High Tide Beads

My mother is the beader in the family, and if I am being honest, I only went because of her. That being said, I was highly impressed. As someone who knows very little about the world of beading, seeing such a large selection of beads makes my head spin, but as I walked around I began to enjoy it. While my mom was having a blast hunting through the beads, I enjoyed looking at the ready made jewlery. It seemed like there was a little bit for everyone. Some of the designs were more elaborate, some with a global flair, and others with clean simple lines.
The owner is fantastic. I think he saw my deer in headlights look and kindly helped me design a necklace inspired by one he created (how many craftsman would do that?). As we were leaving my mom spotted some beautiful large glass beads on the counter and was enamoured. We found out that the owner, Steven, had MADE them. They were so lovely. The one my mother fixate on was filled with the color of the sea: blues, greens, and cream like the sand. Despite my prodding my mother did not want to treat herself, (she never does :) so the next day my husband and I went back to get it for her. Not only did I walk out with one of Steven’s beautiful beads, but he helped me custom design a necklace that frames and compliments the bead perfectly. And as I have NO talent in the beading area, he put it all together for me. I walked out with a unique, custom designed, gorgeous piece of neck art for my mother. The only trick is not giving it to her until her anniversary 9months away!!! It is already killing me. I am also hoping she does not Unilocal!
So here I am pontificating about a bead store and I am not in any way a beader, so this alone should tell you something. Give it a shot, maybe you will find a new talent, see something ready made you love, or commission a custom piece. Oh, he has classes. Had I been here longer I would have taken one myself. Sounds like it would be fun.

I took the basic earring making class at High Tide Beads this past week. Great class! I have been beading for years, but the techniques I learned will elevate my work from «looks good, very pretty» to «Where did you buy those?» Steve is very patient and encouraging, and makes sure you have the techniques down pat. He also answered many questions I had on choosing materials, etc.
The shop also has a great selection of any beads or findings you may be looking for, and Steve also adds in his own creations. I also picked out a beautiful larimar stone and had Steve custom wire it into a pendant. There’s also a class for that… next time!