happy with the dots again... size isn't too bad...
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3751/10388384646_7b00252f2b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paladinglass/10388384646/)
Day 5 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/paladinglass/10388384646/) by Jeannette Copeland (http://www.flickr.com/people/paladinglass/), on Flickr
Here are dots 29-33, I was using crescents this time. That little one is the smallest bead in the whole strand :p
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3705/10411947323_b41f55181d_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/10411947323/) (http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2817/10411786814_675fe8f106_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/10411786814/)
I have finally managed to start my beads - 1-10 (left to right) completed over two torch sessions.
We(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7414/10438812293_1112b14076.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/57815855@N03/10438812293/)
IMAG0244[1] (http://www.flickr.com/photos/57815855@N03/10438812293/) by sangemarie (http://www.flickr.com/people/57815855@N03/), on Flickrll
What have I learnt so far: I need lots more practice, my dot placement is very hit and miss and my sizes are varying slightly although the first 5 were much more consistent.
Sandra :)
While I am here, I'd like to share my Challenge One strand using Double Helix Kronos 2 and White:
(http://www.envisionsf.com/images/_MG_4841necklace.jpg)
Here is a work-in-progress picture of my Challenge Two beads along with a couple of focals utilizing the skills I learned:
(http://www.envisionsf.com/images/_MG_4879forum.jpg)
I thought I'd try something different to my usual sludgy organics and vivid colours. So here's my first 6, in cool sophisticated white, light grey, and Reich Pink Lady:
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3682/10496513796_611ac74f07_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10496513796/)
40 beads two 1 to 6 again (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10496513796/) by sleepychamaeleon (http://www.flickr.com/people/sleepychamaeleon/), on Flickr
Ha! Somehow they still look kind of organic. I don't think I have cool and sophisticated fingers! :D
Moira
fab beads everyone,
heres my first 13
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7414/10510494424_0c1b421ef1.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/92473610@N04/10510494424/)
gem acorns 006 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/92473610@N04/10510494424/) by Flowerjasper2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/92473610@N04/), on Flickr
sandy
Am a bit embarrassed to show my effort after seeing the beads posted so far but here they are - and despite their faults I am v pleased to have got to the end at least. :D (although I might cheat and re-do the one bumpy one which was before I read the rules properly!) The last beads are in the middle.
(http://i842.photobucket.com/albums/zz345/blue-whippet/5aa2eefb-2722-47d7-a93f-12e73e41959d_zps1b29d3e5.jpg) (http://s842.photobucket.com/user/blue-whippet/media/5aa2eefb-2722-47d7-a93f-12e73e41959d_zps1b29d3e5.jpg.html)
Finished mine :)
What did I learn?
I can't count either but there are actually 40 beads despite me thinking I'd made more.
There were certain patterns I could do precisely and others I was hopeless at.
I need to think ahead to how much extra glass I'm putting on to keep the sizes even, but then if I'm making a set of just one design it really doesn't matter :D
I tended to make more beads with sky blue as the base.
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5504/10540102674_ae9de4a984.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10540102674/)
full st-1 - Copy (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10540102674/) by Dragonfire Glass (http://www.flickr.com/people/dragonfireglass/), on Flickr
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3806/10540057635_0ca2ebb022.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10540057635/)
full set - Copy (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10540057635/) by Dragonfire Glass (http://www.flickr.com/people/dragonfireglass/), on Flickr
Hope I'm in the right place now - note to self, read!
These are my last 4 beads.
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2840/10540053116_77d2bc6795.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10540053116/)
37-40 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonfireglass/10540053116/) by Dragonfire Glass (http://www.flickr.com/people/dragonfireglass/), on Flickr
At last - pictures to upload! (hope this works)
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2858/10642976505_63c7e5c854.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonartglass/10642976505/)
40 bead challenge 1-9 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonartglass/10642976505/) by dragonartglass@btinternet.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/dragonartglass/), on Flickr
Beads one to nine
and
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2807/10643012296_8292086340.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonartglass/10643012296/)
40 bead challenge 1-21 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonartglass/10643012296/) by dragonartglass@btinternet.com (http://www.flickr.com/people/dragonartglass/), on Flickr
beads one to twenty one.
Not really happy with some of them....already learned that less is more, and really need to work on sizing - but it's a learning experience ::)
Hello all,
I am still plugging away with my 40 Bead Challenge Part 2 strand... my first 16 or so were very consistent in size, then I stopped for a week. The next few I made were too small, then they got a bit too big! Still finding it much harder making patterns on round beads as opposed to donuts. These are also very chunky beads so they are taking me a while!
Here's the latest picture of the strand:(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3769/10676026084_72fcbbe452.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10676026084/)
IMG_0148 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10676026084/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
Still loving seeing everyone's beads, there are fantastic sets appearing and each new pic gives me a nudge towards the torch.
