Thursday, May 13, 2010

Blogiversary Giveaway!!!

improvisational bead embroidery, robin atkins, beaded bag
I can hardly believe it! Picture me... happily blogging for four years! Time has flown by, I've made wonderful friends and even met some of them in person. In this blogging community there are some of the MOST supportive, friendly, classy, talented, creative and loving people I know. It's changed my life in so many good ways!

improvisational bead embroidery, robin atkins, beaded bag
It just so happens that the 4th birthday of Beadlust coincides with another important marker in my life...

One Bead at a Time, cover of book by Robin Atkins
Ten years ago, I wrote and self-published my first book, One Bead at a Time, Exploring Creativity with Bead Embroidery. It was a remarkable experience in many ways.

When I started thinking about this book, I telephoned Helby Imports, the nation's only distributor of beading books to bead shops. With trembling voice, I asked to talk with the owner and then told him my ideas for the book. He totally discouraged me, saying no book would ever sell unless it included both projects and techniques. He said they wouldn't carry it.

improvisational bead embroidery, robin atkins, beaded button
Not completely daunted, I then called several publishers. They all said the same thing. It almost stopped me in my tracks. Almost. My experience teaching Improvisational Bead Embroidery workshops was so powerful and my students seemed so empowered by it, that I just had to try.

So I wrote it, took the photos for it, designed it in Microsoft Publisher, printed 300 copies of it on my ink-jet printer, had it professionally bound in Seattle and put the word out to my beady friends and students. In just 2 months I had sold all 300 copies!

That was my test run and as far as I was concerned, a successful one! So at that point, I added 8 pages showing basic techniques of bead embroidery and took out a loan to have 2,500 copies printed professionally! I gave Helby Imports a money-back-guarantee if they would just try one case of my book. They took the offer and have sold many, many cases of them since then.

improvisational bead embroidery, robin atkins, beaded bag, detail
Three more times, the press has rolled! Each time, as the number of beading books increases geometrically and others are publishing books about bead embroidery, the book moves more slowly. Today, I have exactly 4 remaining copies from the last printing.

And guess what? I'm going to give away one specially inscribed copy for each year of my blogging life! Details at the end of this post.

Am I going to reprint? No, I think One Bead at a Time had a lot more time on the active book market than most beading books. And for this I'm very grateful. Now it's time to retire it. However, the good news is I'm not retiring it completely. In the next few days, I will convert it to pdf format and make it available as a FREE download through my website. It won't be a pretty, bound book. But a person can print it and read it, which is still a good thing.

improvisational bead embroidery, robin atkins, beaded button
One Bead at a Time has influenced many lives. I know because people write to tell me about it. Bless them. In turn their lives influence mine in the most wonderful ways. I am so grateful to have stumbled on the notion of improvisational bead embroidery and to have the skills to teach others the value of it in developing creativity and artistic self confidence.

If you are one who has purchased this book, I thank you, for you have helped to keep me out of a 9-to-5 job and given me time to do my own art work and to organize the Bead Journal Project, now in its third year.

improvisational bead embroidery, robin atkins, beaded bag

So, today we are having a
Beadlust
birthday party

and a
One Bead at a Time
retirement party
!!!

To have a chance at winning one of the four remaining copies of One Bead at a Time, please leave a comment on this post and include your email address. It doesn't have to be for you; you could win it and give it to a friend, perhaps someone just starting to bead. If you win, you can tell me to whom you'd like it inscribed.

Please remember to include your email address. To keep the hackers away, write your email address like this: WantToWin(at)YourBook(dot)com. Use (at) rather than @ and (dot) rather than .

Thanks, everyone, you are special and tremendous in every way!

131 comments:

  1. Good morning. I'm very new to beading and I would love to win a copy of your book. I really loved the box you did for your DH. I'm really enjoying working with beads, but your experince would be a great help to me. Blessings.
    technoturt(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  2. Congratulations on 10 years of One Bead At A Time and 4 years of blogging!

    I discovered your book at General Bead in San Francisco in the summer of 2000, and it spoke to me in a way no book on beading ever had before. I immediately snatched it up, along with a small treasure trove of beads, and started bead embroidery that day. Then I found out you would be teaching at Embellishment up in Portland, OR, so I signed up and drove my first of many delightful road trips between the Bay Area and the Pacific Northwest. One Bead At A Time is still my favorite book, and my copy is tattered and falling apart, and well used; comfortable, like an old and reliable friend. I'm sorry it's being retired as an in-print book, but how wonderful people will be able to have free access to it online. Your book changed my life, and helped me find my art. Thank you! lois2037(at)comcast(dot)net.

    ReplyDelete
  3. Hi Robin
    I just can't tell you what I have experienced since joining the BJP. Several years ago I bought Beaded Embellishments because I embroidered on clothes. Later, I came across you blog during the first BJP. I became hooked on small beads and excited to join the next BJP when it was announced.
    If there really IS Karma, then your life is rich and full of love because of all you have given to each of us.

