Sculpted Metal Bead Necklace

Figure A

Steps:

1. Cut brass and copper foil into strips, approximately 1" x 3" (number of strips required will depend on the length of necklace preferred) (figure A).

2. Cut one piece of copper approx. 1-3/4" x 3-1/2."

3. Divide metal strips to crimp, emboss or stamp.

Figure B

4. To crimp: Run metal through paper cutter as you would paper (figure B).

Figure D

5. To emboss: Place metal on embossing pad. Using stylus, free-hand draw designs. Add "perforated" texture with pounce wheel (figure D).

6. To stamp: Stamp metal foil using StazOn ink.

Figure E

7. When working with copper, you can then add patina by applying heat. To add patina: Hold metal with forcep clamp. METAL GETS EXTREMELY HOT! Heat with butane torch for a few seconds (figure E). Allow metal to cool for approximately 20 seconds before touching.

Figure F

8. Cut wire approximately 7 inches in length. Thread through center of bead and hook around to secure. Wrap wire around metal, adding small decorative beads. Finish by tucking end of wire into metal to secure (figure F).

Figure G

9. Cut waxed thread to desired length. Alternate sculpted metal beads with large decorative beads (figure G), placing larger metal bead in the center. Secure end of necklace with a knot.

Tips:

Wrap wire tightly and leave plenty to secure at beginning and end

Always use 100% copper (avoid copper-colored tin). Make sure the gauge you are using fits the project.

Coloring the copper takes only a few seconds! Avoid over-heating. The copper will turn orange, red, blue and then purple. When over-heated, it will turn silver.