Welcome to the 2024 Orlando Bead Retreat hosted by Orlando Marriott – Lake Mary

July 31 – August 4, 2024

Orlando Marriott – Lake Mary
1501 International Parkway Lake Mary, Florida 32746
Orlando Marriott – Lake Mary Registration

Day classes are from 9:30 am – 5:00 pm (with a 1 1/2 hour break)

Afternoon-Night workshops are scheduled ONLY on Wednesday & Thursday
Wednesday afternoon 2:00 am – 5:00 pm
Wednesday & Thursday evening 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm

There is one full-day workshop scheduled for
Wednesday 1:00 pm – 8:00 pm (with a 1 1/2 hour break)


There is a limit class limit of 20 students, so sign up as soon as possible to hold your spot.

Contact Carol Harman for class availability at carolhcreations@aol.com

2024 Class Registration Form

2024 Afternoon/Night Class Registration Form


Classes below are listed by date and time

(See Registration Forms for class & kit prices and further information)

WEDNESDAY, JULY 31st

HELLO DOLLY (MAKE A DOLL) BY ANNE HESSE

This is such a fun class offering, mixing beadwork with presewn doll bodies. Once officially signed up for class, Anne will contact you regarding colors you would like for your doll.  She will then prepare a sampling of fabrics for your approval before she makes your one of a kind doll kit.You have a simple choice: make a small doll or create the larger, original sized doll. The dolls, once finished, can either sit or they can hang on a wall. Because the faces can take a considerable amount of time, Anne requests that you complete the beadwork at home and bring the finished face to class, along with your beads. Anne will email the specific instructions for the face beading and will mail out the presewn  pieces for you to bead.

In class you will learn: how to assemble the doll, how to attach the face to the body using beads, how to attach the skirts, how to add hair to the head, how to embellish the doll.

This is a fast paced class – lots of moving around, stitching, laughing, and creating a one of a kind doll.

MILADY’S BROOCH/PENDANT BY CYNTHIA RUTLEDGE

The fabulous bodice ornaments that have survived from the 18th century inspired Milady’s Brooch or Pendant Ornament. A trillion shaped CZ is set within peyote stitch then layer upon layer of peyote stitch and embellishing techniques make channels, or paths of beadwork, that hold small pearls and CZs set in fine metal settings. The edges are finished with a stylized foliage design representing filigree work. A pearl encrusted dangle adds movement to the bottom of the ornament. 

Lavishly set, extremely rich in ornament, this piece can be a brooch or a pendant. If the wearer chooses the pendant style, then we will add a shaped bail and slide the pendant over a simple peyote stitch tube with a toggle and loop closure for a spectacular finish! For those that would prefer a brooch, we will sew a high-quality pin-back to the back of the beadwork so that you can wear this ornament in 18th century style. Whatever style of ornament you choose, the kit includes materials to make a pair of earrings to match the pearl drop on the ornament.

Techniques: Tubular peyote stitch (even and odd count) with increasing, Stitching-in-the-ditch, Split circle techniques for the closure of the necklace, Netting, Flat circular peyote stitch with increasing, Setting CZ techniques

KUMIHIMO LEATHER BRACELET BY PEGGY TEPPER

This 8 strand Kumihimo bracelet is a great way to learn Kumihimo or by using 2 colors of leather learn how you can vary the design by changing the layout of leather on your disk. The bracelet is simple but elegant, can be worn by anyone, and you will walk out of the class wearing your bracelet! Colors are black, lilac, gold gold/Moroccan Red, Black/Pearl Silver

BLACK PEARL BRACELET BY HOLLY BEAN

Get your pirate on!  This fantastic Mak Kasparian skull pirate focal is so fun!  In this bead embroidery project we’ll use cork, cup chain, peanut beads, tacks, black pearl and other components to create a whimsical biker style bracelet.

MARLENA BRACELET BY SHERRY SERAFINI

Learn some component basics that make an embroidered piece “come alive” with layers. Gorgeous components on this piece. This is totally a puzzle pieced project. Three hours but it will most certainly not be completed in class. The goal is to create the components with the knowledge to move on make this into a cuff or necklace if cuffs aren’t your thing. I am providing the beads to create the cuff, which is on a metal cuff blank. If a pendant is desired please note that I do include chain to do so.

