Description
The Peyote beaded bead chain maille earrings are perfect if you are just starting to learn beading techniques. If you are already experienced and just want a really quick make, this is a great project too.
Techniques and Experience
The pattern gives 5 pages of very detailed instructions. I have supplemented it with a couple of the free technique sheets from this website. I wrote this with complete beginners in mind.
So, I am showing you how to work in circular Peyote. The little beaded bead is really simple. I have used colouring and mixed bead sizes to help you understand the technique.
Then, chain maille involves linking jump rings. You can create all manner of different patterns this way. They are called ‘weaves’. The chain for these earrings is the most basic weave.
Materials
For the Peyote beaded bead and chain maille, you will need the following materials:
- Size 8 seed beads
- Size 6 seed beads or 4mm pearls or firepolish
- A few 7mm jump rings
- Two Headpins
- A pair of earring findings
- Beading thread
Then, you will be using beading needle and scissors for the beaded bead. The chain maille and assembly use basic wirework. So, you will also need round nose or flat nose pliers and wire cutters for that part.
Why should you try the Peyote beaded bead and chain maille earrings?
I designed this project for a course I was teaching. The course aimed to introduce complete beginners to beadwork. So, I wanted to give them a flavour of lots of different techniques.
Of course, we have the bead-weaving techniques. But a lot of people forget about wirework. So, I thought I would make a project that gave my students the opportunity to try both.
It proved to be quite revealing – and helpful. In trying both styles, each student quickly found out where they felt most comfortable. So, this gave all of them a direction to take as the course progressed – and beyond.
If you are just starting out and not sure what to try first, then this is a great project. You will get to discover what you enjoy most. So, you can go on and explore more in that direction.
