There are so many how-to-make jewelry books in print, but this one is different!
There is plenty of inspiration to be found in the illustration & prose for each project; you can tell that all of these girls had a lot of fun with their collaborations!!
The step-by-step directions are clear & easy to follow, even for a jewelry novice like me!
I can't wait to see what this dynamic duo come up with next!!! Kelly & Ruth, thank you!!!

This book has become one of my favorite "go to" books when I need a little inspiration or just want to browse the yummy eye candy. The authors have done a fabulous job of pulling together an incredible group of artists with lots of techniques for everyone. They've shown what happens when you bring together fabulous artists with a true collaborative spirit - amazing art!

I was immediately drawn to this book because of its eye-catching layout and use of found objects. Being a hoarder of many things (ephemera, beads, buttons, game pieces, etc...) I appreciate how this book made me rethink my materials and the way I create. I just finished several beginner jewelry classes this summer. Some of the ideas I could do with the little skill I have and the materials that are around my home. Other projects require more pricey materials (a disk cutter for example) and more skill. I consider this a good thing because the book can appeal to beginners like me and "seasoned" artists. No matter what your level, you will find endless inspiration in this book. After taking countless jewelry books out the the library this summer and jotting down the few ideas I liked from each book, it was refreshing to find a book where I found value in every page. Just the pictures alone were worth the purchase. The only "heads-up" I have is that if you're an absolute beginner, some of the directions tend to be on the basic side. For example, if you have never tried wire wrapping, you may need to find more detailed instructions and practice a bit before jumping into the projects. Whether you try these projects on your own or collaborate with others, "A Charming Exchange" will spark your creativity.

I was immediately drawn to this book because of its eye-catching layout and use of found objects. Being a hoarder of many things (ephemera, beads, buttons, game pieces, etc...) I appreciate how this book made me rethink my materials and the way I create. I just finished several beginner jewelry classes this summer. Some of the ideas I could do with the little skill I have and the materials that are around my home. Other projects require more pricey materials (a disk cutter for example) and more skill. I consider this a good thing because the book can appeal to beginners like me and "seasoned" artists. No matter what your level, you will find endless inspiration in this book. After taking countless jewelry books out the the library this summer and jotting down the few ideas I liked from each book, it was refreshing to find a book where I found value in every page. Just the pictures alone were worth the purchase. The only "heads-up" I have is that if you're an absolute beginner, some of the directions tend to be on the basic side. For example, if you have never tried wire wrapping, you may need to find more detailed instructions and practice a bit before jumping into the projects. Whether you try these projects on your own or collaborate with others, "A Charming Exchange" will spark your creativity.

~*There is no simple way to define how this book has touched my heart and mind!*~

I have been a fan of Ruth's for several years now, and have always been moved and impressed by her work. From the moment that I opened the first parcel full of art work that she sent to me, I just *knew* she was pretty special! She has a unique and strong skill of expressing ideas and assembling colors and mixing materials together in a pleasing way. She is a knowledgeable designer with palpable passion for her work.

Kelly has become a friend of mine and a really fun person to follow. She is witty, entertaining and oh so charming! Kelly does not divide the world of art and written expression. She molds a visual entertainment package wrapped up nicely with high quality surround sound to boot. Figuratively speaking that is!

Her high octane personality is fun to interact with!
I like her a lot!

To experience these two phenoms in a single book, together along with a bevy of other online artist friends and new acquaintances, I am THRILLED.

It is SO VERY exciting to experience the fruits of the harvest that came about from the gardens and fields tended by Ruth and Kelly.

They planted seeds, in a most fertile ground, and what sprung forth, I believe, will bear fruit for many years to come!

The visuals and examples in the book contain unique, avant guard, steampunk, romantic, techno chic, delicate, BOLD, energetic, calm and so many more qualities.

There are projects fit for all types of artists.

The colors are just right!

The ideas are not washed down. They are IN YOUR FACE! You can SEE the details.

The backgrounds and scenes for the jewelry are not overpowering.

The words in the book are friendly, supportive, encouraging and REAL.

