Totally Twisted

Autumn 2010

This book is another in the ever expanding library of bead related topics published by Interweave Press, which generally present a specific subject with clearly written, well illustrated instructions. The book covers the tools and basic methods of working with wire efficiently and then moves on to guide you through 25 projects which include bracelets, earrings and necklaces. The author is a glass bead maker and wireworker and in her introduction she says `my passion for glass and alternative techniques with wire are what you’re going to find in the pages of this book.’ She also points out that she is largely self taught, and that her basic methods may differ from usual practice. The book is beautifully illustrated with mouthwatering photographs of the completed jewellery using beads by Kerry and her fellow beadmakers. There are also good serial photographs of the techniques involved in producing the pieces. Useful hints and tips are highlighted in marginal boxes throughout the text.

The projects shown have a unified style which is entirely contemporary in appearance, and it is a style which complements many modern lampwork beads. Most of the designs involve coloured, coiled wire integrated with silver wire, and there are several attractive ideas for necklace chains. A number of the beads utilised are non traditionally shaped, such as discs, or donuts with large holes. If you have a growing collection of `differently’ shaped beads awaiting your attention, this may be the book for you. I think most beginners looking for ways of showcasing an art bead would be able to follow the instructions in this book quite easily, and would also learn many useful techniques. I’m happy to add this book to my collection, and hope some of my more unusually shaped beads may soon emerge from their storage basket.

* Bead Society For Great Brita