Beads in Bloom by Arlene Baker
ISBN 1-931499-06-3, Softbound, 126pgs, $21.95US, Interweave Press, 201 East Fourth Street, Loveland, CO 80537-5655, 800-272-2193, www.interweave.com

The introduction and history was fascinating to me.  Arlene contemplates when beaded wire flowers were first introduced and why this type beadwork is identified as “French,” when in fact, it can be traced at least to the Middle Ages and was introduced in Venice prior to popularity in France.  There are many little tidbits of interest in this narrative bead historians will find intriguing.

Tools, supplies, helpful hints, bead counts and measurements, plus basic techniques with illustrations and step-by-step instructions are provided.  Each technique is identified and a color photo example of that flower is included for easier comprehension.  I found the Canterbury Bells 1920’s photo enticing.  The bell flower shapes have a resemblance to beaded herringbone bells and flowers using beads and thread.  The wire beaded flowers do not have the same herringbone motif, however, the beaded edge and extension of the flower makes one think of the herringbone items popular today.

After making the basic flower shapes, advanced techniques are introduced to make more complex flowers.  The flower assembly covers every aspect of putting it all together for finished flowers and bouquets.  There is a helpful section on shading, edging, tipping, shaping and random coloring.   There are leaf  illustrations for shapes and color shading in various areas of the leaves.  You would have to see the illustrations all together to appreciate the possibilities.

Care and cleaning of your beaded wire flowers are described.  As to drying the beads in the hot sun, if you have included color lined beads or coated beads, the coated beads will shed their skins and the color lined beads will fade if set in bright sunlight for long periods of time.

The Gallery photos are a nice addition with flowers created by contemporary beaders and those of the past.   Of the many beautiful creations, the Pink/Purple Fantasy Flower by Andrea Alyse is unique like a floral windmill; the Lavender by Elaine Cobb is splendid and the Nosegay by Linda Havlik is romantic. I was blown away by the vintage beaded florals, especially the 1930’s Chandelier in Victorian style.   It is remarkable and the whole piece is so large, one can only guess how many hours were required to complete it.