Thursday, February 9, 2012

Field Trip: Shipwreck Beads

While Mr. C may tease me about my craft stash and how excited I can get over a new product or technique, he is extremely supportive of my creative pursuits. He’s surprised me with trips to favorite places and understands when we travel that I’ll have a list of paper / bead / art supply stores wherever we go.

We had gorgeous weather last weekend and we decided to go for a drive. He asked “Do you want to go to your bead place” which is about 90 min away from us. “Bead place” sounds like it might be a nice little bead store right? WRONG! In this case, it refers to  bead Disneyland, aka Shipwreck Beads, a HUGE bead supplied located in Lacey, WA. I think they do most of their business online but they have a ginormous retail warehouse. So you know my answer was YES PLEASE!

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These pics don’t do the place justice.It’s located in a warehouse / office park and it's wall to wall beads, findings, packaging, etc. Gemstones, sterling, pewter, Czech fire polished, seed beads, wire, chain, tools, findings, you name it. If there’s something associated with beading or jewelry making they have it.

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I’m always overwhelmed whenever I go there because every time I’ve been they’ve added more.

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One thing I love is that whether you’re buying in bulk or for a specific project, they offer almost everything by the piece / strand to huge quantities.

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They even have an area where those not shopping can sit and wait, as well as a cafĂ© and espresso bar in case you’re there so long you need to refuel.

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It’s very easy to become overwhelmed but you will not leave empty handed. Of course I didn't!

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I stocked up on some things I’ll use all the time like jump rings, spacer beads, Jablonex and Preciosa crystals, and then a few things for a specific upcoming project. I’m good for a while!

5 comments:

Jocelyn said...

What a great guy to take you there just because:-) And what an awesome place to spend the day at!!! I can't wait to see the fun things you make with your loot!!!

Netty said...

wow that looks an awesome place and loving your buys. Look forward to seeing you use them in future projects. x

Our Hopeful Home said...

I've read about this place. Lucky you!

Michele {The Scrap Shoppe} said...

Wowza! That place looks like a dream! And what a dreamy hubs you have, too! :)

Unknown said...

That looks like an awesome place! I think I could definitely spend some time there ;)