Customer Reviews

The Art of Bead Embroidery

5 star:		(51)
4 star:		(6)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

I disagree with the title of this book and think that the title should have included cabochon as it most closely resembles the Jamie Eakin book "Beading with cabochons". It is very different from my other bead embroidery books because unlike those it only uses around 6 embroidery stitches. Also different in that the projects are all for jewelry whereas the other books are more connected to beading on fabric. So now that I've cleared the air, I can say the book is worth every one of the 5 stars I gave it. It is a gorgeous book. I doubt if I'll actually try to recreate any of the 12 projects but use it instead as an idea book. Each author has her own ways of working and that comes through very well. If you really want to make this type of jewelry you should probably buy the Eakin book first or along with this one because her instructions are more explicit and helpful.

Yes, this book is worth every penny you spend for it. It is a wonderful inspiration book. The two authors explain their individual ways of approaching bead embroidery. There are enough "how I do this" to satisfy the ones who need a pattern. But the very best part is, they lead you to create your own work and not just slavish imitations of theirs. The photos are stunning. You'll be able to look at this over and over for the lovely ideas.

I pre-ordered this book in the Summer and waited until October to receive it. The wait was worth it to see the stunningly beautiful beadwork examples in the artists' gallery. I was pleased with the tell-all, well-written instructions from both of these gifted bead artists. Explanations are simple, but comprehensive. The crisp photography and line drawings display examples and techniques esthetically. Projects range in difficulty from simple enough for the beginning beader, to complex for the experienced beader. The comparison between Sherry and Heidi's techniques, tools and approach to design opens the door for anyone to try this form of beading, regardless of their personal style, skill level or lack of access to fancy tools and supplies. Highly recommended addition to the beader's library.

Owning a piece made by Heidi or Sherry is the best thing that can happen but owning this book comes a close second
These artists have brought seed beading to a whole new level, that of sheer art.
We are blessed because they are obviously willing to share so much of what they have achieved, over many years, with us, in this book.

Much as the art-work of both artists itself the book has many layers;
It shows not only how to make awesome pieces but also in what ways Sherry's and Heidi's work differ and are the same.
Sherry's techniques, stitches, materials and tools are explained and on an the opposite page or right after her's, there's Heidi's dittos as well, for comparison.
It is a very creative book and you can learn something new out of it every time you look

It teaches about color, texture and design and, very important, about fringes in detail
The pictures are many and stunning and give abundant inspiration
The instructions are clear and interesting

In this book Sherry takes you by the hand and shows you how to make a simple belt buckle, earrings, an art pendant a bracelet and finally her favorite; a neckpiece
And then Heidi shows you how to make a pendant, a bracelet, earrings a pin and finally also a neckpiece
They both picked beautiful pieces to teach us, not just any piece.

This book doesn't really need a review, everyone who is familiar with the work of Sherry and Heidi will know it's a quality book
It is better even than expected and for sure gives you your money's worth
I will never part with it and will always be busy beading, adding some of my own ideas to their basics, from now on!

Shortly after I did a post to my journal about how crappy most books prove to be in real life, I went shopping and stumbled onto this book. They got it really right in this book, great pictures, loads of detailed instructions, clearly written and offering up a ton of inspiration. Well worth twice the cover price. Not the usual "look at what I did" by some bead artist... patting themselves on the back ands show casing their work... this book not only attempts to educate, it gets it right and goes the extra mile to spread the know how. Bravo!

I have been waiting for this book to come out and I wasn't disappointed by it! It is a great book to have in your collection. The instructions are straight forward and easy to understand, along with great pictures if you are a visual learner. The gallery of pieces throughout the book are to die for and will help you to create your own "one of a kind" materpiece. Both girls do similar work with slightly different approaches, but the results are fantastic...they both make is look so simple.

This is an amazing book with gorgeous illustrations and nicely written instructions. I won't reproduce anything from the book, but it will definitely inspire my own beadwork. Thank you, Sherry and Heidi!

When does volume 2 come out?

A good book to get you started doing bead embroidery. A great book for experienced beaders for inspiration. I have long admired both of these ladies work and am often on their websites studying their pieces. The beautiful photograph and the shared techniques in this book make studying easier. I liked the lay out of the book giving equal time to both artist. I have shared this book with two of my beading friends and they were awestruck with this beautiful book.

There is no point to write a lot about this one...I admire it, it says almost all.
One can learn so much from this book - plus pics are just a pleasure for eyes. Just to have it open and browse there is opening inner channels of creativity...
One from the best beading books ever.

I totally agree with the writer who said you should purchase Jamie Cloud Eakins book, Beading with Cabochons, first. It contains more explicit 'how-to' information and is my all time favorite book on how to work with cabochons. Having said that, this book is full of beautifully photographed works of art. The authors hope you'll use the book as a jumping-off point to make your OWN fabulous beaded pieces and not just copy theirs. You won't be disappointed with it.