About Me

Hello, and thanks for stopping by The Professor's Bead Library (PBL):  I'm so glad that you're here!  I'm Leah Holmes, owner and glass artisan at PBL here in Diamondhead, Mississippi, where I live with my hubby Mike and our terrier mix, Sammy. As the name of my website suggests, I am a former high-school and university English Instructor (St. Stanislaus College Prep and Univ. of So. Miss) who now runs a private Lampwork (glass bead) studio and a boutique. And yes, it really is the funnest job I've ever had. :)

It was during the dissertation stage of my doctorate years ago that I first experimented with stringing beads as a method of relaxation--almost like praying the rosary. It wasn't long before the beads themselves took hold of me in a formidable way, most especially the glass beads; their luminescence and uniqueness were captivating in ways that would eventually transform both my career and sense of myself as an artist. With over 20 years of experience melting glass rods into designer lampwork beads, I bring creativity and passion to every little (and big!) beady born in my small studio. The beads are then worked into original jewelry pieces. If you love colororful, fun, and unique jewelry, my hope is that you will find a special piece here that suits your own personality and charm, or that of somemone special to you.

In dditiona to glass bead jewelry, I also sell glass bead sets ready for your own craft projects (all of my beads have been fully annealed in a digital kiln for added strength and longevity). Fellow artisans may also be interested in my de-stash corner (coming soon!) for hot glass tools and supplies. 

At this time, I am not accepting custom orders, though I plan to do so within the 2026 calendar year.

Again, welcome to the Prof's Bead Library! Please Contact Me if I can anwswer any questions at all. Happy viewing, and thanks again for your interest in glass art!

Beady hugs, Leah