Dotty About Beads........

Happy New Year

2011-12-28T18:57:00.000+01:00

Hope you all had a lovely Christmas and here's to a great New Year!!

Suzie xx

New Lampwork Ring Toppers

2011-10-26T19:06:00.000+02:00

I'm now selling lampwork ring toppers in my Etsy shop. They are so easy to use. Just screw the topper onto a ring base and you have an interchangeable ring for every outfit.

The sterling silver adjustable ring shown in the photos below are made by Miz George and can be purchased at
http://www.etsy.com/shop/mizgeorge?ref=ss_profile

More toppers coming soon :-)

An amazing bead course

2011-09-22T17:35:00.000+02:00

Well, I've just come back from an amazing bead course at Mango Bead studios. The two day course was taught by Carli Di Francesco. I've learnt lots of different glass techniques and had great fun.

I've been practising since I've been home and here are the results........

Vibrant coloured beads, flame beads, 70's inspired beads and round ring cabs for interchangeable rings which I'm hoping to stock soon.

Hope these colours have brightened your day :-)

Suzie xx

Beads, beads and more lampwork beads...........

2011-09-10T20:00:00.001+02:00

Hi all,

Children are back at school and I have been spoilt with loads of beading time!!!!!!

I'm also going on a lampwork bead course next weekend, so it was lovely to warm up with more bead time so I can really get the most out of it. Can't wait to meet some more fellow beaders and share ideas and hot tips!!!

I've been trying out new glass and different styles this week, so here is a sample of my new work:

Etched heart beads.

Lampwork bead set with Kalpso glass.

Lampwork glass bead set

Hope you like the different styles and I'll be back with more very soon :-)

Sale

2011-09-01T23:10:00.000+02:00

Hi

I'm having an end of summer sale, so grab yourself a bargain on Silver Core Charm Beads, Big Hole Beads and Beaded Bookmarks.

Suzie xx

My Etsy Shop!!!!

2011-08-12T19:27:00.001+02:00

I am now selling on ETSY!!!

I am selling a different range of my handmade lampwork glass beads and jewellery on my ETSY shop to the stock on my website, so take a peak by clicking on the ETSY logo on the right.

Lots more goodies going on over the next week.......

Giants

2011-08-08T09:13:00.001+02:00

As promised my "Giant" Silver Core Beads have arrived, using my new bead press for some lovely shapes, round, oval, disks and bevelled - almost shell like.

They look lovely strung on a chain, leather or ribbon necklace to match your outfit or mood that day.

Here's the first of these creations.........

For more, see http://www.lawsonlampwork.co.uk/Giants.html

Suzie xx

An Amazing Bead Course

2011-07-24T16:32:00.003+02:00

I've just come back from an amazing lampwork glass bead couse run by Lorna Prime and hosted by Amanda Muddimer. I had a fantastic time, developing better glass control for bead decorating.

If you would like to see photos of me at work and how a lampwork glass bead is made, check out the link on my facebook page:
Susan Lawson Lampwork Glass Beads Face Book Page

It got me thinking about the very first bead course I attended and how far I've come in just a few years.....

To see the change, here's a photo of the first silver core glass bead I made..

Well what can I say......! It's round, well, kind of, with slightly splodgy coloured circles and so so tiny, only 4mm wide - not sure why!! Needless to say, this bead didn't go on sale!!

To this...

What next.......????

Well I have loads of ideas from this weekend, different shaped beads with my new bead press, my own handmade Murrini glass for decorating and intricate bead designs. As soon as they are ready, you'll be the first to see.......

Suzie xx

Back from Hols

2011-07-13T10:11:00.000+02:00

Wow - had a lovely holiday in Portugal with the family.

Sorry to those who had a slight wait on your bead orders - all back to normal now.

I've even managed to make a few more silver core beads and bead sets which I'm in the process of listing.

Suzie xx

My new facebook page

2011-05-16T10:37:00.002+02:00

I now have a new facebook page!!

Please "like" me to receive updates on my latest bead adventures, new ranges and special offers.

Just out - a new range of "Big Hole Bead Focal Beads" in costal themes.

Lampwork Glass Big Hole Bead

Slid onto cord for a light pull, make your own pendants or wear as big hole beads.

