kokopelli pendant made from cut out silver coin

knotted pearl bracelet, a basic technique many people avoid learning which should be a part of the skills of every jewelry designer, I think--find out how to do it perfectly in this book!


The Complete Photo Guide to Jewelry Making
by Tammy Powley

review by jean

I spent my early years learning how to make jewelry from Tammy Powley's books and newsletters. Without her enthusiasm and dedication, I never would have continued with efforts to try to educate myself from home.

That is why I am so delighted to see this fantastic, complete and uniformly excellent guide to all aspects of jewelry design, plus the tools required, and projects which you can make to incite your creativity.

Ms. Powley also has some terrific assistance from her own husband, as you can see from the wonderful kokopelli coin pendant which  he created above (he also helped in many other ways). Additionally the great Cyndi Lavin, and fab Jennifer Perkins both contributed greatly to this book, in beading, mixed media and resin work. Because of the author's thoroughness and wonderfully clear style of teaching, I am delighted to see that readers will be able make selections as they learn and grow from every aspect of jewelry making: simple stringing, to polymer clay, to resin. Metal work and wire work are also included, as well as the basics of how to make jump rings and other creative techniques. And that is just the beginning!

This is the book you should give to your teen who is just starting to show an interest in jewelry making. It is never overwhelming because the author is so wonderfully clear in her explanations and because there are over 700 photos to assist in comprehending how to work with your chosen materials.
This is also the book you should buy for yourself as a reference guide you may wish to turn to to remind yourself how to do something correctly if you have forgotten a little detail. Trust me, that little detail will be there!

The photos are fantastic and the book is top of the line.

There is also a fine inspiration gallery at the end of the book to encourage designers and to show the variety which can be achieved once you master the style of jewelry design you have chosen to work with for the moment.

The Complete Photo Guide to Jewelry Making by Tammy Powley is a wonderful and energizing encyclopedia of jewelry making and technique. Ms. Powley is one of the most remarkable teachers we are fortunate to have! She is a treasure.

I recommend this great book for all types of jewelry makers, beginners on up.

Disclosure: A review copy was provided by the publisher. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.