Thursday, August 2, 2012

Under Water Pearls


Supplies:

*Pearl pendant
*Fresh water pearl tear drops
*sea blue square side gems
* Fresh water 'drop' pearls
*Bright blue oval gems
*bead wire (.18mm in silver)
*jump rings (2)
*clamp beads (3) #1
*needle nose pliers
*clamp pliers
*wire cutters
*Measuring tape
*Lobster clasp and toggle

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time. This also includes making sure the clasp, clamp beads, jump rings, and so on match the color pallet.

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step.

Steps

- Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to fit comfortably around your neck and sit at the length you like. Then give yourself about 2 inches to loop back through at the ends. Use wire cutters to cut correct length.

- Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp and close the jump ring.

- Take a clamp and thread it on the bead wire; then slide the bead wire through the jump ring attached to the clasp. Loop the bead wire back through the clamp bead and then use the clamp pliers to clamp it the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place.

*Tip 3- Tight Loops* Try and keep the loop as tight as possible to keep from having a big gap. This can be done by holding one end of the bead wire with a needle nose pliers and then taking the other end of the wire and pulling it tighter. Keeping it tight keeps the wire from rubbing. This is also why using a jump ring to attach to the clasp is important, as the wire attached to the jump ring is not going to move around much if its pulled tight.

- Thread on the beads and gems in the order of the design you picked ahead of time. (see *Tip 1*)

My design is tear drop pearl, bright blue oval gem, 3 drop pearls (in rotating angle), bright blue oval gem, square sided gem, tear drop pearl, square sided gem, and bright blue oval gem. The only time that changes if when I have reached the middle of the necklace (which I measured and marked ahead of time) where I did square sided gem, oval gem, and then pendant. After that point I reversed the order to mirror the other side.




- Continue this until you have the length you determined earlier. (see *Tip 2* )

*Suggestion 1* Doing one clamp bead at the end to make sure everything stays tight and then another to create the loop is NOT required. You can choose to use only one clamp bead, just be sure to keep the beads together tightly enough to not end up with large gaps when you wear it. I do it for both ease and strength. Beginners can do this until they get better at re-threading the closure clamp.

*Tip 4 - Consider Material and Purpose* You must always be aware of the type of give and strength your supplies have or you could end up with breaks, scrapping, and no flexibility. The heavier the wire the less bend and flexibility it has. String the beads too tightly together and some will rub together and break. String them too tightly and the beads will bunch and not bend well around your wrist. Some times you need to allow for "give room" with bracelets in order to get the bracelet to wrap. This can also mean you should use seed beads to give flex room in between certain types of stones, gems, rocks, and so on. 

- Once you have finished your design for the length, slide on a clamp and use the clamp pliers to secure it in place. (see *Suggestion 1* and *Tip 4* ) (I almost always do this step just to secure my design and tightness of the beads.)

- Take another clamp bead and thread it on first, then slide on the other jump ring, then thread the wire back through the clamp. Now tighten the wire until you have a small loop. Be sure that the jump ring stays in the loop you create. Use the clamp pliers to close the clamp when you have the loop the size you want.  (see *Tip 3* )

- Take a wire cutters and clip off the extra wire as close as possible to the last clamp bead. If the wire is bend-able enough and the bead holes are big enough you can thread the extra wire back through the beads instead of cutting it.

- Take a needle nose pliers and open the jump ring on the end you just finished and slide on the other end of the clasp (Or length of chain if you want to use that instead. This will allow for different tightness around the wrist. This can be very helpful if you didn't follow *Tip 2* and its not long enough to go all the way around the wrist.) and close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.


That will finish off the necklace.


For some reason I had a considerable amount of left over pearls and gems. With this earring set I did something a little different.

Supplies:

*Fresh water 'drop' pearls (left overs)
*Square side blue gems (left overs)
*Bright blue oval gems (left overs)
*2 1/2 inch length of light silver chain (2)
*Head pins (8)
*Earring 'type' (2)
*Silver wire
*needle nose pliers
*Round nose plier
*wire cutters


*Suggestion 2* When finishing the eye loop you should think ahead to whether you plan to use a jump ring to connect the eye loop, or if you are going to connect straight to the eye loop. If you are going to use a jump ring you can go ahead and close the eye loop. If you aren't going to use a jump ring then you should leave the eye loop open a little in order to connect it to what you want.

- Take a head pin and slide on the gems you have left over that you would like to use in whatever order you have decided. (see *Tip 1*)

- Use the needle nose pliers to bend the head pin at the top of the last gem.

- Use the round nose pliers to create the eye loop. (see *Suggestion 2*)

- Use the wire cutters to remove the extra of the head pin.

- Repeat first 4 steps 8 times, 4 for the square side gems and 4 for the blue oval gems.

- Take the silver wire and cut 6 strips about the length of you pinkie finger.

- Take one strip of wire and thread it through one 'drop' pearl. Pull both ends together (creating a triangle with the tip at the top where the wire ends connect).

- Use the round nose pliers to create a eye loop like you would with a head pin. Instead of cutting off the extra you will wrap the wire around the bottom of the eye loop and just above the pearl.



- Repeat the last step 5 more times.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open the loop on the end of the earring hook. Slide the 1st link of the silver chain on. Close the loop.

- Repeat this step for the other earring.

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the square side gem eye loops onto the 1st link in silver chain. Then use pliers to close the loop.

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the blue oval gem eye loops onto the 4th link in the silver chain. Then use the pliers to close the loop.

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the square side gem eye loops onto the 7th link in the silver chain. Then use the pliers to close the loop.

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the blue oval gem eye loops onto the 10th (or last) link in the silver chain. Then use the pliers to close the loop.

- Repeat the last 4 steps for the other earring.

- Use the needle nose pliers to pull open the 2nd link of the chain. Slide on the pearl eye loop onto the open link. Then use pliers to close the link.

- Use the needle nose pliers to pull open the 6th link of the chain. Slide on the pearl eye loop onto the open link. Then use pliers to close the link.
- Use the needle nose pliers to pull open the 8th link of the chain. Slide on the pearl eye loop onto the open link. Then use pliers to close the link.

