About Us
Meerkat was established in May 2004 by myself, Krista Barden. It all began after a trip around the world made me realise I could turn my jewellery making hobby into a business.
I started making beaded jewellery, after I moved down to Cornwall from Buckinghamshire in 1999. I found it an enjoyable, therapeutic hobby to do, that took my mind off the pressures and worries of trying to settle in to a new place that was very different to what I was used to. I began teaching myself various techniques and learning through my mistakes, looking at various designs and realising that ‘...I could do that’! Before I knew it I was hooked! I discovered that the range of beads available was far more comprehensive than I had ever imagined. The colours, sizes and shapes were amazing and that beads were ever expanding in range and were sourced from all over the world.
...After getting back from my travels I started to sell a range of my jewellery within an outlet, located in the small, lively village of Carnon Downs, Cornwall. This proved popular and it soon led to me stocking pieces of jewellery by other local designers; all jewellery handcrafted within Cornwall. It went from strength to strength gaining many regular customers.
However my true passion lay behind the beads that went into the pieces created. It had been my aspiration from the very beginning to supply beads and all the accessories required to make jewellery, and in January 2006 Meerkat opened its first shop at Killigrew Street in Falmouth. Meerkat strives to provide a wide range of high quality beads, sourced from all over the world, along with threads, findings and tools, as well as continuing to supply a wide range of handcrafted jewellery.
Meerkat offers a wide selection of beads, they include a spectacular range of Czech beads, Swarovski crystals, Miyuki seed beads, cubes and drops, shells and pearls, not to mention a wide range of unusual funky beads and pendants, all in a fantastic rainbow of colours-the choice is yours!
A comprehensive range of threads, findings and tools are available to enable any beader to create beautiful pieces of jewellery and accessories. Everything you require to complete your own unique design.
If you are new to beads, evening classes are offered between 6pm – 8pm on any evening that suits you. Only £5 tuition per person, plus materials. Classes are suitable for beginners of all ages. Simply choose from our range of selected jewellery styles and we’ll show you how to make it.
...Or if you are finding a particular part of jewellery making difficult, such as attaching clasps, we can help you improve and offer some helpful tips.
Fun filled children’s parties have proved very popular among children. They are suitable for all ages, starting from the age of 3, and are customised to every individual child’s taste and capability. Each child has the opportunity to select what they would like to make and which beads they would like to use.
There are many styles of jewellery and accessories to choose from – basic necklaces and earrings to funky bag charms. It is always surprising to see how creative each child is and what colour combinations are used. Personalities really get expressed! We can seat up to 10 children and prices start from just a £10 service fee, this works out to be only £2 per child for a party of 5 children. You are then simply charged for what beads and materials are used. Final prices vary from approx. £2.50 - £10 per child. Alternatively you can set a budget and pick from a selection of jewellery kits.
To book a party or for more details contact us on
01326 212554.
Free* in-store making facility. Customers are able to choose their beads and make their own jewellery designs in store. Expert advice and required tools are provided. * A group of more than 2 people are subject to a service fee.
We offer special workshops throughout the year, especially during school holidays and for certain occasions, such as Mothers Day. Children are able to choose from a range of jewellery kits starting from £5 all inclusive. Simply book a place. Workshops are available during our normal opening hours. Mon – Sat, 10am – 5pm. Pick a time that suits you.
A re-stringing and repairs service is also available and ideal for giving your favourite accessory a new lease of life. Prices start from as little as £3.
Please enjoy this site and if you have any comments or queries please do not hesitate to contact us.
Alternatively visit the shop at:
41b Killigrew Street,
Falmouth,
Cornwall,
TR11 3PW
Thank you.