Is it really the end of December? I always look forward to this time of year...the crush of holidays over, the sun starting to show itself more.

But this has been a very tough month personally. My dear friend Jill Landers died on December 14th, from metastatic breast cancer, 11 years after her first diagnosis. She was only 51, and truly an inspiration in her life and in her death.

I spent many hours in the past 2 months with her, just watching tv with her, rubbing her feet, holding her hand, sometimes just reading/singing to her. I felt so lucky to have that time with her...relieving her husband so he could run errands, etc.

I'm so glad that I had that time, but also glad I had this journal project to keep me focused. I absolutely had to finish the edging on this piece today. Anyway, this is not my favorite piece technically or aesthetically, but emotionally it is right on! The sun will triumph, as will hope. The darkness will be pushed back, as will despair. This snippet is part of of my determination, which you can see in full in my blog here:

November - Done!!

Yes, I finally finished November's piece. I do like the way that the hawk hides in the colours.....

Happy New Years to everyone!

November and December BJP

I'm a bit late on the November doll. She took me a month and a half to make. I'm going to have to simplifiy in the future if I want to stay on track. : P Her name is Hiawatha and is for Thanksgiving.

December Doll is Jolly Holly. I wanted the Holly leaves to look more light and airy but I guess in a cold climate a heavy looking skirt would be warmer. All things work out in the end.

Dot's Fall Reveal

First off, I want to apologize for not being an active member these past 4 months. Let me explain & hopefully you'll understand why I've been so silent. First off, I need to tell you that I have had a great year. I was so blessed to be published in not only doll makers magazines, but in a bead book called Flatwork. I got a job teaching at the local bead store, and was invited to Albuquerque to teach my Podlings. Also, I had a great reception at a gallery show, and made enough money to pay for a lot more beads! But...it was in July or August, when I was at the peak of happiness about all my success, when someone told me that I needed to stop bragging so much as I was making other members of my guild unhappy with me. I was shocked! I thought that your Guild Sisters were the right ones to cheer you on. Heaven forbid if I expected my family or co-workers to understand what I've been doing, but other ARTIST? So I became very depressed, and began to question my motives about why I was doing this Art. I didn't stop creating, and do and STILL enjoy every single thing I make. But I stopped sharing my accomplishments at Guild meetings, and found myself uneasy about writing about anything on my blog. I kept quiet and for those who know me, that is not me. I even stopped blogging, and eventually forgot my pass word. I found myself sinking deeper and deeper pulling into a shell. Then a week before Christmas I was talking to my best friend about this, and she told me that I should not let a few jealous (yes, she made me realize that they were jealous) people stop me from sharing what I do with others. I've thought about this all this week. Then I realize that I do have the right to brag. I do have the right to share what I've been doing. Suddenly it was like a cloud was lifted from me. I felt alive, and happy again. So this is the reason, I've been so quiet.

Now let me tell you a little about my December Reveal. I have the 4 months projects & if you'd like to see better pictures of the 4 pieces for this year's entry, please go to my blog (which I promise to keep up) and see the inspiration behind each piece. My theme this year is ReCycle-Trash to Treasure. I'm doing beaded dolls this year.

I'm making a promise to myself and to YOU to keep up and not let this world crash down on me.
dot

First four months done

I"ve just posted my first four months of bead journaling. I forgot to size the photos, so if you click on them they're pretty big. Their "real" size is about 3 1/2 inch diameter. Enjoy, Susan

Pam T. Is Doing OK

Most of you have had some correspondence with our BJP Registration Angel, Pam T. If you've been following her blog, you know that she had a double mastectomy and lymph node removal surgery on the 19th. Her December BJP is a visual journal of her unexpected diagnosis and rush into surgery and next chemo followed by radiation.

I'm writing today to let you know that she's home from the hospital and doing reasonably well. She even sent a "group email report" today in which she joked a bit... "I still have drains in (ugh) and I am really quite sore and stiff and I feel like I am walking around like a robot or something trying not to move too much, but I guess the positive here is that I am moving, right?"

She is extremely appreciative of the support, prayers, healing thoughts, etc that she has received from BJP members. She hopes you'll all be diligent about getting regular checks/mamograms.

I'll post a progress report again in a week or so. In the meantime, if you wish, you can leave comments here or on her blog.

December Finished

My take on the beautiful old Russian icons of a black madonna and child...at my blog.

Happy Holidaze, everyone!
(now hopefully after they're over I can get back to beading!)

December BJP Progress

Here's a sneak peak at my partially completed page for December. You can see more at Crackpot Beader.

The thought behind it is that there are sparkles even on the longest night of the year.

I've really enjoyed seeing what everyone is doing. There are many talented and accomplished bead artists in the group.

I hope everyone enjoys a wonderful holiday.
Marty S
Crackpot Beader

Double Infinity - December page completed

Well I seem to be having some technical difficult getting a posting up today. Please see my piece here - http://www.flickr.com/photos/30235567@N07/3115938619/ and bear with me! I got the focal bead from Sculpted Window. You should check her out - very talented. There are so many cool little things on this bead - look at the crystal stalks and all the tiny details - just lovely. The bead reminds me of a Goddess Mother and who is the highest of all mothers in the eyes of Christians, but the virgin Mary? So I decided to use her as the focal point of my December page. I am also a mother of December - my youngest was 7 on the 12th!!! And also, the last time both my parents opened their eyes was while receiving final blessings from the church when the words "Mother Mary" were spoken. The rest of the piece just created itseld in muted metals and iris beads, with quite a few fire polished thrown in for sparkle. I just love the feathers, although they were hard to photograph. I took the bead to the fabric store and walked around 3 times before deciding on the sparly golden black knit. I simply put some black interfacing behind it before attatching it to the Stiff Stuff so it was easy to work with. Hope you have a lovely holiday season!

Not slacking, just busy

Not much progress lately, but here's an update on my Elemental Water panel (2007-2008 BJP).  So far for 2008-2009, I only have one month completed, but the second is in my head and will hopefully get going soon.

http://beadingbutterfly.blogspot.com

November bjp pin

I have my November bjp pin on my blog.

Be kind to yourself over the holidays and enjoy each day as it comes. Not sure I'll have time for much beading, but I'm really looking forward to time with my family.

Happy Holidays!

2008 Bead Journal Project Completed!

I just posted the final chapter of last years project on my blog (and my dining room)
It's complete!!

If you think you are behind...

I started an idea for the page format for September but because of a lack of love for it-- I have put it off and that made me put off every month since thinking I need to do that Idea.... Well I have come to terms with my creative self and have decided to scrap that idea so I am even further behind not having one page done as of yet. Ohh well, I know when that great light bulb moment hits I will be beading with a fury like no other and then I will be done in no time at all.
So many things are rolling around in my head, I need to just nail one of them down.
I have gotten to see first hand Mandi's pages-- they are ATC size. (we are both in the DBS and I saw them at a meeting) That inspired me to think harder and it also made me not want to scrap the work I have already done for Sept. (maybe I will incorporate it somehow) It also left me thinking that what I want to do is not solid beading-- I want to incorporate space and fabric and paper. I want to play LOL and make a big mess that creates a beauty in the process! I think I can, I think I can (chug, chug)

I'm behind....

...I'll confess out loud. I have been reading and viewing blogs all over the world thanks to this project. And loving everything that I see!

Then Facebook. Damn Pathwords. I believe that I am addicted.

And November sits on my workbench. Sad. Lonely. Dejected.

I've been working on ID badge lariats for Christmas gifts and have about 16 more inches on the last one.

Then November will be happy. And December.

November BJP finished

I had fun with November's page, it exactly mimics my November 2008 state of mind. You can see it here. Great work everyone!

What happens when you're TOO inspired??

I admit the bead-journal addictions are getting a little too much... I've finished January. D'oh! I've uploaded it onto the Flikr group, as well as wrote a bit about the whole page on my Contemporary Bead Art blog. Despite the fact I've already picked out the image from my sketchbook that I will tackle for February 2009's page... I'm going to dig into a few other projects to slow down.

-That Celticat Chick

November BJP is done!!!

Howdy fellow beaders,

Yesterday I completed my November BJP page. YeeeeHawww! I took a bunch of purty pictures this morning and if you'd like to take a look, mosey on over to my blog and check it out. I am not quite sure why I am writing in cowgirl language this morning. Perhaps I've had too much coffee.....

