Excellent., 04 Jan 2008
A proper, no-frills bench reference to all kinds of joining - really useful, functional and not just another glossy coffee table book for hobbyists!

ahhh, what a little gem., 13 Nov 2007
I'm extremely fussy about what i give 5 stars to. Some of my fave books thus far have had 4 stars from me. The reason I've given this little gem my 5 star rating is because....Its not pretty, it doesn't have lots of pretty photographs and inspiration, it doesn't contain projects. It hasn't jumped on a jewelry making bandwagon and thought "hey! everyone's into this, let me write a books about it and cash in". lol.
What this little spiral bound book contains is information in its purest form. Jewellers who wish to learn many ways they can construct thier work with connections can have this book open (lying flat - thankyou tim) on thier bench. It teaches us about joining techniques. Hot and cold. It covers soldering and it covers riveting and pins, staples and other little thought of methods that make you think, "Ahh, of coooourse.". Tim also goes into bonding with the cold connections, using glues/adhesives etc. Lots and lots of ways of joinging stuff together depending on your project. I think this is invaluable for me because if I ever have a situation where I think, how can I put this all together with the combustable material in the middle? then out will come this book. I also happen to love the way tim writes. He's so casual and funny and completely un patronising. We dont need to know physics and science - we just need to know why it'll work and why it wont - in its simplest explanation. There was a particular bit in this book that made me laugh out loud....its on pg 88 where tim tells us briefly about welding options. he stars the sentance; "Arc welding was discovered in suburban desmoines in 1969 when little johnny smith reached into the toaster with a butterknife. Ok, thats not true. In fact, it was patented in britian in 1885......" I just thought that was funny. ;o)
This book does contain Tims hand drawn diagrams and examples - which is helpful visual aid. The contents of this book are;
COLD CONNECTIONS, Intro, tabs, staples, bezels, threaded connections, rivets, other cold connections.
HOT CONNECTIONS, overview, soft soldering, brazing;torches,surfaces,equipment,soldering investment,misc supplies, clean up after soldering, welding;equip,modern welding.
ADHESIVES; History of,natural glue, drying glues, polyvinyl, hot melt, epoxy, which to use, cyanoacrylates and ultraviolet curing....
At the back of the book are some useful charts. Equivalent numbers - giving the US and UK guages, mm, inches and drill#. Melting points for various metals. Temperature conversions - celcius to fahrenheit and vice versa.
Then, and this was a nice surprise, a list of suppliers....IN THE UK!! YEEEEY. (I think that this one has been done for the UK, with A&C Black. I know he's also done one with his own publishing co, Brynmorgen press - which probably has US suppliers. So keep an eye out for that.)
Excellent little refrence. I highly recommend for having a more rounded knowledge of joining your parts. Good stuff.

Excellent., 04 Jan 2008
A proper, no-frills bench reference to all kinds of joining - really useful, functional and not just another glossy coffee table book for hobbyists!

ahhh, what a little gem., 13 Nov 2007
I'm extremely fussy about what i give 5 stars to. Some of my fave books thus far have had 4 stars from me. The reason I've given this little gem my 5 star rating is because....Its not pretty, it doesn't have lots of pretty photographs and inspiration, it doesn't contain projects. It hasn't jumped on a jewelry making bandwagon and thought "hey! everyone's into this, let me write a books about it and cash in". lol.
What this little spiral bound book contains is information in its purest form. Jewellers who wish to learn many ways they can construct thier work with connections can have this book open (lying flat - thankyou tim) on thier bench. It teaches us about joining techniques. Hot and cold. It covers soldering and it covers riveting and pins, staples and other little thought of methods that make you think, "Ahh, of coooourse.". Tim also goes into bonding with the cold connections, using glues/adhesives etc. Lots and lots of ways of joinging stuff together depending on your project. I think this is invaluable for me because if I ever have a situation where I think, how can I put this all together with the combustable material in the middle? then out will come this book. I also happen to love the way tim writes. He's so casual and funny and completely un patronising. We dont need to know physics and science - we just need to know why it'll work and why it wont - in its simplest explanation. There was a particular bit in this book that made me laugh out loud....its on pg 88 where tim tells us briefly about welding options. he stars the sentance; "Arc welding was discovered in suburban desmoines in 1969 when little johnny smith reached into the toaster with a butterknife. Ok, thats not true. In fact, it was patented in britian in 1885......" I just thought that was funny. ;o)
This book does contain Tims hand drawn diagrams and examples - which is helpful visual aid. The contents of this book are;
COLD CONNECTIONS, Intro, tabs, staples, bezels, threaded connections, rivets, other cold connections.
HOT CONNECTIONS, overview, soft soldering, brazing;torches,surfaces,equipment,soldering investment,misc supplies, clean up after soldering, welding;equip,modern welding.
ADHESIVES; History of,natural glue, drying glues, polyvinyl, hot melt, epoxy, which to use, cyanoacrylates and ultraviolet curing....
At the back of the book are some useful charts. Equivalent numbers - giving the US and UK guages, mm, inches and drill#. Melting points for various metals. Temperature conversions - celcius to fahrenheit and vice versa.
Then, and this was a nice surprise, a list of suppliers....IN THE UK!! YEEEEY. (I think that this one has been done for the UK, with A&C Black. I know he's also done one with his own publishing co, Brynmorgen press - which probably has US suppliers. So keep an eye out for that.)
Excellent little refrence. I highly recommend for having a more rounded knowledge of joining your parts. Good stuff.

ok, 31 Mar 2008
the book is packed full if ideas, but is a bit advanced for the beginner in some places. quite helpful though a bit 'wordy'

Very disappointing, 23 Oct 2007
Like all immediate choices to start learning something i thought 'a dummies guide' would be the best book to learn how to make jewellery. But I was quite wrong in getting this book. It is badly put together, teaches you the beginning steps through the writers own projects (which are not to everyones taste) and generally only serves as something to refer back to once you've learned the basic skills else where.

It gives lists and details on birthstones and meanings, metals, glues and other things. But it is completely mish-mashed together and you follow it through project after project, again the authors own wondering if you've lost the 'basic steps' page somewhere.

I'm not sure who i would recommend this book too. I am sure there are better alternatives out there, so i would not recommend this to somebody with no knowledge of jewellery making as a place to start. Then again, i don't think i would recommend it to a advanced jeweller either.

Very Helpful!, 02 Aug 2006
I found this book to be both informative and 'user' friendly, I am just a beginner and found myself dipping in and out of the chapters that were relevant.

Quite helpful, 25 Mar 2006
I used the book and found it helpful to a beginner like me. It was thorough enough to help you start those small projects.

Very bad, 14 Feb 2006
This is a very poor book. Fortunatly i haven't actualy bought it, but i've seen in in a shop and thought: "what a waste of money". It teatches nothing you don't actualy acheave for yourself (i think).

