Lena Prima creates
music for a living. She writes and performs it, part of her family
legacy as the daughter of the late bandleader, Louis Prima. Music isn't
her only creative outlet, however. She also creates beautiful handmade
jewelry as part of her Pennies from Heaven company. Now Leisure Arts has
published a book written by Prima on making jewelry as part of its
reference line and she joins the ranks of authors who share their craft
through do-it-yourself books.
In
“Wanderlust,” Prima shares instructions for making jewelry pieces
inspired by her own travels. Her love of fun jewelry carries over into
her designs for bracelets, necklaces, charms and earrings. The jewelry
making guide offers a series of travel-inspired pieces, with a
background story, materials list and step-by-step instructions for each
design.
With
section titles such as “Seaside Memories,” “Music Festival,” “Road
Trip” and “City Girl,” the wide range of flavors becomes apparent. There
are two project themes under each section, and themes can include more
than one piece of jewelry. For example, the Sparkling Sand project under
“Seaside Memories” provides instructions for a necklace, bracelet and
earrings.
Crafters
of all skill levels will enjoy the volume. Prima’s designs allow novice
jewelry makers to succeed because she uses readily available findings
and the only tools required are two pair of chain-nosed pliers. The
finished products look great, creating an environment of success to
encourage the newbie.
More
experienced crafters will find inspiration which they can easily adapt
to more intricate projects, as well as thrifty designs which utilize
every bit of the purchased pieces in interesting ways.
“Wanderlust” is available at Hobby Lobby and JoAnn stores and online at Amazon.com in both print and electronic formats.
Disclaimer: This review is based on a purchased copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
Originally appeared 5/14/2016 at http://www.examiner.com/review/lena-prima-describes-how-to-make-jewelry-with-travel-theme-new-book
