Carroll County Arts Council

Workshop Description:

Students will learn how to create a loop and coil to connect gemstone beads to chains and ear ring findings called Ear Threads to make a pair of very kinetic original earrings. The instructor will demonstrate the technique as needed. Care will be taken in mirror matching the pair. Concentration on using a pair of pliers in each hand will yield coordinated skills that can be used in the future to make more earrings, as well as chain bracelets and necklaces.

Minimum Age of Student: ( usually 18 or older but you may include younger with a parent who also registers ) 16 Videos of me working are on my website

Special AV needs, if any: NA

Materials Fee & List of What Fee Covers OR kit contents:

Use of provided Rosary Pliers, Needle Nose Pliers, Beads board or support for beads

Selection of kits for $30 on first come basis: all have same components but different colored gems.

8 Pieces of sterling chain:: 2 each ¼, ½, 3/4, 1”

Pair of sterling silver ear thread findings

8 balled sterling silver wres to connect beads to chains

2 non balled sterling silver wires to connect components to threads

8 natural gem stone beads or pearls

Students should bring $$ if they want to purchase supplies wholesale:

Extra cascade ear thread kits

Bead Boards $5,

Bead board in secure carry case $25

Materials Student Should Bring from home or purchase, with names of suppliers.

Work apron with pockets if available. Any gemstone beads, small shells or found objects you want to incorporate in LIGHTWEIGHT ear thread style earrings. If you know your preference of gem stones or colors , text or email the instructor as soon as you register to get a customized KIT. lindavanhart@earthliink.net 443 340 0955 

Instructor bio:

Linda is a fifth generation Carroll Countian who sculpts body and architectural adornment in metal. Asymmetric and kinetic features lend surprising grace to the larger scale of her jewelry. Her style is easily recognizable and in many collections in America and abroad.. Linda teaches workshops through Common Ground on the Hill which is a Folklife Center for Central Maryland, at Carroll Arts, Peters Valley and other venues. A long time professional art educator, Linda was recognized for her teaching excellence by the National Art Education Association that named her National Art Educator of The Year! Her work is always at Off Track Art Gallery in Westminster and NOMA Gallery in Frederick.

Lesson Plan

The instructor will have work stations and kit samples arranged when students arrive. Students will look at samples of completed cascade earrings. The instructor will demonstrate all stages of the process. Each student will follow the steps demonstrated by the instructor to attach selected beads to the sterling chains. Individual help will be offered as needed. These pendants will be connected to the ear threads. Each student will take home a finished pair of cascade ear threads!