Bead Cruise 2026 Classes

Full-Day and Half-Day Classes

One full-day class and one half-day workshop are included in the Bead Cruise Registration. 

Kits are required for classes, kit prices are subject to change. Kits are purchased directly from instructors.  

Bonus Classes - (Optional with an additional fee)

 Students can pick one class per session/time.  Times will be noted on the registration form.
You must be registered as a Bead Cruise Participant to sign-up for the optional class.  

Skill Levels – Please Read Carefully

Advanced:
You have a strong working knowledge of the stitches and techniques used in the project. No instruction on the basics will be provided.

Intermediate:
You’ve taken classes or completed multiple projects using the required techniques. You’re comfortable following along with minimal review of foundational skills.

Advanced Beginner:
You have experience working with seed beads and are familiar with the stitches used, though you may still be building confidence.

Beginner / All Skill Levels:
These classes are suitable for everyone—from first-timers to seasoned jewelry makers. Some projects may be time-intensive and not completed in class, but all students receive detailed, step-by-step instructions and learn the techniques needed to finish the design at home.

Full Day Classes

Island Princess

Instructor: Sherry Serafini

Date/Time: Feb. 22nd • 9am-4pm

Skill Level: Intermediate - Advanced

Technique: Bead embroidery

Kit: $ 150

Kit includes: This bead embroidery kit includes a hand carved cabochon, glass cabochon, metals, jasper cabochon, a variety of other glass beads, plenty of crystals, cup chain, velvet bail, leather cord, beading foundation and suede.

Class Description: A beautiful hand carved cabochon is the focal of Island Princess. Layers of embroidered components come together to create a piece that reminded me of an adventurous, free spirit, Earth-lover, who seeks her true self and aspires to enlighten others.

Prerequisites: TBD
Students should bring:
• Various sizes of beading needles
• One G black or similar thread
• Fine pointed scissors for cutting into tight spaces
• White pen or pencil for writing on black beading foundation
• E-6000 adhesive and Loctite Superglue gel for adding end caps
• Ruler
• Aileene’s White Tacky glue or similar (this is for attaching the suede backing...E-6000 can also be used but some people prefer Aileene’s)
• Round nose pliers for adding the little drops (you can do this after the retreat if you don’t want to carry these with you)

Sea Blossom

Instructor:  Melissa Shippee

Date/Time: Feb. 23rd • 9am-4pm

Skill Level: Intermediate to Advanced

Techniques: Peyote stitch, herringbone stitch, tubular herringbone stitch, right angle weave, netting

Kit: $72

Kit includes: All of the Delicas, Seed Beads, Druks, and Crystals needed to complete the necklace as shown.

Class Description:  Dive into an underwater world of elegance and creativity with the Sea Blossom necklace! This intermediate to advanced beading project features a stunning lariat-style necklace with two ornate floral pendants reminiscent of ocean blooms. Each blossom is beautifully sculpted using delicate seed beads, crystals, and advanced beadweaving techniques to create dimensional, textured forms that shimmer with movement and light. This project is ideal for intermediate to advanced beaders looking to refine their shaping skills and add a dramatic, elegant piece to their handmade jewelry collection. The final result is both wearable and artistic — a true showstopper inspired by the beauty of the sea.
Skills You’ll Practice:
• How to create tubular beaded ropes using herringbone stitch
• How to incorporate bead clusters as decorative connectors
• How to sculpt intricate, three-dimensional floral forms
• Techniques for securely attaching crystal drops

Students should bring: preferred beading thread, scissors, size 10-12 beading needles, work surface

Birds Of A Feather

Instructor: Marcia DeCoster

Date/Time: Feb. 23rd • 9am-4pm

Skill Level: All Skill Levels Welcome!

Techniques: Bead Embroidery, Herringbone, Stitching

Kit: $54

Kit includes: A template for the bird shape Bead backing fabric backed with iron on adhesive paper for adhering various shapes to your bird.
Seed beads in appropriate colors for edge stitching and embellishment. Seed beads and crystal for your birds crown. Feathers for the tail. A dowel and base for displaying your bird.
To insure everyone’s bird is as unique as you are you’ll select some special beads to embellish your bird from a communal jar

Class Description:  Create a whimsical bird out of scraps of fabric and select a few special beads out of the communal jar to adorn him. Your bird will be created on bead backing and then a second piece of fabric will create the back. A bead edging will join the front and back leaving an opening at the bottom so you can display your bird on the provided stand

Students will learn how to:

Prerequisites: None

Students should bring: A bead surface, needle, thread of choice and a scissors

Calista

Instructor: Beki Haley

Date/Time: Feb. 22nd • 9am-4pm

Skill Level:  Intermediate

Techniques:  Peyote, Right Angle Weave, Spiral Rope, Embellishing and Finishing techniques

Kit: $87

Kit includes: Miyuki Delicas, an assortment of Size 11, 15 & 8 seed beads. Czech glass Pearls or Rounds, Clasp Step-by-step illustrated instructions.

