Wednesday, June 11, 2014

Hana Hou Sea Glass Necklace


 Some of you may recognize this necklace as one I made for my sister awhile ago.  I guess she must have liked it and worn it a lot because she sent it back with the clasp broken off on one side.  The stringing wire was very twisted like she had taken the necklace on and off many, many times.  As happy as I was to learn that she made good use of it, I really didn't relish stringing all the little tumbled stone chips because my eye sight is not what it used to be (when I made the necklace a long time ago).  I decided to show you this piece again to tell you about how I speeded up the stringing process.   I used a technique that I saw someone doing  to string tiny seed beads.  You simply pass the new stringing wire through the beads while they are still on the old wire that you are unstringing.  Another time and supply saving tip is to string the beads onto the wire on the spool before cutting the length and the beads won't slip off as you are working and you will cut just what you need.
Finally, I wanted to show you that I used Bead Smith French wire around the normally exposed loop of wire that is next to the covered crimp bead.  This is a little step but it makes the jewelry more professional looking and may prevent twisting of the clasp.  Hopefully, this restringing will keep this necklace in good condition for many more years of use.  With time I learn new techniques that improve my crafting skills and I think it is my duty as a crafter to share the knowledge that I have acquired.  I hope this post has passed on something you can use in your life. Thanks for stopping to visit my blog.

7 comments:

Have A Scrap Happy Day said...

I can see why your sis loved this necklace. It's so pretty and I especially love how you wired around the 3 larger beads. Have a crafty day.

Annette Allen said...

wow this is stunning.. you are rocking the jewelry..

Cami said...

This is a beautiful necklace and I love your tip about restringing the necklace, saving time and also restoring the necklace!

yyam said...

It's nice to know someone really loves what you made, eh?

Thanks for sharing your tip!

Maire Gamber said...

The necklace is sunning, Lynn. I see why your sister loved it so much - it is a work of art I was just learning to bead and the was diagnosed with a systemic disease that effects my eyes along with y other organs. I tried pulling out my beading again and to do a little something. My work sessions are very short so I understand when you say your eyes aren't what they used to be! :D
Your work is gorgeous! TFS
Hugs,
Marie

Leanne said...

A beautiful piece of jewelry. She must wear it everyday. It looks like it would go with a lot of outfits. Great tips for restringing, thanks for not only sharing pictures but techniques too. Have a great weekend!

Unknown said...

I'm such a sucker for sea glass and your wire wrapped pieces are gorgeous!