Dec 09
Making your own jewelry has become very popular recently, and thus there is a need for some new books on the subject now so many more materials are available. To realize your ideas you must first know how to how to do all the different stitches and making up techniques, which is why a book like this is so useful. The subtitle is "300 tips, techniques and trade secrets" and this is a good description of what to expect. I wish there had been something like this when I first learned to make jewelry - I learned mainly from kits - and looking through I still see that I have quite a ways to go before I have exhausted all the lessons. In true Search Press style the book starts with a one-page guide on how to use it, and how to get the most out of it. Then you start off learning all about the different types of beads including useful tables of how many beads of certain sizes you get per 1, 10 or 100 grams and per several lengths as well. This is so useful when buying beads for projects. The same is done for stringing materials, tools and storage - all handy buying guides when deciding what you need, what you might need and what is just for the advanced work. Then there are useful sections on designing, color and working comfortably before getting on with learning all the various techniques for stringing, off-loom weaving, wirework and more. Every page is packed with photos to illustrate what is going on with captions, and there are lots of tips of the type you get when you go to classes but not usually in books. I particularly like the combination of diagrams and photos when illustrating off-loom stitches, allowing the beader to see what is going on and what it should look like in fact. This is not a book of projects but methods, enabling you to learn enough to tackle projects in books and magazines, and to design your own. If you want to take up this hobby (or know somebody who does) or even if, like this reviewer you have been doing it for years this is an excellent book to buy. Very highly recommended.
* Myshelf.com *
Oct 09
Beading de-mystified, whatever the problem in this 160 page colour book. This book looks at materials, supplies, design, stringing, weaving and fastenings. There is also a resource section. This book is packed full of instructions and illustrations as well as professional techniques to help you bead with ease.
* Karen Platt *
Jan 2010
This indispendable compendium is filled with essential know-how and troubleshooting tips for anyone interested in taking up beading. Step-by-step photographs, diagrams and clear instructions guide you through each stage. Techniques are presented in the order required when making a project, or you can dip in for help with a particular problem. This book certainly has all the answers.
* Machine Knitting Monthly *
Autumn 2010
What a wealth of information in one book! This compendium covers just about everything anyone starting beadwork would need to know. There is information on different types of beads, including size and shape. Within this section there are two extremely useful tables which give the approximate number of beads per inch when being worked, and also per gram when purchasing. Different types of thread, wire, cords and tools are shown with pictures and information about the work for which the item is used. The book is divided into three main sections - stringing, wirework and beadweaving. Each section has clear pictures and information relating to the elements covered, including basic stitch techniques, how to follow and read a chart, and much more. Throughout the book the author has highlighted tips on fixing or preventing problems when working in a particular medium. There are also hints on making your work practice easier and therefore even more pleasurable. This is not a project book, but as there is so much helpful information, even the most experienced beader would find a lot of interesting and useful tips within its covers. At GBP12.99 it is really good value.
* Bead Society For Great Britain *