Excellent., 04 Jan 2008
A proper, no-frills bench reference to all kinds of joining - really useful, functional and not just another glossy coffee table book for hobbyists!

ahhh, what a little gem., 13 Nov 2007
I'm extremely fussy about what i give 5 stars to. Some of my fave books thus far have had 4 stars from me. The reason I've given this little gem my 5 star rating is because....Its not pretty, it doesn't have lots of pretty photographs and inspiration, it doesn't contain projects. It hasn't jumped on a jewelry making bandwagon and thought "hey! everyone's into this, let me write a books about it and cash in". lol.
What this little spiral bound book contains is information in its purest form. Jewellers who wish to learn many ways they can construct thier work with connections can have this book open (lying flat - thankyou tim) on thier bench. It teaches us about joining techniques. Hot and cold. It covers soldering and it covers riveting and pins, staples and other little thought of methods that make you think, "Ahh, of coooourse.". Tim also goes into bonding with the cold connections, using glues/adhesives etc. Lots and lots of ways of joinging stuff together depending on your project. I think this is invaluable for me because if I ever have a situation where I think, how can I put this all together with the combustable material in the middle? then out will come this book. I also happen to love the way tim writes. He's so casual and funny and completely un patronising. We dont need to know physics and science - we just need to know why it'll work and why it wont - in its simplest explanation. There was a particular bit in this book that made me laugh out loud....its on pg 88 where tim tells us briefly about welding options. he stars the sentance; "Arc welding was discovered in suburban desmoines in 1969 when little johnny smith reached into the toaster with a butterknife. Ok, thats not true. In fact, it was patented in britian in 1885......" I just thought that was funny. ;o)
This book does contain Tims hand drawn diagrams and examples - which is helpful visual aid. The contents of this book are;
COLD CONNECTIONS, Intro, tabs, staples, bezels, threaded connections, rivets, other cold connections.
HOT CONNECTIONS, overview, soft soldering, brazing;torches,surfaces,equipment,soldering investment,misc supplies, clean up after soldering, welding;equip,modern welding.
ADHESIVES; History of,natural glue, drying glues, polyvinyl, hot melt, epoxy, which to use, cyanoacrylates and ultraviolet curing....
At the back of the book are some useful charts. Equivalent numbers - giving the US and UK guages, mm, inches and drill#. Melting points for various metals. Temperature conversions - celcius to fahrenheit and vice versa.
Then, and this was a nice surprise, a list of suppliers....IN THE UK!! YEEEEY. (I think that this one has been done for the UK, with A&C Black. I know he's also done one with his own publishing co, Brynmorgen press - which probably has US suppliers. So keep an eye out for that.)
Excellent little refrence. I highly recommend for having a more rounded knowledge of joining your parts. Good stuff.

ok, 31 Mar 2008
the book is packed full if ideas, but is a bit advanced for the beginner in some places. quite helpful though a bit 'wordy'

Very disappointing, 23 Oct 2007
Like all immediate choices to start learning something i thought 'a dummies guide' would be the best book to learn how to make jewellery. But I was quite wrong in getting this book. It is badly put together, teaches you the beginning steps through the writers own projects (which are not to everyones taste) and generally only serves as something to refer back to once you've learned the basic skills else where.

It gives lists and details on birthstones and meanings, metals, glues and other things. But it is completely mish-mashed together and you follow it through project after project, again the authors own wondering if you've lost the 'basic steps' page somewhere.

I'm not sure who i would recommend this book too. I am sure there are better alternatives out there, so i would not recommend this to somebody with no knowledge of jewellery making as a place to start. Then again, i don't think i would recommend it to a advanced jeweller either.

Very Helpful!, 02 Aug 2006
I found this book to be both informative and 'user' friendly, I am just a beginner and found myself dipping in and out of the chapters that were relevant.

Quite helpful, 25 Mar 2006
I used the book and found it helpful to a beginner like me. It was thorough enough to help you start those small projects.

Very bad, 14 Feb 2006
This is a very poor book. Fortunatly i haven't actualy bought it, but i've seen in in a shop and thought: "what a waste of money". It teatches nothing you don't actualy acheave for yourself (i think).

Silver Wire Jewelry by Irene Petersen, 16 Apr 2008
A very good book but I got a little confused with the explanation of making coiled rings. I've got a coiling gizmo so her explanation is not really useful at times, then there is the page where she writes about attaching a hook to a vise, this will only work if you have gone for the hand drill which I don't want as I'm not comfortable with such objects.

However, she clearly explains every step, I like the fact that you are taught the technique before actually starting on a design, a very good book for anyone who loves work with wire, in fact, I'll say it's the ultimate for creating beautiful unique jewellery, highly recommended.

Silver Wire Jewellery, 07 Mar 2007
Wonderful book, explains all basic techniques and tools used in an easy to understand way. Has plenty of designs to choose from, with differing expertise levels. A real boon to the jewellery maker who is interested in wire working. Would highly recommend!

Good Book for Beginners and Young Jewellery Makers, 14 Nov 2006
The beauty of wire jewellery it that it requires minimal tools and within a few minutes anyone can take one of the starter projects in this book and be wearing their own creation. The book is laid out very nicely with similarly made jewellery grouped together, so you can start with a project that is graded as Very Easy and if you like that use the techniques you have learned to either make harder items from the same group for go off and be creative and do your own thing. The books is written "recipe style" materials and tools for each individual project are listed. At the front of the book is a clear description of all the tools and materials you might need to use.
Summary, well laid out, clear instructions and attractive projects.

Excellent., 04 Jan 2008
A proper, no-frills bench reference to all kinds of joining - really useful, functional and not just another glossy coffee table book for hobbyists!

ahhh, what a little gem., 13 Nov 2007
I'm extremely fussy about what i give 5 stars to. Some of my fave books thus far have had 4 stars from me. The reason I've given this little gem my 5 star rating is because....Its not pretty, it doesn't have lots of pretty photographs and inspiration, it doesn't contain projects. It hasn't jumped on a jewelry making bandwagon and thought "hey! everyone's into this, let me write a books about it and cash in". lol.
What this little spiral bound book contains is information in its purest form. Jewellers who wish to learn many ways they can construct thier work with connections can have this book open (lying flat - thankyou tim) on thier bench. It teaches us about joining techniques. Hot and cold. It covers soldering and it covers riveting and pins, staples and other little thought of methods that make you think, "Ahh, of coooourse.". Tim also goes into bonding with the cold connections, using glues/adhesives etc. Lots and lots of ways of joinging stuff together depending on your project. I think this is invaluable for me because if I ever have a situation where I think, how can I put this all together with the combustable material in the middle? then out will come this book. I also happen to love the way tim writes. He's so casual and funny and completely un patronising. We dont need to know physics and science - we just need to know why it'll work and why it wont - in its simplest explanation. There was a particular bit in this book that made me laugh out loud....its on pg 88 where tim tells us briefly about welding options. he stars the sentance; "Arc welding was discovered in suburban desmoines in 1969 when little johnny smith reached into the toaster with a butterknife. Ok, thats not true. In fact, it was patented in britian in 1885......" I just thought that was funny. ;o)
This book does contain Tims hand drawn diagrams and examples - which is helpful visual aid. The contents of this book are;
COLD CONNECTIONS, Intro, tabs, staples, bezels, threaded connections, rivets, other cold connections.
HOT CONNECTIONS, overview, soft soldering, brazing;torches,surfaces,equipment,soldering investment,misc supplies, clean up after soldering, welding;equip,modern welding.
ADHESIVES; History of,natural glue, drying glues, polyvinyl, hot melt, epoxy, which to use, cyanoacrylates and ultraviolet curing....
At the back of the book are some useful charts. Equivalent numbers - giving the US and UK guages, mm, inches and drill#. Melting points for various metals. Temperature conversions - celcius to fahrenheit and vice versa.
Then, and this was a nice surprise, a list of suppliers....IN THE UK!! YEEEEY. (I think that this one has been done for the UK, with A&C Black. I know he's also done one with his own publishing co, Brynmorgen press - which probably has US suppliers. So keep an eye out for that.)
Excellent little refrence. I highly recommend for having a more rounded knowledge of joining your parts. Good stuff.

ok, 31 Mar 2008
the book is packed full if ideas, but is a bit advanced for the beginner in some places. quite helpful though a bit 'wordy'

Very disappointing, 23 Oct 2007
Like all immediate choices to start learning something i thought 'a dummies guide' would be the best book to learn how to make jewellery. But I was quite wrong in getting this book. It is badly put together, teaches you the beginning steps through the writers own projects (which are not to everyones taste) and generally only serves as something to refer back to once you've learned the basic skills else where.

It gives lists and details on birthstones and meanings, metals, glues and other things. But it is completely mish-mashed together and you follow it through project after project, again the authors own wondering if you've lost the 'basic steps' page somewhere.

