Rings & Things Jewelry Blog

Created by: Rita Hutchinson   Designer TipsUsing a pre-cut and finished bracelet blank, and precut 6" patterned wire makes this bracelet assemble in a snap!Apply pattern to copper blank with desired metal stamps.Add patina to patterned wire and bracelet blank. Rinse and dry. Highlight with sanding sponges and polishing pad.Add hole to each end of copper blank (at least 1/4" from the end). Use large side of double hole punch.Use EZ-Bender to form cuff shape with bracelet blank and with brass …

Created by: Amy MickelsonDesigner TipsCreate a loop large enough for the button to go through.A clipboard works well to anchor knotting projects. Clamp the loop under the clip.Braid a 3-strand braid with the cord for about 1" or as long as desired.String equal quantities of the beads on all 3 strands of cord. Secure each cord end with an overhand knot to keep the beads from falling off. Adding all the beads at once is easier than holding your work and trying to thread a bead on a cord as you go. …

  Created by: Polly Nobbs-LaRue   Designer TipsDetermine desired bracelet length; add one inch. Cut a piece of cord 4 times this length. (7" bracelet + 1" = 8". 8" x 4 = 32")String the cord through the loop portion of the clasp. Center the clasp on the cord. Tie two overhand knots and check to see if your rondelles will face the right direction.String one cord through the left side of a rondelle, and the other cord through the right side. Pull tight (but not too tight). Does your bead …

Created by: Rita HutchinsonDesigner TipsPlan out design, and stamp words and symbols. ("I Drink and I Know Things" is a quote from Game of Thrones, and the colors used here are the colors of house Lannister.)New to metal stamping? See Metal Stamping 101Texture the blank with rounded end of chasing hammer.Apply stamp enamel per package instructions.Punch holes in bracelet with Euro Power Punch (note – The rivet length allows them to go through thicker materials; they will spin around in the cuff. …

Created by: Rita HutchinsonDesigner TipsThis is a variation of the standard Byzantine weave, called Byzantine with 3 connectors. I wanted to use all stainless steel for this bracelet, but the aspect ratio (wire diameter vs inside diameter) of the 6mm stainless steel jump rings would have created a loose weave if I had followed the normal Byzantine weave pattern. By adding the 3rd connector, the weave becomes tighter and sturdier.Weave Got Mail Byzantine kits, or some Chain Mail books, provide st …