Tuesday, August 05, 2008

Wrapped Beads Necklace-Project 5

This afternoon I worked on the next project in Mary Hettmansperger's~Wrap, Stitch, Fold & Rivet, which is part of Deryn's Summer Jewelry Challenge.
I decided to use the remaining piece of etched brass metal, made last weekend, as the base. Mine differs from Mary's examples, as I wanted to leave the bottom of the pendant open. It is not fully wrapped; but rather folded only on top.
Starting with a piece of copper wire, I made a ball at the end with my torch; then strung several chosen beads to be hung inside the folded piece of metal. I began with a small carnelian nugget, faceted tiger iron, and then a golden czech crystal. The large bead peeking out from under the fold is an etched carnelain bead I found while shopping at Originals, in San Antonio. I used another small carnelain nugget, then a few copper spacers on top; just below the wrapped loop. I made sure the metal hugs the beads tightly at top, then gently rolled the edges of the folded base with my round and flat nose pliers. I used 0000 steel wool to burnish and highlight the brass. Lastly, I added the completed pendant to a simple rubber cord, ending it with a hand-wrapped oxidized copper coil clasp.

This was another fun and challenging project. Chapter 2 ~ Commercial Cold Connections ~ will be next.

12 comments:

  1. Love what you did. I like the open bottom. It gives it an entirely different look.

    Carolyn

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  2. Wow! I've never seen anything like that... Love that!

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  3. It even glows!
    That's beautiful, dm!!!Great "form."

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  4. How organic and wonderful this is! I love the way you interpreted the project and I love the beads you used. Earthy and warm.

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  5. You really took etching on basemetal to the next level. I love your twist on Mary's project. Bravo!

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  6. Absolutely love this piece, Diane!! It has a really good feel to it and I love the color....such a good job!
    Diana

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  7. Awesome job! This is gorgeous and organic (which I love)! Keep it up, girl, you ROCK!

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  8. Absolutely perfect! What wonderful work - this challenge suits you to a T.

    Deb

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  9. Diane - This really turned out beautifully. I love the materials you used - I think the etched carnelian compliments all of the other materials you used, and really sets the tone of the piece. Also, you did a great job on the etched brass - it adds so much to the overall design.

    I can't wait to see the next piece(s) you do (the "Mixed Metal Earrings").

    Have a great rest of your weekend -

    :-) Molly

    Psalm 28:7

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  10. This pendant looks fantastic..neat idea...

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  11. Really, really fine Diane! I love the etched metal and that carnelian bead is to die for.

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