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A ring today is much more than a band to house a finger. The examples in this book, the best of contemporary ring design, are miniature sculptures, compact platforms on which ring-makers display their art. Rough hewn or precisely cut and polished, meticulous or improvised, stark in their simplicity or extravagant in their complexity, the designs presented in 1000 Rings will astound and delight you with their originality and beauty.

Whether a plain circle or a fancy frill, rings have always made powerful statements. Symbolic of love and marriage, rites of passage, accomplishments, and even moods, rings express personal style. The rings included here make an old form new. Gracing the pages of 1000 Rings are examples of the finest contemporary ring designs, along with insightful commentary by top artists working in the field today.

The stylistic variety is enormous, ranging from traditional avant-garde, from starkly simple to richly complex. Some are constructed from conventional jewelry making materials while others use unorthodox components such as concrete, rusted nails, fishing line, buttons or beer cans. Many incorporate humor, surprise and movement as well.

No matter what form they take or which materials they use, the rings illustrated in 1000 Rings will appeal to anyone with an interest in jewelry or contemporary art.

500 Brooches showcases an outstanding collection of 500 contemporary brooches featuring the inventive design and technical virtuosity of artists from around the world. It features both traditional and avant-garde approaches to the art of jewelry making. Some pieces are formed from precious metals and gemstones while others are fabricated from found objects. Some are simple and practical while others are elaborate and eccentric. This diverse and beautifully presented collection will inspire jewelers, collectors and art enthusiasts alike.

Brooches have adorned the clothing of men and women since they were first used to pin together cloaks and togas. Over time they evolved from merely functional objects to items of incredible beauty and distinction. The 500 brooches in this collection are the culmination of thousands of years of jewelry making. Some of the pieces reflect back to historical times, others push the boundaries of convention. All represent current trends in jewelry design as realized by many of the finest artists from around the world.

No matter what form they take or which materials they use, the brooches illustrated in 500 Brooches will appeal to anyone with an interest in jewelry or contemporary art.

When you're ready to learn extensive jewelry-making techniques and high-quality craftsmanship, The Art & Craft Of Making Jewelry provides a comprehensive resource that is exactly what you need. A wealth of information, detailed illustrations, and many handy "bench tips" on materials and methods will enable you to make individualized, one-of-a-kind pieces. In addition, the hundreds of color photographs of imaginative contemporary works are inspiring.

A variety of essential skills are covered in depth. Find out how to use dozens of tools. Learn the best way to solder precious metals, the proper posture for sawing and forging, and how to carve, chase and pierce different materials. Try more advanced techniques, such as enameling, granulation, stone setting, die forming, and simple casting.

Thirteen graceful and stylish projects allow you to put into practice what you're learning. The projects include Reversible Pendant, Chased Barrette, Pyramid Earrings, Bubble Brooch, Roller Printed Ring, Reticulated Earrings, Appliquéd Orb Bracelet, Filigree Pendant, Arched Earrings with Solder Inlay, Marriage of Metal Bracelet, Orange Sapphire Ring, Cuttle-fish-Cast Tie Tack, and Silver Brooch with Spiral Pin Stem. Create the designs as shown or use them as a springboard for your own. Use basic metalworking techniques to make the Chased Barrette, a nickel silver hair accessory that is both attractive and functional. Chic, modern Pyramid Earrings of sterling silver introduce you to hollow form construction and soldering clean seams. Progress to a sophisticated tie tack, made by cuttlefish casting 18-karat gold and setting a stone on the textured surface, or the Orange Sapphire Ring, where three faceted, flush-set sapphires come together to form a simple yet exquisitely beautiful design.

The contents are organized into 9 major chapters. Metals & Their Properties covers Precious Metals, Base Metals, Ferrous Metals, Purchasing Metals and Work Hardening and Annealing. Tools & Equipment covers Support Surfaces, Cutting Tools, Hammers, Forming Tools, The Flexible Shaft & Its Attachments, Small Hand Tools, Soldering Tools & Materials, Tool Kits, Safety Equipment, Making Chasing Tools, and Variations: Decorative Chasing Tools. Metalworking Basics covers Cold Techniques, Cold Connections, Hot Techniques and Finishing.

Forming Metal covers Bending & Shaping, Forging, Dapping, Die Forming, Scoring & Bending, Repoussé, and Cuttlefish Casting. Texturing Metal covers Roller Printing, Reticulation, and Etching. Layering Metals covers Appliqué, Granulation, Filigree, and Kum Boo.Mixing Metals covers Marriage of Metal, Mokume Gane and Solder Inlay. Adding Color covers Torch-Fired Enameling, Resin Inlay, Flush Stone Setting, and Bezel Stone Setting. Mechanisms covers Findings, Chains, Clasps & Closures, Hinges, and Stringing.

Appendices cover Metal Clay, Templates, Contributing Artists, Acknowledgements, About the Author and Index. The Art & Craft Of Making Jewelry provides a comprehensive, significant guide that will educate, challenge, and delight any reader with a passion for creating their own wearable art.

Enameling, the art of fusing glass onto metal to creat colorful and imaginative designs, is one of the oldest methods used to decorate metals. Linda Darty, a leader in the field of contemporary enameling, shares her passion for the craft with you. She shows you the range of techniques that are possible and provides projects on which to apply them in interesting ways.

You will begin with instructions in the fundamentals that you'll use throught the book. Learn about each type of enamel and its characteristics; how to set up a studio; and what tools and equipment you'll need. Detailed information on preparing, applying, firing, finishing, and setting enamels will complete the basic course.

Next you'll apply those fundamentals to various techniques, such as cloisonné, champlevé, and plique-á-jour. You'll also learn more experimental skills like firing enamel onto mesh or wire forms; using liquid enamel; and creating innovative surface textures using iron filings, sand, and more.

The Art of Enameling is organized into three major sections. The first section, Enameling Fundamentals, presents: Enamel & Enameling, Enameling Materials, Setting Up an Enameling Studio, Base Metals for Enameling, Cleaning & Preparing Metal, Preparing Enamel, Applying Enamel, Firing Enamel, Cleaning Metal & Enameled Surfaces Between Firings, Removing & Grinding Enamel, Making Color Tests, Working With Enamel Colors, Finishing Enamels, and Setting Enamels.

The second section, Enameling Techniques, presents: Sifting Techniques, Basse Taille, Fine Silver Foil & Fine Gold Foil, Painting Techniques, Liquid Enamel Techniques, Cloisonné, Champlevé, Plique-á-Jour and Additional Techniques.

Twelve fully illustrated, step-by-step projects are presented in the third section, including: Stencil & Sgraffito Sifted Earrings, Sugar-Fired Necklace, Layered Ring, Etched & Enameld Brooch, Painted Buttons, Liquid Enamel Pendant, Fold-Formed Bowl, Cloisonné Brooch, Champlevé Spoon, Champlevé Brooch, Plique-á-Jour Earrings, and Enamel & Encaustic Assemblage.

Experiment with inventive alternatives, such as underfiring, overfiring, or simple raku firing to achieve unique effects. Each of the 12 distinctive projects was created by a skilled artesian. The dramatic "Plique-á-jour Earrings" mimic the look of colorful stained glass; the elegant set of "Painted Buttons" have a delicate leaf pattern in watercolor and enamels; and the "Champlevé Spoon" features a blue and green abstract pattern in the handle.

Now that you've tried different ways of working with enamel, why not take that information and see what else you can do with it? Make your own designs and push the material way beyond its traditional boundaries while developing your own style. If you are interested in a comprehensive primer and how-to reference on the Art of Enameling, this is the book for you.