    Celebrating with you....
    crldelateratyahoodotcom

    ReplyDelete
  4. I have only been blogging for a few months now but I came across your blog early on. I have done some bead work on crazy quilts and made some earrings and a bracelet. I would love to have an opportunity to win your book. Your work is stunning.
    Elaine

    ReplyDelete
  5. What a very special way to celebrate your successes - and your determination. Good for you. Thanks for the chance to win your inscribed book.
    Sue
    skurowski(at)att(dot)net

    ReplyDelete
  6. Congratulations Robin on your blogaversary! Four years is a lot of blogging and lucky for us you've stuck with it. It would be great fun and a privilege to be chosen to receive one of your inscribed editions. Many thanks for the opportunity. Looking forward to four more years of blogging with you.

    donnao49 at yahoo dot com

    ReplyDelete
  7. Hi Robin! Count me in as one of your fans, for sure. My friend Pat slipped me a copy of One Bead at a Time during a beading class together and asked if I had ever seen it. I hadn't. I couldn't wait to get home and drool. It was hard to give it back to her. Finally a beading book that wasn't a "do this" now, "do that", but, instead, it spoke about the feeling behind beading, which is just how I felt - to me beading is more than just creating something from beads, it's creating from your soul. I had never come across a beader who expressed that before, it was always just instructions(read: boring). I felt like 'wow-this woman gets it!'

    I jumped right on your website and ordered myself Heart to Hands and was literally dancing around my house when it arrived - I love it. Ironically I didn't even realize I had another of your books (Beaded Embellishment) until I was organzing my studio the one day. But honestly, One Bead and Heart to Hands are just the best beading books out there. I think it's because they are you. Does that make any sense? Probably not, but when I open those pages, it is like having a conversation with you. Priceless. I would love to have my own copy of One Bead at a Time!

    Thank you for for all the knowledge, insight, support, and love you share with all of us - you are a treasure!

    ~Lynn
    beadingheartart(at)aol(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  8. Anonymous4:41 AM

    Congratulations on your success! It has been fascinating to see your designs. Good luck.
    mossrose22atyahoodotcom

    ReplyDelete
  9. I'm a quilter who tried a small crazy quilt. Whoa, seriously fun! But it would be good to know what I'm doing. lol Thanks for the inspiration and a chance for your book. Congratulations on all your successes. ellendacoop at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  10. Congratulations, Robin, on 10 years of your book and 4 years of blogging.
    maryannedotgrossatgmaildotcom

    ReplyDelete
  11. Love your work, congratulations on Four years of blogging, wishing you many many more. I would love to own a copy of One Bead at a Time.
    JodyC62963ataoldotcom

    ReplyDelete
  12. What a wonderful way to celebrate 4 years of blogging! Robin, I would love to win a copy of your book. Please add my name to the draw. Thank you. Here's to another 4 years, and another, and....

    susancussatyahoodotcom

    ReplyDelete
  13. I love your work and have a couple of your books as well. I would love to be entered in your giveaway. Thanks

    sheilarbales(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  14. What a wonderful way to celebrate 4 years of blogging! Robin, I would love to win a copy of your book. Please add my name to the draw. Thank you. Here's to another 4 years, and another, and....

    susancussatyahoodotcom

    ReplyDelete
  15. As one of the people whose life has been changed in a significant way because of you and your blogging, I wish the you the BIGGEST and HEARTIEST of CongRATULATIONS!!!!!!

    I am so grateful to you, your blog and your book~! Since I already own two (lucky me!), please don't enter me in your drawing...I just wanted to represent at the party here today!

    Love you! Susan

    ReplyDelete
  16. Thank you for sharing your inspirations and knowledge with us. I am new to beading and am fascinated with the possibilities! I'm so glad you didn't give up after so many "experts" said no.

    lpate_tx(at)hotmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  17. I would love to win a copy, and will download it if I do not. Thank you for your generosity.
    jane(dot)compeau(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  18. I am not a newcomer to beading. I have been making necklaces and bracelets since I've been a little girl... I am really working on expanding my abilities though. I am 23 and love it as a hobby. I sell some items in my mom's handmade/primitave gift shop and would love to get embroidery under my belt to expand my abilities... =) Thanks for this opportunity!

    jessicadirrim at yahoo dot com

    ReplyDelete
  19. I love your works, they are so beautiful and special! Congratulations on your blogiversary!
    Oh, I'd like to have such a book :) Please, count me in your draw, my email is tatkisch1(at)gmail(dot)com
    Best wishes,
    Tatyana

    ReplyDelete
  20. I'm still scratching my head, wondering how I managed to miss adding your wonderful book to my working arsenal all this time. But no matter now - I'm delighted to have the opportunity to toss my addy into the cyber hat! Cheers and here's to many more blogging years to come!
    morwynskya@msn(dot)com

    I've taken to signing off with whatever random 'word' appears in the word verification block, so I wish you a happy
    flarfgib,

    Morwyn

    ReplyDelete
  21. robin, i just can't tell you enough how much my life has changed since taking your two-day class this past october. bead embroidery has become my outlet and my therapy and has awakened my creativity and artistic abilities. yes, looming was nice, but it was nothing compared to the joy and satisfaction i get from improvisational embroidery. and happily i have inspired a few others to learn and try their hand at it too. i would love to share this book with someone special, giving them the first steps they need to learning this fulfilling artform. thank you for everything you have done for me! my email is indigosbeads(at)live(dot)com.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Congratulations on your blogiversary and the success of the book! Wile I don't do a lot of beading YET, I have several projects wandering around in my head to do when I've retired in a few weeks!

