Chris Franchetti Michaels is an independent jewelry designer and author of several books, including the craft bestseller Teach Yourself Visually: Jewelry Making & Beading. She's also the Guide to Beadwork on About.com.

Her next book, Teach Yourself Visually: More Jewelry Making, will help readers take their creativity to the next level with popular new techniques such as cold connections, resin work, and leather craft.