Cocktail Hour Earrings

Explore the science of your favorite cocktail by weaving these chemistry-inspired earrings! These sparkly earrings are woven using the Molecule Stitch, a novel beading stitch that uses seed beads and crystals to mimic the accurate, 3D chemical structures of molecules. This design features the ethanol molecule, which is the key component of all alcoholic beverages. Like the real molecule, these beaded molecules are branched and flexible, and are also color-coded to show the different carbon, oxygen, and hydrogen atoms in the compound. Attach a cute matching fruit charm to represent your favorite libation, such as red and white wine, a margarita, or a strawberry daiquiri!

Since the ethanol molecule is a relatively simple organic molecule, this beading pattern is a perfect introduction to the Molecule Stitch. The pattern includes detailed, step-by-step directions on how to weave the ethanol molecule, and at least four different kinds of matching fruit charms. The pattern also includes a gentle introduction to the organic chemistry behind this stitch, and it shows several extended examples of how to use the Molecule Stitch to weave other beaded molecules.

Pattern

The Cocktail Hour Earrings beading pattern includes:

• Complete written instructions on how to weave both the beaded ethanol molecule, and a variety of decorative fruit charms.
• 24 pages of step-by-step instructions.
• 96 full color illustrations and photographs.
• Several photos of finished jewelry and design variations.
• Fun facts about chemistry!

Materials

To stitch these earrings, you'll need:

• 3mm bicone crystals
• 3mm Japanese bugle beads
• Various top-drilled fruit beads
• 6mm jump rings, 20-22G
• A pair of ear wires
• 15°, 11°, and 8° Japanese seed beads
• Beading thread (6lb Fireline)