Inspiration Monday: Native American Beadwork

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While catching up with an old friend the other day, the inevitable question of, "So, what have you been up to?" came up.  I picked up a few of the numerous examples of what I've been up to (bead weaving projects that are scattered all around the house), held them out to him, and said, "This!" 

My friend's interest in and knowledge about my bead weaving and bead embroidery began to ring a bell--of course! my friend is Native American.  I suddenly felt foolish, as if my several years dabbling in decorative beading could compare with the knowledge of the generations of his family steeped in the relationship between Native Americans and beads. 

My friend's family is part of the Ho-chunk Nation, formerly (and incorrectly) known as the Winnebago Tribe, although a branch of the tribe which resides in Nebraska is still called by its former name.  His family is deeply involved in traditional Ho-chunk dancing, which involves the wearing of elaborate beaded costumes.  He told me that each member of the family would participate in creating the intricate beadwork which adorned the costumes.  This information was just so intriguing to me; to think about the kinship involved in that amazing process was mind-boggling and inspiring.   

Here is an interesting site filled with little informational tidbits about the historical significance of beads in Native American culture, both as a form of commerce and for ceremonial and decorative uses.  And here are some books that I can't wait to get my hands on! I am just beginning to scratch the surface in learning about the tradition of Native American beadwork, so I still have MUCH to learn. Sufficed to say, my curiosity has been piqued and I can't wait to learn more.




Here are some examples of traditional seed bead colors commonly used in Native American beading, all colors of seed beads can be found here.