Have a might fine day y'all,
Pam

November is just about over. I've had my piece finished for a few days but just got around to photographing it. You can see it here:

November is always my lowest month emotionally...lack of light, end of year, reminders of loss. My dear friend Jill is still hanging in there with the help of her devoted family and hospice. Every day for her is a gift, and I try to remember that I shouldn't wish my time away to get to a month I like better. It is a good day today.

Pictures!!!!

Yay!! In a few days, as of Dec. 1st, we can start posting pictures of our BJP work here on our three BJP blogs!!!

Although pictureful posts are fun, we will probably want to restrict ourselves to BJP related images because by the end of the year there will be upwards of 2,000 posts and we don't want to get shut down because of going over our allotted space. Please keep posting other beautiful pictures on your own blog and please post links to them on the BJP blog when you feel they would be of specific interest to BJPers.

Last year we got in the habit of cropping the pictures of our finished BJP pieces and posting these little sneak-peek images (enticing hints of the whole piece) here on the BJP blog along with a link to our own blog or Flickr page. That was really fun... to see just a little part of the picture was like a wrapped present at Christmas! Like this... don't you just want to check it out?


It's my October piece from last year's BJP. See here for more... ;>}

Happy Thanksgiving to everyone! I am so thankful for this project... for all of you and for the great abundance of creativity and inspiration flowing from your BJP work!!!

Big hugs to all, Robin A.

September Cuff Completed!

Wow!  Only 2 months behind LOL!  See my completed cuff for September on my blog here.  I've also uploaded it to Flickr.

Kassie 

http://beadingbutterfly.blogspot.com

http://beadg1rl.deviantart.com

www.beadingbutterfly.com

November BJP Completed!

I finished my November BJP page, Blue Abundance. You can see it on my blog. I chose the theme of abundance for the month of Thanksgiving. It is named Blue Abundance because the beads are blue, not because there is an abundance of "the blues."

I hope everyone has a happy Thanksgiving. We're expecting our "abundance" of grandsons to visit, and it will be fun, fun, fun!

Marty S
Crackpot Beader

....oops

It might help if I actually posted a link.

www.vanishingpearl.blogspot.com

Sorry again.

I'm Tamara and a procrastinator.

I am really far behind in this project. Homework take up way too much of my time. I do promise that I will get working on October and November as soon as this semester ends. (Hopefully!) In the meantime, here is my September piece. I apologize for my tardiness.

Travelling With Beads

Since a few people asked about it... I've taken photos of my 'traveling bead embroidery' setup and there's a peek on the progress of my January journal page. I've posted it all over on my blog:
Contemporary Bead Art
Hey - when can we start posting photos on this blog, anyhow? It's getting pretty boring and drab without colorful images. {{Edited - Otro Gato has been removed.}}
Anyhow, I hope everyone is beading madly!
-That Celticat Chick

November Completed - Double Infinity

Well, my November page was started on the 1st and was done awhile ago, but I'm only now finding time to take a picture and write about it. November - of course - conjures images of Thanksgiving and it is also the month i got married in 9 years ago. So the question was - how can i combine these 2 things in my BJP this month? Well, i had this lovely acrylic 2 1/2 inch 'saying' I'd like to say was made my Heidi Grace or some other embellishment person. I used to move it around my room because i liked what it says (just wait!) but you could barely see it since it's acrylic. So...i went through my fabric stash and found this lovely purple pseudo/silk and - lo and behold - you could read it clearly!!! The saying is this: "to thine own self be true". Very important when giving thanks and in marriage i would say. So i made the acrylic into a flower pot with some purple clusters and went through my flower bead stash and made a lovely bunch of flowers. It just formed itself, and i must say, i like what it did!!! Of course, i'm feeling a bit constrained by my 4x4 squares, but it is also nice trying to fit an 'idea' into the form since we did make a promise to use the same shape throughout the year. December has been brewing in my head - somewhat as a no-brainer for the christians out there - but there is also my daughter's birthday to consider. You'll just have to wait and see how it develops - just like me! Now if i can only get the Flickr link here.....http://www.flickr.com/photos/30235567@N07/2949837196/?addedcomment=1#comment72157608113544654

October Complete

Hi everyone...my October page is complete if you'd like to take a peek.

The heart art I've seen so far is beautiful and so inspiring!!!

Take care and happy beading!

Lisa

November Progress

I am making progress on November's piece, but it isn't finished yet. I need to make the lampworked focal bead...hopefully tomorrow. In the meantime, in addition to November, I've managed to finish and join September and October pieces. You can see them here. http://margaretsutherland.blogspot.com/

My niece asked me today what I had been doing lately...She is my favorite (and only) niece. I was at a loss how to answer...making beads, doing beadwork, being treasurer of my local beadmaker's guild, etc. Not very impressive to a 23 year old, until I showed her my pieces, and the embroidered purse I made with her in mind!

Just checking in

this year seems have flown by, especially the last 3 months. I have been checking in on the blogs on a regular basis, although I don't always comment and as usual I am amazed at the level of work that is being produced by everyone.

Anyway, I am finally, after a slow start making progress with my pages for this year. I haven't posted any of the pages yet and I might not for a while but if you follow the link to my blog you will see what my basic idea is.

You will also see 2 of last year's pages in their brilliant shadow boxes, created by the framers (Nev Hough and Kristin Carr, a fabulous artist herself) at Joann's in Austin TX

What do do when stuck on a flight?

Well.... we took a vacation to Denver, Wyoming & New Mexico last week for my birthday, and I wwas a little TOO productive during the flight. Click here for my November AND December Bead Journal Pages. I think I need to take a break! D'oh!

-That Celticat Chick

Ornaments

I have posted information about the reverse side at www.beadsalot.blogspot.com

Fall Finished

My three autumn bjp pieces are done...if you want an early peek, you can see them here.
I've done less beading on these first three than I did on last years pieces, but more fun stuff with fabric...and they're larger at 6x8, instead of last years 4x6.

September & October Start

Finally started on September and October.  Also, posted the sketch for my 3rd quarter 2007 BJP Elemental Water panel.

Kassie - The Beading Butterfly

aka Beadg1rl

http://beadingbutterfly.blogspot.com

Pages

On my blog you can find photos of my September, October and November pages www.beadsalot.blogspot.com

October bjp pin

If you would like to see my October piece, check out my blog.

Jann

Your assistance, please

As I've said in the past, I'm not much of a beader...yadda, yadda, yadda, I know!

One of the downsides of that is that I'm not familiar with a lot of the beads out there in the universe, what they're called, etc...so I'm not really sure what to ask for when looking for something.

I'm trying to find some more of these...the bigger ones have 2 pairs of holes, and I *think* they may be shell of some sort. They're very pearlescent, and kind of shift between purple and green with some grey thrown in for good measure. (actually, the color isn't as important as much as what they are!)

Any ideas?

Thanks in advance!

Elemental Fire

Panel 2 (Elemental Fire) from BJP 2007 finished - finally!

beadingbutterfly.blogspot.com

Progress...

I've actually been working along pretty well on the BJP, keeping more or less to schedule, but I'm just not ready to post any of it just now. Last year I put forth all my progress and the finished pieces, but this year... I'm keeping them to myself for a little while. I even finished the December 2007 piece, and I'm not ready to post that, either. My viewpoint is changing I guess. However, quite a lot has been going on in my life, including a major project detailed on my blog. I'm very excited by all these goings on about my place.

-- Lois B

October Bead Journal

I finished my October bead journal project just a few minutes ago. I've been working on lots of projects this week and having fun with learning new stitches. Check out October at The Bad Liz to see what I have been up to. I have a good idea for November, and love all the pictures I have seen on the other blogs with the October (and September) projects.

The weather is really changing in Michigan - and I do like this time of year. Take care everyone!

Liz - The Bad Liz

October BJP - I'm a witch! : )

Well, after changing my mind several times, I finally decided what I would like to do for my journal pages. I'm going to do a series of dolls. I think the doll choice will reflect a lot of where I am in my beading in the coming year.

So here is my October doll Wendoline the Witch. I absolutely adore Halloween and I always wanted to be a witch when I was a small girl. I didn't even mind having to have green skin. LOL...

