Soutache: 30 Gorgeous Bead Embroidery Designs
Anneta Valious
Several months ago, there was an online discussion praising
the look of Soutache jewelry mainly being done by European Jewelry Artist. Many announced that they
considered using Soutache as a fad that would eventually wear itself out and
fade into obscurity. AnnetaValious, in her new book Soutache another great book from Lark Jewelry and
Beading company as part of their Bead Inspirations series, states that Soutache trim have been incorporated in clothing, uniforms and hats throughout
history. So therefore, it is prime
time that it be used in jewelry design. I’ve been admiring for a while the images of SoutacheBead Embroidery jewelry predominately used by European Artist incorporating
traditional Bead Embroidery techniques with Soutache Trim. Up until recently, Soutache trim was
difficult to obtain in the United States so it hasn’t been used in many
projects. Now with many colors
available through online Bead shops and Anneta Valious’ gloriously illustrated
book, I believe that we’ll be seeing more Soutache added to a variety of
jewelry trends making it delightful and thrilling to add to tools for
creativity. I was extremely
delighted to see many pieces of Jewelry Art used in the 2013 Battle of the Bead
Smiths.
Each project in Anneta’s newest book has clear concise photo
illustrations from the simplest design (Pg. 19) using multiple strands of
Soutache trim to the stunning Moon River necklace combing multiple pieces to
achieve a balancing act of symmetry and color (Pg.129).
From elegant necklaces, bracelets, and even earrings, this
versatile trim finds its way embracing and enhancing traditional bead
embroidery jewelry. Necks, wrist
and earrings aren’t the only body part that can be a showcase of Soutache
jewelry as Anneta shares a project showcasing Soutache with rings such as the
Mirage Ring (Pg 98).
Anneta recommends using 1/8 inch wide Soutache trim gluing
the ends so that the strands of the Soutache trim won’t fray. I’ve used my thread burner that also
seems to work very well. It does
take practice but adding any new product has its learning curve. Meanwhile,
Anneta’s book has many photos of projects that will thrill you and take you on
a ride of joy.
Example of photo illustrations easy to follow |
Soutache Bead Embroidery is here to stay. And I applaud having
one more material to use while creating and pushing boundaries. I also was talking to a fellow doll
makers like myself who is now thinking about how to use Soutache with beads in
new doll designs. Yes, Soutache is
going to be around for awhile, and I’m sure it is going to make a big impact in
future jewelry designs.
Soutache trim can be found online :
In the UK, Bojangle Beads
Other various bead supply online stores and, if you're lucky as I am, at your local bead store
Disclosure...As
a reviewer of products from Lark Books, I receive the book above free of
charge. I have been asked to review these products and give my honest opinion
of the products...positive or negative. I am not being compensated by Lark
Books for my endorsement as it pertains to the products received and reviewed.
2 comments:
Good review Dot. I have been also watching this "fad" over the last year or so. Some of the concepts and designs are really wonderful! This looks like it might be a good book to add to my collection!!
Nice review. A few years ago this technique was the absolute rage in Europe. I wanted so badly to find a book of instructions but none to be had, and no braid to be found. Now my interest has moved forward to the next big thing. Isn't that just the way it goes....
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