    ReplyDelete
  23. Congratulations on both markers of success! The journey is worth the price to ride, isn't it?
    cyndi(at)mazeltovjewelry(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  24. Miss Robin, firstly...congrats on both anniversaries. I am a new convert to bead embroidery and its funny how many times I see your name come up so you must be the go-to person! Ironically I was looking thru an older jewerly book that has one of you projects in there...so karma must be telling me sumton!! Please enter my name into the hopper (or should i say hope-r) Thank you for sharing all your talent,and for not giving up those years ago so that people like me can learn a new talent.
    Beth26729 at aol dot com

    ReplyDelete
  25. Anonymous7:52 AM

    Dear Robin,

    I found your blog through browsing other similar blogs devoted to beading. I was just looking for something inspiring and some good tips – instead I found you (and your amazing website with those fabulous tips, links and pictures). Now your blog is on my „do” list. You discovered for me something more than just flat bead embroidery, you make fabulous structures (waves and trails, spirals and shells and colors …) and some of them I have figured out. I am absolutely exited to hear that it would be possible to download pdf file for one of your books – of course I wouldn’t mind to get signed copy.
    I love your stories behind your works and bead journals they inspire me and allow me to look at beading from different point of view.
    My name is Ieva (filkr account name gutta perca) and I live in Riga (internet is really worldwide :) ). I wish you and your blog the best wishes in anniversary and hope in future read a lot more inspiring stories.
    Also I would appreciate if you could contact me via e-mail because I would like to have hardcopy of your “Heart to Hands Bead Embroidery”. Tried twice to contact you but somehow it didn’t work out. My e-mail is igutovskaATyahooDOTcom

    ReplyDelete
  26. Robin, you are a living muse. I suspect you have only an inkling as to the breadth of influence you have. Thank you so much for your time devoted to tickling our creative fancies and encouraging us to express ourselves through beads. If I should be fortunate enough to win a special book, I would pass forward my current copy.
    kroushlatinsightbbdotcom

    ReplyDelete
  27. I am always in awe of your wonderful artistry in beadwork. I am more of a quilter, but love beadwork too and dabble in it occasionally. Congrats on your blogaversary and retirement party for the book. I'd love to win it!
    heartnsoulquilts (at) yahoo.(com)

    ReplyDelete
  28. Hi Robin, Yes, of course, I already have all your books, but I love giving them as gifts to my beady friends. You have been an inspiration to me, especially for the past three years with BJP. Your encouragement has given me the confidence to put my work out there for others to see. I would love to win a signed copy of your book. My email is arlinebeadladyatmsndotcom

    Arline

    ReplyDelete
  29. I ould love to win this book. I am trying to make a crazy quilt and learning to bead or just simply get some inspiration would be great. Thank you for the chance.

    ReplyDelete
  30. Hi Robin,

    I dont know if you remember me or not. Many years ago, I was in Chicago and wanted so badly to take your class. I had traveled by car and it took for ever to get there.
    It was almost noon by the time I got there and begged them to let me into your class. They brought me in, and you and your whole class accepted me with open arms and let me in for those remaining 4 hours.
    It was one of the best 4 hours I have ever spent!
    It was the beaded buttons class.
    Thank you so much for all that you do. You have inspired me more than I can possibly put into words.

    Sincerely
    Pamela

    phawkinsbead(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  31. I've been following your blog for quite a while now and do love seeing all your info on Bead Embroidery! Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us!
    cdshouston(at)gmail(dot)com
    WantToWin(at)YourBook(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  32. Happy blogversary! What a generous giveaway. I am enjoying Beaded Embellishment which you did with Amy Clarke, and know I would love One Bead at a Time!

    dottididit(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  33. Wow! Congratulations on 10 years of success.

    I found One Bead at a Time at the library, and it was the first beading book I took a look at. Your work has inspired me since. In fact, I have a copy of Beaded Embellishment checked out right now...

    Thank you!

    Anne

    beady_librarianne(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  34. To All ~ See? This is exactly what I am saying about the warmth and generosity of the blogging community!!!! I shall be giving away the last four copies of One Bead at a Time with huge gratitude in my heart!

    Reading all your wonderful comments assures me that I made exactly the right decision... to make this book available for FREE as a pdf file.

