5 comments about Teach Yourself VISUALLY Jewelry Making & Beading (Teach Yourself VISUALLY Consumer).

1. This book contained all of the information I needed for basic jewelry making. It has been extremely useful to me, and I recommend it to anyone who wants a detailed and photographic overview of this subject!



2. Teach Yourself VISUALLY Jewelry Making & Beading (Teach Yourself VISUALLY Consumer)
   
   This will be our go to source of information. The most comprhensive book we could find and we researched dozens.



3. I bought it as a gift for a friend and she is very pleased with it.



4. I love this beading/jewelry resource--the photos, the descriptions, the organization and explanations. The author covers a lot of information, and the instructions and photographs are clear and easy to understand for the most part. I didn't give this book five stars because I ended up needing to buy a more basic resource with even larger photographs and clearer explanations. For example, after reviewing this book, I still didn't know what tools I already had and what I needed or the differences between them. There are so many different types of pliers that I've needed to find more information. I also had additional questions about wire gauges and beads in general. I've also needed to look to other sources for inspiration as this book may tell you what to do but not offer examples of what you can do with what you know. In sum, though, I think this is an excellent how-to resource.



5. This is a great book from any jeweler from beginner to intermediate. The instructions and pictures are easy to follow, it even has projects in the back. I would totally recommend this book.

5 comments about Bead on a Wire: Making Handcrafted Wire and Beaded Jewelry.

1. To a jewel crafting beginner it opens the doors and teaches the techniques in the most comprehensive way possible. No project included in the "Bead on a Wire" left me with a question. This book made me so happy enabling me, a novice to jewel craft, to work with wire and beaded Jewelry right away. Sharilyn Miller is a very talented teacher.



2. What gorgeous jewelry! I don't think I'm ready for this level of jewelry making, but I can't wait to get there. It's hard for me to rate this resource a 5 because I couldn't always understand from the instructions and photos how to actually perform the skills. But it may be that once I become comfortable with more basic techniques, these will make more sense. Still, I love the photographs, and the jewelry is inspirational.



3. I am a beginning beader, and this book helped me by explaining beading tools and techniques. The designs are helpful, too.



4. This is a good book for learning the basics. It is very clear and easy to follow. The author has a great imagination.



5. I purchased this book because I wanted to learn how to do wirework and I was not disappointed. The step by step pictures are very clear and easy to follow. With practice I was able to make all the components and even completed one of the linked bracelets! I would highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn wirework and believe that this is a good go to book to refresh your skills if wirework is not the focus of your design work

5 comments about Steampunk Style Jewelry: Victorian, Fantasy, and Mechanical Necklaces, Bracelets, and Earrings.

1. In the panoply of mixed-media art books which make their daily arrival to bookshop shelves around the world, Steampunk Style Jewelry by Jean Campbell stands out as a fantastic, darkly glittering, slightly encrusted gem.
   
   Though the main function of Steampunk Style Jewelry is to provide detailed step-by-step instructions for re-creating (or re-interpreting) 20 "Victorian, fantasy, and mechanical necklaces, bracelets, and earrings", (I'm just mad for the Minerva's Folly Cuff) and Ms. Campbell and her artist/designers do that with extraordinary exactitude, the book is equally striking as a wonderfully comprehensive guidebook to the entire world of Steampunk style from the general "community" to the specific - gear (my husband picked the Wrist-fired Gatling Gun and Lord Cockswain's Blunderbuss as two faves) and clothing. There is a plentitude of historical context, and even an innovative discussion of Steampunk's green, environmental bent!
   
   The author enlisted the aid of author Paul Di Filippo (The Steampunk Trilogy) in an illuminating forward and includes among her designers Margot Potter, Barbe Saint John, Andrew Thornton, and Jean Yates. The eight gallery pages are just one more element that makes Steampunk Style Jewelry worth every penny.



2. Jewelry is not difficult to make. There is also a lot of great information on SteamPunk in gerneral, including recommendations of books and movies to check out.



3. I am getting into steampunk art and really wanted to get a better understanding of what it is... I found this book very helpful. I used to make a lot of jewelry and found this book inspiring me to get back into that. I love the samples of the work. Good instructions for someone new to jewelrymaking also. I can't wait for the weather to warm up so the yard sales will start... I'm ready!



4. This book although short, covers the historical aspects of the genre with word and well photographed steampunk items. What surprised me was after showcasing a particular piece, they went through a materials list and a included a few pages on how it was made, in case you thought,"hey, that's cool, I bet I could make one of those!" Which is likely to happen especially if you buy this book. As a nice extra that a book like this should not go without, is a page listing websites on where to actually find and buy the pieces parts for a project outside of scavenging an estate sale.



5. I just got interested in this kind of jewelry and had to find new materials to make some of the pieces in the book. Very easy to find on Ebay and local stores! A bit of prior experiance is to be expected to produce the pieces in the book. Overall I am very pleased and glad I bought it!

3 comments about Metal Clay Rings: Silver Jewelry Inspired by Nature.

1. Excellent book by Irina! Each project is categorized by project difficulty. Using her guidelines and the lovely pictures, I think I can and will make them all!



