| Karole Conaway | |
Welcome to Spotlight Artist on Beadwork.About.com
This week, our guest is Karole Conaway, author of Beaded Butterflies and list owner of the new Yahoo Groups list
Self Publishing Support , where beaders who are interested in help-publishing their
own works can get together for lots of help and advice. If you have considered writing a book, check out this great group. And don't miss the
terrific tutorial on making a Spiral Button. One of the cutest (and most useful) things I've seen in a long time. Karole has offered us a chance to see some of her stunning
Finished Work that uses the Spiral Button along with many other beautifully executed beading
techniques. So cool! Thank you very much, Karole, for being our Spotlight Artist.
Now, for a word from Karole:
The arts and creating things have been a part of my life for as long as I can remember. I first exhibited my work at the age of 7 with my own exhibit
table, pegboard display racks and French beret!
My first introduction to beads was in the 60's, but at the time our relationship was doomed because of the scarcity of supplies in my area. Then, 10
years ago, I rediscovered the joy of gemstone bead stringing and silver smithing. I was in a bead shop checking out the gemstone beads and findings
when the sparkle and diversity of colors in a display of seed beads grabbed a hold of me. Since then, I have been a true addict of off-loom weaving.
My first book,
Beaded Butterflies is completed and for sale on my Web site
The Glass Butterfly. Currently, I am completing an instruction and pattern packet that will help a
beader combine certain stitches and components to create their own, original designs. I am also preparing to teach some classes at my 2 local bead
stores and growing a garden of beaded flowers (my newest passion).
I have 3 grown children, 2 growing grand children and 3 cats. My 11 year old granddaughter shows signs of joining me in my addiction. She loves making
memory wire bracelets, has learned the spiral rope and is trying to master peyote.
Next to motherhood, my primary role for the past 20 years was being a registered nurse, but chronic illness has removed me from that profession.
Hopefully, my primary role for the next 20 years will be as a member of the bead arts community.
