Be Bold Jewelry REVIEWS

Found this lovely micro-macrame & bead tutorial by Annika deGroot. The instructions are clear and there are tons of pictures. I’ve got all kinds of ideas in my head now!

deGroot’s book Micro-Macrame: 30 Beaded Designs for Jewelry using Crystals and Cords is near the top of my Birthday Wishlist.  I’ll review once I get my grubby little hands on it!

 

Instruction Quality: 4/4

Photo/Illustrations: 3/3

Projects: 2/3

Techniques Covered: Knotting and some basic wire work

Recommended For:  Beginners, possibly Intermediates looking for ideas they can adapt and take to the next level

Comments: This book is pretty much equal parts jewelry and other accessories (pouches, belts, headbands, etc). This review deals primarily with the jewelry making portion of the site. Some of the other projects have potential for inspiring an adaption to a jewelry piece, especially the belts and straps which could be reworked as necklaces or bracelets.

Often the “basic skills” section in jewelry making books are half-hearted attempts to quickly expose the reader to the different skills needed to finish the projects in a book. I’m very happy to report that this is not the case in this book!  This is a solid primer. The directions for each knot type are clearly written and clearly shown in multiple photographs.  The tips included are helpful. Included knots/patterns: overhand, lark’s head, half, square, repeating half knot sennit, square knot sennit, square knot with alternating fillers, alternating square knots, half hitch, double half hitch, Josephine, square knot pattern with alternating fillers and knots.  (more…)

I’ve intended to participate in the marvelous Bead Journal Project for the last two years running, but have always missed the deadline to register.  I completed my registration today and I can hardly wait for January so I can get started! 

2010 will be the fourth Bead Journal Project. Hundreds of beaders from all over the world have participated over the years.  The different styles and approaches are fantastic and very inspiring. 

Curious? Find out more about the Bead Journal Project.

Ready to participate? Register on the BJP’s registration page.

See what the 2009 participants have been making on the BJP 2009 blogs. 

Wonderful, wonderful stuff!