The Art of Beadwork: Historic Inspiration, Contemporary Design

I've done beadwork for over 10 years now and beadwork books for people with experience are sadly lacking. This however is a book for the serious beader. It covers beadwork from several areas and eras of the world with many colour photographs- even 17th century English beadwork gets a page! I'd say Asian and African/Middle East inspirations are just over half the book with European and American (including Mexico and Peru) inspirations the remainder. There are images of modern pieces as well as very ancient ones which inspire and are beautiful to look at. I think it is possible to work out how to make some of the pieces if you are an experienced beader but I haven't tried yet so I can't guarantee this! I counted approximately 19 projects which I think is a pretty high count of projects from some well known bead artists. They are all accompanied by large, easy to read diagrams plus written instructions and a list of materials required as well as tips throughout. My favourites are Karen Paust's dandelion puff earrings and Don Pierce's quail on the mountain evening bag but lots of others I will make too. I would say that this is not a book for the beginner but if you love beadwork then I think you might find it inspirational so maybe should get it for later on. There is a selected bibliography of 2 pages worth of books listed but no list of suppliers - I'm guessing that the author assumed you'd already know where to get supplies.It is written by an American so the usual American spelling but you'll hardly notice because the book and it's contents are so beautiful.

a good book, well conceived and made,though for expert beaders since projects explanations are clear but not comprehensive.This book is a very good combination between technicle and inspirational photos.

Fascinating

Lovely book, gorgeous pictures and text, but many of the best items don't have instructions, including the cover pictures

Fantastic inspirational book. Would recommend for any jewellery/beadwork designer. Beautifully photographed and projects are wonderful. Can/t praise highly enough