Project: Elegant Crystal Chain and Bird Bracelet with Matching Necklace
Tools for Project:
Chain Nose Pliers Jump Ring Tool I was recently interviewed by Fall Fair columnist Gillian Shearwater for contribution to her upcoming article in the AV Times. April's article is on accessories for that special Grad and the following contains her questions, my answers and some info with pictures of an elegant yet easy piece of jewellery that anyone can make. You can read more of Gillian's articles at http://albernifair.com/
For the article I chose to do a piece for Fall Fair category “5L-09 - 6 Jewellery, any object”. I created specific pieces for this article because I wanted to show that a complex looking design can actually be fairly simple with the right supplies. The supplies used for this project are from a Vancouver bead store (crystal chain and 18’ chain) and Michael’s in Nanaimo (birds, jump rings and clasp). All supplies are available at Michael’s. I would have used local supplies but the crystal chain and bird charms are not available here; however, you can get jump rings, clasps and pre-made chain at Wal-Mart. I sadly miss our local Hobby Corner (sigh).
Gillian: What’s the best project for a beginner?
Me: For beginner’s it is best to keep it simple. You can still make a beautiful piece of jewellery and save yourself a lot of frustration by keeping your projects within your skill level. This way you can advance your techniques as you advance your skills. Trying to tackle a complex project can lead to discouragement and an unfinished project.
Gillian: What makes a project successful? E.g. design, finishing, appropriate materials for intended use, trendiness.
Me: Many factors make a successful project. Design, colour scheme, quality of supplies and execution of work can make or break a piece. I prefer to use supplies that are made of metal, glass, crystal, or stone, to plastic. They tend to be more pleasing to the eye, but occasionally you can find good quality plastic or resin ware. If you are interested in doing a jewellery project, make sure you do a little research first. Check fashion and colour trends or choose colours and designs that can be worn with many different outfits. This will give you piece more functionality and appeal.
Gillian: What cautions are there for making jewellery and related accessories?
Me: When choosing your project, I can’t stress enough the importance of choosing a simple project to start. You might want to start with a pattern or instructional video. Quality materials also go a long way in making a project successful. Discount supplies usually come with a discounted quality, however if you spend some time scrutinizing the product you can still get a few bargains. Discount supplies can be a good source if you just want to practice; however, spending a little extra on quality supplies can make a big difference in the result.
Gillian: Supplies: What are the best and/or closest sources of supply? Any comments on what is locally available through the dollar stores and big box stores? Any comments on mail order, or internet shopping?
Me: Quality supplies locally can be hard to come by since the closing of our local hobby store. You can find some items in the big box stores and discount stores locally. Internet shopping can be an excellent source for supplies, but be sure to check out the companies shipping prices, and duty costs for any items coming in from another country. Where you get your supplies really depends on what you decide to make. I like to hand pick my supplies from a variety of stores so I can see the quality I’m getting and I get a wide variety of supplies. I always have my eye out for things available locally and have found some lovely vintage supplies in our local thrift shops.
Gillian: Learning to make jewellery & accessories, are there any classes locally? Do you teach? Any internet resources that are valuable?
Me: Local classes are usually offered through our local Parks and Recreation Dept. Unfortunately I don’t teach classes yet, but maybe in the future. To learn how to make jewellery, look for instructional books from our local library, articles in magazine or on the internet for simple designs, patterns, and instructions. You Tube is a great place to find instructional videos.
Gillian: What would be a good project for an experienced crafter to expand their range of skills?
Me: There are so many projects geared to the experienced crafter. I really depends on whether you want to do beadwork, wirework, precious metal clay work or complete metal construction such as silver casting, soldering or riveting. Patterns and videos usually let you know what skill levels are required, beginner, intermediate or advanced. Don’t be afraid to play with new materials, experimentation can lead to some very interesting and creative pieces. I’ve done pieces where I’ve used fabric, ribbon, paper, and even guitar picks. By using your imagination, you can incorporate many unusual items into jewellery. Don’t be afraid to fail, even if a piece doesn’t turn out exactly the way you intended it, it can still be a nice piece. I always say that in art there are no mistakes, just creative redirections.
How It’s Made
This set looks complicated, but is fairly basic. It’s composed of the following pieces: 2 bird charms, 1 - 5 ½” length of crystal chain, 1 matching crystal drop, 5 jump rings, 1 magnetic clasp, and 1 pre-made 18” chain. Tools needed are chain nose pliers and a jump ring tool (see above), or two sets of pliers can be used. The construction involves opening the jump rings, attaching the pieces together in the desired design, then closing the jump rings. It's best to twist the jump ring apart sideways (one side of the jump twists towards you and the other twists away from you). Do not pull it open or pushing it closed, that will damage and warp the jump ring. I hope you find this post helpful.
Best wishes in creativity,
-Elaine
