It's all about the Bead
 

    For the past three years, Trinidad native Camilla Campbell has been known as the bead lady. It's been an amazing ride since purchasing Curly's Bead Emporium from a very dear friend, Audrey. Since then, Camilla and husband, Jerry, joined the amazing world of beading and have met a fascinating group of people. "I've made so many new friends in Trinidad," says Camilla, "and other people from out of state that keep coming back, have also become good friends."

    Every year during February, one of the largest bead shows in the nation is held in Tucson. "It's always exciting to bring home new beads and merchandise. We enjoy traveling to different places to discover unique beads, findings, and other items to stock the store. Likewise, we plan to visit Pennsylvania and Wisconsin this year for bead shows. Learning new ideas is always so satisfying, and there are so many new and exiting ideas in this business right now. It's great to observe and learn, or take classes, while attending the shows."

  Curly's has a large selection of cultured pearls, fresh water pearls, Czech glass beads, cloisonné and Murano beads, semi-precious stones, turquoise, coral, Swarovski crystals, Balinese and Hill Tribe Silver, African trade beads and many original pendants from around the world. There's also a large selection of tools, wire, stringing material and findings in silver, copper and brass. Also featured are beautiful copper pendants from local artist John Finch, along with some amazing glass beads, ceramic and metal pendants from other talented Colorado artisans. "When I have time, I enjoy making my own metal beads to sell," says Camilla. She can also repair your mom's old jewelry that has come apart, whether it's to re-string a pearl necklace or just put a new clasp on an existing piece.

Several different classes are offered. "Occasionally, we have an instructor come from Colorado Springs to show us the latest technique," says Camilla. "But our local instructors are Shawn Bazanele, who teaches the peyote and chevron stitch; Jean Iuppa is teaching the fascinating chain maille — and we just can't get enough; and Heather Baca teaches bead caging." Camilla teaches a beginners class of stringing and wire wrapping. All of these ladies have their own styles and techniques and do things differently from each other. "We would love to get you all hooked," says Camilla, "and we have a great many laughs while beading." At Curly's, you can always find something to make. Stop in any time to see what's new in the bead world, or to share ideas and visit. Business hours are from 9:30 a.m.. to 5:00 p.m. Monday thru Friday and 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Saturday. Call to schedule a class.