I’ve made enough bench beads now that I can make them quickly, efficiently, cleanly, and rhythmically. Each BEAD HALF is sketched, punched, drilled, formed three times/sizes with my dap set, sanded, sweat soldered, and then soldered to another half to make a complete bead. Then I begin finishing work, which requires more sanding, maybe some filing, grinding, satin finishing, oxidizing, more satin finishing by hand, and then everything gets strung together, a clasp is made, finishing touches are applied, and I have a completed necklace (if I don’t add a pendant to the beads).
What I like most about undertaking a big project like a bench bead necklace is descending into a quiet mind as my hands go through the motions of making bead after bead. If I work in silence, my studio becomes a glowing cathedral, and each action becomes a simple offering to God.
Perhaps that’s the most important experience we miss out on when we don’t work with our hands or practice a craft — the fading away of earthly things, the quiet mind, the easy courage that branches up out of a steady heart.
I’m just thinking aloud this afternoon while I wait for the tea kettle to hoot. Make it a beautiful day wherever you are. Make something with your hands.