Jeanne

You've Created a Monster

I hate to say it... I'm totally hooked. I've almost finished my November page - no fair! Anyhow, I've written a bit on my blog... these darn beads are getting out of hand. Of course, I'm counting on falling behind in the future, right?

-That Celticat Chick

October Page Posted

My Oct BJP is finished......early!!!!

If you'd like to have a look you'll find it here.

Comments are always appreciated.

Thanks,
SueU

Tagging Fun + Update

Today I'm showing off my progress, and having fun tagging other BJP participants!
http://beadcircleblog.com/?p=161

Elemental Fire - almost done!!

Second panel of my 2007 BJP (yeah, I know LOL) almost finished - yay!

http://beadingbutterfly.blogspot.com

Kassie

Not Quite Pink--October BJP Finished

I finished my October page, Not Quite Pink. It was made in acknowledgment of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Come and see it here.

Thanks to all who sent support after my first post about it. This time, I promise, more beads and less rant!
Marty S
Crackpot Beader

October BJP

Yay! I finished my October page. You can view it here. Everyone's work that I've seen so far is STUNNING!
Cheers all,
Sarah

Flikr Question

I'm mystified. Again. When I go to the 2008-2009 BJP Flikr site, I can only see some of the photos posted. To see all of them, I have to sign in to Flikr.

But it seems like I can see all of the photos for the 2007 BJP, which I did not participate in, without signing in.

Am I missing a step in trying to get to the 2008-2009 BJP Flikr site? Any ideas?
Marty S
Crackpot Beader

Running Crazy Behind

I've decided I've taken on too many projects -- go figure. And being the Libra, I try to give equal status and attention to them all. That explains the running crazy part. Anyway, I've decided that all of my BJP 'pages' are going to be pinkeepers like the ones I've been working on in a couple of swaps. I have the September fabric part sewn together and should start working on it this weekend. I know it is October, but I'll get there when I can. September's question to meditate is "What were you like when you were young?" I'll post a picture of my pieces to this puzzle this weekend, so all of you can at least see I've started. I am going to finish the round robins I'm in and then no more swaps or round robins until I get my BJP done. The BJP is for me, sounds selfish, but it is the truth. It will be my work for me. My time to stop and reflect. My chance to contemplate and grow.

October's Golden page is done.

Well, i finished my October piece the other day and am really enjoying the process. My parent's were married in the month of October and the only anniversary they were apart was their 50th, so i decided to make it a 'golden' page. I found a really neat spiral glass sun, and even though it has a bale, i knew i could make it work! When I first put it on top of my chosen fabric, i know it was the right choice. Then i found some cool glass tube beads in the most amazing earth tones. I decided to use 5 of these for 'rays' - significant in 2 ways - the 5 golden rings (!) and the fact that there were once 5 members in my family, where now it it only me. I can feel myself learning to trust my instinct and even allowed myself to put sequins on the piece! I can even see myself using fibers one day! I guess i am evolving into a textil-ist (?), but don't worry, there are lots of beads on this piece too! I think my favorite part of the piece is holding it up to the sun. I used square beads for my border which are amber lined and then i used bronze delicas and a clear teardrop with a copper center for the 'fringe', so it really shines! I love how a piece tells me when it is done - take a look at the Flickr site and have a look.

October piece finsihed!

I can't believe I've actually finished October this early in the month. Of course it helps that I don't like to completely cover my fabric with beads! I like to feature the color of the ultrasuede in the background. (Is that an excuse or a design feature? hmmmm)

This month's word was circles. You can see my finished piece here. I love the colors and the flow of the beads. I tried a few new stitches and did a few that I just made up (though I'm sure they are not original!). I've learned to not be afraid of ripping out, changing my mind, and enjoying the project just for the joy of doing it.

I've decided to add backing in the same ultrasuede color and adding a picot edge. Eventually, I'll sew them all together with beads. Next month's color will be....not sure yet! Whatever the color, I'll be thinking about my good friend Jill, who will lose her battle with breast cancer soon.

2007 BJP Elemental Series Update

Yeah, I'm still working on LAST year's BJP!  LOL!

It's not much further along than it was when I last posted, but I thought it would be cool to show the first two panels together.  The 3rd and 4th panels will be water and earth, water on the lower left and earth on the lower right.  The whole thing is approximately 16" x 16" square.  Now that October 15 has come and gone, I think I'll have a little more time to focus on this project.  For those of you who don't know, I'm an accountant and October 15 is a tax extension deadline.  Now I get to breathe until January comes around again!!

Picture is on my blog and in my DeviantArt gallery.

Kassie

October Update

I posted my October update to my blog. I blurred out the "word" I am using, but it will be revealed when the piece is complete.

I said this in my blog post, but I want to say it again. I am truly blown away by all the comments I’ve received. I’m really excited about growing, learning, and finding myself in this craft, and I’m so happy to have a wonderful, amazing group like you all to share it with. Thank you.

Mandibeads
http://www.beadcircleblog.com

September Complete

My September page is finished, however, not without lessons learned! If you care to visit, feel free to swing by my blog. I would welcome any comments, ideas, and smiles! Thankfully, I am starting October, and I know it will be a much smoother experience and my lips will be zipped!

I have been enjoying visiting blogs the past few days...amazing and beautiful work! What a great group of kindred spirits!

~Lisa ;-)

Sept BJP Page Posted

I have had my page finished since the last week of Sept, but hadn't had time to take the pictures or post them to my blog .

They are up now so if you would like to have a look just click on the blog link above.

SueU

September bjp

If you would like to see my beaded pin for September, go to my blog.

Jann

Letting Go

Well, after a bit of deliberating, I decided to just let the beads do what they will...and the result has been liberating for me! Already I'm much farther along than I was at the end of last month's piece...and itching for work to be done so I can get back tonight and get to beading.

You can check out the in progress piece here, if you want to...
http://cynjonnoah.blogspot.com/

October Buddha!

I finished my October Bead Journal project. I couldn't wait until I could blog about it... so I went ahead and uploaded it to my Flikr account and there's an image in our Flikr group. I'm really excited on how this month's piece turned out and can't wait to dig into November! This whole project is incredibly inspiring - my husband is even getting into it. (We've already picked out the November image from my sketchbook.)

-That Celticat Chick

My first: Ode to Purple

Happy Wednesday, everyone! I finished my September piece on Oct. 1st, and I just now posted it to my blog. (I had been in the middle of revamping my blog, hehe) It is my first piece of bead embroidery, and I hope some of you will have some feedback for me :) I wanted to start my October piece right after I was finished with September, but the perfect idea did not flow to me until a week later, so I'm glad I waited to start it. And that's what I'm off to do now!

Mandibeads
http://www.beadcircleblog.com

Running Behind

It's a good thing we're doing this solely for ourselves, as I'm already behind and it's just the start of the second month! Diane can attest to my wacky travel/work schedule, which made a serious dent in my time for the September page. I got it started, and about 1/3rd of the way finished, but that's about it...I'm planning on continuing to work on it during October as well, though, since I'm now back home and done with travelling.

All that being said, I'm kind of stumped as for this month's page....but in a good way. I've seen lot of fun work already, and it's sparked numerous ideas in my head as to what I want to do...too numerous, some would say!

Something abstract and freeform?
Something figural?
Something super 3-D?
Something Oct/Fall specific?
All of the above??

How do YOU decide what to do? Do you start the year with a preplanned notion (and throw it by the side)? Or do you just let each month speak to you?

October bjp begun...

I've started this one here....

October is here and on my blog

Happy Autumn and October, Everyone!

I do so love this time of year! The warm days and crisp nights, the full moons, big and bright, all the changes happening. Time to gather in all our harvests and get ready for the winter that always comes much too quickly. So, I offer to you my page for the month.

WARNING: If you are arachniphobic be forewarned, I have a spider as part of my page.

Z'anne

October BJP Page--Not Quite Pink

I'm getting ready to start my October BJP page. It will acknowledge October as Breast Cancer Awareness Month. I'm a survivor, and I'd like to hear what other survivors think about my decision to make the page not quite pink. You can see my beads and read about my reasons on my blog.
Marty S
Crackpot Beader

Remembering Cindy

This is a bit off topic... but very much ON topic.

