| Shop For Books With Amazon |
|
|
|
|  |
Book Review - Making Beautiful Hemp & Bead Jewelry
Making Beautiful Hemp & Bead Jewelry
by Mickey Baskett (Author)
Paperback: 96 pages (also available hardbound)
Publisher: Sterling Publishing; (December 31, 1999)
ISBN: 0806962755
Here's an excellent introduction to the knotting of hemp and bead jewelry. You'll find clear written step-by-step instructions, lots of diagrams, and color photographs of each piece. The projects cover necklaces, bracelets, anklets, earrings, keyrings, and more. |
|
I'll admit it: I haven't made anything using macrame since I knotted planters and wall hangings back in the 1970s. However, I've seen guys and gals wearing hemp and other hand-knotted fiber jewelry all over the place, so I see that the craft is back in vogue. My kids were learning for the first time around, so this review gives both true beginner and refresher-course perspectives. The first (brief) section of the book talks about hemp. It's really informative and fun to read, covering the basics without getting preachy. The next section discusses the supplies needed for making the projects in the book. You'll learn about hemp cord, beads, pins, glue, and knotting boards. I felt this section was too cursory, with little discussion regarding the different sizes/qualities of hemp (other fibers aren't discussed, but of course you could substitute waxed linen or cotton), beads, or alternatives to fancy knotting boards (hint: I tie my knots on a 3-ring binder, with the hemp on a ring - very inexpensive, yet easy to find and use). The techniques come next. My kids and I agreed that the instructions and diagrams are excellent. There are hints and tips on estimating cord length, starting projects, and keeping your work neat. Several knots are presented - all the basics plus a few more. It isn't an exhaustive review of knots or techniques. The remainder of the book is devoted to projects. There is a table at the back for people needing to convert between English and metric measurements (Baskett using some millimeter and some inch bead measurements, with yards otherwise, so just about everyone will appreciate the conversion table). Each project is photographed in color, diagrammed in black/white, with a materials list and written instructions. You will need to return to the beginning of the book to learn/review particular knots and techniques, but I think that's preferable to repeating basic instructions with every project. There's a nice mix of knots and starts/finishes.
I didn't perceive any particular increase in difficulty as the projects progressed. Each project is straightforward and may use different techniques from a previous project as opposed to using multiple techniques in single projects. The finished jewelry is classy and understated. I think the average reader will feel comfortable altering designs and inventing new combinations after completing the projects. The book is clearly targeted toward beginners interesting in making jewelry. Intermediate/advanced knotters or persons looking for different project types will not find what they are looking for here. Newbies and people looking for a clear review will be very pleased. The jewelry is very fashionable and wearable. Highly recommended.
|
|
|
