My review

CRYSTAL chic – Custom jewelry with dazzling details, by Debbi Simon is a quick and easy read that shows us a wide variety of techniques for adding crystal to our jewelry designs.  I am primarily a bead weaver and stringer, so this book has inspired me to expand my skills. 

I found the opening sections on Materials and Techniques to be some of the best instruction I’ve read on using glues, resins and molds with crystals.  Debbi gave me just the right amount of information to feel confident that I could achieve satisfactory results, and didn’t overload me with too many details.  She generously shares her insights with us via side-bar tips; the type of inside information that comes from years of experience, teaching and swapping information with others.

Deb’s designs cover a wide range of styles and use a wide variety of materials. which should appeal to many.  While this wasn’t a book where I wanted to recreate every design, I found myself thinking about how to take an idea and incorporate it into my own pieces.  I was especially intrigued with her manipulation of filigree to create rings and earrings which were then embellished with crystals and her layering of flat-back crystals on crystal pendants.  The book inspired me to go outside my comfort zone while continuing to use my favorite component: CRYSTALLIZED^TM - Swarovski Elements!

          I was also happy to see the Gallery section included designs from some of our Sparkling Community members: Kellie DeFries, Krystal Wick and Lisa Pavelka.  It is easy for me to recommend this book to anyone wanting to learn a variety of new techniques for adding crystal elements to their jewelry.

‹ belongs to whom, Christian Louboutin Sand Spiked High-Top Sneaker

 CRYSTAL CHIC: Custom Jewelry with dazzling details

my review ›