The Staples in Jewelry Making

Antiqued Copper Swirl Ear Wires

My absolute fave way to show case links or hoops for earrings.

Sterling Silver Ball Tipped Headpins

Many, many headpins!

I like the contrast of bright silver against the ancient look of patinas, I think it makes the piece modern and relevant to today's fashion. For whatever my opinion is worth. :)

Antiqued Brass Swirl Clasp with Soldered Link

Clasping a bracelet by yourself is right up there in difficulty with cutting the back of your own hair.

Which I still try to do.

This clasp is so easy to hold in one hand with the curve open slightly and slip it into the ending link, then press closed, I rarely use anything else for bracelets now. If you are in a pinch the swirl can be opened with pliers and a closed wire-wrap can be wound into the middle, the swirl can then be pressed closed.

Tenara Cording

When I checked in with my favorite jewelry designer Jes Maharry, I read in one of her descriptions that she used tenara cording. my curiosity was piqued and I started searching for what exactly tenara cording was and how I could also utilize it in my own jewelry designs. After several weeks of searching, I found a source but they only sold it in spools that cost $200. I couldn't find it anywhere else!

So after deliberating for a bit, I thought that if it was good enough for Jes then I wanted to offer it. Plus perhaps other jewelry designers would like to use it but NOT spend $200 bucks on a crazy amount of it.

I absolutely do not regret it.

Gore-Tex TENARA is a remarkable thread manufactured from 100% expanded PTFE fiber (commonly known as Teflon).

Gore-Tex Tenara cording is the same fiber used in Nasa space suits. You will not have to replace or restring your knotted designs ever again. UV resistant, mildew and rot proof in addition to being water proof, tenara cording is used in industrial applications such as awning and marina.

It is so easy to use and knowing my jewelry will last forever makes me feel good about using it. 

Antiqued Copper Wire

While I did use 24 gauge a lot, I find it fits through most pearls, 22 is a new favorite for connecting beaded links, attaching clasps, and wrapping silk. I have grown to love the rich warm color of copper so much that I often reach for copper even though I have ounces and ounces of sterling!

And finally we have chain.

Good sized links that open and close securely, adding weight and eye catching movement to your designs.

I always used to bead up a length of necklace or bracelet but after having viewed Chain Style by Jane Dickerson, it is a must in my own jewelry design.

So there you have it! My staples in jewelry design!