tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26637412653143660492024-03-04T22:58:55.282-05:00Gemstone Bead JewelryOur experiences learning to use techniques and tools to design and create handmade beaded gemstone and pearl jewelry including gemstone earrings, beaded necklaces, beaded wire wrapped bracelets, anklets, beaded watches and gemstone pendants in 14kt gold, gold filled, sterling silver, brass or copper with pictures of our jewelry creations.Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-24068756977391970722012-09-13T05:35:00.000-04:002012-09-13T05:35:01.710-04:00How To Make A Jewelers Sand BagSandbags are used to absorb the shock of blows when pounding on a metal block or small anvil. After pricing sand bags and pitch bowls from suppliers, I decided to experiment with making a sand bag. The cost of sand bags varied but all were above $10. <br />
<br />
I made two types -fabric bags and leather bags. I also read a suggestion to use a leather purse filled with sand. The purse would have to be rather flat in design preferably with a zipper closure. The sand needs to be contained in something before placing it in the purse to prevent leaking sand. <br />
<br />
<b>List of Materials</b><br />
Cloth scraps at least as wide as you wish your sandbag (canvas, old jeans)<br />
for inner cover<br />
Paper to trace your shape (bowl or plate)<br />
Scissors<br />
Chalk or felt tip pen<br />
Sand- 1-2 quarts or BB shot (one container $8.00 for 6 inch bag)<br />
Pan to bake sand<br />
Heavy closely woven fabric,denim, or Leather scraps for outer cove<br />
Cutting Board to cut leather on<br />
X-Acto knife to cut leather<br />
Leather sewing machine needle<br />
See through ruler and metal ruler<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFc_tvjxFa7oU58PEE87_0CbLQ8G1gWhYOOG6VJD2RHz9NPPhXTi4UGdQs0cs-EC-EivE61Dpf1w4ez2_o54wpYsKzkk-cSxsI60zq3BjGUAc8xxdxWT-K-tz6LvJpLYj6Ad7oAE-BV19/s1600/Best-leather-bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGFc_tvjxFa7oU58PEE87_0CbLQ8G1gWhYOOG6VJD2RHz9NPPhXTi4UGdQs0cs-EC-EivE61Dpf1w4ez2_o54wpYsKzkk-cSxsI60zq3BjGUAc8xxdxWT-K-tz6LvJpLYj6Ad7oAE-BV19/s200/Best-leather-bag.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Materials Used</div>
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<b>Directions</b><br />
1. To make pattern, trace around bowl or plate the desired size on paper. <br />
<br />
2. Add 5/8 inch to the circle traced on the paper. Make another paper pattern 5/8 inch larger than the first.<br />
<br />
3. Cut out the paper circles.<br />
<br />
4. Lay the paper patterns on the denim cutting out four circles.<br />
<br />
5. Stitch two circles together so that you have 2 pieces of double thickness. If you have a serger, serge the two pieces together instead of plain sewing.<br />
<br />
6. Sew or serge the double thick circles together leaving a 1 1/2 inch opening. Use a very small stitch if sewing. Stitch 2-3 times, once serged should be sufficient.<br />
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7. Gather sand. Can use creek or river sand. Sift through a strainer to remove debrie and stones. Place sand in a baking pan no deeper than two inches.<br />
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8. Bake in 250 degree oven stirring occasionally until the sand is dry. This will also kill any insects or insect eggs.<br />
<br />
9. Place a funnel in the opening and fill the bag with sand to within 1-1 1/2 inches of the top. <br />
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10. Place sand bag on the sewing machine or serger sewing together the opening. Use small sewing stitches. Sew 2-3 times to be sure sand does not leak out. <br />
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11. To make the outside cover, serge around the edges or use fray check to prevent raveling. (use very small stitch if sewing)<br />
<br />
12. Place t;he two large circles over the sand filled circles pinning around the edges.<br />
<br />
13. Sew holding up the edge of the bag opposite the needle to sew completely around. Sew around at least two to three times with a small stitch. <br />
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To make leather bags, check fabric and upholstery shops for scraps of leather. I purchased enough leather to make a six inch and an eight inch bag for $1.75. I filled my leather bags with BB shot. I did not use an inner liner, but simply stitched the two circles together leaving 1 1/2 inch opening to insert the funnel for adding the shot. I also pieced scraps of leather together to make a strip 1 to 1 1/2 inches wide long enough to go around the circles. I stitched it all the way around one circle and left a 1 1/2 inch opening in the stitching of the second circle. The stitching should not be as small as with sand so you will not cut the leather with the stitching. Make at least two rows of stitching. Using the strip between the two circles makes a flat bag which is very good under a metal pounding block.<br />
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<b>Costs</b><br />
Inner and Outer cover fabric (recycled jeans) $ 00<br />
Sand 00<br />
Electricity to dry sand (guess) .25 <br />
Thread .05<br />
Total .30<br />
<br />
Outer cover leather .97<br />
Shot to fill (found some on sale) 13.00<br />
Thread .05<br />
Total $13.05 <br />