Many if us knew Cindy McCornack. Cindy once wrote a small book called Exploring Beaded Art Dolls which had instructions, inspiration, and photographs of bead dolls. She died three years ago of cancer leaving a huge collaborative project of beaded 'mystery panels' completed by many artists unfinished. After years of tracking down, constructing, and gathering the unfinished project we have now published the panels as postcard sets and have them for sale on Etsy.
http://rememberingcindy.etsy.com/

Only a few people knew what the final image was to be and now they are all together - all proceeds from the sale will go towards cancer research at the American Lung Association. As a group, we received many beaded works that were a part of Cindy's estate - there will be regular listings of beaded art dolls, beadwork pieces and supplies that were a part of this estate. All sales will continue to the end of the year and in January 2009, we will close up the shop and donate any remaining items to the Minneapolis Textile Center.

Please share this information with your friends, family and anyone you feel would love just a little more inspiration. Dulcey Heller has also posted a beautiful tribute on her blog:
http://www.dulceyheller.com/wordpress/remembering-cindy/

I just hope that these amazing panels will make a difference in fighting cancer.

Gentle Reminder

Please remember that the Bead Journal Project Blog(s) is just that - for Bead Journal Project posts - not other news. I hate to be snarky but I've received several emails lately with complaints about posts not related to the Bead Journal Project. I realize that many people are excited to share information, but just as many come here only to read about the BJP. Please respect the purpose of the blogs as well as other participants and keep your entries related to the Bead Journal Project only.

Thanks for your understanding.

Diane

September BJP Finished

I've finished my september piece here...sleeve on back, whipstitched around the edge and hanging from an old chopstick...now I can start thinking about october....

My September bead work is done!

Hello!

I'm new to the BJP this year and I thought I'd say hello and let you know that I've finished my bead project for September. I've posted pictures on my blog and I wrote about my inspiration for the piece. After an anxious start, I had a really wonderful time playing with beads. I hope that everyone is enjoying working on their projects!

Cheers,
Pam

September 2.0, A Spirit Doll

I'm making good progress on my September project 2.0. It's my first Spirit Doll, and I'm making it for a close friend. You can see it on my blog.

I don't know if I would have had the nerve to make a Spirit Doll before I started the BJP. So thanks for the inspiration!
Marty S
Crackpot Beader

September Page Started

As the month draws to a close, here I am, sewing down those first beads, getting the page underway.  As usual, there were a lot more events and particularly more work, than I anticipated. Last weekend, there was a huge power failure and accompanying power surge here, and this is what happened to the surge protector in my studio. There was a lot of toxic smoke but no fire, and, amazingly, all the things plugged in - stereo, TV, lamps, computer, all still work fine.  The smell is still very much with me, despite all the scrubbing and cleaning, but diminishes all the time.  I work with a sweater on and the windows open these days!  Anyway, my work got finished, my deadlines are all met, and now... I can begin my September page.  I'll post my progress as I go.

Nearing the end of the month

It's getting close to the end of the month. How is everyone doing? Is everyone beading? Learning all kinds of things about fabric and beads and choosing a theme or not? I remember my first page from last year - I was so excited when I finished, so full of energy about visualizing my feelings through beads. Have you all started a blog? Are you encountering any problems you want support with?

Please check in and let us all know how you are doing and make our blog an active one!

a2susan

Fun Without Beading

It has been so much fun to see everyone's projects and read about their processes. I feel like I've learned a lot while enjoying all the different beaded pages. It's fascinating to see the variety of ways beaders approach the BJP. We're all working with the same major ingredient--beads--but the results are so different.

So thanks to all of you who have shared your work! I feel challenged and inspired both in creativity and in technique. It's a great start for the year.

And thanks, too, to everyone who gave me suggestions about photos. I'm getting the hang of it.
Marty S
Crackpot Beader

September Finished

I couldn't resist...I just had to finish my September piece. I probably won't finish them all early but I found this format so enjoyable. Something I really liked to do, with a structure but lots of freedom and flexibility within that structure. I posted a picture to my blog, so you can see it here. Thanks for looking.

I've been making beads for a bead show (Bead Bonanza in Southfield MI on 10/4) but have taken some time to do some experimenting for a bead or 2 for October's piece. The ultrasuede color is a nice pumpkin color.

September BJP Finished

Wow! Finished my Sept. page. The smaller format is a lot easier as far as demands on my time go. It didn't turn out quite as well as I'd hoped, but it's in a style I haven't really attempted before (sort of free form bead encrusted work). If you'd like to see....go here.
Cheers all!
Sarah

Progress

September is rushing by, but at least I've been able to spend a little time each day working on September's piece. I am really enjoying the rhythm of this project. I usually try to work on it early in the morning (7 a.m. at our house) for 30 or 45 minutes, before the day gets busy. This is my meditative time, when I really appreciate the journal part of this project. I think about the themes I'm trying to illustrate and what is going on in my mental landscape.

I've adopted a few strategies. I have several books on bead embroidery and am trying to focus on a few pages each month, really learning the stitches and techniques I might have just glanced at before, thinking 'I get that'. But you don't really GET it until you do it, several times. So I'm really learning at a basic level.

Also, since I like to make lampworked glass beads, I've decided to incorporate at least one bead each month, and am trying different bezeling (sp?) techniques. I'm focusing on netting this month...who knows what I'll try in October. Also, I'm finding I don't won't to fill up my entire square (3.5 inches). I like the negative space, especially since I'm using ultrasuede and the colors are beautiful. This month my color is a light pear green.

Finally, a fun story. I was meeting a friend for lunch yesterday. Coincidentally, Susan, who has an exhibit of her 2007 project at Findings in October was there and stopped by to see what I was working on. I told her that her project had inspired me to sign up for the 2008 project! What a thrill!

I'm looking forward to October...theme will be circles.

Sept BJP in Progress + Thoughts About Backing

I've just posted some pictures of my September BJP piece in progress (maybe half finished) here on my blog.

I've been following the posts on the BJP blogs about backing for bead embroidery and found myself wanting to make comments and suggestions. Today I wrote and showed pictures of how I deal with the backing (stabilizer) in my work. It's the second half of this post on my blog.

Visiting your blogs, reading and seeing about your progress and keeping up with the BJP blog is a delightful experience for me... takes time, but is soooooooooo well worth it!

Happy beading, Robin A.

Blog Struggles

I'm enjoying playing with my blog, but every once in a while (ok, make that often) something happens that stymies me.

For the second day in a row it's uploading the photos so the orientation is correct. Are there any solutions other than making sure the photo is wider than it is tall?

I don't mind lying down to look at the pictures, but some people might find it inconvenient.
Marty S
Crackpot Beader

It might be October... It might not...

I just couldn't stop once I got on a roll with these beads o'mine. I've started another piece based upon my sketchbook, but I'm not sure if it's a 'freebie' or actually going to be my bead journal page for October.
Since no pics here... it's out on my blog - so click here!

Hope everyone is happy beading!
-That Celticat Chick

Beaded Pin

I've just about finished a beaded pin. You can see it on my blog.

It was a fast project--just a few evenings. I still have to put some fringe on it. That's always fun because I try to make each fringe (strand of fringe?) different.

I'd like to sign the pin on the black ultrasuede backing before I give it away. So far I haven't been successful in finding something that won't rub off the ultrasuede. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Thanks!
Marty S
Crackpot Beader

CathyW in Houston

A quick note to let everyone know let Cathy and her family are all right in Houston. They don't have electricity yet but they are all doing well.


Kathy V in NM

Getting Started

It's great to see people starting and finishing their Sept. pages. For those of you who are not sure yet what size or theme you are doing, remember to check out the FAQS section on the homepage. Several participants from last year wrote in their experiences of working on the project.

Hello Everyone

This is my first post to the BJP08 blog and my first post to any blog. I have so much to learn about blogging. That sounds so funny to me, because I head up an IT department. When you do that, people tend to think you know everything about every thing computer related. Way back when I started, I knew most of the important stuff. Now, I hire kids who are a lot smarter than I am. But, enough of that.

In the way of introduction, I am a 54-year old making her way through life. I was married for 28 yrs, divorced, and now live with the true love of my life, Jeff.
I've been an artist/craftsperson for as long as I can remember, love being outdoors, reading, sewing, beading, knitting, crocheting, crazy quilting, cooking, playing with the neighborhood children, blowing bubbles, and cuddling with my minature dachshund, Wylie, and chocolate. I've lived all over the U.S. and in Italy. And finally, the day I do not learn something new is a wasted day.

