Mountain Beadworks “The Place to Bead Inspired”

Patty Strong of Mountain Beadworks. Photo by Amber Ward

By Amber Ward

Patty and Dale Strong first visited Julian in the fall of 1986. It was love at first sight! In two weeks time they had found a rental, and six months later they purchased their property to begin building their new home. Dale, a contractor, and Patty, a registered nurse, both had to drive to San Diego daily for work. “In about 2001 we started looking at retail opportunities as a way to stop the long distance commute,” says Patty. They had their eyes on a campground in the Redwoods, a restaurant/lodge in Julian and a bead store in Coastal Northern California. In May of 2004, “Dale suggested that we open our own bead store in the town we love, and have never had the chance to get to know,” says Patty, although Patty had initially said “no,” because “I like my paycheck.” Six months later they opened Mountain Beadworks, and the rest is history.

Mountain Beadworks is located at 3411 Highway 79, one mile from Main Street Julian. Definitely “a candy store for beaders,” they have everything you will need to bring your own ideas and creations to life. They feature all sorts of beads, including vintage and crystal, silver, fire polish, findings, bone and wood, books, semiprecious stones, instruction and inspiration.

“We offer indoor and outdoor instruction and activities for individuals, groups and families,” says Patty, and “we will help you complete the jewelry you design.” Currently, every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month at 5:30 p.m., Mountain Beadworks features “Bead Therapy,” which is free to the public. This is a time to bring your own project or start a new one and bead amongst friends. You are welcome to bring your own refreshments and snacks and encouraged to sit back, relax and have a great time. We can also look forward to a wide variety of classes this fall. From silver solder and working with seed beads to wire wrap and basic bead stringing, there will be something for everyone.

Contact Mountain Beadworks at (760) 765-3100 for more information or check out their Website www.mountainbeadworks.com. Open from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., closed Tuesday and Wednesday.