Inside the Beadworks

by D'Arsie Manzella

Usually when I invite someone into my studio my heart rate goes up and I start chattering on like a wild raving metal enthusiast explaining the workings of my machinery, the mold making process and even the composition of my metal alloy.

This will happen no matter the guest's vocation or interest. I just can't contain myself. I will inevitably treat their
visit as a college course they are not sure they signed up for. My friend will nod, smile and even exclaim "Oh!" or "Wow!" no doubt thinking that they have stumbled into the wrong classroom. The one with the crazy little animated professor.

But my blog reading
friends, I will spare you the lecture, I will remain calm and try not to hop around with excitement while giving you a small peek into my beadworks.



This is my workstation.
You see my molds stacked to the right,
my sweet sisters on the left
and the pile of work before me right now!
The Count helps me keep track of inventory.

Working here on a large order for Chautauqua Institution.
These are Bell Towers and Hall of Philosophy Pendants.
I grew up in this place and am so
honored to be able to do this project.

Inventory awaiting the grinding and the tumbling.


And me, myself in my super hot safety goggles.
Hey, safety is sexy.

I hope you're having a wonderful and
productive day in your own sacred studio space!