I thought long and hard about a theme for my bead journaling. Ultimately, it came down to the questions I've been asked or have asked, an quotes that started contemplation and meditation on answers or responses. The contemplation continues and the answers change or elude me altogether. I thought the journal could help the contemplative process. Guess we'll find out. September's question is "What were you like when you were a child?" So I've gathered bits and pieces I still have from my childhood and we will see what comes out of it all.

Bead Mat Pattern

Earlier I asked if anyone had the pattern for bead mats. I went on E-Bay and found the two exact books I needed. I posted photos of the books on my blog if you're interested.

I haven't started my September journal page. I have the design in mind. I just need to find the time to get it done.

Sweet P
http://coffeetimequiltstudio.blogspot.com/

Hurricane Ike

I'm writing in the hope that anyone in the BJP project is safe and out of harm's way of Hurricane Ike. There have been so many storms and hurricanes in the lower U.S., and nature's wrath can be powerful.
Susan at beadinspired

Using Labels and Other Reminders

So - it's me again. Now that we are in full swing, I'd like to repost some info from Robin:


Labels
For this BJP year, I've already determined the acceptable labels for your posts. Please stick with these labels. It will take a few posts to get them all in the index. In this post, I've added all the months. If you post about your work for a specific month, you can use the appropriate month label for it.

When you post, click on Show all at lower right of posting box, and choose appropriate label(s) from the list shown.

The reason to limit the possible labels is because it's easy to get too many labels (confusing) or ones that are too long (hide the down arrow).

Hope this is OK with everyone. If you feel it's important to add a label, please ask Diane M. (our blog master) about it. Thanks!

Please note... there are too many of us to label posts with our names. Instead, please sign every post with a link to your blog, website or email, as I have done below.

Robin A.

Blogging Tips

Hi - it's me again - the blog "angel". There are a lot of new folks joining us this year and it's been requested that I post some information about easy ways to post to Blogger, so here goes -

* If you want to add a link to your blog (or any other website) in your post: Click "New Post" Type your entry into the box. Highlight the words you want to link to by left clicking the words and dragging the cursor over them. They will turn blue. Then click the icon that looks like a green circle with a link on it. A window will pop up that says "script prompt". In that window type the URL of your blog. For example, the URL of blog #1 of the 08 Bead Journal Project is "http://www.08bjp.blogspot.com"

* If you want to add a photo to your post do the same steps to make a post but click on the icon that looks like a photo (the 2nd one from the right). From here you can either upload a picture from your computer by using the buttons that says "browse", finding the picture on your computer, the clicking 'upload the image'.

OR

to use the 'add an image from the web" feature, type the URL of the picture into the box and click 'upload the image'. The URL of the picture can be found by right clicking the picture and going to 'properties'.

* If you want to add the Bead Journal Project to your blog -

First 'right click' on the button and save it to your computer.
Then on your blog, go to 'edit layout'.
Pick "add a gadget".
Then pick "picture"
In the 'link' field type http://www.beadjournalproject.com
In the 'image' link chose "from your computer" and upload the graphic you've saved.
Click "save" and you're done.

I hope this helps - If you need help, feel free to email me.

Diane
http://www.mountainsaltstudio.blogspot.com

September begun

but not finished yet....you can see it here, or wait until December...your choice...

beadbabe49
bobbi k.

Posts

For ease in keeping track of the three blogspots and their postings, I subscribed to bloglines (free) and then I can just check at the one location.

Hello from Kat

I'm from Newport News, Va and I am so new at blogging that I just spent the last twenty minutes trying to figure out how to start. I guess I should have read the little words at the top of the page. I am not new to beading, or to most kinds of fiber work. Cindy from Suffolk Va, who figured out how to do this much sooner than I did, is my best friend and she pretty much made me do this. Thanks Cindy, so far this looks wonderful. All the images from last year's journals made my head explode, and I'm really enjoying all the art based chatter. I love talking to artists. Like Cindy, I'll be working on a loom for my journal pages, but my pieces will probably be in the 18" x 24" range. I'm thinking about using the same colors and basic concepts for all 12 of my pieces so I can turn them into a big wall hanging at the end of the year. I read the "rules" for the BJP, and boy, do I love those kinds of rules: Do whatever you want, make them all the same size and toss a bead or two in. Good rules. Here's a question, when I start to put my final piece together, can I chop up some of the panels and piece them in to other panels? Or would it be best for purposes of the project to have 12 whole pieces?
Can't wait to get started.
Kat

Finished with September!

I managed to finish my piece faster than expected! I am in the school of thought that a piece isn't finished until it's in it's final frame or manner of displaying, so I've actually mounted mine onto a small 4 by 4 inch canvas and it's ready to hang on the wall. I actually can't wait to dig into October's sketchbook design!

Since we're not posting pictures yet... click here if you wish to see it. (It's optional!)

Happy Beading!
-That Celticat Chick

i'm not sure how to add a link, so ...

WOW - I somehow managed to get a photo of my finished September page on the Flickr site. I didn't know i'd be learning all this cyber-stuff as a result of joining BJP! But it is well worth the effort, and who knows, someday i might start my own blog. Of course, i have no idea how to insert that cute little highlighted 'goto' flickr into my text yet (!), so I made this post to let you know it's there for viewing, along with a few others. BTW: I used to view the slide show from last year and stare at my screen mezmerized. Can't wait to see what eye candy this year brings.

Backing, etc

Okay, I keep reading about backing/stabilizers/etc...so, fill a new beader in. Why are these used, and how important are they? What little beading I've done has always been on 3-dimensional pieces, and just little touches for detail, never on a flat piece of fabric where most of the surface may end up utilized.

Cynjon

I'm done too....

I'm finished too! I can't believe it, but i have already completed my first panel for the BJP 2008! I guess there was so much anticipation to begin, a lot of it was already thought out. I choose a 4x4 square since i was thinking about using a coaster for support and i had a dozen 4x4's in my stash. Alas, i didn't use the coaster, but now have a ready made template for the month's to follow! The fabric was purchased for a doll making course on Joggles I never got around to doing. For the class i had bought a selection of black and white fat quarters since my mom loved b&w. The doll was intended to be a tribute to her, but it just wasn't the right time to create. But now was, and so i choose the fabric with the most movement in it. September was the month my mom died last year so the panel would be interpreted to represent her passing. I found a lovely mosiac face and hands from Sculpted Windows that really spoke to me and knew i had to use it. I had clipped a lock of my mom's hair after she died and found a little glass bottle to put it in. I used #723 delica's and generic black 15's and 8's because i wasn't looking for uniformity - death is not so clear. Red coral chips and 4 mm circles completed my supplies. Taking Grace's advice, i added a layer of cotton batting between my ultrasuede and stiff stuff. I was surpirsed at the weight the panel has and am glad i added the batting. It is difficult to explain, but it feels very calming to hold...SORRY ABOUT ADDING THE PICTURE. ITS NOW IN HIBERNATION UNTIL DECEMBER!

Please, no BJP pictures here until after Dec. 1

Hate to mention this again, but everyone please note that we are not posting pictures of our BJP work on any of the BJP blogs until after the third month.

We did that last year too. So after Dec. 1, it's OK to post BJP pictures here on the blogs. Before that time, you are welcome to post pictures on our Flickr page and/or to your own personal blog. And please post a link to your pictures here on the BJP blogs. That way people who want to see your work can go there, while people who don't wish to be influenced in the early stages of the BJP can choose not to view it.

Thanks so much,
Robin A.

Greetings

Hello to all the new members and returning 2007 members. I am not feeling ready to start beading since the weather here along the Maine coast is so beautiful. But if this weekend we get the predicted winds and rain, then I'll start. Once again it will be fun to see what everyone does.

September's Project Completed!

I finished my September journal page. You can see it on my blog.

I am pleased with the process and with the result. I learned a lot, and that was fun. Of course, seeing what everyone else is doing is fun, too.

I still wonder if I chose the best stabilizer and if I should go with a larger size. And how I can photograph the shiny things.

Now what? Another page for September? Start the October page? Some unrelated beading?

Vacuum? No, not that!

Marty S
Crackpot Beader

Blogger Troubles?

It appears that quite a few people did not receive their invitation to become authors on the BJP blogs that were sent last month. If you did not receive your invitation, or if you know someone who did not receive theirs, please email me and I'll fix you right up.

