Beadwork Basics (Beadwork Books)

Rating:
Summary: terrible lack of technique, out of order instructions
Review: I am a beading beginner who has done some simple stringing on my own and wishes to find books to show me some fun projects with which I can learn some pattern stitches and most importantly, techniques for working with findings and finishing strings in a clean & professional manner. I had hoped the Ann Benson books would help but I find she is a second rate author and although she may be able to teach in person, these books are terrible for a beginner: they contain patterns but do not teach, instructions for projects are out of order, materials required are not sufficiently explained, techniques are not explained. They claim to be written for beginners {in both titles, for crying out loud} but are instead incredibly frustrating as you need to look elsewhere for HOW to do the things you will be asked to do. How do you "create a loop in the headpin using round nosed pliers"? How do you "close crimp neither too flatly nor loosely with needle nosed pliers"?

In addition, I'm really annoyed with the poor quality of work shown in the book. Frankly the project photos reveal cheesy taste; lots of thread showing and not {in my estimation} very wearable or attractive end results, little of the jewelry is aesthetically pleasing being clunky, chunky stuff that I don't want to learn to make. Exceptions being a fringy pair of earrings and a fringed bag, the pattern for both can be gotten everywhere.

I'm really disappointed, I've purchased and returned "Beadwork Basics" and "Beading for the First Time" immediately. I have requested other "beginner" style beading books and will post reviews of all that I find.

Rating:
Summary: Large variety of different beading techniques and projects
Review: The title, Beadwork Basics, is a bit of stretch, although the new beader should consider adding this terrific volume to their beading archives. Once you have the basic skills under your belt, this is a book you will return to for inspiration again and again. Lots of beautiful color photos, instructions and diagrams. The Marilyn Monroe project is worth the price of the book alone.

Rating:
Summary: Large variety of different beading techniques and projects
Review: The title, Beadwork Basics, is a bit of stretch, although the new beader should consider adding this terrific volume to their beading archives. Once you have the basic skills under your belt, this is a book you will return to for inspiration again and again. Lots of beautiful color photos, instructions and diagrams. The Marilyn Monroe project is worth the price of the book alone.

Rating:
Summary: Classy beadwork designs
Review: This book is written in detail and in a manner that you can follow easily. Each design gives explicit details of what materials are needed and how to complete the item. Most items are not difficult to accomplish or find the necessary materials for them. You can make assorted Native American style or antique looking earrings, necklaces and bracelets. There are also beaded watches, beaded brooches, and other styled necklaces.