Jun 05
Alexandra Kidd is an experienced beader and, in this book on loom beading, she explains the basic techniques of using a loom, how to start the beading and finishing it off. There are ten projects in this colourful book and each one gives a different method of attaching handles, fringes and jewellery findings. A useful book for anyone starting on a loom.
* Workshop On The Web *
May 05
The word loom conjures up images of large pieces of equipment and the sort of hobby that takes over your house - and your life. But bead weaving isn't like that, and this primer certainly shows the basics in an easy-to-read format along with some illustrative projects.
The early news that most of the projects in the book can be completed on a simple beginner's loom (I've even seen these in toy shops) had me cheering. The same can be said for the brief list of very ordinary items like squared paper, pencils, wire and pliers that are useful for weavers. Add beads and thread and you are off - even children can do this (presumably why toy shops stock looms). If this has you wondering how any book on the subject can make a mountain out of a molehill then this is all to the good, for some books do and this is the perfect antidote. When you have learned the process you can get designing, but first there are bracelets, belts, bags (lots of these for some reason), baubles and a bathroom decoration to make. There could have been a fancy necklace, or even a plain one but there isn't - instead a wall hanging and chess/checkers set shows imaginative use of the loom. There isn't anything too advanced in here - but if you know how to do it you won't want a book with beginner in the title anyway. A genuinely useful primer that taught this old hand a thing or two I wish I had known when I made my first choker...
* Myshelf.com *
Aug 05
Loom beading is the easiest way to get professional beadwork results. From warping up to making brilliant bags and belts, you'll be amazed at how addictive this technique is.
* Popular Crafts *
Nov 05
So often titles promise more than the actual book can deliver, but we were pleasantly surprised to find just the opposite to be true with Alexandra Kidd's new book. She does an excellent job of explaining and illustrating the basics, from warping up to finishing the piece after it's been removed from the loom. In addition there are several very creative projects included here, such as a beaded chessboard and chessmen, and several innovative designs for purses and belts that incorporage fibres, wire and crystals. The ideas alone are well worth the purchase price.
* Bead & Button *
Winter 05
There are some fascinating designs for purses and bags in this book making good use of the infinite variety, colour and texture of beads. The instructions are clearly laid out and some truly unique items can be produces quite easily.
* West Country Embroiderers *
