Create custom pendants by setting crystal chatons in metal stamping blanks! This fun, easy, inexpensive project works well for small gatherings (bridal parties, crafternoons, solstice celebrations, baby showers, wine with friends…) Just a few supplies & three simple steps…
Wire: Hardness, Softness and Types of Metal
October 5, 2017I’m sorting (mostly tossing) a bin of papers that “I might need some day” and ran across these notes written at least 10 years ago by Rings & Things founder, Russ Nobbs. It’s a nice summary of wire-related jewelry terms that can be confusing. So I’m archiving it here on the interwebs before recycling the piece of paper.
Hardness is the “temper” of the wire, or how springy it is:
- Dead Soft is as soft and bendable as the wire can get.
- Full Hard is as stiff and springy as the wire can get.
- Half Hard is … halfway in between.
Sterling wire is inherently softer than Gold Filled (GF) wire.
Steel wire ( such as 316L and memory wire) is inherently harder than most other jewelry wire.
Creating Leather Jewelry Using a Portable Rolling Mill
August 4, 2017It is easy and inspiring to cut leather strips into into jewelry basics and ornamental elements! Continue Reading…
Here is a project that can add a personal touch to your special day, whether it be a wedding or an anniversary. Turning vintage coins into cuff links with a little Swarovski sparkle is an easy afternoon project–even if you are making a pair for each groomsman. And best of all, the supplies and tool list is short and sweet–and available at Rings & Things. Continue Reading…
College Team Jewelry Color Guide
October 19, 2016College Team Swarovski Crystal Color Guide for DIY Jewelry Designs
Use Swarovski Stones for jewelry in team colors — local high school, intramural sports, community colleges, rec league sports and more!
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DIY Jewelry for Football Team Color List
October 7, 2016DIY Jewelry for Football Fans: Team Color List
Add sparkle to your designs using our color chart of Swarovski Crystals for each team in the league!
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These eye-catching earrings have a lot going on visually, but really it takes just three jewelry parts and a little glue to make them. And if you have never explored the use of glue in jewelry making, now is your chance. Follow these steps to make a pair of sparkly earrings featuring Swarovski Crystal rivoli stones and glue-on leverback earring findings.
I’m not saying I choose my vacation destinations based solely on the locations of souvenir penny machines, but I am kind of hooked on these inexpensive keepsakes. And yes, I have the Penny Collector app on my iPhone, making the location of penny-pressing machines around the world readily available. But what is not to love–you basically get a keepsake charm (jewelry-making supply!) for less than a dollar. Swoon!
DIY Aromatherapy Tassel Bracelet Tutorial
April 28, 2016How-to Create a Custom Essential Oil Infused, Gemstone & Crystal Tassel Bracelet
This bracelet can be customized to include personal elements, represented by:
- Gemstones and their properties (chakra, metaphysical, healing…)
- Aromatherapy/essential oil blends and their uses (mosquito repellent, stress-relief, calming…)
- Color intention and symbolism (harmony, strength, stability…)
Quick and Easy DIY Birthstone Gift Sets
April 27, 2016Use birthstone colors to make a quick and easy gift set for your mom, daughter or sister, or it can be a sweet no-fuss bridesmaid gift in your bridal colors. Continue Reading…