Many people regard making jewelry as being too complex and time consuming. Basic Jewelry Making Techniques shows how, once the basic techniques are mastered, even the most apparently complicated pieces can be easily made at home.

Author Jinks McGrath covers every aspect you need to know to get started: the essential tools to buy, larger equipment that can be bought as you skills develop, and some suggestions for workshop designs, including what to do if you have a minimal amount of space available.

In addition to presenting a comprehensive primer on smithing and metal work, the author encourages you to be inventive by using such diverse materials as wood, acrylics, papier mâchaé, and glass. Among the basic jewelry making skills explained and illustrated are soldering, using wire, texturing, setting stones, enameling, casting, engraving, forging, working with gold and more. All the techniques needed to produce highly original pieces are explained with the aid of precise notes and instructive illustrations. Practice your newly acquired skills on project pieces that have been specially created and which incorporate all the general principles of technique and design. Each project is flexible enough to be modified to suit your own interpretation of the design.

The book is organized into four major sections: (1) Planning Your Workshop, (2) Designing Your Own Projects, (3) Basic Techniques, and (4) Advanced Techniques. All the technical information you need is at your fingertips in a variety of tables which give useful conversion formulas and temperatures. Basic Jewelry Making Techniques has everything you need to know whether you just want to dabble or make it your full time career.

Jewelry artists, look no further. Bead & Wire Art Jewelry is THE resource you need to bring together two of your favorite mediums-bead and wire. From simple stringing to extensive wirework, author J. Marsha Michler's detailed, step-by-step instructions will show you how to create more than 50 stunning pieces of jewelry. Learn techniques including stringing, stiching, jigwork and loomwork, and even learn to make your own findings. From easy to advanced, you will find a project to suit your skill level and tastes. This inspirational book features: 50+ easy, intermediate and advanced jewelry projects, a variety of rings, earrings, bracelets and necklaces and variations to inspire your creativity.

Chains by Becky is illustrated, edited and published by Helen Goga and Alan Gooding, the ample talent behind Wire Artist Jeweler magazine. This how-to book is outstanding in its genre, presenting 20 chain making projects suitable for novice to advanced chain makers with completely illustrated step-by-step instructions. Several sections provide basic chain making information regarding the modest tools required and their various applications, as well as detailing several techniques for skillfully and efficiently making your own jump rings, the cornerstone of the chain maker's art.

Lavishly illustrated step-by-step projects include: Byzantine Chain, Celtic Visions Variations, Contessa Chain, DNA Chain, Double Lace Chain, Double-Infinity Bracelet, Enigma Chain, Flat Queen's Link Chain, Flip-Flop Chain, Foxtail Bracelet, Graduated Byzantine Chain, Half-Persian 3-in-1 Chain, Jazzi-Chain Bracelet, Lacey-Chain Necklace, Little Princess Bracelet, Paradigm Bracelet, Queen's Link, Rosette Link Necklace, Scary Weave Bracelet, Serendipity Chain, and Simplicity Chain.

In addition to the how-to specific to making each of the presented projects, numerous helpful hints regarding various chain-making techniques in general fill out Chains by Becky as a must-have reference in any chain maker's personal library.

Chain Mail Jewelry shows you how to make dazzling, distinctive jewelry by interlocking anodized aluminum, gold, or silver rings. Once employed to create protective garments, chain mail techniques and patterns have now been adapted for jewelry making by innovative artists. Making chain mail jewelry requires very few tools, yet you'll be able to achieve impressive results. From an inlaid Chain Mail Pendant to a Japanese Hexagonal Mail Collar, the 29 extraordinary fully illustrated, step-by-step projects presented in this book will introduce you to a variety of exciting techniques for all skill levels.

If you have two pairs of flat or chain nose pliers, you're almost ready to start. Chain Mail Jewelry gives you a handsome selection of projects that can be constructed using just pliers while you sit at your dining room table or even while you watch television. Chain Mail Jewelry is project-centric and organized into four major sections. The first section, Chain Mail Basics, covers What is Chain Mail?, Tools, Materials, Finishing Touches, and Making Chain Mail. The three project sections organize the 29 jewelry projects by skill level.

Beginning Projects presents Titanium Duet Necklace and Bracelet, Hana-Gusari Anklet, Japanese Cascade Earrings with Pearls, Double Triangle Earrings, Gold and Amethyst Parure, King's Mail Bracelet, Golden Lariat, Möbiused Rosettes Bracelet, Natasha Necklace, Inlaid Chain Mail Pendant, Spiraling Chain, and Red and Black Cuff.

Intermediate Projects presents Byzantine Parure, Crochet Mandala Pendant & Earrings, Free-Form Flat Mail, Hana-Gusari Bangle, Japanese 4-1 Chain Mail Bracelet, Lace Mail Cocktail Collar with Pearls, Flexible Chain Mail Watchband, and Japanese 6-1 Chain Mail Bracelet.

Advanced Projects presents Japanese Lace Collar, Braided Bracelet, Chandelier Earrings, Coif Cage Amethyst, Diamond Chain Mail Earrings, Double Strand Japanese Cube Necklace, Rain Earrings, Japanese Hexagonal Mail Collar, and Tasseled Snake Lariat.

Also included is a photographic artist's gallery providing further ideas and inspiration, a bibliography of contributing designers, a wire gauge chart, and index. Chain Mail Jewelry belongs in the personal library of any jewelry maker and will be especially appreciated for its beautiful projects and excellently executed step-by-step diagrams and easy to follow illustrations.

Work with glittering gold and sparkling silver to make the kind of exquisite, contemporary jewelry you dream of owning. In the Complete Book of Jewelry Making you'll find key techniques that will open up endless creative possibilities for you. Learn the secrets of cutting and piercing, forging with different hammers to affect shape, size and texture; and joining metal and other decorative materials. Beautifully enhance surfaces, from embossing designs to producing a spectacular mirrored finish. Try related jewelry techniques, such as enameling, which lets you color metal in a wide variety of hues. Then practice your new skills on seven projects, including an elegant gold pendant with a handsome chain.

The Introduction covers the Origins of Human Ornamentation and Contemporary Jewelry. The Metallurgy chapter covers The Properties of Metals, Alloys, Melting, Annealing and Pickling, and The Care and Recovery of Metal. The Basic Techniques chapter covers Preparing Basic Shapes, Filing and Sanding, Piercing, Soldering, Other Types of Joins, Making Domes and Cylinders, Forging, Hinges and Hinge Structure, Closures, and Jump Rings. The Surfaces chapter covers Acid Etching, Combining Metals, Granulation, Creating Textures, Metal Finishes, and Patination. The Related Techniques chapter covers Chasing and Repoussé, Urushi (Japanese Lacquer), Enameling, Stone Setting, and Wax Model Carving and Lost Wax Casting.

The Step By Step projects chapter shows you how to make a Repoussé Pendant, Brooch, Articulated Bracelet with Clasp, Gold Pendant with Chain, Multiple Loop-in-Loop Chain, Hollow-Construction Ring, and a Crocheted Chain.

Classical Loop-in-Loop Chains is the ultimate resource for jewelers interested in the fabulous chains of ancient cultures. With clear instruction and foolproof illustrations, Jean Stark teaches dozens of variations on classic chains. This book is a tribute to the beauty and variety of chainmaking technique that has been in use for over five thousand years.