The most economical bags are those made from sand. A leather outer cover filled with sand would be more economical than using shot, but would also require an inner cover for the sand.I have preferred using the bags with shot.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfMFvg2bzVYbQsJQVzT5z_BgdyKF1xBGkNL5vdoHJZMvdjQ-ISuFtf4DkuW7eHAFWavHYqx5k_bzp7n3CDKkjNd20ibo6kihNjV_-8aMW2MLdUPgJxd8dzoqISZDgkToCq9EZmHGQ4IeW5/s1600/leather-sand-bag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="110" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfMFvg2bzVYbQsJQVzT5z_BgdyKF1xBGkNL5vdoHJZMvdjQ-ISuFtf4DkuW7eHAFWavHYqx5k_bzp7n3CDKkjNd20ibo6kihNjV_-8aMW2MLdUPgJxd8dzoqISZDgkToCq9EZmHGQ4IeW5/s200/leather-sand-bag.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b>HAPPY POUNDING!</b></div>
Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-3602972159616206912010-02-16T20:20:00.002-05:002010-02-16T20:29:18.005-05:00How To Use Wire Headed To The Scrap BinI hate to throw anything away that can be used even though it might be inexpensive copper wire. In learning to wire wrap, I had to try several times to keep wires flat and place the wrap around them correctly. When I removed the failed wrap, the wire was creased in several places. Using the flat pliers, I straightened the bends as best I could. <br />
<img alt="Scrap Wire" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/scrapWire.jpg" /><br />
Scrap wire<br />
The wire on the top of the photo has been straightened. I am planning to purchase plastic tipped pliers to be able to straighten wires more efficiently.<br />
The wires still looked rather rough and not straight. I decided nothing would be lost to try to twist them and get a useable piece of wire. <br />
The results are pictured below. I believe the results could be used in spirals or to wrap around another wire. <br />
<img alt="Twisted Scrap Wire" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/straightenedtwist.jpg" /><br />
Twisted Scrap Wire<br />
<br />
Small lengths of wire can be used to make easy connectors, hooks, charms, toggles, only limited by your imagination. A supply of these items can be accumulated as you work and have small lengths of wire leftover from projects. It will be easy to have a hook closure available for a necklace or bracelet. Examples of these items are in the photo below.<br />
<img alt="Examples of uses for scrap" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/findings.jpg" /><br />
<br />
What do you think? Would appreciate any suggestions and ideas.<br />
ThanksBusy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-73994879263668140172010-02-15T16:23:00.000-05:002010-02-15T16:23:04.395-05:00Experiences Twisting WireI must admit I have been remiss in posting to my blog. I was caught up in Christmas and since Christmas have been exploring techniques found in my Christmas books-<u>Wire Art Jewelry</u> by Sharilyn Miller and <u>Wire Work</u> by Dale "Cougar" Armstrong. <br />
Since I have become enamoured with learning wire wrapping, I decided I needed to learn to twist wire to give variety to my designs. The wire twister purchased at Harbor Freight was the beginning step. However, I found I was not strong enough to engage and release the spring catch on the twister. Harbor Freight readily refunded the purchase price.<br />
<br />
Next I decided to try the technique using a cordless drill as described in many resources. <br />
<br />
Materials needed:<br />
Cordless drill<br />
Vise<br />
Round or square copper or practice wire<br />
Masking, painters, or quilters tape<br />
<br />
Single wire twist<br />
Place masking tape around each end of the wire. Place the wire ends securely in the vise and then in the drill chuck. Keep the wire straight and taunt between the vise and the drill. Twist at a medium speed until the wire appears to your satisfaction. Remove from the vise and drill. After twisting the single wire, I found that the length was still the same so extra length did not have to be added to allow for twisting. I would think that if I had twisted more, the length would have been shortened. When I twisted a long length, I did add some to the length to allow for inaccuracy in my measurement due to the coil of the wire.<br />
Armstrong recommends that when twisted wire is used side by side, use one wire twisted on forward, and one wire twisted on reverse. It helps the wires stay together. <br />
<img alt="Single TwistedrWire"src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/single-twist.jpg" /><br />
Single Twisted Wire<br />
<br />
Double wire twist<br />
Measure at least twice the length of twisted wire you wish. You might want to do a test piece measuring the beginning length and the ending length. Tape both ends of the wire together. Place a nail in the vise so that the pointed end is up. This will allow the wire to slip off when twisting is finished. Put the ends of the wire in the drill chuck. Place the folded end of the wire around the nail. Step back from the vise holding the wire in a taunt straight line from the vise to the drill. Twist at a medium speed. Stop when the wire meets your approval. Some directions state to twist until the wire around the nail breaks, but I did not find I needed to twist that much. <br />
<img alt="Double Twisted Wire" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/double-twist.jpg" alt="Double Twisted Wire" /><br />
Double Twisted Wire<br />
<img alt="Twisted Wire" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/twisted-wire-group.jpg" /><br />Twisted Wires and Swirl with Twisted Wire<br />
<br />
