Encouraging others to learn

Over the past few weeks I have made a lot of new friends through the magical world of Facebook and blog land.

Due to this blog and my Releases by Rufydoof Facebook page being predominently bead related the majority of these new friends are fellow beaders.

What I've noticed about these new friends is that they are also new beaders...fresh to the beading world.

I remember entering the beading world way back in 2003 when I started out making very simple strung pieces. I was overwhelmed at how many different beads were available, slowly learning what tiger wire and crimps were and along the way asking lots of questions of my sister-in-law who introduced me to my new obsession.

Taking on anything new can be extremely overwhelming and at times intimidating. Sometimes if you aren't given guidance, assistance not to mention encouragement along the way some things in life are very easy to give up on.

What am I leading to?

I would like to create a beading group to

assist and encourage new beaders and established beaders alike.

No matter how experienced we are I think each and every one of us always has something new to learn.

What will the group involve?

A group that encourages beaders to step out of their comfort zone by learning new stitches and techniques and tackling patterns and projects that they would normally admire but not dare attempt.

Each month a project will be chosen and those in the group will make the piece and then share their creations.

We can discuss stitches and/or patterns we would like to try.

I can choose the project or we can take it in turns...it's up to you!

We can choose patterns from magazines such as Bead & Button and Beadwork or patterns from books that we all might own (no purchased patterns).

You don't have to have a blog to take part but a Facebook page would be handy so that you can share photos of what you have made.

With the permission of those taking part I will then share the photos of everyone's creations each month on my blog and Facebook page.

The group will be a great way to make some new friends, meet other beaders and increase your beading skills with the support and encouragment of other beaders.

The group will be all about fun so please don't feel there is any pressure to take part each month or to meet any strict deadlines.

What inspired me to think of such a group?

I would like to, I guess in a sense, repay all of the wonderful people that have helped me along the path of my beading journey so far.

In addition, last week I met a lovely beader, Christine. She commented on my Dragon Bangle I was working on and said she too wanted to make it. I told her I had had a few dramas with the piece and that if she had any problems I'd be happy to help her out. We have been chatting ever since.

Since that first conversation she too has made a Dragon Bangle. Christine told me that she is "still learning" and how much she appreciated my offer of help and it took me back to how many people helped me when I was first starting out.

I think this group will be a great motivator for everyone...including myself!

So.... if you are interested please express your interest here or contact me via my Facebook page!

I look forward to sharing this journey of creativity with you!

♥