A Charming Exchange: 25 Jewelry Projects To Create & Share [Paperback]

Kelly Snelling (Author), Ruth Rae (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: July 29, 2008

Make your own stunning jewelry and meet new friends in the process!

Welcome to A Charming Exchange, a place where inspired minds meet to combine and swap ideas and techniques to create unique charm bracelets, earrings, talismans and more. Your hosts, authors Ruth Rae and Kelly Snelling, have joined forces with a diverse group of talented contributing artists to bring you 55 step-by-step techniques in 25 inspiring jewelry projects. Combine the techniques in your own way, learn how to collaborate with other artists, create pieces for yourself or trade what you make with others.

Whether you are new to jewelry making or a seasoned pro, you'll find plenty to inspire you to take your creations to a new level. In addition to basic jewelry techniques, you'll learn to:

• Connect with other jewelry enthusiasts online or in your own community and work together to merge styles and share ideas and methods.
• Discover how easy it is to incorporate unusual elements (from gold leaf to animal crackers tins) into your wearable pieces.
• Make your own decorative chain links, add rivets to metal, create your own jump rings and much more!

Let A Charming Exchange show you how to connect with like-minded souls and start making your own gorgeous jewelry pieces today.

Editorial Reviews

About the Author

Kelly Snelling is a self-taught mixed-media artist whose work has been published in Artist Trading Cards Workshop, Somerset Memories (Formerly Legacy), Somerset Studio, Somerset Gallery and the 2007 Top Hat Calendar. Kelly holds a master's degree from Ohio State University in journalism and telecommunications, and spent several years in the Creative Services office of NFL Properties.

Ruth Rae received her artistic training in metalsmithing and lapidary arts, but has also worked in fiber arts, polymer clay and precious metal clay. Her work can be found in retail shops within California and online at www.Belecia.com.

Product Details

• Paperback: 128 pages
• Publisher: North Light Books; First Edition edition (July 29, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 160061051X
• ISBN-13: 978-1600610516
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 0.4 x 11 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.1 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.8 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (25 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #706,780 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

20 of 20 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Endless amounts of inspiration in one book! August 18, 2008

By M. Uliasz

Format:Paperback

I was immediately drawn to this book because of its eye-catching layout and use of found objects. Being a hoarder of many things (ephemera, beads, buttons, game pieces, etc...) I appreciate how this book made me rethink my materials and the way I create. I just finished several beginner jewelry classes this summer. Some of the ideas I could do with the little skill I have and the materials that are around my home. Other projects require more pricey materials (a disk cutter for example) and more skill. I consider this a good thing because the book can appeal to beginners like me and "seasoned" artists. No matter what your level, you will find endless inspiration in this book. After taking countless jewelry books out the the library this summer and jotting down the few ideas I liked from each book, it was refreshing to find a book where I found value in every page. Just the pictures alone were worth the purchase. The only "heads-up" I have is that if you're an absolute beginner, some of the directions tend to be on the basic side. For example, if you have never tried wire wrapping, you may need to find more detailed instructions and practice a bit before jumping into the projects. Whether you try these projects on your own or collaborate with others, "A Charming Exchange" will spark your creativity.

17 of 18 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars A rich and exquisite goldmine! July 25, 2008

By Holly

Format:Paperback

Kelly and Ruth will delight and inspire with this jam-packed book filled with fresh ideas for all levels of jewelry making. You will truly be inspired and invigorated while turning each page! Start your own swap group or make a charm bracelet for a friend - you'll find something that fits your personality in this beautifully laid out and eye-popping book!

12 of 12 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Delightful and unique! August 5, 2008

By D. Mentock

Format:Paperback

Each and every project in the delightful book is unique and beautiful. The writing is interesting and inspirational. If your interested in collaborative projects, this book is a great jump start. If you work alone, this book will provide you with a wealth of new ideas on how to assemble found object jewelry. Many of the techniques are shown step by step. If you love mixed media art jewelry, you'll love this book!