I am a retired school administrator who started knitting as a child. Most of the women in my family are knitters, including my grandmother, mother, aunt, and cousin. As long as I can remember, I've knitted. My current work knitted bead jewelry began in May 2007 when I learned the beaded ball knitting technique. For me, it's been addictive, and I've become happily obsessed with the challenges it presents.

The necklaces are knit with fiber and seed beads and then grafted around a wooden bead. The choice of fiber sets some limitations since it must be strong, resilient, and capable of being strung through a size six seed bead. One of the most interesting aspects of this project is experimenting with new fibers. Pair that with finding new shapes of wooden beads and then implementing the technique to cover them in fiber, and you have what seems to be a never-ending source of exploration.

In designing my work, I believe my greatest strength is in putting together the color combinations. I now have approximately 60 fibers and several hundred seed beads from which to choose. The permutations are endless. Seeing a final design implemented, whether it's a change of fiber, color, shape, or arrangement, is an ongoing source of satisfaction.

When I walk into a room or store wearing a piece of my work, I frequently hear the comment, "Great necklace!" I usually take it off, hand it to the individual, and respond, "I knitted it." My best compliment? An expression of wonderment!

jaymlawl@comcast.net