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BeadIt With Bead Work by Jean Campbell
Published by Interweave Press in 2002 as "A Bead Work magazine project book", this slim volume contains project sheets for 16 beaded projects:
5 Necklaces
5 Earrings
3 Bracelets
2 Broaches
1 Purse
From a one page illustrated overview of basic findings, the reader is taken straight into project instructions. Each project is accompanied by a color photograph of the finished product, a list of materials, step-by-step written instructions, and graphic illustrations of some steps.
There are no skill levels indicated for each project; in reviewing them, I would rate them beginner to lower-intermediate difficulty level. Several beading techniques are used, including wirework, stringing, and bead stitching. While I've said that there are "beginner" level projects, there is an assumption that the reader has a basic level of knowledge for each technique; there are no "basics" pages that instruct how to crimp, tie knots, etc.
Bead It with BeadWork instructions are easy to follow for the beader who doesn't require a lot of hand holding — the written instructions are plain, but could be confusing for someone who does not have a good understanding of beading techniques.
The projects are varied enough in style to appeal to a wide range of beaders, and can easily be customized to create individualized work.
Cost of the publication is $9.95 (US), $14.95 (CAN).
My opinion on this book/magazine is that it is a nice addition if you are into different styles of beading. However, I think for the money, a subscription to BeadWork magazine is a better deal. Yes, you have to deal with annoying ads in the magazine, but there really wasn't anything in the book that made my jump up and down and run into my studio to try.
