Below are questions that we get all the time in our store, so we decided to include them here on our website!  If you have other questions, please feel free to contact me at lionlady2@aol.com  or call (360)588-6994. 

Marsha

Can I make jewelry in the store anytime I visit?

We have a wonderful beading area that we invite you to use anytime, unless we have a class or party going on!  The lighting is great and we have basic tools for you to use, free of charge!  The best part is that if you find you need something immediately for your project, supplies are at your fingertips!

What if I don’t know how to bead?

Our top suggestion is to take our Basic Beading Classes which are scheduled a few times a month. These classes teach you about selecting the appropriate beads, beading wire, crimps and tools.  We have a basic stringing class for making a strung bracelet (these techniques carry over into making anklets and necklaces, too!).  We also offer a basic earring or wirework class which covers using headpins to make bead dangles and attaching them to earwires to create earrings. These classes are just $15.00 each and you will learn the basics of jewelry-making!

What if I am only in the area for a short visit and cannot make it to a class?

If a class is not being taught and there are not too many people in the store, one of us usually will be able to help you learn how to attach a clasp to a bracelet or necklace. But, please understand that we must service the customers at the register first and you may have to wait for assistance. The best way to get individual help is to take a class.

What is Memory Wire?

Memory Wire is a springy steel wire used for making beaded jewelry.  Here at Anacortes Beads, we sell two sizes. The smallest size is for rings and wine charms.  The other size is for bracelets. You can not change the size of the wire. It has “memory” and returns to the shape it started with.  Memory wire is usually used for wrap around styles so it does not need a clasp.

Do you teach Classes?

Yes! Yes! And Yes! And we love to do it!  Please see our class schedule for a list of our current classes. If there is something else you are looking for in a class, please send an email to me at lionlady2@aol.com, call (360) 588-6994 or stop by the store!

Do you teach Group Classes?

Yes, we have several different classes that we can teach for a group.  We really enjoy hosting groups and will work with you any way we can to make your event a success! We have had many different groups here, including Birthday Parties, Ladies of Harley, Church groups, Mother/Daughter classes, Foreign Exchange students, Red Hat Ladies, Tennis Clubs, and many more! (Special Group rates are available.)

Where do your beads come from?

All over the world!  We have contacts from all over the United States, as well as South Africa, Magadscar, Czechoslavakia, China, Austria, Mexico and many more places!!  We also travel to many places to search out the best quality and most unique beads and findings. We try our best to find interesting and unique pieces at very affordable prices.

Do you carry Sterling Silver beads and findings?

Yes, we have a very large selection of Sterling Silver  findings.  We want to offer you the best there is for your projects.  We also offer less expensive silver plate and base metal findings, including yellow, white, copper and gunmetal findings.

Is your store Wheelchair-Accessible?

Yes, our store is all on one level and our classroom space and restrooms are also wheelchair-accessible.

If a few of my friends want to come in to bead together, is that O.K.?

Yes!  We recommend that you book a "private party" just to make sure that the classroom is not being used for a class or another party.  We would love to have you and your group here at the store!  We also have all types of parties and we will try to accommodate any special requests that you might have!