It wasn't too long ago when I mentioned how there was a dearth of tutorials and books featuring the use of the exciting new Czech bead shapes which are becoming more widely available.  It looks as if we are getting our wishes come through as another beadwork book is just out. Many of the projects use a variety of Czech beads.


Kalmbach Publishing recently sent me Marcia Balonis' Lush Layered Beadweaving book for review.  Most of the 23 projects in the book were for bracelets with a few necklaces. No rings, brooches or earrings! The author is an experienced instructor so many of the projects show helpful alternative colorways.  That is because she has discovered students find picking colors particularly difficult.


The Basic Materials, Tools and Techniques chapter was illuminating - even for those fairly experienced with beadweaving. The author shared invaluable tips including how to use a Tulip awl to pop out an errant bead instead of crushing it.

She also discusses several thread options in this section. It is not always about Fireline! There are other fishing lines out there, each with its own advantages.  The author uses different kinds depending on the project,  For example, she uses Fireline 8 lb test if the design has crystals or if it is a heavier piece.


All the projects were categorized by skill level.  I found there wasn't that much difference between the advanced beginner and intermediate levels. The advanced section was where the designs were more complex - my favorites included the Eye of the Tiger bracelet and the Dress Up Tie necklace designs shown at the end.

Other standout designs include those using crescent beads like the Chunky Monkey bracelet above. The Magic Carpet Ride bracelet neatly integrated crescent beads with Quadratile beads.


Overall, the designs were pleasing to the eye and not super difficult. Beadweaving fans will certainly enjoy having this book in their libraries!






Giveaway
If you'd like to win this giveaway for a copy of Lush Layered Beadweaving book, please make a comment below. Make sure you leave contact info below if you do not have an online shop or blog.

Email subscribers need to scroll down the post they receive, click on Share Comment and enter your comment. Pick Name/URL. If you don't have a store or blog, leave the URL blank.

This giveaway is for US and Canada only. 

Extra entries if you become or are a blog subscriber or follower etc. If you also do shout outs about this giveaway, those will count as additional entries too! Please say so in the comments. (The exception is Facebook - just like/comment on the giveaway status there!!)

It ends in a week's time at 6 pm EST Monday, July 9, 2018. I will pick the winner randomly and announce the results as soon as possible after. So be sure to leave a contact email if you don't have an online link or make sure you come back and check! Otherwise I will redraw in a week. Good luck!

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Disclosure This blog may contain affiliate links. I do receive a small fee for any products purchased through affiliate links. This goes towards the support of this blog and to provide resource information to readers. The opinions expressed are solely my own. They would be the same whether or not I receive any compensation.
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