Bead Cruise 2024 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 - IMPORTANT PLEASE READ
Intermediate - means you have taken other classes to learn the technique or have completed several projects on your own using the required technique. 

Advanced Beginner - experience with seed beads is required and familiarity with the required stitches.

Beginner/All skill levels - Whether this is your first class or you've been making jewelry for years, you'll enjoy these classes. 

Some projects are time-intensive and will not be finished during class.  Students are given detailed instructions and taught the skills needed to complete a project.   

Full Day Classes

Treasures of the Sea - SOLD OUT

Instructor: Sherry Serafini

Date/Time: Saturday, March 16th - 9am to 4pm - SOLD OUT
or
Thursday, March 21st - 9am to 4pm - SOLD OUT

Skill Level: Intermediate/Advanced

Technique: Bead Embroidery; Stack Stitch Bezel, Picot Edging, Peyote

Kit: $ 140.00

Kit includes: glass cab, a variety of cup chains, Swarovski pearls and crystals, Ultrasuede, beading foundation, cork fabric, metal cuff blank, seed beads, full color instructions
Three colorways will be available.

Class Description: A lush sea themed cuff! A variety of techniques involved with layering of cup chains to create dimension and tons of sparkle. Cuff is on a brass blank but is easily adaptable if you prefer a clasp. Can also be a pendant!

Students will Learn: Peyote stitch, embroidery and heavy cup chain layering .

Prerequisites: Please know basic stitches!

Project will not be completed in class.

Additional supplies you should bring to class: E-6000 adhesive, variety of sizes of beading needles, One G or fireline 6lb., white pen/pencil, scissors

My Favorite Things Necklace

Instructor: Tracy Stanley

Date/Time: Saturday, March 16th - 9am to 4pm

Skill Level: All skill levels are welcome!

Technique: Metal stamping; Riveting; Wire wrapping; Bead Embroidery

Kit: $85

Kit includes: Kit includes everything to complete this necklace except what is listed below for students to bring and whatever you want to put in your frame.

Class Description:  Come create this beautiful and unique necklace with me!  Start by stamping your own words or saying and then do bead embroidery around the edges of this piece. You will add a wire wrapped bead to the bottom, using a double loop technique.  Too scary?  No problem, I will have some pre-wrapped beads for purchase if you prefer.
Your bottom piece will include a small locket that you can add treasures too!  You can bring a special picture, charm, beads or even go out on at one of our ports and collect some sand from one of the beautiful beaches we will be visiting!  This component of our necklace will be embellished with an organic bead embroidery with will include beads, pearls and charms…just to name a few.  
Join me in making your very own Favorite Things Necklace! You won’t regret it!!

Instructor will supply a limited number of the following tools for the class to share.  If you have these tools please bring them if you don’t want to have to wait to use them.
• Bench block
• Hammer for stamping
• Metal letter stamps
• 1/16” metal hole punch
• Riveting hammer
• Metal file- I prefer emery boards for this
• Flat, chain, and round nose pliers
• Wire cutters

Students must bring: Small tube of E6000; Beading thread- I prefer Fireline 6lb; Beading needles- size 11; Scissors; Task light; Bead pad or tray (work surface)

Wildflower Micromosaic Pendant or Cabochon

Instructor: Janice Peacock

Date/Time: Thursday, March 21st - 9am to 4pm

Skill Level: All Levels Welcome!

Technique: Micromosaic Glass

Kit: $ 45.00 supplies, $20 tools

Kit includes: One 30mm silver plated pendant or cabochon bezel setting; Colorful glass canes in various shapes; Italian micromosaic putty and activator; tape and practice materials. Students can use tools supplied by the instructor or purchase their own set.
Several colorways will be available.

Class Description:  Using a centuries-old Italian technique, you’ll learn how to create a stunning micromosaic pendant. You’ll make an intricate wildflower bouquet design with several unique and colorful flower shapes using pre-made glass canes from Italy. You’ll start by mixing the mosaic putty to prepare your bezel setting and use transfer paper to apply your design to the putty. You’ll use specialized tools to cut the glass and make the perfect tiles for your design. Then you’ll assemble your glass pieces inside the bezel setting to create your mini-masterpiece. The instructor will also share information about the best bezels, glass, and adhesives to use, as well as the history of micromosaics.

Students will learn how to:
Mix traditional mosaic putty
Prepare a bezel for a micromosaic design
Use transfer paper to create a design
Cut glass pieces for a floral micromosaic pendant
Assemble a micromosaic pendant

Prerequisites: None! Come ready to explore this unusual and beautiful craft.

You may want to bring: Magnification and a task light.

Half-Day Classes

Luna - SOLD OUT

Instructor: Sherry Serafini

Date/Time: Friday, March 22nd - 1pm to 4pm

Skill level: Intermediate/Advanced

Technique:  Modified netting

Kit: $145
Three color ways will be available

Kit includes: metal washer, polymer art, squashed fluted metal bead, size 9 3 cuts, size 15 seed beads, size 11 seed beads, daggers, bugle beads, Ultrasuede, beading foundation, Swarovski pearls and crystals, cup chain, Tierracast components, lobster claw closure, chain, full color instructions

You supply: E-6000 glue, One G or similar thread in black, fine point scissors, white pen or pencil, white tacky glue if desired for suede backing.
Please note that I have E-6000 listed. If you prefer to not bring it on board, I will have tubes available for you to use.

