Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Finally Done, and not Overdone

My last blog post described my "One step too many" heart, and how I went overboard by adding one more thing. The second time, I stopped before I overdid it.


I finally finished the heart and the necklace design yesterday - too late for Valentine's Day, but that's OK.

Brass Heart Pendant
I purchased the plain brass heart pendant, and then embossed it with my Sizzix BigKick machine. I used a Cuttlebug folder for a more geometric look (the Vintaj decoemboss and decoetch folders are great, but I wanted something different). Then I added alcohol ink and Vintaj patinas, extra-fine black glitter, sealed it with Vintaj Patina Glaze, and embellished with Swarovski flatback crystals in a lavendar color.

Originally I wanted to make it into a true lariat necklace, but it didn't hang like I wanted, so I put a Brass toggle clasp in the front instead. I debated on putting the dangles in front of the heart or the back, but in the end I chose the back because it was distracting from the heart too much. The rest of the chain has one AB finish lavendar faceted crystal on one side, and three purple dyed jasper rondelle beads on the other.
Pendant, clasp and chain
I decided to make matching earrings match the dangles that hang behind the heart. <rant> Man, making loops on 2-4mm faceted beads is a KILLER on my thumbs! I have got to find a new method because I am pushing directly on the facets when I bend my wires and it just hurts. </rant>  The large bead at the top of the earrings is the dyed jasper on the left side (facing) of the chain, and the dangles are the same beads as the ones that dangle from the hearts. They are not only a great match, but they are lightweight and will work great worn with or without the necklace.

Matching Dangle Earrings
You can see both items in my Etsy shop: Necklace and Earrings. Thanks for stopping by!

6 comments:

  1. Wubbers pliers are really good for making loops on those lil beads. You may want to check them out. I know there's a video on them.

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    1. I have an off-brand looping pliers that I need to remember to use - they really do help, and if I got better at using them, it would probably stop the pain. Thanks for reminding me!

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    2. This is a lovely set, Mary Anne. So good to see you say you love something you created. :) Sometimes we are so critical of our own work while others love it! I love this, and I think the toggle is in just the right place...things always work out for a reason. xo

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    3. Thanks, Pasha! I am glad that my original design didn't work out, because I think this one is better. I appreciate your stopping by!

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  2. Very nice. thanks for sharing.


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