I'm not sure who i would recommend this book too. I am sure there are better alternatives out there, so i would not recommend this to somebody with no knowledge of jewellery making as a place to start. Then again, i don't think i would recommend it to a advanced jeweller either.

Very Helpful!, 02 Aug 2006
I found this book to be both informative and 'user' friendly, I am just a beginner and found myself dipping in and out of the chapters that were relevant.

Quite helpful, 25 Mar 2006
I used the book and found it helpful to a beginner like me. It was thorough enough to help you start those small projects.

Very bad, 14 Feb 2006
This is a very poor book. Fortunatly i haven't actualy bought it, but i've seen in in a shop and thought: "what a waste of money". It teatches nothing you don't actualy acheave for yourself (i think).

Silver Wire Jewelry by Irene Petersen, 16 Apr 2008
A very good book but I got a little confused with the explanation of making coiled rings. I've got a coiling gizmo so her explanation is not really useful at times, then there is the page where she writes about attaching a hook to a vise, this will only work if you have gone for the hand drill which I don't want as I'm not comfortable with such objects.

However, she clearly explains every step, I like the fact that you are taught the technique before actually starting on a design, a very good book for anyone who loves work with wire, in fact, I'll say it's the ultimate for creating beautiful unique jewellery, highly recommended.

Silver Wire Jewellery, 07 Mar 2007
Wonderful book, explains all basic techniques and tools used in an easy to understand way. Has plenty of designs to choose from, with differing expertise levels. A real boon to the jewellery maker who is interested in wire working. Would highly recommend!

Good Book for Beginners and Young Jewellery Makers, 14 Nov 2006
The beauty of wire jewellery it that it requires minimal tools and within a few minutes anyone can take one of the starter projects in this book and be wearing their own creation. The book is laid out very nicely with similarly made jewellery grouped together, so you can start with a project that is graded as Very Easy and if you like that use the techniques you have learned to either make harder items from the same group for go off and be creative and do your own thing. The books is written "recipe style" materials and tools for each individual project are listed. At the front of the book is a clear description of all the tools and materials you might need to use.
Summary, well laid out, clear instructions and attractive projects.

Good book for reference, 08 Mar 2008
This is a very good book for reference and ideas. 4 stars as it would be better if it had more pages

A thing of beauty in its own right, 25 Nov 2001
After completing a basic course, this book was a source of inspiration and,perhaps more importantly, guidance in the techniques needed to manufacture similar articles.

Clear photography enables close examination of the piece, but also makes this book a thing of beauty in its own right

Excellent., 04 Jan 2008
A proper, no-frills bench reference to all kinds of joining - really useful, functional and not just another glossy coffee table book for hobbyists!

ahhh, what a little gem., 13 Nov 2007
I'm extremely fussy about what i give 5 stars to. Some of my fave books thus far have had 4 stars from me. The reason I've given this little gem my 5 star rating is because....Its not pretty, it doesn't have lots of pretty photographs and inspiration, it doesn't contain projects. It hasn't jumped on a jewelry making bandwagon and thought "hey! everyone's into this, let me write a books about it and cash in". lol.
What this little spiral bound book contains is information in its purest form. Jewellers who wish to learn many ways they can construct thier work with connections can have this book open (lying flat - thankyou tim) on thier bench. It teaches us about joining techniques. Hot and cold. It covers soldering and it covers riveting and pins, staples and other little thought of methods that make you think, "Ahh, of coooourse.". Tim also goes into bonding with the cold connections, using glues/adhesives etc. Lots and lots of ways of joinging stuff together depending on your project. I think this is invaluable for me because if I ever have a situation where I think, how can I put this all together with the combustable material in the middle? then out will come this book. I also happen to love the way tim writes. He's so casual and funny and completely un patronising. We dont need to know physics and science - we just need to know why it'll work and why it wont - in its simplest explanation. There was a particular bit in this book that made me laugh out loud....its on pg 88 where tim tells us briefly about welding options. he stars the sentance; "Arc welding was discovered in suburban desmoines in 1969 when little johnny smith reached into the toaster with a butterknife. Ok, thats not true. In fact, it was patented in britian in 1885......" I just thought that was funny. ;o)
This book does contain Tims hand drawn diagrams and examples - which is helpful visual aid. The contents of this book are;
COLD CONNECTIONS, Intro, tabs, staples, bezels, threaded connections, rivets, other cold connections.
HOT CONNECTIONS, overview, soft soldering, brazing;torches,surfaces,equipment,soldering investment,misc supplies, clean up after soldering, welding;equip,modern welding.
ADHESIVES; History of,natural glue, drying glues, polyvinyl, hot melt, epoxy, which to use, cyanoacrylates and ultraviolet curing....
At the back of the book are some useful charts. Equivalent numbers - giving the US and UK guages, mm, inches and drill#. Melting points for various metals. Temperature conversions - celcius to fahrenheit and vice versa.
Then, and this was a nice surprise, a list of suppliers....IN THE UK!! YEEEEY. (I think that this one has been done for the UK, with A&C Black. I know he's also done one with his own publishing co, Brynmorgen press - which probably has US suppliers. So keep an eye out for that.)
Excellent little refrence. I highly recommend for having a more rounded knowledge of joining your parts. Good stuff.

ok, 31 Mar 2008
the book is packed full if ideas, but is a bit advanced for the beginner in some places. quite helpful though a bit 'wordy'

Very disappointing, 23 Oct 2007
Like all immediate choices to start learning something i thought 'a dummies guide' would be the best book to learn how to make jewellery. But I was quite wrong in getting this book. It is badly put together, teaches you the beginning steps through the writers own projects (which are not to everyones taste) and generally only serves as something to refer back to once you've learned the basic skills else where.

It gives lists and details on birthstones and meanings, metals, glues and other things. But it is completely mish-mashed together and you follow it through project after project, again the authors own wondering if you've lost the 'basic steps' page somewhere.

I'm not sure who i would recommend this book too. I am sure there are better alternatives out there, so i would not recommend this to somebody with no knowledge of jewellery making as a place to start. Then again, i don't think i would recommend it to a advanced jeweller either.

Very Helpful!, 02 Aug 2006
I found this book to be both informative and 'user' friendly, I am just a beginner and found myself dipping in and out of the chapters that were relevant.

Quite helpful, 25 Mar 2006
I used the book and found it helpful to a beginner like me. It was thorough enough to help you start those small projects.

Very bad, 14 Feb 2006
This is a very poor book. Fortunatly i haven't actualy bought it, but i've seen in in a shop and thought: "what a waste of money". It teatches nothing you don't actualy acheave for yourself (i think).

Silver Wire Jewelry by Irene Petersen, 16 Apr 2008
A very good book but I got a little confused with the explanation of making coiled rings. I've got a coiling gizmo so her explanation is not really useful at times, then there is the page where she writes about attaching a hook to a vise, this will only work if you have gone for the hand drill which I don't want as I'm not comfortable with such objects.

However, she clearly explains every step, I like the fact that you are taught the technique before actually starting on a design, a very good book for anyone who loves work with wire, in fact, I'll say it's the ultimate for creating beautiful unique jewellery, highly recommended.

Silver Wire Jewellery, 07 Mar 2007
Wonderful book, explains all basic techniques and tools used in an easy to understand way. Has plenty of designs to choose from, with differing expertise levels. A real boon to the jewellery maker who is interested in wire working. Would highly recommend!

Good Book for Beginners and Young Jewellery Makers, 14 Nov 2006
The beauty of wire jewellery it that it requires minimal tools and within a few minutes anyone can take one of the starter projects in this book and be wearing their own creation. The book is laid out very nicely with similarly made jewellery grouped together, so you can start with a project that is graded as Very Easy and if you like that use the techniques you have learned to either make harder items from the same group for go off and be creative and do your own thing. The books is written "recipe style" materials and tools for each individual project are listed. At the front of the book is a clear description of all the tools and materials you might need to use.
Summary, well laid out, clear instructions and attractive projects.

