Product Review

There is no other book on the market that presents broadcollar projects for beaders-a traditional form. Julia S. Pretl, author of Little Bead Boxes and Bead Knitted Bags, has created a collection of beaded neckpieces, inspired by broadcollars, the dramatic jewelry worn by the ancient Egyptians and a well-known form among beadworkers. She has adapted the traditional form-a broad, beaded necklace-to create ten original designs for the modern beadworker, with skill levels ranging from beginner to more advanced. With step-by-step illustrations and easy-to-follow patterns, Julia leads the reader through the techniques for creating the stitched "ladder¶ -the basic unit that is combined and joined in various ways to create each of the unique designs. She also teaches readers how to build a custom-sized template, choose a color palette, and create decorative fringe, layers, pendants, and netting to add the finishing touch. The introductory chapters present the basic beading and assembly techniques, illustrated with clear, digitally rendered, and color-coded drawings. Four-color photographs of each of the 10 designs and 10 detail photos illustrate each project.