If you have been following the blog for a while, you may remember that I have mentioned, on several occasions, my nervous, irrational fear of beads, bead stores, and the process of beading.
So, what made me step into Toho Shoji today?
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| On 6th Avenue between 36th and 37th street |
Well, I needed a certain type of bead to use for a client project - a teardrop shape, really... just a thought, but I'll tell you about that one later... The store was quiet, with only a few customers, so it was easy to navigate and peaceful inside. I started looking at things... all kinds of things, to get creative ideas for some things I'm working on... and then I saw this sign.
Really? You'll show me? Hey, I think it's Tuesday! I think it's noon!
There was a loom on the table, and some completed projects. Although I have wildly different ideas of my own, I watched the friendly and engaging store expert work, and beautifully explain this simple technique and the variables and uses one could consider. She explained that the loom, which is OUTRAGEOUSLY affordable (less than $10!) comes with a grid for design planning, and what type of threads, needles and bead sizes would be appropriate (all of those things are wonderfully affordable, too!). Within about 10 minutes, I completely understood, and knew I could do this myself, and that it is something my teenager would probably LOVE to try!
I love Toho Shoji! And now that I know they have demonstrations I'm going to have to go and try this out!
ReplyDeleteMy fear has kept me away until now.... But I'm ready to go back!
DeleteI love that store. I'd like to take a jewelry making class.
ReplyDeleteBeads Of Paradise at 16 E17th Street, just off Union Square, teaches jewelry making classes for $85 which include all supplies. I have taken their classes and can highly recommend them. Also, the store is loaded with gorgeous stones and jewelry supplies. A real treat for the eyes. The website is beadsofparadisenyc.com.
DeleteThank you, Cindy! Really helpful info!
DeleteI've been in there and I was totally paralyzed with indecision. I bought a pair of pliers. It looks like fun.
ReplyDeleteI know your pain! The paralysis! It is tough... baby steps, my friend... baby steps.
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