Yvonne Kurpjuweit

Profile, Bio

Contact Email: mrskurps@gmail.com Website: www.facebook.com/creativeadornments.ca/

I started making beads in the early 90's. I began making polymer clay beads and jewelry and selling them at church sales and the fringe. I was always fascinated with glass and wanted to make glass beads but my parents would not allow the endeavor.

I worked in polymer clay until I was 25. On a trip back from Australia my husband Michael and I stopped in at Pacific Art glass in LA and my glass beading career began. I purchased a torch, hoses, tools, a book and packed it all in my luggage back home to Lloydminster. An oilfield supply company hooked me up with oxygen tanks and a ventilation system. Michael lent me a portion of the garage and at the end of January I dressed up in my ski pants and touque and began making beads. It took 6 months to make anything that I was happy with. I followed along with the book and made one bead at a time. We took a vacation to Venice, where I was inspired by the artists in Murano. I also took a workshop with Margaret Zintzer in Tucson, AZ.

My style has evolved over time. At the moment, I am focusing on making beads that look like natural rocks, birds, and other creatures! I love that there is always more to learn on the torch, and the excitement of taking them out after they are annealed! 

Recently, I’ve begun to make some smaller copper foiled pieces and fused birdbaths. It’s exciting to keep exploring this exciting medium.

My beading happens at a much slower pace now that I have three young children, but I enjoy the time I get on the torch. I do sell my finished beaded necklaces through my Facebook page called Creative Adornments.