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So, I know that broader-based craft books are all the rage in these crazy publishing times, but I still adore a book that puts a lens to one tiny technique, and shows me lots of ways to use it. The Beaded Edge: Inspired Designs for Crocheted Edgings and Trims is just a gorgeous example.
Designer Midori Nishida crochets with thread and seed beads here, creating amazing, delicate edgings you can sew to garments, accessories, home decor, etc. The book is a partnership with CRK Design.
First, I’ll say that the instruction quality here is superb – there’s a thorough section on materials and basic techniques, and then every one of the 18 edging designs has full step-by-step instructions and a crochet diagram. (This book was, in fact, originally published in Japan, so the thoroughness here doesn’t surprise me.)
Each design also has one of these simple photo sets, giving you more insight into how it’s constructed.
I’m generally good and intimidated by thread crochet, but using all this visual material, it feels very doable.
…And oh, the projects are sublime. I could have photographed every dang thing in the book to show you. there’s a cute cotton skirt with a beaded edge. One gobsmacking bridal veil. A wool coat with beaded edging sewn to its collar. A cashmere shawl. A delicate camisole.
But it’s not all apparel! Don’t you love this little chili pepper edging?
I love, love, love this way to dress up simple glass votives. And there are jewelry projects, as you might expect. And hats and scarves. And handbags. And an umbrella!
There’s even a wonderful little group of Christmas ideas. Aren’t these so pretty? (Incidentally, if you’d like to see even more preview, there’s one here (scroll down).
All in all, by my count, we have about 30 unique ways to use 18 edging designs. And of course, I now want to edge every single thing I own in bead crochet.
Also, I want this cowboy hat.
Just look at that butterfly up-close! You want one now too, don’t you? Nice work, Interweave!
(Usual disclosures: the publisher sent me a review copy, and the title link above is an affiliate link. Also, Happy Friday.)
WOW! Looks like a fab book! An edging can make all the difference! ;)
WOW! Looks like a fab book! An edging can make all the difference! ;)
HAHA! Indeed I am! :-)
Wowsers! I want a copy…thanks for sharing this!
Wow! I’ve seen beading, but this beats all. What a treat for the eyes! Thanks for sharing, Diane!
Oh, wow. This is a gottahave! I just put it on my amazon Wish List.
Holy Bajebus! I’m not into beading at all – but I have a project that needs beads and I don’t know what to do with it.. perfect excuse to get this book. Right? I *need* this book, right? :-)
Holy Bajebus! I’m not into beading at all – but I have a project that needs beads and I don’t know what to do with it.. perfect excuse to get this book. Right? I *need* this book, right? :-)
Oh wow! Just beautiful! The cover alone sold me. Headin’ on over to Amazon to wishlist that baby! :)
Oh wow! Just beautiful! The cover alone sold me. Headin’ on over to Amazon to wishlist that baby! :)
Oh my, what a beautiful book! As a crocheter, this is very inspiring to me. Thank you for sharing!
Melissa
I’ve never been fond of beaded trims, but I think this has changed my mind.
This book is beautiful. I would have never guessed she was crocheting those edgings! And, unless I’m mistaken, that cowboy had looks crocheted … I bet you could make one!
Hmmm…there’s a pattern for one of those in Happy Hooker!
Ummm…. I love the butterfly thing too, but as a Texan, I can tell you it’s not a cowboy hat, the shape of the crown is wrong. It’s a beautiful hat with a beautiful trimming, but it’s not a cowboy hat.
Huh – who knew?
That’s so awesome, Chppie – thank you! That’s exactly what I hope my reviews will do, and why I love to focus on lesser-known books like this one.
That’s so awesome, Chppie – thank you! That’s exactly what I hope my reviews will do, and why I love to focus on lesser-known books like this one.
I think your book reviews may have magical properties. I have never cared a whit about beaded crochet and now I want this book. ‘Course these sweet boheme trims are also 10x better than the bizarre beaded jewelry I usually see. Just lovely!
I have not stopped by for a while, but so glad I did. This book is on my list. I love to string beads and pearls. This is right up my alley. Thanks for such a great review.
I want the cowboy hat too!!! What a great book.