Bead projects are ordered in degree of difficulty:

  • Beginning Level projects;

  • Advanced Beginner Level projects (student must have completed one Beginning level project);

  • Intermediate Level projects;

  • Advanced Level projects (usually require knowledge of both silk embroidery and bead embroidery.

Japanese Embroidery classes are taught at Blue Bonnet Studio in Houston and other locations.  Please check out EVENTS for a complete list of dates and times of the Japanese Silk & Bead Embroidery Study Group.

Kit prices and frame requirements are available under the BEAD KIT PRICES menu item.


Beginning Level Projects

Teardrop Medallion Pin Cushion

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Beginning Level - Teardrop Medallion Pin Cushion (Design ©2020 Mary Alice Sinton)
 

Bead Embroidery on 100% Cotton Fabric
The Teardrop Medallion is done in Japanese bead embroidery method and is an entry level piece. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads. There are two different styles of Sudberry Wooden Pin-Cushions available with a tray around the cushion (7.5” circle) or without (5” circle). The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads. The technique of using a Beading Koma to couch down lines of beads in order to create smooth curves is explored in this piece. The foundation fabric is a floral pinwheel 100% cotton fabric called Safari SO Goodie by Wilmington Prints stitched using stretcher bars.


Whirligig Box

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - - Beginning Level - Whirligig Box (Box Lid design © 2020 Mary Alice Sinton)

The Whirlygig Treasure Chest is done in Japanese bead embroidery method and is a entry level piece. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads. The presentation wooden box is by Sudberry that the Whirlygig is displayed in and is included in the kit.. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads. The technique of using a Beading Koma to couch down lines of beads in order to create smooth curves is explored in this piece. The foundation fabric is a floral pinwheel 100% cotton fabric called Safari SO Goodie by Wilmington Prints stitched using stretcher bars.

(Box Lid design © Mary Alice Sinton) 


Where Flowers Bloom

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - - Beginning Level - Where Flower Bloom Box, Brooch or Needle Minder Magnet (Box Lid, Brooch, and Minder design © 2020 Mary Alice Sinton)

The Where Flowers Bloom box is done in Japanese bead embroidery method and is a entry level piece.  Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads.  There are two different color ways offered utilizing two colors of Lee Leather Jewelry Boxes available in either Fuchsia or Purple. The beads used are a wide variety of Tri-cut and glass seed beads along with multiple sizes to create a variety of texture.    The technique of using a Beading Koma to couch down lines of beads in order to create smooth curves is explored in this piece.  A Raised Bead Embroidery technique gives the flowers a 3-D effect. The foundation fabric is a floral 100% cotton fabric called Flower Child – Fab Floral Circles by Lewis & Irene and stitched using stretcher bars. 


Coin Purse

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Beginning Level - Coin Purse (Design © JEC)
 

Bead Embroidery on Cotton Calico Fabric
The Coin Purse is done in the Japanese bead embroidery method and is a beginner level piece. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads rather than silk threads. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads.


Eye Glass Case

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Beginning Level - Eye Glass Case (Design © JEC)


Bead Embroidery on Cotton Calico Fabric
The Eye Glass Case is done in the Japanese bead embroidery method and is a beginner level piece. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads rather than silk threads. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is a floral 100% cotton fabric by Peter Pan Fabric and is out of print, thus the kits are no longer available. Please see the Prickly Paisley Eyeglass case as the new alternative.


Prickly Paisleys (eyeglass and Oval Box lid)

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Beginning Level - Prickly Paisleys (Design © MASinton)

Bead Embroidery on Cotton Calico Fabric
Both the Prickly Paisleys satin small oval jewelry box (right) and the eyeglass case are done in the Japanese bead embroidery method and are beginner level pieces. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads rather than silk threads. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is a paisley and vine design 100% cotton fabric called Sunflower Province by Moda Fabric.


Kimono Neck Pouch

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Beginning Level - Kimono Neck Pouch (Design © MASinton)

Bead Embroidery on Cotton Calico Fabric
The Kimono Neck pouch is done in the Japanese bead embroidery method and is a beginner level piece. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads rather than silk threads. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is a floral 100% cotton fabric by Avlyn Creations.


Hana Kimi Cover

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Beginning Level - Hana Kimi Cover (Design © M. A. Sinton)
 

Bead Embroidery on Cotton Calico Fabric
The Hana Kimi Cover is done in the Japanese bead embroidery method and is a beginner level piece. Hana Kimi means blooming flowers in Japanese. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads rather than silk threads. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is a floral 100% cotton fabric by Avlyn Creations.

