Fall Sea Star Earrings, enameled and glass beads, metal rings, Lotus Blossom Earrings, Princess’s Trinket Necklace, assorted Czech glass beads with metal accents

Joan Wenzel has been a crafter since she was a little girl – she learned to sew when she was 8 years old and is still sewing – but now sewing with beads, beads, beads.

As a jewelry designer she works with Japanese seed beads, Czech glass, semi-precious stones, crystals and handmade lamp work beads (which she and other local artisans have made) sterling silver and other metals.

She has worked at the Bead Hive (the state’s premier bead store/studio) in Guilford for 18 years and teaches classes there. Some of her creations can be found at the store and at many local craft fairs. Her work can also be seen at Spectrum Gallery in Centerbrook, CT.

Joan is inspired by nature, color and emotions.And, there is a tiny bit of gypsy in her soul.