I’ve
always been interested in crafts since learning to sew as a young girl. With
crafts, I began to realize that I could do just about anything I set my heart
on.
Early in high school I began sewing my own dresses and clothes. Later, a
pottery creation of mine won a blue ribbon at the local National Scholastic Art
Show. Being featured on the evening news shows was a big thrill. It's hard for
me to remember when arts and crafts wasn't a big part of my life, but I guess
that was the beginning.
As a
young mother, I made toys, dolls and stuffed animals for my daughter and
nieces. When she left for college, I found a new interest in creating dollhouse
miniatures. Genealogy also helped fill the void and is still a passion of mine
today.
As
my genealogy work slowed, I started designing and making jewelry during a winter
vacation in Arizona with my sisters. With this, BJT Beads was born. The
following year I began selling stone, crystal and silver lanyards, bracelets and
necklaces at local craft fairs. I continue to attend shows every year.
Jewelry design led me to a technique called lampworking for making glass jewelry
beads. With help and encouragement from a special lady at Glasshopper Studios
in St. Louis, I overcame my fear of the lampworker’s torch and was on my way.
Several other area lampworking artists also encouraged and led me to create with
glass.
I
enjoy making glass bead designs that combine well with crystals and sterling
silver. My creations hopefully provide the modern woman with elegant and unique
coordinated jewelry accessories they can find no where else. Seasonal themes
are also reflected in my lampworking and I love creating designs that reflect
the holiday spirit.
Thanks for taking the time to read about me. I hope you enjoy the rest of your
visit here.