Fandangle Bead Store

Fandangle photos from Thursday's "Ladies Bead Night Out"

2011-08-04T17:57:00.001-07:00

Fern picking out chain to match her vintage pendant, a lovely piece of ceylon colored ivory shell with delicate etching.

Gwen, that wine goblet needs some beads to go with it!

Jane weaving a "Tiffany Bracelet" for her bridal show this coming Sunday at

Fandangle Bead Store's "Ladies' Bead Night Out". If you missed us tonight, you can join us every Thursday from 6:30-8:30PM. And yes, the shop stays open for business until 8:30PM every Thursday night. Snacks & libations optional (ie. byo)!

New Shipment of Czech Firepolish Beads Just Arrived

2011-08-04T10:56:00.000-07:00

Ms. Mariel hard at work tagging all that new Czech firepolish that just rolled into Fandangle Bead Store today. It's going up on the wall this very moment. Bronze, silvers and turquoise travertines that everyone has been begging for included in this shipment.

Don't forget: Tonight is "Ladies' Bead Night Out"

2011-08-04T07:52:00.001-07:00

Don't forget: Tonight and every Thursday night is "Ladies' Bead Night Out" from 6:30-8:30PM at Fandangle Bead Store. Additionally, we're keeping the shop open for business until 8:30PM every Thursday night--you asked for later hours, we're going to try it out! Bring a project to work on and let's start making beady-eyed connections!

Kids ONLY! Bead Class Photos from Wednesday

2011-08-03T10:56:00.001-07:00

Wow....such focus! And yes, Fandangle Bead Store does offer birthday parties and special events for kids 10 and older. Call the shop at 804.327.9992 to discuss possibilities for your little darling's special day!

Vintaj Seashore Ensemble Class this Saturday, August 6th

2011-08-03T09:41:00.000-07:00

There are only 2 spots left in Fandangle Bead Store's "Vintaj Seashore Ensemble" class this Saturday, August 6th. Call 327.9992 to reserve your seat now. The "Vintaj" line is completely nickel-free and even better, never needs polishing!

Justin & Betsy beading away at Tuesday's "Lunch Bunch"

2011-08-03T07:24:00.000-07:00

Betsy shows up week #2 at Fandangle's Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch to continue work on her woven 3-D bead boxes using tiny little Miyuki seed beads. Amazing detail!

Justin working on his beaded bird necklace at Fandangle Bead Store's "Tuesday Lunch Bunch"

Fandangle Bead Store Now Open Until 8:30PM Thursdays

2011-08-02T15:08:00.000-07:00

You asked for it, we did it! Starting this coming Thursday night, Fandangle Bead Store will be open every Thursday night until 8:30PM. As if that weren't good news enough, every Thursday night from 6:00-8:30PM is "Ladies' Bead Night Out!". Just show up with a bead project to work on (or we'll get you started on one if you need help), pull up a chair and prepare yourself for making new beady-eyed friends, getting fresh tips, techniques and feedback on design elements, etc. Best of all, it's FREE! Just another community service brought to you by the beady-eyed gals at "The Little Bead Store That Could!".

New Czech Fire Polish Beads on the Way

2011-08-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

Fandangle Bead Store just put in an order for new Czech fire polish beads in 4mm, 5mm and 6mm. These beads are inexpensive and serve many purposes including use as a filler bead, to punch up your sparkle, woven into those leather "Sundance" bracelets everyone is making right now and even used in ladder stitched bracelets (yes, we offer classes on all of these techniques!). Per your request, we ordered lots of 5mm silver and 6mm turquoise and travertine fire polish which seem to be everyone's favorite colors. Shipment should be up by end of the week.

i-Contact List for Sale Coupons, Discounts & Unannounced Classes

2011-07-29T06:59:00.001-07:00

Fandangle Bead Store is setting up an i-Contact account so that we can notify you direct about unannounced sales, discount coupons and newly added classes which do not appear on our quarterly newsletters. If you'd like to be added to our i-Contact list, please send an email to: FandangleBeadStore@gmail.com and tell us to add your name to our favored customer list.

Two MORE jewelry making classes this Saturday--yep, that makes FOUR classes!

2011-07-28T07:28:00.000-07:00

It's true: Fandangle is offering not one, not two, not three, but FOUR jewelry making classes this coming Saturday, July 30th. On yesterday's blog post we posted samples from two of these four classes, ie, "Less is More" (leather beaded necklace and earring ensemble) and photos for the "Intro to Resins" class.

We are also offering two more classes which are really bonus classes in that you will learn two different sets of skills in each of these two classes. Denise will be teaching the "Copper Bezel Polymer" class wherein you will learn image transfer on polymer clay so that you make make inexpensive yet fabulously creative one-of-a-kind pendants for all your jewelry designs.

Denise will also be teaching the "Viking Knit Bracelet" class which uses a clever new tool that greatly simplifies and expedites viking knit. The bonus we mentioned in both of these classes is that Denise, who is the Queen of Wire Work, will also show you how to create impressive wire wraps for your finished products as well as how to make your own bead caps and findings to finish off your core projects. What this means for you is: savings! Creating your own simple findings can shave off a lot of your investment in expensive materials such as pre-made findings.

There is still room in all four classes this weekend. Call 327.9992 to reserve your spot now.

"Less IS More" Ensemble for this Saturday's Class

2011-07-27T12:36:00.000-07:00

Sweet, huh? Cool, clean lines complete this nifty little Summer ensemble that can be worn with a crisp white Summer t-shirt or a little black dress. High-mileage jewelry fit for a queen!

Sample photo for this Saturday's Intro to Resin Class

2011-07-27T12:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, you can make these fabulous resin pieces too! In Saturday's class we'll put together our resin pendants which can be picked up two days later (after they've cured). Once home all you do is add bling! Couldn't be easier and is way too much fun to make--and wear.

Resin Class, Saturday July 30--there's still room!

2011-07-27T05:45:00.000-07:00

There's still room in our "Introduction to Resins" class this Saturday, July 30th. Learn how to create unique pendants/earrings/charms using resins, up-cycled materials and metals. This class will put a whole new spin on all your designer jewelry creations. $65 includes 3 hours of instruction and all your materials. Call 327.9992 to register now.

Fandangle's Bead Crochet Class: Work in Progress

2011-07-23T09:08:00.001-07:00

Drats, Diane has to pick a knot--oh well, it's all part of the crochet process.

Michelle masters bead crochet!

