Rings & Things Jewelry Blog

Created by: Polly Nobbs-LaRueDesigner TipsSolder Brass Ninja Star* to Copper Disk:If the copper or brass shapes are bent, straighten them with a steel block and nylon or rawhide mallet. (Solder doesn't fill gaps.)File/sand/polish to any rough edges or deep scratches.Snip 5-10 tiny (1-2mm long) pieces of solder into a small bowl.Use a small paintbrush to coat the back of the brass "ninja star", and the front of the copper disk with flux. (You may need to mix the flux to a more paste-like consiste …

Created by: Jaci BostonDesigner TipsSee step-by-step blog article: How to make wrapped leather braceletsStart with extra leather and thread; cutting off any excess is better than not having enough.For security, add additional stitches on the first and last beads.Stay focused, the figure-eight stitching is easily done, but it is also easy to make a mistake.When using bead thread, like size D Superlon, double the thread and string through the beads twice.This bracelet uses 23 6mm beads and has an …

Created by: Jaci BostonDesigner TipsCreate a template from a copyright-free image.Glue your image pattern to the metal with rubber cement, and cut along the pattern with a jeweler's saw.Keep the saw blade well lubricated to create ease while sawing.To avoid breaking your blades, keep the saw upright, without tilting, while you're sawing.Punch holes prior to texturizing the skulls.You can use any sort of hammer to give your metal a unique texture.Use a nylon or a rawhide mallet to flatten out you …

Create this project using large-hole gemstone beads of your choice, 1mm cotton or leather cord, and your favorite button as the clasp.Created by: Rita HutchinsonDesigner TipsCut cording and fold in half. Using the button as a guide, make a loop that just barely fits over the button and tie an overhand knot with both pieces of leather.String first bead and add a simple knot. Continue.When you have reached the desired length, thread the cord through the button shank from opposite sides and knot. B …

Created by: Rita Hutchinson   Designer TipsSqueeze out a few drops of patina (or your favorite metallic acrylic paint) on the craft sheet. Apply patina to the edges of the cuff, and then dry-brush patina sparingly to the surface of the bracelet.Let Patina dry.Set crystal stones in settings with nylon jaw pliers. (Smooth down further with burnishing tool or back end of Sharpie as needed).Determine placement of crystal settings, and press awl through the holes in the setting to mark hole loca …