- Repeat the last 3 steps for the other earring.


This will finish the earring set.






Vintage Pearls


Supplies:

*Vintage pendant
*Pearl connectors (6)
*Aged gold chain
*Aged circle gold chain
*Tear drop pearls (2)
*Aged gold head pins (2)
*Needle nose pliers
*Wire cutters
*Round nose pliers
*Lobster clasp and toggle
*Jump rings  (14)

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time. This also includes making sure the clasp, clamp beads, jump rings, and so on match the color pallet.

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step.
Steps

- Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the lobster clasp and close the jump ring. Set aside for now.

- Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the toggle and close the jump ring. Set aside for now.

- Using your over-all length for this necklace determine the individual lengths of chain you wish to have in between each pearl connector. The 1st, 2nd and 3rd sections should all be the same length. The 4th will be longer as it will hold the pearl pendant.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open one chain link to create each seperate length of chain. You may discard the open chain link. Repeat this for each section of chain you want between each connector. (Be sure to watch the pre-measured lengths for these sections.)

- Use the needle nose pliers to open the jump ring attached to the lobster clasp. On the opposite side of the lobster clasp slide on the length of chain that is for the one side of the top most section of the necklace. Then close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open the jump ring attached to the toogle. On the opposite side of the toggle slide on the length of chain that is for the other side of the top most setion of the necklace. Then close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

- Using the needle nose pliers open another jump ring. Attach the end of one side of the chain just used to one side of the jump ring. On the other side of the jump ring attach one end of the pearl connector. Close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

This is what you should have on the toggle side.

- Using the needle nose pliers open another jump ring. Take the chain that has the lobster clasp on one end and attach the other end to one side of the jump ring. On the other side of the jump ring attach one end of the pearl connector. Close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

This is what you should have on the lobster side so far.
- Use the needle nose pliers to open another jump ring. Connect one side of the jump ring to the other side of the pearl connector. Take the chain desinated for the 2nd section and slide it on the other side of the jump ring. Close the jump ring.

- Do the same step for the other side of the necklace.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open another jump ring. Connect one side of the jump ring to the 2nd section of chain still loose. Slide the other side of the jump ring to a new pearl connector.

- Do the same step for the other side of the necklace.

This is the first and section section completed.
- Use the needle nose pliers to open another jump ring. Connect one side of the jump ring to the other side of the pearl connector. Take the chain desinated for the 3rd section and slide it on the other side of the jump ring. Close the jump ring.

- Do the same step for the other side of the necklace.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open another jump ring. Connect one side of the jump ring to the 3rd section of chain still loose. Slide the other side of the jump ring to a new pearl connector.

- Do the same step for the other side of the necklace.

what you should have on both sides by now.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open another jump ring. Connect one side of the jump ring to the pearl connector. Slide the other side of the jump ring onto one side of the 4th chain section. On that same side of the jump ring connect one side of the circle gold chain. Use the needle nose pliers to close the jump ring.

- Thread the pearl pendant onto the 4th section of chain.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open another jump ring. Connect one side of the jump ring to the pearl connector from the 3rd section. The other side of the jump ring should have the other side of the circle gold chain and the other end of the 4th chain section. Close the jump ring.


- Take one head pin and slide on the tear drop pearl. Use the needle nose pliers to bend at 90 degrees at top of pearl. Use round nose pliers to create a eye pin loop. (leave eye pin loop open just a little.)

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide the eye pin loop onto the second circle loop in the circle gold chain. Use the needle nose pliers to close the loop.

- Repeat the last two steps one more time, and attach on 2nd circle loop of other side of circle gold chain.


This should complete your necklace.



Wednesday, August 1, 2012

Barbie bracelet



Supplies:*Large white pearls
*Large silver pearls
*Small white pearls
*Small silver pearls
*Clear gems
*bead wire (.18mm in silver)
*2 wire slide clasp
*jump rings (4)
*clamp beads (6) #1
*needle nose pliers
*clamp pliers
*wire cutters
*Measuring tape

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time. This also includes making sure the clasp and clamp beads match the color pallet.

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step. Also plan for certain material will bunch and shorten the length (see *Tip 4* for more about this issue.).

Steps:

- Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to fit around your wrist and then give yourself about 2 inches to loop back through at the ends. Use wire cutters to cut correct length. Do this for other side.

-Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp and close the jump ring. Do this for the other side of the clasp.

- Take a clamp and thread it on the bead wire; then slide the bead wire through the jump ring attached to the clasp. Loop the bead wire back through the clamp bead and then use the clamp pliers to clamp it the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place. Repeat this for the other side of clasp.

*Tip 3- Tight Loops* Try and keep the loop as tight as possible to keep from having a big gap. This can be done by holding one end of the bead wire with a needle nose pliers and then taking the other end of the wire and pulling it tighter. Keeping it tight keeps the wire from rubbing. This is also why using a jump ring to attach to the clasp is important, as the wire attached to the jump ring is not going to move around much if its pulled tight.

-Thread on the beads and gems for both sides in the order of the design you picked ahead of time. (see *Tip 1* )

-Continue this until you have the length you determined earlier. (see *Tip 2* )

*Suggestion 1* Doing one clamp bead at the end to make sure everything stays tight and then another to create the loop is NOT required. You can choose to use only one clamp bead, just be sure to keep the beads together tightly enough to not end up with large gaps when you wear it. I do it for both ease and strength. Beginners can do this until they get better at re-threading the closure clamp.

*Tip 4 - Consider Material and Purpose* You must always be aware of the type of give and strength your supplies have or you could end up with breaks, scrapping, and no flexibility. The heavier the wire the less bend and flexibility it has. String the beads too tightly together and some will rub together and break. String them too tightly and the beads will bunch and not bend well around your wrist. Some times you need to allow for "give room" with bracelets in order to get the bracelet to wrap. This can also mean you should use seed beads to give flex room in between certain types of stones, gems, rocks, and so on. 

-Once you have finished your design for the length, slide on a clamp and use the clamp pliers to secure it in place. Do this again.  (see *Suggestion 1* and *Tip 4* ) (I almost always do this step just to secure my design and tightness of the beads.)