Mother-Daughter Bead Crocheting

New Leather Cording Arrived Today

2011-07-22T08:47:00.000-07:00

Our new line of leather cording arrived and just went up in four different diameters: .5mm, 1mm, 1.5mm & 2mm. New colors too: turquoise, distressed grey, antique brown, turkish red, and "beach". Also in this shipment, new antique silver cord ends that pair perfectly with these cords. We also carry copper and brass "pinch" end cap hook & eyes which means no glue!

Fandangle Photos: Samples for July 23rd Beading Classes

2011-07-21T11:41:00.000-07:00

Shoreline Bracelet Sample: Learn Baisic Ladder Stitch

Beaded Crochet Necklace

FUNdamentals of Basic Beading

Bead Classes this Saturday, July 23--still room!

2011-07-21T11:10:00.001-07:00

There's still room in the following three beading classes this Saturday:

* "FUNdamentals of Basic Beading" - our 2-hour start up class for folks who have never touched a bead. Learn the "all" of basic beading in this two-hour techinque class that will keep you busy for months and years to come. Hours: 10-12:00

* "Beaded Crochet Necklace" - Our most popular class! Yes, everyone is wearing them--probably because they're so quick and easy to make. You'll learn some basic wire wrapping/finishing skills too in the 2-for-1 class. Hours: 10-1:00

* "Shoreline Bracelet" - Think cooling summer sand & sea colors because those are the colors we'll be using in this simple ladder stitch bracelet. If you've never tried any weaving stitch before, this is a great intro class--it uses larger beads too (not seed beads, though you could), so it moves quickly.

Posting pictures in just a few...

Melanie teaching Kids Only! Intro to Beading Class at Fandangle

2011-07-20T10:35:00.001-07:00

Kids Only! Beading Class Today

2011-07-20T10:16:00.000-07:00

Xandra hard at work on her beaded necklace at today's "Kids Only! Intro to Beading Class". Check out her leather beaded bracelets--she made them. You can too!

New bracelet buttons

2011-07-20T07:16:00.000-07:00

We were just notified that those adorable miniature silver buffalo and Indian head nickel buttons are back in stock and on their way to Fandangle Bead Store. These sold out in no time when last we had them. They are they perfect accompaniment to the new leather cording that we just ordered (also in by the end of this week). These two components make the perfect "Sundance" leather beaded bracelets everyone is wearing right now. Best of all, we teach a class in how to do it and once you get rolling you can easily whip up these best sellers in an hour or so.

New Leather Cords Ordered & on the Way

2011-07-19T09:24:00.000-07:00

You asked for it--we got it: new leather cording in .5mm, 1mm, 1.5mm & 2 mm diameters. Lots of new colors including a line of "naturals" which we love--no shiny finish, just a lovely understated distressed look perfect for all those "Sundance" leather beaded bracelets that Denise teaches here at the shop. Shipment should be in by Friday.

Don't Forget: Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch Meets Tmw

2011-07-18T13:05:00.001-07:00

Just a reminder:

Our "Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch" meets tomorrow (Tuesday--yes, every Tuesday)
from 11:30-1:30. Bring a project, snack/drink if you desire, and seek your inspiration.
We do! Eight fabulous ladies showed up last week--hey guys, you can come too. We seek
inspiration from everyone regardless of gender!

Hilltribe Silver Jewelry Components Just Arrived

2011-07-18T10:17:00.001-07:00

You know, I was just thinking: Hilltribe silver is also perfect for pairing with the new white shell strands we got in last week--or with coral for that matter. Great summer looks--light & refreshing.

New Hilltribe Pure Silver Jewelry Components Just Arrived

2011-07-18T10:07:00.000-07:00

New Hilltribe silver components just arrived. We've added some beautiful angular drops (think lighting bolts or squiggles), textured spacer beads, bead caps, large access beads and loads of tiny dangles and rose pendants. Also very popular are small & medium peace signs perfect for bead crochet necklaces or earring drops. The difference between Hilltribe silver and sterling silver is that Hilltribe silver is .999 PURE silver, ie., no junk metal alloys added to it.

Kumihimo Bracelet Class in Progress & Projects are Lookin' Great!

2011-07-16T12:15:00.000-07:00

Fandangle Bead Store Now on "Yelp!" and "CitySearch"

2011-07-16T09:05:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone, we have a favor to ask of you! Fandangle Bead Store is now listed on "Yelp!" and "CitySearch" which offers feedback from the public re local businesses. If you have just one little second, would you please go on both of these two websites and write a little comment about your experiences at "The Little Bead Shop That Could!". We want everyone to know why it's important to shop local & support local businesses which not only provide products & services, but provide color & dimension to our local neighbors. Thanks again for helping us get the word out!

Fandangle Bead Store Now Open Thursday NIghts!

2011-07-15T12:58:00.000-07:00

Yes, It's True---Fandangle Bead Store will be Open Thursday Nights!!!

Woohoo, you asked for it--again, we listened! Beginning Thursday, August 4th, Fandangle Bead Store will be open on Thursday nights until 8:30PM --AND-- if that we're not enough, we're extending our "First Thursdays Beading Night" to EVERY Thursday night! The response was so phenomenal re our new "First Thursdays" Bead Night that customers began asking us if we'd do it every Thursday night ,so we're willing to give it a shot if our customers come out to support our late hours on Thursday evenings. As always, just show up with a bead project (or begin one!), pull up a chair and start to work, or, just stop by to seek inspiration, share tips, techniques, whatever the night offers...

Our new "Girls' Bead Night Out" hours are 6:30-8:30PM, every week for as long as our beady-eyed customers continue to support our effort to provide better customer service and more convenient hours for all your beading endeavors. Just our way of saying thank you again for shopping local!

2011-07-14T13:28:00.000-07:00

New Shipment Just Arrived!

2011-07-14T12:59:00.000-07:00

New shipment of summer shell beads just arrived & going up first thing in the morning! White 3mm & 6mm l6" strands of summer shell, 24" strands of white 2-3mm heishi (for all you surfer types out there!). Also just arrived: an assortment of silver basement beads including large hole silver beads that you can use as spacers with the "Pandora-esque" bracelet blanks and large hole faceted beads we sell. Lastly, new pewter cones, twisted jump rings and spaers--all going up tomorrow!

Kids Only! Intro to Basic Beading Class this Coming Wednesday!

