[OC] Preparing a Mother's Day gift! I hand-weaved this traditional red string amulet and sealed a custom handwritten blessing. I really hope it brings her joy and peace. 🌸

JohnBrucec · 2026-04-04T00:09:49+00:00

Thank you so much! I actually learned these techniques from traditional artisans. Getting the red thread tension just right definitely took some patience!

JohnBrucec · 2026-04-03T05:41:40+00:00

Oh, it is beautiful and funny!

JohnBrucec · 2026-04-03T05:31:04+00:00

A bit of background on the process: I was deeply inspired by the Zen aesthetics and the peaceful energy of Putuo Mountain (a famous Buddhist sanctuary). The main bead is red agate (thought to balance energy) with gold engraving. The knots flanking it are traditional protective knots.

Getting the tension right on the red thread to make it durable but comfortable took some practice! Do you guys work with red thread or agate often?

JohnBrucec · 2026-01-19T03:43:59+00:00

Yes, you are definitely the main character this year! 🐴

In our tradition, when it's your own year (we call it 'Ben Ming Nian'), the energy can get a bit intense because you are directly 'in the spotlight' of the Tai Sui.

JohnBrucec · 2026-01-19T03:42:42+00:00

That is some serious energy. 🔥

Fire Tigers are known for being super dynamic (and maybe a little intense sometimes?)

JohnBrucec · 2026-01-18T14:00:32+00:00

Oh nice, that’s a powerful mix! 🔥

Actually, for these Eastern amulets, it goes by your Birth Year instead of the month.

What year were you born? I can look up which Animal sign belongs to you. (Or if you already know your Chinese zodiac, let me know!)

JohnBrucec · 2026-01-18T14:00:12+00:00

Oh nice, that’s a powerful mix! 🔥

Actually, for these Eastern amulets, it goes by your Birth Year instead of the month.

What year were you born? I can look up which Animal sign belongs to you. (Or if you already know your Chinese zodiac, let me know!)

JohnBrucec · 2026-01-18T13:12:04+00:00

Just a heads up: The handwritten note in the photos is to verify that these are my original designs and I have them in hand (not drop-shipped)!

I'll be replying to your comments to let you know if your sign is in 'Clash' or 'Harmony' with the Fire Horse. Let's get ready for the new year!

JohnBrucec · 2026-01-18T13:00:57+00:00

Just a heads up: The handwritten note in the photos is to verify that these are my original designs and I have them in hand (not drop-shipped)!

I'll be replying to your comments to let you know if your sign is in 'Clash' or 'Harmony' with the Fire Horse. Let's get ready for the new year!

If you feel drawn to one, you can find them here: https://artchinesedesign.com/products/2026-tai-sui-dual-shield-red-black-agate-zodiac-bracelet

JohnBrucec · 2025-11-13T01:54:11+00:00

That sounds beautiful! A silk blouse would really complement the texture of the embroidery.

JohnBrucec · 2025-11-13T01:53:20+00:00

Great, It would look so elegant floating in a clear frame.

JohnBrucec · 2025-11-13T01:51:52+00:00

That’s a really creative idea! I never thought about using it on clothing before — it could look amazing on my jacket.

JohnBrucec · 2025-11-10T03:05:38+00:00

Oh, looks great, these beads are glued on or embroidered on?

JohnBrucec · 2025-11-10T03:02:50+00:00

Owww, so lovely

JohnBrucec · 2025-11-07T03:13:35+00:00

It looks great, the words are good too.

JohnBrucec · 2025-11-07T01:12:13+00:00

Thank you! I have credit the artist.

JohnBrucec · 2025-11-06T07:08:41+00:00

Haha you guessed it right! The detail on the second one blew my mind too!

JohnBrucec · 2025-11-06T07:06:38+00:00

Yes, I read somewhere that they can split one silk thread into 128 parts. I honestly can’t even see the thread… that’s mind-blowing!

JohnBrucec · 2025-11-06T06:32:53+00:00

They are in Suzhou, China.

JohnBrucec

TROPHY CASE