It is so satisfying to take a simple blank piece of metal and with the application of a few tools turn it into something quite unique and beautiful. I suppose it would’ve been more satisfying only if I had mined the ore and rolled the sheet metal myself. 🙂
Perhaps at first glance you might think that today’s earring design is far beyond your available skills or tools, but in the video I show you how you can make them with simple supplies that you can get at your local craft store. Of course, below I will provide online links to the things you need as well.
Also in the video you’ll see what I mean when I say, “make visual decisions visually.” I started out with an initial idea on how I wanted to use my glass beads, but after laying them out realized I needed to change things a bit to achieve a nice design.
Tools & Materials:
- 2 3/4-inch 18 gauge (0.4mm) copper discs
- dapping set
- leather sandbag (optional, but nice)
- chasing hammer
- weighted brass mallet
- 20 inches 24 gauge copper wire
- 6 4mm round copper beads
- 6 6mm Czech glass lentil beads, off center drilled
- 2 9x7mm Czech glass oval beads
- 2 ear wires
- round nose pliers
- chain nose pliers
- wire cutters
- liver of sulfur
In the video I reference a few other videos I’ve made showing helpful techniques:
- Making Your Own Ear Wires
- How to Use a Screw Punch
- How to Make Wrapped Loops
- Adding a Patina With Liver of Sulfur
Enjoy the video and happy creating!
Watch the Copper Dome Earrings-Metal Jewelry Video Tutorial at YouTube.
Oh, those are gorgeous. I love copper everything.
These are definitely a new favorite, kinda classy & classic.
Oh, Sandy, I DO like when you’re making dangles earrings and your so fine wrapping technic: you’re always making so great creations 🙂
I’m always looking forward seeing a new jewelery from you!
Blessings,
Marie
Thanks, Marie! I love these earrings, too. 🙂
I do not as you hoped, mine my own blanks, but I have found that recycling glass beer bottle tops works great. My partner saves all his bottle tops in a bin and then I have a ready supply to use for any project. You simply use a dapping tool on it and wow what a great blank. I have flattened them completely or left then domed, depending on end use. You do need to remove the material used on the inside to keep the seal, but after using a dappping tool I find it peels out with ease. I use a dremel tool and polish both sides. You can achieve whatever finish you desire and then color the metal however you desire. I always keep 20 blanks on hand pre-finished in numerous shapes, so I always have some when the idea hits.
Wow, what a great idea! I’ve only used beer bottle caps as the “plate” for miniature pies, but I love the way you use them. Thanks for sharing, happy creating!