Another Review at MyShelf.Com

Ready, Set, Bead!
25+ quick & easy stitching projects
Jane Danley Cruz

Kalmbach Books
09/05/17/ ISBN 978-1627003575
Crafts & Hobbies /Jewelry & Beadwork / Jewelry

Reviewed by Linda Morelli

 

I love the jewelry-making books released by Kalmbach. They are printed on high quality paper, with full color photos, and are filled with wonderful easy-to-make original designs that stir the imagination and always manage to infuse my creativity. Jane Danley Cruz’s latest release, Ready, Set, Bead! has “25 quick and easy stitching projects” that will help us make stunning pieces of jewelry that will please and amaze even the beginner.

As usual, the author begins with information on basics: Beading tools and Materials, Beading Techniques, and other items you may want to have on hand, like bead mats or bead boards (which I recommend), bead dishes and task lamps. The beading technique section covers basic stitches and techniques, but what I like most about this release is that the author guides us through designs taking one hour and, as we get more comfortable with the process, pieces that are progressively more involved. All of the jewelry designs in this book are absolutely stunning and can be easily redesigning incorporating your own concepts and colors. One look at the cover of this release will give you an idea of the exceptional designs included between the covers, but I have my favorites: Th”e “Arabesque Earrings” (featured on the cover, 1-hour project), the “Little Black Dress Ring” (2 hours), the Chevron Chain Bracelet” (3 hours) and the “Fishnet Stockings Rope” (4 hours), the latter of which is reminiscent of vintage jewelry pieces.

The real value of this outstanding new release is the author’s past experience as a teacher and Associate Editor of Bead&Button magazine, which speaks of her expertise. Using this book is like taking classes in your own home, at your leisure, to create wonderful and unique pieces for yourself, your friends and your family.

Reviewer Linda Morelli is the award winning author of three published romance novels.
Reviewed 2017
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