Saturday, February 1, 2014

Book Spotlight: Beaded Crochet Designs

One of the best words we can use to describe the beading process is meditative - beading is relaxing, contemplative, and a wonderful way to fill the hours. Of all the techniques available for weaving beads together, crochet is one that allows us to work continuously, making it one of the most meditative of all.

In Beaded Crochet Designs,Ann Benson helps readers explore the beauty and versatility of this unique combination of techniques. Using some of the stitches that fiber crocheters use, one can create the most beautiful, flexible and delightful jewelry.

Like any great beading book, this one begins with a detailed basics section, explaining the ideal materials and tools needed to get started. The Getting Ready chapter includes up to date descriptions of common bead and thread types used for bead crochet, as well as an excellent primer on the stitches. There are both photographs and diagrams of tubular bead crochet and finishing techniques, so even a beginner can grasp how it is done. There are also some basics for other bead weaving stitches used in the projects, however simple jewelry making techniques like making wrapped loops are not covered, making this book ideal for beaders with some previous experience.

The projects include detailed materials lists and a quick guide to the steps with occasional diagrams. Beginners can try out some of the simpler projects to practice and become familiar with the concepts used to make bracelets, necklaces, and earrings. Though many of the projects use unique materials, there is some emphasis on repetition, including several bangle projects that only require a change of pattern and color choice.

Beaded Crochet Designsis an excellent resource for beaders who want to try out bead crochet, and provides plenty of inspiration and beautiful practice pieces to make. If you want to master this beautiful technique, definitely look for it at your public library!

Copyright 2014 Inspirational Beading
Ann Benson and Sterling Publishing
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