Beth Woody

Durham, NC

It has been said that in order to see exactly the same pattern twice in a kaleidoscope, the number of times you must turn it is: Infinity to the 84th power.

Kaleidoscopes were invented in 1816 by Sir David Brewster, a Scottish scientist who was studying the properties of light. In addition to being beautiful and pleasing to the eye, kaleidoscopes are perhaps the world’s best natural stress reliever – simply kick back in an easy chair, look through the eyepiece, and turn away for a few minutes. You can feel your stresses and troubles slipping away.

Beth Woody became a member of the Village of Yesteryear in 1969 and has participated every year since then. She began with Christmas decorations. Her husband, Allen, joined her a few years later with candles. When she moved on to sculptured paper lampshades, Allen made and/or wired lamps for her to use with the shades. They also make old-fashioned lye soap and have demonstrated making this at heritage re-enactments. Having always been interested in kaleidoscopes, she studied and practiced making them for a number of years before bringing this intriguing craft to the Village in 2004.

Beth makes a variety of sizes and styles of kaleidoscopes with a wide range of materials and prices. Many are one-of-a kind. Custom orders are welcomed. You are limited only by your imagination.

One of the most popular kaleidoscopes is the “Make Your Own.” While intended for children, people of all ages enjoy making them! She is available to take these to children’s parties and works with each child so they can take their own kaleidoscope home with them.

Although the Village of Yesteryear is her major exhibit, she does a few other shows throughout the year, and please free to contact her for a show schedule. She is available for visits to her shop by appointment only.