When was the store opened and who are the owners?
The store opened in 1987. Karen and Laurel Kubby are the second owners of the store, owning and operating it since 2008. Learn more here.
Do you have other locations?
We are an independent bead store, with one location at 355 S. Clinton St. in Iowa City, IA at the corner of Clinton St. and Court St. We have been at our current location since December of 2022.
Is your entire inventory on the website? If not, do you plan on putting it all on the website? Why not?
No, not even close. Our enormous inventory is ever changing and includes small quantity specialty beads. This makes it impossible for our small staff to keep such a website updated and accurate. If you need help finding something that you’re not finding on the website, or you’re not finding enough of something on the website, feel free to call us at 319-338-1566 or email us at info@beadologyiowa.com for more information. We offer phone/email/video shopping appointments.
Why don’t you have seed beads on your site?
Our seed bead collection is vast and can change with what’s available on the market, so it would be a lot to keep up with. We carry Tohos in 6/0, 8/0, 11/0, 15/0, and Delicas in 11/0, and Czech 6/0. If you are looking for something, we are happy to help! Give us a call at 319-338-1566 or email us at info@beadologyiowa.com with the color number and general color (i.e. “it’s a dark reddish brown”) so that we can find it on our seed bead wall.
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept cash, all major credit cards, including phone tap payments over $10, and Beadology Iowa gift certificates. We do not accept checks.
Do you offer gift certificates?
Yes, you can purchase a gift certificate in person for any amount over $5. Gift certificates can be purchased on line for $10, $25, $50, or $100.
Can I use my gift certificate online?
Our web site does not allow you to use your gift certificate on-line. You can shop from the web site and then call in your order by phone and use your gift certificate.
Are there ways to shop besides online or in-store?
Yes! You can shop over the phone, via email, or through video. We will do our best to accommodate your needs.
What are shipping costs?
The standard shipping charge is $12. For some smaller items, it can go down to $8. For larger items like an African mask, shipping and packaging will need to be determined.
Where do you ship?
We ship to US destinations. Please inquire about shipping to another location. We will have to calculate postage and import taxes based on the weight, shape, and destination of the shipment.
What is your return policy?
Returns are offered for store credit if returned within 14 calendar days in original condition with receipt. Bulk items cut to order are not returnable or refundable.
What is your class cancellation policy?
Class fees are due at time of registration. Cancellations must be made at least 5 days in advance of class in order to receive store credit. There are no cash refunds for cancellations issued by the student.
If Beadology Iowa cancels a class, the student can choose to transfer registration to another class, receive store credit, or receive a refund.
Do you offer private classes?
We do! There is a 20% markup per student, yet if you have 4 or more people in your class, the price per student would be the standard price for that class.
How does getting on a waiting list for a class work?
When classes fill up, we start a waiting list. When we have two people on that waiting list, we work with those people to schedule another session that works with all of our schedules. Then we open that class up for others to register.
Do you do repairs?
We do! There are many ways that we can help you rejuvenate and repair your best worn pieces. We provide many services, such as restringing, reknotting, replacing clasps and ear wires, and much more. We do not solder, yet we can do many other types of repairs! If there’s a will, there’s a way, and we have a lot of will. For a repair quote, send descriptions and photos, if possible, to info@beadologyiowa.com, or for best results bring the item in to the store so that we can diagnose the problem and come up with a plan. We ask for permission up front to vary from the quote up to 10% for incidentals and other unanticipated needs for the repair. If the work needed is greater than 10% above the quote, we will ask permission before proceeding. Repairs can take 1-3 weeks depending on how many we have in our repair bin, as they are worked on in order of arrival. A rush can be put on the item for a 10% fee. Full payment is due at pickup.
Do you do custom work?
We do! One of our favorite services we provide is to help you create a unique and functional piece for you, or as a a gift. We will work with you to find the perfect materials that fit your vision and budget. We can guide you when you need help with your project. We will provide a quote for the piece and half of the total will need to be paid up front. We ask for permission up front to vary from the quote up to 10% for incidentals and other unanticipated needs for the custom order. If the work needed is greater than 10% above the quote, we will ask permission before proceeding. We may need additional communication during the process due to technical challenges or requested changes in design.
What are the rules and how much does it cost to use the flame studio?
Those with at least basic lampworking skills can rent the flame studio. Participants need to bring their own glass, mandrels, and bead release. Studio rental includes use of torches, gas, tool box, and annealing. Free lockers are available for those regularly using the studio.
Walk-in: $15/hour
Time card–10 hours: $11/hour
Time card–20 hours: $9/hour
Open Lab: Thursdays 4-8pm, Sundays noon-5: $18 soft glass/$22 boro
What are the rules and how much does it cost to use the metals studio?
Those with at least basic metal working skills can rent the flame studio. Participants need to bring their own metals, flux, solder, saw blades, and any other consumed supplies except butane. Studio rental includes use of butane torches, pickle pot, hammers, pliers, soldering pads, and other studio tools. Free lockers are available for those regularly using the studio.
Walk-in: $15/hour
Time card–10 hours: $11/hour
Time card–20 hours: $9/hour
Open Lab: Thursdays 4-8pm, Sundays noon-5: $18
Other than classes and studio space, do you have event space?
Our Bead Lab, other than being where we host classes and do lampworking, can be used for private classes for groups or small parties. Currently, or maximum capacity in our Bead Lab is 8 people.
What are your COVID safety procedures?
We are thankful that we have enough space for customers to be distanced. Our high ceilings and use of ceiling fans help circulate air. People are distanced in classes.
Why do you still require masks?
Masks are not required. We provide masks and hand sanitizer at the door. Staff will gladly wear masks when requested. We want to make sure our space is accessible for people with disabilities or auto immune health conditions, so please don’t hesitate to request masks use while you shop. Feel free to call 319 338-1566 to arrange this in advance.
Do you buy private collections?
Yes, depending the the contents of the collection. If you have a private collection, send photos to info@beadologyiowa.com or call 319-338-1566 and ask to speak with Karen.
What causes and organizations does Beadology Iowa support?
We also host a “downtown gift basket” that includes gift certificates and coupons from Beadology Iowa, Textiles, Revival, Discerning Eye, AKAR, and Underground Printing. We offer 5 baskets per month to local non-profits to use as raffle and auction prizes. These are distributed on a first come, first served basis.
Do you sell wholesale?
We do not, as we are a retail bead store. If you have a sales tax number, you can bring us a copy so that you can avoid paying sales taxes on items for resale.
If you don’t have something online or in-store, can you order it?
We would be happy to try to find what you’re looking for. Sometimes there is a minimum order, so it may depend on the quantity you need. We will collect your details, do our research and then get back to you with a quote. Special orders need to be paid in full before we order and they are not returnable, refundable, or creditable.
Is EVERYTHING in the store 50% off in the Pre-Inventory Sale?
Exceptions are commission works, Swarovski crystals, Essentials, Saki, Pearls Galore, and precious metals.