From Abaloneand Abija(a circular African trade bead) to Zen Beads and Zipper Stitch, this lavish glossary contains a goldmine of beading information! Eager beaders will discover an astoundingly broad overview of the subject, with definitions for every entry that cover historical background, technical details, and cultural customs. The topics include tools, materials, bead types and skills, finishes, and even the countries famous for advancing the art. Plus, nearly 500 photographs showcase beads, gemstones, findings, and pieces from around the world. See the many ways beads are worn, woven, strung, decorated, painted, and used for accessories. As a bonus, line drawings illustrate exactly how to work the techniques, and informational charts and graphs help crafters try their hand at creative designing. ".a panoramic perspective of beading history.All the Tstips, terms, and techniquesare covered in glorious detail, accompanied by color examples, illustrations, templates/graphs, and pictorial data, from the traditional Mohs scale of hardness to lists of glass-bead finishes.

"-- Booklist (starred review).