Contemporary Geometric Beadwork

There is a book called Contemporary Geometric Beadwork put out by Kate McKinnon. 

The book ISBN 978-0-9816468-0-0 

I have had this book for awhile and found it has amazing images of a huge variety of designs. Every time I thought to have a go at making one I would put the book down not knowing where to start or which one to try.

Finally I persevered and here is my finished item I call - "Whimsy". 

I started with a Modified Right Angle Weave - MRAW Page 157 - as it allows you to increase/decrease to get your shaping straight away. I then did a few rows of my patterning and removed the MRAW and it comes off so easily. Some people include the MRAW to achieve a double layer edging. I did mine with a double layer peyote edging.

I found making this very addictive and was always wanting to see how the patterns would look so it became very hard to put down. After doing quite a bit I was disappointed I had started with 7 peaks in the design so I then decided to see if I could make more peaks, feeling I had nothing to lose.

Well that was a great move as I ended up doubling the peaks to 14 and little "windows" to embellish became evident.

All the time I was making it I kept my mind on 'play', just play with the colours, play with the patterns, keep it fun and not get precious about it.

I think that was the right decision to make.

When I finished, I sent a picture of my design to Kate McKinnon who has since 'interviewed' me on it, asked for more images and has promised my "Whimsy" will be in her next book

Contemporary Geometric Beadwork Volume II

Should you wish to see more of Kate's amazing pieces here is a link to her website.

http://katemckinnon.bigcartel.com