Dawn Rosell Designs​
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Crochet/Viking knit Pendant

2/13/2018

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       So you found a pretty odd shaped stone, shell or some other very cool object and you don't know what to do with it,right? Happens to me all the time when I go beach combing here on Cape Cod. I found a few ideas on how to make a crochet or viking knit bezel to make it into a pendant. I did not by any means come up with this idea or technique on my own, but I did it with a little help from all the others ideas and I kept the ones that worked best for me to create this project. It takes some patience, mixed with a little humor and practice to get one that looks really good, but truly it looks quite nice even when the outcome is a bit rustic too. So have a cup of chamomile tea and let's get started.
Picture
Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. Flush Cutters
  4. File
  5. ⅛”-¼” dowel
  6. Scrap paper and pencil
  7. Sharpie

Materials
  1. 16 gauge wire 7-12”
  2. 26-24 gauge wire 2-4 ft
  3. Cabochon or flattish back stone, shell, etc.
*The size of the stone/center piece determines how much wire you will need, so give yourself more than you think you need until you get good at estimating.
Directions-Prep
  1. To determine how much frame wire you need measure around the outside of your piece, I do this by rolling my piece on the ruler or tape measure. Round up and add 3” to the measurement to account for your bail.
  2. Cut your 16 gauge wire the length you figured out in step one
  3. Mark one end of the wire 1 ½” from the end
  4. Bend the wire at this mark in a 90 degree angle​
Making the Frame
  1. Lay flat side of stone/center piece on scrap paper and trace the outside of it to make a template.
  2. Using the template begin shaping the thick wire beginning at your bend (facing the tail away from the frame center and create a smaller version of the shape of the stone/center piece using your thumb and fingers. Lay the stone on top to make sure it is small enough. It doesn't have to be perfect in shape because it is the base back. 
  3. Bend the other tail of the frame wire to lay side by side with the first tail
  4. Using 2” of the thin wire wrap the tails together starting at the base of the frame and working upward. Be sure to keep the tails side by side not overlapping. Use your flat nose pliers after each wrap to help keep the tails side by side and tighten the wrap.
  5. Trim any excess small tail of the thin wire and flatten the end towards the back of the frame, do not trim the longer end off, we need it to start the weave.
  1. Wrap the long wire around the frame on one side two times
  2. Lay the ⅛”-¼” dowel on the top of the frame in front and right next to the two wraps
  3. Wrap the wire over the dowel
  4. Wrap the wire around the frame two times and remove the dowel
  5. Repeat steps 11-13 all around the frame until you reach the top of the frame to make first level of crochet bezel
  6. Place stone into the crochet bezel and shape the loop around it with your fingers
  1. Begin next row of crochet by looping over, around and between the first loop and stone and through the new loop. Use your finger to keep the new and old loops arched but close to the stone. This will begin to capture the stone as you go, but you will need to be patient because it is a bit tricky to keep the stone in place until you get a good amount of new loops going around
  2. Repeat the making the next loop onto the next arch and so on until you reach the top again.
  3. Your stone should be secured, however if you feel it is still too loose you can make another row of loops on the last row and around the stone again.
  1. When you are happy with setting, feed the wire up and under the loops to where the long tails are wrapped.
  2. Wrap the thin wire around and up at least 6 times covering the original wrap.
  3. Trim and flatten the thin wire toward the back
  1. Place the ¼” dowel behind the frame just at the top of the thin wire wraps
  2. Bend the thick tails around the dowel so that they lay down the back of the stone
  3. If needed trim the tails to be ½” below the stone top
  4. File the ends of these wires and make small loops on each one
  5. Press the loops tightly against the frame to make the bail (you may use the dowel to help shape it if you wish)
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Wire Weave Teardrop Pendant

2/6/2018

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Wire weaving can be very ornate and a bit daunting to attempt if you haven't tried it before, but you shouldn't let that keep you from giving it a go. I came up with a little trick after many failures to making a more uniform bezel and I began with a simple two wire base to get myself started. This smaller teardrop stone sits very well and securely and look beautiful in this design. The teardrop is  the easiest shape besides a round for beginners, but with more practice and a little tweaking I am certain it could be used for almost any shape you wish to wrap. Let's give weaving this pendant a try shall we?
Picture
Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. Flush Cutter
  4. Ruler
  5. Sharpie
  6. ¼” dowel
  7. ½” blue painter tape
Materials
  1. 18g wire 18”
  2. 26-24g wire 3 ½-4 ft
  3. ¾ ” teardrop stone
Directions-Prep
  1. Cut 18gauge wire into two even pieces (9”)
  2. Lightly hammer these wires to slightly harden if using copper or soft wire
  3. Mark center of the wires then mark out 1” on either side of the center mark
Weaving​
  1. Wrap 1”of thinner wire around one 18g wire on the outside the outer marks heading toward the center of the wire, one side of the wire only.
  2. Place 18 gauge wires one on either side of the ¼” dowel not quite in the dowel center and tape them and the dowel together just to the outside of the wrap you just made.
  3. Thin wire now goes over the short side of the dowel, then wrapped over and between the outside wire and the dowel.
  4. Wrap around and between the wire and dowel three times​
  1. Weave back under the dowel and back to the first wire and wrap it three times
  2. Alternate weaving back and forth under the dowel, until you get to the last mark on the wires
  3. Be sure to keep smooshing the wires together and keep them about the same distance apart on the dowel as you weave.
  4. Now trim wire 1” and wrap 18 gauge wire to finish weave ( it should be on opposite sides to the beginning of this weave
  5. Trim and flatten wire towards the inside
​
  1. Remove tape and shape the hammock around your stone. Shape as needed carefully
  2. Bend front and back wires at top to capture the stone
  3. Place the ¼” behind the tails at the base of the top of the pendant stone
  4. Wrap two back wires around the ¼” dowel to create a bail leaving tails flat against the stone back
​​
  1. Using front wires wrap around the bail twice so tails end in the stone front
  2. Trim  and file front wires
  3. Curl the front wires flat to make a pretty design and to help secure the stone.
  1. Trim back wires and file
  2. Curl them up towards the bail to finish ends

Make sure to visit my Etsy shop for something a little different!

Picture
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Beaded double Band Ring

5/16/2017

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Picture
Tools
  1. Wire cutters
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. Ring mandrel
  4. File

Materials
  1. 20 gauge wire 14-16” (depend on ring size)
  2. 4-6 beads no larger than 6mm (2-4mm is best for looks
   

   Everyone loves rings and why not, they are so fun and can be easy to make for yourself! This one also takes very little wire and beads to make, so you can make a bunch and have a ring for every finger and every occasion! So come on let's get started and make us some fun rings!

​

Make sure to also check out my store!