-Take another clamp bead and thread it on first, then slide on the other jump ring, then thread the wire back through the clamp. Now tighten the wire until you have a small loop. Be sure that the jump ring stays in the loop you create. Use the clamp pliers to close the clamp when you have the loop the size you want. Do this again for other side. (see *Tip 3* )

-Take a wire cutters and clip off the extra wire as close as possible to the last clamp bead. If the wire is bend-able enough and the bead holes are big enough you can thread the extra wire back through the beads instead of cutting it.

-Take a needle nose pliers and open the jump ring on the end you just finished and slide on the other end of the clasp (Or length of chain if you want to use that instead. This will allow for different tightness around the wrist. This can be very helpful if you didn't follow *Tip 2* and its not long enough to go all the way around the wrist.) and close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers. Do this again for the other side.

That will finish off the bracelet.

This was one I made for Mom. She is actually the one who named it the "Barbie" bracelet. She says thats what she thinks of when she looks at it.

Mix on the Stone



Supplies:*Turquoise mixed stones
*Metal seed beads
*bead wire (.24mm in silver)
*Bubble clasp
*jump rings (2)
*clamp beads (3) #2
*needle nose pliers
*clamp pliers
*wire cutters
*Measuring tape

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time. This also includes making sure the clasp and clamp beads match the color pallet.

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step.

Steps:

- Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to fit around your wrist and then give yourself about 2 inches to loop back through at the ends. Use wire cutters to cut correct length.

-Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp and close the jump ring.

- Take a clamp and thread it on the bead wire; then slide the bead wire through the jump ring attached to the clasp. Loop the bead wire back through the clamp bead and then use the clamp pliers to clamp it the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place.

*Tip 3- Tight Loops* Try and keep the loop as tight as possible to keep from having a big gap. This can be done by holding one end of the bead wire with a needle nose pliers and then taking the other end of the wire and pulling it tighter. Keeping it tight keeps the wire from rubbing. This is also why using a jump ring to attach to the clasp is important, as the wire attached to the jump ring is not going to move around much if its pulled tight.

-Thread on the beads and gems in the order of the design you picked ahead of time (see *Tip 1* )

-Continue this until you have the length you determined earlier. (see *Tip 2* )

*Suggestion 1* Doing one clamp bead at the end to make sure everything stays tight and then another to create the loop is NOT required. You can choose to use only one clamp bead, just be sure to keep the beads together tightly enough to not end up with large gaps when you wear it. I do it for both ease and strength. Beginners can do this until they get better at re-threading the closure clamp.

*Tip 4 - Consider Material and Purpose* You must always be aware of the type of give and strength your supplies have or you could end up with breaks, scrapping, and no flexibility. The heavier the wire the less bend and flexibility it has. String the beads too tightly together and some will rub together and break. String them too tightly and the beads will bunch and not bend well around your wrist. Some times you need to allow for "give room" with bracelets in order to get the bracelet to wrap. This can also mean you should use seed beads to give flex room in between certain types of stones, gems, rocks, and so on. (This will be important for these type of rocks.)

-Once you have finished your design for the length, slide on a clamp and use the clamp pliers to secure it in place. (see *Suggestion 1* and *Tip 4* ) (I almost always do this step just to secure my design and tightness of the beads.)


-Take another clamp bead and thread it on first, then slide on the other jump ring, then thread the wire back through the clamp. Now tighten the wire until you have a small loop. Be sure that the jump ring stays in the loop you create. Use the clamp pliers to close the clamp when you have the loop the size you want. (see *Tip 3* )

-Take a wire cutters and clip off the extra wire as close as possible to the last clamp bead. If the wire is bend-able enough and the bead holes are big enough you can thread the extra wire back through the beads instead of cutting it.

-Take a needle nose pliers and open the jump ring on the end you just finished and slide on the other end of the clasp (Or length of chain if you want to use that instead. This will allow for different tightness around the wrist. This can be very helpful if you didn't follow *Tip 2* and its not long enough to go all the way around the wrist.) and close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

That will finish off the bracelet.


Pretty in Pink


Supplies:*Pale pink rocks
*Shimmer pink rock
*Pale purple beads
*bead wire (.24mm in silver)
*Bubble clasp
*jump rings (2)
*clamp beads (3) #2
*needle nose pliers
*clamp pliers
*wire cutters
*Measuring tape

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time. This also includes making sure the clasp and clamp beads match the color pallet.  (I planned this out on the string itself in order to see what design would get the right length.)

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step.

Steps:

- Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to fit around your wrist and then give yourself about 2 inches to loop back through at the ends. Use wire cutters to cut correct length.

-Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp and close the jump ring.

- Take a clamp and thread it on the bead wire; then slide the bead wire through the jump ring attached to the clasp. Loop the bead wire back through the clamp bead and then use the clamp pliers to clamp it the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place.

*Tip 3- Tight Loops* Try and keep the loop as tight as possible to keep from having a big gap. This can be done by holding one end of the bead wire with a needle nose pliers and then taking the other end of the wire and pulling it tighter. Keeping it tight keeps the wire from rubbing. This is also why using a jump ring to attach to the clasp is important, as the wire attached to the jump ring is not going to move around much if its pulled tight.

-Thread on the beads and gems in the order of the design you picked ahead of time (see *Tip 1* )

-Continue this until you have the length you determined earlier. (see *Tip 2* )

*Suggestion 1* Doing one clamp bead at the end to make sure everything stays tight and then another to create the loop is NOT required. You can choose to use only one clamp bead, just be sure to keep the beads together tightly enough to not end up with large gaps when you wear it. I do it for both ease and strength. Beginners can do this until they get better at re-threading the closure clamp.

*Tip 4 - Consider Material and Purpose* You must always be aware of the type of give and strength your supplies have or you could end up with breaks, scrapping, and no flexibility. The heavier the wire the less bend and flexibility it has. String the beads too tightly together and some will rub together and break. String them too tightly and the beads will bunch and not bend well around your wrist. Some times you need to allow for "give room" with bracelets in order to get the bracelet to wrap. This can also mean you should use seed beads to give flex room in between certain types of stones, gems, rocks, and so on. (This will be important for these type of rocks.)

