patina Archives - Filigree Beading .com

5Dec

By filigreebeNo Comments

Pendant Lesson

Functional elements such as bails and clasps are required for every project to make the piece wearable. Consider a pendant without a bail for example. The pendant would not face forward if you simply threaded a ribbon or chain through it's loop. Standard loops are attached to the top of the setting or stamping with the hole facing the same way as the setting, so a bail is needed to join the chain to the pendant loop. A bail is often the least attractive component in an otherwise fabulous design. A pretty pendant is missing something if only a simple large rather ugly jump ring is used as a bail. Failing to consider the style of these elements can ruin the balance of an otherwise beautiful piece of jewelry. Every part should complement the main focal point. As in architecture and ...

Focal Pendants

Components can be glued, wired or soldered if you will be adding your own patina. Note that there are loops and several openings from which you can attach strands of beads and chain. Our items #CC69, #H116, #M66 and #B723 were used in this example but you could use this idea to create many more pendant styles. To fit a fully faceted stone into a flat back setting you can often set it pointed side out if it is unfoiled. This general idea can be used with many different elements to create different designs. Visit our store web site VintageJewelrySupplies.com to shop for these and thousands more items.(NOTE: our website best viewed on desktop or tablet)

Antique Patinas

When you join several parts together into a single piece you may not be happy with how one of the parts blends with the others. Perhaps you bought the components from different suppliers who use different platers and one piece is brighter than the others or you would like to make the whole piece look older. The following technique will help you to achieve that look. YOU WILL NEED:1. Flat black or brown water base craft paint.2. A small paint brush (about 1/4 inch wide)3. A soft toothbrush4. A soft cloth that you don't mind throwing away or paper towels5. Extra fine grade steel wool pads Directions:1. Paint the whole piece with the craft paint. (Glass stones will not be harmed but be cautious about porous gemstones that may become too dark.) You can also j...