Picture
Directions
  1. Cut 20g wire in half
  2. Wrap wire around the ring mandrel ½-1 size larger than finished ring will be.
  3. Where the wires cross in front twist them around one another one  (makes a u shape connection on both sides) to two times (creates a spiral connection). Make sure to keep all wires parallel while doing this).
  1. On one side of the connection separate the wires just a bit
  2. Remove from mandrel
  3. Slide on bead/s to the inner wire
  4. Wrap the tail around the ring bands three times
  5. Trim the ends and flatten/file  with the end facing away from the inner band
  6. Pull the next wire around this beaded section and slide on the next set of beads to be placed in a design you like
  7. Repeat steps 6 & 7 to finish this side wrapping the wire under the last wrap, not on top covering the first wrap.
  1. Go to the other side of the ring and repeat steps in last section 
  2. Check ring for any rough edges and gently file them to make a comfortable ring
  3. Place back onto mandrel to adjust size and reshape if needed
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Triple Bead Wire Ring

5/16/2017

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Picture
Tools
  1. Wire cutters
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. Ring mandrel
  4. File

Materials
  1. 20 gauge wire 20”
  2. 3 5-6mm beads

 

  Another wire wrap ring? Sure, but really, can we get enough of them? I think not! Trinket rings are a great way to show your style and not break the bank! This ring is super easy and really fun to wear. Make them for all your friends in no time, or make enough for every finger and every outfit! 
​

Make sure you check out my store too!

Picture
Directions
  1. Place the beads as close to centered on the wire at 1.5-2 sizes larger than the finished ring onto the ring mandrel.
  2. Wrap Wires around the mandrel back and then to the front again just one time
  3. Wrap one tail around the cluster of beads in a spiral or u-shape to capture them
  4. Repeat on the other side to capture the cluster of beads from the opposite direction
  5. Remove from mandrel
  1. Wrap wire around the band one time to secure it
  2. Do the same on the other side of the ring
  1. Take one wire and going through the band wrap the wire in between the first and second bead.
  2. Then again between the second and third bead
  3. Wrap the end around the band three times 

  1. Take the other wire and going through the band wrap the wire in between the first and second bead.
  2. Then again between the second and third bead
  3. Wrap the end around the band three times 
  4. Trim, flatten and file the ends on the outside of the ring band on both sides
  5. ​Place back onto ring mandrel to adjust size a bit and reshape
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Easy Egyptian Coil Bracelet

5/9/2017

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Ever wonder how they make those awesome spiral /coil Egyptian bracelets? Well so did I. I went searching and I found only two sets of directions. Both were terrific, but as I was working, I wondered if there was an easier way to assemble them. I was having trouble getting the links hooked together after I made them. So I came up with a way that works better and easier for me, and maybe it will be better for you too. 
Picture
Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. Wire cutters
  4. File (emery board)
  5. ¼” Dowel
  6. Thin Sharpie
  7. Ruler
Materials
18-20 gauge wire 10 feet (I used 18 gauge)

Directions
  1. Cut one piece of wire 8” long
  2. Cut 18 pieces of wire 6” long
  3. File all the wire ends
Clasp Hook

  1. Hold ends together and fold in half
  2. Using flat nose pliers bring the tip closers to begin hook
  3. Gently bend the very tip up just a bit
  1. Measure from the tip ⅜” then using round nose pliers bend it around the pliers so little tip is still pointing up
  2. Move round nose pliers to ⅛” below where the tip is and bend back in the opposite direction (you should have something that resembles a S shape)
  3. Spread tail wires a little apart at the tips
  1. Make a small loop on each tip from inside to outside
  2. Continue loops till you get spiral coils that should end Just below the hook top
Links
  1. Fold 17 of the 6” pieces in half
  2. Use flat nose wires to bring them slightly closer but not closed
  3. Mark these wires ¾” from the fold tip in with a thin sharpie
  4. (Optional) mark ⅜” between the tip and the mark
  1. Feed one wire onto the hook loop under the spirals
  2. Make a small loop on both ends
  3. Coil each end until the spiral meets your ¾” mark
  1. Bend the coils up over your round nose pliers towards the last link
  2. Continue steps 5-8 for the rest of your wires, or until your bracelet is one link short of fitting.
Clasp Eye
  1. Mark the center of the last wire (3”)
  2. Loosely fold the last wire into a large open teardrop
  3. Place on tip into the last link loop and then the other tip on the other side of the loop(they should cross each other inside the loop)
  4. Place your ¼” dowel into the large loop so that your half way mark is centered on it.
  5. Pull both wire ends until they are tight around the dowel and the center mark is centered
  1. Remove dowel
  2. Make small loops on each end of the wires
  3. Coil until they come over and just barely under the eye loop top
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All Wire Spiral Earrings

5/2/2017

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Picture
 
    Love spirals? Well so do I! I just can't get enough of these fun designs. They are everywhere in nature and they can be mesmerizing to look at. So I designed these super easy and fun earrings that you can make in a very short period of time.
  
​   The best part is the design is simple to master and you can add all sorts of elements to change it up a bit. For instance add extra small beads t the top of every spiral for some color, or if you just can't stop yourself from making spirals add even more drops for more drama. Whatever you do have fun with it!



Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. Wire cutters
  4. File (emery board)
  5. Pen with cap (bic style round)
  6. Rubber Hammer and bench block
  7. Sharpie

​Materials
  1. 18-20 gauge wire 49-50”
  2. 4" of the 20 gauge is for ear wires
​

Directions

Make sure to check out my store too!

Picture
Fish hook ear wires
  1. Cut one wire 4” long
  2. Small loop with round nose pliers on both ends
  3. Slide on loop under pen top with loop opening away from pen
  4. Wrap wire about ¾ of the way around pen​
​
  1. Now repaet step four in last section on the other side of the wire
  2. Find center between the larger loop ends and cut making two ear wires
  3. Cut shorter stems if you wish
  4. Gently file ends with emery board
  5. Using Chain nose pliers make a small bend on ends facing away from earring loops (if you wish) to a 20 degree angle with flat nose pliers
  6. Hammer gently to strengthen 
  1. Cut - 2 wires 10” long, 4 wires 4” long, 2 wires 4 ½” long (for a total of 20 pieces)
  2. File the ends of all the wires
  3. Make a small loop on one end of every wire

4” and 10” wires
  1. Begin to make spiral using the flat nose pliers to help hold the loop and keep the spirals parallel, then slowly in small increments make the wire spiral around.
  2. When you get enough of a spiral you can drop the flat nose pliers and use your fingers.
  3. Spiral until only ¼” is left on the wires
  1. On the smallest spirals only, make a small loop going from the front of the spiral to the back
  2. Bend this spiral up to make the loop centered to the spiral center
  3. Set aside the completed and uncompleted spirals
​4 ½” wires
  1. Mark the end with no loop with a sharpie at ¾” from the end
  2. Repeat steps one and two in the previous section until the spiral reaches the sharpie mark.
  3. At the mark bend the wires up to center them
  4. Make a small loop going from the front of the spiral to the back ( hold the wire stem just under your tool to keep the stem from warping while making the loop)
Assembly
  1. Gently hammer all the spirals to make them sturdy, be careful to not hammer the small loops.
  2. Feed onto the large spiral one small one medium and one small spiral drop
  3. Make a small loop on the large spiral going in the opposite direction of the spiral to capture these drops and make a place to hang on the earwires.
  4. Open the earwire and place the large spiral on, then close the earwire and you are done!
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Linked Necklace with Briolette Pendant