Class Description:  Calista is a celebration of feminine grace and color.
At its heart lies a delicate floral motif, blooming with subtle dimension and capturing the essence of natural beauty. The central flower is enhanced by an open and airy focal, offering a sense of lightness that allows the intricate details to shine without overwhelming the eye.

Flowing from this captivating centerpiece is a colorful neckstrap, carefully composed of coordinated hues that echo the tones of the focal. The strap is designed for both comfort and visual harmony, making Calista not only a statement piece, but a joy to wear.

Prerequisites: An ability work with small seed beads and a working knowledge of Peyote stitch would be helpful.

Students should bring: Needle, thread, work surface, and magnification if needed.

Half-Day Classes

Heart of the Sea

Instructor: Sherry Serafini

Date/Time: Feb. 26th • 9am-Noon

Skill level: All skill levels welcome!

Technique:  Bead Embroidery

Kit: $90

Kit includes: This bead embroidery kit includes, glass cabochons, crystals, metal shell, crystals, a variety of other glass beads, cup chain, fabulous crystals in settings, glass drops, pin back, beading foundation and suede

Class Description: Shells both inspire both awe and a connection to the natural world, with their unique shapes and the stories they tell of marine life and survival. This bead embroidered brooch is created with crystals in settings, cup chains, seed beads and Czech glass. A beautiful and elegant bead embroidered piece that can easily be turned into a pendant if a brooch isn’t for you.

Prerequisites: TBD

Students should bring:
• Various sizes of beading needles
• One G black or similar thread
• Fine pointed scissors for cutting into tight spaces
• White pen or pencil for writing on black beading foundation
• E-6000 adhesive and Loctite Superglue gel for adding end caps
• Ruler
• Aileene’s White Tacky glue or similar (this is for attaching the suede backing...E-6000 can also be used but some people prefer Aileene’s)

Tidal Gleam

Instructor: Melissa Shippee

Date/Time: Feb. 26th • 1pm-4pm

Skill level: Intermediate

Technique: Peyote stitch, netting

Kit: $54

Kit Includes: Chatons, Settings, Montees, Pearls, Delicas and Seed Beads.

Class Description:  Get ready to dive into an exciting beading adventure with the *Tidal Gleam* bracelet! In this project, you’ll create a stunning, ocean-inspired bracelet that sparkles with brilliant crystals and rich colors. Using a combination of beadweaving techniques, you’ll learn how to create structural beaded frames and set chaton crystals inside them, then connect them all together. The embellished beaded clasp can also serve as an additional focal point. This bracelet is a fantastic way to develop precision and creativity in your beadwork while working with a variety of beads including seed beads, crystals, and shaped beads.

By the end of this project, you’ll have a wearable piece of art that reflects your skill and dedication. Whether you're looking to expand your beading repertoire or just want to make something truly eye-catching, *Tidal Gleam* is the perfect challenge!
Skills You’ll Practice:
• Setting crystal chatons in sew-on settings
• Creating structural shaped beadwork
• Color coordination and design balance
• Working with crystals and cylinder beads

Students should bring: preferred beading thread, scissors, size 10-12 beading needles, work surface

Memory In A Bottle

Instructor: Marcia DeCoster

Date/Time: Feb. 26th • 1pm-4pm

Skill Level: All Skill Levels Welcome!

Technique: Coloring Shrinkets

Kit: $45

Kit includes: die cut shapes of shrink plastic for you to color A cork topped bottle A stick pin to stack your finished flowers An ocean themed charm (you’ll select your favorite) Assorted beads will be available to use between your flowers Waxed linen to tie on your charm Paper to write a special sentiment if desired Instructor will provide pens, pencils, rubber stamps, stencils, 3 d molds and heat guns for your shared use

Class Description:  Use shrink plastic shapes and 3 d molds to create a beautiful topper for a glass bottle. You’ll use a variety of colored pencils and pens as well as rubber stamps and stencils to make from three to five floral shapes which you’ll stack on top of your bottle along with an assortments of beads. You can use your beautiful bottle to collect sand from this vacation or perhaps write a special sentiment on a scroll to keep in your bottle

Prerequisites: None

Students should bring: Heat gun (if you don’t wish to share. Be sure to follow strict guidelines for bringing onboard).

Bonus Classes

Bonus classes can be added on for an additional $55 per class

Marina

Instructor: Sherry Serafini

Date/Time: Feb. 27th • 1pm-4pm

Skill Level: Intermediate - Advanced

Technique: Bead Embroidery

Kit: $145

Kit includes: This bead embroidery kit includes, glass cabochon, metal shells, crystals, a variety of other glass beads, cup chain, fabulous crystals in settings, glass drops, beading foundation and suede

Class Description: Seashells evoke a sense of the ocean's beauty, with their smooth curves and intricate patterns, often representing protection, beauty, and the ocean's mysteries. Embroider four separate pieces of bead work and assemble to create this visually flowing piece of beaded art. If desired, the components can be joined differently than I chose to do it. Creative freedom is welcome! Piece measures approximately 2” x 7”

Prerequisites: TBD

Students should bring:
• Various sizes of beading needles
• One G black or similar thread
• Fine pointed scissors for cutting into tight spaces
• White pen or pencil for writing on black beading foundation
• E-6000 adhesive and Loctite Superglue gel for adding end caps
• Ruler
• Aileene’s White Tacky glue or similar (this is for attaching the suede backing...E-6000 can also be used but some people prefer Aileene’s)

Caribbean Crest

Instructor: Melissa Shippee

Date/Time: Feb. 27th • 9am-Noon

Skill Level: Intermediate

Technique: Cubic right angle weave, peyote stitch

Kit: $56

Kit includes: All the crystals, beads, pearls needed to create the necklace as pictured.

