UK Beaders

My name is Sam and I have been making jewellery since Autumn 2006. I have to say that it has been one of the most inspiring and exciting crafts that I have undertaken because there are so many different skills and techniques to master. I am also fascinated by beautiful beads, particularly those that are unusual or vintage.
My creations have been inspired by so many things from the world around including the ocean, far away lands such as China, local architecture and botanical beauties from many places. This list is expanding rapidly as I seem to have more inspiration than time to create at the moment. Last year I attended my first lampwork glass bead class with Mike Poole from Tillerman beads and, earlier this year, I began making polymer clay beads. Both of these techniques have captivated me. I find the molten glass when lampworking absolutely mesmerising. Polymer clay fascinates me because it is such a versatile medium. The unpredictability of both techniques adds an element of excitement as you never know quite how the bead is going to turn out (even if this means it isn?t round!) More recently, I have learnt some enamelling techniques, which I also hope to pursue further.
I would like to say a big thank you to the forum members who voted for my "Melon Entry". I was overjoyed to win the challenge. This piece really reflects my insanity and desire to create beads from anything. It is constructed from a combination of melon seeds and the top of the bamboo canes that were supporting my tomato plants, with some very simple wire-wrapping. I had so much fun creating this piece.
I am currently in the process of setting up my own website at www.samanthalane.co.uk . It is very much under construction at the moment, but will hopefully evolve over the next few months.