Join the Queen of Latina Style to make joyous, vibrant, sparkly Latin-inspired crafts that are stunning to look at yet surprisingly easy to make.The Crafty Chica is back! In The Crafty Chica Creates!, a revised and expanded edition of The Crafty Chica Collection, Kathy Cano Murillo enthusiastically welcomes you into her world of making and affirmational thinking with colorful, Latin-style craft projects inspired by her Mexican heritage. With 45 projects-26 completely new joining 19 previous favorites-get fun techniques for painting, sewing, mixed media, clay, and paper crafts using affordable and recycled materials. While some are more in-depth than others, the projects are ideal for all skill levels. The Crafty Chica welcomes you to infuse the projects with elements of your own cultural heritage to make them personal and unique. Each project is presented with a materials list, clear step-by-step instructions, a large photo of the finished project, and the personal and cultural history behind it. Organized by category-Clothing, Artful Affirmations, Home Accessories, Jewelry and Accessories, Garden Decorations, and Fiesta-the projects include: Milagros (miracle charms) layered resin phone grip Dia de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) papier-mache dog sculpture Stamped clay folk-art boxes and ring dish A stunning poncho made from Mexican scarves A picture frame upcycled with an embroidered blouse As you embrace the Latino culture or let your cultural heritage shine with creative crafts, you'll discover: Innovative ways to work with a wide range of materials, including air-dry clay, resin, and fabric How to fully embrace vivid color palettes Ways of repurposing everyday supplies into gorgeous art pieces that make great gifts Great techniques for sculpting, sewing, painting, and embellishing that will boost skills and confidence Whether you are looking for dazzling things to make for group crafting, to decorate your casa or workplace, to release stress and lift your mood, or for gift giving, The Crafty Chica Creates! is your friendly, inspiring guide.

This book is an essential tourist guide to gemstones in Great Britain. It is a 'how to' manual for hobbyists, frequent travellers and those already in the jewellery trade with little knowledge about British gemstones. I have written it to help you feel more confident about the buying process. The gem trade is rather a secretive industry and this is as true in Britain as anywhere else in the world. There's a vast array of myths, inaccuracies and very deliberate deceptions out there, but don't let that put you off - my clear and jargon-free guidance will allow you to navigate your gemstone buying journey with ease. Whether you are hoping to treat yourself to an extra-special souvenir of your latest adventure, buying supplies for your jewellery-making venture or travelling to learn more about the gemstone industry, what could be more exciting than buying your gemstone in the very country whose earth formed it? This book will give you the vital information you need before making your purchase. In it, I disclose what websites don't tell you. I'll reveal: Who to trust What to look for When to walk away

A sterling new study of the exquisite designs of Danish silversmith Georg Jensen (1866-1935) and company. Nearly one thousand photographs illustrate much of the stunning jewelry, hollowware, and flatware designed and produced from 1904 to the present. One of the most talented, original, and influential silversmiths of the twentieth century, Jensen's life and the company he founded are thoroughly researched. This book explores his place within the late nineteenth century arts scene, his training as a sculptor and silversmith, the establishment of his own workshop, and its expansion into an international company. The contributions of many gifted designers who worked for the company are discussed in detail. Interpretation of the marks used on Jensen silver is provided. This is a major revision of a very important book, with over 200 new photos and new information. It is an invaluable reference work for owners of Jensen silver, artists, silversmiths, designers, curators, and art dealers.