Casual
Bead Elegance
is a superb book that reveals how to make bead stitch jewelry
(off the loom) in a simple and clear manner, with easy-to-read
instructions and full color photographs on coated stock. I’ve
made a few of the pieces shown in this book, and I’m
hooked.
The author, Eve Leder, advises users to start each project
in sequence from the beginning, so you study the projects
in detail and learn the basic techniques. Additional designs
let you expand on what you’ve learned. Ms. Leder’s
purpose is to have beginners realize they need not be afraid
of making this jewelry, and she makes it easy.
The book features a wonderful section of “Basics”
that discusses beads, tools, terms, findings, threads, colors
and the basic stitches. The first section of projects starts
off with the basic Ladder Stitch (beautiful in itself), so
you can learn to make bracelets, rings and, alternating the
stitch slightly, earrings using a circular brick stitch. Each
project has detailed instructions with accompanying full-color
photos, along with the materials and tools needed, with tips
and new terminology. Stitches covered include the right-angle
weave, cubic right-angle weave, herringbone, square stitch,
circular brick stitch, peyote stitch and combined stitches.
I loved the “Circles in Time Earrings,” and made
several after realizing they are not as difficult as it looks.
The “Enchanting Butterfly Pin” makes a perfect
gift for young and old alike. Absolutely stunning is the “Princess
Necklace,” but I admit, I love all the designs in this
book.
Beginners and experts will enjoy this stunning instructional
booklet that makes beading easy and fun. You’ll love
making these beautiful designs as much as I did. And like
me, you’ll be sure to keep it nearby to refer to again
and again.
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