Saddlestitched/Softcover, 28 pages, $6.95 USA + $3.50 S&H in USA, +$4.50 outside USA, Lyden Enterprises, 228 N. Sun Court, Tampa, FL 33613, toll free credit card order in USA 888-235-0375, outside USA 1-813-269-9257. Qualified resellers can order from Helby Import Company stock number BK692, website http://www.helby.com , email helbyman@aol.com, phone 732-969-5300, address 37 Hayward Avenue, Carteret, NJ 07008.

This is the first book Lydia authored while teaching Embellishment at the University of South Florida.   She starts with some personal background information and a short history of the Medicine Pouch with its symbols and motifs.  This 28 page, step-by-step instruction book walks you through the process of making ultraseude medicine pouches from start to finish.  Don't let the size of this book fool you.  I am amazed at how much information Borin has packed into these pages!  Special tips and hints are highlighted so they jump out at you as you scan the pages.  An unusual feature of the book is that the instructions are given for both right and left-handed people.  A feature for which left-handed crafters will be eternally grateful.

Medicine Pouch Jewelry walks you through making the Tree of Life pouch from start to finish, including transferring the pattern, beaded edging, making the multi-strand necklace and adding beautiful fringe.  Borin also includes a "dangle formula" for getting the perfect fringe every time.   Motifs for 10 other pouches are also included in the book, along with a blank pattern form.  Lydia, has also included a second pouch shape which can be used with any of the motifs provided.  An added surprise and fun bonus is a miniature pattern for a pair of matching earrings.

The techniques in this book can be used for many of stitchery and embellishment creations.  Borin offers additional free patterns and how-to instructions on her website in the The Workshop which require using techniques from this book.  What more could you ask for?  You purchase one book and get additional new designs and how-to instructions free instead of having to purchase additional books.  There is an order form at the back for kits but Borin states they no longer provide this service.  However, you will find a complete supply list in the book that you can use when visiting your favorite bead store.  Medicine Pouch Jewelry is the perfect book for beginners but will also keep the attention of more advanced beadworkers with it additional tips and hints.

Reviewed by Barbara L. Grainger Author of Peyote at Last: A Peyote Primer and Peyote Design Techniques

For more information and photos of pouches, click here.