Creative Metal Clay Jewelry: Techniques, Projects, Inspiration

I first borrowed this book from the library, and now I have finally been able to order it. I have used two other books on this subject, but I think CeCe Wire's book is best suited for me. I am a beginner with this material, however, I want my finished projects to have a certain streamlined sophistication, and I feel that of all of the books I have read on this subject, this book suits my needs and goals best. Ms. Wire has a wonderful grasp on the technical aspects of working with metal clay. Her projects are great for beginners, well illustrated and explained, but the final results are professional and stylish. One does not need to invest in many additional tools or materials in order to finish her projects. I also find that her projects and gallery of finished pieces provide a great springboard to encourage the reader to envision and create their own great jewelry pieces. There is a non-jewelry piece in here, but that does not bother me at all. It encourages the reader to consider other uses for metal clay, and who says jewelry must only be worn on the body? Why not create decorative objects as "jewelry" for the home? If you do not have a kiln, do not worry. I fire my pieces on my gas stove or with a small butane torch purchased from my local home improvement store. Also, I hear that bead and jewelry stores that have PMC or Art Clay Silver classes or paint-your-own-ceramics studios are often willing to fire your pieces for a reasonable fee. So give this book a try, I hope you will be as pleased as I am!

If you want just one book on PMC that covers techniques, tempts with beautifully photographed pieces, is clearly written and, when followed, gives you good result, get this book. From the beginning of the book, you share Wire's enthusiasm for the medium. By the end of chapter two, you want to start.Just in time, Wire helps you out by providing a clear introduction to tools, equipment and the space you need to work. But wait, there's more! A satisfying and visually pleasing book of projects, from easy to challenging, will keep you busy for a long, creative while.From the beginner to the experienced enthusiast, PMC lovers will find projects that they can practice on. Best of all, with the techniques shown and the gallery to drool over, this book becomes a starting point for your own work and outlet for the considerable creative energy this book inspires.A great plus to this book is the variety of projects--earrings, bracelets, pendants, rings, pins, beads and sculptural pieces are all covered in enough detail to fire you enthusiasm and whet your need to move forward with your own ideas.

I am a new to PMC and this book is fantastic. It gives clear instructions and wonderful ideas for projects from beginner to advanced. I can't wait to get started working with PMC!

If you are interested in trying your hand at Metal Clay then this is the book for you. Even experienced Metal Clay people will find it enjoyable and informative. It is a lovely book which truly does inspire as well as instruct. Fine craft and photography make it a pleasure to view. Clear, easy-to-follow directions assure sucess with the projects.

This book includes some good how to projects, general information, specific working problems w/silver clay & some gorgeous as well as creative examples of what can be done with precious metal clay. The projects & techniques are easy enough for beginners, but give "artists" who want to try this stuff technical meat to apply to more advanced projects. Many of the pieces that she includes in the book as examples of what can be done are very inspirational & get one's creative juices flowing. I highly recommend this book. I keep coming back to it for inspiration, information & frankly can't wait to get back into the studio after flipping through it.