83 of 84 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
One of the Best Metal Clay Books Yet, November 18, 2008
This review is from: Magical Metal Clay Jewelry (Paperback)
I own an absurd amount of metal clay books, since it is my latest addiction. Magical Metal Clay Jewelry is my favorite, hands down, although there are several close seconds.
Like almost every other metal clay books, Heaser begins with the basics - tools needed, how-to's, etc. (I think we're ready now for books that forego this altogether and just focus on projects). Nevertheless, Heaser was kind enough to devote only 9 pages to the mundane basics- materials and equipment. Next is an excellent chapter on basic techniques, which varied enough from most books to be worth reading, even for the advanced PMC artist.
The basic projects are simple enough for beginners, but visually interesting and unique. Her directions for painting slip on leaves are more thorough than most. As the book continues, the projects get more involved, of course, and Heaser throws in little tidbits to keep your work looking handcrafted, rather than just handmade. Such as - how to make a wire loop, sizing rings correctly, finishing, and proper handling of syringe clay. you will learn how to incorporate your metal clay pieces into larger works of art.
Toward the end of the book, Heaser teaches you how to do some wonderful things, some of which are worth the price of the book several times over! The section on glass fusing will blow you away. You will also learn how to use the paper clay in several ways, including origami, quilling, and embellishing. Ways to add color are covered - paints and resin, gold (keum boo and paste) and liver of sulfur. She covers so much in just this one book - it's like taking the Level I and II certification courses!
The directions are very well written and easy to follow. The pictures are colorful, numerous and helpful. And the projects themselves are just dazzling -really beautiful designs. I've had trouble letting go of some of my pieces, they're too gorgeous to sell or give away, I want to keep them for myself!
At the end of the book are what I think are essentials in any how-to book: a gallery (for inspiration), resources (for shopping!) and she's kind enough to give us some templates to work from.
This is one well put-together book, a must for any metal clay artist. Go ahead and get it, you will absolutely love it!
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25 of 27 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
great metal clay how to, October 19, 2008
This review is from: Magical Metal Clay Jewelry (Paperback)
Sue Heaser has done a great job of pulling together a number of creative techniques for working with metal clay, including some I've seen nowhere in print before. working with metal clay, and combining it with firable stones, dichroic glass, resin, polymer clay, oil paints and gold, she shows how to use all the major metal clay types (the only thing missing is ACS Silver overlay paste). Beads, pendants, rings and bracelets are all covered with clearly written descriptions and photographs. the gallery at the endo of the book contains striking pieces from artists around the world. this is definitely a keeper
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8 of 9 people found the following review helpful:
5.0 out of 5 stars
Very Inspiring!, October 29, 2009
This review is from: Magical Metal Clay Jewelry (Paperback)
This author is very inspiring with her sculptures and unique disigns. She uses a wide range of techniques and materials. I like going into a new hobby with lots of ideas, it keeps you from getting "stuck" and frustrated. This book definitely helps push you in a creative direction.
If you are already an experienced metal clay artist I wouldn't get this book. This is very good for the beginner who wants to dive in.
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