Classical Loop-in-Loop Chains is organized into nine major chapters: Chapter 1 Origins and Applications of Loop-in-Loop Chains, Chapter 2 General Information, Chapter 3 Single Loop-in-Loop Chains, Chapter 4 Pinched Loop Chains, Chapter 5 Double Loop-in-Loop Chains, Chapter 6 Multidirectional Loop-in-Loop Chains, Chapter 7 Multiple Soldered Loop-in-Loop Chains, Chapter 8 Multiple Woven Loop-in-Loop Chains, and Chapter 9 Claps and Terminations.

Complete, illustrated instructions are provided for making 34 different chains: Basic Single Loop-in-Loop, Centerball Single, Foldover Link, Side-Weave Single, Single Through-Bead, Basic Pinched Loop, Roman Pinched Loop, Pinched Loop with Wrapped Beads, Pinched Loop Plus, Pinched Loop Through-Beads, Basic Double Loop-in-Loop, Double with Wrapped Beads, Side-Weave Double, Weave-Off Double, Thai, Two-Way Single Loop-in-Loop, Three-Way Single Loop-in-Loop, Four-Way Single Loop-in-Loop, Two-Way Double Loop-in-Loop, Three-Way Double Loop-in-Loop, Four-Way Double Loop-in-Loop, Tapered Two-Way Double Loop-in-Loop Bracelet, Tapered Two-Way Double Loop-in-Loop Necklace, Tapered Two-Way Double Loop-in-Loop Section, Multiple Soldered Single, Curved Multiple Soldered Single, Multiple Soldered Pinched Loop, Curved Multiple Soldered Pinched Loop, Pinched Loop with Spacers, Multiple Soldered Double, Multiple Woven Single Mesh, Curved Multiple Woven Single, Multiple Woven Double, and Curved Multiple Woven Double.

Illustrated how-to is presented for fabricating various clasps and terminations including: Single-Wire Hook-and-Eye, Wrapped Single-Wire Hook-and-Eye, Multiple Hook-and-Eye for the Pinched Loop with Spacers, Toggle Clasp, "S" Hook, Bead Terminations, Hook-and-Eye for Side-Weave Single and Side-Weave Double, Tubular Termination, Flat Termination and Tapered Termination.

An Appendix covers Recommended Dowel Diameters and Wire Gauges for Basic Chain Types, Dowel Diameter Relationships, Troy Weights, Alloying 22k Gold for Fused Loop Chains, Drawing Wire, Working in Gold, Melting Points of Silver and Silver Solders, Melting Points of Gold and Gold Solders, Equipment, Tools and Supplies Some Sources of Equipment, Tools and Materials.

Classical Loop-in-Loop Chains is a comprehensive how-to reference that belongs in the personal library of any jewelry maker with an interest in chains and chainmaking.

The Complete Metalsmith is a classic how-to handbook providing an encyclopedic coverage of the tools and techniques used by jewelers and other craftspeople to smith a variety of metals including gold, platinum, silver, copper, brass, bronze, aluminum, nickel, iron, steel, pot metal, pewter, titanium, and niobium. Tim McCreight's straightforward text and clear drawings and illustrations bring even complex techniques within anyone's reach.

The numerous topics presented in The Complete Metalsmith are organized into 8 major chapters: (1) Materials, (2) Surfaces, (3) Shaping, (4) Joining, (5) Casting, (6) Stones, and (7) Mechanisms. Among the hundreds of topics and how-to tips within these chapters you will learn about precious and base metals and their alloys and properties, how to create decorative surfaces with hammering, engraving, niello, mokumé, granulation, reticulation, etching, inlay and more, shaping techniques including piercing, drawing, rolling, tube making, bending, forging, repoussé, raising, seaming, die forming, electroforming and more, and how to solder and fuse silver and gold.

You will be instructed on how to cast metals using wax models and investment, sand molds, cuttlefish molds and tufa molds, a variety of casting techniques including vacuum, centrifugal, steam, and sling casting, about the properties of gem stones and the methods and techniques of setting them including how to fabricate bezels, prong settings, crown settings, gypsy settings, pavé settings, channel settings and others, how to fabricate clasps, pin findings, hinges, threaded closures, jump rings, and various styles of chains including basic chains, woven chains, Etruscan chains and the Idiot's Delight.

You will learn how to use the tools of the trade including measuring tools such as gauges, dividers, micrometers and scales, files and abrasive papers, mallets and hammers, flex shaft tools, anvils, vises, bench pins, clamps and helping hands, jeweler's saws, pliers, engravers, mandrels, bench blocks, torches and numerous other tools, and how to harden and temper steel. Construct your own jeweler's bench choosing from two sets of plans, a basic bench constructed from plywood, dimensional lumber and masonite, or a hardwood bench of maple or a similar hardwood appealing to those with more advanced woodworking skills.

A reference section additionally provides safety precautions, alloy chart, circle divider, history of metalsmithing, photographing jewelry, conversion formulas, temperature conversions, size and weight comparisons, silver-copper phase diagram, stone and sawblade sizes, weight of sheet and wire for precious metals and alloys, geometry formulas, periodicals and organizations, suggested reading, suppliers and an index.

The Complete Metalsmith delivers a great deal of information and how-to at a modest price. This book is an outstanding primer and highly recommended reference for any hobbyist or jewelry maker interested in learning about the tools and techniques employed in the fine smithing and crafting of metal.

Contemporary Wire Wrapped Jewelry takes you step-by-step through the basic techniques of wire wrapping. Through the use of clear, concise text, detailed photographs and full size pattern drawings, you will be able to master the skill of wire wrapping. By the time you finish your last project, you will be prepared to design and produce unique jewelry pieces that will be the envy of all who see them.

Detailed illustrations and step-by-step instructions are presented for twelve tutorial projects: (1) A Filigree Wire Cage Pin, (2) Pearl Drop Earrings, (3) A Bar Dangle Charm Pin, (4) Spool Loom Chains, (5) A Mixed Wire Ribbon Pendant, (6) Drop Dangle Cabochon Earrings, (7) A Wide Band Pearl Ring, (8) A Rope Border Coin Holder, (9) Four Simple Earring Styles, (10) A Prongless Twist Cabochon Ring, (11) Solderless Chain Links, and (12) A Pair of Freeform Pendants. Additional content and instruction is presented in chapters covering Tools and Materials, Basic Techniques, Tips For Wire Wrappers and Designing From Scratch. Appendices are provided for Sources for Wire Wrapping Materials and a Wire Shape and Gauge Chart.

Handmade silver chains are actually miniature kinetic sculptures, created by joining together a series of links. Now you can learn how to make exquisite chains, as well as coordinating earrings, that will become the backbone of any jewelry collection. Complete with 20 sophisticated projects and a thorough introduction to basic chain making and silver working techniques, Creative Silver Chains will show you how to create striking jewelry that will never be seen anywhere else.

Contents include: Artful Chain Making, Materials, Studio Essentials, Technique, Design, and the Projects. Presented is detailed how-to for 20 project necklace and earring sets including the Circle Necklace and Earrings, Amoeba Necklace and Earrings, Geometric Necklace and Earrings, Spine Necklace and Earrings, Wiggle Necklace and Earrings, Bar Necklace and Earrings, Scallop Necklace and Earrings, Spiral Necklace and Earrings, Teardrop Necklace and Earrings, Tadpole Necklace and Earrings, Demi-Circle Necklace and Earrings, Baseball Necklace and Earrings, Oval Stack Necklace and Earrings, Joined Snakes Necklace and Earrings, Square Cross Necklace and Earrings, Paddle Necklace and Earrings, Square Scale Necklace and Earrings, Butterfly Necklace and Earrings, Layered Circles Necklace and Earrings, and the Bubble Necklace and Earrings. Appendices include a key to wire gauges and glossary.

