Addicted to interesting beads and cool supplies? Keen on getting a sea of inspiration while finding new friends? Curious about a new beading technique or want to get more experience in one? :) Then you just might want to take a beading class!

You will get the chance to learn the skills from someone experienced working your technique, without killing yourself in the process! When taking a beading class you develop more and better beading skills at the same time as you find friends among the cool bead addicts in your area.

1. What is your goal? 
   Figure out if you want to focus on a specific project or a technique. Many classes offer both, but you might not be able to finish your project in one sitting. Look for a class description, it should let you know what you can expect to learn in each session.
2. Do research.
   Visit the instructors web site to find more information about his/her experience and approach. Sometimes there is an e-mail address provided so you can contact the instructor if you have questions about the class. Join the mailing list, then you always know what is going on and when your favorite classes will be.
3. Check your skills.
   Are you familiar with the techniques you’ll need, or can you learn before class? You can often take an intermediate class as a beginner; but make sure you understand what is necessary knowledge-wise, and make sure you’re not depending on instructors help at every step.
   
4. Consider supplies.
   Be sure to check whether the supplies are provided in the class or wether you are expected to bring your own. Supplies for a beginner project may cost less than $10, while supplies for an advanced project could be $100 or more.

Where to find my beading class?

Bead stores
Consider taking a class at your local bead store. If the class is small, you’ll receive lots or personal attention which is perfect if you’re new to the hobby. Smaller classes also mean that the instructor can accommodate the skill levels and questions of the students.

Bead shows
Attend a bead show to take classes. Bead shows have a competitive selection process for classes, so they typically attract a vareity of instructors. As a bonus, you’ll get to meet people from around the world. A good way to know more about the classes in advance is to order a show catalog. They are fun because they describe what you will learn in each class and show pictures of the projects.

With a friend
Why not ask a friend who masters what you want to learn? No matter if you get a yes or no, it can never hurt to ask. That’s also a good way to get to know you friend better, maybe you can exchange information in beading techniques in the future? That’s a win – win situation for everyone! It might also be a good alternative when you want to keep down the expenses.

Don’t hesitate to sign up for a class, you will se that it’s greatly rewarding to learn something new. Wherever you decide to take your beading class, ask your questions, make friends and enjoy the creative atmosphere!

Related posts:

1. 8 Steps To Better Beading
2. Finding Beading books
3. Jewelry pliers, tools for beading
4. 5 Tips for Beading Under Pressure
5. Craft & Bead Organizer is Essential!