Decorative Beaded Purses by Enid Taylor

This is a fantastic book for learning bead weaving. The book is on the theme of beaded purses, or amulet bags/necklaces, and is split into various sections. It is a great book for beginners as it talks you through everything from choosing the right equipment, to learning the different stitches (brick stitch, square stitch, peyote stitch and netting) and techniques, to patterns for purses. The patterns are arranged by stitch so if you don't want to work through the book in order you can choose a design you like, learn the stitch in the techniques section and then use the pattern to make the bag.

I highly recommend this book for learning bead weaving even if you're not a huge fan of amulet bags as the instructions are extremely clear and easy to follow. The techniques are explained using a mixture of photographs, step-by-step instructions and diagrams showing the position of the beads, needle and thread.

The projects include photos, a list of materials needed, clear charts showing the pattern and diagrams of the straps and fringes. Each project has a unique design and colour scheme so you never get bored.

When I was first learning bead weaving I worked through the book from start to finish and thoroughly enjoyed it. Once I started a project I would find that I couldn't bear to leave it until it was finished, so I would sit for hours at a time with my beading tray on my lap. Finishing my first project was an extremely satisfactory moment. Having completed the book I felt confident and inspired to try out designs of my own. If you're interested in having a go at bead weaving then this would be a great book to start with.