ace for her to wear for her wedding in March. I was so honored that she would ask me to do that, because I am not a jewelry maker. Yes, I've taken old jewelry apart and used the beads to make keyrings or earrings, but I don't really make jewelry.See my kids think I can make anything, and normally if you show me something I am able to recreate it....but her wedding necklace?
I told Tresa last week that I needed to know what length she wanted the necklace to be, so she put on her wedding dress and tried on some of her necklaces. She decided that 16" would be perfect, and one of her necklace styles looked kind of cool with it. I had her UPS the necklace to me so I could see it and it arrived today. The following are our e-mails from this afternoon.
ME: "Got the necklace!! Would you like the "chain" to be little beads and then a large pendant hanging?? Not beads like these, but little glass ones? I've never made a necklace like that, but I'm sure I can figure it out, or do you want a chain?"
TRESA: "Hmmm...I don't know...surprise me."
ME: "Good Lord and what if you don't like it. Nothing like a little pressure here!"
TRESA: "Well, I love the one I sent you , so that should help you. I just think it will be more special and fun if it is something you make for me with some of your creativeness. THANKS!!!!"
And that was the end of our necklace conversation. Okay, now I am a really good sport and I've told you before that I don't get stressed about things, and I am not really stressed about making this necklace BUT do you realize how important this necklace is? Do you know how many people are going to see this necklace? I mean this necklace is going to be in all of her photos! What if she doesn't like it? What if it breaks? Ahhhhhh!
Deep breath.....deep breath......deep breath
Okay, I'm
better now. I have a sketch of what I think I want to do and tomorrow I am going on a hunt for "parts". I know I want some little glass beads with a little bigger glass bead every so often, and then I want a rectangular "something" hanging from it. I need the plastic threadlike stuff to make it with and a clasp of some kind. I've been looking at those clasps...how the heck do you attach those things?I'm sure all of you jewelry makers are either cringing or laughing hysterically right now. If any of you have any words of wisdom, I would love to hear them. If you have any little insider tips that you can give me about what I should be sure to do and what I should be sure not to do....I'm listening.
Over the next month I need everyone to send me positive jewelry making vibes while I work on this masterpiece. I am going to need all of the help I can get!
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7 comments:
I'm sure you'll do well. My advice, make a few different ones and display them. Look at them everyday until the time comes, you'll know which one is *the one*. As for popping...what kind of metal will you be working with? If precious metal is not required, go plated, it is stronger. Good luck!
Pick up a basic beading magazine. Most of them have illustrated basics, like stringing and crimping (that's how you get the clasp to stay on). You'll do great! It sounds like you already have a design in mind.
Kathy, you will do great. As for technique or materials, just convo me with any specific questions and I will answer:):)
What an honor for her to want this! It'll be that much more special coming from you. My advice is to use beading wire, and pick up some sterling silver crimps (use 2 per side) as they won't pop under pressure. If you need more advice, email me. Good luck! Dee
What a wonderful, special moment it will be when Tresa walks down the aisle wearing a necklace you made! My only tip would be nylon-covered stainless steel beading wire. It's strong and flexible. Good luck!
That is such a sweet story. (and your daughter is gorgeous!) I know you will do a great job! Let us see it when you finish!
I know nothing about jewelery.
I am sure you will do just great! You tackle everything with 150% effort and have the talent and creativity to make it work!
I look forward to seeing it:)
Cheers, Shelagh
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