Unexpected Findings

Book excerpt: Give new life to your jewelry designs by using common jewelry findings in surprising ways. Readers will enjoy this book as it takes a completely new approach to working with jewelry findings by focusing on nontraditional uses for them: bead frames become connectors; toggle clasps become pendants; filigree can be rolled to create tube beads or bails; and so much more. Author Michelle Mach offers a thorough overview of the many different jewelry findings available, essential tools, and other materials, such as beads, wire, and cords and ribbons. Tips for modifying purchased findings with patinas, beads, hammering, painting, and other jewelry making techniques are also provided. Fifty jewelry projects showcase one or more findings used in a new or unusual way. The designs include necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, some of which can be taken apart and reassembled to become different pieces of jewelry. Basic jewelry making techniques, such as stringing, simple wirework, and basic metalwork, are also covered along with a thorough list of resources.