Good book for reference, 08 Mar 2008
This is a very good book for reference and ideas. 4 stars as it would be better if it had more pages

A thing of beauty in its own right, 25 Nov 2001
After completing a basic course, this book was a source of inspiration and,perhaps more importantly, guidance in the techniques needed to manufacture similar articles.

Clear photography enables close examination of the piece, but also makes this book a thing of beauty in its own right

Great Reference Book and for New Ideas, 14 Nov 2006
As with Jinks's other books this is a lovely book to browse through, the pictures are wonderful and give you so many new ideas. The book looks at 15 of the most commonly used decorative techniques, from etching to enamelling and fusing. For each of the 15 techniques the book gives clear instructions and pictures about how each effect is achieved. There is a useful Glossary and Bibliography at the end of the book too.
Recommend it for students and precious metal smiths.

Lavish and inspirational, 31 Mar 2005
This book is a complete guide to the tools, techniques and materials necessary to produce key surface effects for jewellery. The instruction is clear to follow, and is illustrated with demonstration of the techniques and beautiful showcase examples of contemporary professional jewellery. Processes described include stamping and hammering, rolling-mill texturing, fusing, etching, enamelling, patination and oxidation, casting, press forming, reticulation, inlay and granulation. This book would be inspiring for anyone already working in base and precious metals, or for anyone considering taking it up. As Jinks McGrath says in the introduction, 'if your experiments don't match exactly the appearance in the photographs of the demonstrated techniques and samples, don't worry; that is not the point. It may well be that you have discovered something new, beautiful and exciting'. This book is just that. (NB. Jinks McGrath is the author of this book, not those named by Amazon!)

Excellent., 04 Jan 2008
A proper, no-frills bench reference to all kinds of joining - really useful, functional and not just another glossy coffee table book for hobbyists!

ahhh, what a little gem., 13 Nov 2007
I'm extremely fussy about what i give 5 stars to. Some of my fave books thus far have had 4 stars from me. The reason I've given this little gem my 5 star rating is because....Its not pretty, it doesn't have lots of pretty photographs and inspiration, it doesn't contain projects. It hasn't jumped on a jewelry making bandwagon and thought "hey! everyone's into this, let me write a books about it and cash in". lol.
What this little spiral bound book contains is information in its purest form. Jewellers who wish to learn many ways they can construct thier work with connections can have this book open (lying flat - thankyou tim) on thier bench. It teaches us about joining techniques. Hot and cold. It covers soldering and it covers riveting and pins, staples and other little thought of methods that make you think, "Ahh, of coooourse.". Tim also goes into bonding with the cold connections, using glues/adhesives etc. Lots and lots of ways of joinging stuff together depending on your project. I think this is invaluable for me because if I ever have a situation where I think, how can I put this all together with the combustable material in the middle? then out will come this book. I also happen to love the way tim writes. He's so casual and funny and completely un patronising. We dont need to know physics and science - we just need to know why it'll work and why it wont - in its simplest explanation. There was a particular bit in this book that made me laugh out loud....its on pg 88 where tim tells us briefly about welding options. he stars the sentance; "Arc welding was discovered in suburban desmoines in 1969 when little johnny smith reached into the toaster with a butterknife. Ok, thats not true. In fact, it was patented in britian in 1885......" I just thought that was funny. ;o)
This book does contain Tims hand drawn diagrams and examples - which is helpful visual aid. The contents of this book are;
COLD CONNECTIONS, Intro, tabs, staples, bezels, threaded connections, rivets, other cold connections.
HOT CONNECTIONS, overview, soft soldering, brazing;torches,surfaces,equipment,soldering investment,misc supplies, clean up after soldering, welding;equip,modern welding.
ADHESIVES; History of,natural glue, drying glues, polyvinyl, hot melt, epoxy, which to use, cyanoacrylates and ultraviolet curing....
At the back of the book are some useful charts. Equivalent numbers - giving the US and UK guages, mm, inches and drill#. Melting points for various metals. Temperature conversions - celcius to fahrenheit and vice versa.
Then, and this was a nice surprise, a list of suppliers....IN THE UK!! YEEEEY. (I think that this one has been done for the UK, with A&C Black. I know he's also done one with his own publishing co, Brynmorgen press - which probably has US suppliers. So keep an eye out for that.)
Excellent little refrence. I highly recommend for having a more rounded knowledge of joining your parts. Good stuff.

ok, 31 Mar 2008
the book is packed full if ideas, but is a bit advanced for the beginner in some places. quite helpful though a bit 'wordy'

Very disappointing, 23 Oct 2007
Like all immediate choices to start learning something i thought 'a dummies guide' would be the best book to learn how to make jewellery. But I was quite wrong in getting this book. It is badly put together, teaches you the beginning steps through the writers own projects (which are not to everyones taste) and generally only serves as something to refer back to once you've learned the basic skills else where.

It gives lists and details on birthstones and meanings, metals, glues and other things. But it is completely mish-mashed together and you follow it through project after project, again the authors own wondering if you've lost the 'basic steps' page somewhere.

I'm not sure who i would recommend this book too. I am sure there are better alternatives out there, so i would not recommend this to somebody with no knowledge of jewellery making as a place to start. Then again, i don't think i would recommend it to a advanced jeweller either.

Very Helpful!, 02 Aug 2006
I found this book to be both informative and 'user' friendly, I am just a beginner and found myself dipping in and out of the chapters that were relevant.

Quite helpful, 25 Mar 2006
I used the book and found it helpful to a beginner like me. It was thorough enough to help you start those small projects.

Very bad, 14 Feb 2006
This is a very poor book. Fortunatly i haven't actualy bought it, but i've seen in in a shop and thought: "what a waste of money". It teatches nothing you don't actualy acheave for yourself (i think).

Silver Wire Jewelry by Irene Petersen, 16 Apr 2008
A very good book but I got a little confused with the explanation of making coiled rings. I've got a coiling gizmo so her explanation is not really useful at times, then there is the page where she writes about attaching a hook to a vise, this will only work if you have gone for the hand drill which I don't want as I'm not comfortable with such objects.

However, she clearly explains every step, I like the fact that you are taught the technique before actually starting on a design, a very good book for anyone who loves work with wire, in fact, I'll say it's the ultimate for creating beautiful unique jewellery, highly recommended.

Silver Wire Jewellery, 07 Mar 2007
Wonderful book, explains all basic techniques and tools used in an easy to understand way. Has plenty of designs to choose from, with differing expertise levels. A real boon to the jewellery maker who is interested in wire working. Would highly recommend!

Good Book for Beginners and Young Jewellery Makers, 14 Nov 2006
The beauty of wire jewellery it that it requires minimal tools and within a few minutes anyone can take one of the starter projects in this book and be wearing their own creation. The book is laid out very nicely with similarly made jewellery grouped together, so you can start with a project that is graded as Very Easy and if you like that use the techniques you have learned to either make harder items from the same group for go off and be creative and do your own thing. The books is written "recipe style" materials and tools for each individual project are listed. At the front of the book is a clear description of all the tools and materials you might need to use.
Summary, well laid out, clear instructions and attractive projects.

Good book for reference, 08 Mar 2008
This is a very good book for reference and ideas. 4 stars as it would be better if it had more pages

A thing of beauty in its own right, 25 Nov 2001
After completing a basic course, this book was a source of inspiration and,perhaps more importantly, guidance in the techniques needed to manufacture similar articles.

Clear photography enables close examination of the piece, but also makes this book a thing of beauty in its own right

Great Reference Book and for New Ideas, 14 Nov 2006
As with Jinks's other books this is a lovely book to browse through, the pictures are wonderful and give you so many new ideas. The book looks at 15 of the most commonly used decorative techniques, from etching to enamelling and fusing. For each of the 15 techniques the book gives clear instructions and pictures about how each effect is achieved. There is a useful Glossary and Bibliography at the end of the book too.
Recommend it for students and precious metal smiths.

