Beaded Embellishment:
Techniques and Designs for Embroidering on Cloth
(A Beadwork How-to Book)
by Amy Clark and Robin Atkins
Published by Interweave Press, Loveland, CO, Oct. 2002.
Paperbound, 8-1/2"x10", 132 pages, $21.95/$32.95 Canada, ISBN: 1-931499-12-8.

Reviewed by Bonnie Clewans

Beaded Embellishment is a richly illustrated, encyclopedic overview of everything you need to know about starting to embellish cloth. The text and illustrations are very easy to follow. It is mostly a beginner’s book but the inclusion of inspirational beaded art elevates the text from “how-to” to “wow.”
The section on history is beautifully photographed and well documented. The authors’ personal experiences are enlightening. According to the book, bead embroidery is often central to the lives of girls and women in developing countries, and needle arts are highly regarded and a source of income and status for many women.

“Getting Started” is a very informative section and hopefully the readers can avoid some of the pitfalls in selecting the wrong bead or material for a project. The authors do not limit the discussion to one particular brand or type of product. This can be helpful as many beaders are limited by the selection of products in their immediate area.

The sections “Techniques” and “Problem Solving” are also easy to read and clearly illustrated. An in-depth discussion of commonly used stitches is offered. Many bead embroiderers are frequently self-taught making this section a helpful review. The authors’ conversational tone makes me feel as if I am sitting in class.

There are additional features I find valuable. The first is a detailed discussion of edging and fringing which allows the beader to create a unique and professionally finished piece. It provides the reader the foundation to improvise and design artful edging.

The second is the attention given to the finishing technique. The importance of proper technique to the unseen portion is emphasized. This attention to detail separates a homemade item from a quality handmade piece of art to wear or display.

The third feature I find particularly useful is the discussion on design. Many beginners experience a lack of confidence in this area. The authors encourage you, the readers, to “please yourselves” when designing but keep form and function in mind. The beginner will find this section a valuable reference when selecting fabric and beads. The authors provide an excellent overview of the components in this highly complex area.

There are 10 projects detailed in the book ranging from simple to complex. A knowledge of quilting would be helpful in completing some of the projects. The supply lists are complete and include generic products, the instructions are step-by-step, and the diverse nature of the patterns definitely offers something for everyone.

Beaded Embellishment is a must for both beginners who are looking to learn the basics and advanced beaders who seek inspiration and growth. The combination of fundamental information about beads and stitches coupled with the high quality gallery make it a valuable addition to any beading library.

Buy this book from Barnes & Noble.com

Bonnie Clewans learned beading from her maternal grandmother who beaded evening gowns for a major New York designer. She owns and manages The Bead Gallery in Buffalo, New York, and is an internationally known teacher and writer on a variety of beading and wireworking topics.

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