A World of Beads: How to Make Your Own Unique Jewellery

Of my several bead books, this is one of my favorites. The instructions are very clear, and the same techniques are used repeatedly for most of the jewelry pieces, for example, stringing the beads on thread, and using calottes to finish the ends. There are a few other techniques also, and I did pick up a few new ones for my own use, for example, how to work with leather thong in jewelry -- braiding it and finishing the ends with findings I hadn't used before. But what makes me keep this book constantly on hand is its many pictures of jewelry, featuring mostly necklaces with a broad range of bead types. There are a lot of beautiful pieces for giving me ideas for bead combinations, color arrangements, and patterns. The earring section also has some very attractive and easy to make earring styles. Though published several years ago, these designs do not look outdated at all. I see that this book is not currently published and the sellers who have it are selling it at quite a high price, but it could very well be worth it for someone wanting to have a source of ideas.

When I ordered this book, I was looking for something that would have lots of pictures of various kinds of beaded jewelry. I definately found what I was looking for in this book! It's got wonderful photos of designs the author has created, along with how-to instructions (nothing too difficult). Nearly every picture has helped get the creative ideas flowing! It also has a bit on the history of beads, plus a section on making your own beads. Good book for beginners and those wanting pictures for ideas!

The dust jacket on this book is covered with luscious, rhythmical beaded jewelry that invites a look inside. The photography inside the book is just as exciting. There is no history of beads here, just a straight plunge into creating beautiful accessories.Barbara starts by defining equipment needed, then quickly instructs on two basic techniques: necklace threading and earring making. It takes her only three pages to do it, demonstrating her absolute clarity of instructions.Now the projects begin with a myriad of design options from which to choose. She winds up by introducing you to do-it-yourself beads, such as polymer clay, air-dry clay and papier-mache', using them effectively in some elegant designs. A helpful glossary and index are at the end.

This is the first book I have come across which explains beading chains and making earrings so clearly. The instructions and diagrams are very simple and easy to follow. The book is filled with BEAUTIFUL designs created by the author. This book is great for beginners and for people wanting to know more about beads before they take it up as a hobby.