-Once you have finished your design for the length, slide on a clamp and use the clamp pliers to secure it in place. (see *Suggestion 1* and *Tip 4* ) (I almost always do this step just to secure my design and tightness of the beads.)

-Take another clamp bead and thread it on first, then slide on the other jump ring, then thread the wire back through the clamp. Now tighten the wire until you have a small loop. Be sure that the jump ring stays in the loop you create. Use the clamp pliers to close the clamp when you have the loop the size you want. (see *Tip 3* )

-Take a wire cutters and clip off the extra wire as close as possible to the last clamp bead. If the wire is bend-able enough and the bead holes are big enough you can thread the extra wire back through the beads instead of cutting it.

-Take a needle nose pliers and open the jump ring on the end you just finished and slide on the other end of the clasp (Or length of chain if you want to use that instead. This will allow for different tightness around the wrist. This can be very helpful if you didn't follow *Tip 2* and its not long enough to go all the way around the wrist.) and close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

That will finish off the bracelet.




This went to my friend Sarah as well.

Rock out Purple!


Supplies:

*Purple Twist rocks
*bright purple beads
*bead wire (.24mm in silver)
*Bubble clasp
*jump rings (2)
*clamp beads (3) #2
*needle nose pliers
*clamp pliers
*wire cutters
*Measuring tape

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time. This also includes making sure the clasp and clamp beads match the color pallet.

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step.

Steps:

- Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to fit around your wrist and then give yourself about 2 inches to loop back through at the ends. Use wire cutters to cut correct length.

-Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp and close the jump ring.

- Take a clamp and thread it on the bead wire; then slide the bead wire through the jump ring attached to the clasp. Loop the bead wire back through the clamp bead and then use the clamp pliers to clamp it the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place.

*Tip 3- Tight Loops* Try and keep the loop as tight as possible to keep from having a big gap. This can be done by holding one end of the bead wire with a needle nose pliers and then taking the other end of the wire and pulling it tighter. Keeping it tight keeps the wire from rubbing. This is also why using a jump ring to attach to the clasp is important, as the wire attached to the jump ring is not going to move around much if its pulled tight.

-Thread on the beads and gems in the order of the design you picked ahead of time (see *Tip 1* )

-Continue this until you have the length you determined earlier. (see *Tip 2* )

*Suggestion 1* Doing one clamp bead at the end to make sure everything stays tight and then another to create the loop is NOT required. You can choose to use only one clamp bead, just be sure to keep the beads together tightly enough to not end up with large gaps when you wear it. I do it for both ease and strength. Beginners can do this until they get better at re-threading the closure clamp.

*Tip 4 - Consider Material and Purpose* You must always be aware of the type of give and strength your supplies have or you could end up with breaks, scrapping, and no flexibility. The heavier the wire the less bend and flexibility it has. String the beads too tightly together and some will rub together and break. String them too tightly and the beads will bunch and not bend well around your wrist. Some times you need to allow for "give room" with bracelets in order to get the bracelet to wrap. This can also mean you should use seed beads to give flex room in between certain types of stones, gems, rocks, and so on.  (This will be important for these type of rocks.)

-Once you have finished your design for the length, slide on a clamp and use the clamp pliers to secure it in place. (see *Suggestion 1* and *Tip 4* ) (I almost always do this step just to secure my design and tightness of the beads.)

-Take another clamp bead and thread it on first, then slide on the other jump ring, then thread the wire back through the clamp. Now tighten the wire until you have a small loop. Be sure that the jump ring stays in the loop you create. Use the clamp pliers to close the clamp when you have the loop the size you want. (see *Tip 3* )

-Take a wire cutters and clip off the extra wire as close as possible to the last clamp bead. If the wire is bend-able enough and the bead holes are big enough you can thread the extra wire back through the beads instead of cutting it.

-Take a needle nose pliers and open the jump ring on the end you just finished and slide on the other end of the clasp (Or length of chain if you want to use that instead. This will allow for different tightness around the wrist. This can be very helpful if you didn't follow *Tip 2* and its not long enough to go all the way around the wrist.) and close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

That will finish off the bracelet.



This went to my friend Sarah, as she like more chunky type jewelry.



Sea Rocks, Wear Rocks



Supplies:

*Blue rock gems
*bead wire (.24mm in silver)
*Bubble clasp
*jump rings (2)
*clamp beads (3) #2
*needle nose pliers
*clamp pliers
*wire cutters
*Measuring tape

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time. This also includes making sure the clasp and clamp beads match the color pallet.

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step.

Steps:

- Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to fit around your wrist and then give yourself about 2 inches to loop back through at the ends. Use wire cutters to cut correct length.

-Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp and close the jump ring.

- Take a clamp and thread it on the bead wire; then slide the bead wire through the jump ring attached to the clasp. Loop the bead wire back through the clamp bead and then use the clamp pliers to clamp it the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place.

*Tip 3- Tight Loops* Try and keep the loop as tight as possible to keep from having a big gap. This can be done by holding one end of the bead wire with a needle nose pliers and then taking the other end of the wire and pulling it tighter. Keeping it tight keeps the wire from rubbing. This is also why using a jump ring to attach to the clasp is important, as the wire attached to the jump ring is not going to move around much if its pulled tight.

-Thread on the beads and gems in the order of the design you picked ahead of time (see *Tip 1* )

-Continue this until you have the length you determined earlier. (see *Tip 2* )

*Suggestion 1* Doing one clamp bead at the end to make sure everything stays tight and then another to create the loop is NOT required. You can choose to use only one clamp bead, just be sure to keep the beads together tightly enough to not end up with large gaps when you wear it. I do it for both ease and strength. Beginners can do this until they get better at re-threading the closure clamp.

