About Angeline Kong
A Journey Stitched in Time
Angeline Kong’s journey with Peranakan beading began long before she ever picked up a needle. As a young girl, she would quietly admire her grandmother’s eldest sister beaded shoes — mesmerised by their colours, and detail. Those early memories stayed with her, quietly waiting to bloom.
It wasn’t until the age of 29 that Angeline found a teacher who could guide her hands through the meticulous world of beading. That first step marked the beginning of a lifelong passion — one that would eventually span nearly three decades.
She found connection — to her roots, to the women before her, and to a culture rich with patience, elegance, and attention to detail. Bead by bead, she discovered a personal way to honour and preserve her heritage.
Finding Her Thread
For many years, Angeline balanced her love for beading alongside a full-time career. But in time, the pull of her heritage became stronger. After retirement, she made a firm decision — to dedicate herself fully to her craft, and to share it with others.
Around the time the Peranakan-themed drama The Little Nyonya became popular, Angeline began receiving invitations to speak and demonstrate beadwork. Interest grew, and soon she was guiding hobby groups, giving talks, and holding workshops for those curious about this traditional art.
Whether it’s a one-on-one lesson or a sharing session with dozens, Angeline approaches every opportunity with the same gentle spirit: to teach, connect, and keep this delicate tradition alive.
A Stitch Between Generations
What sets Angeline apart isn’t just her skill, but her heart. She doesn’t believe in rushing — not in life, not in craft. Her workshops are calm, inviting spaces where people can slow down, try something new, and perhaps reconnect with a part of themselves.
She works mainly with beads sourced from the Czech Republic — a thoughtful choice she made after years of searching for materials that reflect the beauty and shine of the traditional craft. Every detail matters to her, not out of pride, but out of deep respect for the art and its origins.
Bringing Beadwork Beyond Borders
Today, Angeline teaches not only in Singapore but also to students around the world — sometimes online, sometimes in person. She has developed custom beading kits to support learning, and continues to offer workshops for individuals, schools, families, and corporate groups.
To Angeline, beading isn’t just about creating something beautiful. It’s a quiet act of remembrance. A way to honour the women who came before, and to pass down something meaningful to those who come next.
