The popularity of beading is at an all-time high, and it's a great choice for beginners because the supplies are inexpensive and easy to come by, and readers can get terrific results with just an hour or two of practice.

Beaded Bugs features 30 options based on just six basic prototypes, so you can quickly pick up the basics and build on your skills. The projects are graded by difficulty level, so you can start with your very first quick and simple butterfly or move on to more complex bees and beetles. Each project also includes full-color photos, illustrations, and step-by-step pattern instructions. The finished bugs can be turned into beautiful, unique jewelry, or adornments for key rings and cell phones. They make great gifts, too.

The cute critters in Beaded Bugs are based on real species, and the book also includes a few fun facts on each bug to read as you bead. The creatures include:

* A tiny scarab beetle

* A lovely, leggy little ladybug with varied spots

* Beautifully detailed bees with intricately veined wings and striped bodies

* Intricate and colorful butterflies, such as the peacock swallowtail

* 3-D caterpillars and cocoons