Sunday, February 27, 2011
Lampworking Class Video
Yesterday was a fun day at Dancing Beads. From 11:00am until a little after 5:00 there was a lampworking class. Throughout the day (and between customers), I'd pop in with my little video camera to film beads having their birthday.
The first scene is Persis demonstrating pulling stringer. Stringer are thin rods of glass used for applying surface decoration to a bead. In the next scene, Kori is busy forming her first bead. The last scene is Kori hard at work making her last and largest bead. She chose really bright colors, and after applying red dots, she went for an organic look by dragging vivid blue, and green stringers onto the surface of her bead. As you can see in the still shot of Kori's handful of beads, the big one is now two cabochons. A huge air bubble in the center of the bead caused it to sheer in half.
After class, I talked to Kori about her experience. She had this to say:: "I had a lot of fun! Persis was a wonderful teacher. She's calm, and really patient. I liked that. I'm so glad I took this class. Now, I have a real appreciation for lampworking, and what it takes."
Persis was equally pleased with her student. Kori did a great job, asked terrific questions, and quickly grasped the techniques. I was impressed by the size and shape of her beads.
This was the only beginning lampwork class scheduled for the Spring Session. Persis will be offering another class for our Summer Session. We limit seating for this class to no more than two students. It's a day filled with personal attention, creativity, and wonder.
Just ask Kori!
... and if you're interested, the music I used is "Sunday" by Nick Drake from his Bryter Later album which came out in 1970.
The first scene is Persis demonstrating pulling stringer. Stringer are thin rods of glass used for applying surface decoration to a bead. In the next scene, Kori is busy forming her first bead. The last scene is Kori hard at work making her last and largest bead. She chose really bright colors, and after applying red dots, she went for an organic look by dragging vivid blue, and green stringers onto the surface of her bead. As you can see in the still shot of Kori's handful of beads, the big one is now two cabochons. A huge air bubble in the center of the bead caused it to sheer in half.
After class, I talked to Kori about her experience. She had this to say:: "I had a lot of fun! Persis was a wonderful teacher. She's calm, and really patient. I liked that. I'm so glad I took this class. Now, I have a real appreciation for lampworking, and what it takes."
Persis was equally pleased with her student. Kori did a great job, asked terrific questions, and quickly grasped the techniques. I was impressed by the size and shape of her beads.
This was the only beginning lampwork class scheduled for the Spring Session. Persis will be offering another class for our Summer Session. We limit seating for this class to no more than two students. It's a day filled with personal attention, creativity, and wonder.
Just ask Kori!
... and if you're interested, the music I used is "Sunday" by Nick Drake from his Bryter Later album which came out in 1970.
Friday, February 25, 2011
The 3/50 Project
The rest, as they say, is history.
The premise of the project is very simple. Choose three small businesses in your town that you don't want to lose. Then commit to spend $50.00 per month amongst them. Yes, you can choose more than three.
There's a reason for shopping with your local brick and mortar, and it has to do with your dollar. According to the Civic Economics stats for 2008 for every $100.00 spent in independently owned businesses, $68.00 returns to the local economy through taxes, payroll, and other expenditures.
Spend the same amount at a national chain, and only $43.00 stays in the community.
Spend that same amount online, and nothing comes home. Yep, that would be $.00. Zip. Zilch. Nada dime.
Cinda goes on to explain that "if half the employed US population spent $50.00 each month in independently owned businesses, their purchases would generate more than $42.6 billion in revenue. Imagine the positive impact if 3/4 of the employed population did that."
I'm picking three!
Care to join me?
For more information visit:: the350project.net
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Funny Later
Watching the snow reminded me of an misadventure I had many years ago that involved snow, and a premonition.
In 1998, I attended the Tucson Gem and Mineral Show for the very first time with my new friend Persis. While there we enjoyed the warm weather of southwest Arizona as only a couple of winter weary Pacific Northwesterners could. While the staff of the motel were huddled in their office with heaters on high, we basked pool side.
Upon returning to Oregon, I also returned to a pretty gnarly snow storm. Driving down from Portland was quite an adventure. By morning the valley floor was blanketed with several inches of snow.
I'm not fond of driving in snow, so I made the decision to walk to the shop.
Bundled up in all the snow-ish gear I could find I started off. Just as I reached a major intersection I saw a solid wall of water coming towards me in my mind's eye. My first thought was "that would suck."
