Hello, I'm April Toledo. I'm affiliated with the Navajo Nation and grew up in a rural area outside of Ignacio, Colorado. Now, I live in a nearby small town Bayfield, Colorado.

My work includes beadwork, earrings, pendants, medallions, and moccasins. I strive to incorporate traditional concepts into modern looks, with jewelry that works from a powwow to a work meeting. I learned to bead from my grandmother; I would stay with her in the summers and we would craft together. Beading helps center my mind, and is such a personal art, with many hours of work to make my daydreams come true.
Bringing ideas to life and having others enjoy these little works of art is amazing—I hope you treasure the unique designs as much as I do!

Awards:
Honorable mention SWAIA Beading 2015


About the Indigenous Artisans Collective

Etsy and Nest are proud to support the Indigenous Artisans Collective, the latest cohort within the Etsy Uplift Makers Program, featuring shops from Indigenous makers affiliated with 10 Indigenous groups across the United States and the First Nations of Canada.

Many of the makers practice craft skills that have been inspired by or passed down from family and community mentors. Product collections include meticulously handcrafted home goods, jewelry and other accessories, in honor of the maker’s culture and heritage. Amongst many Indigenous communities, traditional handcraft continues to hold significant cultural value, as well as economic opportunity.

Through the Uplift Makers: Indigenous Artisans Collective, Etsy and Nest are helping to create digital market access and economic opportunities for Indigenous makers while also providing artisans with resources and tools to help run a successful online business. From expert-led digital marketing training, onboarding support, and a custom resource library, the program delivers a comprehensive suite of programming to participants. Additionally, the program addresses key barriers new business owners face such as providing professional photography to capture the creative content needed to showcase their talent and reach new customers in today’s digital era.