3/14/2017

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   Making a necklace from start to finish may seem very daunting. But, I am going to show you how to make all the components you need to complete a beautiful necklace that is simple to create and yet elegant. I am adding a bit of chain into my design, but you can make the entire necklace by just repeating the links until you get the desired length you want. I am also making the center briolette for this design, but again you can use any pendant design you wish to finish the look. Let's get started!
​
Picture
ools
  1. Flat nose pliers
  2. Round nose pliers
  3. Flush cutters
  4. File (emery board)
  5. ¼” dowel

Materials
  1. 20 gauge wire 8” or more
  2. 18 gauge wire 10 1/2" (add 1 ⅛” per additional small link)
  3. 16 gauge wire 7 ½” (add 2 ⅛” per additional large link)
  4. Optional Chain with large enough for links 12-14”​

Small S Links

Directions
  1. Cut 6 pieces of 18 gauge wire 1" long and file ends
  2. Make a loop about half way down on the round nose pliers
  3. Flip over and repeat loop on opposite side to make an S
  4. Repeat on all wires 

Large Spiral S Links

  1. Cut two pieces of 18 gauge wire 2 1/8" long and file ends
  2. Make a small loop on both ends, each going in the opposite direction
  3. Round one end to make a larger loop by pulling the smaller one around in a circle
  4. Repeat on other end 
  5. Repeat for other wire

Center U Link 

  1. Cut one piece of 18 gauge wire 3 1/4" and file ends
  2. Make a small loop on both ends going in the same direction
  3. Pull each small loop in and around toward the center to create a spiral
  1. Hold the wire in the center between the two spirals on your round nose pliers about half way down on the tool (spiral should be spiraling inward and on top)
  2. Bend each spiral side down to create a U shape (adjust as needed to make it as centered as possible)

Hook and Eye Clasp

Hook
  1. Cut one piece of 18 gauge 1 1/2" long and file ends
  2. Make a loop on one end and back bend (center it)
  3. Make a small loop on the other end going in the same direction as the other loop
  4. Create a spiral on the small loop end like in the spiral links
Eye
  1. Cut one piece of 18 gauge wire 2 1/2" long and file ends
  2. Make a loop on one end and back bend it (center it)
  3. Wrap wire tail around the 1/4" dowel leaving about 1/4" between the small loop and the bottom of the dowel
  4. Leave the wire on the dowel and wrap the tail around under the dowel till you reach the smaller loop (you should have two-three wraps)
  5. Trim excess tail and file /flatten it to hide the end

Briolette Pendant ( optional, you may use your own pendant style)

  1. Cut length of wire out of 20-22 gauge wire
  2. Slide briolette onto wire in the center
  3. Bring wire ends up and together, pinching them tight to the briolette top
  1. Wrap both wires front to back over your round nose pliers to create a loop
  2. Leave the wires wrapped around the pliers and begin wrapping under the tool and the loops
  3. Spiral down towards the briolette and cover it if you wish
  4. To finish the wires you can do one of three things
             A. Wrap them back up to the top and trim
             B. Tuck them underneath the other wires to hide the ends
             C. Trim and make a tiny loop end on each wire and lay it on the bead front

Pre-Assembly
  1. If you are planning to make it all wire links please make enough of the small S links and large spiral S links to fit you.
  2. First we must check all wires for any burs or sharp spots and file them
  3. Now gently hammer all the components to make them strong and smooth and flat (this insures the necklace lays properly)
  4. Lay out all the components in the order they will go
​

Assembly

  1. Gently Open one side of the U shaped center link
  2. Slide pendant onto the link center and close the open side back up
  3. Open one side of two small S links 
  4. Put links onto each side of the center U link and re close them
  1. Open the small S links on the other end and place large spiral  links onto them
  2. Close the small S links
  3. Open and attach the next set of small S links to the other side of the large spiral links
  4. A. If you are not using chain keep alternating between the small S link and the large spiral link until you get the length you desire                                                                                                           B. If using the chain attach it to the last small S link on both sides
  5. Attach the hook and eye to a small S link
  6. Now attach the hook and eye small S links to the ends of  last large spiral link or the chain
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Linked Necklace with Briolette Pendant

3/14/2017

0 Comments

 
   Making a necklace from start to finish may seem very daunting. But, I am going to show you how to make all the components you need to complete a beautiful necklace that is simple to create and yet elegant. I am adding a bit of chain into my design, but you can make the entire necklace by just repeating the links until you get the desired length you want. I am also making the center briolette for this design, but again you can use any pendant design you wish to finish the look. Let's get started!
​
Picture
ools
  1. Flat nose pliers
  2. Round nose pliers
  3. Flush cutters
  4. File (emery board)
  5. ¼” dowel

Materials
  1. 20 gauge wire 8” or more
  2. 18 gauge wire 10 1/2" (add 1 ⅛” per additional small link)
  3. 16 gauge wire 7 ½” (add 2 ⅛” per additional large link)
  4. Optional Chain with large enough for links 12-14”​

Small S Links

Directions
  1. Cut 6 pieces of 18 gauge wire 1" long and file ends
  2. Make a loop about half way down on the round nose pliers
  3. Flip over and repeat loop on opposite side to make an S
  4. Repeat on all wires 

Large Spiral S Links

  1. Cut two pieces of 18 gauge wire 2 1/8" long and file ends
  2. Make a small loop on both ends, each going in the opposite direction
  3. Round one end to make a larger loop by pulling the smaller one around in a circle
  4. Repeat on other end 
  5. Repeat for other wire

Center U Link 

  1. Cut one piece of 18 gauge wire 3 1/4" and file ends
  2. Make a small loop on both ends going in the same direction
  3. Pull each small loop in and around toward the center to create a spiral
  1. Hold the wire in the center between the two spirals on your round nose pliers about half way down on the tool (spiral should be spiraling inward and on top)
  2. Bend each spiral side down to create a U shape (adjust as needed to make it as centered as possible)

Hook and Eye Clasp

Hook
  1. Cut one piece of 18 gauge 1 1/2" long and file ends
  2. Make a loop on one end and back bend (center it)
  3. Make a small loop on the other end going in the same direction as the other loop
  4. Create a spiral on the small loop end like in the spiral links
Eye
  1. Cut one piece of 18 gauge wire 2 1/2" long and file ends
  2. Make a loop on one end and back bend it (center it)
  3. Wrap wire tail around the 1/4" dowel leaving about 1/4" between the small loop and the bottom of the dowel
  4. Leave the wire on the dowel and wrap the tail around under the dowel till you reach the smaller loop (you should have two-three wraps)
  5. Trim excess tail and file /flatten it to hide the end

