Bead Society of Great Britain Journal
121 - Spring/Summer 16
When the book arrived and I opened it I was very impressed with the whole set-up as it has been edited and printed to a very high standard and everything about it is quality. The photographs are exquisite, giving full descriptions for both the beginner and the experience macrame workers. I will admit that I have not done any macrame work for years but looking through this book has 'whetted my appetite' to do some again and I can't wait to start. The details of the workings are extremely good, and there are excellently written descriptions together with beautiful pictures. The best thing for me and also the majority of craft people is that the author gives your a rough estimate of how much cord is required to make the various items and you do not always find this in other craft books. Also excellent information is given for how to finish your work with all the details of the different findings, and again a lot of craft you normally want all the help you can get. This is a book which will be referred to time and time again. There are 25 macrame projects to make, in three different sections, all having written and photographic instruction which makes them ideal to 'have a go', whether you are new to the craft or an experienced craft person. It is very difficult to choose a favourite but in the beginners section I do like the Beaded Triple Wrap Bracelet and I will be doing this one first and in the Advanced section, the Tropical Waves Cuff has caught my eye. Better start with the beginners one first. I would throughouly recommend this book to be placed in your Library for reference in future.
The Beading Library
This new book, written by knotting expert, Jenny Townley, is packed full with more than 25 micro macramé projects for every skill level from beginner to experienced knotter. You will also find more ideas and inspiration on her website www.micromacrame.net
As has become customary for macramé books, there is a comprehensive section at the beginning, covering all the basic knots, tools and techniques required to complete the projects in the book. There is also an essential skills chapter which includes a very useful section on finishing your macramé work (something I always struggle with) and some tips on colour selection.
Before you dive into the projects themselves, youll find a visual reference of all the items available to make. Browsing through the contents or the book itself, you will be struck by the range of pieces to make and the beautiful photography, which includes images of the jewellery being worn.
For those new to macramé, the Cluster of Pearls necklace is a wonderful place to start. This particular project uses glass pearl beads but you could use Freshwater Pearls as long as the holes are large enough to pass the macramé thread through. It isnt macramé per se but learning to tie neat and consistent overhand knots is a skill that you will find useful for all sorts of projects.
For a more intricate design, why not have a go at this rather sweet owl pendant which will give you practice in Double Half Hitch Knots, Right Full Loop Knots as well as easy Larks Head and overhand knots.
So, all in all this is a lovely book with modern and wearable designs for all occasions. Whether you like to make full micro macramé pieces or just incorporate some knotted elements into other jewellery, you will learn some useful techniques from these pages.
For the full review and images: http://thebeadinglibrary.blogspot.co.uk/2016/04/book-review-knotted-bead-jewellery-by.html
Rachel Hyde - Myshelf.com
Macramé has been brought right up to date with this excellent primer on making jewelry. These beautiful and intricate pieces are a world away from the hanging plant pot holders of the 70s and embrace more styles than just retro hippy chic. As it says on the cover every technique explained, for beginners up and this is one book that really does deliver all that and more.
I have bought a number of micro macramé books and too often find that the diagrams are hard to follow on the more advanced knots. The basics are simple enough, but once you get to the double half hitch, for example, it tends to become confusing. Not here though; at the front of the book are pages of staged photographs showing all the knots. Photographed on a white background, these show in sharp contrast rat tail cord in various colors and it is all very visible. Even better might have been having different colors for left and right, but you cant have everything and I had no trouble following them. Also at the front is information on what cords, tools, beads and findings you will need, and the knowledge that everything has come from just the one UK based website, www.spoiltrottenbeads.co.uk. The projects are arranged into three sections for beginner, intermediate and advanced, with a useful section showcasing all the projects for easy selection. There are many truly beautiful pieces here, from fun and casual to formal and elaborate comprising necklaces, pendants, bracelets (lots of these) and earrings. Projects have staged photographs and a large photo of the item, as well as what you need, size and list of knots used and what page you can find them on. If you want to make a range of attractive modern macramé jewelry to complement your outfits, this is the best book I have seen to date.
