About Toni McCarthy and BeadWares

Beads discovered me in the mid-90s, and since then my life has not been the same! I had always been a passionate 'do-er' and had spent many years sewing, quilting, doll-making, creating stained glassworks and leatherwork, fashioning wearable art, anything that would keep my hands and brain busy. But when beads entered my realm of creative interests, everything else pretty much fell by the wayside.

At that time I was a full-time wife, mom (of two boys), and teacher (high school English), but I always found time to bead. Since I retired from teaching in 1999, I have devoted all my time to designing with beads and now polymer clay as well. To associate myself with a terrific support group, I have been active in the Portland Bead Society and served as President from 2000 to 2004.

I began creating jewelry and established my design business in 1996. Since then I have been busy doing art shows, street fairs, and gift shows. Pretty much my April-through-November calendar is full of traveling. My shows are listed on the Show Schedule page.  If we're near you, stop by and say hello!

I work in my bead studio in Camas, Washington, every day experimenting with new designs. The computer has become the most convenient way for me to keep a finger on the pulse of my business.