About three years ago I saw a Barbara McLean doll on the back of a magazine and had one  
of those moments, where everything in me knew I just had to try.  Shorty after I searched the
internet and found some very inspiring and helpful sites, and some incredibly kind and        
generous people.  I've listed a few here.
None of this could be possible if I hadn't had the divine good fortune to walk into the little
church of beads, The Bead Garden, in Silverdale, WA.  There I was nurtured by Libby
and Gayle and others, who continue to cheer me on, support me, and to lift my spirits
when I don't feel like I have anything left in me to create.  Thank you, thank you, thank
you, and "Hello, Dahling!"
Megan Noel has amazing work and has been very generous in helpful hints with me.
Her work can be found at
www.megannoel.com
Robin Atkins has inspired and taught many bead artists.  Her website includes some
wonderful free helpful hints as well as Rosie, the chicken, which was a major inspiration to
me.  Her work can be found at:
www.robinatkins.com
Many of the patterns for the art doll bodies that I use came from Rhonda Kivett's
wonderful website, where she graciously shares free patterns and tips, as well as selling
kits for beaded art dolls.  You can also find an inspirations gallery there too.
www.kivett-studio.com
Almost all of the faces that I use are polymer clay cabs, created by Linda Clink.  She sells
her work on e-bay, and her seller name is Linsart.  She has new work almost daily, and is
just terriffic to work with.  
Thom Atkins is a sculpter and bead artist who has a wonderful site.  Be sure to check out
his incredible art quilts, where you'll find his beaded creature "Even Frogs Dream".  I'm
just in awe of this creature and Thom has been very generous with his time in helping
explain his construcition techniques.  I found Thom in the book "500 Beaded Objects",
also, not to be missed.  Here's his site:  www.thomatkins.com
This site wouldn't have been possible without the help of my husband, Bill, who, in
addition to being a high school math teacher, is also a rockin' musician.  Here's his
website:
www.billyshewband.com


Links