Watches n' Wire

I ordered some watch faces in copper, silver tone and gold tone and incorporated my Egyptian coils.   The gold one is made with jeweler's bronze.  I think they are both lovely and there are so many other ways to incorporate wire as the band...just let your mind go free.

A SPECIAL GIFT

I made this today as a gift for an 80th birthday this weekend.  A very special lady in my life, and probably the greatest influence on me as I was growing up.  Made with love... 

OPEN ROUND CHAIN MAILLE BRACELET

I got my July issue of Art Jewelry and among other wonderful articles, was a pattern for an open round chain maille bracelet.  Since I've only done two chain  maille bracelets and this was described as a "beginner" project, it was just the right project for me!  The most difficult part of this project was getting it started...they suggested  using a mandrel and I came up with a straw, taped my three starting links and continued to add links until it was the right length.  I added extra links to taper the ends and added a toggle that I crafted myself - something else I'd not done before, but I like it.  I've always found chain maille rather intimidating, but these two recent bracelets have definitely given me courage!  If you are considering chain maille, I definitely recommend these two patterns as starters.  Blessings,  Anita  p.s.  You can find the other bracelet in a previous post.

BOX PATTERN CHAIMAILLE BRACELET IN COPPER

Today's project was another box chain maille bracelet.  I used smaller jump rings (4.5), 18 gauge.  It's a nice heavy chain for a man or a woman.  My hat's off to all chain maille artists who do this all the time.  It is a very challenging art form,  but worth every minute when you see the finished product.  I  added patina and put it in my tumbler for about one hour for hardening.  Hope you had a great weekend.  Blessings.   Anita

EGYPTIAN COIL NECKLACE IN BRONZE WIRE

I am in almost done with this necklace....I  need to add some links, a hook, and a cab - this was as special order and we have not decided on a focal yet...but I have put a couple of focals against the necklace.  I created the bronze flower last week with bronze PMC.  It has  been patina'd, so is a little darker.  The stone cab is a beautiful carnelian stone with reddish orange hues.  We'll have to see what the client likes - she may have something altogether different in mind!   Have a good weekend.  Blessings, Anita