*Tip 4 - Consider Material and Purpose* You must always be aware of the type of give and strength your supplies have or you could end up with breaks, scrapping, and no flexibility. The heavier the wire the less bend and flexibility it has. String the beads too tightly together and some will rub together and break. String them too tightly and the beads will bunch and not bend well around your wrist. Some times you need to allow for "give room" with bracelets in order to get the bracelet to wrap.  (this is very important for these type of rock gems)

-Once you have finished your design for the length, slide on a clamp and use the clamp pliers to secure it in place. (see *Suggestion 1* and *Tip 4* )

-Take another clamp bead and thread it on first, then slide on the other jump ring, then thread the wire back through the clamp. Now tighten the wire until you have a small loop. Be sure that the jump ring stays in the loop you create. Use the clamp pliers to close the clamp when you have the loop the size you want. (see *Tip 3* )

-Take a wire cutters and clip off the extra wire as close as possible to the last clamp bead. If the wire is bend-able enough and the bead holes are big enough you can thread the extra wire back through the beads instead of cutting it.

-Take a needle nose pliers and open the jump ring on the end you just finished and slide on the other end of the clasp (Or length of chain if you want to use that instead. This will allow for different tightness around the wrist. This can be very helpful if you didn't follow *Tip 2* and its not long enough to go all the way around the wrist.) and close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

That will finish off the bracelet.

Seaside on Your Side.



Supplies:

*Round flat pearls
*sea blue square side gems
*bead wire (.18mm in silver)
*Bubble clasp
*jump rings (2)
*clamp beads (3) #1
*needle nose pliers
*clamp pliers
*wire cutters
*Measuring tape

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time. This also includes making sure the clasp and clamp beads match the color pallet.

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step.

Steps:

- Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to fit around your wrist and then give yourself about 2 inches to loop back through at the ends. Use wire cutters to cut correct length.

-Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp and close the jump ring.

- Take a clamp and thread it on the bead wire; then slide the bead wire through the jump ring attached to the clasp. Loop the bead wire back through the clamp bead and then use the clamp pliers to clamp it the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place.

*Tip 3- Tight Loops* Try and keep the loop as tight as possible to keep from having a big gap. This can be done by holding one end of the bead wire with a needle nose pliers and then taking the other end of the wire and pulling it tighter. Keeping it tight keeps the wire from rubbing. This is also why using a jump ring to attach to the clasp is important, as the wire attached to the jump ring is not going to move around much if its pulled tight.

-Thread on the beads and gems in the order of the design you picked ahead of time (see *Tip 1* )

-Continue this until you have the length you determined earlier. (see *Tip 2* )

-Once you have finished your design for the length, slide on a clamp and use the clamp pliers to secure it in place. (see *Suggestion 1* and *Tip 4* ) (I almost always do this step just to secure my design and tightness of the beads.)

*Suggestion 1* Doing one clamp bead at the end to make sure everything stays tight and then another to create the loop is NOT required. You can choose to use only one clamp bead, just be sure to keep the beads together tightly enough to not end up with large gaps when you wear it. I do it for both ease and strength. Beginners can do this until they get better at re-threading the closure clamp.

*Tip 4 - Consider Material and Purpose* You must always be aware of the type of give and strength your supplies have or you could end up with breaks, scrapping, and no flexibility. The heavier the wire the less bend and flexibility it has. String the beads too tightly together and some will rub together and break. String them too tightly and the beads will bunch and not bend well around your wrist. Some times you need to allow for "give room" with bracelets in order to get the bracelet to wrap.

-Take another clamp bead and thread it on first, then slide on the other jump ring, then thread the wire back through the clamp. Now tighten the wire until you have a small loop. Be sure that the jump ring stays in the loop you create. Use the clamp pliers to close the clamp when you have the loop the size you want. (see *Tip 3* )

-Take a wire cutters and clip off the extra wire as close as possible to the last clamp bead. If the wire is bend-able enough and the bead holes are big enough you can thread the extra wire back through the beads instead of cutting it.

-Take a needle nose pliers and open the jump ring on the end you just finished and slide on the other end of the clasp (Or length of chain if you want to use that instead. This will allow for different tightness around the wrist. This can be very helpful if you didn't follow *Tip 2* and its not long enough to go all the way around the wrist.) and close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

That will finish off the bracelet.

Earring directions.

Supplies:

*Round flat pearls (left overs)
*Sea blue square side gems (left overs)
*Needle nose pliers
*Round nose pliers
*Wire cutters
*Head pins
*Earring 'type' (2)

*Suggestion 2* When finishing the eye loop you should think ahead to whether you plan to use a jump ring to connect the eye loop, or if you are going to connect straight to the eye loop. If you are going to use a jump ring you can go ahead and close the eye loop. If you aren't going to use a jump ring then you should leave the eye loop open a little in order to connect it to what you want.

- Take a head pin and slide on the pearls/gems you have left over that you would like to use in whatever order you have decided. (see *Tip 1*)

- Use the needle nose pliers to bend the head pin at the top of the last pearl/gem.

- Use the round nose pliers to create the eye loop. (see *Suggestion 2*)

- Use the wire cutters to remove the extra of the head pin.

- Connect eye loop or jump ring (see *Suggestion 2*) to whatever type of earring you chose (I picked a hook earring.)

-Repeat steps to create second earring.

This will finish the earring set.

Fresh water




Supplies:

*Fresh water pearls
*Dark blue gems
*bead wire (.18mm in silver)
*Bubble clasp
*jump rings (2)
*clamp beads (3) #1
*needle nose pliers
*clamp pliers
*wire cutters
*Measuring tape

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time. This also includes making sure the clasp and clamp beads match the color pallet.

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step.

Steps:

- Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to fit around your wrist and then give yourself about 2 inches to loop back through at the ends. Use wire cutters to cut correct length.

-Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp and close the jump ring.

- Take a clamp and thread it on the bead wire; then slide the bead wire through the jump ring attached to the clasp. Loop the bead wire back through the clamp bead and then use the clamp pliers to clamp it the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place.

*Tip 3- Tight Loops* Try and keep the loop as tight as possible to keep from having a big gap. This can be done by holding one end of the bead wire with a needle nose pliers and then taking the other end of the wire and pulling it tighter. Keeping it tight keeps the wire from rubbing. This is also why using a jump ring to attach to the clasp is important, as the wire attached to the jump ring is not going to move around much if its pulled tight.