This book is a MUST for all who are interested in swapping art, or starting a new avenue with your jewelry design business.
And especially CHARM MAKERS!!!

I myself feel that this publication is fresh, exciting and FUN!

"Fear will stop you in your tracks and kill your creative impulses. Art is supposed to be whatever you want it to be---you cannot fail and you get to dictate your own rules. I often remind myself to get out of my own way. I suggest you do the same; let go of all inhibitions and create with ridiculous amounts of glee." ---- Kelly Snelling

Yes!!! GLEE!!!!
That is the BEST!

Thank you Kelly & Ruth!!!!
Amber Dawn
Who has been so inspired by the book that she has gotten back her interest in creating collaborative jewelry.

~*There is no simple way to define how this book has touched my heart and mind!*~

I have been a fan of Ruth's for several years now, and have always been moved and impressed by her work. From the moment that I opened the first parcel full of art work that she sent to me, I just *knew* she was pretty special! She has a unique and strong skill of expressing ideas and assembling colors and mixing materials together in a pleasing way. She is a knowledgeable designer with palpable passion for her work.

Kelly has become a friend of mine and a really fun person to follow. She is witty, entertaining and oh so charming! Kelly does not divide the world of art and written expression. She molds a visual entertainment package wrapped up nicely with high quality surround sound to boot. Figuratively speaking that is!

Her high octane personality is fun to interact with!
I like her a lot!

To experience these two phenoms in a single book, together along with a bevy of other online artist friends and new acquaintances, I am THRILLED.

It is SO VERY exciting to experience the fruits of the harvest that came about from the gardens and fields tended by Ruth and Kelly.

They planted seeds, in a most fertile ground, and what sprung forth, I believe, will bear fruit for many years to come!

The visuals and examples in the book contain unique, avant guard, steampunk, romantic, techno chic, delicate, BOLD, energetic, calm and so many more qualities.

There are projects fit for all types of artists.

The colors are just right!

The ideas are not washed down. They are IN YOUR FACE! You can SEE the details.

The backgrounds and scenes for the jewelry are not overpowering.

The words in the book are friendly, supportive, encouraging and REAL.

This book is a MUST for all who are interested in swapping art, or starting a new avenue with your jewelry design business.
And especially CHARM MAKERS!!!

I myself feel that this publication is fresh, exciting and FUN!

"Fear will stop you in your tracks and kill your creative impulses. Art is supposed to be whatever you want it to be---you cannot fail and you get to dictate your own rules. I often remind myself to get out of my own way. I suggest you do the same; let go of all inhibitions and create with ridiculous amounts of glee." ---- Kelly Snelling

Yes!!! GLEE!!!!
That is the BEST!

Thank you Kelly & Ruth!!!!
Amber Dawn
Who has been so inspired by the book that she has gotten back her interest in creating collaborative jewelry.

This book is jam-packed with ideas, fabulous photos and so many projects that I will keep rereading it and trying new things inspired by it. It uses many different techniques, making it a wealth of information for art jewelry creators. I'm so glad that I bought it. It will get dog-eared from use!

Ever thought you weren't creative? Pick up this book for unique, original and inspiring ideas and lots of fun. The authors offer excellent guidance, descriptions and beautiful pictures of their works of art. Truly amazing hand made items that make you want to start hammering, twisting and soldering right away. I couldn't put it down; nor is once enough. You will reference this book over and over. It's a must have for all those who enjoy jewelry and altered media - even if you just like to wear the pieces.

Each and every project in the delightful book is unique and beautiful. The writing is interesting and inspirational. If your interested in collaborative projects, this book is a great jump start. If you work alone, this book will provide you with a wealth of new ideas on how to assemble found object jewelry. Many of the techniques are shown step by step. If you love mixed media art jewelry, you'll love this book!

Kelly and Ruth will delight and inspire with this jam-packed book filled with fresh ideas for all levels of jewelry making. You will truly be inspired and invigorated while turning each page! Start your own swap group or make a charm bracelet for a friend - you'll find something that fits your personality in this beautifully laid out and eye-popping book!