Jewelry Studio: Wire Wrapping [Paperback]

Linda Chandler (Author), Christine R. Ritchey (Author)

Book Description

Series: Jewelry Studio | Publication Date: April 1, 2008

Compiled with advanced beginners and intermediate designers in mind, this guidebook starts with the basics of wire wrapping and builds skills progressively as aspiring crafters work through each project. The easy-to-follow instructions emphasize safety first and list all the steps required to get started, with a detailed discussion given to using tools such as pliers and wire cutters—wire wrapping does not require a soldering torch—and selecting appropriate materials such as copper, brass, and sterling silver. Finishing these stunning projects are a snap with the tips, tricks, and techniques shared within—jewelry crafters will delight in the resulting pieces that include beautiful bracelets, Celtic earrings, wire wrapped rings, and a wire-wrapped cabochon.

Editorial Reviews

From Booklist

Wire is a popular material for jewelry crafters, given its versatility and its availability in any number of different gauges and colors. Varied techniques can yield complex pieces with intricate details or simple pieces with delicate embellishments. Chandler and Ritchey begin by discussing safety measures, tools, and materials, including an overview of the various types of wire and what works best for various techniques. The authors organize projects in such a way as to illustrate that the wire-wrapping techniques can be built upon to create ever more complex pieces. These projects are well constructed, with easy-to-read and easy-to-understand instructions. Even beginning wire wrappers can get started right away with the basic bracelets, while experienced crafters will appreciate the tips and tricks. The clear, detailed photos accompanying the instructions make them easy to follow, and the pictures in the tools and materials section will help readers understand what to look for when shopping. A fun and useful addition to the Jewelry Studio series. --Tina Coleman

Review

"Wire is a popular material for jewelry crafters, given its versatility and its availability in any number of different gauges and colors. Varied techniques can yield complex pieces with intricate details or simple pieces with delicate embellishments. Chandler and Ritchey begin by discussing safety measures, tools, and materials, including an overview of the various types of wire and what works best for various techniques. The authors organize projects in such a way as to illustrate that the wire-wrapping techniques can be built upon to create ever more complex pieces. These projects are well constructed, with easy-to-read and easy-to-understand instructions. Even beginning wire wrappers can get started right away with the basic bracelets, while experienced crafters will appreciate the tips and tricks. The clear, detailed photos accompanying the instructions make them easy to follow, and the pictures in the tools and materials section will help readers understand what to look for when shopping. A fun and useful addition to the Jewelry Studio series." — Tina Coleman, Booklist

"With the aid of detailed, close-up photography, the authors have done an excellent job of demystifying the art of creating wire jewelry." — Monsters and Critics.com

"An excellent book." — About.com Guide to Jewelry Making

"This is the third wire book from these authors and they have not disappointed us...a good reference book as well as one that is full of simple yet elegant projects." — Upper Midwest Bead Society newsletter

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 128 pages
• Publisher: Interweave Press (April 1, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1596680598
• ISBN-13: 978-1596680593
• Product Dimensions: 8.6 x 8.5 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 15.2 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.7 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (32 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #95,438 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

67 of 67 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Excellent book on technique for beginning and intermediate wire wrappers., April 12, 2008

By 

S. L. Bergquist "SandSpur" (Niceville, Florida) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: Jewelry Studio: Wire Wrapping (Paperback)

What a wonderful book on wire wrap. As a relative newcomer to wire and as an instructor for beginning wire wrappers, I am always looking for books to enhance my own ability as well as to enrich the classes I teach. I currently have in excess of 25 books on jewelry making, beading and wire wrap. Even though this book primarily presents bracelet projects (8 bracelets, one pendant, one ring, one bracelet-pendant-earring set), it is the first such book I have even considered recommending to my students. The authors have supplied solid, basic information in a format that is much like having a friend walk one through a project. The step-by-step instructions are interspersed with tips and "fixes" for potential problems and encouragement to use this text as a starting point for other projects utilizing the demonstrated techniques. Most important of all, the instructions are supported by first rate photos that clarify every step. This book is definitely being added to the list of necessary Equipment/Materials I give my students because it will serve as a pictorial guide for the basics while encouraging the student to move beyond the specific projects provided.

In short: This is an excellent book on technique for beginning and intermediate wrappers. There are probably even some good tips advanced wrappers would find helpful. However, if you consider yourself highly advanced and don't enjoy practical, well-thought out, clearly presented instructions coupled with photographs that minimize the opportunities for mistakes or misunderstanding, you need to look for a different book.

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Perfect!, October 15, 2008

By 

Cindy Gimbrone "Glass Beadmaker" (New York State) - See all my reviews

This review is from: Jewelry Studio: Wire Wrapping (Paperback)

The team of Linda Chandler and Christine Ritchey are back with another fabulous book on wire. Part of Interweave's Jewelry Studio series, Wire Wrapping is the only book you'll need to learn wire wrapping. The authors go over tools and materials in Chapter One and then on to Wire Fundamentals in Chapter Two. Chapter two includes explanations on straightening wire, making jump rings and a catch and clasp. Basic Projects such as a basic bracelet, dress-up bracelet and my favorite, Celtic Knots are included in Chapter Three. The book ends with Chapter Four that describes projects to take you to the next level in your wire wrapping skills. There are projects instructions for making a ring and using patterned wire. A list of resources and index at the back of the book are very helpful.

The photographs demonstrating the techniques and project steps are clear and detailed. Shots are close up so you can see exactly how the work is done. Good how to photographs are a hallmark of Linda and Christine's books. Perfect for the self taught wire wrapper.

33 of 39 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Waste No Time and Jump in to Wire Wrapping with This Great Book as Your Teacher!, April 19, 2008

By 

Jean Yates "jean, jewelry designer, book and... (United States) - See all my reviews
(VINE VOICE)   

This review is from: Jewelry Studio: Wire Wrapping (Paperback)

Wire Wrapping, by Linda Chandler and Christine Ritchey, is a fantastic introduction to all things beautiful in the world of wire! These two friendly authors make what might appear to be daunting accessible to anyone who wishes to learn to wire wrap beautiful bracelets, earrings, necklaces and pendants. They even have a guest appearance by a wire artist, Russ Sperring, who teaches how to wrap a lovely ring with a stone at its center.

The book begins with a list of tools and materials needed to create the pieces you will admire and soon be making yourself. Then there is a suggested "first project" bracelet which will help anyone who is taking this seriously to understand all the ins and outs of what will be coming up later on. The authors strongly recommend making this design before proceeding further. I loved the design (I am betting that you will too!), so that seemed like a good idea to me anyway!
I had several favorites, including the first project. One was a stunning "Bow Tie" bracelet, and one was a "Celtic Knot". I loved the look of both of these.

Most of the wire wrapping is done with half hard wire, something I have never used in my work. Many of the tools are strangers to me, although I own a few of certain ones required (like step-nose pliers and a mandrel) and have not used them yet. However, now I am raring to go, thanks to Linda and Christine, who infuse their creations and writing style with joy, charm, humor and beauty!
Yes! I want to make this type of jewelry! All of these great looks are so beautiful! And when I am done following their clear instructions, I will have one or many brilliant creations. I know I will love it when people ask, "Where did you GET that?" and I can say, "I made it, MYSELF! With a little help from my friends, Linda and Chris!"