Beaded Fringe Necklace Review

Most of the time, I seem to review a lot of books, DVDs, and other forms of how-to media that are primarily aimed at the beginning jewelry maker. This is no surprise since there are more and more hobbyist turning to jewelry making on a daily basis. However, it is refreshing to find a how-to project that steps it up a bit for those of us who are more on the intermediate to advanced level. And, that's what you'll find with one of Beadshop.com's downloadable "handouts" (as they call them) entitled Beaded Fringe Necklace ($7.95). Like many of their other handout-style projects, this is a downloadable .pdf file that you can purchase on-line through their web site (go to the site's tips link and look for the books, DVD, handouts, and video option).

The intermediate-level project is what they are calling a "renaissance inspired necklace." This ethnic design is made using wire, head pins, chain, and an assortment of gemstone beads in various shapes such as briolettes and rondelles. Techniques include how to wire wrap a briolette bead and using chain and head pins in a sort of weaving technique to create the fringes on each side of the necklace. I thought the construction of this piece had a lot of possibilities. For example, you could make the fringe parts, not include the briolette dangles, and connect them all to make a large bracelet.

As with all of the virtual classes I've seen created by Beadshop.com, this handout includes very detailed step-by-step instructions with lots of color pictures. Thus, if you are a pictures only kind of learner, you can probably just follow the pictures and be successful. As I mentioned, this is not for the newbie jewelry maker but is aimed more at the semi-experienced wire worker.