Joanne Espinosa  An attic trunk filled with old silk and brocade dresses became my first canvas. As a young girl I began embellishing with beads and accessories, and was delighted when color, texture and proportion in relationship created something new, unique and pleasing to the eye.

I first became a fiber artist, weaving and embroidering, then learned to knit and crochet, creating hats and scarves often embellished with beads.

On a trip to Venice, Italy I saw so many beautiful glass beads. Cutting up the necklaces I bought there I began to design my own jewelry. In 1995 I started my own business, Joanne Designs, working and selling from my studio on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. My jewelry and hats have been sold at Liberty House, Willow, Betsy Bunkey Nini and other New York specialty stores.

Show me beautiful or interesting beads, and I immediately begin to visualize a design.

Would gold or silver enhance them? What needs to be added?Should it be a bracelet or necklace, long or short? Designing is what I love to do. Do you have a favorite bead, heirloom pendant, treasured necklace or group of beads that could be given new life? Custom work, commissions and special orders are available, as well as my wide selection of jewelry.

Prices for pieces on this site are available upon request. Necklaces range from $70 to 170; bracelets from $35 to 75; and earrings from $30 to 55. Contact me with an item's number and description, and I will respond immediately by phone or email.

I am available for trunk shows both in stores and private homes.

In addition, I teach design and beadwork in private or small group classes at my studio, and each July at the Arts Weekend near Monticello, NY.