Some people adore insects of all shapes, sizes and colors. They are very fascinating creatures, with unique life cycles and societies. Many insects form symbiotic bonds with other plants and animals, and they are an important part of every ecosystem. Other people abhor anything that crawls, flies or spins in dark corners. There are any number of reasons why we fear bugs and insects, including bites and other creepy business. Some insects carry diseases, and others just look disgusting.
Somewhere in between all of these opinions are the creative folks who can create the most amazing designs inspired by these tiny creatures. Beautiful bugs like butterflies make obvious subjects, but even the creepiest insects can make for beautiful beads.
Russian Mother of Pearl Dragonfly Pendant
from Artbeads.com
Purple Dragonfly Enameled Copper Crescent Pendant
from Happy Mango Beads
Red Lampwork Glass Ladybugs
from Mindielee Supplyz
Murano Style Glass Butterfly Pendant
from Auntie's Beads
Swarovski Elements Crystal Silver Night Butterfly
from FusionBeads.com
Tierra Cast Monarch Butterfly Bead
from Royal Metals
Green Patina Czech Glass Dragonfly Button
from Bello Modo
Brass and Copper Butterfly and Flower Clasp
from Sonoran Beads
Czech Glass Red and Gold Ladybugs
from Beadaholique
Patricia Healey Copper Fly Pendant
from Lima Beads
And even though it’s not a stand alone bead,
I couldn’t resist showing you this life-like bug creation!
Polymer Clay Maggot Pendant
by Humphrey’s Handmade
What’s your favorite tiny creature? How do you incorporate them into your work?
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My favorites are the lampwork ladybugs...they are so cute...the Maggot..seriously?? Oh well, something for everyone I guess.
ReplyDeleteDanielle
I just completed a chain maille set revolving around bees. I don't generally like stinging insects as a rule, but I do like honey! I also like spiders...the non-venomous kind. I have a big spider on my screen porch that spins a zig-zag web. I named her Charlotte :D
ReplyDeleteI'm picky about the kind of bugs I like, too! We also let spiders set up shop - as long as it's an out of the way spot - because they're so handy for catching the unwanted bugs.
ReplyDeleteI guess my fav insect would be the butterfly (what a shock!). There are so many beautiful kinds! But, even though it's not an insect, the hummingbird is a tiny creature that fascinates and inspires me!
ReplyDeleteI have to say, and i know this would probably seem odd to most people, i love that Maggot pendant!!
ReplyDeleteMore than any thing else it is different. Insect inspired jewellery does tend to revolve around the same types i.e. Butterflies, dragonflies, spiders, lady bugs, which are beautiful and i have to confess the butterfly is probably my favorite, but it is so great to see something a bit out there, i like that. Even though i like butterflies, i must say i have a bit of a fascination with ants too, their strength and discipline amazes me.
The maggot is so realistic, it does seem a little gross at first. Then it's kind of cute! Maggots also get a lot of undeserved disgust. They are really useful creatures. I love how unique the pendant is!
ReplyDeleteI love the ladybug beads!
ReplyDeleteI love them all, but have to admit,like Lynsey, I'm drawn towards the maggot :) It's different and I have a healthy respect for the role that maggots play in the web of life. Plus I would love to wear the necklace and watch peoples' reactions when they realize what it is! LOL! I love using scarabs in my designs. Beautiful insects - fascinating natural history and beliefs.
ReplyDelete