Floating Keystone Necklace

~ Workshop Information ~

Bezel a keystone with Tila beads! In traditional masonry, a keystone is the wedge-shaped stone at the top of an arch that allows the structure to bear weight. But in this piece, the keystone gets to float in the center of the necklace surrounded by sparkly square and rectangle crystals. You'll use the two-hole Tila and Quarter Tila beads along with bugle beads to bezel the crystals and enhance the angles of these elements (without making them too sharp!). Additional Quarter Tila and bugle beads combine into mini square components that make a unique beaded rope. Experiment with different arrangements of these elements, or incorporate them into bracelets or earrings.  

In this class you'll use peyote stitch and right-angle weave (RAW) to learn how to bezel a keystone focal stone and angular crystals. You'll use two-hole Tila beads, bugle beads, and Japanese seed beads, and you'll also learn how to connect them together for a regal necklace. You'll also learn how to finish the necklace with a unique beaded rope.

Prerequisites: Students should be familiar with peyote stitch and comfortable working with size 15° seed beads.

Skill level: Intermediate or Ambitious Beginner