Lavish and inspirational, 31 Mar 2005
This book is a complete guide to the tools, techniques and materials necessary to produce key surface effects for jewellery. The instruction is clear to follow, and is illustrated with demonstration of the techniques and beautiful showcase examples of contemporary professional jewellery. Processes described include stamping and hammering, rolling-mill texturing, fusing, etching, enamelling, patination and oxidation, casting, press forming, reticulation, inlay and granulation. This book would be inspiring for anyone already working in base and precious metals, or for anyone considering taking it up. As Jinks McGrath says in the introduction, 'if your experiments don't match exactly the appearance in the photographs of the demonstrated techniques and samples, don't worry; that is not the point. It may well be that you have discovered something new, beautiful and exciting'. This book is just that. (NB. Jinks McGrath is the author of this book, not those named by Amazon!)

Very handy little book, 20 Oct 2008
I won't profess in any way to being an expert on any type of hallmarks.Indeed,this book wasn't purchased for myself.I have been reliably informed however that it is a very handy little book for identifying many hallmarks on jewellery that you may have had for years.

If you have any interest in the subject,this is most probably the ideal book for you.

Excellent., 04 Jan 2008
A proper, no-frills bench reference to all kinds of joining - really useful, functional and not just another glossy coffee table book for hobbyists!

ahhh, what a little gem., 13 Nov 2007
I'm extremely fussy about what i give 5 stars to. Some of my fave books thus far have had 4 stars from me. The reason I've given this little gem my 5 star rating is because....Its not pretty, it doesn't have lots of pretty photographs and inspiration, it doesn't contain projects. It hasn't jumped on a jewelry making bandwagon and thought "hey! everyone's into this, let me write a books about it and cash in". lol.
What this little spiral bound book contains is information in its purest form. Jewellers who wish to learn many ways they can construct thier work with connections can have this book open (lying flat - thankyou tim) on thier bench. It teaches us about joining techniques. Hot and cold. It covers soldering and it covers riveting and pins, staples and other little thought of methods that make you think, "Ahh, of coooourse.". Tim also goes into bonding with the cold connections, using glues/adhesives etc. Lots and lots of ways of joinging stuff together depending on your project. I think this is invaluable for me because if I ever have a situation where I think, how can I put this all together with the combustable material in the middle? then out will come this book. I also happen to love the way tim writes. He's so casual and funny and completely un patronising. We dont need to know physics and science - we just need to know why it'll work and why it wont - in its simplest explanation. There was a particular bit in this book that made me laugh out loud....its on pg 88 where tim tells us briefly about welding options. he stars the sentance; "Arc welding was discovered in suburban desmoines in 1969 when little johnny smith reached into the toaster with a butterknife. Ok, thats not true. In fact, it was patented in britian in 1885......" I just thought that was funny. ;o)
This book does contain Tims hand drawn diagrams and examples - which is helpful visual aid. The contents of this book are;
COLD CONNECTIONS, Intro, tabs, staples, bezels, threaded connections, rivets, other cold connections.
HOT CONNECTIONS, overview, soft soldering, brazing;torches,surfaces,equipment,soldering investment,misc supplies, clean up after soldering, welding;equip,modern welding.
ADHESIVES; History of,natural glue, drying glues, polyvinyl, hot melt, epoxy, which to use, cyanoacrylates and ultraviolet curing....
At the back of the book are some useful charts. Equivalent numbers - giving the US and UK guages, mm, inches and drill#. Melting points for various metals. Temperature conversions - celcius to fahrenheit and vice versa.
Then, and this was a nice surprise, a list of suppliers....IN THE UK!! YEEEEY. (I think that this one has been done for the UK, with A&C Black. I know he's also done one with his own publishing co, Brynmorgen press - which probably has US suppliers. So keep an eye out for that.)
Excellent little refrence. I highly recommend for having a more rounded knowledge of joining your parts. Good stuff.

ok, 31 Mar 2008
the book is packed full if ideas, but is a bit advanced for the beginner in some places. quite helpful though a bit 'wordy'

Very disappointing, 23 Oct 2007
Like all immediate choices to start learning something i thought 'a dummies guide' would be the best book to learn how to make jewellery. But I was quite wrong in getting this book. It is badly put together, teaches you the beginning steps through the writers own projects (which are not to everyones taste) and generally only serves as something to refer back to once you've learned the basic skills else where.

It gives lists and details on birthstones and meanings, metals, glues and other things. But it is completely mish-mashed together and you follow it through project after project, again the authors own wondering if you've lost the 'basic steps' page somewhere.

I'm not sure who i would recommend this book too. I am sure there are better alternatives out there, so i would not recommend this to somebody with no knowledge of jewellery making as a place to start. Then again, i don't think i would recommend it to a advanced jeweller either.

Very Helpful!, 02 Aug 2006
I found this book to be both informative and 'user' friendly, I am just a beginner and found myself dipping in and out of the chapters that were relevant.

Quite helpful, 25 Mar 2006
I used the book and found it helpful to a beginner like me. It was thorough enough to help you start those small projects.

Very bad, 14 Feb 2006
This is a very poor book. Fortunatly i haven't actualy bought it, but i've seen in in a shop and thought: "what a waste of money". It teatches nothing you don't actualy acheave for yourself (i think).

Silver Wire Jewelry by Irene Petersen, 16 Apr 2008
A very good book but I got a little confused with the explanation of making coiled rings. I've got a coiling gizmo so her explanation is not really useful at times, then there is the page where she writes about attaching a hook to a vise, this will only work if you have gone for the hand drill which I don't want as I'm not comfortable with such objects.

However, she clearly explains every step, I like the fact that you are taught the technique before actually starting on a design, a very good book for anyone who loves work with wire, in fact, I'll say it's the ultimate for creating beautiful unique jewellery, highly recommended.

Silver Wire Jewellery, 07 Mar 2007
Wonderful book, explains all basic techniques and tools used in an easy to understand way. Has plenty of designs to choose from, with differing expertise levels. A real boon to the jewellery maker who is interested in wire working. Would highly recommend!

Good Book for Beginners and Young Jewellery Makers, 14 Nov 2006
The beauty of wire jewellery it that it requires minimal tools and within a few minutes anyone can take one of the starter projects in this book and be wearing their own creation. The book is laid out very nicely with similarly made jewellery grouped together, so you can start with a project that is graded as Very Easy and if you like that use the techniques you have learned to either make harder items from the same group for go off and be creative and do your own thing. The books is written "recipe style" materials and tools for each individual project are listed. At the front of the book is a clear description of all the tools and materials you might need to use.
Summary, well laid out, clear instructions and attractive projects.

Good book for reference, 08 Mar 2008
This is a very good book for reference and ideas. 4 stars as it would be better if it had more pages

A thing of beauty in its own right, 25 Nov 2001
After completing a basic course, this book was a source of inspiration and,perhaps more importantly, guidance in the techniques needed to manufacture similar articles.

Clear photography enables close examination of the piece, but also makes this book a thing of beauty in its own right

Great Reference Book and for New Ideas, 14 Nov 2006
As with Jinks's other books this is a lovely book to browse through, the pictures are wonderful and give you so many new ideas. The book looks at 15 of the most commonly used decorative techniques, from etching to enamelling and fusing. For each of the 15 techniques the book gives clear instructions and pictures about how each effect is achieved. There is a useful Glossary and Bibliography at the end of the book too.
Recommend it for students and precious metal smiths.

