To destress from the rigours of working life, some people go shopping, eat out and/or escape to the movies, some just snooze, while others pick up a sport or craft. Ally K belongs to the latter -  a professional in the education industry by day, she transforms into an avid beader by night. She shares a few words with us on her passion for beads and jewellery-making

Two and a half years ago, I innocently signed up for a beginner’s beading and jewelry course at my local community club. It was my last-ditch attempt, as I told colleagues then, ‘to reclaim my life’. Work had gotten so manic that I was constantly thinking about deadlines and was writing reports even during festive holidays. Of course, what I thought would be a pleasant 8-week distraction turned out instead to be the start of a love affair with beads and jewellery-making.

Quite apart from the joy that jewellery-making gives me – I’ve been known to simply stare at my stash of beads for hours on end – I find great therapeutic value in picking out materials (beads, findings, chain etc), thinking up a design and putting them together in a finished product that I can wear - and should I get bored with it, take apart again. In these trying economic times, being able to make jewellery and accessories is also a useful cost-saving skill. Instead of popping into Diva for a necklace to match a new blouse, I just go home and make my own customized bling. I’ve also managed to save a fair bit on presents since handmade jewellery make wonderful and welcome gifts (check out our eSPREE! for gift ideas).

And for all you mums out there, did you know that beading also helps promote children’s development? Having to thread beads onto a string, for example, improves a child’s visual motor skill since it requires their hands and eyes to work together. Children get to work on their fine motor skills too, since various sizes of beads promote different grasps. Smaller beads, say of 4-6mm, encourage children to use their pincer grasp and strengthen the small muscles of their hands. And of course, for the older child, it helps with their cognitive skills. Deciding on what style of bracelet or necklace means the child has to engage in planning. What kind of design does the child want? What colour beads to use? Also, figuring out how long the necklace, bracelet or keychain has to be, and the number of beads needed to make it, requires Math skills.

This school holiday is a perfect time to try out beading with your child. You’ll get to bond with him/her, they’ll develop skills, and more importantly…you’ll both have fun

Wondering what to give your bling-loving best friend or sister for Christmas? Dreamstruck Designs by Ally K presents one-of-a-kind pieces that will add a touch of glamour to that chic outfit.  Available exclusively @ eSPREE, we are offering an introductory discount on all pieces for a limited period only - reserve your bling NOW!

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