If you would like me to add sterling silver core rivets to the big hole focal bead or make them into a pendant for you just let me know.

Suzie xx

Summers on its way.......!!

2011-04-17T18:18:00.003+02:00

Hi

Summers on its way and I'm loving the lighter warmer nights. To match the change in season, I have been making lots of new silver and silver plated jewellery.

Hope you like them

Suzie XX

Lampwork Glass Bead Pendants

Lampwork Glass Bead Earrings

Lampwork Glass Bead Pendants

Lampwork Glass Bead Bracelets

Lampwork Glass Bead Pendant

Site Updated

2011-03-02T18:45:00.002+01:00

Hi all

Yes I've been making improvements to the website again.

I like to keep it fully stocked so there's lots of variety but things were beginning to look over crowded, so I've created sub pages for Lampwork Glass Beads, Cord & Ribbon Jewellery and Beadable Gifts. Each page is also broken down into ranges or colours to help you find just what you're looking for. Please let me know what you think.

I've also brought out some new ranges:

Lampwork Glass Heart Focal Bead Pendants on Leather Cord (Mosaic Hearts in photo)

Petite Bookmarks

and Retro Dots Big Hole Beads

My "Retro Dots" and "Mosaic" bead range are made using a special type of glass - EDP, special due to the way the glass melts into other colours to create a patterned effect. I also use this glass on my Owl beads.

Lampwork Glass Owl Bead Bookmark

As you see I love experimenting with new glass - hope you like my new creations and updated website.

Suzie xx

Copper Love

2011-02-09T19:48:00.002+01:00

Thought you would want to be the first to know that as from today, I now have a "Copper & Bead Jewellery" page on my website. I just love the warmth of the copper against the glass.

Here's my latest jewellery piece - "Dragonfly Moon" leather cord necklace and of course the bead is made from Kalypso glass!!! I just can't stop using it.........

Lampwork Glass Bead Necklace

I'm working on a few more pieces, so hope to get these out to you soon.

Suzie xx

My Owl Family

2011-02-07T10:54:00.004+01:00

Welcome to my owl family.

I started making these for a stall at my sons school and they were so popular I have made some more.

Lampwork Glass Bead Owls

You can buy them as focal beads or I can make them into Pendants or Bookmarks for you. I am also looking into ways to make them into home decorations, so these should be coming soon.

I have lots of new ideas in mind for 2011 and have been sourcing materials for this. Sadly costs have increased for Sterling Silver and also due to the VAT increase and therefore my prices will increase slightly to reflect this. My prices will not change for existing stock, as materials were bought prior to the increase, so grab yourself a bargain at 2010 prices!!

Thanks once again to all my customers and friends who support me. I hope you enjoy your beads as much as I enjoy making them for you.

Suzie xx

Kalypso Heaven......

2011-01-28T18:29:00.000+01:00

Yes it seems I just can't stop playing with Kalypso silver glass!! I go out to bead for a commission request and can't stop reaching for this glass.

Not only do I love the pink and purple hues that are produced but also the many different ways it can be used ....with Goldstone, silver foil, with bubbles and I've also produced small stringers of Kalypso glass to produce a swirling effect. Here's the results....

Health Warning....don't look for too long or you may become as addicted as me xx

Winter Warmers

2011-01-10T19:58:00.000+01:00

Yes I know, it can be a bit dreary at this time of year, so to cheer myself up I have been playing with some lovely deep colours.

I have just bought a new glass called Kalypso, which is a silver rich reducing glass and therefore one of the more expensive glasses but worth it, as look at the fantastic results. I think this may become my new favourite glass, as I just love the depth of colour and shimmer.

Suzie xx

Happy New Year

2011-01-09T18:12:00.000+01:00

It's good to be back beading after my lovely break in the Breacon Beacons with family and friends.We loved it so much, I've just booked to go back for Christmas 2011.

There's a few new things on the site today. I'm trying out a new photography table with a reflective background as it makes the beads really sparkle, so hope you like my new style photos.

Suzie XX

Merry Christmas

2010-12-21T19:35:00.000+01:00

Wishing you all a very merry Christmas.

