Continuing on from our previous blog, here is more inspiration to get every jewellery making wanting to try something new.
The term Base Metal, simply refers to a common or inexpensive metal and working with them is a great way to create objects at a fraction of the cost of using precious metal. Perfect for practising your metalwork skills, copper for example has the softness and malleability of silver, whist retaining a fabulous warmth all of its own, which has endless possibilities when it comes to patination. Brass is another great option offering beautiful colour which historically has enjoyed enormous popularity amongst makers of the decorative arts. Aluminium, although not prized for its reflective properties or colour, is incredibly light and soft as well as offering amazing opportunities for anodising which alters the surface structure of the metal to allow colour to penetrate. Working with base metals may well take your work in new and unexpected directions so it’s well worth experimenting if you get the chance.
Impressart Aluminium Cuff Bangle 150x6mm Stamping Blank Pack of 12
Make a Fluttery Feather Pendant
Most crafters use a wide variety of teeny, tiny objects which require organised and regimented storage systems to prevent utter chaos ensuing on a daily basis. Ultimately, time spent organising your tools and materials will save you money and precious man hours as you will always know where things are, and won’t have the agony of searching for missing items whilst in the middle of a project. It will also help to prevent damage and breakage which can result from incorrect storage, so it is well worth investing in.
Plastic Bags with Write on Strips Small 60x60mm Resealable Pack of 100
Wham Long Storage Organiser Box 30x10x4.5cm 8 Compartments Black
Jewellery Storage and Presentation Travel Carry Case with Five Presentation Trays
Stamping is another very accessible craft that can be carried out at the kitchen table with just a few specialist tools. Lettering in particularly has been a hugely popular way of personalising and customising jewellery in recent years and has great appeal for gifts. Our range of decorative stamps is extensive so there is something to suit every theme without a doubt. And don’t assume you are limited to working with only metal. Stamped decoration can be applied to a whole host of alternative materials including clay, leather, card, wax and wood so there is terrific scope for creativity.
Copper Blanks Small Star Pack of 6 16.5mm
Make a Sweet Little Easter Bunny Pendant
Make a Personalised Mother’s Day Stacking Pendant
Make a Sparkling Mother’s Day Bracelet
Books
There is always something new to learn regardless of experience and a book is often a great place to start. We are constantly adding new titles to our collection so it’s well worth keeping an eye on our book section if you are on the lookout for a new subject to learn whilst in the comfort of your own home. We have all the tools and resources to support you in your chosen new craft so you can expand your skills at your own pace without the stress of going out to source materials. Some of our newest titles include ‘Creative Christmas’ by Micheal O’mara which is another beautiful colouring book for adults in need of a little stress relief. Just grab yourself some fine liners and immerse yourself in the stunning line drawings which have made Basford’s previous books so successful. If on the other hand you fancy trying something entirely new, why not check out ‘Chain Mail Jewelery’ which contains fabulous projects and step by step instructions for all skill levels.
Creative Christmas by Micheal O’mara
Chain Mail Jewelry By Terry Taylor and Dylon Whyte
See our blog about Top 5 Jewellery Making Books for Beginners
Whatever you fancy trying during Craft Week, Cooksongold are here to support you with resources, information and inspiration by the bucket load. Everything is available at the touch of a button so unleash your imagination and see what you can create.
See part one to discover more ways you can try something new
Written by Joanna Varney
Joanna has worked in and around the jewellery industry for well over 20 years. She has designed and created her own pieces as a designer maker, as well as working in jewellery retail on a much larger scale, producing designs and NPD for some of the UK’s largest high street retailers
Cooksongold