Basic Jewelry Making (How To Basics)

The basics of using beads and wire to create custom pieces

Each technique carefully described and illustrated

Create pieces for yourself and friends, or to sell
This fully illustrated guide shows how to make all kinds of funky and elegant bracelets, earrings, necklaces, and pendants using beads and wire. It begins with the basics--planning a design, attaching fittings, making secure crimps, selecting beads--so crafters can quickly get started creating one-of-a-kind pieces. Simple wire-bending techniques allow them to make beaded drop earrings as well as more elaborate necklace and bracelet designs. Advanced techniques use metallic, sterling silver, even 14-carat-gold wire to make gallery-quality jewelry in almost any style and size. Featuring design ideas by a variety of jewelers, this book includes pictures and descriptions of tools and materials, a guide to common types of beads, advice on proper lengths and fit, and inspiration for creating a wide range of styles.

Sandy Allison is a writer and editor who lives in New Cumberland, Pennsylvania. Ted Walker is a juried member of the Pennsylvania Guild of Craftsmen and the owner of a handcrafted jewelry company based in central Pennsylvania. Alan Wycheck is a concrete specialist and former partner in The SO Factory, a concrete design company. He is also an award-winning photographer and lives in central Pennsylvania.