The Earring Style Book

 Stephanie A. Wells

 Random House

 

The fetching pair of earrings on the cover of this book pulled at my creative sensitivities.  My husband and I had recently returned from California.  We spent a beautiful sun-filled day at Laguna Beach.  There were many young and old people strolling the boardwalk, exercising their pets and doing all kinds of calisthenics to help keep fit and trim.  Several groups were playing sand volleyball.  Their sleek bodies glistened.  Most noticeable to me were the wonderful earrings that dangled back and forth as the players streaked across the warm sand to score their points.

 

The multitude of earring styles could have been inspired by this book.  All types of metal and  gemstones were incorporated into the designs.  "Penelope" featured on page 88 is a wonderful example of stones cleverly integrated.  As the author states, "the design creates a wall of color across the frame."  Chains, coiled wire, twisted wire, fabric, etc. were utilized.  The various techniques were well laid out and easy to understand.  All necessary tools and materials were listed.   Also, the author shared the approximate amount of time, ranging from 15 to 45 minutes, to construct each pair of  earrings. 

I would definitely recommend this book to any aspiring designer.  Who knows, maybe you will spy your creation framing a lovely face on a Laguna Beach sand volleyball court.