If you are looking for chain and earring making ideas and how-to, you will appreciate Creative Silver Chains.

Earrings by Helen is the first published in a forthcoming series of four how-to books by wire jewelry artist Helen Goga, publisher of The Wire Artist Jeweller magazine. Aspiring and novice wire jewelry makers will appreciate Earrings by Helen for its hands-on presentation of fundamental how-to and basic wire jewelry making techniques. If you can bend a wire you can make beautiful earrings using this book as your guide. And if you can't bend a wire, Earrings by Helen will teach you how!

Accomplished wire jewelry makers will appreciate the presentation of advanced projects and plethora of handy tips and professional tricks-of-the-trade disseminated throughout this book by a veteran professional in the field of wire jewelry making and teaching the craft to others. Readers at all skill levels will appreciate the concise step-by-step instructions and superb full-color illustrations that are a hallmark of Helen Goga's publications.

Earrings by Helen presents 19 complete earring projects, leading the reader through a progression of skills beginning with the simple and fundamental, through advanced and elaborate designs featuring over 40 illustrated steps in the course of their execution. These projects include Ball-post Earrings with Loop, Swarovski Chandelier Earrings, Simple Chandelier Earrings, Refined Earwires, Little Princess Earrings, Not-so-little Princess Earrings, Princess Royale Earrings, Phantasy Earrings, French Hoop Earwires, Pirouette Earrings, Elegant Groove-y Earrings, Curved Kidney Earwires, Classic Faceted Earrings, Renaissance Earrings, Seabreeze Earrings, Peruvian Earrings, Dream Weave Earrings, His and Hers Ear Cuffs, and Regal Bead Cap.

Also included are 3 component projects demonstrating how to make several versatile components that can be readily incorporated in the reader's own earring designs. A Getting Started section precedes the earring projects and covers a variety of topics including basic tools, wire and gauge sizes, wire twisting, precious metal scraps, tumbling and polishing, the bench block and hammer, and magnification. An appendix provides an illustrated guide to other earring designs published in back issues of The Wire Artist Jeweller magazine. This book belongs in the personal library of anyone aspiring to make wire jewelry or desiring to increase their knowledge and repertoire of wire jewelry making techniques.

From simple techniques for bending or knitting wire to elaborate creations of gold and diamonds, the Encyclopedia of Jewelry Making Techniques describes all the essential skills to create your own handmade jewelry.

This authoritative encyclopedia provides an overview of the basic equipment and techniques needed to work with traditional materials including gold, copper, and silver as well as plastic an acrylic.

An A-Z visual directory details more than 40 crafting techniques, from annealing and bending to ring-making and wire drawing. The 133 page section on techniques covers Basic Tools, Acrylics, Annealing, Anodizing, Bending, Casting, Catches and Joints, Chain Making, Chasing and Repoussé, Doming and Swaging, Drilling, Enameling, Engraving, Etching and Photoetching, Filing, Fittings and Findings, Forging, Fusing, Hammering, Inlaying, Mokumé Gané, Patinating and Oxidizing, Pickling and Quenching, Piercing, Polishing, Reticulation, Riveting, Soldering, Stamping and Making Blanks, Stone Setting, Texturing, and Using Wire. Each method is explained and illustrated through step-by-step text and photographs, and highlights the equipment and materials needed, placement and design ideas, and choices of finishing.

Complete with instructions for designing and presenting jewelry concepts as working drawings and a lavishly illustrated 40-page gallery section providing a range of contemporary professional creations for ideas and inspiration. The Encyclopedia of Jewelry Making Techniques is a valuable guide to an ancient form of artistry.

The 24 impressive-looking woven projects presented in Fabulous Woven Jewelry expand the creative boundaries of jewelry making. Basketry and beading techniques produce invitingly tactile patterns and visually striking effects, many that can't be achieved through traditional metalwork. These techniques show off the varied materials, from copper and silver to reed and ash to waxed linen and embroidery thread, that are an integral part of the jewelry.

Chapters include: 1 Materials and Supplies, 2 Tools and Equipment, 3 Plaiting, 4 Twining, 5 Looping, 6 Knotting, 7 Coiling, and 8 Gallery. The step-by-step illustrated projects include: Woven Copper Necklace, Quiver Shaped Necklace, Copper Book Necklace, Lidded Basket Necklace, Multicolored Pouch, Twined Pouch with Beaded Fringe, Tapered Pouch Stickpin, Twined Silver Pin with Beads, Twined Copper Bag Necklace, Figurative Pin, Twined Spokes Bracelet, Looped Pouch Necklace, Wild Cherry Necklace, Looped Wire Necklace, Looped Linen Necklace, Silver Fishbone Necklace, Driftwood Necklace, Vessel-Shaped Knotted Pin, Cone_Shaped Pouch Pin, Sundial Pin, Free-form Copper Necklace, Coiled Linen Earrings, Free-form Coiled Necklace, and Pine Needle Brooch.

Goldsmithing and Silver Work takes your work to the next level as you use time-honored techniques in new and exciting ways. Hundreds of color photographs illustrate both the methods you'll use and a rich variety of beautiful pieces created by talented artists. You will find new and creative possibilities as you go beyond the traditional boundaries of jewelry making. This authoritative resource will show you inventive, advanced techniques, as well as help you conceptualize and create different pieces including vessels and ornaments.

Learn the skills that are essential for the creative jeweler who strives to become more proficient in this beautiful, varied craft, from construction and soldering to casting and working with platinum. Here, you'll also become familiar with several techniques that deserve special attention, like Kum Boo, which uses both gold and silver.

Cast and stamp metals using new products and tools, or try your hand at some primitive techniques. Ashanti casting, for instance, is an ancient lost wax method from Ghana that's still used today. A fanciful brooch is provided as an example.

To identify stones professionally, precise instruments are required, but you'll find out how to recognize them on your own without any complicated tools. You'll learn that a glance in a simple 10x loupe can help you recognize the characteristics that are important in evaluating gems. What's more, you'll study the work of one of the most renowned gemcutters in the world, Bernd Munsteiner.

Take an inside look at the jewelry business from the viewpoint of four professionals with different objectives, but with a clear, creative focus in common. There's also some vital advice that's often neglected by many goldsmiths on creating an image and marketing your own work. Hone your skills on a collection of original, complex projects, from a sleek silver coffee service to lovely square rings, a stunning, traditional Berber bracelet, and a brooch with detailed, decorative design.

Imagine creating beautiful jewelry using only wire, jump rings and a few basic tools. It's true! Both beginners and experienced jewelry makers will appreciate the ingenious yet simple techniques used to braid, twist and knit silver, copper and brass wire into stunning bracelets, necklaces, earrings and more. These techniques, first used by the Vikings, allow even novices to make great looking jewelry, without using solder or expensive equipment.

Great Wire Jewelry features more than 70 projects, each fully illustrated with color photographs and step-by-step diagrams. Each project is rated by difficulty; some of the designs are easy enough for children to do. In addition, once you have learned the basic techniques, you can start creating your own designs.

So get ready to be impressed by what you can make, whether you start with a knit ring with silver end beads... twisted earrings... a copper and silver braided bangle... or a brass double flower chain necklace. There are patterns and styles certain to appeal to everyone!

