I received a huge compliment...it was a comment asking why I don't make ugly beads... (sweet) because I know you come here for inspiration - and I'd hate to have you not come back. Last night we had the website update - it was a long time coming, actually something like two months - it was very successful. Giving me 'permission' once more *after invoicing/shipment* to create. Aside from the sales, it gives me a good reading on what is popular, so back to the original question... it's important for me to make what you like AND to enjoy my time at the torch making what you like! SIMPLE, eh?!

This site as well as my others are about promoting the beauty in glass - discovering the limitations of the material as well as limitations of the users' imaginations in creating with my beads. So far, I've discovered very few implied limitations from the material - and continually find myself agreeably working within self-imposed parameters (... like - if it's meant to be worn, make it wearer-friendly. OR my beads shouldn't overpower, they are meant to compliment - not restate the person). I know when stated as such, it seems so obvious - but sometimes I think we lose sight of the basics.

My current favorite! taking me back to the days of Glassdaddy's stash - purples, blues and rich opaque glass for fall favorites. I'm known to carry sets around for a few days *or so* until I have sufficiently bonded with them to 'let them go'... this is one of the sets. I am just so drawn to it... click the photo and fall in!

yeah, the right set of beads and the right afternoon lighting, stunning. It's a good thing I managed to snap some photos yesterday - as today is rainy again. Must be monsoon season! ar.
Seriously - it's been such a dry year - that I hate to wish it away... Glorious wet rain - gotta love it.

I'm loving the 'feel' of the copper - but struggle with feeling I need to solder the rings. ugh. Fun, nonetheless.

Button, button - whose got a button?

In her many personalities... we've opened Pandora's Box. Unleashing color - in wisps and also full gale force. Here is a rather demure set of rondelle beads - hand shaped and encased in clear to amplify what she has brought forth.

Revisting an old friend. The toggle bead - this one with a wonderful encased ring floating effortlessly on the barrel of this bead/sculpture. I've mentioned before the process involved making this bead, but will quickly revisit.

The toggle barrel is created and one end is attached - a ring made in another session that has been annealed, cooled, cleaned and brought up to temperature in the kiln is quickly slid onto the barrel/one ended bead (that is sufficiently cool so that the glass barrel is not 'sticky'... and yet still warm enough so that it will not suffer thermal shock...) the second end of the barrel is attached (quickly). Pop back into the kiln - and start breathing again!!

I've made these Toggles before with up to 6 rings - but - 3-4 is really quite enough to cause a stir.