Welcome! My name is Judi Weingarden. A native New Yorker, I have lived in Connecticut since 1985. I have always enjoyed “crafty” things…I took sewing lessons one pre-teen summer, and I’ve had a machine close by ever since. I learned to knit as a child, but gave it up at around age 12 when I learned to crochet! After many years of crocheting (mostly yarmulkas with size 13 steel hooks and DMC thread with intricate patterns and multiple colors – sometimes called tapestry crochet), I pretty much stopped crocheting for many years as I raised my kids and juggled full time work, commuting, etc.
In 2009 I picked up a hook again, and haven’t looked back! I started with a granny square
afghan, then moved on to a Southwest design afghan for my DH, something different for each of my kids, then really started to branch out!
I finally got a camera, which allowed me to
start to photograph my work, and document my projects. Then, my work crocheting jewelry with wire, beads and embroidery thread led me to a LYS, where I began taking more jewelry classes.
That’s when the bead passion began. Now my yarn has had to move aside to make room for beads – in fact, I love beads so much that I had to open my own store!
My background is in education, and I love to share my joy in teaching by helping others. I currently teach 3 classes a week at my shop; and am also available by appointment.
Please come and visit; enjoy a cup of tea, shop, chat work on whatever craft project makes your life joyful – Craftgarden Beads – where creativity blooms!
– Judi
hi judy
your mom and i volunteer at the nyc ballet together. we visited her over the weekend and saw some of your husband’s wood art. so we wanted to see your work as well. lovely creations. and a lovely mom, by the way.
thanks so much for visiting (and for your kind words!)