Pay It Forward

As many of you know, part of the reason I opened a bead store was to support one of my favorite charities with a portion of the profits.  Well, I had a most unusual visit from a supplier last week, and was stunned to learn that they, too, donate a portion of their profits to a relief and development organization.  Knowing that I would be helping human beings around the world procure basic necessities, I did some procuring myself!  There were beautiful daggers . . .

and some wonderful leaves . . .

and beautiful flowers . . 

and some really wild lentils with all types of picasso finishes that I didn't get a photo of!  


So pay it forward.  By buying beads at City Beads, you can become part of a positive social movement.  A percentage of your purchase will be used to improve the lives of your fellow citizens all over the world.  How's that for a great excuse to buy beads?

Everything's Coming Up Tulips!

I know the song is Everything's Coming up Roses, but that's not what's happening.  And it's not these kind of tulips . . .

It's these kind of tulips . . .

Yes, there's a new kid in town.  First, beautifully uniform seed beads.  Then, great synthetic thread, and now the Japanese have developed a fabulous beading needle.  The new Tulip Beading Needles are flexible but  springy.  They'll fit into tight places, but won't become "S" shaped or "C" shaped after multiple uses.  The needle's eye is easy to  thread (10 lb. Fireline fits into the size 13 needle).  The tips are slightly rounded to fit more easily into beads and won't  split Nymo, Silamide or One G.  The size 13 needle with thread will pass through a size 15 seed bead 5 times!  Reports from beaders who've used these new puppies report less hand fatigue, easy threading and a smoother beading experience.  

The BEST news -- City Beads will soon be the exclusive store in the midwest to carry these wonderful needles.  They're due in sometime in the next few weeks, so call to stock up before Bead and Button!

Happy Mother's Day!

To all the wonderful mothers out there, my best wishes for a Happy Mother's Day!

May your day be filled with laughter and love.

  May your children provide you with a source of comfort, inspiration and pride.  

And every once in a while, may the kids give you a break to do some beading!!!