the rooted begonia Hi! My name is Michelle Taylor and my company is call "the rooted begonia". I am from Amherstburg Ontario and I have been making lampwork beads for the last 6 years. I have always loved doing arts and crafts since I was a wee one and making beads is my most passionate craft. I'll give you a little run-down about lampwork and if you have a bit of time check it out on YouTube. It's quite fascinating! The process of making beads involves a duel-fuelled torch, glass, an assortment of flame working tools, and a kiln. I apply layers of different colour glass on a steel rod called a mandrel. I can either create basic beads or more detailed sculptured work. When I am satisfied with my bead, I then anneal it in my kiln overnight. This brings the bead down to room temperature to avoid any possibilities of stress crack. That's about it in a nutshell. I do hope you stop by my booth for a looks-see. My beads are quite colourful and I'm sure they will make you smile! Michelle Taylor