In January I had the pleasure of meeting Deb Mayne and Lynn Sawyer. Deb is a lampworker who had contacted me to see if I was interested in looking at her beads. When I responded that I’d love to see her work, she told me about her friend who makes chainmaille, and asked if I’d like to meet her as well.
Of course!
I met two very talented beaders on a sunny day, and immediately knew I’d made two new friends. I added many of Deb’s lampworked beads to the case, and I asked Lynn if she’d like to teach a couple of classes in beginning chainmaille. She graciously agreed!
There are two classes scheduled. The first is Saturday, March 12th from 1:00 to 3:00, and there is only one space left. The second class is scheduled for Saturday, April 16th from 1:00 to 3:00. There are three spaces available in the second class. Visit Dancing Beads’ website for more information.
I’ve wanted to try my hand at chainmaille for some time, so I’ve signed up for one of the classes! I’m really looking forward to trying my hand at this beautiful art form.
Here are Lynn’s responses to the interview questions I sent her.
Dancing Beads:: We’ve just met, and are at a point in our conversation when you describe who you are. So, who are you?
Lynn:: I’m Lynn Sawyer, born and schooled in Southern Oregon and returned here to live about 12 years ago. I’m a happy, easy going person who loves to create pretty things. I’ve been artistic since I can remember and have enjoyed many different things. Now that I’m retired I have all the time I want to work on my projects.
Dancing Beads:: When talking to others, how do you describe your bead art?
Lynn:: For the purpose of these classes I’d describe my work as chainmaille. I enjoy mixing chainmaille with beading.
Dancing Beads:: In what ways does your bead work reflect your personality?
Lynn:: I never thought of my work as a reflection of my personality but as I think about it I guess my patience does come in handy when connecting rings one at a time.
Dancing Beads:: On average, how many hours per week do you devote to your bead passions?
Lynn:: When I’m working on a project I’ll work 10 or more hours a day, if not, I work about 6 hours a day.
Dancing Beads:: Any beading weaknesses?
Lynn:: My beading weakness comes with making my own beads and I also find wire wrapping a challenge. I enjoy doing it but I waste a lot of wire.
Dancing Beads:: What do you like about teaching beading classes?
Lynn:: What I enjoy the most about teaching classes is meeting the students and sharing their delight in learning something new. I like sharing what I know as well as learning new things from the students.
Dancing Beads:: Where do you bead? Do you have a special place?
Lynn:: I work in my craft room when I’m doing regular beading. If I’m working on chainmaille I sit on my couch and work on the coffee table.
Dancing Beads:: Just for fun… what is your favorite…
- Dessert:: Pineapple upside down cake.
- Clothing:: denim shirt and sweat bottoms
- Movie:: can’t think of any
- Vacation spot:: Ambergris Keys, Belize
- Color:: yellow
- City:: Miami
- Musical style:: Blues and rock & roll
- Holiday:: 4th of July
Lynn went on to say::
I’ve enjoyed doing many crafts from artistic welding to wood carving to knitting. I discovered jewelry making about five years ago when I was talked into taking a watch making class with a friend. I was immediately hooked! I even went to work in the bead store where the class was held. I gained a wealth of knowledge there and eventually started teaching classes.
About three years ago I found chainmaille. I wanted to make a Byzantine bracelet I saw in a beading magazine. It was no easy task, but I finally figured it out. Since then I’ve learned quite a few different patterns and started working beads into some pieces.
I’m looking forward to the classes and I’m getting the kits ready as well as all the written instructions. I plan the first classes to teach the basic Byzantine. I chose this pattern because it’s challenging and makes a lovely bracelet. I won’t spend time explaining all the scientific information of the different metals, but I will give information on where to find it.
In addition to making great bracelets, Lynn also makes wonderful earrings. She has consigned five pair of earrings to the shop. Check them out the next time you’re in… they’re unique, colorful, and very affordable!
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