Lifestyle Book Reviews

Book Review: Bead Romantique

By Sandy Amazeen Apr 7, 2008, 3:01 GMT

Inspired by art history, this step-by-step guidebook features 17 designs influenced by the Gothic, Renaissance, Victorian, Art Nouveau, and Art Deco eras reinterpreted in the artist’s distinctive, contemporary style. Emphasizing a mix of vintage findings, beads, lamp work, buttons, and modern components, this jewelry brings a feminine mystique and sophistication to ordinary beadwork. Each project builds on simple elements to create sophisticated designs and incorporate off-loom seed bead weaving, stringing, ...more

When approached to write this book, Lisa Kan wanted to impart a sense of femininity and romance, creating elegant yet wearable beadwork that paid tribute to historical jewelry designs. One can only say that Kan met her goal with this collection of seventeen projects that range from the simplistic yet fluid Scalloped Chain to the stunning Rivoli Y Drop necklace featuring bead encrusted bezel-set rhinestones. Several techniques including right-angle weave, Ndebele, peyote, netting, spiral rope and simple wirework are combined with assorted beads, pearls, chains and findings to create elegant, distinctly vintage feeling pieces. It is nice to have the thread paths and different bead types diagramed as it all but eliminates confusion as to where to go next in a complex design like the Black Lace Lariat that would be stunning in any color. Although written for the intermediate to advanced beader, these intricate looking pieces are well within the beginner’s abilities provided they take their time and carefully follow the step-by-step instructions. Essential techniques along with an extensive sources and resources section are located at the back of the book to assist with locating some of the more unusual supplies used in these elegant designs.