I recently had a number of request for dreadlock beads, so I have started to make them. My husband came up with the idea to call them "Rasta Rings". My "Rasta Rings" are created with a 1/4" hole in the center.

CRAFT BEADS

Another request I recently received was for the beads that I don't consider to be my best for one reason or another. Some are off center, (wonky), and some are broken. While I don't usually have a ton of broken beads, the vast majority of the ones that do break, tend to do so perfectly in half due to temperature shock before being kiln-annealed. These "Craft Beads" could be used for many different things.

* Beads that have broken perfectly in half can be used as cabochons and attached to jewelry findings to make earrings, pendant, broaches, etc.

* A particularly pretty piece can be used to decorate the bottom of your fish tank.

* These beads can also be used in mosaics. The beads that have broken adhere particularly well since they have the groove in the middle from the mandrel.

* I personally have used my beads to decorate my planters in two different ways.

~ I put white gravel over the top of the soil in a large planter, then added a few of my more colorful beads to make it more interesting.

~ I also used beads in a clear glass vase as support for a bamboo plant, which doesn't require soil. It made for a very colorful and interesting planter. I really enjoyed seeing people turn the vase to check out all of the different beads inside.

* Anything else you can think of....

If you are interested in either "Rasta Rings" or 'Craft Beads', please e-mail me directly by clicking the button on the left side of this page.

All glass art pieces are hand-made by me, using a surface mix torch and Italian glass. Each piece has been annealed in a digitally controlled kiln for strength and durability. All pieces have been cleaned and are free of bead release. Every piece is unique and one of a kind.