Lavender Cat Pendant Tutorial

Create the Square Foundation: Pick up one 11/0 seed bead followed by one fiber optic cat's eye barrel bead. Repeat four times, then tie the beads into a knot to form the square base. Build the First Beaded Layer: Stitch through the next seed bead and barrel bead, adding three 11/0 seed beads between the barrel beads to create the back layer of the bezel. Reinforce the Barrel Beads: Add a second barrel bead beside each existing one, stitching through the beads to secure them and strengthen the outer structure. Add the Third Barrel Layer: Continue building the design by adding seed beads around the center points and positioning another barrel bead on top of each section. Repeat around all four sides to create the cross-shaped structure. Position the Cushion Bead: Place the square cushion bead in the center of the beadwork. Stitch around the outer edge, adding two 11/0 seed beads between the barrel sections to hold the focal bead in place. Reinforce the Bezel: Go around the entire pendant again, tightening the thread and reinforcing the beadwork. Pay special attention to the areas holding the cushion bead. Add an Optional Seed Bead Layer: For extra detail and a tighter fit, add three 11/0 seed beads between the barrel beads around the pendant. Create the Ladder Stitch Bail: Choose where you want the bail positioned, then stitch through five beads. Add groups of five seed beads using ladder stitch, gradually decreasing to four beads and then three beads to shape the bail. Attach and Reinforce the Bail: Connect the bail to the opposite side of the pendant using groups of three and two seed beads. Stitch through the connection several times to make it secure. Finish the Pendant and Necklace: Weave the thread through the beadwork, tie the thread ends together, and carefully trim and burn them. Finish by preparing the purple knotting cord and attaching the clasp.