Briolette Pendant ( optional, you may use your own pendant style)

  1. Cut length of wire out of 20-22 gauge wire
  2. Slide briolette onto wire in the center
  3. Bring wire ends up and together, pinching them tight to the briolette top
  1. Wrap both wires front to back over your round nose pliers to create a loop
  2. Leave the wires wrapped around the pliers and begin wrapping under the tool and the loops
  3. Spiral down towards the briolette and cover it if you wish
  4. To finish the wires you can do one of three things
             A. Wrap them back up to the top and trim
             B. Tuck them underneath the other wires to hide the ends
             C. Trim and make a tiny loop end on each wire and lay it on the bead front

Pre-Assembly
  1. If you are planning to make it all wire links please make enough of the small S links and large spiral S links to fit you.
  2. First we must check all wires for any burs or sharp spots and file them
  3. Now gently hammer all the components to make them strong and smooth and flat (this insures the necklace lays properly)
  4. Lay out all the components in the order they will go
​

Assembly

  1. Gently Open one side of the U shaped center link
  2. Slide pendant onto the link center and close the open side back up
  3. Open one side of two small S links 
  4. Put links onto each side of the center U link and re close them
  1. Open the small S links on the other end and place large spiral  links onto them
  2. Close the small S links
  3. Open and attach the next set of small S links to the other side of the large spiral links
  4. A. If you are not using chain keep alternating between the small S link and the large spiral link until you get the length you desire                                                                                                           B. If using the chain attach it to the last small S link on both sides
  5. Attach the hook and eye to a small S link
  6. Now attach the hook and eye small S links to the ends of  last large spiral link or the chain
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Capturing an undrilled bead, Spiral style

10/4/2016

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Picture

Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose or chain nose pliers
  3. Cutters
  4. File
  5. Sharpy
  6. Hammer and block (for hardening)

Materials
  1. 10 - 12mm round beads
  2. 9” 18g wire per bead
Directions
  1. Cut one piece wire 9” long (per bead)
  2. File all ends
  3. Mark center of each wire with sharpy
  4. Make small loop on the ends of the wires going in opposite directions
  5. Spiral around continuously till you reach the center mark on one side
  1. Make same spiral on the opposite end going in the opposite direction to create a very fancy S
  2. Gently hammer the S piece to slightly harden it
  3. Pull up the center loop on one side to make connector *(if you are doing a chain of these beads, pull up the loop on the opposite side as well)
  1. Fold each S in half making a v shape
  2. Gently grab the center of one spiral and pull outward to create a cup
  3. Repeat on other side of spiral
  4. Place bead inside and use fingers to close and shape around the bead
  5. It is now ready to hang
  For earrings make an earwire of your choice out of 20g round wire.I have many choices in my Projects section to choose. 
    This technique can be used for any shape bead, even long styles, just recalculate the length of wire needed and how big a spiral you need. For a long and yet thinner beads you can spiral the wire around a dowel after making the first loop (it will look like a spring).  


Also remember to go check out all my handmade jewelry in my on line store.

Picture
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Three Easy Bead Drop Styles

9/27/2016

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Picture


​Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose or chain nose pliers
  3. Cutters
  4. File
Materials
  1. 20 gauge round wire
  2. Beads (no longer than ½” per drop)
Basic Bead Style
  1. Cut two pieces of wire 1 1/4" long
  2. Make a small loop  with a back bend on one end of each wire
  3. Place on bead
  4. Make a small loop with a back bend on the end (if the bead has too much room between it and the loop, trim just a hair off and remake the loop)
Closed Loop Drop With Bottom Loop
  1. Cut two pieces of wire 2 ½” long
  2. Make a small loop with a back bend on one end of each wire
  3. Place beads onto the wires
  4. Hold wire above beads with round nose pliers about ¼” away from the beads
  5. Wrap wire tail around the pliers to make a loop
  6. Wrap tail around the wire under the loop to finish the drop
  7. Cut and file any excess tail and flatten it in
  8. ​Other bead drops can be hung from the bottom loop for a long chandelier style drop
Closed Loop Drop with No bottom Loop
  1. Cut two wires 2 ½” long
  2. Make a small loop on one end of each wire and be sure to back bend it to center the loop on the tail
  3. Place bead onto wire
  4. Move bead a bit and grab the wire just under the loop with your flat nose pliers
  5. Push tail wire up the back of the bead, keep the space with your flat nose pliers
  6. Move flat nose pliers out of the way (you should have a little head space between the bead and the loop
  7. Wrap the remaining tail around the wire just above the bead and upward toward the loop
  8. Cut any left over if there is any and flatten it to the wire.
  9. File the end if needed
These easy methods can be used for larger beads, just scale the wire length up to fit. For some earwires just go to Three Easy Earwires Styles in the projects section.
​

Remember to check out my online store as well.

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Tumbled Stone Ring

6/8/2016

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 You went to the beach and collected tones of really cute shells, beach glass and stones. No wait you went to the bead store and raided all their cool polished stones. Now what? Well here is a fun project that you can do with all those awesome treasures. A wire wrap ring that is so fun you won't be ab;e to stop making them. 
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Materials
  1. Tumbled stone (Preferably with angles and oblong)
  2. 18g wire 2.5-3.5ft (depending on stone and ring size)


Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. Cutters
  4. File
  5. Ring mandrel
  6. Sharpie

​

  1. Find wire center and mark it
  2. Wrap wire around ring mandrel two times , starting at the top of the mandrel.
  3. Use ½-1 size larger than the one you want to end with, exp I want a size 7 ring so I make band on a 7.5-8 on the mandrel.

  1. Wrap the wires around each other going in opposite directions and keeping the flat against the band.

  2. Continue wrapping these tails in a spiral fashion to create a rosette center for the stone to sit on

  1. Place stone on the rosette

  2. Wrap one tail around the stone two times then go under the band and across to the other side and wrap once around the other side

  3. Wrap under the band and then around the band twice to secure the wrap 

  4. Cut the end on the outside of the band to 1/8"  file and flatten it down on the outside band

  1. Now wrap the other tail in the same manner around the stone and through the band to the other side of the ring.

  2. Wrap twice around the band, cut to outside, file and flatten

  3. If stone feels loose feel free to tweak the wires in a zig zag fashion under the band or all over to make an organic look.

  4. Place back on the mandrel and reshape or size as needed.
  5. Smooth out any scratches or dings with file or polishing clothe

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Wire Wrapped Cabochon ( Four Wire)

5/11/2016

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Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. Wire cutter
  4. File
  5. ¼”-⅜” dowel or a round pen
Materials
  1. 20 Gauge wire square or round 32”
  2. 20 Gauge half round wire 16”
  3. Cabochon 30mm x 20mm or smaller
*If you choose to use a larger cabochon adjust the length of the  square wire to accommodate this change.

