Take your embroidery – and
beadwork – to new levels with this book on Japanese
bead embroidery This is a beautiful, large format book produced
by Australian embroidery magazine Inspirations. Expect the
usual high standard and nine stunning projects, as well as
an accessible approach to learning this very different method
of embroidering with beads. If you are used to the Western
way, be prepared to need some extra equipment: a slate frame,
laying tool and special wooden bobbins for example. The methods
involve some unfamiliar techniques, which need to be mastered
before you tackle any of the projects.
The book stays obligingly flat while you pore over the written
instructions, backed up by some clear drawn diagrams on using
the bobbins, laying tool, etc. as well as the stitches. The
large pages lend themselves to an airy, well laid out appearance,
which is a help when learning something so unfamiliar. By
now you will realize that beginner embroiderers (and beaders)
would be better staying away. This is very much a book for
the experienced stitcher who wants a challenge and the rewards
are certainly impressive.
The nine projects are beautiful, and each one has several
large photographs showing their final appearance, as well
as ample written instructions. There are no diagrams for these
(all the learning takes place in the first section), but a
helpful page lists everything you need as well as the techniques
used, learning points, sequence of working and more. Pictures,
various types of bag, spectacle case and a wedding pillow
all have their patterns on a detachable sheet at the back
of the book, and construction methods are also given. At the
back are two case studies of projects where printed fabric
was decorated with beadwork, plus a blank planning template
for your own use. This book is a rare opportunity for the
more experienced embroiderer to learn a largely unknown style
of embroidery.
If you cannot find a good range of Japanese bead embroidery
materials locally try http://www.searchpress.com for a list
of suppliers.
Ebay has sellers which stock takobari (laying tools) and Kreinik
manufacture the komas bobbins.
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