Scrapbooking, Quilting, Needlework, Arts & Crafts

American Indian Beadwork

American Indian beadwork is stunning in more ways than one, as this article reveals ...

American Indian beadwork is a true art form that can be found on a number of different objects and items of clothing as well as jewelry. The intricate designs are often familiar but some are surprisingly unexpected for this type of craft. American Indian beadwork is not only a magnificent tribute to culture. This art form can be quite stunning in more ways than one.

When shopping for items that boast American Indian beadwork you may come across some interesting and unexpected colors and designs. These interesting pieces have arrangements that are not commonly associated with traditional American Indian beadwork. No matter what you are sure to find an item that suits any taste if you spend enough time looking.

Purses are commonly created with Native American beading designs. You can picture suede purses with blue turquoise stones as beading elements. However, you may come across American Indian beadwork with an entirely different attitude. The element of surprise is great when shopping for such items.

One purse I came across recently had a symmetrical design with black and white flowers. Each flower had a yellow center and the purse was adorned with soft tassels.  At first glance, I thought that the item came straight from the Victorian era. After studying the piece you can pick up some Native American style in the details but it is remarkably subtle.

Earrings and necklaces are popular items that include American Indian beadwork. There are a lot of options with this jewelry and of course, you will find plenty of turquoise and sterling silver but the beads may tell a different tale. Many of the necklaces have American Indian beadwork that is intricate and tightly constructed.

From a distance these necklaces appear to be solid in structure until you take a closer look. The delicate beading designs are closely knit and carefully constructed. My favorite of the ones I saw has a yellow center that fades into orange then red and finally fades into black. The American Indian beadwork is so well constructed that this necklace appears to be a starburst from a distance.

My very favorite object is a pair of baby booties made entirely covered with American Indian beadwork. From what I understand one pair can take nearly a year to complete so many artists make them by request only. The moccasins that caught my attention have red and white beads that create stark contrast. On the top of the moccasins are striking red roses with deep green leaves. The colors are repeated in an intricate design surrounding the outer border of the shoes. 

No matter what you are seeking you are sure to find something to suit your tastes in American Indian beadwork. All you have to do is look.

For more articles and information about beads, beading and beadworking, please see our "resources" section, or go to articles about beading.