Mark the gauge of wire you have twisted either single or double. Knowing the size will be valuable when using in later projects combining with other wire. Twisting the wire work hardens it. I found the dead soft copper wire I twisted had work hardened.Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-4296485355797979122009-10-28T20:12:00.002-04:002010-02-15T16:12:32.839-05:00Should Newly Made Copper Bracelets Be Aged?As promised in my previous post, I made variations of the copper bangle bracelet (directions for first bracelet from <i>Contemporary Copper Jewelry</i>)and photographed the newly made bracelets. Copper naturally tarnishes <br />
easily giving an aged look, but not a dark color for quite some time. To keep the first bracelet relatively shiny, to remove the tarnish I rubbed it <br />
with #0000 steel wool and an occasional rub with a polishing cloth. <br />
<br />
Liver of sulfur is used to age copper. <br />
After reading several articles about aging copper bracelets in liver of sulfur, I decided to use photographs to compare how each bracelet looked before and after aging. The bracelets were dipped in warm liver of sulfur solution only a minute or so until they turned black. After removing from the solution, and rinsing in water, I dried them thoroughly. Steel wool and a polishing cloth were used to polish and bring out the highlights.<br />
<br />
<table><tbody>
<tr><td><img alt="Original Copper Pipe Bangle Bracelet" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/handcrafted-copper-pipe-bracelet-blog.jpg" /><br />
Original Copper Pipe Bangle Bracelet <br />
several weeks old polished with steel wool and polishing cloth<br />
</td></tr>
<tr><td><br />
<img alt="Copper Swirl Top Bangle Bracelet not aged" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/handmade-copper-pipe-coil-bracelet-small.jpg" /><br />
Copper Swirl Top Bracelet Not Aged<br />
<br />
</td><td><img alt="Copper Swirl Top Bangle Bracelet Aged" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/handcrafted-copper-swirl-bracelet-blog.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Copper Swirl Top Bracelet Aged <br />
</td></tr>
<tr><td><img alt="Handcrafted Copper Medallion Bangle Bracelet" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/copper-bangle-large-top-bracelet-blog.jpg" /><br />
Handcrafted Copper Medallion Bangle Bracelet<br />
Not Aged<br />
</td><td><img alt="Hancrafted Copper Medallion Bangle Bracelet Aged" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/copper-wirewrapped-medallion-aged-bracelet-blog.jpg" /><br />
<br />
Handcrafted Copper Medallion Bangle Bracelet Aged<br />
</td></tr>
<tr><td><img alt="Copper Bangle Bracelet" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/copper-bangle-wrapped-bracelet-blog.jpg" /><br />
Copper Wire Wrapped Bangle Bracelet Not Aged<br />
</td><td><img alt="Copper Bangle Bracelet Aged" src="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/handcrafted-copper-wrapped-bangle-bracelet-blog.jpg" /><br />
Copper Wire Wrapped Bangle Bracelet Aged<br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Which bracelet do you think is most attractive? Aged or not aged? My preference has changed to preferring the aged bracelets. These bracelets can be found on our website <a href="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/bracelets.html">http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/</a>.Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-85316322724727054932009-10-04T15:46:00.000-04:002009-10-04T16:27:26.049-04:00Copper Bracelets<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifn-e37KqGI6eebVqSjRKiQCmTSp_OMMNbacNQ5J5UBo2Q6Me8Dnlo82LhPPPR8kIAwHLvPCLpLkD3kHJp51Wrrn4BQWQ4iqTdhWVY3rv6LqKB5Q694GrZxKPELFUlk95UdLHpaFS5I_lR/s1600-h/handcrafted-copper-pipe-bracelet.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 100px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifn-e37KqGI6eebVqSjRKiQCmTSp_OMMNbacNQ5J5UBo2Q6Me8Dnlo82LhPPPR8kIAwHLvPCLpLkD3kHJp51Wrrn4BQWQ4iqTdhWVY3rv6LqKB5Q694GrZxKPELFUlk95UdLHpaFS5I_lR/s200/handcrafted-copper-pipe-bracelet.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388835357383436226" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYIIFZ1lNfzi7wTH3kKGIlI3WhAmmBnLeVzGeVLzkrHizhMMHKnAKOliXcXUksdospY4cP0_xShbS0kIK9em6o9iV8N6ryH55GkMkuxjCrUwj1ZhNLiIGYFc8b5Z3y9kds3wF3ZwSDkXT1/s1600-h/handmade-copper-pipe-coil-bracelet.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 120px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYIIFZ1lNfzi7wTH3kKGIlI3WhAmmBnLeVzGeVLzkrHizhMMHKnAKOliXcXUksdospY4cP0_xShbS0kIK9em6o9iV8N6ryH55GkMkuxjCrUwj1ZhNLiIGYFc8b5Z3y9kds3wF3ZwSDkXT1/s200/handmade-copper-pipe-coil-bracelet.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388835347065020290" /></a><br />After making the copper bracelet on the right from recycled water pipe, I decided to purchase copper tubing and try to perfect my technique. Two sizes of copper tubing were available-one fourth inch outside diameter and on fourth inch inner diameter. Since both were inexpensive, I purchased both sizes. <br /> <br />To make a variation, the smaller tube was selected for the new bracelet. The smaller tubing was much easier to bend around the bracelet mandrel than the recycled tubing probably due to the thinner tube wall. The thinner wall has not affected the sturdiness of the bracet. To give variety, I wrapped the extending wire before making the swirls. This bracelet is definitely better looking and will be a welcome addition to my grand daughters' copper jewelry collections. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-80426929906290021372009-09-27T16:18:00.000-04:002009-09-27T16:49:57.032-04:00Recycling Copper Pipe For Jewelry<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCQp4LWKO6t71EALaJjvdQqA5sUtdu1ZR6pFyGZI6iSagp_c3KPf74OP-61wsZ-ZqiAA5eIG50DyO6VyqoLR3bgtbMl68IKGu3y3Fv1_GXhI4feMAA82ZNAdoIEx2_OT7TOs7Bj4gJPocG/s1600-h/handcrafted-copper-pipe-bracelet.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386251074603486882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 100px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCQp4LWKO6t71EALaJjvdQqA5sUtdu1ZR6pFyGZI6iSagp_c3KPf74OP-61wsZ-ZqiAA5eIG50DyO6VyqoLR3bgtbMl68IKGu3y3Fv1_GXhI4feMAA82ZNAdoIEx2_OT7TOs7Bj4gJPocG/s200/handcrafted-copper-pipe-bracelet.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div><span style="font-family:georgia;">We replaced copper pipe under our sink. I saved the two eighteen inch lengths we removed in hopes of making copper jewelry. You can imagine my delight upon reading Sharilyn Miller's new book <u>Contemporary Copper Jewelry </u>to see directions for a copper bangle bracelet using copper pipe. The old dark dingy copper pipe was polished to a gleaming shine with very fine steel wool according to the directions. Using the pipe cutter was a new experience, but not very difficult. Bending the pipe around the bracelet mandrel took patience. An advantage to using the old pipe was the bracelet did not have to be textured or distressed. I was pleasantly surprised at how quickly the bracelet was completed. New pipe which I purchased for another bracelet was not as difficult to bend around the mandrel. I am now busy trying to develope variations to the design. This book is an excellent reference and resource with detailed easy to follow directions. This is one time being a pack rat paid off!!</span></div>Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-38136157387390609322009-08-04T09:05:00.000-04:002009-08-04T10:39:46.041-04:00How to Make a Hand Tool Holder For Jewelry Tools<div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjB29RT7uhjZrcbI_RP0bpgjgC4N2P7DlJDt_6F2a2FDkbnNFPNqU2kdFGeAiS-EWCt6LhQ7Bk14J6GLK7XpmAueZSYLT0yIeaiLJCBFhvOmDgZjY0qpy_lDd-U4P-33iQzztXPn7xEDuc/s1600-h/tool-holder-without-tools.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366101455141445650" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 59px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjB29RT7uhjZrcbI_RP0bpgjgC4N2P7DlJDt_6F2a2FDkbnNFPNqU2kdFGeAiS-EWCt6LhQ7Bk14J6GLK7XpmAueZSYLT0yIeaiLJCBFhvOmDgZjY0qpy_lDd-U4P-33iQzztXPn7xEDuc/s200/tool-holder-without-tools.jpg" border="0" /></a><p> Tool Holder Without Tools</p><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDzdDaG9xxE9plPIY5I6bi35TGcvDspY_3M7EjOv1mM7cjDbPpb-Ynt1t0V7HCvK-0xTiUVWlWhzs9p-ne3GGXtHjO12Ay7cL5ZUk_VGFqzTmKs3UDXyYo4UlBLE_e8ccody-1G7xuZMy/s1600-h/tool-holder.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5366101668760920482" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 73px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrDzdDaG9xxE9plPIY5I6bi35TGcvDspY_3M7EjOv1mM7cjDbPpb-Ynt1t0V7HCvK-0xTiUVWlWhzs9p-ne3GGXtHjO12Ay7cL5ZUk_VGFqzTmKs3UDXyYo4UlBLE_e8ccody-1G7xuZMy/s200/tool-holder.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><p> Tool Holder With Tools</p><br /><p>I have been plagued with the problem of finding tools when I begin a project. I ramble through my tool box trying to find a certain tool. Now I believe I have solved the problem.<br /><br />Materials needed:<br />Safety Glasses<br />6" x 2" length negotiable piece wood<br />Scrap wood<br />Drill or drill press<br />3/16, 1/4, 1/2 inch drill bits<br />Saw<br />Ruler<br />Sharpie pen<br />tomato paste can optional<br />small metal ruler for mounting<br /><br />A holder for jewelry tools as pliers, small cutters, pin vises, crimpers, files, and sharpie will make your work bench much neater and assist quickly finding the right. <br /><br />Inventory the tools you have in each category. It might be feasible to make a holder for each group of tools. Cutters will stay sharper if the cutting edge is not in contact or jostled against other tools. <br /><br />Using calipers, check the widest part of the end of the tool that will be inserted in the holder. Most jewelry tool handles measure 1/4" and 1/2". Files handle diameters are much smaller. Hold two tools upright on the board and decide how far apart to place them, keeping in mind the different sizes of the handles. <br /><br />Organize groups of tools and decide on the overall length of wood needed for all the tools or groups of tools. Insert the drill bit in the drill or drill press. Make two practice holes in a scrap to see how the pliers fit, checking the width and depth of the holes. Set the drill press to the needed depth or mark the depth on the drill bit by placing a bit of tape or a sharpie mark on the bit. Measure the spread of the handles. Use an average spread number since a slight amount of tension will help the tools stand upright. Draw two parallel lines on the board about 3/4 to 1 inch from each edge placing an X mark for the placement of each hole. <br /><br />Files can be stored in a wooden tool holder made with 3/16" holes or together in a small tomato paste can. Fasten the can to a wooden base to prevent frequently tipping. Place a hole in the bottom of the can and place a screw through the bottom of the can into the wood to prevent tipping. <br /><br />Sharpies and pin vise will fit in 1/2" holes. These can be grouped along with files and a scribe. You can probably find many more tools to include in the holder. <br /><br />After using the holder, I have decided that tool holders should be fairly short in length to be able to pull the group forward that you are currently using near the work area. Infrequently used tools can be pushed to the back of the work table and pulled forward as needed. As you can see from the photographs, the holder is quite long. Group pliers together, cutters together, crimpers together, etc. for more efficiency. <br /><br />The days of rambling through a container or drawer for a tool are over. Organization improves efficiency, takes less time, and helps you remember tools you had forgotten you had.