Great Wire Jewelry is organized into two major parts. The first part presents knitted, twisted, and braided wire jewelry. The second part presents jewelry made from jump rings. Sections include Materials, Oxidizing and Polishing; Viking Knitting; Getting Started with Viking Knit, Braids, Knit on 3 Nails; Crown Sinnet Braiding; Cross-Linked Chain; 3-in-3 Chain; Single Flower Chain; Double Flower Chain; Flat Chain Mail; Round Chain Mail; Open Round Chain Mail; Queen's Chain; Criss-Cross Chain; Rope Chain; Double Rope Chain; Cross Chain; Jens Pind's Linkage; Snake Chain; Foxtail; Byzantine Chain; Key to Inside Diameters and Tools; and Index of Techniques and Terms and A Note About Suppliers.

Handbook Of Lost Wax Or Investment Casting reproduces the complete series of how-to articles on investment casting authored by James E. Sopcak which originally appeared in Gems and Minerals magazine, now out of publication. In this book you will find not only step-by-step instructions for making wax patterns, producing investment molds and casting but what may be more important to many, chapters on how to make the equipment you will need.

Chapters include: (Preface) An Introduction to Lost Wax or Investment Casting, (1) How to Make a Vacuum Investment Mixer, (2) How to Make a Burnout Oven, (3) How to Make a Pressure Casting Machine, (4) How to Make a Simple Wax Wire Extruder, (5) How to Make Rubber Molds, (6) How to Make a Wax Injector, (7) How to Make Wax Patterns, (8) How to Invest Was Patterns, (9) How to Burnout and Cast, and (10) Rubber Molds and Duplicate Patterns.

Handbook Of Lost Wax Or Investment Casting is a classic on casting how-to which has withstood the test of time. It presents a great deal of information for a modest cost and belongs in the personal library of any jewelry maker with an interest in lost wax casting tools and techniques.

Design is the element that adds something special to jewelry creation. Perhaps you have cut a beautiful gemstone and would like to set in a mounting this is more than the conventional bezel or prong setting. What can be done to give the mounting that special, individual look? How do you work a leaf or flower motif into the design? What about geometric patterns, attractive animal shapes, the modern massive look?

The answers to these questions, plus a lot more helpful information will be found in How To Design Jewelry. In addition to having had many articles published on jewelry making, the authors have taught the subject, with design being part of their courses. Now they have compiles these instructions, including projects that will show you how through doing. In addition, you'll find a wide variety of designs that may be used as it or modified to fashion jewelry with that professional, artistic appearance.

Contents include: Introduction, Bird Motifs, Design Ideas for Casting Models, Geometrics, Monograms, Floral Designs, Embellishment, Strings and Doodles, Movement, More about Movement, and Design and Repair. Illustrated with full color photo pages and black and white drawings.

Have you been wanting to get into the fascinating craft of jewelry making, but felt it was too complicated? Many craftsmen enjoy creating with metal sheet, wire and solder; or working with casting equipment. However there are those who would prefer a simpler approach requiring a minimum of equipment, tools, and supplies. If you are one of the latter, working with square, gold-filled wire may be the answer.

Many intricate designs are possible, but with How To Make Wire Jewelry the technique is easily learned. Better yet, only a small assortment of simple, inexpensive tools is required. You can actually do this work in the living room while watching television! Making jewelry with square wire is a relaxing, absorbing pastime that anyone can enjoy. Follow it as a hobby, make gifts or even go into a part-time business. You'll find that the possibilities are practically unlimited.

Contents include: Getting Started; Let's Make a Pin; Pendants, Chains and Necklaces; Rings; Bracelets, Earrings and "Recipes".

In just about every home there is at least one favorite piece of jewelry that can't be worn because it has a broken part. The catch for a pin may be snapped off, or a link in a chain has separated.

Instead of being banished to a bureau drawer, these jewelry pieces can often be restored and enjoyed again. If you are already enjoying the craft of jewelry making, you are in a position to learn repair work. There are some special techniques (soldering, for instance) involved in repairing, which are covered in detail in this book.

By following these techniques, you will be able to restore broken chains, replace missing parts, and perform many other repair jobs. Once again, you, your family and friends can enjoy those jewelry items that have special meaning. And if you want some extra income, jewelry repair can be quite lucrative.

Contents of How To Repair Jewelry include: 1 Getting Started: Materials, Notes on Supplies, Accessories and Their Uses, Anti-Oxidizer, Flux, Pickling Solution, Oxidizing Compounds, Cleaning Solution, Rouges and Buffs, Testing Precious Metals, Tools Required for Jewelry Repair, Tools, Accessories and Supplies, Special Tools, How to Form Beads, and Adding a Gemstone to a Flat Mounting; 2 Ring Sizing; 3 Chains and Jump Rings; 4 Pins and Brooches; 5 Stone Settings; 6 Indian Jewelry; 7 Bracelets Indian and Other; and Remodeling Jewelry.

Indian Designs by Connie Asch provides a collection and samples of traditional Native American designs which were published primarily for silversmiths and jewelry makers, but which also have broad applications for baskets, pottery, carving, lapidary, beadwork, wind bells, weaving, quilting, stitchery, fabric painting, clothing, doll and fetish making, and numerous other crafts projects.

Here you will find many pleasing traditional motifs and eye-catching ideas for designing and ornamenting bracelets, rings, watch bands, bolo ties, pendants, earrings and necklaces with geometrics, animals, the elements, story scenes, yei figures and more.

Indian Designs by David and Jean Villasenor illustrates Native American pottery, basket and ceremonial designs which are primarily adaptations from the rich fabric of Acoma, Hopi, Hohokam, Miembres, and Navajo art and crafts of the southwestern United States. Several Central American designs of Aztec derivation are also presented. The inspirational and idea germinating designs in this book are readily adapted to silverwork and jewelry as well as beadwork, weaving, quilting, stitchery, fabric painting, clothing, doll and fetish making, and numerous other crafts projects. Brief explanations as to the cultural symbolism of many of these Native American designs is provided.

This best-selling favorite combines former editions Volumes I and II (now out of print) into a full-color presentation of traditional silversmithing techniques in the Navajo, Hopi and Zuni styles. The lavish project and how-to pictures in Indian Jewelry Making illustrate step-by-step details for smithing hundreds of variations on buttons, chains, beads, rings, bracelets, conchas, earrings, hatbands, watchbands, necklaces, boxes, hair ornaments, bola ties, collar corners, pins, pendants, bow guards, canteens, headstalls, tweezers, miniature silver pottery, thimbles, whistles, lighter cases, bells, pistol grips, buckles, kachina figures, goblets and more!

Tool use and smithing techniques including sawing, drawing, rolling, forming, filing, stamping, dapping, soldering, pickling, casting, overlay, polishing and more are all presented in easy to understand pictures illustrating these fundamental processes and techniques. Stone mounting procedures covered include step-by-step for fabricating bezel mounts, petit point and various styles of inlay work. Silver chain and bead making techniques are included. Several traditional silver casting techniques are illustrated including cuttlebone casting, sand casting, and tufa stone casting, with many pieces cast using these methods shown. Even plans for a do-it-yourself jewelers workbench are included along with many helpful tips and ideas for setting up your own shop or workspace for doing jewelry making.

Even old hands at smithing with appreciate Indian Jewelry Making for the wealth of general design ideas provided as well as some of the more unusual and unique projects and artifacts presented. This book belongs in the personal library of any jewelry maker and is highly recommended for anyone interested in how traditional Southwest Indian jewelry is made or in learning more about silversmithing techniques in general.

Making one's own jewelry can be a fascinating, rewarding hobby. There are jewelry makers and designers who start from scratch, forming and soldering various materials into exquisite pieces into which they set colorful gemstones. Some make molds and cast their jewelry. But what about the person who does not want to purchase a lot of equipment and get into the more technical aspects of the hobby? If you are in the latter group do not despair! For you there is a craft which is fun, easy, clean and low cost - jewelry assembly.

