I was introduced to making macrame in the late sixties by Ginger, owner of the Bead Basket, a small bead store in Waikiki. I was mesmerized by the variety of beautiful beads but completely daunted as to how to choose or use them.
While I was looking at the beads Ginger was taking careful note of the style of my clothes, my complexion, my hair, and the shape of my face. When I asked for help, she tactfully learned the level of my experience (none), helped me choose a focal bead, accents, findings, tools, and an easy and flattering design. Then she showed me how easy it was to make. Soon I was working part time at Ginger's shop and making macrame to sell there on consignment.
Seeing hundreds of customers try on the jewelry was my practical education in design. The experience taught me what was most flattering on different people...and what was in sync with their sense of style. It was such fun to watch them choose.
I was hooked. Within a year I was making jewelry for a living, and I always remembered what Ginger taught me: Make really beautiful things, but design them to be even more beautiful when worn.
