Creative Beading: Over 60 Original Jewellery Projects and Variations

Without expensive tools or special training, anyone can get started right away and quickly begin producing bracelets, necklaces, charms, earrings, brooches and many other exciting jewelry projects. Large, bright diagrams, 150 full color photographs and a wealth of expert tips make following the patterns a breeze. Within minutes, it is possible to begin assembling the Spots and Dots four-strand necklace, the enchanting Fairy Chain bracelet, Silver Seeds leaf and flower charms, or any of the more than 70 projects featured. From choosing beads and strings to designing patterns, the instruction is suitable for all levels of skill, and offers endless hours of relaxing, rewarding fun.

Faceted potato, briolette, and memory wire are meaningful terms to both new and experienced beaders. And they represent vocabulary that's integral to the poetry of jewelry as created by Vail. Her book, a definite contribution to the craft, is more than just 20 exquisitely designed projects (with one or two variations per); it's even more than greatly illustrated step-by-step instructions and easy-to-use layout. Vail has captured the true art behind beading, along with some critical tips--some simple, others complex--for seizing the magic, which shines through in the tickled-pink tassel design, a complicated pattern worthy of art deco creations, or in the ease of "going Dotty," a spiraled bracelet of multicolored stones. Allow some time to look, and you will want more time to admire. Barbara Jacobs
Copyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved