Class in a Box: A Prima Bead Review

As you may remember, I was recently contacted by the Prima Bead company, sent a great 'Class in a Box' gift and asked to write a review here on my blog.

I have to admit that a kit with predetermined designs was not what I had in mind when I received my gift. After all, I would not consider myself a beginner, however I really do like these beads and components a lot.

I decided I wasn't going to create the designs in the instructions booklet. I wanted to use the materials as I would any other; this way I can give a real and honest opinion about the Prima Bead products. You can see the jewelry designs intended to be made from this kit above. Below is the jewelry that I have created using the same beads and components.

 Maroon glass pearls and Quartz 'icicle' beads

 Earrings with pretty bow charms and teardrop shaped links

For this necklace I used the brownish glass pearls and the heavy chain from Prima's kit. I love how this chain is two toned bronze and silver.

I still have a lot of the beads and components left over and will defiantly be posting more of my creations soon! So, how would I review this Prima Bead 'Class in a Box' product?

Here are some pros:
· An abundance of different materials to work with for a little price.
· The kit comes with a beading mat!
· The designs are current with the latest styles. You're gonna love wearing your pieces.

Here are some cons:
· I felt the tool was not the greatest, and you're going to need more than one pair of pliers.
· Plated, base metal findings. I typically prefer better quality metals, at least for the earring hooks.
· The quality, overall, is much more 'crafter' than 'artisan'

Final rating: ★ ★ ★ ☆ ☆

Conclusion:
While there are many great quality Prima Bead and Cousin products that I use regularly, this "Class in a Box" kit isn't something I would have purchased for myself. I think this is great for beginners or crafty people that create jewelry as a hobby.

Bows and Pearls

Last month, I was contacted by the good people of Prima Bead and Cousin Corp. They wanted to know if I'd be willing to blog about some new products if they sent them to me. Heck yes, I'm willing!

This is what arrived in the mail last week, a 'Class in a Box' kit. It includes maroon, pink and cream colored glass pearls, brass chain and cute little brass charms. Everything has a very romantic, feminine feel and will be sure to make some very beautiful jewelry.

I haven't had the time to make anything using the beads yet, but I hope to once the craft show I'm participating in this weekend is over.