My name is Christine Wright and I began beadweaving more than 35 years ago when I was a young teen. I am currently a Master Artisan with the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen and the Haverford Guild of Craftsmen.
Beadweaving is a process where individual beads are sewn together with needle and thread. Foundational to my designs are very small and simple seed beads, from there I will incorporate crystals, gemstone beads and occasionally bugle beads. Even when limiting myself to the types of beads I incorporate, I have a nearly infinite range of possibilities for shapes, textures and color combinations.
When I create a piece, I start with a shape, color scheme, focal bead or general concept and then expand on the design from there. Oftentimes, I will also incorporate techniques and concepts that I have learned from other mediums – from pixel art to pointillism – to take my jewelry into sometimes unexpected directions. I believe that jewelry should go well beyond “special occasions,” which is one of the reasons why I love beadwork. My designs range broadly from “fun to formal,” but even the formal pieces can be worn anywhere and with nearly anything. A beaded scarf looks great with a little black dress as well as a pair of jeans. I want my jewelry to be worn because it makes a person feel good – regardless of the occasion.
Welcome to Pretty Shiny Beads and if you have any questions, please contact Christine here.