Crystal & copper garden

1. On a head pin, string a 4–6 mm bicone crystal and make the first half of a wrapped loop (Basics). Make 36 bicone units, half with bead caps. Complete the wraps on each unit. Open a jump ring (Basics) and attach six bicone units. Close the jump ring. Make six clusters. 

 Make five copper domes following steps 2, 3 and 4.

 2. Using a texture hammer, strike a copper disk to make stripes, turning the disk 45 degrees between each hit.

3. Holding the stamp at its base, use a hammer to make two or three floral impressions on the disk. 

4. Center the disk face down in the appropriately sized indentation on a dapping block. Center the corresponding punch on the disk. Strike the punch with the hammer. Repeat as necessary.

5. On each dome, use hole-punch pliers to punch two holes opposite each other. Using jump rings, link the domes and clusters.

6. On each end, use a jump ring to attach half of a toggle clasp.

Tips

• If you don’t want to purchase an entire dapping kit, a dapping block (and punch) with a 28 mm depression will work.

• To lengthen the bracelet, attach extra jump rings on each end.

Irina Miech

Irina has written a number of books on jewelry making, including Metal Clay Rings, Metal Clay for Beaders, Inventive Metal Clay for Beaders, and Beautiful Wire Jewelry for Beaders. They’re available at KalmbachBooks.com. Contact Irina at eclecticainfo@sbcglobal.net or visit eclecticabeads.com.