Book Description

[This] beautiful book turns craft into wearable art. Using black-and-white diagrams to clarify procedures, [Benson] introduces two types of beadwork: needle weaving, in which beads are threaded together; and card stitching, in which beads are sewn directly onto a backing of lightweight cardboard or construction paper....More than 40 gorgeous projects. A splendid book."--Booklist. "A visual feast."--Shuttle, Spindle & Dyepot. Ann Benson, one of America's foremost bead artisans, offers an array of eye-catching projects for beaded jewelry and accessories, all created from the surprisingly simple technique of beadweaving and showcased in gorgeous full-page photographs. The patterns and instructions for 50 of her most spectacular pieces use two basic methods: needleweaving, a style similar to crocheting, and bead card stitching, in which beads are sewn directly onto a patterned card. Ranging in style from Southwestern to Far Eastern, and Art Deco to Victorian, the projects include shimmering topaz earrings, a richly patterned Oriental carpet purse, a delicate ribbon pin, an exquisite purple floral belt, and much more. Every project highlights the beads' exciting colors, shapes, sizes, and textures.