The BeadStyle forum offers a lot for beaders — inspiration, motivation, ideas, friendship, feedback. The list could go on and on. I think that the forum challenge captures many of these benefits in a single activity. For a forum challenge, participating members decide upon a common theme and then make jewelry (or other beaded objects) to represent the theme. Our members just completed their twelfth challenge (Theme: Cool waters), and as always, the results were truly inspiring. I would encourage everyone to check out the results. You won't be disappointed. The necklace pictured here is the winning entry by Gabriela Luna.

For those of you who need a creative boost or would like to stretch your skills, consider participating in the next challenge. Since challenge #12 has just finished, our participants are still taking a breather before tackling #13. But it's always a fun, encouraging group, and we're always looking for more participants. To check in on the challenge conversation, go the "Show us your work" section of the BeadStyle forum. The most current challenge is always at the top of the list.

Hoping to see your work in challenge #13!

Lindsay