In retrospect, I realize that was the time I could have made a change in my course. Instead, I shook off the premonition and kept walking.
Twenty yards later, my premonition became a reality!
Hurtling towards me was a large, white SUV. At the wheel was a woman on her cellphone with two kids in the back. She was driving far too fast for the road conditions, and when her vehicle was about to pass me, she hit a huge puddle.
I was drenched! I recall standing there for a moment while the water, slush, and road grime dripped down my face. What to do? I was half way to the shop. I thought about turning around to go home and change. Instead, I decided to continue to the shop. There was a dress store in the same building, so I knew I'd find something to wear.
When I began walking, I was furious! I was convinced the woman had hit the puddle on purpose. She was the recipient of lots of scorn in those early moments. As I walked along (growing colder by the minute) I began reliving what had happened, and it was pretty comical. Then I realized that if what had happened was going to be funny later, it was probably pretty funny right then.
I started chuckling, and then found myself laughing out loud. Drivers whizzing past must have thought I was daft, but I didn't care.
The gals at the dress shop helped me clean up when I arrived. My hair and make-up were toast, but I was warm, and dry... and I had a story to share for the rest of the day!
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Beader's Funny
Sue and her three best beading friends were excited to attend a weekend workshop with a national instructor. They couldn’t wait to get away! Ahhhhhhh, beads with a side of spa treatments!
As the trip approached, Sue's husband got petulant. He didn’t want her to go. He told her they couldn’t really afford it, blah, blah, buzz killer. Two days before the group was to leave Sue told her friends she would not be joining them.
Fast forward two days……
The three friends make it to the hotel and are surprised to see Sue sitting at the hotel bar drinking a glass of wine.
Sue explains the turn of events:
"I was at home and my husband came up behind me, puts his hands over my eyes, and says 'Guess who?'" I pulled his hands off to find him standing there in his birthday suit! He took my hand and led me to our bedroom. The room was scented with perfume, he had two dozen candles burning, and rose petals all over the floor! The little devil even had handcuffs and ropes on the pillow! He told me to tie and cuff him to the bed, so I did.
Then he said, "Now, you can do whatever you want."
So here I am."
From:: The Crafty Retailer
As the trip approached, Sue's husband got petulant. He didn’t want her to go. He told her they couldn’t really afford it, blah, blah, buzz killer. Two days before the group was to leave Sue told her friends she would not be joining them.
Fast forward two days……
The three friends make it to the hotel and are surprised to see Sue sitting at the hotel bar drinking a glass of wine.
"I was at home and my husband came up behind me, puts his hands over my eyes, and says 'Guess who?'" I pulled his hands off to find him standing there in his birthday suit! He took my hand and led me to our bedroom. The room was scented with perfume, he had two dozen candles burning, and rose petals all over the floor! The little devil even had handcuffs and ropes on the pillow! He told me to tie and cuff him to the bed, so I did.
Then he said, "Now, you can do whatever you want."
So here I am."
From:: The Crafty Retailer
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Meet Persis
Months before I met her, I heard about Persis and her bead making endeavors from her mom. She told me her daughter, who was living in Seattle at the time, had studied at Pratt, and had discovered a passion for lampworking.
Fast forward to January, 1998. Persis and I had briefly met once, when she came into the shop with her mom. She was still living in Seattle at the time. Neither one of us can recall whose idea it was, but we decided to travel to Tucson for the gem show. It was a spur of the moment idea, but one that was meant to be. We found an expensive (and really awful) Super8 Motel to sleep in, and rendezvoused at the Tucson Airport.
We had a magical time exploring the gem shows together. We had some wonderful dinners, bought some great beads (I had to buy an extra suitcase to get my haul home), and spent time in the desert when we grew tired of shopping. I couldn't have asked for a better traveling companion!
... and over the years I've had the privilege of being one of her exclusive bead outlets! She has an enthusiastic, and faithful following of collectors, and like me, they've enjoyed watching her evolution as a bead maker.
I'm honored that she teaches her art at Dancing Beads. Observing her as she instructs her students, I have been impressed with her knowledge, thoughtful answers, and attention to safety. She wants her pupils to enjoy their time in class, and most of all, she wants them to be successful!
