Beadworks Closing In Norwalk After 35 Years

NORWALK, CT — Beadworks, a unique store on Washington Street specializing in beads and related items, will close Nov. 27 after 35 years in business.

Owner Abigail Wall said the driving factors for closing the store, which opened in South Norwalk in 1987, are issues with staffing and other economic pressures that are not unique to Beadworks.

"I don't feel particularly picked on," Wall said. "I know this is happening to lots and lots of businesses."

Since purchasing the store from her aunt nearly 16 years ago, Wall has enjoyed providing residents of Norwalk and nearby with a unique creative outlet.

"In our modern culture, folks don't make things any more," Wall said. "The ability to actually craft something in which you can take pride is really transformational for people."

Following the store's closing announcement, Wall said some customers have shared stories with her of having come to the store with their parents who have since passed. Some have even brought their own children or grandchildren in with them to experience the store one last time.

"I've had just really lovely, wonderful people thanking me for all the years and letting us know how much we'll be missed," Wall said. "It's been really sad, but also really lovely."

Customer reactions to the closing have ranged from sad to extremely surprised, Wall said.

"People have been absolutely shocked," Wall said, "to an extent that kind of surprised me...after 35 years, [Beadworks] just seemed permanent."

According to the store's website, Beadworks' products are selected by Wall, "an experienced jewelry maker dedicated to providing the finest in materials to support and inspire the creation of both amateur and professional designers."

The store offers classic and traditional designs with an eye toward contemporary fashion styles. It focuses on gemstone beads, semi-precious beads and fine lampwork glass, as well as unique findings and an "ever-changing mix of beads displayed in a pleasant and inspirational setting."

Throughout her time operating the store, Wall has enjoyed working with a group of terrific, and often young, employees.

"It has given me the opportunity to employ some really dynamic, creative, predominantly young women with extraordinary potential," Wall said. "It's been great to be part of their lives and their professional journeys. I think that's been really meaningful."

In the days leading up to its closure, Beadworks will hold a store closing sale, Wall said. She also encouraged customers to come inside one last time to say goodbye to the physical store, but not the creativity it has inspired in the area for over 30 years.

"Creativity doesn't end with Beadworks," Wall said, "and I hope people take all that they learned here with them in their futures."