JCCFS: Tell us more about your upcoming class “Bead Woven Jewelry Ensemble.” What specific technique or process will students learn?

TI: The class is tailored for all levels, offering foundational bead weaving and embroidery techniques. Through videos, print tutorials, and live demonstrations, students will learn intricate yet approachable stitches. The class kit will contain quality materials, including rare vintage Swarovski pearls sourced globally. My personalized instruction ensures every student completes the Pendant and Spiral Rope Necklace within the class time while enjoying the process at the same time! The class is flexible in complexity, accommodating diverse skill levels, and offers options for truly unique creations!

JCCFS: What can students expect to leave this class with?

TI: Based on previous classes, students will leave with a solid understanding of the concepts, stitches, and techniques covered. They’ll gain the self-assurance to apply these skills at home and the experience will sparking inspiration and motivation to explore additional classes. Students will enjoy a supportive environment while being surrounded by like-minded artists.

JCCFS: Well said! Tell us a little bit about yourself. What’s your background in your medium? How did you get started?

TI: My first beading venture was an Italian bracelet tutorial on YouTube. From there, I continued to learn through various YouTube instructors. Gradually, I developed my skill until I felt confident and joined advanced beading classes, and the rest is history! Over the years, I came to realize that I especially love teaching beginner to intermediate-level students, because that is where the “Magic” happens! My teaching style is methodical and detailed, demonstrating proper techniques that help students develop good beading habits, while sharing time-saving tips and tricks. My classes are designed to make elegant, complicated-looking jewelry using basic simple stitches and techniques. The joy for me is watching the shining eyes and smiling faces of students so proud of their accomplishments. What an honor to be part of their experience!

JCCFS: What attracted you to the Folk School? What are you most excited about for your first time teaching here?

TI: I’ve been a student of the Folk school for years and have loved every minute of it! I have taken a variety of classes and can’t wait to expand my experiences. I enjoy the peace of this large campus. The winding trails that just slow me down, help me take a deep breath and ground me. It is a very healing environment, both physically and emotionally. As a massage therapist and energy worker I can testify the the Folk School has great energy! I really enjoy meeting the diverse students and instructors from all over the country. In one week you’ll bond with so many people that fill your life with interesting conversation, knowledge and joy. I look forward to being a Instructor that the give their students a stellar experience so that they want to come back to this wonderful school!

JCCFS: Where do you draw inspiration from in your work?

TI: Inspiration comes from so many places. It is drawn from nature, Native American beading and art, photos of jewelry, other artists, International travels, and much more! Most of the inspiration though, comes from the beads, crystals or gemstones themselves…..It just happens!

JCCFS: What’s one piece you’ve made recently that you’re proud of, and why?

TI: I just created a new piece for a class that I am teaching for the Community College of Baltimore called “The Springtime Elegance Pendant and Necklace”. It’s similar but different to “The Anytime Elegance Pendant and Spiral Rope”. It turned out so beautiful!

JCCFS: Where can folks find you if they want to stay up to date on your work?

TI: They can check out my work on my website Createmindspace.net

JCCFS: Awesome! I looked at your online gallery. You have some very beautiful pieces! 

TI: Thanks! Looking forward to teaching at the Folk School!