Definition: Freeform beading is an evocative term; images of irregular shapes, sculptural forms and the freedom expressed in abstract painting comes to mind, But how is it created? As with the painting, there must be a basis for the freeform.
generally, freeform beading begins with a base row of Peyote Stitch, done in several different sizes of seed beads, from which offshoots of loops, bridges, connectors and many beads of differing sizes can be connected and worked into the whole fabric of the bracelet, pendants, necklace or earrings. Freeform beading can also be used as wall hanging, in sculptural form and as a surface treatment on a piece loomed or off-loom bead weaving.
Many instances of freeform beading include a variety of stitches, including Peyote stitch, brick stitch, netting, and other beading. Another defining feature is the inclusion of a variety of bead sizes, including seed beads, pearls, larger pressed glass bead, druks, and even lampwork beads.
The base of the structure must be firm and strong enough to maintain the weight of the beads, and armature or separate structures must be considered to support and large additions, bridges or added elements.
Freeform beading cam be as simple as a slim bracelet, consisting of three or four different bead sizes on a base of Peyote, with no additional structures added, or as elaborate a full bib-type neckpiece, with precise placement of elements so that the finished beadwork remains wearable.
generally, freeform beading begins with a base row of Peyote Stitch, done in several different sizes of seed beads, from which offshoots of loops, bridges, connectors and many beads of differing sizes can be connected and worked into the whole fabric of the bracelet, pendants, necklace or earrings. Freeform beading can also be used as wall hanging, in sculptural form and as a surface treatment on a piece loomed or off-loom bead weaving.
Many instances of freeform beading include a variety of stitches, including Peyote stitch, brick stitch, netting, and other beading. Another defining feature is the inclusion of a variety of bead sizes, including seed beads, pearls, larger pressed glass bead, druks, and even lampwork beads.
The base of the structure must be firm and strong enough to maintain the weight of the beads, and armature or separate structures must be considered to support and large additions, bridges or added elements.
Freeform beading cam be as simple as a slim bracelet, consisting of three or four different bead sizes on a base of Peyote, with no additional structures added, or as elaborate a full bib-type neckpiece, with precise placement of elements so that the finished beadwork remains wearable.
Pronunciation: Free Form Beading
Also Known As: multi-stitch beading, scultural beadowkr, organic beading
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
Examples: The example of freeform beading contained not just seed beads, but also had Delica beads, presed glass beads, a lovely lampwork bead, and was stitched using Peyote, Brick Stitch, some right angle weave beading, and a bit of beaded netting.