WAHINE NECKLACE BY LAURA COLE

Wahine” is the Hawaiian word for woman, and these beautiful tiki girls make the perfect centerpiece for this whimsical, tropical necklace. This tutorial and included felt template will guide you through using bead embroidery techniques for the centerpiece and the dangling leaf. Next it will teach you how to use the St Petersburg stitch to create the coordinating bead-woven strap, beaded clasp, and assembly. Kits will be available in 4 versions; each with it’s own unique cabochon and coordinating colorway. Mahalo!

COBAIN NECKLACE BY KIM LEAHY

Highlight a Maku Raku focal with a dimensional beaded crystal using basic bead embroidery, peyote stitch and netting.  The chain is created with 3 bead herringbone using 8/0 triangle beads. 

BUBBLES NECKLACE BY DIANN EILERING

An advanced beginner/intermediate bead embroidery class using a polymer cabochon with a main wooden accent.  The cabochons may differ slightly since they are individually created.   Stitches used:  Peyote, backstitch, brick stitch, couching.  PRAW is used for the straps on the samples; however, you may choose to use another stitch.


THURSDAY, AUGUST 1st

AFFINITY NECKLACE BY NANCY CAIN

Create a long vintage style, 3-layered necklace of peyote stitch rope, chain, and stringing. The uniquely structured beaded ovals accent the fringe of minimalist bezeling around vintage 20mm clear crystal stones and the use of the beautifully textured Miyuki cotton pearls adds a vintage touch. Free earring instructions included.

COMING TO THE END BRACELET BY CYNTHIA RUTLEDGE

Torque bangles are believed to have been worn around the 8th century BC. The word “torque” basically means twisted or turn. These bangles were found in bronze, silver, and gold. This style of jewelry has stood the test of time as it is still one of the most popular designs today.

Coming To The End Parure is no exception. The base is a brass cuff blank sized to the wearer. The blank is covered in peyote stitch and edged with crystal pearls. An extension is built off of the cuff blank to hold two large oval CZs. These CZs are bezeled and attached to an extension in an ingenious way. Simple embellishments add just the right touch using Austrian crystals for sparkle. As if the bangle wasn’t enough, I had to add earrings, of course!

Techniques: Edge stitching, Embellishing techniques, Step-up/step-down flat peyote stitch, Stitching-in-the-ditch, Tubular, even count peyote stitch

SLN IN BLOOM! by Erin Simonetti

Imagine weaving a “Split Loom Necklace” on the loom with absolutely NO Warps to weave in! This two-day class offers such instruction. The Weave, the over-hand edge design, the silver edging, and the fringe are completed while on the loom. Once cut off, the clasps are attached, a few Wefts to secure (from stopping & starting a new thread) and it can be worn within 20 minutes.

TWO DAY CLASS:

The first meeting will include setting up the bead loom, laying out the bead palette, weaving the design to include weaving the OH edge of the Flower Petal and edging. 

The second meeting will instruct eliminating the warps, completing the weave up each strap, and fringing then discussing removal from the loom. 

A private Facebook Group will be created so I will be available for each Weaving ensuring questions are answered and everyone completes this project.

TECHNO ROMANTIC NECKLACE BY KIM STATHIS

Geometric Pendant featuring four bezeled Crystal Triangles connected together to form a Tetrahedron.  The flat side of one Crystal Triangle sits flush against the chest while the other two Crystal Triangles form an outward facing focal point. The fourth Crystal Triangle caps off three joined Triangles.  Crystals and pearls are used at each connection point between all four Triangles to add a bit of sparkle and classic elegance to a contemporary design.  The Necklace Straps are made using cubic right angle weave and interspersed with round crystals and melon shaped beaded beads.  The clasp for the Necklace is a beaded pearl button with Loop closure. 

Learn how to construct a dimensional object using various sizes of Crystal Triangular Stones. Stitches used – Peyote, Netting and Cubic Right Angle Weave Stitches

ARTIFA NECKLACE BY SHERRY SERAFINI

Artifa (hands on choosing of components) Spend the morning making your own wooden pieces with images. I’ll guide you thru the process of making them look vintage if desired. We will also cover buttons with fabric. After lunch we will begin creating the pendant! Bead embroidered of course.

Pendant measures 7” x 1 ½” and is carried by a lovely rolo chain. Cup chain fringe makes this sparkle as does the optional floral component.

