I love the library.  But it also tends to drag me down a rabbit hole now and then, as it did this week with the book, Embellished Beadweaving by Laura McCabe.  This is just a gorgeous book.  She takes her designs from nature which is difficult to do with beadwork unless you are really talented.

I fell in love with her bracelet design based on a nudibranch.  If you know me, you’ll know that I think nudibranchs are easily one of the most gorgeous group of creatures.  The colors and shapes never cease to amaze me. I mean, honestly, just bing “nudibranch” and you’ll also be amazed. (yes, bing, not google).  Here, I did it for you!

The base of the design is a basic spiral rope which I have never done. But Lauran’s written instructions and simple diagrams are perfect.  I am really critical of instructions in books because I am self taught when it comes to all things bead weaving.  The rope just magically spirals.  This is just a little test strip, I’ll probably turn it into a simple bracelet but I have my eye on some dagger beads over at Fire Mountain Gems that I think I’ll order now that I know I can make this bracelet.

I really recommend having a look at Laura McCabe’s website for some inspiration.  Her work is edgy and definitely one of a kind – I’ve never seen anything quite like it.  Part of what makes her work stand out is her use of unusual materials and luckily for all of us, she has a shop for things like beetle wings and glass eyes!  Her shop is actually really extensive and I can see coming back for supplies for some of my textile pieces.