Vintage Redux Book Review

Got a box of jewelry (old and new) that doesn’t appeal to you anymore?? Don’t want to throw out Great Aunt Millies Faux Pearls but they are SO not you?? Not to worry, Vintage Redux author Brenda Schweder has the solution to your dillema! After you read this book, you are going to be asking everyone you know “you aren’t going to throw that broken necklace away are you??? Beung a mixed media jewelry artist using recycled and found objects I found this book to be a real gem (no pun intended!). Ms. Schweder has a real gift for combining things you wouldn’t think would work together but do!

Everyone has a box or drawer full of broken jewelry, single earrings, hand me downs, etc…. This book will have you digging through all your stuff and making fab new pieces! If you are a bit squeamish about tearing apart something for fear it may be valuable, the book starts with a chapter “What is vintage, Really” to soothe your nerves . That also has a section on cleaning, repairing and storing which is helpful. It then moves on to “How to ReDux”which talks about what makes jewelry up to date.

The first project is a restringing project, which eases you into making something old new again. Then the book is then broken into 4 sections: New Order Redux, Unexpected Redux, Heirloom Redux and Inspirational Redux. The New Order Redux section is vintage jewelry remade into new pieces. Unexpected Redux is all about using vintage found objects into jewelry and accessories. Heirloom Redux is all about working your heirlooms into jewelry without altering them by drilling or cutting apart. And the Inspirational Redux section is the gallery section of lots more eye candy including my favorite “Fob Nobbing”.

This book really makes you think creatively about using all that stuff stashed in drawers and jewelry boxes. Even if you don’t want to use vintage parts, you will still find the techniques useful to modern materials too.

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Selling Your Handmade Jewelry on Etsy: A Beginner's Guide

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!

Comments

Brenda Schweder says
January 5, 2009 at 10:38 pm
Barbe — Thanks for the awesome review! I’m tickled when anyone is helped by one of my books, but your article has me double-inspired! I just received three craft lots of vintage jewelry broken pieces and parts from Marilyn Lauria (the vintage jewelry dealer I interviewed in Vintage Redux) today. I couldn’t wait to get them home and cull through! Now it’s hard to sleep — my mind is whirling!
From one addict to another, thanks again! —
-b.
barbe says
January 14, 2009 at 9:04 pm
You are so welcome Brenda!!! I LOVE it, and you are so lucky to get more lots from Marilyn!