Issue 20
THE book for all of you who want to give your projects that certain something. Arranged according to beading techniques. Thirty projects from simple to challenging with clear graphics, accompanying photographs and a wealth of alternative color suggestions.
* Perlen Poesie *
Mar 14
Complement your outfits with some impressive statement pieces, and learn offloom beadweaving techniques. The small comes from the size of the beads used, and the big from their bold appearance and contemporary appeal. The work in this book is a combination of that of the author and several other designers from all around the world. This ensures that everything does not look like the work of one person so will have wider appeal, from cute owl earrings and cocktail rings to a grand crystal necklace. The instructions star with some basic information about the beads used and techniques such as stop beads and putting on clasps. This makes this a good book for those who are not totally new to the world of beads and jewellery but are keen to have a go at something beyond simple stringing. The beadwork diagrams are computer drawn rather than the more confusing photographs and this coupled with the written instructions means that it is easy to follow. All the main offloom stitches are here: brick, peyote, right angle weave, ladder, herringbone and spiral. None of the projects is so huge and elaborate that it would take ages to make and thus it is a great way to learn this type of beadwork. Add in some attractive photos, thumbnail designer profiles and information about beading blogs and forums and you have a book with lots of appeal. One of the keeper shelf!
* Myshelf.com *
Apr 14
It's been a long time coming that the book publishing world addressed the call for modern, colourful, youthful projects that fit the tastes and budgets of new beaders. This project-based book is organised by technique used, with some lovely projects that are ideal for anyone who wants to grab some beads and begin beading.
* Machine Knitting Monthly *
June 2015
This super book uses beadweaving techniques to create some stunning pieces of jewellery. There is something in here for everyone, from simple bangles to glitzy evening necklaces (and everything in-between). Beautifully photographed and illustrated, this book is easy to use and suitable for all skill levels. For those new to beadweaving, you'll find clear easy-to-use stitch techniques at the beginning of each section, plus hints and tips dotted throughout the book - a brilliant guide for the beader, being well designed with great wearable projects.
* Love to Make *
June 14
THE book for all of you who want to give your projects that certain something. Arranged according to beading techniques. Thirty projects from simple to challenging with clear graphics, accompanying photographs and a wealth of alternative color suggestions.
* Perlen Poesie *
Spring/Summer 2014
This book looks good, feels good, and it claims to use 'simple beadweaving techniques'. I always think it's difficult to define 'simple' as it depends on how good the instructions are. Certainly the book gives you basic instructions for the six techniques used in the book, so there is nothing too heavy. Also included are the basics like adding a clasp and stretching the thread.
Written by Jean Power, the book has project contributions from 10 other designers which, for me, is better because the projects are more varied and exciting, but, yes, there are still some of the geometric designs that Jean is famous for!
The other good thing that results in a diverse range of projects, is that the designers are from all over the world: Amanda Preske, United States; Eva Cadkova, United States; Maria Lindemann, Denmark; Shirley Lim, Singapore; Shelley Nybakke, United States; Arantxa A, Spain; Mortira Nastasha van Pelt, Canada; Justine Stanaert, Mexico; Juanita Carlos (Jaycee), Australia; Debbie van Tonder, South Africa; and of course Jean is based here in the UK.
Between them, they have catered for all skills, weather easy, intermediate, or advanced, which is a must-have format for any book. With 30 projects in all there are traditional projects for every beader and a few 'funky' ones for the younger-than-me beaders to have a go at (plus a couple of variations)! The cheekiest ones are the little 3D animal faces, designed by Shirley Lim, which take their inspiration from the Chinese zodiac. The project in the book is for Ralph the rat. All 12 animals are pictures and it would be nice to know if patterns are available for the others, especially in this year of the horse.
The photographs and diagrams are plentiful, colourful and clear. If you are new to beadweaving, the techniques pages will soon have you mastering your first piece.
* The Bead Society of Great Britian *
Feb 14
This book has brought together 10 talented designers to offer you a beautiful mix of jewellery that you will love to show off. It is ideal for beginners to more experienced beadweavers. Each of the jewellery pieces is shown in step by step instruction with full picture guides and easy to understand instructions. Not only does the book feature numerous designers it also gives you details of what you can find on the internet and what will be useful. You feel like you are getting full service with the book and you aren't an isolated reader. At the start of the book everything from tools to materials is discussed and explained. You are talked through everything from making a clasp to how to use a stop bead. With 30 different designs for you to make you'll be wanting to use this book for a long time to come. Sometimes jewellery made with beads can look dated. This book isn't the case. There are so many designs I want to make and I already have a list of people I want to make gifts for.
* Crochet Addict UK *
Issue 20 2014
THE book for all of you who want to give your projects that certain something. Arranged according to beading techniques. Thirty projects from simple to challenging with clear graphics, accompanying photographs and a wealth of alternative colour suggestions.
* Perlen Poesie *
