Precious Jewellery from Plastics: Methods and Techniques

Description

Whilst many jewellers and designers are working with plastics these days, there is very little information available about the methods and techniques required to manipulate them for jewellery-making purposes. This book includes instructions and advice on marking out and cutting, joining, laser and water-jet cutting, welding, curling, heating and colouring. Various methods for finishing plastic professionally are also explored, and the book features an inspirational gallery of works by contemporary artists, showcasing a fantastic range of results. With clear, step-by-step instructions, and full-colour images throughout, Precious Jewellery from Plastics requires no previous knowledge and covers everything you need to know about working with plastics, including polypropylene, acrylic, nylon, polystyrene and PVC. Precious Jewellery from Plastics is a comprehensive guide to working with plastic for those who are keen to experiment with the medium for the first time, or even those with more experience who would like to expand their repertoire of skills.

Chris Bond was originally educated as a scientist rather than a jeweller. However, while studying, Chris started to be influenced by craft, beginning with blacksmithing and developing into nearly 30 years of work with a range of materials, from leather and gold to textiles and plastics. In 2000 Chris began working as a technical jeweller (rather than a designer jeweller), developing techniques and processes. He discovered a fascination with plastics, in particular solving problems such as bonding and working with materials including polypropylene, nylon, polystyrene and many more besides.

"Technical information is at the heart of the book; there's plenty of coverage on types of plastics and best practices for using them in jewelry projects. VERDICT The focus is on technique rather than projects (there are only two included). However, most jewelry makers shouldn't have a problem using what they learn here to design their own works of art" --Library Journal