Here are beading, mixed media, and jewelry-making challenges and contests with late 2010 and early 2011 deadlines. I try my best to make sure these are accurate deadlines, but be sure to double-check the official rules!
Stringing Challenge: Element of Surprise
October 15, 2010
Mama's Minerals People's Choice Contest
October 17, 2010
Bead Scary Halloween Beading Contest
October 29, 2010
Beads Galore October Beading Challenge
October 31, 2010
Art Bead Scene October Challenge
October 31, 2010
Cloth Paper Scissors: All Buttoned Up Reader Challenge
November 15, 2010
2nd Annual Haute Couture Beading Contest
November 19, 2010
ArtBeads.com What Inspires You?
November 22, 2010
Jewelry Design Challenge with Lark Books and Rio Grande
November 30, 2010
Golem Design Studios Contest (on Facebook)
December 5, 2010
International Bead Award (Perlen Poesie)
December 15, 2010
Crystals Design Challenge
December 15, 2010
BeadStyle Fictional Character Challenge
January 5, 2011
Cloth Paper Scissors: On the Street Where You Live Calendar
January 7, 2011
Quilting Arts: Feeling Pet-ty Calendar
January 7, 2011
Fire Mountain Gems: Metal Clay, Metal Beads, Wirework, and Chain
January 10, 2011
Beadwork VII: The Beaded Earth
February 25, 2011
Rings & Things: Your Designs Rock
February 28, 2011
In addition to these large contests, a number of beaders and jewelry artists are offering challenges on their own blogs. These smaller activities are a great way to meet other beaders. Check out: Lisa's Dollar Store Challenge, Lorelei's Michaels Challenge or the Bead Soup Parties hosted by Lori Anderson.
Update: Check out the comments for additional contests and challenges. La Bella Joya is doing a fun one called Margie and Me which uses color palettes for inspiration. I also added the Fictional Character Challenge in the list above.