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Spiral Stone Caged Bracelet

1/26/2016

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This beautiful bracelet was inspired by Pearl Blay and her wonderful tutorial. My version can be done with an object that has no beading hole such as marbles. I also changed it a bit to create a slightly stronger bracelet, since I am very hard on bracelets.  This technique can be adapted to make pendants or other pieces with smaller or larger objects to be caged, and the objects do not have to be perfectly round if you prefer a more organic look. 
Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose or chain nose pliers
  3. Cutters
  4. File
  5. ⅛” dowel or coat hanger piece of wire as a mandrel
  6. ¼”-⅜” dowel
  7. Hammer and block(for hardening)

Materials
  1. Six to seven 12mm or so stones or glass
  2. 6.5ft 18g wire

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While your here check out my store too.

Directions
Bead capture
  1. Cut 6-7  pieces of wire 9” long
  2. File all ends
  3. Mark center of each wire
  4. Make small loop on the ends of the wires going in opposite directions

  1. Spiral around continuously till you reach the center mark on one side
  2. Make same spiral on the opposite end going in the opposite direction to create a very fancy S
  3. Repeat this for all 6-7 wires
  4. Gently hammer all the spiral pieces to slightly harden them
  1. Pull up the center spiral to make a loop connector on both ends
  2. Fold each S in half to make spirals on top of one another
  3. Gently grab the center of one spiral and pull outward to create a cup and repeat on other end creating cups
  1. ​Gently open the spiral center and place the bead inside each cup and then re-close it to capture the beads
S Hook Connectors 
  1. Cut six pieces of wire into 3/4" size
  2. File both ends of each wire
  3. Create one loop on each side of the wire in opposite directions to create tiny s hooks
  4. Gently hammer to harden
Clasp Hook and Eye
Eye
  1. Cut one piece of wire 2" long
  2. File ends and mark center
  3. Wrap at center around a 1/4" dowel and wrap tail around the small stem
  4. Now make a small loop with the remaining stem for a connector.
Hook
    1. Cut one piece of wire 1 1/2" long
    2. File both ends
    3. Make a small loop on one end and make a back bend  to create a lollipop
    4. On the other end make a tiny loop and then curve it into a hook
    5. Gently hammer the hook to strengthen 
     
Assemble
*(Lay out all pieces in order to make it easier)


  1. Now open the loops on the bead spirals and hook onto the connectors beginning with the eye clasp.
  2. Close and tighten both connecting loops if needed
  3. Alternate between connectors and beads until it is long enough and then place the hook connector on last
  4. Go back and just make sure all connections are tight and strong

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Cross Wrap Ring

1/2/2016

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   So you have a box of found objects that are collecting dust and you only bring them out once in a while when your feeling nostalgic, right? Well I decided it was time to do something great with those objects and enjoy them every day. I was inspired by a design I saw by Eva Marie Sherman and I tweaked it a bit to show more of the object and I also did a few trial runs to perfect it for my design. The technique is not difficult but the wrap can be tricky because that cool object wants to get away back into the box, But you can do it and with practice you'll be a pro in no time. 

  So go get that box and your tools and let's get started!
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​Tools
  1. Wire cutters
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. File
  4. Ring mandrel

Materials
  1. Found object (no larger than a nickle, preferably not to round or circular)
  2. 3 pcs of 20 gauge dead soft wire (round or square) 10" long each

​

Directions
    1. Lay the three wires flat next to each other and tape the together keeping them parallel to one another.
    2. Mark the center of the wires on the tape
  1. lace center of wires onto ring mandrel 1/2 size larger than finished ring will be.
  2. Wrap wires around to front center of mandrel crossing the wires
  3. Holding the shank twist the wires around each other keeping the wires parallel 
  4. Continue to twist them around in a spiral design trying to keep them as flat and parallel as possible and make one rotation
  1. Turn over mandrel and press down on the ring to flatten the wires and create a good base for your object
  2. Make sure twist is tight on the mandrel
  3. Place object onto the ring and adjust the direction of the wires to create a good capture
  1. Holding the object on the shank, fold over one set of wires across it trying to keep the object centered and the wires parallel
  2. Now fold over the other wire across the object as well
  3. Cross and twist the wires around each other like we did to create the base. We are only crossing them once not a full rotation around each other.
  4. Make sure wires are still parallel and that they are going to hold the object secure when wrapped under the shank. 
  1. Before we take the ring off the mandrel do any size adjusting (remeber ring should be 1/2 size larger now than when it is finished) making sure the object is tight and secured properly, and that the wires are facing the shank they will wrap around.
  2. Wrap one side of the wires under the shank keeping them snug on the object and keeping the object centered.
  3. Fold wires around the shank and wrap over
  1. Trim wires and either tuck them under between the object and shank to prevent scratching the wearer or wrap the wires flat on the outside of the shank and file them.
  2. Now wrap the opposite side in the same way to finish the wrapping
  1. Place the ring back on the mandrel to check size and reshape if needed. You may gently hammer the shank if it is smaller than you wanted
  2. Remove tape, polish and show off!
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Adjustable Wire Ring

5/13/2015

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Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. Flush cutters
  4. Ring Mandrel or dowel the correct size
  5. File

Materials
  1. 6” of 16 or 18 gauge wire
  2. One 6mm bead with large enough hole
  3. Two 4mm beads with large enough hole

Check out my other free tutorials!
Directions
  1. File one end of 6” wire
  2. Make a small loop on this end
  3. Place beads onto wire

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  1. With tip of round nose pliers grab wire right under the beads and bend the wire so that the small loop is facing outwards
  2. Now wrap the remaining wire around the dowel or ring mandrel(I use a size 7 ½ )
  3. Also round out the beaded section by pushing on the ring around the mandrel or dowel( you can use your flat nose pliers to help you)

  1. Where the long tail meets the small loop place your round nose pliers
  2. Make a bend in the tail wire, going back in the direction of the bead section
  3. Cut tail so it is no longer than where the bead section begins
  4. File end smooth
  5. Make a medium loop to finish off the wire end
  6. If you removed the wire from the mandrel to do these steps place it back on to reshape it
Visit my Gallery/Shop for other designs made by me!
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Coil and Beaded Bracelet

3/23/2015

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Tools
  1. Round Nose pliers
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. Flush cutters
  4. File
  5. 3/8" Dowel





Materials

  1. 16 gauge wire 28”
  2. Four 10-12mm beads

Check out the classes I offer for personal instruction.

Directions-swirl center
  1. Cut one piece of wire 10” (small wrist do 8”) long File ends smooth
  2. Hold wire at center on round nose pliers
  3. Wrap each tail in opposite directions creating an outward spiral
  4. Continue until you have gone around twice
  5. Using flat nose pliers to hold swirl continue wrapping around until only a ⅜ -½ ” tail remains and center swirl is centered
  6. Now make open loops on each tail going in opposite directions


Beaded Links
  1. Cut 4 pieces 1 ½” long and smooth ends
  2. Create medium size open loops on one end of each wire
  3. Place on bead on each wire
  4. Create open loop in opposite direction of first loop to trap bead on each wire (trim a hair,if bead has too much room)

Wire Coil Links ( these can also be used for earrings components)
  1. Cut two pieces of wire 3 ¼” long and file ends of all of them
  2. Do the same process as on the center coil to create link coils

Eye
  1. Cut one piece of wire 3” long and smooth ends
  2. Create open loop on one end
  3. Holding this end wrap the tail around ⅜” dowel and wrap tail around wire under the large loop

Hook
  1. Cut one piece of wire 2” and smooth ends
  2. Create open loop on one end
  3. Create tiny open loop on the other end
  4. Now make an open swirl with flat nose pliers
  5. Hook should look like a fancy s

*Gently hammer all the coil links including the center piece and the S hook.

