Making wire wraps are a basic skill set for anyone wanting to make jewelry. The benefits of a wire wrap are (1) it’s secure (2) it doesn’t hang on clothing or hair (3) it looks professional! (4) You’ll be so proud you’ll want to make MORE!
So overcome that hesitancy to tackle a new skill. Your jewelry will be all the better for it. It’s perfect for that Rosary you always planned on making.
We would use our 8mm Venetian Beads of course, but Swarovski would also be good.
The length you want will determine how many beads you need. Assume that a fully completed link with 1 bead and wirewraps on both sides will measure approximately 1-1 1/2 inches. The clasp and jump rings will add about 1 inch.
So watch and learn with Margot Potter of TheImpatientCrafter TM – DIY for the short attention span crowd!
Watch Patti’s Video to learn How to Use the Wubber Tools
If you are new to beading, you are probably wondering what tools you should buy. While it is best to know that beading is your passion before investing in a tool box stuffed with pliers, cutters, etc, good tools can help your jewelry projects easier.
The right tool for the job. The Wubbers by Patti are comfortable tools to use, and they were designed for people just like you. Watch this short video by Patti to learn how to make your own ear wires, scrolls and loops for bracelets and necklaces.
Click on the picture for the short video – which will change the way you look at making loops, perfect every time.
Did you ever wonder how jewelry gets that faint, slightly antiqued look? Did you know you can do it yourself.
Try this on small piece before you work on your best jewelry.
What is Oxidation?
It is a chemical reaction where metals is deliberately tarnished or slightly discolored, leaving a patina (finish). It gives the metal that vintage look. Most often oxidation is used to bring out the details of a metal tag, pendant, so that you may see better the details of letters of designs.
How do you oxidize?
Eggs, The Environmentally Friendly Oxidizer
One of the easiest ways is to use eggs and they are positively environmentally friendly. (Yes eggs!) The sulfur in the egg yolk can give you the vintage effect. Try this first on your small piece. Generally for a couple of pendants, 2 eggs should be sufficient. (You can stop the process at any point you like the patina you have achieved.)
Boil 2 eggs Place the pendants in a ziplock bag. Add the eggs and mash them up. (If you do not want the pendants and squashed eggs to mix together, put the pendants in a small mesh bag.) Now wait. (Do not eat the eggs.)
Sorry VenetianBeadShop does not sell or ship eggs. :>)
Depending on the level of patina you want, will determine the length of time. Even leaving them overnight. (If you want to rush the process, you can microwave for about 10-15 seconds to get the eggs hot which releases the sulfur.) Wash your jewelry with soap and water when you are done.
If the egg method is too messy for you, maybe Liver of Sulfur is for you.
Liver Sulfur
Liver of Sulfur – What is it?
It is a mixture of potassium sulfide, potassium polysulfide, potassium thiosulfate and potassium bisulfide. Each manufacturer has their own recipe. (Why it is called Liver, I have yet to determine.)
Hazardous: You will need to use more caution.
Liver of Sulfur comes in a liquid and paste, a rock or crystal form. The crystal form has a short shelf life, whereas the liquid or paste have a longer one. The crystal (lump) form is also flammable.
Keep away from children or animals
Wear rubber gloves
Avoid spills, avoid getting in your eyes, wearing goggles is advised.
Use only in a well ventilated room
Be sure the item you want to oxidize is clean. Dropping the pieces into hot water not only help clean them, but the heated pieces will take the color faster.
Follow the directions on the liver sulphur. It will work best if the water you use is hot.
Use a plastic or wooden stick to mix the liver of sulphur with the water.
Insert your metal into the mixture.
Wait a few minutes – watch as it changes colors and when you are happy with the patina, remove it, be sure you have the gloves on. (Remove with a plastic spoon or tongs.)
Rinse the item thoroughly and let it dry.
Finally, polish the pieces. There are multiple ways to polish, steel wool, brass brush. Be sure to use the brass brush wet, so you don’t leave marks.
Cautions: Do not use reuse the container for any edible products. Mark it Liver of Sulfur – so no one accidentally uses it. For the full list of Warnings required by law of our Liver of Sulfur gel can be read here. Fine Print
For proper environmentally correct disposal of liver of sulfur, read the label on your liver of sulfur, some are easily neutralized with baking soda, but as each manufacturer has slightly ingredients, it is best to read the label.
You can use this on all copper or silver, fine and sterling and it also works on Precious Metal Clay (PMC). Copper will change color more quickly than silver.
This is not an exact science and the outcome will vary each time – depending on the strength of the liver of sulfur, heat of the water, minerals in the water and your attitude (not altitude). Just give it a try and have fun.
