In January 2003 I spent a week beading with 3 Saraguro women, learning their techniques and designs and learning about their culture. We worked on Tendido, Triangulos and Fresas designs. No drawings or written materials are used and with language barriers the experience was difficult for me. The stitches used are done in a different way than I was used to. As an example, in Saraguro netting, new beads are attached by going around the thread from the previous row and back through one or more beads to anchor the work. This technique is not unique to Saraguro but in this country new beads are usually anchored to previous rows by going through beads without going around the thread. Brick stitch is similar but it results in a tightly woven piece rather than netting.

Since my trip I have taught 6 Saraguro designs in this country. The Saragurans use Czech size 10 seed beads primarily of opaque colors. For my class projects I usually use Japanese beads with a variety of finishes and the result is a less ethnic look. My necklaces are also shorter, 1" to 2½" instead of 5' to 6". A portion of my income from selling or teaching my interpretations of Saraguro designs is donated to Saraguran communities. In 2007 I was able to travel to Saraguro again to research new designs and deepen my relationship with some of the women. For more information on Saraguran beadwork and culture see www.saraguro.org.

In 2006 and again in 2007 I have sponsored Saraguro bead workers to participate in the International Folk Art Market in Santa Fe, NM held in July each year. This event enabled them to earn money that has had a significant impact on their lives. For more information see www.folkartmarket.org.