I recently won a copy of New Dimensions in Bead and Wire Jewelry: Unexpected Combinations, Unique Designs by Margot Potter. I read it cover to cover, and tried out one thing – couldn’t do much because my jewelry making stuff is socked away in storage in California! 🙂
I absolutely love the way Ms. Potter works so organically with wire and beads; each project shows her attentiveness to detail, her dedication to her art and her interest in creating designs that are true to the nature from which her inspiration comes.
The projects are very well photographed and explained; and her sections on tools, selecting beads and techniques are really detailed. I don’t think this is a great choice for a total beginning jewelry maker, but it is a fine addition to a crafter’s library. Sorry I didn’t take any pictures of the project I worked on; I am practicing wire-wrapping techniques and working with different weights of wire, as well as making my own jump rings and earring wires. It is great fun to see improvements starting to happen just with the tools I have on hand! Next on my “to-buy” list is a new wire jig and some softer copper wire.
The book uses Beadalon wire almost exclusively, which Ms. Potter states she has used for over 12 years and likes tremendously. Beadalon is also the “sponsor” of the book, which is published by North Light Books out of Cincinnati. Ms. Potter has other books in the same series.
The Crafter's Cafè 