Saturday, June 25, 2011

A Bracelet a Week: Simplicity

Egyptian Gold Cuff

Rather than mimic an existing piece of Egyptian jewelry, this week’s bracelet design draws from a more abstract inspiration. I wanted to make something that was very simple, but with a distinct Egyptian flair. To get the look I wanted, I created a simple pattern of boxes and stripes. The essential element is the rows of alternating black and white beads that border the topaz boxes.

My original idea was for a peyote stitch cuff, but the diagonal beadwork wouldn’t provide the straight lines that I wanted. I went with herringbone instead, which proved to be much easier. Instead of adding the black and white stripes as fringe, I was able to incorporate them right into the pattern. This also saves a lot on stitching time.

I don’t like to leave bare threads on flat beadwork, and adding a finish to peyote stitch can be a little tedious at times. With herringbone, only the ends need embellishing. I used square stitch to finish this bracelet, but if I had to do it over, I think I might go with picots instead. Although the flat row of black beads fits in with the rest of the design, it doesn’t have the same clean look as other stitches.

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9 comments:

  1. I am so loving these Egyptian themed pieces! Wonderful stuff.

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  2. I love this, Mortira, I don't think you should have done it any differently! It's classic and classy!

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  3. This one is beautifully streamlined. Love it.

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  4. Elegant, the beige and cream beads remind me of alabaster. Great job!

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  5. HI-The effect is accurately,as You probably thought at first.I love it for the 'Egyptian' theme of Your inspiration.The colour and the way You've stitched reminds the Egyptian style.
    Very nice piece.
    There is always the elegance in simplicity.
    Greetings-Halinka-

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  6. Wonderful colors. With this simple design you've captured the balance, elegance and grace that is the beauty of Egyptian art.

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  7. Beautiful bracelet, Mortira. So elegant in its simplicity! Catherine @ ShadowDogDesigns

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  8. Very elegant! I love herringbone - I always start and end with ladder stitch because that was the way I learned it. Looks like you just jump right into the herringbone - I actually really like that sort of wavy edge. :)

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  9. Thanks everyone! I think this might be a design I'll have to repeat in a different palette. I really love the striped edge, and it would work with lots of different colors.

    I always start herringbone with a double ladder - I find it's easier to grip and gives a nicer edge to the first row. On this piece, the ruffled edge is done with modified square stitch.

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