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Book Review: Formal Jewelry by Karen McKenna


Formal Jewelry
If you are a Mother-of-the-Bride, a bride who makes time to crochet, or one whose fashion sense is channeled from episodes of the hit series, Mad Men, then Formal Jewelry is for you!

Grey Sparkle Necklace
The theme of this booklet falls into a narrow niche, but if you want to create jewelry with a formal, dressy look for wedding or nightlife, you will enjoy what it has to offer.


Using mostly chain stitch and basic jewelry techniques, this booklet includes12 projects that are perfect for learning to crochet with beads.  The beautiful models are beautifully photographed, but the projects themselves are difficult to see close-up, possibly due to the monochromatic nature of the projects.

As always with the folks at Leisure Arts, the stitch diagrams at the back of the book are clearly illustrated and helpful for additional guidance. Watch for the camera icons throughout the book which signal bonus online technique videos.

Triple Pearl Necklace
Crocheters are introduced to DMC Metallic Pearl thread in size 5 which requires the use of a size 1 steel crochet hook. A variety of beads including 8mm pearls, 6 mm faceted beads, and size 6 glass beads add glimmer to these sophisticated yet easy jewelry gems.

Silver Barefoot Sandals
Published by Leisure Arts in 2015,  Formal Jewelry retails from $7.99.

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