I've been a beadmaker for 13 years. For the last year I have been in a bead slump, in other words my mojo is gone. There is nothing there...nada, zip, no thing! I've tried new ideas and resurrected old ones. Neither method has been exciting for me. In the "old days" beadmaking was profitable, which is necessary if a beadmaker wants to continue to buy supplies. The market is now flooded by a variety of beadmakers. Many far more talented than I will ever be, but also with some very inferior beadmakers that sell their beads for a pittance. I think it's time to step away. I'm discouraged and honestly I'm tired of trying to make the silver glasses sing. That combined with the fact that no one in the glass industry has ever come up with a decent pink glass has driven me over the edge, but truthfully I was way too close in the first place. This past year has presented many challenges to me. Some I've been successful in meeting head on, however, others have changed me. I have a show in Nov. that I will do. I'm going to give it until after Christmas. I have some new things I am going to try, and maybe I will paint again.... it's time for a cool change........http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9bKwRW0l-Qk
Nov. 2014 This week I got an unexpected health diagnosis. It kind of knocked my socks off. It also took away my ability to make beads anymore. So I am changing my blog. I am sure I will write about beads sometimes. I have a whole studio to part with, but I have health issues that are much more important and I want to share my thoughts and challenges on this blog. I hope you will come along with me and share your words of wisdom or encouragement.
I understand. I've been at it for a little over 16 yrs. Not to the same extent as you - never sold online - but I can feel myself winding down.
ReplyDeleteThe two galleries that handle my stuff sell very little.
My twice-yearly open houses do well but even that has lost its appeal.
My next open house is in Nov.; we'll have to touch base and see how we're feeling after Nov., eh?
Ok it's a deal, we will re-evaluate in Nov. I think I'm going to try felted objects next. Don't tell HB, he becomes overwhelmed at the very idea of new projects!
ReplyDeleteAt least you have a plan - melting glass is the only thing I've ever been any good at - and I've tried several things over the years.
DeleteMaybe I'll take up "soap operas." haha
Dear Harriet,
ReplyDeleteI'm glad that I got my beads while you were still working.
Maybe you will go back to quilting.
Take good care of yourself.
Mary C.