Metal Clay Jewelry 
asked by runaway on November 5, 2006 8:07 PM
Hot New Jewelry Making Material
*Features innovative metal clay techniques not found in any other books *Perfect for every skill level--covering the basics through the cutting edge
Polymer clay and jewelry artists are experimenting with metal clay more than ever, but there are few books on the market to show them how to use this exciting new medium. Highlights include:
*19 fashionable step-by-step projects, including a variety of styles provided by both the author and talented contributing artists *An easy, skill-building approach that teaches readers a new technique with each project *A wide range of creative techniques--from carving and setting gems to making clasps and mixing found objects with metal clay
Reviews
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While this book does cover the basics of working with metal clay, it contains projects suitable for all skill levels. The instructions are clear and the 'silver nuggets' of wisdom are a wonderful addition to the projects.
I really enjoyed seeing a mixed media approach to metal clay - too often books on the material stick to replicating more traditional silversmithing methods. As a polymer clay artist, this gave me even more inspiration on how to successfully mix the two media.
I really enjoyed seeing a mixed media approach to metal clay - too often books on the material stick to replicating more traditional silversmithing methods. As a polymer clay artist, this gave me even more inspiration on how to successfully mix the two media.
reviewed by success06 on November 27, 2006 11:22 AM
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Metal Clay, sounds like an oxymoron. How can two elements so different be associated? For anyone that hasn't tried Precious Metal Clay and Art Clay Silver--clays that change into Silver or Gold--Louise Duhamel created the one book the reader will ever need. When I purchased "Metal Clay Jewelry," I read all of the projects after glancing through techniques I was not completely familiar with. For me, this was higly unusual. I buy many books that peak my interest, usually glance through them, then place them on the shelf for reference.
"Metal Clay Jewelry" was so well put together that it did not jump onto my bookshelf. I have most of the major Metal Clay books. "Metal Clay Jewelry" is the best book on the subject.
First, the topics covered under the section "The Magic Of Metal Clay" were complete--covering making texture, making molds, creating hollow forms, adding gemstones and findings, and discussing all types of metal clays and their uses--so anyone, from beginner to expert can create their own masterpiece. Many types of art clay products that were covered, I have never seen in any other metal clay book published.
Secondly, the section "Making the Projects" is so unique, using objects I would never imagine using--cement, chandelier crystals, colored pencils, and floral foam to name a few.
Some of these projects were made just by Louise Duhamel, but that was another wonderful aspect.
Most craft books cover projects only by the writer. Louise decided to share the wealth and show the metal clay community some of the fabulous, talented people out there--Barbara Becker Simon, Robert Dancik, Louis Kappel, Jane Levy, Maria Martinez, Anne Reiss, Gordon K. Uyehara, Shahasp Valentine, and Patricia Walton. Some of these contributing artists I was unaware of.
The popular artists displayed unique pieces of art that no other step-by-step book offered. The enamel butterfly technique made me want to push myself to reach a higher level of ability, I am sure that this insect will require my complete attention, but it will be well worth it.
Third, the end of the book covered the artistic background and contact information for these talented people. Most authors mention other contributors in passing. Louise Duhamel made it possible to reach these people and view additional work of theirs on the internet.
An extra tidbit Ms. Duhamel added throughout the book is her "Silver Nugget" small paragraphs on something she discovered and shares that will make work easier, such as the use of a toothpick and Badger Balm to pick up a gem. Each of these "Nuggets" make the reader say, "a-ha I wish I thought of that."
Lastly, the resource section, a part often omitted or tossed in as an afterthought, covered internet addresses for quality materials and further information, if needed. Since the projects pages are so complete and easy to follow, I can't image a need to pick up another book, until new techniques or materials are developed, and at that time I expect to find those in Ms. Duhamel's "next book," I hope! Thank you for being a one-of-a-kind artist, author, and sharing person.
"Metal Clay Jewelry" was so well put together that it did not jump onto my bookshelf. I have most of the major Metal Clay books. "Metal Clay Jewelry" is the best book on the subject.
First, the topics covered under the section "The Magic Of Metal Clay" were complete--covering making texture, making molds, creating hollow forms, adding gemstones and findings, and discussing all types of metal clays and their uses--so anyone, from beginner to expert can create their own masterpiece. Many types of art clay products that were covered, I have never seen in any other metal clay book published.
Secondly, the section "Making the Projects" is so unique, using objects I would never imagine using--cement, chandelier crystals, colored pencils, and floral foam to name a few.
Some of these projects were made just by Louise Duhamel, but that was another wonderful aspect.
Most craft books cover projects only by the writer. Louise decided to share the wealth and show the metal clay community some of the fabulous, talented people out there--Barbara Becker Simon, Robert Dancik, Louis Kappel, Jane Levy, Maria Martinez, Anne Reiss, Gordon K. Uyehara, Shahasp Valentine, and Patricia Walton. Some of these contributing artists I was unaware of.
The popular artists displayed unique pieces of art that no other step-by-step book offered. The enamel butterfly technique made me want to push myself to reach a higher level of ability, I am sure that this insect will require my complete attention, but it will be well worth it.
Third, the end of the book covered the artistic background and contact information for these talented people. Most authors mention other contributors in passing. Louise Duhamel made it possible to reach these people and view additional work of theirs on the internet.
An extra tidbit Ms. Duhamel added throughout the book is her "Silver Nugget" small paragraphs on something she discovered and shares that will make work easier, such as the use of a toothpick and Badger Balm to pick up a gem. Each of these "Nuggets" make the reader say, "a-ha I wish I thought of that."
Lastly, the resource section, a part often omitted or tossed in as an afterthought, covered internet addresses for quality materials and further information, if needed. Since the projects pages are so complete and easy to follow, I can't image a need to pick up another book, until new techniques or materials are developed, and at that time I expect to find those in Ms. Duhamel's "next book," I hope! Thank you for being a one-of-a-kind artist, author, and sharing person.
reviewed by jan1975 on November 27, 2006 8:44 PM
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This is a wonderful new metal clay book. Anyone interested in metal clay fabrication should buy this book for their metal clay library. It is a must have. The projects are really beautiful. Louise and all the contributors present projects that are unique and well explained. The projects show the great development that has happened in metal clay fabrication in recent years.
I especially found the "Silver Nuggets" (tips) to be insightful and of great help.
I especially found the "Silver Nuggets" (tips) to be insightful and of great help.
reviewed by lauren on November 27, 2006 11:51 PM
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Louise Duhamel has created one of the most excellent books on Metal Clay. She has included projects by some of the most talented Metal Clay Artists today, herself most certainly among them. Represented is a wide range of styles and techniques, all well written, easy to follow, and accompanied by fine photos. These are all completely different from projects/work in previous Metal Clay books. Also, a wonderful gallery section is very inspirational!
reviewed by james58 on November 28, 2006 6:53 AM
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With so many good books on the market, I was very happy to see so many new techniques described and very well explained in this book. Louise Duhamel has done a great job putting this book together. It is stimulating for beginners as well as for the more advanced Metalclay artist.
A great resource for teachers of metalclay and a 'must have' for people who like to try new techniques.
Maggie Bergman
Senior Teacher - PMC
A great resource for teachers of metalclay and a 'must have' for people who like to try new techniques.
Maggie Bergman
Senior Teacher - PMC
reviewed by fazer on November 29, 2006 3:47 PM