The Quiet Lion: August 2015

Wednesday, August 26, 2015

crystal paradise skull necklace

Skulls, sparkle, silver, simplicity. This insane Swarovski Crystal Paradise skull pendant needs nothing but a bit of modern cable chain and a rhinestone headpin to compliment it's full-spectrum shine. The colors on the prismatic coating change with each turn and stroke of light - it can look sea foam green at one angle, then switch to neon magenta with hints of chartreuse with just a quarter turn. Part 80s, part punk, part goth, 100% dope!

Because I take all photos for my blog, the images within this post are all copyright Allison Beth Cooling for Quiet Lion Creations. If you'd like permission to use a photo, email me at allison@quietlioncreations.com

Friday, August 21, 2015

bohemian bliss agate necklaces

I think my accessory of Summer 2015 is definitely my Bohemian Bliss agate necklaces. I combine agate (or even geode and gemstone pendants) slices, metallics, Swarovski crystals and chain to create eclectic layering pieces that are perfect for hippies, yogis, or really anyone who loves boho style! What's great about these is that each is a little different, depending on the natural color of the stone, shape, and texture. That will dictate which type of metallic transfer I apply, and ultimately the finished look of the piece. A two-coat waterproof lacquer over the surface keeps the metallics sealed, and gives a polished shine. I have probably made about 30 so far. It's addicting. Each slice is like a tiny canvas, allowing me to create sparkly works of art!

Tuesday, August 18, 2015

treasure chest necklaces

Treasure Chest bohemian beaded necklaces by Allison Beth Cooling

✘ marks the spot! These treasure chest pendant necklaces are no, not for pirates. They are for anyone who wants a super sparkly, super customizable accessory that's super easy to make! Gather round, beaders, and I'll show you exactly how to create one of your very own!

I was inspired to make these after discovering these killer wish box pendants from Doreenbeads.com. How cool are they?! The intricate metal work (they come in all sorts of patterns) and huge selection of sizes and colors caught my attention online, and I patiently awaited their arrival. I had never really seen beading components like this, so I knew they had to star in my next tutorial.

They open up and can store anything from a few small stones, mini letters or handwritten notes, crystals or sparklies, or really anything that you deem special and want to carry with you. Honestly, you really have to check these out, lovin' the boho vibes these give to any piece! They totally remind me of something you'd find in a Moroccan or Indian market. Add crystals and gemstones and you are totally set. I made these in different lengths for layering (if you don't know me by now, I LOVE LAYERING)….but you can even wear one of these necklaces by itself to add a gypsy mood to your look. I'll lay out the steps to creating your own below - read on!

Step 1: Gather materials. For the blue necklace I used 8mm peacock blue rondelle crystals, 4mm faceted metallic blue rondelles, Cousin brand monofilament, crimp beads, one 10mm white agate gemstone round bead, silver 5mm crimp covers, assorted sized silver bead caps and a 3.5cm prayer box pendant from Doreenbeads. You can search Doreenbeads' whole selection of wish box pendants here. There are a ton of awesome styles in multiple colors and sizes! I used this specific wish box for the brown necklace. If you want even more choices, you can find more prayer box pendants here. You will also need flat nose pliers and wire cutters.

Step 2: Measure out a length of monofilament that's a little over the length you want your final necklace to be. Cut this length, and cut another the same length. Thread both strands through the top loop in the wish box. Group all four strands together, and string on a 4mm crystal, bead cap, the agate bead and a bead cap.

Step 3: Divide your four threads into two groups of two, and thread on about 12 to 14 4mm crystals on each side. Add a smaller bead cap, then the 8mm rondelle, and another bead cap to each side. Just keep repeating this process, making sure your number of 4mm crystals between 8mm crystals remains consistent. Keep beading in this pattern until you've got the necklace to the desired length. To finish, thread on two crimp beads to one side, and thread the other side back through the crimp. Pull tight and crimp shut, cutting the extra string and covering with the crimp bead to hide. I didn't use a clasp here as the necklace was long, about 28" or so. These are meant to be long layering necklaces, so clasps aren't needed!

I repeated the same technique for the brown necklace, except I added a rhinestone connector instead of an agate bead, and didn't use any spacers, just corresponding brown crystal rounds for a monochromatic look.

These obviously lend themselves very well to customization. Pick your favorite colors, your favorite stones, and create looks that match your aesthetic. You don't even have to use crystals; gemstone rounds would work perfectly here too. But, you know me, I love the glitz.

I'll leave you with a few more inspo pictures to finish. Remember, if you follow one of my tutorials and create your own piece, post a picture of it on Instagram and tag me @quietlioncreations. I'll repost you!!

Ancient egypt cuff

This cuff is fully loaded! I've combined metallics, crystals, shell and a Swarovski pendant in this edgy-chic accessory. Starting with a metal cuff blank, I applied a metallic Aset transfer (Aset, also known as Isis, is the Egyptian goddess of life) and sealed it to the cuff. The center shell focal piece was made by layering two mother of pearl pieces and securing them to the cuff. I finished by adding rays of Swarovski AB gemstone flat backs, and finished with a Swarovski teardrop AB pendant.

Monday, August 10, 2015

Fiona Filigree Bracelets

Filigree is always a good choice; the intricate swirls of metal and high shine add such a luxe touch to any piece of jewelry. And, when you add a Swarovski rhinestone and smooth pearls to contrast, a perfectly dressy-chic accessory is made.

These Fiona bracelets are great for beginners and advanced headers, as they only LOOK super difficult to make! It's all about mixing materials that compliment each other. A simple wrapping and stringing technique is all that's involved, and you can play around with mixing colors and crystals. I'll show you how to make the simpler pearl bracelet, as the second is just a variation.

Step 1: Gather materials. You need acrylic pearls (I used large 8mm pearls from Cousin Corp Jewelry Basics and colored Pandahall pearls), glass beads (specifically 4X3mm silver plated faceted glass abacus crystals), assorted filigree findings (similar bronze filigree here, filigree here or sterling filigree components here), silver crimp tubes, 6mm crimp covers, a toggle clasp, Swarovski square sew-on rhinestones (emerald rounds here, or aquamarine rounds here, crystal square ones here) and wire cutters / flat nose pliers.

Step 2: Complete the bracelet. Simply wire wrap your rhinestone to the center of the filigree with your thin gauge wire. Cut a piece of beading wire thats the length of your wrist, and thread through the end loop of the filigree. Fold in half, and then bead on about 8 beads. Repeat with your other side. Measure to make sure it will fit your wrist, and adjust bead amounts if necessary. Finish by adding your crimps and securing the toggle clasps then cut excess wire.

These look great worn alone for a chic look, or you can even mix them with other bracelets for a totally glam vibe. These are somewhat delicate, as you don't want to scratch the prized Swarovski, so I wouldn't wear these to do, yard work, per say. They're more of a night out piece!