I have been a bit lax, not so much in the torching but in the posting pics department - So here are numbers 13 to 21 which have been finished a while now
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5545/10697775685_11885f0f06_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10697775685/)
13 to 21 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10697775685/) by Nammie's Pics (http://www.flickr.com/people/102536316@N06/), on Flickr
and as part of the set so far...
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3813/10697777655_4318f600cf_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10697777655/)
1 to 21 straight (http://www.flickr.com/photos/102536316@N06/10697777655/) by Nammie's Pics (http://www.flickr.com/people/102536316@N06/), on Flickr
The 'stars' on number 18 didn't quite work the way I had in mind, that'll teach me to plan things! I think my sizing might be getting more consistent...maybe...
Here's a few more of mine:
6 resting on a stained glass piece i have on the go -
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7392/10759239674_697c93e07d_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10759239674/)
40 beads two 7 to 12 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10759239674/) by sleepychamaeleon (http://www.flickr.com/people/sleepychamaeleon/), on Flickr
and the next 6:
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7378/10759158155_1ea447a871_m.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10759158155/)
40 beads 13 to 18 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sleepychamaeleon/10759158155/) by sleepychamaeleon (http://www.flickr.com/people/sleepychamaeleon/), on Flickr
That last one (the dragonscales on the left) I have to say I'm very pleased with. I'm still a long way from the talent and expertise shown by the top artists on this site - but I'm starting to feel I'm moving from 'beginner' to 'improver'!
Keep at it, you newbies, if I can do it, anyone can! ;D
Moira
Janet said it's not too late, so I'm excited to join in.
Here are my first six. The glass is bullseye: cobalt and periwinkle.
(http://jenefer.net/lampworking/first6-ham.jpg)
I'm not sure why but the periwinkle sometimes breaks up a bit. May be extra heatwork does it? Will be paying better attention on the next batch to see if I can suss it!
Wheeee! Having fun!
=) Jenefer
And here's my next six.
(http://jenefer.net/lampworking/2nd-6-ham.jpg)
(flipped upside down so the smile is right up)
I so liked the smiley one that after I was done with this set of 6, I tried making some in other colors. It's interesting trying to find colors that completely mask the dot colour underneath.
Spent some time yesterday reading the first 20 pages in this thread, and wow, what inspiration I found!!! I'm off to do another set! ;D
Wheeeeee!
And here are 13-22. Colors are Bullseye periwinkle and cobalt blue.
I got a bit carried away on ole number 19, because I was using up the stub of a rod. Oops!
(http://jenefer.net/lampworking/ham-13-22.jpg)
I'm over the halfway mark! Whoohooo!
Just updating to show my latest 5 (at the front)... I have 9 to go now, very glad, as I'm finding it harder and harder as I go along!
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3700/10901043746_4ccdbbe08c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10901043746/)
IMG_0567 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/10901043746/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
Nammie & Jenefer - I love both of your colour combinations. I might have to hit my bullseye stash once I've finished these - the colours really pop!
I'm working my way through these very slowly and I've been even slower at taking photos. But here are 1 - 32 so only 8 to go! 1 is in the middle and 32 is top right.
I suspect that they are rather more organic than Heather had in mind but I can't help making the ivory curdle - I think it's in my genes....
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5506/10909589805_e426b4bbce.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/flameforcefive/10909589805)
Sarahxxx
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3729/11056626123_f2400fcf18_c.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/flameforcefive/11056626123/)
Finally! (http://www.flickr.com/photos/flameforcefive/11056626123/) by Flame Force Five (http://www.flickr.com/people/flameforcefive/), on Flickr
Better late than never I guess. I finished these yesterday. They are effetre dark periwinkle & effetre dark ivory. The reaction means that masking is "different" as neat edges are only real possible with one layer of dots. But I had fun using heat to get different effects and some cool masking effects. My sizing still needs some work - there are a couple of whoppers in there.
Number one is in the middle and number 40 bottom left as you look at the screen.
Sarah
xxx
Righteo! Two batches, since I've just done a bunch of pic taking.
colors: bullseye cobalt and periwinkle
First group: beads 23-30
(http://jenefer.net/lampworking/ham-23-30.jpg)
next one: 31-35
(http://jenefer.net/lampworking/ham-31-35-beads.jpg)
Whew, almost done!!!
'Love your colours Sarah, seems like so much more than 2, and reminds me of Marrakesh for some reason!
I finished my dots a couple of weeks ago, here are the last two sessions and the full strand. I'll have a break before beginning the three colour version - I think I will try to make those rounder, since that gives you more space for patterns.
