Famous Jewelry Collections: THE BEADING GEM'S JOURNAL

Thursday, November 29, 2012

THE BEADING GEM'S JOURNAL

Posted: 29 Nov 2012 05:00 AM PST

Hands up those of you who love making earrings! I'll bet there are many hands. Earrings are the arguably the most satisfying to make. They don't require a lot of materials and are quick to make too. Earrings are also highly visible as they are closest to the face.

Earring lovers will appreciate the latest book I received for review. Project: Earrings: 44 Designs Using Beads, Wire, Chain, and More does more than hint that design possibilities are limitless. The projects from several designers were all gleaned from Bead and Button magazines.

What can you expect from this book? Well, there is a range of techniques but beadwork and wire work predominate. There are some chain designs but only 1 true chain maille design.

A few of the designs were simple and clearly selected for beginners. But there were also advanced designs which will delight accomplished enthusiasts.

The curated designs included one mixed media earrings and all kinds of beads and crystals. One of my favorite designs was Anna Elizabeth Draeger's cup chain conundrum earrings which cleverly combined mesh findings with rhinestone chains. It is clear she was inspired by vintage designs. You can well imagine this pair on a 1930's Hollywood actress!