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New Hampshire

Beads are more than bling to Hampstead woman

By Margo Sullivan
margosullivan@eagletribune.com
Published: January 4, 2009

HAMPSTEAD — You could say Deb Fairchild fell into beading — literally. She was home recovering from a broken leg when she came across a beading magazine. Fairchild, 58, had never worked on beads before, but she had always loved them.

This time, she delved into the design possibilities and has since collaborated with Judy Bush to develop the Master Beader program at Bead Bush Studio in Deerfield. They can be contacted about beading classes at 463-7683.

— Margo Sullivan

Why do people like beads?

The appeal's different for different people. A lot of people do like the glitz, bling and shimmering. For me, it's more of a connection to cultures over time. I studied anthropology (at Harvard University). Some of the different stitches are derived from different cultures and ethnic groups. Beads are a way people have expressed creative urges. ... But I can't deny I love the bling, too.

How far back in time do beads go?

Back to cave people. The oldest beads found are more than 30,000 years old. They're like ancient languages and ancient writing — in that there's a real connection to the way human expression developed ... how we went from there to here.

That piece looks like fabric. Is it?

No, it's glass. I call this a scarf alternative. I like the look of scarves, but I can never wear one without it twisting or something. I can wear bead scarves. All seed beads I use are glass, but sometimes I add metal, shells or wood for texture.

You like to use some techniques you developed with fiber arts?

Yes. I'm looking for ways to marry the two. One of these days it will come to me. Beading is work, although it's work I can do 18 hours a day. It's just magical.

Beading's a bit of a career departure for you, isn't it?

I'm retired. I had a career as a financial administrator at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. My goal this year is to join the League of New Hampshire Craftsmen. I've been told I should try because I have a different angle on beads than anything other people are doing.

 

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