Bead lovers stampede to Sisters

The annual Sisters Bead Roundup enlivened Barclay Park on August 9 and 10. Passersby and those intent on finding unique handmade beads to string together browsed in happy contemplation of the wares on offer.

The event is sponsored by the Sisters Area Chamber of Commerce, and stipulates that all the beads are handmade. That makes it a more upscale and, for some vendors, a more successful weekend than one shared by vendors of machine-processed beads.

A steady stream of visitors passed through the park over the weekend, and while sales were down for some vendors, their enthusiasm remained high.

Dan Feitler, a self-taught glass artist from Bend, said, "This is my best show by far."

Feitler used to sell at the Bend Saturday Market but prefers the more select crowd at Sisters.

Sometimes it's nice as a shopper to not be overwhelmed with merchandise. The dozen or so vendors at the show offered beads ranging from kiln-fired ceramic to wood to glass and African stone. The creators of the bead were passionate about their wares, with several claiming to be the only ones creating a particular style.

"Africa John's Stone Beads" originated with the proprietor's experience in North Africa. John Paulas, of Goldendale, Washington, spent many years in Africa, working with humanitarian agencies and learning the lore of local beads. He hand-sculpts each one from African rock gleaned from gem shows.

Rick Kibbon makes wood beads. The distinct look of these beads comes from the tiny branches Kibbon gleans from the forest. He air-cures the branches, then cuts the beads and drills a tiny hole in each one, just big enough for a fine string to pass through. The resulting beads show bark patterns, leaf marks or wood grain if the bark is removed. Kibbon said his method allows a bead wearer to "enjoy the gift of nature."

Local artist Lynn Rothan was trying out the bead show for the first time. Her intricately detailed ceramic beads in earthy browns and reds were created when she had room in her kiln one day and decided to try something different. She liked the result, and began working on her inventory. Her other work is currently on display at Navigator News in Sisters.

Another local, Leart Jett, had a booth filled with vintage buttons. She said that the show originated with beads and buttons displays, then the bead scope narrowed to only handmade or antique.

Jett makes bracelets with her buttons; with her biggest seller a combination of silver-colored buttons, turquoise and antique trade beads.