Junk Jewelry: 25 Extraordinary Designs to Create from Ordinary Objects
This is a fun and irreverent, but also serious look at junk jewelry. From buttons, to bike tail lights, kids plastic lettering to keyboard keys and domino pieces to scour pads! Techniques are pretty basic – this is more about design and conceptual art than techniques. About how to discover gems in the junk, how to de-construct and dismantle it and to simply put it together into something simple and unique.
Coolest project – the tail light belt buckle, weirdest project might be tough – either the lifesaver earings or the scour pad brooch, oooh and ugliest project – the fork ‘ribbon shop medal’ I am pretty sure its supposed to be irreverently ugly! Easiest to make – lots of easy projects here – but the safety pin cuff because of availability of materials. All up a totally fun and cool book.
The Beader’s Bible
For beaders wanting an in depth look at techniques combined with attractive projects, this book is well worth the money – a big fat book, filled with projects and lots of how-to process photos. Very clear instructions and a big range of skills and techniques on show.
Bead loom weaving, beaded cords and fringing, wire work, beading embroidery, knitting and crochet are just some of the techniques covered. Each chapter/technique includes 4-5 projects of varying difficulty, a basic tool kit needed, how to get started – basic techniques, and then how to take it further – for those adept or wanting to improve their skills.
Some of my favourite projects include working with macramé and beads, simple and stunning wire beaded tiara, woven bead and tweed evening purse and a gorgeous beaded knitted scarf. There are some gorgeous projects in here – but more than that – lots of info on technique.