Persis is offering one Beginning Lampworking class this session. It is scheduled for Saturday, February 26th from 11:00 to 5:00. In class, two students have the opportunity to work with a wonderful instructor, and create their own beads. There is still one space left. Visit Dancing Beads website for more information, or call the shop at 541.690.1376 to reserve the space.
Dancing Beads:: We've just met, and are at a point in our conversation when you describe who you are. So, who are you?
Persis:: Beadmaking, homeschooling, off-the-grid-living Mom and wife.
Dancing Beads:: When talking to others, how do you describe your bead art?
Persis:: Little treasures of color and light, I love adding foils and silver to achieve new depths.
Dancing Beads:: In what ways does your beadwork reflect your personality?
Persis:: When I first started lampworking I used primarily bright colors, and while I have branched out, I still love those colors that pop! Lampworking makes me happy and I hope that my beads reflect this feeling-Happy and colorful!
Dancing Beads:: On average, how many hours per week do you devote to your bead passions?
Persis:: This is very hard to answer, I wish I could say I get into my studio consistently, but unfortunately it is rather sporadic right now...sometimes I go for a week or two without getting in at all! Sometimes I am in there all day! Feast or famine, depending on what else is going on in my life at the moment.
Dancing Beads:: Any beading weaknesses?
Persis:: Don't like to DO seed bead work, but I greatly admire those who do!
Dancing Beads:: What do you like about teaching beading classes?
Persis:: I love to make beads, and I love to pass this on. When something clicks for the student and they see the possibilities open up before them. I especially love to see what each individual creates with the exact same materials that everyone else has, the ingredients are the same: fire, glass, centrifical force, the results are always amazing and usually show a component of that persons personality or character.
Dancing Beads:: Where do you bead? Do you have a special place?
Persis:: My studio at home, a place I can call my own and escape there to be with my own creative thoughts.
Dancing Beads:: Just for fun... what is your favorite...
Is Persis not wearing one of the best necklaces ever? Something tells me the necklace belongs to her mom as they both love bright colors, and unique pieces! I had to share this picture of her sporting not only a great pirate look, but also a very clever weapon concealment!
Fast forward to January, 1998. Persis and I had briefly met once, when she came into the shop with her mom. She was still living in Seattle at the time. Neither one of us can recall whose idea it was, but we decided to travel to Tucson for the gem show. It was a spur of the moment idea, but one that was meant to be. We found an expensive (and really awful) Super8 Motel to sleep in, and rendezvoused at the Tucson Airport.
We had a magical time exploring the gem shows together. We had some wonderful dinners, bought some great beads (I had to buy an extra suitcase to get my haul home), and spent time in the desert when we grew tired of shopping. I couldn't have asked for a better traveling companion!
... and over the years I've had the privilege of being one of her exclusive bead outlets! She has an enthusiastic, and faithful following of collectors, and like me, they've enjoyed watching her evolution as a bead maker.
I'm honored that she teaches her art at Dancing Beads. Observing her as she instructs her students, I have been impressed with her knowledge, thoughtful answers, and attention to safety. She wants her pupils to enjoy their time in class, and most of all, she wants them to be successful!
Dancing Beads:: We've just met, and are at a point in our conversation when you describe who you are. So, who are you?
Persis:: Beadmaking, homeschooling, off-the-grid-living Mom and wife.
Dancing Beads:: When talking to others, how do you describe your bead art?
Persis:: Little treasures of color and light, I love adding foils and silver to achieve new depths.
Dancing Beads:: In what ways does your beadwork reflect your personality?
Persis:: When I first started lampworking I used primarily bright colors, and while I have branched out, I still love those colors that pop! Lampworking makes me happy and I hope that my beads reflect this feeling-Happy and colorful!
Dancing Beads:: On average, how many hours per week do you devote to your bead passions?
Persis:: This is very hard to answer, I wish I could say I get into my studio consistently, but unfortunately it is rather sporadic right now...sometimes I go for a week or two without getting in at all! Sometimes I am in there all day! Feast or famine, depending on what else is going on in my life at the moment.
Dancing Beads:: Any beading weaknesses?
Persis:: Don't like to DO seed bead work, but I greatly admire those who do!
Dancing Beads:: What do you like about teaching beading classes?
Persis:: I love to make beads, and I love to pass this on. When something clicks for the student and they see the possibilities open up before them. I especially love to see what each individual creates with the exact same materials that everyone else has, the ingredients are the same: fire, glass, centrifical force, the results are always amazing and usually show a component of that persons personality or character.
