My husband had a job interview in Iowa City, so we there for a couple days. While he was interviewing (*all day*) I explored the town. You'll never guess what I looked for first. :-) I found Dawn's Hide & Bead Away, a very cool little shop a couple blocks from the university. Prices weren't great, but the selection was -- and I did end up spending a few bucks (big surprise). There were a couple really nice young women working there. We chatted a bit and I told them that my husband was interviewing and that I had to find out if there was a good bead store in town before I would consent to moving there. They were like, "So, is there??" Well, yeah! Dawn apparently gives all sorts of classes, including lampworking and PMC (both of which I'm just *dying* to try).
Here's a link to Dawn's site:
Most of the site is "under construction." (And you can bet if we move there I'll do my best to meet Dawn and find out if I can offer her web services for trade....)
The Iowa Artisans also has a gallery a few blocks away from the store.
ang. ____________________________ angelfish handcrafted baubles