Japanese Beadwork with Sonoko Nozue: 25 Jewelry Designs from a Master Artist (Beadweaving Master Class Series)

When I bought this book, I was looking forward to learning JAPANESE beadwork, like the title promised me. Techniques like netting, peyote, brick stitch, Zulu (not very Japanese, is it?), basic spiral ropes...I have done before, I like them but I was after something NEW! I think the only Japanese element in this book is the stunning model who is so pretty you end up looking at her instead of the jewellery!!There is a great bracelet in this book, made using bead crochet. Unfortunately, it doesn't tell you how to join the two ends together and if anyone has ever tried this technique, you will know how very fiddly it is. All it tells you is "...attach the ends of the tube to each other, making sure the beads on each side correspond to each other so the tube doesn't twist" (that is it, then it goes on to the next project!) ...yes, but HOW do you do it, it doesn't even tell you you need to change from a crochet hook to a needle...And how do you do it if you are left handed??? (like me)On page 77, it tell you ""This necklace is stitched with a UNIQUE technique that resembles peyote..." I was intrigued... Turn the page and it now says "Using Peyote stitch..." ...So, where is this unique technique!???Whoever wrote this book (or translated it) is not a beader! I give it 2 stars because it is a pretty book to look at and I like some of the bracelets with their rich fringes.

Stunning book, gorgeous designs, beautiful photography, most of them not daintily cute and girly (as Japanese beadwork designs tend to be) but grown up, elegant and luxurious. I would happily make and wear most of the designs in this book. It is also very inspirational (and aspirational) and has already given me several new ideas for design and colour. It is clearly illustrated and the instructions are easy to follow. There are a couple of new stitches (for me), but note no RAW. The only criticisms I have are that firstly, a couple of the projects use beads that are very difficult to obtain (size 18 beads?) and secondly some would be exorbitantly expensive (several need 100s of Swarovski crystals, one project requires over 2000 crystals, another over 1000 glass pearls); you would need to know how to substitute for easy to find or more affordable options to make some projects. Even so I love this book, and happily give it 5 stars.

I treated myself to this book while I was laid up after surgery... and it really made me feel better! LOL! Sumptuous designs, gorgeous colours and superb pictures make this book something special. Sonoko Nozue is a craftswoman par excellence... sadly, I can only dream of being half as good, but some of her projects are easy, whilst seeming complex. I know that other readers & beaders have pointed out the cost of crystals etc, so finding a substitute is going to be important - unless you're making a gift for a special event. I am still glad I got the book though, as it gave me something to aim for, and the lovely photos can be displayed on the coffee table - or maybe as wall art? Saving up for those crystals right now!

A beautiful book with very clear and concise instructions and easy-to-follow diagrams. A must-have for all beaders wishing to take their beadweaving a step futher. Having said that, it is also suitable for beginners as well as more advanced beaders. Made me want to sit down and attempt some of the projects straight away! It arrived in excellent condition, having been well packaged. It also arrived way ahead of expected due date which was astonishing. Definitely one for the bookshelf!

I am thrilled with this book. It was described as Used: Very good. However, it was immaculate and looked unused. It's a beautiful book with some lovely beading patters that have a classy look. I've not yet made any jewellery from the book but the patterns look clear and probably for intermediate/advanced beaders.The service from Broad Street Book Centre was excellent.