    Some of my beady friends were saying I should charge for it. But, I feel that it's time to give back... and this is a good way to do it.

    Bless you all! Robin A.

    ReplyDelete
  35. Congratulations on 4 yrs. I haven't made it that far yet. I remember the book from the beginning. Lots of eye candy on this post.
    sjandikattdsdotnet

    ReplyDelete
  36. Congrats on FOUR YEARS! Wow, I can't believe it has been that long. I remember back when I was first struggling to make a beaded doll, I saw your book at the bead store. It gave me courage to go on and look now! Your journey in bead embroidery gave me the incentive to follow my dream too. TO THE DREAMERS!
    dot

    scotdog[at]wideopenwest[dot]com

    ReplyDelete
  37. I would love to win!

    juli(dot)levine(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  38. Hi Robin,
    Congratulations on your 4-year blog-anniversery.
    Even in Holland you have fans and I'm one of them. I do love your work en I'm a follower of your blog.
    Thank you very much for this giveaway and I hope you keep on blogging for many more years.

    pjveldkamp(at)home(dot)nl

    ReplyDelete
  39. It's been FOUR years! Wow, time really does fly when you're having fun! Put me in the drawing, please! I'm so glad you were persistent. ;0)

    ReplyDelete
  40. I love reading your blog. I consider myself a beginner at beading and can only dream of making the items you do. They are all so lovely. Every time your blog pops up in my blog roll I get so excited to see what you have come up with now. Gratz on blogging 4 years.

    lmalasky(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  41. Robin, you are such an inspiration to me! I would be honored to own a signed copy of your book. What a gift to offer it to us free in pdf format. You rock!

    kassie(at)beadingbutterfly(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  42. I have been avoiding delving into the world of bead embroidery Robin (another habit I can ill afford) but this is to good of an opportunity to turn down. Please count me in!

    playcentrejo[at]gmail[dot]com

    ReplyDelete
  43. Congrats of your two impressive milestones! I adore bead embroidery and know I have much to learn. I'd love a chance to win your book!

    craftymoose(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  44. Well, I'm one who purchased 'one bead at a time' (& finishing techniques) but if I won, I'd give it to a friend of mine for sure. I reference your books often just for inspiration!! Thanks so much, Robin. RobbiesPawPrints(at)aol(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  45. After spending the night in the ER (nothing serious), I'm not with it. I left a comment, but somehow it didn't show. I would love, LOVE one of your last 4 copies. It would be an honor. Marlene Brady arteveryday(at)msn(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  46. You are one of many talented women that Have been inspireing me to follow my dream of being a self sufficient artist! thank you.
    phauxania(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  47. Yay! How fun. Congratulations. I love looking all the pictures on here. Maybe this would prompt me to actually try some!
    miadca(at)aol(dot)com
    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  48. What a lovely gesture - not only to turn your wonderful book into a free PDF but to be giving copies away too.

    I have always admired your work and would be very excited to win this wonderful prize.

    Karyn
    kariony(at)yahoo(dot)com(dot)au

    ReplyDelete
  49. Thank you for inspiring me.You symbolise perseverance and someone who knows to listen to their inner voice - simply amazing that you created and printed the first edition of One bead at a Time all on your own.Congratulations on both anniversaries.
    I would love to win a copy of this book so would you enter me in the draw please.( I hope you will ship the book abroad should I win :)
    maya(dot)matthew(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  50. Hi Robin!!! Count me in. Just getting back to my blog and I was just thinking how wonderful it was to spend time with you in person in Denver! Blogging with all of you is a truly awesome and awe-inspiring experience. I am blessed.

    Love,
    Camilla

    camilla(dot)lamer(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  51. An inspiring story of success in authoring a book, and awesome beading art! would love to be one of your winners!Congrats on your blog anniversary!
    Dianne
    dbcarey_2000(at)Yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  52. Robin, congratulations on the success of your great book. I purchased your book several years ago and have referred the book to every student that ever took my classes. I am no longer giving classes, but still encouraged new beaders to find the book that gives them the most encouragement. Thanks again. akseasidebeads(at)hotmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  53. Your book has had a major impact on how I've felt about creativity and myself. It helped me believe that I could be creative and that I didn't have to follow rules but could create what I wanted and be happy with it.

    Thanks so much for sharing the story of how you published it. You clearly believed in your dream and persevered. I really needed to hear a story like that tonight!

