In 2003 I took my first jewelry making class and was immediately hooked. All of the
beautiful beads and design possibilities intrigued me. I began making bracelets for
friends and family and even sold a few here and there.
Then at a Christmas party later that year I met a woman (who is now one of my best
friends) and she was wearing the coolest bracelet. It had really funky beads that I
instantly fell in love with. She told me that they were called lampwork beads and that
she made them herself. I knew right then and there that she HAD to teach me how to do
that. So several weeks later she brought her little Hot Head torch to my house and
taught me how to play with fire. I only managed to make about 4 very wonky little beads
that afternoon, but I knew then that I had found a new addiction.
Well, many wonky beads later, here I am.
The name AlyDan comes from my two children, Alyssa and Danielle. Their sweet (and
often mischievous) spirits inspire me daily. I love that I have a profession that allows me
to work from home and spend time with my children. And maybe someday they will have
torches of their own. Hmmm.... now that's a scary thought.
And I still love to create jewelry using the lampwork beads that I make. And I hope you
love it too!
Cristy