Assembly
  1. Open one end of a bead link and place the eye on it close up tightly
  2. Open other bead link side and attach to small coil link,, repeat alternating pattern placing Center coil after second bead link.
  3. Continue pattern after center ending with the hook.
  4. Check all connections are closed up and smooth out any rough spots with your file

  5. Should bracelet not lay comfortably around wrist, you can round inward each end loop on the coil links slightly.

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All Wire Coil Bracelet

3/17/2015

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Picture


Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose or chain nose pliers
  3. Flush cutters
  4. File
  5. 1/8"-1/4" dowel (optional)
  6. 3/8" dowel or pen

Materials
  1. 18-16 gauge wire 36 1/2"

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Creating the Center Coil
  1. Cut 10" (medium wrist) or 8" (small wrist) of wire
  2. Holding wire in the center with the round nose pliers begin wrapping tails in same direction around the tools nose.
  3. Continue around at least one full spiral
  4. Take wire off the round nose pliers and hold flat with flat nose pliers
  5. Continue the spiral wrap until only 1/2" tail remains on either side of the spiral
  6. Cut to center or even them up a bit ,file and then make loops going back from spiral to make hanging loops.

Making the Links and Jump rings
  1. Cut four pieces of wire 3 1/4" long
  2. Follow the same directions as for the large center spiral to create four smaller links
  3. To make the jump rings use fattest part of round nose pliers and create a spring coil or use a 1/8"-1/4" dowel to do the same. Make spring coil go around enough times to make 6 jump rings
  4. Take off the tool and cut the jump ring straight apart
  5. Open them sideways gently and file seams to be smooth when closed

 
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Creating the Hook and Eye
Eye
  1. Cut a piece of wire 2 1/2" long and file ends
  2. Create a open loop on one end
  3. Wrap remaining tail around 3/8" dowel leaving enough room between open loop and dowel to wrap the tail around the wire.
  4. Wrap twice and flush cut if needed
  5. Smooth out any rough edges
  6. Each loop should be going in opposite direction (twist if needed)

Hook
  1. Cut one piece of wire 2" long and file ends
  2. Create an open loop on one end
  3. now make a small open loop on the other end
  4. continue to spiral the small loop into a large loose loop making it look like a letter S

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                                                         Hammer time and Assembly of the bracelet
  1. Before assembling we need to do a little hammering
  2. Gently hammer the hook.
  3. Hammer the center spiral and all the spiral links
  4. Make sure all loop ends are closed up tight


Now we are ready to assemble
  1. Lay out all your pieces in order of assembly
  2. Start with the hook end and using a jump ring attach it to a link
  3. Now another jump ring and link 
  4. Next a jump ring and the center spiral
  5. then jump ring and link
  6. Jump ring and link
  7. Finally jump ring and eye( if it seems to be a bit to small add a second jump ring on this end or both if needed)
  8. Make sure all connections are closed up tight
  9. You may slightly curve the outside loops of the links and spiral center to make the bracelet lay flatter
  10. Check for any rough spots and file them or buff them out



Come see some of my work in my Gallery. Or come take a class with me in person.
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Beaded Wire Bracelet with Coil Center

3/17/2015

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Picture





Tools
  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat or chain nose pliers
  3. Flush cutters
  4. File
  5. 3/8" Dowel



Materials
  1. 16 gauge wire 2410"
  2. 6  10mm beads with large holes (big enough for 16 gauge wire)



Come see some of my Recycled Copper pieces
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Making the Coil Center Piece

  1. Cut 10" (medium wrist) or 8" (small wrist) of wire
  2. Holding wire in the center with the round nose pliers begin wrapping tails in same direction around the tools nose.
  3. Continue around at least one full spiral
  4. Take wire off the round nose pliers and hold flat with flat nose pliers
  5. Continue the spiral wrap until only 1/2" tail remains on either side of the spiral
  6. Cut to center or even them up a bit ,file and then make loops going back from spiral to make hanging loops.
  7. Hammer this piece to harden and or texture
  8. Gently bend outer loops down in a slight cure to help it lay flatter on your wrist


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Making the Beaded Links
  1. Cut six pieces 1 1/2" long and file ends
  2. Create a open loop on one end of each wire
  3. Place bead on each wire 
  4. Create a second open loop on the other end to trap the bead (wire can be cut first if there is to much wiggle room )

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                                                Creating the Hook and Eye
                                               
                                                  Eye
  1. Cut a piece of wire 2 1/2" long and file ends
  2. Create a open loop on one end
  3. Wrap remaining tail around 3/8" dowel leaving enough room between open loop and dowel to wrap the tail around the wire.
  4. Wrap twice and flush cut if needed
  5. Smooth out any rough edges
  6. Each loop should be going in opposite direction (twist if needed)

Hook
  1. Cut one piece of wire 2" long and file ends
  2. Create an open loop on one end
  3. now make a small open loop on the other end
  4. continue to spiral the small loop into a large loose loop making it look like a letter S
  5. Gently hammer the hook.

Assembling the Bracelet
  1. You should now have a Center spiral, 6 beaded links, and a hook and eye.
  2. Begin by laying all the pieces in order of assembly ( in case you have a bead pattern)
  3. Start with the hook and gently open one of the beaded links end just enough to put the hook on and close it up.
  4. Move to the next link and add it to the last beaded link
  5. Repeat  step 4 with another link
  6. Now add the Spiral center
  7. Add next beaded link
  8. Repeat step 7 two more times 
  9. Now add your eye
  10. Check all connections are closed up tight and you are done
Picture


Feeling  you may want to learn this first hand with some help from me personally? Now you can. Join me at The Cape Cod Art Bar for a class! All materials included and you you can bring a glass of wine and some friends! I would love to meet you.
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Wrap a Coin (Quarter) or 1" Cabochon

3/11/2015

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This wire wrap project is appropriate for a coin that is the size of a quarter (1"across) or a cabochon that is fairly flat and also about 1" across. 
      I got some of my information and the inspiration to create these directions from another artists sight.  https://www.scribd.com/beadinggem    Please visit this sight to get even more information on  measurements for other sized coins. Or visit http://www.scribd.com/doc/91672366/How-to-Wire-Wrap-a-Coin-Pendant-Tutorial#scribd for their full instructions.