<br /></p><br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250" onmouseover="return addthis_open(this, '', '[URL]', '[TITLE]')" onmouseout="addthis_close()" onclick="return addthis_sendto()"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0"/></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a324d8a2850ff9c"></script><br /><!-- AddThis Button END --><br /><br /></div>Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-78911009113158910192009-07-01T13:33:00.002-04:002009-08-03T10:08:23.054-04:00How To Make A Jewelry Jig- Example Earwire JigJigs are very easy to make, if you have wood, a saw and a drill. Jigs make duplicating a wire design very easy. I prefer the home made variety jig since the pegs are stationery and do not wobble when bending the wire. <br /><br />Materials needed:<br />4"x4"x2"thick piece wood<br />1/8 x 1" brad nails<br />1/4" diameter wooden dowel<br />20 gauge practice wire<br />drill<br />1/4" drill bit<br />wooden or rubber mallet<br />anvil or pounding block<br />saw<br />graph paper<br />file or burr cup<br />round nose pliers<br />flush cutters<br />sharpie pen<br /><br />To begin, find a piece of scrap lumber at least 4"x4"x2" thick. A thinner piece of lumber can be used, but the 2" thickness gives more weight and stability to the jig. This size should be large enough to make several jigs on the same wood block.<br /><br />Draw the design on graph paper with a soft pencil. <br />Mark with dots the places to put brads or dowels(for large curves) for bending. <br />Turn the paper over on the wood block and draw over the design. This will make a light tracing. Another method to duplicate the design (if you have a prototype) is to trace around the piece on the wood block. <br /><br />We are going to make an earwire jig as an example. <br />To place the dowel, drill with a 1/4" bit 1/2" into the wood block. Set a drill press to this depth or mark this depth with tape on the drill bit. Cut the dowel piece 1 1/4 -1 1/2 inch in length. Sand or shave off the edges slightly on one end. Insert the shaved end of the dowel into the hole and use the mallet to wedge it tightly into the wood block.<br /><br />Mark a cross on the top of the dowel to divide it into four equal parts. (Some designs might use a cross marked on the wood block.) At the 3 o'clock position 3/16" away from the dowel, mark a dot (position 1). At the 6 o'clock position 7/16" away from the dowel, mark a dot (position 2). 5/16" below the last dot and in a parallel line adjacent to Position 2, mark with a dot (position 3). Position 3 gives a slight bend in the end of the ear wire. The tops of the brad nails should be filed or ground to make removing articles form the jig easy. Drive the brad nails in 1/4" at each position. For other designs, smaller dowels can be used with matching diameter drill bits. <br /><br />To conserve expensive wire when making an earwire or any prototype, mark 20 gauge practice wire with sharpie in 1 inch increments. With round nose pliers make a loop large enough to fit the brad at position 1. Put loop over brad at position 1 with the loop opening toward the dowel, bend around dowel, then bend between dowel and brad at position 2, then bend to position 3. Cut the wire at position 3. Remove earwire or prototype from jig. <br /><br />To flatten the earwire or prototype, place on an anvil or pounding block, hitting it several times with a rubber mallet. This hardens the metal making it brittle. Never pound where wires cross since the wires might break. Smooth the ends of the earwires with a file or burr cup. <br /><br />Determine from the sharpie marks the length of wire used. Mark a line the length plus about 1/4" on the wood block. This will facilitate measuring wire for future projects. <br /><br />Jigs can be made to make earwires with beads, a variety of shapes or longer tails. With imagination the possibilities for duplicating jewelry designs pieces made by bending wire are endless. <br />Although the finished jig looks rough, it works very well.<br /><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0y9PulW4f40_sc-yEH12mRys71IYjUfP5AjkTal-AGaomKLnZea34FEVH7sOMqmNjjTJUiWp8D03PAe3at4GmSauwsId5b_WRJYVjBSnBN9XQ5ErmsYEFLEPqPI52O9EjNvZr5xGfBLO/s1600-h/earwire-jig.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 200px; height: 145px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq0y9PulW4f40_sc-yEH12mRys71IYjUfP5AjkTal-AGaomKLnZea34FEVH7sOMqmNjjTJUiWp8D03PAe3at4GmSauwsId5b_WRJYVjBSnBN9XQ5ErmsYEFLEPqPI52O9EjNvZr5xGfBLO/s200/earwire-jig.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5353546932465134610" /></a><br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250" onmouseover="return addthis_open(this, '', '[URL]', '[TITLE]')" onmouseout="addthis_close()" onclick="return addthis_sendto()"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0"/></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a324d8a2850ff9c"></script><br /><!