Bead Weaving

It is important to realize that bead weaving is not the same as beading. The term “bead weaving” refers to traditional stitching techniques where a form of beaded fabric is made by running thread through the beads in a weaving fashion. Bead weaving can be done with or without a beading loom, depending on factors such as patterns, techniques and the goals of each individual artist. Bead weaving has a long and storied history, with beautiful beaded bags and lampshades being produced regularly during Victorian times.

Historians often associate the development of loom bead weaving and single needle weaving with Native American cultures. Bead weaving also has strong cultural history in Japan, where beaded items from as far back as the 8th century can be found in the temple of Shoso-in. Some of the traditional techniques developed by the Native Americans are still practiced today and much of the terminology of bead weaving stitching techniques comes from these cultures as well. For example, one popular hand-held bead weaving stitch is called the peyote stitch.

The peyote technique was popularly used to cover rattles, shakers, necklaces, fans and other traditional items used and worn for religious Native American rituals. The lazy stitch was once called the lazy squaw stitch and was used by the Plains tribes to bead buckskin dresses, yokes and moccasins. Other popular hand-held bead weaving techniques include the brick stitch, square stitch, right angle weave, triangle weave, Dutch spiral, African helix, stop stitch and bead netting. Double needle stitching techniques are also popular with bead weavers.

Loom bead weaving is also a long-lived tradition. There are several different types of beading looms available today in different sizes, made from various materials and at a variation of prices. Loom beading is an entirely different art form than off-loom weaving. Like with off-loom weaving, the bead weaving artist can develop his or her own techniques or learn traditional ones using the loom. Gold Onyx Bead Weaving Supplies provides all the materials you need to get started in the wonderful art of bead weaving.

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