Yes it looks like it will definately be a white Christmas this year!! Hope it hasn't caused anyone too much disruption with any travel plans and that you've been able to enjoy the snow.

Suzie XXX

The last few new things for 2010

2010-12-08T19:30:00.000+01:00

Just a quick blog to let you know that I have just updated the site with a few new things made just in time for Christmas. Here's a small selection.......

"Cinder Toffee Twist" Sterling Silver Earrings

"Winter Nights" Sterling Silver Pendant

"Dusting of Frost" Earrings

Remember to also keep checking my "sale" page for new entries!!!!

Suzie XX

SALE

2010-12-07T18:59:00.001+01:00

I'm having a Christmas sale, so please take a look for those last minute pressies.

A big thank you also to all who visted the stalls at BAE and the Christmas Bazaar.

Please remember if you are ordering from the website, to ensure Christmas delivery, the last 1st class posting date within the UK is 21 December 2010.

Suzie XX

Thank you

2010-11-26T10:11:00.000+01:00

Thank you to everyone who came along to the Horton Ladies Night. The school broke last years fund raising record and it was lovely for me to meet you all.

I have a few more stalls coming up. BAE at Filton, Bristol on 2 December 2010, employees only and a Christmas Bazaar in the Baptist Church in Chipping Sodbury on 4 December 2010, 1pm to 4pm. A busy week for me and it's my birthday on 1st, so lots of festivities!!!

Plus it's meant to snow!!! Fingers crossed XX

A Christmas Taster

2010-11-14T17:38:00.000+01:00

Hi

I have been busy making lots of things for my Christmas Stalls and online shop. Something for everyone, including the kids with my new Book Bugs.

Here's a taster, with more to follow over the coming weeks.

Hope you like them XX

Christmas is coming!!!

2010-11-13T18:49:00.002+01:00

Yes can you believe it, Christmas is nearly here again........

If like me you love Christmas, pop along to the Christmas Bazaar at the Baptist Church in Chipping Sodbury High Street on 4th December 1pm to 4pm.

There will be lots of stalls, as well as my own, therapists, refreshments and lots for the kids including Santa face painting, bouncy castle and games, so something for everyone.

I would love to see you there to wish you a Merry Christmas.

Suzie

My new made to order range.......

2010-10-30T18:46:00.000+02:00

I have just launched my new "made to order" big hole bead range. Available all year round, you will no longer be piped to the post by another customer!!

Starting with "Cafe au Lait" and "Amber Sands" bead sets, these big hole beads will fit European style bracelets such as Trollbead and Pandora.

More coming soon, so please check back.

Suzie XX

Ladies Christmas Shopping Evening

2010-10-16T14:39:00.000+02:00

I am holding a stall at a "Ladies Christmas Shopping Evening" with lots of beaded goodies for sale.

It is on Wednesday November 17, 6pm - 9pm at Horton and Little Sodbury Village Hall, Horton Hill, Horton, Bristol BS37 6QP.

There will be mulled wine, mince pies, mandolin music plus festive carols sung by pupils of Horton school and stalls selling jewellery, flowers, homemade cakes and gifts. Perfect to get you in the Christmas spirit!!

I would love to see you there. Please come and support Horton school whilst Christmas shopping.

P.S. FREE ENTRY!!!! If you need directions just let me know.

Suzie XX

Giants.....

2010-10-10T19:39:00.000+02:00

Yes I did promise them....."Giant Silver Core Beads" on cord - now available.

These can be worn as a pendant or choker, as the length is adjustable by moving the slider bead. Fancy a change? Simply remove the cord and wear on a bracelet or necklace of your choice. Very versatile!!!!

Suzie XX

Orphan Beads Looking For New Homes

2010-10-03T15:49:00.002+02:00

Well I've finally got round to sorting out my orphan beads for you!! Another thing off my "to do" list!

What are Orphan beads? Well when I'm making jewellery I often make more beads than I use and these go back on my shelf awaiting my next project. Somehow they have multiplied and as they seemed so lonely sat there with no homes, I thought I would offer them to you at a great price. Happy Shopping!!

Suzie

......and some more jewellery

2010-09-21T20:36:00.002+02:00

As my handmade jewellery selection was running low, I have made some lovely earrings which are now available on my site.