    I have a a copy of the book but would love to win one for my daughter because there is no way I'm letting her take mine!

    rmt1957(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  54. WOW!
    I want to have it myself (cross my fingers)

    tykhova(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  55. I am so glad you didn't give up on your book! Please enter me into your giveaway. What an awesome book to win!
    thelma_bradshaw (at) yahoo dot com
    And if I'm the winner I definately want my name signed by you on the book. lol

    ReplyDelete
  56. I am a beginner beader. I have lots of beads I have collected but haven't tried to use them yet. Thanks for a chance at the bead book. I need to get started sometime.
    Pattyjo
    rholschen(at)air-pipe(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  57. I check your blog every day and really enjoy all the inspirational work. I haven't quite found my bead embroidery muse yet but I keep tinkering away at a couple projects waiting for her to find me and kick me in the tush. Thanks for making the book available in pdf. How generous! I'd love to have one of the copies you're giving away. heatherwhutchinson(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  58. Anonymous5:01 AM

    Oh how I want to get back to beading, still have a stash, and your book looks like the one to do it with. Thanks for being so generous
    Marsha




    vamoody at verizon dot net

    ReplyDelete
  59. Reading your post moved me. It must feel strange to take the decision to retire a book, and it made me feel sad to think of that.

    I love that book and I am truly happy you decided to make it available on your website ! It is a very generous decision, but it is one that is really in your style. I admire your ways.

    Hugs.

    ReplyDelete
  60. Congrats on your blogaversary! Mine was 4 years old last month and I never said anything. Makes me feel old. LOL.

    Anyways, your book is fantastic. You are inspiring me to publish my own book, but I don't know if I would be able to afford it. But, I guess now that I got a new iMac, I have no excuse but to start working on it! Also, need to inventory all of my artwork in Bento, and redesign my website in iWeb! Busy Busy!

    ReplyDelete
  61. Congratulations on 10 years of One Bead At A Time and 4 years of blogging! I would love to have a hard copy of One Bead At A Time.

    You are one of the biggest reasons I finally got up the nerve to try bead embroidery. It still gives me a thrill any time I see you have commented on my blog for the Bead Journal Project this year... you are one of my "oooo ahhhh" beaders :)
    Thank you for being the wonderful inspirational person you are!

    whytefeather at att dot net

    ReplyDelete
  62. Your body of work is just so thrillingly gorgeous - what an amazing artist you are!

    My email is:

    andersonrebecca(at)mac(dot)com

    Rebecca

    ReplyDelete
  63. Northmoon8:16 AM

    I love your beadwork and your blog. Congradulations on your four year aniversary.

    What a wonderful inspirational story of how you got it out to the world. I second the opinion that your good Karma will spread far and wide.

    I have a copy of your book so I don't need to win this one. I'll leave it to inspire another beginning beader.

    ReplyDelete
  64. Ann S.9:42 AM

    Four years of blogging, ten years of publishing "One Bead at a Time." It's a lot to celebrate. I loved your Helby story.

    Meeting you in Denver had an impact on me for which I will ever be grateful. I have won a book from you before, and I have an autographed copy of "One Bead at a Time." But if I should win now, I would give it to Joan, my friend who took your class with me in Phoenix last year.
    aseverineatcomcastdotnet

    ReplyDelete
  65. Hi, what a fantastic post and I love the little drawstring bag, I am into crocheting and it rather reminds me of free form crochet or scrumble :) I would love to be counted in on this book, thanks for a chance to win it. If I am lucky enough please make it to "Carol"

    Carol x

    carolann(at)carolands(dot)uk

    ReplyDelete
  66. Anonymous12:11 PM

    Count me in, too!!!

    rlayt at bresnan dot net


    My verification word, glurings, makes me think of glamorous beads luring me to go bead.

    ReplyDelete
  67. Congratulations on a decade of success with the book! Hope there are more books in your future. I'd love a copy. mary at beadedicons dot com

    ReplyDelete
  68. I love your beaded embroidery work which inspired me to create and embroider spirit dolls. Would love a copy of your book to give me ideas to take that creativity a lot further.
    Wendy
    dragonwyk(at)hotmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  69. Dear Robin,

    Like so many others, I have been inspired by your books and blog. I'm lucky enough to have this book already, but I would give it to my sister-in-law Corinne if I won it. She is also excited about bead embroidery.

    You're awesome, Robin! Thank you so much for beading, writing, and all your sharing. Here's to another 10 years for "Heart to Hands".

    Aloha from beady Kauai
    Peggy

    ReplyDelete
  70. Robin, I love to look at your work and read the blog. It would be wonderful to have a copy of your book, either through winning or the PDF version. susanki at gmail dot com

    ReplyDelete
  71. judy sdbdr(at)hotmail(dot)com9:45 PM

    Robin - I have already learned so much from you. Thank you for writing this book against all advice, what a winner!

    ReplyDelete
  72. congratulations with your blog anniversary. its a great blog to read and get inspired. I'd love to make a chance on the book give-away. my email addy is: wittekoek3(at)zonnet(dot)nl wishing you'll be around blogging for many more years to come.

    ReplyDelete
  73. Anonymous5:12 AM

    Hi Robin, I'm writing to send a huge hug! You have done so much for the bead community! You are my hero! I can't believe what a generous thing you're doing, to put your book out in free downloadable format. Wow! All My Best, Terri Budrow-Nelson (Please don't enter me in the drawing, as I already have all your books...and love them.)

