MAKING DESIGNER BEAD AND WIRE JEWELRY
As with the last book I reviewed, I also took this book out of the library.Twice! Then I found it online. The book starts off with explanations and descriptions of tools, wire, beads, buying tips, and jigs. Since I have two jigs, that was the main draw of the book for me. The suggestions were very helpful. Sometimes designs can be difficult to remove, or they may slightly change shape when removed from the jig, so she gives suggestions for ways to handle anything that can be a problem. She also gives jeweler's tips and design advice, both of which are very helpful. At the end of the book, she has a gallery of photos, very artistically displayed. But the best part is, since I have now moved up to intermediate status, I may be able to look at the designs, change them to make them slightly different, and end up with a beautiful piece. And that's all because the photos are so clear, so artistic, and so detailed, that it's possible to use them as a guideline. It's not my ability that can make this happen, it's the books' photos and instructions that make it possible.
At the end of the book, she gives resources to buy supplies from. I have purchased from some of the companies, and they are reliable and supply quality goods. As with the other book I reviewed, I would recommend this one also. It details many types of techniques with clear, detailed photos, and with drawings. In this case, the drawings are very necessary to show the placement of the tools; it is easier to see than with a photo because fingers or a hand would cover up what you need to see. The photos are artistic, but do not distract from the piece. Also, the supplies used in the book are relatively easy to find, and with so many resources available to us, we should be able to find almost all of them. They are not one-of-a-kind beads that are only available from the author's stash! And, as always, try your neighborhood store. If they don't have an item, they might be able to order it for you. And there are many reputable ebay, etsy, and catalog companies. I recognized Swarovski beads, and they are very easy to find. Swarovski beads and components make any piece a masterpiece and professional-looking.
Thank you for the ability to provide this review. It is my pleasure to write about quality books.Read full review
