5 comments about Mastering Beadwork: A Comprehensive Guide to Off-loom Techniques.

1. I have been an avid beadwork artist since the age of 12. Im 33 now, and have leared LOTS of stitches, techniques, and variations--from all over the world.
   This book is fantastic! It has a lot of great project, most of them are somewhat advanced i suppose. Very clear pictures, and it is spiral bound, which makes it really easy to follow the steps if you need to.
   I highly reccommend this book it truly is a wealth of projects, and you can use it for inspiration too.
   10 stars!



2. This is not a book for beginners. For example, the first project uses basket-weave crimp end findings and a ball and socket closure and requires the beader to teach herself how to solder the jump rings closed. Yikes, that is a lot to ask. Most projects have incomplete directions, enough to get started, but not the step-by-step details needed for the entire project. Illustrations are not clearly marked with color or arrows to indicate the direction in which to progress. Difficult to follow.



3. Myself being a newbie to beading this a "must" book to have.
   
   Masting Beadwork by Carol Cyper (http://www.carolcypher.com/) is a well written, detailed, colorful hardcover, coiled seam beading book.
   The first few chapters walk you through as to what you need & what you need to know. Directions in the book are easy to follow along, colorful photographs, with detailed directions.
   
   I highly recommend this book to anyone who is new to beading or anyone who wants to experiment with some new patterns in beading.



4. If you've mastered peyote, brick stitch, square stitch and want to take your beading to new projects then this is the book for you. If you are just starting out this book will give you the confidence to try new things. It is concise, clear and a joy to use by beginners and those of us who have been beading for years.



5. There are a lot of great books out there about how to bead that cover many of the same techniques. What makes this one stand out is the whimsy in the projects. They are gorgeous, well explained, and in bright popping colors. It's a fun book.
   The introduction to the book explains how to use it to learn beadwork from the very beginning, and encourage you to play. To follow the instructions for the projects, but also to look at the end of each project at the "Try this" to do something new. It explains the tools and supplies very well, with color pictures. There is also a glossary in the introduction that tell you what a lot of popular bead terms mean. For an absolute beginner, it can be a bit overwhelming, but if you take it one step at a time, it's wonderful.
   For people who have some experience, there are the projects.
   Chapter 1 is peyote stitch. Absolutely essential for anyone who wants to master beadwork to learn. There are several bracelets with different types of clasps as first projects, starting simply with a purchased clasp, and working up to an amazing diagonally stitched peyote bracelet with a fringed beaded clasp. Just yummy.
   The section on bead crochet makes enough sense I'm willing to give it another try. I can crochet, I can bead, but making crocheted ropes has never worked out well for me.
   Like I said, the projects are full of whimsy, the colors make me smile, and the techniques are a solid foundation for learning to bead, and to follow any set of instructions. It's an absolutely inspiring book.

5 comments about Beading with Cabochons: Simple Techniques for Beautiful Jewelry.

1. This book has ALL information about beading with cabochons. I think I don't need another book about caboshons, I've found all important information here.



2. If only this book were spiral bound so you could have it open to follow directions, it would be perfect. The instructions are clear, well written, and should prompt even a new beader to take the plunge into beading with cabochons. The photos are extremely helpful and clear and the finished pieces pictured should prompt all to give it a go. A must have book for a beadwork library.



3. I am no longer intimidated by the projects featured in this book or creating beaded cab projects of my own design. This book has been a great resource for me. List and description of tools and supplies needed is so helpful and informative.



4. I love this book. I don't even work with seed beads but I bought this book because I found it inspired me in my wire work. Each and every project is beautiful and so wearable! I know that when and if I am ever
   ready to work with seed beads and cabachons THIS will be the book I will
   use. I can understand the instructions without ever having created a
   piece of jewelry with thread! It is a must for all bead lovers!!!



5. Another real winner. Gives grest directions with wonderful graphics. Great book for beginners

5 comments about Bead Romantique: Elegant Beadweaving Designs.