-- AddThis Button END -->Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-61420056994266385482009-05-11T10:36:00.000-04:002009-06-12T15:39:21.401-04:00How To Improve Your Appearance With Jewelry-Selecting Earrings<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXXxG9KWuDHTEhlZ_bPHMFovqRe7pB6DYHWgrh_O8mYFwkZ0k3Pk0lS3m3RlG0d6Q3qw_FTvRfMjz1XfNmgkxxkXL2_qwlbtJ6LdEon6v4GSzhFW-qahAl1VXJUi90c6UnVy6-YJOFoJN8/s1600-h/azaleas-blog.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 125px; height: 83px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXXxG9KWuDHTEhlZ_bPHMFovqRe7pB6DYHWgrh_O8mYFwkZ0k3Pk0lS3m3RlG0d6Q3qw_FTvRfMjz1XfNmgkxxkXL2_qwlbtJ6LdEon6v4GSzhFW-qahAl1VXJUi90c6UnVy6-YJOFoJN8/s320/azaleas-blog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334586974617431282" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmNY8zZrBTBx-udltAYQdSfQxRsfJCnyZI_RBWqHmE17Vu-XC3BCyLDISoSxbxeExvgXHUKgHxXdE2AC1WxVOVxG-PNK_KA24J8lcNEiS78KiBF1a1sNFdByYkvZl5YQ91K6aFiZjsmCR/s1600-h/roseum-elegans-blog.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 125px; height: 99px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjmNY8zZrBTBx-udltAYQdSfQxRsfJCnyZI_RBWqHmE17Vu-XC3BCyLDISoSxbxeExvgXHUKgHxXdE2AC1WxVOVxG-PNK_KA24J8lcNEiS78KiBF1a1sNFdByYkvZl5YQ91K6aFiZjsmCR/s320/roseum-elegans-blog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334584223975995330" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik0a1AVgTN3Y1z1HnJsGPy464cLsXl6xVje2jEjrnPrqw6ghawbq6btY5selYYjkVxTkyxersryG6-6WudNRku1III7sIBgBfoSL6G-KlApIIaT6ue0nHMW6cjMIj9byMtwTUQpsV-L1k6/s1600-h/amarylis-blog.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 125px; height: 151px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEik0a1AVgTN3Y1z1HnJsGPy464cLsXl6xVje2jEjrnPrqw6ghawbq6btY5selYYjkVxTkyxersryG6-6WudNRku1III7sIBgBfoSL6G-KlApIIaT6ue0nHMW6cjMIj9byMtwTUQpsV-L1k6/s320/amarylis-blog.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5334583951858226978" /></a><br /><br />Spring is here with all nature beginning anew. This is the time for you to evaluate and rejuvenate your wardrobe and coordinate your jewelry. Never discard jewelry as you do clothing. Styles come, go, but eventually return. Select jewelry styles that flatter you even if they are not the current fashion fad. The next season will probably have a fashion fad that is flattering to you. <br /><br />1. Decide how much you wish to spend. <a href="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/">Handmade gemstone jewelry </a>made with genuine stones and metals cost very little more than good costume jewelry. The purpose of jewelry is to attract the eye to your face which you want people to recognize and remember. You want to create a unique impression by attracting the eye to your face. <br /><br />2. Select colors of stones and metals that are flattering to your skin tone, eye color and hair color. A good mirror available near a window with daylight, and an honest friend are essential for evaluating your face. Have pieces of warm and cool colored metal jewelry available. Decide if the warm color of gold, brass, or copper is more flattering than the cool color of white gold, silver, or pewter. Determine which colors flatter your skin tone, hair color and eye color. Choose the color group that gives you pizzazz.<br /><br />3. What outfits -casual, dressy, formal- with accompanying jewelry will you wear the most? Shiny metals are casual, but burnished metals more dressy. Silver is more informal. Gemstones and pearls mix with any metal color. <br /> <br />4. To assemble your jewelry wardrobe, start with <a href="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/earrings1.html">earrings</a>. To decide the most flattering style of earring for you, you must first determine your face shape. <br />Pull your hair back completely from your face with a headband or scarf. Look straight into your reflection in a mirror or take a picture looking straight into the camera. Follow the shape created by your hairline and jaw line to determine the shape of your face- oval, round, rectangle/square, heart. If you have printed a picture, take a magic marker and trace around your hairline and jaw line. Knowing your face shape will help you select a flattering hairstyle as well as flattering jewelry. Correctly shaped earrings can help you create the illusion of a perfectly shaped face.<br /><br />5. General rules for face shapes:<br /><i>Oval</i> faces are the most “perfect” face shape. All hairstyles and earring shapes are attractive on this shaped face. All other face shapes try to create the illusion of an oval shape by manipulating hairstyle, makeup and jewelry. All shapes of earrings are flattering to the oval face if you choose colors that flatter your skin tone, hair, and eyes.<br /><i>Round</i> faces should avoid round shaped earrings. Choose drop or dangle earrings (stick, oval, square, spiral or geometric shape) to give a linear shape to the face. Avoid circular, tiny stud or button earrings. Circular shapes attract the eye to the circular face and make it appear rounder since the eye goes round and round. <br /><i>Heart</i> shaped faces should wear small round drops, chandeliers, teardrops, hoops, or oversized earrings in any shape that makes the chin appear wider. These shapes make the chin appear wider. Avoid very short earrings. <br /><i>Rectangular/square</i> faces should select wide spirals, wide drops and wide oval shapes. Never wear square/rectangular or square geometric shapes. Avoid long dangles if your face is very oblong. Round shapes will carry the eye away from the square shapes of the face.