Another Review at MyShelf.Com

Small Beads Big Jewellery
Jean Power

Search Press
22 January 2014/ ISBN 9781782210214
How-To Books/Jewellery

Reviewed by Rachel A Hyde

 

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 and so will have wider appeal, from cute owl earrings and cocktail rings to a grand crystal necklace. The instructions start 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 for the keeper shelf!
UK Reviewer: Rachel Hyde's work can be found in Sewing World, Sew Hip, Popular Crafts and other magazines. Her craft blog is Green Thoughts
Reviewed 2014
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