Simple Pleasures

Beads are beautiful.

I love their shapes and sizes, their textures and colours. I love the way they shimmer in the light and turn drabness into drama wherever they are used.

Best of all, I love that creative minds of all ages can transform a disjointed jumble of gems into a wearable work of art in a few moments.

So it was with great delight, I recently heard that a friend had begun beading for charity. Within a few short weeks she had progressed from stringing basic bangles to creating stunning necklaces in eye-catching colours which I know for a fact found their way under many Christmas trees in our village.

When she invited me to join her for a morning, I jumped at the chance, and as we carefully threaded gorgeous glass balls onto long strands of flexible wire, she shared with me her best, and most unexpected, beading discovery.

She revealed that her peaceful pastime had captured the interest of her pre-teen daughter, who had come alongside to join in her charitable pursuit.

As the two crafted necklaces, bangles and earrings, they enjoyed hours of warm conversation covering topics they might otherwise have avoided. A new bond was formed between mother and daughter.

It only takes a few simple tools and techniques to start beading and most of these can be found in any book or magazine on the subject, but as those of us who’ve tried it can testify, it’s a simple pleasure that promises rich rewards.

Have a go!
Deborah