Class Description: Get ready to dive into a colorful and creative journey with the Caribbean Crest beaded necklace! Inspired by the vibrant blues and golds of the tropics, this project will guide you through creating elegant swirling beadwork that frames a striking central navette crystal. Using a variety of beadweaving techniques, you'll construct sculptural curves and embellish them with shimmering fire polished beads, seed beads, and a faceted crystal focal piece.
This design focuses on symmetry, texture, and movement—skills that will challenge and reward your attention to detail and craftsmanship. Along the way, you'll build your expertise in techniques such as cubic right angle weave, peyote stitch, embellishment, and crystal setting.
By the end of this project, you'll not only have a stunning, wearable work of art, but also a deeper understanding of advanced beading construction and design.
Skills You'll Practice
• Creating structured curves with seed beads
• Embellishment and layering techniques
• Framing and securing a crystal stone
• Working with color and balance in a 3D design

Prerequisites: Some familiarity with bead embroidery would be great but this class is suitable for absolute beginners as well
Students should bring: preferred beading thread, scissors, size 10-12 beading needles, flat nose pliers, work surface

Coral Seas

Instructor: Marcia Balonis

Date/Time: Feb. 27th • 7pm-10pm

Skill Level: Great for all levels including beginners.

Technique: Bead embroidery stitches are backstitch and brick stitch edge. The fringe is a typical coral fringe bead weaving technique only out of the edge of the piece.

Kit: $48

Kit includes: Cork, backing, Czech glass, seed beads, Preciosa crystals, cord with clasp and findings.

Class Description:  This is a bead embroidery project. Explore the use of color for the swirl around the center focal shell adding interest while keeping pretty simple.
Then, after edged, your coral fringe will be added to finish you CoralSeas pendant.

Students should bring: Basic supply kit including needles size 10 or 11, bead mat, battery operated light, magnification if used, good embroidery scissors, Fireline 6 pound or preferred thread.

Twilight Earrings

Instructor: Beki Haley

Date/Time: Feb. 27th • 9am-Noon

Skill Level: All Skill Levels Welcome

Technique: Brick Stitch, Fringing, Netting

Kit: $38

Kit includes : Assorted colors of size 15 Japanese Seed Beads, Tiny Crystals, Czech Glass Drop, Metal Hoop. Earwires and full step-by-step illustrated instructions

Class Description: Capture the gentle magic of a day’s end with the Twilight Earrings—a graceful design that fades from one hue to the next in a stunning ombré effect. Inspired by the shifting colors of the sky as it melts into dusk, these beaded earrings are both elegant and ethereal.
Perfect for all skill levels, Twilight offers a relaxing and rewarding stitching experience. You'll play with beautifully blended shades, creating a soft gradient that glows with every turn of the head. Lightweight and full of movement, these earrings are as enjoyable to wear as they are to make.
Whether you choose vibrant sunset shades, or moody twilight hues, the Twilight Earrings will add a touch of serene beauty to your handmade collection. Let the colors fade and the sparkle shine—your perfect evening accessory awaits.

Students should bring: Needle, thread, work surface, and magnification if needed.

Sweet Scissor Case

Instructor: Marcia DeCoster

Date/Time: Feb. 27th • 1pm-4pm

Skill Level: All Skill Levels Welcome

Technique: Hubble Stitch Bezel, Bead Edging

Kit: $44

Kit includes : Cork fabric, Template for cutting, 14mm rivoli, Embellishment beads for rivoli, Seed beads

Class Description: I’m a lover of nice tools and I love giving them their own little piece of art when storing them.  This sweet little scissor sheath does the job nicely for the teeniest of scissors.  Cutting out three shapes of cork, the top loop is lined and folded over to snap onto the heart and hold your scissors securely.
To fancy it up, because a bit of fancy never hurt, a pretty rivoli is bezeled with just two rows of Hubble stitch and tad bit of embellishment.  If you don’t know Hubble stitch then you’re in for a treat learning this versatile stitch, and if you do then you’re ahead of the game. 
With your cork cut out, snaps applied and rivoli bezeled and stitched on, you’ll turn your attention to the edge stitching.  I’ve chosen a picot edge with a contrast size 11, completing the top front with a solid color in both 11’s and 15’s.


Students should bring: Needle, thread, work surface, and magnification if needed.