Stitching a Story

Jennifer McLamb, of Beaded Bliss, incorporates three different bead-weaving techniques inspired by ancient traditions: the herringbone stitch from the Ndebele tribe of Africa, the netting stitch dating back to ancient Egypt, and the peyote stitch attributed to Native Americans.

This is an example of the netting stitch. This stitch was used in ancient Egypt in the funerary rites to make beaded shrouds for mummies, as well as jewelry and other adornments.

This is an example of the peyote stitch believed to have been introduced by Native Americans.

This is an example of the herringbone stitch used in beading. The stitch originated from the Ndebele tribe in Africa.

Kasia Dawidowska

Dawidowska writes frequently for both trade and consumer magazines. She can be reached at kasia76@gmail.com.