Getting Started Stringing Beads

April 05

It sounds as though there isn't much to this craft - everybody learns how to thread objects onto a string in kindergarten - but a look inside this book will show that this isn't true. Back when I learned to string beads there wasn't much of this sort of thing around in the UK, and I made up my own instructions. If this is you, or you are a total beginner you will benefit from a primer that shows you how to do it properly, so you can make jewellery that won't fall apart...

This book takes you all through the beading process, from looking around a bead shop and identifying the different items to handy size charts and a chart of what is actually meant by terms such as a druk, a bicone or a chiclet. If you don't live in the States but work from US books and magazines this is invaluable. Then onto threading materials, tools and needles (ditto for the previous sentence here) and the nuts and bolts of beadwork such as crimping, knotting and finishing off. There are projects of course complete with lots of useful tips for making more items, and on every page there seemed to be something I didn't know. From all the terms for different necklace lengths to finishing off pendants this book is worth every penny. Is it destined for my keeper shelf? No - it will be too busy doing duty in my beading bag! One no beader (unless you are a real pro) can possibly do without.

Dec 07/Jan 08

A lot of stringing books only have words for their projects, so we liked the fact that this one had lots of illustrations. We felt it might be a good choice for a complete beginner. It also has some basic wirework techniques so it is a good all-rounder.

Winter 05

This is a colourful and informative book which should encourage any who is interested in beads to try their hands at a new hobby. The diagrams are clear, concise and easy to follow, together with full descriptions of all the types of knots used.