Customer Reviews

Bejeweled: Beautiful Fashion Jewelry to Make and Wear Using Crystals, Beads, and Charms

5 star:		(7)
4 star:		(3)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

I purchased this book through a book club without being able to look at it first. I may have purchased it anyway, but there are probably some other beading books better suited to my style than this one. The main reason being that artist uses metal chain more than I do in my work. Even so, there are a few design ideas (briole earrings and a chunky charm bracelet) that I may use for inspiration in my own jewelry.

The author provides some background information at the beginning that tells about the different types of beads, charms, etc that can be used in designs. There is also information about clasps, findings, tools, chain and thread that beaders may find useful. I found tidbits of information that were new to me. There are also a few pages on techniques, but the majority of the book focuses on designs and techniques specific to those designs. At the end of the book the author includes resources for supplies in North America, Europe and Asia.

Each design project includes a material list accompanied by a photo of some of the components. There are several pictures of the project at different stages to illustrate the techniques needed as well as a photo of the final project. The text explaining the steps is brief, but tips are included as well as descriptions of possible variations to the design. All photos are full-color. Most of the designs use glass, crystal, gem stone, abalone and pearl beads as well as metal chain and accents. The final products look very professional.

Overall, I give the book good marks because I think it is well done.

This book is so helpful and beautifully laid out. I love the way Claire has each project all lined up with pictures of what the materials look like. Her step by step instructions are clear enough for a beginner to understand. There are great wire working techniques in the ring section plus very good tips through out the book. I highly recommend this book!

I am a very beginner beader and when I received a copy of this book I was really pleased with many of the projects. She gives some instructions in the beginning but not enough for a beginner like me. I was able to do one of the bracelets though, through a little trial and error. It actually turned out well. Her work really inspired me. It mixes elegant with casual, and I like that effect. I am already planning on another project from the book. The Antique Pearl bracelet. It mixes gunmetal chain with onyx and gray pearls. Its beautiful. I think you'll like this book not as a how to book, but for its projects.

I recieved this book last night and am absolutely delighted! I read the entire book cover to cover and was so inspired! The beginning of the book is filed with the usual basics about beading supplies, but it is actually quite informative and I learned several new things.

The projects are simply stunning. Very professional and contemporary. Definately some new ideas in here and they are all very wearable and also very adaptable to other styles as well.

The projects do include a lot of chain, which I love, so if you are interested in incorporating chain in your work then this is great inspiration.

Overall, I highly recommend this book! Well worth the money!

This is a book that will yeild professional looking jewelry results with the help of Claire's great design eye and fantastic taste in beads. Pick this one up for sure.

This is a great starter book for beginner beaders. It has nice introduction into all of the materials. It gives a full introduction into the type of beads and pictures, as well as findings stringing components and then goes into basic techniques of beading, has great projects for those who are new to beading.

I love some of the designs but it's pretty basic stringing. Still a good source of ideas when one's creativity is running low...

Great book for creative beading designs. Simplistic instructions, great pics and great designs. It has broadened my approach to beading and my creativity. Great for beginners and the experienced.

I am a beginner and enjoyed marking items I want to make - the truth will be in the results!

That's a really great Jewelry Book! Really great photos and explanations either for beginners and experts!
It's a book tahat you must have!