The use of beads as an aid to the spiritual life is thousands of years old. They are found in the devotional practices of many of the world’s great spiritual traditions. The specific forms and configurations vary but at their heart, they aid concentration and allow the user to open more fully to whatever meditative or devotional practice she or he is doing. Over time they can also come to have profound emotional, metaphysical and psychological effects through repeated use. Even something as simple as just sitting with the beads, in inner silence, can be a very comforting and healing experience.

My own start in making prayer beads began with a rosary for my own use in 1996. Later I started making them as meaningful gifts for friends who would appreciate their quiet beauty and see them as a “practical joy” on their own paths.  The more I learned about the beads, their history, designs and uses, I grew to love them more and more. Now I would like to share that love with anyone who finds benefit in “the telling of the beads.”

Making prayer beads is a part of my own spiritual practice and each set is made prayerfully and meditatively. When being made for someone specifically, that person and whatever relevant circumstances he or she may be experiencing are the object of that intention.

Current Designs

Malas. Used to count the number of times a mantra is recited in Buddhist practice.

Rosaries. The most common form of prayer beads found in Christian devotion. These are comprised of 5 to 15 groupings ("decades") of 10 beads each ("aves") separated by a larger bead (“pater”). Three additional beads and a cross or crucifix finish the design.

Paternosters.  An older form of prayer bead in Christian tradition. Typically a series of 10 or 50 beads, without the larger Pater beads, and finished with a tassel. Paternosters were used to recite “The Lord’s Prayer” rather than the “Hail Mary.”

Custom Pieces

In addition to the designs above, I am always happy to work with you to select materials and help create a piece that is truly meaningful for yourself or a loved one. Cost is based upon materials used and a deposit is required at the time of ordering. Also, please tell me for whom the beads are being made and any specials circumstances that might you feel to be relevant when placing your order (i.e., suffering from or recovery from an illness, a wedding, a special ceremony and the like).

Ordering

At the present time the best way to order a piece or inquire about a custom design is to email me directly. Much of the work that I do is one-of-a-kind and so the beads I have on hand will vary.