-Thread on the beads and gems in the order of the design you picked ahead of time (see *Tip 1* )

-Continue this until you have the length you determined earlier. (see *Tip 2* )

-Once you have finished your design for the length, slide on a clamp and use the clamp pliers to secure it in place. (see *Suggestion 1* and *Tip 4* )

*Suggestion 1* Doing one clamp bead at the end to make sure everything stays tight and then another to create the loop is NOT required. You can choose to use only one clamp bead, just be sure to keep the beads together tightly enough to not end up with large gaps when you wear it. I do it for both ease and strength. Beginners can do this until they get better at re-threading the closure clamp.

*Tip 4 - Consider Material and Purpose* You must always be aware of the type of give and strength your supplies have or you could end up with breaks, scrapping, and no flexibility. The heavier the wire the less bend and flexibility it has. String the beads too tightly together and some will rub together and break. String them too tightly and the beads will bunch and not bend well around your wrist. Some times you need to allow for "give room" with bracelets in order to get the bracelet to wrap.

-Take another clamp bead and thread it on first, then slide on the other jump ring, then thread the wire back through the clamp. Now tighten the wire until you have a small loop. Be sure that the jump ring stays in the loop you create. Use the clamp pliers to close the clamp when you have the loop the size you want. (see *Tip 3* )

-Take a wire cutters and clip off the extra wire as close as possible to the last clamp bead. If the wire is bend-able enough and the bead holes are big enough you can thread the extra wire back through the beads instead of cutting it.

-Take a needle nose pliers and open the jump ring on the end you just finished and slide on the other end of the clasp (Or length of chain if you want to use that instead. This will allow for different tightness around the wrist. This can be very helpful if you didn't follow *Tip 2* and its not long enough to go all the way around the wrist.) and close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

That will finish off the bracelet.

For some reason I had a considerable amount of left over pearls and gems. With this earring set I did something a little different.

Supplies:

*Fresh water pearls (left overs)
*Dark blue gems (left overs)
*2 1/2 inch length of light silver chain (2)
*Jump rings (2)
*Head pins (16)
*Earring 'type' (2)
*needle nose pliers
*Round nose plier
*wire cutters


*Suggestion 2* When finishing the eye loop you should think ahead to whether you plan to use a jump ring to connect the eye loop, or if you are going to connect straight to the eye loop. If you are going to use a jump ring you can go ahead and close the eye loop. If you aren't going to use a jump ring then you should leave the eye loop open a little in order to connect it to what you want.

- Take a head pin and slide on the pearls/gems you have left over that you would like to use in whatever order you have decided. (see *Tip 1*)

- Use the needle nose pliers to bend the head pin at the top of the last pearl/gem.

- Use the round nose pliers to create the eye loop. (see *Suggestion 2*)

- Use the wire cutters to remove the extra of the head pin.

- Repeat first 3 steps 8 times, 5 for fresh water pearls and 3 for the dark blue gems.

- **Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the pearl eye loops onto the 2nd link in silver chain. Then use pliers to close the loop.

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the dark blue gem eye loops onto the 4th link in the silver chain. Then use the pliers to close the loop.

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the pearl eye loops onto the 6th link in silver chain. Then use pliers to close the loop.

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the pearl eye loops onto the 7th link in silver chain. Then use pliers to close the loop.

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the dark blue gem eye loops onto the 8th link in the silver chain. Then use the pliers to close the loop.

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the pearl eye loops onto the 8th link in silver chain. Then use pliers to close the loop.

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the dark blue gem eye loops onto the 10th link in the silver chain. Then use the pliers to close the loop.

- Use the needle nose pliers to slide one of the pearl eye loops onto the 12th link in silver chain. Then use pliers to close the loop.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring. Slide the first link in the silver chain onto one side of the jump ring. Slide the other side of the jump ring onto to whatever type of earring you chose (I picked a round closure earring.) and then use the needle nose pliers to close jump ring.

-Repeat all steps to create second earring.

This will finish the earring set.


Fluer-de-lis all around




Supplies:

*Fluer-de-lis design chain
*bubble clasp
*jump rings (2)
*needle nose pliers
*Measuring tape

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time. This also includes making sure the clasp and any clamp beads being used match the color pallet.

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step.

Steps:

- Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to fit around your wrist and then give yourself about an inch for the clasp to attach.

-Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide one side of the jump ring onto the end of the clasp. Then slide the other end of the jump ring onto an eye pin from one end of the chain design. Then use the needle nose pliers to close the jump ring.

*Tip 3- Consider Material and Purpose* You must always be aware of the type of give and strength your supplies have or you could end up with breaks, scrapping, and no flexibility. The heavier the wire the less bend and flexibility it has. String the beads too tightly together and some will rub together and break. String them too tightly and the beads will bunch and not bend well around your wrist. Some times you need to allow for "give room" with bracelets in order to get the bracelet to wrap. (this still applies even if you aren't using wire.)

-Take the needle nose pliers and open another jump ring. On one side of the jump ring slide on the other end of the chain design. Then on the other side of the jump ring slide on the other end of the bubble clasp. (Or length of chain if you want to use that instead. This will allow for different tightness around the wrist. This can be very helpful if you didn't follow *Tip 2* and its not long enough to go all the way around the wrist.) You are free to close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

That will finish off the bracelet.



Copper Gem




Supplies:

*Copper pearls
*Copper gems
*bead wire (.18mm in silver)
*Toggle clasp
*jump rings (2)
*clamp beads (3) #1
*needle nose pliers
*clamp pliers
*wire cutters
*Measuring tape

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time. This also includes making sure the clasp and clamp beads match the color pallet.

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step.

Steps:

- Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to fit around your wrist and then give yourself about 2 inches to loop back through at the ends. Use wire cutters to cut correct length.

-Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp and close the jump ring.

- Take a clamp and thread it on the bead wire; then slide the bead wire through the jump ring attached to the clasp. Loop the bead wire back through the clamp bead and then use the clamp pliers to clamp it the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place.

*Tip 3- Tight Loops* Try and keep the loop as tight as possible to keep from having a big gap. This can be done by holding one end of the bead wire with a needle nose pliers and then taking the other end of the wire and pulling it tighter. Keeping it tight keeps the wire from rubbing. This is also why using a jump ring to attach to the clasp is important, as the wire attached to the jump ring is not going to move around much if its pulled tight.

