One of the things I love about making my own jewelry is finding beautiful clasps and links. Lately, I’ve been pulling out my hammer and my bench block and spools of wire and experimenting with making my own findings, so this book came at an opportune time.
This is a book that should become a staple on your shelf. It covers tons of basics and lots of techniques that can be used day after day in virtually anything you make. I LOVE knowing what gauge AND how long to cut my wire before muddling around trying to figure things out — this book has saved me a lot of time and angst.
You’ll find simple projects that only require the usual jewelers pliers to projects that require a small butane torch for fusing. Yes, there’s some fire involved, but no, they aren’t difficult — they’re wonderfully accessible and once you try one, you’ll be off like a shot.
My suggestion — before trying anything in sterling silver, try several times in copper. That way, you’ll feel confident when you move to the more expensive wire.
Absolutely check this book out! Published by Interweave, you can find it in the Interweave.com store, Amazon.com, and other book sellers.
Lori Anderson writes the blog Pretty Things and creates jewelry for her web site, Lori Anderson Designs. She is also the creator of the Bead Soup Blog Party.