UK jewelers Waard and Richardson team up to produce one of the most comprehensive beginner's guides to jewelry silversmithing available. Every section, whether overviews of tools and materials or one of the seven projects, is well illustrated with color photographs, used in step-by-step sequence to explain the nuances of soldering a ring or crafting jump rings. The same careful in-depth education applies to each project, from a simple ring to a fused pendant and stud earrings set. Core and additional skills, materials, and tools needed are highlighted before the main how-to event.
Readers will find troubleshooting advice within each project, such as what to do when the ends aren't close enough to solder or they're not aligned. An emphasis on safety is spotlighted throughout in sidebars as well as in the narrative. Appendixes include a table of ring size conversions, piercing saw blade sizes, table of gauges and sizes, and Mohs scale of hardness.
-- Barbara Jacobs * Booklist *
A really lovely book with photos and everything you need to know to start and build your skills. Looking forward to getting started once I've got my basic tools and materials together.
-- Christy Chapman * Amazon Customer Review *
I am always sceptical about jewellery making books, especially those which deal with the practice of precious metals, but on this occasion I was pleased to see a very comprehensive introductory section which covers all of the basics including tools and materials but also advised on work area set-up and the major skills such as sawing, filing, soldering, and finishing.
The book contains seven projects which take the reader through making a basic ring and onto other projects including earrings, pendants and a simple cabochon setting. The projects are designed to teach core skills and the steps required to complete each piece of jewellery are some of the most comprehensive I have ever seen and include handy hints along the way. As this book is aimed at beginners it also details troubleshooting guides.
To further the skills of the reader a handy progression section after each project offers inspiration and gives some further ideas based around the same skills.
The authors have really tried to encourage further development of skills by identifying a four-step plan which considers ways to design and develop a jewellery idea.
A handy glossary covers terminology aw well as hallmarking advice and the appendix is filled with sizing guides & useful conversion tables.
As a beginner guide to silver jewellery making this is an extremely comprehensive book.
-- Mark Vardy * The Bead Society of Great Britain *
If you'd like to take your hand sewn ensembles to the next level, consider finishing off your outfit with bespoke silver pieces that will stand the test of time. Featuring seven step-by-step projects that will guide you through the core skills and key techniques. Silver Jewellery Making by Machi de Waard and Janet Richardson has been written with all skill levels in mind. From troubleshooting tips to inspirational ideas, this exciting title has everything you could possible need when exploring a new craft.
* Sew Magazine *
I've only recently begun making jewellery and this book is perfect for that - lots of clear, good quality photos, and step-by-step instructions. I particularly like the Problems/Solutions pages - I think I'll be referring to these a lot. I've enjoyed an initial flick through and it gave me plenty of inspiration!
-- Laura Pritchard * Amazon Customer Review *
The detail and step by step photos really show you how to make some great projects. I like the book as it shows you how to use the tools and which one for the job. I going try make the circle pendant on a chain.
-- Trudie Barnaville * Amazon Customer Review *
