Beautiful Beading
By Sara Withers 

     There is something about beads that has fascinated people since the earliest times, and beads are some of the oldest artifacts unearthed by archaeologists. In accordance with this tradition this book does not only give instructions for a variety of projects but also contains ideas for fashioning one's own.

     One of the things I like about Search Press books is the way they showcase the very latest craft materials. I have a lot of books on beadwork as it is something I adore doing and comparing this with the others, I find that it comes out fairly near the top. For one thing, there are no expensive or hard-to-find items of equipment and there is a theme of using fairly cheap or ordinary materials to make the beads. Paper, wire, modelling clay and hemp fiber are all pressed into service and manage to look hand crafted rather than merely home made; a world of difference. There is no wordy history of beads or masterpieces proudly displayed sans instructions to take up space and much fun can be had learning how to do paper mache, use a Gizmo or a bead loom. Make jewelry with your beads or have a go at wind chimes, decorated pots, napkin rings or edgings for garments. There are clear diagrams and photographs showing how to do it and that chip choker ought to impress most people once they have found out that you made it. Even beginners ought to find this a fairly easy book to follow, and more advanced workers should be impressed with the innovative and modern ideas. Verdict? A reasonably priced and endlessly enjoyable book that will be taking pride of place on my craft shelf. Highly recommended.