About Our Art
My fascination with glass beads started in the mid 90’s. I began visiting local bead shops and trade shows purchasing any unusual glass beads that I could find and turning them into unique pieces of jewelry. I seemed to be drawn to the bold colors. I started selling my pieces to friends and at local high school craft shows. By the late 90’s it seemed that everyone was buying beads and making jewelry. I wanted to be different and stand apart from everyone else. With the encouragement of close friends, I enrolled in a four week glass bead making class. After the first class I was hooked – I did not want to leave the studio. There were opportunities during the week to come back to the studio and practice making beads and I spent every available moment there. I used the time to experiment with different colors and techniques. I found working with molten glass so mesmerizing that I decided that I wanted to purchase my own torch and kiln so that I could work from home whenever I had time. I have had the opportunity to attend glass bead making seminars with internationally known bead makers to learn new techniques.
When purchasing my own equipment I decided that I would purchase a kiln large enough that would allow me the opportunity to work with other types of glass. While taking my bead classes I observed students fusing glass and I decided to take a stab at that. I first bought some scrap pieces and began experimenting with small fused pins and pendants. I was particularly partial to dichroic glass because of the bright colors. The small pins and pendants turned into small dishes which then turned into large plates. I also liked experimenting by incorporating pieces of fine silver to my fused pieces.
Whether I am flame-working or fusing, the possibilities when working with glass are endless.
Designz by Wendy
Wendy Harris
12970 Nancy Lee Drive
St. Louis, MO 63146
314-576-5537
e-mail Designz by Wendy
www.designzbywendy.com
Short Description:
Handmade glass bead jewelry and accessories