1. Lisa Kan has a wonderful sense of color and design. She brings a lot of elegance to her designs and at the same time makes them very wearable. The enthusiastic beginner can follow her directions and create exactly what's pictured, while the experienced beader can use the pieces as a starting point for their own work. I'm looking forward to making at least half of the items in the book! And as one of those beaders that has a HUGE variety of beads, I really enjoy the different types of beads in the projects.



2. Well worth the money. Lots of projects to work on. Can't figure out which one I want to start with.



3. As a designer I judge a book by two criteria. First, does it inspire me to think of my own jewelry designs in a new way? Secondly, does it offer enough new techniques to help me further my knowledge and spur me on to add some new tricks to my design repertoire. Lisa's book offers both.
   
   You may be new to the world of beading, nary a thread and bead to hand or you might know every beading stitch under the sun. I believe Bead Romantique has something for every level. The designs range from basic stringing and wire wrapping to complicated right-angle weave.
   
   If you are new to beading, don't fear. There are earring projects to start out with that will help you with the basics. You can build up your skills as you work through the projects in this book. I love that many of the beading projects are small components that repeat and build together to create larger and more complex designs. The mix of chain and brass filigree add depth to the construction of some of the simpler beaded pieces, which is oh so clever!
   
   I'd also recommend this book to someone who is an advanced beader. I could see this adding some creative sparks to those who have seen it all in the world of seed beads. I see quite a few projects that call for size 15 seed beads. (Those are the tiny ones smaller than regular seed beads!) In the beginning of the book Lisa says she wanted to create projects for the intermediate to advanced beaders who are looking for new inspiration.
   
   Another bonus is the historic inspiration behind the jewelry, from the Renaissance period to Art Deco, along with a generous sprinkling of Victorian and Art Nouveau styles, Lisa covers 400 years of art history with style and grace!



4. I usually like to browse jewelry books at the store before purchasing them, but I couldn't find this one at Barnes and Noble, so I decided to take a chance on it. I'm definitely not disappointed!!! The designs run the gamut from a beaded rivoli Y necklace to a more contemporary lariat to a gorgeous pearl and crystal cuff based around a diamond motif. I would agree with other reviewers that this probably isn't the best book for beginners. I enjoy that the designs incorporate basic wirework, chain, filigree, and wire mesh, in addition to the typical beading. The designs also utilize a variety of stitches (right-angle weave, Ndebele, circular peyote, and so forth), making it a great way to expand your beading skills.



5. The theme of the book is romantic, almost Victorian looking pieces. Most of the supplies called for are really easy to find in local bead stores, and the rest can be found searching online.
   The beginning of the book has some basic information about the supplies used, including what the author likes and dislikes about some threads and needles, and what the best application is for them.
   Then you get into the rest of the book, the projects. They are stunning. They range from very easy and elegant chain and wirework projects, simple beadwoven projects with some lovely surface embellishment, and then some incredibly dramatic looking bead woven pieces. The color photographs are inspiring and the instructions and diagrams are very well written. Many of the projects are meant for the intermediate beader.
   Don't be daunted though, the back of the book has stitch diagrams, and the text of each project is well written step by step.
   My favorite thing about the projects is that a few of them combine techniques. Chain as an accent on a beadwoven necklace for example. Some of her designs are completely unexpected pairings of techniques and beads that turn out looking amazing.
   Like I said, most supplies can be found easily at a good local bead store, and some projects are entirely made of easily found supplies, which is always nice in a book like this. The V Scallop necklace for example, you may have all the supplies you need on hand, or be inspired by it to make something similar with the supplies you do have on hand.
   My personal favorite project in the whole book is the intricate motif constructed Victorian Diamond Cuff. It looks difficult, but it's actually made of diamond shaped motifs that look easy enough one at a time.
   If you're an intermediate beader looking for inspiration and ideas, or a beginning beader looking for a challenge, I recommend this book.

5 comments about French-Inspired Jewelry: Creating with Vintage Beads, Buttons & Baubles.

1. The book is laid out in a very artful way and the pictures are beautiful. The projects listed are unique and doable. Great book for ideas and just to look at and enjoy.



2. This book is a must have for every jewelry artist . You will spend many hours looking at the pages. It needed to have step by step photos for some of the projects. This is the type of book you want to grow old with.



