Alloy Resource library
Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned artisan, having access to a well-curated resource library can be invaluable. From technique manuals to design inspirations, Alloy has built a comprehensive library focused on metalsmithing that will fuel your creativity and expertise!
Our library contains over 150 books, projects & catalogs — many of which you can check out!
Book a tour with us to browse the shelves, or take a peek at our library during your next workshop!
The library is organized by the following categories: Jewelry Creation, Reference, Supplies and Gems/Stones.
Our Jewelry Creation section contains the largest number of books. In this section, you can expect to find anything and everything relating to making metal jewelry! You will easily find books tailored to your current experience level.
Great beginner projects and instruction can be found in Corkie Bolton’s “Metalsmith Society's Guide to Jewelry Making“ or Jan Loney’s “Metal Jewelry Made Easy”
For more difficult projects and inspiration definitely check out “Indian Jewelry Making” by Oscar T. Branson and “Creative Stonesetting“ by John Cogswell
Lastly we have a ton of books focused on specific advanced techniques: “Bezel and Flush Setting With Diamonds and Fragile Colored Stones” by Blaine Lewis, “Keum-Boo on Silver, Techniques for Applying 24k Gold to Silver” by Celie Fago, “Hinges and Hinge Based Catches” by Lewton-Brain, and “The Metalsmith's Book of Boxes and Lockets” by Tim McCreight.
Our Reference section is the second largest collection containing a wide variety of books on design, historical artifacts, and collections of photographed jewelry. You will have no shortage of ideas and inspiration when flipping through the pages of books like: “1000 Rings” by Larks Press, “New Necklaces” by Nicholas Estrada, Simon James “The World of Celts”, and “French Baroque Ornament” by Jean Le Pautre.
Our Supplies section houses catalogues from our favorite suppliers. You can easily shop for any upcoming projects! Sometimes seeing it in catalog form makes so much more sense than seeing it online. Our library even includes the no longer in print Rio Grande catalogs where all of the materials and findings are photographed to scale.
Our Gems/Stones section offers books that go in depth into stone identification and valuation. Get nerdy about rocks with “The Audobon Society Field Guide to North American Rocks and Minerals“ or Newman’s “Gemstone Buying Guide”. We even have a few that explore the metaphysical properties like “The Essential Guide to Crystals” by Simon & Sue Lily.
WHO CAN CHECK OUT A BOOK?
Anyone! Members, workshop participants, and visitors are able to check out a book from our library. We just require that you provide us with accurate contact information so that we can remind you when your book is due.
HOW TO CHECK OUT A BOOK?
Obviously you need to visit our studio. Not a member or workshop participant? Book a tour so that you can come visit
Find the check-out card on the inside flap of each book.*
Fill out your check-out information and place the card inside the “checked out” box.
Return within 30 days to our Library Return box. You can literally come by 24/7. The box is located by the door to studio 625.
Replacement cost will be charged for lost, damaged or overdue material.
*A few of our more valuable and out of print books are for in-studio use only. You are welcome to use these at the studio, but they must remain there.
Want easy access to the studio and library? Learn more about Membership HERE!
Metalsmithing is hard! Knowing where to turn with your questions can make all the difference. With our well-equipped library at your disposal, there is no doubt that you will find the answers or inspiration you are looking for.
This is just the tip of the iceberg—there is definitely a book for everyone! It’s worth taking a few minutes to just take a peek at what is there. Happy smithing!
