In between book edits, a custom necklace order, and step-by-step photos for a jewelry tutorial, I spent a little time this weekend viewing some of the jewelry created for the annual Bead Soup Blog Hop. It's amazing to think that there are about 500 jewelry makers participating this year. (And no, I'm not one of them.)
May seems to be the month for blog hops and challenges! I've signed up for the Waxed Linen Blog Hop happening later this month. That one is closed to sign-ups, but here are others that might interest you:
Pretty Palettes Monthly Challenge
Erin Prais-Hintz hosts this monthly challenge based on a color palette and Bead Gallery beads from Michaels pictured here. See her May Inspirations for more about this month's selection. Plus, learn how Erin's looking for some guest blog partners in the coming months. You could get some free beads to play with!
B'Sue Boutiques Monthly Challenge
This month's challenge requires that you use polymer clay. It's been a long time since I've used polymer clay, but I do have a few ideas that I'd like to try. (Sometimes a challenge is just the thing to motivate you!) You can read more about the May challenge on the blog. You have a chance to win a $50 gift certificate. And if polymer clay isn't your thing, what about wedding jewelry? That's the upcoming theme for June.
Antelope Beads Design Contest
If you love designing jewelry with wood or natural beads, this is the contest for you! You'll win a shopping spree ($50-150). This contest closes June 16, 2014. See the full rules on the website.
Beadaholique's Summer Brights Contest
Think sunshine and beach parties for this contest. (Can you believe it is snowing again as I write this? Yes, in May!) This contest has a June 10, 2014 deadline. See the full rules on the website.
Ugly Necklace Contest
The deadline for this contest isn't until August, but I wanted to let you know about this one early. It can be a little more challenging than you think to make something deliberately ugly! Check out the details.
Know any other upcoming jewelry or beading blog hops, contests, or challenges? Please share them in the comments.