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Bead
Knitting by Mary Libby Neiman Finally, a bead knitting book with fresh ideas and designs! Mary Libby’s book is chocked full of gorgeous, easy to make accessories and jewelry. Although I know Mary Libby is very talented designer, I was still stunned with the layout of the book and so many unique creative designs. The first two pages provide color photos of every project in the book, along with the page numbers to find the instructions. This information is very handy for reference instead of having to flip through the whole book to make a choice. The bracelets, ropes, lariats, beads, tassels, earrings, pendant, purse, poncho, hat and cuffs are yummy. The beads can be strung for a necklace, added to wearables or combined with interior designs. You can make the beads all the same size or graduated. The project uses 8/0 and 6/0 beads plus cube and faceted millimeter beads. I am thinking about making the beads with size 11/0 and 15/0 beads and some small shaped beads. It would take longer with such small beads; however, it would be unique. I would make the beads a little longer and perhaps a little wider since they would be so much smaller than those in the pattern. You will find bracelets to make that are wavy, flat and intertwined. I love the Twist and Turn bracelets that allow you to combine two together or wear them as singles. Fortunately, I have one of those combo bracelets, a gift from Mary Libby. I can tell you the photo of this combo is very clear, however, it is so much more spectacular when you see the real bracelet. One lariat looks like spun gold and laced with berries; there are necklaces that slowly spiral and others worked in tighter spirals; earrings made of crystals that are fast to make, and will look great with your wardrobe. The purple necklace with one of the large beads in the center is a delight, with graduated and shaped beads, starting with smaller beads from one end, increasing to the center, and decreasing back to the other end. Directions are included to make this bead so it can be flattened out and attached to a scarf, vest, hat, bag or other accessory. You can open the bead piece to wrap around a rope or necklace as an accent, and then remove it to wear independently. I love the wavy edge bracelet with spectacular knitted edges in New Metallics thread with the beads worked in a circular group between the edges. I could see a head piece or belt made with this technique, just by adding more of the sections and making a clasp attachment for the belt. New Metallics threads are perfect for knitting with beads; the metallic shows along the knitted edges and become decorative elements. One bead strung on a chain or ribbon would make a much appreciated gift. In addition to Mary Libby’s designs, she invited a few fiber artists to contribute their creations. I love the twist and turn lariat by Ulla Cole. It is very delicate in appearance. Although the lariat level of difficulty has been rated as intermediate, I found the instructions easy to follow and I consider myself an advanced beginner. The little strawberry pendant by Deanna Van Assche would be perfect for any age and great for gifts. Designs to make a lovely poncho, hat, cuffs and a tassel were also provided by guest contributors. There are step by step instructions, illustrations and plenty of tips and techniques to make you’re knitting with beads a real pleasure. I would highly recommend Bead Knitting as an addition to your library and knitting pleasure. |