2011-07-14T09:31:00.000-07:00

You asked for it, parents--Fandangle Bead Store got it! Yes, we're offering a "Kids ONLY! Intro to Basic Beading Class" this coming Wednesday, July 20th, 10:30-12:30. Kids 8 years old and up and learn the FUNdamentals of basic bead stringing with two projects: a dainty summer necklace with their choice of a sterling silver charm (we've selected 3 charms that we think the kids will love), and then they will make a matching bracelet to complete the ensemble. $35 covers two hours of instruction AND all their materials--now THAT's a deal! Call 327.9992 to register now!

Thought for a Summer Day....

2011-07-13T05:49:00.000-07:00

While on my early morning run I found myself wondering how I can organize my crazy-paced life to allow for increased creativity? After all, it is what brings balance back into my life. How is it that I seem to let life take such tight hold on my schedule that I sometimes lose my grip on that which brings me back to center? On this note, I am going to make a public commitment here: Today I WILL pick out a bead project, get my materials set out where I can see them....and begin. Even if it's only 30 minutes that I have to spare a day, I'm going to commit to doing this--for myself. Just for today this will be my commitment to myself to keep the balance, stay in the creative flow, and enjoy my bead projects as a process--not as an end product. So, how do YOU integrate creativity into YOUR life? Comments please? Let's get this dialog going!

Fandangle Bead Store: Photos from Fandangle Bead Store's Second Gathering of the "Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch"

2011-07-12T11:28:00.000-07:00

Fandangle Bead Store: Photos from Fandangle Bead Store's Second Gathering of the "Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch"

Photos from Fandangle Bead Store's Second Gathering of the "Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch"

2011-07-12T11:22:00.000-07:00

Second Gathering of Fandangle Bead Store's "Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch"

2011-07-12T11:18:00.000-07:00

Wow, what a great group that showed up today for Fandangle's second gathering of the "Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch"! Eight ladies showed up with bead bags & boxes in tow, ready to bead, share tips & design suggestions--not to mention there was a whole lotta laughing going on inbetween bead discussions. If you missed today, not to worry. Join us next Tuesday and every Tuesday from 11:30-1:30. Just pop your bead box/bag in your car, join the group for some laughs and beading advice.

Tuesday Lunch Bunch Meets Tomorrow!

2011-07-11T04:34:00.000-07:00

If you missed last week's "Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch" gathering, not to fret--you can join us tomorrow from 11:30-1:30! Just bring a project to work on, pull up a chair and we can bounce ideas and/or tips off one another. Bring a drink, lunch or a snack if you like.

Summer C-Lon on the Way!

2011-07-11T04:26:00.001-07:00

Just an update: We just reordered our two most popular summer colors of C-LON, hot pink and aqua. Boy, did they sell out quickly but not to worry, the shipment should be in by Wednesday and up by Thursday. Also, are received some new brass and copper end cones, perfect for using with the Vintaj oxidized brass line.

Two Shipments Just Arrived!

2011-07-08T11:07:00.000-07:00

Two shipments just arrived! Vintaj restocks (finally!) including seahorse, starfish & flip-flop charms, new hearts w/ beautimous little swallows on them, chandelier earring components...think summer. Also new Czech firepolish in hotsy-totsy metallic sparkle colors, also 6mm & 8mm Czech firepolish in bronze hues that people have been asking for, new wide copper & silver end caps that look hand forged. Perfect for woven tubular & leather bracelets/necklaces.

Dawn Livingston Demonstrating Bead Tatting

2011-07-08T06:14:00.000-07:00

At "First Thursdays" beading night (held last night for the very first time!), we were all in awe of Dawn Livingston's bead tatting. This truly is a lost art, but not for Dawn! She even gave Mel an impromtu lesson--who came away inspired and ever hopeful that one day she too will be able to tat as fast as Dawn--AND talk--at the same time!

"First Thursdays" Beading Night a Smashing Success!

2011-07-08T06:09:00.000-07:00

Wow! We held our very first "First Thursdays" beading night last night and we're happy to report nine women were present with beading projects in tow, ready to make new beady-eyed friends and to share/seek inspiration. Dawn Livingston showed up with her bead tatting. Oh my! Talk about inspiration! We'll be posting some pictures of Dawn's work shortly but for now will mention that Dawn insisted Melanie pull up a chair for an impromtu lesson. Talk about total focus--there is no way Melanie could carry on a conversation and focus on getting that tension jusssssssst so....

We had bead weaving going on, bead stringing projects, tatting, you name it. Given it was a holiday week we were so thrilled that nine of us showed up--you can too! Join us the first Thursday of every month from 6:30-8:30. Just bring a project, pull up a share and join in the fun. No RSVP necessary!

Saturday July 9th Classes--Yes, there's still room!

2011-07-06T14:40:00.000-07:00

It's not too late to sign up for this Saturday's classes with the Queen of Everything Metal, Denise Galloway! Denise will be teaching a metal etching class wherein she uses blanks--that's right--you DON'T have to saw metal for this class! Denise will show you how to make your v. own unique pendants & earrings using a very simple bio-friendly etching process. After the etching is complete you may opt to finish out your pendants with wire-wrapped drops or just keep it simple as in wearing it on a simple leather choker. Either way, it's your own unique design!

For folks who would like to venture into some simple wire-wrapping techniques, Denise will be teaching a beaded wire-wrap bracelet. Looks fab, is simple to make, fluid & can always be "changed up" using a variety of wires such as german wire (the look of silver without the cost--yes, we sell it at Fandangle!) or, if you just got paid, we sell sterling too. Either way, this is a high-mileage bracelet class with loads of options down the road for you to put your own unique spin on--all you need is a little technique first and we can deliver that in three hours or less!

New Shipment Just Arrived!

2011-07-06T11:17:00.000-07:00

We just got in a shipment of C-lon--hurrah! Lots of you have been asking for more of the Micro- and Fine C-lon in black & brown, so get it while it's here. These are our two most popular colors and is perfect for bead crochet. The medium and Tex-400 are also best sellers, with the Tex-400 being perfect for micro-macrame' jewelry projects.

Also just in this same shipment: Some v. kewl little fire polish morsels! Think iris-blue-greens, pale minty-teal, gold-lined crystals, some neutral fillers with silver tones, bronzy-coated blacks and tawny colors that are great filler colors as well. Get 'em while they're here!

First Gathering of the "Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch"!