*If making something a different size you will need to change your wire length, possibly add the number of wires for bezel width (for the depth of the stone), and also use the correct size dowel for creating the frame for your bezel. 
Tools
  1. Round Nose Pliers
  2. Flat Nose Pliers
  3. Cutters
  4. File
  5. Painters tape
  6. Sharpie
  7. Ruler
  8. 7/8"-1” dowel
  9. ¼” dowel




Materials
  1. 20 gauge round or square wire 30”
  2. 20 gauge half round wire 12”
  3. Quarter $.25 or 1"  flat cabochon 




Come have a look at my handy work!

Making the Bezel
    1. Cut four wires of square wire 7 1/2” long. 
    2. Lay each wire side by side flat and wrap painters tape around both ends to secure.
    3. Lay wires down and mark with sharpie the center (3 3/4")
    4. Now measure out 3/4” from center on both sides and mark with sharpie
    5. Now measure out 3/4” out from those marks on each side with sharpie. 
    6. Now you have five marks total, each 3/4" from each other.
              7.   With half round wire wrap the three center marked areas on the square bundle wire four times each (cut ends should all be on one side and away from edges, this will be the inside/wrong side.)
            9.   Now wrap wire bundle around the 1” dowel starting at the center wrap with the inside/wrong side facing the dowel. 
             10.    Place coin or stone into center of bezel and check that the wires cross at the top where the remaining marks are, if they do not, adjust them so that they do.​
              11. Once you get the marks correct make 90 degree angles outward from the frame on the marks (these will be the bail wires)
Setting the coin/stone
         11.    Using half round wire, begin to wire wrap the wire tails tightly at the base of the bezel, wrap five times around front. you may trim it if you wish or leave it attached.
         12.  Remove painter's tape from tails
           14.    Place coin or stone into bezel and hold in place with painter's tape.
           15.   At each bezel wrap on the frame and at the center of each side of the bail wires create small bends in the outer wire only to hold coin. Start at the bottom of the coin and go up towards the top. Do on both sides of coin. Start with top and remove painter’s tape as needed to reach bottom area. Do this carefully so not to scratch coin.  Remove or adjust painter's tape when as you go.
   Making the Bail
             Option one (with 1/2 round trimmed)
             15.  Move back three to four wires closest to the front forward and gently away from the bail 

              16.  At the bezel base place the ¼” dowel and wrap the four to five front square wires in a U shape towards the back.
              17. Then wrap them under and around the bail. Trim and flatten.
              18. Take remaining wires and create a swirl in towards the front, Trim and curl the ends.
   
​ Option two (with 1/2 round un-trimmed)
               16. Wrap the four to five bail wires front to back around the 1/4" dowel.Use flat nose to bring them in close.

               17.   Wrap the bail with ½ round wire tightly, trim  1/2 round wire and re-tighten with flat nose pliers
               18.  Spread out the bail loops to look nice
               19.  Cut the back tails(4) to 3/4" ,  file smooth
               20.  Make tiny loops on small tails at the back of the coin and lay them flat against the coin
                21.   Finish remaining tails by filing them and curling them into soft coils or creating large loopy swirls towards the front.
Feel free to check out my other projects or just learn a little more about me and my passion.
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Chandelier Earrings

3/2/2015

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Picture
   
      I love chandelier earrings and everything sparkly and I am guessing you do to. Here is a fairly basic patter to create a pair of two tiered loop chandelier earring with crystals. Of course you can take these and put even more sparkle, non at all or use your own style of bead.



Tools

  1. Round nose pliers
  2. Flat nose pliers
  3. Cutters
  4. File
  5. ⅜” Mandrel (dowel)
  6. ⅝” Mandrel (dowel)
  7. Round pen with cap


Materials
  1. 20 gauge wire
  2. 16 gauge wire
  3. 5 beads/crystals 4-6 mm





   Here is a few more projects I came up with and would love to share, enjoy!


Come join me at The Cape Cod Art Bar and take a class with me. Gets hands on experience in a relaxed atmosphere and go home with a treasure! 
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Foward facing Ear wires (Follow the link for this design and skip the jump ring for this style.)

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  Fish hook Ear wires (follow link for pictured directions)​
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                                          Hoops and Jump rings
  1. Cut two 2 ½” pieces and two 3 ½” pieces of 16 gauge wire and smooth ends

  2. Wrap each 2 ½” piece around the ⅜” dowel to create a teardrop shape

  3. Wrap each 3 ½” wire around the ⅝” dowel just like in step

  4. To create jump rings wrap 16 gauge wire off spool around largest part of round nose pliers twice and cut at wire end to make two 
  5. Smooth wire ends of jump ring to create nice smooth finish

Beaded Drops
  1. Cut 6  1” and 4 ¾” pieces of 20 gauge wire

  2. make tiny open loops on one end of all these wires

  3. Place beads onto the wires and create medium size open loops on other ends
Assembly
  1. Create one open loop on one side of largest hoop

  2. Place one short then long then short bead link onto loop

  3. Create closed loop on other side

  4. Pinch loops together and make a bend just under it to make the loops face upright

  5. Make a loop on one end of smaller hoop

  6. Feed through loops on larger hoop but also feed on one of the remaining bead links in between the loops

  7. Close other end and pinch hoop and straighten loops

  8. Open one jump ring and put on one the loop, the last bead link , the ear wire and then the last loop.

     9.    Close jump ring.
Also Checkout some of my handmade pieces as well 
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DIY Rock and Roll Hoop Earrings

4/9/2014

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Always wanted to learn how to make some fun and fashionable earrings? Well lets get to it! These earrings not only have swing and a little rock and roll personality, they are fairly easy to make yourself and you can change them to suit your limitless imagination and bead supply, which ever comes first.

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Supplies and Tools

  1. 12" of 18 gauge wire
  2. 18" Chain with links open enough for wire. (I recycled a broken necklace)
  3. Twelve 6mm ball beads
  4. One set ear wires
  5. Wire Cutters
  6. Round nose pliers
  7. Shot Glass (preferably empty, so bottoms up)

Direction
  1.  Cut wire in half to make two pieces 6" long
  2. Make a loop at one end of each wire with round nose pliers
  3. Wrap wire around the shot glass close to the top with the loops facing out. This should create a teardrop shape.
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      4.   Cut chain into 14 pieces 1"(there may be a very tiny chain left but we are losing one ring each time we cut, so do not cut them longer).

      5.    Slide one chain then one ball onto the hoop alternating till you have 7 chains and six balls on each hoop. Do not worry if the wire gets a little warped, you can reshape it on the shot glass if needed.

      6.   Now make a loop on the other end that goes around under the other loop and close it.

       7.   Add your DIY ear wire and you have a pair of real rock and roll earrings
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Gallery/Shop
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Making a metal bangle bracelet

4/7/2014

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     Making a metal bracelet with a center bead can be done with a few tools and is a great beginner project for learning wire shaping. I love these bangles because you can stack the bracelets and they take very little time to make when you get the hang of it.



