Beads, Buttons, and Bijoux: 58 Original Designs for Making Rings, Necklaces, and Bracelets

Great book. Clear directions and pictures. Definitely recommend if interested in making jewelry or beading.

I was originally drawn to this book in the bookstore because of the beautiful photography, but I didn't buy it because I thought many of the findings in the book would be hard to find and I didn't think I would wear the designs. But I went back a few times to look at it, and I finally buckled and bought it with a coupon. It was by far the best book and craft purchase I have ever made! It is very easy to substitue your own beads, buttons and findings for the ones in the book, and also very easy to alter the designs to fit what you have on hand for supplies, and to choose your own color palettes. I have made about seven projects in the book, and many other projects of my own were inspired by these designs! I have been creating non-stop since I bought it, and have used buttons, charms, etc that I have had for years and never knew what to do with. There are a few materials used in the book I would not have originally thought to use, such as plastic lacing, but I love it now. The instructions are very easy to follow, and most of the ones I made only took a few minutes once you collect your supplies. My favorite designs are the constellation necklace and my own altered versions of the Tree of Life ring. I have gotten so many compliments on the finished product from other women! I highly recommend this book if you are looking for something different. The photography is gorgeous and it is very well written. I find myself constantly picking it up and thumbing through it, and usually end up making a fast project before work or bed. Keep in mind that even if you don't fall completely in love with the designs at first it is great for inspiration for your own projects and it really gets you thinking outside the box!

I checked this book out at our local library, and am seriously considering buying it. I have several other jewelry books, and this book has lots of designs I haven't seen elsewhere. There is not a lot of use of chains/headpins in the book. Many designs use nylon thread or 32 gauge wire, and a lot of seed beads. I really like the author's use of embroidery ribbon. Instructions seem easy enough: one friend of mine made two rings in one afternoon, and I made a necklace and a ring. As the other reviewers said, look at it first to see if the designs appeal to you. If you like the Bead Fantasies series, you may like this also. The designs here are simpler than Bead Fantasies, but they use lots of seed beads and have a generally similar delicate appeal. I'd give it 5 stars, but there are too many ring designs and not enough necklace/bracelet designs for me.

I bought this book, and already have so many wonderful plans for new jewelry. I do recommend browsing through it at your local bookstore, because jewelry is very much a matter of your likes. I find that this book is great, not only the patterns that are in it, but it is so inspirational too. I am itching to make so many things both from the patterns, and on original designs that the patterns have inspired. The photography is great, and I love the how the instructions are accompanied by drawings to make things clearer. Very recommended.