abacus * 2 = abaci
Quite a while back, I mentioned an abacus project on the drawing board. Haven’t forgotten, but just did not get around to completing it until today.
Inspired by the modern edgy take on the ancient abacus from CB2, but not entirely interested in CB2’s suggested retail price.
Thankfully, we had 2 large black frames already, purchased some slender metal rods at Lowe’s and found a slew of large beads at last fall’s International Gem & Jewelry show. (the source for our beads was an excellent supplier based in the Trade Mart in Dallas, Oriental Arts Company.)
I had to put on my thinking cap for a while to figure out how to get the metal rods into the frame. I used plastic lids from water bottles, cut into wedges and glued to the inside back of the frame to form tiny ledges upon which the rods can rest.
See? Just glued in with some super gorilla glue.
Might consider painting the beads, just not quite sure yet.
Since Cristybella and I are both data analysts, giving homage to numbers by honoring the abacus as a work of art is perfect for our home.
thank you for visiting~means the world to me!
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Linking to
home sweet homemade 
those look AWESOME… thanks sweetheart! ILY
Yes, Diane….I DO remember you mentioning the abacus a while back and I am soooooo impressed with how you put it together!
LOVE! LOVE! LOVE! how you used plastic lids from water bottles to get the metal rods into the frame – genius!
It turned out FLAWLESSLY, my friend!
A big BRAVA to you!
X to you and Cristybella!
How fantastic! What a brilliant idea. I love it! And, although I laughed when I saw the bottle ledge idea, I also was filled with admiration – that’s great creative thinking. Go, girl!!
Sarahx
this looks great! the plastic was a clever idea
Wow so cool! What a great idea, they look so good on your wall.
Thank you for joining my Looking Ahead Linky Party! Come check it out and grab a “featured” button. http://craftygeordi.blogspot.com/2011/01/cup-cozee.html
That’s cute! I like the beads white, myself. I think your solution for holding the dowels is genius!
These are so great! I featured you today on my favorite things 🙂
http://sunshineandchaucer.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-favorite-things.html
This is stunning idea for a graphic display! I love that is has special meaning for the two of you as well! Thanks for linking up!!
LOVE THIS! Come on ova’ and link up to my Linky Party! xoxokara
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Fabulous. What a great project. And I love your solution for holding the metal rods.
I think the plain beads look great. If you want a color punch, you might put a paper backer up in the color of the moment, and then change that out at whim.
These look great! What a cleaver tip to use the water bottle caps.
I’d love for you to share: http://tutusandteaparties.blogspot.com/2012/01/pinteresting-party-week-twenty-one.html