The Encyclopedia of Contemporary Jewelry Making Techniques

The ultimate guide for the experimental jeweler, this complete how-to offers detailed instructions and clear photographs for working with all kinds of materials. From rubber, resin, glass, leather, and paper to plastics, ceramics, textiles, and natural and found objects, these options, along with precious and nonprecious metals, can all be used individually or combined in a mixed-media piece. Preceded by a helpful introduction offering guidance on essential tools and inspirational advice for self-designed projects, the main section is organized by material or media, providing details on the properties and possibilities for each as well as some inspiring examples of jewelry made using the techniques described. For the finishing touch, information on various surface textures that can be achieved for each media as well as ideas for various clasps and closures are shared.