More and more, I'm seeing a trend toward mixed media crafting and that includes making jewelry. Considering that most of us have experience with other craft forms, it really isn't that surprising. As far as materials, we don't have to limit ourselves to beads and metal. And, as far as techniques, we very often use some of our jewelry making techniques to make items other than jewelry. A number of craft authors have managed to plug into this mix of jewelry and other crafts, and here are some book reviews I've done recently and in the past which take a closer look at this trend in book crafting as well:

The Impatient Beader Gets Inspired and Sparkletastic! both by Margot Potter concentrate on easy to make jewelry designs as well as other accessories and use a mix of basic jewelry making techniques as well as other crafting techniques that many of are familiar with.

Resin Jewelry Art is another book written by Sherri Haab which works an unusual crafting technique into the world of jewelry designing.

Micro-Macramé Jewelry by fiber artist Joan Babcock takes macrame jewelry to a new level, leaving the hippy days behind.

Crochet with Wire uses good old crochet techniques to weave wonderful wire jewelry designs.