It was there we saw the miraculous staircase. Legend says it was constructed or inspired by St. Joseph the Carpenter, and was built sometime between 1877 and 1881. It took at least six months to build, and has two 360 degree turns with no visible means of support. Because of seating problems, the Sisters of the Chapel made a novena to St. Joseph, the patron saint of carpenters. On the ninth and final day of prayer, a man appeared at the Chapel with a donkey and a toolbox looking for work. Months later, the beautiful circular staircase was completed, and the carpenter disappeared without pay or thanks. After searching for the man (an ad even ran in the local newspaper) and finding no trace of him, some concluded that he was St. Joseph himself, having come in answer to the sisters' prayers.
The beads are hollow. I loved learning this technique. Susan has years of knowledge to share. 
This is the second class I have taken from Susan (I took one in Hampton last year), and I must say she is the most giving and talented jewelry artist. There is no doubt as to why she has such a huge following, as her instructions are easy to understand, and her talents are endless. She takes time to help everyone individually, and shares her wealth of knowledge without hesitation. 
I actually finished these rings in class, but took home so much more than that.
Then, I had an evening class with Liz Jones. The class was Basic Fine Silver Fusing. I really like torch work, and want to do so much more with fine silver. Like Liz said, it is addicting. Her book, Silver Wire Fusing, is a great instruction book to get started.
Oh my, Bead Fest Santa Fe was the best!
Posts
