Introducing the New Beadshop Design Team Member, Kim Golias

A big bonus of attending Beadshop’s Bead Retreat last September was meeting Kim.  After spending some time with her, it became apparent she had a creative soul and loved designing unique pieces.  Kim does not formally sell her jewelry but does create many gifts uniquely tailored to the recipient. She also loves to donate special pieces for fundraisers and charity.  Read on below and get to know Kim…

-Alley

Give us a little background on why you chose to venture down the jewelry-making path.

“Between wandering through craft fairs and discovering Beads Baubles and Jewels, I thought, "I should be able to do this." It's not always as easy as it looks but it's been a wonderful journey.  I started out with basic stringing then added bead weaving and some basic bead embroidery. Finding BDSC has taught me to look at beads differently. They've really renewed a joy that had become stagnant."

Did you ever have an “Ah-Ha” moment during your jewelry making journey?

“Early on it was proper crimping.  Recently, two more are courtesy of Kate and Emily: I avoided wrap bracelets until I learned to wax unruly thread.  Game changer! And, when Emily used the triangle as a tool to pick up seed beads and not just a dish, I ordered them right away!  No more picking up beads one or two at a time.”

How do you get out of creative ruts?

“I tend to make simple earrings. You can combine anything and sometimes that spurs a bigger idea. They're also great to have on hand as thank you gifts.  I will sometimes organize or just walk away. More recently, as suggested by Kate, I'll make components to use later. When all that fails, I go on The Bead Table Facebook Group and look at all the pictures of what everyone else is posting while I'm trying to figure out where to start.  I love this group!”

What’s a fun fact that our web audience would love to know about you?  

“I asked my husband this question.  He says it's that I hate ketchup but that I love anything furry so it balances out.”

What is your favorite piece and what made it special?

“I don't know if I have one.  I love any piece that puts a smile on someone's face.  I'm still learning and evolving so I think my favorite is yet to come.”

Well, Kim may not have a favorite piece yet, but we think these are pretty awesome.