MOON DANCE NECKLACE BY DIANN EILERING

An intermediate bead embroidery class using polymer cabochons.  Beadwork will accent the color theme of the moon.  The large blue cabochon will vary since each one is created separately.

Stitches used:  Peyote, PRAW-3, PRAW-5, backstitch and brick stitch. Knowledge of PRAW is strongly suggested.

ANEMONE NECKLACE BY HOLLY BEAN

Simple, elegant and sophisticated cuff. Easy to wear everyday or for special occasions.

Materials used: TOHO and/or Miyuki seed beads, Precioca cup chain, Czech Prong beads, Slide clasp. Kit will have enough supplies for uThese colors just sing together!  Bead weaving and Bead Embroidery are brought together to create this beautiful Sea Anemone, complete with lamp work glass fish! A Rachel Hungary Focal Cab, Natural Amethyst beads, Baroque and Freshwater pearls, and Spiral Ribbon fringe.p to an 8 inch cuff.

Skill Level: Advanced Beginner

Techniques: Cubic Right Angle Weave, Right Angle Weave, Stitch in the Ditch embellishments

DAMAS ROSE NECKLACE BY MIRIAM SHIMON

This necklace has intricate medallions interfaced with beaded flowers with abundant petals. The project is a tribute to the lovely Damask Roses you can find in various places in the Middle East. Project suited for all levels.

 MASK BRACELET BY KIM LEAHY

Bead embroidery with a surprise technique of embellishing rings.  A hand crafted mask cabochon on hair on leather.


FRIDAY, AUGUST 2nd

OLIVIA NECKLACE BY NANCY CAIN

Olivia necklace is built around beautiful paper mache olive shaped beads. Available in 3 color palettes, the uniquely encased olive beads are accented with delicate fringe of 4mm crystals, chain, and accented beaded strands. Lightly sculpted peyote rope with an embellished cigar band ring holding the connection points together. This sparkly and fun necklace goes well with casual and dressy outfits.

WINDOW TO THE PAST BY CYNTHIA RUTLEDGE

The “new” designs of the Edwardian Era had their roots firmly planted in the style of 18th century jewelry. Ornamental motifs from early centuries were available through pictorial records and 18th century pattern books. Garlands, ribbons, laurel wreaths, bow knots, tassels and lace were rendered with a new lightness thanks to the advances made in platinum fabrication.

Window to the Past Bracelet is inspired by these early designs. Open and airy, with a touch of elegance, this design fits right in with the style of the day. A central oval CZ floats within a beaded ring of Pave’ pearls. The pearls are captured within the ring by four 6mm CZs that are bezeled, attached and anchored at four compass points. Petite pearl-filled petals complete the embellishment. A flat peyote stitched band, ending in a bar clasp, completes the look.

Techniques: Edge stitching techniques, Flat step-up/step-down, odd count peyote stitch, Stitching-in-the-ditch, Tubular, even count peyote stitch

Garden is a Buzzin’ by Erin Simonetti

A 3D Pendant, woven on the Loom and sharing a day in the life of a Bee as it hovers over a Garden of Pink Flowers. The fringe continues the story with multiple Buzzing Bees and flowers, ending with another trail of spirals. This same theme continues up the neck chain with a Bee flying off leaving a descriptive tale in the Bail and his travels.

A Beginner Level class using a Warp Management Technique called “Waning”. No warps to weave in but waning them around the weave to diminish each one.

WHAT GOES AROUND NECKLACE BY KIM STATHIS

The main part of the Pendant is made up of four Concentric Ring Components. Each Ring has a different radius but the center point is the same for all four Rings.

Components. The bottom of the Pendant is finished off with herringbone encircled round pearls and a beaded Crystal Drop. The Necklace Straps are made in two segments and connected together using beaded rings.  Joined encircled herringbone round pearls are used for the closure and slip thru loops at the end of the Necklace Straps to secure the Necklace around the neck.

Peyote, netting, double right angle weave and herringbone stitches will be used to construct this necklace. 

LIL’ BAG BY SHERRY SERAFINI

Creative freedom! This little bag is a premade zipper pouch. It measures 7 ¼” x 4 ½” and will hold a cell phone, make up, etc. Choose your own cabs to go with the batik. Cabs will be available in class to choose from. Then bead embroider to your hearts delight on batik that you wrap around beading foundation! Design will most certainly be discussed as there is always somewhat of a “plan”…even if things are asymmetrical in design! Fun! Kit includes beads shown, fabric covered buttons, metals, cup chain and two hole beads.

