So after reading this brilliant post on Lori Greenberg’s Bead Nerd blog I took her excellent advice and simplified things a little. This was difficult for me at first because the beadmaking part of my brain seems to be hardwired to want to do complex, intricate work. At the start of my Simpler Beads Plan I have to admit I was slightly bored and for the first time ever the process of beadmaking felt a little bit like a chore. But after a few glass melting sessions I seemed to acclimatise and I found myself really enjoying it.
Because simpler beads take less time to make I’m creating more lampwork than I used to. Due to the less time thing the beads are cheaper which keeps my customers happy and in turn keeps their jewellery-buying clients happy too! It’s not just a money thing either. A lot of my beadmaking skills have developed. I’ve found quicker, easier ways to execute certain techniques and I’m also enjoying working with colour and playing with glasses that have sat untouched in my glass stash for months. I’ve also learned that beads that I might personally think are boring and plain are actually someone else’s idea of glass treasure.
I’m certain that my favourite, more-detailed designs will sneak onto the scene occasionally and when our economy is in a better state I’m sure I’ll be back to my old intricate and time-consuming beadmaking ways but for the time being I’m quite happy keeping things simple.
Laura Sparling is a full-time beadmaker in Southampton, UK. She sells her beads through her website www.beadsbylaura.co.uk.
Lori G says:
Thanks for the Bead Nerd shout out, Laura! I love hearing that something I wrote has actually helped.
I saw your Nemo beads yesterday and even though they might look simple, they’re HOT!
I was taught, in my art league, by a seasoned glass artist that sometimes we have to do the ‘bread and butter’ stuff to do more of the things that we love but sell slower.
I can see why jewelry people love your more simple designs!
July 22nd, 2008 at 11:43 am
Chris Moran says:
Nice writing style. Looking forward to reading more from you.
Chris Moran
July 22nd, 2008 at 11:50 am
Jen says:
Yes! I agree with keeping it simple. I love your simple styles, Laura! I read Lori’s blog, too, and was already having my own epiphany of keeping it simple. The beads that get rave reviews are the ones that are simple. Sigh. But, bread and butter works!
July 23rd, 2008 at 9:24 pm
beadsbylaura says:
Thank you, Lori! ‘Bead Nerd’ is a fantastic blog and you have so much useful advice and information on there.
)
Chris and Jen – many thanks for your lovely comments too.
July 24th, 2008 at 12:16 am
limamike says:
I love your beads and your “simple” beads still have a special flair! Definitely not ordinary, but very special.
July 25th, 2008 at 8:51 am
Cindy Lietz, Polymer Clay Tutor says:
I read that post too and it is making me think carefully about my designs!
Your beads are drop dead gorgeous BTW! They are absolutely anything but boring!
July 26th, 2008 at 7:09 pm
beadsbylaura says:
Lori and Cindy – thank you so much for your fantastic bead compliments!
)
July 31st, 2008 at 12:34 am