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Aquarius Beads & Gifts, Inc.

Class Descriptions

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This is a complete listing of the classes we offer.  If you are interested in a class that is not on our current schedule --- just call!  We will be happy to schedule a time for you to come in and learn!

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Basic Bracelet

Basic Beading

A great place to start!  In this workshop, we'll introduce you to a wealth of information about beads, basic supplies and jewelry.  The focus of this workshop is stretch bracelets, flexible wire bracelets and crimping.  You'll leave this session with one or two wonderful, hand-crafted bracelets that reflect your own personal style . . . and with lots and lots of ideas!!!

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Earrings

Charms/Earrings

Earrings, charms, connectors and dangles . . . . a charming evening!!! You will work with beads, wire, spacers and simple tools to learn how to make a variety of embellishments that will provide you with endless creative possibilities.  You'll use these techniques and skills in nearly every piece you make in the future . . . it's amazing!!!

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Cha-Cha Bracelet

Cha Cha Bracelet
 
Take your charm making skills to the next level by making this noise maker of a bracelet. You'll learn how to attach wrapped loops directly to your chain, making a very secure bracelet. Other projects you could do with this technique could be chandelier earrings, rosaries, chain necklaces, eye glass holders and more.  So don't miss out on learning this valuable technique!

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Floating Necklace

Floating Necklace
 
In this class you'll make a multi-strand necklace and use crimp beads to make the your beads appear to float on your necklace.

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Long Chain Necklace

Long Chain Necklace
 
Long necklaces are classic, classy and very much in style now.  You'll learn a basic charm wrapping technique to attach beads to any one of the many chain designs we carry.  Then, use a clasp or not - it's up to you!

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Wire Wrapped Rings

Wire Wrapped Rings
 
In this class you will use 20g or 22g craft wire to create fun and unique rings - and a perfect fit!

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Spiral Rope Rows

Spiral Rope Rows
 
You can make a single or double row bracelet!  This pattern uses 4mm and 6mm Swarovski crystals with 11/0 seed beads in a spiral rope pattern to make this beautiful bracelet.

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Herringbone Bracelets

Herringbone Bracelet
 
Beadwork magazine published a collection of their favorite patterns and we were thrilled to see it included one of our favorite patterns!  If you've not tried the herringbone stitch - come to this class and add it to your off loom beadweaving skill set.

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Embellished Ladder

Embellished Ladder
 
Whip up a ladder stitch base, and prepare to be delighted at how quickly you can create a casual, comfortable bracelet that you embellish with colorful 11/0 seed beads. If you have not learned how to do ladder stitch, this is the perfect project to start with!

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Bangle Bracelet

Bangle Bling!
 
Once again, we use the wrapped loop technique to create a bunch of dangles on your bangle!  A prerequisite for this class is the charms class.

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Copper Filigree Bracelet

Copper Filigree Bracelet
 
The old is new again! Use some of our new Antique Copper filigree square components to create a statement piece. Combined with a few crystals and glass pearls and this bracelet is sure to be a stand out on your wrist!

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Hoop-La Necklace

Hoop-La Necklace
 
Take your wire working and chainmail skills to the next level with this unique necklace.  Combine Jump rings and wire links with your favorite gemstones or crystals to finish off this gorgeous necklace.  Class requires previous wire wrapping skills. (Must have previously taken the Charms or Rings class.) 

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Bumpy Bracelet

Bumpy Bracelet
 
The Bumpy Bracelet pattern uses 3 (or more) different colors of 6/0 and 11/0 seed beads to create this easy and funky bracelet.

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Husker Charm

Husker Jewelry
 
Nebraksa Fans -- this is the class for you! Bring your Husker friends in and design your very own Big Red Jewelry. We have pewter charms and double hole links (for two strand bracelets) that you can add to your red and black bracelets. Please call to schedule your group for this special class!

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3-in-3 Chain Maille Bracelet

Jump Ring Bracelet
 
Also called "chain maille" -- learn the basic techniques of using jump rings to create stunning bracelets.  Designs range from simple elegance to amazing complexity.  You'll make a bracelet that is a work of art!

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Tennis Bracelet

Tennis Bracelet
 
These tennis bracelets are made by using right angle weave - a very challenging but satisfying pattern! The designer of this bracelet, Judi Mullins, wanted to make a bracelet out of crystals but couldn't find a stitch that worked well with Swarovski bi-cones....until she remembered right angle weave. They actually make right angle weave easy because they fit together so well. Give it a try!

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Swarovski Cuff

Swarovski Cuff Bracelet
 
You will embellish a two-drop peyote with loops of seed beads and Swarovski crystals. You should already know how to do peyote stitch to begin this class. Because of the length of time it takes to complete this project, you will not complete it in one day. You can choose to complete you peyote band before class if you would like and then we can help you do the top. Either way is fine with us! We can start you at the beginning or help you finish. This pattern was showcased on the front cover of Bead & Button Magazine and was designed by Karmen Schmidt.

