Hemp Jewelry

Lisa Arsenault is a high-school English teacher who is involved in
several ministry campaigns to increase literacy.

Hemp cord is made from the fibre of the stalks of the tall, fast-growing
hemp plant. It’s usually a light tan colour, but can also be yellow,
blue, and black. Because it is soft against the skin but also strong and
holds knots well, hemp is suitable for jewelry-making. With the emphasis
on the retro look so current in fashion today, this is a timely addition
to the Kids Can Do It crafts series.

Background information is provided, along with tips on how to embellish
hemp jewelry with beads, charms, pendants, and clasps. The instructions
for each project tell how many pieces of hemp are needed and how long to
cut them; how to make a starting loop, then fasten it, tape it, and pin
it; how to apply ornaments; and finally, how to tie the knot. Sixteen
projects follow: bracelets, necklaces, chokers, anklets, earrings, and
rings.

A list of materials precedes the numbered steps outlining the process
for making each piece of jewelry. Each step is accompanied by a coloured
diagram, and there is a colour picture of each completed project.
Several of the projects have alternative ideas for changing or
embellishing the original template.

Young crafters interested in physical adornment and the creation of
personalized pieces of handmade jewelry will enjoy this book. Its
instructions are clear and easy to understand, and the projects are
geared to the tastes of adolescents. Recommended.