My dots have got better and I do like some of the patterns I made - I prefer the ones with larger dots. My placement could still do with improvement though, I put them down a tad impatiently and don't space them out equally or even them out to exactly the same size, just close enough.
Last-but-one session: there's a random various-sized dot bead, some pawprints and the one on the end is an eye.
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5506/11092895515_dc605ce480_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/11092895515/) (http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7303/11093000854_58c8f4f023_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/11093000854/)
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2817/11092980116_3ffa5a094e_n.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/11092980116/)
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2817/11092980116_3ffa5a094e.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/kalorlo/11092980116/)
ASK silver cinnamon and Effetre black.
Finally, my next batch: 8 to 13 (between the two knots in the cord). Will post 14 to 19 as soon as I've had time to edit and upload the photos.
What I learned when making this lot:
- From now on, all my dots will be made with stringer. Even the big ones. Makes it far easier to control the size and shape.
- Getting them all to be a similar size is generally possible. But only if the bead is already round when I start applying the design. I still don't know how to estimate the size of the disc which can be melted into a round of a particular size.
- Still on the subject of number 11: I still can't do neat stripes. Or, apparently, ones that are centred as opposed to drifting over to one side. However, I'm very pleased with the result of the rescue attempt, that's a design I may use again.
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7420/11279575663_8a42696cb1.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/88956060@N05/11279575663/)
Here's 14 to 19. I'd say the last two are my favourites in this batch.
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3666/11320153815_081aed19f6.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/88956060@N05/11320153815/)
Three-and-a-bit sessions down, probably another four to go. I'll do it over Christmas.
Whoohoo! I am done!
Colors: bullseye periwinkle and cobalt.
(http://jenefer.net/lampworking/ham-last5.jpg)
Lessons learned and observations:
- use colors with more contrast. My eyes bugged out trying to see where to place dots with this combination.
- periwinkle is shocky, be prepared for it!
- for me, it's difficult to create anything asymmetrically pleasing with only dots
- have a plan in mind for the first two beads of the session and let inspiration move me thereafter
- how delightful it is to realize I don't have to consciously think about making sure they're round anymore...I've got the muscle memory down!
- I may do another set with one solid and one transparent
Thanks to all for the inspiration and special thanks to Janet for organizing this and providing the motivation!
=) Jenefer
And here's my final strand. I think I got the last ones out of order, but hey ho...they're all there ... and ready to wear to my show tomorrow! =)
(http://jenefer.net/lampworking/hamfinal40.jpg)
Yeeehaw!
Beautiful Heather, infact all of them are just stunning.
It took a while but mine are finished, a long necklace with dotty bird dangles.
Am pleased infact tempted to do it all again :o but use colours that keep crisper lines
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7408/11381460866_b3011444d2.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/92473610@N04/11381460866/)
crumpet 006 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/92473610@N04/11381460866/) by Flowerjasper2 (http://www.flickr.com/people/92473610@N04/), on Flickr
Well folks, I FINALLY finished the 40 bead challenge Part 2 - it's taken me ages, and at times the beads seemed never-ending! The finished strand is about 24 inches long, and I actually think could be used as an offensive weapon, it's so weighty!
Here's the finished article (the last 9 beads are at the front).
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5480/11586199323_3dee335625.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/11586199323/)
IMG_0879 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/helbels/11586199323/) by Alchemy Lampwork (http://www.flickr.com/people/helbels/), on Flickr
These are 20 to 25. Bit of a mixed bag: I am happy with 3 out of the 6.
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3693/11784146963_4e91dd2e53_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/88956060@N05/11784146963/)
Right, then, here are the final three sessions.
26 to 31. I think this was my most successful session - everything went more or less according to plan, and the sizing is the most consistent. And I'm very pleased with the way the designs came out (BTW, credit where it's due: I admit I filched the fourth one from the left from Madeline Bunyan, it was just so pretty...)
(http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3801/11784300744_60ec0d018b.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/88956060@N05/11784300744/)
Finally, 32 to 37 and 38 to 40:
(http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7353/11784647866_9f4d58323b_z.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/88956060@N05/11784647866/)
Ta-daa! All 40, with the first one in the middle.
Well, that was fun. I was going to make myself a big necklace with the lot of them, in order, but then my mother asked if I could make her a choker with "whatever was left over" (I think she "didn't hear" the "all the beads" part), and I thought, well, why not. So now 27 of the 40 beads are a necklace, and I have kept my favourite 13 for myself.
(http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5523/11783875265_8ac19d7340.jpg) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/88956060@N05/11783875265/)
My first ten! I'm having a slight(!) problem with size control, but it's a good learning process.
(http://myricaglass.files.wordpress.com/2014/09/dscf4464_small.jpg?w=300&h=225)
Has anyone else got some to share?