Bohemian Inspired Jewelry Celebration!

I'm delighted to be part of the blog-party kickoff for Lorelei and Erin's book, Bohemian-Inspired Jewelry! I pre-purchased this little gem on Amazon ages ago, the moment I heard it was coming out, and couldn't wait to get it! I wasn't disappointed--it's gorgeous (really stunning photography), inspiring, and helpful! I've been an admirer of both Erin and Lorelei's work for a long time--I love knotted pieces, and unusual construction techniques, which both these ladies are virtuosos with! Perusing their designs has continually helped me think outside the box with my own work.

When I got the book, I was also thrilled to discover additional contributions by other crazy-talented artists too--Mary Jane Dodd, Denise Yezbak Moore, and Tracy Statler. I wasn't familiar with Denise's and Tracy's work before, so I am tickled to find new artists to add to my favorites list!

The book includes some really helpful features: a supplies list especially helpful for knotting and working with fibers; a section on knotting, stringing and wirework skills that are used throughout the rest of the projects, with some great illustrations (the drawings are super easy to understand); and references in each project to the skills you will need to refer to as you work, with the page number they're on. This makes it streamlined and easy to use. Many of the knotting techniques I wanted to learn are included, which I was so excited about! (And they're not nearly as complicated as I had thought...) The instructions for each project are comprehensive, very detailed, and thoughtfully written.

As I suspected, I am already brimming with new ideas for my own work....I've wanted to make a lariat style necklace for a long time, and this makes me desperately want to do it RIGHT NOW:

And now I MUST have velvet ribbon too. I really wanted to do up a lariat for this post but I just haven't had time...

Of course I would wear this with a plunging neckline, perhaps with something like this:

Via Polyvore

To one of the many, many ultra-posh parties I attend on at least a weekly basis.
In my mind.

So if you're in the market for out-of-the-box jewelry inspiration, ideas for using fiber in your pieces, and some absolutely essential knotting skills for your skill toolbox, this book will be a great investment!