Rings & Things Jewelry Blog

Created by: Claudia Crosby Designer TipsStretch and secure the bracelet ends to cardboard with tape. This prevents it from moving when gluing on the buttons.Use heavy duty hardware store cutters to remove the button shanks. This will keep your jewelry cutters from becoming marred.Sand or file smooth the backs of the buttons.Rough up the surface of the bracelet pads with a file or sandpaper before applying glue.Clean surfaces with alcohol before applying glue with a toothpick.Add charms or dangle …

Created by: Rita HutchinsonDesigner TipsGlue crystal rivolis into settings. Create divots in a piece of scrap Styrofoam, to allow settings to dry flat.Create wrapped loops (or simple loops) with the pearl peards, and attach all components with jump rings. For step-by-step instructions on creating loops, and best way to open and close loops, see Jewelry Basics 101 (PDF).Make sure the chain isn't twisted, and space your "one sided" components carefully, so they all face the same direction.A note a …