Creative Beaded Jewelry

Inspired by the decorative arts, carvings and textiles of China, Japan, India and Tibet, Creative Beaded Jewelry celebrates the art of the East with stunning beaded jewelry in many shapes, sizes and materials. Drawing from her years in the Hawaiian islands, where East meets West, longtime jewelry veteran Carolyn Schulz shares great ideas sparked by things Asian, such as the springy patterns of kimono fabrics, rich red and gleaming black Chinese lacquerware, and antique Asian coins with a touch of patina. In this book, 33 projects using basic stringing materials (chain, beading wire, memory wire, stretch cord and cotton cord) show how mastering a few simple techniques and combining them with the right beads can result in gorgeous pieces with Asian elements that range from strong to subtle. Colorful bracelets embellished with Chinese floral and butterfly motifs, a gold-and-pearl lariat inspired by the fringe of an Indian carpet, and a stunning Shamballa bracelet are just a few of the pieces you'll learn to make, and will be proud to wear or give. Detailed instructions and diagrams are easy enough for novices to follow, and beaders at all levels will be inspired by so many deceptively easy and inexpensively made pieces, most of which utilize materials that can be found in any craft store. Stunning colour photos help your own ideas flow, and prove how simple techniques and materials can yield beautiful results.