Lily

Project and Sample by Janice Parsons and Kate Richbourg

In 1916 when Janice’s mother was born, her parents named her Lily. Very soon though, she was known as Lydia. “The one color (besides turquoise) that my mother loved was rose, and this palette symbolizes that amazing woman who was so many things to so many people.” For Janice, the mixing of pink, copper, lavender, and gold epitomizes the era of the 1940’s, when Lydia was young and carefree.

Strung on Memory Wire, Lily is an easy project for all levels. By choosing bead colors close in value the shapes, patterns, and designs become more pronounced. But, don’t let that limit your creativity, mix it up however you want.

Additional Learning:

• Memory Wire Basics
• Skill Builder: How to Wire-Wrap a Rosary Loop

A. This 12-Coil* design is a random pattern of bugles, 11/0 copper beads, and Little Shadows. The ends were finished by gluing beads on the ends using Zap Glue. You can also choose to end your bracelets using rosary loops and decorating with charms or tassels for a finishing touch.

*We used the 2.25 (or 2-1/4) size Memory Wire, which will fit an average size adult-woman’s wrist. For a wrist smaller than 6 inches, select the 2 inch coil.

B. Using CzechMates Tiles and 4mm Fire Polish, two coils have been strung with beads side-by-side to make wider bangles that can be popped into the 12 coil design for added embellishment. If you want to make rosary loops at your ends, do so carefully so you don’t crack the fragile glass due to too much pressure from your round nose pliers or not enough space on the memory wire itself.

C. Go random and have fun mixing and matching your beads on single coils. Keep the coils and loops very close in length and size.