2011-07-05T11:49:00.000-07:00

Yes, it was a hit! The first gathering of our "Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch" was help at Fandangle today. Below are pictures of Diane & Susan, who camed armed with weaving projects. Susan needed a little bit of help getting her downward diagonal stitch going but after about 5 minutes of brainstorming, we had her up & weaving again like the pro she is! She's working on a fabulous tubular peyote bangle--wonder if she'll have it done by next week's gathering? Diane, on the other hand, brought in not one but two beautimous weaving projects to share with us! She spent the afternoon weaving Miyuki's newest Tila beads (the really cool double-drilled "chicklets") into a stunning woven cuff. She's topping off the cuff with a beautiful little picot which is beadnacular for a lacy little stitch that will embellish the core stitch. That's for the inspiration, ladies!

If you missed today's lunch, not to fret. Come join us every Tuesday from 11:30-1:30. Or, if you can't make it then, join us for our "First Thursday" gathering which will kick off this coming Thursday, July 7th, from 6:30-8:30. Bring a project or an idea, be prepared to gather and/or share some tips & belly laughs while you meet beady-eyed kindred spirits who share your passion for beads and creativity.

Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch started today!

2011-07-05T11:45:00.000-07:00

Do We "Do Parties" ? You bet we do!

2011-06-30T07:51:00.000-07:00

Do we "do parties"? Why yes, we do! We've hosted home school classes, Red Hat Clubs, Prayer Bead classes for local church groups, Girls' Night Out, Bridal Parties, Staff Development & Team Building Workshops, and birthday parties for groups l0 years and older. Call 327.9992 to reserve your special event. Sure to be festive AND you'll go home with basic beading techniques & beaded baubles too!

Creativity Ignited!

2011-06-29T11:41:00.000-07:00

What a blessing last week to attend the "i.e.*" launch, Richmond's newest creative think tank! I'm still fired up--the wheels are def turning. Mission accomplished, i.e.* ! How DO we channel our creative talent into fulfilling projects, small businesses, and how do we best support each other as we pursue our unique creative pulse (in whatever form that may be) within our creative community? To be able to create art that moves me, and to run a business that supports other artists and my community in general, fills me with gratitude and the hope that this cycle of inspiration I find myself in right now will not only continue, but thrive and blossom in the respective lives of the people we've touched at Fandangle Bead Store. As Paula Radke says, "Circles within circles, the spiral of life, the urge to create beauty moves within us all."

On that note, don't forget that starting next Tuesday, July 5th from 11:30-1:30 we'll have open studio hours at Fandangle Bead Store for what we're calling our "Beady-eyed Lunch Bunch". Just show up with your bead project, a snack if you wish, and be prepared to meet some kindred spirits while you work on your project, laugh, chat or simply seek inspiration. Best of all--it's free! Our studio will be open for the "Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch" every Tuesday through October. As long as you show up, we'll hold court--come meet some friends, share tips, techniques or just bounce ideas or questions off each other. Let's let our cup of inspiration & information runneth over!

If you work during the day and are unable to make the Tuesday "Beady-Eyed Lunch Bunch" gathering, not to worry. Once a month, beginning Thursday July 7th, from 6:30-8:30, we'll be hosting our new "First Thursdays Beading Night". This event will offer up the same format as the lunch group, but once a month for starters. If we gather a good enough following we'll certainly consider doing it every Thursday night. Give us some feedback on what works for you--creating community that inspires & supports each other is our goal here. It doesn't matter if you're a beginner or a true "Beady-eyed Gal", just show up for fun, laughs & don't forget to bring a project!

i.e.* Conference, 6/23/11 -- Amaaaazing!!!

2011-06-28T10:55:00.000-07:00

Wow, I am still reeling from a meeting of the minds last week with some of Richmond's most creative and forward-thinking geniuses who's destiny it is to make Richmond, VA, the creative capital of the country! The folks present at this think tank were a mix of small business owners, marketing companies, and representatives from some of Richmond's most innovative and community-oriented movers and shakers. I'll be pondering the possibilities of harnessing creative energy for weeks to come, but for the time being will throw out some of the 'Shout-Outs' heard throughout the day:

* "Small changes can lead to MASSIVE results!"
* "Always change--never change!" (ie., stay true to your mission, yet flexible in approach)
* "Common threads from uncommon backgrounds" (ie., shared vision & diversity = creative
results)
* "Inspiration is for amateurs--the rest just show up & get to work!"
* "Embrace the weird...coordination of ideas with a rational plan".
* "Do stuff that matters".
* "Be MORE than great--be good".
* "Be accommodating and service oriented."
* "Own your own work--no matter how small".
* "Educate and stimulate yourself constantly so you can hit 'Reset' ".
* "Be SCRAPPY!!!"
* "Every contribution matters".
* "Drill down!" (ie., Research the end user of your product/services)
* "Be your own competition".
* "Ask 'Why': Small questions lead to clarity, ie., answers".

All of these quotes can be applied to daily ventures, whether in personal pursuits such as exploring our own creativity or growing a small business or career. Let's keep each other fired up! In the meantime check out www.ie-rva.org

Kicking & Screaming into the Age of Technology

2011-06-21T13:02:00.000-07:00

OK everyone, we're going to try this again. Yes, the Bead Empress is taking a blogging class. Who says you can't teach an old Empress new tricks? Stay tuned for some v. kewl new info/ideas. In the meantime, if you have an Etsy site, website, or are interested in having us
feature you and/or your work on our website/blog, please send us your contact info. We hope to have lots of links, general information about your work/contact info. Let's make beady-eyed connections--everyone wins!

We Love Beads Sale - Saturday February l3th

2010-02-11T13:06:00.000-08:00

We're celebrating Valentine's Day this Saturday, February l3th with our annual "We LOVE Beads Sale". That means 20% off ALL beads Saturday only--strands and loose beads both.

While you're here, be sure to pick up our new quarterly newsletter--all new classes for the masses! Also, head's up all you crochet'ers because we've got special loot just for you: new shipments of C-lon in Spring & Summer colors, bold new glass pearls for your upcoming Spring & Summer bead crochet and handknotted jewelry designs, and last but not least, fabbbbbbulous Swarovski crystal pearls in 3mm, 4mm, 6mm & 8mm sizes. And, if pearls are not your thing be sure to check out the mini-shell discs...absolutely adorable on crocheted necklaces. Next time you're in the shop, check out Mel's summer crochet samples!

2009-12-09T18:40:00.000-08:00

Come visit "The Bead Empress" booth at Richmond Craft Mafia's "Handmade Holiday" this coming Friday and Saturday (December llth & 12th). Wine reception kicks off the event at 7PM Friday night, followed by a full day of holiday shopping on Saturday. Check off that Christmas gift list, support your local artists and drop by Melanie's booth to say hello and see her latest wearable found objects line--high-mileage jewelry fit for a queen!

