If you're like me, your stack of books to be read always manages to be taller than those that you've read. I love fantasy, sci-fi, and sometimes just some fluff to get my mind off of the "real" world. But I also love beading books. Sometimes I devour them cover to cover, sometimes I pick and choose projects I want to learn. The following books are some of my favorites when it comes to beading:
The Beaded Garden by Diane Fitzgerald. Diane Fitzgerald is a master of seed beads. She's written a plethora of books on the subject, and I've always found her instructions very easy to follow. This book inspired me to create a piece called "The Only Flowers I Can Grow" which ended up garnering an honorable mention in Fire Mountain Gems' seed bead competition!
Mastering Beadwork by Carol Huber Cypher. This is the book that I recommend to anyone that wants to get started in beading. Cypher introduces readers to each stitch and then provides a project to go along with the stitch. Also included are recommendations for items you'll need to complete the projects, as well as a beadwork glossary and an index in the back. The best part? The book is spiral bound so it lays flat! No fighting with the book to keep it open while you follow those instructions!
Beading with Cabochons by Jamie Cloud Eakin. If you ever opened an issue of Bead & Button, chances are you saw works by many of these artists. That's how I discovered Jamie Cloud Eakin. Her work is amazing and was my introduction to the possibilities of bead embroidery. This book has a lot of different ideas for accenting your cabs and even includes a section with tips for creating your own designs.
The Art of Bead Embroidery: Technique, Design & Inspiration by Heidi Kummli and Sherry Serafini. The first time I came across Sherry Serafini's work, I was awestruck. Both Serafini and Kummli are incredible, award-winning jewelry designers. The work and projects in this book might be daunting when you first see them, but you can do it. Even if you don't attempt any of the designs, the gallery in this book is great for inspiration.
Diane Fitzgerald's Shaped Beadwork: Dimensional Jewelry with Peyote Stitch by Diane Fitzgerald. While Diane is already on this list for her beaded flowers, I had to include this book, as well. Peyote is one of the first stitches most beaders try, with some of us having our first experience with the stitch in Girl Scouts or summer camp. Fitzgerald takes peyote several steps further, using the stitch to create three-dimensional beads, bezels and more. It's a great addition to your bookshelf.
What about you? Are there any beading books that you consider a must-have? Let me know in the comments!