EXPLORER NECKLACE BY DIANN EILERING

An intermediate bead embroidery & bead weaving class where you will create depth and illusion by adding a number of components to a beautiful batik fabric.   Stitches used:  Peyote, herringbone, backstitch, brick stitch, fringe.  

TWILIGHT ON THE KEY BRACELET BY HOLLY BEAN

An elegant and fun bracelet with gold shell, glass crystals, cathedral beads, Freshwater pearls and magnetic clasp.  We’ll use bead embroidery techniques and fringed RAW.  The picture just can’t capture the lavender glow.

ANDREA NECKLACE BY MIRIAM SHIMON

A gorgeous wearable pendant necklace, comprising various sizes of crystals to create a frame around a large Rivoli, with a lovely beaded strap. Uses Peyote and RAW stitches and is suited for confident beginners to advanced.


SATURDAY, AUGUST 3rd

ALEGRIA NECKLACE BY NANCY CAIN

Springtime is when Spain presents the Flor en Flor – The Barcelona Flower and Garden Show. This necklace design is celebrating the joy of springtime and the emergence of flowers. Black seed beads with two color matched accent beads along with Swarovski sparkle add elegance to the custom-made Polymer clay centerpiece by artist Shane Smith. Matching flower embellished beads in the rope of sculptural peyote enhances the flower motif. The pendant uses my newest Stitch-in-theDitch variation called Pinch-in-the-Ditch, which allows for layering and structure. The elegance of black enhances the three flower color choices of Coral pink shown, Heather purple, and Azure blue. Kit includes extra crystals and polymer beads for earrings.

EDWARDIAN FILIGREE PENDANT BY CYNTHIA RUTLEDGE

Edwardian jewelry styles were ethereal and delicate, making the styles, elegant and fluid. Edwardian Filigree Pendant embraces this 20th century style of jewelry design. A delicate fan-shaped filigree shape is encrusted with set CZs and bezeled 6mm CZs creating a fantasy peacock feather shape. The pearl embellishments add just the right touch of elegance to this pendant. A pearl drop set with a CZ adds swing to the design. The pendant is strung onto a peyote stitch cord that ends in a beautiful, CZ set magnetic closure.

Techniques: Edge stitching, Netting, Netting to peyote stitch techniques, Odd count, step-up/stepdown peyote stitch, Setting CZ’s techniques, Stitching-in-the-ditch, Tubular, even count peyote stitch, Tubular, odd count peyote stitch

BLOOMIN’ CUFF by Erin Simonetti

A perfect ‘beginner’ Loom Weaving Class.  

This class includes setting up the bead loom, warping with two different threads, creating a bead palette, including a dimensional design of “lifted Beads” while weaving each row, edging using hand weaving techniques, sizing to fit your wrist, and attaching a clasp. All without weaving in any Warps!

KARMA NECKLACE BY KIM STATHIS

The Pendant for Karma Necklace is a large round bezeled Crystal Stone with three bezeled Triangular Crystal Stones attached to its base. Herringbone arms are used to stabilize the construction of the Pendant and also add an attractive design element.  The Necklace Straps are made using odd count peyote stitch with sections of beaded pearl disks that attach to the Pendant.  A matching beaded pearl disk and bead loop is used for the closure to secure the necklace around the neck.

Multiple stitches are used to make the Necklace – Peyote, Herringbone and Netting stitches.  

Skill Level – Intermediate to Advanced – Individuals need to know how to do the above mentioned stitches.

BURLESQUE NECKLACE BY SHERRY SERAFINI

Create a magnificent neckpiece using a wooden ring to elevate the focal Czech button to create height in the design. Duo beads surround a lovely wooden frame that holds the button and ring! An interesting and fun layering technique in my opinion. Peyote stitch, bead embroidery and lots of fringe are some of the stitches used. T he piece hangs from a leather cord attached with “beaded loops”.

The piece measures approximately 9” long with fringe and 5” from right loops to left loops. An extender chain can be added to shorten or lengthen.

SONGBIRD NECKLACE BY DIANN EILERING

An advanced beginner/intermediate bead embroidery class using a number of shaped beads, crystals and focal elements to create a happy little songbird which is about 3.75” wide.  Consider adorning a purse or place in a shadow box frame for your home.  Kits may differ slightly due to availability of materials. Stitches used:  Peyote, backstitch and brick stitch.

