The perfect clasp

Following up on my thoughts about finding the right clasp, today I'm posting a new bracelet I just finished called Chantilly. The bracelet is absolutely gorgeous and I didn't want to add a clasp that wasn't as beautiful as the bracelet itself. Pulling out my stash of Sterling clasps I began to try various shapes and sizes. 

The slide clasp was taller than the width of the bracelet so that was eliminated. The spring ring and lobster claws were too small.  I didn't have any Sterling barrel clasps at all. That left me with toggle clasps to sort  through. There were several that were OK but when I got to this beautiful, simple, geometric Saki clasp I knew I'd found the perfect clasp. 

Do you think I've made the right choice?

Process of creating the Art Deco Bracelet

Today I thought I'd tell you about how I designed my new bracelet. I started out making my Rondo chainmaille weave according to the instructions. I used bronze and stainless steel rings. When I got to step 4, I noticed that the central part of the weave had a nice art deco look when the rings were pushed toward the ends. 

Then the experimentation began to keep the rings in that position. I decided that the best way to "hold" them in place was to add more rings along the sides so that they couldn't shift too much. Adding too many rings made the bracelet too stiff so I compromised by adding enough rings to keep the pattern going but still allowing the rings to shift a bit for flexibility. 

The Art Deco bracelet was born.

For more images and a close-up, visit my etsy shop: http://www.BeadedBaubles.etsy.com

Everything old is new again

Back in the 20's chainmaille mesh purses were all the rage. There were tiny coin purses just big enough to hold a nickel. This was to be used to make an emergency phone call home if your date got fresh and you needed a ride home. And there were larger evening bags that were perfect to wear with your flapper dress. 

My mother-in-law had a tiny coin purse that I was given after she passed away. The nickel was still in it! This inspired me to make a more modern chainmaille coin purse. I couldn't find rings small enough to duplicate the vintage purse and if they were available I wouldn't be able to see them!

I love art deco and 1920's clothing. What is your favorite era? 

What time is it?

I've made several watches both beaded and chainmaille. This time I decided to combine the two. The maille weave is shaggy loops and each loop is adorned with teal and fuchsia colored glass beads. It closes with a stainless steel toggle clasp. This colorful watch is both fun and functional.  

What time is it? It's time for some fun!

Do you like beaded watches?

Chains for Him

Chainmaille neck chains and bracelets make wonderful gifts for gentlemen of all ages.  Many young men like the look of stainless steel, copper  or bronze rather than gold or silver. 

Chains are great graduation or Father's Day gifts.  Do you like the look of Stainless Steel or Bronze best?

Mother's Day Gifts

Mother's Day is a time to remember everything our moms have done for us. Finding the right gift has always been a challenge for me. The things I wanted to give her were way out of my budget and the things I could afford looked tacky. Then I discovered making something for mom and my worries were over. 

My mom loves bracelets, especially my chainmaille bracelets. Here are two bracelets that any mom would love. One is in silver with blue niobium accents and the other is gold filled.

If a bracelet is too much for your budget, how about a beautiful pair of earrings? Earrings come in all sizes and colors and there is a pair for any budget. This pair is Sterling silver chainmaille with green niobium accents and purple drop beads. The ear wires are Sterling.

What is the best Mother's Day gift you've ever given your mom? (Besides yourself of course!) ;)