Dancing Beads:: Where do you bead? Do you have a special place?
Persis:: My studio at home, a place I can call my own and escape there to be with my own creative thoughts.
Dancing Beads:: Just for fun... what is your favorite...
- Dessert:: Homemade peach pie or Silver Palate Chocolate Mousse
- Piece of clothing:: Something comfortable, that makes me feel good about myself when I wear it. It changes all the time!
- Movie:: A Christmas Story, Lord of the Rings, Rogers & Hammerstein musicals, action & adventure w/o the gore...
- Vacation spot:: Oregon Coast with my family and friends
- Color:: at the moment, Purple
- City:: Venice or Florence, Italy.
- Musical style:: different styles for different moods, usually on the lighter side, no acid rock or foul lyrics.
- Holiday:: Christmas! I love being with family, baking with my daughter, making time to do something special for people I care about. I love to snuggle up in front of the fire with hot chocolate and maybe watch the usual Christmas movies with my family, decorate the tree, watch it snow!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Meet Jenny
Sometimes a new person will walk into your life, and the two of you immediately click. It's as if you've just met an old friend for the first time.
Jenny and I met in another lifetime. OK, so it was more like about five years ago. She came into the old shop to check out the selection. She and her family had just moved to Medford from Klamath Falls, and she was getting to know her new city.
She was new to beading, but I immediately knew I'd met a fellow beadaholic. When she left that day, she had quite the selection of beads. Over the course of the next few weeks she became a regular customer, and we got to know one another.
Soon she was working at the shop, helping customers, and teaching classes. I was so grateful for her enthusiasm, and great ideas.
When we reconnected this past September I was delighted to see her again. She works at Zahara's spending her days surrounded by gemstones, cabochons, and beautiful minerals. She's amassed quite the collection of cabochons. Her beadwork has evolved over the years, and her artistry shines through in every piece she's shown me.
I was thrilled when she agreed to teach for me again! Jenny is teaching four different techniques for the Spring Session.
On Saturday, April 9th from 1:00 to 3:00-ish (this class tends to run long, so plan on leaving closer to 4:00), Jenny will be teaching the art of Bead Embroidery. A nice beginning class, with stitches that are easy to learn, you can discover how seed beads can be like painting with glass.
Right Angle Weave with a whole lot of glitz is what this class offers. Scheduled twice, our first class was held Saturday, February 19th. The second class is Thursday, March 10th from 6:30-8:30, and there is still plenty of room available.
Jenny's love of color, and texture are evident in her free form peyote pieces. She'll be guiding her students through the process of choosing a color palette, and then letting the stitch go where it wants. Class is scheduled for Saturday, March 5th from 1:00-3:00. Currently, there are only two spaces available.
When I saw these buttons for the first time I declared "I have buttons just like these in the vintage button bowl!" Jenny laughed at me, and told me that was where the buttons she'd embellished came from in the first place. She'd purchased them several years ago. What a clever use of right angle weave, and a black button! Class is scheduled for Saturday, March 26th from 1:00-3:00. There is space available, and buttons, too!
Visit Dancing Beads website for more information about classes, or to sign up!
Dancing Beads:: We've just met, and are at a point in our conversation when you describe who you are. So, who are you?
Jenny:: Certain members of my family have described me as flamboyant, and I actually love that description. I am a bright, intense, vibrant and creative woman who is passionate and outspoken. My interactions with people are what brings me the most joy in my life. I have been blessed to walk a creative path that allows me to have that joy on a daily basis.
Dancing Beads:: When talking to others, how do you describe your bead art?
Jenny:: I create one of a kind, wearable art. When I am designing a piece, I put together a group of complimentary components, make the first stitch and rest of the piece "creates it's self". My favorite mediums are bead embroidery and freeform peyote stitch.
Dancing Beads:: In what ways does your beadwork reflect your personality?
Jenny:: My pieces are colorful, original and unique.... A bit like me. : )
Dancing Beads:: On average, how many hours per week do you devote to your bead passions?
Jenny:: On average, I would say 4-6 hours per week. Of course this is not nearly enough to suit me. I am looking forward to returning to the full time creative arena VERY soon.
Dancing Beads:: Any beading weaknesses?
