Sometimes I feel like every piece of jewelry I own is the same style, color, or material, and that I can never find anything unique in my search through the Charlotte stores. But when I found Beads Inc., I realized that instead of buying more of the same jewelry, the solution was to start making my own.
Beads Inc. is a craft-enthusiasts dream. Not only can you buy trendy, high quality jewelry, but you can create your own bracelets, necklaces, and earrings with the help of instructors. Beads Inc. allows the customer to become the buyer and the supplier, offering free instruction for anyone looking to design their own pieces. But don’t be deterred if you aren’t into crafting — you can buy already finished pieces as well.
A Charlotte staple since 2001, Beads Inc is in their second year at their new location on Providence Road. The walls of the new building are plastered with assorted strands of jewels, and baskets of tassels, stones, clasps, and chains sit in baskets throughout the store. Natural light fills rooms with big windows and hardwood floors, creating a fresh working environment for the budding stylist.
You begin the design process by taking a basket and roaming the two-story store.
Collecting the jewels, clasps, gems, and wires that catch your eye. You can choose from an endless variety of gold, silver, and colored strands of metal and stone necklaces. Then, you take a seat at long wooden tables and begin to assemble your masterpiece. Beginners are welcome and are readily assisted by instructors.
The best part about Beads Inc. is that it allows each customer to shop and create on their own budget. The supplies are labeled with prices, and you only have to pay for the pieces that you choose to use, allowing you to sift through high and low price items. Beads Inc. helps you assemble a product that fits what you want (and what you are willing to pay for).
Beads Inc. also offers classes
If you’re looking for in-depth instruction, or perhaps are considering jewelry making as a hobby, Beads Inc. offers different levels of instructive classes.
Classes range from Open Basics 101 to skill based guidance that teach anything from silk knotting and Kumihimo (braiding thread) to wire wrapping bangles. Basics 101 is offered every Tuesday from 4:30 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., and the other classes can be scheduled with a reservation.
All classes are complimentary; you will only be charged for the price of the supplies that you choose. Beads Inc. also offers private events as well as jewelry repair services.
Maybe a fun DIY trend to try this summer.