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Fiber Necklace

Fiber Necklace
 
Fibers can be wool, thread, yarn, ribbon or even leather. We combine strands of beads with the fibers to make a multi-strand necklace that is totally unique. You can make it lightweight, using just a few beads or make it bold using lots of beads, knots and several strands.  A prerequisite for this class is the charms class (you will need to know how to make a wrapped loop).

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Square Stitch Cuff

Square Stitch Cuff
 
Using 4mm miyuki squares, you'll have an easy time learning the square stitch. Square stitch is basic weaving stitch -- it is often used as a base for bracelets that you can build upon.

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Over the Top

Over the Top
 
Dress up a plain peyote band by covering the surface with diagonal rows of accent beads, daisy spacers and trimming the edges with a lacy picot of seed beads. To give your bracelet a custom finish, create your own toggle-and-loop clasp with a few inches of seed beads and a matching button.

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Mother's Bracelet

Mother's Bracelet
 
Every mother celebrates the children in her life. You can make a single, double or triple strand bracelet, and we'll help you through it!

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Macrame Bracelet

Macrame Spike Bracelet
 
Macrame has gone funky!  You'll use your old macrame knotting techniques and lots and lots of beads to make this spiky/fringy bracelet.  Don't worry . . . you don't have to be a macrame artist to make this bracelet.  It's fun!!!

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Basic Spiral Twist Bracelet

Spiral Twist Bracelet
 
This pattern is the simplest needle and thread project - great for beginners! Once you have learned the classic spiral twist, you can go back and add loops and swarovski crystals to make a stunning bracelet.

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Spiral Twist with Loops

Spiral Bracelet with Loops
 
Spiral bracelets are relatively quick and easy seed bead creations  In this class, you'll learn to make more than just your everyday spiral . . . you'll embellish it with colorful seed beads and crystals.  Chic or outrageous -- either look is possible with this design!!

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Multistrand Necklace

Multistrand Necklace on Waxed Linen

Create an exotic pendant using your favorite bead, donut or stone . . . then set it off with a stunning multi-strand necklace you design!!  Elegant, ethnic, or outrageous . . . the sky is the limit.  You'll learn simple skills in this class that will have you making jewelry that will amaze your friends!!

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Beaded Ornament

Decorative Ornament
 
Ornaments are not just for Christmas anymore!  Learn the basics of ornaments, and then there's no limit to what you can do.  Decorative ornaments are great gifts for birthdays, weddings, baby showers or graduations, and they are fun, colorful decorations for any holiday.  Change the charms . . . change the colors . . . and you have a one-of-a-kind gift for any occasion! The complete ornament kit is $35.00.

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Fused Glass Pendants

Fused Glass Pendants
 
In this class you will learn how to cut glass and make your own pendants.  You will design your pendant and we will fire up the kiln.  Yes!  We have dichroic glass!  This class is fun and EASY!  The Class is $32.00, and you will make 4 pendants.

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Stretchy Rings

Stretch Rings
This class will teach you how to make rings that adapt to any size finger.  You will design and make at least 3 rings using your favorite crystals or gemstones.  We will teach you how to pick the proper size beads, tie a square knot, and secure it with glue.  These make great little gifts - we guarantee you will be making these for all your friends and family!

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Swarovski Flower Ring

Swarovski Flower Ring
 
In this class you will use Fireline, seed beads and dazzling swarovski crystals to create two stunning rings.  These rings feature a double flower motif and can be sized to fit any finger.  The cost of this class is $20.  It will take approximately 1 1/2 hours to complete the class.
 
Knotted Leather Bracelet
 
Wire wrapped freshwater pearl charms are intermixed with brown leather square knots.  The leather and pearl knotted bracelet utilizes the skills learned in the charms/earrings class. The supplies needed for this class include: sterling silver headpins, leather cord, freshwater pearls and the findings. The contrast of the soft rustic leather with the natural freshwater pearls adds a unique element to a beautiful piece of jewelry sure to get many compliments!
 
Stretch Cuff Bracelet
 
In this class, you will be using the fiber stretch cording.  Using 4mm Myuki cubes, and an easy little stitch you will create a beautiful cuff.  Do you want to spice it up a bit? Add 4mm Swarovski crystals to put a sparkle in your bracelet.  This is also a great pattern to use up extra seed beads sitting around!
 
Weaving Wire Bracelet
 
Wires and beads are layered together to create an overall woven feel.  The technique uses basic wire wrapping skills learned in the ring's class.  Pick out your favorite color combination of beads and weave them onto a bracelet sure to be statement piece! 
 
