Discover Torch Enameling: Get Started with 25 Sure-Fire Jewelry Projects

My test for a how-to book is: how much does it make me want to run to the bench. This one scores at least a nine, minus two.Nine because I'm really enticed. I can practically see myself at the bench, trying and messing up every technique shown here. (Don't take 'messing up' the wrong way: I never get anything right the first time, and I'm OK with that.) I'm sure, if I spent a little for new materials, I'd get decent results after a while.Minus one: I'm not really a color person, and enamel is all about color.Minus one more: I really like the look of metal, and prefer to keep its native character visible. Yes, enamel has a character of its own, just one that interests me less.So it's a great introduction to something I really am curious about. But, when I imagine how I'd want to use it, I draw a blank.That's not the author's fault or the materials'. Maybe some day I'll give it a shot, just not very soon.-- wiredweird

While I have experience in many media enameling has been a desire for many years. Torch and enameling is going to put that within reach and I highly recommend anyone interested in this art form to look into this book.

I had the opportunity to take Steven's raku (page 50) enameling class when he was at the Tucson Gem Show. I purchased this book because I was excited to know more about Steven's other processes. It did not disappoint. The layout and content of each project is easy to follow and perfect for a beginning enameler. I had no problems completing another project. The projects are interesting and visually appealing. Another thing I really like about the book and Steven's instruction is that he doesn't expect you to buy a lot of pricy equipment. If you have basic jewelry and soldering tools, you can make anything in the book.

Great book, easy to follow instructions for beginners

Great book! You can tell that Steven is a classroom teacher. The projects are well planned, the directions are clear and it has been written in an engaging manner with Steven's fun personality shining through. In addition to great projects, Steven gives tips on how to put your your own personal touch on them or suit your own style, save money, and ways to expand on the projects to, in effect, increase the number of projects. Check out Steven's website with more enameling info and videos too [...]

Having taken several classes from the author in the recent past, I was thrilled to see that he had published a book. The written instructions and pictures make the techniques completely doable at home. The ability to create some lovely enameled pieces from this book are virtually unlimited. I love the adaptability of the techniques and would encourage folks to use this book as either an introduction to enameling OR as a brush up for veterans.

This book is one of the best tutorial books I have ever had the pleasure to own. It literally tells you everything you need to know to do the projects in a very clear concise manner that many books do not do. I believe it covers everything a person who is new to enameling would need to know. If you are thinking about getting a book on torch enameling this is the book you want to buy.

This book gives you a comprehensive overview and then lots of tips for different effects. It is like having a teacher with you, with photos illustrating the various steps, tips and inspiration for taking the next step. Very detailed with lots of fascinating projects! I've taken his classes and he has put both his skill and sense of adventure into the book. Hot!

Another one from the Kalmbach folk. The Americans are so pioneering! The Kalmbach magazines come out monthly and are backed up by a very useful online presence and if that isn't enough, you get these books - no excuse if your wifi isn't brilliant because these books are! They present well, include lots of doable ideas, they teach and inspire and motivate your creativity and force you to build on your skills - the projects are easily adapted so of course you want to make your own version! Suitable for beginners - but watch a few tutorials also, torches and enamels are dangerous. That said, this book is fun!

This is an excellent introduction to torch enameling. It begins by covering the essentials in a coherent and comprehensive way. It describes each of the items you need, why you need them and how to use them. It mentions safety and housekeeping issues and gives you many tips and practical techniques. There are lots of images accompanied by short and informative text, so you can quickly get an understanding of the concepts without having to wade through thousands of words. Whilst the technical/practical aspects of enameling are clear and well presented the creative element is also covered. So, you are exposed to many approaches that show how particular effects can be created that give you plenty of scope to experiment. Well done Mr James, this is how crafting books should be written.

Very clear instructions its inspired me to be creative in enamelling

Buen libro para principiantes, explicado paso a paso con descripción de materiales y proveedores. Es un libro técnico muy especifico donde explican por proyectos como puedes usar el esmalte en combinacion con otros acabados.

Very informative and helpful for beginners