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- Step-by-step instructions
- Helpful diagrams and illustrations
- A list of everything you’ll need
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Getting Started
The technique used to make the decorative spirals in this project is called coiling. You can coil wire by hand, or you can use a coiling tool. You can find coiling tools in jewelry supply stores and online.
Finding and Buying Crystal Beads
Crystal beads are available in a wide range of colors. It’s possible to find the perfect color and finish for any beaded project. Crystal beads aren’t surface dyed, like some beads. Instead, they gain their color through chemical elements added during the glass-making process.
These high-quality beads also come in a wide variety of shapes. The round and diamond (bicone) shapes familiar to most beaders are just the beginning. Cubes, ovals, rondelles, saucers, drops, and hearts are some of the shapes available.
When purchasing crystal beads, choose high quality over low price. To qualify as full-leaded crystal, beads need to be composed of at least 24% lead oxide. The finest crystal beads have 32%. Look for finely cut facets, distinct hues, and high-quality surface treatments. Paying just a bit more per bead will improve the look of a piece tenfold, giving it a distinctive and professional look.
Skill Level
- Experienced Beginner
Materials for Making the Earrings
- 4 assorted color 6mm crystal bicone beads
- 12 assorted color 4mm crystal bicone beads
- 2 sterling silver 6mm Bali-style rondelle beads
- 2 sterling silver 5mm Bali-style bead caps
- 4 sterling silver 5mm Bali-style spacer beads
- 4 sterling silver 3.5mm Bali-style spacer beads
- 2 sterling silver 1" paddle head pins
- 1 pair of sterling silver ear wires
- 20-gauge dead-soft sterling silver wire, 36" (91.5 cm)
- 24-gauge dead-soft sterling silver wire, 36" (91.5 cm)
- Liver of sulfur
- Clear adhesive cement
Materials for Making the Necklace
- 5 assorted color 6mm crystal bicone beads
- 50 assorted color 4mm crystal bicone beads
- 6 sterling silver 7mm Bali-style spacer beads
- 4 sterling silver 4mm Bali-style spacer beads
- Assortment of 15 sterling silver 5mm Bali-style spacer beads
- 2 sterling silver 1⁄2" (1.3 cm) clasp hooks
- 5-1⁄4" (13.3 cm) of 3 x 6mm sterling silver oval link chain
- 20-gauge sterling silver wire, 80" (203 cm)
- 24-gauge sterling silver wire, 150" (381 cm)
Tools
- Wire cutters
- Chain-nose pliers
- Round-nose pliers
- Wire brush
- Dowels, 1⁄2" (1.3 cm) in diameter, and 3⁄8" (1 cm) in diameter
| Copyright 2007 Lark Books | Acknowledgments & Disclaimer |
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