More bling….

by DT member – CarolineBee

I have finally found some time to make some jewellery and thought that you might like to see it for my project this week.

I have never done any beading with chains like this, but was inspired by the pendants on sale in the high street. I had a variety of beads of different shapes and styles in varying shades of green so I went for the current eclectic style.

The Fiskars Diagonal Wire Cutters  cut the chain into various lengths very easily. I joined the lengths of chain onto a large jump ring and then attached groups of beads to the chains using jump rings, head pins and Fiskars Silver Wire (3911).

Following a tip from beadmad I found the small magnifier in the Fiskars 12 in 1 Sewing Tool  very useful. As well as being as great small magnifier when working with small items it is also a great scoop for the smaller beads – anything that helps me to avoid spilling beads over the floor is a bonus.

I was so pleased with the mix of textures and colours that I decided to make a bracelet to match.

I used memory wire for the first time and I am hooked – it is so easy. Non jewellery makers will find it a great starter project. Simply use the Fiskars Pliers  to make a small loop on one end, thread on a variety of beads and then make a loop on the other end. Most of the beads I used are from ‘cheap’ children’s craft kits with just a few ‘accent’ beads. It is also a great way to use up ‘odds and ends’ of beads.

My tip of the day involves jump rings (the small metal rings used to join things together). If you don’t have a variety of sizes of rings make your own… Simply wind a length of thick wire (the fiskars wire is great for this) around a pen, knitting needle etc depending on the size ring you want. I used the Fiskars Wire Mandrel  as it is ideal for this. Then remove from the mandrel ( or whatever you are using ) and using the wire cutters cut down one side of the spring shape that you have made and voila!!! lots of jump rings…