<br /><br />6. Consider the scale of your face and body in relation to your jewelry. <br />Small delicate faces are overpowered by large scale earrings. By the same token, very small earrings are lost on a large individual.<br /><br />7. Store your earrings with matching necklaces in partitioned plastic boxes. These can be found in the craft or fishing section of stores. If the sections in the boxes are too small, the partitions can be removed easily by cutting. It is best to keep earrings in small plastic bags to prevent scratching the necklaces. Store the boxes in a drawer (not near light or heat and away from moisture). Before you have a need, experiment to find suitable jewelry for each outfit. Group matching items together when you store them. This will save time when dressing for an occasion. <br /><br />Purchasing necklaces, bracelets and rings (in that order) will be discussed in a later article.<br /><br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250" onmouseover="return addthis_open(this, '', '[URL]', '[TITLE]')" onmouseout="addthis_close()" onclick="return addthis_sendto()"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0"/></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a324d8a2850ff9c"></script><br /><!-- AddThis Button END -->Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-28995184246232728852009-04-01T14:47:00.000-04:002009-06-12T15:37:45.434-04:00Adventures Making Jump Rings<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOTP_nR9_vxx67ON_D_GvhUEXUIDE8l_41SvZOYW4_-AFHwKO_x9xfWIEHVFuvHFVYTAZ41KDLd3_poIm-x57yKPL_u5oK4EwNy8kn_SUcLQ40PibeyKzNGTwZ0-QAlfe6QLfgijjqHMV/s1600-h/copper-howlite-necklace-small.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 152px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJOTP_nR9_vxx67ON_D_GvhUEXUIDE8l_41SvZOYW4_-AFHwKO_x9xfWIEHVFuvHFVYTAZ41KDLd3_poIm-x57yKPL_u5oK4EwNy8kn_SUcLQ40PibeyKzNGTwZ0-QAlfe6QLfgijjqHMV/s320/copper-howlite-necklace-small.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319810771931837730" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMEe9kWkNOKz7pxJ4Odtsx6cgPjeE4Itq2SYgkHO4DXJ9HFL_t3ED9siQa5t_EqpWvWl2f_DXM_y5BfgVeImL9R1DcDA1rREl7ZdYAXPzo-nTB5qpPQ4PFvNCyGvRLFt8PrmSz6g6zrYf/s1600-h/copper-links-necklace-small.jpg"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 121px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHMEe9kWkNOKz7pxJ4Odtsx6cgPjeE4Itq2SYgkHO4DXJ9HFL_t3ED9siQa5t_EqpWvWl2f_DXM_y5BfgVeImL9R1DcDA1rREl7ZdYAXPzo-nTB5qpPQ4PFvNCyGvRLFt8PrmSz6g6zrYf/s320/copper-links-necklace-small.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319810312721962530" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvihb4rHB449sZxe8TLi5ZeMfUHER8jBdDLCNnRFazrDi0rX9-JqBLUh7U9d2H2y5aNn8Rxzit_skX28mKIl-bz7uctBaBiXWpyqzEkOuxiJ62IAZcKI_Fg8c0Bx_WI6eW7etCh18SAk2J/s1600-h/copper-faux-turquoise-earrings-small.jpg"><img style="float:left; margin:0 10px 10px 0;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 162px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvihb4rHB449sZxe8TLi5ZeMfUHER8jBdDLCNnRFazrDi0rX9-JqBLUh7U9d2H2y5aNn8Rxzit_skX28mKIl-bz7uctBaBiXWpyqzEkOuxiJ62IAZcKI_Fg8c0Bx_WI6eW7etCh18SAk2J/s320/copper-faux-turquoise-earrings-small.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5319810012097001378" /></a><br />Being a novice, making good jump rings seemed an impossible task. I had no trouble winding copper wire in a coil, but trying to make perpendicular cuts on the coil with flush cutters was an impossibility since one side always had a point. After cutting the point, the rings were acceptable, but the ends did not fit invisibly. I tried sawing with a jewelers saw, but the blades kept breaking. After consulting the Rio catalogue I discovered the saw blades were the wrong size for the gauge wire I was attempting to saw. <br /><br />My daughter in law, Elizabeth, gave me a Koil Kutter for Christmas. We experimented Christmas day and succeeded in making one good cut. After that we were not able to cut any coils. Since success was ellusive and two expensive saw blades were ruined, this month I decided to retrace every step. I ordered new saw blades. I purchased a Dremel 400XPR since I had been using a Black Decker rotary tool. I thought that possibly I needed more power. I reread <b>Desiree's Desired Creations</b> directions <u>"How to: Koil Kutter with a Dremel"</u> trying to follow each step precisely. Still success eluded me. I contacted Dave Arens the inventor. He was most helpful and able to tell me just what I was doing wrong-twisting my wrist slightly so that the saw guard was not staying flat on the coil holder enabling the saw blade to glide across the coil rather than cut through. Guess what! Instant success. The tool worked like a charm. <br /><br /><br />I have included some pictures of pieces made before the Koil Kutter. I am certain my next projects will be much better. Thank you to all the people who wrote such good reviews sharing their experiences and Desiree McCrorey with her excellent detailed instructions and pictures. Now I will feel confident making silver jump rings.<br />Maybe I am not such a dummie after all.<br /><br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250" onmouseover="return addthis_open(this, '', '[URL]', '[TITLE]')" onmouseout="addthis_close()" onclick="return addthis_sendto()"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0"/></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a324d8a2850ff9c"></script><br /><!