The hobby of jewelry-making--and beading in particular--has reached new heights of popularity in recent years. For one thing, finding rare and vintage beads is easier than ever, thanks to the Internet. Secondly, beads are available today in such a dizzying array of colors and materials that the only limit is one's imagination.

For example, flower beads have a wonderfully 50s, retro charm when strung en-masse on choker-length thread. These 3-dimensional beads can be found in nearly every color of the rainbow, such as Jackie Kennedy pink, Mamie Eisenhower Blue, and Marilyn Monroe white. For something more fiery, consider those in brick-rose red. For a more continental look, consider gleaming black.

Your choice of materials when it comes to these beads is nearly limitless. Fans can choose from vintage Lucite and Bakelite, or plain, but charming hard plastic. Perhaps metal is more your style; consider vintage aluminum, stainless steel, or sterling silver and gold. And for those that want flower beads that both reflect the light and capture and hold it, don't overlook the charm and beauty of sweet and simple colored glass, or flower beads carved from coral, Swarovski crystals, or semi-precious stones, like onyx, jade, rhodochrosite, and more.

For the serious hobbyist, you might consider the art of French flower beading. This extraordinary craft uses the tiniest of beads to create three-dimensional roses, daisies, fruits and flowers. Using thread, wire, and delicate beads in shimmering colors, magically beautiful creations are made. Sparkling blood-red roses with individual petals or tiny purple plums surrounded by shimmering moss-green leaves can be a true testament to the enchanting art of beadwork.