Diane Fitzgerald

This is an intermediate to advanced beader's book. I like that the intro is short; you should already know your needle and bead types if you're going to undertake these projects. Oh, these projects. GORGEOUS. Some are so perfect they no longer look beaded. They are sculpted; that many are constructed with metallic colored beads also leads to a more finished look. The author gives you the basic designs (triangle, oval, etc.), and before each project, tells you which ones to master before show more beginning. I also especially like her discussion of the cultural inspiration behind the pieces. show less

Most of the instructions were really clear, but there were a couple of things I was unclear about. Also, I'm having trouble getting the bankers pins which seem to be a necessary supply. I also would have liked some less daunting projects to begin with, as I find weaving pretty boring after about 30 minutes. But the technique produces stunning results, and if you like jewelry and weaving, this book is a must.

Genre: Nonfiction

This book teaches the lovely art of netted beadwork. The basic instruction is easy to follow and the instructions for each project are clear and complete. It's no surprise that this is an Interweave Press book. Every project has at least one attractive and detailed photograph, showing the whole piece. You can see exactly what you'll be making, and compare the instructions to the photo(s) as you go along. Each step is illustrated with line drawings; the reader/beader can show more follow the text, the illustrations, or both. There are examples of historical pieces and professional modern pieces for inspiration. After reading and working with this book even the beginner can make jewelry to be proud of, and possibly even design personalized pieces as well.

Not only is this a great book for learning netted beadwork, it's a great resource for making good jewelry without having to spend a lot of money. The majority of the beads are seed beads, with a handful of other types - the interest comes from the netted quality, instead of the beautiful-yet-expensive beads so much bead jewelry requires. I look forward to making a lot of netted beadwork pieces from this book, and inspired by this book. show less

Clear and concise, but following Fitzgerald's instructions for knotting off were a total disaster for me, and I lost about 7 hours worth of work in a shower of tiny beads and swear words.