While beginners might find some of the project instructions a little challenging, intermediate to advanced jewelry makers and bead weavers should have few problems picking up on the techniques. Most projects include a few illustrations to help guide you through the process, and there is an additional techniques section in the back of the book that also includes illustrations.
Other than the beautiful jewelry, exhibited throughout in 80 color photographs, it’s really the stories provided by each artist that add that “little something extra” to this book. Newbies to jewelry and beading often wonder about the design process involved in creating a special piece of beadwork, and the narratives from each artist help demonstrate how the process can be different for everyone. Some artists, like Beau Anderson, find design guidance through prayer; others, like Susan Guagliumi, discover inspiration through travel and historical research; and finally, artists such as Julia Pretl are simply moved by the seasons. However they are inspired, the outcome for this book is a lot of gorgeous beadwork and bead-inspiration packed into its 160 pages. Beading for the Soul is publichsed by Interweave Press and retails for $21.95 US/$29.95 Canada.
