Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Will I complete the projects in class?

A: Unlike the rest of us mere mortals, students who are particularly fast workers often complete their projects in class. However, we slow ones are comforted by the thought that we leave class knowing exactly what we need to do to complete our projects, and that our completed pieces will express a pinnacle of perfection not achievable by those who dash headlong to the finish line.
 

Q: What techniques do I need to know before I attend the retreat?

A: All the projects in this Retreat are intermediate level. Before attending the retreat, students must be proficient at basic wire wrapping, coiling, and making flat spirals. In addition, students must know how properly to open and close jump rings. More generally, students should be comfortable with wire working tools and working in gauges from 16 to 28.

If it has been been several years since you've used your wire working skills, before arriving at the retreat, please take a refresher course or practice your skills using as a reference any of the many excellent wire working instructional books currently available.
 

Q: What is your cancellation policy?

A: If you are unable to attend the retreat, contact The Beading Frenzy as soon as possible. If you cancel before July 1st, we will refund your tuition less a $100 cancellation fee. If you cancel after July 1st and if the event is full, we will refund your tuition less a $100 nonrefundable cancellation fee if we can find someone to fill your place. Registered spaces are fully transferable, however, so you can send someone in your place as long as she or he brings a completed registration form.
 

Q: Does the registration fee include all materials?

A: No. The registration fee does not include any of the materials that you will need.

Soon after you register, you will receive a registration package that includes the materials lists for all the workshops and for any classes for which you have registered. We appreciate the fact that many students have preferred suppliers, however, if for convenience you would prefer to buy supplies for any of the workshops or classes, that can be arranged. Just let us know.

We would be remiss at this point, however, were we not to remind you that your registration fee does, in fact, include oodles of goodies and wonders detailed at the top of the Registration page.
 

Q: Must I be registered in HOW to take an evening class?

A: Yes. Registration for the evening classes is restricted to retreat registrants.
 

Q: Should I rent a car if I am arriving by plane or train?

A: That's entirely up to you, but it's certainly not necessary. The host hotel provides a 24-hour complimentary shuttle service to and from the San Francisco airport. In addition, there are restaurants and a cinema within walking distance of the hotel. Should you decide to venture further afield, you can take advantage of a free trolley service to and from downtown Burlingame. Burlingame boasts a charming downtown with several fine restaurants and plenty of shopping. It's also an easy train ride to and from San Francisco.

And for those who want additional instruction there's always the optional evening classes?
 

Q: What is the weather like in Burlingame and the Bay Area in September?

A: Quite frankly, it's about as close as you'll ever get to Heaven in this life. Being a modified Mediterranean climate, it almost never rains anywhere in the Bay Area in September. Moreover, it's pleasantly warm during the day and pleasantly cool at night. The average high is 73° and the average low is 55°.
 

Q: I always forget something. Will I be able to buy wire, beads, and other supplies during the retreat?

A: Of course! We realize that there's nothing more devastating than not having exactly what you need at such a critical time. During the retreat, The Beading Frenzy will host a mini-beadstore with wire, tools, crystals, pearls, and seedbeads, and a few other supplies.

If you're looking for something specific, please feel free to call The Beading Frenzy (650‑347‑BEAD) before you arrive. We'll make sure to pack what you need.
 

Q: Are the classrooms well lit?

A: In general, classroom lighting is excellent. However, we strongly recommend that you bring an OTT-Lite for detail work and an extension cord. Classrooms will be provided with enough electrical outlets to power everyone's personal lights.
 

Q: Who exactly are the marvelous people behind Hooked On Wire?

A: Hooked On Wire is the brain child of Susan Kazarian, owner of a fabulous beadstore called The Beading Frenzy (www.thebeadingfrenzy.com) in San Mateo, CA, and Lisa Niven Kelly (www.lisanivenkelly.com and www.beaducation.com), teacher, beadworker, and lampwork artist extraordinaire. Susan and Lisa have been friends and business associates for over seven years. This is their fourth year coproducing the HOW retreat.

If you have additional questions, or if you want to be added to the Hooked on Wire Retreat mailing list, please click here.

Last updated Sunday, April 6th, 2008