Smoke Signals
ixperts and Beginners Come Together for
Beading Class In Grand Ronde
Tribal members learn traditional methods in first-ever course.
By Peta Tinda
6 NOVEMBER 1, 2002
The first ever-beading class was held in Grand Ronde recently at the
community center. The evening event drew a crowd of about 16
interested headers. Many who attended the class already knew
how to bead, but just wanted to sharpen their skills or get refreshed. There
were an equal number of novice headers in attendance.
"It was a good class," said Breanna Joseph, who helped teach the class.
"Right now we're just doing medallions and barretts, but everybody's learn
ing." The header's were taught to do the basic beading stitch, called the Peyote
Stitch. When they go to the next class, they will be taught the more com
plicated Rose Stitch. This stitch is useful in beading pens or staffs.
The header's sat and visited while they worked. The instructors went
around and helped the less experienced header's with tips and advice.
"Everyone said they want to do another class," said Joseph. "It's a really
good thing because they can teach their kids and keep the tradition going.
If their kids see them doing it, then they'll get interested. It's a really good
thing."
For more information on future beading classes,
call Tony Johnson at 503-879-2084. .
Photos by Peta Tinda
Learning First time header Barbara Steere (above right) works on
her medallion at the beading class, held in the community center in Grand
Ronde on Wednesday, October 9.
Experienced Tribal Elder and longtime header Norma Lee (right) was
there with her many books of beautiful and complex beading patterns.
T ' - i
Close Up Janet Simmons (below) beads on her hoop frame. Beading
is time consuming and painstaking art, but the finely crafted results are
worth all the effort.
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