Shaped beadwork by Diane Fitzgerald, hardback published by Lark/Sterling in the USA. Available in the UK, ISBN 978-1-60059-277-5, price 16.99 from www.thegmcgroup.com
Subtitled ‘dimensional jewelry with peyote stitch’ (American spelling retained, and the fact that this is a beadweaving masterclass book, gives some idea of the contents of this fabulous book. However ti does not perhaps prepare you for the wonderful, intricate work in this book. If ever a book made me want to take up beadweaving, this is it.
This book takes you through the process step by step. The publishers have done justice to Diane Fitzgerald’s work by showcasing it in a beautifully produced book. The drawings and illustrations clearly show what you are meant to do and guide you effortlessly through the process.
From basic processes, this book shows you to create two-dimensional, open and three-dimensional shapes, giving clear instructions for many examples of beads. It then goes on to give instructions for necklaces, bracelets and brooches in themes such as Art Deco, Ethnic including Celtic and Moroccan influences and Contemporary, which includes instructions for tiny purses and lockets.
This book is terrific and is without doubt the best book I have seen on beading. I would highly recommend anyone interested in the subject, no matter what their skill level, to buy this book. Even though the book is American, the tools and beading supplies used are available in the UK.