Jenny:: I have a serious weakness for gemstone cabochons and beads and Delica beads. I have to admit that when it comes to beading, I am just weak. I am always looking for the next great beading inspiration...
Dancing Beads:: What do you like about teaching beading classes?
Jenny:: I adore the social aspect of beading. What could be better than a room full of beaders learning something new? My favorite part is watching someone go from, "I could never do that!" to "LOOK, I'm doing THAT!"
Dancing Beads:: Where do you bead? Do you have a special place?
Jenny:: I have a large desk and beading work area, but it really ends up being more of a storage area. I end up on the couch with a tray in my lap. That way I can spend time with the family and also create.
Dancing Beads:: Just for fun... what is your favorite...
Lifted from her Facebook page, here is a picture of the lovely, and talented Jenny Naylor. A pioneer in FrontierVille, she also has a blog that she shares her beadwork, and thoughts on occasionally. I have a short video of her teaching recently, but figured I'd better not press my luck by posting it!
Jenny and I met in another lifetime. OK, so it was more like about five years ago. She came into the old shop to check out the selection. She and her family had just moved to Medford from Klamath Falls, and she was getting to know her new city.
She was new to beading, but I immediately knew I'd met a fellow beadaholic. When she left that day, she had quite the selection of beads. Over the course of the next few weeks she became a regular customer, and we got to know one another.
Soon she was working at the shop, helping customers, and teaching classes. I was so grateful for her enthusiasm, and great ideas.
When we reconnected this past September I was delighted to see her again. She works at Zahara's spending her days surrounded by gemstones, cabochons, and beautiful minerals. She's amassed quite the collection of cabochons. Her beadwork has evolved over the years, and her artistry shines through in every piece she's shown me.
I was thrilled when she agreed to teach for me again! Jenny is teaching four different techniques for the Spring Session.
Visit Dancing Beads website for more information about classes, or to sign up!
Dancing Beads:: We've just met, and are at a point in our conversation when you describe who you are. So, who are you?
Jenny:: Certain members of my family have described me as flamboyant, and I actually love that description. I am a bright, intense, vibrant and creative woman who is passionate and outspoken. My interactions with people are what brings me the most joy in my life. I have been blessed to walk a creative path that allows me to have that joy on a daily basis.
Dancing Beads:: When talking to others, how do you describe your bead art?
Jenny:: I create one of a kind, wearable art. When I am designing a piece, I put together a group of complimentary components, make the first stitch and rest of the piece "creates it's self". My favorite mediums are bead embroidery and freeform peyote stitch.
Dancing Beads:: In what ways does your beadwork reflect your personality?
Jenny:: My pieces are colorful, original and unique.... A bit like me. : )
Dancing Beads:: On average, how many hours per week do you devote to your bead passions?
Jenny:: On average, I would say 4-6 hours per week. Of course this is not nearly enough to suit me. I am looking forward to returning to the full time creative arena VERY soon.
Dancing Beads:: Any beading weaknesses?
Jenny:: I have a serious weakness for gemstone cabochons and beads and Delica beads. I have to admit that when it comes to beading, I am just weak. I am always looking for the next great beading inspiration...
Dancing Beads:: What do you like about teaching beading classes?
Jenny:: I adore the social aspect of beading. What could be better than a room full of beaders learning something new? My favorite part is watching someone go from, "I could never do that!" to "LOOK, I'm doing THAT!"
Dancing Beads:: Where do you bead? Do you have a special place?
Jenny:: I have a large desk and beading work area, but it really ends up being more of a storage area. I end up on the couch with a tray in my lap. That way I can spend time with the family and also create.
Dancing Beads:: Just for fun... what is your favorite...
- Dessert:: If it's dessert, it's my favorite.
- Piece of clothing:: My old clunky black boots that I will never be able to part with.
- Movie:: I have two... The Notebook and The Wedding Singer.
- Vacation spot:: I don't vacation much, but I really love the Oregon Coast.
- Color:: Only one?? I have a favorite palette. I love autumn colors: red, gold, green, orange, brown.....
- City:: That's a tough one. Hmmm. I have fun in whatever location I am in.
- Musical style:: I love, love, love rock music. Everything from classic to current. I also love many other genres as well. Music is the ultimate creative expression.
