[Karen Hardy]

Originally Posted by bead crazy

I can't think of anything that I could teach that someone else does not know how to do. I had thought of doing viking knit but SOMEONE is teaching that as a class. I am scared shitless.

I'M that someone. I'm teaching viking knit, but if that's what you
feel comfortable demonstrating, then go RIGHT ahead! It's really ok - because
your demo is only 20 min or so long, so you'll just be showing people the
basic steps. They won't really be able to DO it. My class will be several hours
long and they will all be participating. So you see, it's really night and day.
It like the difference between a commercial for Bowflex, and actually having
it in your home and working out with it clear as mud?

Originally Posted by Bead_lover

Karen, this thread is a great idea!!
I think what I worry about most is doing something so many have done before that everyone is bored to death - but then, if I'm lucky and have someone well known doing a demo at the same time (like you did) it won't be a problem

There are everyone from pros to solid newbies here. You might THINK that
showing how to make a square bead, or a nice twistie is overdone, but I
guarantee you that there will be people there that have never pulled a
stringer before (or are looking for a new way to do it). Don't undersell
yourself.

Also, we are all REALLY a bunch of freaking cheerleaders. As much fun as it
is to watch, say, Kimberly make a seahorse bead, it's also a lot of fun
watching someone who is really new show us how THEY make a simple
bead. We've ALL been there - and it's an honor to let us watch your
method for laying down nice dots, or making a raised flower bead.
Even little things, like "your secret for making lots of beads the
same size" are great!

Did you just donate what you demo'd or did you add some other "stuff" to your donation?

I do have another question, since you've been so nice and are trying to help us - what about the "donations" for the suppliers? If we do mostly beads, do we need to do several for each donation, or does it need to be made into jewelry???

Thanks, Melody

We all donate beads. You can go the extra mile and try and use the glass
from the mfg (like Glass Alchemy, CIM, anyone else participating), but mostly
the mfg are really glad to get beads from us for their personal collections.
Don't overstress about it. Just pick out some really pretty ones that you
like and make sure you have all the info (your name, your info, the type of glass used). Easy peasy.

I will add that - the items you donate to the raffles (if you are going to do
that) - you should do what your specialty is. If you like to make stringers, you can donate a handful of twisties. I like to make pendants, and this year
I have a collaborative piece (although he doesn't know it yet ). People donate everything from fused items to overnight stays at their condos. If you
make potholders or aprons - then heck, pick up some flame fabric and sew away! Also if you make oils and lotions, donate a basket!