2. I love this book, the projects look great and great instructions, I have not made anything yet but plan to soon.



3. I have several books on metal clay and most have at least some instruction on making rings, but rings aren't the focus. It's nice to find a book that is just devoted to rings. This book contains 18 projects divided into easy, intermediate and challenging levels. The instructions are clear and accompanied by many full-color photographs so you can easily see what the steps are. You can see all the rings on the front cover. There are many more photos inside of variations to ALL of these rings.

5 comments about Beautiful Wire Jewelry for Beaders: Creative Wirework Projects for All Levels.

1. I am a beader and have done some wire work. This book is easy to read and well displayed with directions that are easy to follow. I too am a collector of Art/Bead design and appreciate the chance to purchase these at a reasonable price. Thank you.



2. I'm new to wirewrap jewelry, this book is great because it introduces techniques I can use in more elaborate designs.



3. I found this book, chock full of ideas for all skill levels, to be very helpful. My skill level is "middle of the road..." but I managed to try some advanced techniques and was successful, thanks to the thorough instructions provided. Many thanks!



4. This book provides useful information and great projects for beginning, intermediate and advanced levels of experience.



5. I love this book! It is very informative, the pictures are beautiful and the instructions are clear and easy to follow.

5 comments about Wristwatch Annual 2010: The Catalog of Producers, Prices, Models, and Specifications.

1. An excellent survey of the major European watch manufactures and designers. The graphics are excellent. Very little discussion or writeups on the Asian manufacturers. As someone new to watch collecting I found it fascinating and well worth the modest cost. I loved looking at million dollar watches but I would also like to see writeups and comments on watches costing less than one thousand dollars. I will definitely buy next years edition. Amazon's service was excellent as we have come to expect.



2. Very nice, but nothing new. All information you get it at the web.
   Just to have all information together in one catalogue.



3. As a lover of Horology, I have bought many magazines, books & periodicals over the years. I believe "Wristwatch Annual" is one of the tomes' that has all the pertinent information one could desire with regard to any specific watch or Manufacture. I have been buying "Wristwatch Annual" for about 8 years now, and this edition does not disappoint.



4. Reviewer "Peace Monger" complains that there is no mention or representation of Grand Seiko in this issue so let me point out two facts. Number one, Grand Seiko watches are not available from dealers in the United States, I believe they are only available in the domestic Japanes market. Sure it might be nice to see them in this edition but his gripe is unwarranted since Wristwatch Annual is predominantly targeted to a U.S. readership (and perhaps the U.K.). Look at the dealer ads and service centers mentioned, they are all US based. Second point is that this is the first edition of Wristwatch Annual that has (ever) had a Seiko section. So, at least the brand is represented in this edition. I checked my annual editions bavk to the 1999 edition to verify this. I think this 2010 edition is a great book. Certainly an improvement over the 2008 edition which tried to cram too many watches (eight) on each page versus the six per page in this, and last year's 2009 edition. However, the pictures are still a tiny bit smaller than the pre 2008 (2007 and backwards) editions. Nevertheless, the pictures are nice, the individual watch descriptions informative and many new models are represented in this new 2010 edition. If you are at all interested in high quality Swiss and German manufactured watches, you must purchase this eagerly anticipated yearly book!



5. I have been purchasing Wristwatch Annual for several years now. Although it is not completely comprehensive, it usually has information on new and limited edition models, which are of the most interest to me.
   
   Unfortunately, this year's publication shows mostly regular models that are not very different from the year before. We only get a glimpse of the new or limited edition in a photo in the company profile section.
   
   Furthermore, while it has a bit of information on Seiko, it has none on Grand Seiko, which is as Lexus is to Totyoa.
   
   Overall, the content is just not as good as before.

5 comments about The Jeweler's Studio Handbook: Traditional and Contemporary Techniques for Working with Metal and Mixed Media Materials.

1. I am a beginner jewelry maker and this book is full of great information and tips!



2. This book is great for learning and also has a few easy yet intersting pieces that you can get started with right away. Love the instructions and pictures that help you learn.



3. This is a wonderful resource for those interested in fabricating their own pieces. I bought a second handbook for my sister who has developed beyond just assembling purchased clasps, bevels, etc.. She wants to learn how to create her own designs.
   
   I'm furnishing a newly built studio and found numerous items of helpful information. The layout information was indespensible.
   
   Mastering the techniques contained in this handbook will take me a long ways towards where I want to be as an artist.



4. Even though I've been making sterling silver jewelry since 2003, I found this book had some good tips. Would be a great book for beginners.



5. Upon receiving the book I could not put it down all good information and great quality photograph. Recommend it to all

2 comments about Beaded Allure: Beadweaving Patterns for 25 Romantic Projects.

1. I was very pleasantly surprised by this book. Although I have not heard of the author, I was very impressed by the designs featured. The projects look like they get more complex in stitch and design as you progress through its pages. It makes a great addition to any bead addict's library.



