Starting from humble beginnings in the late 1960s, what was once an 800-square-foot antique store in Mud Bay is now an 80,000-square-foot bead warehouse and showroom. Throughout the years, Shipwreck Beads in Lacey has transformed into focusing solely on beads and making a name for itself by having the most beads in the world. "When I started, there were just three of us," said Douglas Boling, general manager for 25 years. "Now there are (more than) 50."

Walking into Shipwreck Beads can be quite overwhelming. With a 20,000-square foot showroom that holds more than 50,000 items, it is safe to say that a solid day can be spent wandering around. "We have (more than) 30 aisles," Boling said, "And have had people stay from the time we open until the time we close."  Shipwreck carries beads from around the world, including Peru, Indonesia, Germany, Austria and Thailand, as well as African beads dating back to the 1700s.

For those wanting an all-day experience, there is even a café that serves drinks and hot sandwiches right in the showroom.

For those who aren't quite sure what to create out of all those beads, Shipwreck offers videos on its website as well as a ‘Book Nook' in the shop. "This is where we guide people to go to at first," Boling said. "There are ideas for every project possible." The shop also offers beginner and amateur classes; all that's required is registration.

Shipwreck shoppers are truly limited only by their imaginations. Earrings, necklaces and bracelets are among the few things one can make, but Boling says that he has encountered much more intricate artwork. "I have seen murals and mosaics done with the beads, and also incorporations into sewing or crocheting projects."

In addition, the art of making jewelry with beads is something both young and old can enjoy. "I have 10 grandchildren, and a number of them start stringing beads at five or six years of age," Boling said.

Shipwreck Beads offers a 15-percent military discount to active duty and retired military members and their dependents. Boling himself is a veteran, having served with the 82nd Airborne Division; he even attended basic training right here at Fort Lewis. "We had basic training right up there on North Fort," he said. "In fact, my great grandfather built the World War II barracks."

Not only is Shipwreck Beads a supporter of the military, but it also donates to local charities and Parent Teacher Associations (PTA). In fact, the shop set the world record - 3,600 feet - for the longest string of beads with the Boys and Girls Club, and donated a dollar per foot to the club.

Wondering what kind of intrigue lies within stringing beads? Check out Shipwreck Beads for yourself at 8560 Commerce Place Dr NE in Lacey or visit its website at www.shipwreckbeads.com/.