Just out from prolific publisher Kalmbach Books is Hip Handmade Memory Jewelry. Full of projects from the editor of BeadStyle Magazine, Cathy Jakicic, Hip Handmade Memory Jewelry is a fun, innovative collection of projects to tempt the jewelry maker, scrapbooker, or any craftsperson interested in combining memory projects with basic jewelry techniques.
The projects in this book use basic craft materials and beading supplies to turn photos and other mementos into wearable necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and more.
The opening chapter outlines all the basics techniques necessary for making the projects in the book. The four project chapters contain clear, easy-to-follow instructions for projects based on themes of Milestones, Hobbies, Vacations, and Remembrances. There is one "Super Quick" project in each chapter. These projects are great for introducing children to the fun of jewelry making. With 250 color photographs, I found the projects in the book visually appealing, with clear, easy-to-follow instructions. Some of my favorite projects include Notebook Charm (a Super Quick project that would make fabulous party favors for children's parties), the Sea Glass Celebration necklace, and the Best Sellers set, an incredibly creative use of miniature book images and laminating film.
by Charlene Anderson (http://www.charanderson.com)
Hip Handmade Jewelry
Projects from the editor of BeadStyle magazine Cathy Jakicic Hip Handmade Memory Jewelry is one of the newest publications from Kalmbach Books. Cathy says the idea for Memory Jewelry came after she attended a scrapbook event with a friend of hers. While there, working on a beading project, she began to realize how these 2 creative endeavors were alike. The scrapbooking group was fascinated by her project and how she designed and constructed it.The result is over 25 jewelry creations that are inspired by special occasions, divided into 4 categories: milestones, hobbies, vacations and remembrances. Yes, we all know the endless varieties of charm bracelets and pictures in small frames on pendants and keychains. But Cathy's projects go far beyond these common theme designs.
MILESTONES
Be sure you check out the decoupage bracelet; who thought of creating a way to remember wallpaper or paint. The handmade birthstone jewelry was very personal and I liked these much more than pre-made, pre-formed standard pieces. Yes, the mini memory book pendant was a bit too trite for me, but other scrapbookers might love the concept. Creating beads from special paper, such as gift wrap, or napkins from your baby shower was another neat idea others might like, but not exactly my cup of tea. Cathy describes a reward bracelet----I liked using this for myself, adding a bead for each POUND lost on my diet, and maybe a slightly larger one for every 5 lbs. That is a prime example of how you may look at one of her designs and immediately see a new and innovative way to turn it into your own project.
HOBBIES
Cathy described a project to commemorate a child's recital....while that didn't particularly appeal to me, it did spark my own creativity, as I thought about how I could take a program and use it to create a memory keepsake. I also like the pop culture project; I may have to use this to create a design for my best friend, who is dedicated movie buff. I could use movie posters and create a unique bracelet and earrings, with a slightly large set for a necklace. I think this could also work for books or album/CD covers. Oh, all of us remember our grade school art work being displayed on the refrigerator door (wonder what they ever did before refrigerators?). Cathy has a neat plan to co-op those into pendants.
VACATIONS
I enjoyed the photobook/memory book charm or bookmark project; there would be endless variations on just this project alone! An earlier project showing how to personalize a sports bag or backpack could also be a variation on this theme. Her map bead project was also very original and could be used in many ways to commemorate a trip.
REMEMBRANCES
Cathy has different projects with photos, and a piece of cloth from your baby blanket or christening dress. But my fav was one that created a keepsake memory box with an autograph, quote or even haiku, if you wish. And, the baby blanket scrap is just fun and funny.
I thought the way she structured the book into 4 design 'types" was great, since it helped me, at least, to think about the types of events that I might like to commemorate from my own life. As an example, I have small dried flowers from my husband's grandmother's funeral that I plan to put between microscope slides and solder for pendants for my step daughter, sister in law and mother in law. No, it isn't the same as some of Cathy's projects, but it is a way to remember someone without being maudlin or dramatic. I think that is one of the things she accomplishes with her projects; giving us positive, unique ways to keep a special memory "alive."
Well I do hope I didn't spoil all your fun.....if you like creating personal keepsakes, or are a scrapbooker looking to "branch out" this book may be a great place to start. I think these projects would be wonderful to create personalized gifts. College girls, or your younger daughters might enjoy this to create thoughtful gifts that would be cherished but not expensive. You can find this online at Kalmbach Books.
-Teri Baskett, S & T Creations
Hip jewelry made easy
The timing on "Hip Handmade Memory Jewelry" couldn't be more fortuitous. It's a how-to book that encourages innovation and creativity and offers a lesson in how to save money at the same time. The book is a collection of projects from Cathy Jakicic, an editor at Bead Style magazine, part of Waukesha's Kalmbach Publishing Co. (As a freelancer, Jakicic occasionally writes movie criticism for the Journal Sentinel.)
In addition to offering step-by-step instructions for each piece of jewelry to be made from the book, Jakicic suggests a secondary use for many pieces. For instance, a child's bracelet can be made progressively - each bead marking a goal achieved. Need to thank someone for use of their cottage? Consider creating a tiny container of sand to be worn as a charm. Instructions are easy, and many of the necessary tools are outlined early on in the book. "Hip Handmade Memory Jewelry" is $21.95 and available from Kalmbach Publishing or from online and local book vendors.
http://www.jsonline.com/entertainment
Right from the start I was charmed by the cover photos of the jewelry, and the way they were combined with pictures, discs, and frames, as I held the book Hip Handmade Memory Jewelry, by Cathy Jakicic, editor of BeadStyle Magazine in my hands. Everything looks so fun and delightful to make!
In fact, that is the case, as the reader delves into this unique jewelry book. Using all sorts of scrapbooking, crafting, and beading resources, the author shows you how to make wonderful memory jewelry. You can now wear a favorite memory upon your wrist or around your neck. That is an irresistible idea!
Just so you know, Cathy is a lovely person who initiated a column in BeadStyle called "Beads of Change". This column appears in every issue. It always employs beads from third world countries in order to help the sales of the bead makers who hail from those countries. How great!
To return to the book, I note that the author has a super and strong personal style, which is great for a design book which encourages memories and reflectiveness.
After the introduction, a well photographed selection of materials, tools and techniques, there are four sections. Each section offers a "super quick project" as well. This is wonderful for people like me! And maybe you! I love to whip up fast jewelry which looks like I bought it at a boutique.That sort of jewelry has my name all over it!