Crafters are a creative bunch. Sure, we have to first learn the basics of our craft of choice. However, once we get a handle on basic techniques and methods of whatever it is we are crafting, it’s not unusual for makers to take it a step further and change, alter, twist what we’ve learned into something far different from what we started with.

Cyndi has been on the ropes lately, as in beading rope necklaces much of this summer. Now that she’s become expert at the basics, it is time for her to twist her own take on some of the basics. In a recent blog post over on her Beading Arts blog, she shares with us how she’s changing up her seed bead weaving with herringbone stitch. Plus, she even offers a quick tutorial for her readers so they can also try it. Love the results!

Another blog crafter who likes to twist, literally, is the Tappingflamingo. She combines her wire wrapping skills with recycled discarded guitar strings. What started out as a dare from one of her dulcimer buddies grew and evolved into an array of various jewelry pieces as well as beaded ornaments.

She has made key chains, necklaces, holiday ornaments, earrings, and her designs continue to expand, all because she wanted to figure out a way to reuse old guitar strings.

What have you turned and twisted as far as your crafting skills lately?