Making Metal Jewelry: How to stamp, forge, form and fold metal jewelry designs

This is a fantastic book for someone who wants to get started in metals, but is overwhelmed by the tools, techniques, options, products, etc. The opening chapter, "Metal Fundamentals," is more comprehensive than many intro-level books on the subject, as it includes not only the "basics" like pliers, annealing, dapping, and making wire loops, but also topics such as etching, patinas and attachments. The techniques are taught in a well-photographed, step-by-step project-based format. If you're a more experienced jewelry maker already familiar with the basics of wire, moving metal, drawing a bead and so forth, the page-size finished project photographs are full of adaptable ideas. For makers who don't have access to a torch/are scared of a torch/are forbidden from having a torch in their living quarters, there are many projects in the book which rely on forming and cold connections, and don't even require annealing. Finally, at less than $20, this book is a great alternative if you have wanted to take a class in metalwork, but don't have access due to geography/funds.

I am a total novice at metal smithing. I have dabbled in beading and enjoyed it, but this is something I've always wanted to try. Until now, I absolutely had no clue what to do. Jen Cushman's new book is the answer to my prayers. She describes the verbiage, the proper tools, and offers many examples with step-out instructions. The instructions are so easy to follow that i felt encouraged to give it a try. If that's not enough, there are tons of pictures, which I think is important. There's something for everyone from beginner to to advanced. So far, I have made a pair of colored, embossed, copper earrings. I highly recommend Making Metal Jewelry by Jen Cushman.

So many tips and techniques I don't know where to begin. As an intermediate, this book is great. But it has so much more for me to learn. Looking forward to accomplishing all of these skills.

I am a big fan of Jen Cushman and her work, so this book was on my wish list. I was thrilled when I received it because I had the weekend to immerse myself in it. What a marvelous book! It is not only a terrific reference book, which I will use often, but it is also filled with great projects that will provide inspiration for future projects.Whether you are a novice or a seasoned jewelry maker, this book will fill a gap in your jewelry making library. Jen presents the material in an easy, informative style that is enjoyable and not "text book". The step outs in the projects section are invaluable.This is the second book of Jen's that I have and I love them both!

This is the second Jen Cushman book I have purchased. LOVE them both. Out of the dozen metal smithing books I have, I like this book because it is easy to follow, simple enough for a beginner but challenging for someone who has prior experience. Each of the items you can make is current and fashionable. Great for a gift or to make and wear for yourself. I also like that each project is just a starting or jumping off point - plenty of inspiration to customize and make your own. Jen makes hammering and torching fun!

Enjoyed reading about the techniques but I didn't really care for any of the projects in the book. Will definitely try some of the projects though, in order to solidify the skills gleaned from the reading material.

I have been making metal jewelry for many years and this book gave me new ideas. The steps in project are well planned and there are lots of pictures to show how the steps are done. What I really liked is the projects in this book are organic rather than looking like they were made by a machine. There are projects for a person who has never tried making jewelry and projects to challenge those who have.

I have been working with metal on larger scales as a metal artist. I am curious about finer, smaller pieces- specifically jewerly. I downloaded this on my kindle and have been reading the book to gather information for future projects. The projects seem realistic and I am excited to get started soon!