2009-11-06T03:23:00.000-08:00

Well, dear friends, we're beginning to exhale... Yes, it's been two months today since we relocated and expanded the "Little Bead Shop that Could" and what a change it's been! It is truly my greatest joy to watch people enter the shop and say, "WOW"! It's especially gratifying to hear this from returning customers who supported our little shop in its infancy and helped us to transform our humble beginnings into the full-range bead shop that it has blossomed into today. We have so much gratitude in our hearts for all that YOU have done to support us. We hope that we can continue to nurture, inspire and provide technical support for all of your creative pursuits. If there is something you need for a project that we don't carry in the shop, please let us know and we'll do our best to add it to our inventory. In the meantime, Bead On!

Our New Instructor!

2009-10-13T13:52:00.000-07:00

Meet Cynthia Bouvier, our newest instructor!

Here's how Cynthia introduced herself on our website:

Jewelry, as an art form, has the power to create moods, provoke opinions and produce reactions. This is the design philosophy that San Francisco native, Cynthia Bouvier, follows in creating and developing her own unique collection of jewelry. Cynthia uses primarily precious metals and gemstones in her work. Her ultimate goal is evoking confidence, elegance, sex appeal, and femininity through the use of striking color and inventive design in each of her pieces, which is what gives her jewelry its signature look.

Cynthia lived in Paris, France for three years and credits many of her designs as inspired by French fashion.

Cynthia has traveled the world and uses the places she has visited to inspire many of her designs.

WE DID IT!!!

2009-09-09T13:26:00.001-07:00

We are all moved in--and we did in in an unbelievable two-day whirlwind of activity! Yes, the paper is off the windows and the doors are open!!!! Thanks to all of our dearest friends--and their spouses--for helping us navigate this daunting move. We're exhausted yet thrilled that the new shop is ready for business ahead of schedule and we can't WAIT to share our excitement, beads and classes with you!

While our "soft opening" began today, our "Relocation & Expansion Sale-bration" day is Saturday, October 3rd when we offer 20% off all beads. Mark your calendars now so that you can take advantage of this special "sale-bration" to stock up on beads for all of your holiday shows and gift-giving projects!

We're Dancin' as Fast as We Can!!!

2009-08-10T19:03:00.000-07:00

Boy, have I got a lot of news--but first those long-promised pics from my trip to the Czech Republic. I told you I'd figure out

this blog-thingy...

Wow--now THAT's hot! The furnace I mean!

This could be a bead around YOUR neck--just give it a few minutes for the process to unfold. This was part of the Czech "pressed glass" factory tour.

Yeah, I know there aren't any beads in this picture, still i love it. It's a humble little corner in one of the Czech bead factories that we visited where the employees could take "5". Less really is more, isn't it?

Aren't these GORGEOUS??? Button samples from one of the factories we visited in the Czech Republic.

OK, onto business...did I mention there is SO MUCH going on around here? Thanks to Mike and Basil, our trusty construction dudes with the most'est, we are wayyyyyyy ahead of schedule. Hence, we will be closing the shop, Sunday September 6th to begin the move and will remain closed until the following Thursday, September l0th when we will re-open at 10AM (the bead goddess willing!). So much to do in between now and then, but it's all great and will knock your beads off when you see it all come together!

As if that isn't exciting enough, we just got word that our second shipment of Czech beads that we hand-picked from the Czech Republic is in route. Now who knows exactly what that means, but as least the beads are out of the factory and on their way into our beady, i mean greedy, little hands. We've been saving the beads as they roll in for our "Grand Relocation & Expansion Salebration" on Saturday, October 3rd...stay tuned and pray the boat gets here in time for our opening!!!

Lastly, be sure to mark your Fall calendar to visit two local shows that the Bead Empress does each year:

*Saturday, 9/19 - 43rd St. Festival of the Arts . Love, love, love this show--it's like "Old Home Week". Proceeds go to the Food Bank so come, shop local, support your local artists and contribute to a favorite local fundraising effort--while you're there, be sure to thank Robyn Cage for putting this all together year after year after year. It's way more work than you or I can imagine...

*Sunday, 10/4 - University of Richmond's "Arts Around the Lake" . Another favorite...and best yet, "Arts Around the Lake" finally moved back next to the lake last year making it all the more enjoyable. Bring the family or your best pals and enjoy the lovely Fall weather while supporting your local artists.

Mel is on Etsy now!

2009-08-09T12:05:00.000-07:00

Check it out!

This is just the first round ... We hope to continue updating over the next few weeks!

Demolition -- let the games begin... yes, that's dave painting 'the buttercup lounge', aka, stockroom. who says stockrooms have to be gray and ugly??

2009-08-04T07:20:00.000-07:00

We're MOVING...

2009-07-15T06:18:00.001-07:00

OK, let's see who's reading the blog? If it's you, then you're the first to know:

WE'RE MOVING!!!

Yes, we're relocating--but only two doors down so you won't have any hassles finding more fabulous beads to add to your bead stash. We're in the process of building out the former

Ave Maria shop just down the sidewalk from our current shop. We'll have over twice as much

room (so you can actually turn around w/o hitting another customer), a larger class room,

and of course, more delicious beads all hung at eye level so you can get to them more easily.

Leave us your well wishes by hitting "comment" below and you'll receive a one-time 20%

discount off your next purchase!

Wow--where did June go?!!

2009-07-06T09:41:00.000-07:00

Can it really be a month since the last blog? Sorry about that but I hit the road (air?) again only this time to France with my daughter, Laurel, who is a French teacher at James River H.S. here in Chesterfield. Interestingly, on this trip we found a LOT more little bead shops in France than on previous trips. Most of them are quite small, sparse by American bead store standards, but have a lovely village feel about them and their share of beady-eyed followers. Photos to follow soon--I promise! Now that Laurel is through teaching for the summer she's going to tutor her mother on posting photographs on the blog, right Laurel?

V. exciting news! I just heard that beads from my Czech trip have cleared customs and are to arrive in Chicago tomorrow. They have to find their way down the bead chain to me but boy, am I excited! Now the problem is: WHERE to put these fabulous finds??? Stay tuned...

