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Rating: 
Summary: Valuable resource for chainmakers
Review: One of the few books devoted just to chainmaking, Glen Waszek's book is a wonderful instructional and reference book. Detailed instructions with clear photographs and diagrams are given for a large number of both classic and unusual chains. The opening chapters on tools and techniques are clear, concise, and well presented. While I found this book somewhat intimidating as a beginner (most of the chains are soldered), it is truly a valuable resource for intermediate and advanced level chainmakers as well. Mr. Waszek offers continued challanges and inspiration to all levels of serious chain crafters. Two thumbs up!!
Rating:
Summary: Valuable resource for chainmakers
Review: One of the few books devoted just to chainmaking, Glen Waszek's book is a wonderful instructional and reference book. Detailed instructions with clear photographs and diagrams are given for a large number of both classic and unusual chains. The opening chapters on tools and techniques are clear, concise, and well presented. While I found this book somewhat intimidating as a beginner (most of the chains are soldered), it is truly a valuable resource for intermediate and advanced level chainmakers as well. Mr. Waszek offers continued challanges and inspiration to all levels of serious chain crafters. Two thumbs up!!
Rating:
Summary: Beginning Metalworker Must-Have
Review: This is an excellent book for a novice to intermediate metalworker. The instructions, diagrams, and photographs are very clear and are presented in a logical order. First, Mr. Waszek walks you through descriptions for tools and materials. Next, he explains the basics of working silver. Don't be intimidated by the processes of annealing, pickling, and soldering! The step-by-step instructions and tips make it easy. Instructions for professional finishing are provided, so your chains will be smooth and elegant. Once the basics have been introduced, you're ready for the projects. You'll learn to make trace chains, curb chains, circular link chains, loop-in-loop chains, and fancy links, plus you'll learn how to make your own findings to fasten your chains.
Granted, you will put a lot of time and effort into making a handcrafted chain, but many of these designs are not commercially available or not available in your choice of weight and thickness. Although the book is about silver chains, you can apply these skills and techniques to other metals. Even if you already have some experience making chains, this is a great book for reviewing finishing techniques and refreshing your memory for designs. Everything is easy to locate, with step-by-step instructions for all tasks.
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