Beading Across America

In this beautiful celebration of national bead artisans and their native regions, readers will gain a perspective on how artists’ locations can influence their work. Beaders of all skill levels will enjoy the stories behind the artists and this expansive collection of 30 unique projects presented by some of the top names in the hobby including Sherri Serafini, Amy Katz, and Paulette Baron. Each artist presents a piece, tells the story behind it, and offers how-to instructions. Projects are inspirational for anyone who loves beading.

Discover the many layers of bead embroidery. Through 14 astonishingly beautiful projects, including one from Sherry Serafini and one from Margie Deeb, Heidi Kummli guides beaders to a greater understanding of how to infuse their jewelry with deeper meaning. From animal totems, to the four elements, to the healing power of gemstones, beaders will create pieces that reveal how the natural world can enhance their jewelry-making journey.

Full-color photographs illustrate the rich art of Native American beadwork in this combination practical how-to and coffee-table book. A historical perspective explains how and why beadwork is produced and what techniques are popular today. Clear and concise directions show how to produce beadwork in the Native American tradition, including lane stitch, loom, applique, gourd stitch, and Comanche brickwork. An illustrated gallery showcases historical and contemporary beadwork. Also included is information on research, tools, and materials.

Experienced seed bead artist and Bead&Button contributing editor Maggie Roschyk gives friendly advice on topics like choosing bead colors and finishes, how to “audition” beads, and deciding which stitch to use to achieve a desired effect as they create necklaces, earrings and bracelets. Using rich cultural imagery from around the world as a teaching tool, Maggie Roschyk examines how decisions about bead color combinations, texture, and finish affect the finished work as she helps readers think like designers.

Combining detailed step-by-step photographs and illustrations, this books covers beadwork styles found among Native Americans on the western plains, including loom work, applique, and more.

The 19 highlighted jewellery and accessory projects include a Huichol Lace Sun Catcher and a Ladder Chain Bracelet (perfect for beginners) along with advanced-level projects like the Waterbird Pendant and Sun Rosette Medallion.

Crystal Jewelry Inspiration from the CREATE YOUR STYLE Ambassadors features projects from 25 of these talented designers from North America. The CREATE YOUR STYLE Ambassadors approach crystals from every conceivable angle in projects as diverse as the Swarovski Elements they’ve used. Wide-ranging techniques, from modern bead stitching and elegant stringing to intricate wire crochet, help beaders polish their favorite skills plus learn something new. Styles range from vintage to funky to show-stopping glam, all sporting the sparkle that only crystals can provide. Jewelry makers will get first-hand information, expertise, and instruction from the most enthusiastic and passionate crystal jewelry designers working today. The gallery will inspire you with projects from Ambassadors around the world.