Supplies and Tools
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  1.  14 gauge copper wire
  2. 16-18 gauge copper wire
  3.  Bead/s of choice with large enough whole to put the 16-18 gauge wire through
  4.  Round nose pliers
  5.  Flat nose pliers
  6.  Wire cutters
  7.  Emery board
  8. Round pencil or pen
  9. Sturdy round object about 2" across(exp wooden dowel, plastic bottle, or thick drinking glass)
  10.  Jewelers Hammer and block(optional)

Directions

     1. Cut the 16-18 gauge wire to 4"

     2. Cut the 14 gauge wire to 6 1/2(small) , 7"(medium) or 7 1/2"(large) 

     3. Using emery board gently round and soften the ends so they do not scratch you

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     4. Slide bead/s onto the 16-18 gauge wire centering the beads 

     5. Using the round nose pliers bend each side down about 45 degrees 

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     6. Using the pen or pencil and your fingers if possible wrap the wire around and cross over the wire.( if you are good with round nose pliers you can do it without the pen)

     7. Using the flat nose pliers wrap the wire around twice for a clean and secure conection
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     8. Hammer one end of the 14 gauge wire approximately 1/2" from end to flatten slightly, then using the emery board smooth out edges (If you do not have a hammer, do not panic. This step can be left out. I like to do it for a cleaner more professional look).  

     9. Using widest part of your round nose pliers hook the other end but do not close the loop completely yet.
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     10. Using the 2" round object you have wrap the wire around it to form a open circle with your loop facing out.

     11.Using the round pliers make a half circle on the other end facing out.
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      12. Now just put bead  onto open loop and close it tight. Then gently shape the bead wire to be a small arch and put on your new bangle bracelet!
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My Gallery/Shop
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Let's Learn a Little About Wire Gauge

2/7/2014

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                    Wire Gauge and What to use when.....   

    As you begin to learn about wire wrapping and jewelry component making, you will realize that often the sizes of these materials is measured as gauge. If you re anything like I was in the beginning this will be a "What the Mackerel does that mean?" moment.

         Let me explain.  Gauge is the measurement used to define the thickness of a wire. The Larger the number the smaller the thickness. For Example a size 12 gauge wire is quite thick and a size 26 gauge is very fine. Gauges are usually seen between 26(super fine)  to about 16 (thick) in most local craft stores in the jewelry wire section. You can get wires in an even larger range at wholesale on-line craft stores such as Rio Grande and Fire Mountain Gems as well.

        So what does this mean to the making process?  Well it can depend on what type of metal you are using as well as what you want to do with it. What I mean is if the metal is soft you may need a thicker wire to do the same or similar job as what a harder metal can do with a thinner gauge.  That is why, when you go looking for what gauge is for what situation, sometimes you find lists that show a range of gauges for the same jobs. But let's start with the basics.


        According to one of my favorite inspiring how to books, The Earring Style Book by Stephanie A Wells the break down looks like this for size and use.  
            
      Gauge
       26(super fine)-  Single and double wrapped loops, teardrop loop and wrap, wrapping single beads and attaching beads to frames.

        24(very fine)- Eye pins and head pins, single and double wrapped loop, teardrop loop and wrap, wrapping single beads to frames.

         22(Fine)- Eye pins and head pins, loops, teardrop loop and wrap, attaching beads to frames.
        
         20(Medium)- Ear wires, jump rings, eye pins and head pins, connecting frame pieces.

        18 -14 or larger(thick)- Frames 


        I used this guide often, when I was first learning the art of wire wrapping to decide where to begin on a project. However as my experience has grown I have found that softer metals will need to be at least one size thicker in gauge for the same results of strength. That being said it is only comfortable to go up to a size 19 gauge at the largest, for ear wires. Anything thicker can be heavy and cause irritation on the wearer. Another way to get around this is to gently hammer the ear wire, at the u-shape part, to strengthen it.  

       As you begin to work with wire, you will find your own comfort for different operations. I find that I do not like the very fine wires to work with because most of the wrapping I do involves ends that are never tucked under. When using the fine wire this in usually suggested because they are too soft to stay in place otherwise and will unravel during polishing(at least this has been my experience with dead soft metals, copper and aluminum) So for my designs I usually will not use a wire smaller than 19 gauge or 18 gauge for attaching beads to frames and wrapping stones. I also find that the finer gauges are too soft to hold as jump rings, unless tempered, or hammered, if the metal is dead soft. I also work with much larger sizes of aluminum because it is extremely soft and even gentle hammering can only harden it slightly. 

     Most of the wire I work with is either dead soft or soft, what this means is that it will shape much easier. I love the look of the hammering effect so I prefer it over the hard wire in most cases. I also believe that when you start learning it is a better choice so you can get your technique worked out before trying the harder metals. Copper is fairly inexpensive to work with and will give you a chance to experiment with your learning. I also suggest starting with just two sizes to begin, and from my point of view 20 gauge and 16 gauge is a great for many of your first projects.

        I hope this helps to clarify the gauge matter and gets you to the wire isle soon. Have fun and see what works for you. 
  
              Feel Free to visit my Gallery/Shop to see examples of different jewelry pieces made with different gauges and metals.


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Going Green-Recycled Copper pipe and Electrical wire

2/1/2014

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        My latest love affair may get me into trouble with my husband. But that is only because I am running out of places to put my jewelry supplies and I have been confiscating some of his tools from the man cave.

     He did a plumbing and electrical home project recently and gave me the old pipe and the left over wire, so technically it is his fault I have a new addiction added to my current jewelry making obsession.
    
     I had to clean the pipes quite a bit, with believe it or not sea salt and lemon juice. Worked terrific and the copper shines like crazy. Then I removed all the wire from the electrical plastic coating, well worth the effort. I got some 12 and 14 gauge wire in all different lengths.

   After all the prep I began experimenting with all of it. After hand sawing the pipe into workable pieces, I hammered some completely flat and shaped it into a cuff bracelet and added some of the 12 gauge wire to it as an accent. I also wire wrapped a few pieces that I left round but shaped a bit into a pendant and necklace center piece. Then for the last couple of days I have been shaping and hammering the 12 and 14 gauge wire into earrings, rings and bracelets. It is so much fun and looks amazing!  
 
     I love the look of the shiny warm copper so I have been coating it with a product called Ever brite. It looks terrific and is easy to use. It keeps the color and I do it on the finished pieces to protect it. Of course if you like how copper gets a patina you can leave it alone.

      I am totally hooked and will continue to hammer and shape it into all kinds of new things. I am very much enjoying my new found recycle adventure. You never know what will inspire you, so keep your eyes and mind open and look at that pile of junk in a different way.

   May you find a new recycling obsession of your own.
Dawn
http://www.etsy.com/shop/DRDesignsGallery

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    Dawn Rosell

    I am a self taught jewelry designer and artist.  I studied fashion design and come from a very creative family.
    I am a wife to a wonderful husband and a mom to an amazing child. Both of which  continually inspire me to try new things and think outside the box, as well as to reach my dreams and inspire others.

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