Bead Bugs

"Creepy-crawlies take a turn for the ornamental in this collection, which features designs for 23 different insects and sea creatures (and, oddly, an owl). In her first book, Kopperude heads off the likely question—What would I do with an insect made out of beads?—by presenting each insect as part of a project, such as an ant magnet, a fly tie tack, and a spider sun catcher. Most of the projects require simple tools that should be in most beadworkers’ collections, such as pliers, wire cutters, and craft adhesive, and the projects themselves are simple enough for beginners to tackle. VERDICT The theme is unusual, but it works. Projects like the dragonfly wine-glass charms might appeal to wedding crafters, and some of the creepier designs, like the bat mobile, are perfect for those decorating for Halloween." - NANETTE DONOHUE, Champaign P.L., IL