Beads. Ahh, the world of beads!! If you are a jewelry maker or handmade jewelry lover, then you know what Im talking about. Theres so many to choose from, that it makes it hard to decide which ones are best for your own personal designs.

Sure, if you are following a specific pattern, then you purchase the beads that the instructions call forbut what if you want to spread your own wings and flourish from that pattern? Then you go to the world of beads!

First, you find a craft store or bead store You can find some of the neatest beads at chain stores such as Wal-Mart. Then there are craft stores such as Michaels or Hobby Lobby. Of course, then you have your specialty stores too. But thenits not always about the store----its about the BEAD.

Now, look deep into your very crafty-or should I say Beady soul. What colors scream you? What designs catch your eye? Do you love the water? Do those clouds up above just mesmerize you? Are you just a faithful lover of the color blue? Then go look for those pretty shades of blue Sky blue, navy blue, ocean blue, and/or turquoise, etc. Then you can find patterns with flowers, cat-eyes-anything to your hearts content. Babyif you love bluethen bead the night away in blue.

How about nature colors? Our mothers great outdoors have just color that travels a million directions! You have the soft green grass, the colors of leaves in autumn, all of the animals, brilliant pinks and purples in the flowers. There is just so much color in the world of nature! Take your favorite picture of natures outdoors with you when choosing your beadsthis will help you wonderfully.

Of course, theres even more patterns and colors that can help you decide. Perhaps you already have favorite colors you like to work with. Its almost like taking a testYour first instinct is always the right answer! If there is a bead that is just talking to you-go for it! Pick her up-touch it, feel it, and imagine it in your studiowith your designs! I promise you-it will talk to you. Everybodys perfect bead is different.

There is no right answer in creation. Your designs, your colors, and your beadsthey are all about you. And ONLY you. Create from your heart- our heart is always right-no matter how much you might want to ignore it at times.