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Stringing is something most, if not all of us, do when we start our jewelry making journeys.  While many of us go on to other disciplines, stringing is still pleasurable to return too. It can also be a creative  challenge.  Not so much in technique but in coming up with fresh designs which say, "Wow!" 

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Multistrand Jewelry: Secrets for Success is a book which I just received for review. The compilation of 27 of the best bracelet and necklace designs from Bead Style magazine speaks volumes about how to make wonderful jewelry from simple techniques.

[Image]Putting together multiple strands is an excellent way to add oomph to strung designs.  The projects all show how to use different findings, beads, tools and simple wire wrapping to great effect.  For example, Mary Champion's necklace on the cover shows a slanted design with one clever idea - she used bails to connect the chip strands to the straight portion!

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The book shares many invaluable tips which are especially useful for beginners.

[Image]Choosing the right components is essential for successful designs.

[Image]None of the techniques are difficult so the book is ideal for beginners and up. There are clear instructions as shown in the directions for the use of Gilder's Paste to colorize metal.

[Image]Simple layering of metal components are just what was needed for this lovely green piece entitled Mint Medley.  If you can do a wrapped loop, you can make this lovely flower!

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My favorite from the book was Addie Kidd's Carnelian Cascade necklace.  The innovative clasp is actually the flower portion.  What a clever variation of the button and loop closure idea!  The petals are joined together with ribbon elastic. These can be opened up thus allowing the passage of a 10 mm round carnelian bead through to fasten the necklace!

[Image]All in all, a delightful collection. 

Disclosure

Before You Go:
Multistrand Necklaces Anyone? Some Cool Ideas and Tutorials How to Step Down a Multistrand Illusion Necklace More Multistrand Necklace Tutorials
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Original Post by THE BEADING GEM
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