- Holiday:: I have special things that I do for all of them. I have really enjoyed making holiday memories with my kids as they grew up. Soon, we will be having our annual St. Patty's Day feast. It's strange to think that in a few short years, my kids will be old enough to drink the green beer. : )
Sunday, February 20, 2011
Meet Lynn
In January I had the pleasure of meeting Deb Mayne and Lynn Sawyer. Deb is a lampworker who had contacted me to see if I was interested in looking at her beads. When I responded that I'd love to see her work, she told me about her friend who makes chainmaille, and asked if I'd like to meet her as well.
Of course!
I met two very talented beaders on a sunny day, and immediately knew I'd made two new friends. I added many of Deb's lampworked beads to the case, and I asked Lynn if she'd like to teach a couple of classes in beginning chainmaille. She graciously agreed!
There are two classes scheduled. The first is Saturday, March 12th from 1:00 to 3:00, and there is only one space left. The second class is scheduled for Saturday, April 16th from 1:00 to 3:00. There are three spaces available in the second class. Visit Dancing Beads' website for more information.
I've wanted to try my hand at chainmaille for some time, so I've signed up for one of the classes! I'm really looking forward to trying my hand at this beautiful art form.
Here are Lynn's responses to the interview questions I sent her.
Dancing Beads:: We've just met, and are at a point in our conversation when you describe who you are. So, who are you?
Lynn:: I'm Lynn Sawyer, born and schooled in Southern Oregon and returned here to live about 12 years ago. I'm a happy, easy going person who loves to create pretty things. I've been artistic since I can remember and have enjoyed many different things. Now that I'm retired I have all the time I want to work on my projects.
Dancing Beads:: When talking to others, how do you describe your bead art?
Lynn:: For the purpose of these classes I'd describe my work as chainmaille. I enjoy mixing chainmaille with beading.
Dancing Beads:: In what ways does your bead work reflect your personality?
Lynn:: I never thought of my work as a reflection of my personality but as I think about it I guess my patience does come in handy when connecting rings one at a time.
Dancing Beads:: On average, how many hours per week do you devote to your bead passions?
Lynn:: When I'm working on a project I'll work 10 or more hours a day, if not, I work about 6 hours a day.
Dancing Beads:: Any beading weaknesses?
Lynn:: My beading weakness comes with making my own beads and I also find wire wrapping a challenge. I enjoy doing it but I waste a lot of wire.
Dancing Beads:: What do you like about teaching beading classes?
Lynn:: What I enjoy the most about teaching classes is meeting the students and sharing their delight in learning something new. I like sharing what I know as well as learning new things from the students.
Dancing Beads:: Where do you bead? Do you have a special place?
Lynn:: I work in my craft room when I'm doing regular beading. If I'm working on chainmaille I sit on my couch and work on the coffee table.
Dancing Beads:: Just for fun... what is your favorite...
Lynn went on to say::
I've enjoyed doing many crafts from artistic welding to wood carving to knitting. I discovered jewelry making about five years ago when I was talked into taking a watch making class with a friend. I was immediately hooked! I even went to work in the bead store where the class was held. I gained a wealth of knowledge there and eventually started teaching classes.
About three years ago I found chainmaille. I wanted to make a Byzantine bracelet I saw in a beading magazine. It was no easy task, but I finally figured it out. Since then I've learned quite a few different patterns and started working beads into some pieces.
I'm looking forward to the classes and I'm getting the kits ready as well as all the written instructions. I plan the first classes to teach the basic Byzantine. I chose this pattern because it's challenging and makes a lovely bracelet. I won't spend time explaining all the scientific information of the different metals, but I will give information on where to find it.
In addition to making great bracelets, Lynn also makes wonderful earrings. She has consigned five pair of earrings to the shop. Check them out the next time you're in... they're unique, colorful, and very affordable!
Of course!
I met two very talented beaders on a sunny day, and immediately knew I'd made two new friends. I added many of Deb's lampworked beads to the case, and I asked Lynn if she'd like to teach a couple of classes in beginning chainmaille. She graciously agreed!
There are two classes scheduled. The first is Saturday, March 12th from 1:00 to 3:00, and there is only one space left. The second class is scheduled for Saturday, April 16th from 1:00 to 3:00. There are three spaces available in the second class. Visit Dancing Beads' website for more information.
I've wanted to try my hand at chainmaille for some time, so I've signed up for one of the classes! I'm really looking forward to trying my hand at this beautiful art form.
Here are Lynn's responses to the interview questions I sent her.
