Welcome to the fabulous world of beaded boxes! In this online class (previously my ebook), I want to get you started on basic boxes with lift-off lids.

I have themed the book around flower pots. So, you are going to learn how to make a couple of basic shaped boxes. Then, you can add the flower displays of your choice.

These make cute little displays on a window sill. Of course, they are much smaller than a real flower pot, but some will be big enough to conceal a key for your window locks. So, you need never worry about forgetting where you put the key or having it seen by outsiders peering in.

They also make great gifts. You could personalise each with a little label with the recipient’s name. Then, fill the box with some small goodies.

I have organised this book for ease of use. So, you will start by learning how to make two basic box shapes, with simple flower arrangements. These allow you to get used to the techniques as fast as possible. I have included videos with these instructions. They will allow you to follow along and see how the beads sit in 3-D. In addition, you can follow the diagrams and text instructions. I urge you to use all these learning tools in order to get the most out of this class.

I have also used special colouring for the basic boxes. This is designed to help you see what you are doing as you learn. Once you feel comfortable with the techniques, you are ready to move on to the bigger projects later in the class. Each of these will show you how to develop the basic boxes in a new way. So, you will learn how to create more complex flowers, how to use multi-holed and shaped seed beads for flowers. Then, I show you how to change the size and proportions of your boxes and how to add different pattern designs to them.

After learning all this, you will be well prepared to create your own designs if you wish. Or, simply have fun making lots of versions of these projects in different colours.

I love to see what you have been creating. So, please make sure to share your makes in the section at the end of the class for others to see as well.

And I need to thank my beading friend, Dora, for testing some of the patterns in here before the ebook was originally published. You will see the beautiful variations she made, in different colour schemes. So, I hope these will inspire you too.

Finally, just one little word of warning before you begin: beaded boxes are seriously addictive! So, I hope you have fun discovering this fabulous branch of beading.

A little inspiration for you...I sit my pots on my window sill and use them to hide the keys that lock my windows! This means I can access the keys easily in an emergency, but they're not too visible for anyone who I don't want to use them (if you know what I mean!)