Rings & Things Jewelry Blog

Welcome to our new Jewelry Design Gallery! To browse jewelry ideas by category or theme, use the turquoise #tags below (#etched jewelry projects, #enamel projects, etc.) for all projects of a particular category. For a Jewelry Design Gallery / Resources search box, click here or press the turquoise "FREE JEWELRY PROJECTS" link near the bottom of any project's page. You might also like our blog (blog.rings-things.com), filled with step-by-step illustrated projects, and a spot for Q …

Created by: Elisabeth ValenteDesigner TipsConsider taking a jewelry-making class through a local college or art school. The Complete Metalsmith by Tim McCreight and Simple Soldering: A Beginner's Guide to Jewelry Making are excellent references as well.Glue your image pattern to the metal with rubber cement, and cut along the pattern with a jeweler's saw. Use files to perfect the cut out.Follow the instructions that come with your torch. Always work in a well-ventilated area. Have a fire extingu …

Upcycle a craft beer can, or any aluminum can with awesome graphics, into a custom belt buckle. Great gift for a craft beer aficionado!Created by: Mollie ValenteDesigner TipsParts are listed below.For the illustrated step-by-step tutorial, including great tips on making a template and preparing your work surface, please see Mollie's full article at blog.rings-things.com:DIY - Make a Belt Buckle from a Craft Beer Can.Suggested Supplies1 each #30-682-01-AS Antiqued Silver Plated Belt Buckle Blank, …

Created by: Jan RobertsDesigner TipsThe economically-priced chatons used in this design are real leaded-glass crystals!Pre-plan your design so the clay doesn't dry out before you've finished placing your embellishments. This is especially important on a large object like a belt buckle.Follow the manufacturer's instructions to apply the clay to the buckle blank.The Jewel Setter is an excellent tool for picking up and placing the crystals.To save time, you can leave the metal beads on the string, …

Created by: Toni PlastinoDesigner TipsTo prevent the image from bleeding, seal the front and back with Mod Podge® and let dry. Once dry, glue the image into buckle blank.Glue on embellishments such as charms, shells, pearls, and ball chain. When dry, add resin to the buckle.Consider brushing on the resin, since the buckle is convex, and has a shallow bezel cup.See Tips for Epoxy Resin & Jewelry (PDF).Suggested Supplies1 each #82-500-08 8oz EasyCast Epoxy Kit1 strand [use 8] #20-621 Bead, Fre …