Dancing Beads:: We've just met, and are at a point in our conversation when you describe who you are. So, who are you?
Lynn:: I'm Lynn Sawyer, born and schooled in Southern Oregon and returned here to live about 12 years ago. I'm a happy, easy going person who loves to create pretty things. I've been artistic since I can remember and have enjoyed many different things. Now that I'm retired I have all the time I want to work on my projects.
Dancing Beads:: When talking to others, how do you describe your bead art?
Lynn:: For the purpose of these classes I'd describe my work as chainmaille. I enjoy mixing chainmaille with beading.
Dancing Beads:: In what ways does your bead work reflect your personality?
Lynn:: I never thought of my work as a reflection of my personality but as I think about it I guess my patience does come in handy when connecting rings one at a time.
Dancing Beads:: On average, how many hours per week do you devote to your bead passions?
Lynn:: When I'm working on a project I'll work 10 or more hours a day, if not, I work about 6 hours a day.
Dancing Beads:: Any beading weaknesses?
Lynn:: My beading weakness comes with making my own beads and I also find wire wrapping a challenge. I enjoy doing it but I waste a lot of wire.
Dancing Beads:: What do you like about teaching beading classes?
Lynn:: What I enjoy the most about teaching classes is meeting the students and sharing their delight in learning something new. I like sharing what I know as well as learning new things from the students.
Dancing Beads:: Where do you bead? Do you have a special place?
Lynn:: I work in my craft room when I'm doing regular beading. If I'm working on chainmaille I sit on my couch and work on the coffee table.
Dancing Beads:: Just for fun... what is your favorite...
- Dessert:: Pineapple upside down cake.
- Clothing:: denim shirt and sweat bottoms
- Movie:: can't think of any
- Vacation spot:: Ambergris Keys, Belize
- Color:: yellow
- City:: Miami
- Musical style:: Blues and rock & roll
- Holiday:: 4th of July
Lynn went on to say::
I've enjoyed doing many crafts from artistic welding to wood carving to knitting. I discovered jewelry making about five years ago when I was talked into taking a watch making class with a friend. I was immediately hooked! I even went to work in the bead store where the class was held. I gained a wealth of knowledge there and eventually started teaching classes.
About three years ago I found chainmaille. I wanted to make a Byzantine bracelet I saw in a beading magazine. It was no easy task, but I finally figured it out. Since then I've learned quite a few different patterns and started working beads into some pieces.
I'm looking forward to the classes and I'm getting the kits ready as well as all the written instructions. I plan the first classes to teach the basic Byzantine. I chose this pattern because it's challenging and makes a lovely bracelet. I won't spend time explaining all the scientific information of the different metals, but I will give information on where to find it.
In addition to making great bracelets, Lynn also makes wonderful earrings. She has consigned five pair of earrings to the shop. Check them out the next time you're in... they're unique, colorful, and very affordable!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Meet Claire
When it comes to good fortune, I believe it finds us all on a daily basis. I have the good fortune of being surrounded by an amazing group of beaders. Each one is exceptionally talented, and generous with their time. They're patient, kind, clever, encouraging, and best of all, they're friends who are excited to share their gifts with others by teaching classes at Dancing Beads!
I thought it might be fun to get to know them, so I sent out a list of questions to each one.
Was I surprised that Claire was the first to respond? Not at all! When it comes to verve, Claire's photograph is used to illustrate its meaning. Vivacious, very talented, and a beading visionary, Claire's classes are a joy to attend.
Claire's repertoire of techniques is extensive. She has reached the point in her beading that she is creating her own designs, and techniques. This session she is sharing three of them with us.
The Fair and Square Bracelet is a clever netting technique using crystals, firepolish, and seed beads. It's gotta lotta bling... and Claire just loves the bling! This class is being offered twice. First on Wednesday, February 23rd from 6:30-8:30, and again on Wednesday, April 13th from 6:30-8:30. Claire tells me there will be time to make the bracelet, and start matching earrings
Peyote stitch is so versatile, and amazing. Claire was inspired by a bracelet design in a recent issue of Bead & Button for these great earrings. She made the triangles smaller, and enhellished* them (are we surprised) with sparkly firepolish beads, and fringe. We're offering this class once, on Wednesday, April 2nd from 6:30-8:30. Bring your peyote stitching skills with you for this project, as it's not a beginning technique.
