“Ann” Designed by Jean Campbell, from “Creating Glamorous Jewelry”

"Ann" a Jean Campbell design

I finished “Ann”. I decided to shorten the strap that I had already made so that it used exactly the same number of 2mm swaroski rounds that the pattern called for.  That freed up enough beads to finish the second side. I decided that I’d make it exactly as it was intended to be made. I even used the tail threads to sew on the dress clasp.  The straps were fairly simple to make, so I figured if I need to adjust it I can just make new ones. I’m delighted to say though that it fits.

Beaded crystal flower, a Jean Campbell Design

I couldn’t find another beading dome that was exactly the same as the one I initially used.  In my first attempt  I used a beading dome that had holes in the exact same configuration as the one used in the pattern in the book. This one was quite a bit different so I had to alter how I stitched on the first round of swarovski briolettes so that they were evenly spaced. I felt that the beads were anchored a bit more securely with this dome. (the beads at the cardinal points were secured using two holes instead of one.

All in all I’m really pleased with how this bead pattern came together. The straps stitch together fairly quickly and the flower is a snap to make.  It’s a lovely piece. I can’t wait to buy a new top so that I have something to wear it with.

I’m really glad that I bought this book. It feels nice to have a spectacular necklace I can wear, that didn’t take me 60 hours to make. “Waves of Pearls”, I’m looking at you. :p