Beadaholics anonymous....

I remember going to The Original Ornament a long, long time ago.  It was still located on Franklin Street, in a narrow little corridor.  My mom took me, and I remember being mesmerized by all the beads - shiny, sparkly, chunky.  I knew I was in big trouble.  I dabbled here and there in elementary and high school with simple beading necklaces - the kinds you wore all the time, even in the shower.  It didn't matter whether they matched your YMCA t-shirt or not, it was there to stay.  Then, in highschool, I decided to revamp the collection and I have been happily obsessed ever since.  I will have to say that the one good thing about making jewelry is that isn't permanent.  I am constantly re-working old pieces into new styles.  I often find myself perusing the sale sections at department stores, just to see if there is a somewhat-not-too-hideous necklace with some great bead finds on it.  And then, there are the bead shows - millions upon millions of beads - strand after strand.  Thank goodness they only come to town once or twice a year - my marriage thanks you.  

I find most of my inspiration by looking at other jewelry.  As I have stated before, I love to check out whatever is new at Charlotte's in Cameron Village - love the jewels, but can't afford.  And I love the infiltration of Sundance catalogs that flood my mailbox monthly.  But I am not tempted by fancy stones and real gold.  I'm always amazed at what some people will pay for accessories - since I know how little it costs to make. For awhile, and only awhile, I was making a necklace or earrings to match my latest outfit purchase - yes, I did go a bit too far.

Here are some of my current wares - and I must give a special shout out to my husband - for funding my habit, and  my cats - for restraining themselves as I spread beads and trinkets out all over the floor.
Oh - and sorry for the not so professional photography - my next wish list item is a better camera:)

I love the texture of using different shaped beads - teardrops make cute necklaces because when stacked, they have a chunky, tiered affect.

Ornamentea and Beadin Path have the best filigree - the top two are gold filigree pieces that make the BEST earrings, and the bottom pairs are vintage lucite filigree - which come in many more colors.