Our first class to fill was this one. These earrings are wonderful! Claire surprised me with a pair made from my very favorite brick red fire polish beads. I've worn them almost daily since getting them. They're light, but bold enough to be noticed. We have a cancellation list for this class, and may be able to entice Claire to schedule another session.
Claire heading to her favorite bead shop.
Dancing Beads:: We've just met, and are at a point in our conversation when you describe who you are. So, who are you?
Claire:: I'm a mother and a school employee who goes along and does all those little things necessary to maintain myself, two children, one cat, one dog, and a house. But, I am also someone who has always enjoyed creating in some way. Beading has allowed my creative side to blossom to the point where I am creating all on my own.
Dancing Beads:: When talking to others, how do you describe your bead art?
Claire:: I lika the bling. Give me something over the top with color and crystals and fire polish and my reaction would be much like a deer caught in headlights. Oooooo pretty!
Dancing Beads:: In what ways does your beadwork reflect your personality?
Claire:: In some ways my beadwork does match my personality. It can be loud and the earrings are TOO BIG. But always something I love to wear and am proud I made.
Dancing Beads:: On average, how many hours per week do you devote to your bead passions?
Claire:: I bead everyday especially at night. I look forward to rainy days on the weekend when I think, "Too nasty to work outside. Hmmmm. What shall I do? BEAD! ALL DAY!"
Dancing Beads:: Any beading weaknesses?
Claire:: Yeah, how about African Helix or African Quadruple Helix. Even the name is scary.
Dancing Beads:: What do you like about teaching beading classes?
Claire:: Teaching classes connects me with other beaders! I want to know what they've done, what they're working on. They are a whole new source of inspiration.
Dancing Beads:: Where do you bead? Do you have a special place?
Claire:: I bead at my coffee table in front of the TV. Sometimes I even watch the TV.
Dancing Beads:: Just for fun...
What is your favorite...
At Claire's request, I used a picture of her face and body double, Jennifer Anniston.
*enhellish, enhellished, enhellishments:: Claire-ism for the word 'embellish.'
I thought it might be fun to get to know them, so I sent out a list of questions to each one.
Was I surprised that Claire was the first to respond? Not at all! When it comes to verve, Claire's photograph is used to illustrate its meaning. Vivacious, very talented, and a beading visionary, Claire's classes are a joy to attend.
Claire's repertoire of techniques is extensive. She has reached the point in her beading that she is creating her own designs, and techniques. This session she is sharing three of them with us.
Dancing Beads:: We've just met, and are at a point in our conversation when you describe who you are. So, who are you?
Claire:: I'm a mother and a school employee who goes along and does all those little things necessary to maintain myself, two children, one cat, one dog, and a house. But, I am also someone who has always enjoyed creating in some way. Beading has allowed my creative side to blossom to the point where I am creating all on my own.
Dancing Beads:: When talking to others, how do you describe your bead art?
Claire:: I lika the bling. Give me something over the top with color and crystals and fire polish and my reaction would be much like a deer caught in headlights. Oooooo pretty!
Dancing Beads:: In what ways does your beadwork reflect your personality?
Claire:: In some ways my beadwork does match my personality. It can be loud and the earrings are TOO BIG. But always something I love to wear and am proud I made.
Dancing Beads:: On average, how many hours per week do you devote to your bead passions?
Claire:: I bead everyday especially at night. I look forward to rainy days on the weekend when I think, "Too nasty to work outside. Hmmmm. What shall I do? BEAD! ALL DAY!"
Dancing Beads:: Any beading weaknesses?
Claire:: Yeah, how about African Helix or African Quadruple Helix. Even the name is scary.
Dancing Beads:: What do you like about teaching beading classes?
Claire:: Teaching classes connects me with other beaders! I want to know what they've done, what they're working on. They are a whole new source of inspiration.
Dancing Beads:: Where do you bead? Do you have a special place?
Claire:: I bead at my coffee table in front of the TV. Sometimes I even watch the TV.
Dancing Beads:: Just for fun...
What is your favorite...
- Dessert:: anything with chocolate
- Clothing:: my pj's!
- Movie:: Right now, The King's Speech
- Vacation:: England!
- City:: Love Medford, no doubt.
At Claire's request, I used a picture of her face and body double, Jennifer Anniston.
*enhellish, enhellished, enhellishments:: Claire-ism for the word 'embellish.'
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