Jewelry Craft Made Easy shows you how to make beautiful, personalized gifts using a few inexpensive hand tools, adhesives, some of the great variety of jewelry parts and findings available to craftspeople, and some gemstomes.

This book is organized into sixteen parts including: 1 Introduction, 2 Gemstones, 3 Gemstones, 4 Gem Materials, 5 Mountings and Findings, 6 Findings, 7 Let's Make Some Jewelry, 8 Baroque Jewelry, 9 Baroque Jewelry, 10 Baroque Jewelry, 11 Rhinestone Jewelry, 12 Mounting Gemstones, 13 Mounting Gemstones, 14 Mounting Gemstones, 15 Mounting Gemstones, and 16 Mounting Gemstones. Also included is a list of supplementary source and jewelry making books.

Jewelry - Fundamentals of Metalsmithing offers the beginning and intermediate metalsmith clear and insightful instruction from a master teacher. It is lavishly illustrated, both with demonstration photos taken from the author's studio and with photographs of completed jewelry from a wealth of talented artists.

Author Tim McCreight presents a clear and generous overview of metalworking techniques. An artist, teacher, and author of six previous books about working metals, McCreight offers the metalsmith a perfect blend of insight, experience and enthusiasm.

In logical progression, Jewelry - Fundamentals of Metalsmithing examines the basic techniques of this ancient and accessible craft: fabricating, surface treatments, joining, finishing, stone setting, chain making, mechanisms and casting. It is illustrated throughout with clear demonstration photos, Tim McCreight's beautifully rendered drawings, and examples of exceptional contemporary jewelry.

This relaxed yet thorough introduction to the skills of metalworking is a fully revised, expanded and updated edition of the author's popular guide for novice metalworkers. As both a fresh presentation of fundamental techniques and a portfolio of the finest contemporary design, this book is an instant classic in its own right.

Chapters include: (1) Cutting & Bending, (2) Pattern, Texture & Contour, (3) Fusing and Soldering, (4) Cold Joining, (5) Finishing and Patinas, (6) Stone Setting, (7) Mechanisms & Chains, and (8) Casting. Twenty pages of appendices additionally include: What Do You Need to Know About Metal?, Health & Safety, Pouring an Ingot, Tool Making: Hardening & Tempering Steel, Tool List, Temperature Comparisons, Alloys, Weight Comparisons for Sheet & Wire, Relative Sizes & Weights, Glossary, Suppliers and Suggested Reading.

Anyone familiar with Tim McCreight's other works on smithing, casting and jewelry making will find Jewelry - Fundamentals of Metalsmithing a most welcome addition to their personal library.

Jewelry Maker's Handbook covers everything you need to know to get started making jewelry from basic tools to heating, soldering, and decorative techniques. Step-by-step techniques allow the reader to follow along and create projects in the book, then begin designing and fabricating original pieces.

Chapters include: 1 Jewelry Making is Fun, 2 The Work Area, 3 Tools and Equipment, 4 Equipment, Tools and Supplies, 5 Making a Pierced Pendant, 6 Introduction to Heating and Soldering Techniques, 7 Heating and Soldering, 8 Soldering, 9 Polishing and Coloring, 10 Stone Setting, 11 Stone Setting, 12 Stone Setting, 13 Chain Making, 14 Decorative Techniques, 15 Decorative Techniques, and 16 Design.

Jewelry Maker's Handbook is concise and well illustrated with numerous photographs and drawings. The jewelry making techniques presented are tried and proven and have withstood the test of time. This highly recommended book presents a great deal of valuable how-to information for a very modest price and belongs in the library of every smith and lapidary hobbyist.

In order to teach jewelry making effectively, teacher and author Ed Soukup developed a system that is both simple and economical - the scroll wire method. With a minimum of low cost tools and some wire it is possible to create designs that, although simple are beautiful. It's all presented in Jewelry Making For Beginners. In addition to the wire and a few tools, all you need is a little time and patience. With these ingredients you can soon be turning out mountings with that professional look. In a jewelry store you would pay a pretty penny for these same designs. Once you've mastered the technique, the possibilities are practically unlimited.

Chapters include (1) Start With A Circle, (2) Forming Scrolls, (3) Scroll Wire Designs, (4) U-Shaped Scrolls, (5) Soldering Jewelry, (6) Making a Bezel Setting, (7) More Silver Designs, (8) Twisted Wire Designs, (9) Cleopatra's Love Beads, and (10) Indian Style Jewelry.

So, have fun. When you've learned the scroll wire method described in Jewelry Making For Beginners, you'll likely find yourself very popular, especially at Christmas, birthdays and other occasions where a gift of personally designed jewelry will be treasured.

Learn to create fabulous jewelry! Eyecatching designs, whether traditional or contemporary, provide jewelry with real beauty and lasting value. Elizabeth Oliver shows you how to create such works of art, beginning with simple projects that focus on the basics of jewelry making. Large color photos and fully illustrated step-by-step instructions make every step a snap. You'll learn how to choose the tools, equipment and materials that are right for you, how to weigh, measure and cut various metals and stones, and how to assemble, decorate and put a professional finish on every completed piece.

You'll then advance through Jewelry Making Techinques Book to more challenging techniques and complex designs, mastering over 50 jewelry making techniques in all from piercing and drilling to stone-setting and enameling. This book includes all the guidelines and advice you'll need to enjoy jewelry making for years to come.

Topics include: Introduction, Basic Hand Tools, Forming and Soldering Equipment, Furnishing a Basic Studio, General Studio Accessories, Specialist Equipment, Materials and Measurements and Weights. Jewelry making techniques presented include: Piercing, Fretwork, Filing, Drilling, Annealing and Pickling, Doming, Swagging and Drawing Wire, Roll Milling Sheet and Wire, Forming Jump Rings, Forming Ear Hooks and Hoops, Forming a Ring Shank, Forming Bangles, Forging and Raising, Fold Forming, Chasing and Repoussé, Pressing, Blanking, Soldering, Soldering a Hollow Form, Bezel Stone Setting, Claw Stone Setting, Grain and Pavé Setting, Carving Wax for Lost Wax Casting, Cleaning Up Castings, Making a Master for Casting, Sprues and Molds, Sanding and Cleaning Up, Polishing, Metal Leaf, Patination: Oxidizing and Verdigris, Granulation, Reticulation, Mill Pressing, Texturing and Stamping, Etching, Engraving, Riveting, Stringing and Knotting, Wire Knitting and more. An index, glossary and list of suppliers are included.

Let's Get Wrapped begins your journey into creative wire design with a revolutionary, step-by-step, no stress method of designing jewelry with wire.

Making Bracelets 1. This project take you through step-by-step instructions on how to make a simple but stunning arrowhead bracelet.

Making Bracelets 2. This project take you through step-by-step instructions on how to make a very popular tennis bracelet.

Making The Ultimate Cabochon Ring. This project take you through step-by-step instructions on how to make this uniquely styled cabochon ring for both men and women.

Making Emerald Cut Rings. This project take you through step-by-step instructions on how to make a beautiful ring using emerald cut gemstones.

Making Marquise Rings. This project take you through step-by-step instructions on how to make a beautiful ring using marquise cut gemstones.

Making Multi-Stone Rings. This project take you through step-by-step instructions on how to make a multi-stone ring, using small stones on each side of the main gemstone.

There's no doubt about it, silver chains are the backbone of any jewelry collection. Make yours different from anyone else's by creating them yourself. These gorgeous showpieces, while simple to make, could never be fashioned by machine. Imbue them with the care and personal meaning that store-bought pieces just can't match. And most of the projects presented in Making Silver Chains can be crafted over the weekend.