Diane
diane.moore at gmail dot com

Looking For a Bead Pattern

I have posted photos of two beaded mats made by grandma on my blog. They are not my Journal project for this year. I am looking for the original pattern book.

I hope it's OK to post this here. If not, just let me know.

Thanks!
Sweet P

getting started!

My journey into beading was just beginning when it was suddenly thrust into full gear. Monica had a 'doll of the month club' on e-bay last year and i collected them all. Mind you, i didn't bead them, just collected! I tend to 'accumulate' things until the time is right to use them! Around this time, my father suddenly died and my mom moved to TX to be near me. She was a peyote stitch bracelet maker - just wonderful stuff. I started showing her the 'world' of fabric/doll beading out there. Monica even sent her a gift which she completed beading before her unexpected death last September. I felt a great need to start beading - to do the things my mom did - and by using her beads join her in my process of expression. I took a beaded cuff class and was amazed at how i could actually do free-form! I've always been a 'follow the directions' type of gal. I moved onto the pile of 'collected dolls' and wanted so much to make them look just like Grace's! But i found my muse takes me on a different journey where i like to 'interpret' the fabric. So here it is September again. My piece is started - it will incorporate a tiny glass bottle with a snip of my mother's hair, done in black and white and crimson. Praise to the internet for allowing us to enjoy each other's work - i find it all truly inspiring and know my mom is happy.

Is it September already?

I'm new to the BJP this year and am looking forward to it. 2008-09 has many personal challenges ahead for me and I'm hoping to let the bead journal help me sort it out. I'm from South Lyon Michigan, near Ann Arbor, and am mainly a glass beadmaker, but I'm drawn in many different directions...seed beads, bead embroidery, PMC, glass fusing....etc.

I have a shape and symbol plan for the year, and will let the beads and experiences guide me. Hats off to all of you have participated before and returned, and a grateful thanks to those who make this project possible.

Flickr Group

A lot of people participated in the flickr group last year and it was a lot of fun so I've set up one for this year - HERE IS THE LINK - Come and join in the fun!

Diane

Problems getting started?

Hello everyone! I am really, REALLY excited to be part of this Project! I think I have my "shape" picked out, but I haven't started beading yet, so it's likely to change.

Here's a thought for those who have not settled on a shape or theme - just start beading! Let the beadwork tell you what it wants to be! If it's keeping you from getting started, just don't think about the shape of the outer edges... start somewhere in the center. Use a piece of your backing large enough that you can work in any direction and make it any size.

Here's to a GREAT year of beautiful beading and personal discovery!

...Question

Are we still going to be posting on the Flickr site, currently labeled 2007 Bead Journal Project?  I surely hope so. 

Another Newbie to BJP

Hello, My name is Renetha and I live in Ohio. I just started beading this year and am looking forward to working on this project. I have not decided on a project size yet, but I do have my ideas ready for each month already. This is going to be so much fun.

Well, here goes.  The fabric is ready, backing paper waiting, beads standing by.  Time to begin!

-- Lois B

September Nearly Completed!

It has been lots of fun to look at everyone's blogs and see what they are up to. It is humbling to see what beautiful art BJP participants are making.

I, too, started early. Somehow I thought that when we got the info about setting up the blogs that it was time to start beading. Newbie enthusiasm, I guess. But it's nice to know there are no bead police on patrol.

My September piece is nearly complete. It has been lots of fun and it has gone faster than I expected. It has brought back some neat memories.

If you want to see what I'm using, go to Crackpot Beader.
Marty S

September completed

Bead Journal Project - ahhhhh, my madness starts or continues...I had an idea for the first month based on a bird that I saw on my way home from work one day, but my hands and the beads led me into a different direction - and me, being me - I just blindly followed my beads. My September piece is finished (so don't click on the link if you don't want to see it) and I am pretty pleased with how it turned out.

I have a motto that I thought up in a moment of deep thought: "Life is a puzzle and it's up to me to solve it." I know, I know, it's pretty hokey, but sometimes the solution isn't easy to find.

The Bad Liz

My first page

Ok, according to my clock, it's September 1st. I had started on my page a couple of weeks ago. It's very personal for me and you can see it and read about why I had to do it early.

Click my name and thank you for coming by.

Z'anne

Getting Started!

Hola, all!

For those who've known me a while, hi again - I admit I've been lax on the international beading community in the past 2 years - I admit I've had quite a few distractions. For those who don't know me, hello! My name is Mary LeMieux-Ruibal but I'm also known as Celticat.

I've been getting all my ducks in a row to participate in this year's Bead Journal Project. I'm sticking to what Robin said - small is beautiful. I've decided on a 4 x 4 format to keep it 'real' and am using actual images from my sketchbook that I keep daily. Anyhow, I've posted my humble beginnings out on my blog.... Questions, comments & complaints are appreciated! I actually keep two blogs - one for bead art, and the other for life in NYC. If I am seeming a little quiet on one, it's most likely because the other grabbed all my attention. (Beads? Life? Hahahaha!) I'm going to be lurking among the blogs and keeping an eye on everyone - any blog links would be appreciated for mine so I can hook up quickly!

Happy beading!!
-That Celticat Chick

Thoughts about Size...

As some of you know, my inspiration for our BJP came from the Quilt Journal Project which has been going on for several years now. For the first few years, the participants all worked their journal quilts the size of a sheet of computer paper... 8.5 x 11. Unlike us, the size was a given.


This July, I taught at the International Quilt Festival in Long Beach, CA. Among other fabulous quilt exhibits (miles of them it seemed!), there were two separate exhibits of journal quilts. One was from the earlier years and the second was from 2007, at which time the required size was doubled to 17 x 22 inches.

I spent all of my free time at the Festival examining the journal quilts in both exhibits. Sorry, I didn't take a camera, so no comparison pictures... However, my general impression is this... the smaller-sized quilts seemed more expressive, spontaneous, precious, compelling and journal-like. The larger-sized quilts seemed to be more about planning, techniques and showing off quilting skills; they were somewhat impersonal and more like quilts you might see in any exhibit. I didn't spend as much time with them as I did with the smaller quilts, even though I'd seen the smaller ones in previous exhibits and the book.

I came away with the conclusion that for journaling purposes, small is good! And, by the way, I put a picture of the smallest 07 BJP pieces (buttons) here on my blog yesterday... in their finished form.

Robin A.

Intro from Ohio

Hello all. Finally, I've gotten a day off from work to just relax & think about this new exciting project for next year. I do have a plan in mind, but I have to admit that it is all going to be a secret until all finished & put together. I intend on doing one project which will have smaller pieces completed each month. I've decided to post the individual pieces but to not show the whole project completely done until next August. I'm excited about it. One hint...ecology. So I guess every piece will be different from the other. I want to experiment with more bead weaving techniques & naturally my love for bead embroidery will be foremost.

dot

Shapes

Last year I thought and thought about what shape to use and ended up tracing around a coaster that was under the glass that I was drinking out of - how simple! It was right under my nose.

This year, my co-worker helped me out with the puzzle shape - which I shared with Linda, Madeline and Sue S, who are in my Loomatics beading group (we meet in Dearborn Hgts and sometimes in Ypsilanti, MI). They approved of my choice. I know that the pieces are not going to fit together exactly, but it works with my theme. Square one is almost completed.

"Life is a puzzle, and it's up to each one of us to solve it."

I'll be working on this projects and a few others over the holiday weekend since I'll be camping with the dogs and husband.

I am thinking about this

Does it have to be a rectilinear page? I am musing upon other shapes, a bird shape, or a circle ....

Undecided

Is anyone else having this problem? I have changed my mind on the size of my page at least twice a day for the last week. Do I want a square or a rectangle? It's driving me crazy. Determining the size is such a huge first step. The size chosen now will be the size for all of the pages. I don't want it to be too big, but then it needs to be big enough. Right now I think I have it narrowed to either 3 by 5 inches or 4 by 4 inches. Maybe I should flip a coin.
Sue
my blog Life with Nologic

Beading Backing?

What is everyone using for stabilizer or backing for their beading?

I've used cotton fabric backed with paper, non-woven sew-in interfacing, or thin cotton quilt batting. I've also used an embroidery hoop to hold the cotton fabric taut. I also tried Lacy's Stiff Stuff a couple of times. Each of those has advantages and disadvantages.