3. If you like collecting charms, this book is for you. Lots of fun pictures and interesting stories about charms and their famous owners. If you want instructions how to make your own charm bracelets this book is not for you.



4. This is one of the most beautifully designed and inspiring jewelry books I have ever read. I went right out and bought a ton of gorgeous supplies and began creating.



5. This is my all-time favorite book on jewelry making. Each page is a treasure. The illustrations are exquisite, the directions are so easy to understand, and the jewelry is breath-taking.

5 comments about Jewelry Making & Beading For Dummies.

1. I have never purchased a book in the Dummies series but I happened to be at a bookstore and noticed Jewelry Making and Beading for Dummies. I was just starting out in beading and so I began to peruse the pages and decided this was the book I wanted! To me this book should be THE BIBLE for any one just starting to bead. Ms. Powley starts her book with easy projects, which gives the novice beader confidence, her instructions are easy to follow, and there is a glossary of terms in back of the book that is quiet useful. The book also has plenty of pictures so you get a chance to see how your jewelry looks as you follow her directions.
   
   As a side note, the librarian at our local library knows my passion for beading
   and asked what book the library should have for the novice beader. I said "Jewelry Making and Beadiing for
   Dummies". It now graces the bookshelf at the library. It is getting dog eared but still it keeps on beinging checked out. It also graces my book shelf and I often reach for it. Worth every penny of my hard earned
   money, and if you can get it on sale, with the money you saved you can buy more beads!
   Sharon (Wannabe Beader)
   Some where in Texas.



2. The problem with the "For Dummies" series of books is that they are too simple for advanced users, but leave out the incredibly basic information that is essential for beginners. "Jewelry Making and Beading for Dummies" is no exception to this rule. This book provides supposedly step-by-step instructions for making a number of jewellery projects but glosses over many of the details that are essential if you have never used some of the techniques before. For example, I purchased this book because I was interested in pearl knotting. Although this book does include a small section on this topic, it does not include instructions on how to attach the clasp to the string. It merely tells you to do so.
   
   Other drawbacks of this book are that the pictures are in black and white (with the exception of a small number of colour plates), and techniques are demonstrated using difficult to understand illustrations rather than actual photographs. Oh, and none of the projects in this book are particularly exciting either. Many of them depend on being able to obtain a specific type of bead to look any good, which my recently acquired experience has taught me is easier said than done.



3. This book is full of information as the Dummies series always is. I always trust that I'll get a good product when I order a Dummies book. A+



4. Not good! I was hoping for ideas for beginners. I'm not to creative and thought it might have some examples or ideas. Totally dissapointed.



5. I have 4 or 5 beading books and this is my favorite. It really answers the questions you might have if you are a beginner beader unlike many of the other books that claim they are for beginners. Great Book!

5 comments about Glass Bead Workshop: Building Skills, Exploring Techniques, Finding Inspiration.

1. This book is packed with useful info. The pics are really clear and easy to follow. It also has lots of interesting projects like making glass flowers and pendants which I found really interesting and useful. A useful addition to my library.



2. This is an amazing book, very informative for someone like me who is new to the lampworking craft. I have not advanced to the mixed gases as of yet, but this book gives the information I would need. I love this book.



3. This book is for the lampwork artist who is looking beyond dots and flowers. The step by step photo illustrations and helpful hints make this a wonderful tool for one seeking to add to their lampwork techniques. I learned about tools and uses of enamels and metals. Very informative. I would recommend this tome wholeheartedly.



4. Glass Bead Workshop by Jeri Warhaftig
   
   Just when you thought you had aquired all the tools and goodies you would ever need again in your lampwork adventures (yeah... right... LOL) Jeri Warhaftig has authored a new lampworking book that is guaranteed to challenge you to see the world of lampwork in a new light.
   
   This full color book is 144 pages packed with information! It dives headfirst into advanced techniques and concepts, just giving the faintest nod to basic info. Definitely a text designed with the more seasoned lampworker in mind, and it doesn't disappoint.
   
