Wire Style by Denise Peck

Paperback: 120 pages
Published: 2008
ISBN-10: 1596680709
ISBN-13: 978-1596680708

The first part of the book contains useful information on wire and tools, followed by a brief ‘how to’ section on techniques, such as; straightening wire, making simple, wrapped and briolette loops, coils and spirals, making jump rings, making hooks and earwires, piercing and oxidising.

This majority of the book contains fifty jewellery projects from eight jewellery designers and incorporates a range of styles and techniques.
The breakdown of the projects is as follows:
Necklaces and Pendants – 22 projects
Bracelets and Bangles – 16 projects
Earrings – 12 projects

The projects are graded at three different levels: 1, 2 and 3, although no explanation is given on what these levels mean. 
The breakdown of the levels is as follows:
Level 1 – 26 projects
Level 2 – 18 projects
Level 3 – 6 projects

I picked this book up because I fancied doing something different and there are quite a few projects that I liked the look of.  There is a large, detailed photograph of each piece with a list of techniques, materials and tools used and detailed instructions, but there are no ‘how to’ photographs, which might make it a bit difficult for an absolute beginner to follow.

I would say that this is the perfect book for those who have experience of other jewellery-making techniques and want to try wire-working.  It gives a good overview of what can be done with wire, as there is a good range of techniques, including four projects on wire-wrapping and seven on chainmaille.  I think I will probably try one or two techniques and then buy a more specialised book on that technique, but for me, it is a good general ‘starter’ book.

Sam x