Wire Nest Necklace
 
This necklace is a great idea for mothers and grandmothers.  It incorporates the wire wrapping technique used in the rings and charms classes.  The wire wrapped nest uses 18 and 28 gage wire to create a unique "nest" around your favorite freshwater pearls or semi- precious stones.  The technique can be used for earrings, bracelets, and pendants.
 
Cascading Chandelier Necklace
 
This necklace is all about a fun and bold look.  Design and create a necklace with a spectaclar pendant.  Use a simple chain, and take a variety of beads (your choice) and we will teach you how to dangle and wrap, hang and create different looks from chain, jumprings, and anything you can imagine!  This new look is a must learn for your beading arsenal
 
Precious Byzantine
 
In this class we will teach you how to take the Byzantine chain maille design and attach it to beads in a bracelet or necklace.  Accenting your design with silver creates a beautiful look.
 
Cell Phone Charms!!
 
In this class you'll make at least 8 charms using sterling or plated headpins, and whatever beads you choose.  You will find this simple wire wrapping technique extremely fun and quick. 
 

Intro to Wire Wrapping

Learn about the different wire gauges and start building your fundamental skills in wire wrapping.  You will learn how to secure beads and finish them with an interesting and exotic wrap.  A charms earring class or experience working with wire and tools is a prerequisite.

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Arabella Bracelet

Arabella Bracelet

We'll teach you how to utilize the Peyote Stitch and fringe to adorn this gorgeous "cuff" bracelet.  The great thing about this 3-dimensional bracelet is that you can personalize it by choosing beads that match any color palette!

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Snowflake Ornament

Snowflake Ornament

If you enjoy creating handmade ornaments, you'll love our netted snowflakes.  They come together quickly so you can make them for all your friends and family.  These ornaments will look beautiful hanging in a sunny window all winter long!

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Crisscross Crystals

Crisscross Crystals

A great beginner course in needle work (off loom weaving)! Make this simple, yet elegant bracelet with Swarovski Crystals and Glass Pearls.

This bracelet is an easy first project with a BOLD and BEAUTIFUL look! People will think you spent a fortune on this bracelet......but you won't!

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Swarovski Bumpy Helix

Swarovski Bumpy Helix

A spiral stitch technique is used to make this Bumpy Helix bracelet.  You will use 8/0 and 11/0 seed beads with Swarovski crystals to create this incredible look!  Once you've mastered the technique -- you'll see the color combinations are limited only by your imagination.  What better way to use up those extra seed beads!

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Pearls on a Half Shell

Pearls on a Half Shell
This is a beautiful bracelet with lusterous pearls resting in a basket of crystals. You can substitute other beads in a variety of colors to give it a fun new look!

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Spiral Flower Ring

Spiral Flower Ring
This is a wire wrapped ring made with 18 and 24 gauge wire with a spiral twist in the center. The flower is made with 4mm swarovski crystal rounds or any other 3 to 4mm round bead. This one will definitely get lots of compliments!

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Mystical Mermaid Bracelet

Mystical Mermaid Bracelet

In the Mystical Mermaid Bracelet class we unveil the secrets of the right angle weave stitch. This basic stitch is the buried treasure of the beading world and has the ability to turn ordinary beads into enchanted keepsakes!

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Double Spiral Rope Necklace

Double Spiral Rope Necklace
The spiral pattern in this necklace is very defined. The mixture of size 6-0, 8-0 and 11-0 seed beads gives it a fun textured look.

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Striped Beaded Bead

Striped Beaded Beads
Cover any 10mm round bead with a striped seed bead pattern. We made these with colors perfect for July 4th, but you can choose whatever colors you like!

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Flower Garden Bracelet

Flower Garden Bracelet
Make a bracelet with a bouquet of flowers in your favorite colors of Swarovski Crystals! This bracelet uses a crossweave technique.

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Roller Rink Bracelet

Roller Rink Bracelet

Adorable bangle style bracelet that is easy to slip on and go.  Make this bracelet in a variety of colors to coordinate with every outfit!

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Crossweave Bracelet

Crossweave Bracelet
Choose any color of 6mm Swarovski Crystal to create this elegant bracelet with a two strand toggle.

  • Anyone under the age of 14 attending a workshop must be accompanied by an adult.
  • Please contact us for information about birthday parties, special event parties and private workshops.
  • OPEN BEADING.  Need some time and space to work on that project you started, but can't seem to finish?  Need some inspiration?  Our tables and tools are available to you any time that there is not a class scheduled.

beads.aquarius@midconetwork.com

aquarius beads & gifts, inc
1710 south western avenue    *   sioux falls, sd 57105   *   605.331.4999