Fabrication

Candy Titus, April 1999

Wampum beads were made from welk shells. Other traditional beads were made from shells, as well as stone, ceramics, and metal. Native Americans gradually adopted European beads as they became available. Today's beadwork styles show both traditional and contemporary influences. This image shows beadwork made by Candy Titus of the Shoshone-Bannock reservation. Except the wild rose pattern, which was done using an appliqué stitch, all of this beadwork was created on a loom. Candy created this for a Spring powwow in 1999.

Shoshone-Bannock Beadwork Examples