Key Ring Gem Necklace

Key ring gem necklace

Supplies:
*diamond gems in deep blue
*diamond gems in light blue
*diamond gems in light purple
*clear, or white, seed beads
*Key ring pendant
*bead wire (.18mm in white silver)
*Lobster claw
*jump ring (1) (white silver)
*clamp beads (3) #1 (white silver)
*half inch of small link chain (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 to fit around your neck 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 lobster 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 gems in the order of the design you picked ahead of time (see *Tip 1* ).

-Once you get to the middle of the length you determined (see *Tip 1*) slide the pendant on and continue with the pattern.

-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.

-That will finish off the necklace.

Round Bead Necklaces

I think every one has seen the round glass beads that are available in Michael's and JoAnn stores. My mother has always liked them, but she has rather tiny wrists, so the bracelet that comes with several of the beads is far too big. I figured it wouldn't be hard to just make a necklace with the same beads.

I even used the ribbon the beads are displayed on for the necklace.

Supplies:

*Beads (as many as you like)
*Ribbon clamps (2)
*Jump rings (2)
*Small length of chain
*Ribbon
*Lobster clasp
*Needle nose pliers
*Flat nose pliers

*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. (This doesn't really apply for this necklace)

 *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 ribbon you will need to fit around your neck. (see *Tip 2*)

-Take one ribbon clamp and position it at the end of the ribbon.

-Take the flat nose pliers and secure the ribbon clamp into place.

- Take the open end of ribbon and slide on the beads (in the order determined in *Tip 1*)

-Take the other ribbon clamp and position it at the open end of ribbon.

-Take the flat nose pliers and secure the ribbon clamp into place.

-Take the needle nose pliers and open one jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the open end of the ribbon clamp. Leave the jump ring open.

-Attach the lobster clasp to the open jump ring. Then close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open another jump ring. Slide that jump ring onto the open end of the other ribbon clamp. Leave the jump ring open.

-Attach one end of the small length of chain to the open jump ring. Then close the jump ring with the needle nose pliers. (The other end of the chain will remain not attached to anything, as to allow for 'give room' incase you ignored *Tip 2*)

-At this point everything should be connected and you have a finished necklace.

You can also do this same idea with just a length of chain instead of ribbon. I did both because Mom found several more she liked and wanted the necklace to seem fuller.

Gold Chain and Pearl Necklace

 

 

Supplies:

*2 detail links (in preferred color)
*Medium chain (in preferred color)
*Lobster Claw Clasp (in preferred color)
*4 large jump rings (to match chain)
*needle nose pliers
*Gold and pearl design (Purchased from Michael's)
*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.

*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. Use large items if you think the smaller version will not allow for flexibility. (i.e. large jump rings over small/medium ones)

 Steps:

-Measure out the length of chain you will need to fit around your neck. (see *Tip 2* )  Use the needle nose pliers to open a link to shorten the chain to your length needed for one side of your neck, and then do it again for the other side. You should have two chain lengths.

-Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the lobster claw clasp, then on one end of the chain length you just made, close the jump ring.

- Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open another jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the other length of chain. Then close the jump ring. This is what the lobster clasp will connect to.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring and attach one end of the chain (either length will do). Then slide on the circle link and close the jump ring.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open another jump ring. Attach the other side of the circle link. Then slide on one side of the chain/pearl design. Close the jump ring.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring and attach one end of the chain (The other one now). Then slide on another circle link and close the jump ring.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open the last jump ring. Attach the other side of the circle link. Then slide on the other side of the chain/pearl design and close the jump ring.


  -At this point everything should be connected and you have a finished necklace.

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.

 

 

Double Pearl Elegance

Supplies:

*2 Circle links
*Medium link chain
*Lobster Claw Clasp
*4 large jump rings (to match chain)
*needle nose pliers
*Double string of pearls and gems (Purchased from Michaels)
*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.

