"How do I register for a class online?"

Registering for a class is quick and easy. Just add a class to your cart as though it were a regular product, update how many seats you would like, and check out as normal.

"What if I have signed up for a class and I cannot attend?"

All class sales are final. Please choose your classes wisely, and be sure to check dates before signing up. Our instructors earn their salaries based on class enrollments. There are no refunds, transfers or exchanges. You may send someone to class to take your place. If you must send someone in your place, be sure they meet all the prerequisites for the class, or they may be asked to leave.

As a courtesy, in the event that you cannot make it to class and cannot send someone in your place, please call us at 650 383 3413. Our classes are very popular and we would love to give someone else the opportunity to attend.

"I think I'm going to be late. What should I do?"

As soon as you think you are running late, please call 650 383 3413. A sales associate will inform the instructor and find out if you may still attend. Instructors reserve the right to refuse entry after class has begun. Out of respect for other students and the instructor, please be on time and do not expect the instructor to be able to bring you up to speed if you are late. If you are refused entry, no refund will be given. No exceptions.

"What is sent out to customers regarding upcoming classes?"

We send out email newsletter to announce upcoming class schedules. Join our newsletter here and never miss a sign up day.

"When can I start my registration?"

Please check the calendar and class pages to find out when sign ups for upcoming semesters will take place. In general we open phone and fax registration the day after sign ups.

"It always seems that classes are full. How early do I need to sign up to get the classes that I want?"

It’s true. Many of the classes at the beginning of the semester fill quickly. However, we often repeat class offerings throughout the semester so there is a very good chance there will be an opening later in the semester. We know it can be hard to commit to a date several months in advance, but we recommend you look often at the class calendar and see if your schedule allows you to sign up for a high-demand class later in the semester.

"What is included in the class fee?"

Your fee includes instruction and use of tools in class. Students must purchase materials before or during class time, unless otherwise stated in class decriptions. There is time in class to purchase materials with the aid of the instructor. A limited number of our classes have an additional kit fee associated. The kit fee is a required element of the class and parts cannot be brought or purchased separately. Please read the materials list to see if you will need to purchase beads or other materials for finishing or embellishing your project.

"Why are the prerequisites necessary?"

Our instructors provide us with a list of assumed knowledge students must have in order to experience the class successfully. It is very important that you meet all prerequisites before enrolling. Intermediate and advanced classes will not cover any assumed knowledge, and students failing to meet the prerequisites may be asked to leave, as it can hold up the entire class. This is done at the instructors discretion, and no refunds will be given.

"I have done lots of stringing and wire-wrapping. Can I enroll in an intermediate class of soldering or chain making?"

Please read all the prerequisites listed with each class. The basic techniques for one branch of jewelry making are very different from any other given branch. Students must meet all prerequisites for a class before enrolling to avoid disappointment, and frustrating the teacher. See above.

"I have a friend in town and I can't find a sitter for my children. Can they come along? Will someone watch them at the store?"

Additional non-registered guests and children are not permitted to attend classes. Only customers who have purchased a space may attend to avoid disrupting class. As much as The Bead Shop adores children, we are not babysitters. Please arrange for outside care, and plan ahead to avoid "tag along" guests. If you attend with additional people, we will request that they leave. If they cannot, you will be asked to leave the class. No refunds or compensation will be given.

"Will I be charged a shipping fee when I register for a class online?"

Unless you have ordered additional products with your purchase you will not be charged a shipping fee.

"Do I get a discount on class materials?"

Yes! From the day you sign up for a class through the last day of the semester, all students receive 20% off most beads and supplies, and 10% off tools and wire in store, with limited exceptions. We have all of our students on file, so please be sure to tell your sales associate that you are a student before you begin your transaction. This is only available in store.
For students wishing to shop online, sign up for a class through our website and we will email you a coupon code for 10% with no exclusion good until the end of the semester. Sorry, no purchases can be back-credited. If you have purchased a class in store and would like to shop online with a 10% discount, please email info @ beadshop.com or call 650 383 3408 and we will send you a code.

"I have not taken a class at The Bead Shop before. What classes are good for beginners?"

Tutorials are perfect for beginners. No knowledge of beading or jewelry work is required. These classes provide the basic skills every budding jewelry designer needs, and are cheaper and shorter than a full length class.. We also offer other great beginner classes for the budding jewelry maker.

"Do you have classes for kids?"

We do not currently offer classes for children. All classes have a minimum age requirement of 16. We do offer parties and private lessons for younger beaders. Please call 650 328 7925 for more information.

"I live out of the area and would love to come to The Bead Shop and take a class. Are there accommodations nearby?"

Please email vicky @ beadshop.com or call 650 383 3405 to talk with Vicky about nearby accommodations.

"Where can I park during class?"

Parking can take some time in Palo Alto. Please allow yourself 30 minutes to find parking so you don't miss valuable class instruction. The City of Palo Alto added a parking structure on High Street between University Avenue and Hamilton Avenue. Parking restrictions are applicable Monday-Friday from 8am - 5pm. There is no time limit on parking on weekends, holidays and anytime after 5pm during the week.

Get directions to The Bead Shop here.