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Book review: Wonderful Wire Jewelry


More than 30 beautiful projects by 21 designers are included in Wonderful Wire Jewelry, a new book published by Kalmbach.  They have all previously been published in Wirework magazine, but if you don't subscribe to it regularly, this looks to be the best of the best!

Wirework always intrigues me, and lots of these projects are very appealing to my eye.  Most are made with sterling silver wire, but some use copper, steel, or artistic wire.  I don't think there's any reason why you couldn't make substitutes for most of them if you wanted.  You will recognize the work of many of the designers if you do any wirework at all: Melody MacDuffee, Eva Sherman, and Barb Switzer are some of my favorites.

I would say that most of the projects fall into the easy to intermediate categories.  Specialized jigs are recommended for a few, but most of the projects can be tackled with the tools you probably already have on hand for beadwork.  Some of the projects look to be very complex, but most are actually complex pieces made from a series of more simple components.  You can do this!

The techniques and basics are all covered in the usual clear fashion that Kalmbach is known for.  You will be able to learn coiling, free-form wire work, and hammering techniques as you work your way through the pendants, necklaces, chains, bracelets, rings, and earrings.  There is something for everyone here!  

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