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Book Review – Mixed Metals: Creating Contemporary Jewelry with Silver, Gold, Copper, Brass & More

May 6, 2009 by Barbe Saint John

 

97815966809201 Mixed Metals: creating contemporary jewelry with silver, gold, copper, brass & more. Melinda Barta & Danielle Fox

  •  Paperback: 112 pages
  • Publisher: Interweave Press (May 1, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 159668092X
  • ISBN-13: 978-1596680920

The authors Danielle Fox & Melinda Barta seem to out do themselves with each book they put out. Whenever I get their lastest, I am blown away with how great it is. I think there is NO way they can top themselves with the next one, only to be happily proven wrong.  Mixed Metals had me when I saw the cover-SWOON!!!!

The focus of Mixed Metals: Creating contemporary jewelry with silver, gold, copper, brass & more is about rethinking the way we use metal in our jewelry designs.  Utilizing premade metal beads, charms, clasp. chains and other components accessible at any bead store, this mixed metal jewelry book offers 21 boutique style projects that don’t require any metalworking skills.  Whether an experienced beader or beginner, these gorgeous projects will inspire you to “mix it up” and have fun with a variety of premade components.

The projects themselves are so lovely, you will be running to your local bead or craft store to find some of the unique items shown in this book. I have a HUGE shopping list already compiled.

Mixed Metals begins with projects based on each type of metal – Gold, Silver, Base Metals, Faux/other metals and Mixing Metals. Each chapter has background information on that type of metal, from  history, facts, common properties to  care, and cleaning.  Each project had step by step instructions and detailed photography.

There are also techniques for altering the metals by using liver of sulfur, other patinas, and hammering.   A glossary of terms, beading & wirework 101 techniques, resources and shopping guide are at the end of the book.

The diversity of the projects as well as the components makes this book really stand out.  I think this book will be liberating to alot of  jewelrymakers who feel a bit stuck with just using all one type of metal. You won’t be afraid to throw caution to the wind and mix some gold and silver chains with copper charms after reading this book.   I can’t pick ONE favorite out of this book because the are all so lush.  Its a gorgeous book not only for it’s projects, but also for it’s inspiration and shopping links.

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Hama BioBeads Review: The Eco-Friendly Fuse Beads You’ll Love

As a long-time crafter, I’ve worked with all kinds of materials, but there’s something about fuse beads that never gets old. The creativity, the colors, the nostalgia—it’s all part of the fun! But let’s be honest, traditional plastic beads aren’t exactly great for the environment. That’s why I was so excited to try Hama BioBeads, an eco-friendly alternative that promises all the fun of classic Hama beads without the plastic guilt. So, do they live up to the hype? Let’s dive in!

What Are Hama BioBeads?

Hama BioBeads are a biodegradable version of the classic Hama fuse beads. Instead of being made from petroleum-based plastic, these beads are crafted from a plant-based, eco-friendly material that naturally decomposes over time. That means less plastic waste while still enjoying the same vibrant colors and creativity that fuse bead lovers expect.

First Impressions: Do They Feel Different?

When I first opened the pack, I was curious—would they feel different from traditional beads? The answer: not really! The beads are slightly smoother to the touch, but they’re just as easy to handle, pick up with tweezers, and place on a pegboard. The colors are just as bright and bold, which was a big relief since I was worried they might look dull or faded.

One of the things I love about these beads is that they’re the same size as regular Hama beads, so they work with all my existing pegboards and accessories. No need to buy new tools or change my crafting process!

How Do They Fuse?

Now, onto the real test—how well do they iron together?

I followed my usual fusing process, using parchment paper and a medium heat setting on my iron. The beads melted together perfectly, just like regular Hama beads. No weird smells, no uneven melting—just smooth, well-bonded designs.

I also noticed that once cooled, the fused beads felt a bit sturdier than traditional plastic beads. That’s a huge plus because sometimes regular beads can feel brittle or break apart too easily.


What Makes Hama BioBeads Special?

? Eco-Friendly & Biodegradable – The biggest selling point! These beads naturally break down over time, reducing environmental impact.
? Non-Toxic & Safe for Kids – Made from natural materials, they’re a safer option for little crafters.
? Same Great Quality – They look, feel, and fuse just like classic Hama beads—no sacrifice in quality!
? Works with Existing Hama Accessories – You don’t need special pegboards or tools; they fit right into your current stash.
? Great for Schools & Eco-Conscious Crafters – If you’re an educator or a parent looking to introduce sustainability to kids in a fun way, these are perfect!

The only potential downside is that since these are a newer product, they may not be as widely available as traditional Hama beads. Some colors also seem to be in and out of stock, so if you see a set you love, I’d suggest grabbing them while you can.

 If you love fuse bead crafting but want a more sustainable option, Hama BioBeads are a fantastic choice. They’re just as fun, colorful, and easy to use as regular Hama beads, but they come with the added bonus of being better for the planet. Whether you’re a hobby crafter, a parent, or a teacher, these beads are a guilt-free way to get creative.

So if you’re looking to make your crafts a little greener, give Hama BioBeads a try!  Check them out here!

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