Rings & Things Jewelry Blog

Created by: Rita HutchinsonDesigner TipsString and center 39 beads on the cord. Tie a knot at each end to hold them in place.String 40th bead as an adjuster bead for the bracelet. To assist in getting the second end through the bead, trim at an angle, and pull through with tweezers once you get the end through.Determine length needed to adjust bracelet over hand. Allow 1" extra on each end, knot and trim.Suggested Supplies1 strand [use 40] #26-830-4 Bead, Faceted Cube, 2.5mm1 spool [use 18"] #61 …

Created by: Nathan Jessen Designer TipsDisk-and-loop bracelet forms are perfect for gluing relatively flat beads, bottle caps and other found objects to the surface of each pad.With several different styles, lengths and plating options to choose from, you're bound to fall in love with the versatility of these fun findings.Use a superglue type of adhesive or, for the most durable hold, a 2-part epoxy such as Epoxy 330 (60-230)Stretch and secure the bracelet ends to cardboard with tape. This preve …

Created by: Toni PlastinoDesigner TipsCut desired images to size; place in picture frame. Fill organza bag with lavender, pull tight, add picture frame, and securely knot! Suggested Supplies1 dozen [use 1] #63-251-09 Bag, Organza, 4x3"1 each #55-700-13-7 Picture Frame, Hinged, House, 1.75x1"Tools#69-043 Tool, Scissors, Extra-Large LoopAdditional Supplies1/2 cup lavender, dried1 image cut to desired size …

Created by: Veronica Greenwood   Designer TipsThese bracelets follow the step-by-step illustrated instructions from Tiffany's 2015 Beaded Infinity Knot Bracelets project in Rings & Things' blog, but updated with new colors, and with tiny faceted gemstones mixed in with the seed beads. One other change, is that Veronica used 6mm gemstone beads at the end, instead of covering the crimp beads with a crimp cover.There's no right or wrong combination -- use 1 or 2 colors, or a whole omb …

Created by: Kameron FoxDesigner TipsThese earrings and matching bracelet were created using the step by step instructions on page 92 of Beautiful Wire Jewelry for Beaders: Creative Wirework Projects for all Levels (#62-879>62-879 ) by Irina Miech.Create four “S” shaped pieces using bail-making pliers and 18-gauge wire.File the ends smooth with a file and cup bur.Hammer the components flat.Before attaching the crystals, the bronze knots were tumbled for 3 hours to clean, shine and remove rough …

Created by: Mollie Valente   Designer TipsCustomize the word blank:Place the word blank on the steel block and create a dappled texture with the ball peen side of the chasing hammer.Use the bracelet-bending pliers to curve the word band.Apply Vintaj® Patina™ to the words and use a damp paper towel or baby wipe to remove the excess.Finish the bracelet:Use a ruler and hobby knife to cut the leather strip to length.Measure and mark the leather strip for placement of the word blank holes (2mm) …

Created by: Veronica GreenwoodDesigner TipsThoroughly clean your blank with Penny Brite. See our enameling blog article for tips, precautions and basic instructions for preparing the piece for enamel, and for torch firing enamels.Add scoops of desired colors of enamel into depressions in an artist's palette. Add a small amount of Klyr-Fire or distilled water (about 40% liquid to 60% enamel powder). Use the pretty cobalt bottle to add drops of water. It won't really mix like paints, but it will a …

Created by: Rita HutchinsonDesign by: Swarovski's Create Your Style Design TeamDesigner TipsAdd a crystal teardrop bead to a head pin (narrow side towards the head of the pin), add a rhinestone wheel bead, then a round crystal bead. Make a simple loop. Repeat for other colors of teardrop beads.Cut the chain evenly in half.Use chain-nose pliers to twist a head-pin loop open to attach icicle light to chain in desired location, and twist loop to securely close. Leave 2 open links between each light …

January 21 is Squirrel Appreciation day in the United States. Celebrate these quirky Sciuridaes with us!Created by: Mollie ValenteDesigner TipsPlace the squirrel charms on the rubber block and polish the high points with the 3M sanding sponge. Use a EuroTool polishing pad to create a shiny finish.Attach a finished squirrel charm to the loop of the eye pin. For best way to open and close loops, and how to make wrapped loops, see Jewelry Basics 101 (PDF).String the following beads onto the eye pin …

Go Go Go! Green Light Earrings"If it was any greener, you'd have to mow it!"Created by: Rita HutchinsonDesigner TipsArrange stones to your liking.Set first rivoli in top setting, pressing the bezel into place to hold the stone firm. Bending the bezel where the second setting attaches is a little tricky. Be patient.Set the next stone, and press the bezel to hold firm.Set the final rivoli, and press the bezel to hold in place.With the burnishing tool, go over the bezel on all 3 stones, to flatten …