MARIPOSA NECKLACE BY MIRIAM SHIMON

This necklace has a butterfly focal point and embellished flowers made with fun bezels in different beads. It is easily converted to bracelet or earrings; with a number of different ways, it can be put together. A lovely versatile design that can be work both of festive occasions and everyday. Basic knowledge of Peyote is recommended and the project it suited for confident beginners to advanced levels.

SUNSET ON SANIBEL NECKLACE BY HOLLY BEAN

Enjoy a beautiful sunset on the beach of Sanibel Island around your neck!  A bead embroidery project.  Learn how to use patinas and epoxy clay to add shells and pearls to create exture.  Gorgeous EH Ashley custom coated focals, Natural Turquoise, Columbian Amber, and beautiful seed beads!


SUNDAY, AUGUST 4th

POPPY SEED NECKLACE BY NANCY CAIN

Poppy seeds are harvested from the poppy flower and each poppy plant produces several flowers, which burst open to reveal seed pods. My necklace inspiration from the beautiful poppy seed pod includes two interchangeable lower pendants. One has sculptural and hollow peyote stitched seedpods suspended from a clasp bar with chain and 18 crystal poppy seed tendrils. The second interchangeable pendant is crystal laden with over 30 assorted sizes of 5040 crystals, chain, and hammered rings. The rope of Chenille stitch with hammered ring accents and crystals works for both pendant variations.

STEPPING STONE NECKLACE BY CYNTHIA RUTLEDGE

The Steppin’ Stones necklace is reminiscent of a formal garden by beginning with the trillion-shaped CZ pendant as the central commanding focal point, as would a pond, fountain or statue in the garden. The eye is then lead up the necklace by the CZembellished links that act as the stepping-stones, leading the way to the closure. Threedimensional peyote stitch is used to create a bezel, and a raised triangular shape, upon which the bezeled CZ rests at center front. Suspended from the focal point is another bezeled CZ that acts as a visual balance to the pendant. Pathways of peyote-stitched CZ-embellished links, comprise the rest of the necklace and lead to two CZ-studded toggles that become part of the closure. 

Skill level:  Advanced.  The student must be proficient at peyote stitch.

 FROST FLOWER NECKLACE BY KIM STATHIS

A long slender Navette Crystal Stone is the focal point for the necklace.  Pearl Bezels with a crystal bead center form delicate flower like component and are used to frame Navette Crystal Stone. Filigree beadwork with tiny crystals along the length of the bezeled Navette add elegance and sophistication to the overall look of the design.  The necklace strap is made using peyote stitch with filigree edging and pearl floweret inserts added as the necklace strap is stitched.  The clasp is a matching bezeled round crystal button with Loop closure. 

Stitches used to make the Necklace – Peyote stitch 

Skill Level – Intermediate to Advanced – Individuals need to know how to do the above mentioned stitch and have made several projects using Off-Loom Beading techniques.

MUSE NECKLACE BY SHERRY SERAFINI

Crazy little daggers on the wings make this piece stand out! Handcrafted polymer face is the focal surround by cup chain. Wrap fabric around a wooden ring (one of my favorite things to do!) Then layer components. Tammy from T-Beads created the fabulous glass that enhance my muse! Love these! Sari ribbon and chain are used to carry the pendant. Piece measures 5”x 6” respectively.

BLOSSOM NECKLACE BY DIANN EILERING

An advanced beginner/intermediate bead embroidery class using polymer cabochons.  Since the cabochons are individually created, each kit will differ slightly.   Stitches used:  Peyote, backstitch, brick stitch, fringe.  PRAW is used for the straps on the samples; however, you may choose to use another stitch.

LANA IGUANA NECKLACE BY HOLLY BEAN

Join me in this super fun project. A combination of bead weaving and bead embroidery brings Lana to life; and oh those muscles!  Not to mention her luscious lips, nails and “diamond” ring!  Featuring gold branch, gold leaves, pearls, farfalle beads, Stitches used are Back stitch, Brick stitch, Pon do stitch, and fringed RAW.

OFF TO THE BAIL BRACELET BY MIRIAM SHIMON

A bracelet with crystal constellation center and an easily beaded strap, this project is fun and straight forward. It can be done in many different configurations and will suit the sparkle loving students who likes a challenge.