What works best for you? I'd like to hear what the more experienced beaders have learned about backing for beading.

Thanks!
Marty S
Crackpot Beader

New Hampshire Hi

Hi--I'm Jann from Etna, New Hampshire (part of Hanover, home of Dartmouth College) and Sunapee, New Hampshire. We live on an island on Lake Sunapee in the summer.

I enjoy weaving, quilting, and beading. In fact, beading has taken over my life. I am now having fun beading rivolis for a bracelet, pendants, and lots of Christmas tree ornaments. I've also tried Robin's finger weaving this summer and made two tassels. When my 15 year old grand daughter was visiting in July she made three mini-tassels for herself and friends to put on their backpacks for school.

I am a returning bead journal member. I'm planning to bead pins this year. My goal is to add more dimension to my work. Of course, it isn't yet September so I might change my focus. Once we move back to Etna in a couple weeks I will again have my bead stash to inspire me.

Happy beading!

Hello from the Pacific Northwest!

Hi...my name is Lisa Rauch from Pursuing Art...Life and Dreams and I live in Milwaukie, Oregon. First, I'd like to say Thank you to Robin for spearheading such a wonderful project and continuing again this year! I was so relieved when I saw there would be another year. I feel fortunate and honored to be a part of this group of talented artists that include the most friendly and supportive people. My biggest regret last year was not signing up for the 2007 BJP. I considered to the last day (minute actually) and decided against it because I was still working on my first (large) piece. I felt that if I committed myself to one more thing, I would feel too overwhelmed. Well, I was so sorry for not doing it because I know I would have grown with each piece, each journaling, and even learning how to have a blog. However, I have been a devoted fan to the BJP and have admired everyone's work, the growth they have all shown, and the friendships that were made. I have learned so much this past year just in watching and listening and even 'on the seat of my pants' I learned how to start a blog and do most of the things that come with it!

I think I was born with a needle in my hand. I have always loved sewing, embroidery, needlepoint, knitting, beading, etc. In the fall of 2005, I really discovered bead embroidery. After doing lots of research, perusing the internet, buying some books and supplies, I began to teach myself in the winter of 2006. I am loving it and still learning! I've decided on a theme this year which will be 'fragments of my life' although I am still deciding on the actual size to see what will work best. My pages won't be totally encrusted because I don't trust myself to complete that every thirty days. I've learned from watching and know that I don't want to be overwhelmed in completing each month.

To those that are returning, I'm glad you chose to be here again and without many of you knowing...you have been an inspiration to me! To those of us that are new, I know it will be a great year and a wonderful journey!

~Lisa ;-)

Greetings Fellow Beaders

I'm so happy to be part of this monumental endeavor. My name is Z'anne, like Suzanne without the Sue. I live in the wonderful, wet and green foothills of Mt. Hood in Northern Oregon. I've been beading for 15 years now, (wow is it the long?) and missed out last year because I didn't hear about the BJP until after sign ups. Glad I paid attention this year.

I decided to start small for the pages of my journal this year. My father-in-law was the kind of man to save everything, and I mean everything. After his passing we had to clean out all the various outbuildings and shops he had on his property and I came across this bag of filters. They were used respirator mask filters. Some had been washed, some were unused and some had been used and not washed. I went through the bag, found 12 of the cleanest and unused ones, washed and dried them and now have a "page" each month, ready to go. They are all about 3.25" to 3.50" in diameter. I'm glad I didn't throw out that bag.

Z'anne

It's Great To Be Back!!

Wow 260 members, what a spectacular turn out!!! I'm happy to be returning for another year, last year was an awesome experience. I want to encourage all the newbies not to feel intimidated or shy, check out everyone's blog or website and leave comments or ask questions. Everyone loves to get comments and everyone loves to answer questions about their page. Last year we had several participants that actually posted tutorials on their creative process and what a learning experience that was for everyone. Have fun and enjoy, the journey.

Last year my pages were 4X6, this year I' thinking of trying 4X4, can't wait to see how the year unfolds.

SueU

Introduction

Hi all
My name is Cindy and I live in Suffolk Virginia. My blog-name is Loomgirl and I'm new to blogging! We'll see if this works!!
I love almost anything dealing with fibers and beads - and am so excited to be participating in the bead journal project. I'm planning to do a 4 by 6 inch format using tapestry weaving, bead weaving, quilting - and I have to do some bead embroidery. I'm not sure about the finishing of the project, I haven't decided about making a book or a quilt, I'm still pondering....

I've been warming up for the bjp the past few weeks by making beaded buttons - using the directions in the lovely Beaded Embellishment Book by Amy Clarke and Robin Atkins. I've just fallen in love with bead embroidery and if I don't have a button going at all times - I get cranky. I'm going to have to make some clothes now to go with all the buttons.

I'm so thrilled to be participating in this year's bjp - just doing my warm-up buttons has made me look at design and color and shape and see what works, and what doesn't. I'm starting to plan September's page and may not be able to wait until September to start it!

Bead with joy!

Tennessee, Represent! (or Mea Culpa)

This is Cynjon from Tennessee saying hello! My friend Enchy (ummm, I mean "Diane") convinced me to join in on this project (okay, it didn't take much convincing, really)...which I'm looking forward to with a small bit of anxiety.

See, I'm not really a beader. All I know about beading is that the string goes through the hole, after 15 minutes, my eyeballs start bugging out, and my fingers dexterity (or lack thereof) gives evidence to my coffee addiction.

But I'm still looking forward to the project...even being a non-beader, I've still managed to amass quite a good collection of beads...I've always enjoyed the look and feel of them, and have never allowed my lack of use of them to stop me from buying them!

Looking forward to seeing what folks do and getting to know y'all!

Hello from South Carolina

I started the BJP last year and learned a great deal. I learned that trying to bead a 7 by 7 inch page each month was over whelming. I learned to color outside of the lines. And I learned that the beads really do talk to you and show you what they want to do if you listen. I didn't finish the year, but I am far richer for the experience.

I have been beading for about 6 years, but I have worked with needle and thread all of my life. I'm looking forward to this year and meeting all the other participants. Can you believe that we have grown to needing 3 blogs just to hold all of us?! WOW I am going to be busy reading.

Be gentle with Your Self
Sue

Hello From A Newbie

Hello Everyone,

My name is Paula and this is my first time participating in any kind of project like this one. I'm very excited to be in the midst of such talent as displayed in the photos from the 2007 PJB.

I've been beading for about 8 years now and I'm mostly self-taught. I have attended some bead classes but for the most part I've learned from bead magazines and books. I do stringing, a little wire work, and off-loom bead weaving. I can't say what I love best; each project I do, no matter what the vehicle, is my favorite at the time.

I've read all the posts and have been mulling over what I might like to do this year. I'm thinking something small. Maybe something that would include my own photos of flowers, or maybe something with birds being the focal. I envision something that would all fit together at the end of the year and maybe look like a stained glass window. I'm still working out what to use as a backing and what I might use that would look like the black metal used between the glass in a stained glass window. Did all that make sense?

I've never done any bead embroidery before, does anyone have a favorite book or website that I could use as reference? I'll walk upstairs and check my own books in a minute, maybe there's something up there that I can use.

I look forward to reading each post and watching as all the pages are posted. Thanks to everyone who make this work!

Paula

Welcome

Welcome everyone to the 08/09 Bead Journal Project. I am Diane Moore, the moderator of the blogs (or blog angel however many who know me personally might question the angel part). If you have any questions or problems with the blog, feel free to email me and I'll try my best to help.

In the next few days I'll be adding a sidebar to the blog with a list of labels for your posts. Robin developed these so there would be some consistency within the blog especially for people who wanted to see a specific thing, say everyone's page for a certain month, or people who are asking for technical help.

I am a returning Bead Journal Project participant and am anxious to get started on the coming year. Last year I did heart shapes but I'm thinking of rectangles this year. If you are interested in seeing some of the work people did last year, there is a group on flickr with lots of great photos.

Again, welcome to the BJP - I'm certain you'll have an amazing year!

