Zulu Beadwork: Talk with Beads is a study of Zulu beadwork by perhaps the greatest living expert on the subject. Hlengiwe Dube¿s knowledge is direct and personal, drawn from her own experience and stories passed down by her mother and grandmother. In an unpretentious, conversational style, she explains the unspoken words of traditional beadwork designs. Including chapters on historical and regional trends, Zulu Beadwork: Talk with Beads is a must-read for anyone interested in learning about African art from the people who live it.

Describes the history, culture, modern and traditional economies, religion, family life, and language of South Africa's Zulu people, as well as the region in which they live.

Offers information on beadwork of the Zulu people from South Africa, presented by Stan Schoeman. Includes photographs of traditional necklaces, as well as head, chest, and waist adornment.

The two volumes together offer readers a new window into the communicative importance of design."--Jacket.

Celebrating the culture of South Africa's indigenous Zulu population, this craft book showcases 25 stunning projects using dozens of previously unpublished beadwork techniques. The projects include netted diamond earrings, a zigzag chain, a netted triangle and swag bracelet, and a Zulu wedding necklace and are illustrated with easy-to-follow diagrams and helpful hints. Along with novel techniques for netting, wrapping, fringing, and braiding, the history of the Zulu people is also presented, accompanied by gorgeous full-color photography of the region.

The beadwork designs of the Zulu-speaking people of southern Africa have evolved from a craft tradition that developed over many generations. Carefully researched and filled with exciting photographs, 'Speaking with Beads' presents jewelry, ornamental headdresses, capes, aprons, beaded panels and other decorative forms.