Black Gem Chandelier Hoop Earrings

I saw these earrings and thought I could do a variation of that no problem. Took a few tries to figure out what I wanted mine to look like, but they came out looking very nice.

Supplies:

*Black Hex gems (about 25)
*Round semi black gems (about 15)
*Black tear drop gems (I used 4)
*bead wire (.45mm in dark silver)
*Flexible black wire
*Earring 'type' (2) (best to use hook earrings)
*Silver jump rings- large (2)
*Black link chain (in two different lengths)
*needle nose pliers
*round nose 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.

*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.

*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. (or in this case the earring loop)

Steps:

-Measure out the length of bead wire you will need to create the hoops. Will need to measure both out at the same time. Use wire cutters to cut correct length.

-Use the round nose pliers to create an eye loop on one end of the wire. Use the wire cutters to clip the extra bit of wire left. (if any)

-Thread on the gems in the order of the design you picked ahead of time (see *Tip 1*). (Mine was round gem and then hex gem the whole way)

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

-Repeat second step for other side of the wire. Be sure the wire can be formed into a circle with out the gems rubbing too tightly before you make the eye loop.  (see *Tip 4*) Use the wire cutters to clip the extra bit of wire left (be sure to note how much you have taken off so you can repeat this for the other earring)

-Set this length of wire aside for now.

-Repeat steps 2 through 5 for other earring.

-Take the flexible black wire and cut 8 sections, no determined length for any of them.

-Slide a tear drop gem of one section of wire. Use the round nose pliers to create an eye loop and then wrap the extra wire around the bottom of the eye loop. (not around the top of the tear drop)

-Repeat the last step 7 more times. Then set aside.

-Take one of the lengths of black chain and then use the needle nose pliers to open the last link of the chain. Slide one of the tear drop eye loops onto that link. Use the needle nose pliers to close that link.

-Repeat the last step for the remaining lengths of chain.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open one of the large jump rings.

-Take the length of wire that you made to create the loop and slide one eye loops onto the jump ring. Then attach one end of the shorter lengths of chain (the end that obviously doesn't have the tear drop), then slide on both lengths of the longer chains, then the end of the remaining shorter chain, and finally the other eye loop from the wire. Use the needle nose pliers to close the jump ring. (This might be difficult to get all items onto the jump ring easily.)

-Repeat the last two steps for the other earring.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open the loop on the hook earring. Slide on the jump ring that is holding all the pieces together. Try to slide the loop from the earring into the middle of everything on the jump ring. (i.e. in between the two longer lengths of chain) Use the needle nose pliers to close the loop on the hook earring.

-Repeat the last step for the other earring.

 That will finish off the earrings.

 

These ended up being a gift for a friend. They were fun to make and was one of the few things I really liked adapting.

Shell Dangle Earrings

Supplies:

*Flat shells (multi colors)
*Pendant being used (2 for pair of earrings)
*Beads (multi colors)
*Jump rings (4 for pair of earrings)
*Needle nose pliers
*Round nose pliers
*Wire cutters
*Head pins
*Earring 'type' (2)
*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.

*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 beads 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 bead.

- 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. Set aside for the time being.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the bottom of the shell. Then attach the previous made eye loop beads. Then close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open another jump ring. Slide this jump ring into the top of the shell. Then attach the jump ring (see *Suggestion 2*) to whatever type of earring you chose (I picked a hook earring.). Close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

-Repeat steps to create second earring.

This will finish the earring set.

I did several types. The black set went to my friend Sarah, the Koi fish pair  and the lily pair went to my Mother, and the owl pair were for me.

 

Gold Chain Gem Stone Earrrings.

Supplies:

*Chain covered gem stones
*Jump rings- gold (4)
*Earring 'type' (2) gold
*needle nose pliers


- Take the needle nose pliers to open a gold jump ring.

- Slide the jump ring in the opening on the gem stone.

- Take the needle nose pliers and close the jump ring.

- Repeat first 3 steps again for other earring.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open another gold jump ring.

- Slide the previous jump ring onto the jump ring you just attached.

-Then slide the other end of the same jump ring into the earring type picked.

- Use the needle nose pliers to close the jump ring.

-Repeat last 3 steps to finish second earring.

This will finish the earring set.

Pearl Heart Set

Pearl Heart Necklace

Supplies: *package of white flower patterned pearls
*10 white gem stones (or white/clear beads, which ever you prefer)
*Large heart pendant
*bead wire (.18mm in white silver)
*Large link chain
*Toggle clasp
*Large jump rings (4)
*clamp beads (3) #1 (white silver)
*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 for the one side length 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 one side of the toggle  clasp and close the jump ring.

*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.

 - 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. Use the clamp pliers to clamp the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place. (see *Tip 3*)

-Thread on the patterned pearls 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.

 -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. (Set this aside for now)

-Measure out a length of large link chain for the other half of the necklace.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open a link to create the length you just determined.

-Take the needle nose pliers and open the jump ring you just put on the finished end of the strand. Slide on the heart pendant first, and then slide on a link from the chain you just created. Close the jump ring.

 -Take a needle nose pliers and open another jump ring. First slide on the open end of the chain you created. Then slide on the other end of the toggle clasp and close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

-That will finish off the necklace.

