Book Review: The Book of Beads

The Book of Beads: A Practical and Inspirational Guide to Beads and Jewellery Making

by Janet Coles and Robert Budwig

This week I wanted to share with you a book I've had in my library for many years. It was published in 1990 and has a wealth of information about beads and some basic jewellery making techniques. When I first started designing jewellery, I found this book extremely helpful. It is a great beginner's guide, as well as a great bead reference book.

Years later I still refer to this book on occasion. I love the way that it is organized and how the information is presented. You can learn about the origin of beads and how some beads are made. There is also great pictures showing different types of beads. If you are new to jewellery making it also shows you a handful of basic techniques for making jewellery. Also helpful is a small section on findings.

Stop by your library or local book store and tell me what you think. I also look forward to hearing about your favourite bead or jewellery making book. Enjoy!

Profile: Hannah Richardson

Hannah Richardson

Owner and Designer of Foundlings

Hannah Richardson launched Foundlings in February 2010. Foundlings is primarily a sixties influenced ladies line of clothing, based in Toronto, Ontario. Her designs are fashioned from vintage and upcycled materials. Hannah's designs are vibrant and feminine, and is perfect for the eco concise buyer.

To further express Hannah's commitment to sustainable fashion; Toronto retail deliveries are made by bicycle. Foundlings also provides custom designs and alterations.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF

Hannah Richardson

Foundlings is available at several boutiques in Toronto, Kitchener and Ottawa area. One of the great places you can find her designs is at the Freedom Clothing Collective. You can learn more about Foundlings by visiting the website at: www.foundlingsvintage.com.

You can also listen to our interview with Hannah in our Transformation online radio episode.

Sweet Roses

Last year I planted these great little roses in my garden. I did not do a great job of taking care of them through the winter, but they survived. They have bloomed so beautifully and their colours are so vivid.

I fondly remember my grandfather's roses and I hope some day for my garden to be furnished with such beauty. I will like to add some other types of roses to my garden this fall. I love to bring fresh flowers into my workspace. Flowers energize me and can also serve as inspiration.

Just wanted to share. I hope you enjoy.

All images were photographed and provided by Yvette-Michelle Cottle Darby | Crafted Spaces

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Updated 12/12/13

Studio Changes

Photo by Yvette-Michelle Cottle Darby | Crafted Spaces

I finally decided to give in and to just let him in. Who you might ask; well the little guy, that keeps tapping at my studio door and rewards me with AMAZING hugs and kisses. My son Miles just turned fifteen months yesterday, and over the long weekend I decided to change the layout of my studio to better include him into my workspace.

Photo by Yvette-Michelle Cottle Darby | Crafted Spaces

Sewing Station #1

Photo by Yvette-Michelle Cottle Darby | Crafted Spaces

I have been pondering over what I needed to do to improve my workflow for Crafted Spaces and Verona Collections, while taking care of Miles. I originally wanted to keep the room separate for organizational and safety reasons; however, it just was not working. I was not getting as much work done as I would have liked and things were getting very disorganized.

Photo by Yvette-Michelle Cottle Darby | Crafted Spaces

I started off by moving my worktable and anything that he could get into. I created a second work area downstairs, where cutting and craft projects will occur. My main studio is therefore clear of clutter and most of my fabric is tucked away. There are no ribbons and other notions for baby to get into and he can take his naps and play with some legroom to spear.

Photo by Yvette-Michelle Cottle Darby | Crafted Spaces

I love the new layout, which is now dedicated to working on my computer and sewing. Baby also seems happier for it, which is VERY important. Let me know what you think. I still have some additional touches to make, which I'll feature in later posts.

Photo by Yvette-Michelle Cottle Darby | Crafted Spaces

Undated 12/12/13