About me

My name is Ruth Kleiber, I am a trained Gold-, Silver- and Bead Embroiderer and have always been fascinated by the possibilities offered by needle and thread.

Over ten years ago, I discovered the world of small Japanese glass beads. I was immediately fascinated by their beauty and variety. The shimmering surfaces and the countless shapes and colors of the glass beads captivated me and awakened in me the desire to experiment and work with them.

I realized that I could use the techniques I had originally learned during my training in a completely new way. The combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern materials opened up countless creative possibilities for me and I began to transfer the various techniques I had learned in embroidery to designing jewelry with glass beads. This journey of discovery into the world of glass beads not only taught me new techniques and skills, but also reignited my passion for jewelry design.

Every piece I design is an individual work of art that bears my personal signature. The challenge of combining different beads and developing harmonious designs gives me great pleasure to this day. I like to experiment with different styles and love experimenting with colors, textures and shapes. I particularly love eye-catching and colorful statement pieces.

I also love using found items from the flea market, old brooches and beads, misappropriated odds and ends - there are no limits to my imagination! These creative combinations are the reason why I have specialized in creating almost exclusively unique pieces. Every single piece I design is unique and expressive. I hope they inspire viewers and wearers on their own journey - each new piece of jewelry tells its own story!

 

How did I become what I am today?

I discovered my great passion for handicrafts as a child. It wasn't just a pastime for me, but a way of giving free rein to my creativity and putting my ideas into practice. These early experiences laid the foundation for my enthusiasm for handicrafts.

Over the years, my interest developed further and I took a liking to more sophisticated techniques and handicrafts. I began to explore different needlework techniques more intensively. Each new project was an exciting challenge and gave me the opportunity to hone my skills and learn new ones.

My training as a Gold-, Silver- and Bead Embroiderer began in the late 1970s at the technical school for fashion, arts and crafts “Die Herbststraße” in Vienna. This institution has built up an excellent reputation over the years and is still considered one of the leading training centers for creative professions in Europe. The school is known for training talented young people who go on to be successful in various fields of art and design.

There I received in-depth training that covered both theoretical and practical aspects, ensuring that we not only learned the technical skills, but also developed a deep understanding of the artistic principles and history of textile art.

I learned the different techniques of embroidery with gold and silver materials (as known from ecclesiastical parament gold embroidery, for example). These techniques require not only skill and precision, but also a high degree of creativity and an aesthetic sense of how colors and textures can be harmoniously combined. I also had the opportunity to take part in various projects and competitions, which helped me to further refine my skills.

The training not only opened the doors to the world of arts and crafts, but also laid a solid foundation for my creative career.

Embroidery is in my blood, even my great-great-grandmother was a talented embroiderer who worked at the court of Empress Sisi of Austria-Hungary. So this connection to the art of embroidery goes way back in my family history and is part of my heritage.

The stories I have heard about her still inspire me today. It is said that she often worked for hours on her embroideries to fulfill the demanding orders of the court. This family tradition not only instilled in me a love of embroidery, but also a respect for the craftsmanship that goes into every single piece.

 

Over the last few years, I have realized many different projects and constantly expanded my collection. The world of glass beads has given me a new deeper connection to my craft. I look forward to continuing to work with these wonderful materials and creating ever new, inspiring designs.

I’d love to invite you to visit me again and again! You can do this conveniently online in my store, where I regularly present new products and offers. I also keep you up to date with exciting insights and the latest news on Instagram.

If you have the opportunity, I would also be delighted to welcome you in person to my small store in Landsberg am Lech. There you will find a lovingly compiled selection of unique items and can browse in a cozy atmosphere.

I also take part in various exhibitions and markets, where you also have the opportunity to discover my latest creations. There is always something new to see and experience and I look forward to meeting you on one of these occasions!