A Little Beady Business

For as little as $175.00, I can take a class that will teach me skills to start a new at-home business. It is a business that combines creativity, hands-on detail work, and a little bit of salesmanship. It is fun, fashionable, and financially satisfying.

Bearden's Stained Glass (www.beardens.us) offers a bead making class for beginners. The $175 fee covers instruction and a kit with tools and supplies. You will make about ten beads in this one-day session. More importantly, you will discover a love for the creative process.

Most creative people who discover glass bead making are hooked immediately. Then, when they realize they can make money making beads, their imaginations really take off.

To turn a passion for bead making into a business, you will need to create products to sell. Jewelry is a popular choice, especially earring and necklace sets. Bracelets and watches are also top sellers. In this business, however, you will quickly find that almost anything goes when it comes to beads. Larger beads can be transformed into darling key chains. Create matching fringe on cloth handbags and you now have another set to sell. Attach beads to clothing and hats. Decorate boxes and baskets with beads and you have a great seasonal item. You could even make unique rosaries. One ambitious business owner specializes in bead curtains. You are only limited by your imagination.

You will need a place to market your creations. Craft shows provide excellent sales opportunities. Many upscale women's boutiques or spas will sale your items on consignment. A website will help you reach customers worldwide.

The bead making industry is large and diverse. If glass beads are not your thing, you could try ceramic or wood. Polymer or precious metal clays are other options. You can even make beads from colored paper! With all the different materials and techniques to master, you will never be stuck in a rut with this career. In addition, if you ever do tire of creating and selling, you can switch to teaching classes.

Check out the book The Art and Soul of Glass Beads: 14 Bead Artists Share Their Inspiration and Methods by Susan Ray and Richard Pearce. It is a long title, but only 144 pages and overflowing with ideas and step-by-step guidance.

If you are seeking a career-from-home that will get your hands going and your creative juices flowing, try making beads. Bead making may be just the touch of sparkle your life needs!

For more information, see these websites:

http://rayersinc.com/

http://www.pinzart.com

http://www.delphiglass.com

http://www.lapidaryjournal.com

http://www.hotglassbeads.com

http://www.jsbeads.com

http://www.thebeadsite.com

http://www.isgb.org