2009-06-04T20:29:00.000-07:00

Yes, I KNOW dear customers....still have not got those images from Czechoslovakia up yet. You know why? Because I've been soooooo busy ordering new beads for YOU! Seriously, we have a bunch o' shipments coming in this week and are so busy getting ready for our 5th Annual Anniversary Bead Sale on Saturday, June 13th that I haven't had a minute to focus on getting those pics up. And did I mention my new Canon camera broke? No, really, it did. Anyway, am so onto this. I will get those pics posted, I will, I will, I will! But first Laurel (my daughter & website designer extraordinaire) needs to show me how to post pics on the blog. (Let's see if she really reads my blogs??? Are you reading this, Laurel?) In the meantime everyone, mark your calendars for our 5th Anniverary Bead Sale on the 13th. Pick up a free customer appreciation gift and get 20% off all loose beads and bead strands (no sterling---btw, are you guys watching the precious metals market 'cuz here we go again...). We also have a secret. Stay tuned...

Czech Republic "Bead Trip of a Lifetime"

2009-05-28T07:13:00.000-07:00

Wow....what can I say? We're back from our trip to Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic with major jet lag and oodles of pictures to download to the blog. Give me a couple of days and hopefully I'll get some images up here for you to enjoy. In the meantime, we're expecting shipment of our hand-picked Czech beads within two months. Yes, it takes a verrrrryyyy long time to get these beads shipped to us as well as time to get them up on the walls. It's hard for us to wait, too, but know that it will be worth the wait everyone.

Summer and fall classes have been posted!

2009-05-25T11:05:00.000-07:00

WOW what a line-up! We have tons of news project AND technique classes, including three new summer classes just for kids, bead stitches, silver fusion, resin projects, photo transfers on polymer clay beads, ceramic beads with colorful glazes... Certainly enough to keep you busy for the summer!

Check out our new samples:

http://www.fandangle-beads.com/classes/newclasses.html

Also, be on the lookout for a new shipment of Czech beads that will follow Melanie home from Europe in a few months. Photos of her travels through the bead factories and flea markets of the Czech Republic will follow soon, as well.

Fandangle Bead Store Wins VMFA Muse Award!

2009-05-01T12:48:00.000-07:00

Wow--what a night! Out of a pool of approximately 60 nominees, Fandangle Bead Store was one of nine businesses who received a Muse Award from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts at its annual "Un-Gala" last night. A dozen of our beady-eyed employees, friends and family, donned in 1920's attire, arrived via James Limo Service (wonderful company, btw) at the Virginia Museum where we anxiously awaited for the winners to be announced. We share our award with all the creative spirits (that would be YOU, dear customers) who share our passion for all things beaded and sparkly, and who strive to blend beads, beauty and balance into your busy daily schedules. Our's is a recipricol relationship: You, the customer, ignite our creative spark as we strive to stay ahead of the creative curve and we hope that we provide inspiration to you as well. Our jewelry classes, beads and beading materials are a reflection of YOUR passion and we depend on you to let us know what you'd like to learn so that we can grow as a business, as artists and as educators. Likewise, we share our award with all those artists out there who were ever told you can't make a living "doing art". Intention and hard work paired with a good business plan go a long way to making dreams come true--oh, and did we mention a sense of humor is critical ???

Sunday Resin Class

2009-04-24T06:14:00.000-07:00

We still have a spot left in this, our most popular, class. Come join us this Sunday and create your own one-of-a-kind resin pendants. We supply the bezels, resins, tools, flotsam and instruction--you just show up and have fun! To see on-line samples for this class just click on "Gallery" and/or "Spring Classes" links on our website where you'll find numerous examples of found art jewelry objects made with resin. Now is the time to actually USE all that stuff you've been squirreling away for years--anything is fair game: think old cards, lace, laser images of old photographs, buttons, glitter, scraps of homemade paper, metal stampings. Likewise, your favorite rubber stamps can be used with Staz-On permanent inks and textured paper and then set in, say, a vintage optical lense and topped off with resin. The possibilities are endless!

Greg's Masterpiece

2009-04-17T13:34:00.001-07:00

Greg's upcoming class--
help us name it! Just click "comment" and write in your suggestion...

Weekly sale category!

2009-04-17T09:48:00.000-07:00

Wow, what's that blue stuff in the sky? Finallllllly the rain is past...ahhhh. Hey, great news! Just for our bloggers, beginning this week we're going to announce the sale category for the upcoming Monday-only sale day. That's right--no more "Secret Monday" sales wherein you have to come in to see what the sale category is; instead, simply check the blog weekly and you'll find that we've posted the category that will be featured as "on sale". When you come into the shop and are ready to ring up your purchases, make sure you tell us BEFORE we ring your sale that you saw the sale category featured on the blog and we'll give you 20% off that particular category which is featured on that particular that Monday. Just our little way of saying thanks for checking-in with our blog for all the lastest news in Beadland!

P.S. The sale item for this coming Monday is "Freshwater Pearls".

Denise's Polymer Class

2009-04-13T06:56:00.000-07:00

Hope you all had a "hoppy Easter" and a chance to wear your newly beaded Spring creations to the Easter parade of your choice. The Easter Bunny hopped by Fandangle Bead Store and dropped off a few new items that we are uber-excited about: a new gel liver of sulfur to create a lasting 'vintage' patina on your metal and chain creations. That's right, it's a gel with no shelf life and will not become inactive if the top is accidentally left ajar. It's more expensive than the standard liver of sulfur nuggets, powder and liquids but it will last you a great while longer.
I love putting patinas on my metals--NO MORE METAL POLISHING! That's right, as I've gotten older I've created a list of things I no longer do, i.e., no more ironing, no more curling my hair, and no more metal polishing. Try it--it's liberating! Let me know what you've added to your list of things you no longer do--I'm always looking to weed out time-killers to make more opportunities for doing what I really love to do, i.e., making jewelry and fondling all things sparkly.

In addition to the gel liver of sulfur, the Easter Bunny also dropped off a new shipment of resins in a larger size kit--that's right: you asked for it, we found it. This resin is a thicker domed resin made by Rio Grande and makes a total of l6 ounces of resin--that's a LOT of jewelry! Again, it costs more than our smaller kits but will go a veryyyyyy long way. Just mix and use the same as you've always done and voila! Just bead and wear your one-of-a-kind masterpieces and watch the heads turn.

Lastly, Denise's new polymer class still has a couple of spots open so call now to reserve your space. We're really excited about the new polymer products that will be up on the wall (next to the resin supplies) by the end of the week. Fandangle Bead Store will feature Donna Kato's polymer clay which we find to be preferable over other leading brands. Likewise we have new polymer clay books, clay tools, sealants, stencils, texturing materials, pasta rollers, and especially exciting, new image transfer kits. We're always on the look-out for new products and classes that will enhance your creativity and add variety to your beaded creations. Come in and meet Denise if you haven't already and while you're at it, be sure to check out her new basic wire and specialty wire jewelry classes.

