Rustic Wrappings

September 3, 2012
Jewelry designer Bogert follows up Totally Twisted (2010) with this how-to guide to making bohemian jewelry featuring unusual wire wraps and metal finishing techniques. She offers 25 designs from 10 different designers (including herself), made with beads, wire, metal cut-outs, leather, fiber and other bits and pieces attractive to jewelry magpies. The designs are interesting and refined and look more boutique than craft store. But what's especially notable about this book is the very comprehensive, informative, and approachable front section that lays out the techniques and tools used to make the designs, especially the patina techniques. Who knew potato chips could be jewelry-making tools? Yep! As usual with Interweave, the pictures are both inspirational and informative and will help even the novice crafter understand and execute the techniques required for the projects. Also helpful is a list of sources that will help the reader track down otherwise hard-to-find components used in the designs. Overall, an appealing book that will add to the jewelry hobbyist's repertoire.

December 1, 2012

In this collection of jewelry designs, Bogert (Totally Twisted) explores metalworking, including patina effects, coiling, and wire embroidery. The projects range from the modern-industrial Analog bracelet to nature-inspired pieces like the Chrysanthemum pendant to the minimalist Luna Unearthed earrings. Each project is accompanied by a full list of tools and techniques used, as well as step-by-step directions with color photographs illustrating key steps. VERDICT It's inspiring to see such a wide variety of jewelry designs from the same designer--it proves the versatility of metalwork can be. Bogert's overview of basic techniques is useful to beginners, and the projects are suitable for metalworkers of all levels.

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