Interview with Ileana Munteanu of Enchanted Beads

Business Name: Enchanted Beads

Real Name: Ileana Munteanu

Etsy Page: http://www.etsy.com/shop/enchantedbeads
Blog Page: http://ileanasmagicaltime.blogspot.com/ and http://enchantedbeads.blogspot.com/

Web Page: http://www.enchanted-beads.com/

Facebook Fan Page: http://www.facebook.com/ileana.munteanu

How did it come to be that you started working with seed beads?

I always loved the way they feel, the variety of color, scale and shape, the infinite possibilities they offer. All this help me to mold my pieces. I would use my seed beads much like a painter uses colors and brush strokes to convey his version of imagery.

How long have you been creating with seed beads?

More than twenty years.

Is there was any significance to the name of your shop?

A shop owner in Washington DC, the first one who accepted my jewelry on consignment, said about my jewelry: "These are enchanted beads". I liked what she said and I made it my business name.

What inspires you?

Nature is my main source of inspiration: flowers, ladybugs, butterflies are featured in my pieces. Sometimes I get inspired by the semiprecious stones I find. I put them together with pearls, gemstone beads and colorful seed beads in a specific design, carefully coordinating the colors to achieve a natural, shaded look by incorporating several nuances of beads for each color I choose. After completing this most important first step, I find the right time for the beading process.

Do you listen to music or TV while you work?

I mostly listen to classical music, but I enjoy watching the news or even movies and shows.

Do you have common colors you work with?

I like all colors when they serve my purpose, but I mostly choose neutral colors, earthy colors.

What is your favorite color palette?

Gold, caramel brown, honey, moss green, chartreuse , Garnet, lavender, lilac, salmon pink

Do you have a favorite technique? Which one and why?

I use many techniques and I like to experiment in order to create new ones. I mostly use lace, peyote and modified peyote.

Do you do shows or vending of any sort? Where?

I do about three shows every year, around Mother's Day and Winter Holidays.

Do you teach beading classes? Where?

No, I don't teach.

Do you sell your work in any galleries/shops? Where?

I used to sell in many galleries on the East Coast. After I opened my Etsy Shops I went down to only two Galleries.

Where do you see yourself in your business in 5 years?

I am not able to predict what will happen in five years. I wish I could keep my good sight and my energy. I am working hard to being more successful on Etsy.