While visiting the blogs of the Bead Soup Blog Party participants (see pervious blog post for my Reveal), I found that I was captivated by the designers who used bead weaving techniques to complete their projects. I was so taken with their designs that I did a little research today to learn more about bead weaving….
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| Great Book by Ann Benson |
The art of weaving in general is a process that I’ve been exposed to for many years. My Grandmother spent hours weaving cloth (to use as farmhouse rugs) by means of a huge loom, so I have a basic knowledge of how to weave. However, my research illustrated that many different weaving techniques and stitches incorporating beads have been used throughout history. I have a lot of catching-up to do…
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| Step 1 |
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| Step 2 |
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| Step 3 |
From my research I’ve found the term “beadwork” seems to be misunderstood (I wasn’t using it correctly). Many people do not realize there is a difference between "beadwork," and "work done with beads."
“Work done with beads” is typically a group of beads strung together, as with a necklace. The stringing is simple and straightforward, we focus on the beads. The beads by themselves are interesting, and the placement on the string ideally enhances the beads. My lampwork bracelet below is considered “Work done with beads”.
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| http://www.etsy.com/listing/67705564/lampwork-bead-bracelet-handmade-monets |
“Beadwork”, it's just the opposite. The beads in beadwork (basically -- don't hold me to this rule in all instances) are plain and do not hold great interest by themselves. However, their placement pulls together the overall pattern; it’s viewed as one design, not individual beads. This technique demands precision, patience, consistency, and vision. Beadweaving is considered “beadwork”. Check out an example below....
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| http://www.etsy.com/listing/49667731/bead-weaving-cuff-bracelet-bubbles |
I found that there are literally hundreds of stitches and variations of the different stitches allowing bead weavers to make jewelry, decorations, and even 3-D art with beads. Many free tutorials are available on the internet. The process seems time consuming, but in the end well worth the effort. Below are some examples of amazing beadwork I found on Etsy.
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I am always amazed at people who create those amazing beaded pieces. I hope you enjoy the process. I can't wait to see what you come up with. Good luck!
ReplyDeleteValerie
Everyday Inspired
Trying something new is always such a fun and positive experience! Beadwork is just gorgeous too!
ReplyDeleteI have been a bead weaver for years and years. I recommend you subscribe or follow my blog buddy Mandy at Beads for Brains- she is learning a new technique daily and sharing it with the rest of us. Her blog is here: http://beadsforbrains.blogspot.com/
ReplyDeleteShe has plenty of links to free patterns.
All beautiful work but I am loving Edoras the most. Bead weaving is a wonderful way to learn patience. I haven't done it in a while but this is inspiring me to get back to it.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing,
Terri
If you're interested in bead weaving I definitely say give it a go! It's always great to see more seed beaders!
ReplyDeleteThe three step diagram in your post is for the peyote stitch, and the beaded cuff is a two-drop peyote stitch design. There are kneed numerous tutorials available online, but if you have any questions about peyote stitch or right angle weave I'd be happy to help.