 Pearl Bracelet

Supplies: *Strand of Flower patterned pearls
*12 white gem stones (or clear beads, which ever you prefer)
*bead wire (.18mm in white silver)
*Lobster claw
*jump rings (2)
*2 head pins (white silver)
*clamp beads (3) #1 (white silver)
*half inch of small link chain (white silver)
*needle nose pliers
*Round 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 comfortably 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.

*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.

 - 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 the bead in place. This should allow for a loop to hold the one end in place. (see *Tip 3*)

-Thread on the patterned pearls 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.

-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* ) (set aside for a second)

- Use your needle nose pliers to create a half inch length of chain.

 - Grab your wire again. Take another clamp bead and thread it on first, followed by the half inch long chain you just created. Then thread the wire back through the clamp. Now tighten the wire until you have a small loop. Be sure that the chain link 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 you didn't use two clamp beads you can do this next part.) 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.

-Thread one of the two remaining white gem stones onto the head pin.

-Use the round nose pliers to create an eye pin loop above the gem. Cut the remaining pin with the wire cutters. (Must know how to make an eye pin loop.)

-Repeat the last 2 steps with the remaining white gem stone.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open the jump ring that has the lobster clasp attached. Slide on the two eye pin loops you created, then close the jump ring.

-That will finish off the bracelet.


 Heart Pendant Earrings

Supplies:

*Heart pendants- small
*Earring 'type' (2) (I used eye hooks)
*needle nose pliers


- Use the needle nose pliers to open the loop at the end of the earring hook and slide on the heart pendant. Close the loop.

-Repeat last step to finish second earring.

- This will finish the earring set.

You now have an entire set of heartfelt joy.

 

 

Fun Owl Set

Supplies:
*Owl Beads
*Light turquoise beads
*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.

Supplies:

*Owl beads (left overs)
*Light Turquoise beads (left overs)
*Head pins (2)
*Earring 'type' (2)
*needle nose pliers
*Round nose pliers
*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 again for other earring.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open the loop at the end of the earring and slide on the eye loop you created. Then use the pliers to close the loop back.

-Repeat last step to finish second earring.

This will finish the earring set.

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.

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.

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.

Shades of Color

I had a TON of crystal gem stones that came in strips of color combos. I had so many that I went on a bracelet frenzy. I even had the same color combos in small and regular crystals... as seen in these sets:

Now I am ALL for super easy projects. I make it a point to find things that are easier to make with and to use in general.
I love circle closures (like shown in the first picture). They are simple to string on when making the bracelet and they make it SO easy to put on. Magnetic closures are also very convenient to work with and put on. They are stronger than people think and make getting bracelets on ridiculously easy.
It seems to most people who make jewelry that they have an insane amount of supplies, and some things you aren't entirely sure what you had in mind when you bought them. I feel that way when it comes to seed beads. They are tiny and annoying. Plus I don't actually 'bead' anything with a needle and thread, which is what most sead beads are designed to be used in. I like to use them as spacer beads (as shown in both pictures). It keeps the crystal beads from rubbing against each other and breaking. I only get seed beads in standard colors and only get more when I only have like 3 left.

I use the standard rule of stringing when I make these bracelets. Very easy and basic.

Supplies:
-Crystal beads (set out in the pattern you want to string on)
-wire
-wire cutters
-clamps
-clamp pliers
-seed beads
-closure
-needle nose pliers

*Measure your wrist and cut wire about 5 inches longer than needed.
*Then find a clasp you like (in my case the circle closure clasp).
*Thread a clamp onto the wire; then the wire through the loop on the clasp and back through the clamp. (use the needle nose pliers to pull the loop tight)
*Press the clamp tight.
*Then thread the crystals and seed beads in the design order that you picked.
*Once you have gotten the length you need you need to slide on a clamp onto the wire and then wrap it around the loop of the clasp and finally back through the clamp.
*Squeeze the clamp closed.

Normally I end up with a few each beads (like 8 or 4) left over once I have reached my desired length. I use these to make earrings because its a very quick project that can use a small amount. This way I don't have to waste them. I try and make different types so it doesn't seem like all my bracelet/earring sets are the same. Some times I just feel like using the crystals for basic earrings and not a full set.

Most times however I like to use them all up and thats easiest done by making a bracelet. Hence why I have so many now....

Pendants can make it all.

My mom bought a green stone pendant at a yard sale and asked if I would make a necklace for it. I don't mind doing anything that's both for my mom and fun. Those are the best things to do.

Ironically I just so happen to have some stones that matched pretty well. I didn't want it to be just one color and one type of stone, so I found some metal spacer beads.

I had a few beads left so I felt that I should use them up. (I hate leaving two or three of something.) Mom likes hoops so that seemed easy to do. They look pretty good too. 

Copper Bracelet set

I have had this chain in my supplies and I wasn't sure what to do with it. I only had one and I wasn't even sure the store from which I purchased it. However when I took a closer look I thought it might make a better bracelet than anything else. Plus it was a good length...Actually it was the length needed to make it around my wrist, as well as make a pair of earrings.

Think it turned out really well. Some times the simplest things can surprise you in the greatest ways.