Rings & Things Jewelry Blog

ok, so maybe it's just 2 Red Balloons, not 99...Created by: Summer Melaas and Polly Nobbs-LaRue   Designer TipsPunch a 1/16" hole in each blank, directly opposite the existing loop or hole.Clean the blanks with Penny Brite to remove all oils.Spray each blank lightly with Klyr Fire before sifting enamel evenly onto each blank: red on the balloons, and foundation white on the strips.Carefully transfer a blank to torching basket (in tripod, over a heat-resistant work surface), and torch fire. …

Created by: Polly Nobbs-LaRueDesigner TipsCut a 20-gauge or 24-gauge 0.25" (wide) strip of copper, brass or sterling sheet approximately 2.75" long.Smooth and straighten with a nylon hammer.Optional: Texture or stamp if desired. (see "Creating a Stamped Metal Charm" technique sheet below) File corners and edges smooth, using #2-cut needle file, so the ring fits comfortably.Optional: Antique components if desired before assembling!Use nylon-jaw ring-bending pliers to bend ring into shape. Overlap …

I made this pin when the UFO and alien stamp first came out, but they are no longer in production. But there are so many other fun options for customizing this blank with features for other states! Apples or pine trees for Washington, mountains for Montana, ...?Created by: Polly Nobbs-LaRueDesigner TipsBrass is harder than some other commonly-stamped metals, and the Simple Strike Jig is a great help for making good solid impressions using ImpressArt's 6mm stamps. You may need an extra scrap or 2 …

Created by: Polly Nobbs-LaRueDesigner TipsAdjust bracelet to target wrist size/shape, because once the 2nd layer is riveted on, you will have limited adjustability.Texture or stamp the bracelet and/or mustache blank if desired. I simply scrubbed both with steel wool to eliminate minor scratches, and give a nice sheen.Use bracelet bending pliers and/or your fingers to bend mustache to match the curve of the bracelet. To prevent snagging when worn, fit it as close as you can, especially the tips.I …