A new project is starting to appear in my mind during the long winter nights.
Building a bead curtain with your custom jewellery and treasures from the charity shops in Newcastle upon Tyne and Whitley Bay is such a joyful, creative process! It combines the thrill of discovery with the art of crafting something truly unique. Every fragment you discover has a unique tale to tell, and when you combine them with your fishing line, they create a stunning tapestry of color, texture, and memories.
Look in your wardrobe for old coins and custom jewellery, and if not enough,start a search of treasures around the charity shops of your city.
Initially, I made the decision to use the vintage jewellery that I inherited from my mother, who got it from one of her uncles who was employed at a glass factory in Murano Island, Venice. But even if I found lots of beads, they were not enough for my project, so I decided to start a tour around Newcastle and Withley Bay. The charity shops in these areas are filled with hidden gems—vintage beads, quirky trinkets, and forgotten treasures that can be repurposed into your project. The joy comes in curating these items, finding just the right pieces that speak to you, and blending them with your custom designs. As you string each bead, you’re not just crafting a curtain; you’re weaving a personal narrative, where each strand holds moments of inspiration, whether from a delicate brooch found in Whitley Bay or a vibrant charm uncovered in Newcastle.
A personal narrative where each strand keeps a moment of inspiration.
It’s more than just a DIY project—it’s a creative journey that celebrates sustainability, artistry, and personal expression. Plus, every time you pass through the curtain, it brings back the joy of the process, reminding you of the stories embedded in every bead.
Patience and fantasy
In the whole process, you need to have patience and fantasy to mix at your best your beads.
Look at other people’s work, but remember that you have to make your own and not steal any ideas from other artists.
Thanks for reading
Laura Bernardeschi Nelson artworld and travels 