FEATURED PROJECTS

December birthstone: Turquoise necklace

When I found this pendant at a cool vintage shop in Dallas, I knew I had to make something wonderful with it. These turquoise slabs were the answer. By June Beach

PRICE: $3.95

Under an hour: Fast fern bracelet

I was thrilled when I first saw this fern and knew exactly where I wanted the design to go. I followed my instincts, and this bracelet came together in minutes. By Jamie Estelle

PRICE: $3.95

Join different-sized silver and gold hoops with jump rings to keep in step with today's mixed-metals trend. The hoops have an eye-catching hammered texture that needs no embellishment. If you want a touch of color, add bead dangles to a pair of earrings to bring this fashion-forward look full circle.

When my school announced that the staff had to wear ID badges for security reasons, I was resigned to it. But when I saw the cotton strings they hung from, I thought, there must be a prettier way. I strung seed and fringe beads to add a touch of whimsy to a utilitarian accessory, and used a magnetic clasp so it would break free if students pulled on it.

For the second in this six-part series, I made a multistrand necklace that can be worn alone or layered with the longer "Allegretto" necklace from the first installment in Bead Style's January issue. I thought about what would enhance the overall look and maintain the modern tribal style. Combining the multistrand collar with the original necklace creates a lush look. The introduction of purple to the color palette adds depth, and the textured metal cones make the copper spacers pop.

Remember the cut-out profiles that were once popular? Silhouettes made from black paper were a quick way to create a lasting image of a loved one, and they were less expensive than portraits. I love that they're making a comeback. Include a few of these nostalgic charms and shapely beads for an old-school charm bracelet.