“Before they even reach the jeweler, many glass beads are, in themselves, a complete expression of artistic endeavor.”
—Nancy Alden, from the introduction


Beautiful, affordable, and infinitely versatile, glass beads provide limitless design possibilities. A Touch of Glass shows crafters how to capture the allure of glass bead jewelry that rivals the elegance and intricacy of pieces made with more precious materials.

The 50 projects featured here were created by Nancy Alden and her Beadworks design team based on their extensive knowledge of designs that have lasting appeal. Whether it’s a classic necklace or contemporary earrings made from carefully crafted lampwork, dichroic, seed, or pressed glass beads, A Touch of Glass truly has designs for everyone.

With brilliant photographs, clear instructions, a primer on the basics of jewelry making, resources for locating all the tools you need, and enlightening tidbits about the evolution and history of glass beads and bead-making, A Touch of Glass is a must-have for any jewelry maker’s growing library....

Whether you prefer a classic single strand or a funky combination of pearls and semi-precious materials, Simply Pearls shows you how to create necklaces that are easy to make yet look both expensive and professionally made. No longer the extravagance they used to be, pearls come in a variety of types—from freshwater to faux—that make these beautiful gems an affordable and elegant option.

With projects designed for beginners and intermediate crafters—with a few more challenging designs for good measure—Simply Pearls is a volume that people will consult again and again for basic stringing, knotting, and wire-work techniques; to find inspiration and project ideas, including tips on refreshing heirloom jewelry; and as a materials reference. Whether your look is modern and edgy or classic Chanel, Simply Pearls offers great how-to-wear-it ideas and beautiful projects that will give you the Tiffany’s look at Target prices....

Gold, silver, pearls, glass, gems…
 
No matter what material you want to work with, Simply Stunning Jewelry has it covered.

In one indispensable volume, renowned designer Nancy Alden shares her expansive knowledge of jewelry design, so that even novice jewelers can create glamorous,one-of-a-kind pieces.
 
Simply Stunning Jewelry gives you all the instructions and inspiration you'll need to create necklaces, bracelets, and earrings that perfectly suit your taste–and cost a mere fraction of the commercial retail price.  With projects and materials ranging from humble hematite chips to sparkling sapphires, from precious pearls to plated base metal, there's something for jewelers on every budget.

You'll find a primer on the basics; resources for locating all the necessary findings, wire, and tools; and even care instructions and insider tips.
 
Filled with countless jewelry patterns that all have clearly written step-by-step instructions, this comprehensive book collects 100 of the best projects from one of the world's most revered bead experts....