2. If you love beads and beadweaving, this book is a must have.
   I received the book yesterday and I could not put it down. I have read it from cover to cover and cannot wait to start. It is not very often that a book grabs my attention as this one has.
   It is perfect for all levels of beaders...some of the projects are easy enough for a beginner...rated one star, and yet there are plenty of projects to build upon as your skill levels increase two star and three star for advanced.
   The stitches used in this book are not stitches you'll see in most beading books. There are a lot of netting variations (new to me) and peyote. The photos and step by step directions are great.

5 comments about Inspired Wire: Learn to Twist, Jig, Bend, Hammer, and Wrap for the Prettiest Jewelry Ever.

1. I received this soft cover yesterday in very good shape. The book has through information and states what you will need in advance of you work so you will not need to stop what you are doing before getting involved. Thank you for making this book affordable.



2. I picked this book when I decided to buy a couple of wire jigs, and it is perfect for that and so much more. Having all of the tips and hints the author includes, in addition to the very clearly written and photographed step-by-step instructions is priceless since I am new to wirework. I am encouraged to try projects that don't include the jigs, but help me get a feel for working with wire. And the projects are lovely, too.



3. I bought the Inspired Wire book by Cynthia Wuller as a gift for my wife's birthday and she loves it. It is practical, well-written, and easy to understand. Highly recommended.



4. Inspired Wire: Learn to Twist, Jig, Bend, Hammer, and Wrap for the Prettiest Jewelry Ever
   
   This book is excellent for beginers or any level. She gives great directions with photo's as she goes along. Of all my Wire books, this is by far the best!



5. I have been making wire wrapped jewelry for over 20 years to help me "unwind" from teaching and working in the IT field. Being self-taught, over the years I have purchased many books and magazines on the subject to give me guidance and ideas. I passed on this book several times because the pictures on the cover looked a little "frilly" for my tastes.
   
   However, I glanced at a copy in a local art store and was immediately enamored and fascinating by the incredible designs, easy to follow directions, and logical hints that I should have thought of myself. Since the art store copy was damaged I placed the order on Amazon as soon as I got home.
   
   Since receiving it I have made and then modified many of the projects Ms. Wuller offers. Everyone I have given one of these pieces to has loved it and complimented me on the designs. While I have many excellent books on the subject, this one and Jewelry Studio: Wire Wrapping, stand out for their inspired designs, ease of understanding, and total enjoyment in crafting.
   
   As you may have guessed, I strongly recommend, even urge you, to enter the world of Ms. Wuller and allow her words, projects, and pictures to stimulate and expand your artistic abilities in the world wire wrapped jewelry.

5 comments about Polymer Clay Color Inspirations: Techniques and Jewelry Projects for Creating Successful Palettes.

1. I'm always wary buying polymer clay books, so many are just project books and while those can be fun I want help designing original creations. Polymer Clay Color Inspirations is exactly the kind of book I love, it goes in depth with the concepts and techniques it teaches with great exercises to show you how they work. The few projects included are all gorgeous with interesting techniques that can be adapted to other projects easily. If you need help choosing colors for your projects and get stumped trying to mix good colors with your clay this book is ideal. Rather than just lists of color "recipes" it teaches you how to create your own which is much more useful.



2. This is such a great book if you are severely color challenged like I am (ok...was after this book!!!!) The lessons in this book are written well and really make you want to do the next lesson so you can progress just that much further!!!!!



3. This book really open my eyes about what u can do with the polymer clay and how u can create beautiful crazy colors. It makes you exploring more about imagination and creativity especially with the amazing works from good polymer clay artist that can help and give u some different kind of ideas. It explains everything clearly and even gives worksheets to learn how to mix colors for the polymer clay. It really is a good tutorial book, can't stop reading it :)



4. I don't normally feel obligated to pile on when a book has so many five-star reviews, but I do this time. +1 to everything everyone else loves about this book.
   
   And: Thank GOODNESS it's not a "project" book! This is an art form! Can I have a few more exclamation points? This medium is riddled, if not ruined, with step-by-step books that tell you exactly how to make work exactly like the work in the picture and leave you with no actual new skills or understanding. That's not art (IMO).
   
   Wait wait, there's more: Thank GOODNESS it's a "technical" book. It's a "technical" medium! It's chemistry (oops, was I not supposed to let anyone know that there's more chemistry to the "poly" than there is "clay" to the second part of the name?). The stuff changes when it bakes. There's a reason you're not supposed to let raw clay contact food prep surfaces... Other artists get books about the technical elements of their media. Why not polyclay?
   
   I saw this book at the store and let it sit. One more over-promised polyclay book, flashy pictures on the front, boring step-by-steps inside. Then it appeared in the library and I checked it out, and now I'm back to buy my own copy. And I'm not even a polyclay artist! I like the way the color information is presented and am working my way through the exercises in textiles--the information about color is THAT good and THAT accessible, compared to virtually every other color theory book available.
   
   Finally, it has been a while since I've looked at polyclay books, largely because so much of the content IS S-B-S, and it's good to see work of artists I haven't seen in every other compendium.



5. If you have trouble mixing colors (like me) then you need this book !!! Follow the book as if it were a class. You'll learn all you know about color theory and creating the color pallets you desire for you projects.