I very rarely go to bead classes, whether it's because I can't find the time, or there's no-one else really teaching in London or teaching anything different and interesting that I can get to or that I'm wary of going to a class and someone accusing me of using their idea in my work at a later date!

But when I heard that Takako Sako (who I met back in October) was coming over and teaching some loomwork classes I leapt at the opportunity. I have done loomwork before (and ironically the day before I went I was proof reading and checking my instructions on it for my new book) but wanted to attend one of her classes, see her work and have fun beading.

The day was really nice and I thoroughly enjoyed beading amongst friends, catching up with gossip and managing to bead and leave at the end of the day with a finished piece- such a joy! and of course I also came home with a new loom, some findings and some new beads as well as a lovely leaf brooch made by Takako which she gave to me.

She hopes to be back in London teaching in October and then again next year- with some more advanced classes as well- so keep an eye out here for any news or in the pages of Bead magazine.