This is not just a project book, it is a complete knotting guide which gives the reader tools for creating their own patterns. With market tested patterns and a little hippie humor, this guide will keep crafters smiling as they learn. And as the author says, If you enjoy doing something, you do it well. If you enjoy learning something, you learn it well. This book has an abundance of illustrations and photographs to complement the clear, comprehensive instructions. The introduction has definitions of terms and facts about hemp. How To Begin details deciding how long to cut the hemp and how to start tying a piece of hemp jewelry. There is also a section of Helpful Hints for working with and knotting hemp cords. The Knotting Guide explains and illustrates the Half Knot, the Half Hitch and dozens of variations on these knots, giving the crafter a plethora of choices for pattern combinations. The use of beads and of endings and clasps is also explained. Knots For Masters presents the Pretzel Knot and Phish Bone pattern; two of the coolest, bank maker patterns ever! Finally, there are 22 example projects, from the simple to the complex, all beautiful, with pictures and instructions for each. Written for both beginning and seasoned crafters, this entertaining volume will prove invaluable for any person wishing to learn more about hemp, knotting techniques, and making irresistible jewelry. A very interesting book and a great gift idea! 24 illustrations; 61 photographs; 4 pages in full color.

    It captured the atmosphere and the passion of the fin de siÅcle, as well as the moral and artistic freedom that characterized the period. Fresh designs and motifs were created with an intense excitement that was shared by artists all over the world. Sensuous animal and plant forms surged with new life; the female form struggled toward a new freedom, suggesting a long-hidden eroticism; and sunsets and changing seasons reflected the symbolic view of art in nature borrowed from the Japanese. This book deals with major jewelers in France--their inspirations, techniques, and themes--and then follows the parallel modern movement that spread through Europe and the United States. With a detailed reference section and a collection of dramatic photographs, this treasury will appeal to collectors and jewelry lovers alike.