Lavish and inspirational, 31 Mar 2005
This book is a complete guide to the tools, techniques and materials necessary to produce key surface effects for jewellery. The instruction is clear to follow, and is illustrated with demonstration of the techniques and beautiful showcase examples of contemporary professional jewellery. Processes described include stamping and hammering, rolling-mill texturing, fusing, etching, enamelling, patination and oxidation, casting, press forming, reticulation, inlay and granulation. This book would be inspiring for anyone already working in base and precious metals, or for anyone considering taking it up. As Jinks McGrath says in the introduction, 'if your experiments don't match exactly the appearance in the photographs of the demonstrated techniques and samples, don't worry; that is not the point. It may well be that you have discovered something new, beautiful and exciting'. This book is just that. (NB. Jinks McGrath is the author of this book, not those named by Amazon!)

Very handy little book, 20 Oct 2008
I won't profess in any way to being an expert on any type of hallmarks.Indeed,this book wasn't purchased for myself.I have been reliably informed however that it is a very handy little book for identifying many hallmarks on jewellery that you may have had for years.

If you have any interest in the subject,this is most probably the ideal book for you.

a big dissapointment, 18 Nov 2008
This book, although extensive was a complete waste of money. There are no photographs in this book. Only -mediocre quality- illustrations. Page upon page of drawings with many different styles, but since they are drawings, it is impossible to distinguish the details- If you know anything about costume jewellery then this book is not for you. Details like, which type of finding was used, quality of stones, metal finishes; clasps etc ...all go to waste. The only use that this might have is to identify styles- although even this is limiting since you will not be able to use this to distinguish between copies or original. If you would like to buy a book about different styles I would recommend "collection Costume jewelry"101 and 202 by Julia C Carrol.

another gem, 04 Sep 2007
This is another lovely book from John Peacock,this has hundreds of coloured detailed pictures covering everything from 1900 to 1999 that you could possible wish to see about brooches, pins, earings, necklaces rings, hair ornaments and combs.
As with John Peacocks Fashion books the detailed drawings are followed with detailed written descriptions. A fantastic source book, but also a lovely book to browse through and use for art projects.
If you like his work I would also recommend The complete fashion sourcebook by John Peacock. All great value for money and books I will treasure.

Excellent., 04 Jan 2008
A proper, no-frills bench reference to all kinds of joining - really useful, functional and not just another glossy coffee table book for hobbyists!

ahhh, what a little gem., 13 Nov 2007
I'm extremely fussy about what i give 5 stars to. Some of my fave books thus far have had 4 stars from me. The reason I've given this little gem my 5 star rating is because....Its not pretty, it doesn't have lots of pretty photographs and inspiration, it doesn't contain projects. It hasn't jumped on a jewelry making bandwagon and thought "hey! everyone's into this, let me write a books about it and cash in". lol.
What this little spiral bound book contains is information in its purest form. Jewellers who wish to learn many ways they can construct thier work with connections can have this book open (lying flat - thankyou tim) on thier bench. It teaches us about joining techniques. Hot and cold. It covers soldering and it covers riveting and pins, staples and other little thought of methods that make you think, "Ahh, of coooourse.". Tim also goes into bonding with the cold connections, using glues/adhesives etc. Lots and lots of ways of joinging stuff together depending on your project. I think this is invaluable for me because if I ever have a situation where I think, how can I put this all together with the combustable material in the middle? then out will come this book. I also happen to love the way tim writes. He's so casual and funny and completely un patronising. We dont need to know physics and science - we just need to know why it'll work and why it wont - in its simplest explanation. There was a particular bit in this book that made me laugh out loud....its on pg 88 where tim tells us briefly about welding options. he stars the sentance; "Arc welding was discovered in suburban desmoines in 1969 when little johnny smith reached into the toaster with a butterknife. Ok, thats not true. In fact, it was patented in britian in 1885......" I just thought that was funny. ;o)
This book does contain Tims hand drawn diagrams and examples - which is helpful visual aid. The contents of this book are;
COLD CONNECTIONS, Intro, tabs, staples, bezels, threaded connections, rivets, other cold connections.
HOT CONNECTIONS, overview, soft soldering, brazing;torches,surfaces,equipment,soldering investment,misc supplies, clean up after soldering, welding;equip,modern welding.
ADHESIVES; History of,natural glue, drying glues, polyvinyl, hot melt, epoxy, which to use, cyanoacrylates and ultraviolet curing....
At the back of the book are some useful charts. Equivalent numbers - giving the US and UK guages, mm, inches and drill#. Melting points for various metals. Temperature conversions - celcius to fahrenheit and vice versa.
Then, and this was a nice surprise, a list of suppliers....IN THE UK!! YEEEEY. (I think that this one has been done for the UK, with A&C Black. I know he's also done one with his own publishing co, Brynmorgen press - which probably has US suppliers. So keep an eye out for that.)
Excellent little refrence. I highly recommend for having a more rounded knowledge of joining your parts. Good stuff.

ok, 31 Mar 2008
the book is packed full if ideas, but is a bit advanced for the beginner in some places. quite helpful though a bit 'wordy'

Very disappointing, 23 Oct 2007
Like all immediate choices to start learning something i thought 'a dummies guide' would be the best book to learn how to make jewellery. But I was quite wrong in getting this book. It is badly put together, teaches you the beginning steps through the writers own projects (which are not to everyones taste) and generally only serves as something to refer back to once you've learned the basic skills else where.

It gives lists and details on birthstones and meanings, metals, glues and other things. But it is completely mish-mashed together and you follow it through project after project, again the authors own wondering if you've lost the 'basic steps' page somewhere.

I'm not sure who i would recommend this book too. I am sure there are better alternatives out there, so i would not recommend this to somebody with no knowledge of jewellery making as a place to start. Then again, i don't think i would recommend it to a advanced jeweller either.

Very Helpful!, 02 Aug 2006
I found this book to be both informative and 'user' friendly, I am just a beginner and found myself dipping in and out of the chapters that were relevant.

Quite helpful, 25 Mar 2006
I used the book and found it helpful to a beginner like me. It was thorough enough to help you start those small projects.

Very bad, 14 Feb 2006
This is a very poor book. Fortunatly i haven't actualy bought it, but i've seen in in a shop and thought: "what a waste of money". It teatches nothing you don't actualy acheave for yourself (i think).

Silver Wire Jewelry by Irene Petersen, 16 Apr 2008
A very good book but I got a little confused with the explanation of making coiled rings. I've got a coiling gizmo so her explanation is not really useful at times, then there is the page where she writes about attaching a hook to a vise, this will only work if you have gone for the hand drill which I don't want as I'm not comfortable with such objects.

However, she clearly explains every step, I like the fact that you are taught the technique before actually starting on a design, a very good book for anyone who loves work with wire, in fact, I'll say it's the ultimate for creating beautiful unique jewellery, highly recommended.

Silver Wire Jewellery, 07 Mar 2007
Wonderful book, explains all basic techniques and tools used in an easy to understand way. Has plenty of designs to choose from, with differing expertise levels. A real boon to the jewellery maker who is interested in wire working. Would highly recommend!

Good Book for Beginners and Young Jewellery Makers, 14 Nov 2006
The beauty of wire jewellery it that it requires minimal tools and within a few minutes anyone can take one of the starter projects in this book and be wearing their own creation. The book is laid out very nicely with similarly made jewellery grouped together, so you can start with a project that is graded as Very Easy and if you like that use the techniques you have learned to either make harder items from the same group for go off and be creative and do your own thing. The books is written "recipe style" materials and tools for each individual project are listed. At the front of the book is a clear description of all the tools and materials you might need to use.
Summary, well laid out, clear instructions and attractive projects.

Good book for reference, 08 Mar 2008
This is a very good book for reference and ideas. 4 stars as it would be better if it had more pages

A thing of beauty in its own right, 25 Nov 2001
After completing a basic course, this book was a source of inspiration and,perhaps more importantly, guidance in the techniques needed to manufacture similar articles.

