Tip 6: Classes

How do you learn?  If you are the kind of person that learns by reading, on the learning level, this blog may not appeal to you, but on the socializing tip...here are some options on how to save money on Classes...

Here in my neck of the woods, there are three beading shops that I visit consistently that offer classes... Nomadic Notions; Sea of Beads and Lapis Lane Beads. 

 

Option #1:  Limit yourself: Part of my beading budget includes classes or rather one class per month...if there happens to be more than one class that I really want to take, I have to decrement the beading money...never (well sometimes never) do I tap into the rest of my household budget.  Awesome interaction with other beaders!

 

Option 2:  youTube is my best friend...I've subscribed to my favorites, Karla Kams, Beadaholique or Off The Beaded Path (to name a few) so everytime they upload new videos I'm informed and I can go check them out from the comfort of my own home.  Saves of gas, beads (cause you know you buy beads when you get to the bead store) and "class" money.  Be prepared to hit pause a lot.

 

Option 3:  Beading Groups...  Two of these shops on a monthly basis offer what's called a Bead In or Bead Brunch.  This is where the store opens a couple of hours prior to normal business hours and us beaders can just bead and socialize.  These are free (some conditions may apply).  One of the shops require that you've at least taken one class with them to be eligible to participate in the bead in.  Great interaction with other beaders at different ability levels who just may very well teach you something just because.  If you happen to be in an area where you don't have a Bead Society or other beaders that you know of, you can start your own, like I did.  I started a meetup group at called the Jolly Jems.  At first the group started out at 5 people and now membership is up to 70+.  There are some members who are willing to teach a stitch, or design or something and this we typically do for free.  I organize my own meetings and trips and whatever else and those that are available to participate do so.

 

Happy Beading!!!!