The Art of Beadwork

Book excerpt: Written by renowned jewelry designer Valerie Hector, this book introduces readers to the quality, diversity, and artistry of beadwork from around the world, from ancient to modern. Rather than providing instructions for simply copying designs, this book teaches beaders to translate one or more of a piece's characteristics—color, design, technique, and dimensionality—into innovative contemporary jewelry designs. This book guides readers through 24 exquisite projects—necklaces, earrings, pendants, pins, bracelets, hair ornaments, and bags—inspired by museum-quality beadworks from cultures in four geographic regions: Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. • According toCraftrends, one in three crafters in the US engages in beading • Beadworkers and bead and jewelry enthusiasts are hungry for inspirational images of beadwork from other cultures • Contributors include beading luminaries Flora Book, David Chatt, Sharon Donovan, and Kathryn Harris