Rings & Things Jewelry Blog

Created by: Rita HutchinsonDesigner TipsCreate two BRONZclay™ charms according to the manufacturer's instructions. Like most metal clays, BRONZclay must be fired in a kiln. BRONZclay shrinks approximately 20% from package to finished product. When you create your pieces, keep this in mind.Use a decorative rubber stamp or texture plate to create a design in the BRONZclay.Use the bead reamer to enlarge the holes in the pearls. Submerge the pearl in a shallow bowl of water while reaming, and work f …

Created by: Polly Nobbs-LaRue   I couldn't decide whether I liked the longer earrings, or the shorter (layered) design - so I went with both! The shorter design would also be great as a pendant (with or without the heart). There are so many options with these components: Both colors of Bello (manmade) opals are beautiful and full of fire, or you can sub your favorite gemstone charm or beaded drop, or make bespoke birthstone jewelry. I went with mixed metals, because I prefer silver, and the …

Created by: Rita Hutchinson  Designer Tips Determine desired loop lengths and cut leather. For these earring, I cut 2 pieces at about 5" and 2 pieces at about 3".String large-hole gemstone on longer leather piece and porcelain bead on shorter piece.Gather all ends together in the correct order (see photo).Apply a small amount of superglue inside the crimp end. Insert all 4 leather ends at one time, squeezing them together to fit. Hold in place until glue grips.Gently squeeze the crimp end …

Created by: Mollie Valente Designer TipsUse 26-gauge wire to lash the beads to the pin back.Cut the chain into two pieces: 5-1/2" and 6-1/2" in length.Use 6mm jump rings to attach the chain to the pin, staggering the swag of the chain.Use 4.5mm jump rings to attach charms of your choice to the chain ends.Free Technique Sheets & How-TosBasic Jewelry-Making Technique Sheet (PDF)Blog post: "Wire lashing: an easy way to cover your jewelry with beads or bling!".Suggested Supplies1 dozen [use 3 be …

Created by: Summer Melaas   Designer TipsCut two 1-3/4" sections of chain.Cut four 1-1/2" sections of chain.Add one small and one medium Apatite bead to a ball-end head pin. Wrap onto bottom of a chain section (see step-by-step wire wrap instructions: Jewelry Basics 101 (PDF).Repeat with remaining five chains.With the 26g wire, about 1/4 of the way down on the marquise, wrap 2 to 3 times. Place one medium apatite bead, one 1-1/2" chain, one bead, one 1-3/4" chain, one bead, one 1-1/2" …