If you are not yet a subscriber to BeadStyle, now is a good time to order a subscription. We have beautiful projects lined up for 2009, there are special on line bonuses for subscribers, and we’ll be throwing in a few surprises as well. In a few weeks BeadStyle’s March issue will be mailed out to subscribers. The cover is a departure from our typical style — several pieces of jewelry are featured. One of my favorites is a piece designed by Helene Tsigistras. Helene uses hand painted ceramic beads in her design. The beads are from Some Enchanted Beading, but look a lot like the ceramic beads made in Kenya by Kazuri beads, a company started in 1988. They are members of The Fair Trade Federation. The mission of Kazuri is to provide employment opportunities for disadvantaged people in Kenya. Kazuri is an amazing grassroots enterprise. For four days starting tomorrow, the Kazuri folks are holding their first annual sale, which is a rarity, so you may want to check it out. To read the Kazuri story or see their beautiful beads, visit kazuribeadsusa.com.