The pleasure of beading

Almost everybody have a hobby that interest them. We all try different things. At first I've done the collecting hobby for different type of objects. From clowns, to pencils and miniature toys.

Then I started developing a love for making bead bracelets. Just the simple seed beads that you put on a string.

I don't actually remember when I started buying bigger and prettier beads or when I started taking on more complicated projects.

Now when I look at my collection, I feel quite proud. I've developed this hobby into something that gives me great pleasure and I've actually managed to sell quite a few of my items.

And I've actually managed to collect a wide variety of shapes colours and sizes. It is amazing how many different types you get.

I think my biggest dream would be to walk into one of the big beadshops or manufacturers and have a budget of say a R2 000.00 and just be able to buy as many beads as I can without having to worry about how much it's going to cost me.

And looking at the jewellery I make, I think I have my own unique style. My boss's houseworker came into the shop this week and saw a few of my jewellery pieces that I was busy making and I could tell she truly appreciated my work.

She described it as a talent and a gift and she said that I could actually teach other people how to do this and I could make a lot of money in doing so.

I gave her one of my necklaces and she was over the moon.

The big smile and friendly hug from her was such a rewarding feeling. And it felt good to make someone elses day by such a small gesture.

But the thing is, while this is a hobby and I do it for relaxation, it is still fun and enjoyable. The moment something becomes work or just another job, it's not that fun anymore.

But I do like it when people appreciate my "pieces" and buy it. A bit of extra money on the side is always welcome.

I wish I had the confidence to approach gift shops to find out if they would be interested in selling my stuff.

But somehow I'm always scared of being shot down or that they might not like my stuff at all. To me they are all special. Because they are all handmade with love by myself.

I will be sending some of my stuff to my fiancée's mom. She has a stall at the local market. I guess I will find out soon enough whether it will be flying of the shelf or not.

Well, this is all I have for today.

May all of you find your special hobby which will inspire you to write about it!