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Cool Jewelry - Not Just for Teens

By , About.com Guide

Most hobby demographics peg the majority of crafters as women over thirty. I fit into this myself, but more and more the younger crowd has discovered the joy of making things, and that includes jewelry (yippy!) Author and Senior Editor of BeadStyle magazine Naomi Fujimoto has tuned into this trend with her book Cool Jewels: Beading Projects for Teens ($19.95).

Since I would probably be consider an "old lady" to most teens, I can't say that I'm that tuned into the 13-something crowd, but I can't imagine any teen girl whole likes beads not liking this book, and I found a lot for the more mature jewelry maker as well.

If you are already familiar with the BeadStyle magazine layout when it comes to projects, then you'll find navigating through this book familiar. Like the magazine, it also includes vendor information for some of the more unique components and beads used in some of the jewelry pieces.

The focus is very much on style and current trends. For example, there are a few porjects that incorporate fiber. The "Work of Art" necklace combines a way cool, super large curved glass bead with ribbon and pinch end caps. There's also use of wooden beads strung and knotted on ribbon in the "If You Wood" project.

If you prefer the tried and true traditional jewelry design, then this book isn't for you. But, if you like some of the current jewelry trends like mixed media, links, hoops, pendants, then this beginning level book as a lot to offer. I really didn't see to many designs I would not feel comfortable wearing, even if I am an old lady. And, of course, if you've wanted to find a way to introduce a young person to the joy of making jewelry, this would be the perfect first step.

You can find out more about the author and her book at the BeadStyle web site.

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