Virginia Museum Muse Awards

2009-04-09T16:11:00.000-07:00

Fandangle Bead Store, i.e., "the little bead shop that could", just found out today that we were selected as a 2009 Virginia Museum of Fine Arts "MUSE Awards" semi-finalist! What are the MUSE Awards? The Muse Awards honor extraordinary creativity in Virginia business and recognize the major role that creativity plays in Virginia industry. According to Eddie Gugelman of SunTrust Bank Mid-Atlantic and chair of the VMFA Business Council which sponsors the MUSE Awards, “Creativity is a powerful yet often unrecognized component of success, and its application within the Virginia business community is helping to shape the commonwealth into a diverse and dynamic economic region." Business organizations, professional groups, and business and professional councils in Virginia are eligible to nominate themselves or other for-profit Virginia businesses that practice unique and creative approaches. “Just as VMFA’s collection celebrates the best of creative expression for the past 6,000 years, the Muse Awards celebrate creative genius and inspire Virginia companies to lead the way,” Gugelman says.

Winners of the 2009 VMFA MUSE Award will be announced at The Muse UN-GALA: An Awards Ceremony unlike any other...The Muse program culminates with the Un-Gala awards celebration, which has become a must-attend event for the "Who's-Who" among both the vanguard and brightest new talents in the corporate community. The theme of the party changes each year, and is closely guarded by the Muse committee until the night of the event. Mark your calendars for Thursday, April 30, 2009 and be sure to look for the Bead Empress and Sparkie "The Bead Boy" at the Un-Gala!

For more information please contactElizabeth Lowsley-Williams at 804.340.1469 or E-mail: Elizabeth.Lowsley-Williams@vmfa.museum

Learn Soft-Solder with "Sparkie, The Bead Boy"

2009-04-08T14:13:00.000-07:00

Just who IS this "Sparkie, the Bead Boy" guy anyway??? Most of our customers know him as "Greg" (our shop manager) but we prefer to think of him as our resident solder-meister. Seriously, this guy has been knee-deep in silver, solder and and base metals on all fronts for (dare we say it?) a couple of decades. "Sparkie" still has two spots left in his Saturday, April 25th "Soft-Soldered Pendants" class. For $250 you get to take the Saturday class, plus your soldering bench awaits you at the end of class--yes, that's right: you get to take home ALL OF THE MATERIALS at the end of the class thus enabling you to jump right into creating more beautiful baubles instead of searching item by item for all the supplies needed later on.
We insist on using environmentally friendly and highest quality lead-free soldering supplies and irons in this most popular class. Check out samples under our "Classes" section and call today to reserve one of the last two spaces in the May class!

Beading Weaving? Not Me!

2009-04-08T14:00:00.000-07:00

That's what I USED to say too! Working with tiny beads was so not my thing--or so I thought. Then I decided to open a bead store all of a sudden I HAD to learn how to bead weave...so began my journey into the world of Miyuki seed beads. What I didn't know is that Miyukis would become my new obsession. Yes, I became totally addicted to learning simple stitches that could then be combined to create unique necklace strands, bead bracelets & cuffs, earrings, ornaments and yes, even decorations for the walls. Fandangle Bead Store offers an amazing selection of Miyukis in every size and shape imaginable along with a variety of entry-level seed bead classes designed for beginners. As with all our lessons, we limit classes to three hours, focus on basic solid technique and then release you to your new obsession. The joy in seed beading is that after you have learned a simple stitch, then you get to pick out your own delightful color combinations to match your mood and your wardrobe. Call the shop at 327.9992 to register today. Upcoming classes are posted through the end of June 2009.

Milagros

2009-04-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

Fresh from Santa Fe, we now have a selection of beautiful hand-cast milagros, inspired by traditional Mexican designs. So, what is a milagro? Well, upon entering a church in Latin American, one often sees the dressed statue of a saint curiously festooned with hundreds of tiny gold or silver arms, legs, animals, plants or praying figures. These votice objects have been hung on the saint by the faithful to remind the saint of the supplicant's injured arm or leg, injured or pregnant animal, endangered crop, or in petition of a special favor. These prayer offerings are commonly called "milagros" (miracles), "ex-votos" or "dijes" in Spanish. In many countries "milagros" may also have a symbolic or talismanic quality. A woman will wear a parrot or horse on her necklace because she identifies with the bird or animal; a village elder will hang a fish 'dije" from his staff of office because he is a fisherman, or perhaps from a fishing village. Cast in sterling silver or brass from original votice offerings found in various parts of the Americas, these "milagros" make special presents for friends in need: a foot "milagro" for an accident-prone skier, a horse "milagro" for a child hoping for a pony; the torso of a pregnant woman to wish a friend a safe pregnancy; a corn "milagro" for a gardener; a lung "milagro" for a friend trying to quit smoking; a praying figure for a special favor and so forth. What a humble and thought-provoking gift. What a stunning accent to a necklace, nestled among beaded silk crochet strands! What a unique pair of earrings!

Spring has sprung!

2009-04-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

The spring bead shipments are up and overflowing! We've gotten several new shipments, including shimmerwing butterfly pendants, ethnic beads and pendants including polished antler, large-hole (and silver-lined) glass lampwork beads, Tibetan brass and turquoise talismans, brass and sterling replicas of ancient Ethiopian pendants and charms, vintage button clasps, Bob Burkett's collector-grade, hand-cast fairy pendants, Spanish-inspired milagros, Paula Radke dichroic glass and pendants, most of which we guarentee you will not find elsewhere in Virginia! Check out our new products page for pictures.

Upcoming classes:

Polymer Clay Beads and Pendants - Saturday, April 18
Basic Wire Work - Sunday, April 19
Soft-soldered pendants - Saturday April 25
Intro to Resins - Sunday, April 26
Check out class samples and descriptions here.

PMC Bronze is here!

2009-04-05T12:54:00.004-07:00

Announcing the arrival of the hottest item on the PMC market—Bronze PMC! With silver costs skyrocketing, Bronze PMC offers a less expensive alternative to silver PMC. Better yet, students have three times more metal clay per package to work with. Bronze PMC fires to a warm true bronze, is harder than silver PMC, and handles easily. FBS now sells PMC bronze and will offer classes on this exciting new medium this fall. Check out our newsletter for more details.

