From Rhinestones to Infinity 9:00 - 4:30 Sunday Diane Cook $145
Student Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Type of Workshop: Project
Prerequisite: None
Simplicity can be relaxing to the soul. I seem to be drawing closer to this concept in a vintage rhinestone focal creation I call, From Rhinestones to Infinity.
I find loads of inspiration when using vintage jewelry, most often gorgeous rhinestone brooches, ear bobs, dress clips, and bracelets. So, as I dug deep down into my stash for this project, I noticed I had a healthy amount of rhinestone brooches…that one might call rather “large”. When I bought them, I remember having no clear idea what I would do with them, only knowing I loved the way they sparkled so brilliantly when held in my hand. Perhaps like me, you have been hoarding some of the same types of rhinestone jewelry!
In this class we’ll cover design principles, along with options of attachment. And, in addition to a special clasp, I’ll share a very special wire link called, Double Infinity. This link was designed, and is one of thirty, spotlighted in the book written by my friend, Cindy Wimmer. Her book, called the Missing Link, included two of my creations using two of her custom link designs. And, along with the Double Infinity link, which we will be making in this class, I’ll share how to design several other of my favorite links, including the one I call wrapped and stacked.
We’ll begin the day working with wire to design the links, and since we’ll be using a smaller gauge, I’ll bring along my rotary tumbler to work harden both the links and the clasp. Then, we’ll move along masterfully wrapping chosen gemstones, pearls or small rhinestone components that can be used as connectors in your necklace.
Hope you’ll join me!
Materials Fee: $5 includes the following supplies and use of tools provided by the teacher:
Beading Mat
Tumbler & Shot
Torches & Fuel
Solder Block
Dremel Tool & Bits
Fat Daddy or Heavy Duty Cutters (I will have one for use in class)
Patina Supplies & Disposable Gloves
Student should bring:
Vintage Rhinestone Brooch (mine measure 4”x2” & 3-1/2”x1-3/4”) or Dress or Shoe Clip (preferably a piece of rhinestone jewelry that sweeps or has a nice curve)
Please patina all WIRE before coming to class:
Sterling Silver Wire, 18 gauge (amount depends on you, as each Double Infinity Link requires 5-1/2”)
Sterling Silver Wire, 20 and/or 22 gauge (amount will depend on the amount of wire wrapping you intend to do & the gauge depends on the size of hole in your chosen gemstones, beads, or pearls. Wrapped & Stacked links require 18” of wire, gauge depends on hole size).
Sterling Silver Wire, 16 gauge (approx. 8” for clasp)
Gemstones, Beads, or Pearls, 12-10mm
Gemstone Drop or Dangle of your choice (if preferred)
Pliers: Flat-nose, Chain-nose, Round-nose, Nylon Jaw
Bailing Pliers (7x9mm)
Flush Cutters
Ball-peen Hammer
Nylon or Rawhide Mallet
Steel Bench Block
Bench Pad, Rubber Bench Block, or Small Towel
Metal Jewelry File, Flat #2
Small Needle Files
Foam Sanding Block or Pad, Fine Grit
Ruler or Measuring Tape
Optional Supplies:
Vintage Rhinestone Bracelet (with fold over clasp)
Ear Bobs (an earring that has “openings” for attaching is preferable)
Clear Crystal Rondells, 5-8mm
Jump Rings, Oval (preferred)
Crystal Double Loop Connectors (*I will have some for sale in class)
Fat Daddy or Heavy Duty Cutters (for removing pin backs and etc.)
Work Light (battery operated suggested or bring an extension cord)
Optivisors (if needed)If you'd like to place an advance order for supplies & tools for pick up at the on-site store when you arrive at AU, contact: The Occasional Artist - Email your order to: theoccasionalartist@cox.net or call 623-847-2215
Questions? Email Diane at rosajosies@yahoo.com
Website: rosaandjosies.net
