Sept 10
Celtic Jewellery by Amanda Walker, is the latest in the brilliantly priced (GBP4.99) Twenty-to-make series. It has a huge range of techniques and ideas there are lots of interesting knotted pieces, bag dangles and some really different paper ear rings. I had a go at knotting a bracelet and really liked the design. I wouldn't say it felt a massively Celtic book, I think if you used more oriental beads for example you could completely change the feel of a design. As I say though there are massive of techniques here, and none of the designs list huge quantities of expensive beads. This would be a perfect book for anyone wanting to dip their toe into jewellery making, wanting to extend their skills or wanting a gift for a younger crafter. At GBP4.99 this book is the same price as some beading magazines and you get a lot more ideas, no adverts, and a really neat little tome to come back to time and again if you are stuck for ideas- perfect!
* Anke.blogs.com *
Oct 10
Some things are timeless, and the art of the Celts appeals just as much to us as it did to them, over a thousand years ago. All that complex knotwork, fantastic beasts and swirling patterns are not just good for adorning manuscripts and metalwork however; it also looks great turned into eye-catching contemporary jewellery.
This book makes the most of the vast array of craft media available these days and interprets Celtic style using such diverse materials as PMC, scrapbooking paper, novelty brads, fabric flowers, felt and a variety of yarns. Tie knots, work with some lovely Celtic beads, braid, use buttons and twirl silk-covered wire to great effect, making twenty different pieces and having another twenty variations to get the creative juices flowing for your own designs. Some prior knowledge of the chosen media is useful, and in many cases essential although instructions are given for each piece. These books are small, and if you are hoping for photographic step-by-steps you had better look elsewhere. For those like this reviewer with plenty of craft experience and lots of bits and pieces this is a great addition to your library as it gets you to find new uses for all sorts of things you would not think of making into jewellery. A useful and often surprising book.
* Myshelf.com *
Oct 10
Experienced author Amanda Walker showcases her beautiful work with these Celtic-themed pieces of jewellery, ranging from necklaces to bracelets and earrings to bag charms. The 20 projects are covered in the popular 'recipe' style of the series, which gives clear simple and comprehensive step-by-step instructions to creating the piece of jewellery pictured. Each project is accompanied by a sumptuous variation, taking in all corners of the Celtic world, ancient and modern.
* Machine Knitting Monthly *