*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. Use large items if you think the smaller version will not allow for flexibility. (i.e. large jump rings over small/medium ones)

 Steps:

-Measure out the length of chain you will need to fit around your neck. (see *Tip 2* )  Use the needle nose pliers to open a link to shorten the chain to your length needed for one side of your neck, and then do it again for the other side. You should have two chain lengths.

-Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the lobster claw clasp, then on one end of the chain length you just made, close the jump ring.

- Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open another jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the other length of chain. Then close the jump ring. This is what the lobster clasp will connect to. 

- Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring and attach one end of the chain (either length will do). Then slide on the circle link and close the jump ring.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open another jump ring. Attach the other side of the circle link. Then slide on one side of the double string. Close the jump ring.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring and attach one end of the chain (The other one now). Then slide on another circle link and close the jump ring.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open the last jump ring. Attach the other side of the circle link. Then slide on the other side of the double string and close the jump ring.


  -At this point everything should be connected and you have a finished necklace.

 

 

Long Leaf

Supplies:

*Leaf strand (2)
*Jump rings (muted gold) (3)
*Needle nose pliers
*Lobster claw clasp

Steps:

- Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring. Attack one end of one leaf strand and then attach an end of the other leaf strand. Close the jump ring. This attaches the two strand together.

-Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring. Attach one end of the long leaf strand and then attach the lobster claw. Close the jump ring.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring. Attach the other end of the long leaf strand. Close the jump ring.

-You have finished your necklace.

Ribbon Weave Necklace

Supplies: *Big link chain (I picked dark silver)
*Medium link chain (matches big link chain)
*Length of ribbon (about a foot)
*Ribbon clamps (2)
*Lobster Claw Clasp
*2 large jump rings (to match chain)
*2 medium jump rings (to match chain)
*needle nose pliers
*Flat 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 clamp beads match the color pallet. Practice weaving the ribbon in the length of chain to determine the amount needed.

*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 - 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. Use large items if you think the smaller version will not allow for flexibility. (i.e. large jump rings over small/medium ones)

Steps:

-Measure out the length of chain you will need to fit around your neck. (see *Tip 2* )  Use the needle nose pliers to open a link to shorten the chain to your length needed.

-Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp, then on one end of the chain length you just made, close the jump ring.

- Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open another jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the other length of chain. Then close the jump ring.

- Create a length of large link chain that you can weave the ribbon inside.

- Take a ribbon clamp and clamp one end of the ribbon. Use the flat nose pliers.

-Take the other end of the ribbon and weave the ribbon in-between the links of the large link chain.

- Take the end that you just finished weaving and clamp it with the remaining ribbon clamp. Use the flat nose pliers.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open a medium jump ring and attach one end of the medium chain. Then slide on the ribbon clamp on and then one end of the large link chain.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open a medium jump ring and attach the other end of the medium chain. Then slide on the other ribbon clamp and finally the other end of the large link chain.

-Pick a side that you would like to tie the bow.

- Tie the know around the chain, not threw it. Then create the bow.

  -At this point everything should be connected and you have a finished necklace.


 

Time Around Your Neck

I found a set of vintage clock pendants and I wanted to put them all together. It ended up looking great.

Supplies:
*Silver link chain.
*Clock pendants (several in my case)
*Clear gem pendant (2)
*Lobster Claw Clasp
*2 large jump rings (silver)
*7 medium jump rings (silver)
*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 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.

*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. Use large items if you think the smaller version will not allow for flexibility. (i.e. large jump rings over small/medium ones)

Steps:

-Measure out the length of chain you will need to fit around your neck. (see *Tip 2* )  Use the needle nose pliers to open a link to shorten the chain to your length needed.

-Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open a jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp, then on one end of the chain length you just made, close the jump ring.

- Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open another jump ring. Slide the jump ring onto the end of the other length of chain. Then close the jump ring.