Walk through the basic process of silver-working - from soldering to pickling, which removes oxidation. See what materials and tools are required. Each one is explained along with how and what it's used for. And they're readily available at jewelry-supply and hardware stores.

The basic trace design is a great first project because the simple steps will familiarize you with the fundamental process of chain-making. Switch from round to square wire to add extra sparkle - and see how to adapt this chain for a pendant. Try very small oval links to achieve a polished and sophisticated appearance. Now give the pattern you first learned a spectacular twist - by twisting each of the links 90°. Another version calls for filing flat spots on the top and bottom surfaces. The Idiot's Delight (a gorgeous piece that's well worth the skill it takes to put it together) and other circular link chains.

The loop-in-loop projects present a distinct or round appearance and all have a sense of volume to them, while the fancy links don't fall into any one category and will inspire you to try your own ideas. Finish all the necklaces off with simple fastening findings fabricated from plain wire. Whether as distinctive gifts or exquisite additions to your wardrobe, silver chains appeal to every taste and enhance every style. If you are interested in learning how to make silver chains, this well illustrated and easy to follow book is highly recommended.

Chapters include: Introduction, Gallery of Projects, Techniques, Materials and Tools, Trace Chains, Curb Chains, The Idiot's Delight and Other Circular Link Chains, Loop-in-Loop Chains, Fancy Link Chains, and Finishing Touches: Fasteners.

Making handsome wire jewelry is easy to learn and fun to do. All it takes is wire, pliers, and a few short hours. Before you know it, you'll be twisting, bending and turning copper, brass and silver wire into graceful necklaces, exquisite earrings, glittering bracelets, and gleaming rings - more than 60 projects in all.

No soldering is required! With this clearly illustrated how-to book and some simple, easy-to-find tools, you can create a wardrobe of fabulous handcrafted metal jewelry. Now you can have something to wear with every outfit... or unique handmade gifts for every person on your list.

Contents include: The Basics - Getting Started, Tools, Materials, Finishing, An Ancient Design, Experimenting with Heavier Wire, A Simple Chain, Two Sizes of Wire, The Leaf, The Clef, Figure Eights, All Angles, Made on a Jig, Triangles, The Wave, "B" Bracelet and Belt, An Expanding Belt, Daisy Chain, 'Round and 'Round, Four Rings, Buttons and Cuff Links, Clips, Bird Cages, Chain with Pendant, Loop-the-Loop, Colorful Dangles, Triple Pendant, A Few Extras, Variations of the Egyptian, Chains, Adaptations, and New Twists.

Metal Embossing Workshop is a complete at-home metal embossing course including 30 fabulous projects. How can you add old-world charm to decorative accessories and enliven your paper crafts? With metal embossing, a traditional craft that has many wornderful applications. You'll quickly be able to create vines, monograms, flowers, a Celtic knot, and many other detailed designs with luster, texture, and depth. Whether it's a Scroll Covered Box or an Ornamented Accordion Card, you'll enjoy the many effects you can create using this technique.

This unique collection gathers the wisdom and experience of a dozen masters of fine metalsmithing, each writing about a technique of special expertise.

From ancient skills like granulation and depletion gilding to the contemporary processes of fold forming and anticlastic raising, Metals Technic is filled with useful information that will bring 12 different techniques to life.

Packed with outstanding demonstration photos, brilliant work from top contemporary artists, and instruction from a master teacher, this volume belongs in the library and studio of every practicing and aspiring metalsmith. Fans of Tim McCreight's Jewelry: Fundamentals of Metalsmithing will delight in this follow-up, which offers new challenges and fresh inspiration on every page.

From lockets and poison rings to matchsafes and treasure chests, boxes offer a wonderful format for metalsmiths. Technically they call upon a set of skills that can challenge anyone. Hinges should slide fluidly, seams should disappear, catches should click with confident assurance. Mastery of these construction techniques is not only a reward in itself, but an invaluable aid in other metalworking activities.

In the Metalsmith's Book of Boxes & Lockets, Tim McCreight introduces a variety of metalworking techniques for box construction, hinges and closing devices. Guided by detailed demonstration photos and McCreight's expert instruction, even novice metalworkers will be ready for the challenge of designing their own boxes. As the author points out, "None of these are interdependent. Take a hinge from here and a catch from there - and while you're at it make your own variations."

Happily the challenge of designing original boxes is supported with every turn of the page. Throughout the Metalsmith's Book of Boxes & Lockets, gorgeous metal containers from top artists in the field offer inspiration. They are a feast for the eyes and a rich source of inspiration.

The Metalsmith's Book of Boxes & Lockets is organized into four major sections: 1 Building a Box, 2 Hinges & Lids, 3 Catches and 4 Basics and Practices. Appendices provide a glossary, suppliers, suggested reading, tables and charts for temperature conversions, the composition and properties of alloys, weight per square inch of sheet, weight per foot of wire, and relative sizes and weights, and a list and index of contributing artists.

This book is highly recommended for any metalsmith or jewelry maker looking for project ideas and inspirations and further developing and acquiring the skills and techniques of their craft.

Practical Casting A Studio Reference explains the many aspects of small scale casting with clarity and comprehension. Readers will appreciate the hundreds of helpful drawings, and advanced craftspeople will find shortcuts that make their work more efficient.

Included is instruction in the traditional lost wax method from model making through investing and burnout to the casting itself. Later chapters teach the techniques involved in sand casting, direct methods like tufa and cuttlefish casting, and foundry casting for larger pieces.

Chapters include: Modelmaking, Sprue Systems, Investing, Burnout and Melting, Throwing the Casting, Direct Methods, Sand Casting, Casting Pewter, Flexible Molds, Foundry Casting, and Special Cases. A glossary is included and appendices include a bibliography, general safety notes for over 20 materials, solvents and reagents commonly employed in casting operations, a table of melting points for various metals and alloys, an alloy chart, and a list of suppliers.

Practical Casting A Studio Reference delivers a great deal of information and how-to at a modest price. This book is an outstanding primer and highly recommended reference for any hobbyist or jewelry maker interested in learning about the tools and the various and versatile techniques employed in casting metals such as pewter, tin, copper, brass, bronze, silver and gold. If you were to have only one casting reference in your library, this would be the one.

From accomplished author Tim McCreight comes another helpful tool for working craftsmen. Practical Joining combines his three decades of teaching with up to date research on the wide range of joining techniques available to artists working on metal on a small scale.

Traditional techniques like rivets and brazing (silver soldering) are described here, as are modern adhesives and laser welding. In every case, straightforward explanations and clear illustrations will help beginners and advanced workers in the practice of their craft.

Practical Joining is organized into three major sections. Cold Connections covers Tabs, Staples, Bezels, Threaded Connections, Rivets and Other Cold Connections. Hot Connections covers Soft Soldering, Brazing, Brazing Torches, Brazing Surfaces, Brazing Equipment, Soldering Investment, Miscellaneous Supplies, Clean up After Soldering, Welding, Welding Equipment, and Modern Welding. Adhesives covers Natural Glues, Casein Glue, Polymers, Polyvinyl Acetate, Hot Melt Glues, Epoxies, Cyanoacrylates (Super Glues) and Ultraviolet Curing Adhesives. Appendices include Equivalent Numbers (Gauges, Millimeters, Inches and Drill #), Temperature Conversions, Suppliers and an Index.

