Beadwork

Glass beads have been used to embellish textiles since medieval times. They usually came from Venice in Italy or other areas of central Europe famous for their glass.

In Britain tiny fresh water pearls from rivers had been used on early embroideries but soon became scarce. Elizabethan costumes were richly adorned with Faux Pearls made of glass. Young gentlewoman of the 17th century were tutored in Beadwork, many fine caskets,pillows and pictures were worked for their dowries. Some pieces were entirely beaded. Stylised figures, animals, insects and all nature of fantastic creatures were produced from tiny colored beads to make the most fantastic Beadwork.

During the 18th century Beadwork was delicate and floral in design, minute cut steel beads were widely used. By the mid 19th century the Victorians of Britain and other Europeans were using beads on everything from fire-screens to tea cosy's. The popular and versatile technique was to apply the beads to a canvas ground and work as a needlepoint. The widely available Berlin work designs could be used for this method. Accomplished and highly decorative results were achieved, these items do not fade or alter with age.