    ReplyDelete
  74. Congrats on four years of blogging and lifetime of being fabulous! If I win, I would share the book with my sister who is a fledgling in the beading world. I really do need to nudge her towards bead embroidery. LOL! Anyway, if I'm lucky enough to win, my email is amdesaulniers(at)rogers.com.

    Thanks for being you!

    ReplyDelete
  75. Congratulations on both the anniversaries!

    I've been meaning to read One Bead at a Time ever since I bought, read and loved Beaded Treasures, but I haven't got around to getting my hands on it so far... So it sounds fab that you will make it available online now! :D

    I do enjoy bead embroidery, but have so far not made many projects so inspiration and tips are always wanted. Plus, I love books so I could never have too many bead or jewellery-making books.

    If you allow international participants, I too would love to have chance to win a copy of this book.

    manekinekogirl[at]gmail[dot]com

    ReplyDelete
  76. Happy 4th anniversary, Robin. You are such an inspiration. I would love to have your book to enjoy.
    valtst(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  77. Happy blogversary Robin! Time sure flies. I'm currently celebrating my one year blogversary so please stop by for a visit. lorraine17(at)dccnet(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  78. Happy anniversary...I get SO much from your blog!!
    Your book is just wonderful, I'm sure, and I'm very happy to have a chance to win a copy.
    lgj302atgmaildotcom

    ReplyDelete
  79. Thanks for all you do Robin.. Thanks for the time you take to get your message across, to inspire us and to provide amazing beautiful pictures of your beadwork and those of others around you.
    Happy anniversary!!!!
    Cheers, Denise

    ReplyDelete
  80. dear robin...years ago I was working an embellishment show in portland and a gal walked by with your rosie, the uncaged hen booklet. I was so excited I begged her to sell it to me as she was taking a class from you that weekend and could buy another. That was my first robin atkins book, then came a bead at time and then beaded embellishment and finally a friend gifted me with heart to hands bead embroidery...you have made such a difference in my life that I feel I can never thank you enough. As you know, the bead journal project has kept me going through some pretty dark days and it still does...my heartfelt thanks and love to you.

    ReplyDelete
  81. Anonymous2:08 PM

    Hello Robin, I'm a norwegian woman living in Austria, and I mostly use my beads for knitting into the wrist warmers I make.
    I congratulate you to your success and would very much like to win an example of your book :)

    Greetings from Salzburg!
    marianne(at)viktor-seda(dot)at

    And now I will enjoy my journey into your photostream..

    ReplyDelete
  82. Anonymous2:08 PM

    I had always thought bead embroidery was something I loved to look at, but had no interest in doing. Then last week I decided to embellish a herringbone bracelet. I eventually realized that much of what I was doing was bead embroidery, and that I was loving it!

    I'm not making this up - you can see my bracelet posted in a couple of days at http://beadingdaily.com/forums/t/7322.aspx I still need to bead the clasp.

    lizhart at kippercat dot net

    ReplyDelete
  83. Robin,
    I greatly appreciate your work. I especially enjoy your website tips on understanding and fooling the inner critic. Congratulations and I wish you many more years of success!
    Best,
    Jessica
    jessica@cookieaday.com

    ReplyDelete
  84. Robin, I would love a copy, but will have to buy one if I don't win. This BJP is so important and soul enriching for so many people...think of the ripples in a pond from a single drop of a stone. We are all lucky to have each other.

    I just checked Amazondotcom, and they have used copies of your book ranging from $34 to $102! Isn't that amazing?

    msutherlandatyahoodotcom

    ReplyDelete
  85. Love your story of perseverance! Your style is inspiring and I would LOVE to own a pretty bound copy!
    kdeverett(at)live(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  86. What a great story of success! I have just discovered your blog and I will be back. I started with bead crochet and now am learning lampwork bead making and I often feel like exploding with all the possibilities. Like you, I am quite enamored with tiny seed beads. Would love to see your book! Thanks much for the opporturnity. lo lisaoram com.

    ReplyDelete
  87. Happy birthday to your amazing, fascinating, heart-connecting blog, and best retirement-wishes to your wonderful book! Both of them have made, and will continue to make, a great difference to many people's lives. Thank you, Robin!

    Sabine
    keichelsathotmaildotde

    ReplyDelete
  88. Hi Robin

    I would love to have a chance to win this book. I have the newer ones but not this one.

    fmbutler(at)hotmail(dot)com

    Hugs

    FredaB

    ReplyDelete
  89. Congratulations on these milestones.

    beadsophisticateatgmaildotcom

    ReplyDelete
  90. I just wanted to comment and say that I know what you mean about how time flies. I've been keeping an online journal (in different incarnations) for ten years! The latest is a Blogger account that I've had for four and a half years. It doesn't seem like that long ago.

    Congratulations with all your many successes and here's to many more!

    ReplyDelete
  91. Congratulations! I simply LOVE your beautiful works and your unique style.

