Mmmmm . . . Bead Expo

Interweave‘s Bead Expo is happening in Portland through Sunday, and it’s a great time for those of us who love the sparkly stuff.

There are so many booths that resemble this one – literally piles and piles of beads, and hanks and hanks hanging on walls, and tubes and tubes in racks. The explosion of color and texture – well, WOW. (This display is from Raven’s Journey, who were kind enough to let me photograph the bead-bounty.)

. . . And so many interesting techniques on display. This is Carol Goodwin, who does Japanese Kumihimo braiding with beads. Her work is just lovely! You can see an online gallery here. I think those braiding stands are amazing – still haven’t played with the kids’ model I scored at the last supply swap.

This would be Booth #240, Buttons! and Unbuttons. If you’re local, and you love buttons, you should stop by this weekend – Linda has amazing things and really good prices.

I also had fun chatting with Marlene and Leslie of Interweave. Leslie did a fun demo this afternoon of her beaded O-ring pendant, from the current issue of Step by Step Beads. And Marlene was signing copies of her Create Jewelry books. Both ladies will be repeating these sessions on Saturday and Sunday, so you can stop by and say hello.

If you’re headed to the show this weekend, Portlanders, you can find a schedule of classes here. There will also be demos and book signings throughout Saturday and Sunday.

If you’re not in P-Town, well, this show travels, and will be hitting Phoenix, Philly, and Miami next.

If you’re around on Saturday afternoon, I’ll be hanging out in my uber-talented friend Laura‘s booth for a while. Come say hi!