Customer Reviews

A Charming Exchange: 25 Jewelry Projects To Create & Share

5 star:		(19)
4 star:		(1)
3 star:		(0)
2 star:		(1)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

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.

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!

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!

Ever thought you weren't creative? Pick up this book for unique, original and inspiring ideas and lots of fun. The authors offer excellent guidance, descriptions and beautiful pictures of their works of art. Truly amazing hand made items that make you want to start hammering, twisting and soldering right away. I couldn't put it down; nor is once enough. You will reference this book over and over. It's a must have for all those who enjoy jewelry and altered media - even if you just like to wear the pieces.

This one of the few books that just gets you started... I already bought a lot of stuff and searched all drawers and plan to go to flea markets looking for old clocks, photos, bells an other small but precious 'junque' pieces. I have the first project done already from the inspiration of this book on how to create beautiful bracelets, ear hangers etc from both wire, beads and then the best part - your personal findings, scraps, pictures, shells, and what ever comes into your inspired mind.
The individual jewelry pieces presented are mainly made between a bunch of women with this creative passion in common. A great way of sharing the joy of creating. Thank you, girls! Thess things are a lot more worth than any Cartier Clocks or other new expensive accessories, - because they have soul and personality.

There are so many how-to-make jewelry books in print, but this one is different!
There is plenty of inspiration to be found in the illustration & prose for each project; you can tell that all of these girls had a lot of fun with their collaborations!!
The step-by-step directions are clear & easy to follow, even for a jewelry novice like me!
I can't wait to see what this dynamic duo come up with next!!! Kelly & Ruth, thank you!!!

This book has become one of my favorite "go to" books when I need a little inspiration or just want to browse the yummy eye candy. The authors have done a fabulous job of pulling together an incredible group of artists with lots of techniques for everyone. They've shown what happens when you bring together fabulous artists with a true collaborative spirit - amazing art!

This book is jam-packed with ideas, fabulous photos and so many projects that I will keep rereading it and trying new things inspired by it. It uses many different techniques, making it a wealth of information for art jewelry creators. I'm so glad that I bought it. It will get dog-eared from use!

I have purchased many, many jewelry making books over the last 15 years or so, and this is one of the very best. I find the ideas and techniques presented in this book to be unique and exciting - it's a beautiful book filled with amazing projects. I love that the jewelry projects in this book are very artistic and high-impact, but are easy to make. I must have about two dozen post-it notes marking all of the projects I want to experiment with. I highly recommend this book and hope these two authors have another book in the works!

This book is so creative and beautiful. I love quirkiness and this book makes jewelry so unique and fun. I made the forest fairy necklace. The instructions were easy to follow. Anytime I wear that necklace I get at least one compliment from people I don't know. I also love the exchange earrings because they are cohesive but different from one another. Just lovely.