    ReplyDelete
  92. Anonymous9:46 AM

    Congrats on your anniversary! I already have a copy of the book, but I sure would like to win a copy for my Mom- she saw my copy when she visited me last time and got very excited and motivated by it!
    badaly(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  93. Happy Anniversary !!


    I hope that I am not too late. I would love to win a copy of your book. Bead embroidery has always fascinated me1

    blogbaby(at)comcast(dot)net

    ReplyDelete
  94. Congratulations on 4 years of blogging and thank you so much for sharing your inspirational story! I hope to keep up my blog the way you do, and I would like to write a book about creative spirit and creative process one day :)

    mandibeads(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  95. Oh yay! I can't believe I almost missed out on this! I'd LOVE to get your book and I'm not running off to print off the pdf of the other one!

    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  96. Robin, LOVE your work! Looking forward to spending some time with Beaded Treasures, I bought it a few years ago but my employment at a bead store kept me from exploring it (a little ironic, yes?). Sadly, the store closed but gladly I can now create. The PDF, Thanks!!!! Going to download now! Be well!

    ReplyDelete
  97. I would love to win a copy of this book as I have a house full of crafters and it would be an inspiring resource to have in our library.

    ReplyDelete
  98. I would love to add your lovely book to my library! What a fantastic resource! loralynnsart (at) gmail (dot) com

    ReplyDelete
  99. Oh my oh my oh my :D
    I hope I could win your beautiful book :D
    Greetings from Poland :* :)

    ReplyDelete
  100. Congratulations!

    I'm starting bead embroidery on a small scale, this book would be a great addition! Thanks for the chance to win!

    munfoong5(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  101. Congratulations on both your anniversaries! You are without a doubt the reigning Bead Goddess. I love checking out the lovely BJP's!

    Please enter me into your giveaway! What a treasure this book is in any format!

    Hugs, Cathy

    catkizatxmissiondotcom
    catkiz(at)xmission(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  102. Please enter me in your giveaway, but I must say tyou have already given so much. Your have given me the inspiration to bead! congrats on the blogaversary! )

    ReplyDelete
  103. Robin,

    I have been following your blog for several years and admire your work. Your generous gift of the PDF is much appreciated. I would feel very lucky to win a hard copy.

    ReplyDelete
  104. I would love to win a copy of your book and learn bead embroidery!
    grif(at)ctsi(dot)net

    ReplyDelete
  105. Hi, I don't imagine I will win this book but hope springs eternal. I would love a copy of it from you. I have been following your blog for a couple of years now but not officially. I did sign up to follow the BJP blog so I can see what everyone is up to. There are so many inspiring works out there, I have begun beading more and more myself although I am primarily a fiber artist. Thank you for all the wonderful posts and tutorials you have shared through the years. I will stick with you for the next 4 years too, and 4 more after that.........

    ReplyDelete
  106. This is a very generous offer, thank you for inspiring me

    ReplyDelete
  107. How kind of you to give these away. I got an error when trying to get an ecopy from your web site, but I will try again tomorrow. Your beading is an inspiration!

    ReplyDelete
  108. Congratulations! Love beads! Have a huge collection - just don't know how to use them properly so they're not being used . :) You are an amazing beader and would love to take a class with you! Thanks so much for this generous offer.
    Cherie
    cherieatclickworksdotcom

    ReplyDelete
  109. Good for you sticking to your guns and getting your book published. I would love to win your book so please pick my name, please. Your blog is very interesting and I will follow you. Congratulations on four years. I am coming up on my first and you are right there are lovely, wonderful and sweet people on the blogs. Too bad there aren't more nice ones on the loose out there.
    Your beading is awesome btw and it is wonderful to gaze upon. If I don't win you book I to will download it thanks for the offer.
    My email addy is reddrooster at gmail dot com. hope that is right.
    Take care and Happy Beading ~
    God Bless ~
    Lenna

    ReplyDelete
  110. Anonymous9:52 PM

    Robin

    I love the technique and the innovation in your beading - it is the reason that I just recently took it up.

    Since I can't sit up on a chair much, if at all, to be able to see the illustrations and techniques in the e-book, I would love to have a hard copy of you book to be able to read and re-read and plan possible project :-)

    iol :-)

    ReplyDelete
  111. Anonymous11:03 PM

    What a fabulous book - very inspirational. I am just a beginer but I'd love to win this book - who knows where it would take me?! My email is thechangeling (at) optusnet (dot) com (dot) au

    ReplyDelete
  112. Thank you, Robin - for your persistence and for sharing your passion, talent and skills with the rest of the world. You've inspired so many - and given a lot of us who create, whether we work with paint, beads, clay or textiles, the strength to continue on. What an amazing gift!!

    Congratulations on your milestone - you deserve all the great things the future has in store for you. xx

    ReplyDelete
  113. Thank you Robin. I learned about it when someone posted a notice in the Brooklyn Doll Club group and I in turn have posted the notices in two yahoo groups, Decidedly Different Dolls and New York City Beader.