I have also made some GIANT silver core beads, which I am currently making into pendants, so check back to view these. They will be on adjustable cord, so you can wear them as a pendant or a choker or remove the cord and wear on a bracelet or chain of choice. Very versatile!!

I also had a lovely surprise today when a local retailer called to ask whether I would like to supply their shop. I am hoping to pop in and visit over the next few weeks and will let you know if a deal is done.

Suzie :-)

A Busy Bead Bee

2010-09-13T19:43:00.000+02:00

For the last week I have been buzzing away making lots and lots of beads after my lovely long break and here are some of the results, hope you like them!

There is something for everyone, lots of beads sets for jewellery makers or if you see something you like I am happy to make this into jewellery for you. I also have new silver core beads, big hole bead and specials.

Suzie XX

Beads, Beads, Glorious Beads.......

2010-09-08T22:27:00.003+02:00

Yes, I've made lots and lots of bead sets for you but sadly my computer will not play so I'm having trouble adding them to my site. Here's a taster of what's to come once my computer and I have made friends again!

Suzie

P.S. These beads are available to be purchased on their own but if you would like them made into jewellery for you, please just let me know.

Happy Bank Holiday Weekend

2010-08-27T18:23:00.000+02:00

Hi

Just a quick blog entry to wish everyone a happy bank holiday weekend and yes I do believe it's meant to stop raining and the sun will come out from hiding at last!!

I've had a lovely summer with my boys but back to school for them next week which means I'll have some time to bead again - so please check back for my latest collections.

Suzie XX

The 1920/30's

2010-08-09T17:27:00.000+02:00

Fancy dress seems to be a regular occurrence at the moment.

I went to my friends 30th birthday party on the weekend with a 1920-1930's theme, which was great fun and thought you may like to see some photos. No wonder I seem to have little time for beading!!

This era was so elegant, although I'm not sure about my husbands monocle! The lady on the left is my twin sister.

The romans have arrived....

2010-08-08T14:11:00.000+02:00

Hi

Hope you are all enjoying your holidays.

We are having a great time and the boys are enjoying their break from school. To entice Noah back the school have cleverly organised a Roman theme with fancy dress for the first day back, so at some point I need to try and design a gladiator costume for him......unfortunately my sewing skills are not quite as good as my glass making.

It has inspired me however and I have produced a range of silver core beads with a ceramic roman pottery feel called "Romani". Hope you like them.

and shown here with my new "Rainbow Vines"

On the grapevine.....!!!

2010-06-30T20:12:00.002+02:00

For all you silver core and big hole bead lovers out there, I thought I would share details of an amazing metalsmith called George Harper East.

George makes lovely big hole bead bracelets and earrings which are compatible with these types of beads, so if you are looking for something original please take a look at her site www.designedbygeorge.co.uk

Here's a photo of one of her bracelets that I treated myself to and love. Shown with my "Grapevine" silver core beads. Charms are handmade by George. Happy shopping!!

More Silver Cores.....

2010-06-28T10:33:00.000+02:00

Hi all

To cheer yourself up from our terrible football performance, I thought you may like to see my new silver core beads. Also look out for my "Special" beads at a specially reduced price.

It has been a few weeks since I have made silver core beads as I have been busy getting ready for the Chipping Sodbury Festival. The theme was figures from 1980 to 2000, so see if you can guess what we went as....?

Rambo, Smurf and Disco Diva's from the 80's.

The parade was great fun and I may take a stall at the festival next year, so I will let you know if this goes ahead.

Suzie XX

Crazy Summer Sale

2010-06-13T20:14:00.003+02:00

I'm having a Crazy Summer Sale.......!!!

This is your chance to purchase an original Susan Lawson piece at a great price!!

More sale items to be added over the coming week, so please check back.

Inspiration

2010-06-07T22:25:00.002+02:00

Hi

Still feeling relaxed and inspired from the sea, must have been the boat cruise!! This has translated into my latest silver core bead range, rock pools, sea shell, hazy clouds and many more. Hope you like them.

I'm also working on a new exclusive bead range for Etsy, so I will let you know when these are ready and how you can find me on there.