Class Description: An amazing polymer piece of art is the focal, created by Olympiartstudio! She’s layered onto a rusted or patina metal washer. Fringe was not a question on this piece, so we also add that to this design.

My Mantra Bracelet - SOLD OUT

Instructor: Tracy Stanley

Date/Time: Friday, March 22nd - 1pm to 4pm

Skill level: All Skill Levels

Technique: Metal stamping; Bead embroidery; Macramé

KIT-with pre-stamped words: $40.00 each
kit includes all materials to finish project with the exception of what is listed below that students must supply.

KIT- with washer ready to stamp: $32.00 each

Class Description:  What would you consider to be a mantra for you to live by?  A word or words that inspire you through out the day.  For me, reminding myself to breathe or that I will choose peace over chaos is a way to help me refocus.  Why not stamp it out and wear it on your wrist…just a beautiful way to remind yourself of your intentions for the day.

This class begins with metal stamping, then goes on to using bead embroidery to embellish your bracelet with beads.  Finish off your Mantra bracelet by using a macramé technique to create an easy way to slide your bracelet on and off…no need for fumbling with clasps!

Just be warned…this is a super fun project that you will want to make over and over! This project can also easily be made into a necklace if you prefer.

For those students that are intimidated by the metal stamping you can buy a kit with your words pre-stamped.  I just need to know your word or two that you would like to have stamped at least 2 weeks before we leave!

Instructor will bring a limited number of the following tools for the class to share:
• Bench block
• Hammer for stamping
• Metal letter stamps
Students need to bring: Beading needles- size 11; bead thread- I prefer Fireline 6lb; a mini tube of E6000; scissors; bead mat or pad; task light

Round Rose Micromosaic Pendant or Cabochon

Instructor: Janice Peacock

Date/Time: Friday, March 22nd - 9am to Noon

Skill Level: All Levels

Micromosaic Glass

Kit: $ 35.00 supplies, $20 tools

Kit includes: One 22mm silver plated pendant or cabochon bezel setting; Colorful glass canes in various shapes to make a traditional Italian rose design; Two-part epoxy clay; tape and practice materials. Students can use tools supplied by the instructor or purchase their own set. Several colorways will be available.

Class Description:  Using a centuries-old Italian technique, you’ll learn how to create a stunning micromosaic pendant. You’ll make a traditional rose design surrounded by tiny flowers and leaves using pre-made glass canes from Italy. You’ll start by cutting all the glass pieces you need to make your design. Then you’ll prepare your bezel using an adhesive that can set up quickly. After placing your tiny glass tiles into the bezel, you’ll have your own mini-mosaic in its own setting, ready to be worn.

Students will learn how to:
Mix two-part epoxy clay
Prepare a bezel for a micromosaic design
Cut glass pieces for a floral micromosaic pendant
Assemble a micromosaic pendant

Prerequisites: None! It’s fiddly but in a good way.

You may want to bring: Magnification and a task light.

Circe - SOLD OUT

Instructor: Beki Haley

Date/Time: Friday, March 22nd - 9am to Noon

Skill Level: Beginner/Intermediate

Technique: Faux Patina; Right Angle Weave: Back Stitch: Peyote: Picot Edging

Kit: $68

Kit Includes: Faux Patina Metal Stamping; Focal Crystal; Glass Pearls;
Size 11 and 15 Seed Beads; Cup Chain; Bead Backing; Ultra Suede; Teflon Craft Sheet; Gloves; Apron; Sanding Block
Step-by-Step Illustrated Instructions for the Faux Patina effect and the beaded focal.

Class description: create Faux Patina effects on metal and how to bead a project with your creation!

This class will be in two parts - first we'll spend some time playing and creating a faux patina on a metal stamping.  This is fun and easy to do and each one is unique. Then you’ll bezel your crystal and do a small bit of back stitch, some couching for the cup chain, and a picot edging around our new creation.

You can then turn the project into any number of things:
A pendant as shown in the photo by adding a simple bail to the back, or a broach or shawl pin, or even the centerpiece of a bracelet or larger design of your choosing.
I'm certain you will love this fun technique as much as I do!
And we'll be sure to have some extra metal stains and decorative metal blanks on hand for purchase once you become hooked!

Bonus Classes

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

Allura - SOLD OUT

Instructor: Sherry Serafini

Date/Time: Saturday, March 16th - 7:30pm-10:30pm

Skill Level: All Levels Welcome!

Technique: Basic Bead Embroidery

Kit: $70
Two colorways available

Kit includes: metal component, Ultrasuede, beading foundation, Swarovski pearls and crystals, seed beads, lobster claw closure, chain, full color instructions

You supply: E-6000 glue, One G or similar thread in black, fine point scissors, white pen or pencil

Class Description: A beautiful metal shell is embellished with bead embroidery. Following the curves of the shell, we will drape strands of beads over the shell to enchance.

