First Ever EBW Spring Swap

Twenty-one members of my Etsy team, Etsy Beadweavers, decided to treat each other with a swap of beadwoven designs.  We each completed a questionaire on likes, dislikes, wrist and ring sizes, etc. and submitted them to the organizer of the swap, Christine of Christine's Beadwork.  Then we received the name of the member for whom we were to design a jewelry item.  We had no idea who had who's name and were not to reveal this until April 15.  When I received my "swappee's" name, I have to admit I was a bit intimidated.  It was Karin Alisa Houben, a very accomplished beader who has been designing for over 20 years, actually studied art, and has had her work shown in major fashion magazines not to mention has sold it to some very famous people!  You can see her beautiful work on Etsy at Gypsy Eyes Jewelry.  Here I am, an ordinary, self-taught, midwestern country girl.  But Karin mentioned she had never tried Russian leaf stitch and I Love Russian leaf stitch.  In fact, I love anything with a leaf motif, so I decided that's what I would do.  Evidently, it was a good decision, because Karin wrote that she loved her "wonderfully big and bohemian" earrings.  I was so glad!

Karin's Earrings

Then today it was my turn.  I received my swap package in the mail and when I read the return address, I was really excited.  The team member who had my name was Marcie Abney of La Bella Joya!  Marcie does just beautiful work and I have admired her style since she became a member of EBW.  When I opened my package, I was in no way disappointed.  She designed a bracelet just for me using the name of my shop as inspiration.  And of course, she used my favorite color - purple!! 

My bracelet.  Isn't it awesome?

This swap was so much fun.  I hope we can do it again.  If you'd like to see what the other swap participants received, you can go to Christine's blog.  She made a wonderful photo collage and linked everyone's Etsy shop or blog.