Suzie

Refreshed

2010-06-06T16:13:00.001+02:00

Back from a lovely bank holiday away with the girls. The weather was great and it looks like I've brought the sunshine back too, so even better.

Much nicer beading in my workshop in the heat as I leave my door open for ventilation and have to put on so many layers in the winter that I can hardly move my arms to bead!!

Inspired by the sun, so see my "Sun Catcher" pendant and "Sunshine" silver core bead.

I'll try and get some holiday photos to show you from my friends, as I forgot my camera, so check back to see my holiday antics!!

Holiday!!!

2010-05-26T19:35:00.000+02:00

Hi

Just thought I would let you know that I am off on holiday for a few days, leaving the men behind!! Perfect!! Looking forward to lots of sun and relaxation. My site is still open for business but there will be a few days delay for postage.

Hope you have had a chance to view my new site. As well as a different look, I now have an extra page for "your thoughts" and a tell a friend button, so your friends don't miss out!!

See you in a few days....X

A new look....

2010-05-20T16:27:00.001+02:00

I now have a new look website and banner. Hope you like them!!

Take a look and let me know your thoughts

Lost in the world of ribbons......

2010-05-10T17:36:00.002+02:00

This month I've happily been lost in the world of ribbons, teaming these up with my handmade lampwork glass beads to produce these lovely silk ribbon pendants. Perfect for all outfits as the length can be adjusted easily with the slider bead to match all necklines.The only difficulty is deciding which ones to keep and which to sell........hmmm.......

Something Completely Different.....

2010-04-26T23:03:00.001+02:00

Here's something completely different from me, my handmade Greek leather cord and ceramic bead range, plated in sterling silver, 24ct gold, bronze and copper. Including pendants, earrings, charms and cufflinks.

Back from the flame off

2010-04-21T22:52:00.000+02:00

Just back from the "Flame off 2010" and had a great time. This is a lampwork bead event where you can watch demonstrations from other glass artists and buy glass and jewellery making supplies. I'm looking forward to putting all the great tips into practice.

I treated myself to some new 5mm mandrels which I use to make silver core beads and have had great results. Here are my new "Mirror" beads but please visit my website for more X

A lovely time

2010-03-28T11:10:00.000+02:00

I had a lovely time away in Weymouth with my family and friend Rachel while my hubby was snowboarding.

The boys loved the beach and Monkey World and the rest of us had the chance to act like children also.......so fun for all!

A lovely rest after the busy world of beading.

I have a bead party tomorrow so busy getting ready for this. I hold a few of these a year, so if you live locally and would like a party please let me know - there is a gift for the host to say thank you.

Suzie X

Reichbach Multicolour Glass

2010-03-09T21:38:00.001+01:00

Hi

I have just bought in a batch of Reichbach Multicolour glass and love the green and purple tones it produces. Each one comes out different.........what a lovely surprise.....!!

Silk Ribbon Range

2010-02-21T18:31:00.002+01:00

I have just bought some beautiful silk ribbons from Diane of Sowzeredesigns which are perfect for necklaces. This first one has already sold but more will be ready soon and of course you can commission your favourite piece if you missed out the first time.

Silver Core Frenzy

2010-02-03T19:33:00.003+01:00

I've been having a silver core frenzy!!!!
Here are some of my latest and watch this space for some other sets I have just taken out of the kiln.

Chalcedony Glass - I love it!!!

2010-01-31T18:18:00.000+01:00

Hi

I have just received some fantastic glass called Chalcedony. This is a striking glass which means that the glass changes colour when you heat the glass, cool it and then strike it again in the flame. This takes time and patience but results in fantastic colours.

Here are two sterling silver bead necklaces I have just created with this glass, one encased and one etched for different looks.

Susan Lawson Wedding Services

2010-01-24T18:47:00.001+01:00

I am really excited about my new wedding service, designing and creating tailor made bridal jewellery, wedding favours, gifts and glass beads for bridal bouquets and reception flowers.

There is no extra charge for this design service, so if you are getting married please see what is on sale now for an idea of prices.

My New Silver Core Beads

2010-01-16T13:49:00.004+01:00

Hope you like my new lampwork glass silver core beads sets.