Clear photography enables close examination of the piece, but also makes this book a thing of beauty in its own right

Great Reference Book and for New Ideas, 14 Nov 2006
As with Jinks's other books this is a lovely book to browse through, the pictures are wonderful and give you so many new ideas. The book looks at 15 of the most commonly used decorative techniques, from etching to enamelling and fusing. For each of the 15 techniques the book gives clear instructions and pictures about how each effect is achieved. There is a useful Glossary and Bibliography at the end of the book too.
Recommend it for students and precious metal smiths.

Lavish and inspirational, 31 Mar 2005
This book is a complete guide to the tools, techniques and materials necessary to produce key surface effects for jewellery. The instruction is clear to follow, and is illustrated with demonstration of the techniques and beautiful showcase examples of contemporary professional jewellery. Processes described include stamping and hammering, rolling-mill texturing, fusing, etching, enamelling, patination and oxidation, casting, press forming, reticulation, inlay and granulation. This book would be inspiring for anyone already working in base and precious metals, or for anyone considering taking it up. As Jinks McGrath says in the introduction, 'if your experiments don't match exactly the appearance in the photographs of the demonstrated techniques and samples, don't worry; that is not the point. It may well be that you have discovered something new, beautiful and exciting'. This book is just that. (NB. Jinks McGrath is the author of this book, not those named by Amazon!)

Very handy little book, 20 Oct 2008
I won't profess in any way to being an expert on any type of hallmarks.Indeed,this book wasn't purchased for myself.I have been reliably informed however that it is a very handy little book for identifying many hallmarks on jewellery that you may have had for years.

If you have any interest in the subject,this is most probably the ideal book for you.

a big dissapointment, 18 Nov 2008
This book, although extensive was a complete waste of money. There are no photographs in this book. Only -mediocre quality- illustrations. Page upon page of drawings with many different styles, but since they are drawings, it is impossible to distinguish the details- If you know anything about costume jewellery then this book is not for you. Details like, which type of finding was used, quality of stones, metal finishes; clasps etc ...all go to waste. The only use that this might have is to identify styles- although even this is limiting since you will not be able to use this to distinguish between copies or original. If you would like to buy a book about different styles I would recommend "collection Costume jewelry"101 and 202 by Julia C Carrol.

another gem, 04 Sep 2007
This is another lovely book from John Peacock,this has hundreds of coloured detailed pictures covering everything from 1900 to 1999 that you could possible wish to see about brooches, pins, earings, necklaces rings, hair ornaments and combs.
As with John Peacocks Fashion books the detailed drawings are followed with detailed written descriptions. A fantastic source book, but also a lovely book to browse through and use for art projects.
If you like his work I would also recommend The complete fashion sourcebook by John Peacock. All great value for money and books I will treasure.

Magnificent photographs, 04 Dec 2007
I probably will never make jewellery using gold and silver but the book is well worth it just for the fantastically inspiring photos

Excellent., 04 Jan 2008
A proper, no-frills bench reference to all kinds of joining - really useful, functional and not just another glossy coffee table book for hobbyists!

ahhh, what a little gem., 13 Nov 2007
I'm extremely fussy about what i give 5 stars to. Some of my fave books thus far have had 4 stars from me. The reason I've given this little gem my 5 star rating is because....Its not pretty, it doesn't have lots of pretty photographs and inspiration, it doesn't contain projects. It hasn't jumped on a jewelry making bandwagon and thought "hey! everyone's into this, let me write a books about it and cash in". lol.
What this little spiral bound book contains is information in its purest form. Jewellers who wish to learn many ways they can construct thier work with connections can have this book open (lying flat - thankyou tim) on thier bench. It teaches us about joining techniques. Hot and cold. It covers soldering and it covers riveting and pins, staples and other little thought of methods that make you think, "Ahh, of coooourse.". Tim also goes into bonding with the cold connections, using glues/adhesives etc. Lots and lots of ways of joinging stuff together depending on your project. I think this is invaluable for me because if I ever have a situation where I think, how can I put this all together with the combustable material in the middle? then out will come this book. I also happen to love the way tim writes. He's so casual and funny and completely un patronising. We dont need to know physics and science - we just need to know why it'll work and why it wont - in its simplest explanation. There was a particular bit in this book that made me laugh out loud....its on pg 88 where tim tells us briefly about welding options. he stars the sentance; "Arc welding was discovered in suburban desmoines in 1969 when little johnny smith reached into the toaster with a butterknife. Ok, thats not true. In fact, it was patented in britian in 1885......" I just thought that was funny. ;o)
This book does contain Tims hand drawn diagrams and examples - which is helpful visual aid. The contents of this book are;
COLD CONNECTIONS, Intro, tabs, staples, bezels, threaded connections, rivets, other cold connections.
HOT CONNECTIONS, overview, soft soldering, brazing;torches,surfaces,equipment,soldering investment,misc supplies, clean up after soldering, welding;equip,modern welding.
ADHESIVES; History of,natural glue, drying glues, polyvinyl, hot melt, epoxy, which to use, cyanoacrylates and ultraviolet curing....
At the back of the book are some useful charts. Equivalent numbers - giving the US and UK guages, mm, inches and drill#. Melting points for various metals. Temperature conversions - celcius to fahrenheit and vice versa.
Then, and this was a nice surprise, a list of suppliers....IN THE UK!! YEEEEY. (I think that this one has been done for the UK, with A&C Black. I know he's also done one with his own publishing co, Brynmorgen press - which probably has US suppliers. So keep an eye out for that.)
Excellent little refrence. I highly recommend for having a more rounded knowledge of joining your parts. Good stuff.

ok, 31 Mar 2008
the book is packed full if ideas, but is a bit advanced for the beginner in some places. quite helpful though a bit 'wordy'

Very disappointing, 23 Oct 2007
Like all immediate choices to start learning something i thought 'a dummies guide' would be the best book to learn how to make jewellery. But I was quite wrong in getting this book. It is badly put together, teaches you the beginning steps through the writers own projects (which are not to everyones taste) and generally only serves as something to refer back to once you've learned the basic skills else where.

It gives lists and details on birthstones and meanings, metals, glues and other things. But it is completely mish-mashed together and you follow it through project after project, again the authors own wondering if you've lost the 'basic steps' page somewhere.

I'm not sure who i would recommend this book too. I am sure there are better alternatives out there, so i would not recommend this to somebody with no knowledge of jewellery making as a place to start. Then again, i don't think i would recommend it to a advanced jeweller either.

Very Helpful!, 02 Aug 2006
I found this book to be both informative and 'user' friendly, I am just a beginner and found myself dipping in and out of the chapters that were relevant.

Quite helpful, 25 Mar 2006
I used the book and found it helpful to a beginner like me. It was thorough enough to help you start those small projects.

Very bad, 14 Feb 2006
This is a very poor book. Fortunatly i haven't actualy bought it, but i've seen in in a shop and thought: "what a waste of money". It teatches nothing you don't actualy acheave for yourself (i think).

Silver Wire Jewelry by Irene Petersen, 16 Apr 2008
A very good book but I got a little confused with the explanation of making coiled rings. I've got a coiling gizmo so her explanation is not really useful at times, then there is the page where she writes about attaching a hook to a vise, this will only work if you have gone for the hand drill which I don't want as I'm not comfortable with such objects.

However, she clearly explains every step, I like the fact that you are taught the technique before actually starting on a design, a very good book for anyone who loves work with wire, in fact, I'll say it's the ultimate for creating beautiful unique jewellery, highly recommended.

Silver Wire Jewellery, 07 Mar 2007
Wonderful book, explains all basic techniques and tools used in an easy to understand way. Has plenty of designs to choose from, with differing expertise levels. A real boon to the jewellery maker who is interested in wire working. Would highly recommend!