- Hold both ends of the chain and find the middle point. Mark that spot with tape.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open a jump ring and slide on the pendant you want in the middle. Then slide the jump ring onto the middle point of the chain. (see *Tip 1*)

- If you have a chain tower use it to clamp both ends of your chain (making sure that the chain isn't twisted). If you do not, you will have to make a point to keep the chain from twisting and remember which direction you slide the jump ring on. This is important to keep the pendants facing the right direction and hanging correctly.

- Continue to use the needle nose pliers to open jump rings and hang pendants on the chain. I spaced my out every four links on the chain to make the most use of the chain.

-Since I had an odd arrangement of clock pendants I added in two clear gem stones. In my plan (see *Tip 1*) I randomly added them in to break up the continues look.

 -At this point everything should be connected and you have a finished necklace.

Chain Tower

In June of 2012 I went on vacation to Wisconsin. I went for a family reunion on my Dad's side of the family.
In preparation for the trip I wanted to make some jewelry that would match my outfits. Most of the jewelry I had already made would go with my outfits. I had picked up some more summer colors and I wanted longer necklaces for those outfits.

One has tones of purple and the other has tones of blue and green. They were the first projects I used my chain tower with and it was very helpful. I would highly recommend getting one. It keeps the chain in the same direction so the gems don't face different directions.

Blossom branch necklace

 

 

 



Supplies:

*Gold large link chain about 3 1/2 inches on each side.
*Blossom branch pendant
*Flying bird pendant
*Lobster Claw Clasp
*large jump rings (4) (match the chain color)
*medium jump rings (1) (match the color of the pendants)
*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 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.

*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. Use large items if you think the smaller version will not allow for flexibility. (i.e. large jump rings over small/medium ones)

Steps:

-Measure out the length of chain you will need to fit around your neck (minus the pendant length). Use the needle nose pliers to open a link to shorten the chain to your length needed. (on both sides of your neck)

-Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open a large jump ring (one matching the chain color). Slide the jump ring onto the end of the clasp, then on one end of the chain length you just made, close the jump ring.

- Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open another large jump ring (again matching the chain color). Slide the jump ring onto the end of the other length of chain you created. Then close the jump ring.

- Take a pair of needle nose pliers and open another large jump ring (matching the chain color). Slide one end of the chain. Then slide on one end of the branch pendant. Then close the jump ring. One end of the branch pendant should be dangling from one length of chain.

- Use the needle nose pliers to open a medium jump ring (matching the pendant color) and attach the open end of the branch pendant. Then attach one end of the bird pendant (make sure its going the direction you want *Tip 1*). Close the jump ring.

- Use the needle nose pliers and open the last large sized jump ring and attach the other end of the bird pendant. Then slide on the other side of chain.

-At this point everything should be connected and you have a finished necklace.

 ***The supplies can be found at Hobby Lobby, Michaels, and Jo-Ann stores. ***

Blue Tones Necklace

Supplies:

*String of mixed tone gems
*White crystal seed beads
*Key Pendant
*bead wire (.24mm in silver)
*Toggle clasp
*jump rings (1)
*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 neck 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.

- 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* )
In my case I left the gems in the color order that they came in, but slide on a crystal seed bead in between.

-Continue threading on the beads until half way to the determined length (see *Tip 2* ) then slide on the pendant.

-Start threading the beads on like before, but backwards. The order of colors needs to go in reverse to make it look like its the same pattern flowing down to the pendant. (If you are doing blue, black, grey now you need to do grey, black, blue.)

-Continue this until you have the remaining half of 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 is what I did for this necklace.* 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.

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.

Talent Shared

This last Christmas my Father gave me a box full of stones, gems, pendants, and other random jewelry items. He got it at a yard sale. One of the pendants in the box was a painted rose gem stone. It was very well painted and in great detail.

I made a very simple necklace out of it, because I wanted the focus to be solely on the pendant.

I cut a length of ribbon and used two ribbon clamps to secure a lobster closure clip and a small length of chain to each end. It came out very pretty and I love it!

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.