This July, I had the absolute joy of serving as a guest ambassador for International Beading Week — and what a celebration it was! As the creative force behind On A String, I’ve always believed in the power of beads to bring people together, spark imagination, and make art accessible to all. Being invited to represent this vibrant global community felt like a true honour.
Throughout the week, I shared my 'Starfish Earrings' tutorial, playing on the theme of the animal kingdom and sharing my year long project, creating the IBW Girls - 12 beaded dolls, creating one each month in specific colours of the IBW logo - and the response was incredible — messages from fellow bead lovers around the world reminded me just how universal the joy of making can be.
One highlight was hosting a live Q&A where I featured a 'Design on the Fly' session supported by Michelle from Beadworx in Queensland, with a special pack of beads in the IBW colours. It showed how to turn “oops” moments into design magic. I also unveiled a few new tools I’ve been developing to make beading easier and more intuitive — stay tuned for more on that!
International Beading Week isn’t just about beads — it’s about connection, curiosity, and celebrating the handmade. I’m so proud to have played a small part in this year’s festivities, and I’m endlessly grateful to the organizers and community for the warm welcome.
Whether you’re stringing your first bracelet or dreaming up your next masterpiece, I hope this week reminded you: creativity is always within reach — one bead at a time.