 


Sokonashi Kinchyaku Bag

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Beginning Level - Sokonashi Kinchyaku (Design © MASinton)


Bead Embroidery on Cotton Calico Fabric
The Sokonashi Kinchyaku (Bottomless Money Bag) Bag is done in the Japanese bead embroidery method and is a beginner level piece. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads rather than silk threads. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is a floral 100% cotton fabric by Avlyn Creations


 Rosy Posy Brooch

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Beginning Level - Rosy Posy Brooch  (Brooch Bead design © 2014 Mary Alice Sinton)

Rosy Posy Brooch is done in Japanese bead embroidery method and is an entry-level piece offered in a pink, blue or yellow palette. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads.  The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut, bugle beads and glass seed beads.  The foundation fabric is a Floral 100% cotton fabric called Wild Child Trellis Tryst by designer Jane Sassaman stitched using Evertite™ stretcher bars. Fusible Muslin and Mattress pad fabric are used as the backing materials.  Wire is added along the stems sandwiched in-between the backing fabrics so the leaves become bendable.  Finishing may be done commercially or by the individual.


Daisy Delight

Japanese Bead Embroidery - Beginning Level - Daisy Delight items  (Design © MASinton) 

The Daisy Delight Satin Box & Bow Tie Minaudiere are done in Japanese bead embroidery method and is a entry level piece. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads. Choices of three colored satin boxes are available (Lt Green, Pink or Black) depending on what prominent colors of flowers are beaded by the student. The Minaudiere kit includes an easy to assemble shell making finishing a breeze. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is a floral 100% cotton fabric called Flowers Aplenty by Michael Miller stitched using stretcher bars. (Box Lid design © Mary Alice Sinton)


 Golden Waves of Grains

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Beginning Level - Golden Waves of Grains Evening Clutch (design © 2015 Mary Alice Sinton)

The Golden Waves of Grains Evening Clutch is done in Japanese bead embroidery method and is an entry-level piece.  Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads.  The chic Swaroski Rhinestone Zipper compliments the Black Tri-cuts and glass seed beads.  The Sachiko pattern of Pampas Grass is recreated in 24 kt Gold Plated Beads. The foundation fabric is Black 100% silk Bridal Satin stitched using stretcher bars.  A fashionable black Dupioni Silk lining partners beautifully to the clutch design.                                        


 Sweetheart Minaudiere

 

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Beginning Level - Sweetheart Minaudiere (Minaudiere Bead design © 2015 Mary Alice Sinton)

The Sweetheart Minaudiere is done in Japanese bead embroidery method and is an entry-level piece.  Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads.  The center Initial is created using padding underneath the beads and custom ordered to the student’s desire.  The Minaudiere kit is an original design by Ellen Medlock Studio of Tulsa, OK and can be finished easily by the individual stitcher.   The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads.  The foundation fabric is a floral 100% silk Bridal Satin in White or Black stitched using stretcher bars. 


What-A-Hoot Carrying Case

Japanese Bead Embroidery - Beginning Level - What-A-Hoot  (Design © MASinton) 

What-A-Hoot Carrying Case is done in Japanese bead embroidery method and is an beginning-level piece offered in a green or blue palette. Two different pattern widths are offered for either an iPad or Kindle. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut, bugle beads and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is a Paisley Owl 100% cotton fabric called Hushabye by designer Tula Pink (see samples below) stitched using Evertite stretcher bars. The lining fabric is a waterproof fabric called Babyvil, adding extra protection for the electronic items it is designed to hold. The backing fabric is made from a suede-cloth and trimmed with a golden waffle braid and constructed with a zipper closure. Pink Handle set available for a additional amount. Finishing may be done commercially or by the individual.


Prince Charming

Japanese Bead Embroidery - Beginning Level - What-A-Hoot  (Design © MASinton) 

Prince Charming Satin Box is done in Japanese bead embroidery method and is an entry-level piece. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads. The Satin Boxes have a pop-out lid making the finishing process as easy as 1, 2 and 3. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads with a dash of 24 kt Gold beads. The foundation fabric is a paisley 100% cotton fabric called Prince Charming by Tula Pink, which comes in three color ways: GREEN, BLUE & RED. The piece is stitched using Evertite stretcher bars.

Janet, a long time student of Mary Alice's, chose to finish this project as a purse rather than for the top a box.  This example is provided to show that the piece can be used other ways.  Converting to a purse is not part of this class.