Double Daisy Micromosaic Pendant or Cabochon

Instructor: Janice Peacock

Date/Time: Saturday, March 16th - 7:30pm-10:30pm

Skill Level: All Levels Welcome!

Technique: Micromosaic Glass

Kit: $ 35.00 supplies, $20 tools

Kit includes: One 31x16mm silver plated pendant or cabochon bezel setting; Colorful glass canes in various shapes to make a contemporary daisy design; Two-part epoxy putty; tape and practice materials. Students can use tools supplied by the instructor or purchase their own set. Several colorways will be available.

Class Description:  Using a centuries-old Italian technique, you’ll learn how to create a stunning micromosaic pendant. You’ll make a contemporary daisy design surrounded by tiny flowers and leaves using pre-made glass canes from Italy. You’ll start by cutting all the glass pieces you need to make your design. Then you’ll prepare your bezel using an adhesive that sets up quickly. After placing your tiny glass tiles into the bezel, you’ll have your own mini-mosaic in its own setting, ready to be worn.

Students will learn how to:
Mix two-part epoxy clay
Prepare a bezel for a micromosaic design
Cut glass pieces for a floral micromosaic pendant
Assemble a micromosaic pendant

Prerequisites: None. Come have fun with tiny bits of glass.

You may want to bring: Magnification and a task light.

Journey

Instructor: Beki Haley

Date/Time: Thursday, March 21st - 7:30pm-10:30pm

Skill Level: Intermediate/Advanced

Technique: Cubic Right Angle Weave: Back Stitch: Picot Edging

Kit: $75.00:

Kit Includes Custom Coated Crystal: Seed Beads: Delicas: Firepolish: Wings: Bead-backing: Ultra Suede: Leather Bracelet: Magnetic Clasp

Class Description:  Bezel these special crystals in CRAW, bead embroider around the metal wings, create special sliders using Peyote stitch and attach to your metallic leather bracelet finishing it off with a high-end magnetic clasp.

Prerequisites: You should have a working knowledge of CRAW!

Students should bring: Fireline 6# or 8#, beading needles, E-6000, Loctite, work surface and task lamp.
I will have some tubes of glue to share in class .

Lush and Layered Earrings

Instructor: Marcia Balonis

Date/Time: Monday, March 18th - 7:30pm-10:30pm

Skill Level: Advanced Beginners, must know basic peyote

Technique: Peyote bezel, Layering, Picot, Dangle loops

Kit: $32

Kit includes Rivoli 12mm, 3mm BI-Cones, Seed beads size 15 and 11, mini super duo, and Delica beads, dangles, and ear wires.
I’m planning for 3 or 4 colors but these are so fun and some of the new Rivoli are so pretty I might just get crazy.

Class Description: Lush and Layered Earrings are reminiscent of the techniques in my book of that name.  These earrings start with a basic peyote capture of the Rivoli and expand from there with layers, picots, and dangles.  Fun, easy, pretty fast, and so rewarding!!  

Additional supplies you should bring to class: Size 11 and 12 needles, beading thread of choice - I used One G but 4 pound Fire Line will work.   Basic needs are scissors, bead mat or board, battery lighting and magnification for tiny beads is always helpful.

Getting Lucky - SOLD OUT

Instructor: Kinga Bledsoe

Date/Time: Monday, March 18th - 7:30pm-10:30pm

Skill level: intermediate bead embroidery +

Technique: Peyote bezel; bead embroidery backstitch; stop stitch; brick stitch edging.

Kit: $135

KIt Includes: Two aurora opal cabochons, seed beads. Czech shaped beads, Japanese shaped beads, foundation, leather, closure, template, instructions.

Description: This simple yet elegant composition comes together from two symmetrical pieces that together form a wave shape. In the center of the bracelet there are two matched aurora opal triplets. Sandwiched between a domed and faceted quartz  and a flat layer of quartz there is a layer of beautiful, colorful laboratory created opal that gives the stone its glowing and color changing beauty. The seed beads and shaped beads used to compliment the opals are of rich, saturated hues going from metallic purples to metallic  greens.A large portion of the bracelet is covered in AB2X Preciosa crystals to add even more sparkle.  The backing is of metallic Italian lambskin.The design is going to be available in one color only, as pictured.  This bracelet can be adjusted from very small to very large size easily. For l the large sizes there  will be a button closure as shown, for smaller sizes the bracelet will have a different type of closure. This half day class is suitable for intermediate to advanced bead embroiderers and most people will get about 1/4th of the project done in class. 

Additional supplies you should bring to class: Sharp, pointy, small scissors, E6000 ( one small tube),needle ( size 11 tulips are a great choice), thread: I recommend 6 lb test Fireline in smoke OR Nanofil in 6 or 8 lb test in low vis green OR 1g in purple, or Duraline in smoke. Anything else will do too. Beading surface, light and magnification needed, also white gel pen