The Art of French Beaded Flowers

Here is another gem of a booklet from my latest finds . . .

Published in 1929 by Dritz-Traum Co. of New York and considered to be the first book on flower beading, this rare first edition Hiawatha beading pamphlet contains 17 floral designs based on the french beading technique of wrapping beaded wire around a central row of beads.

Many of the designs in this book would make great vintage-inspired jewelry pieces. Beaded flowers can also be used for bouquets, bridal headdresses, barrettes, corsages, and more. 

A list of supplies for each design, recommended colors, detailed instructions, and color illustrations are included for each project. This wonderful pamphlet is now for sale in my Esty shop here.

Have you ever made beaded flowers? Reading this booklet has really peaked my interest, so I thought I might try my hand at them. I stopped at the craft store yesterday to pick up the required supplies. Unfortunately, they didn't have what I needed, so when time permits, I'm going to search online to see if I can find everything. 

In the meantime, I'll enjoy these two beaded bouquets (not made by me) that I happen to have at home. 

I'm finding my new stash of vintage booklets very interesting. From beaded flowers, sewing with bias fold tape, cooking, shellcraft, canning, lettering, and even making homemade games, these how-to brochures have given me a better understanding of what handy women were up to 75 years ago. 

Susan

Comments

[Elsie]

Love the graphics in this book too. That is an awesome book.
It screams 20's, that is a
wonderful "flapper girl" on the
front.":O)

[romanaggi4@aol.com]

i have a collection of beaded flowers as well. Great book on the "how to" of making them...but I don't think i would have the patience for all those little beads. They sure are pretty tho!