In the multiple interviews I have done with expert beaders and jewelry makers, I am always impressed with the talent some people are blessed with. They have patiently shown me techniques and walked me through some extremely complicated projects with great ease.
To me, these projects are beautiful but difficult. I haven't been blessed with a "creative" talent. Each time I would ask, "If you were to sell this item, how much would it cost?" (that's because I'm better at buying than making) The answer obviously varied from project to project but then I realized, if you're giving it as a gift the cost is priceless.
I had one of the ladies help me make some personalized bracelets out of semi-precious beads. My niece and a girlfriend, the recipients of these gifts, were moved, not by the design of their gifts but by the fact that I took the time to hand select the beads and handmake them a gift. And, in turn, I was the recipient of a gift by their hugs and smiles. So, if you're like me and think you cannot do some of the projects featured in Bead magazine or on Bead TV, I say give it a try and give that gift that keeps on giving (bad cliche', I know).
Happy beading!
Betsy Singer www.bead.tv