-- AddThis Button END -->Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-69460760369000792252009-03-30T16:33:00.000-04:002009-06-12T15:36:59.994-04:00Copper Jewelry <br /><br />We have been working with copper to make necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Copper jewelry tarnishes very quickly on some individuals. Information on the internet suggested that soaking copper jewelry in tomato juice would brighten it again. Instead, I tried soaking in white vinegar also an acid. The tarnish was removed, but the necklace looked dull. After rubbing it with salt and rinsing thoroughly, it looked brighter but was not restored to previous luster. Experimenting again, I put the necklace in a tumbler and it was brightened. Not many people have a tumbler so this is not a feasible solution. The best solution seems to be to use a metal polish or a polishing cloth being careful to avoid the gemstones.<br /><br /><br /><br />You should realize that if you find that silver jewelry tarnishes (turns black) very quickly when you wear it, then copper jewelry will tarnish much more quickly. The copper content of the silver combines with the oxygen in the air to form tarnish (black). I found that copper tarnishes within an hour or so when worn against sweaty skin in the summer time.<br />We debated using a coating over copper jewelry, but decided that the coating would wear through eventually making the jewelry appearance unacceptable. Many folks like the tarnished look of aged copper. I have seen some very attractive pieces that were deliberately aged and polished for highlights giving an antique look.<br /><br /><br />Consider the damage of the chemicals to the stones in copper jewelry. The treatments suggested above (except the polishing cloth and possibly metal polish) are feasible to use with jewelry having no gemstones.<br /><br /><br />This information should be considered when evaluating the amount of your time or money to invest when making or purchasing copper jewelry.<br /><br />Private Stock Jewelry Studio sent us this comment.<br />"I clean all my copper jewelry in my tumbler, it is amazing!! I also offer my customers free cleaning. The copper is so bright it looks like rose gold!!"<br /><br /><!-- AddThis Button BEGIN --><br /><a href="http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=250" onmouseover="return addthis_open(this, '', '[URL]', '[TITLE]')" onmouseout="addthis_close()" onclick="return addthis_sendto()"><img src="http://s7.addthis.com/static/btn/lg-share-en.gif" width="125" height="16" alt="Bookmark and Share" style="border:0"/></a><script type="text/javascript" src="http://s7.addthis.com/js/250/addthis_widget.js?pub=xa-4a324d8a2850ff9c"></script><br /><!-- AddThis Button END -->Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2663741265314366049.post-15688499327949895632008-04-15T14:52:00.000-04:002008-04-15T15:15:49.205-04:00About Us<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmVN7Mp2Z0uUa9H5X8vxlGPdb0jCx8G8QDvyrsAxF0sPgzAIVjPeRwFwxeQ46UgmlSzT8rRcWMpy4w2XhjvUmN3K4mE7V8tKlstJHZ017_-SNgwLMyOmQ6mFCS8ZjbF107JP3RBrz9K3u/s1600-h/Frances2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189549978469599170" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTmVN7Mp2Z0uUa9H5X8vxlGPdb0jCx8G8QDvyrsAxF0sPgzAIVjPeRwFwxeQ46UgmlSzT8rRcWMpy4w2XhjvUmN3K4mE7V8tKlstJHZ017_-SNgwLMyOmQ6mFCS8ZjbF107JP3RBrz9K3u/s320/Frances2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23SRJILI_RuJz_JSVPm9Bm2aVZZzwozLOAdTgfsBYP_vOIbF_qHuvzPaD5n1i9jNwC72vTHf_q0D9Uphv5WW2HYUg9bzMg9mtfAnmY0_3Qoz5wqsklDoZWBUdcypxL71z_CQaUKZ6bPtX/s1600-h/Elizabeth-10-07.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189549982764566482" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg23SRJILI_RuJz_JSVPm9Bm2aVZZzwozLOAdTgfsBYP_vOIbF_qHuvzPaD5n1i9jNwC72vTHf_q0D9Uphv5WW2HYUg9bzMg9mtfAnmY0_3Qoz5wqsklDoZWBUdcypxL71z_CQaUKZ6bPtX/s320/Elizabeth-10-07.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZFSp-70IijGOwh7ydqOzbhi-nFVMCG0sJxCwXQjCGbOMPsev34Q_f8Z1CI6nK4gxbJvIBrd8TD1fIyrKaPipoEczwavwUkIG7sYDuchoI9sUca5iSsKAMhDodItPcp-ErVh1nu7V_pmvO/s1600-h/Heather.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189549982764566498" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZFSp-70IijGOwh7ydqOzbhi-nFVMCG0sJxCwXQjCGbOMPsev34Q_f8Z1CI6nK4gxbJvIBrd8TD1fIyrKaPipoEczwavwUkIG7sYDuchoI9sUca5iSsKAMhDodItPcp-ErVh1nu7V_pmvO/s320/Heather.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1G6vz8cUtv-5PII8lK4ScfFt93hr1NDDUJ6w9Q8bIoNbI8TsMwqqIWnrBrGXYo3_ykkMFuBZ7sutt9MfnXPoaBRKNpAiamd3f-IncSV8qjtXL285iSrbwdVaAuL3_es0J1HtjJDU6VDkd/s1600-h/Peggy2.jpg"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5189549987059533810" style="FLOAT: left; MARGIN: 0px 10px 10px 0px; CURSOR: hand" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1G6vz8cUtv-5PII8lK4ScfFt93hr1NDDUJ6w9Q8bIoNbI8TsMwqqIWnrBrGXYo3_ykkMFuBZ7sutt9MfnXPoaBRKNpAiamd3f-IncSV8qjtXL285iSrbwdVaAuL3_es0J1HtjJDU6VDkd/s320/Peggy2.jpg" border="0" /></a><br /><div>Our creative team spans three generations. </div><br /><div></div><br /><p>We all now live or have lived in Appalachia and love to be involved in crafts especially creating unique <a href="http://www.gemstonebeadjewelry.com/">jewelry </a>.</p><p>We have been experimenting lately with making chains from copper. According to folklore, wearing copper allows it to be absorbed through the skin and helps relieve arthritis pain.</p><p>We have made copper<a href="http://www.gemstonebeadjewerly.com/bracelets.html"> bracelets</a> and are planning to make some copper anklets. Copper with gemstones is very attractive.</p>Busy Beeshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00321536562819042505noreply@blogger.com0