I've been beading again.........

2010-01-16T01:45:00.000+01:00

Hi

I've made my first beads for 2010!! I braved the snow and made my way out to me workshop to try out some new glass and bracelet designs. Planning to photograph them this weekend and place them on my site, so check back to see my new creations.

Suzie X

New Look Website Has Arrived!!

2010-01-11T11:40:00.000+01:00

Hi

My website has been upgraded with more pages to help you search and you can now pay online with Paypal.

Paypal is secure to use and you don't need a Paypal account to make payments, so this will make things much easier for everyone.

Hope you like the new facilities. Feel free to provide any feedback so I can improve things.

Hoping to get out and bead soon as the weather improves, so please check back for new bead arrivals.

Suzie X

Happy Snowy New Year!

2010-01-06T18:27:00.001+01:00

Happy New Year to you all.

Hope you are enjoying the snow!! It's a bit too cold for venturing into my workshop at the moment, so no beading currently being done but hope to go out soon when things brighten.

Having lots of fun making snow men with the kids!

Enjoy

Suzie X

Merry Christmas

2009-12-20T20:09:00.002+01:00

Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a great 2010!
Thank you all for your support this year

Suzie X

Freshly baked silver core beads

2009-12-14T23:28:00.003+01:00

I've just updated my site with some new silver core beads, each one very different..........

Nebula - a sparkling explosion, Monet - for the swirling watercolour effect and Raindrop

Let me know what you think X

New Beadable Gift Page

2009-12-12T11:01:00.001+01:00

I now have a "Beadable Gift" page on my website for bookmarks, bottle openers, wine bottle stoppers, wine glass charms and letter openers, so take a look.

I am also developing beaded light pulls and will let you know as soon as these are available X

I'm now on Flickriver!

2009-12-10T01:12:00.004+01:00

Hi

My gallery is now on Flickriver! There are links to this on my website or you can go directly to:

http://www.flickriver.com/photos/susanbeads/

to view my bead collections as a stream of photos or click on "Sets" to view collections i.e. Weddings, Silver core beads etc.

Suzie X

2009-12-02T19:43:00.000+01:00

Hi - website nearly updated with all my new bead creations. I take all my photos in natural light, so with this gloomy weather it makes things a bit difficult!

Hope you love my new charm bookmarks and bead sets X

2009-11-30T19:30:00.000+01:00

Lovely to meet you all at the show today and thank you for your orders. Commissions will be ready shortly. Hope to see you all at the show next year :)

My website will also be updated this week with my new bead creations, so please take a look.

Suzie

New silver core lampwork glass beads

2009-11-14T18:49:00.001+01:00

Hi all,

Here's my my new range of silver core lampwork glass beads in lovely rich autumnal colours.

I also have some sterling silver switch pendants and beads sets, which I am hoping to place on my website in the next few days. I love these as it is really easy to change the beads to match your outfit and it means that you can play around with all types of bead combinations to suit your mood that day!! Look out for these at my bead stall on 20 November 2009 also. Suzie X

2009-11-05T19:09:00.000+01:00

Thanks to Rachel and friends for the fab jewellery party.

Thought I should let everyone know that as this is one of my busiest times, the last date for christmas commissions is 30 November 2009.

If you want to see my work, I will have a stall at a schools ladies night on 20 November 2009, so contact me for more details if you are interested.

Suzie X

2009-10-08T14:12:00.000+02:00

Hello not been out much last week as feeling a bit run down and needed a rest.

I am off on a surprise weekend with my hubby tomorrow and very excited. Some of my lovely friends have treated us to it as a wedding gift. When I get back I hope to be out beading as so many ideas in my head of new styles so keep checking back for new goodies.

New beads will be born soon

2009-10-03T11:47:00.000+02:00

Hi guys

I am hoping to be out in the beading garage Sunday as sadly have not been out for a week or so. I have a few parties to get ready for and may well have one at my house in October also.

I am going to make some beads for my new girls range and some of the usual silver core beads. I have lots of fab new glass I cannot wait to experiment with a new bead tutorial for storm beads which I am also very excited about. Keep you eye out on the webite for new additions coming.

Sue x

www.lawsonlampwork.co.uk