Beading is a decorative technique in which small beads are sewn to fabric one by one, building up patterns, solid shimmering surfaces or three-dimensional motifs. It is one of the most labour-intensive kinds of decoration: the maker places hundreds and thousands of beads by needle, which is why beadwork was always a sign of luxury and hand labour. In Ukrainian tradition beads were widely used in folk dress (bead embroidery on shirts, bead-trimmed sheepskin coats, and bead-woven neck ornaments such as gerdany and sylianky) and in the decoration of icons. Today beading is prized in couture, bridal and evening dresses, where it creates a play of light and texture. It is a detail that embodies patience, mastery and the precious, 'handmade' value of a piece.