-Thread on the beads and gems in the order of the design you picked ahead of time (see *Tip 1* )

-Continue this until you have the length you determined earlier. (see *Tip 2* )

-Once you have finished your design for the length, slide on a clamp and use the clamp pliers to secure it in place. (see *Suggestion 1* and *Tip 4* )


*Suggestion 1* Doing one clamp bead at the end to make sure everything stays tight and then another to create the loop is NOT required. You can choose to use only one clamp bead, just be sure to keep the beads together tightly enough to not end up with large gaps when you wear it. I do it for both ease and strength. Beginners can do this until they get better at re-threading the closure clamp.

*Tip 4 - Consider Material and Purpose* You must always be aware of the type of give and strength your supplies have or you could end up with breaks, scrapping, and no flexibility. The heavier the wire the less bend and flexibility it has. String the beads too tightly together and some will rub together and break. String them too tightly and the beads will bunch and not bend well around your wrist. Some times you need to allow for "give room" with bracelets in order to get the bracelet to wrap.

-Take another clamp bead and thread it on first, then slide on the other jump ring, then thread the wire back through the clamp. Now tighten the wire until you have a small loop. Be sure that the jump ring stays in the loop you create. Use the clamp pliers to close the clamp when you have the loop the size you want. (see *Tip 3* )

-Take a wire cutters and clip off the extra wire as close as possible to the last clamp bead. If the wire is bend-able enough and the bead holes are big enough you can thread the extra wire back through the beads instead of cutting it.

-Take a needle nose pliers and open the jump ring on the end you just finished and slide on the other end of the clasp (Or length of chain if you want to use that instead. This will allow for different tightness around the wrist. This can be very helpful if you didn't follow *Tip 2* and its not long enough to go all the way around the wrist.) and close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

That will finish off the bracelet.



I have said several times in other entries that I like to use the extra items left over from the project into earrings it seemed only appropriate to do so again.

Supplies:
*Needle nose pliers
*Round nose pliers
*Wire cutters
*Head pins
*Earring 'type'

*Suggestion 2* When finishing the eye loop you should think ahead to whether you plan to use a jump ring to connect the eye loop, or if you are going to connect straight to the eye loop. If you are going to use a jump ring you can go ahead and close the eye loop. If you aren't going to use a jump ring then you should leave the eye loop open a little in order to connect it to what you want.

- Take a head pin and slide on the pearls/gems you have left over that you would like to use in whatever order you have decided. (see *Tip 1*)

- Use the needle nose pliers to bend the head pin at the top of the last pearl/gem.

- Use the round nose pliers to create the eye loop. (see *Suggestion 2*)

- Use the wire cutters to remove the extra of the head pin.

- Connect eye loop or jump ring (see *Suggestion 2*) to whatever type of earring you chose (I picked a round closure earring.)

-Repeat steps to create second earring.

This will finish the earring set.


Blue/Black Swirl bracelet





Supplies:
*Blue/black swirl beads
*Black oval gem stones
*bead wire (.18mm in silver)
*bubble pop clasp
*jump rings (2)
*clamp beads (3) #1
*needle nose pliers
*clamp pliers
*wire cutters
*Measuring tape

*Tip 1- Plan It Out* As with all jewelry designs I laid out the design on my bead board before I started doing anything. Had to try out different style gem stones to see which one matched best, as I did not buy any of the beads at the same time.

*Tip 2- Measure* Always measure for each project to make sure the lengths that fit best are correct. This is important when making items for other people. Once you have done them enough times you will know the required lengths and can skip this step.

Steps:

- Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to fit around your wrist and then give yourself about 2 inches to loop back through at the ends. Use wire cutters to cut correct length.

-Take a pair of need nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp and close the jump ring.

- Take a clamp and thread it on the bead wire; then slide the bead wire through the jump ring attached to the clasp. Loop the bead wire back through the clamp bead and then use the clamp pliers to clamp it the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place.

*Tip 3- Tight Loops* Try and keep the loop as tight as possible to keep from having a big gap. This can be done by holding one end of the bead wire with a needle nose pliers and then taking the other end of the wire and pulling it tighter. Keeping it tight keeps the wire from rubbing. This is also why using a jump ring to attach to the clasp is important, as the wire attached to the jump ring is not going to move around much if its pulled tight.

-Thread on the beads and gems in the order of the design you picked ahead of time (see *Tip 1* )
-Continue this until you have the length you determined earlier. (see *Tip 2* )

-Once you have finished your design for the length, slide on a clamp and use the clamp pliers to secure it in place. (see *Suggestion 1* and *Tip 4* ) (I almost always do this step just to secure my design and tightness of the beads.)

*Suggestion 1* Doing one clamp bead at the end to make sure everything stays tight and then another to create the loop is NOT required. You can choose to use only one clamp bead, just be sure to keep the beads together tightly enough to not end up with large gaps when you wear it. I do it for both ease and strength. Beginners can do this until they get better at rethreading the closure clamp.

*Tip 4 - Consider Material and Purpose* You must always be aware of the type of give and strength your supplies have or you could end up with breaks, scrapping, and no flexibility. The heavier the wire the less bend and flexibility it has. String the beads too tightly together and some will rub together and break. String them too tightly and the beads will bunch and not bend well around your wrist. Some times you need to allow for "give room" with bracelets in order to get the bracelet to wrap.

-Take another clamp bead and thread it on first, then slide on the other jump ring, then thread the wire back through the clamp. Now tighten the wire until you have a small loop. Be sure that the jump ring stays in the loop you create. Use the clamp pliers to close the clamp when you have the loop the size you want. (see *Tip 3* )

-Take a wire cutters and clip off the extra wire as close as possible to the last clamp bead. If the wire is bend-able enough and the bead holes are big enough you can thread the extra wire back through the beads instead of cutting it.

-Take a needle nose pliers and open the jump ring on the end you just finished and slide on the other end of the clasp (Or length of chain if you want to use that instead. This will allow for different tightness around the wrist. This can be very helpful if you didn't follow *Tip 2* and its not long enough to go all the way around the wrist.) and close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

That will finish off the bracelet.



