Are you a bead work fan? The new book I received from Kalmbach Publishing contains some 130 beading patterns is sure to inspire.

The Big Book of Beading Patterns: For Peyote Stitch, Square Stitch, Brick Stitch, and Loomwork Designs are a compilation of the best patterns from Bead & Button magazine.

There were two things I particularly liked about the book. Firstly, the patterns are large and easy to follow. No more squinting!  The book is also themed based. The major sections include animals, holiday, geometric and abstract patterns, mythological creatures and nature inspired themes.


There were different suggestions on how to finish off bracelets - button and loop enclosures as well as metallic clasps. However, I particularly enjoyed seeing Ellen Freidenberg's delightful beaded wrist watches which you get to "permanently set your favorite time of day." The beaded section and suede sandwich a brass bangle.


Some of the projects I also liked included a beaded pendant which enclosed a photograph as well as square beaded picture earrings (shown below).


The most outstanding project is the beaded panel lantern by Naomi Sakuma - a masterpiece to showcase!

Beaded Lantern

The patterns are on the whole fun and lively and aren't necessarily restricted to jewelry.  I don't have a bead loom and this book makes me hanker for one even more in order to make purse or bag accents.

Other Book Reviews :
For more tutorials check out my Jewelry Making Tips

Liked what you read? Don't miss a post!
Subscribe via RSS OR Via Email* It's FREE!
*Click on the link in the confirmation email to activate subscription

Be a Fan!