   Advanced techniques are taught using step-by-step photos, thorough explanation, and very creative projects. Each project touches on a variety of materials, tools, and techniques which include: dichroic glass, copper and silver inclusions, enamels, cubic zirconia use, multi-stage bead assembly, fuming, etching, pressing, coldworking, hollow mandrels, disk forming, flower sculpting, vessels, and much more. The tips and appendices of the book condense a lot of great experience into an easy to access and utilize format.
   
   Artist galleries that are included at the end of each chapter, full of inspiring examples of mixing the skills you learn with imagination and creating new, exciting pieces.
   
   If you are looking for some fresh, new ideas and skills to spark your imagination and challenge you, this is the book for you. Tons of experience for the lampworker at the bargin price of $24.95!
   
   http://hawleystudios.blogspot.com



5. This is a great book for both technical instructions on how to accomplish a variety of techniques and dozens of beautiful pictures displaying how other skilled artists bring variations to the theme. The book is based around a variety of techniques that are useful for intermediate and advance lampwork bead artists to expand their repetoir. I have not seen any other book that collects as many diverse techniques in one place. The instructions are easy to follow and the explanation of the supplies and tools needed for each bead is straight-forward. Even if you don't want to make any particular bead, the numerous examples of other artists' creations will surely give any reader a creative burst.

5 comments about Teach Yourself VISUALLY Jewelry Making & Beading (Teach Yourself VISUALLY Consumer).

1. I will use this book for many years to come as it covers the type of jewelry I make in a very comprehesive way.



2. This book was a gift to my granddaughter and she loves it. Clear images in the book makes it very attractive



3. I have found this to be the best book I've see for a novice like me. The pictures and the instructions are clear and easy to understand. I highly recommend it.



4. This book is great for beginners as well as intermediate levels of skill. I am happy to add it to my library...



5. I bought 3 books on jewelry making and this is the one I use the most. It describes all the pieces in jewelry making and how they are used. It has many good projects and pictures. I love this book.

5 comments about Marketing and Selling Your Handmade Jewelry: The Complete Guide to Turning Your Passion into Profit.

1. Viki Lareau's book Marketing and Selling Your Handmade Jewelry is a well-written, experience-based guide for the novice. With the exception of a couple of small number of typos or misspellings, the book is a delight. I found that I wanted to read it straight through and almost succeeded in doing so before being interrupted. The photos complement the text, and it helps that the reader comes to like the person writing the book (at least I did).



2. If you're just getting started in the hand-made jewelry selling business, this is a straightforward, well written, and practical guide for the basics of setting up your business. The author provides tips on pricing your work, which are especially helpful. Overall, I found the tone warm and helpful, and it's a quick, easy read.
   
   From the author of A Line Between Friends and owner of Dream Life Designs jewelry.



3. I have purchased other similar books in the past that I skim, but never really take time to read. This book was not only worth the money, it was worth the time. Concisely written, clearly categorized, useful information. I only wish I had read it seven years ago when I first started selling my jewelry, as some of the lessons I have learned a much harder way!
   My little company is currently turning into something much bigger and I am so glad I have the insight from this book to help me in negotiating and decision making.



4. I received this book really quickly and very pleased with it. I love the book and I couldn't wait to get it. The transaction was effortless.



5. This is a good book if your just starting out. A lot of it is common sense but there are some good pointers. I would recommend it. Easy read. Also has some good resources.

5 comments about The Beader's Color Palette: 20 Creative Projects and 220 Inspired Combinations for Beaded and Gemstone Jewelry.

1. I just got this amazing book today. I loved Margie Deeb's other Beaders Color Book, and this one is a whole new world. Mostly inspirations for advanced beaders, esp. off loom work. This book has a very unique approach to a color palette of beads, using photos and paintings to inspire a piece of jewelry. And so many gorgeous works of beady art! Theres over 800 photos in here! I love it! I am inspired! And now, my year-long stint of "beaders block" is over. I HIGHLY recommend this mostly to an advanced beader, but all levels can most certainly use this book too for inspiration. Its that versatile.



