I've been a fan of Ann Benson for years, for her fiction, but even more for her bead books.

This book and included dvd sets out to introduce crocheters to seed beads, and seed beaders to crochet. So there is a lot of information in both the book and the dvd for beginners with either. Explaining the types of beads used, as well as the fiber, hook and best needles for both stitching in ends and threading the beads.

If you're a crocheter who has done tapestry crochet before, you may have learned to do it spirals, Ann uses the same method I do, which is joined rounds so the beads can be graphed on a simple grid.

The patterns are done using size 11 seed beads, both Czechoslovakian and Japanese seed beads. She explains and shows the differences and how the thread color works with the beads you use. Her chosen thread, gauge and beads stitch up at 14 stitches to the inch, and she explains how to thread on the beads as well as tips for not losing your place in rounds for the step ups.

The patterns are gorgeous. Ranging from fairly simple pieces like the napkin rings which have very simple repeats to thread and accents of drop beads to the incredibly intricate Miss Jennie Evening Bag which is two hexagons stitched together, one side with a geometric pattern, the other side with paisleys and richly accented with drop beads.

Also included is a fantastic pill box hat with a leopard print with complete instructions for making the foundation to keep it's form, several rectangle based gusseted bags and small bags which make lovely cases for electronics.

The dvd explains how to crochet the stitches necessary, chain, slip stitch and single crochet. It explains how to line the projects, how to do the step ups and how to increase. Decreases aren't necessary for the projects. The dvd also explains how to work in peyote, which is used in some of the accents on the bags.

The back of the book has graphs so you can design your own images for the projects in the book.

You can get this book either directly from the publisher Lark Crafts or by clicking the Amazon.com affiliate link below.


Amazon.com affiliate links don't affect your cost, and provide extra income to me personally, which helps support my book addiction.
Lark Crafts provided this review copy of Tapestry Bead Crochet to me free of charge.
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