Good Book for Beginners and Young Jewellery Makers, 14 Nov 2006
The beauty of wire jewellery it that it requires minimal tools and within a few minutes anyone can take one of the starter projects in this book and be wearing their own creation. The book is laid out very nicely with similarly made jewellery grouped together, so you can start with a project that is graded as Very Easy and if you like that use the techniques you have learned to either make harder items from the same group for go off and be creative and do your own thing. The books is written "recipe style" materials and tools for each individual project are listed. At the front of the book is a clear description of all the tools and materials you might need to use.
Summary, well laid out, clear instructions and attractive projects.

Good book for reference, 08 Mar 2008
This is a very good book for reference and ideas. 4 stars as it would be better if it had more pages

A thing of beauty in its own right, 25 Nov 2001
After completing a basic course, this book was a source of inspiration and,perhaps more importantly, guidance in the techniques needed to manufacture similar articles.

Clear photography enables close examination of the piece, but also makes this book a thing of beauty in its own right

Great Reference Book and for New Ideas, 14 Nov 2006
As with Jinks's other books this is a lovely book to browse through, the pictures are wonderful and give you so many new ideas. The book looks at 15 of the most commonly used decorative techniques, from etching to enamelling and fusing. For each of the 15 techniques the book gives clear instructions and pictures about how each effect is achieved. There is a useful Glossary and Bibliography at the end of the book too.
Recommend it for students and precious metal smiths.

Lavish and inspirational, 31 Mar 2005
This book is a complete guide to the tools, techniques and materials necessary to produce key surface effects for jewellery. The instruction is clear to follow, and is illustrated with demonstration of the techniques and beautiful showcase examples of contemporary professional jewellery. Processes described include stamping and hammering, rolling-mill texturing, fusing, etching, enamelling, patination and oxidation, casting, press forming, reticulation, inlay and granulation. This book would be inspiring for anyone already working in base and precious metals, or for anyone considering taking it up. As Jinks McGrath says in the introduction, 'if your experiments don't match exactly the appearance in the photographs of the demonstrated techniques and samples, don't worry; that is not the point. It may well be that you have discovered something new, beautiful and exciting'. This book is just that. (NB. Jinks McGrath is the author of this book, not those named by Amazon!)

Very handy little book, 20 Oct 2008
I won't profess in any way to being an expert on any type of hallmarks.Indeed,this book wasn't purchased for myself.I have been reliably informed however that it is a very handy little book for identifying many hallmarks on jewellery that you may have had for years.

If you have any interest in the subject,this is most probably the ideal book for you.

a big dissapointment, 18 Nov 2008
This book, although extensive was a complete waste of money. There are no photographs in this book. Only -mediocre quality- illustrations. Page upon page of drawings with many different styles, but since they are drawings, it is impossible to distinguish the details- If you know anything about costume jewellery then this book is not for you. Details like, which type of finding was used, quality of stones, metal finishes; clasps etc ...all go to waste. The only use that this might have is to identify styles- although even this is limiting since you will not be able to use this to distinguish between copies or original. If you would like to buy a book about different styles I would recommend "collection Costume jewelry"101 and 202 by Julia C Carrol.

another gem, 04 Sep 2007
This is another lovely book from John Peacock,this has hundreds of coloured detailed pictures covering everything from 1900 to 1999 that you could possible wish to see about brooches, pins, earings, necklaces rings, hair ornaments and combs.
As with John Peacocks Fashion books the detailed drawings are followed with detailed written descriptions. A fantastic source book, but also a lovely book to browse through and use for art projects.
If you like his work I would also recommend The complete fashion sourcebook by John Peacock. All great value for money and books I will treasure.

Magnificent photographs, 04 Dec 2007
I probably will never make jewellery using gold and silver but the book is well worth it just for the fantastically inspiring photos

500 brooches but not enough writing, 01 Sep 2006
Being a jewellery student i find books like 500 brooches useful tools used to broaden my horizons on the designing and making of jewelley. There are many excellent examples of designer brooches in this book, great photographs too, but mostly taken of the front of the brooch. I like to see the fixtures and fittings of a piece. Seeing these can also be useful as you see how they can be adapted and often form an integral part of the design of the brooch. There are a few brief pieces of writing by some of the artists that appear in the book which are interesting but very short. Although there is a description of materials used under each piece, there are no technical notes. I understand that it is not a technical handbook and that some artists may not want to give away technical secrets but a few explanations of how materials have been attached and manipulated would be very interesting, this is pariciarly from the view point of a jewellery maker. Although I have these critisims of 500 Brooches I still rate this book highly and recommmed it to anyone who is interested in art and design. I find it a useful reference point where i can find designs and makers that interest me and see how materials can achieve unexpected effects. From this reference point one can then go on to reasearch each designer and the materials used if desired.

Stylish coffee table book, 28 Oct 2005
I bought this book hoping it was a reference guide to the many types of costume jewellery brooches available these days at boot sales, flea markets, junk shops, antique fairs and, of course, on Ebay.
However, it is instead a very stylish, well photographed book on unique, designer brooches that you would seldom come across as a collector.
Interesting nevertheless and I would say worth the money.

Excellent., 04 Jan 2008
A proper, no-frills bench reference to all kinds of joining - really useful, functional and not just another glossy coffee table book for hobbyists!

ahhh, what a little gem., 13 Nov 2007
I'm extremely fussy about what i give 5 stars to. Some of my fave books thus far have had 4 stars from me. The reason I've given this little gem my 5 star rating is because....Its not pretty, it doesn't have lots of pretty photographs and inspiration, it doesn't contain projects. It hasn't jumped on a jewelry making bandwagon and thought "hey! everyone's into this, let me write a books about it and cash in". lol.
What this little spiral bound book contains is information in its purest form. Jewellers who wish to learn many ways they can construct thier work with connections can have this book open (lying flat - thankyou tim) on thier bench. It teaches us about joining techniques. Hot and cold. It covers soldering and it covers riveting and pins, staples and other little thought of methods that make you think, "Ahh, of coooourse.". Tim also goes into bonding with the cold connections, using glues/adhesives etc. Lots and lots of ways of joinging stuff together depending on your project. I think this is invaluable for me because if I ever have a situation where I think, how can I put this all together with the combustable material in the middle? then out will come this book. I also happen to love the way tim writes. He's so casual and funny and completely un patronising. We dont need to know physics and science - we just need to know why it'll work and why it wont - in its simplest explanation. There was a particular bit in this book that made me laugh out loud....its on pg 88 where tim tells us briefly about welding options. he stars the sentance; "Arc welding was discovered in suburban desmoines in 1969 when little johnny smith reached into the toaster with a butterknife. Ok, thats not true. In fact, it was patented in britian in 1885......" I just thought that was funny. ;o)
This book does contain Tims hand drawn diagrams and examples - which is helpful visual aid. The contents of this book are;
COLD CONNECTIONS, Intro, tabs, staples, bezels, threaded connections, rivets, other cold connections.
HOT CONNECTIONS, overview, soft soldering, brazing;torches,surfaces,equipment,soldering investment,misc supplies, clean up after soldering, welding;equip,modern welding.
ADHESIVES; History of,natural glue, drying glues, polyvinyl, hot melt, epoxy, which to use, cyanoacrylates and ultraviolet curing....
At the back of the book are some useful charts. Equivalent numbers - giving the US and UK guages, mm, inches and drill#. Melting points for various metals. Temperature conversions - celcius to fahrenheit and vice versa.
Then, and this was a nice surprise, a list of suppliers....IN THE UK!! YEEEEY. (I think that this one has been done for the UK, with A&C Black. I know he's also done one with his own publishing co, Brynmorgen press - which probably has US suppliers. So keep an eye out for that.)
Excellent little refrence. I highly recommend for having a more rounded knowledge of joining your parts. Good stuff.

ok, 31 Mar 2008
the book is packed full if ideas, but is a bit advanced for the beginner in some places. quite helpful though a bit 'wordy'

Very disappointing, 23 Oct 20