Silver Wire Jewelry shows you how to make elegant, sophisticated jewelry designs with silver wire. Use simple techniques to create silver wire jewelry with sinuous forms, graceful lines, and inviting textures. Begin with the basics of coil construction and plying wires. Then learn how to stretch out coils to create graceful waves, join rings together to form elegant chains, craft figure eights for a unique effect, and incorporate beads and pearls into the designs.

Chapters include: Materials And Tools, Coils On Coils, Cutting Coils, Coils Stretched Into Waves, Coils Sawn Into Rings, Coils Snipped Into Figure Eights, Elongated Figure Eights, Rings and Pearls, Braided Wire, Crocheted And Knitted Wire, and Simple Jewelry.

From petroglyphs to modern Native American art, decorative designs have played an important role in expressing the ideas and beliefs of those who have made the American Southwest their home for thousands of years. The prehistoric Hohokam and Mimbres people used design motifs in rock art and pottery while the present day Hopi and Navajo use them in the arts and crafts of today.

Although many of the symbols and patterns found on pottery, baskets, rugs and jewelry have histories and meanings assigned to them, many do not. Southwest Indian Designs is an attempt to answer some of the more commonly asked questions and to provide valuable insight into those designs that do not have specific meanings. Included are symbols and explanations of Zuni, Navajo, Hopi, Tewa, Acoma, Pueblo, Mimbres and Hohokam designs. Author Mark Bahti has recreated close to 200 symbols and their variations making this an invaluable guide to those interested in the art, history, and culture of the Indians of the Southwest.

Step-by-step Jewelry Workshop has everything you need to know to start making beautiful jewelry. This practical and easy-to-use book teaches you how to start making wonderful necklaces, bracelets, brooches, rings, earrings, and more, even if you have never so much as picked upa pair of pliers before. Large, clear photographs guide you every step of the way, from setting up your workspace and transferring designs to basic filing, sawing, and soldering skills. Techniques are interspersed with practical projects so that you can create beautiful jewelry items as you learn, from simple silver rings to elegant stone-set pendants. Includes tips and advice on finding inspiration and designing your own unique pieces.

Nicola Hurst received a degree in jewelry making in 1990 and began her own jewelry-making business five years later. She opened the Nicola Hurst Designer Jewellery Gallery in 2006 in her home town, Plymouth, selling her own jewelry as well as other British-made designer jewelry and craft items.

Wrap it up! Learn to create stunning wire jewelry designs, no experience required! Wire experts Linda Chandler and Chritine Ritchey, take the mystery out of the craft and share their secrets for making timeless, elegant jewelry from simple to elaborate designs.

Begin with the basics, safety, tools, and materials, plus all the appropriate types of metals for wirework, then learn the essential techniques for designing these deceptively simple projects, from bracelets, earrings, pins, wire-wrapped pendants, and more. Detailed step-by-step photography, helpful hints and tricks, and skilll-building projects walk you through everything you need to know to create beautiful wire-wrapped jewelry for every occasion!

Wire Wrapping contains 10 stunning projets with variations. A helpful resources section at the back of the book makes this book complete. You can not help but be inspired by this beautifully laid out book! Beginners and experienced wrappers alike, will enjoy making these great looking pieces.

Part One of Working With Precious Metal Clay uses 50 projects to introduce the techniques and strategies of this amazing new material. In each case the sequential instructions and informative illustrations will lead you through the process from beginning to end. Along the way you'll learn how to cut, model, texture and assemble all sorts of objects, from simple earrings to complicated vessels. While you are welcome to copy these designs exactly, you might want to combine techniques from several projects to invent your own way of working. One of the great things about Precious Metal Clay is its incredible versatility.

Pendant projects include: Leaf with Pearl, Bouquet, Rubber Stamp Overlay, Medallion with Stone, Ceramic Shard in a Bezel, Shadow Box, and Cookie Cutter. Earring projects include: Textured Drop, Pie Wedge, Small Button, Stylized Bird, Lace Hoop, Christmas Tree, Carved Panel, and Split Hoop. Rings Projects include: Overlay, Found Texture, Ring with Gold Ornaments, Twice-Fired Ring, Ring with a Single Stone, Carved Geometric Ring, and Band Ring with Gemstones. Bead projects include: Leaf, Tube, Disk, Spiral Wrap, Raku Donut Bead, Bead with Polymer Clay, and Sphere with Ornaments. Other jewelry projects include: Thumbprint Tie Tac; Cuff Links from Buttons, Charms, Animal Cracker Barrette, Oval Barrette, Polymer Clay Bracelet, Hinged Bracelet, Enameled Quilt Pin, and Petroglyph Pin. Accessories and objects projects include: Cord Ends, Keychain or Money Clip, Simple Buttons, Theme Buttons, Small Spoon, Sugar Scoop, Beverage Stick, Thimble, Picture Frame, Tea Strainer, Box with Lid, and Miniature Teapot.

In addition to the projects, you will find 25 technical tips and techniques described in Part Two. These include: Designing for PMC, Working Surfaces, Rehydrating PMC, Using Slip, Extruding, Carving PMC, Making Holes, Smoothing Edges, Ring Sizing, Rigid Molds, Flexible Molds, Shrinkage, Setting Heatproof Gems, Setting Heat-Sensitive Gems, Firing Tips, Firing Supports, Matte Surfaces, Filing and Sawing, Blackening Silver, Polishing by Hand, Machine Polishing, Using Epoxy, Hanging Beads as Drops, Using Cords, and Assorted Bails. You'll want to visit this section periodically as your skills advance.

In Part Three you'll find customizable tools you can make for yourself including: Textured Rolling Pins, Rubber Stamps, Drill Bit Handles, Pierced Matrix, Polishing Sticks, Cookie Cutters, Wooden Tweezers, Extruder, and Tumbler. Appendices cover: Health and Safety, Melting Points, Relative Sizes, Resources, and Suppliers.

There are three kinds of cooks. One type follows a recipe exactly and one type never opens a cookbook. In between are the people who use a cookbook for guidance, staying close to the recipe when they are uncertain and adding their own flourishes as they gain experience and confidence. If that sounds like you, you'll appreciate this book.

Woven Wire Jewelry introduces a new wire weaving technique for creating gorgeous projects including a woven bracelet, a domed cuff bracelet with soldered bead ends, a free-form bracelet, a woven neckpiece, and a pendant with a woven frame. More experienced craftspeople with savor the Precious Metal Clay embellishments, and a gallery of finished work will inspire your designs.

Woven Wire Jewelry is organized by nine major chapters: One: Safety, Two: Tools and Equipment, Three: Wire Weaving Techniques, Four: The Woven Bracelet, Five: A Domed Cuff Bracelet with Soldered End Beads, Six: Free-Form Bracelet, Seven: Woven Neckpiece, Eight: Pendant with Woven Frame, and Nine: Precious Metal Clay. A Photo Gallery of Woven Wire Jewelry provides additional ideas and illustrations of the wire weaver's art. An appendix of resources lists suppliers, web sites, and additional books and magazines for jewelry makers with an interest in wire weaving and wire craft.

Wrap, Stitch, Fold & Rivet teaches you to craft unique metal jewelry using cold connections. Mary Hettmansperger, author of the best-selling Fabulous Woven Jewelry, describes her jewelry as rustic, altered, and organic. To create her unique designs, she uses shapes cut from metal sheeting, embellighing them with beads and found objects. She cold-connects them with weaves, ties, and wraps, as well as with commercial materials like bolts and rivets, while avoiding the soldering methods used by traditional metalsmiths. The projects she presents to you-including a Stacked Spinner Neclace, Mixed Metal Earrings, and a Stitched Segments Pin-will teach you the techniques she uses and help you develop your own designs.

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