Advanced Beginner Level

Lotus Blossom Clutch

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Advanced Beginner Level - Lotus Blossum Clutch (Clutch design © Mary Alice Sinton)

Lotus Blossom Clutch is done in Japanese bead embroidery method. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads. The Lotus Blossoms come with either a white background or a black background floral design fabric foundation. The Blossoms fit symmetrical across the rectangle clutch and fill the shape perfectly. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut beads and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is a floral design “Rainbow Flight” by Wilmington Prints 100% cotton fabric. The clutch shell and hardware are included and can be finished easily by the individual stitcher. The piece is stitched using stretcher bars. (Clutch design © Mary Alice Sinton)


Wild Child Wallet

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Advanced Beginner Level - Wild Child Wallet Wallet (Wild Child Wallet design © Mary Alice Sinton)

The Wild Child Wallet is done in Japanese bead embroidery method and is an entry-level piece.  Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads.  The bright coordinating Wild Child fabrics, compliments the colorful Flower Fiesta foundation fabric.  A variety of Tri-cuts and glass seed beads make up the palette of these playful colors.  The foundation fabric is offered in a Blue or Pink color way. The brightly colored purse zipper accents the variety of fabrics found in the Wild Child collection designed by internationally known quilter Jane Sassaman.  This piece can be stitched on stretcher bars.  The metal frame and wallet construction are created by Sew Many Creations owned by Jessica Van Denburgh and are included in the kit.


Bumble

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Advanced Beginner Level - Bumble Mini Diva Wallet (MINI Wallet design © Mary Alice Sinton)


The Bumble Mini Diva Wallet is done in Japanese bead embroidery method and is an entry-level piece. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads. The Tula Pink Bumble fabric comes in three colorways with a Green (Jade), Coral or Aqua (Turquoise) Bumble. A variety of Tri-cuts and glass seed beads make up the palettes, but the challenge was combining the right four hues of beads to create the look of shading and the 3-D effect on each Bumble. Coordinating lining fabrics and zipper are included in this kit. This piece can be stitched on stretcher bars. The kit includes the metal mini frame and wallet construction both created by Jessica Van Denburgh of Sew Many Creations.


Floral Fantasy

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Advanced Beginner Level - Floral Fantasy (Design © Mary Alice Sinton)


Bead Embroidery on Cotton Calico Fabric in peach & topaz tones. The Floral Fantasy satin round jewelry box is done in the Japanese bead embroidery method and is an advance-beginner level piece. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads rather than silk threads. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is a Jacobean floral 100% cotton fabric called Woodblocks by Hoffman Fabric.


Paisley on Parade

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Advanced Beginner Level - Paisley on Parade (Design © MASinton)


Bead Embroidery on Cotton Calico Fabric
The Paisley on Parade satin oval jewelry box is done in the Japanese bead embroidery method and is an advance-beginner level piece. Bead Embroidery in the Japanese method incorporates silk embroidery techniques translated with beads rather than silk threads. The beads used are a wide variety of Tri-cut and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is a paisley 100% cotton fabric called Chocolat by Moda.


Folio Clutch

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Advanced Beginner Level - Folio Clutch (Design © JEC)
 

Bead Embroidery on Black Shusu Silk
Folio Clutch is an advance-beginner project. Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook” created the Folio Clutch design (© JEC) to teach the couching technique. The beads used are Tri-cut Beads that are black and gunmetal in color. Tri-cuts beads reflect light and add zing and give it’s appealing texture. The foundation fabric is black Shusu silk. The lining fabric is black Bridal Satin. The piece requires being stitched on a traditional Japanese Embroidery frame.


Advanced Level Projects

Chic Handbag

 

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Intermediate Level - Chic Handbag (Design © JEC)
 

Bead Embroidery on White Nishijin Silk
Chic Purse is an intermediate project. Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook” created the Chic Purse design (© JEC) using raised and couching techniques. Using different bead cuts along with sizes created fascinating shading. The beads used are Tri-cut beads and glass seed beads either in a gold/silver color scheme or black and gunmetal color scheme. The foundation fabric is white Nishijin silk or black Shusu silk. The piece is stitched on a traditional Japanese Embroidery frame.


Poppy Pouch

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Intermediate Level - Poppy Pouch (Design © JEC)


Bead Embroidery on Black Shusu Silk
Poppy Pouch is an intermediate project. Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook” created the Poppy Pouch design (© JEC) to teach the raised technique. The beads used are various Tri-cut beads and glass seed beads either in a black & gold with rose flowers or white & gold with blue flowers. The foundation fabric is black Shusu silk or white Nishijin silk. The piece is stitched on a traditional Japanese Embroidery frame.


Peacock Purse

Japanese Bead Embroidery - Intermediate Level - Peacock Purse designed by Ms. Reiko Matsukawa

Ms. Matsukawa is author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook” created the Peacock Purse design (2003© JEC) using a variety of techniques. The beads used are a wide palette of Tri-cut beads and glass seed beads. An intricate lace or a simple fringe changes the overall appearance of the handbag. The foundation fabric is black Nishijin silk. The piece is stitched on a traditional Japanese Embroidery frame. The finishing can be done by the individual or in Japan. A mini coin purse or a decorative tablemat is also available in this design.


Hishi Kohana Handbag

BC040 hishi kohana handbag.jpg

Japanese Bead Embroidery - Advanced Level - Hishi Kohana Handbag designed by Ms. Reiko Matsukawa.  