2. I have been so excited for this book to come out that I was almost afraid that I had built it up too much in my head. Turns out I did not build it up enough!! Last year I read (and have continued to study) Margie Deeb's book, The Beader's Guide to Color (see link below). With Ms. Deeb's ability to show the properties and effects of individual colors as well as mixes taken from the color wheel, I discovered that what I thought was my natural eye for color was, in fact, just a tiny glimpse of what was possible. The Beader's Color Palette builds even further on that. It is true that there are amazing projects already in the book as well as dozens of prepared color palettes and these are fabulous and inspiring. The many photos are lush and rich and enthralling. However, I believe the best thing about Margie Deeb's books is her ability to share her gift of vision. Not only does she help reveal the color palettes in various landscapes, pictures, pieces of art, etc, but she helps beaders to learn to discern for themselves the color palettes in the world around them. This is not a book to just read once and then put it on the shelf. Nor is this just an instruction book for wonderful projects. The Beader's Color Palette is a text to be studied, absorbed, and treasured over and over. Because there is so much contained in this book, I have found thus far that I can study it for a while (30 min to possibly an hour)but then I have to go away from it to absorb what I have read. Otherwise, I find I am on "sensory overload."(And yes, my husband thinks that is completely nuts:) To restate what I treasure the most about this book - Ms. Deeb does not just share her gift for understanding color, but she helps the reader to develop his or her own vision. With that vision comes an even greater appreciation for everything in your world.
   
   The Beader's Guide to Color



3. I bought this after reading two excerpts in two different magazines and I'm not disappointed. The illustrations are gorgeous, and the works featured are by some of the best artists around. The price on Amazon is so good that you can hardly go wrong, even if you buy it just for the pictures.
   
   The reason I didn't give it four stars: I can hardly read it. The pages look beautiful visually, but when I "zoom" in for the details, I can't read them. In many cases the font is just too small. In other cases, the font is big enough but there is no contrast between the font and the page. Beige type on a white page is NOT legible when you are fifty. It's a popular way to design the printed page lately, I have the same problem with Wired magazine.
   
   If the main audience for this book was under 30, it wouldn't be an issue. I feel like the book designers were more worried about how the page looks, and trying to cram SO much information onto the page that they forget who would be reading it.
   
   I'm going to have to keep a magnifying glass next to the book. Interestingly, the excerpt in at least one magazine, the one I bought, were published in larger print.
   
   The book really is nice though, and it hardly seems fair to criticize the small type, because there is just so much information crammed into it, but the low contrast type thing.... that wasn't necessary.



4. What an eye opening book, a must for anyone who does art. This is a very finely illustrated book with great examples of finished items.



5. I purchased this book when it was mentioned on the web site of a jewelry designer I admire greatly - Mary Hicklin. I am definitely not disappointed. Ms. Deeb's use of color is fantastic. As at least one of the other reviewers states, she encourages and guides you in developing your own since of color and style. I rate it an invaluable resource for anyone interested in beading, jewelry making, art, etc.

5 comments about Bead on a Wire: Making Handcrafted Wire and Beaded Jewelry.

1. This was an interesting book, but I am a true novice, and don't feel ready to take on making some of the items shown. It did give me good ideas however, and I doubt if anyone who is interested in wire working would regret this purchase.



2. I have checked this out from the library so many times and finally just decided to buy it. This book goes into more detail than all the others I have read about wire and bead jewelry. It is obvious she puts a lot of care and effort into her craft and shows you how to do the same. Even something as simple as making a spiral is refined in way to make a tighter nicer looking spiral (in my opinion). I refer to this book often.



3. I'm just starting with wire work and found this book to be very helpful. Good pictures and instructions. I've been very pleased with this book and have made several of the projects.



4. I bought this book when it was published, and three years later, I still think it is probably the best book on beginning wire work out there. It has very clear, step by step instruction on the basic wire work techniques and some alternative methods of forming. The only mystery for me is how she manages to flush cut good jump rings from 14 gauge wire. When using 14 gauge wire or even 16 gauge, I always saw cut my jump rings. The result is much better -- at least for me.



5. I am so glad I purchased this book. It was very informative on tools, materials and the how to's for designs and projects. It is a great book for me, a beginner.