Learn the basics of beadwork with this fun DIY project inspired by artist Shelby Rowe

A masked figure demonstrates beadwork for children and families in an outdoor setting

Chickasaw artist Shelby Rowe demonstrates her beadwork at Oklahoma Contemporary's Second Saturday event in October. (Photo by Stephanie Montelongo.)

#AtHomeArt projects from Youth and Family staff. Sponsored by SONIC Drive-In.

Visitors to October's Second Saturday event might have been impressed by the intricate beadwork of Shelby Rowe, but it was only three years ago that the Chickasaw artist bought her first loom. Her work is now featured in 10 exhibitions across the country, including The Smithsonian's National Museum of the American Indian. "People say, 'I could never do that,' and I thought I could never do it either. But if you love something, you can do it!"

In that spirit, today's #AtHomeArt project gives you a chance to learn the ropes of an art form Rowe calls "an expression of mending brokenness." Using beading templates designed by the artist, today's project offers step-by-step instructions on making your own keyring adornment using everyday items.

Ready to try your hand at something new? Here's what you'll need to get started.

A family works on a bead project while sitting outdoors

Second Saturday: Indigenous Voices at Oklahoma Contemporary. (Photo by Stephanie Montelongo.)

Materials

1 yard of plastic lacing cord
Keyring
Pony beads
Bead pattern (option 1 or option 2)

Directions

Fold your string in half.
Put the loop of your string through the keyring.
Pull remaining string through the loop and pull tight.
Review the order of beads on your bead pattern from right to left.
Add beads to the right string in the same order as the first row on your bead pattern.
Feed the left string through the same beads as the right string.
Pull both strings tight until the beads are up against the hoop.
Repeat the process for each line of your bead pattern
Once finished, tie off each end with a knot.

Looking for more fun DIY art projects? Check out our #AtHomeArt archives for family-friendly activities designed to spark creativity, from stop-motion animation to digital photography and more. As always, be sure to share your creations with us on social media using #AtHomeArt!

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AtHomeArt Second Saturday Shelby Rowe beadwork Native American art