Dear ,

With the leaves mostly off the trees (and onto the lawn instead) and Halloween gone by, it's time to begin planning for Thanksgiving. As you consider the turkey, gravy and green bean-casserole, remember to take time to make something fantastic to wear to dinner. Or if you're visiting someone else's house for dinner, make your hostess a perfect gift as thanks for a good meal.

This issue's free project, Wooden Hoops, captures the essence of the season with wood and earthy colors. Take this opportunity to learn about bead sizes and the metric system, discover a perfect finding for your next design, or discover holiday-themed ceramic beads and jewelry.

Holiday Inspiration

Ceramic artist Jennifer Heynen has put together some fantastic holiday designs using her seasonal beads and components. Visit jenniferjangles.blogspot.com for photos and instructions of several free projects -- and she promises  ...  Read more »

Making Connections

TierraCast has expanded their already extensive line of lead-free plated findings with the new Connections collection. Working with feedback from designers, TierraCast created innovative options for connecting and designing jewelry. This versatile line of findings is available in copper, silver or gold plating.  ...  Read more »

Size Wise

Americans have not embraced the metric system, but many beads made in European and Asian countries are measured in millimeters. My own acceptance of metric measurements resulted from a love of and a need to better understand beads. Don't be put off by metric measurements! As a system, it is logical and beneficial  ...  Read more »

Wooden Hoops

These earrings are lightweight and nostalgic with a hint of fiber.   Read more »