Keeping the page with style

I saw a project idea sheet at a Michael's craft store for some vintage looking bookmarks.


Since I'm a huge book lover this seemed like an easy and practical project for me. Plus I LOVE cameos. I went a little more creative with them I think and possibly a little over board with how many I did. Its such an easy project and you can get really creative with them.

I made a point to put something on each end of the ribbon. That way it has some weight on both ends.


 I used several different ribbon colors to coordinate with the pendants. I also used two different types of velvet ribbons. I used velvet because it stays stiffer then regular ribbon and it doesn't slip right out of the book.



I made one for my friend Sarah and one for my Mom. Sarah is very much into skulls and dark colors, so it was a good mix. Mom's is more mellow, but with a color she loves. They both have been using them, so that makes me feel really good.


Ever since I decorated my bedroom in a very Victorian, vintage, french theme I have had a love of fleur-de-lis and very vintage looks. I did a they with that in mind. Also fleur-de-lis remind me of royalty from the medieval times, so there are a few with that theme in mind.




In the middle of making several of these bookmarks I realized that I could use these as birthday or Christmas gifts. I made a couple that I think I will give to my cousins, as they enjoy reading as much as me.


These are also a great way to use up some extra supplies you might have that you aren't entirely sure what to do with. I did that with a couple. Even made one to use during Christmas time.







I even got to try out making a flower petal pendant. It turned out pretty well.

In the process of making several of these bookmarks our cat Grace wanted to help and then that need turned to a need to be loved. This lead to her rubbing on my hands and pushing things a side until she could get spread out completely on my work desk.


Once she was satisfied that I had petted her enough to her content she allowed me to finish my projects. Granted it didn't stop her from trying to attach several of the bookmarks.


It could be possible that I'm one of the only people who do this... but I read several books at one time. I have a book at work; which I am using the flower petal bookmark with. There is a book I read before going to bed and I am using the light purple fleur-de-lis bookmark. I also have a book that I read just whenever I get bored doing something else, which is the book pictured above.

Reading helps to relax me. It informs me and allows me to be apart of another world. I would highly suggest reading to anyone. Reading is good for you and strengthens your mind. These bookmarks are a lovely and easy project to give a little extra personality to your chosen book.

The steps for this project can vary given the supplies you pick, and I'll explain both ways.

First: store purcased ribbons

Some stores (example: Michaels, Hobby Lobby) that sell ribbon strips that come with the ribbon clamps already on both ends.
If you use these type of ribbon, buy as many as you need color wise.
Jump rings to match the tone of the ribbon clamps.
Pendants you want to use.
Any pearls/gems you want to use.
Head pins to match same tone as jump rings.
Needle nose pliers
Wire cutters
Round nose pliers

Take your needle nose pliers to open the jump ring.
Slide the open jump ring into the hook at the end of the ribbon clamp at the end of the ribbon.
Then slide the pendant onto the other end of the open jump ring.
Use the needle nose pliers to close the jump ring.
This will be all you need for this end of the ribbon. (See picture)
(unless you would like to add more, then simply reopen the jump ring)


If you would like to add another pendant to the other end, simply follow the same directions for the other side. Be sure to pay attention to the direction the pendant on each end faces, or one might face the wrong way.
If you want to add a pearl/gem on the other end follow these steps.
Take a head pin and slide the pearl/gem on.
Use the round nose pliers to round out the end.
Cut the remaining head pin with the wire cutter.
*If you created a large enough loop at the end of the head pin you may connect the pearl/gem straigh to the end of the ribbon clamp instead of using the jump ring. (see picture)
Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring.
Slide the open jump ring onto the other end of the ribbon at the hook on the clamp.
Slide the rounded end of the head pin onto the open jump ring.
Use the needle nose pliers to close the jump ring.


Second: Making your own ribbon lengths.

Instead of using the store bought versions of ribbon you can make your own. This is helpful if you want to make ones that are specific for a book size. You get to make the length you want instead of the store bought one which is already at a specific length. (also the store bought ribbons tend to have creases from being on/in the packaging and ribbon on spools will not)

Ribbon spools in the colors you want.
Ribbon clamps
Jump rings to match the tone of the ribbon clamps.
Pendants you want to use.
Any pearls/gems you want to use.
Head pins to match same tone as jump rings.
Needle nose pliers
Flat nose pliers
Wire cutters
Round nose pliers
Measure out the length of ribbon you want and cut.
Hold the ribbon in place with one hand and with the other use the flat nose pliers to clamp down the ribbon clamp. (Best to clamp the sides in a little before hand, then slide the ribbon into place. Continue to clamp the sides down first to hold it in place.)
Take your needle nose pliers to open the jump ring.
Slide the open jump ring into the hook at the end of the ribbon clamp at the end of the ribbon.
Then slide the pendant onto the other end of the open jump ring.
Use the needle nose pliers to close the jump ring.
This will be all you need for this end of the ribbon. (See picture above of the pendant)
(unless you would like to add more, then simply reopen the jump ring)

Repeat this step for other end of ribbon:
Hold the ribbon in place with one hand and with the other use the flat nose pliers to clamp down the ribbon clamp. (Best to clamp the sides in a little before hand, then slide the ribbon into place. Continue to clamp the sides down first to hold it in place.)

If you would like to add another pendant to the other end, simply follow the same directions for the other side. Be sure to pay attention to the direction the pendant on each end faces, or one might face the wrong way.
If you want to add a pearl/gem on the other end follow these steps.
Take a head pin and slide the pearl/gem on.
Use the round nose pliers to round out the end.
Cut the remaining head pin with the wire cutter.
*If you created a large enough loop at the end of the head pin you may connect the pearl/gem straigh to the end of the ribbon clamp instead of using the jump ring. (see picture above of the pearl)
Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring.
Slide the open jump ring onto the other end of the ribbon at the hook on the clamp.
Slide the rounded end of the head pin onto the open jump ring.
Use the needle nose pliers to close the jump ring.

I hope you create some of your own lovely ribbon bookmarks!