The Steampunk style originated in the late 1980's and draws inspiration from the Victorian era, punk style, and science fiction genre. This book has twenty projects designed by thirteen different artists with material lists and instructions. It teaches basic techniques so it's accessible to beginners.
Steampunk Style Jewelry: Victorian, fantasy, and mechanical necklaces, bracelets, and earrings
by Jean Campbell
2009 Creative Publishing International
144 pages
But it's not only a design book, this is a great reference for Steampunk in general. Sections of text throughout the book give a mind boggling glimpse into the Steampunk subculture. Also there are dozens and dozens of examples of fiction works, fashion, artwork, film, theater, and music that you can seek out to delve even deeper into Steampunk.
Since many of the projects use found objects, making exact replicas of the pieces may be impossible, or require a heap of flea market trips. If you have trouble finding what you seek, use your creativity to craft your own unique pieces inspired by this book. One necklace project has a dizzying 57 items listed for materials and tools, and lists 12 separate suppliers. Thankfully, about half of the projects have much shorter lists approximating about a dozen items.
Metals used in the book include brass, copper, silver-plated and sterling silver. Examples of tools needed include pliers, cutters, files, heatgun, hammers, jewelers saw, spray paint, ink, craft drill and bits. Common jewelry items such as beads, chain, filigree components, crimps, earwires, bezels, wire, eyelets, etc are listed. The most common found objects needed are watch parts.
The end of the book features a gallery of 21 designs, as well as artist bios, website credits, and suppliers.