Our new mailing list policy

2009-04-05T12:54:00.003-07:00

Because of the ever-increasing postal costs associated with mailing out hard copies of our quarterly newsletters, we have decided to take advantage of the age of technology (or as Melanie says, use to these stupid computers to our advantage for once!). Effective immediately, we will no longer mail postcards to people via postal services. Instead we will post quarterly class listings, shop events and coupons on our website. If you would like to receive occasional email updates, please email us at : zukpers@aol.com . We'll be happy to add you to our e-mail customer list so that you will stay abreast of all the latest news here in Beadland.

Grace and Courtesy Customer of the Month

2009-04-05T12:54:00.001-07:00

Fandangle Bead Store is committed to offering its customers exceptional service, educational opportunities and quality products at a fair market price.
In addition to our new mission statement, we would like to say thank you to our customers who make it a delight to be in the bead business and who remind us daily why we're here to help you. Starting this Spring, we will be surprising customers who are as compassionate as they are passionate (about beads of course). You, our valued friends and customers, make our job a pleasure by being patient and understanding even when we're having "a moment". We'd like to say thank you to all our special customers (and we have many!). As a start, we're implementing a weekly reward to a customer recognized by the Fandangle Bead Store staff as having been a particular joy to work with. At the shop's discretion, we will approach our "special customers", let them know how wonderful it was doing business with them, and rewarding them with a 20% discount off their purchases that day. Additionally, the names of these weekly rewards recipients will be entered into the pot for a $100 gift certificate drawing at the end of the year. This is our way of givIng a weekly nod to the many wonderful customers who grace our lives and remind us why we do what we do. We like to think of it as Bead Karma.

Announcing Fandangle Bead Store's New Bead kits!

2009-04-05T12:53:00.001-07:00

Basic Bead Kits (From our classes--you asked for them, we got 'em!)
Designer Focal Bead Kits (all you add as is killer filler)
Necklace Whimsy" (Basic Stringing Necklace Kits)

The Glass Slipper Project

2009-04-05T12:45:00.000-07:00

We are happy to announce the unveiling of a very special project and we need your help. Prom time is quickly approaching at our local high schools, and yet not all girls can afford to attend this special event because of the prohibitive costs associated with formal occasions. To that end, as many of you know, the Midlothian Junior Women's League and Q-94 have partnered together in the past few years to create the "Cinderella Dreams" project which ensures that no young woman is denied the chance to experience a quintessential event of adolescence -- attending her Prom.

Here's where you come in!

Fandangle Bead Store is fortunate to be a part of a flourishing community of beady-eyed women who just love a good cause. And we just knowwww you have extra beads or beaded jewelry looking for a good home. Put those baubles to good use by donating them to the Glass Slipper project! We only have three weeks to collect your donations, which may include pieces you have either made or if you don't have time to make anything special, perhaps you could consider donating jewelry you no longer wear. We'll take it all! Necklaces, bracelets, earrings -- anything sparkly is fair game and will be given new life by the girls who wear them on prom night. Just drop donations by FBS before March 18 and we'll make sure that it gets to the "Cinderella Dreams" project in time for this pre-prom event.

2009-01-28T17:05:00.000-08:00

Yes, beady-eyed customers...I know, I really create a vacuum when it comes to blogging. Having said that, I'm going to make it up to you. My daughter, Laurel, and I have created the 'Fandangle Beadtini". Here's the recipe:

2 oz. fig vodka*
1 oz. elderflower liquor
1/2 TB simple syrup (flavor w/ a few slices of fresh ginger when making for a little zing!)
3 oz. fizzy lizzy sparkling grapefruit soda
3 ice cubes

*If you cannot find fig vodka, make your own: Put 3 c. of vodka in a saucepan, add a cup of fresh figs halved and bring to a boil and then simmer until liquid is reduced by half. Cool & bottle.

Shake vigorously & pour into ice cold martini glass. Do not attempt beading after
drinking this delish' concoction! Enjoy!

back in the (beaded) saddle again...

2007-09-27T14:06:00.000-07:00

ok...so it's been a couple of of months since my one and only post. so what? (ha ha). in my defense, admittedly i am a member of the lead-pencil club, i.e, just don't do technology. having said that, i am nonetheless trainable. i have come kicking and screaming into the 21st century, hence my second blog posting.

opening the bead store meant that as a first-time retail owner/operator i had to learn about business financing, govenment red-tape (oy), acquire a working knowledge of a wide range of beading/jewelry making techniques, cultivate vendors, customers, IT knowledge and develop a multi-faceted approach to keeping the bead empire afloat over the past 3 l/2 years. what a long, strange trip it's been. but i've learned a lot in the process and feel like my gray matter has compounded exponentially in the process but not w/o taking a significant toll on my personal life regarding creative pursuits in particular. sooooo...this summer i took a step back from the shop, took a deep breath, dusted the cobwebs from my neglected studio, reclaimed my creative life and the flood gates opened. summer was awesome. life is sweet again. i think that even in our dormant periods our creative souls are simmering even though we don't know it at the time. as my dear friend, annis mcCabe, once said: we have "donkey" years. as mothers, spouses, employees, sisters, daughters, best friends and volunteers, our lives are overrun with obligations which leave little time for ourselves. opening and running the shop for the past 3 1/2 years constituted a series of "donkey years" where i often felt overwhelmed by all the things i had to learn as a new retail business owner, as an instructor, as a person who is trying to balance the "all of it" both personally and professionally. so it was especially sweet this summer to make the choice to step back and rediscover the "why" of opening a bead business and to be reminded that it all started with the love of art and the act of creation, with a desire years ago to cultivate beauty into my everyday life and to share that desire with other people in my community. so here we are going on our 4th year of business (thank you dear friends and customers---you made the dream happen). i hope that you'll pop by the shop to check out the fruits of my summer and don't forget, as well, to stop by the university of richmond's "arts around the lake" sunday, september 30th. the empress will be holding court in booth #30. see you there! m.

2007-06-12T13:23:00.000-07:00

we love bead kitty.
moxy the bead kitty loves all things sparkly.

bead empress

2007-05-25T13:18:00.000-07:00

i started teaching beading/precious metal clay classes out of pure selfishness about six years ago. i couldn't find a beading community so i decided to create one myself, sort of like in "field of dreams", i.e, if you build it they will come. and come they did. after teaching about 5 years and on a complete whim, within the space of one week i flew across country to attend a 2-day consultation for people interested in running a bead shop, then flew back home and immediately signed a lease on a little shop. little did i know the challenges & pitfalls that temper the joys (ahem?) of owning your own business. after 2 years, however, the beads began to fall in place and we seem to be in the flow...