Grab a coffee (that happens to be my honey latte that I sipped the foam off, in my new starbucks mug) and let's talk about Stephanie Lee's new book Semiprecious Salvage {Creating Found Art Jewelry}.  I just got mine.  I did a pre-order and it came with all kinds of extra goodies like printed tags, a print of one of her original art pieces, etc.  Oh and it's autographed - so that's just fun right there!Ok, well right off the top, you will notice that it's visually beautiful.  It's published by North Light Books (the same folks who did Sally Jean's book).  The pages are laid out like scattered ephemera on a table - very pleasing to the eye.   The projects are nice change of pace from the usual cottage & fairy style that's seen so much right now. (guilty for loving them both, but a change of pace is nice)  Her style is rustic with a warm feel.  If rustic is not your style, the techniques that are taught can still be adapted by changing up the imagry that you use.  There are plenty of step by step photos to follow and a great source page in the back, so you know where to find the tools of the trade.  I really think she did a nice job here - it's laid out very well and easy to follow.  I love the intro stories to each project - they are fun and give a lot of spirit to each project. (reminds me of the old 7 Gypsies packaging)  I think what I love the best is that she uses other metals besides silver, so the projects are affordable on any budget - and learning how to make things by hand (bezels for one) is very satisfying. All in all this book is worth the money and is something you will refer to over and over again... especially if you aren't lucky enough to attend one of her classes.  Speaking of classes - she'll be teaching at Art & Soul Portland this October 2008.  Click here to see a list of her workshops.