Hello from Northern NM

Hi! Sarah (aka Beadnik) signing in for a new year of BJP. I loved last year's project, and managed to keep up fairly well. This year I'm going to work on a smaller size 'canvas', the 6x6 inch format last year left me a lot of room to work, but this year I think I'll work on 'saying' as much in a smaller area. I'm going to do the ATC size (2 1/2 by 3 1/2 inches). I'm looking forward to seeing all the great work the journalists will come up with this year. I'll be keeping my 2007 blog.
Cheers all,
Sarah

Time flies when one is having fun . . .

Greetings from the high desert country of southern New Mexico! Our state motto -- the Land of Enchantment -- really says it all when it comes to living in a place with constant creative inspiration.

Can't believe it is time for the next BJP already. Spent the entire summer beading up a storm on many other projects and now it is nearly time to solidify thoughts and plans for my 2008 BJP pages. Last year I used a 6 x 8 inch format which was ambitious and there were many months when I had wished I began with a smaller format. So, this year's efforts will go a teeny bit smaller -- 4 3/4 x 6 3/4 inches.

Welcome to all the new folks joining in the project. You will find we have become a family of sorts and this will be the best online group experience you can hope to have anywhere! Lots of encouragement and love gets spread around liberally.

Looking forward to this year and all the creativity and inspiration I am sure will be generated in abundance . . .


Kathy V in NM

http//:artfulmuse.blogspot.com/

Hi Ya'll

Hi everyone, I'm Sue. I live in the beautiful state of Missouri. I'm new to the whole blogging thing. I'm pretty new to beading too. Oh I've piddled around with it for a while, but now I'm a confirmed beadaholic, and proud of it!

I'm really excited about joining this project, I looked at last year's pics and I think I will be doing something totally different. I hope so anyway. I love being unique, I think that's why I like making my own jewelry and clothes etc.

Looking forward to getting to know you all better in the months to come.

Hello from rainy Washington...

Hi all,

Thought I'd take a moment to introduce myself. I'm Andrea Adams from Seattle, WA.
This will be my second year doing the BJP, and I'm really looking forward to it. The first year helped me to reconnect with beading after a long hiatus. It was a wonderful way to bring my favorite media back into my daily life, and I'm so grateful for the experience. So grateful, that I'm eager to commit to another year!

Last year I was pretty solitary in my work, as I wanted to explore my ideas without too much influence from other artists. This year, I hope to be a bit less of a hermit ... no promises tho, it's kind of my nature ;o)

I look forward to meeting you all, and to the journey ahead,
~Andrea (aka "Drea")

http://beadmask.blogspot.com/

Hello from really green Oregon

Hi there...I'm bobbi kirk aka beadbabe49 from Beading at the Beach and this is my second year doing the bead journal project. The project itself was a wonderful challenge for me but the community of beaders that formed around the bjp is what brought me back this year. And a special thank you to robin and the cadre of volunteers whose hard work is making this year possible for all the rest of us!
I have several ideas for this year, but since we won't be posting photos here until december, I feel like I might be able to cheat a bit and try out a couple before declaring my final choice, lol!
My motto this year is, "No Pressure"!
(For the folks new to blogging, if you click on the "Beading at the Beach" up above, it will take you to my blog...)

Hello From New Hampshire

Hello there! I'm a newbie to beading, but not to blogging. I started quilting four years ago. Earlier this summer I started to take an interest in adding embellishments to my designs. I've been writing a quilt blog for over two years and this summer I started an At Home blog.

I have a two foot by three foot piece I made this summer of Shadowplay fabrics from Maywood Studio. My journal project will be exploring the interplay of colors between the fabric and the beads.

I live in Dover, NH with my DH of seven years. My children are grown and on their own. One son is married and lives in a nearby town. My other son lives in NY with his girlfriend. I worked with my DH in a family business until earlier this year when I went on medical leave. Now I'm at stay-at-home wife and loving every minute of it.

I'm excited to be a part of this project and can't wait to read about everyone's project.

Introduction

I'm a returning member from last year. I loved working on the project - and enjoyed the fact that it really made me think of what I wanted to do. I originally planned to do a certain thing each month, wrote down my basic idea, and then when the month came, I thought of something else, couldn't find my scribblings, or just plain out changed my mind.

I am from the metro Detroit area (Dearborn Heights), I've been beading for about 15 years now. I have had two pieces in Bead and Button's "Your Work" gallery and was published in "Flatwork" by Nicole Campanella (Page 46, in case you are looking at a copy of it). I also have several pieces in this years "Bead a Day" calendar.

Linda D and I are members of the same bead guild in the area - the Great Lakes Beadworkers Guild.

Looking forward to a very creative year - I want to really push myself this year.

Liz - the Bad Liz

Introduction

Hello,
I'd like to introduce myself. I'm Linda from Metro-Detroit area...and I'm a recovering bead addict. Ooh! That was a bad dream!!!
I wanted to join last year, but I was a day late. So I made sure that I did it this time and I'm glad.
I know "The BadLiz" and I won't comment if the name suits her!! lol I hope to get to know some of my fellow bead artist.
Linda

What a blessing!

It is such a blessing to be one of the 260 people who are a part of this endeavor. To have a project unite us on a very personal journey to discover a bit about ourselves through bead journaling is a very touching experience that I am very excited to embark on. I have not decided a format for my "page" but I have a few that I have done that I may draw up upon for inspiration and/ or direction. As always I hope that what ever I create it will be beaded to bless someone whether it is through inspiration or imparting a higher hope of things to come.
Ralonda
http://beaded2bless.blogspot.com

I am so looking forward to this...

This year, I am going to pick smaller size projects to do each month... and I will do all I can to make one each month.... Thank you Pam for getting us going!
sammy
http://www.flickr.com/photos/sammystuff/
http://sammystuff.blogspot.com/

Another Year -- YAY!

While I'm still finishing up on the 2007 BJP, I'm overjoyed to be beginning for 2008-09.  This last year was ... interesting for me, to say the least.  I don't expect so much to be happening over the next year, so I should be able to keep reasonably current.  The previous BJP brought in such wonderful things to my life and my art.  I can't help but think that this next one will be even better!  -- Lois B

Hello!

I'm delighted to be part of the Bead Journal for the coming year.

I enjoy sewing, quilting and all sorts of needlework. For the past couple of years, I have been playing with bead embroidery. I find it very relaxing to sit with my feet up and my hands on little beads and a needle.

I'm ready to get started on my first month's project, and I'm looking forward to hearing from other participants.

Marty S

Welcome Everyone!!!!!

Wow… there are about 260 of us starting this thing. The thought of us, scattered around the whole world, taking up our beads, fabrics, needles, ephemera, photos, buttons, etc. … and starting to stitch the month of September just thrills me to pieces!!!!

We are separated geographically, yet together in purpose and united here in our blog. May your individual beaded pathway and our collective journey be rich in friendship, growth, healing and fun.

A few details…

1. You may have a plan and/or a theme for the year… or not. It’s totally up to you. Personally, I like to take each month as it comes, without a preconceived plan or theme.

2. Just a reminder. You do not have to make a book or journal. The word journal for our purposes refers to the concept of visually showing what’s going on in your life or your thoughts/feelings at a given time. The word page refers to your piece, but it doesn’t have to be literally a page of a book/journal.

3. For the first three months (Sept-Dec), please do not post pictures of your BJP pieces on this blog. You are welcome to post them on your personal blog or website and then post a link to them here. Starting in January, you’re welcome to post your BJP pictures here.

4. Please do not post movies or sound clips on this blog. They take up too much digital space on a team blog that may have thousands of posts by the end of the year.

5. Remember to sign your posts (with a link to your blog/website if you have one) as I have below.

A Big Ol’ Snaffoo…

Blogger has recently changed the blogspot rules. They no longer allow unlimited authors on a blog. At this time they only allow 100 authors on a team blog such as ours. Ooooops… We have 260 members… what to do?????

Your coordinators gnashed our teeth and deliberated about this, considering various solutions. For now, we decided to have three blogs for this year. They are:

08BJP
morebjp08
andmorebjp08

You will be invited to be an author on only one of them. Please make a note (somewhere you can find it!) of your sign in information (email address and password) and which of the three you can post to.

Please visit, read and comment on all three blogs! Together the three of them will be our support and unifying system.

Some of you may have more experience with blogging than we do… if so, we welcome any suggestion you may have for a “better” solution (contact Diane).

Happy September BJP and beady blessings to you all...

Robin A. (your leader in this great adventure)