I'm looking forward to meeting you in Juneau, JennieG. At the very least I can direct you to people involved in quilting and/or beading. Maybe because of our long winters many people create their treasures on their own and in their own homes.

But there are also classes and clubs:

"Spirit Beads owner and bead artist Salty Hanes hopes all the bags in the show will drive visitors to create their own works of art.

"It's to encourage people to be creative during the year," Hanes said. "It was also to encourage people who had these gorgeous antique bags that just sat in a dresser (to display them) so that the public could see them once a year and be inspired."

Check this out or just google 'Spirit Beads'

A local friend not only quilts and meets weekly with a quilters' group but she has customized window shades at home. She also sells the machines that turn quilting into a modern art.

Always assuming that they are in town when you get here I'd be happy to take you to meet these people.