Bead exchange

Three years ago I moved to a smaller community with no polymer clay guild.  I decided the next best thing was to join the local bead society.  I knew nothing about peyote stitch or making wrapped loops but hoped I would learn some new techniques that would enhance my polymer pieces.

Conversely the beaders were unfamiliar with polymer and I felt like I was an ambassador for the medium.

In the past two years I’ve conducted several beginner workshops to the growing number of beaders and metal clayers interested in trying it out.  I love how the exchange has worked both ways.

While those that know my work are aware I’ve had an interest in buttons and incorporate them in my work but now my stash of beads has grown exponentially.  These two pieces from my Flickr site show the influence of my beading friends.

guest post by Helen Breil