We’ve been wrapping up our February issue this past week and we’re also finalizing details on our special VintageStyle Jewelry magazine, due out in January. I think you’ll like the assortment of projects and articles we’ve put together for these two issues. One of the stories that will appear in VintageStyle is from Diane Fitzgerald. It’s based on the “Jewels of Miriam Haskell” master class she taught at the 2007 Bead&Button Show. I was fortunate enough to serve as the teacher’s assistant for Diane's class, and I had a lot of fun. Not only did I meet some really interesting, talented beaders, the focus of the class challenged me to make something outside my comfort zone. Pictured at right is one of the pins I made in class. It’s more subtle than the elaborate and brightly-hued samples Diane brought, like the one shown at left, but that was part of the fun of the class – using a technique to make something unique and personal.

On another note, I hope everyone has a pleasant Thanksgiving holiday (if you’re here in the U.S.). We’ll be off for a couple of days, but undoubtedly we’ll still be thinking about the projects and stories we’re starting for the next issue.