    ReplyDelete
  114. In my excitement over your giveaway - and my appreciation for everything you've done - I forgot to leave my email address. What a dork! xx

    queenkatherine (AT) gmail(DOT) com

    ReplyDelete
  115. Oh Robin!! I have only discovered you today through a quilter's blogspot yet I'm a beader. I've already forwarded your blogspot address to beady friends. I'm sitting here drooling - not a nice image of an English lady but sadly true. Your work is something I can only dream about but is so 'right' if you know what I mean. Thank you for sharing. Do you ever teach in the UK? My beading group would love a workshop if you are ever over here!
    Again thanks so much.

    mothequilter(AT)gmail(DOT)com

    ReplyDelete
  116. Your work is a terrific inspiration. Thanks for much for all your work!
    kimmrg(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  117. Congratulations! Your work is amazing and very inspiring, I especially love your color combinations. Thanks for sharing your ideas and book with us!

    beaderchin(at)gmail(dot).com

    ReplyDelete
  118. What beautiful work! would love to learn this.

    ReplyDelete
  119. Anonymous9:54 AM

    No matter how many books about bead embroidery are printed, you still have a unique perspective- I've always coveted your book and would love a copy!

    melyssa_phillips(at)yahoo(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  120. Selma King,
    I tried to download your book, but I received a message saying that there isn't enough bandwidth?

    ReplyDelete
  121. Congratulations for being a pioneer and following your heart!!

    Count me among the wanna bees!!! I would love to own a real copy, but I am planning to download the PDF... Just in case I don't win.
    baquilter(at)gmail(dot)com.

    ReplyDelete
  122. congrats on your 4th blogversary, robin!

    an awesome beading book such as yours is always a gem to beaders. thanks for sharing your knowledge and creativity. i'm sure it'll be even more appreciated now that it can be downloaded since copies may no longer be found.

    pls do count me in for your giveaway!

    arty(dot)valerie(at)gmail(dot)com

    ReplyDelete
  123. I would be so honored to be entered in your drawing. I have always enjoyed working with beads. And about now I can use all the help I can get :)

    Thank you for such a lovely drawing. AND sharing your book with!

    wildmtnroseatgmaildotcom

    ReplyDelete
  124. Hello Robin,
    I am a Quilter and like to bead my quilts. I would be very happy to win your book.
    Evi from Germany

    ReplyDelete
  125. Melanie Hollenshead10:28 AM

    Your book is beautiful and inspirational. I am sending the link to my dear Sister who is completing her Doctorate in Clinical Psychology. I think this may give her inspiration for one more tool to help heal people during their hours of need. Thanks for sharing and May the Lady Bless You!

    ReplyDelete
  126. I am so gratefull for you 4 years of blogging! Although I have been following your posts for less then 2 years now, I can say I am a fan! You keep inspiring me by just telling your story.
    Would be much obliged to receive a bound copy, so here it is:
    dees(at)hccnet(dot)nl

    ReplyDelete
  127. Well, it's pretty late Arizona time (2328-Army Wife Time) so unless we are in the same time zone, the opportunity to be gifted one of your books is past.
    But that's OK!!! Beadcause... although I've just had a really tough day preparing for a Doctor visit tomorrow morning, when I leave his office I will be coming home to read and enjoy your wonderful E-Book.
    You Know the one... I drooled all over it for so long without getting around to ordering it that I'm surprised that your 'puter isn't soaking wet!!
    I'm so excited, but especially I'm grateful that you chose to gift us your E-Book.
    I ALMOST (but not quite) feel guilty for putting myself up for the Paper copy of 1Bead@aTime, but I just can't resist!!!
    So here we GO! Karen the PurpleHairLady aka DesertGator(at)garra(dot)org

    ReplyDelete
  128. Crystal11:36 PM

    Hello, Wow its cool that i stumbled upon your blog..you are so talented!!
    I am looking forward to visiting often;)

    cyclona66(at)aol dotcom

    ReplyDelete
  129. Hi Robin!!Your work is incredible and so unique...
    I will most definitely hahve to do more of this beading in my art quilts! It amazes me how you can use so much beading and yet have it look not tacky...Thanks for sharing with us!

    ReplyDelete
  130. Congrats!! I am so excited about your new book coming out. Can't wait to get my copy!

    ReplyDelete
  131. Anonymous3:31 AM

    Hello
    Do you need a loan? If yes,Apply Now For a Personal or Business Loan at 4% interest rate,contact Thomson Financial Service for more proceeding with the below information.

    APPLICANT INFORMATION NEEDED

    Your Name:
    Country And State:
    Home Address:
    Sex:
    Age:
    Occupation:
    Loan Amount Needed :
    Loan duration:
    Income:
    Mobile number:


    Email:thomsonfinancialservice@gmail.com

    Best Regards
    Mr Jonathan Thomson

    ReplyDelete

Thanks you for joining the discussion on this post today!