Jan 07
I don't know about you, but I have a large cache of lovely buttons which I sort now and then and put away. With this book, this should no longer happen.The authors have put together lots of ideas for using up these little treasures. They begin by talking about materials, threads and findings and go on to recommend tools, adhesives and organising workspaces. The practical methods of putting together the jewellery is well illustrated and they make it look simple. Necklaces, rings, bracelets plus accessories are all included and would make excellent presents. I think teenagers in particular would enjoy exploring this book and creating their own personalised jewellery.
* Merseyside Embroiderers Guild *
Feb/Mar 07
I found this book very difficult to review. A book about button jewellery - a great idea, but just how many different things can you do with buttons, I thought. Well I was partly right and partly wrong. A nice brightly presented well laid out book that starts with a fairly clear and concise section on materials and techniques. The techniques are well explained with easy to follow illustrations. There are 27 projects set out over four different sections, three of these sections are jewellery (including one dedicated to lovely children's pieces), and whilst each project is different, some of them are only ever so slightly different and it does begin to feel a little bit repetitive towards the end.
My favourite part of the book was the fourth section on accessories. It still uses buttons, but also incorporates felt to make key rings, belts and hair slides. This part of the book just gives it that little bit extra and is what makes it worthwhile.
The book would be good for beginners as none of the projects are especially hard, and is worth reading just to see the variety of buttons used. Although unfortunately a suppliers list is not provided.
Mary-Ann Lyon
* Bead *
