Snowflakes and Spiders

The Christmas Spider ornament and legend is very popular around the holidays, much like the Christmas Pickle. One of my eldest sisters and I were beading tassels in the 1990s and she said I should try making one... and so I did and I never stopped. The ones I made that year and the next all sold out that following Christmas, along with my beaded grasshoppers. I made them lightly throughout the yea

rs, recently making them more along with other bugs such as bees, fireflies, praying mantis, ladybugs and more. Now I make them full time in the winter and stock up during the Spring and Summer seasons, selling most of them by Fall and Christmas again, although there are still collectors who buy them throughout the year. Etsy has been a big part of that. I’ve tried in-person craft shows but it mostly scares people with a lot of mean things to say. It also can be overwhelming to see all the designs so that’s why photos of them seem to work best. Although through a craft show I found out how much kids absolutely LOVE and ADORE them. One little girl came over with her money and handed it to me, didn’t say a word, picked up “her” spider smiling ear to ear and cupped it with both hands walking around with it up in the air like a prize possession, and I suppose it was! It was one of the most adorable things I’ve ever seen. My beaded spiders and bugs are different from the average, they have unique bodies, beads, and designs, unlike any others. They are all my own designs from my own artistic talent, inspired by the real thing in nature. I try to keep it fun and find something everyone can relate to. They can be turned into earrings and pendants, although they are delicate so keep that in mind. I love sharing my own handmade designs with all of you! All my beaded bugs come from a smoke-free, pet-free and fragrance-free home. Spider care: Keep out of direct sunlight for long periods of time. They may not recover from extreme weather conditions. Like all collectibles and jewelry, older children are great with them but avoid really young if they try to eat and/or choking hazard. Same with pets, be cautious around pets if they try to eat them. They should recover if you accidentally drop them but may have to lightly bend them back into shape (no guarantees on this as some have delicate glass and leg parts). Do not use harsh soaps or get wet. A light dusting will do fine and you should be able to enjoy your spiders for many years and many holidays. Yes, I really am a Charlotte’s Daughter ;) Love you, mom!