Hishi-Kohana uses a wide palette of Tri-cut beads and glass seed beads.  Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook” created  the Hishi-Kohana Handbag design using a variety of techniques.  The foundation fabric in blue Kimono silk.  The custom made metal purse-frame is included.  The piece is stitched on Japanese Embroidery Frame.  The finishing is done in Japan. Bag Design © 2007 JEC


Golden Handbag

BC043 golden handbag with real gold bead.jpg

Japanese Bead Embroidery - Advanced Level - Golden Handbag designed by Ms. Reiko Matsukawa.  

Golden Handbag uses real gold and silver Toho beads in order to acquire the highest level of sophistication.  Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook” and creator of the Golden Handbag design demonstrates her creativity in this exquisite piece.  The raised techniques which form the diamond grid across the handbag, beautifully frame the delicate radiating lines situated inside each diamond.  A buttonhole weight silk sewing thread (size #50) is used to attach the beads to the silk fabric foundation that is high quality Silk Nishijin either in Metallic Gold or Light Peach color.  The piece is stitched on Japanese Embroidery Frame.  The finishing is done in Japan. Bag Design © 2010 JEC


Exotic Elegance Satin Pillow

Japanese Bead Embroidery - Advanced Level - Exotic Elegance Satin Pillow designed by Ms. Reiko Matsukawa.  

Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook”, created the Exotic Elegance Satin Pillow design (2012© JEC) applying raised techniques to emphasize the four symmetrical arabesque motifs. The beads span from light Foundation fabric is creamy silk satin. The piece is stitched on a traditional Japanese Embroidery frame.


Checker Board Handbag

Japanese Bead Embroidery - Intermediate Level - Checker Board Handbag designed by Ms. Reiko Matsukawa. 

Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook”, created the Checker Board Handbag design (2007© JEC) using simple lines of held thread. Repeating three bead colors and alternating line lengths against the black foundation gives the handbag its striking pattern. The beads used are a wide palette of Tri-cut beads and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is black velvet silk. The piece is stitched on a traditional Japanese Embroidery frame. The finishing is done in Japan.


Floral Melody Handbag

Japanese Bead Embroidery - Intermediate Level - Floral Melody Handbag (Design © JEC)

Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook”, created the Floral Melody Handbag design (2005© JEC) using a variety of techniques. The beads used are a wide palette of Tri-cut beads and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is cream Bridal Satin 100% silk. The piece is stitched on a traditional Japanese Embroidery frame. The finishing is done in Japan. The finishing cost includes the metal purse frame.


Challenge Level Projects

Camelia Handbag

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Advanced Level - Camelia Handbag (Design © JEC)
 

Bead Embroidery on White Nishijin Silk
Camellia Handbag is an advance project that requires knowledge of silk embroidery. Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook” created the Camellia Purse (© JEC) utilizing both Japanese embroidery and beadwork combined. The beads used are teal colored Tri-cut Beads with gold & black seed beads. The foundation fabric is white Nishijin silk. The piece is stitched on a traditional Japanese Embroidery frame. The finishing is done in Japan.


Pochette

Bead Embroidery Japanese Style - Advanced Level - Pochette (Design © JEC)


Bead Embroidery on Cotton Calico Fabric
Pochette is an advanced project. Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook” created the Pochette design (© JEC) using a variety of techniques. The beads used are a wide variety Tri-cut beads and glass seed beads coordinated to the foundation fabric. The foundation fabric is a floral or paisley design 100% cotton fabric. The piece is stitched on a traditional Japanese Embroidery frame.


White Blossom Handbag

Japanese Bead Embroidery - Advanced Level - White Blossom Handbag (Design © JEC)


Bead Embroidery on Black Shusu Silk
White Blossom Handbag is an advance project that requires extensive knowledge of silk embroidery. Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook” created the White Blossom Handbag (© JEC) utilizing both Japanese embroidery and beadwork combined. The embroidery motif models antique lace design. The beads used are black Tri-cut beads and glass seed beads. The foundation fabric is black Shusu silk. The piece is stitched on a traditional Japanese Embroidery frame. The finishing is done in Japan. 2nd Place winner in surface embroidery at the South Central EGA Regional Seminar 2007.


Arabesque Purse

Japanese Bead Embroidery - Advanced Level - Floral Melody Handbag (Design © JEC)

Arabesque Purse is an advance project that requires knowledge of silk embroidery.   Ms. Reiko Matsukawa, author of “Bead Embroidery Bag Textbook”, created the Arabesque Purse (2001© JEC) utilizing both Japanese embroidery and beadwork combined. The beads used are variety of bronze colored seed beads. The foundation fabric is dyed brown Habatae silk. The piece is stitched on a traditional Japanese Embroidery frame. The finishing can be done by the individual or in Japan.