The Flowers of Venice combines lavish color, Venetian glass history and beautiful beaded wire floral projects.  The story of beaded wire flowers is a romantic trip through the eyes of a beader with beaded wire flowers as a family tradition.  As you turn each page, you will be overwhelmed with the artistic layout and diversity of design.  The celebrations in Venice exude opulence with embellishment of costumes, masks and even gondolas.  The full size beaded gondola on page 17 is an example.

There are 12 beaded wire flower designs with step-by-step instructions and color photo illustrations.   The Iris, my favorite, is made up of a blue, aqua and purple combination with a warm toned heart in the center.  The silk floss wrapping of the stem adds the finishing touches.

In addition, you can use the same techniques for creating exquisite bouquets and arrangements.  Several luscious and elaborate examples are provided.  There are bright colored bouquets, Spring, Summer and Autumn arrangements plus a mountain bouquet, a round bouquet and ice flowers which are fun and easy to make.

There are 12 decorative projects including Easter eggs, gift boxes, Primrose place holders, center piece, miniature Christmas trees, curtain tiebacks, decorated lamp shades, mirror frame, bridal bouquet, flower girl wreath and brightly colored tassels.  Each design can be worked in a variety of bead colors and with plenty of room for experimentation.  Color examples of these items are included with flowers added for accent.

The gift boxes are easy to make and can be embellished as much as desired.  Candle holders are a great idea, allowing the florals to be set right next to the candle in a large vase.  You would want to use a candle that does not have a wax build up or there would be a wax mess to clean off the flowers after the candle burned to the bottom.  The beaded strung tassels are attractive and a few basic instructions and tips are included for making them.

The Christmas Tree design could be worked with various size beads; smaller beads and thinner wire would result in a smaller tree.  Imagine a tiny tree made of size 18/0 or smaller beads.   You could make trees for each season or special occasion by changing the bead colors.  Some of the items can be adapted to year round decor and jewelry.

The mirror frame example includes an oval frame reflecting a view of Venice.  If you did not want to include a mirror, add a photo of your favorite vacation place and surround it with flowers.  Looking into this personalized frame would bring back those wonderful memories.

 And last but not least, beaded wire carnival masks.  Did I say masks?  You bet!  The history of the Carnival of Venice accompanies these masks.  No instructions are provided, however, if you look at the examples, you can see how easy they are to make.  There are color photos with close up views of the basic “Lone Ranger” (American movie term) style masks.  The wire areas for joining are easy to see along with a little manipulation of the nose area for shaping.  You could also purchase a fabric mask and attach the wire mask to it for more comfort around your face and strength to the piece.   I would love to make one of these masks.  I have already purchased two fabric masks so I will have the basic form to follow.  Of course I plan to add all kinds of embellishment. !  You could make a basic mask or go crazy and add gobs of embellishment.

I was very pleased with the presentation of this book.  I appreciate Giovanna’s personal love of her work and sharing of information.  Flowers of Venice is an exceptional book, timeless; perfect for beaders, beadwork lovers, collectors and as a gift for anyone who loves art.