My Mothers Moccasins

My Journey Into Beading: One Bead at a Time

It all began with a suitcase.

Inside, nestled among forgotten treasures, were my mother’s moccasins—adorned with a delicate butterfly stitched in the one-bead-at-a-time style. That single discovery changed everything. I was captivated by the intricate beadwork, the vibrant colors, and the quiet stories held in each stitch. I decided to try the technique myself and ended up creating a colorful bird. That was the moment I truly began beading.

I was 17 or 18 when I stumbled upon my dad’s old suitcase filled with beadwork he had barely used. It felt like opening a portal to my family’s artistic legacy. The pieces inside weren’t just beautiful—they were echoes of tradition, creativity, and connection. That suitcase reignited my passion and reminded me that beading was more than craft; it was heritage.

My earliest inspiration came from my mother’s moccasins. The butterfly design wasn’t just visually stunning—it carried meaning. Each bead seemed to whisper stories of resilience, identity, and belonging. I remember sitting with those moccasins, tracing the patterns with my eyes, feeling something awaken inside me. That spark became a flame.

With my mother’s artistry as my guide, I began my own journey. I experimented with colors, patterns, and textures, learning to express myself through each bead I placed. It was slow, meditative work—one bead at a time—but with every stitch, I felt more grounded in who I was and where I came from.

Today, I share my beading journey not just to showcase my work, but to invite others into this world. Whether you're just starting out or have years of experience, there’s always something new to learn, a story waiting to be told. Beading is timeless, and each piece holds a universe of meaning.

Let’s celebrate this art together—one bead at a time.