Craft Focus - Feb/Mar (Issue 71)

craft focus 123 The latest jewellery must-haves Trend predictions for 2019 Large dangly earrings look set to prove popular this year. Made using a mix of Czech and Japanese beads with Beadalon ear wire and ‘chandelier’ components from John Bead, these stylish designs by ImpressArt incorporate Pantone’s Colour of the Year, coral. It is also easy to make large hoops and other shapes using the company’s artistic wire combined with its many finding forms. Personalised jewellery continues to be strong, with crafters producing their own designs in a selection of soft metals. To meet growing demand, ImpressArt has recently introduced a range of artisan metal blanks with a pewter base and thick plating in gold, silver and rose gold. Enthusiasts can use the products to make professional- standard individually-stamped pieces. There are 17 fonts to choose from, and more than 250 stamps. ImpressArt is distributed in the UK by Wholesale Beads Ltd. The firm offers more than 16,000 jewellery products, from the smallest Czech beads to premium stamping sets. +44 (0)1425 837 244 wholesale-beads.eu Scents & sensibility New from GMC Publications, Metal Clay Jewelry Workshop is a comprehensive guide featuring 30 projects by top designers. Taking readers through the process of crafting necklaces, rings, bracelets, brooches and earrings, this fun title includes 450 stunning photographs and clear instructions throughout. It’s written by Sian Hamilton and priced at £14.99. Other new publications include Lori Wenger’s Aromatherapy Jewelry with Lava Beads (£8.99, Leisure Arts), which includes 15 designs to make diffuser necklaces, bracelets and earrings. Each project uses porous lava beads which can be treated with essential oils to create an enticing scent. +44 (0)1273 402 873 thegmcgroup.com Reading matter The ancient Japanese braiding technique kumihimo experienced a resurgence in 2018, and Search Press has published two new books on the subject. Written by YouTube star Christina Larsen, Kumihimo Wirework Made Easy replaces cord with wire, allowing crafters to create one-of-a-kind necklaces and bracelets. More than 20 projects are included, demonstrating a range of styles and inspirations. It retails at £16.99. Readers will also love A Beginner’s Guide to Kumihimo by Donna McKean-Smith. This beautifully illustrated volume demonstrates how to learn the basics of braiding and beading to make 12 exceptional pieces of handcrafted jewellery. The retail price is £8.99. +44 (0)1892 510 850 searchpress.com